tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9184054368415660962024-03-13T07:55:26.193-07:00Ron Mazzacane's Real Estate FactsRon Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.comBlogger158125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-14732703176426427332014-05-23T09:29:00.000-07:002014-05-23T09:29:42.574-07:00A Welcome Sight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-15131084200521213092012-04-27T10:09:00.000-07:002012-04-27T10:09:00.130-07:00A First Time For Everything<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">An article appeared recently in the New York Times that beautifully illustrates the opportunities today's real estate market offers.</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">A mother working two jobs saved up for a downpayment and managed to buy a large home with a pool for $187,000.</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Three years ago, that same home had sold for $370,000!</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">While sellers are still feeling pressure, buyers with stable incomes and good credit histories are beginning to spread a "feel good" vibe throughout the industry. Conditions have literally never been better for first-time buyers. Affordability has seldom been higher and interest rates have hardly been lower. Selection of inventory is vast, and sellers are highly motivated.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">As more buyers enter the marketplace, the ripple effect will be felt far and wide. When they purchase a highly affordable foreclosure or "short sale," they have removed a distressed property from the listings, improving values for other homes in the area. When they buy a "traditional" listing, that in turn sets off a chain reaction whereby the sellers in turn will purchase another home, from sellers who will in turn buy another home, and so on and so on. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">You probably get the picture now. As we approach some stability in real estate, all indications are that prices will begin rising again. As the market approaches recovery, don't miss your opportunity for the buy of a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-89192657625719851332012-04-20T09:08:00.000-07:002012-04-20T09:08:00.652-07:00Begin Packing Yesterday<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Getting ready for a big move?</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">You can't begin preparing too soon, because the average move takes over 200 hours!</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Count on your real estate representative to provide advice and guidance during this seemingly monumental task.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Your first decision is whether to hire a moving company, or rent a moving van and ask friends and family for help. If you're using the pros, solicit quotes from several local companies who can visit your home and offer an accurate quote.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Next, begin sorting piles of items you'll want to sell in yard sales, donate to charities, or haul to the landfill. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community, and make a few bucks on the pieces you'll sell. Anything you eliminate now will lower moving costs later.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">DO create an inventory of your belongings, in case you need to file an insurance claim for lost or damaged goods. Allow the professionals to do your packing, because if you don't, those items that you wrap and pack won't be covered by the mover's insurance policy.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Finally, invest in additional insurance with the movers and storage facility, if needed. It only costs about $10 for every $1,000 in high value items, so it's worth it for your peace of mind. Ask your agent for more details to make your move as stress-free as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-1942808785808682072012-04-13T08:07:00.000-07:002012-04-13T08:07:00.156-07:00Time is Money<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Whether buying or selling a home, the Offer To Purchase is the starting point for making the sale go through.</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">If the sellers do not accept the offer outright, they may make a counter-offer, which the buyers may likewise accept or counter again.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">In the interest of speed and success, it's best to keep counter-offers to a minimum. If you are trying to sell with urgency (and who isn't?), weigh the buyers' offer against your need to move quickly. Perhaps the value of the concession is quite small against the profit you'll see upon a sale.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">If you are asking $200,000 and receive an offer of $196,000, that's equivalent to just 2% less, which is like offering $.98 instead of $1. Similarly, buyers must also be realistic about the possible costs of "over negotiating" in today's rapidly changing economic atmosphere.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">If you balk at the sellers' counter-offer now, and decide to walk away and begin your home search over again, you could be facing higher interest rates and/or rising home prices. Today, time literally is money, and the longer you postpone your purchase, the more it will likely cost you.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Before making (or accepting) an offer, discuss the offer and counter-offer process with your representative, so that you know what to expect and can be more prepared to see the deal to a successful close.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-26608746701518446472012-04-06T10:06:00.000-07:002012-04-06T10:06:01.003-07:00When Less Is More<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">If you are a homeowner who can no longer make your monthly mortgage payments, you still have opportunities to avoid foreclosure and the damage it would do to your credit.</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Although more complicated and more challenging, a "short sale" may prove to be the best alternative.