Emotions can cloud your reasoning. And they can misguide you during a very expensive and important business transaction. Sellers sometimes overvalue their homes, adding in sentimental value on top of property value. They refuse offers that, while reasonable, don’t add up to the value of their memories. Or they turn down a potential buyer, because they don’t garden and won’t “leave the rose bushes,” or aren’t the “type” of person they’d like living in their home.

For a smooth transition, hire an experienced real estate agent. Once you’ve turned yourself over to their guidance, you can then turn your focus onto the new phase of your life. And agent can help you establish a fair, and unbiased, asking price. They find the sellers. They show the house. And they help you sign on the dotted line. The middle man is extremely beneficial in separating from your emotions.

Your emotions may surface as soon as you list the house for sale, since many agents will suggest you remove many of your personal items from the house for staging. This is neither a personal attack on your decorating nor your memories. Staging is a wonderful way for homeowners to see the house as their future home, instead of seeing your house and your home.

Don’t fret over lost memories; take pictures of your home and make a scrapbook. Channel your emotions into the joy of moving. And have fun imagining the new memories you’ll make in your new place. This is not a time for mourning, instead it’s a time for celebrating!

Published: November 11, 2010

http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20101111_emotions.htm

By: Carla Hill

Here are 10 steps that buyers can take to make home dreams a reality!

1. Savings. You may already know how much monthly payment you can support (experts recommend no more than 1/3 your monthly income), but the buying process will also include upfront costs, such as a downpayment and closing costs.

2. Downpayment options. Do you qualify for downpayment assistance programs? Will you be able to get an FHA loan and pay 3.5 percent down? Do you have a relative that would like to make a downpayment gift? Many financial experts recommend a downpayment of 20 percent, so be sure to explore your options!

3. Check Credit Report. Your credit report says a lot about you. Lenders use it to evaluate your risk potential and to inform themselves on how responsible of a borrower you are. They use this report and subsequent score to figure your interest rate. The more stellar your report, the better your score and thus lower your rate. Be sure to check your report for accuracy, and report any errors to the credit reporting agencies.

4. Get Prequalified. It’s time to talk to a lender! Pre-qualification will give you a ballpark figure of how much the bank would be willing to lend you. Are you looking for a $100,000 house or a $300,000?

5. Get Preapproved. This is the official letter from the lender that says they will be willing to lend you money. Many sellers look for buyers who are preapproved.

6. Affordability. The bank may tell you that you can afford a home worth $300,000. This does not mean you want to borrow to your max. A more modest home may fit better in your financial plans.

7. Housing Criteria. You have a budget, now develop a list of what you need and want. This can include anything from “must have 3 bedrooms” to “hardwoods” or “granite”.

8. Neighborhood choice. Location strongly affects prices. A 3,000 square foot home in rural Kansas costs a fraction of one in New York City. Decide what neighborhoods and areas are the best fit for you. This will help narrow your home search.

9. Hire an agent. An agent can help you navigate the entire process from searching, putting in offers, to where to hire an inspector or general contractors.

10. Start the search! The MLS is a wonderful place to begin your search. Eighty-four percent of buyers now start their search online, so you’ll be in good company.

Published: November 17, 2010

http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20101117_buyers.htm

By: Carla Hill

The Wisconsin Realtors Association (WRA) continues to evaluate and improve the approved forms that realtors are allowed to use in the representation of our Bear Clients.   When the WRA implements new forms it provides for a transition period.  During this time both the current form and the new form may be used. 

Bear Realty Agents are dedicated to providing the highest quality services to our cutomers and clients in the purchase of their new Single Family Home, Investment or Commerical Property.  In doing so, Bear Realty is committed to using the most current forms available from the WRA. 

In that way, we can ensure that your transaction allows for the highest level of representation and information available.

