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For Your Clients: 10 Low-Cost Tips to Improve Your Home's Appeal
By Paige Tepping
When selling your home, the goal is to sell it quickly for the highest price while investing as little as possible in renovations. With a limited budget and a little effort, you can greatly increase your home's appeal by focusing on what prospective buyers can see on their first visit. The experts at BuyOwner.com offer the following recommendations for preparing a house for sale and staging it for showings.
Tip #1: Refresh the exterior
First impressions count when it comes to selling a home. Most buyers won’t even leave their car if they don’t find the exterior appealing. The best ways to improve your home’s exterior include:
-Repairing and/or replacing trims, shutters, gutters, shingles, mailboxes, window screens, walkways and the driveway.
-Painting siding, trim and shutters and lamp and mailbox posts.
-Pressure washing vinyl siding, roofs, walkways and the driveway.
-Washing windows.
Tip #2: Spruce up the lawn and landscape
Home buyers associate the condition of your lawn and landscaping with the condition of your home’s interior. By improving the outside, you affect buyers’ impression of the entire property. The best ways to enhance the yard include:
-Mowing and edging the lawn.
-Seeding, fertilizing and weeding the lawn.
-Keeping up with regular lawn maintenance by frequent watering.
-Trimming and/or removing overgrown trees, shrubs and hedges.
-Weeding and mulching plant beds.
-Planting colorful seasonal flowers in existing plant beds.
-Removing trash, especially along fences and underneath hedges.
-Sweeping and weeding the street curb along your property.
Tip #3: Create an inviting entrance
The front door to your home should invite buyers to enter. The best ways to improve your entry include:
-Painting the front door in a glossy, cheerful color that complements the exterior.
-Cleaning, polishing and/or replacing the door knocker, locks and handles.
-Repairing and/or replacing the screen door, the doorbell, porch lights and house numbers.
-Placing a new welcome mat and a group of seasonal potted plants and flowers by the entry.
Tip #4: Reduce clutter and furniture
A buyer cannot envision living in your home without seeing it. A home filled with clutter or even too much furniture distracts buyers from seeing how they can utilize the space your home offers. If you have limited storage space, you may want to consider renting a temporary storage unit to place items you wish to keep. The best ways to de-clutter your home include:
-Holding a garage sale to prepare for your move, getting rid of unnecessary items.
-Removing clutter such as books, magazines, toys, tools, supplies and unused items from counter tops, open shelves, storage closets, the garage and basements.
-Storing out-of-season clothing and shoes out of sight to make bedroom closets seem roomier.
-Removing any visibly damaged furniture.
-Organizing bookshelves, closets, cabinets and pantries. Buyers will inspect everything.
-Putting away your personal photographs, unless they showcase the home. Let buyers see themselves in your home.
-De-personalize rooms as much as you can.
Tip #5: Clean, clean, clean
The cleanliness of your home also influences a buyer's perception of its condition. The appearance of the kitchen and bathrooms will play a considerable role in a buyer's decision process, so pay particular attention to these areas. The best ways to improve these areas include:
-Cleaning windows, fixtures, hardware, ceiling fans, vent covers and appliances.
-Cleaning carpets, area rugs and draperies.
-Cleaning inside the refrigerator, the stove and all cabinets.
-Removing stains from carpets, floors, counters, sinks, baths, tile, walls and grout.
-Eliminating house odors, especially if you have pets.
-Considering air fresheners or potpourri.
Tip #6: Make minor repairs
The small stuff does count, especially with first-time home buyers. Without dismissing the importance of repairing major items such as a leaky roof or plumbing, you do not need to spend money on replacing these items. Instead, focus on the minor repairs that will make your home visually appealing. The best ways to improve your home include:
-Repairing ceilings and wall cracks.
-Repairing faucets, banisters, handrails, cabinets, drawers, doors, floors and tile.
-Caulking and grouting tubs, showers, sinks and tile.
-Adding fresh paint to ceilings, walls, trim, doors and cabinets.
-Tightening door handles, drawer pulls, light switches and electrical plates.
