Make a list: Spend some time taking stock of the kinds of maintenance and improvement projects you'd like to begin. A well-considered list will help you to set reachable goals.

Assess your skills: Make sure that you carefully consider which projects you are fully capable of completing. For example, unless you have sufficient experience with electrical, plumbing or construction work, you should probably leave those tasks to the professionals.

Establish priorities: Which projects are most important to you? Which projects will be the most costly? Which is more important: timeliness, quality or cost? Before beginning any do-it-yourself project, it is always wise to determine specific goals and priorities so that you are fully prepared when it comes time to begin.

Create a budget: For each project that you want to complete, make certain that you have a firm budget in place. Allowing for unexpected circumstances (such as errors or the need for additional materials) in your budget will keep you from overspending.
One step at a time: When it's time to begin, remember to pace yourself! Rome wasn't built in a day, and your new garden terrace will take time as well. Complete one task at a time, and soon you'll feel the wonderful sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that doing-it-yourself can bring

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the affordability of a house and, as a potential homebuyer, it's important that you know what type of mortgage payments are within your budget.

Debt-To-Income Ratio

As a homebuyer, your first consideration will be the amount of your monthly mortgage payments. If you owe a lot of debt, lenders may consider you to be a high credit risk, which makes debt-to-income ratio a leading factor in determining how much of a house you can afford.

Most lenders will discount any loans that you will have paid off within one year when determining how much of a home you can afford. As a general rule, your mortgage payment should not exceed 25-30 percent of your monthly take-home pay.

Loan Term

Although you will end up paying more interest in the long run, you will find that you can afford a more expensive house if you request a loan term of 25-30 years, compared to a shorter term of 15 years.

Interest Rates

When you look at an interest rate, all you see is a number. Hopefully, it's a single digit that's comparable with current market rates. Most homebuyers already know that their interest rate affects their monthly payment which, in turn, is determined by the borrower's income. Lower interest rates mean that you can afford a larger principal loan amount, which means a more expensive house.

Credit History

Because your past credit history will play a large role in determining your interest rates, it will also impact the affordability of a house. For instance, a buyer who pays six percent interest will save a considerable amount of money over a buyer who pays eight percent interest on their home loan. It may not seem like much now but, when averaged over time, the savings could be tremendous.

Down Payment Amount

Believe it or not, the amount of your down payment will not only show the lender how serious you are about buying a home, but it will also affect your ability to afford a particular house. For instance, if you were to qualify for a home loan of $200,000, but your dream home was currently listed for $250,000, a down payment in the amount of $50,000 would get you into the home.

The above scenario is just an example, but it does show how a down payment can affect the price of the home that you are able to afford. Some lenders may only require a five percent down payment, but you are free to pay as much above that as you wish. A larger down payment can also reduce the principal loan amount, which thereby reduces the monthly mortgage payments.

One of the least understood aspects of Nevada County home loans is the different types of lenders. Many people assume they have to get a home loan from a traditional savings and loan. Not so. There are many different types of lenders.
Here are the main types of mortgage lenders and how they function:
Mortgage Bankers: Mortgage bankers are loan originators that operate with the sole objective to sell the loan they create to another source. Even though they will sell the loan they must have the ability to finance the loan in the first place and hold it until it is sold.

Mortgage Brokers: This type of lender does not originate loans for your Nevada County home, they prepare the paperwork to submit to multiple lending institutions and get offers they will present to you to choose from. Their offers may come from any of the other types of mortgage lenders.

Banks and Savings & Loans: These are the most common traditional sources of mortgage loans. They use the backing of their depositors to fund mortgages. In turn, they use the money paid by borrowers to repay the depositors' interest for allowing them to use the money as an investment.

Credit Unions: Credit Unions operate in largely the same way a bank or savings and loan does by using money from a pool of depositors to finance investments in the form of mortgages and other types of loans. The difference is that most credit unions are operated out of a collective pool of closely associated people generally through a work place or professional organization.

If you'd like help determining the best type of mortgage lender for your Nevada County home purchase, give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Keyword/Tag: Nevada County home

Links:

Type of mortgage lenders
http://www.mortgageloan.com/understanding-different-types-mortgage-lenders

Mortgage brokers
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-mortgage-broker.htm

Credit Unions
http://www.creditunionsonline.com

Many people have trouble relaxing, even in their Nevada County homes. Why? Frequently, it's because of too much visual stimuli such as unfinished projects, knickknacks and clutter.
You may think the answer to being able to relax is to move into a "better" home. However, what usually happens is that you move your unfinished projects and clutter with you. Instead, if you take the time to get organized, you may find - like many owners who have backed out of a sale - that you don't need to move, you just need to re-organize.
Take a moment from your busy, stressful life to read these tips and discover how you can improve and de-stress your personal castle:
1. Add money to your wallet. Unwanted or unused items can be turned into cash. eBay and Craigslist are two heavily-used websites where you can sell your unwanted/unused items. Make a little cash and clear the clutter.
2. Be generous. If you don't want to sell your items, don't throw them away. Donate them to places such as Goodwill. Online, there's FreeCycle, where you can share your items and give them away to those who really need them.
3. Keep it clean. Set up a system to decide what to do with mail. Many people end up with piles of mail throughout the house. Rather than letting it pile up, decide the day you get it where that mail goes: trash, take action or file away.
4. Include your family in the de-clutter process. After all, your spouse and kids live there, too. As well, if others have a chance to give their input, they may be more willing to keep your Nevada County home organized. Let others in your family have a part in the decision-making process and implementation.
5. Take stray worry off your mind. You may be subconsciously worried about things in your home. Reduce the potential stress by creating a sense of safety. For instance, make sure your smoke detectors are working, that you have a radon meter (if necessary) and a carbon monoxide detector.
You may be thinking, "Home isn't what stresses me out." Are you sure? You might be pleasantly surprised how relaxed you'll be when your home is de-cluttered. Your Nevada County home can truly become a place where you leave the stress at the door.
If you're looking for a home to relax in after a hard day, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com] for more information.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County home
Links:
Goodwill
http://www.goodwill.org/get-involved/donate/
FreeCycle
http://www.freecycle.org
Keep your home organized
http://www.lifeorganizers.com/cm_articles/102_10_ways_to_declutter_your_home_280.html