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">If you are unfamiliar with the term, a "short sale" can happen when your mortgage lender agrees to let you sell the home for less than you still owe on it, forgiving the difference. Why would a lender settle for such a sale? Quite simply, the lender may determine that they will still receive a higher amount of the remaining balance through a short sale than they would through the very costly and time-consuming process of foreclosure.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Why would a homeowner agree to sell the home for less than its value? As already mentioned, a short sale keeps you out of foreclosure and reduces the damage to your credit (and subsequent ability to purchase another home).<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">In the middle is the real estate agent, helping the sellers, the lenders, and the buyers navigate the complexities of the transaction to reach a satisfactory conclusion for all involved. Homeowners can trust their representative to be honest and to provide a fair assessment of value for all parties. You can trust your agent to be your advisor and champion during difficult times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-31135753416189538072012-03-30T09:02:00.000-07:002012-03-30T09:02:01.100-07:00Times Have Changed<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Now that we've experienced the fallout from the subprime lending disaster, there is no longer such a thing as "easy money."</span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Now you need perhaps ten to fifteen percent down, an excellent credit record and verifiable proof of income when you apply for financing.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">One reason for all this scrutiny is that many lenders sell their loans on the secondary mortgage market, and they are using required (and automated) software to factor in all the variables in the equation that results in a thumbs up or a thumbs down. In other words, it's not quite as personal as it used to be.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Save yourself time, stress and heartbreak by seeking preapproval for financing before you even look at House One. I say "preapproval," and not "prequalification," because prequalification is only an "estimate" of the loan amount for which you might qualify once your application has been fully reviewed.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Preapproval puts you in the driver's seat with sellers, because it means that you have already basically "applied" for financing with your credit report, verified income, and proven ability to make a respectable down payment. Preapproval goes several steps beyond prequalification, and gives you the best indication of how much home you can afford.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Maximize the time spent on your home search by taking the all-important step of seeking financing first. Then make your offer with confidence!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-9075229156107982582012-03-23T10:01:00.000-07:002012-03-23T10:01:00.506-07:00Beyond the Lousy Loans<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Yes, it's true, many lenders in recent years have written sub-prime mortgages that could only be expected to default.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">However, foreclosure is nothing new, and there are myriad reasons that a homeowner might be facing dire straits.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Challenges might include economic hardship due to job loss, bad health or divorce, or payments that jumped too high after a rate adjustment, or simply increased cost of living outpacing income.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Whatever the reasons, the best way to avoid foreclosure is to be well educated and prepared before making a home purchase, and anticipating worst-case scenarios before choosing the loan that is right for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">If default appears inevitable, know that there is help available, with a "short sale" being the last resort for resolution. Such a transaction is called "short," because the home is sold for less than the amount remaining on the mortgage, and the lender willingly accepts some of the loss.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">If you're facing foreclosure, contact your lender's loss mitigation department immediately. While you are in the midst of negotiations, keep a log of all phone calls - the date, time, contact person and discussion. Lenders are overwhelmed right now, so be patient and don't expect an immediate answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Whether it's a loan adjustment or short sale, there is a solution to the problem. Your lender and your real estate agent are here to help.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-34652637758749803202012-03-16T08:59:00.000-07:002012-03-16T08:59:00.685-07:00Don't Take Everything<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">If you plan to move while your home is still listed for sale, you may face a marketing challenge - the vacant home.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">While lived-in homes may be more attractive during showings, there is much you can do to present your vacant property successfully.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">On the outside, give your home an occupied look by asking a neighbor to park their car in your driveway, open and close your drapes, and retrieve any mail that still arrives. During the warm season, have a lawn service maintain the yard (in the winter, a snow removal service may be in order).<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">On the inside, create a sense of space by leaving some strategically placed pieces of furniture, like a few chairs, tables and lamps. You can create a "bed" by covering an empty mattress box or several moving boxes with a thick comforter.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">If you remove furniture that reveals blemishes on the walls, repair and repaint those. If you notice that the carpeting is faded after you've moved furniture, consider replacing it if possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Keep it feeling pleasant indoors during all seasons by keeping your power on after you move, and having a neighbor or family member set the temperature at a minimum comfortable setting according to seasonal conditions.