-Lubricating door hinges and locks.
Tip #7: Showcase the kitchen
The heart of any home is the kitchen. If you are going to spend any money on renovations, this is the one area where you will see the greatest return. Even with a modest budget, focusing on a few key areas can make a great difference in getting the asking price for your property. The best ways to showcase the kitchen include:
-Replacing cabinet doors and hardware.
-Installing under-cabinet lighting.
-Replacing light fixtures.
-Replacing outdated shelving with pantry and cabinet organizers to maximize space.
-Baking cookies or cupcakes for a showing, to create a homey smell.
Tip #8: Stage furniture
Furniture placement can enhance the space of your home while giving buyers an idea of how to best utilize the space with their own belongings. Take some time to rethink how different areas in your house could be used. Some ideas to think about include:
-Moving couches and chairs away from walls in your sitting and family rooms to create cozy conversational groups.
-Creating a reading corner in the master bedroom.
-Clearing an empty room to set up a reading space.
-Turning an awkward space into a home office.
-Setting the dining room table with your best china.
-Set wine glasses in front of the fireplace or next to a Jacuzzi tub.
Tip #9: Light up the house
Create a sense of openness and cheerfulness in your home through its lighting. To improve the lighting try:
-Opening shades and drapes to let the sunshine warm and brighten rooms.
-Installing brighter light bulbs in rooms that tend to be dark.
-Adding additional lamps for ambient lighting.
-Turning on all the lights for a showing.
Tip #10: Add fresh touches
You can easily add color and style to your home by adding fresh touches throughout. Some ideas to consider include:
-Placing fresh floral arrangements in the entry and master bedroom.
-Placing bowls of bright-colored fruit in the family room and the kitchen.
-Filling an empty corner with a potted leafy plant.
-Setting new hand soap in the bathrooms.
-Displaying fresh towels near sinks.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Refeathering the Nest
By Debbie Arrington
Some rooms scream — "Help!" Others say nothing, and that's a problem, too.
"The bedroom tends to get forgotten — you spend all your money elsewhere in the house," said Payne, a celebrity interior designer and makeover specialist best known for his "Designing For The Sexes" series on HGTV. "You end up with a totally forgettable room that you don't want your best friend to see."
Helping people find indoor harmony — particularly at affordable prices — is a common challenge for designers. Instead of moving, homeowners are staying put and trying to make the most of their current house.
"This has been the busiest year I've ever had," said Folsom, Calif., interior designer Jennifer FaGalde. "Absolutely, a lot of people are wanting to stay put and put money into their own home instead of moving.
"They're creating a nest within their own space," she added. "People are staying home more now than they did five, 10 years ago. They want a sanctuary where they can relax."
But where to start?
Paint, lighting and flooring are three of the easiest, quickest and least expensive ways to update a room, say the experts.
Arizona Tile's in-house designer Emitt Isaacks advises people to start makeovers with a very basic question: Who lives in your home?
"A retired couple is very different than a family with young kids. They have different needs and considerations," he said. "Don't forget dogs and cats. Pets influence (design) decisions, too. Then, start thinking about style — modern, traditional, old-school — and color."
FaGalde points to two recent makeovers she completed in Sacramento, Calif. A typical home in the Pocket area needed a radical update for its kitchen and three bathrooms. A Land Park house started with a termite invasion and ended up with a remodeled family/living/dining room.
"The Pocket house was a real challenge," she said. "The bathrooms all had walls separating the toilet area. They had a closed-in feeling, the style of homes 25 years ago. And the rooms were so dark."
The answer: "We knocked down walls, gutted to zero and started from scratch," she said. "We added new lighting. It made a huge difference."
In the aftermath of fixing termite damage, the Land Park homeowners started with paint and flooring, but then decided to update with new window coverings, crown molding and fireplace tile.
"It really transformed the space," FaGalde said.
Lighting is key, "especially in older homes," she added. "They're too dark. Lighting enhances your space and shows off the investment you put into it. You spend money on paint and flooring, you want to be able to see it."
