Real Estate Consumer Info.com

Oh where oh where have my appliances gone?  Alot of buyers are looking at foreclosures and REO's currently and have been wondering how long do these left behind appliances last?  Should I get new ones? Should I replace them?  Gadzooks those things are u-g-g-g-ly!

This post is another in a series 'Real Estate 101' and the topic is about the life of appliances in a home.  When the stove, refrigerator, washing machine or other household appliance stops working, how do you know whether it's time to call a repair service or to replace the appliance? The following tips can help you make a sound decision.

Troubleshoot the problem first. The appliance may be unplugged, have tripped a safety switch or circuit breaker, or have some other simple problem that's easily put right. Every appliance comes with an owner's manual, most of which have troubleshooting sections. Consult these first.

Use checklists to help weigh the reasons for repair or replacement. Answering some of the following questions requires that you do some homework on features and prices of potential replacements. Appliance manufacturers' and retailers' web sites and sites that offer reviews, such as that of Consumer Reports, provide useful information quickly.

Because many appliances cost from nearly $1000 to many thousands, spending $75-$100 on a service call to get an accurate estimate of repair costs may make economic sense. Often, if you decide to repair the appliance, the service call fee is credited toward the total repair cost.

Reasons to Repair:

The appliance is still under warranty and the problem is covered.  Based on average life expectancy, the appliance still has enough service years in it to justify the repair. The following table, which is based on data from several consumer and manufacturer sources, notes typical longevity for average (not high end) models of various appliances:

Repair costs are reasonable.

• One rule of thumb identifies "reasonable" as "less than 50% of the cost of a new appliance."

• How much will it cost to remove the existing appliance, install the new appliance, and dispose of the old appliance? These costs may add up and make the savings with a new appliance disappear.

• Is it difficult to remove the appliance from the house? Having to tear out the appliance or breakdown the appliance or make changes to the house to get the old appliance through a doorway, for example, might influence your decision.

• Has the current appliance given good service and do you particularly like the model? Simply not wanting to change can be a valid reason for repair.

Reasons to Replace:

• The repairs will cost more than 50% of the cost of a new appliance.

• The new model is more energy efficient. Compare the annual energy savings of the new model to the cost of running the old model. Energy efficiency savings may help the new appliance pay for itself over several years.

• Does the new model have newer technology that you would like?

• Will a new model provide additional features that are desirable or provide additional convenience and flexibility? Will you use these features?

• Replacement parts may be hard to find. The older the appliance, the harder it is to find the parts. It is even hard to find parts for some newer models.

• Replacement parts are expensive. Consider what the part is costing in comparison with the age of the machine. For example, if you replace a major part in a 7-year-old appliance, remember that all the other parts are still 7 years old.

• Do you simply want a new appliance? If so, can you afford to purchase the appliance without wrecking the budget or going into too much debt (particularly high credit card or retail contract debt)?

Fix or Replace It Article

Life Expectancy of Home Components

Home Components

The above articles will give you a little more guidance and are from other references found on my website.  Hope this information helps with your decisions!  

Lyn Sims at RE/MAX Suburban (847)230-7324

Website:   www.LynSims.net                   Email:  LynSims@remax.net

I proudly serve and sell real estate in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Roselle, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.

Oh where or where have my appliances gone?©2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.

To pay or not to pay …. That is the question! 

William Shakespeare could have done a whole play on how to get a mortgage if they had that sort of thing in his day.  So welcome to my posts named ‘Real Estate 101’ where I will try and demystify some of the real estate buzz words!

So let’s begin talking about Mortgage Points! 

Pay vs. Add to Principle?

What should my strategy be?

What value will I receive over time if I do pay points?        Don’t pay points?

Will they shackle me to a chair and make me pay points at the closing?

When you pay "points," you pay interest in a lump sum upfront to get a lower rate on your fixed rate mortgage. Each point costs 1% of the mortgage amount ($200,000 mortgage 1%=$2000). The more points you pay, the lower your mortgage rate. As a general rule, you can expect to reduce your interest rates by 1/4 to 1/8 of a percent for each point you pay up front. Additionally, because points are considered to be interest payments, they are usually tax-deductible.

