Orlando area Real Estate Info

Orlando Homes for Sale – Home Selling Questions Answered

2010-11-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, thought provoking questions come in from readers with national or Orlando homes for sale. I thought I’d answer a few of the questions I’ve received recently. Maybe you have some of the same questions.

Is a mural considered a personal touch or a selling point?

This is a hard question to answer. It really depends on the mural, the room it’s in, and if it could be considered part of the décor. For instance, would a rooster painted on the wall of a country-style kitchen add or detract?

If you have a real estate agent, ask his or her opinion. If you don’t have an agent, I strongly suggest you hire one to walk through and give you suggestions. For most Orlando homes for sale, the answer will be “paint over it.” However, you never really know when an image might be that extra touch that makes the room special. So, get a professional opinion from someone who can actually go to your home and see it.

Some murals can add to the room, such as whimsical rabbit murals in a child’s bedroom. Others can severely detract from a room, such as a large mural of Elvis on the bathroom wall. Tons of people like Elvis, but I’m not so sure they’d all like an image of him in the bathroom.

On a side note, one of the good things about having an agent is that he or she just might know a really big Elvis fan who would love the home as is.

My budget is really tight. I read about home staging, but I can’t afford it. Is it absolutely necessary to sell a home?

No. Real estate agents often talk about that “extra touch.” Home staging is one of those extra touches. If your budget is severely limited, don’t break the bank to have a professional stage your home. Although I do suggest staging your home, a cheaper alternative is to borrow a book on home staging from your local library (free), or buying a book on home staging ($40 at the most). Much can be done by you once you have the right information. Or, hire a real estate agent, like me, who is a professional stager.

I’m getting ready to put my house on the market and am trying to make sure all the repairs are done. Should I hire a home inspector before or after I do the repairs?

Hire the home inspector first. The inspection report will include an overview of needed repairs, as well as an estimate of what those repairs will cost. This way, you can better prioritize the repairs rather than using a “hit and miss” approach.

Thank you all for your questions. I hope my answers are helpful. With Orlando homes for sale, the most important advice I can give is to remember that no home is exactly alike. Everything has a unique selling point and unique selling detractor. Finding out which is which can make all the difference.

Have questions of your own? You can add them as a comment here, email them to us at 407-876-5771. We promise to answer promptly!

Buying an Orlando Home for Sale versus Renting

2010-11-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

Should you buy an Orlando home for sale? Maybe yes, maybe no. People don’t live in cookie cutter situations; everyone has a unique set of circumstances. For that matter, you may not even need a house. Maybe an apartment is a better fit.

Here are four factors to consider before deciding whether to buy or rent:

1. Maintenance: One factor you might use to decide whether or not you want to buy an Orlando home for sale is maintenance. As a homeowner, you’re responsible for the roof when it leaks and the plumbing when it’s clogged. As a renter, you have a landlord who takes care of all that.

2. Frequency of relocation: Another factor to consider is how long you plan to be in the area. For example, if you plan to move in less than five years and don’t fancy renting out the home after you move, buying may not be for you.

3. Tax deductions: The interest you pay on your mortgage is usually tax-deductible. As well, when you close on a home you have the option to pay “points” to reduce your interest over the life of your loan. The amount you pay to cover the points is also usually tax deductible for the year in which you buy the home. Now think about renting… none of your rent is tax deductible. You don’t get money back for living in a home; you get money back for buying a home. With that money, you could further pay down your loan, make repairs or any number of things you need to do.

4. Home decor: When you own, you can decorate any way you want. You can paint, hang pictures or even knock down walls. When you rent, you must live by the rules and regulations established by the landlord, which are usually very restrictive.

So, should you rent or buy? I could tell you buying is the best thing to do, but I could be wrong because I don’t know your particular situation. However, if you can afford an Orlando home for sale and want to buy one, don’t pass up the best mortgage rates the real estate industry has ever seen!

Still confused as to whether renting or buying is best for you? Give us a call at 407-876-5771, and we will personally help you figure it out.

Have you decided owning a home is right for you? Let us help you find and buy a great home at a great price. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

4 Reasons You Should Buy Orlando Real Estate in a Down Market

2010-10-01T06:28:00.000-07:00

The national and Orlando real estate markets are constantly fluctuating, falling somewhere between more inventory and lower prices and less inventory and higher prices. People are often frightened when the home inventory rises, but a declining real estate market may just be the perfect time to find your next home.

Here are 4 reasons why you should consider buying Orlando real estate in a down market.

1. Inventory. When the market is down, more homes are for sale. This means you have more homes to choose from, which makes it easier to find a home in your dream neighborhood or closer to work or school.

2. Negotiation. There’s a reason down markets are called “buyers’ markets.” Sellers want to sell their homes, and they are often willing to do whatever it takes. This means you have the advantage and can buy a home for a great price. You can also ask the seller for other incentives like paying all or a portion of your closing costs.

3. Mortgage Rates. When the real estate market begins falling, interest rates get cut. This can mean considerable savings for you over the course of your mortgage. You can even buy a larger home within your price range than you can when the market is booming.

4. Investment. Even though doom and gloom is forecasted in a down market, your home will still most likely go up in value or at least retain its value. Keep in mind that your home is your most personal investment. It’s a place where you will create memories and maybe even raise a family.

If you’re considering buying a home, let us help you find a wonderful home at a great price. Call us today at 407-876-5771.

Is Buying an Orlando Home for Sale Ever Going to Be a Good Move?

2010-10-01T05:45:00.000-07:00

If you’ve thought about buying an Orlando home for sale, you have to be wondering, “Is it ever going to be a good idea?” I understand; there’s an endless stream of media pouring out bad housing news. It’s discouraging to say the least if you’re a homebuyer or a home seller.

Yet, the problem with the news from the home buying standpoint is that it focuses on profit. The media says, “You can’t make a profit from buying a home.” They talk about prices dropping and more homes hitting the market, among other things. What they miss, however, are the real reasons most people buy an Orlando home for sale.

It’s your home. Period.
You can do what you want with it. You don’t have to worry about whether painting a mural on the wall will get you an increase in rent. You don’t have to deal with the noisy people who just moved into the apartment above you, who obviously brought a zoo because something’s pounding on your ceiling all the time. You can paint the walls black and nobody can say “Boo” about it, because it’s your home.

Fixed-rate mortgages stay put.
Unlike rent, which can go up and up and up, fixed-rate mortgage loans stay the same. They work exactly like they sound; the rate you start at when you buy your Orlando home for sale is the rate you end at when you finish paying off your mortgage.

You can eventually stop paying out.
Rent will always be owed. At no time in the future will your landlord say, “You’ve paid enough rent. You don’t have to pay anymore.” Mortgages, however, will eventually be paid off. Therefore, while renters pay for 15 years and then must continue to pay, homeowners, who have a 15-year mortgage, can pay for 15 years and then stop.

It’s your castle.
Nobody owns it but you. There’s a certain pride to owning a home that far outweighs profit. The excitement from making a profit, however small or large, is a fleeting, momentary thing. When you buy an home for sale, you’re buying a castle – a safe haven where you can get away from the world; a place where you can relax and be comfortable.

If you’re ready to find your castle, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Myths about Selling Your Orlando Real Estate

2010-09-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

Trying to sell your Orlando real estate in a slow market can be frustrating. You may find that it takes longer to sell and you can’t get as much money as you could during a booming market. However, you can’t believe all the hype about a sluggish real estate market. Do your research and separate the facts from the fiction.

Here are 3 myths and the facts behind the fiction:

1. You won’t get a decent price. Your Orlando real estate will sell for whatever a buyer is willing to pay. A comparative market analysis shows you what other buyers spent on property like yours. Of course, if you bought your home when values were up, you may not get the return on your investment you’d hoped for. However, most sellers get a fair price and even make a profit in a slow market.

2. Your Orlando real estate will stay on the market too long. While it’s true that real estate tends to take longer to sell during a slow market, it’s not impossible to sell. People still buy in slower markets. If your home is priced right, prepared for sale and marketed professionally, it will sell.

3. Buyers only want foreclosures and short sales. The truth is that buyers want good deals, and this can be in the form of money or time. The price of a foreclosure or short sale may certainly be attractive, but they can take a considerable amount of time to close while the banks negotiate their terms. Paying slightly more for a traditional sale is sometimes well worth the time they can save.

Using my proven marketing plan, we can help you sell your home whether it's a slow market or a booming market. Call us today at 407-876-5771.

New Demands for Orlando Homes for Sale

2010-09-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

A trend is slowly spreading through the nation, starting in cities such as Rockville, Maryland and Sacramento, California. This trend may bring hope for Orlando homes for sale. These cities are reviving, after seeing years of decline. Why? Because of a shift toward urban-style living.

The trend, if it persists (and many expect it will), is moving towards compact, walkable neighborhoods. In fact, walkability, as it’s called, is one of the fastest growing demands in real estate. Buyers want the ability to travel around a neighborhood without ever getting in their cars. Bike paths, walking paths and beautiful, tree-lined sidewalks are some of today’s high selling points.

Take Rockville, for example. A town square was built in Rockville. As a result, the dying town of Rockville is now a bustling place lined with shops, apartments, restaurants and vibrant street life. The same has happened in Sacramento, where neighbors feel comfortable going over to one another’s house to sit on the porch and chat.

What’s driving this trend? Among other things, it’s green living. Many homebuyers, including buyers of Orlando homes for sale, don’t seem to mind paying a little extra for a home that’s close to work with shops within walking distance.

So what’s the lesson in all this? As real estate agents have been warning for a few years now, green is in. Location, comfort and economical savings are also in. While money was good and spending was easy, we wanted to be far away from the city and the rat race.

Now that money’s tight, however, the Orlando homes for sale with convenient, walkable locations, green appliances and economical utilities seem to have the handle on the market. If you have any of these selling points, make sure you’re marketing them!

If you’re looking for a green home or a home in a convenient neighborhood, we can help. Call us at 407-928-2857.

Economy Bringing Families Closer Together in Orlando Homes

2010-08-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

Although the economy has been a catalyst for many issues, some of the trickle-down effects have had positive effects on Orlando homes. One of the most notable is that families are drawing closer together.

Over the past thirty to forty years, the “steps” to take for growing up were always one, grow up and two, move out. Few parents ever considered that their now adult children might be moving back in to their quiet, empty Orlando homes. However, with the economic problems hitting millions of Americans, the number of multi-generational households is growing.

During the Great Recession and more specifically in 1940, approximately 25% of households were multi-generational. Homes often held children, grandchildren, and sometimes even great grandchildren – four familial generations. However, as the U.S. economy began to prosper and the baby boomer generation grew into adults, more homes became single family households. By 1980, only 12.1% of homes held more than one generation.

Now, the percentages are once again beginning to climb. Loss of jobs, foreclosed homes and lack of security has contributed to approximately 49 million Americans, or 16.1%, living in multi-generational homes. While this is far from ideal for those in a hurry to leave the nest, the benefits are many.

I once asked a single mother what it was like moving back in with her parents. She said, “It was hard at first, redefining the boundaries, but having my parents around has been a blessing in disguise. My kids have a stabilizing influence and extra attention, while I get occasional breaks that I normally wouldn’t get. We eat dinner together too, which helps build the family atmosphere for my kids. It’s not all smiles and roses, there’s a lot of compromise, but it works.”

For those who have been thinking about letting your family move in to your Orlando home, try to consider more than just the negatives. Look at the positives as well. And what could be more positive than closer family ties?

Whether you need to upgrade to a bigger family home or downgrade to a smaller one, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Closing Deadline Extended for your Orlando Real Estate

2010-08-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

If you’re in the middle of buying Orlando real estate, for which you’re hoping to get a Homebuyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000, you have more time to finalize it.

After a close brush with the deadline, Congress passed a 90-day extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit closing deadline. The extension applies only to buyers who have written, binding contracts in place as of April 30, 2010. The new closing deadline is now September 30, 2010.

Extending the tax credit closing deadline will provide additional stability to Orlando real estate and real estate markets nationwide. Additionally, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) estimates that this new extension will help about 180,000 to 200,000 homebuyers who already signed purchase agreements and were likely to miss the June 30 deadline.

Those are two of the reasons the NAR worked closely with Congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle to get this extension approved. Voter pressure on House members also helped to push this bill through.

Have questions about the Homebuyer Tax Credit or any other questions about Orlando real estate? Give us a call today at 407-876-5771. We are happy to help.

Should You Add a Pool to Your Orlando Home?

2010-07-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

There are many home improvements that add value to your Orlando home, but none add quite as much fun as a pool. Depending on where your home is located, having a pool may increase re-sale value because buyers in certain areas look for homes that already have pools installed.

A pool can provide relaxation, recreation, and health benefits during the summer months, and in some areas of the country, all year long. Before you get started putting in that pool, there are a few things to be aware of and prepare for.

Usage

The first thing to consider before you decide on adding a pool to your Orlando home is how often you will actually use it. Pool maintenance and installation are expensive, so if you can't use it often, adding a pool doesn’t make much sense.

Surface Area

Before beginning construction of either an above-ground or in-ground pool, you need to check your surface area—not the pool's, your land's. It should be relatively flat. If your Orlando home is on an incline, you need to create a stable, level base, and that could add a great deal of expense to your pool construction.

Air Space

The air above the site for your pool is important too. Most importantly, never place a pool beneath electrical wires. The area above your pool should also be clear of hanging branches. In fact, it’s a good idea to choose a spot with no close trees. While they make for great shade in the hot summer sun, they also make for harder clean-up and constant skimming because of falling leaves.

Fence it In

There is one final consideration before you jump in—a fence. A security fence is important to keep neighborhood children from invading your pool when you aren't around. A fence is also a crucial safety feature for pets and people. You don’t want anyone or anything accidentally falling into your pool.

If you would like to buy or sell an Orlando home with a pool, we can help. Contact us today at 407-876-5771.

Remodeling Your Orlando Home for Sale: Cost vs. Value

2010-07-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

When considering a remodeling job for your Orlando home for sale in an effort to increase value, it’s hard to decide what should be done. Well, this isn’t exactly true. If your carpet is old, matted and outdated, for instance, you might want to start there. Grungy wooden kitchen cabinets? That’s another starting place.

However, if your Orlando home for sale is in darn good condition (if you do say so yourself) and you’re not being noticed by buyers, you just might be asking, “What can I do to improve?”

