Lexington, SC Home under $100,000

NEW LISTING IN LEXINGTON, SC

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ACTION: Go Make Something Happen!

My favorite action film of all time is Forrest Gump. When I tell people this, they laugh and then look puzzled. However, if you really watch this popular film beyond its clever form of entertainment, you'll find this powerful message: Forrest Gump is all about action! Whether he was running from bullies, crossing racial barriers in Alabama or saving his buddies' lives in Viet Nam, Forrest didn't hesitate to act. He didn't over-think, overanalyze, procrastinate, or form a committee to gather more data. He trusted his instincts and he acted! I believe this is the stronger message of this popular film: A simple man has a wonderful life because he took action. What will you do today to be more "Gump-like"?

My hope is that you will Go Make Something Happen!

Short Sales information, Columbia Homes

Short Sale in Columbia, SC by Edwin Gerace

What is a Short Sale and can it save my house? This is in no way something you want to gamble with. You need a professional that knows Short Sales and is an expert in the area. Edwin Gerace is that agent. When days and weeks count, you don't need to risk your largest financial asset with an agent that is not knowledgeable in short sales.

For short sale assistance and other options to consider first before you should consider a short sale contact. There are other options besides than a short sale in the Columbia, SC so that you can stop foreclosure! There is Loan Modifications, and many others.

Edwin Gerace has access to a Loss Mitigation Specialist here locally that works on your behalf to help you through this banking process and decide what is the best path for you. If it is the Short Sale process she will help you and get from point A to Point B. Here is why that is vital. Imagine you going to the front of the bank and talking with the hostess, that is you. Edwin Gerace's friend has relationships with bankers and goes through the drive through and knows what to ask for and has the documents they want and require so that you don't have to wait any longer than you should. Does that sound easy? It is is and can save valuable time.

Listing your house with Real Estate Agent or Broker that knows about short sales. In many cases you may be able to sell your house before your foreclosure is final. Email Edwin Gerace for information

The other option that few consider is to rent your house. In many cases you may get a considerable down payment and perhaps a little more than your actual mortgage. If you need assistance to rent your house consult a property manager and notify your lender.

If you have considered all the alternatives to foreclosure, then a short sale may be the best possibility to move on with your life with the least amount of damage. You win, the bank wins. Your house gets sold; the bank gets a new mortgage. Feel Free to visit my website for more information.

However, in many cases your house may get sold for less than the amount owed, and then the bank can come after you for the difference. Some banks ask for that the remaining funds that were not satisfied to be paid over time or some times they 1099 the seller too.

Earlier this week, mortgage giant Fannie Mae said homeowners who stop making payments and then send their keys back to lenders months later will not be able to get another mortgage through that firm for five years. Freddie Mac also is going after walk-away borrowers, mortgage lenders say. Neighbors of the people who walk way are already being punished by lower home values due to the foreclosure. "People should hang in there as long as they can, ask for help and try to work with their lender,"

If you are going to consider a short sale to prevent foreclosure in the Columbia SC area, consider a company that understands how and has the contacts with a team of professionals that are properly trained to get a short sale completed.

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foreclosure help, SC, Columbia Homes for Sale, Edwin Gerace, Short Sale, Short Sale Assistance, Short Sale Expert, Realtor, Russell and Jeffcoat Realtors

About Lexington, SC Lexington, SC Homes For Sale Lake Murray, Irmo Homes for Sale West Columbia Homes For Sale

About Edwin Contact Us Curb Appeal List Closing costs - loans Closing costs - Ins. Free Home Valuation Find A Home! How Escrow Works BLOG Search MLS Newsletter South Carolina Facts Realtor Referal About Lexington About Lake Murray About Irmo LINKS Realtor Ethics Kids Eat Free Why a Realtor Real Estate Info Community Links Homes for Sale About Chapin / Ballentine About Forest Acres Heathwood Area Lake Murray Irmo Homes Lake Murray Lexington Homes Lexington Homes Rosewood Area Homes Irmo / St Andrews Homes West Columbia Homes North East Homes Golf Page Dave Ramsey Lexington Town of Lexington Lexington County Lexington Cities Lexington Zip Codes Lexington Neighborhoods Utilities Lexington County Data Richland County Data About Edwin Gerace Medium Sales Price Community Grant Seminar American Town TheZoo Things to Do Lake Level SCDOT-Traffic Columbia Attractions Sporting Events Travel to Columbia Columbia Events Area Events Famously Hot Lexington County Info Lexington Chamber South Carolina Realtors Columbia Realtors Russell & Jeffcoat Home Buyer Seminar Press Release Just Lexington Home Buyer Closing Costs First Time Buyers For Buyers Press Release Selling Your Home Our Featured Homes Home Applying for a Loan Bi-Weekly Mortgage Your Buying Power Neighborhood Prices Staging Your House 9 Steps to Owning Site Map ARM Calc Fixed Rate Mtg Calc 15 vs 30 Year Mtg Calc Mtg Tax Savings Calc Mortgage Qualifier Calc Required Income Calc Maximum Mortgage Calc Refi Interest Savings Calc Refi Breakeven Calc Mortgage Calculators The Kitchen Ethics in Real Estate Home Appreciation Home Price Index My Blog

INSPIRATION: Emotionalize Your Leadership Style!

