Having a plan before you buy or sell is key to your success.  Having a plan before moving is another opportunity to relieve stress that comes with the buying and selling of real estate.  I have provided Free Moving Checklists and Guides to help you plan before your purchase or sale.

Many buyers and sellers wait for the sale or purchase to happen then scramble to figure out how to handle packing, categorizing and moving.  If you are thinking of buying or selling in the Grand Rapids Real Estate Market or the West Michigan Real Estate market give me a call for you free Moving Checklist or go to my website and download a personal copy for yourself.

Knowing what expect before it happens can take the stress out of any situation.  Real Estate is no different.  If you are selling...knowing the expected sell price and estimated selling costs can help you plan.  Knowing how long the average home in your price range and area stays on the market can be of great advantage.

When buying, knowing the discount rate is something your professional real estate broker or agent can share with you, to adjust your offer so it gets accepted.  Knowing the mortgage and closing process is few elements of buying.  Getting your offer accepted is only the beginning. 

Planning ahead makes your buying and selling process smooth and easy.  Take the stress out of selling and buying with a moving checklist.

The web site spam stopper "Captcha" was designed to help end the email delema, by making sure those coming to website and posting emails are human and not computer programs.  It was designed to stop spammers.  We may need one more option to help us maintain the integrity of  websites and controling emails.  It is another method to stop spammers.  We need the ability to block email addresses.  I know spammers will just switch to a new email address and send you another bargain...but as soon as it is blocked without a response, they may move on.

I just checked on the back end of my web site and found two spammers from India that have by-passed the Captcha by using people with laptops (my guess) to log through.  This is their only job, send emails to web site owners (users) telling you they can put you on top of the search engines for a few bucks.

The most likely result is you losing your money and not being put anywhere.  YOU might get placed on the top of the sucker list for more spammers to hit!

Blocking these email addresses and IP's would be the next step to add another layer of protection beyond Captcha.

This is the IP of the last spammer that hit my site.  I have already deleted the other one.  122.162.146.250 

Usually they use a name that is Americanized to be more acceptable.  They hit sites that are public and mingle in with potential client contacts.  Be very careful that you do not get a worm or virus from the intruder.  They want your address book to send out more information to other unsuspecting souls.

Check to see what they have looked at or if they have looked at anything on your site.  This is usually a tip-off, if it is spam and they left you a message without looking at any of your site pages they are probably spammers.  If you don't recognize a name in your email in box don't open it...sent it to the trash can.  Ligitimate email senders will let you know if they are going to send you something.  Or you will recognize the sender if they are a regular.

Alert your friends, if they refer someone to you...they need to send you an email of introduction or the unknow sender of email to you will automatically be sent to never-never land.

Have a great Day Hope this has given you some ideas on how to protect your email and web site.

Seller's are like any other owners of cars and personal property... the value is in the eyes of the holder.  It doesn't matter what the product or property.  If you over price your most valuable asset you may take a long time to sell or not sell at all!    The other issue people face when pricing high is, you help other homes in your market sell first.

Here is a link to my web site for "Free Seller Reports" to avoid the most common seller mistakes.  http://www.garylwhite.com/HomesAuthenticated.aspx?tabid=2418468 

Mistake #1 -- Pricing Your Property to High
Every seller obviously wants to get the most money for his or her property. Ironically, the best way to do this is NOT to list your property at an excessively high price!  A high listing price will cause some prospective buyers to lose interest before even seeing your property.  Also, it may lead other buyers to expect more than what you have to offer.  As a result, overpriced properties tend to take an unusually long time to sell, and they end up being sold at a lower price than the asking price.

Mistake #2 -- Mistaking Re-finance Appraisals for the Market Value
Unfortunately, a re-finance appraisals may have been stated at a high price, but not market price. Often, lenders estimate the value of your property to be higher than it actually is in order to encourage re-financing. The market value of your home could actually be lower. Your best bet is to ask your realtor for the most recent information regarding property sales in your community. This will give you an up-to-date and factually estimate of your property value.

Take time to review these "Free Reports" to avoid these and many other seller mistakes. 

Just Listed

• 1,100 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm ranch "open floor plan, like new, updated" - MLS® $89,900 USD - Paradise Found

Miramichi, Evart  -  "Retreat"! This is a place where you can enjoy a quiet private setting with shared access to a 200 acre superb fishing lake. Walk out your sliders to a new deck and relax in a hot tub. The backyard is completely private with nature at your doorstep, yet the lake is only a few hundred feet away. You can launch your boat at the paved launch site or keep it at the private "owners only" marina. The home is very clean and move-in condition ready. Updated in neutral colors, loads of storage in the updated kitchen with oak cabinets. The open floor plan maximizes space, for entertaining or just relaxing, yet gives you privacy for the bedroom areas. Heating system, roof and hot water heater all updated in recent years. Truly a gem of a find. Maintenance free exterior, the only thing you do is enjoy your surroundings.