Well, for frustrated, confused homeowners, there is good news. You don’t have to guess. Twenty-two years ago, Remodeling magazine, with cooperation from REALTOR® Magazine, began publishing an annual “Cost vs. Value Report.” This report covers 33 possible home remodeling projects over 80 cities.

The recouped cost for many of these projects has been slowly declining since 2006 or, in some cases, rapidly dropping. However, the recently released 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report for home remodeling shows some surprising increases.

If you just look at the trends from 2008-09 to 2009-10, you might think any type of addition or change would be a waste of money. When looking over the report, though, pay attention to the recouped cost. For instance, a little red arrow says a wooden deck addition is dropping in resale value, while the recouped cost is still 80.6%. Not bad in a hard buyer’s market.

If you don’t want to look at the report, I understand – it’s a lot of numbers. So, I’ve summarized some of the important bits for you:

Recouped cost of 75% or above
• Attic bedroom – 83% (up from 2008)
• Basement remodel – 75.4% (up)
• Wooden deck addition – 80.6% (up)
• Steel entry door replacement – 128.9% (up)
• Minor kitchen remodel – 78.3% (down)
• Vinyl siding replacement – 79.9% (down)
• Vinyl window replacement – 76.6% (down)
• Foam-backed vinyl siding replacement – 79.0% (down)
• Fiber-cement siding replacement – 83.6% (down)
• Vinyl window replacement – 76.5% (down)

Rising Trends from 2008 – 2009/10
• Fiberglass grand entrance
• Roofing replacement
• Steel entry door replacement
• Fiberglass entry door replacement
• Basement remodel
• Backup power generator
• Attic bedroom

So, where will you get the best bang for your buck for home remodeling? The trends say replacements. Buyers want security (steel doors), shelter (roofing) and energy savers (windows). They want the exterior to look good for less work (siding) and maybe an extra guest or child bedroom (attic). The great thing for you is: they’re willing to pay for it.

If you’re still wondering whether you’re remodeling the right area of your Orlando home for sale, read the report.

If you’d like to sell your home or are looking for a new home that’s already been remodeled (or that you can remodel), we can help. Call us today at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Preparing Orlando Homes for Quick Sale

2010-07-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

For homeowners getting ready to put their Orlando homes on the market, here are a few stunningly-easy tips to help get your home sold faster and maybe even for more money.

Keep in mind that your prospective buyers will most likely be viewing several Orlando homes on the same day as your showing. The emotional elements you include will have a profound impact on their memory, and will make your home standout when they review what they’ve seen with their agents at day’s end.

Preparing your home for the perfect showing is essential and comprises three basic elements that will make your home sparkle.

Atmosphere

• Soft classical music
• Simmering potpourri
• Bake an apple pie in the oven. Or, if you have a bread machine, bake bread.
• Well-lit rooms and inviting indirect lighting
• Air conditioning or heating set at a comfortable temperature

Decorations

• Garden-fresh bouquet of flowers near the entrance or on the kitchen table
• Fresh neutral-colored paint and cleaned or new carpet
• Remove family photos or personal items (allows buyer to imagine it is their home)

Cleanliness

• Meticulously spotless kitchen and bath
• Walls washed and spackled as needed
• No clutter whatsoever (uncluttered rooms look larger)
• No pets – kennel them if needed (buyer may be allergic)
• Clean closets (yes, people peek in your closets)

Remember it’s the little things in life that matter, and the same is absolutely true when it comes to a buyer looking for a place to call home-sweet-home.

For more ideas on how to sell fast and make the most from the sale of your Orlando home, call us today at 407-876-5771.

“Incentivizing” the Buyer for Orlando Homes for Sale

2010-06-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

The Federal Government envisions a secure and stable marketplace for national and Orlando homes for sale, thus their involvement. We may or may not like the politics, but the fact remains that the marketplace has stabilized somewhat, and prices are leveling in anticipation of an upward turn.

No matter the actual state of the market, the simple fact is that motivated buyers and sellers for Orlando homes for sale do still exist. If not, a lot less people would visit this site.

If you market your home correctly, the opportunity to sell is still promising. After all, interest rates are favorable, prices are realistic and the government has thrown some interesting incentives to buyers, sellers and lenders alike.

You and your real estate agent have the ability to induce buyers to act. If your agent is experienced, he or she will work with you to develop incentives and add appeal to the transaction.

Step 1: Provide Factual Information

Facts outweigh rumor, and having provable information helps get rid of the buyer’s reservations. Here are some of the main facts you and your agent need to have at your fingertips in order to induce buyers to act:

• Knowledge of all local, state and federal tax incentives available to residents of your area
• Knowledge of all projected closing costs
• An understanding of the buyer’s financial and domestic qualifications
• Complete knowledge of the school system and all community services and costs
• Expertise concerning the history and composition of the home
• Knowledge of any planned growth in the area

Step 2: Provide Incentives

The "incentivizing" (no, that’s not a real word) of your home involves several factors. Some incentives may be more creative than others. Here are a few ideas:

• Offer a one-year home warranty program through a third party provider. This is a popular way to relieve buyers of some of their reservations. The idea is based on getting rid of unexpected expenses and the possibility of hidden costs.
• Have the seller pay part of the closing costs.
• Combine the above two incentives with a flexible closing date to make Orlando homes for sale that much more attractive.

Want help "incentivizing" your home to get it sold? Give us a call today at 407-876-5771 to find out how I can help sell your home.

Buying an Orlando Home: Free Credit Reports Not All They Seem

2010-06-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

You’ve finally decided that, yes, you can afford to buy a Orlando home. After years of frugal saving, hard work and patient waiting, the timing is great. You don’t want to wait anymore, so you rush out and start looking for homes. It is, after all, a buyer’s market, and you’re a buyer.

Now, if you read about real estate, you’ve probably considered your credit. Is my credit strong enough? Is my score high enough? Some go to lenders and request preapproval. A few request prequalification. Many, however, go to the “free” credit score searches.

Of those who use the credit score searches, some find an Orlando home they want to buy. They then confidently take their credit reports to the lenders and find out the lenders don’t care about the reports. Others find out that the “free” doesn’t really mean free.

Generally, these credit reporting services are helpful, but most aren’t free. You sign up to get your report and, in the fine print, you’re agreeing to enroll in services that require a monthly fee. The services you end up paying for can be somewhat helpful. But many people sign up not knowing what they’re getting into. If you want those types of monthly services, research the companies and don’t fall for scam sites, because they’re out there.

Why won’t leaders use the credit reports you take to them?

They can’t use the credit scores you bring to them. In fact, they’re required to request credit scores on their own. And, the credit reports lenders get may not reflect what you receive from the reporting services you hired.

Typically, lenders use the median FICO Scores from three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Those FICO Scores may not be the same from bureau to bureau. Some of the “free” credit places provide these scores, but usually from only one bureau rather than all three.

So what should you do?

Talk to the lender. Get preapproved, not prequalified. Not only will you find out how good your credit really is, but you’ll also be more attractive to sellers. And, preapproval tells you exactly how much you can reasonably afford to spend on your new Orlando home.

If you’re looking for a beautiful home to call your own, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Orlando Real Estate: Fight Mold Before Buyers Run

2010-06-04T20:42:00.000-07:00

Spring is the rainy season for many parts of the nation and, for those areas where spring doesn’t bring rain, summer does. Rain brings mold, mold grows on your Orlando real estate and buyers run. Of course, if it doesn’t rain, there’s always humidity, which can also cause mold and mildew in the home.

How do I know if I have mold?
Well, for example, if you get up in the morning, walk into your living room and find a swimming pool where your couch used to be, you might have mold once the water dries up. Of course, if you have swimming pool in your living room every spring, you can always use it as a selling point… “Living room boasts natural, seasonal pool!”

On the serious side, mold is often indicated by a musty, often sharp smell in the home. You also might see dark smudges and/or blotches on surfaces. While excessive humidity can cause mold, those whose homes have had some form of water damage should be the most concerned. Types of water damage can include anything from a leaking roof to a toilet overflowing.

What’s the problem with mold and mildew?
The problem with mold and mildew is once it creeps into your Orlando real estate, it takes a brigade to kick it out. Also, mold and mildew problems fall under many states’ disclosure laws, so you may not be able to legally keep it from the buyer.

If you find out you have mold, you have two choices:
1. Tell the buyer and either lose them or take a hefty chunk out of your sales price.
2. Pay a hefty price to a mold removal company. The real kicker is even if you pay to have the mold removed, you may still be required to disclose that the home had a mold problem.

What should you do about mold?
The best way to deal with this smelly invader of the home front is to destroy it as soon as you first smell the musty, earthy odor. Track it down and kill it. Plenty of mold-killing products out there do the job nicely on small patches.

If you think you might have mold and can’t seem to track it down, check with your health department. They may have recommendations of where to go, who to talk to or other ways to find the mold that you haven’t used.

If you’re trying to sell your Orlando real estate, you can’t let something as annoying as mold ruin the deal. Even if the property is sitting vacant, keep your eyes, ears and – most importantly – nose sharp!

If you’re trying to sell your home and need an experienced guide, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Renting versus Buying Homes in Orlando

2010-05-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

Before you start looking for homes in Orlando, you need to decide whether to rent or buy. Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages. You need to look at your situation and decide which is best for you.

To help you with that decision, here’s an examination of the pros and cons of renting and buying homes in Orlando:

• Pros of Renting. Maintaining a home properly takes a certain level of time and commitment. When you rent, you are not responsible for the lawn, major repairs or maintenance. If you have to leave the area on short notice, you won’t be tied down to a home that needs to sell in order for you to move.

• Pros of Buying. Because of low interest rates and house prices, many renters find that their current rent payments are similar to what their mortgage payments would be. Unlike rent payments, mortgage payments add up and create equity in your home. Additionally, owning your own home provides tax deductions.

• Cons of Renting. The most significant con of renting is the fact that you get no tax deduction. If you have to move suddenly, you may have to pay extra money to break the lease. You may even have decorating restrictions, like not putting nails in the walls.

• Cons of Buying. To buy a home, you will need a down payment, which can be difficult for some people to acquire. There’s also the possibility that you may lose money on the home if you have to sell it before you’ve built equity in it or if your local market declines in value. Also, it can take considerable time and money to maintain homes in Orlando.

After you’ve considered all the pros and cons, there’s one more tool I recommend to help you make an informed decision: Use a free online rent versus buy calculator.

If you’d like help deciding whether buying or renting is right for you, give us a call today at 407-876-5771. We will put together some current home prices to help you determine what your house payments would be, and we will also help you figure out what you can afford.

How to Deal with Problem Neighbors Near Your Orlando Home

2010-05-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

We’ve all had to deal with problem neighbors near our Orlando homes. The trouble might be a loud late night party or a dog that is always barking at odd hours. It can be hard to fix the problem without causing a lasting rift in the neighborhood. Here are a few tips for getting a peaceful resolution:

Bring it Up Gently

It may be that your neighbor doesn’t realize there is a problem. Try to wait a day or two after the problem occurs and tactfully bring up the trouble you are having. Be sure to speak in a calm and reasonable manner.

If your partying neighbor is not receptive to making a complete change, suggest that they let you know ahead of time when a party is scheduled. Sometimes being able to plan for a disruption can make it easier to bear.

A dog that barks at all the wrong times is harder to fix. If you have a specific reason for needing the dog to be quiet, for instance, you work nights and need to be able to sleep in your Orlando home during the day; a gentle reminder that the dog is barking excessively may do the trick.

Ask For Help

If you’ve talked with the problem neighbor nicely and are still getting nowhere, try recruiting others in the neighborhood to help solve the dilemma. Sometimes it’s easier to get results when a group is asking for change. The disapproval of the entire neighborhood isn’t something that most people are willing to risk.

Occasionally, there might be that stubborn person who simply refuses to be courteous to anyone nearby. It may seem that you have no options left. Before you give up hope, check with your homeowner’s association, they may have the ability to enforce a change that you cannot.

If at any time you feel that your neighbor is trying to force a confrontation, and may become dangerous, call the local police and ask for help.

Trying a few of these suggestions can be an easy and effective way to bring the peace back to your neighborhood.

Want to find an Orlando home in a peaceful neighborhood? We can help. Call us today at 407-876-5771.

Where Can I Find XYZ On the Orlando Real Estate Market?

2010-04-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

If you’re like me and other real estate agents, home sellers, homebuyers and homeowners, you’re always looking for a great resource for information on the Orlando real estate market. You have questions and you want answers.

• What are the mortgages like in this area?
• What are the current selling prices for homes?
• What’s a specific neighborhood like?
• Is there anything besides the economy affecting the Orlando real estate market?

For instance, you want to know current market trends. Are they stabilizing? Are things still sliding down hill? Is there a buying trend sellers can take advantage of to market their homes? While a professional real estate agent will help you sell or find a home, it doesn’t hurt for you to do some research on your own to become more knowledgeable. Who knows, you may come up with some ideas we haven’t thought of!

So where can you find reliable information on the real estate market? On the Internet, there are thousands, perhaps millions, of informational sites. Below are just a few of my personal favorites:

CNNMoney.com (real estate) – The information on CNNMoney.com has no bias in terms of convincing you to sell or buy. Where are home prices falling? Where are they strongest? What information do you need to know as a buyer or seller? From mortgages to pricing and market stability, you can find it here.

RISMedia.com – If you can’t find it on CNNMoney, you can most likely find it on RISMedia. Home improvement, financing and foreclosure information are just a few of the topics. As well, because RISMedia is actually involved in real estate, you can find the latest market information.

DQNews.com – DataQuick provides real estate data on a state-by-state basis or on a specific area. While the information can be a little technical for the non-real-estate-professional, if you want to know how the Las Vegas region is doing for home sales, or the average mortgage rates in Missouri, DQ can help. Depending on your area, you may have to pay for the data, but it’s fairly inexpensive and can give you great information.

If you’re interested in the Orlando real estate market in any way, bookmark this blog and the listed sites for easy reference. The more you know, the better you can prepare for upcoming trends, good or bad!

If you’re trying to sell your home, or are looking for your dream home to buy, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Buena Vista Development Services - Business Lead Generation

2010-04-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

Buena Vista Development Services

BVDServices.com

Buena Vista Development (BVD) Services is headquartered in Orlando, Florida. It's owned and operated by a small group of seasoned entrepreneurs with decades of business and marketing experience.

BVD Services uses cutting edge business and marketing systems, that are generating incredible success for themselves and those fortunate clients who have partnered with them.

The success of any business venture boils down to the following timeless principles of marketing.