The word 'emotionalize' means: To make emotional; to stir; to move. Are you using your entire toolbox of emotions to lead others?
Remember the 4 traits that Pat Summitt, Steven Spielberg, and Rudolph Giuliani possess.
1. They laugh & have fun with their teammates;
2. They are openly compassionate;
3. They are not afraid to cry with their teammates;
4. They deliver tough, constructive feedback everyday to cause their people to reach their potential.

This is a good roadmap to help us emotionally connect with others and make them "feel" something. The BEST leaders are excellent at emotionally connecting with their coworkers, members, and customers. How bout you?

RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLERS

RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLERS

Position Statement

The Home Builders Association has long been a strong advocate for increased home safety. The Association has supported numerous building codes that minimize the risk of residential fires and accidents in the home – hard-wired smoke alarms, arc-fault receptacles, firewall separation, etc. These new safety items have given consumers a strong return on their dollars invested. New homes today are by far the safest home ever constructed!

Residential fire sprinklers are not new. They have been around for many years. However, only a handful of home owners have chosen to install them in their homes. As in any aspect of life, one has to weight the risks versus the cost of added protection. Consumers have resoundingly voted against installing residential fire sprinklers – less than 1% of all new homes - because the cost greatly outweighs the benefits. For those consumers who want the maximum protection, fire sprinklers are available in the market. However, the choice should be left to an individual, not the government!

The Home Builders Association defends the right for any homeowner to install a fire sprinkler. Our industry would be happy to install a fire sprinkler system for any consumer that wants one in their new or existing homes. However, since the consumer pays for the system and has to deal with the consequences of installing a fire sprinkler system, the consumer should have a choice of installing or not installing fire sprinklers.

The General Assembly spoke very clearly on the residential fire sprinkler issue two years ago when they overwhelmingly voted to provide a local/state incentive package for voluntary installation of fire sprinklers. The General Assembly felt that consumer choice was the best public policy and we agree!

Question
1-Who is going to pay for the additional expenses that are given to the home owner for the sprinkler system?
2- Sprinkler Contractors, are they going to warrant the sprinklers in a starter home due to malfunctions?
3-Why not giving tax incentives for homes having sprinklers?

About Lexington, SC Lexington, SC Homes For Sale Lake Murray, Irmo Homes for Sale West Columbia Homes For SaleAbout Edwin Contact Us Curb Appeal List Closing costs - loans Closing costs - Ins. Free Home Valuation Find A Home! How Escrow Works BLOG Search MLS Newsletter South Carolina Facts Realtor Referal About Lexington About Lake Murray About Irmo LINKS Realtor Ethics Kids Eat Free Why a Realtor Real Estate Info Community Links Homes for Sale About Chapin / Ballentine About Forest Acres Heathwood Area Lake Murray Irmo Homes Lake Murray Lexington Homes Lexington Homes Rosewood Area Homes Irmo / St Andrews Homes West Columbia Homes North East Homes Golf Page Dave Ramsey Lexington Town of Lexington Lexington County Lexington Cities Lexington Zip Codes Lexington Neighborhoods Utilities Lexington County Data Richland County Data About Edwin Gerace Medium Sales Price Community Grant Seminar American Town TheZoo Things to Do Lake Level SCDOT-Traffic Columbia Attractions Sporting Events Travel to Columbia Columbia Events Area Events Famously Hot Lexington County Info Lexington Chamber South Carolina Realtors Columbia Realtors Russell & Jeffcoat Home Buyer Seminar Press Release Just Lexington Home Buyer Closing Costs First Time Buyers For Buyers Press Release Selling Your Home Our Featured Homes Home Applying for a Loan Bi-Weekly Mortgage Your Buying Power Neighborhood Prices Staging Your House 9 Steps to Owning Site Map ARM Calc Fixed Rate Mtg Calc 15 vs 30 Year Mtg Calc Mtg Tax Savings Calc Mortgage Qualifier Calc Required Income Calc Maximum Mortgage Calc Refi Interest Savings Calc Refi Breakeven Calc Mortgage Calculators The Kitchen Ethics in Real Estate Home Appreciation Home Price Index My Blog

West Columbia SC Monitoring Rental Homes

YOU MUST READ THIS IF YOU OWN RENTALS IN WEST COLUMBIA, SC OR KNOW SOMEONE THAT DOES.................... I PERSONALLY DONT AGREE WITH TOWNS HAVING RIGHT TO COME INTO RENTAL HOMES TO INSPECT THEM.



STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

CITY OF WEST COLUMBIA
AN ORDINANCE TO REVISE
TITLE 5, CHAPTER 2
TO ADOPT RENTAL HOUSING REGULATIONS

ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CITY OF WEST COLUMBIA ORDINANCE TITLE FIVE, CHAPTER 2, TO REGULATE RENTAL HOUSING

WHEREAS, the City Council of West Columbia (the “Council”)desires to regulate residential rental properties, the Council finds it necessary to require owners of residential rental property to obtain a permit for the rental property; and

WHEREAS, the Council has found it necessary to monitor infractions including noise offenses, occupancy, alcohol offenses, and disorderly conduct as well as health, zoning, and property maintenance regulations arising at residential rental properties and to provide a coordinated response to neighbors who are adversely affected by repeated offenses on problem residential properties; and

WHEREAS, the Council intends, through the adoption of this ordinance, to provide additional enforcement tools to protect its residents and effectively deal with problem residential rental properties; and

WHEREAS, the Council finds these goals are met by the attached provisions which regulate residential rental housing throughout the City of West Columbia; and

NOW BE IT THEREFORE ORDAINED that Title Five, Chapter 2, of the City of West Columbia Code of Ordinances be amended to include the attached provisions regarding Rental Housing Regulations.