Owners of Nevada County homes for sale are wondering, "What are buyers looking for?" This is especially true if the home has been on the market for a while. Well, homeowners aren't the only ones. Several companies, including Better Homes and Gardens and Avid Ratings, the exclusive research provider for the National Association of Home Builders, have researched this question.
So, what are buyers looking for in national and Nevada County homes for sale? In a 2010 Avid Ratings homebuyer's study, over 22,000 homeowners, who bought their homes in the past nine years, provide some clues. In short, the study says practicality beats out extras any day.
The days of formal dining rooms, oversized backyard patios and community clubhouses are gone. Swimming pools aren't that big a deal, but neither are upstairs laundry rooms or home theaters. These extras have been replaced by practicalities such as:
· Children's playground
· Walking paths
· Large kitchens (with island if possible)
· Home office or study
· Main-floor master bedroom
· Two-car garages
· Oversize showers with seating
As well, although buyers are willing to have less space, they're big on "green" features such as high-efficiency windows, insulation and appliances.
The home survey by Better Homes and Gardens reveals much the same information. Homeowners and potential buyers pointed towards downsizing into smaller, greener homes. Again, high-efficiency appliances topped the interest levels, with a lean towards Energy Star appliances.
The home office is still a priority, although it doesn't have to be dedicated space; many would be perfectly happy with a multi-purpose space, instead. The real key, however, is no wasted space, along with ample storage.
If you're considering doing any amount of remodeling to excite potential buyers, the information contained in these surveys are priceless. If you're one of the owners of Nevada County homes for sale thinking your house is too small, it's great news. If you thought you might upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances, you're on the right track. Consider what you can do to make your home more "future buyer" friendly!
If you'd like to sell your home or are looking for a more energy-efficient home, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County homes for sale
Links:
Avid Ratings
http://www.avidratings.com/
Homebuyer's study
http://articles.latimes.com/2010/apr/04/business/la-fi-lew4-2010apr04/2
Home survey by Better Homes and Gardens
http://rismedia.com/2010-01-21/looking-ahead-cents-and-sensibility-top-priorities-for-homeowners-in-2010/

The national and Nevada County real estate markets are constantly fluctuating, falling somewhere between more inventory and lower prices and less inventory and higher prices. People are often frightened when the home inventory rises, but a declining real estate market may just be the perfect time to find your next home.
Here are 4 reasons why you should consider buying Nevada County real estate in a down market.
1. Inventory. When the market is down, more homes are for sale. This means you have more homes to choose from, which makes it easier to find a home in your dream neighborhood or closer to work or school.

2. Negotiation. There's a reason down markets are called "buyers' markets." Sellers want to sell their homes, and they are often willing to do whatever it takes. This means you have the advantage and can buy a home for a great price. You can also ask the seller for other incentives like paying all or a portion of your closing costs.

3. Mortgage Rates. When the real estate market begins falling, interest rates get cut. This can mean considerable savings for you over the course of your mortgage. You can even buy a larger home within your price range than you can when the market is booming.

4. Investment. Even though doom and gloom is forecasted in a down market, your home will still most likely go up in value or at least retain its value. Keep in mind that your home is your most personal investment. It's a place where you will create memories and maybe even raise a family.

If you're considering buying a home, let me help you find a wonderful home at a great price. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Keyword/Tag: Nevada County real estate

Links:

Buying Nevada County real estate in a down market
http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/qt/Waittobuy.htm

Negotiation
http://www.repair-home.com/son/buyers_market.htm




Mortgage Rates
http://www.bankrate.com/

Buyers are becoming more concerned about their personal environment, from eco-friendly carpeting to energy efficient appliances. If you're looking for an eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County, but aren't sure how to find it, here are a few tips on what to look for:
1. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) - Although the number is growing, only a few builders are employing eco-friendly practices during construction. However, those that do can qualify for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation. These homes are designed for better IAQ, which means a healthier home for you. Rest assured, if a builder meets this designation they'll tell you about it. However, just in case - ask!
2. Energy Efficient - If it qualifies for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation, the home for sale in Nevada County will also be energy efficient. However, if you're not looking at a newly built home, look for those homes that are Energy Star efficient. According to the Energy Star website, "These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes."
3. Eco-friendly - Energy Star and EPA qualifications aside, you can also find homes in which the seller has made eco-friendly changes that will help you even though they may not meet the guidelines for qualifications. For instance, solar paneling, wind turbines and geothermal heating aren't covered by the EPA or Energy Star qualifications by themselves, but they're eco-friendly and can lower your utilities.
An eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County may be hard to find, but the numbers are growing. If you're looking for an environmentally friendly home, I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.
Keyword/Tag: Home for sale in Nevada County
Links:
EPA Indoor airPlus
http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/about.html
Energy Star efficient
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index
Geothermal heating
http://www.geoexchange.org/