1. To increase the number of customers

2. To increase the average number of orders

3. To increase the frequency of orders

The Buena Vista Development team are the smart ones who have taken advantage of the power of the Internet to accomplish the above business goals. They are a new breed of business entrepreneurs, enjoying the maximum leverage the internet produces. They have solved the secrets and have unlocked the internet gene's mysterious powers.

Orlando Real Estate, Buyers and Technology

2010-04-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

Technology has improved our lives over the last ten years, but it’s also caused some problems along the way for Orlando real estate buyers.

As a buyer, you naturally want to take advantage of every tool and service available to make it easier to find the home of your dreams. However, the Internet, which is one of the most common places for people to shop for Orlando real estate nowadays, has also become a place where the unscrupulous hang out. You can’t believe everything you read online, even when it comes to shopping for homes online.

If you’re trying to find a home, here are two things you need to be aware of:

Home Valuation Sites
Many potential buyers find an interesting home and then research the home value. This is commendable and just plain good sense. You want to make sure you’re not overpaying. Thanks to the Internet, we have sites like Zillow and Realtor.com that provide home valuations.

The problem is that these sites hardly ever agree on the home value. They can differ as much as 20% or more. While home valuation sites are an excellent place to get a ballpark estimate, you shouldn’t base your buying price on their information alone. Hire a reputable Orlando real estate agent who knows the surrounding area and recent sale prices.

Dream Home or Nightmare
One of the best things to happen for real estate agents and sellers alike is the ability to post digital photos and walk-through videos of the homes they’re selling. This is also great for you, as the buyer, because you can view the homes without going anywhere.

Unfortunately, many buyers take those images and videos at face value. Thanks to some high-tech graphics programs, however, you can’t guarantee that what you see is what you get. Videos and images can both be manipulated to show you the best face of any piece of property.

Any time you see a home online that you’re interested in, it’s a good idea to check Google Maps and use the Street View option. At the very least, you can usually see the front and sides of the home. If you’re still interested, visit the home in person, or, if that’s not possible for some reason, ask your Orlando real estate agent to visit the home and take pictures for you.

If you’re trying to find your dream home, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Helping Your Orlando Real Estate Agent Get You into a New Home

2010-03-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

Buying a home is often considered one of the most stressful things you will do in your life. Unless you're a real estate investor, you will most likely experience home buyer stress.

You can help your Orlando real estate agent find you a home, and successfully close the deal, if you are as prepared and knowledgeable as possible. Here are a few tips to help you be ready and make your transition as painless and stress free as possible.

Have all of your financial records in order. This includes:

• Income records: You usually need two recent pay stubs. If you are self-employed, it will get trickier. Want to be even more prepared? Get pre-approved for your mortgage.

• A clean credit report: Make use of those free credit reports and check for errors, outstanding debts, and a high debt-to-income ratio. If you find any errors, it's worth your time to get them fixed prior to applying for a loan or searching for a home.

• Know what you want: As unusual as that seems, not knowing specifically what you need and want in a new home can prolong the search and have you and your agent running in circles trying to find the right home. Price is only one of the considerations. Know how many bathrooms and bedrooms you need. If there are specific amenities you desire, let them be known. Don't wait until you've traveled all over the countryside looking at homes to tell your Orlando real estate agent you absolutely must have a sunken tub.

Read up on everything you can find that will help you understand the options available to you and what you need to get financing and you will be your own best asset in finding the perfect home. Making your Orlando real estate agent work smarter, not harder, is the way to a beneficial arrangement for you both.

If you’re looking for the home of your dreams, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Choosing the Right Orlando Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Home

2010-03-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

Choosing the right Orlando real estate agent for you is a vital task. This is someone who will be inside your home, interacting with your family and working with one of your most valued possessions—your home. You need to find someone you trust to take care of you and give you the best advice. So what should you look for in an agent?

• Personality. You need to get along with your REALTOR®. Interview Orlando real estate agents. Get to know them. Do you trust them? Can you ask them questions? Are you comfortable around them? Be honest as you answer these questions. If something doesn’t feel right to you, trust your instinct.

• Work Ethic. Does your real estate agent return your calls within a reasonable amount of time? Do they answer your questions without making you feel foolish? Do their office hours fit with your schedule?

• Environment. REALTORS® either work for brokers at a large franchised real estate agency or for brokers with a small boutique agency. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. This is your own personal preference. Choose which you think will work for you.

• Experience. Agents with years of experience tend to understand more about market fluctuations. On the other hand, newer agents don’t always have as many clients at one time, so they may be able to provide more individualized care.

• Specialization. To get the best advice, find an agent who specializes in selling homes in your community.

We may be the Orlando real estate agents for you. Call us today at 407-876-5771 to find out more about my experience and areas of specialization.

Want an $8000 Tax Credit? Buy a Orlando Home for Sale Now

2010-02-11T07:51:00.000-08:00

Last November, when Congress approved an extension on the first-time homebuyer tax credit, potential homebuyers who missed the original deadline were excited. It was another chance to buy a Orlando home for sale and receive an often badly needed $8,000 on their tax return.

Real estate agents were excited as well, because the tax credit extension expanded to include “upgrade” buyers – those who wanted to replace their current home with a bigger one. The possibility of selling a home was higher than it’d been in a while. However, expansion to include upgrade buyers wasn’t the only change.

If you’re hoping to buy a Orlando home for sale and take advantage of the tax credit before the new 2010 deadlines, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Two dates are crucial. You must sign a contract before April 30. The closings must be complete by June 30. One of the best ways to make sure things go smoothly is to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you go home shopping. Pre-approval tells you, as well as the seller, exactly how much home you can afford. This way, you don’t waste your time or the seller’s.

• Negotiate without emotion. Potential buyers have lost the home of their dreams because they became competitive. If you’re negotiating for closing costs, housing price or anything else, make sure that your requests are reasonable. Don’t change something “just because.”

• Taxes must be mailed in. Due to people trying to scam the system, you won’t be able to file your taxes electronically; you’ll have to mail them in. Make sure you’re using the right forms, and, if you need your tax refund by a specific time, you might want to file early.

• Documentation is truly priceless. Again, thanks to scammers, buyers will have to include a signed mortgage statement, proof of residency and a driver’s license with their taxes.

You still have until April 30 to sign a contract on a Orlando home for sale to get the tax credit. Today’s real estate market is beneficial for buyers. Put it to work for you!

If you’d like to take advantage of the homebuyer tax credit, we can help. Call us right away at 407-876-5771 so we can beat the deadlines.

Rules for Rehabbing Orlando Real Estate, Part 2

2010-02-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

In Rules for Rehabbing Orlando Real Estate, Part 1, you received the first five rules for rehabbing. Now, let’s go more in depth about how to rehab a home with the final six rules:

1. Check out the neighborhood. Before you do any work to the property, walk through the neighborhood and take note of the property exteriors. What kind of landscaping do they have? Which colors do you see on the front doors? What type of siding do most of the homes have? There is no point in spending extra money for amenities the other homes don’t have.

2. Start with the exterior. If you begin your work on the outside, you will already create interest in people watching you work. This also tends to be relatively simple work. Trim the shrubs. Replace dead plants. Weed the flower beds. Paint the home’s exterior and window trim.

3. Tackle the interior. You have two options for working inside: complete specific tasks throughout the entire home or work in individual rooms. Some people like to see the progress of completing a room; others like to see entire tasks, like painting, done at one time. No matter what you choose to do, start by removing the carpet. Take down switch plates. Remove the interior doors. Repair the walls. Fill in nail holes. Paint everything in neutral earth tones.

4. Update kitchens and bathrooms. Check the plumbing. If you need to, install a new toilet, sink, or bathtub. Replace the fixtures and hardware. Replace or paint the cabinets. Go ahead and install new counter tops. They are worth the minor cost.

5. Replace or repair floors. After the painting and installation is finished, start working on the floors. Hire a professional to install new carpet and padding. Replace or repair any other floors that are in need of work.

6. Sell it. You can either move in to the home or put it on the market. If you sell the home, calculate your costs and check with a Orlando real estate agent about the home’s market value. Begin advertising it for sale. Hire a real estate agent to help bring buyers to the home.

Rehabbing a home is a great way to create the ideal home for you or to make money as a real
estate investor. Call us today at 407-876-5771 for more tips on rehabbing your Orlando real estate.

Rules for Rehabbing Orlando Real Estate, Part 1

2010-02-11T07:44:00.000-08:00

If you watch television home improvement shows, you’ve surely seen shows about rehabbing homes. When you buy Orlando real estate that needs repairs, you can get it for a great price and build instant equity once the work is complete. Whether you decide to live in the rehabbed home or sell it, you've gotten a good deal.

Here are the first five rules for rehabbing Orlando real estate:

1. Buy low. The good news is that homes needing work usually already have discounted prices. You want to buy the home for as little as possible because you are going to have to spend more money rehabbing the home.
2. Have a budget. You need to know before you begin the project exactly how much money you have to spend. Include the cost of the house, labor costs, permits, and the price of materials. Don’t leave out anything, and do everything in your power to stick to the budget you set.
3. Take good notes. Walk through the home with at least a flashlight and a way to write down notes. Count the number of windows, doors, and rooms. Write down anything you see that will need to be replaced or repaired, including flooring, walls and ceilings. Include anything that seems out of the ordinary to you. These notes will help you plan your rehab.
4. Be realistic. Many buyers underestimate the amount of time and money it will take to rehab a home. Round your expected costs up to the nearest $5000. Set aside part of your budget for problems that may arise during the rehab. You never know when a wall is hiding a structural defect that you will have to repair. Keep your timeline flexible.
5. Hire professionals. You will be able to do some of the work yourself, but you will need professional help for some of the work. Find a good plumber, electrician, carpenter, and roofer. Negotiate prices with them and never pay them for all the work until the job is completed.

Looking for homes to rehab? we can help. Call us today at 407-876-5771 for more information about rehabbing Orlando real estate.

2010-02-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

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Get Rid of Clutter in Your Orlando Homes

2010-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Getting rid of clutter in your Orlando homes can be a challenge for anyone. We are overwhelmed with junk mail, paper from our children’s school, bills, magazines, trinkets, toys and clothes. It can be difficult to sort through the mess to determine what we really need. Even when the clutter is all sorted, new clutter seems to replace it overnight. There are several ways that you can get rid of the mess in your home.

• Start in one room and finish it. It can be overwhelming to try to organize a whole house. Start in one room and go through it. Discard things that you have not used in the last six months. If you have not worn it or used it in that time, then you don’t need it. Discard all broken or stained items. You aren’t going to fix them, or you would already have done it.

• Throw things away. Don’t set things aside to sort later, just in case you may need it. When sorting, make a bin of items to keep and a bin of things to throw away. Getting in the habit of discarding unneeded items can be difficult at first, but it will drastically cut down on clutter in your Orlando homes.

• Give things away. Get rid of clutter and help those in need by donating items that you're no longer using.

• Label your storage bins. Many times clutter develops because there is no set place to put things. For instance, in the toy room, have individual storage bins for toy cars, railroad tracks, dolls and crayons. Each bin should be clearly labeled so that all family members can participate in putting things where they’re supposed to go. With young children, it may be helpful to take a picture of the items that go in the bin, and tape it to the front of the container.

It’s easy to have clutter free Orlando homes using these organizing tips.

If your home is already organized, but you still don't have enough room, it may be time to buy a larger home. we can help. Call us today at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Stay Safe When Working With Electricity In Your Orlando Home

2010-01-05T06:55:00.000-08:00

Chances are you’ll have to work with electricity in your Orlando home at least once. You might have to replace a broken ceiling fan or install a garbage disposal. Always keep these things in mind when with working with electricity:

• Turn off the power at the main panel box. If you only flip off the switch, you’re in danger of receiving an electrical shock that could prove fatal.
• Use a voltmeter to test the wires after you shut off the power.
• Thoroughly read all the instructions, including the safety information, that come with the item you’re going to install.
• Wear protective equipment like goggles and use only materials intended specifically for that purpose.
• Have an inspector out to look at your work. It’s better to err on the side of caution with electricity. For some projects, you may need to hire a licensed electrician.

After you finish the project, it’s a good time to inspect the electrical system in your Orlando home for safety. You’ll want to look it over each time the seasons change to ensure that the system is in good working order.

• Look for any frayed or discolored wiring on the cords to your electrical appliances. If you see anything unusual, you may need to call an electrician to further evaluate the situation.
• Inspect your home’s power outlets for cracks or loose plates.
• Make sure that extension cords and other plug-ins aren’t overloading the outlet.
• Always run extension cords along the side of the wall, taking care not to place the cord across a doorway, causing a walking hazard.
• Keep all heat-producing appliances, like lamps, away from combustible materials like drapes.

You can work with electricity safely by following these guidelines.
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The Clock is Ticking on that Home for Sale in Orlando – Again

2010-01-05T06:50:00.000-08:00

Once again, the clock is ticking for first-time home buyers to get a home for sale in Orlando before the tax credit runs out. Extended in November, 2009, the first-time buyers’ tax credit is set to expire in April, 2010, and there are no plans for another extension.

What does this mean for you? If you’re a home seller, it’s time to look over your home for sale in Orlando, make sure all your t’s are crossed, i’s are dotted and that you’ve done everything you can to put your home at the front of the buying line. If you’re a first-time or repeat buyer hoping to take advantage of the credit, it’s time to start looking for your new home; the binding sales contract has to be signed by April 30, 2010.

Making the Buying Process Easier
Many times, the buying process can take forever. Red tape, failing negotiations and more has caused several possible sales to fall through. So, what can you do to make the buying process easier? Here are a few tips:

1. Find out if you qualify for the first-time or repeat buyer tax credit. The home buyer requirements are many. If you can’t afford to buy a home without the tax credit, make sure you qualify.

2. Shop for lenders before hand. Choosing a mortgage lender can be a lengthy process, so finding one you want to use before you start looking for a home will cut down on the time it takes to buy the house.

3. Get pre-approved. Getting pre-qualified is the first step in the loan process, but it’s based on an estimate, not verified facts. By getting pre-approved for a mortgage, you know exactly how much you qualify for, and how much house you can afford. Because this is a large part of the buying process, once you’re pre-approved, the lender can expedite the rest of the deal for a quicker closing.

4. Negotiate wisely. Remember that you’re on a time-line and try not to let negotiations with the seller turn into a contest of wills. Yes, negotiate, but make sure your counteroffer on the home is realistic.