"Most people have furniture that was given them. They never would have bought it," he said. "It becomes an obligation and very unfair," Payne said. "Instead, people should surround themselves with things they love. And remember: Less is more."
Room makeovers are a staple of home and garden media, spurring TV series and online contests.
Based in Los Angeles, Payne currently is serving as a judge of the Big Bad Bedroom Break-Up contest, sponsored by online home goods outlet CSN Stores. More than 6,200 people entered to win a $10,000 makeover of their bedroom. (Vote for your pick at CSN Stores' Facebook page.)
QUICK BEDROOM MAKEOVER
Makeover specialist Michael Payne offers these suggestions:
1. Less is more. An uncluttered bedroom makes for a more restful space. Make use of area under the bed for storage.
2. Remember: It's a bedroom. The bed should be the dominant feature. Other furnishings are secondary, but look better if they match in style, wood and stain.
3. Start with the right bedspread or comforter. Use that to pick up colors for paint and carpeting. The result will be more harmonious.
Some rooms scream — "Help!" Others say nothing, and that's a problem, too.
"The bedroom tends to get forgotten — you spend all your money elsewhere in the house," said Payne, a celebrity interior designer and makeover specialist best known for his "Designing For The Sexes" series on HGTV. "You end up with a totally forgettable room that you don't want your best friend to see."
Helping people find indoor harmony — particularly at affordable prices — is a common challenge for designers. Instead of moving, homeowners are staying put and trying to make the most of their current house.
"This has been the busiest year I've ever had," said Folsom, Calif., interior designer Jennifer FaGalde. "Absolutely, a lot of people are wanting to stay put and put money into their own home instead of moving.
"They're creating a nest within their own space," she added. "People are staying home more now than they did five, 10 years ago. They want a sanctuary where they can relax."
But where to start?
Paint, lighting and flooring are three of the easiest, quickest and least expensive ways to update a room, say the experts.
Arizona Tile's in-house designer Emitt Isaacks advises people to start makeovers with a very basic question: Who lives in your home?
"A retired couple is very different than a family with young kids. They have different needs and considerations," he said. "Don't forget dogs and cats. Pets influence (design) decisions, too. Then, start thinking about style — modern, traditional, old-school — and color."
FaGalde points to two recent makeovers she completed in Sacramento, Calif. A typical home in the Pocket area needed a radical update for its kitchen and three bathrooms. A Land Park house started with a termite invasion and ended up with a remodeled family/living/dining room.
"The Pocket house was a real challenge," she said. "The bathrooms all had walls separating the toilet area. They had a closed-in feeling, the style of homes 25 years ago. And the rooms were so dark."
The answer: "We knocked down walls, gutted to zero and started from scratch," she said. "We added new lighting. It made a huge difference."
In the aftermath of fixing termite damage, the Land Park homeowners started with paint and flooring, but then decided to update with new window coverings, crown molding and fireplace tile.
"It really transformed the space," FaGalde said.
Lighting is key, "especially in older homes," she added. "They're too dark. Lighting enhances your space and shows off the investment you put into it. You spend money on paint and flooring, you want to be able to see it."
"Most people have furniture that was given them. They never would have bought it," he said. "It becomes an obligation and very unfair," Payne said. "Instead, people should surround themselves with things they love. And remember: Less is more."
Room makeovers are a staple of home and garden media, spurring TV series and online contests.
Based in Los Angeles, Payne currently is serving as a judge of the Big Bad Bedroom Break-Up contest, sponsored by online home goods outlet CSN Stores. More than 6,200 people entered to win a $10,000 makeover of their bedroom. (Vote for your pick at CSN Stores' Facebook page.)
QUICK BEDROOM MAKEOVER
Makeover specialist Michael Payne offers these suggestions:
1. Less is more. An uncluttered bedroom makes for a more restful space. Make use of area under the bed for storage.
2. Remember: It's a bedroom. The bed should be the dominant feature. Other furnishings are secondary, but look better if they match in style, wood and stain.