So, which is the best for you?

    More points and a lower rate?    

          Or fewer points and higher rate?

 

To decide, you need to consider: (1) Whether you can afford to make the upfront payment now for points. (2) The length of time you expect to have the mortgage. The longer you plan to have your mortgage, the more it makes sense to pay for points now because you'll have a long time to benefit from the lower rate.

 

So let’s answer a couple of questions below and we'll throw out a few scenarios.  See what's best for you!

I have 15 to 18% down.          Recommendation:  You should NOT pay any points with your mortgage.

Here's why:  Because your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, your lender will likely require you to purchase mortgage insurance (PMI) which would be an additional upfront cost for you. Rather than pay this additional cost, it would probably be better for you to not pay for points and instead use that money to increase your down payment. By increasing your down payment to the 20% level you can avoid the cost of PMI.  Big savings!

 

I have 30% down so I won’t have to worry about PMI.              Recommendation:   You should pay points with your mortgage.

Here’s why:  You plan on staying in this home for the next 10+ years until your children are thru high school and possibly college.  You hate to move and this house seems like a good long term fit.   You win with a lower payment over the next 10+ years with paying those points.

 

I have only 5% down.               Recommendation:  You should NOT pay any points for your mortgage.

Here’s why:  You’ve scraped and saved every last dime since your 10^th birthday and now your savings account is cleaned out!   You will not have any furniture to sit on or any dishes to eat off of.  It just doesn’t make sense to go into your new home without any type of cushion in your bank account and eat macaroni and cheese for the next year.  Take the prevailing rate and begin in your new home.

 

Can I ask the seller to help me pay points?               Recommendation:  Yes you can. 

Here’s why:  In today’s market most sellers are happy to help someone out with their mortgage.  But, just remember that the ‘favor’ might come with a price.  The price might be paying a higher dollar amount for the home!   The seller might just take a lower price NOT to help you with those points! 

 

 

 

 Lyn Sims (847)230-7324 RE/MAX Suburban

Listing and Foreclosure Search at:  www.LynSims.net

 
Origination Points vs. Discount Points – Don’t get them confused.  This post is about Discount Points but here’s a brief explanation :  Origination points are used to pay for the costs of obtaining the loan in the first place. They are much less popular than discount points, as they do not provide borrowers with any valuable benefits and are not tax deductible. Borrowers are therefore better off trying to get a loan that does not require them to acquire these kinds of points.

I proudly serve and sell real estate in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Roselle, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.

To Pay or not to Pay©2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.

If you are currently in the market for a new home in Hoffman Estates, you may be interested in how a real estate agent can help you. 

You are about to make a great investment of both money and time.  I have a wealth of experience helping buyers of all categories like you make sound, informed decisions.

Did you also know that we don't cost you a thing?  That's right - zip, nada, zilch!

 

Here are some ways that a Buyers Agent can help you:

• Agents can help establish a plan for a home that fits your needs. Style, size, amenities, and other preferences will help determine what kind of home is best suited for you. They are familiar with all the floor plans and styles.
  
• They will help you to determine realistic spending limits. They can often explain alternative financing options or introduce you to a mortgage counselor. Agents can arrange to have you "pre-approved", which can help improve your positioning in negotiations.
  
• Access to all home listings all in one place within the MLS enables them to evaluate homes based on your affordability and the qualities you desire.  You can also have custom searches of multiple areas on my website until you make a final choice on a particular town.  Not all companies offer this service!
  
• They have access to information on taxes, real estate values, and municipal services, all of which can aid you in your decision to buy.
  
• They can 'work for you' as a buyer's agent, helping to negotiate the best terms and price for you.
  
• They can make you comfortable with the closing process and they will obtain closing figures in advance for your review.
  

 

 

The median list price for homes in Hoffman Estates Illinois is $344,950 with the average market time of 222 days.  The lowest priced home available is $169,000 (DEAL ALERT!) and the highest is $820,300 for custom construction.  The largest supply of homes available is in the $250,000 to $300,000 price range for this report.