Buying a great home for sale in Orlando before the tax credit expires is definitely possible, even with only four months to go. Following the tips outlined above can make the sale go as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Have questions about the home buyer tax credit? We can help. Call us now at 407-876-5771.

Picking an Orlando Real Estate Agent

2009-12-03T15:50:00.000-08:00

Picking an Orlando real estate agent is a big decision. Buying a home isn't something most people do on a regular basis and rarely do they know agents personally or have one on retainer like they may have a lawyer for regular business purposes.

If your job doesn't entail a lot of property transactions you might feel like a fish out of water when looking around for a Orlando real estate agent. Fortunately, deciding on the right one isn't as hard as you might think.

Real Estate Agents Are People Too

That's right, they have the same qualities you would think of in any other individual you might do business with. So, finding an agent really comes down to measuring many of the same values you'd use to choose another business associate.

• Honesty
• Reputation
• Track Record
• Associations

Here are two tips to help you determine which real estate agent is right for you:

• Ask the agents you're considering for a list of past clients. Contact those past clients to find out what they thought of the agents and if they'd use them again.
• Interview the real estate agents. Ask them how long they've been in the Orlando real estate business, how many homes they've sold in the past year, how they can help you find a home.

If you're looking for an Orlando real estate agent, we would be honored if you'd give us the opportunity to interview for the job. Contact us now at 407-876-5771.

Orlando Homes for Sale: 2010 Market Forecasts

2009-12-03T15:46:00.000-08:00

Those with Orlando homes for sale are buckling down for the long haul, but exactly how long will that be? I spent a little bit of time roaming the Internet to get the general “feel” from people on the housing market. It turns out that the answer all depends on who you ask…

Housing Predictor
Housing Predictor.com says, yes, the housing market appears to be making a rebound. However, that rebound, says economist, John Hines, is a false front. The government is pushing the rise in sales to make the housing markets look good and increase buyer confidence. Will the market ever get back on track? According to Hines, if Congress can get the lending pipeline going again, we might finally see a bottom around the third quarter of next year.

The Ledger
According to an article at The Ledger, Stephen Blank of the Urban Land Institute isn’t at all optimistic. Blank says there’s no quick fix, and that 2010 will be sobering. While the housing market is being helped by various factors, the foreclosure rate probably isn’t going to drop and lenders aren’t lending. Blank worries that financing may be lacking, even for those wanting to buy. He doesn’t see the market doing much for another year.

CBS Money Watch
The best article I’ve come across so far, however, was written back in June at CBS MoneyWatch. The article says give the market at least seven years to recover. The author doesn’t just quote doom and gloom, however. She has some great points for people with Orlando homes for sale. I highly recommend the read, but here is the quote that stuck firmly in my mind:

“If you are a seller, get realistic about what you can get for your house. With so little upside in the foreseeable future, you may be better off to sell, even at a loss, since you can probably get back into a similar house at a lower price and very low interest rates.”

It’s a buyer’s market; the supply of empty homes is much higher than the demand for them. If you have one of the Orlando homes for sale and it’s not selling, you may need to change your mindset a little. In this buyer’s market, sellers may just have to bite the bullet.

Ready to buy or sell? We can help. Give us a call today at 407-876-5771.

4 New Year's Resolutions for Orlando Homes for Sale

2009-12-03T15:38:00.000-08:00

New Years is just around the corner, and for many with Orlando homes for sale, it’s the perfect time to make some resolutions. Let’s be expansive, though, shall we? Don’t say, “I will sell my house by April.” We can be more specific than that. Here’s a short list of resolutions that might help you take that home off the sales shelf:

1. Resolve to look over the competition. Not just one or two of the Orlando homes for sale, but ten or eleven. Look at them with the buyer’s mindset. What selling points do they have? What negative points do they have? Your goal should be to outshine the competition. You can’t do that if you don’t know what the competition is.

2. Resolve to do a little home improvement. These don’t have to be big projects. Your project could be as simple as adding a few bushes for better curb appeal. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or a huge amount of time for the home improvement to count. What you do have to do, however, is make the improvement count. In other words, don’t forget to walk buyers past whatever you’ve decided to do, or tell your real estate agent about it.

3. Resolve to check with your agent about the state of your home. Not when they think it will sell, but what you can do to up the value. Remember, “value” is a relative term. Upping the value for buyers may be as simple as cutting $5,000 off your price.

4. Resolve to be calm if a buyer suggests a lower price than you want. Consider the options fully – don’t just snap his or her nose off. Can you afford to let the house go at the offered price? If you can and still want to say no, think about it… how long did it take to get this potential buyer? Can you afford to wait longer?

If you have one of the Orlando homes for sale, keep in mind that it’s just one of the homes for sale. You have an amazing amount of competition; not just here, but around the nation. Take a chance to do something a little different. Your New Years may turn out to be even happier than you expected!

If you’re looking for unique ways to sell your home, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Orlando Home for Sale? 6 Tips for Selling Now

2009-11-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

If your Orlando home for sale isn’t selling, you’re probably wondering if you’re missing something. Well, here’s a list of things you might not know that could make all the difference:

1. If the location of your Orlando home for sale isn’t great, the price and terms are the only thing that will sell it. Make them outstanding!

2. Attractive, competitive terms may help you get a higher price. For instance, if you’re allowing the option of owner financing, and also allow a smaller down payment (say, $20,000 - $30,000), you may be able to sell your house for a higher overall amount.

3. Because of the current high competition, your home has to be in the best condition at a competitive price. Check out the competition, accept that yours might need work, and get to it.

4. You can’t set a limit for home improvement. If your home needs something done to beat the competition and you can do it, do it! You aren’t just spending money; you’re investing in the sale of your home. Although you may not get all your money back, you just might get a quick sale at full value.

5. Staging – you’ve heard of it; tons of agents are talking about it. If you want to get your house sold, either invest in staging services or do your homework and stage the home yourself. It’s all about presentation.

6. Remember that you are no longer the host/hostess of the house. You are a business person, and your business is getting that house sold. Don’t let your emotions get in the way of a solid business deal.

Putting up your Orlando home for sale is a daunting prospect. If it’s been up for a while, it can be an exercise in frustration. However, keep the above points in mind, listen to the experts and put what you learn to work for you.

If you’d like to get your home sold, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Owning Orlando Homes – Has the American Dream Died?

2009-11-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

Some people who are supposedly “in the know” believe the American dream of owning a home has died. They spout “facts” that say home ownership – not just for Orlando homes, but also across the nation – is no longer on the minds of the majority of Americans.

Additionally, according to some of these individuals, suburban sprawl is the reason for:
• the housing bubble burst,
• the break down of social mores,
• global warming (due to commutes, of course)
• and more.

It’s amazing that the nation’s suburbs can cause so many problems, isn’t it?

Is the American dream of home ownership really dead? The number of people buying Orlando homes versus renting them points to a definitive… maybe. However, in newspapers and on the Internet, we’re seeing tons of “if you can’t sell your home, rent it out” information. We’re seeing potential homebuyers being told that renting may be the best option. Why?

The economy, of course. While there are plenty of want-to-be homeowners, those same people choose to rent rather than own for a wide variety of reasons. The main reason, however, is that they think it will be cheaper.

When you first think of buying a home, it sounds like an overwhelming prospect with lots of money involved. However, while the down payment is much more than it would be for a rental property, it’s time to really look at the cost. Instead of example numbers, let me point you to Money-Zine.com's Rent vs. Buy a Home calculator.

Now, before you start plugging in numbers, remember that the national average for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is around 4.5% – 5%. The national averages for mortgage rates in general range from 3% to 5.5%. Of course, every situation is different, but think about it and really do your research before you decide whether to rent or buy one of our Orlando homes. Don’t just assume it’s better to rent; renting may not be the cheap option you think it is.

If you’d like to find your piece of the American dream, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Waiting for Prices to Plummet on Homes for Sale Orlando May Be a Mistake

2009-11-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

If you’re looking at homes for sale in Orlando, want to buy a home and are waiting around for better prices, you might want to rethink your strategy.

If you’re a market watcher, soaking up the information overload across news media and Internet websites, you’re probably overwhelmed with confusion by now. Is the housing market getting better? Is it getting worse? Was there really, when it gets down to it, a housing bubble collapse? And, if so, who popped it?

First, the quick answers. Yes, the housing bubble collapsed, and everybody had a hand in popping it: the government, the lenders, the investors and the general public. Now the hard answers: it’s getting better – and worse.

The truth is that market predictors are all on the fence. With the ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) giving first time homeowners some incentive to buy homes for sale in Orlando and elsewhere, there has been a steady increase of sales. However, once the tax credit deadline hits at the end of this month, the numbers are once again expected to drop.

Again, though, it’s better and worse. While the housing market is still dropping in some areas, such as the southeast in Mississippi, Alabama and so forth, there are definitely some strong markets in the country.

For instance, Boulder, Colorado holds 60% of the share of increasing home values. The average value is about $350,000, but there’s a limit in place on the amount of homes allowed in the area. In Binghamton, New York, the average value of a home is around $112,000. They also have a housing limit, which means a small supply, so prices probably aren’t going to plummet.

Just because this is a buyer’s market, doesn’t mean you’ll get the exact price you’re looking for. If you want to buy a home and you’re waiting around for the prices of homes to plummet into a “sweet deal,” make sure you don’t wait yourself into an expensive mistake.

Instead of checking market forecasts, potential homebuyers need to look at things the way we always should have. Do I want to buy a house? Can I afford one of the homes for sale in Orlando the way things are now? By researching, crunching numbers and answering the important questions, you’ll find the sweetest deal you could ever have: a wonderful house you can afford.

If you’re looking for a place to call your own, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Orlando Real Estate Associates - A New Website of Interest

2009-10-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Orlando Real Estate Associates

http://www.orlandorealestateassociates.com/

OrlandoRealEstateAssociates.com is a group of exceptional Orlando real estate agents who have developed an unique Home Selling System specializing in foreclosure homes and short sales. Contact us for all Orlando real estate services.

The Orlando Real Estate Associates and Home Selling Team covers the Orlando - Kissimmee metro areas. Orlando Central Florida Counties include: Orange County, Seminole County, Osceola County, Polk County and Lake County.

2009-10-08T10:01:00.000-07:00

FREE Foreclosure Secrets - Real Estate Video Reports

These Deals Won't last Forever!

In today's market, distress and foreclosure properties are the hottest ticket when it comes to purchasing real estate. Price reductions have created a true "buyer's market". This means that prices are lower than ever, and buyers can find fantastic deals that would not be available under regular circumstances!

It is crucial to have a solid understanding of how to purchase the right kind of distress property if you want to take advantage of the great deals out there.

So, let's get started. Whether you are a first time buyer who is new to the process, or a veteran investor who has been through it all before. These exclusive video reports on Foreclosures are sure to include something you were not aware of. And the best part: they're free.

Just click on any one of the video topics below to get started.

Orlando Real Estate Market - Lower Prices and Lower Inventory

2009-10-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

Orlando First-time buyers continue to take advantage of attractive affordability.

Buyer traffic continued its momentum, as our traffic index came in at 61 in September, up from 58 in August (any reading above 50 indicates traffic levels above expectations). Agents highlighted increased demand from first-time homebuyers, encouraged by the upcoming expiration of the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit. The uptick in traffic was focused on the low end, specifically foreclosures and short sales. According to one agent, “The market is heavily weighted to foreclosures, short sales and distressed sales. The activity is up, but values are lower.” Another added that, “First-time homebuyers are rushing to beat the tax credit deadline.” Agents also noted investor interest in the area, motivated by falling prices and increased foreclosure activity.

Still pricing pressure, but strong demand leads to lower inventory. Home prices fell further in September, as our price index fell to 23 in September from 36 in August (any reading below 50 indicates sequentially lower home prices). Increased foreclosure activity has put pressure on prices, though strong demand for the REOs has led to lower inventory levels more recently. Our home listings index improved to 75 in September from 72 in August (any reading above 50 indicates lower inventory levels). However, this drop in inventory may not last, as banks are facing a growing backlog of foreclosures and many modification efforts likely won’t be successful.

Comments from real estate agents:

■ “We have seen more and more interest in lower priced homes, especially from
those seeking investment opportunities.”
■ “The $8,000 tax credit pushed demand further than we anticipated.”

Source: October Credit Suisse Research

Stop Foreclosure & Save Your Credit with an Orlando Short Sale

Explore the Benefits of Hiring a Full-Time Orlando Real Estate Agent

2009-10-02T17:22:00.000-07:00

Buying or selling a home has a major impact on many people's lives. So it's important not to leave the task to just anyone.

Take advantage of all the benefits that come with working with a full-time Orlando real estate agent. Since selling or buying a home can be a full-time job, it just makes sense to work with an agent that has a full-time commitment.

A full-time real estate agent can offer:

Lots of experience – If your agent lives and breathes real estate around the clock, then he or she is better equipped to handle the many surprises that come with buying or selling a home.
Peace of mind – You could be a first-time home buyer or seller. A full-time Orlando real estate agent has the knowledge to lead you through every step, saving you time, money and stress.
Availability – Since your agent works full time, she is available to you when you have questions, concerns or need her for any reason.
In-depth market knowledge – The real estate market is changing faster than ever. In order to be a successful buyer or seller, you need to be kept up to date. A full-time real estate agent stays current with what's happening each and every day.

Whatever your home-buying or home-selling goals, it’s smart to have an experienced, full-time Orlando real estate agent working for you. You'll save yourself headaches, heartache and from making home buying mistakes.

Ready to work with a full-time real estate agent? Give us a call today at 407-876-5771.

The Laws are Changing for Orlando Real Estate

2009-10-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

Not just Orlando real estate, either. Since the end of 2007, as the real estate market started to decline, new rules, regulations, mandates and more have come down the pipeline.

State Specific Laws
Take Michigan, for instance. Ranking sixth in the nation on the number of foreclosures, Michigan legislature enacted the “Lifeline Law.” This law gives an extra 90 days for homeowners to work with banks to come up with solutions other than foreclosure. California did the same, with the California Foreclosure Prevention Act. In New York, judicial hearings are mandatory for both borrowers and lenders before foreclosure can go through.

Nationwide Laws
Other laws have been enacted throughout the United States, such as Congress lowering homeowners’ tax deductions.

Before 2009, if you used your Orlando real estate as a primary residence for at least two years out of the last five, you could keep up to $500,000 (married couples - $250,000 if single) in real estate gains on your tax return. That exemption is now pro-rated to the time you spent in the house, which could be quite substantially less than what your tax exemption would have been last year.

