Buyers of real estate today are taking their searches and their methods to entirely new levels, thanks to the internet. Buyers want access to instant information that is free, and they do not want the kind of uncomfortable situation that occurs when they have to pick up the phone.
The reasons for this change - First, the internet has given consumers the ability to search the multiple listing ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on February 24, 2009
It's a pretty sure bet that you have a cell phone. What about texting - do you use it? If you don't, consider yourself a very small minority.
Surveys show that by the second quarter of 2008, text messages had exceeded the number of cell phone calls by an impressive margin. And, it's not just teenagers - the facts show that every age group up through 44 years old sent more text messages ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on February 24, 2009
We have all heard it "You only get one chance to make a good first impresssion". This applies to your home, especially when you are trying to sell. By addressing eye appeal, you can enhance the impact to potential home buyers and make them feel comfortable and welcomed. Try these simple ideas:
Outside the Front Door - Ensure sufficient lighting is on when needed. Keep walkways and ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on January 21, 2009
It is unfortunate that the media paints the entire country with the same brush. Our local market has remained stable with prices in all areas of HRM showing slight increases over the same time period in 2007. The one significant change we see is that it is taking longer to get properties sold. Pricing is crucial now more than ever to get the maximum number of showings. Mortgage ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on December 10, 2008
Is the market changing to a buyer's market? Although there are more listings available when comparing to a year ago the amount is not significant to say that we are entering a buyer's market. Our market remains stable with a good inventory and a good supply of buyers that are looking.
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on December 10, 2008
According to CREA Chief Economist Gregory Klump, in a recent interview with CTV, there will be growth in house prices in 2009 in six of 10 provinces. Included in that forecast is NOVA SCOTIA. To date in the Halifax Dartmouth region we have seen the prices remain stable. Sales are only slightly weaker than they were at the same time last year and average prices in most areas are still ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on December 10, 2008
1) The Amount of Mortgage and Closing Costs: If the owner purchased with little or nothing down or refinanced during a peak market, a market shift can create an upside down situation. The market price probably won't be enough to cover the mortgage payout and closing costs.
2) The Money Spent on Upgrades: A seller may want to recoup the cost of an upgrade or renovation and although ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on December 10, 2008
Your Listing Has Expired - What Went Wrong? The majority of houses sell during the initial listing time, but, as you found out, some do not.
What should you do now? First, although you may feel discouraged, if you still want or need to sell, make a renewed commitment to do what it takes.
ARE YOU COMMITTED TO SELLING? FIND OUT WHAT WENT WRONG! An expired listing usually reflects a problem in one of ...
Posted by Margaret Bowlen
on December 10, 2008