f you know where to look, Spain continues to offer sound investment opportunities in rural and inland areas.
History of Hospitality
Spain has had a long and proud history of embracing those that have chosen to reside on its extensive shores. Initially the Phoenicians settled along the Mediterranean developing trading ports - like Cartegena - that today still survive on a maritime economy. The Romans followed, then came the Visigoths, Arabs, Jews and Gypsies, all of whom have contributed intrinsically to Spain´s culturally confused heritage. But this fiery mixture of blood and passion marks this Iberian race with several unique characteristics: The Iberians are used to acting as hosts - voluntarily or not - and the Spanish people continue to extend a warmth and hospitality to travellers, despite the waves of mass tourism that crash endlessly upon these sun drenched shores.
Geography, Language and Climate
With 504,782 km², Spain is the world's 51st-largest country, somewhat bigger than the U.S. state of California. Although the main language is Castillian, along the French border alone, there are three different languages spoken. Nationally, there are at least four official languages and a handful of unofficial ones. Similarly varied is the climate: wet, cold and snowy in winter along the Atlantic north and, by contrast, warm, dry and sunny in the south during the same months. Inland Spain tends to be cold over winter and stiflingly hot during summer, hence the evacuation of Spanish cities during the month of August each year.
Attractions of Spain
The clement climate is undoubtedly one of the major factors stimulating the growing desire to buy properties in the warm southern regions. It was here that English speakers first settled and now English has now become the second language of the country and is being taught in schools and adult education establishments across the whole country. Initially this was for reasons of tourism, but now it is considered vital for careers in the world of technology and international commerce.
Quality of Life
Despite Spain's growing economy and full membership of the EEC, it is still a relatively cheap place to live outside the major cities of Barcelona and Madrid. Although property prices have risen, eating out and travel remain inexpensive. However, the best of what Spain has to offer is not for sale: It is a wealth that is carried in the blood of its people, its Moorish palaces, medieval castles, deep flamenco music from Andalucia. All of this and the endless fiestas that take place in every town, suggest a capacity to celebrate life in a way unmatched by any other European nation.
Corruption Publicity
Unfortunately, over the last year, the country has been the target of a lot of negative publicity regarding outbreaks of corruption in the lucrative Spanish property market and, as a consequence, many people are reconsidering the peninsula as a safe target for property investments. Overpricing of coastal flats and illegal housing estates have been publicised almost daily in the press. One of Spain´s main Digital Newspapers, 20Segundas frequently lists these controversial projects. But for the individual considering buying a house away from the speculative tourist havens on the coast, Spain still offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in which to live. Charming farms with olive groves are still to be found for sale are in the south and for those looking for better prices, the hills of Granada offer better pickings than those of the saturated Malaga province.
Climate, hospitality and a capacity for enjoyment still makes Spain one of the most attractive of choices for a second home.
http://buyingsellingahome.suite101.com/article.cfm/buying_a_country_home_in_spain
Friday, September 14, 2007
Heavy Scents Hinder Home Sales
Avoid chemically scented products when selling your home.
We have become increasingly aware of respiratory issues and how our environmental surroundings effect it. However many people continue to use chemically scented products
It seems that we have a new obsession and it is not necessarily a good thing. We are inundated with images on television and magazines, of people trying to eliminate odours from there homes. Often the products described are strongly scented and can be over powering. The obsession has gotten to a point that it is affecting those individuals that are afflicted with respiratory problems.
As we become used to the scent of that air freshener we notice it less and less. In an attempt to retain what we feel is fresh air we ad products that are more heavily perfumed. Potpourri, plug-in air fresheners and aerosol sprays all compound the problems. These heavily scented products might trigger shortness of breath, scent allergies and asthma attacks.
As a society we are becoming more aware of environmental impacts on our health and surroundings. Yet many people continue to use these heavily scented products in their homes. The drawback to these products is that unknowingly people are alienating potential homebuyers.
Homebuyers are weary creatures and they are on the look out for any flaw in your home. Heavily scented products often set these homebuyers eye for flaws on high alert. They begin asking questions such as, what smell are they trying to cover up?
Allowing buyers to follow this line of thinking means they will be more critical of your home as they view it. Those with repertory issues may actually have to leave without ever having the opportunity to view your home. In essence you have inadvertently hindered the sale process.