Active Listings for Hoffman Estates IL - Single Family Homes                                1/21/2009

List Price Range     Number         of Listings           Avg. Days on Mkt $150,000 - $199,999         7            64 $200,000 - $249,999        37           215 $250,000 - $299,999        44           202 $300,000 - $349,999        27           188 $350,000 - $399,999        26           211 $400,000 - $449,999        13           236 $450,000 - $499,999        21           178 $500,000 - $549,999         8           184 $550,000 - $599,999        11           118 $600,000 - $699,999        12           192 $700,000 - $799,999        15           133 $800,000 - $899,999         1           127

Active Listings this report - 222

The above are just a few ways that a veteran buyers agent, like myself Lyn Sims, can help you in your journey towards buying your new home.  More information to prepare buyers can be found on my website or by calling me directly.

I'm confident that I can provide the kind of exceptional service that will make this process an exciting one. Please don't hesitate to call or e-mail me with any questions you may have.

Village of Hoffman Estates Profile

 

Lyn Sims RE/MAX Suburban (847) 230-7324   OR  Email her:   LynSims@remax.net

Having someone in your corner with over 20 years experience will ensure every detail of your purchase is handled smoothly!  Looking forward to hearing from you!

 

Lyn Sims at (847)230-7324

Northwest Suburbs of Chicago - Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Palatine, Elk Grove Village, Itasca, Medinah, Bartlett, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles. 

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it's display or use.

Hoffman Estates Homes for sale - 2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com

Overview of the Elk Grove Village 2008 Housing Market

Currently the local real estate market may be your 'best opportunity' market in years!  Are you ready to take advantage of it?

Mortgage interest rates are low and prices in Northwest Suburban Illinois are still holding fairly well, generally area prices are flat.  NOT EVERYWHERE IN EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD ARE PRICES FALLING.  

That's why I'm saying the real estate market is local - it even makes a difference from subdivision to subdivision in every single town!  But, over time and the long haul, no investment comes close to real estate so now is a great time to buy, sell or invest.

So again, 'All real estate is local'.  What's happening in your local market is all that matters.  You actually have to ask a great local REALTOR, like Lyn Sims at RE/MAX Suburban what's going on in your market.  She is an expert in pricing, buying, demand and selling patterns.  You can't google it and find out what your market place is doing.  You shouldn't rely on Yahoo, Zillow or other erroneous sites to even give you a SWAG (sophisticated wild a*% guess remember!).   You actually have to work with someone that knows the market inside and out and knows your subdivision.

So let's take a look at what is generally happening in Elk Grove Village - Notice in the sales graph prices are not spiraling downward like the media would have you believe.  The median house value in Illinois for 2007 was $272,600 which is UP from the survey done in 2000 of $178,200.  So that's a pretty good return on your investment!

"Does it seem like the real estate market is tanking?"    NO.

"OK Lyn, tell me something I don't know."  Well, I bet you didn't realize the market slow down was happening earlier than what you thought. It actually started in January 2006 and since then gradually month by month market demand has declined!

The average 2008 sales price for 60007 is actually $313,833.   The total single family sales for 2008 were 121.

The typical first time home buyer is actually trying to spur our local market forward.  The sales are mostly from the lowest pricing in the area (December's average was $231,250).  Therefore the average prices sold during that time will be lowered.   First time home buyers do not normally buy a home in the $315,000 and above range as a first home so obviously our average sales price will be lowered from that activity.  Foreclosures and short sales are also selling first and fast with multiple offers.

And don't be scared off by stories about a 'credit crunch' either.  Conventional and FHA loans are available for credit-worthy buyers seeking these types of mortgages.  And mortgage interest rates remain at historically low levels.  Don't be scared off by forecasts that encompass the entire United States either!  Think how ridiculous that is!

"Is it a good time to buy?"  I'm saying YES!

"So, people who have just went thru foreclosure are not probably going to get a loan?"    YES, and in Illinois that is just a small percentage of the homes owned that are in trouble and headed for foreclosure.

People will always need to buy or sell a home whether a move is job-related or you are ready to downsize or your family is expanding.

The national housing market has received a lot of negative press lately with stories of mortgage market tightening and increasing foreclosures.  But for the average person with good credit, traditional financing is readily available.  Lyn Sims still has 100% financing available to those that qualify!  There are still programs that offer down payment assistance to buyers - but you have to know the right people to get the help!