3. Start with the right bedspread or comforter. Use that to pick up colors for paint and carpeting. The result will be more harmonious.
Tips for Getting Your Home Ready for Fall
By Paige Tepping
Now that summer is beginning to wind down and cooler weather is on its way, it’s time to get some of the routine home maintenance out of the way before it gets too cold. If you don’t prepare your home in the fall season, and clean up the yard, when spring comes along, you could be left with an unsightly mess. Lisa Udy, a Realtor in Utah offers the following tips to prepare your home for the cold months ahead.
Clean out the rain gutters – If you have rain gutters on your home, fall is the best time to get them cleaned. Cleaning rain gutters isn’t that difficult of a task, it’s just a tedious one. The easiest way to get rid of the junk is to use a high pressure hose, and then use a small trowel to get rid of the rest of the debris. Once you have gotten rid of all the debris, give your gutters a final spray.
Take care of your pots and planters – If you’re like most homeowners, you have some planters or potted plants sitting around the yard. Before it gets too cold, be sure to empty the dirt out of any pots or planters and put them in a place where they won’t freeze. If you don’t empty or store your planters, there’s a good chance they will either crack or fall apart.
Rake the leaves – Keeping your yard free of leaves is an important task for homeowners. If you have numerous trees in your yard and piles of leaves that you don’t take care of, you might find that your grass is dead once spring arrives. Leaves can smother your lawn and replacing a lawn can cost a lot of money, so it’s a good rule of thumb to get rid of the leaves in the fall.
Weed and feed the lawn – The best time to weed and feed the lawn is in the fall. If you add weed killer in the fall, the weeds will store the poison in their roots during the winter season, and will prevent a breakout in the spring. By feeding your lawn with fertilizer in the fall, you are promoting healthy root growth, and this will help your lawn grow greener and faster in the spring.
Give your tools a tune-up – Once you have finished your fall maintenance chores, make sure you clean your tools and store them in a dry place so they will be in working order once spring arrives. Be sure to store metal shovels with the head upwards, as this will help detour rusting when it dries. Sheers need to be oiled up, wheel barrels should be left upside down and don’t forget to spray off the underside of the lawnmower.
Now that summer is beginning to wind down and cooler weather is on its way, it’s time to get some of the routine home maintenance out of the way before it gets too cold. If you don’t prepare your home in the fall season, and clean up the yard, when spring comes along, you could be left with an unsightly mess. Lisa Udy, a Realtor in Utah offers the following tips to prepare your home for the cold months ahead.
Clean out the rain gutters – If you have rain gutters on your home, fall is the best time to get them cleaned. Cleaning rain gutters isn’t that difficult of a task, it’s just a tedious one. The easiest way to get rid of the junk is to use a high pressure hose, and then use a small trowel to get rid of the rest of the debris. Once you have gotten rid of all the debris, give your gutters a final spray.
Take care of your pots and planters – If you’re like most homeowners, you have some planters or potted plants sitting around the yard. Before it gets too cold, be sure to empty the dirt out of any pots or planters and put them in a place where they won’t freeze. If you don’t empty or store your planters, there’s a good chance they will either crack or fall apart.
Rake the leaves – Keeping your yard free of leaves is an important task for homeowners. If you have numerous trees in your yard and piles of leaves that you don’t take care of, you might find that your grass is dead once spring arrives. Leaves can smother your lawn and replacing a lawn can cost a lot of money, so it’s a good rule of thumb to get rid of the leaves in the fall.
Weed and feed the lawn – The best time to weed and feed the lawn is in the fall. If you add weed killer in the fall, the weeds will store the poison in their roots during the winter season, and will prevent a breakout in the spring. By feeding your lawn with fertilizer in the fall, you are promoting healthy root growth, and this will help your lawn grow greener and faster in the spring.