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Your agent will have even more suggestions for marketing a vacant home, so put that experience to good use!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-28609056036828798832012-03-09T07:58:00.000-08:002012-03-09T07:58:00.147-08:00A Welcome Sight<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Home staging has become a popular industry and topic, particularly as it relates to improving the appeal of your listing during challenging times in the real estate market.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">But what about “staging” your yard?</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Sure, any steps that you take to improve your interior's appeal will go a long way towards wooing buyers, but it's the outside of your home that they will see first, and you know that first impressions count! Review some of these helpful tips to make your offering an inviting one.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Go green by seeding and fertilizing your lawn for a lush look. Also, bring your home out from hiding by trimming overgrown branches and shrubbery around the house. Give the impression of easy living by hanging a hammock in the front yard. Seriously, little suggestions like that really sink into a buyer's mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Give your flowerbeds and borders more striking visual appeal by applying mulch, and edge the beds and driveway, walkways and sidewalk. Planting annuals such as geraniums and petunias will also add to the impact and brighten up empty areas.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">The final step in your outdoor "staging" is to powerwash your home's siding and the sidewalk and patio or deck. When you show pride of ownership and that you care about your home's presentation, it will resonate with buyers looking for value and a home in ready-to-move-in condition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-71764022194297068262012-03-02T09:57:00.000-08:002012-03-02T09:57:00.570-08:00The Goose and the Gander<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">When facing a mortgage default, most homeowners try to sell their home - fast.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">The technique that works in these stressful situations also works for the rest of sellers - namely, aggressive pricing.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">As a seller, you control the three factors that determine how quickly your home will sell: marketing, condition, and price. Let's focus on that last element.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">First, be clear about your goals. Can you hold out for the highest price you can get, or do you want to move on quickly? Unfortunately, the fact that you paid more than what homes in your neighborhood are selling for is irrelevant in today's market.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Forget about salvaging equity, and price your home aggressively against the competition. Overpricing keeps many buyers from even seeing your listing in their affordability zone. They'll see lower priced homes as a better value, while you'll wait until the lowballers come out of the woodwork.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Start your pricing decision with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) performed by your real estate representative. If you're truly motivated to sell quickly, price your home 10% lower than the selling (not asking) prices of other homes in your area.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Now your home becomes a bargain, and it will attract the attention of other agents and their qualified buyers. An attractive price, good condition and savvy marketing will result in offers and ultimately, a sale.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-17212165139525463702012-02-24T09:56:00.000-08:002012-02-24T09:56:00.198-08:00Luck is a Four-Letter Word<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">A "buyers' market" is just what it implies - a market in which buyers have the advantage and exploit it.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">It's not a market that rewards foot-dragging, hesitation or indecision.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Unfortunately, all the factors that created the buyers' market we have today have been reported so negatively and rampantly by various media outlets that buyers are themselves too spooked to even enter the fray. Strangely, people were buying like crazy during the previous sellers' market, when the advantage was actually all to the sellers.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">That's when buyers didn't fear paying too much, and now that prices are so low and inventories so high, suddenly buyers DO fear paying too much! However, it's impossible to purposefully time the market to buy at the bottom and sell at the top. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Once the market begins to settle and subsequently improve (and it will), the amazing buying opportunities we've been seeing will begin to disappear. With decreased buying activity now, pent up demand for homes will explode when the market recovers, and buyers will once again be competing for the best homes. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Don't rely on luck in the marketplace - rely on planning. Make a careful decision with a predictable outcome. Has the market dropped enough, right now, to make such a purchase? Absolutely! Forget about the top and the bottom and enter your "safe zone" with confidence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-50460751166758797432012-02-17T06:55:00.000-08:002012-02-17T06:55:00.234-08:00Comparison Shopping for Schools<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Real estate professionals are very often faced with a question from buyers that has nothing to do with houses: "What are the best schools in the area to which we’re moving?"