IT IS FURTHER ORDAINED that these provisions shall take effect immediately upon passage.


Done this ____ day of ______________, 2009

ATTEST.




City Clerk Mayor


First Reading:
Public Hearing: _________________
Second Reading:
Rental Housing Regulations

Section 5-2-120 Definitions.

1. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning.

(a) Occupant. A “family” as defined by the City of West Columbia Zoning Ordinance.

(b) Owner. Any person, firm, or corporation having a legal or equitable title in the property; or recorded in the official records of the state, county or municipality as holding title.

(c) Residential rental unit. That portion of a “dwelling” as defined by the City of West Columbia Zoning Ordinance for which payment or other consideration is being made to an owner, agent, or manager for the use and occupancy of that portion as a living facility, excluding manufactured homes, hotels, motels, medical or long term care facilities, and bed and breakfast establishments. Whenever the words “rental unit” are stated in this Code, they shall be construed as though they were followed by the words “or any part thereof.”

(d) Absentee landlord. (a) the owner of residential rental units who are shown as the most-recent property owner(s) on the real property tax notice for the then current year issued by the Richland or Lexington County Treasurer’s Office; and, (b) who resides outside of or, if the rental property is managed by or through a business office, and that business office is outside of Richland or Lexington County; or, (c) whose tax notice is addressed to a post office box regardless of the county of residence of the owner.


Section 5-2-121 Rental permit required.

1. No owner, whether a person, firm or corporation, shall operate any residential rental unit as defined in Section 5-2-120 unless that owner holds a current rental permit issued by the City for the residential rental unit named therein.

2. Permits are not transferable from any owner to another.

3. The permitting year shall begin on January 1 and end on December 31. If a permit fee is required, it must be paid by the 30th of April each year. If a permit fee is required, renewals of permits after April 30 will be assessed a late penalty fee of five percent of the unpaid fee per month. For the year 2010, the permitting period shall be as specified by the Building Official.


Section 5-2-122 Application.

1. Applications to operate residential rental units and for renewal thereof shall be on a form provided by the City of West Columbia.

2. The form shall set forth the owner’s name, address, and telephone number, the residential rental unit address, the name of the person, firm, or corporation responsible for the care and maintenance of the building and additional information as outlined on the application for rental housing.

Section 5-2-123 Property owner and the person in charge.

1. A permit will not be issued to an absentee landlord, unless a person in charge is designated. The person in charge must reside in or have an office within a 30-mile radius of the City and be able to act as the agent for the owner. The Building Official shall be notified in writing if there is a change of owner or person in charge within 14 days of the change.

2. The property owner and/or the person in charge shall maintain all residential rental units under their control in compliance with the City codes and is responsible for providing access for the purpose of making inspections necessary to ensure compliance with the City’s ordinances and accepting legal notices or service of process with respect to the rental unit.

3. For every residential rental unit, the owner or person in charge shall be responsible for the repair and maintenance of the common areas of the dwelling and responding to service requests and emergency needs, including entry into units where an emergency appears to exist. Such person or persons shall be situated close enough to the dwelling as to be able to service tenant and emergency calls with reasonable dispatch. The owner shall advise the tenants individually of the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of such owner and/or person in charge.

4. Rental property owner(s) and/or the responsible person in charge, if applicable, shall be solely responsible for insuring compliance with all zoning, nuisance and property maintenance codes. Failure to abate violations after notice shall result in enforcement action against the rental property owner(s) or responsible person in charge if applicable. The City, in addition to or in lieu of issuing a uniform ordinance summons for a violation of this ordinance, may pursue any other remedy permitted by law. The filing of an appeal shall not act as a stay of the City’s right to pursue any other remedies as permitted by law.

Section 5-2-124 Acknowledgement of applicable codes.

The rental property owner(s) and/ or responsible person in charge, if applicable, shall be required at the time of registration to sign a form acknowledging the existence and access to city codes applicable to the rental and maintenance of residential properties and their responsibilities related to said code sections.

Section 5-2-125 Notice procedure.

Notices of violation to registered rental property owner(s) or the responsible person in charge, if applicable, shall be:

(a) In writing and include a description of the property.
(b) Include a descriptive statement of the violation and required corrective action.
(c) State the compliance and applicable appeal period.
(d) Be delivered personally or by first-class mail to the rental property owner(s) or responsible person in charge, if applicable, at the last address furnished as part of the registration process.
(e) The city may elect but is not required to provide supplemental notice by e-mail and/ or facsimile.

Section 5-2-126 Reduction in notice requirements.

The standard notice, appeal and compliance periods stated in all property maintenance codes adopted by the city, including the International Property Maintenance Code, shall be reduced to seven (7) days for registered rental properties. The only exception to this provision shall apply to notices of condemnation proceedings.
Section 5-2-127 Inspections.

The City reserves the right to inspect rental units. Nothing in this section shall preclude the inspection of dwellings.

(a) Basis for inspections. Inspections may be made to obtain and maintain compliance with the standards of this article based upon one of the following:

(1) A complaint received by the building department or forwarded to the building department by another city department, indicating that there is a potential violation of the standards or the provisions of any ordinance adopted by the city;
(2) An observation by the building department or forwarded to the building department by another city department of a violation of the standards or the provisions of any ordinance adopted by the city;
(3) A report or observation of a dwelling unit that is unoccupied and unsecured or a dwelling that is damaged by fire;
(4) The registration, re-registration, and certification of a rental unit as required by this article;
(5) The need to determine compliance with a notice or an order issued by the City;
(6) An observed condition or condition reasonably believed to exist deemed dangerous to human life or public welfare;
(7) Requirements of law where a dwelling is to be demolished by the City or where ownership is to be transferred to the city.