The point of having your home for sale in Nevada County is to... well, sell it, isn't it? I mean, it makes logical sense, right? Yet, too often, home sellers seem to think that selling is as easy as "hire agent, put sign in front, sold."
This attitude, especially in a slow real estate market, has left many a seller empty-handed. They say "no" when they should have said "yes." They have all these reasons why they won't "A, B or C," rather than just doing "A, B or C" for their home for sale in Nevada County.
What am I talking about? Well, here are just a few of those "don't say no" things:
Buyer Incentives
Listen - a slow market or not, you do have competition. What does this mean? You may have the best house on the block, but if your neighbor's house has higher perceived value, yours will be left sitting there.
By offering buyer incentives such as a home warranty plan, pre-paid homeowner association fees or credit toward the closing costs, you're giving the buyer more perceived value. Let's face it; buyers want the best bang for their buck.
Home Showings
When an agent calls and asks if they can show your home, say YES! It doesn't matter if they want to show it in five minutes or five hours, your answer should be yes. If your home doesn't get seen, it won't get sold. That person you said "no" to might have been your ideal buyer.
Virtual Tours
Buyers like to be able to view a potential home online first. The best way for them to do this is with a virtual real estate tour, looking at the home with a 360-degree view. Because this is such a quickly growing trend (some buyers ignore listings without them), you can't afford to pass it up.
If you have a home for sale in Nevada County and it's been on the market for a while, you may have said "no" to too many things. Take some time to look at what you can do to market your home better. These pointers may very well make all the difference!
If you're trying to market your home and need a professional, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Keyword/Tag: home for sale in Nevada County
Links:
Home warranty plan
http://www.ahswarranty.com/homeowners/homewarranty101/homewarranty101.html
Home showings
http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/Sellers-Dont-Be-Difficult-When-Showing-Home/1718
Virtual real estate tour
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_tour

Buyers are becoming more concerned about their personal environment, from eco-friendly carpeting to energy efficient appliances. If you're looking for an eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County, but aren't sure how to find it, here are a few tips on what to look for:
1. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) - Although the number is growing, only a few builders are employing eco-friendly practices during construction. However, those that do can qualify for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation. These homes are designed for better IAQ, which means a healthier home for you. Rest assured, if a builder meets this designation they'll tell you about it. However, just in case - ask!
2. Energy Efficient - If it qualifies for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation, the home for sale in Nevada County will also be energy efficient. However, if you're not looking at a newly built home, look for those homes that are Energy Star efficient. According to the Energy Star website, "These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes."
3. Eco-friendly - Energy Star and EPA qualifications aside, you can also find homes in which the seller has made eco-friendly changes that will help you even though they may not meet the guidelines for qualifications. For instance, solar paneling, wind turbines and geothermal heating aren't covered by the EPA or Energy Star qualifications by themselves, but they're eco-friendly and can lower your utilities.
An eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County may be hard to find, but the numbers are growing. If you're looking for an environmentally friendly home, I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.
Keyword/Tag: Home for sale in Nevada County
Links:
EPA Indoor airPlus
http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/about.html
Energy Star efficient
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index
Geothermal heating
http://www.geoexchange.org/

The point of having your home for sale in Nevada County is to... well, sell it, isn't it? I mean, it makes logical sense, right? Yet, too often, home sellers seem to think that selling is as easy as "hire agent, put sign in front, sold."
This attitude, especially in a slow real estate market, has left many a seller empty-handed. They say "no" when they should have said "yes." They have all these reasons why they won't "A, B or C," rather than just doing "A, B or C" for their home for sale in Nevada County.
What am I talking about? Well, here are just a few of those "don't say no" things:
Buyer Incentives
Listen - a slow market or not, you do have competition. What does this mean? You may have the best house on the block, but if your neighbor's house has higher perceived value, yours will be left sitting there.
By offering buyer incentives such as a home warranty plan, pre-paid homeowner association fees or credit toward the closing costs, you're giving the buyer more perceived value. Let's face it; buyers want the best bang for their buck.
Home Showings
When an agent calls and asks if they can show your home, say YES! It doesn't matter if they want to show it in five minutes or five hours, your answer should be yes. If your home doesn't get seen, it won't get sold. That person you said "no" to might have been your ideal buyer.
Virtual Tours
Buyers like to be able to view a potential home online first. The best way for them to do this is with a virtual real estate tour, looking at the home with a 360-degree view. Because this is such a quickly growing trend (some buyers ignore listings without them), you can't afford to pass it up.
If you have a home for sale in Nevada County and it's been on the market for a while, you may have said "no" to too many things. Take some time to look at what you can do to market your home better. These pointers may very well make all the difference!
If you're trying to market your home and need a professional, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Links:
Home warranty plan
http://www.ahswarranty.com/homeowners/homewarranty101/homewarranty101.html
Home showings
http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/Sellers-Dont-Be-Difficult-When-Showing-Home/1718
Virtual real estate tour
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_tour

Advice for home sellers is everywhere! Turn on the TV, radio, or computer and you're practically bombarded with ideas on how to prepare your Nevada County real estate to get it sold.
Curb Appeal: It's Elementary, My Dear Watson
Sometimes the simplest solution is right under your nose. Sure, renovations, additions, upgrades and updates are great--and should not be overlooked. But common sense says buyers make their first judgment of homes for sale based on the homes' exterior.