Many sellers today think of their homes in terms of yesterday’s value – given that a home enables a strong emotional tie, it can be easy to over value the small nuances and forget that a buyer doesn’t see all those special little personal attributes that you built into your home.  Of course, your agent will work to get you the most for your property – the challenge is to remember that it isn’t the agent that sets the eventual price for your home – it is actually a function of the market.  Supply and demand, as always, is the name of the game and remembering your motivation to sell your home today is a key aspect of ensuring that you are successful all the way to the close.

On the other hand, Buyers believe that low-ball offers is the best way to get the home of their dreams.  unfortunately many buyers are losing out on the home they have their hearts set on because they are outbid by another buyer.  A Bear agent will educate buyers to make sure that they understand what the local real estate market supports as far as a “winning offer”.

Bear agents not only give strong representation and negotiating skills, they also serve as a buffer, a sounding board, a source of market information and the voice to get your property properly marketed.

There has not been a market like today’s market in years – oddly enough, there is no better time to have your home up for sale if you are considering a move.  Today’s real estate market is a benefit to home sellers from the perspective that buyers have the Government New Home Buyers Tax Credit as well as the addition if the $6500.00 Existing Home Buyers Tax Credit.  That program coupled with low-interest rates are enticing buyers to get into the market today.  The tax credit will come to its end in April and interest rates are adjusting daily.

If you are considering selling your home – call your Bear Realty agent today – there is no time like the present to have Bear on your side!

Today’s hot topic is the Federal “Cap and Trade” bill.  With strong local support, the National Association of Realtors have been able to address elements of the proposed bill.  NAR focued on an amendment to cut the overall cost of the bill relating to the purchase and sale of Single Family Homes, Multi-Family investment properties and Commerical properties.

One area of success has been the removal of “several real estate-related provisions such as federal energy audit requirements from homeowners and various point-of-sale triggers” (Jan 2010 Wisconsin Real Estate Mag pg 24)

As stated in the Wisconsin Real Estate Magazine many controversial issues still remain.

With the help of our clients, communities and concerned citizens these issues can be addressed at the grass-roots level.  Regardless of your opinion – Your opinion counts!  Contact your local representatives and let them know your thoughts on:

- Exempting existing homes, multi-family homes and commercial buildings from any federal guidelines such as the existing federal Energy Star labeling program;

- Authorizations provided to state governments to pass a law to label homes according to their energy efficiency, but specifically prohibiting labeling during the sales transaction;

- prohibiting the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating carbon emissions for residential and commercial buildings under the Clean Air Act;

- Providing property owners with matching grants and diagnostic tools to make energy-saving property improvements; and

- Creates green building financial incentives for HUD housing, including loans, block grants and underwriting for energy improvements.

Click the link provided to find your local Wisconsin State Representatives information -

http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/contact/legislatorslist.aspx?house=assembly

Remember – Your voice deserves to be heard!

Todays real estate agents need to be prepared to truly negotiate on your behalf – to work hard for your best interest, to hold their ground to meet your desired outcome.  Now, to keep it real, there is always a bit a give and take but the real estate agent of today will be the one that is ready to stand fast for you.

As a client – your agent will be presenting market trends, suggesting various lenders, a number of vender services such as inspectors, handyman services and the like but the heart of the deal is the negotiation and your agent today is better prepared than ever to make that deal come together for you.

The past few years have acted as a “sifting” of our profession – and, as Darwin would say…..only the strong survive!  You have within your communities, the strong, the well-equipped and the true Real Estate Professionals…..

Take some time to talk to a few agents – even if your not interested in moving right now – see how well they know their market, their area and various aspects of the real estate trade.

I think you will be pleasantly surprised how informed today’s real estate agent is and maybe even enlightened as to how much goes into a new home purchase.

2010 holds much promise – got into it with reserved excitement – but go into with a professional on your side!

Per the National Association of Realtors the basics on the tax credit extension are:

Today continues to be a market that lends itself to the buyer – low-interest rates; tax credit incentive for those that qualify and a solid selection of properties in the “first time home buyer” and “second home” category.