Property information

Selling Real Estate in a Buyers Market is not for the beginners. 

(Note: NOT a solicitation for active real estate listing)

Real Estate has never been for beginners, that is why real estate classes are required and some form of license is required in every state.  Michigan gives a license conditionally, so to speak.  Real Estate agents have to work for a Real Estate Broker who must agree to supervise them.   After three years and a minimum of 6 sales per year they can get their own broker license.

This article was not written to talk about license law or licensing but it was required to get to the subject of Selling in a Buyers Market.

I have taken hundreds of hours of specialized real estate training.  That only means I can pass tests and learn real estate regulatory issues if I stuck to the minimal licensing requirements. 

I decided my clients needed more than the minimal get by the license requirements real estate agent.  So I have taken my educational requirements to new levels to increase my client success rate.

The most telling of the courses is being an Accredited Home Stager (AHS).  Staging homes to attract more buyers has been around for a while. I attained my accreditation nearly a year ago.  Yet most sellers have little knowledge of the process.  Here is a link to my Staging Page on my personal website. Staging 

Most sellers do not know that the staging process is done before the photos are taken.  It creates better virtual tours, better photos and better marketing materials.  What value is cleaning up before an open house if nobody comes?  Why spend all the effort on getting those little repairs done if your marketing materials don't capture a buyers interest?

Why cost yourself money by getting a lower sell price because you didn't take advantage of a real estate professional with the skills to help you market your home to it's fullest potential?

It take more than staging but if you miss this important element in the selling process you are costing yourself time and a faster sale.

I have also completed these key specialized real estate marketing advanced cirtification:  Graduate of the Real Estate Institute (GRI), Certified Real Estate Specialist (CRS), Certified Internet Marketing Specialist (ePRO), Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource Accredited (SFR)

If you are thinking about selling or your listing has expired and you are wondering how to Sell Your Home, call a professional.  If you live in another state or outside of my service area...send me an email and I will refer you to a professional in your area.

Visit my website and stop back often for selling and buying tips.

I am able to see more homes, have listing and selling information at my fingertips, see the dynamics that impact the real estate market with in the Forest Hills area.  I have decided to help buyers and sellers with some of the monthly information that is available by publishing a "Free" Market Statistics Trend Analysis.

This will be of great help for sellers and buyers; of course you should still get the valued insight of a career real estate professional for more detailed information.

The "Free" Forest Hills Real Estate Market Trends data will help you see the activity and patterns of sales, listing s and pending homes with your selling area.

To find these "Free" real estate charts click this link.  https://www.foresthillsmarket.com/

I will update these charts monthly as new real estate sales and pending information becomes available.

If you need professional real estate services give me a call or drop me an email.  I you live outside the Forest Hills area or in a West Michigan community and would like specialized reports on your area let me know.

If you live outside my service area let me know and I will give you a referral to a professional in your area.

Thanks For Stopping By.  Come back again for additional real estate updates and information.

Sincerely,

Gary L White, Associate Broker
Flexit Realty
"Flexible Real Estate Options"

Real Estate Market trend updates for the Grand Rapids, Michigan Real Estate market have been published by various media outlets.  Now you have a single source for reliable monthly real estate trend updates.

I have placed Market Trend updates for various communities in the West Michigan area.  The real estate updates include sales, pending and sold data.  The information is structured in a helpful format to provide easy use.

For Example if you are a buyer this information can help you decide if your offer is substantiated by current market data.  If you are using a real estate professional you can discuss your finding with your agent.  If you do not have an agent you can give me a call for a personal appointment at your convenience to discuss your real estate goals.  It costs you nothing to use my real estate services in the Grand Rapids or West Michigan Real Estate Market.  If you live outside of my area of business I can refer you to a professional in your area to help you.

The site I have set up to offer these monthly updates of trends is http://www.GrandRapidsMarket.com .  This is site offers you free information.  You do not have to sign-up, get a password or a user name.  Just click on the link and the page will pop-up!  The beginning of every month new trend data will show up automatically.  You can stop back as often as you wish to keep current with the Grand Rapids Housing Market.

If you have a personal real estate question you can call or drop me an email and I will get you an answer to your specific question.

Thanks for stopping By

Gary White, Associate Broker Flexit Realty "Flexible Real Estate Options"

There is a very distinct difference between being a real estate agent and a Realtor®.

The difference isn't readily apparent because both are licensed within the state they practice.  Both help clients buy and sell real estate.  Both have taken real estate licensing classes. 

So what can make such a big difference to sellers and buyers if you cannot see the difference?

The code of ethics for Realtors®.   Realtors® are members of the National and State Association of Realtors®.  Because of this membership they subscribe to the Realtors® "Code of Ethics".  The first and foremost requirement is to "remain obligated to treat all with honesty".