If you absolutely must ad a scent to your home then use natural products instead of chemical scents, such as plug-ins, sprays and aerosols. Natural products tend to make your home seem more family oriented. The smell of baking allows potential buyers to imagine family meals. Homemade potpourri is subtle and will not overpower potential buyers with their scents. Coffee is pleasant because it allows you something that can be offered to potential homebuyers. Imagine strolling through a potential property as you relax with a warm cup of coffee, like you would in your own home.
So preferred products to scent your homes are Coffee, baked goods and homemade potpourri. These scents will assist people as they envision themselves in the home. Products to avoid are scented candles, perfumed products, plug-ins and products that contain chemical perfumes. As a final point, it is a good idea to leave adequate time prior to showings to ventilate rooms after chemical cleaners have been used.
http://buyingsellingahome.suite101.com/article.cfm/heavy_scents_hinder_home_sales
We have become increasingly aware of respiratory issues and how our environmental surroundings effect it. However many people continue to use chemically scented products
It seems that we have a new obsession and it is not necessarily a good thing. We are inundated with images on television and magazines, of people trying to eliminate odours from there homes. Often the products described are strongly scented and can be over powering. The obsession has gotten to a point that it is affecting those individuals that are afflicted with respiratory problems.
As we become used to the scent of that air freshener we notice it less and less. In an attempt to retain what we feel is fresh air we ad products that are more heavily perfumed. Potpourri, plug-in air fresheners and aerosol sprays all compound the problems. These heavily scented products might trigger shortness of breath, scent allergies and asthma attacks.
As a society we are becoming more aware of environmental impacts on our health and surroundings. Yet many people continue to use these heavily scented products in their homes. The drawback to these products is that unknowingly people are alienating potential homebuyers.
Homebuyers are weary creatures and they are on the look out for any flaw in your home. Heavily scented products often set these homebuyers eye for flaws on high alert. They begin asking questions such as, what smell are they trying to cover up?
Allowing buyers to follow this line of thinking means they will be more critical of your home as they view it. Those with repertory issues may actually have to leave without ever having the opportunity to view your home. In essence you have inadvertently hindered the sale process.
If you absolutely must ad a scent to your home then use natural products instead of chemical scents, such as plug-ins, sprays and aerosols. Natural products tend to make your home seem more family oriented. The smell of baking allows potential buyers to imagine family meals. Homemade potpourri is subtle and will not overpower potential buyers with their scents. Coffee is pleasant because it allows you something that can be offered to potential homebuyers. Imagine strolling through a potential property as you relax with a warm cup of coffee, like you would in your own home.
So preferred products to scent your homes are Coffee, baked goods and homemade potpourri. These scents will assist people as they envision themselves in the home. Products to avoid are scented candles, perfumed products, plug-ins and products that contain chemical perfumes. As a final point, it is a good idea to leave adequate time prior to showings to ventilate rooms after chemical cleaners have been used.
http://buyingsellingahome.suite101.com/article.cfm/heavy_scents_hinder_home_sales
Homeownership
Owning your own home is considered a fundamental right by most people, a natural progression into the world of independent living.
You can’t just wake up one morning, decide to buy a house and expect it to happen overnight. There are some steps you will need to follow to make your experience easier and more enjoyable.
Think things through. You can’t just jump headfirst into something as big as buying a house. There are some things you need to think about when deciding if homeownership is right for you.
§ What is your monthly and annual income?
§ Will you be able to afford a house payment plus utilities?
§ Will you be able to live by yourself or will you need 24-hour PCA care?
§ Do you want a roommate?
§ Where do you want to live?
§ Who will perform the upkeep?
Do your research. After you have thoroughly considered these and any other possible question that may pertain to your ability to purchase a home, start doing research. Research the different types of home loans available, and the programs that are specifically tailored to potential homeowners with disabilities. Some of these programs include HUD’s Housing Choice Vouchers, Fannie Mae HomeChoice and, in Pennsylvania, Keystone Home Loan Plus.
While you are researching home loans, it is a good idea to also research loans and/or grants that you can get to help make your new home accessible if need be. Most of these loans can be combined with the home loan and therefore can be available for use as soon as you buy your home. Many accessibility grants (money that you do not have to pay back) will not let you file an application and prequalify before you buy your house. This generally means that you must find at least a passably accessible house that will work for you until you can get grant. Contact your local CIL for more information on accessibility grants.
