Serena Russell ~ Bay Area Real Estate Specialist » 2010 » February

Especially for buyers

Serena Russell — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:45:17 +0000

Dear buyer.

Are you aware of the trends happening in the market? Buyers continue to search for homes and the market has heated up, due to the lower inventory levels when compared with last year.

What does al this mean?

There are fewer homes and more buyers looking for homes. But don’t be discouraged if you are a buyer. The market still has plenty of inventory. It’s important to choose a good Realtor, who will help you write a strong offer. Your Realtor shoul ed be willing to work with you and understand your specific needs. Make sure you complete your home buyers questionnaire. This will assist you in deciding on property features, location, and much more.

In today’s marketplace, you may have to try again and again to get your offer accepted; this should not discourage you. I guarantee it will be a learning experience.

Inventory is lower than before, and demand is increasing for the good properties.
What do you consider is a ‘good’ property versus a not so good one? Do you know the difference?

Prices are rising and many properties are being sold within the first week of lisiting. If you found a home you liked very much, then chances are there is competition for that home. Competition can result in multiple offer situations. Be patient. Keep your focus looking forward and be willing to move on if at first you don’t succeed.

My advice is to consult with your favorite Real estate professional today. Developing a long-term relationship with a REALTOR® is the best way to ensure you will be well armed and informed when making your housing decisions.

Visit Tahoe before winter is over

Serena Russell — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 01:08:59 +0000

The President’s Week rush is over, the snow conditions are pristine, and the deals are great. Come get some time on the mountains doing your best Shaun White, Lindsay Vonn and Bode Miller imitations. We have a great selection of vacation rentals for you to kick your shoes off and get ready for another day of activites in beautiful Lake Tahoe.

Bring your friends and family out and explore every mountain around the South Shore. As of Sunday, February 21st, Kirkwood Mountain Resort recorded a base depth of 11 feet, Heavenly Mountain Resort with a base depth of 5 feet and Sierra at Tahoe has a base depth of 6 feet. For the non-skiiers/riders take in the beautiful views at lake level while sipping a cocktail at one of the areas nicest restaurants and bars.

So don’t let this winter pass you by! Like many locals say “take a snow day!” Come up this Friday and stay through the weekend.

YOU CAN RENT THIS COSY CABIN FOR ONLY $149 NIGHT. Popular with families and small groups.

Check out pictures on the website. :

www.laketahoecabin.homestead.com

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS IN SOUTH SHORE:

February 25, 2010

Chris Berry Trio @ BLU NightClub in Mont Bleu

(Vocals, Mbira, percussion)

February 27, 2010

Joan Jett and The Blackhearts @ Harrahs

March 6, 2010

Rick Springfield @ Harrahs

March 7-March 14, 2010

Lake Tahoe WinterFest Gay and Lesbian Ski Week

Nightly Showtimes

Carnival Cabaret (Wednesdays – Sundays 8pm)

Golden Cabaret Showroom

@ Horizon Casino

What does ‘owner occupied’ mean

Serena Russell — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:55:25 +0000

An owner-occupier is a person who lives in a house that he or she owns. Owner-occupancy is therefore also called home ownership. The home of the owner-occupier can range from condominums, apartments, to housing cooperatives. The immovable property, which includes the home and the land it sits upon, is known as the real estate.

Some homes are constructed by the owners with the intent to occupy. Many are inherited. A large number are purchased, either as new homes from a real-estate developer, or as an existing home from a previous landlord or owner-occupier.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

Serena Russell — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:29:44 +0000

When you apply for a home loan, a lender is required to provide what’s know as a mortgage good faith estimate, often abbreviated as GFE, to you within three days or less.

Although the good faith estimate should be accurate, lenders aren’t necessarily legally bound to their GFEs. However, most lenders try to honor good faith estimates as closely as possible in order to avoid developing a bad reputation with customers.

The GFE should cover closing costs and the amount of cash the borrower needs to close on the agreement. It should also detail which if any prepaid expenses must be handled and the average monthly payment the borrower will have to countenance to keep up with the loan. Therefore, the mortgage good faith estimate should give you a fairly good idea of what you will ultimately have to pay.