It would seem that this would be the case in any business relationship, but as we all know it just isn't the case.

It is easy to identify who is a Realtor® that has taken the oath and who is not, by looking a their business card.  Most Realtors® use the word Realtor® behind their name or display the registered trademarked Realtor® or the logo block R of the National Association of Realtors.

Real Estate Agents are not members of the association and are not bound by the code of ethics will have some other title displayed or used.  Theese titles could be Real Estate Consultant, Real Estate Agent or even Professional Real Estate Agent.

Licenses are issued by states but a phone call to your local real estate board will quickly establish if you are dealing with a real estate agent or a Realtor®.

This does not mean the real estate agent is dishonest.  It does mean however, the real estate agent will not be held to the same standards under the code of ethics.  It also means the agent cannot be sanctioned or disciplined by the local Multiple Listing Service better known as your local Realtor® MLS or Real Estate Association.  This could translate into not being as open or forthcoming with informaiton when representing clients or dealing with the public. 

Now you know the difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor®.

5 acres of Privacy

• 3,450 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm single story "Walkout Ranch" - MLS® $269,900 USD - Sprawling Modern Walkout

Rockford, Kent County  -  Beautiful Sprawling Walkout Ranch gives you a hint of the updated features you can expect from this modern updated home set on 5 acres of privacy. Solid Surface Island in the kitchen also incorporates a snack bar. Built-in appliances, counter space and convenience are hallmarks with a formal dining area for those occasions you entertain a crowd. Add the cozy felling of a crackling fireplace viewable from the kitchen, dining room and large main floor great room. Off Dining room is a 3 season porch with a door that leads to the custom decking area. Main floor laundry off the private bedroom wing also includes the master suite with privacy door, full bath, walk-in closet and a second closet. The master has views of the private wooded surroundings as does each bedroom. The private bedroom wing has thermo pane window walls allowing the natural lighting and views of the expansive decking and professional landscaping with underground sprinkling to be viewed and enjoyed. Down find the walkout patio off the large family room including another fireplace. Bonus storage areas and a second office or exercise area complete with mirrored wall are also on the walkout level.

Property information

We have all heard people talk about home selling strategies but what is the right strategy to sell faster?

That is the only strategy that counts...the one that sells your home faster!  Here are the real issues that must be considered.

1.  Marketing   2. Location  3.  Condition  4.  Price Range

Did you happen to notice price was not the first consideration?  Buyers have a price range in mind and those are the only people you have to be concerned about once you put your home on the market.  But long before this concern is the other major concerns all seller's have...how much will I make and how long will it take to sell?

So why is marketing number 1 on the list?  Without marketing you will not achieve your selling goal.  Marketing is more than putting a for sale sign in the front yard.  Most sellers do not know that real estate agents are responsible for advertising.  That means you should ask to see their recent advertising methods.  The broker they work for may have a website and every agent that belongs to a Realtor® Association will put your home on an MLS (multiple listing service).  So if that is the extend of your marketing campaign good luck.  That is as minimal as you can get.  Find out if they use color brochures, virtual tours, property website addresses, direct mail, open houses, local newspaper ads, magazines.

The bottom line with marketing is knowing who is going to be the buyer.  I know who is going to buy my sellers homes I just don't know their name!  That is because I know the demographics, school systems and how to attract the right buyer with specific descriptive materials.

Location will help dictate your price.  For example, if you are next to a train track or power line your price will be lower.  Conversely if you are in a neighborhood of custom built homes your price is more subjective.  If your home is located in a tract of homes where there are five styles repeating throughout the neighborhood your home price is less subjective.

Condition being number 2 now makes more sense.  If you consider location is in a neighborhood of custom built homes each is different in layout and has its own unique style.  Tract homes with repeating styles style and square footage means condition will bring you maximum dollars if yours is in top condition.

Price is the last step item in the marketing effort to sell faster for top dollar.  Knowing the information to compare current homes available that will be direct competition, pending sales and sold homes a seller can make an informed decision on pricing.

Home selling strategies are more than just a sign or price.

Give me a call if you are in the Grand Rapids or West Michigan Real Estate Market.

The first issue isn't the inspections...it's the property disclosure statement by the owner's.  Make sure your property disclosures are as accurate as possible. 

You do not have to be worried if you had a leak in a roof or basement water if you disclose these facts and offer the action taken to remedy the problem.

Inspections are no more than a snap shot of the current condition on the day and time the inspection was done.  This offers a buyer insight into the condition of the property. If you did not disclose a property defect because of an oversight that is understandable.  Sometimes property issues are brought to light for the first time and the homeowner had no idea the condition exists.