Begin the search. Start your search with the Yellow Pages. Find all the realtors in the area where you want to buy a home and find their web addresses (real estate agencies in the smallest towns usually have a website). Once you’ve browsed the listings different agencies have to offer, decide on one agency and meet with a realtor. Find one you like, get along with and trust will do the best job of helping you meet your needs.
In most areas, one realtor will be able to show you any home, regardless of the agency that the home is listed with. This makes the home buying process much easier on a buyer with a disability since one realtor can get to know you and your accessibility needs rather than trying to deal with five different realtors.
Be patient. Don’t expect your dream of owning a home to happen overnight. The home buying process takes a great deal of research, time and patience and can be overwhelming at times. But if you are persistent and don’t give up, you can achieve your dream and become a homeowner.
Happy hunting!
http://disabilities.suite101.com/article.cfm/homeownership
You can’t just wake up one morning, decide to buy a house and expect it to happen overnight. There are some steps you will need to follow to make your experience easier and more enjoyable.
Think things through. You can’t just jump headfirst into something as big as buying a house. There are some things you need to think about when deciding if homeownership is right for you.
§ What is your monthly and annual income?
§ Will you be able to afford a house payment plus utilities?
§ Will you be able to live by yourself or will you need 24-hour PCA care?
§ Do you want a roommate?
§ Where do you want to live?
§ Who will perform the upkeep?
Do your research. After you have thoroughly considered these and any other possible question that may pertain to your ability to purchase a home, start doing research. Research the different types of home loans available, and the programs that are specifically tailored to potential homeowners with disabilities. Some of these programs include HUD’s Housing Choice Vouchers, Fannie Mae HomeChoice and, in Pennsylvania, Keystone Home Loan Plus.
While you are researching home loans, it is a good idea to also research loans and/or grants that you can get to help make your new home accessible if need be. Most of these loans can be combined with the home loan and therefore can be available for use as soon as you buy your home. Many accessibility grants (money that you do not have to pay back) will not let you file an application and prequalify before you buy your house. This generally means that you must find at least a passably accessible house that will work for you until you can get grant. Contact your local CIL for more information on accessibility grants.
Begin the search. Start your search with the Yellow Pages. Find all the realtors in the area where you want to buy a home and find their web addresses (real estate agencies in the smallest towns usually have a website). Once you’ve browsed the listings different agencies have to offer, decide on one agency and meet with a realtor. Find one you like, get along with and trust will do the best job of helping you meet your needs.
In most areas, one realtor will be able to show you any home, regardless of the agency that the home is listed with. This makes the home buying process much easier on a buyer with a disability since one realtor can get to know you and your accessibility needs rather than trying to deal with five different realtors.
Be patient. Don’t expect your dream of owning a home to happen overnight. The home buying process takes a great deal of research, time and patience and can be overwhelming at times. But if you are persistent and don’t give up, you can achieve your dream and become a homeowner.
Happy hunting!
http://disabilities.suite101.com/article.cfm/homeownership
10 Old House Questions to Ask
So you want to buy an old house? Here are ten things to know before you take the plunge
It looks so pretty: the detailed gingerbread porch trim, or the massive stone fireplace, or charming bay windows and nooks and crannies. But should you actually BUY the old house, or just admire it on the house tour?
Here are some questions potential 'this old house' homeowners need to ask before signing on the dotted line.
1.) How old is it? Don't believe the real estate tax records, which are often nothing more than a guess. Whether your research happens via an experienced architectural historian or some old-fashioned sleuthing at the library, try to narrow the house's construction date down to a certain decade if possible. The information will help you in all future decisions about the house.
2.) Is the foundation ok? No sense spending tens of thousands of dollars on a restoration quality paint job if the bricks in the cellar are crumbling or the only thing holding up the walls are the termites holding hands. A home inspector by someone KNOWLEDGEABLE about OLD HOUSES should help you determine if the foundation is solid, or fixable.
3.) How's the plumbing? Make sure you know whether the toilets and sinks are operating under their original (ie at least 50 years old) cast iron plumbing, or if new PVC plumbing has been added- and if so, when. You will want to know whether you need to replace all the plumbing in the bathrooms and kitchen, as you will have a tendency to want to use these rooms for their intended purposes.
4.) ...and the electric? If the power is run on old knob-and-tube wiring, and has never been upgraded in terms of wattage, you will need to know this when purchasing a historic home- particularly if you enjoy using washers and dryers microwave ovens, or computers. A complete electrical overhaul means a pretty penny, so you'll need to know this going in.