Increasingly Discerning Buyers in Today's Nevada County Real Estate Market
Today's real estate market is challenging for sellers, all the more reason why every little detail matters. Buyers know they are in a strong buyer's market and literally won't put up with any rubbish, when window shopping for homes.
Before a potential buyer even considers stepping a foot inside your home, they want to see curb appeal--and not just any curb appeal, mind you. The discerning home buyer of today wants everything "just so."


Here's what buyers are looking for:
· Precision lawn care: That means weekly mowing and edging in the warm months and snow or ice removal in the cold months. The perfect lawn features mowing done in precise straight lines resulting in a very symmetrical, uniform look. Don't forget to trim around the driveway, stones, garden, trees, and especially the sidewalk.
· No junk lying around: Pack rats, you know who you are! Put things in storage. Don't have an RV blocking your driveway or bikes and toys strewn everywhere.
· Beautify: Pick up leaves, weeds, branches and other debris. Plant beautiful flowers. You can even buy pre-bloomed flowers and replant.
· Splash o' Color: Paint the house, garage, doors and shutters in neutral, updated colors.
· Fix and Re-Finish: Wooden decks and porch railings should be in tip-top shape.


You've got a Friend!
To help you get the most out of your precious Nevada County real estate, I'm here for you. Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com

Links:
Strong buyer's market
http://realestate.msn.com/buying/article_bankrate.aspx?cp-documentid=4185633
Curb Appeal
http://homebuying.about.com/cs/sellerarticles/a/curb_appeal.htm
Precision Lawn Care: http://www.bobvila.com/HowTo_Library/In_Pursuit_of_the_Perfect_Lawn-Lawn_Care-A1747.html

If you have never purchased a home before, you may not yet recognize how crucial it is to acquire the services of a professional Nevada County real estate agent.
Buying a home will probably be the most expensive purchase you ever make. Therefore, you undoubtedly should consider enlisting the help of a REALTOR® who has experience, extensive knowledge of the area and integrity.
Benefits of using a professional Nevada County real estate agent
Having your own buyer's agent to walk you through the entire home buying process saves you a lot of time and stress, as well as money.

You decide:

· Size of home desired

· Style preferred

· Location

· Price range

That's easy! With this basic information, your agent begins the hard part: searching for the perfect home for you and successfully guiding you through the purchase process.

Your agent helps with:

Generating a small defined list of good choices
· Forming a realistic budget
· Financing
· Determining what a home is really worth
· Making offers for you
· Negotiating with the seller
· Alleviating stress that's a part of any transaction of this magnitude
· Overseeing your home inspection
· Renegotiating any problems found in the home inspection
· Explaining and demystifying taxes, interest, and other particulars
· Finalizing all the paperwork and details with the lender, seller and title company
· Closing on the sale

All the hours your agent invests assisting you and making sure your best interests are looked after financially, legally and emotionally are well worth the real estate commission he or she receives after you finalize your purchase. And typically, as the buyer, you don't pay the commission. The seller pays it!
Where to find a professional Nevada County real estate agent
I specialize in helping people just like you buy homes. Let's get started! Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com

Links:
Buying A Home
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/topics/buying_a_home
Benefits of using a professional Nevada County real estate agent
http://homebuying.about.com/od/realestateagents/tp/Whyhireagent.htm
Real estate commission
http://homebuying.about.com/od/realestateagents/a/Whopaysagents.htm

Many people have trouble relaxing, even in their Nevada County homes. Why? Frequently, it's because of too much visual stimuli such as unfinished projects, knickknacks and clutter.
You may think the answer to being able to relax is to move into a "better" home. However, what usually happens is that you move your unfinished projects and clutter with you. Instead, if you take the time to get organized, you may find - like many owners who have backed out of a sale - that you don't need to move, you just need to re-organize.
Take a moment from your busy, stressful life to read these tips and discover how you can improve and de-stress your personal castle:
1. Add money to your wallet. Unwanted or unused items can be turned into cash. eBay and Craigslist are two heavily-used websites where you can sell your unwanted/unused items. Make a little cash and clear the clutter.
2. Be generous. If you don't want to sell your items, don't throw them away. Donate them to places such as Goodwill. Online, there's FreeCycle, where you can share your items and give them away to those who really need them.
3. Keep it clean. Set up a system to decide what to do with mail. Many people end up with piles of mail throughout the house. Rather than letting it pile up, decide the day you get it where that mail goes: trash, take action or file away.
4. Include your family in the de-clutter process. After all, your spouse and kids live there, too. As well, if others have a chance to give their input, they may be more willing to keep your Nevada County home organized. Let others in your family have a part in the decision-making process and implementation.
5. Take stray worry off your mind. You may be subconsciously worried about things in your home. Reduce the potential stress by creating a sense of safety. For instance, make sure your smoke detectors are working, that you have a radon meter (if necessary) and a carbon monoxide detector.
You may be thinking, "Home isn't what stresses me out." Are you sure? You might be pleasantly surprised how relaxed you'll be when your home is de-cluttered. Your Nevada County home can truly become a place where you leave the stress at the door.
If you're looking for a home to relax in after a hard day, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com for more information.