As well, new appraisal rules went into effect May 1, and, although they aren’t government rules, they do affect Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans. With the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) put into place, every lender that goes through Freddie or Fannie has to follow the HVCC to the letter. The HVCC stops mortgage brokers from having home appraisals done themselves. Instead, the home appraisals must be done by a third party appraisal management company in the same area as the home.

Laws that Affect You
Other laws have been put into place that may (or may not) effect the Orlando real estate you own or are looking to buy. However, with so many coming down the line, make sure that you ask your real estate agent what laws have been put into place that may affect your purchase, sales or ownership.

If you’re looking to buy or sell real estate and need a professional who keeps up to date on the real estate laws, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5571 for more information.

Florida Realty Resource - New Blog of Interest

2009-09-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

Florida Real Estate Information Resource

http://blog.orlandorealtyresource.com/

The purpose of this blog is to provide useful real estate information, which will assist both buyers and sellers. We will provide you with valuable market updates, statistical data and new trends as they develop. Many consumers find it difficult to locate the information they need when looking to buy and sell a home. This site is being provided as a free service to assist buyers and sellers in the Florida housing market make informed real estate decisions. In order to better educate and inform buyers and sellers, we will continue to develop and provide a set of comprehensive FREE Florida Real Estate Reports as a FREE No-Obligation service to our visitors. In the hope, you who visit this site and in turn, consider us in order to assist you in the purchase or sale of your home.

We truly hope that you find our blog postings, information, tools and resources helpful and we look forward to building a potential business relationship in the future.

Home Buyers - Get the Most for Your Money
Home Sellers - Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar

Men vs. Women in the Orlando Real Estate Ring

2009-09-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Orlando real estate is one of the biggest purchases anyone will make, whether male or female. And, while it’s been scientifically proven that men and women have different approaches to life, one would think that purchasing a home is pretty much the same across genders. We each have our own concerns and important issues, but they basically all add up to, “This is what I want in my home.”

Therefore, the results of a recent survey caused quite a bit of surprise. The survey pointed out places where inherent differences were clear, as well as places where there weren’t any differences at all. So, when it comes to a match in the Orlando real estate boxing ring, who comes out on top?

Who is fastest at making up their minds on a home to buy?
Believe it or not, women grabbed the top mark at 70%. A full 8% more women made up their minds on whether to buy a house the day they walked into it. Of those that needed another visit or two, 32% were men, versus 23% of the women. Although women have a stereotype of being wishy-washy, this stereotype doesn’t hold true in the real estate market.

How close is the extended family?
If you had a choice between living closer to your extended family or closer to your job, which would you choose? According to the survey, 55% of the women would rather be closer to family, while only 37% of the men would.

What about home security?
When it came to security concerns, men and women both agree. It may be the home of your dreams, but if it’s not safe, it’s “no thank you." What was the percentage? Women grabbed 64%, while 51% of the men said the same. Security is something we appear to agree on.

How would you use a spare room?
If you had an extra 12 x 12 room, how would you use it? With men and women both, we’d rather have a spare bedroom (25%), an office or study (15%), or a family room/den (11%).

Conclusion: Couples, if you’re looking to buy Orlando real estate, sit down with your partner and lay out the rules. Find that fine line between what you each want, and no fighting, biting, kicking or scratching!

If you’re looking for the perfect home to fit what you both want, we can help! Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Is Your Home For Sale in Orlando Perfect for Men?

2009-09-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

There’s a group of individuals constantly overlooked when someone has a home for sale in Orlando. It’s not just newlyweds, families and women looking for homes. Men are on the look out, too. So what are they looking for? Here are a few points on the list:

Location, location, location – Most men want a place close to their job. No long commutes, no hours on the highway. In fact, it’s one of their biggest considerations when choosing a home.

The Man Cave – Is your home for sale in Orlando set up with a man cave? Many men dream of having an extra room that can be converted into a place for recreation and entertainment. If you already have a man cave, you’re ahead of the competition!

Surrounding area – In a fun survey, Sperling’s BestPlaces examined America’s cities and marketing trends to find the “Top 50 Manliest Cities” in the U.S. Believe it or not, Nashville took the top place as the Mecca of manliness. Why? A few reasons:

-High number of NASCAR fans
-High number of BBQ restaurants
-Popularity of hunting and fishing

What other things did Sperling’s look at to decide “manliness?"

-Major league sports teams in a city, nearby NASCAR events, monster truck events and local drag racing strips, among other sports venues
-Memberships in motorcycle owner groups, bowling, hunting, woodworking, DIY home improvement
-Number of manly retail stores, such as steak houses, sports bars, general hardware stores, sportsman stores, etc.
-Percentage of houses subscribing to manly magazines

So what does all this mean to you? If you have a home for sale in Orlando with manly decor as well as surrounding attractions, you have a match made in heaven for the busy bachelor. Okay, so women like monster truck events, motorcycles and DIY, too. And, okay, so the survey is a little silly. However, if you’re trying to sell that house and are having no luck, it’s definitely something to think about.

If you’re trying to sell your home, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

How Can You Get Incentive Money, If You’re Not Selling Your Orlando Real Estate?

2009-09-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

Not everybody is dealing with the worry of buying or selling Orlando real estate. Some are quite happy where they are, have no intention of moving, and selling is the last thing on their minds.

However, there are a lot of incentives out there to do something in Orlando real estate, and many are itching to dip into those incentives. So, if you’re not selling or buying, what can you do? Here are a few ideas:

Upgrades
Upgrades are something you can do to your home at any time. However, with the many government incentives out there, you can upgrade your home to be more energy efficient for less. For example, thanks to federal tax credits, you can install solar panels or a geothermal heat pump and get 30% back once you file your federal taxes.

Instead of just jumping in on upgrades, it’s best to start with an energy audit. An energy audit will tell you where your problem areas are in order of priority, as well as what incentives and credits are available to help you compensate for the cost.

In addition to getting you incentives and credits, these upgrades will raise the resale value of your home. They'll also lower your utility bills – sometimes by as much as 70%, depending on the size of the problems and the upgrades you make.

Remodeling
If you’ve always wanted to remodel, now is a great time to do it. Contractors and remodelers aren’t as busy as they have been. For you, this means the chance to save money. Bargains are available on materials, labor costs and overall remodeling costs. Be aware that there are some shady companies, so make sure you investigate before signing a contract with anyone.

Refinancing
Although refinancing isn’t the best thing to do for everyone, it’s something to look into if you’re struggling with mortgage payments. Talk to your lender and see what your choices are. If you can get better financing than you currently have, this may be a great option for you!

Just because you aren’t selling your Orlando real estate doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of the down market. Look around, investigate, and see what options you have open as a homeowner to increase the property value or get the best out of the home you do have.

If you’re looking for the best upgrades and remodels to increase your home’s resale value, we can help. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

5 Questions to Ask Your Orlando Real Estate Agent When Selling

2009-09-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

If you’re ready to sell your home but it’s not yet on the market, asking the right questions of your Orlando real estate agent is a good way to help your home get sold. These questions assist agents in creating a customized marketing plan for your home, as well as helping you know what to expect. The top five questions are:

1. When is the best time of year? Spring is supposedly “the” time of year to put home on the market, but it all depends on the specific area. In addition, many historic trends are completely disappearing and can’t be trusted as an indicator. Your Orlando real estate agent can help you with a good timing strategy to get the best out of your particular area.

2. What features can I accentuate? Take the time to walk through the home with your agent. Discuss with him what you’ve enjoyed about the place and listen to their suggestions as well. Together, create a list for the agent to use in his sales and marketing tactics once it goes on the market.

3. How can I de-clutter my home? Statistics show that homes sell faster and for more money when they appear roomy, clean and are clear of personal clutter. Your agent can look over your home and give you suggestions to achieve that goal.

4. What’s the bottom line price? Let your agent know what you’d like to get from the sale, as well as the lowest price you can afford to accept. Your Orlando real estate agent will evaluate your property as compared to other similar properties that have sold recently and recommend an accurate price range.

5. What do I have to disclose? You may be obligated by law to disclose certain problems about your home, as well as common insurance and utility costs. Make sure that you find out from your real estate agent exactly what you have to disclose to maintain legal compliance.

Remember, a good Orlando real estate agent is there to help you. You don’t have to do it alone, so share the responsibility.

If you want to sell your home, let us put together a custom marketing plan designed to sell your home fast and for top dollar. Call us at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Orlando Real Estate Condo resales up, prices down in July

2009-08-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

Orlando-area existing condominiums sold like hotcakes in July at still-falling prices, according to a new report from the Florida Association of Realtors.

Association members brokered 475 condo resales in the Orlando metropolitan statistical area last month, more than triple the 151 unit resales recorded in July 2008. But the median sales price fell to $49,800, 59 percent down from the $121,900 price reported in July 2008.

A total of 2,343 single-family homes sold in July in the Orlando area, a 41 percent increase from the 1,656 sales posted the same month a year prior. Median home values fell 29 percent, from $209,100 in July 2008 to $148,400 in July 2009. complete story

Source: BizJournals.com

Orlando Sales up 4.5% - Orlando Real Estate Values down 35%

2009-08-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

July existing home sales jumped nearly 45.5 percent when compared with the year prior, but values fell 35 percent, according to the Orlando Regional Realtor Association’s monthly report.

Association members in July reported 2,141 closings, which compared with 1,472 in July 2008. So far this year, association members sold 12,223 homes, 45 percent more than the 8,423 homes that had changed hands in the first seven months of last year.

For the Orlando area— Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties — 2,763 homes were sold in July, a 56.3 percent jump when compared with the 1,768 sold in July 2008.

Although the median sales price of existing homes sold by association members fell 35 percent in July, from $208,000 in 2008 to $135,000 this year, it rose nearly 3 percent when compared to June 2009’s price of $131,175.

About 737 of the home resales in July of this year were bank-owned while another 162 were distressed property sales, making up 42 percent of all sales. “Normal” sales, which totaled 1,242, made up about 58 percent of the total.

Excluding distressed and bank-owned home sales, the median sales price was $165,000, a decrease of 4.3 percent from June’s $172,500. The median price for bank-owned sales was $84,500, up 5.8 percent from June’s $79,900, and for distressed sales was $139,500, down 8.2 percent from June’s $152,000. complete story

Source: Orlando Business Journal - Anjali Fluker

4 Ways to Get the Best Deal for New Orlando Home Construction

2009-08-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

Some buyers would much rather have a brand spankin’ new Orlando home – fresh, clean and untouched. Does this describe you? Then read on and learn some of the guidelines for getting the best deal on your dream home.

Be on the lookout for disreputable builders…
Reputation is everything for a builder. Ask for recommendations from people you know, but also do your research. Check with the Better Business Bureau. Talk to people in the same development about their experiences with the builder. Look over the homes in the early construction phase to see what type of materials and quality of workmanship they provide in areas such as the foundation and plumbing.

Use your own agent…
Although a builder might offer the use of an agent, keep in mind that the agent is the builder’s. They aren’t looking out for your best interests. Hiring a buyer’s agent will give you someone who represents you and your best interests.

Research the location…
When it comes to new Orlando home construction, you may very well be looking at a development on the outskirts of town. It may seem quaint and quiet. However, if there’s a lot of space around, you could unknowingly settle into a place that will quickly become a bustling metropolis.

Check with the local town or city-zoning board to find out the types of zoning that surround the land. See if development plans have been submitted. Will the surrounding land have a strip mall or apartment complex that depreciates the value of your home, or high-end houses that raise it?

Check the weather…
Before you sign that contract, visit the area during or after a heaving rainstorm. You’ll want to look for signs of bad soil drainage, which can affect your new Orlando home and the surrounding property. Otherwise, you might have to build an ark to get to work.

If you’re looking at new construction and need someone on your side, we can help. Call us now at 407-876-5771.

6 Reasons Why Now Is The Best Time For Orlando Home Remodels

2009-08-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Cash in your pocket and equity in your Orlando home? If you’ve been thinking about making changes to your house but thought you couldn’t afford a remodel, it’s time to rethink the possibilities. The payback on renovations in cost versus higher home value, should you decide to sell your house later, can be better than you thought.

Reason #1: Lower bids from the contractors. The home renovation business is falling with the current housing market, leading to lower bids for the homeowner’s remodeling project. In addition, most contractors are willing to negotiate with you for a better price, leaving you with a beautiful remodel for an excellent price.

Reason #2: Higher number of contractors to choose from. Although homeowners are still making repairs and working on their houses, the number of bigger additions and fancy remodels is going down. More contractors are competing against each other for your project.

Reason #3: Lower financing costs. If you have good credit and a steady economic foundation, you can get lower financing costs. This, in turn, makes the project that much more affordable.

Reason #4: Lower cost of materials. Because the number of major remodels is dropping, the demand for materials (and thus the cost) is also dropping.

Reason #5: Less waiting time for a top-rated remodeling contractor. With a lower number of people wanting to remodel their Orlando home, even top-rated professionals have a shorter waiting list.

Reason #6: Better service. With more competition, contractors are definitely giving “service with a smile.” Calls are being returned faster; jobs are starting on time (or before!).

If you looked into remodeling your Orlando home more than a year ago, now is definitely the time to do something about it. However, even in this sweet time for remodeling, be aware of shady companies and shoddy work. Do your research before accepting any contractor.

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Do Orlando Homes for Sale Need Roof Inspections?

2009-07-02T15:41:00.000-07:00

If you’re worried about the condition of the roof on the Orlando home you want to buy, you may need a roof inspection. Although some states don’t require that a roof inspection be included in the real estate contract, it's often better to be on the safe side and get the roof inspected.

Just what is included in a roof inspection? Here’s a short list:

What Is The Roof on the Orlando Home Made Of?
Roofs are commonly made of composition shingles, wood shake, or clay tiles. The material the roof is made of can determine the life of the roof. Tile roofs can last as long as fifty years, while wood shake has an expected "useful" life span of forty years. Roofs made of composition shingles can last twenty to forty years, and are often under warranty for that amount of time.

How Many Repairs Have Been Made?
The roof inspector may also get a count of how many layers are on a roof. Some states require that the roof be completely removed and replaced at certain levels. The inspector will verify that previous roof repairs were done correctly and with the right materials.

Is There Any Roof Damage?
When inspecting the roof, the inspector will look for any slight movements that would indicate loose shingles or tiles. He’ll look at the ridges of the roof and around the edges to gauge any damage.

The added expense of a roof inspection may seem steep, but it's worth the cost to ensure that your roof is in good condition.