Give your tools a tune-up – Once you have finished your fall maintenance chores, make sure you clean your tools and store them in a dry place so they will be in working order once spring arrives. Be sure to store metal shovels with the head upwards, as this will help detour rusting when it dries. Sheers need to be oiled up, wheel barrels should be left upside down and don’t forget to spray off the underside of the lawnmower.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Reasons to Hire a Real Estate Agent
There is a wealth of information on the internet about buying and selling homes. Potential clients will ask; “Why should I hire a real estate agent”? Some are successful and many are not. Here are some reasons for you to consider when you are thinking of buying or selling your home.
Education, Knowledge & Experience
You don't need to know everything about buying and selling real estate if you hire a real estate professional who does. The key is to find the right person. Realtors typically cost the same so why not hire the person with more education, knowledge and experience than you. Interview several agents and ask about their marketing plan. Buying and selling real estate is what we do and it allows you the precious time you need for other things.
Agents take the Calls
When buying a home many clients now days are finding homes they want to see on the internet. Agent’s help clients search and often can find properties that might be overlooked. Agents can pre-screen the listing for potential problems and point out areas that could be a concern for a buyer. For a seller the agent takes the calls from other agents and callers who are just looking for information and not necessarily serious about buying the home.
Neighborhood Knowledge
Agents either know or know how to get information on a neighborhood. They can compare sales and get data on city services, schools, crime and demographics.
Price Guidance
Agents don’t set the price for buyers or sellers but will provide all the data for a buyer or seller to make an informed decision about what to sell for or what to offer for a property.
Market Conditions
Real estate agents have access to market statistics. There are many things to consider when buying or selling. The market data can help you decide what to do.
Networking
Real estate agents know and work with other professionals in the business. Many professionals are and can be utilized in the process. Agents typically provide a list of vendors who they know are reputable.
Negotiation Skills
The top agents know how to negotiate well. Most buyers and sellers are emotional about the process whereas the realtor takes the emotion out of the negotiation and can bring and argue their clients views with respect to a property or transaction.
Volumes of Paperwork
Today’s contracts are 6 pages or more, depending on mandated disclosures and addendums. One tiny mistake could result in court or other costs.
Being Available
Before, during and even after the processes, a good realtor is available to help make the process an informed and pleasant one. Even after you move in there may be times that your realtor can be of value.
Your Realtor Connection
Agents rely on referrals. Agents want their clients to be happy with them and the process. In many cases friendships are developed or at the very least a mutual respect.
Education, Knowledge & Experience
You don't need to know everything about buying and selling real estate if you hire a real estate professional who does. The key is to find the right person. Realtors typically cost the same so why not hire the person with more education, knowledge and experience than you. Interview several agents and ask about their marketing plan. Buying and selling real estate is what we do and it allows you the precious time you need for other things.
Agents take the Calls
When buying a home many clients now days are finding homes they want to see on the internet. Agent’s help clients search and often can find properties that might be overlooked. Agents can pre-screen the listing for potential problems and point out areas that could be a concern for a buyer. For a seller the agent takes the calls from other agents and callers who are just looking for information and not necessarily serious about buying the home.
Neighborhood Knowledge
Agents either know or know how to get information on a neighborhood. They can compare sales and get data on city services, schools, crime and demographics.
Price Guidance
Agents don’t set the price for buyers or sellers but will provide all the data for a buyer or seller to make an informed decision about what to sell for or what to offer for a property.
Market Conditions
Real estate agents have access to market statistics. There are many things to consider when buying or selling. The market data can help you decide what to do.
Networking
Real estate agents know and work with other professionals in the business. Many professionals are and can be utilized in the process. Agents typically provide a list of vendors who they know are reputable.
Negotiation Skills
The top agents know how to negotiate well. Most buyers and sellers are emotional about the process whereas the realtor takes the emotion out of the negotiation and can bring and argue their clients views with respect to a property or transaction.
Volumes of Paperwork
Today’s contracts are 6 pages or more, depending on mandated disclosures and addendums. One tiny mistake could result in court or other costs.
Being Available
Before, during and even after the processes, a good realtor is available to help make the process an informed and pleasant one. Even after you move in there may be times that your realtor can be of value.