(b) Inspection procedures.

(1) If a basis for inspection is established under subsection (a) of this section, the owner and/or responsible person in charge will be notified in writing by the building department of the desired time and place of the inspection.
(2) In the event that the alleged violation appears to be a clear and imminent threat to human life, safety or public welfare as determined by the building department, the owner and/or responsible person in charge will be contacted to schedule an immediate inspection. If code violations are found to exist, immediate compliance with adopted building, property maintenance, zoning or other applicable codes, will be required.
(3) If the alleged violation is not a clear and imminent threat to human life, safety or public welfare, the owner will have seven (7) calendar days to correct such violation unless otherwise authorized in writing by the city, after which a reinspection or written verification from owner and/or responsible person in charge and complaining party that the violation has been corrected, will be required.

Section 5-2-128 Permit and inspection fees.

The license permit fee, if any, and any fees for inspections shall be set by City Council by ordinance as required by S.C. Code Ann. § 6-1-330. If a permit fee is required, registered property owners shall be billed annually based on registration information on file with the city as of December 31. No reductions in billed fees shall be made as a result of the failure of a property owner or responsible person in charge to update information as required by this chapter.

Section 5-2-129 Penalty.

Violation of this article shall be unlawful and an offense punishable pursuant to the general penalty provision of the Code of Ordinances of the City of West Columbia.

Section 5-2-130 Severability.

The provisions of this article are severable and if by section, sentence, clause, part, or provision thereof shall be held illegal, invalid, or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision of the court shall not affect or impair the remaining sections, sentences, clauses, parts, or provisions of this article. It is hereby declared that the intent of the council is that this article would have been adopted as if such illegal, invalid, or unconstitutional section, sentence, clause, part, or provision had not been included herein.

CONNECTION: Make Connections Count!

CONNECTION: Make Connections Count!
Great leaders care deeply about people and make it their mission to find new and different ways to connect with them. Showing a deeper interest in those you hope to influence will make you memorable and effective.

Three things that can help you:
1. Learn family and personal facts (i.e.hometown, children's names and birthdays, grandchildren, service anniversaries, citizenship day, etc.)
2. Learn 'Firsts & Favorites' (first car, first concert, favorite restaurant, favorite charity, etc.)
3. Remember the tattoo on everyone's forehead: KNOW ME - ACCEPT ME - MAKE ME FEEL SPECIAL. Honor that tattoo and you will Make Connections Count!


2010 is HERE………… Is it 20-10 or 2,010?
Coming into 2010, there are many people trying to decipher all the data that is being reported regarding the housing industry. Due to the information highway, we have and use and some times abuse, data is being thrown at us at a high rate. The main goal is to try to bring clarity to a market that has been clouded with confusion for the last Three to four years.

We must not allow the truth to overshadow the facts. What do I mean by that? Let me give you an example. The housing market is better than it was, that is a fact.
But the truth is that home prices in many areas (NOT ALL) are still falling and will continue to fall for a period of time.
Many people except when they hear that the market is doing better that implies we are back to 2005-2007. News Flash….. That is not the case and will not be the case for many years. Prices in many markets are being adjusted. For example, a wise Realtor/Manager told me about equity and people saying that they lost value of their home. That is a misconception, they got their equity early (Prepaid).

Prices must still be adjusted in order for buyers to be able to afford the home. Proof of that is that the government is still subsidizing home purchases by artificially keeping interest rates low and offering tax credits to both first-time and move-up buyers. The good news is that those programs are creating a market for people looking to sell their home now. The bad news is that they will not last forever. The question that begs to be answered is what happens when interest rates rise (the government program that has kept them low ends on March 30) and the tax credit expires (April 30)? It is my belief that, when these inducements fade, so will demand. What will happen in June is the real question, what will banks and the governments do to keep this market moving.

Pricing has always been about supply and demand. The current housing market is no different.

If you are considering selling your house, put it on the market NOW to take advantage of the increased demand before the aforementioned government incentives that created it disappear. And please don’t wait for the distressed properties to come to market.

Edwin Gerace

About Lexington, SC Lexington, SC Homes For Sale Lake Murray, Irmo Homes for Sale West Columbia Homes For Sale


About Edwin Contact Us Curb Appeal List Closing costs - loans Closing costs - Ins. Free Home Valuation Find A Home! How Escrow Works BLOG Search MLS Newsletter South Carolina Facts Realtor Referal About Lexington About Lake Murray About Irmo LINKS Realtor Ethics Kids Eat Free Why a Realtor Real Estate Info Community Links Homes for Sale About Chapin / Ballentine About Forest Acres Heathwood Area Lake Murray Irmo Homes Lake Murray Lexington Homes Lexington Homes Rosewood Area Homes Irmo / St Andrews Homes West Columbia Homes North East Homes Golf Page Dave Ramsey Lexington Town of Lexington Lexington County Lexington Cities Lexington Zip Codes Lexington Neighborhoods Utilities Lexington County Data Richland County Data About Edwin Gerace Medium Sales Price Community Grant Seminar American Town TheZoo Things to Do Lake Level SCDOT-Traffic Columbia Attractions Sporting Events Travel to Columbia Columbia Events Area Events Famously Hot Lexington County Info Lexington Chamber South Carolina Realtors Columbia Realtors Russell & Jeffcoat Home Buyer Seminar Press Release Just Lexington Home Buyer Closing Costs First Time Buyers For Buyers Press Release Selling Your Home Our Featured Homes Home Applying for a Loan Bi-Weekly Mortgage Your Buying Power Neighborhood Prices Staging Your House 9 Steps to Owning Site Map ARM Calc Fixed Rate Mtg Calc 15 vs 30 Year Mtg Calc Mtg Tax Savings Calc Mortgage Qualifier Calc Required Income Calc Maximum Mortgage Calc Refi Interest Savings Calc Refi Breakeven Calc Mortgage Calculators The Kitchen Ethics in Real Estate Home Appreciation Home Price Index My Blog