Goodwill
http://www.goodwill.org/get-involved/donate/
FreeCycle
http://www.freecycle.org
Keep your home organized
http://www.lifeorganizers.com/cm_articles/102_10_ways_to_declutter_your_home_280.html

We're all trying to live greener lives, but nothing zaps your energy or your will to live greener in your Nevada County home like summer heat.
The summer heat can also assault your wallet. In fact, you can easily watch your utility bill double during the summer months.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to cool your Nevada County home for less money and less impact on the environment this summer. Here's how.
1. Prep your home. Turn off heat-generating lights and appliances. Don't use your oven. In the afternoon, close your windows and outside doors and keep window coverings drawn. At other times, use fans to create a cross breeze.

2. Raise your thermostat. When you're not home, raise the thermostat to 80 degrees. Lower it two or three degrees when you are home and use ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Moving your thermostat from 75 to 80 will lower your consumption by 15%. Your Nevada County home will still feel comfortable, and you will notice significant savings on your next utility bill.

3. Take a look at your windows. You'd be surprised to find out how much heat enters your home from old, single pane windows. Newer energy efficient windows with double panes block more heat and keep more cool air inside. If you can't afford new windows now, at least cover the ones you have with heavy curtains or shades to keep out heat.

4. Check for leaks. Leaky duct work and poorly sealed doors can let as much cool air out of your home as an open window. Walk around your home checking under your doors and around your windows to feel for escaping air. Hire a professional to check your air conditioning systems for you. Take the time to have duct leaks repaired and seal air leaks.

5. Dress appropriately. There's no reason to keep your home so cold that you have to wear extra layers of clothing when you're inside. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. You'll be more comfortable in slightly warmer temperatures. Keep light throw blankets handy for anyone who easily gets cold under a ceiling fan.

Implementing even one or two of these tips in your home can save you money and help the environment.

Want to buy an energy efficient home? I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com to learn more.


Links:

Ceiling fans
http://www.eereblogs.energy.gov/energysavers/post/Stay-Cool-for-Less-Money-with-a-Ceiling-Fan.aspx

Energy efficient windows
http://www.efficientwindows.org/

Seal air leaks
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11280

We, meaning the real estate industry, say, "It's a buyer's market!" Buyers think that means that deals are available out in the big wide world of Nevada County homes for sale. Although that's true, it's not the whole truth. The whole truth is that money pits, bad deals and half-hearted sellers still exist. Without careful consideration, you may not get the deal you expected.
If you're in the market for one of the Nevada County homes for sale, follow these tips to help you get a great deal:
1. Go back to school. In other words, do your homework. Yes, due to the buyer's market, you have an advantage, but you still need to do your research. Talk with a real estate agent who specializes in the area and look at the prices of homes sold within the past year. The main point of the research is to find out how much homes are actually selling for in the area in which you want to live, and to determine if you can afford to buy there.
2. Line up the home team. Be prepared to jump on a deal as soon as you find it. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Gather your real estate agent, home inspector and insurance agent. By having this team of real estate professionals on hand, the transaction will be smoother and faster.
3. Look for motivation. There are motivated sellers and not-so-motivated sellers who just "think" they "might" want to sell if "the right buyer" comes along (quotes are so handy, aren't they?). You don't have to guess which is which, however. Has the price been reduced? Is the home vacant? These clues lead to a motivated seller, willing to genuinely negotiate to get the home sold.
4. Don't buy angry. One of the worst mistakes a buyer can do is to get into a war with the home seller. Emotions grab hold and you find yourself in a fierce competition based on who's going to WIN WIN WIN! If you find yourself in this situation, learn how to negotiate and listen to your real estate agent's advice. If you don't, your great deal can turn into a big mess.
There are plenty of Nevada County homes for sale out there and great deals to be had, but being cautious is the best way to get the best deal.
Are you a motivated seller or a buyer looking for a great deal? I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com to get started!

Pre-approved for a mortgage
http://www.smartmoney.com/personal-finance/real-estate/7-tips-for-getting-a-preapproved-mortgage/
Motivated sellers
http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/f/022908_MotivSlr.htm
How to negotiate
http://www.smartcreditinfo.com/home_negotiate.html

If you pay attention to national and Nevada County real estate at all, especially if you access news on the internet, it has to be confusing. I read stories online, and I'm amazed by the conflicting information, and I worry about how it must come across to individuals trying to buy or sell Nevada County real estate.
For instance, only a month or two ago, experts were concerned that we didn't have enough of a housing supply. Now, online sites like the Wall Street Journal are reporting that the U.S. actually has 103 months worth of foreclosed homes - a heavy load that would take 9 years to get rid of. Honestly, it often gives me a headache. Occasionally, it makes me laugh - in a slightly horrified, appreciating the irony type of way.
I felt the need to lighten the load a bit and share something humorous with you. The idea for this blog came from a friend of mine, who asked her 10-year-old son what he'd learned in Social Studies that day. He replied, "Nothing. We're still looking for the government."
Yesterday, I came across a page from Kensington Realty Advisors on which they share a bit of real estate humor. Here's an excerpt: "LODGING - All employees are encouraged to stay with relatives or friends while on Company business. If weather permits, public areas such as parks and parking lots should be used as temporary lodging. Bridges may provide shelter in periods of inclement weather."
Will this help you sell your house? Probably not, but it might.
You have to keep a little humor going. Tons of clichés fill our vocabulary: "when the chips are down," "when life gives you lemons," "look on the bright side." They all add up to the same message, that you can't take life too seriously - even the life of real estate.
So - when a buyer walks into your piece of Nevada County real estate, looks around and notices a big puddle in the back yard, you can always tell them you were starting a pool.
Want to work with a professional real estate agent who knows how to get the job done while keeping life in perspective? Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.
Links:
U.S. actually has 103 months worth of housing supply
http://blogs.wsj.com/economics/2010/04/24/number-of-the-week-103-months-to-clear-housing-inventory/
Kensington Realty Advisors
http://www.kra-net.com/humor/h_travel.htm
The life of real estate
http://funnyrealestatejokes.com/