</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">When you relocate, the most important thing you'll be moving is your child, and you want to be certain you are making the right choice for education.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">One excellent resource for beginning your research is SchoolMatters.com, an online database of public schools. Begin with statistics that illustrate students' achievement levels in each school. Compare reports for all students, including minorities and children in low-income families. Schools in which all students perform well are providing balanced educational opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Also pay attention to extra-curricular activities offered, particularly if your child is interested in sports and other pursuits outside the classroom. The School Matters database offers ratings and reviews directly from the parents, so you can learn from those with experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">One thing you can't determine online, however, is the actual classroom environment, so you should absolutely schedule a visit to one or more schools in the area before making your decision. Meet with the principal and watch the manner in which teachers and students interact.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Once you have an understanding of the distinctions between schools, your choice will become clear. You wouldn't buy the first home you see, and "shopping" for a school is no different!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-88802240445223426422012-02-10T08:54:00.000-08:002012-02-10T08:54:00.533-08:00A Brief Tale of the Short Sale<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Foreclosure has a negative impact not only on homeowners, but also their neighborhoods and local economy and housing market.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">One way to avoid foreclosure is with a "short sale," in which the lender is willing to accept a payoff that is less than the balance of the loan.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Such a sale still benefits the lender, supports home values, and helps the seller maintain a level of credit.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Because "short selling" is a different process for different types of loans, the expertise of a real estate agent adds value to these complicated transactions. A "normal" sale involves at least two agents, the seller, the buyer, the buyer's lender and other professionals. A short sale involves all of them, plus the seller's lender, counselors, lien holders, insurers and more.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">The National Association of REALTORS® has worked to help agents understand and solve the problems involved in short sales, including the piles of paperwork, overextended loss mitigation departments, and appraisals that don't reflect seller duress or recent foreclosures in the neighborhood.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">You might consider speaking with an agent about a short sale if you meet three basic criteria: you're behind on payments, you can prove legitimate hardship, and have little equity. With the expert knowledge and guidance of a real estate professional on your side, you have an opportunity to salvage your credit and avoid the pain of foreclosure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-13198698260398367072012-02-03T07:53:00.000-08:002012-02-03T07:53:00.801-08:00Have An Escape Plan<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Selling a home has its challenges, some of which go beyond the obvious aspects of determining an asking price and developing a marketing plan.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Just trying to keep your home in immaculate condition while living there is no mean feat, not to mention being prepared for showings at any given moment.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">However, experience proves that there are some basic steps to take to alleviate these stresses.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">First, be prepared with a large plastic storage tub for each room. When an agent and buyers are on their way for a showing, quickly unclutter each room by placing toys, personal items, and knick-knacks in the tubs and putting them in the closet. Then it's easy to replace everything once your visitors have left.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Also have your "escape plan" determined. Decide in advance where you’ll run off to for thirty minutes while your home is being shown. Maybe you'll go down to the park or the local coffee shop, but it helps to know where you'll go before you hop in the car and start driving around aimlessly waiting for prospective buyers to clear out of your home.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be flexible in your scheduling, as restrictions on your home’s availability can make marketing the home difficult for your representative. With a little preparation, you can be ready for anything, particularly that full price offer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-60397618586262679622012-01-27T05:52:00.000-08:002012-01-27T05:52:00.121-08:00Pause For The Paws<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">With millions of dogs and cats as members of American families, there’s a good chance that you've got pets sharing the home you're trying to sell.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Since not everyone enjoys the company of animals, there are some measures you should consider taking before prospective buyers come over for a showing.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Pet odors are the biggest problem sellers face, but they can be easily minimized with thorough cleaning and vacuuming, and vigilant duty with the litter boxes. Black lights are available that help you to pinpoint the origin of any mysterious smells. It also makes a good impression if you pick up and store toys, bedding, and food and water bowls while your home is being shown to buyers.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">If at all possible, take your dog(s) out with you when an agent brings visitors, or ask a friend or family member to keep your pet during the initial listing period. This will help reduce the stress on your pet at a time when showings are usually more frequent. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Another way to put buyers more at ease with their purchase is to offer a cleaning credit or allowance. Even if you're certain you'll remove all evidence of your beloved pets before vacating your home, the buyers may not share your confidence. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Why not offer these gestures of good will, thereby encouraging a better offer from the buyers?<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-45476585613169339082012-01-20T09:51:00.000-08:002012-01-20T09:51:00.085-08:00Time To Make Lemonade<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">When one hears the word "foreclosure," images are conjured of families unable to meet their loan commitments, and forced to consider unpleasant options.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">However, it's not only homeowners that suffer from a foreclosure.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Renters can be "out on the street" if their landlord defaults on mortgage payments.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">A report from the Mortgage Bankers Association states that nearly 20% of recent foreclosures have been against investors who did not live in the property, and even tenants in good standing face having to vacate the premises if they're renting one of these properties.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Why mention this gloom and doom scenario? Because home values have declined, and buyers are seeing the best deals in many years. While unpleasant for sellers, price declines increase affordability for buyers, so if you've been renting, now is a fantastic time to turn that monthly payment into equity.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Interest rates have inched up, but still-historically low rates combined with very affordable housing yield a formula that should put you in a home that you own for the same amount you are now paying for rent. Not to mention that at a lower purchase price, you'll enjoy some great appreciation over the coming years.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">Just because you're renting now, you’re not necessarily safe from suffering the consequences of a foreclosure. Take matters into your own hands and buy yourself some peace of mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-32207118542779083092012-01-13T09:48:00.000-08:002012-01-13T09:48:00.180-08:00Bring It On Home<div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Buyers and sellers develop a natural sense of excitement as a transaction's closing date nears.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">While most aspects should run smoothly, it's wise to be prepared for unexpected delays.</span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Anticipating potential problems before they develop could save untold time and stress.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">One pitfall might be the title search. The title is simply legal proof of a property's ownership, but issues such as death, divorce, and liens can cloud the final result. Meet with an attorney to determine and resolve any problems.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">Financing can also present snags. If the buyers can't qualify for a loan, the deal falls through. Buyers should begin their mortgage education well in advance of their home search, and sellers should ask a price in line with the home's appraised value. If the appraisal is much lower than the contract price, the lender will likely reject the loan application.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">The best situation for buyers (and sellers) is to have a loan pre-approval in hand. It starts with the loan officer performing a review of the buyer's credit, income, and asset v. liability status. A letter of pre-approval should indicate exactly how much home a buyer can afford, and should put sellers more at ease with pre-qualified buyers.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">There are myriad aspects to closing the deal, so go over each item thoroughly with your real estate representative and develop your plan of action!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-42242149367946040562012-01-06T03:28:00.000-08:002012-01-06T03:28:00.730-08:00Buy More Home Now<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">While the pundits determine whether the real estate market is plunging or recovering, buyers are in the unique position of looking at a glass that is half full, not half empty.<span> </span>When sales are slow, that's actually a good thing for qualified buyers, and there has not been a better time to consider finally purchasing that vacation home.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Your second home is not a short-term investment, like those that have been "flipped" in recent years.<span> </span>Your vacation home is meant to be a long-term investment that pays big dividends not only in appreciation, but also in recreation and great family memories.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Today's market allows you to take more time to do your research and make your decision.<span> </span>Start by connecting with a real estate agent in the area you're interested in, and have them watch that market like a hawk to alert you to possible buying opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Don't focus on what the market is doing now... look ahead and consider the value of your purchase several years from now.<span> </span>Because real estate nearly always appreciates, you can buy more home now than you could further down the line.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Property is still a terrific long-term investment, regardless of current market conditions.<span> </span>Knowing that you can always rent your second home might just prove to be a great strategy for making second home ownership a real possibility!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-80868828831508396632011-12-30T06:24:00.000-08:002011-12-30T06:24:00.205-08:00Don't Compare...Compete<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua', serif;">As you prepare to list your home, you'll need to determine how to set your asking price.