Thinking of buying? Let us help you find a Orlando home (and roof) that's in excellent condition. Give me us call today at 407-876-5771.

6 Ways to Tell if You Need to Paint Before Putting Up Your Orlando Home for Sale

2009-07-02T15:36:00.000-07:00

If you’re putting up your Orlando home for sale, it may be time to bring out the brush and spackle. This doesn’t just mean on the outside, but everywhere. If you’re not sure whether you need to do it, here are a few ways to tell:

1. Peeling exterior – You may be used to the home and not see the peeling paint, but, as any real estate agent will tell you, curb appeal is very important. If buyers don’t like the way your home looks on the outside, they very seldom go inside. If the paint is peeling, it’s time to redo it.

2. Eye-catching colors – While you may enjoy your robin’s egg blue house with canary yellow shutters, buyers may not. A Orlando home for sale needs to be painted in a way that the buyers can see themselves living in it. If your house is painted in unusually eye-catching colors, you need to repaint in neutral tones. Stick with neutral colors for interior painting also.

3. Peeling/stained shed – If you have a wooden shed on your property, you might need to repaint it or even replace it. Exposed wood under the paint is a major detractor and an eyesore. It may not matter to you, but it will matter to the buyer.

4. Cracks in the walls – If the interior of your home has little cracks, seal the drywall with spackling and repaint. Though small, the cracks will be seen as a negative, even if the rest of the house is well cared for.

5. Cracked tiles or water spots on the ceiling – Who looks up at the ceiling anymore? The buyer will and will see that unsightly stain in the corner that you haven’t noticed for years.

6. Artistic inspiration – If you’re an artist and you found the need to express yourself on the walls, you might consider repainting. Ask your real estate agent before hand; some forms of expression may sell better than others. It might be slightly painful, so it’s okay if you let someone else do it.

When you have a Orlando home for sale you have to be honest with yourself. Look at the house with fresh eyes and in a buyer’s point of view. If something stands out, it probably needs to be fixed.
If you’re thinking of selling your home, I'd be happy to give you suggestions on how to make it sparkle so it will sell faster and for more money. Call us today at 407-876-5771 for more information.

Your Orlando Real Estate Agent and You

2009-07-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

As an Orlando real estate agent, I get to meet people from all ends of the spectrum: buyers, sellers, renters, etc. I also come across other agents, and it constantly amazes me at the different outlooks surrounding the real estate profession. Many buyers think sellers and real estate agents are out to stiff them. On the opposite side, many sellers think buyers and agents are out to stiff them. Unfortunately, even some agents think both are out to stiff them.

I know they say “it’s a dog eat dog world”, but if everybody was truly out to stiff everybody else (rather than just get a fair deal), nothing would ever get done. There’s a big difference between a good agent and a crummy agent. So, maybe we all need to be reminded of what a good Orlando real estate agent really is:

Your agent is your business associate. They are in the business of finding what you need, whether it’s a house to buy or a buyer for your house. As a business associate, they look for the best deal for you, because the best deal for you is the best for them.

Your agent is your negotiator. This goes along with the first, but is more in depth. For instance, if you’re looking at new construction and the builder has a “buyer’s agent”, do you really think that agent is there to help you get the best deal? No, they’re there to help the builder get the best deal. That’s why you have your own agent there – you know they’re on your side.

Your agent is your friend. Especially when you’re having problems selling your house, you’ll have a lot of worries. A good Orlando real estate agent will be there to listen to them and either a) relieve your worries or b) be understanding of them.

As real estate agents, we understand that selling a house isn’t easy. We understand that buying a house can be stressful. We even understand that you may be stuck in a situation you’d rather not be in, such as during a foreclosure. Good agents aren’t just agents; we’re good friends.

If you need to sell your home or are looking to buy one, we would love to help you.

Can’t Sell Your Orlando Real Estate?

2009-07-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

If you watch the Orlando real estate market, you probably know it’s finally showing a little bit of upswing, with national home sales going up by 2.4% in May. While lower mortgage rates and more affordable home prices, along with an $8,000 tax credit for first time buyers, has made selling a home easier, you may still end up holding on to that house for quite awhile. Instead of selling straight out, consider renting to own.

Called a “rent-to-own” or “lease-option,” these deals normally require paying around 5% of the overall purchase price in up-front fees. In addition, buyers are usually required to pay extra rent each month. This is a win-win situation for both the buyer and the seller.

For you as the seller, you have regular rent that goes into your pocket, either to pay down the mortgage you still have on your home or to go toward your new home. In addition, you keep the property profitable as well as get it off the over-stuffed Orlando real estate market.

For the "rent-to-own" buyer, the additional rent payment knocks down the selling price. Properly drafted, a lease option agreement can help buyers having trouble arranging financing or money for the down payment.

Typically, lease agreements are written in 12 to 36 month increments. If the buyer decides they don’t want to buy after all, you can:
a) Put the house back on the market to sell straight out.
b) Put it back on the market as a rent-to-own.

This is also a plus for you, as you can have the contract state that you keep the deposit, as well as the extra rent they have paid.

Don’t think this is just for home sellers, either. Many condominiums are offering the option as well. Some developers are even offering to apply 100% of the rent toward the purchase of the condo.

There are some possible drawbacks to this option, but it is something to consider if you’re trying to sell your Orlando real estate and can’t get it off the market.
If you’d like to sell your home, we can help. We specialize in solutions that get your home off the market fast and give you the most money in your pocket.

Summer Fun in the Backyard of Your Own Orlando Home

2009-06-06T11:04:00.000-07:00

Summer is gearing up, and the great summer holidays are right around the corner. From 4th of July picnics and fireworks to Memorial Day barbeques, and every sunny day in between, a little preparation can make your Orlando home a spot for summer fun.

Clean Up the Grill
One of the most popular pieces of outdoor party equipment is the barbeque grill. Over winter, it can accumulate a lot of dust. Propane tanks may need recharging and even the tires might need filling. If the grill wasn't cleaned and stored properly, last summer's leftovers may be hanging on for dear life, and be really hard to get rid of. A good oven spray can help a lot. Spray on a generous amount and let your grill sit in the sun for a few hours before attempting to scrub the food surface clean.

Clean Up the Yard
Clutter is not only unsightly it can also be hazardous. Along with making sure toys are picked up and put away, check for branches that could have been knocked down by storms. Also check for holes or uneven areas in the grass where a guest could twist an ankle.

Decorate Appropriately
Different holidays have themes that can be used to make your Orlando home's yard and patio look its best. For everyday fun in the yard, situate tiki lamps in strategic spots to keep away flies and mosquitoes. Use brightly colored serving dishes, plates and napkins. You'll find an amazing array of them at your local discount store.

Invite Friends and Family to Share the Fun
Parties are only as good as the people around you. Invite friends and family to make a fun Orlando home party even better. One final tip: Have plenty of games on hand for all age groups.

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Getting Help for Moving Day After Buying Your Orlando Home

2009-06-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

Whew—you're finished! You've signed all the forms and the race is won, you think. Okay, go ahead and sigh that huge gasp of relief that your Orlando home is finally yours. That's enough. Now, get yourself up and realize the heavy work is about to start. Oh yeah, you have to move all that stuff you've managed to accumulate over the past however many years you've been alive. Stuff doesn't ever die; it just continues to follow you around. So, how do you get it to your new home?

Send out invitations: You would do it for any other big event in your life. Send out invitations to your family and friends and invite them to help you on your big day. Make it sound like fun by promising a picnic in your new backyard either the day of the move or soon after. It doesn't have to be a big complicated affair. Order some take out fried chicken or pizza and have plenty of beverages for sweaty tired helpers. Make it a real event that everyone can enjoy while laughing about the day's adventures.

Store it: If you're like most people, you have plenty of things you rarely use but can't bear to get rid of. Take advantage of the fact that you'll be packing all your things and put those items you never use into boxes and tote them to a storage unit. You get to keep them, at least for now, but they won't be cluttering up your brand new Orlando home. In six months, if you haven't missed the items, take the boxes (without opening them) to your favorite donation location.

Safeguard your pets: Moving day is hectic and can be frightening for your pets. Board your cats or dogs at your veterinarian for the day. It will be worth the expense to make sure they don't escape through doors propped open for moving.

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Why Rent When You Could Buy Your Very Own Orlando Condo?

2009-06-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

If you're tired of renting but don't want a huge home to manage, consider purchasing a Orlando condo. You can enjoy the benefits of home ownership and leave your renting days behind you.

By owning a condo, you can:

Build equity
When you make payments on a condo you own, you are constantly building equity in the property. With renting, you pay for years and own nothing.

Avoid payment increases
Unlike renting, when you own your Orlando condo and have a fixed mortgage rate, you can feel confident that your monthly payments will remain the same. No more surprise rent hikes. You can just sit back, relax and plan your finances around that peace of mind.

Make upgrades
As a renter, you probably never had the pleasure of painting the walls any color that suited your style. Your only choices were white and builder beige. As a condo owner, you have the freedom to do what you want to the interior of your home without worrying about penalties from the landlord.

Break away from landlords
Now's your chance to escape the watchful eye of your landlord and start living life the way you please. As a property owner, you call the shots. And best of all, you don't have to be concerned with your landlord selling the property and leaving you without a place to live. Now you can secure your future as condo owner.

There is an array of benefits to owning a Orlando condo. All you have to do is get out of the renter's mindset and step out on your own. You'd be surprise how great you'll feel once you do.

Search for Orlando condos (and homes) for sale at MLSOrlandoSearch.com Or, let us do the work for you. We would be happy to send you a list of available properties that meet your criteria. Just give us a call now at 407-876-5771.

6 Great Reasons First-Time Orlando Home Buyers Should Purchase Now

2009-06-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

Although the housing market has had its fair share of ups and down, many home buyers, particularly first-time home buyers, are reaping the benefits. If you're thinking about purchasing a Orlando home, there are many good reasons to make your move today. Here are six of them:

1. Low interest rates – Right now, interest rates are lower than ever before. This means you can get an extremely affordable loan and save big on interest payments.

2. Cheaper home prices – Not only are interest rates low, but homes all around are cheaper. Since the market is packed with homes for sale, selling has become harder. As a result, prices have fallen significantly, allowing you to get a more expensive home for less money.

3. Potential tax credits – As a first-time buyer, you could be eligible for thousands of dollars in tax credits. Best of all, you do not have to pay it back, as opposed to previous years.

4. Less competition – Many people no longer have the money to purchase homes, so fewer people are visiting model homes and open houses. This is great news for you. If you're ready to buy a Orlando home, you don't have to worry about floods of people bidding up the price on the property.

5. Huge inventory – With new homes constantly being built, not to mention an array of existing homes, you can take your pick from a wide variety of available properties.

6. Big bargaining power – Because so many people are trying to sell their homes, they're more willing to be flexible. As a buyer, you could greatly benefit and may be able to save on closing costs, upgrades, repairs and more. Work with a skilled real estate agent who can negotiate a great contract for you.

If you have the funds to step out and purchase one of the many Orlando homes for sale, now is the best time to take advantage of all the possibilities. we are ready, willing and able to negotiate the best price and terms for you. Call us today at 407-876-5771.

Orlando Real Estate Sales Up - Home Prices Down

2009-05-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

The continuing price declines for existing-home sales in Metro Orlando are similar to declines elsewhere in the state, according to a monthly report released Wednesday by the Florida Association of Realtors. Prices in the four-county metro area fell by 34 percent in April from a year earlier, compared with a statewide decrease of 31 percent. Not only did local resale prices continue their year-long decline, dropping to $141,800 in April from $215,700 a year earlier, they also slid further from March, when the median price was $151,500. Those historically low prices helped drive the area's continuing uptick in sales, with a 38 percent increase last month compared with April 2008.

The Orlando-area condominium market continued to be one of the hardest hit in the state this spring, with resale prices down 56 percent from April 2008, compared with a statewide price decline of 40 percent. The median condo price in Metro Orlando was $52,700 last month -- less than half the statewide median of $106,900. In comparison, a year ago, condo prices in the Orlando area were $120,800, or about two-thirds the statewide average at the time. complete story

Source: OrlandoSentinel.com - Mary Shanklin

Is Orlando Real Estate finding a Bottom?

2009-05-27T15:56:00.000-07:00

Housing Hitting Bottom Means Fewest Starts Since 1945

May 26 (Bloomberg) -- The slump in the U.S. housing market that caused the median value of homes to decline 24 percent since 2006 may bottom next month without any prospect of a rebound for another year, according to estimates from chief economists at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the Mortgage Bankers Association and national realtors and homebuilder groups.

Existing home sales probably won’t reach pre-boom levels until the third quarter of 2010 and housing starts won’t surpass 1 million until 2011, a barrier last broken six decades ago, the economists said. “There are very few V-shaped recoveries in the history of real estate, and this one is likely to be even slower because of the size of the bubble,” said Robert Shiller, the Yale University professor who, with economist Karl Case, created home price indexes in the 1980s now used by Standard & Poor’s.

The rebound will be so anemic that 2009 building starts will total about 496,000 homes, the lowest since the end of World War II in 1945, according to the economists’ forecasts. Foreclosures on pay option adjustable-rate mortgages and a backlog of bank-owned properties will slow any revival and keep housing from playing its traditional role of boosting economic recovery.

Residential construction and home sales led the way out of the previous seven recessions, with housing starts improving an average seven months and resales gaining strength about four months before the economy picked up.

‘Green Shoots’

The world’s largest economy probably will grow 1.9 percent next year, according to the average estimate of 56 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg. After each of the last seven contractions, it expanded more than 3 percent on average in the first year of recovery.
Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas President Richard Fisher said earlier this month that the U.S. is on the verge of rebounding with “healthy signs -- the stirrings of what I call green shoots.” So did former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan, who cited “seeds of a bottoming” in housing during a May 12 speech at a National Association of Realtors conference in Washington.
“If you are looking at prices relative to income and rents, you could argue that we are at the bottom, and I’m cautiously optimistic that we may be,” said Thomas Lawler, a former Fannie Mae economist in Leesburg, Virginia. “It’s possible, however, that we could have a second wave of foreclosures and the very small amount of support the economy might have gotten will turn into the reverse.”

Prices Fall

Data released today showed foreclosures are still weighing on the housing market. Home prices in 20 major metropolitan areas fell 18.7 percent in March from a year earlier as foreclosures rose, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller index. Economists forecast the index would drop 18.3 percent.

The recession started after U.S. banks and Wall Street firms securitized mortgage loans made to the riskiest borrowers to earn fees only to see homeowners default, prices fall and the value of the bonds dwindle.