2010 will certainly hold it’s challenges but the struggles of 2009 are, for the most part, behind us – there is a “fresh breath” in the market with the hope of a wonderful and wonder-filled new year.

The Kenosha County Residential Homes Market remains steady in comparison to those markets that were drastically affected by the market correction.  It has always been about Location and Price and given that Kenosha is tucked mid-way between Chicago and Milwaukee coupled with pricing that draws favorable attention when compared to those prices and cost of living expenses of Northern Illinois – buying in Kenosha is a solid investment.

It is the Right Here – Right Now Market!!!

The Wisconsin Real Estate Market finds itself with a “better-than-a-few-months-ago” situation but still, this remains a buyers market.  There is no better time for buyers to move into home ownership.  Often times, buyers are finding that the purchase of a new home leaves them in a better financial situation than a rental situation would.

Now – all sorts of incentives have presented themselves; low-interest rates; stabilized, but still higher inventories with longer market times, not to mention the “Power Punch” – an $8000.00 tax credit for new home buyers OR $6500.00 for those returning to the real estate buying market (certain qualifiers must be met).

This is like learning to swim in a 2 foot deep pool – all the cards are stacked.  I don’t want to sound too “sunny” but, in all of my discussions with those that have been in real estate sales for the better part of 30 years – this is a “new day” for the real estate buying community.  You need a solid negotiator; you have the opportunity to “get in on the ground floor” as they say.

Talk to your Bear Realty agent and let them lead you down the path of home ownership….It is a great day and it is Always a Bear Market!

We work for the Closing, We work to make your deal come together, We work to deliver RESULTS.  With all of that- we look to work in in such a way that our clients will be so delighted with our service and our efforts that they will pass our name along to those looking to make a move as well.

What I wanted to say today is this – I support some of the best agents in Southeastern Kenosha County at Bear Realty.  They work from sun-up to well past sun down.  They travel from South of the WI/IL borders North to Milwaukee and as far West as Elkhorn and Lake Geneva. (we would go East but that would put us in the Water!  Great Lake Views though!)  This is a wonderful group of people who, if you are looking for someone who will stand up and take YOUR interests in mind – you would want to have on your side.

Andrea Blaziewske / Anthony Nudo - form a solid team that will bring knowledge, residential and commercial experience and a great sense of humor to ease any tensions.  I thank Anthony for his community commitment and the times he answers my questions.  I am grateful for Andrea for always making me smile and keeping the office atmosphere lite!

Joanne Brown – if I had to use one word it would be class but even that does not capture the strength in this great agent.

Fred Conforti – without a doubt – superman.

Tony & Lisa DeBartolo – It is always amazing to watch those in ownership get in alongside of all the other agents and make things happen!  They are both much appreciated.

Gary Emerson – Professional, diligent, caring – Gary is the type of guy that makes you feel better just knowing that he is on your side.

Lisa Fabiano – tenacious – Lisa will battle with you and for you.  She can operate both in Wisconsin and Illinois and has the ability to bring very difficult transactions together.  Lisa is a soldier for her clients and a person you want on your team.

Carol Fischer has great charm and a deep knowledge of the county.  She will walk alongside of you and help to see every option and advantage.  You can count on Carol for continued and thorough follow-up.

Michelle Frederick-Tenuta - Michelle has great marketing and presentation skills – her networking capabilities are Phenomenal and a strong asset to her clients.  Michelle knows the “numbers of the game” and brings a great level of experience and success to her clients.

Joe Geiger, Dennis Serpe and Elizabeth Stalman work as a part of Tony DeBartolo’s team and offer excellence and professionalism in all of their activities.

Jerry Gonzalez – One of the hardest working men in real estate!  Jerry is bi-lingual in English / Spanish and works diligently to provide his clients with the best service and opportunities.  Jerry’s smile brings a level of comfort and stress relief to those that he serves (and those that get to work with him)

Howard Haubrich – Howard is very simply a life saver.  I would have to write forever to explain how he takes care of his clients, his co-workers, friends and family……thanks so much for all that you do!