Let's face it. A lot of people like the idea of the easy lifestyle condos in Nevada County provide. While there are a multitude of positive reasons to buy a condo, many people are so glamorized by the idea that they fail to make sure condos fit their needs.
Before you jump in and buy one of the condos in Nevada County, make sure you also consider what some people consider the downside to owning a condo:
1. Space - Buying a condo means sharing an interest in it. What you own is your personal "box of air." The rest of the condo - the common areas - is shared between the other owners.
2. Neighbors - Because you share walls and common areas, there's a high chance that you'll be able to hear them as they move about their own space. You'll run into them more often, and have to coordinate with them in issues regarding the common areas.
3. Reselling - If you own a condominium and think you might resell it later, be aware that condos in Nevada County are typically more sensitive to the real estate market and take longer to recover than traditional single family homes.
4. Fees - You'll have to pay monthly condo fees to take care of the maintenance of the common areas and for amenities you may not use, such as a swimming pool or fitness facility.
5. Rules - All condominiums have CC&Rs, or Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions. The CC&Rs may not fit your lifestyle. They can include noise level restrictions, types of renovations, owning a pet or even the type of curtains you use.
6. Association - Instead of property management professionals, the association is made up of homeowners. It may be weak or inefficient, and you might have to get approval to make renovations or rent out your unit.
Condos in Nevada County are great to own, but they aren't for everyone. Make an informed decision before buying one, and you'll be a happy owner.
If you're looking to buy the perfect condo, I'd love to help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Links:
Buying a condo
http://loan.yahoo.com/m/primer14.html
Monthly condo fees
http://condojuice.com/2010/02/04/condo-fees-how-much-should-you-pay/
Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions
http://homebuying.about.com/od/glossaryc/g/CCandRs.htm

You don't list your home for sale on a whim; you don't just decide you don't like the one you have. Selling a home carries significant financial, emotional and family repercussions. Selling your home is one of those life decisions, the ones you discuss with your spouse, look over with professionals and use experts to move forward.
While you might have been able to list your home for sale and have it sold quickly at the beginning of the decade, that's no longer the case. Now, you have to be truly motivated in order to get your home sold. Unmotivated sellers, those without concrete reasons, are not serious sellers.
If you're a motivated seller, on the other hand, you have several new marketing weapons at your disposal. These include government incentive programs, short sale practices, state-of-the-art technology and creative marketing plans to help consummate the transaction.
Are You A Motivated Seller?
So, think about it. Are you a motivated seller? There are a number of reasons people are motivated to sell. These reasons include:
1. Lifestyle Change - The time for a quieter way of life has arrived. The nest may be too empty. You may want more freedom and less household commitment. In any case, a change of lifestyle is a very strong motivation to sell.
2. Relationship Changes - Partners get together and partners divide. Marriage, divorce and newborns all set the stage for household change.
3. House Too Small - As families expand, it can be more cost effective to move rather than over-improve. For example, it can cost over $10,000 for a room extension on your home.
4. Time to Upgrade - Prior to the recession, American families moved an average of seven times per marriage. Although those numbers have dropped some, we do still seem to seek the greenest pastures.
5. Changes in Neighborhood - Many homeowners move because of local community issues. A school system may trim budgets or the homes may not be increasing in value. A desire for neighborhood change could be your motivation.
6. Health Issues - People with health issues who cannot continue or afford household upkeep are moving to smaller, more protected and service oriented communities. If this is you, you can definitely consider yourself a motivated seller.
If you're motivated and have a home for sale, you already know the market is competitive. However, professional representation, an astute marketing plan and expanded reach can help you locate the perfect buyer.
Are you a motivated seller? This professional real estate agent would be honored to help you get your home sold. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.


Links:
Disconnect Your Emotions
http://www.examiner.com/x-13206-Chicago-Residential-Examiner~y2010m2d23-Chicago-Home-Sellers-Series--The-Emotion-of-Selling
Marketing weapons
http://www.freeshipping.org/blog/9-tips-to-sell-your-home-in-2010/
$10,000 for a room extension
http://www.costhelper.com/cost/home-garden/add-room.html