It's important to do some homework before you buy to see what you can afford and what your financing options are. Today, mortgage interest rates are well below their all-time high of over 18 percent in the early 1980s.  People bought homes then and they can buy them now!   HEY I know 'cause I was sellin' em way back then!

But again, you need to get hooked up with the right people which I can help you with!  There are lenders out there that promise and don't deliver!  There are lenders out there that only offer one type of financing - they won't tell you about all the programs they don't have will they?

"Is housing still your best long-term investment?"    I'm saying YES again!

Homeowners who are in it for the long-term are coming out well ahead. Here's why. Because of the power of leveraging, a $10,000 down payment on a typically priced home in the United States at a typical home price appreciation of 5 percent will return $110,000 after 10 years. The same $10,000 invested in the stock market appreciating at 10 percent annual increases will result in $23,600.

Why wait?  It's a good time to buy and grab your piece of the Elk Grove pie!              

 

Lyn Sims of Re/Max Suburban (847)230-7324 works in the Northwest Suburban Chicago areas of Schaumburg, Roselle, Bartlett, Bloomingdale, Streamwood, Hoffman Estates, Hanover Park, Elgin, South Elgin, Carol Stream, Medinah, Palatine, and yes Elk Grove Village.  

Offering local real estate advice for 25 years!

Elk Grove Village IL Local Market  for 2008 ©2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.

Sources: National Association of REALTORS®, MRED MLS, Agent Metrics Marketing, my little pencil and calculator.

 

EVERY REAL ESTATE MARKET IS LOCAL.  ASK A SEASONED REALTOR, LIKE LYN SIMS, WHAT'S GOING ON IN YOUR AREA.

Currently the local real estate market may be your 'best opportunity' market in years!  Are you ready to take advantage of it?

Mortgage interest rates are low and prices in Northwest Suburban Illinois are still holding fairly well, generally area prices are flat.  NOT EVERYWHERE IN EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD ARE PRICES FALLING.  

That's why I'm saying the real estate market is local - it even makes a difference from subdivision to subdivision in every single town!  But, over time and the long haul, no investment comes close to real estate so now is a great time to buy, sell or invest.

So again, 'All real estate is local'.  What's happening in your local market is all that matters.  You actually have to ask a great local REALTOR, like Lyn Sims at RE/MAX Suburban what's going on in your market.  She is an expert in pricing, buying, demand and selling patterns.  You can't google it and find out what your market place is doing.  You shouldn't rely on Yahoo, Zillow or other erroneous sites to even give you a SWAG (sophisticated wild a*% guess remember!).   You actually have to work with someone that knows the market inside and out and knows your subdivision.

So let's take a look at what is generally happening in Schaumburg - Notice the three sales graphs are not spiraling downward like the media would have you believe.  The median house value in 2007 was $272,600 which is UP from the survey done in 2000 of $178,200.  So that's a pretty good return on your investment!

"Does it seem like the real estate market is tanking?"    NO.

"OK Lyn, tell me something I don't know."  Well, I bet you didn't realize the market slow down was happening sooner than what you thought. It actually started in January 2006?    YES, and since then gradually month by month market demand began to wane!

The average 2008 sales price for 60193 is actually $312,000.   The average sales price for 60194 and 60195 is $309,166.  The average sales price for 60173 is $510,787.

The typical first time home buyer is actually trying to spur our local market forward.  The sales are mostly from the lowest pricing in the area.  Therefore the average prices sold during that time will be lowered.   First time home buyers do not normally buy a home in the $320,000 and above range as a first home so obviously our average sales price will be lowered from that activity.  Foreclosures and short sales are also selling first and fast with multiple offers.

And don't be scared off by stories about a 'credit crunch' either.  Conventional and FHA loans are available for credit-worthy buyers seeking these types of mortgages.  And mortgage interest rates remain at historically low levels.  Don't be scared off by forecasts that encompass the entire United States either!  Think how ridiculous that is!

"Is it a good time to buy?"  I'm saying YES!