Jerri Haubrich – Jerri will run to the ends of the earth for her clients.  She knows this area like the back of her hand and has been a huge help to me in my position of sales manager.  She brings a level of knowledge and experience that is rare and so greatly appreciated.

Beth Knoke – I mention Beth because of her great work with Relocation and Referrals.  She is a tremendous resource to our office and her knowledge is invaluable.

Diana Koeppel – Diana brings a wonderful, fresh perspective to real estate sales – her energy will carry you all the way through!

Steve Mills – The kind of leader that teaches by example.  Our Leader!

SR Mills / Dina Perrine-Meinzer - Forging the path for Bear Homes!  Forming the platform for you to experience your New Home Dreams!

Dean Morton – Always plugging away – in a tough market, Dean is getting it done.

Gia Nero – Gia will always have her clients prepared with the truth.  Her honesty and ability to prepare both buyers and sellers have made her a well-respected agent in our Kenosha market.  Gia will bring a lot of strength to her clients but she will deliver it with a great smile, true professionalism and the straight facts about the market.

MaryAnn Pacetti - MaryAnn is a delightful individual – kind and ready to do what it takes to make your real estate dreams come true.

Grace Parrish – GRACE – Grace is professional and deeply concerned about all of your needs.  She always puts her clients interests first.  Having Grace on your (and our) team brings a level of peace.  She takes the stress out of realizing your dream!

Michelle Payette – Michelle is just great – you will look back on your experience remembering the fun you had in getting your new home or selling your existing home.  She will keep the transaction enjoyable…..a hard task today!

Milan Sucevich – I could write about Milan but I am sure you know him!    Everyone knows Milan!  If you don’t, it is to your advantage to have him on your side.  Milan is a forever teacher and I have learned a  lot from him – he does the same for his clients, he is a wonderful resource.

Jan Thimmiesch – Jan always takes the time to know all the facts – she keeps her bases (and yours) covered.

Mark Trecroci - A gentleman, a professional and a man who draws on over 20 years of real estate expertise.  A true asset to those that he serves.

Soula Vassilopoulos - Soula has a level-headed professional approach that will assure you that you are in good-hands.

Corinna Wells – CC!  A delight – a ball of energy and the type of agent that will keep after “it” for you……CC is a fighter and she is the kind of person you want on your side.

Joe Wickersheim – Steady at it!  Joe makes it happen for his clients.  He has a professional, intelligent view of real estate and is very understanding in all of his dealings. 

To all of “my” agents – you are a treasure and I am grateful and proud to be a part of your team.

Call our agents – Expect Results!

This is a great home – a wonderful seller and an excited home buyer.  Does anyone have a C.L.U.E.?

Ok, sorry for the play on words but the CLUE report can contain necessary information pertaining to the ability of the new home buyer to obtain homeowners insurance at a particular rate.  CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange is a loss history information database developed and used by insurance companies to share information abut insurance claims, reported losses and damage, and even insurance policy inquiries with respect to properties and individuals.  The CLUE Personal Property report provides a five-year history of losses associated with an individual and his/her personal property.  The date of loss, loss type, and amount paid along with general information such as policy number, claim number and insurance company name are provided for each identified loss.  The report also lists all companies that have inquired about the person’s loss history in the last two years.  Seventy percent of all CLUE reports have no reported claims or paid losses – the average homeowner files an insurance claim only once every 10 years.  Some sellers may not remember the details of property damage events such as water intrusions very well, so having the seller order his or her CLUE report serves as a back-up measure to double-check that nothing is missed.

Agents and prospective buyers cannot order or obtain CLUE reports on properties.  Should a prospective purchaser want a CLUE report for a property, he or she should make it a condition of his or her offer that the seller request and provide such a report. 

Sellers may request a copy of their CLUE report online at www.choicetrust.com

taken from www.wra.org/lu0304.