<span> </span>You may come across the term Comparative Market Analysis, which is used as a tool for gauging the perceived value of your home.<span> </span>However, as a seller, you should think of that informal appraisal more as a COMPETITIVE Market Analysis.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Why?<span> </span>Because <i><span>comparisons</span></i> can be very subjective, and while buyers may "compare" several homes, sellers must "compete" against other properties.<span> </span>No matter how unique you believe your home to be, it doesn't really matter how it compares to others until you have priced it to <i><span>compete </span></i>successfully against them.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">In today's real estate market, past sales may not necessarily reflect the present reality.<span> </span>Similar listings compete by asking the lowest price for the perceived value, with price and value representing different sides of the same coin.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">When you speak with a real estate agent, he or she will explain how your home must challenge the competition with savvy marketing, spotless presentation, and aggressive pricing.<span> </span>That is how to attract the interest of other agents and buyers.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Remember, it is the prospective buyers who will be making the comparisons.<span> </span>It's your responsibility as a seller to compete for their best offer in a challenging marketplace.<span> </span>Ask your representative today for a Competitive Market Analysis to get the ball rolling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-61481764785618637472011-12-23T07:22:00.000-08:002011-12-23T07:22:01.065-08:00Purchase Some Protection<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">A listing that offers a home warranty presents a win-win for all parties.<span> </span>Sellers can use this attractive marketing tool to give buyers some added assurance and confidence in their purchase, by giving the buyers protection against failures in the home’s systems and appliances.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Not all home warranties are the same, however, so sellers should be careful to educate themselves about the differences in cost, coverage, and policy owner feedback among the various companies that offer these contracts.<span> </span>These warranties may cost between $250 and $500 for one year, but that investment is well worth the return when a confident buyer makes an offer.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Even if the seller does not offer such a policy, buyers are able to purchase one themselves, if they wish.<span> </span>Visit websites such as homewarrantyreviews.com to check reviews and ratings with the Better Business Bureau.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Also pay attention to what fees, if any, are charged for the service calls, and what exclusions may apply.<span> </span>All warranties offer a “basic coverage” policy, and you can often upgrade to include additional systems and appliances that are not included in the core package.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Chances are that the listing agent and buyer’s agent will have a list of recommended companies that offer these warranties, and will have worked with many buyers and sellers in the past who gave them feedback.<span> </span>Don’t be afraid to ask!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-4101546620097991632011-12-16T04:21:00.000-08:002011-12-16T04:21:01.001-08:00Preventative Medicine<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">It’s an understandable conundrum: sellers believe their home is worth more than it is, and buyers think that it’s worth less.<span> </span>So where is the proverbial “sweet spot” when it comes to the single most important aspect of marketing your home - setting its price?</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Consider how many homes are for sale in your neighborhood.<span> </span>Is that number high?<span> </span>Then your listing price should be lower than the competition if you want to generate the most interest.<span> </span>Obvious, right?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">But how many of those rival listings are foreclosed properties or short sale listings?<span> </span>The most critical factor in evaluating this type of competition is the condition in which they are offered.<span> </span>Neglected homes aren’t likely to affect you, but if they are in good shape and presented at prices 20% below market, you’ve got some hard thinking to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">If buyers aren’t making appointments or showing up at an open house event, you probably priced too high at the start.<span> </span>Don’t hesitate to make an adjustment, however, because properties generate the most interest in the earliest stage of the listing.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Finally, give <b><i>any</i></b> offer strong consideration.<span> </span>You may counter, but these days, buyers won’t engage in extended negotiations - they’ll just move on to the next property.<span> </span>You can avoid these bitter pills by practicing a little preventative medicine through competitive pricing right from the beginning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-47796331597623703722011-12-09T06:20:00.000-08:002011-12-09T06:20:01.830-08:00This Too Shall Pass<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Even with recent gains in the market, the concept of homeownership is still under attack.<span> </span>Owners feel let down by falling values, critics say the American Dream has become a nightmare, and others say renting is the best option now.<span> </span>There is no doubt that many have suffered at the hands of bad lending practices and economic turmoil associated with the recession.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">However… owning a home has always been a huge part of the American Dream, and will continue to be so long after the current economic crisis and wave of defaults has passed.