Three of the biggest investment banks were brought down by home loan-related investments. The U.S. government committed $29 billion to engineer the takeover of Bear Stearns Cos. in March 2008 by New York-based JPMorgan Chase & Co. Six months later, Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. filed the largest bankruptcy in U.S. history after becoming the biggest underwriter of mortgage- backed securities as real estate prices peaked. complete story

Source: Bloomberg.com - Kathleen M. Howley

New Website of Interest - Florida Short Sale Agents .com

2009-05-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

Florida short Sale Agents .com

Florida Short Sale Short Sales in Miami, Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach

Florida Short Sale Agents: A Florida short sale offers homeowners a way to avoid foreclosure and help save their credit. They have a team of licensed Florida Realtors and loss mitigation experts who specialize in pre-foreclosures and the short sales of all kinds of property. They have you covered in all the South Florida tri county (Broward, Miami-Dade, & Palm Beach) metro areas like Miami short sale - Fort Lauderdale short sale & Palm Beach Short Sale.

http://www.floridashortsaleagents.com

New website of interest - FL Realty Agents .com

2009-05-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

FL Realty Agents .com

FLRealtyAgents.com is one of the leading team of agents in South Florida engaged in real estate, foreclosure homes & property dealing, short sales. Contact us today if you are interested in Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Palm Beach area properties. We cover all of Broward, Miami-Dade & Palm Beach County.

http://www.flrealtyagents.com

Orlando, Where Florida Dreams Become Reality

2009-05-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Orlando is where your dreams become reality when you work side by side with the professional real estate team that makes your home purchases or sale a pleasant and adventurous experience. In Orlando, you can experience the family fun of the local theme parks, the weekends that are packed full of fun and excitement, as well as the warm weather and easy-to-get-to sunny beaches. However, these are not the only wonderful things you will experience when you become a resident of Orlando, Florida. You can become a part of the fast-growing real estate market that offers an endless amount of beautiful homes at wonderful prices. Whether you are purchasing a foreclosed home, a home in short sale, or a newly listed home, you can be sure that when you work with the Orlando real estate team that knows real estate you will be purchasing a lifelong investment.

Enjoy having the latest homes in the housing market offered to you through the expert service you will be offered with Orlando’s top real estate professionals. Never miss out on the home of your dreams again when you rely on the trusted service of a real estate agent who makes finding the home of your dreams their top priority. There is an endless amount of real estate investments available in the fast growing Orlando area whether you are looking for the home of your dreams or a secure financial investment for your family. Either way you are sure to find exactly what you desire beachside or in the heart of the action that surrounds Orlando. Perhaps you wish to live in the peaceful part of Orlando but have the action and the beaches only a short drive away. Well, when you rely on the services of professional Orlando real estate agents, your desires become reality.

Enjoy Orlando and all it has to offer by working with the knowledgeable services offered to you by professional real estate consultants. Even in the event of selling your Orlando home or finding yourself a victim of the struggling economy, you can find comfort and peace in the fact that your Orlando real estate agent is not only experienced but watching out for your best interests. Listing your home has never been easier than when you trust the sale of your home to a real estate agent that will make sure you get the most money for your home. Find the exact value of the home and the suggestions of lenders as well as home inspectors, and attorney’s when you take the advice of your professional Orlando real estate agent.

Orlando Foreclosures and Short Sales

2009-04-30T13:21:00.001-07:00

Orlando, Florida, is constantly growing and new developments are popping up everywhere, but this area has been affected by the fall of the economy along with the rest of the United States. While real estate is making a turnaround and rates are at an all-time low, that does not change the situations that most of us have found ourselves in at this time. With the loss of jobs and cutback in new jobs, people are suffering financially and in some cases lose their homes and file bankruptcy. This can be avoided in most cases with the assistance of the professionals in Orlando real estate; you can avoid foreclosure and possible bankruptcy. Working side by side with the experts in Orlando real estate you can explore all your options and discover what route is best for you and your situation.

Selling your home through a short sale program could be the answer you and your family need to avoid tarnishing your credit for years to come due to the fall of the economy. The economy will come back so there is no need for you to cause yourself problems for years to come due to an unforeseen financial crisis. Your trustworthy Orlando real estate agent can work with you, your mortgage holder, and the real estate market to save you from financial distress. With the experience your professional realtor offers you there is a good chance you can save your credit and purchase a new house when you are back on your feet again. A short sale program will allow you to sell your home for market value in the event that you owe the mortgage company more than what your home is worth. After the sale of your home your mortgage company will agree to discard the remaining balance without causing you to file bankruptcy and without tarnishing your credit by reporting the remaining balance. Your Orlando real estate agent is experienced in this process and can ensure you are getting the most for your home and work with the mortgage company during the sale of your home.

Whether you are in the middle of a foreclosure, a short sale of your home, or you are a buyer in search of the best real estate investments. you can rest assured that your Orlando real estate agent has the experience you need to make the purchase or sale of the home. The experience you need and the professional advice you deserve is just a step away. Avoid real estate headaches when you work side by side with Orlando’s experienced real estate professionals.

The Florida Real Estate Market

2009-04-21T20:12:00.001-07:00

The amount of homes on the market in Florida is shrinking, as there are more homes sold and banks back out of some foreclosures. In Miami Beach, reports show the number of condos for sale was down to a near 20-month supply in the month of March, which is half from just 15 months ago and down from a 30 month supply in the month of February. The number of single-family homes also saw a drop in available inventory, down to over 37K homes on the market.

Hotels also face a weak summer, and some market watchers are looking at the relationship between a poor viewing of the hospitality industry and the condition of local real estate values. They are also going be watching the industry’s role in Florida's economic recovery. These reports offer a great look into how the Florida hospitality industry is impacting real estate.

Even though the market is down, there are still plenty of experts who aren't counting them out; investors remain, waiting for the gap between bids and current asking prices on properties to narrow. Even large investment banks like Morgan Stanley and pension advisors to wealthy people, who made smart investments during the boom many years ago, are going to become the big players as there is an increased demand for office and retail sales in the market. This is not the case yet, though. A lot of investors are sitting on the sideline, waiting for the right time. As sale prices drop, and buyer activity picks up, those investors will be able to pay cash and are the ones who will be able to close deals

The commercial property sales in Florida is at an all time low in 12 years, but that is likely to change in the last half of 2009. An increase in distressed sales could be coming from investors looking at the double threat of lowered revenue and the inability to refinance loans. Also, some real estate investment companies are selling area holdings as they redesign their business. Most are looking for an increase in commercial sales, including office, retail, industrial and some hotels, but most of this commercial activity will take place in the fourth quarter.

If you have the money to invest, then now is the time to get in the Florida real estate market. Reports are showing that there will be another boom before long and those who are in now will reap the rewards.

Moving to Orlando, Florida

2009-04-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

When I was recently promoted to the president of marketing at my company, I was informed that with the promotion came a relocation expectation. I was surprised to find that I would have to move from my home in the Midwest and find a new home in the Orlando, Florida area. I knew the first thing I had to go was get in touch with a qualified Orlando Real Estate agent if I was going to get a jump on everything I had to do. I was in contact with a great agent and within a few days time, I had a complete listing of Orlando Foreclosures on the market.

My Orlando Real Estate listing included some wonderful homes in some very desirable neighborhoods. Much to my surprise was how many of the homes were priced within my budget, had the right square footage and had some of the best amenities on the market. I was sure I would find the home of my dreams in no time at all and this was because I had the right tools and took a proactive approach to the whole situation. I was able to find a great home which was perfectly suited to the needs of my growing family. My Orlando Real Estate agent was extremely helpful in explaining the ins-and-outs of what it requires to move across the country. She told me about what happens during an appraisal, how much money I needed, the loan process, moving expenses and many other details I had no knowledge of, she made the transitional period go off without a hitch.

It can take quite a bit of time to coordinate everything when it comes time to make a long-distance move. But, the process does not have to be an unpleasant one, because an Orlando Real Estate agent can walk you through the steps and will assist you every inch of the way. This is just what a good real estate agent will do for clients, they treat you with respect, understanding and like you are one of their own family.

Having an Orlando Real Estate agent on your side will help you find the home of your dreams and gives you the advantage of having access to all the latest homes to come onto the market. I have never had a better experience then I did when I worked with my real estate professional and would highly recommend using an agent when making a cross-country transition.

Real Estate help you can trust in these tough times

2009-03-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

Whether you are facing foreclosure or a potential short sale, or are looking to purchase such properties, you have to be sure that you are working with the right Real Estate Agent. It can be hard to know for sure if you are working with the right people. That is why the professionals at Orlando Real Estate Associates will help you through the process and answer all your questions in a courteous and timely manner. The company’s expert real estate agents have a proven track record and get their clients results. Orlando MLS, a multiple listing service that highlights all the great finds in the area, is available on the Web site, as well as information about Orlando Short Sales and Orlando Foreclosures.

Buying or selling a home in any market and economy always brings potential benefits and risks with it. Along with providing traditional real estate services for people looking to buy and sell homes for relocation purposes or to meet the needs of a growing or changing family, Orlando Real Estate Agents will go that extra mile to ensure happy buyers and sellers, taking the time to explain the benefits and risks of each potential transaction. Critical in this tough economy, the company’s real estate agents will help you take advantage of an Orlando Short Sale to avoid foreclosure and save your valuable credit. Setting up a short sale, as opposed to losing your home through a foreclosure, allows you to work with a lender to sell the property for less than the amount of the current mortgage and in some cases can be a big relief for weary homeowners.

If you are looking to invest in foreclosed properties, Orlando Real Estate Associates can introduce you to the Orlando Foreclosure Listings and the Orlando Short Sale Listings to help you take advantage of the opportunities out there. The informative Web site will assist you as you customize your search, get the most for the money you invest and take control of the house-hunting process.

The Orlando Real Estate Market is a vibrant one, filled with plenty of prospects if you know where to look. The experts at Orlando Real Estate Associates will help you get there, and assist you in making smart, savvy real estate investment decisions. While the average buyer does not know how to begin the search for investment property, the experts on this company’s team will lead you in the right direction.

Top rated Toronto Real Estate Website

2009-03-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a great Toronto Real Estate Listings website we highly recommend. http://www.torontorealestatedirect.com

How to Find the Perfect Home in Orlando, Florida

2009-03-09T21:07:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Orlando, Florida, area and are searching for Orlando Foreclosure Listings, you should check out Orlando Realty Experts. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, it pays to have the expertise of a real estate agent on your side. With the assistance of Orlando Realty Experts, you can expect a happy, risk-free real estate experience.

Orlando Realty Experts offers a wide variety of services such as real estate advice, homes for sale information and local information. Orlando Real Estate Agents can be an invaluable tool when looking to sell or purchase a new home. With the help and guidance of a qualified agent you can accomplish many things you might not have been able to do on your own.
The first thing you want to do if your in the market for a home in the Orlando, Florida, area is contact a qualified professional. For a list of Orlando Short Sale information, a real estate agent is integral in getting you the most up-to-date and accurate information, and an agent can also answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Secondly, you need a to speak with a number of Orlando Real Estate Agents if you are to get information pertaining to the type of home and neighborhood you are looking for. For many prospective home buyers, going it alone can be a frightening thought. But, when shopping with a qualified Orlando agent, you can find out information about schools, jobs, ordinance information and other important facts you should know before buying a home.
You also want to have the help of a professional Orlando Real Estate Agent to keep you apprised of any new homes that may come available on the market. Prime homes sell quickly and without the right information you could miss out on what could be the home of your dreams. Many people have missed the opportunity to jump on a prime piece of property because they did not act quickly enough, with a professional agent working for you, this will not happen.
For you, as a prospective home buyer, Orlando Realty Experts provides an invaluable service when it comes to Orlando Real Estate. The agents are devoted to supporting and assisting you through your entire endeavor, a commitment to showing you homes by appointment, during or after business hours and on weekends if necessary. In short, having an agent work with you is a way to guarantee you find exactly what you're searching for and nothing less.

Orlando Real Estate

2009-02-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

The Sunshine State is where everyone would love to be right now, especially if you are in an area of the country that is having sub-zero temperatures and feet of snow falling at a time. Orlando is one of the fastest growing and cleanest cities in the United States. With some of the most beautiful weather year round and some great newer houses available, why not start looking for a home there now? We not only offer help with the purchase of a home in the Orlando area, we also can assist you with a sale or just with any real estate questions you may have.

Florida has long been the retirement state of choice for many Americans, but times are changing and Florida is becoming its own producer of many goods and services. Why would you wait all your life to retire some place that you could easily move to now and start enjoying it? We have a comprehensive market report for the Orlando area and we also offer a variety of other resources to help you in your home buying needs. We have trained and knowledgeable staff members that can help you search for the property that best fits you and give you suggestions on what may be coming on the market soon.

With the economy the way it currently is it’s no wonder that people are trying to save every cent they can. The real estate market is in crisis mode and that is good for the buyer. There are so many listings that it can take hours to go through them. You can be picky about just what you want and where you want it in today’s market. However, you need to be cautious of some real estate agents that will try and make themselves look great and try to get you to purchase a home you do not want. We have been helping our customers for years and we pride ourselves on the fact that the customer is always number one with us and that we will do everything we can to make sure that you get the house you want at the price you want.

Orlando wants you to come enjoy its beauty and vast opportunities. Come see Disney and Sea World and enjoy in all that Orlando has to offer you. Then when you are done, give us a call and let us know where you want to make home, we have the knowledge and insight to help you get what you want. Let’s start living the dream of working in paradise by calling our real estate agents today!

Welcome to Sunny Orlando, Florida!

2009-02-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

Whether you are moving to Orlando, Florida, and are in need of a new home or you already live in Orlando and wish to sell your home for whatever reason there are knowledgeable and experienced Orlando real estate agents that are eager to help you sell or purchase your home. Working with a professional Orlando real estate agent will offer you the benefits of having up to date information on home that come available in the areas you prefer or the benefits of having someone else listing your property for you so you are free from having to schedule times for prospective buyers to view your home as well as the fact that your real estate agent will handle all the legal ends of selling or buying your property.

Take advantage of the short sale properties or foreclosure properties available in the beautiful city of Orlando. Your experienced Orlando real estate agent can direct you to the properties you are interested in and handle the communication between you and the seller in order to make your purchase easier. A knowledgeable Orlando real estate agent can guide you through the legal ends of purchasing a property that is in short sale or foreclosure as well as be of great assistance in listing your home if you are in the middle of a short sale agreement with your bank. No matter the property you wish to purchase or sell when working with an experienced and well trained Orlando real estate agent you are sure to be satisfied with the sell or purchase process of your home.