Trust Stop Lying

TRUTH: Stop Lying!

"A truth withheld by a leader is a lie." When leaders make a habit of withholding the truth, they are lying. The harshness of this statement only reflects my passion around our responsibility to be great coaches and communicators. Remember the broccoli story? Nobody wants to go through life with broccoli in their teeth and not be told about it. Make sure your people never go home with broccoli in their teeth. Stop withholding praise, performance feedback, crucial communication, and best practices. As leaders, we have a responsibility to tell the truth everyday.

What is Trust

TRUST is defined as: "A strong belief that a person is honest and can be depended on."
Not surprisingly, great leaders create strong trust. On a scale of 1 - 10, how strongly do your teammates, members, or customers trust you? Everyday, your trust level goes up, goes down, or stays the same. Here's one way to insure your trust factor is getting stronger: KEEP YOUR PROMISES. Make a habit of under-promising and over-delivering instead of the reverse. (Remember the restaurant story with the silent pager?) Also, watch your language. Do you always do what you say you will do? Leaders who 'walk their talk' have much stronger trust factors than those who don't.

Showing your House Tips

1. Remove clutter and clear off counters. Throw out stacks of newspapers and magazines and stow away most of your small decorative items. Put excess furniture in storage, and remove out-of-season clothing items that are cramping closet space. Don’t forget to clean out the garage, too.
2. Wash your windows and screens. This will help get more light into the interior of the home.
3. Keep everything extra clean. A clean house will make a strong first impression and send a message to buyers that the home has been well-cared for. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, mop and wax floors, and clean the stove and refrigerator. Polish your doorknobs and address numbers. It’s worth hiring a cleaning service if you can afford it.
4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows to air out the house. Potpourri or scented candles will help.
5. Brighten your rooms. Put higher wattage bulbs in light fixtures to brighten up rooms and basements. Replace any burned-out bulbs in closets. Clean the walls, or better yet, brush on a fresh coat of neutral color paint.
6. Don’t disregard minor repairs. Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers the impression that the house isn’t well-maintained.
7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, add new mulch, trim the bushes, edge the walkways, and clean the gutters. For added curb appeal, place a pot of bright flowers near the entryway.
8. Patch holes. Repair any holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if applicable.
9. Add a touch of color in the living room. A colored afghan or throw on the couch will jazz up a dull room. Buy new accent pillows for the sofa.
10. Buy a flowering plant and put it near a window you pass by frequently.
11. Make centerpieces for your tables. Use brightly colored fruit or flowers.
12. Set the scene. Set the table with fancy dishes and candles, and create other vignettes throughout the home to help buyers picture living there. For example, in the basement you might display a chess game in progress.
13. Replace heavy curtains with sheer ones that let in more light. Show off the view if you have one.
14. Accentuate the fireplace. Lay fresh logs in the fireplace or put a basket of flowers there if it’s not in use.
15. Make the bathrooms feel luxurious. Put away those old towels and toothbrushes. When buyers enter your bathroom, they should feel pampered. Add a new shower curtain, new towels, and fancy guest soaps. Make sure your personal toiletry items are out of sight.
16. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that’s not possible, crate them or confine them to one room (ideally in the basement), and let the real estate practitioner know where they’ll be to eliminate surprises.
17. Lock up valuables, jewelry, and money. While a real estate salesperson will be on site during the showing or open house, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time.
18. Leave the home. It’s usually best if the sellers are not at home. It’s awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there.

Reprinted from REALTOR magazine (REALTOR.org/realtormag) with permissionof the National Association of REALTORS. Copyright 2008. All rights reserved

Green Alternatives and Healthy Home Tips for South Carolina Homeowners

Green Alternatives & Healthy Home
Tips for South Carolina Homeowners
With its location on the southern part of the United States, South Carolina is highly regarded for its beautiful mountain ranges, national parks and monuments. With many great historical qualities and geographic location, it is easy to see why many want to call the state their home.
Although purchasing a home is an exciting time for you and your family, many additional responsibilities may arise. Having the assistance of an honest and reliable South Carolina real estate agent can be a big part in accumulating the right information to making the crucial decision.

Homes built prior to 1980 still have the potential of containing asbestos. However, this should not make you feel too concerned because exposure can be prevented by taking simple precautions. There are many environmentally friendly, green forms of insulation that not only are healthy alternatives to asbestos, but may even help reducing annual energy costs. The implementation of eco-construction and green energy home solutions will play an important role in the transformation to a healthier and sustainable world.