5.) Hot and Cold How is the house heated and (if at all) air conditioned? Old radiators are great for warming mittens in the winter, but an oil heating system can cost a lot to maintain. If you are a person who cannot stand to be hot and there is no central air in the house, figure in the cost of adding room air conditioners to cool the space you'll need to cool.
6.) Cooks in the Kitchen If you happen to prefer gourmet cooking and are addicted to shows on the Food Network, take this into consideration when shopping for an old house. Avocado green 1970s appliances may not fit into your gourmet vision, so the cost of a kitchen upgrade needs to be taken into account.
7.) The Roof! The Roof! Keeping rain from entering the home is a popular priority for homeowners. It may not be realistic in the case of a century-old charmer which, no matter how many roofers try, continues to leak periodically in a variety of spots. Roof replacement can be one of the most costly old-house repairs, so you'll want to add this to the tab before you ante up.
8.) Windows to the Soul ... or just to the house, but keep your eyes open. Are the windows original? If so, do they have storm windows? When were those added? Old houses, depending on when they were built, can have a few small windows or many large ones, each with its own amazing draft-producing ability. Consider the cost of installing (possibly custom) new windows if this is a priority for you. If you love the look of those old original wavy glass beauties, buy LOTS of caulk.
9.) If the Walls Could Talk... we'd tell them to fix their own cracks. But they'll be looking to you for that, so be ready. Does the house contain its original plaster? Experts usually recommend retaining this, as it adds insulation value to the house- but the phone book is full of many drywallers, few plasterers. Be aware of the options in terms of repairing materials in the home's walls and ceilings.
10.) Floored Are the floors original? Hopelessly sagging? Covered in burnt orange shag wall-to-wall smelly carpet that needs to be removed asap? Restoring original flooring is often a popular old-house activity and can often be done in a do-it-yourself fashion, but you'll want to know what 'lies ahead'.
But the big question:
Is this home? You will be able to think of dozens of reasons NOT to buy a historic house. But some the reasons in favor are less tangible. Is the house in a neighborhood where your kids can walk to school or ride bikes to the library and ice cream shop? The house was probably built of old strong wood, brick, or stone- and built to last forever. There may be the coziest fireplace you've ever seen- begging for someone to read books or knit nearby. You may not be able to find these intangible benefits in a vinyl-clad subdivision.
So if you've fallen in love with a sunset-facing porch, it may be saggy and have peeling paint, but it just may be that the old house needs you as much as you need a home.
http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/article.cfm/10_questions_to_ask
It looks so pretty: the detailed gingerbread porch trim, or the massive stone fireplace, or charming bay windows and nooks and crannies. But should you actually BUY the old house, or just admire it on the house tour?
Here are some questions potential 'this old house' homeowners need to ask before signing on the dotted line.
1.) How old is it? Don't believe the real estate tax records, which are often nothing more than a guess. Whether your research happens via an experienced architectural historian or some old-fashioned sleuthing at the library, try to narrow the house's construction date down to a certain decade if possible. The information will help you in all future decisions about the house.
2.) Is the foundation ok? No sense spending tens of thousands of dollars on a restoration quality paint job if the bricks in the cellar are crumbling or the only thing holding up the walls are the termites holding hands. A home inspector by someone KNOWLEDGEABLE about OLD HOUSES should help you determine if the foundation is solid, or fixable.
3.) How's the plumbing? Make sure you know whether the toilets and sinks are operating under their original (ie at least 50 years old) cast iron plumbing, or if new PVC plumbing has been added- and if so, when. You will want to know whether you need to replace all the plumbing in the bathrooms and kitchen, as you will have a tendency to want to use these rooms for their intended purposes.
4.) ...and the electric? If the power is run on old knob-and-tube wiring, and has never been upgraded in terms of wattage, you will need to know this when purchasing a historic home- particularly if you enjoy using washers and dryers microwave ovens, or computers. A complete electrical overhaul means a pretty penny, so you'll need to know this going in.
5.) Hot and Cold How is the house heated and (if at all) air conditioned? Old radiators are great for warming mittens in the winter, but an oil heating system can cost a lot to maintain. If you are a person who cannot stand to be hot and there is no central air in the house, figure in the cost of adding room air conditioners to cool the space you'll need to cool.
6.) Cooks in the Kitchen If you happen to prefer gourmet cooking and are addicted to shows on the Food Network, take this into consideration when shopping for an old house. Avocado green 1970s appliances may not fit into your gourmet vision, so the cost of a kitchen upgrade needs to be taken into account.