<span> </span>Our homes are a place of security for our families and for establishing traditions with our friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">No one can argue against the benefits that homeownership provides to our communities and to society in general.<span> </span>Homeowners have a higher level of self-esteem, education, and involvement in civic activities.<span> </span>Why try to tear down these fundamental truths simply because we are in a downward part of the always dynamic cycle of real estate?<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">The time has come to reaffirm the dream of homeownership, but in a more sober and accountable fashion.<span> </span>We should emphasize responsible ownership for the long term, which helps us and our communities achieve the common goals of financial and social well-being.<span> </span>Today’s naysayers will change their tune when the cycle rises again, and you can count on that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-81320817152949561342011-12-02T03:19:00.000-08:002011-12-02T03:19:00.877-08:00Don't Risk It<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">When listing your home, you may need to move before a sale takes place.<span> </span>If you vacate the home, it’s very important that you notify your insurance company, because many homeowner policies have a “vacancy clause” that goes into effect once the home is unoccupied, usually for more than 30 to 60 days.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Insurers see different risks in vacant homes, like vandalism, systems failures, or other liabilities.<span> </span>In most cases, you’ll simply purchase an endorsement to your existing policy, but different insurers have different options, and if an endorsement is not available, you can get a separate “vacant-home” policy.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">It may be an additional cost, but it’s called “insurance” for a reason, and could save you a lot of money down the road.<span> </span>If you don’t notify your insurance agent about vacating your home, they could reject any claims you file for property damage or liability, or accuse you of insurance fraud.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">It may be tempting to just hope that your home will sell within 30 to 60 days after you have to move out, but it’s critical to speak with your insurance agent before you move to discuss your options.<span> </span>They may even pro-rate and refund part of your premium if you sell before the end of the policy’s term.<span> </span>It’s a small price to pay to protect your home and your peace of mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-30754576584622519032011-11-25T04:18:00.000-08:002011-11-25T04:18:00.995-08:00Save Money Now and Later<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Before you begin what should be the fun process of buying a home, consider a couple finer points to help save you money, both upfront and down the road.<span> </span>One issue relates to your credit score and its impact on your financing, and the other relates to the condition of your home and the cost of repairs.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">First, know your credit score in advance of house hunting, and take immediate steps to improve it if it’s less than good.<span> </span>During your loan application is not the time to find any surprises.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Correct any errors on your credit report, pay down some revolving debt, and don’t make any other major purchases (like a car) until your loan paperwork is complete and you’ve closed on your home.<span> </span>This is important because borrowers with lower scores pay higher fees and interest rates, which can total tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Once you’re in the position of having made an offer to purchase, do not skimp on inspections.<span> </span>No matter how strapped for cash you think you are, the cost of the inspections is a drop in the bucket compared to what unexpected plumbing, electrical, and structural repairs will cost you in the future.<span> </span>Your agent will go over a list of available inspections and suggest the most appropriate ones for your property.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-918405436841566096.post-22596478691132253982011-11-18T03:16:00.000-08:002011-11-18T03:16:00.979-08:00The Wow Factor<div class="Editorial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Now is a great time to take care of the exterior details that will make your home stand out when buyers first lay eyes on it.<span> </span>Starting at the top, make sure your roofing materials are functional and looking good.<span> </span>Gutters should be cleaned out and repaired, and any signs of water damage eliminated.</span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Little details have a huge impact.<span> </span>Paint is cheap, but pays off handsomely when you apply it to any trim, railings, shutters, and especially the front door.<span> </span>A new knob and knocker wouldn’t hurt, and a new mailbox and street numbers make a good impression, too.<span> </span>Once you’ve improved those details, light it all up with attractive outdoor lighting.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">Finally, there’s the front yard and driveway.<span> </span>Your walkways and driveway set the tone for the rest of the scene, so make sure they are meticulously swept, edged and maintained.<span> </span>Of course, mow the lawn regularly, keep it fertilized for a lush look, and keep pulling those weeds.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">It’s easy to save money while still giving your yard an expensive landscaped look by simply buying lots of beautiful flowering plants.<span> </span>Plant them in groups and place mulch around them, or use large pretty pots on your porch and strategic areas around your driveway and walkways.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div><div class="Editorial"><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif";">You know how important first impressions are, so don’t waste any opportunity to maximize your home’s appeal.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Editorial"><br />
</div>Ron Mazzacanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16352715165210125135noreply@blogger.com0