Asbestos Tips

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was a prominent building application throughout the 20th century. Even if asbestos shingles are on your home, if they are in good condition and left undisturbed, they are not a serious problem. The mere presence of asbestos in a home or a building is not hazardous. Most professionals suggest leaving the asbestos alone. A home inspector can determine the proper course of action. In many cases, asbestos removal may prove to be costly, but a worthy scenario for achieving a healthy and safe home.
Damaged asbestos may release asbestos fibers and become a health hazard, leading to the development of asbestosis mesothelioma. Diagnosis of these forms of asbestos lung cancer has been a difficult task because mesothelioma symptoms are so similar to other, less serious conditions. There are many factors that may impact patient’s mesothelioma survival rate
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Council promote the health and safety of the public and environment. These public organizations assist the disposal and removal of asbestos and other harmful materials. If asbestos removal is deemed necessary, it should be performed by licensed abatement contractor who is trained in handling hazardous materials.

Green Eco-friendly Alternatives

Once the removal process is completed, green insulation alternatives should be given serious consideration. Building green with proper insulation will save you on bills. Implementing green methods of building can have positive environmental, health and economic benefits. These include: Conservation of natural resources, enhancement of air quality, energy sustainability, increase property value, improve quality of life, improvement of pulmonary/cardiac health and reduction of waste.

These alternatives include: cellulose, cotton fiber and lcynene. These eco-friendly insulation options possess the same flame resistant durable qualities as asbestos, minus the health and environmental concerns. Cotton fiber is also becoming a favorite insulation method. Made from recycled batted material, it is then treated to be fireproof. Water based spray polyurethane foam, lcynene, is a healthy insulation which contains no toxic components.
The United Nations Environmental Program states that the use of recycled building materials such as cotton fiber insulation can reduce energy use by 25 percent. With growing education and technology, green sustainable methods of industry and construction need the support of the whole world and it is definitely getting a significant boost through states such as South Carolina.

Free Home Buyer Seminar Nov and Dec

PRESS RELEASE

Columbia, SC – November 9, 2009 - FREE homebuyer seminar will discover the Home Buying Process from beginning to end.

Seminar to include these three important steps. First step is Home Buying process and explain the changes in the Tax Credit and the how to buy a home. Second, step the mortgage process, and the potential FREE GRANT MONEY.
Third step would be the closing process in buying home.

The seminar will host professionals in the home buying process to offer FREE information about the home buying process. There will be professionals in those areas to answer questions about those areas. There will be information about the $8,000 Tax Credit, who qualifies and who is eligible for the new tax credit
Time is still essential come to the seminar to find out why

Free Home Buyer Seminar is being offered in Lexington, West Columbia, Columbia, and Irmo.
This is an informational FREE seminar about the home buying process.
The seminar will be available for groups, civic organizations and others on request.



The schedules for the following seminars are as follows:

November 16, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Edwin Gerace for details 803-957-5566
November 19, West Columbia Library, 6:00pm -7:30pm Call Jason Compton 803-957-5566
November 23, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Craig Connelly for details 803-957-5566
November 23, Irmo Library 6:30pm-7:30pm Call Jeff Riley for details 803-467-6440
December 7, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Edwin Gerace for details 803-957-5566
December 14, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Craig Connelly for details 803-957-5566

This seminar is FREE but please RSVP is suggested due to the demand.
Follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/freehomeseminar
Follow us on FaceBook Home Buyers Seminar
For more information 803-957-5566
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Free Home Buyer Seminar Nov and Dec

PRESS RELEASE

Columbia, SC – November 9, 2009 - FREE homebuyer seminar will discover the Home Buying Process from beginning to end.

Seminar to include these three important steps. First step is Home Buying process and explain the changes in the Tax Credit and the how to buy a home. Second, step the mortgage process, and the potential FREE GRANT MONEY.
Third step would be the closing process in buying home.

The seminar will host professionals in the home buying process to offer FREE information about the home buying process. There will be professionals in those areas to answer questions about those areas. There will be information about the $8,000 Tax Credit, who qualifies and who is eligible for the new tax credit
Time is still essential come to the seminar to find out why

Free Home Buyer Seminar is being offered in Lexington, West Columbia, Columbia, and Irmo.
This is an informational FREE seminar about the home buying process.
The seminar will be available for groups, civic organizations and others on request.



The schedules for the following seminars are as follows:

November 16, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Edwin Gerace for details 803-957-5566
November 19, West Columbia Library, 6:00pm -7:30pm Call Jason Compton 803-957-5566
November 23, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Craig Connelly for details 803-957-5566
November 23, Irmo Library 6:30pm-7:30pm Call Jeff Riley for details 803-467-6440
December 7, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Edwin Gerace for details 803-957-5566
December 14, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Craig Connelly for details 803-957-5566

This seminar is FREE but please RSVP is suggested due to the demand.
Follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/freehomeseminar
Follow us on FaceBook Home Buyers Seminar
For more information 803-957-5566
#####

Short Sales and Real Estate in Lexington SC

Short Sale in real estate is nothing new but is becoming more evident. There are benefits for both, the lender and you. The short sale process is not easy, and can be stress full. Homes are sold for less than the mortgage you owe on it and lender forgives the remaining debt, there are few things to know on how to do a short sale, so it does not become too cumbersome and time-consuming. Banks see the short sale process as a an alternative to foreclosure, and is usually willing to accept a smaller pay-off or a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure to simply minimize its loss rather than go all the way the long and costly road of foreclosure. Short sale home is far more desirable to the general home-buying market than a foreclosed one. The money a bank looses is less than if the lender takes on the short sale is rather small compared to the expense of foreclosing on the property.