"So, people who have just went thru foreclosure are not probably going to get a loan?"

YES, and in Illinois that is just a small percentage of the homes owned that are in trouble and headed for foreclosure.

People will always need to buy or sell a home whether a move is job-related or you are ready to downsize or your family is expanding.

The national housing market has received a lot of negative press lately with stories of mortgage market tightening and increasing foreclosures.  But for the average person with good credit, traditional financing is readily available.  Lyn Sims still has 100% financing available to those that qualify!  There are still programs that offer down payment assistance to buyers - but you have to know the right people to get the help!

It's important to do some homework before you buy to see what you can afford and what your financing options are. Today, mortgage interest rates are well below their all-time high of over 18 percent in the early 1980s.  People bought homes then and they can buy them now!   HEY I know 'cause I was sellin' em way back then!

But again, you need to get hooked up with the right people which I can help you with!  There are lenders out there that promise and don't deliver!  There are lenders out there that only offer one type of financing - they won't tell you about all the programs they don't have will they?

"Is housing still your best long-term investment?"    I'm saying YES again!

Homeowners who are in it for the long-term are coming out well ahead. Here's why. Because of the power of leveraging, a $10,000 down payment on a typically priced home in the United States at a typical home price appreciation of 5 percent will return $110,000 after 10 years. The same $10,000 invested in the stock market appreciating at 10 percent annual increases will result in $23,600.

Why wait?  It's a good time to buy and grab your piece of the Schaumburg pie!              

 

Lyn Sims of Re/Max Suburban (847)230-7324 works in the Northwest Suburban Chicago areas of Roselle, Bartlett, Elk Grove Village, Bloomingdale, Streamwood, Hoffman Estates, Hanover Park, Elgin, South Elgin, Carol Stream, Medinah, Palatine, and yes Schaumburg.  

Offering local real estate advice for 25 years!

Top Selling Schaumburg Subdivisions by price - Single Family

Top 5 Selling Schaumburg Subdivisions - Multi-Family

Schaumburg IL Local Market  for 2008 ©2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.

Sources: National Association of REALTORS®, MRED MLS, Agent Metrics Market Stats, my little pencil and calculator.

 

If you are currently in the market for a new home in Schaumburg, you may be interested in how a real estate agent can help you. 

You are about to make a great investment of both money and time.  I have a wealth of experience helping buyers of all categories like you make sound, informed decisions.

Did you also know that we don't cost you a thing?  That's right - zip, nada, zilch!

 

 

Here are some ways that a Buyers Agent can help you:

• Agents can help establish a plan for a home that fits your needs. Style, size, amenities, and other preferences will help determine what kind of home is best suited for you. They are familiar with all the floor plans and styles.
  
• They will help you to determine realistic spending limits. They can often explain alternative financing options or introduce you to a mortgage counselor. Agents can arrange to have you "pre-approved", which can help improve your positioning in negotiations.
  
• Access to all home listings all in one place within the MLS enables them to evaluate homes based on your affordability and the qualities you desire.  You can also have custom searches of multiple areas on my website until you make a final choice on a particular town.  Not all companies offer this service!
  
• They have access to information on taxes, real estate values, and municipal services, all of which can aid you in your decision to buy.
  
• They can 'work for you' as a buyer's agent, helping to negotiate the best terms and price for you.
  
• They can make you comfortable with the closing process and they will obtain closing figures in advance for your review.
  

The median list price for homes in Schaumburg Illinois is $369,900 with the average market time of 228 days.  The lowest priced home available is $179,000 (DEAL ALERT!) and the highest is $2,375,000 for custom construction.  The largest supply of homes available is in the $250,000 to $300,000 price range for this report.

Active Listings for Single Family Homes in Schaumburg                  1/16/2009

List Price Range   # Listings     Average        Days on Mkt   $150,000 - $199,999 3 150 $200,000 - $249,999 8 223 $250,000 - $299,999 33 222 $300,000 - $349,999 25 160 $350,000 - $399,999 29 225 $400,000 - $449,999 18 208 $450,000 - $499,999 8 229 $500,000 - $549,999 1 143 $550,000 - $599,999 2 116 $600,000 - $699,999 14 324 $700,000 - $799,999 8 356 $800,000 - $899,999 3 355 $900,000 - $999,999 1 249 $1,000,000 - $1,999,999 3 228 $2,000,000 - $2,999,999 1 343

157 Total Homes Available

The above are just a few ways that a veteran buyers agent, like myself Lyn Sims, can help you in your journey towards buying your new home.  More information to prepare buyers can be found on my website or by calling me directly.