Your Realtor Connection
Agents rely on referrals. Agents want their clients to be happy with them and the process. In many cases friendships are developed or at the very least a mutual respect.
Nine Tips for Taxpayers Who Owe Money to the IRS
Nine Tips for Taxpayers Who Owe Money to the IRS
Did you end up owing taxes this year? The vast majority of Americans get a tax refund from the IRS each spring, but those who receive a bill may not know that the IRS has a number of ways for people to pay. Here are nine tips for taxpayers who owe money to the IRS.
1. If you get a bill this summer for late taxes, you are expected to promptly pay the tax owed including any penalties and interest. If you are unable to pay the amount due, it is often in your best interest to get a loan to pay the bill in full rather than to make installment payments to the IRS.
2. You can also pay the bill with your credit card. The interest rate on a credit card or bank loan may be lower than the combination of interest and penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. To pay by credit card contact one of the following processing companies: Official Payments Corporation at 888-UPAY-TAX (also www.officialpayments.com/fed) or Link2Gov at 888-PAY-1040 (also www.pay1040.com) or RBS WorldPay, Inc at 888-9PAY-TAX (also www.payUSAtax.com).
3. You can pay the balance owed by electronic funds transfer, check, money order, cashier’s check or cash. To pay using electronic funds transfer you can take advantage of the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System by calling 800-555-4477 or online at www.eftps.gov.
4. An installment agreement may be requested if you cannot pay the liability in full. This is an agreement between you and the IRS to pay the amount due in monthly installment payments. You must first file all returns that are required and be current with estimated tax payments.
5. If you owe $25,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest, you can request an installment agreement using the Online Payment Agreement application at IRS.gov.
6. You can also complete and mail an IRS Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, along with your bill in the envelope that you have received from the IRS. The IRS will inform you usually within 30 days whether your request is approved, denied, or if additional information is needed. If the amount you owe is $25,000 or less, provide the highest monthly amount you can pay with your request.
7. You may still qualify for an installment agreement if you owe more than $25,000, but a Form 433F, Collection Information Statement, is required to be completed before an installment agreement can be considered. If your balance is over $25,000, consider your financial situation and propose the highest amount possible, as that is how the IRS will arrive at your payment amount based upon your financial information.
8. If an agreement is approved, a one-time user fee will be charged. The user fee for a new agreement is $105 or $52 for agreements where payments are deducted directly from your bank account. For eligible individuals with incomes at or below certain levels, a reduced fee of $43 will be charged.
9. Taxpayers who have a balance due, may want to consider changing their W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate, with their employer. There is a withholding calculator available on IRS.gov to help taxpayers determine the amount that should be withheld.
For more information about installment agreements and other payment options visit IRS.gov. IRS Publications 594, The IRS Collection Process and 966, Electronic Choices to Pay All Your Federal Taxes also provide additional information regarding your payment options. These publications and Form 9465 can be obtained from IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
Did you end up owing taxes this year? The vast majority of Americans get a tax refund from the IRS each spring, but those who receive a bill may not know that the IRS has a number of ways for people to pay. Here are nine tips for taxpayers who owe money to the IRS.
1. If you get a bill this summer for late taxes, you are expected to promptly pay the tax owed including any penalties and interest. If you are unable to pay the amount due, it is often in your best interest to get a loan to pay the bill in full rather than to make installment payments to the IRS.
2. You can also pay the bill with your credit card. The interest rate on a credit card or bank loan may be lower than the combination of interest and penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. To pay by credit card contact one of the following processing companies: Official Payments Corporation at 888-UPAY-TAX (also www.officialpayments.com/fed) or Link2Gov at 888-PAY-1040 (also www.pay1040.com) or RBS WorldPay, Inc at 888-9PAY-TAX (also www.payUSAtax.com).
3. You can pay the balance owed by electronic funds transfer, check, money order, cashier’s check or cash. To pay using electronic funds transfer you can take advantage of the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System by calling 800-555-4477 or online at www.eftps.gov.