Short Sale Process (subject to change from one lender to another)
Contact the Lender
Lenders will not talk to investors, potential buyers or real estate agents unless the borrower instructs to them. You will need to get their approval in writing, contact the lender with that approval, and make the first telephone contact. You must decide if you want the assistance of a 3rd party to help the seller or you want to do it on your own. If you want the assistance of a professional contact Edwin Gerace 803-957-5566

The seller must create a hardship letter is the cover for the short sale package. It is a lot like the cover letter for a job resume. It must be convincing and complete. The lender must get the first impression that it is a short sale or a foreclosure or bankruptcy. This letter must paint the picture of your financial situation and honesty is key. There is a paper trail for all your finances.

Short sales will not work if there is sufficient equity in the home for the lender to sell it and at least break even in a foreclosure. The homeowner must be "upside-down" in their loan. Learn how to determine if this is the case.

Lenders will usually want to validate the seller’s financial situation by looking at bank statements, investment accounts, along with examining pay stubs and other financial records.

The meat of your short sale presentation backs up the statements made in the hardship letter. You prepare a thorough and detailed set of documents and financial data to support the claim that a short sale is a good solution for the lender. This is the time to put all your cards on the table. Sellers must be honest and forth coming with all data.
Contact an agent
When obtaining a short sale listing you must explain to everyone the process of the short sale. Since no one can predict with certainty what any bank will do in any situation, do not tell anyone in the transaction that this will be fast and smooth. Listing documents should state “ This list price is subject to a 3rd Party Bank Short Sale Approval”. However, it is always better to under promise and over deliver throughout the entire process. Otherwise, everyone gets frustrated. You need to either have your agent be in control working with the bank ( You will have to give the bank permission to talk to the realtor) or you will need a 3rd party person to be the contact for you and the bank.


Buyer for House
Once you have a buyer in place with either a contract or offer to purchase, we must manage the expectations of both the buyer and the buyer’s agent. If the purchaser is buying a home to live in, this means they probably love the house and are already thinking of things that they can do to the house to make it their own. On the other hand, the buyer’s agent is motivated by getting the sale closed so that they get a paycheck. Because agents and their buyers are nervous, you will need to manage their expectations. We have made this easier by allowing all of you to track the short sale online. Time is something that you cannot control. Example: Bank of America as of today said any offers they receive they wont get back to you in 21 days. They are the fastest bank.

You may have to go back and forth with the loss mitigation department at the lender to get an acceptance of a short sale. Learn about this negotiation and the importance of a fast close.

The lender will review a settlement statement, which will indicate the proposed selling price, remaining loan balances and itemize all expenses, including real estate commissions and other fees and expenses associated with the closing.

Because of the documentation required, the short sale process can be lengthy. But if done correctly, it can work well for all parties involved. The lender avoids the uncertainty of the foreclosure process, the seller avoids a foreclosure on his or her credit report (along with potential bankruptcy), and the buyer hopefully got a good deal on a property.


Approval from the sellers bank
Once you receive the lender's approval will give the parties a maximum of 30 days to get the deal closed (it is occasionally shorter)

Neither the lender nor the title company can close overnight. The title company must get the HUD-1 for approval 72 hours before the closing. This allows time to submit the file to the lender so that there are no surprises at the closing table.
These are the essential steps to a problem-free short sale. Always remember that accurate paperwork and good communication with the buyer’s agent are the two most important parts of the short sale process as long as you leave the actual facilitations to Short-Sale-Negotiations.

For an agent that has knowledge in the Short Sale process email me mail@609sold.com
For a list of homes that are available that are short sales email me mail@609sold.com
For more information about listing your home as a short sale email me mail@609sold.com

US HOME SALES UP

U.S. Home Resales Up 9.4%;

Resales Hit Highest Mark in More Than 2 Years; Median Prices Down 8.5% From Last Year

(CBS/AP) Updated at 10:19 a.m. EDT U.S. home resales rose far more than expected last month to the highest level in more than two years as buyers scrambled to complete their purchases before a tax credit for first-time owners expires. The National Association of Realtors says sales rose 9.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.57 million in September, from a downwardly revised pace of 5.1 million in August. Sales had been expected to rise to an annual pace of 5.35 million, according to economists surveyed by Thomson Reuters. The median sales price was $174,900, down 8.5 percent from a year earlier, but the smallest annual drop in 13 months. The greater-than-expected jump in resales may have been fueled by booming foreclosure sales in cities like Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas. "There's a mini-boom going on in the housing market," said Thomas Popik, of research firm Campbell Communications. First-time homebuyers and investors are snapping up those homes and taking advantage of low mortgage rates. These buyers can also take advantage of a tax credit of 10 percent of the sales price, up to $8,000, if the deal is completed by the end of November. The tax credit is so important to some buyers that they are adding a clause to their contracts, allowing them to back out if the sale doesn't close by Nov. 30. While home sales and housing construction have risen steadily after hitting bottom earlier this year, most economists believe that the worst isn't over for home values. In August, the median price was $177,700, down from the peak of $230,300 in July 2006, but still above the bottom of $164,800 in January, according to the Realtors group. Prices could see a double dip because rising unemployment is having a ripple effect on foreclosures. The jobless rate, currently at 9.8 percent is expected to rise as high as 10.5 percent next year, causing more people to be unable to afford their monthly mortgage payment. Unemployment Figures Cloud Recovery Hopes "There's more supply that's going to come into the marketplace," said Stan Humphries, chief economist at real estate Web site Zillow.com. "That additional supply will outpace demand." Some signs of softer prices may already be appearing. A government index released Thursday showed U.S. home prices dipped 0.3 percent from July to August. That drop "supports our view that the housing recovery will be slow and bumpy," wrote Paul Dales, U.S. economist with Capital Economics. With concerns about the housing market still prominent, Congress is considering several proposals to extend the tax credit for first-time buyers. Senators Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., and Christopher Dodd, D-Conn., want to extend it through June 30, and expand it to include all home buyers, at an estimated cost of $16.7 billion. One potential roadblock, however, emerged this week. There are concerns that some of the 1.5 million applications for the tax credit are fraudulent. At a hearing before a House subcommittee Thursday, J. Russell George, the Treasury Department's inspector general for taxes, questioned the legitimacy of some 100,000 claims for the credit, potentially including some illegal immigrants and 580 people under 18. The youngest taxpayers to apply for the credit were 4 years old, his office said. While the program has widespread support in Congress, there are growing concerns about the costs. The cause, said Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., "is a worthy one." But "I hope we can find ways to pay for it."