Some potential homeowners just don't want a pre-lived in home. They'd rather have their house built to their own specifications. They want a home that fits their needs exactly. If this is you, don't worry; we understand. However, if you want to build a new home, take a good look at the future before you decide on a design.
The Future of Design
Thinking of the future might bring ideas of fantastic scientific miracles like smart houses that vacuum themselves. While building your home, also consider using sustainable design. Here are just a few reasons why sustainable design is a great idea:
1. Government mandates and incentives - Under the current administration, sustainable design is a big thing. In fact, many cities are passing mandates and offering incentives that encourage green building. In places such as Austin, Houston, Seattle and Portland, sustainable design is no longer a trend; it's standard practice. Before having your home built, check into the homeowners' incentives for green building.
2. Cost of sustainable design - While sustainable design may be a little more costly than standard home building, don't just assume that it is. Check with green building contractors as well as standard contractors and compare pricing. Keep in mind that the cost of the design is usually paid back with greatly reduced utility bills. Also, remember that it may be easier and cheaper to build a sustainable home rather than remodel one to be green later.
3. Resale value - Although you may not ever want to move from your home once it's built, you never know what will happen in the future. A sustainable design can up the resale value of the home by as much as 15%.
Between the government incentives, the cost savings and the resale value, your Nevada County home with a sustainable design may end up being the best investment you ever made!
If you're looking for a green home or a contractor to build one, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.

Links:

Incentives
http://www.greenhomeguide.org/resources/incentives.html
Cost of sustainable design
http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/greenbuildinginformation/do_sustainable.html
Remodel one to be green
http://www.cityofseattle.net/dpd/GreenBuilding/SingleFamilyResidential/Resources/RemodelingGuides/default.asp

Many home buyers walk into prospective homes with an "as is" attitude. They fail to consider that the home sellers may be willing to make repairs or updates in order to get the home sold.
This isn't hard to understand. Most people do not buy homes frequently so they aren't familiar with exactly what they can and cannot ask for. A home isn't like a car that you might purchase new every few years, or clothes that you shop for all the time and know how to investigate, compare, and price appropriately.
This lack of knowledge is possibly the best reason for seeking the help of a qualified professional REALTOR®. They handle home purchases daily and can help you with what to watch out for, what price to pay and what you can and can't haggle over. They'll even handle the negotiations for you.
Let's get back to repairs, updates or price reductions you may want to have your agent negotiate for you:
· Electrical Wiring: Especially in older homes the wiring is likely to be old, outdated or even hazardous. Make sure you have the wiring thoroughly inspected. This is not a cheap fix. If there are problems, they should be solved before you purchase, or you should be offered a greatly reduced price to reflect the cost to you of replacement. This is a very important item and even if you accept a price reduction do not be tempted to simply enjoy the extra cost benefits without using it to make the needed repairs. Bad wiring is a fire hazard that can destroy your purchase, not to mention be fatal if not fixed.
· Breaker Boxes: Older homes may still have fuse boxes. These are very outdated and some may even use types of fuses that are hard to find. While updating an old fuse box to a breaker switch box isn't extremely expensive, it should be done by a qualified electrician. This is something that should be done before you buy. It isn't worth asking for a price reduction, but it also isn't something you should have to deal with when you move into your new home.
These are just a couple of negotiable items to think about when you look at a prospective purchase.
If you would like more information on things to consider when viewing a home, I can help. Contact me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

http://homebuying.about.com/od/realestateagents/tp/findagent.htm
Qualified professional REALTOR®

Bad wiring
http://www.bobvila.com/HowTo_Library/Bad_Wiring--T827.html

I know the words "short sale" may scare you. But please take just a minute to learn why short sales have become a viable option for your real estate if you're considering foreclosure.
Once deemed difficult to get, hard to close and rough on the credit score, corrective measures have been taken to improve the valued short sale. And, the winners are those who understand how short sales work in Nevada County real estate.
If you are faced with a house underwater or considering foreclosure or a short sale option, please understand the game has changed.
Short Sales Before versus Now
In early 2009, the typical short sale had less than a 50% chance of success. Banks were skeptical, unprepared and unwilling to accept losses. No longer!
Thanks to aggressive changes made by the Federal Government, the short sale has become the preferred option for distressed buyers, sellers and lenders.
· The administration has thrown incentives to first mortgage holders, second mortgage holders and new lenders.
· Primary lien holders in who agree to a short sale can receive as much as $3,000 from the government.
· Secondary lien holders, who previously were often asked to step away empty handed, now can receive up to $6,000 for formal releases.
Additionally, there used to be more serious credit devastation for the short sale seller. In some cases, outright releases were not provided. The administration has stepped in to protect these distressed sellers. Today's short sale has less credit impact on the seller as would the credit impact of a foreclosure.
Now that short sales are a viable option, the market has exploded. Short sales increased by 4% between November, 2009, and February, 2010. Activity will only continue to increase.
If you would like to find out whether a short sale could benefit your distressed Nevada County real estate, give me a call now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.