4. An installment agreement may be requested if you cannot pay the liability in full. This is an agreement between you and the IRS to pay the amount due in monthly installment payments. You must first file all returns that are required and be current with estimated tax payments.
5. If you owe $25,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest, you can request an installment agreement using the Online Payment Agreement application at IRS.gov.
6. You can also complete and mail an IRS Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, along with your bill in the envelope that you have received from the IRS. The IRS will inform you usually within 30 days whether your request is approved, denied, or if additional information is needed. If the amount you owe is $25,000 or less, provide the highest monthly amount you can pay with your request.
7. You may still qualify for an installment agreement if you owe more than $25,000, but a Form 433F, Collection Information Statement, is required to be completed before an installment agreement can be considered. If your balance is over $25,000, consider your financial situation and propose the highest amount possible, as that is how the IRS will arrive at your payment amount based upon your financial information.
8. If an agreement is approved, a one-time user fee will be charged. The user fee for a new agreement is $105 or $52 for agreements where payments are deducted directly from your bank account. For eligible individuals with incomes at or below certain levels, a reduced fee of $43 will be charged.
9. Taxpayers who have a balance due, may want to consider changing their W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate, with their employer. There is a withholding calculator available on IRS.gov to help taxpayers determine the amount that should be withheld.
For more information about installment agreements and other payment options visit IRS.gov. IRS Publications 594, The IRS Collection Process and 966, Electronic Choices to Pay All Your Federal Taxes also provide additional information regarding your payment options. These publications and Form 9465 can be obtained from IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
Disclosure
Full disclosure of certain issues regarding the property you are want to sell, is required in many states in order to protect the buyer from any unseen problems. Check with your real estate professional to see what the laws are in your area. Disclosure laws protect both the buyer and seller and include matters such as problems with the electrical, heating or air systems, and the presence of hazardous materials.
First Time Home Buyer, What's Important
Many first-time buyers want to own a home and can afford to own a home, but they're worried that the market is going to continue to decline and the home won't be worth what they paid for it. However, short-term future value should not matter if the other circumstances are right.
Here are some points from Marte Cliff, a copywriter who specializes in writing for real estate and related industries.
First-time buyers aren't investors. They're buying to own a home for themselves to live in and enjoy. If the home falls in market value a little, so what? They aren't planning to sell.
Money paid for rent buys a house for someone else to own.
Rents do rise with supply and demand.
Homes in most areas are now so inexpensive that first-time buyers may be able to make their payments and set aside a few dollars for maintenance for less than their current rent.
Interest rates are still low, making inexpensive homes even more affordable.
With interest rates so low, a few extra dollars per month on a 30-year mortgage could mean a first-time buyer could own the house free and clear within 15-20 years.
Hesitation could cost big dollars. Just a 1% rise in interest rates will add several hundred dollars per year to even a moderately-priced home. And interest rates are expected to rise.
This tide will turn, and homes will begin appreciating in value. That trend has already begun in some markets and will begin in others as the foreclosures and short sales are sold.
Over time, first-time buyers will be earning more while their house payment will remain stable.
Once a first-time buyer has determined that they are ready to take on the responsibility of homeownership, their primary concerns should be:
-Their desire to remain in the home for several years.
-Their ability to make the payments and take care of maintenance without having to give up everything else they now enjoy.
Here are some points from Marte Cliff, a copywriter who specializes in writing for real estate and related industries.
First-time buyers aren't investors. They're buying to own a home for themselves to live in and enjoy. If the home falls in market value a little, so what? They aren't planning to sell.
Money paid for rent buys a house for someone else to own.
Rents do rise with supply and demand.
Homes in most areas are now so inexpensive that first-time buyers may be able to make their payments and set aside a few dollars for maintenance for less than their current rent.
Interest rates are still low, making inexpensive homes even more affordable.
With interest rates so low, a few extra dollars per month on a 30-year mortgage could mean a first-time buyer could own the house free and clear within 15-20 years.
Hesitation could cost big dollars. Just a 1% rise in interest rates will add several hundred dollars per year to even a moderately-priced home. And interest rates are expected to rise.