7.) The Roof! The Roof! Keeping rain from entering the home is a popular priority for homeowners. It may not be realistic in the case of a century-old charmer which, no matter how many roofers try, continues to leak periodically in a variety of spots. Roof replacement can be one of the most costly old-house repairs, so you'll want to add this to the tab before you ante up.
8.) Windows to the Soul ... or just to the house, but keep your eyes open. Are the windows original? If so, do they have storm windows? When were those added? Old houses, depending on when they were built, can have a few small windows or many large ones, each with its own amazing draft-producing ability. Consider the cost of installing (possibly custom) new windows if this is a priority for you. If you love the look of those old original wavy glass beauties, buy LOTS of caulk.
9.) If the Walls Could Talk... we'd tell them to fix their own cracks. But they'll be looking to you for that, so be ready. Does the house contain its original plaster? Experts usually recommend retaining this, as it adds insulation value to the house- but the phone book is full of many drywallers, few plasterers. Be aware of the options in terms of repairing materials in the home's walls and ceilings.
10.) Floored Are the floors original? Hopelessly sagging? Covered in burnt orange shag wall-to-wall smelly carpet that needs to be removed asap? Restoring original flooring is often a popular old-house activity and can often be done in a do-it-yourself fashion, but you'll want to know what 'lies ahead'.
But the big question:
Is this home? You will be able to think of dozens of reasons NOT to buy a historic house. But some the reasons in favor are less tangible. Is the house in a neighborhood where your kids can walk to school or ride bikes to the library and ice cream shop? The house was probably built of old strong wood, brick, or stone- and built to last forever. There may be the coziest fireplace you've ever seen- begging for someone to read books or knit nearby. You may not be able to find these intangible benefits in a vinyl-clad subdivision.
So if you've fallen in love with a sunset-facing porch, it may be saggy and have peeling paint, but it just may be that the old house needs you as much as you need a home.
http://homerenorepair.suite101.com/article.cfm/10_questions_to_ask
Tips on Buying Selling Your Home
It's tough to sell home right now - there are great deals for buyers. If you hire a real estate agent to help you, ask the right questions.
We're relocating from Florida to Mississippi - a daunting task at any time, but with today's slumped real estate market, it's mind boggling. If you must sell a home in todays' slumped market, ask the right questions to find the right agent.
We found, after interviewing four major chains, that the personality and willingness of the agent to work are key. And not all agents have the same drive, integrity, or desire to perform. We asked each sales person -- 1) Do you prefer selling homes or gathering listings for other agents to sell on a commission split? 2) When did you last sell a home? 3) How many homes are in your own inventory right now? 4) What is the average time to sell? 4)How long have you been in the business? 5) How long have you been in this area? 6) How do you feel about the challenges of today's market?
The first one we met was poised, well put-together and had a marketing education. She brought comparisons - listings similar to our home. Some actual sales, some still on the market. This agent told us she likes to be aggressive - listing her customer's homes on the internet and in print, while also contacting buyers she has worked with in the past. She emphasized the number of homes we were competing with, made it clear she would not negotiate her fees (she doesn't have to, she said, "if I can't sell your house, there are plenty of others"). She said she takes 6% if she has to share the commission with another agent, and 5% if she sells our home by herself. Her company also charges hidden fees at closing, that were mentioned very briefly. Nearly $200 in addition to the more than $10K commission. The fees are for "storing" your documents till closing. We passed on this company. She answered my questions -- but her answers didn't mesh completely with our goals and approach. The agent was fairly well-informed, but rigid in her approach.
Agent #2 was unsure of herself . She took no notes, walked briefly through our home, declined to look at the yard and made it clear that buyers only need to know how many bedrooms, baths, and how big the garage is. Everything else is just an aside. Hmmm. She couldn't answer many questions - didn't want to say when was the last time she sold a home. Wouldn't say how many homes she had in inventory. Couldn't make any suggestions about how we might improve our chances of selling. The comparisons she brought were taken from an area far from ours where homes have very different prices. She wanted us to list at about %30K below even today's soft prices. Her reason? She only takes listings priced to sell immediately. She isn't interested, she said, in breaking her neck working to sell a particular home when there are thousands on the books already . About today's market, she wrung her hands, looked worried and said, "Well, you can't expect much in the way of results. It's very, very bad out there." If she says that in an interview, what is she telling prospects as she shows homes?