I'm confident that I can provide the kind of exceptional service that will make this process an exciting one. Please don't hesitate to call or e-mail me with any questions you may have.

Village of Schaumburg Profile 

Lyn Sims RE/MAX Suburban (847) 230-7324   OR  Email her:   LynSims@remax.net

Having someone in your corner with over 20 years experience will ensure every detail of your purchase is handled smoothly!  Looking forward to hearing from you!

 

Lyn Sims at (847)230-7324  RE/MAX Suburban

Northwest Suburbs of Chicago - Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Palatine, Elk Grove Village, Itasca, Medinah, Bartlett, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles. 

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it's display or use.

Schaumburg Homes for sale - 2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com

 

Can you please sell my 'Mouse House'?

Friday I had the pleasure to be introduced to a new program on HGTV which is called ‘Unsellables’ and I wanted to report back to you all on the very first riveting episode!  As the title of the post is eluding too, I never thought that I would hear a seller say ‘it’s a problem there are mouse droppings on the dining room table?’.  Will that restrict my showings ya think?  DUH. 

Seller is also saying ‘is that what all that stuff is on the back porch too?  I used to have a lot of food out there, I guess they ate it!  DUH.

Yes it gets better!  Besides the mouse droppings all over the house, the seller also has ‘creative and artistic’ girls that draw all over the walls and woodwork in their rooms!  Will that restrict my showings – the bright paint color (magenta and yellow)?  DUH.

The fact that I haven’t cleaned the house in 2 years but I need to sell right away because now that we are blending our families and we have 2 mortgage payments – that might be a problem?  DUH.

Can you help me Sofie?  I don’t know what to do!  (Bats her eyes here).

Now Sofie, the very photogenic stager from England mind you, says no problem Ms. Common Sense Challenged Seller.  In spite of the fact you are a complete slob and they don’t pay me enough money to actually pick up mouse droppings on TV – let’s get started turning your lemon into lemonade!  (Giggles).

So poor Sofie obviously helps Ms. Mentally Handicapped Scrub Challenged Seller to fix up her home and truly turns it into a pretty nice looking place! 

Duh, duh and triple duh!  I can’t believe that people can be that ridiculously stupid when they sell their homes.  I try constantly to educate my sellers as to the current market place in my area where there are A LOT of great homes for buyers to choose.  But I can’t remember ever having to mention the mouse droppings on the dining room table! 

Yes Mr. and Mrs. Seller, you will have to scrape your dirty underwear off the floor if you want to sell your home!  Sorry, there are no excuses here.  People do not want to see your unmentionables at all, in any form, at any time.  Put them away with the hand cuffs.

Yes Mr. and Mrs. Seller, you cannot charge extra for the small oak trees growing in your gutters on the front of your stunning hovel.  If it weren’t for the falling gutters the other landscaping wouldn’t get watered you say?  How nice.  Ever hear of ‘curb appeal’?

I just can’t believe that HGTV actually finds these people to open up their homes and be totally dissected ‘on the telly’ by a Brit decorator!  I would be absolutely mortified!  Change that - mortified X 2. 

Lyn Sims (847)230-7324 RE/MAX Suburban

I prefer to sell homes with no mouse droppings in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago!  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Elk Grove Village, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.





Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to cleanliness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it's display or use.

From cluttered homes to messy bedrooms, from dated decor to filthy interiors, The Unsellables transforms unsightly and unsellable properties into real estate gems — and encourages homeowners to let go of the past, get smart and prepare for a sale. Join property guru and British TV personality Sofie Allsopp and her trusty contractor Anthony Sayers as she coaches and cajoles home sellers through a major clean-up and targeted makeover that will help them seal the deal. There's plenty of drama and inspiration along the way — and lots of how-to tips for turning real estate lemons into lemonade!