This tide will turn, and homes will begin appreciating in value. That trend has already begun in some markets and will begin in others as the foreclosures and short sales are sold.
Over time, first-time buyers will be earning more while their house payment will remain stable.
Once a first-time buyer has determined that they are ready to take on the responsibility of homeownership, their primary concerns should be:
-Their desire to remain in the home for several years.
-Their ability to make the payments and take care of maintenance without having to give up everything else they now enjoy.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Home Safety
The Home Safety Council estimates that home related injuries result in nearly 20,000 deaths and 21 million medical visits, on average, each year. Evaluate all areas of you house, inside and out. Look for potential hazards, such as clutter on the staircase and the location of electrical appliances in kitchens and bathrooms. Don’t forget closets, play areas and the garage too.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Farmington Utah Townhome/Condo
Two story townhouse/condo in Farmington; east of I-15. 2395 S. F., three bedrooms, two full baths and one half bath, two car garage, formal living room, family room/den/office and a great room. Within walking distance to two city parks (one with a pool), city offices, county building, library and Farmington Elementary and Junior High. Lagoon Amusement Park is close and you can see many of their fireworks from the deck. Walking and biking trails are close by. HOA fee pays for all the insurance you would need except for personal contents. It also pays for basic cable lawn and outside maintenance, water, snow removal from the private dead end street, and extraordinary repairs to the outside of the building.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Improve your homes exterior.
Potential buyers may drive through several neighborhoods before choosing one they want to look at more closely. Increase your curb appeal by maintaining the exterior of your house, even before you consider selling. Touching up chipped paint, cleaning the windows, and mowing the lawn can make a big difference. Even if you arn't selling, keeping up the basic maintenance can prevent future problems.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Homeowner's Insurance
Homeowner's insurance is an insurance policy that protects you and your home in the unfortunate event of theft, fire, or other damage. A standard policy covers the structure of the house, your personal belongings, liability for injury to others, and living expenses in case your house becomes uninhabitable. Be aware of exactly what is covered and the limitations on certain items in the event an accident does occur.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Quote
"I do not want people to be agreeable, as it saves me the trouble of liking them." - Jane Austen
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Why use a Realtor?
Realtors keep up on market conditions and changes in the industry. They educate themselves on neighborhoods and areas. They become the go to person for potential buyers and sellers freeing them to continue their day to day lives. Knowing market conditions enables the realtor to use honed negotiation skills for the best possible deal for a client buying or selling real estate. They handle volumes of paperwork, keep track of critical dates and arrange other services where needed. Like me, there are many good agents that do this without additional fees over the negotiated and agreed upon commissions. Some agents do charge fees.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Credit Report
Your credit report is a compilation of your financial transactions, payment history, and personal information. A credit score is determined using this information and is a major factor in determining your qualification for a loan or credit card, Review your credit report on a regular basis to ensure the information is accurate and up to date. Log on to www.annualcreditreport.com to get your report and more information.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Room Makeover
Rather than invest in new carpet try adding a throw rug or two. A throw rug can add color and define an area. Carpet tiles are another inexpensive way to replace carpet or add color and definition.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Quick Makeover Tip
Adding a mirror to a room can make the room look larger. It can reflect a view and intensify light. Mirrors don't necessarily have to be hung; they can be propped against a wall or on a mantel.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Quick Makover Tip
Slipcovers for chairs and sofa's can give your furniture a brand new look. There are a variety of styles and most now days are made to fit pretty tight. Shoving a swimming pool "noodle" in the crevice between the cushions and the back of the sofa will keep the slipcover from moving too much.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Home for Sale in Clinton, Utah
Monday, February 22, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Quote of the Day
"Treat your friends as you do your pictures, and place them in their best light" - Jennie Jerome Churchill
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Quote of the Day
"Trouble is a sieve through which we sift our acquaintances. Those too big to pass through are our friends." - Arlene Francis
Quote of the Day
"Trouble is a sieve through which we sift our acquaintances. Those too big to pass through are our friends." - Arlene Francis
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