How short sales work
http://realestate.aol.com/information/short-sale?flv=1
The short sale has become the preferred option for distressed buyers, sellers and lenders.
http://money.cnn.com/2010/03/29/real_estate/short_sale_explosion/
Short sales are a viable option
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/08/business/08short.html

The debate is as old as the real estate industry. Does a low, highly competitive selling price for Nevada County real estate actually generate a faster, more profitable sale than a slightly inflated price with a willingness to negotiate? Yes, it is an age-old debate. Yes, it has never been more important that sellers make informed decisions about their asking price and negotiating strategy.
A seller with an unreasonable opinion of their home's value is either a wishful thinker or does not have the benefit of an accurate comparative market analysis and a real estate agent who specializes in the area.
Get Real, Know the Facts
When sellers decide to list their home in the real estate market, they usually have an opinion of value based on reported sales of similar properties. Consciously or subconsciously, most homeowners follow the real estate activity of surrounding homes.
However, every real estate transaction stands independently. In today's market, buyers and sellers negotiate to capitalize on tax incentives, green-initiative improvements, closing fees, homeowner credits and local incentives. Thus, the "neighborhood selling price" may not represent the price you can actually get for your home.
Real estate agents use differing strategies to secure listings and set sales prices. Therefore, a seller who requests proposals from three different real estate agents may well get three different opinions of value:
1. One agent may want the listing at any price and be willing to accept an owner's requirement for a high asking price just to land the listing.
2. Another agent may be conservative and encourage a low asking price in the hopes of generating superior demand. This strategy was effective in the boom years of 2006 and 2007.
3. A third agent may combine his knowledge about the property, the neighborhood and today's real estate market to come up with the optimal listing price.
The Optimal Listing Price
Responsible real estate agents view the property from three postures.
1. First we inspect the property, top to bottom. We understand its history, the neighborhood, its strengths and its weaknesses.
2. Next, we do our research. We compile a complete, relevant list of recent sales, a thorough list of properties on the market and a comparable list of recently concluded real estate transactions.
3. We balance this information against the cost of new construction. We factor in what improvements might be necessary to stage the home more effectively. And, we use this quantitative analysis, called a comparative market analysis, to recommend a strong selling price designed to garner demand.
This is not a whimsical exercise. This is about establishing the maximum selling price your Nevada County real estate should achieve.
To further discuss how you can realize the greatest real estate value for your home, contact me today at 530-913-2019 or by email at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Links:
Comparative Market Analysis
http://realestate.about.com/od/ac/g/comparative_mkt.htm
Negotiating strategy
http://tdre-online.com/tms/art_negt2.htm
Cost of New Construction
http://www.b4ubuild.com/faq/faq_0002.shtml

Before you start looking for homes in Nevada County, you need to decide whether to rent or buy. Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages. You need to look at your situation and decide which is best for you.
To help you with that decision, here's an examination of the pros and cons of renting and buying homes in Nevada County:
· Pros of Renting. Maintaining a home properly takes a certain level of time and commitment. When you rent, you are not responsible for the lawn, major repairs or maintenance. If you have to leave the area on short notice, you won't be tied down to a home that needs to sell in order for you to move.
· Pros of Buying. Because of low interest rates and house prices, many renters find that their current rent payments are similar to what their mortgage payments would be. Unlike rent payments, mortgage payments add up and create equity in your home. Additionally, owning your own home provides tax deductions.
· Cons of Renting. The most significant con of renting is the fact that you get no tax deduction. If you have to move suddenly, you may have to pay extra money to break the lease. You may even have decorating restrictions, like not putting nails in the walls.
· Cons of Buying. To buy a home, you will need a down payment, which can be difficult for some people to acquire. There's also the possibility that you may lose money on the home if you have to sell it before you've built equity in it or if your local market declines in value. Also, it can take considerable time and money to maintain homes in Nevada County.
After you've considered all the pros and cons, there's one more tool I recommend to help you make an informed decision: Use a free online rent versus buy calculator.
If you'd like help deciding whether buying or renting is right for you, give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com. I'll put together some current home prices to help you determine what your house payments would be, and I'll also help you figure out what you can afford.

Links:
Pros and Cons of Renting and Buying http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/qt/BuyorRent.htm

Cons of renting
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/899629/the_cons_of_renting_an_apartment.html?cat=54

Rent vs. Buy Calculatorhttp://www.ginniemae.gov/rent_vs_buy/rent_vs_buy_calc.asp?Section=YPTH

So, you've decided you want to sell your house. You know it qualifies as one of those "ugly houses," but you don't want to do any work to your home. You especially don't want to do major repairs or updates like replacing all the windows with broken seals.

You may think that means real estate agents will not want to list your home for sale. Think again. Nevada County real estate agents sell ugly houses, too!

Here's what you should expect if you have an ugly house that you don't want to make improvements to:

· A lower price: Maybe you don't have the time, energy, money or know how to make improvements to your home. That doesn't mean it won't sell, it just means the price has to be low enough to convince a buyer that it's worth the time and money they'll have to spend to get it into shape. An experienced Nevada County real estate agent can do the necessary research to come up with the right price to get your home sold.

· A smaller number of potential buyers: In today's market, most homebuyers are looking for that perfect home. The one they can move in to without doing any work. Since your home doesn't fit that description, you'll lose those homebuyers. Typically, homes like this will sell to Nevada County real estate investors or buyers who enjoy fixing up houses.

· A longer time on the market: Because of the smaller number of potential buyers, it may take a bit longer to sell your home. Because of the lower price, you'll probably have several lookers, but getting someone to purchase it will most likely take longer than normal.

Don't say you're going to sell your house someday, when you get all the repairs and upgrades completed, if you know in your heart that isn't reality. Sometimes it's worth taking a lower price and moving on.

Whether your home is gorgeous, ugly or somewhere in between, I can help you get it sold. Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County real estate

Links:

Windows with broken seals
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1388200/how_to_fix_a_broken_window_seal_.html?cat=6

Nevada County real estate investors
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_estate_investor

Fixing up houses
http://moneyning.com/housing/pros-and-cons-of-fixer-upper-home-or/