HUSEL-105
Andrea will soon have two mortgages, so she needs host Sofie Allsopp's help in marketing her home.

Just say 'no' to the Mouse House - 2009 Lyn Sims and RealEstateConsumerInfo.com

Da Bears

Q: What do you call 53 people sitting around a TV watching the Super Bowl?

A: The Chicago Bears.

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Q: How do you keep a Chicago Bear out of your yard?

A: Put up goal posts!

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Q: Where do you go in Chicago in case of a tornado?

A: Soldier Field - they never have a touchdown there.

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Q: What do you call a Chicago Bear with a Super Bowl ring?

A: A thief.

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Q: Why doesn't Springfield have a professional football team?

A: Because then Chicago would want one.

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Q: What's the difference between the Chicago Bears & a dollar bill?

A: You can still get four quarters out of a dollar bill.

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Q: What do the Chicago Bears and possums have in common?

A: Both play dead at home and get killed on the road!

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Q: How many Chicago Bears does it take to win a Super Bowl?

A: Nobody knows and we may never find out.

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Q: What do the Chicago Bears and Billy Graham have in common?

A: They both can make 70 ,000 people stand up and yell "Jesus Christ"!

 

 

 

Free First-Time Homebuyers Seminar

Did you pay someone else's mortgage payment again last month!  Like your Landlords!  

Start down the road to financial freedom today!   Register today for our First-Time Homebuyers Seminar on January 20, 2009 at the Schaumburg CRC (Community Rec Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Rd, Schaumburg, IL) from 6pm to 8pm.  

This seminar is a joint event by RE/MAX Suburban and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.   RE/MAX Suburban has been in business for over 30 years, has seven offices and has sold over 1 Billion Dollars in real estate for five consecutive years.   All of our agents are full-time professionals.   They outsell all of their competition every year.    Two of our offices are located in Schaumburg.   Wells Fargo was just ranked as one of the 10 safest banks in the world!   They were the only United States bank included in the list!    They have mortgage money available waiting for you to use!

This great seminar will cover the following topics:

1.  Why now is a great time to buy!

2.  How to get involved with foreclosures, short sales and otherwise take advantage of this market!

3.  Learn what mortgage products are still available and how little money you need down.  The media is not telling you the whole story!

4.  Learn what the First-Time Homebuyers Tax Credit is and how to use it for your down-payment!

5.  Learn how to fix or repair your credit, raise your credit score and qualify for a mortgage and obtain a free copy of your credit report.

6.  Learn from one of the best real estate attorneys in the area how the buying process works from beginning to end.

 

Come to this seminar whether you are thinking of buying now or sometime in the future.   If you so desire, we will have Home Mortgage Consultants on hand to pre-qualify or even pre-approve you for a mortgage.  

We will also have the top real estate agents available to speak with and answer your questions along with a real estate attorney, a title company, and a home inspector!     We will show you how to start paying your own mortgage payment, save money on taxes, and start down the road to financial freedom. 

Register today, space is limited!   Register by calling me at 847-230-7324 or by e-mailing me at LynSims@remax.net.   See you there!

 

 Lyn Sims (847)230-7324 RE/MAX Suburban in Schaumburg

I proudly serve and sell real estate in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Elk Grove Village, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it's display or use.

GOOGLE MAP TO THE CRC

 

Roselle Illinois Homes - $450,000 and up - Is anything selling?  Roselle IL Luxury Home Market Update

Well, to answer your question, YES!  There have been 19 sales so far this 2008 year for the $450,000 and up single family market.  What are some marketing tips that you might want to know about if you are planning on selling your home?

Out of the total 19 sales, 6 homes were built before 1996.  Out of those 6 sales, 5 mentioned that they were totally remodeled and had reasonable market times.
 
Out of the 19 sales, 13 homes were built after 2000.  This is where the newer styles are favored more than the traditonal 20 year old homes.  They are considered 'newer' homes offering most of today's features that buyers request.  Hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, open floor plans with 'Greatrooms', fireplaces, crown molding, basements, remodeled kitchens, remodeled baths, 3 car garages, brick-brick and more brick facades.