Mold is the number 1 issue that causes buyers to be alarmed and rightfully so.  Second is water intrusion.  If you have a basement this could cause all kinds of problems.  If it is a roof leak or flashing leak around a chimney (very common) this too can cause a mold and dry root problem.

Inspections sometimes cause buyers to find out about infestations that were not known. Termites are the most common.  Rodents are another common problem (mice).

So can inspections impact your sale?  Yes.  If you are honest in your disclosures and have repaired the problem the issue is usually mute.  On the other hand a buyer has to love a property to ignore mold.  Even if you fix it with a professional remediation company the buyer might still walk.

So tend to the maintenance issues and make sure you pass your inspections with a smile and a finalized sale.

Drop me an email or give me a call if you are looking for "Flexible Real Estate Options" and Professional Service.

Video Selling and Buying tips will help you make a more informed buying and selling decision. 

I already utilize Virtual Tours for my "Seller Clients" to promote their properties and help buyers make a better decision on property fit before making an appointment.  Now I am adding video tips and "Talking Tours" that will offer buyers a professional information format on each property listing.

I will also include video tips for sellers and buyers to view, helping answer more questions before making important real estate decisions.

Stop back to see how the new technology can help you make a better decision.

 Sincerely,

Gary L. White, Associate Broker

Selling in a "Buyers Market" like West Michigan can be a difficult experience without the right agent.  This is in no way a solicitation for home already listed by other brokerages or agents. 

This is just the facts as I see them.  After having lived in West Michigan for most of my adult life I can honestly say...local market knowledge will increase your selling chances.  However many agents and brokerages only have one office and work in a specific area.  So when they venture out of their area to help you sell you are asking them to market outside of their area of expertise.  They may not know the publications, internet sites or even have an affiliation with the local MLS to promote your property

Selling is exposure to buyers.  The more buyer exposure the faster you sell.  That may seem simplistic but the truth is creating the widest marketing exposure is a shotgun approach.  Think of a rifle with a single small hole left by the bullet.  The shotgun on the other hand leaves a wide pattern of holes.  Which would you think would attract more buyers a wide pattern of exposure or a single hole approach.

How that wide pattern is achieve is key to selling.  For example using the internet and all of the popular sites to expose your listing.  Using color brochures and links to virtual tours to allow those that have computers and those that don't equal opportunity to buy your home is key.  What about print media.  Many say it is dead...OK why do thousands of people still buy the Sunday paper or pick up real estate magazines...if no one is reading them?  You see the broad marketing approach costs money and if you don't select the right agent you may not get all the market exposure you need.

Selling Options isn't just a cute marketing saying it is the fastest way to a "SOLD" Sign in your front yard! 

My methods are being practiced by all the top producers across the nation in neighborhoods, subdivision and rural communities.  Finding the right agent is easier than you think. 

If you would like a referral to a professional in your area or if we can help you in West Michigan give us a call or email us.  "Help is only a Call or Click away! (copyright 2010)

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Just because your home is for sale doesn't mean it will sell!

Many homeowners that would like to get on with their lives have been stopped in their tracks because their homes have not sold.  This may or may not be because of your marketing efforts.  It more likely is directly related to the housing market and the number of buyers able to secure financing. 

Make sure you can do a quick review with your agent.

1. Is my home priced competitively.  Or is my home price to help other seller sell their home first?
2. Does my curb appeal invite potential buyers to ask for a personal tour?
3. Is my home staged to attract the widest possible range of buyers?  Or is my home only for a select few?

The next issues to consider are not something you can change but being aware can help you set your sell price and attract buyers that are seeking a home in your area.

1. How is my location compared to homes that are selling in my price range? 
2. Are the schools desireable to buyers with children?  Remember this is only one buyer segment our goal is to cast a wide net for as many buyers as possible.  Schools are not something you can do anything about.  If the school system has had good publicity mention this in your marketing.  If the schools are not rated highly don't mention them.  (for example: "Award Winning Schools")
3. Shopping, are you close to great shopping?
4. Is your home located close to an expressway system or other comute feature that buyers in your area would like?  For example in rural areas...(quiet, nature at your doorstep, low traffic location.  You can express key features of the area for any area!)

Housing Markets dictate sales not the agents.  You may find agents telling you how many homes they sell but the reality is we point out features and benefits through out presentation or a personal tour of your property.  Buyers select the home that best suites their needs.  If a buyer does not like a home no matter how crafty a agent gets with the presentation of the property, the buyer will not buy.  

Homes must meet buyer needs.  Preparing your home for sale to meet to largest buyer segment possible will help you have more showings and sell faster!

Fuller Avenue, Grand Rapids  -  Announcing a New Listing 1837 Fuller St. NE, a 796 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm single story "Two Bedroom Ranch". Now MLS® $59,900 USD - New Listing Great Price!

Lease Option may be considered by seller.

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