The agent we chose came to the door on time, didn't have a bucketful of perfume on and looked business casual. Very warm and friendly, knowledgeable and prepared to talk with us. She showed us comps, and a map of their locations. They were right in our general neighborhood. She showed how and why she chose them to compare to our home. She showed a range of about $40K up and down that our home could fit in to. She answered every question we had, thoroughly. She was not put off by the questions. She negotiated a stronger commission reduction, should she sell on her own. She showed us her past record for this year. She carefully evaluated our home, and made a couple of very good suggestions. She told us her background, without being asked and talked about why she sells homes for a living. Her view on today's market is this: "It's a buyer's market, but people will always buy homes. If there is a lot of competition, you must, as in any marketplace, polish your product and your approach."
She was unintimidated, unworried, and had plans and goals to market our home. She agreed there are no guarantees, but customer service is her first concern and her goal is to sell her listings to the best of her ability.
I'm glad I asked a lot of questions. I'm looking forward to good results.
http://aginggrandparents.suite101.com/blog.cfm/tips_on_buying_selling_your_home
We're relocating from Florida to Mississippi - a daunting task at any time, but with today's slumped real estate market, it's mind boggling. If you must sell a home in todays' slumped market, ask the right questions to find the right agent.
We found, after interviewing four major chains, that the personality and willingness of the agent to work are key. And not all agents have the same drive, integrity, or desire to perform. We asked each sales person -- 1) Do you prefer selling homes or gathering listings for other agents to sell on a commission split? 2) When did you last sell a home? 3) How many homes are in your own inventory right now? 4) What is the average time to sell? 4)How long have you been in the business? 5) How long have you been in this area? 6) How do you feel about the challenges of today's market?
The first one we met was poised, well put-together and had a marketing education. She brought comparisons - listings similar to our home. Some actual sales, some still on the market. This agent told us she likes to be aggressive - listing her customer's homes on the internet and in print, while also contacting buyers she has worked with in the past. She emphasized the number of homes we were competing with, made it clear she would not negotiate her fees (she doesn't have to, she said, "if I can't sell your house, there are plenty of others"). She said she takes 6% if she has to share the commission with another agent, and 5% if she sells our home by herself. Her company also charges hidden fees at closing, that were mentioned very briefly. Nearly $200 in addition to the more than $10K commission. The fees are for "storing" your documents till closing. We passed on this company. She answered my questions -- but her answers didn't mesh completely with our goals and approach. The agent was fairly well-informed, but rigid in her approach.
Agent #2 was unsure of herself . She took no notes, walked briefly through our home, declined to look at the yard and made it clear that buyers only need to know how many bedrooms, baths, and how big the garage is. Everything else is just an aside. Hmmm. She couldn't answer many questions - didn't want to say when was the last time she sold a home. Wouldn't say how many homes she had in inventory. Couldn't make any suggestions about how we might improve our chances of selling. The comparisons she brought were taken from an area far from ours where homes have very different prices. She wanted us to list at about %30K below even today's soft prices. Her reason? She only takes listings priced to sell immediately. She isn't interested, she said, in breaking her neck working to sell a particular home when there are thousands on the books already . About today's market, she wrung her hands, looked worried and said, "Well, you can't expect much in the way of results. It's very, very bad out there." If she says that in an interview, what is she telling prospects as she shows homes?
The agent we chose came to the door on time, didn't have a bucketful of perfume on and looked business casual. Very warm and friendly, knowledgeable and prepared to talk with us. She showed us comps, and a map of their locations. They were right in our general neighborhood. She showed how and why she chose them to compare to our home. She showed a range of about $40K up and down that our home could fit in to. She answered every question we had, thoroughly. She was not put off by the questions. She negotiated a stronger commission reduction, should she sell on her own. She showed us her past record for this year. She carefully evaluated our home, and made a couple of very good suggestions. She told us her background, without being asked and talked about why she sells homes for a living. Her view on today's market is this: "It's a buyer's market, but people will always buy homes. If there is a lot of competition, you must, as in any marketplace, polish your product and your approach."
She was unintimidated, unworried, and had plans and goals to market our home. She agreed there are no guarantees, but customer service is her first concern and her goal is to sell her listings to the best of her ability.
I'm glad I asked a lot of questions. I'm looking forward to good results.
http://aginggrandparents.suite101.com/blog.cfm/tips_on_buying_selling_your_home
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