The top selling price has been $850,000 and the average days on the market for this group is 252.  The average sales price has been $605,642.  There were 3 sales that have been only on the market under 60 days which is EXCELLENT considering all the bad market press that we've gotten recently.  Some homes have had extended market times because they were new construction or teardowns.  They usually list these homes when drywalled and then wait for a contract before they actually 'customize' the home to the new buyers specifics.

List price to sales price ratio has widened significantly from 93% to 96%.  That equates to 4% to 7% off the stated list price.  The normal ratio used to be around 3% during the 'good old days' of a fast paced market.

My advice after offering this research -  as I reported back in August, buyers do not want to do any work!  They are going to pick the best house for the price with the least amount of work involved!  

NO WORK involved.  NONE being zero.  No wallpaper removal, no painting, and for heavens sake no kitchen remodel!  I’ve also noticed that buyers are becoming 'overwhelmed' with the process remodeling entails even in their heads.  So a warning to all sellers reading this – your agent is not making this stuff up!  Buyers do not want to remodel your house!  They don’t want to change the 80’s wallpaper that you don’t even like any more!  There is just too much newer construction for buyers too choose from!

Wanna see the RE/MAX Market Share for Roselle?

Lyn Sims (847)230-7324 at RE/MAX Suburban

Lyn's Email:  LynSims@remax.net

I proudly serve and sell real estate in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Roselle, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.

Source:  MRED MLS, January-December 2008 coop sales.

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.

Roselle Illinois Homes - 450,000+ and up - Is Anything Selling? - 2008 Lyn Sims www.RealEstateConsumerInfo.com

Hoffman Estates Illinois Homes - $450,000 and up - Is anything selling?  Update for the Luxury Home Market

Well, to answer your question, YES!  There have been 33 sales so far this 2008 year for the $450,000 and up single family market.  What are some marketing tips that you might want to know about if you are planning on selling your home?

Out of the total 33 sales, 8 homes were built before 1999.  Out of those 8 sales, 4 mentioned that they were totally remodeled (see great kitchen pictures) and had reasonable market times. 

Out of the 33 sales, 25 homes were built after 2000.  They are considered 'newer' homes offering most of today's features that buyers request.  Hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, open floor plans with 'Greatrooms', fireplaces, crown molding, basements, remodeled kitchens, remodeled baths, 3 car garages, brick facades.

There is still a good amount of new construction and 'nearly new' available in Hoffman Estates to choose from most averaging around the $525,000 mark.  We also have an abundant supply of 55+ and over subdivisions with plenty of great features with no maintenance involved.  

The top selling price has been $620,000 and the average days on the market for this group is 105.  Average Sales Price is $501,150.  There are a few sales that have been only on the market for 23 to 35 days which is EXCELLENT considering all the bad market press that we've gotten recently.   There was one sale that had to spoil the whole thing at 486 days!  








List price to sales price ratio has been from 94% to 98%.  That equates to 2% to 6% off the stated list price.  The normal ratio used to be around 3% during the 'good old days' in a brisk market.

My advice after offering this research is buyers do not want to do any work!  As I reported previously in other posts, buyers are going to pick the best house for the lowest price with the least amount of work involved!  

NO WORK involved.  NONE being zero.  No wallpaper removal, no painting, and for heavens sake no kitchen remodel!  I’ve also noticed that buyers are becoming 'overwhelmed' with the process remodeling entails even in their heads.  So a warning to all sellers reading this – your agent is not making this stuff up!  Buyers do not want to remodel your house!  They don’t want to change the 80’s wallpaper that you don’t even like any more!

Interested in seeing the RE/MAX Market Share for Hoffman Estates?

Lyn Sims (847)230-7324 at RE/MAX Suburban

Email her at:  LynSims@remax.net

I proudly serve and sell real estate in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Elk Grove Village, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.























Sources:  MRED MLS Northern IL,  January-December Closed 2008 in coop with MRED.

Disclaimer:  All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.



Hoffman Estates Illinois Homes 450,000+ and up - Is Anything Selling? - 2008 Lyn Sims www.RealEstateConsumerInfo.com