Choose to live in the middle of all the action and in the middle of the night life that Orlando has to offer with the many restaurants, night clubs, and shopping centers -- not to mention the fun Orlando has to offer for the children such as Disney, Sea World and other famous theme parks. Being a resident of Orlando will allow you to take advantage of the many discounts offered by the local theme parks as well as the fact that you can return home to your own bed at the end of a day filled with theme parks and adventure.

If you are searching for a quieter atmosphere but wish to have the fun and adventure within driving distance your knowledgeable Orlando real estate agent can find the perfect home in the quiet neighborhood with the action and fun only a short driving distance away. So start today and get your local Orlando real estate agent on the phone to ensure you are getting the home of your dreams in the setting your desire.

Foreclosure News

2009-02-03T11:14:00.000-08:00

On January 28, Jerry Jackson of the Orlando Sentinel reported that Florida State Representative Darren Soto plans to propose a “foreclosure bill of rights” which would help slow foreclosures in the state of Florida. Similar legislation has also been proposed in other states, including Texas and New York.

Here are some details regarding his proposal:

(1) This law would apply to “homestead properties,” not second homes or investment properties. The ramifications of this provision would mean that only people claiming the real estate as their primary home would receive the benefits of the bill, as opposed to vacationers and landlords.
(2) Banks would be required to make a “good faith” effort to renegotiate home loans. This would curb lenders from falsely promising to renegotiate home loans, and place some pressure on lenders to help solve the mortgage crisis. Mortgage lenders may now be subject to criminal charges and civil liability for false promises.
(3) Banks would be further required to comply with mandatory document disclosures. The effect of this would be twofold. First, the mortgagor will be obligated to disclose all correspondence and information with the homeowner. This may help one of the problems of the mortgage fallout misinformation. Second, this will help the homeowner decide if the lender is acting in her best interests, and alert her to changes in the terms of the loan.
(4) Lenders cannot immediately run to court to initiate a foreclosure action and are subject to mandatory mediation proceedings. In a mediation proceeding, both sides get together to try to negotiate a deal through a mediator and settle the matter out of court.
(5) To help the lenders, the law will provide for a “forbearance lien” which will “allow lender to recoup the amount of the principal they agree to reduce, when the property was eventually sold.” The banks, while forgoing some of their capital in the short run, will regain some of it down the road.
(6) The bill will also specify settlement negotiation requirements. This will encourage settlement that will hopefully satisfy both parties. If the terms are set, this will make settling possible foreclosure actions easier and more efficient.
(7) Banks would be supplied criteria for the commercial reasonableness of renegotiated loans. In a foreclosure action the banks hold a large advantage in that they can take the property from the homeowner at any time. This power position gives them leverage in the renegotiation of loans. This provision would help even the playing field between the lender and the mortgagee.

Real Estate Tax Rules

2009-02-03T11:07:00.000-08:00

With tax season here, confusion often reigns supreme when considering gains and losses. Often, real estate gives taxpayers a headache when dealing with the IRS. According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, as much as 18% of the home sales last year were short sales. This post will shed some light on the tax consequences of a short sale and how a taxpayer should treat the sale on your 1040 for 2009.

If you’ve ever prepared your own taxes, you probably know the general rule that a taxpayer must include as ordinary income the “discharge of indebtedness.” The basic application of this rule occurs when a creditor decreases the amount of debt owed by a debtor. This obviously applies to a short sale, in which the mortgagor allows the mortgagee to sell the property for less than the mortgage and discharges the rest of the debt.

The IRS considers the difference between the amount originally owed and the new, lower amount income that must be declared. According to analysis conducted by Clayton Holdings, Inc., a successful short sale typically results in about a 19% loss between the mortgage price and the sale price. This amount can be cumbersome- approximately $38,000 would be owed on a house worth $200,000.

However, there are certain exceptions to this general rule. Under the Internal Revenue Code, a taxpayer may exclude the “discharge of indebtedness” if: (1) the discharge occurs during bankruptcy proceedings, (2) the taxpayer is insolvent, or (3) if the property is business real estate. For more information, please look to the IRS Code § 108(a).

The first two exceptions are relatively straight forward. If you are in the middle of declaring for or have actually declared bankruptcy, you will be able to exclude the difference between your mortgage and the sale price of your home.

The third exception allows a little wiggle room. The obvious application of this provision allows a business owner who is short selling his property to exclude the “discharge of indebtedness” from his ordinary income. However, this exception may also apply to the taxpayer who is holding real estate as investment property for the production of income. Therefore, a landlord who rents out her real estate may be able to disclaim the “discharge of indebtedness” if she has a short sale on the rental property.

Please consult a tax professional for more advice on reporting and excluding income related to your short sale. He or she may be able to work with you to find a possible exclusion for your short sale income.

Find Your Dream Home in Orlando

2009-01-14T11:52:00.000-08:00

Are you in the market for a new home in Orlando? Do you dream of living in the middle of a huge theme park and a city full of adventures during the day as well as an eventful nightlife? Fun in the sun is waiting for you and is only a phone call away when you decide to work with the many knowledgeable and reputable real estate agents that Orlando has to offer. Stop dreaming of living the life of luxury and start packing today for your dream home in Orlando, Florida.
Online you will find a wide variety of Orlando real estate agents just waiting on your phone call or e-mail. You can give your Orlando real estate agent the description of the style home you desire, the type of neighborhood you wish to live (whether in the middle of all the action or in a subdivision just outside all the activity the city of Orlando has to offer). Your real estate agent will have all the information you need on the schools and all you will need to decide is if you prefer a public school or a private school for your family. In Orlando you can choose from a quiet cul-de-sac in a nice subdivision or an apartment located in the middle of all the activity. Maybe you would prefer a condo that is free from yard work and the maintenance is left up to someone else.
Enjoy all the benefits that becoming a “local” that Orlando has to offer. You can experience the discounts and the inside information on all the events that Orlando has on a regular basis. Orlando offers the big-city lifestyle and activities in a clean, small-town atmosphere. You will have the beaches, Disney, Epcot Center, SeaWorld, and Discovery Cove where you can swim with the dolphins. Live less than 45 minutes from the world-famous Daytona 500 or drive a short distance to Kennedy Space Center and watch the space shuttle launch in person. No matter what your preference you will find all you need and desire for yourself and your family in the beautiful city of Orlando.
The many Orlando real estate agencies can have you in your dream home in no time with a few simple questions and your entire request in a home and neighborhood. Dreaming of living in the great city of Orlando can become a reality instead of a dream with a few phone calls and e-mails. Live the experience instead of vacationing in Orlando and have the time of your life with no regrets.

New Orlando Short Sales and Foreclosures info Blog

2009-01-10T08:53:00.001-08:00

Orlando Short Sales and Foreclosure Blog - We are a team of licensed Realtors and loss mitigation experts in Orlando who specialize in foreclosures, pre-foreclosures and the short sales of all types of property. There is much interest in the various stages of distressed properties these days. A lot of information, some good and some bad, is floating around. Our goal is to help provide some clarity and guidance on this complex subject.

Spring Break Destination

2009-01-06T10:14:00.000-08:00

Hotel costs are through the roof during this time of year in Orlando and almost all of Florida. Like many others, I enjoy my fun in the sun, but when that hotel bill comes it sure does ruin the party that I had planned. With Disney charging more than $50 a ticket, and Sea World right there also, how much can you really afford after that hotel bill is added up? There is a simple and easy answer to this dilemma: How about purchasing a foreclosed home in the Orlando area?

Real estate is at an all-time low in most all markets, but unfortunately ticket prices for attractions are on the rise. Florida is paradise in the south for most of us. The beaches are right next door, as is Kennedy Space Center and Daytona International Speedway. Situated right in the center of the I-4 corridor, Orlando is the place to be in Florida. Tampa and Daytona are less than 45 minutes driving I-4 in either direction. The real estate agents that we have here in the Orlando area would be happy to show you around and take you to the hot spots. They can even find you a home that is near the Interstate or in a quiet rural neighborhood.

Orlando is a mixture of small-town areas and big-city life. You can go ride horses in the country or eat at Emeril’s café in the middle of Disney. Orlando is home to one of the largest new car shows in the United States. February is the month that all the action starts and all the prices go up. The housing market is no exception. Do you and your family plan on making the trip to Florida again this year? If so, and if it is a family tradition every year, why not buy a home there? A foreclosure is a great investment for the vacation person. Most areas around Orlando are 10 years or less in age so chances are you could step into a 5-year-old home for half the price of a new one being built.

Thousands of dollars year after year you spend on a hotel that you have to be in and out during a specific time, and who knows how well your car will be taken care of. Share the cost with your family or rent it out while you are not on vacation. Your home will pay for itself in Orlando. The real estate professionals at our site can guide you in the right direction and get you on the road to saving money today and enjoying your vacation NOW!

The Importance of a Knowledgeable Orlando Real Estate Agent

2008-12-26T09:36:00.000-08:00

The importance of having a knowledgeable real estate agent when moving to Orlando can be the difference between a stress free move and a nightmare. You will find your real estate agent will handle details you had no idea existed when trying to sell and/or purchase your home. Whether you are a first time home buyer or an experienced home buyer it is vital that your Orlando real estate agent have the experience you need when dealing with a legal binding contract such as a commitment to purchase a home.
If you are purchasing a home in Orlando your real estate agent is the one in close contact with other realtors and sellers. Purchasing a foreclosed home has numerous legal documents that will be involved along with sealed bids or public bids. This is where it is important you work with a knowledgeable agent. One who understands the importance of time and procedures when dealing with a foreclosure, especially when there is a cutoff date and time for all bids to be submitted. You do not want to lose the property you have chosen because you are working with an inexperienced real estate agent.
Selling your home can be a headache as well, with having to be available for showings and making decisions on a final purchase offer. Again, working with a professional Orlando real estate agent can make this process much easier. Let the agent worry with availability to show your home and review the legal offers made for you then in the end you only have the responsibility of accepting or denying the offer.
Your Orlando real estate agent will have numerous suggestions for finding the perfect lending institution and will have a wonderful knowledge of rates so you will be able to locate the lowest rate available. Not only can they advise you on a lending institute but a closing attorney as well. A knowledgeable Orlando real estate agent will have years of experience in the matters of mortgage rates for the best lending institute, and will also know the cheapest attorneys in the area for your closing, finally they will be able to advise you when you are ready to make an offer on the home of your choice.
Remember, if you are relocating from a different town or state, your Orlando real estate agent will be wonderful when deciding on the neighborhood in which you wish to live. The neighborhood plays a huge part in your final decision; you do not want to have any hidden surprises when you are in search of your new home. Your real estate agent can lead you directly to the area you wish to live in either alone or with your family.

Have Mickey Mouse in your back yard

2008-12-08T08:19:00.000-08:00

You could live minutes away from Mickey Mouse in the greater Orlando area. SeaWorld, Wet and Wild, Epcot -- all right at your back door. Your Orlando real estate agents are here to put you in the middle of your true dream home.

With a growing number of foreclosures you can be sure that there is a bargain out there just waiting for you. The Orland MLS will have multiple listings from one-bedroom studio apartments to mansions. This is the land that Walt Disney built his dreams on and now you can too. Orlando is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States as well as one of the cleanest.

Orlando is less than 45 minuets from the world-famous beaches in Daytona. You can even catch a space shuttle launch at Cape Canaveral just 45 minutes away. Your real estate agent will be able to show you how centrally located Orlando is and how great an area it is to live. Your agent will be able to give you multiple listings in areas of Orlando. There are gourmet restaurants all over the Orlando area and some of the largest and cleanest shopping malls around. Orlando has a major international airport so family and friends are only a quick plane trip away. Orlando is one of the largest tourist spots in the world and it is very family-driven unlike other cities that offer only adult activities. So whether you want to be closer to Daytona and the racetrack or Tampa Bay and its beautiful warm-water beaches, or be able to step out your door and watch the Space Shuttle take off or land, your Orlando real estate agent can help.

The markets are not the greatest at this point in our country and many people have fallen prey to bad investments or poor real estate advice. Let us give you the good advice and information that you need to make a wise and economically sound decision. Orlando is one of the most beautiful cities in the Sunshine State. Your Orlando real estate agent can help with any need, big or small.

So is it really a small world after all? Not really, especially when you look at the Orlando MLS listings and speak with your Orlando real estate agent. This city has more to offer than cities of twice its size, while still maintaining that warm family atmosphere. Give an Orlando real estate agent a call or take a trip to one of the greatest cities in the world and feel proud that you could live where Walt Disney’s greatest dream ever came to life.

Orlando Real Estate and the Professional Real Estate Agent

2008-12-02T09:03:00.000-08:00

So you’ve decided to move to Orlando, Florida -- excellent! Your next step will be to find and secure a successful real estate agent to help you secure the property of your dreams. Many people make the mistake of going it alone when looking for real estate. Unfortunately, these people do not understand the importance of securing an educated professional to help navigate the processes that are involved in a real estate transaction.

Real estate transactions are legally binding contracts, and to ensure you enter this type of contract armed with the best possible information, as well as to ensure that you’ve covered all your bases, typically requires the education and expertise of a professional real estate agent. As you embark on such a major purchase, you will find peace of mind in knowing that you have experience and knowledge in your corner.

Working with a real estate agent, a real estate appraiser, or any other real estate professional will ensure that you have access to the utmost knowledge and the best possible information available concerning a particular piece of property. Real estate agents have instant access to the newest listings, all of the information and property files, and have also access to documents and files that are housed in government buildings and city/county archives. Any number of these documents can be used as bargaining tools in a real estate transaction. From lot size to sewer access, many documents are unavailable to prior owners and may impact the sale and transfer of a particular piece of property.

Aside from that, working with a real estate agent to secure Orlando real estate will ensure convenience. If you're making a move, you already have enough to do. Selecting a real estate agent who will work for you is one of the best ways to save time and save money, as well as save yourself the legwork of shopping on your own. Remember, your real estate agent works for you. He or she is expected to service your needs and answer your questions. He or she will also be available to show you properties based on your schedule. If you’ve secured a good real estate agent, don’t hesitate to contact your personal real estate liason if you have questions about properties you passed on the way home from dinner, or you're simply looking for a place to stay while you search for your new home.

Good luck! And welcome to Orlando!