It's Thanksgiving, a time when all of us should reflect upon our many blessings. Throughout the year, we have heard of the many people losing homes, failed loan modifications, short sales, declining values.....the list goes on and on.
What's the good news??? It's all around us, each and every day. We live in Phoenix, AZ (if we are lucky).....it's the 5th largest city in the US, and any recession here always makes the rest of the country wonder what we are complaining about here. Even the worst of economies in Phoenix, AZ tops the average in many other parts of the country.
And yes, home values are down in Phoenix, but homes for sale in Phoenix AZ haven't been this affordable in years. Interest rates are at record low levels. More people than ever can afford to buy a home. I see people every day thanking their lucky stars that they can now buy their first home, their vacation home, or their retirement home, here in Phoenix, when only a few years ago it was beyond their reach. I see people that are building their nest eggs by purchasing Real Estate in Phoenix. Yes, the average person can afford it....I've sold investment homes as low as $32,000....less than many people spend on a car. Prices have never been better.
I see the first buds of growth all over....Temporary help firms are advertising. New home developments are opening again. Prices of some development land have doubled. Consumer spending is up. And if I don't miss my guess, the Christmas retail season will be great.
And next year, who knows? Well, I do. We live in Phoenix, AZ. That alone will be good. Beyond that, good news will be all around us. We just need to see it. And appreciate it.
Happy Thanksgiving, from all of us at the Right Move Team.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
5 Things to do Before Putting Your Home on the Market
As the Real Estate Market in Phoenix, AZ continues to improve, more homes are coming on the market, and we are getiing more inquiries about listing homes. To help people out, here is a short list of things to do in order to prepare their home to sell. Remember, too, that if you want a free DVD on how to stage your home for sale, just email me at mikezahn@cox.net, and we'll be happy to send you a copy!
1. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin.
2. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine.
3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.
4. Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house.
5. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments?
1. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin.
2. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine.
3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.
4. Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house.
5. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments?
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