20 Under 40: Presenting the class of 2009

20 Under 40: Presenting the class of 2009

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Columbia ranks high for affordable homes - Home & Garden - The State

Columbia ranks high for affordable homes - Home & Garden - The State

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Statewide home sales drop slightly in September

Statewide home sales drop slightly in September

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Doing Good Deed for Military -- Pay it Forward

JUST READ THIS AND IT IS GREAT

SO I PUT IT ON MY BLOG

The Sack Lunches





I put my carry-on in the luggageCompartment and sat down in myAssigned seat. It was going to be aLong flight. 'I'm glad I have aGood book to read. Perhaps I will getA short nap,' I thought.Just before take-off, a line ofSoldiers came down the aisle andFilled all the vacant seats, totallySurrounding me. I decided toStart a conversation.'Where are you headed?' I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.'Petawawa. We'll be there for twoWeeks for special training, and thenWe're being deployed to AfghanistanAfter flying for about an hour, anAnnouncement was made that sackLunches were available for fiveDollars. It would be several hoursBefore we reached the east, and IQuickly decided a lunch would helpPass the time..As I reached for my wallet, IOverheard a soldier ask his buddy if hePlanned to buy lunch.'No, that seems like a lot of money for just a sack lunch. ProbablyWouldn't be worth five bucks. I'll wait till we get to base 'His friend agreed.I looked around at the otherSoldiers. None were buying lunch. IWalked to the back of the plane andHanded the flight attendant aFifty dollar bill.'Take a lunch to all those soldiers.' She grabbed my arms and squeezedTig htly. Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. 'My son was aSoldier in Iraq ; it's almost like you are doing it for him.'Picking up ten sacks, she headed upThe aisle to where the soldiersWere seated. She stopped at my seatAnd asked, 'Which do you likeBest - beef or chicken?''Chicken,' I replied, wondering whyShe asked. She turned and went toThe front of plane, returning aMinute later with a dinner plate fromFirst class. 'This is your thanks..'After we finished eating, I wentAgain to the back of the plane,Heading for the rest room.A man stopped me. 'I saw what you did. I want to be part of it.Here, take this.' He handed me twenty-five dollars.Soon after I returned to my seat, ISaw the Flight Captain coming downThe aisle, looking at the aisleNumbers as he walked, I hoped he wasNot looking for me, but noticed heWas looking at the numbers only onMy side of the plane.When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand, and said,'I want to shake your hand.'Quickly unfastening my seatbelt IStood and took the Captain's hand.With a booming voice he said, 'I wasA soldier and I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me a lunch. It was an act of kindness INever forgot..' I was embarrassedWhen applause was heard from all ofThe passengers.Later I walked to the front of thePlane so I could stretch my legs.A man who was seated about six rowsIn front of me reached out hisHand, wanting to shake mine. He leftAnother twenty-five dollars in my palm.When we landed I gathered myBelongings and started to deplane.Waiting just inside the airplane doorWas a man who stopped me, putSomething in my shirt pocket, turned,And walked away without saying aWord. Another twenty-five dollars!Upon entering the terminal, I saw theSoldiers gathering for their trip to the base. I walked over to themAnd handed them seventy-five dollars. 'It will take you some time toReach the base. It will be about time for a sandwich.God Bless You.'Ten young men left that flightFeeling the love and respect of theirFellow travelers. As I walkedBriskly to my car, I whispered a prayer for their safe return.These soldiers were giving their all for our country. I could onlyGive them a couple of meals.It seemed so little...A veteran is someone who, at onePoint in his life, wrote a blank checkMade payable to 'The United States ofAmerica ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.'That is Honor, and there are way toomany people in this country whono longer understand it.'May God give you the strength andcourage to pass this along toeveryone on your email buddy list....I JUST DID

Short Sale Lexington, SC

Last year I had clients wanting to buy a short sale home. The contract was ratified mid July and we finally heard from the bank after my clients had given up. They had waited close to 4 months. My client selling his home in a short sale has been assured by his bank that they can give an answer back to the buyers in less than 30 days. What a difference a year makes! Completed short sales in the first half of 2009 was up over 208 % over the first half of 2008. Banks are understanding that the foreclosure process does not bring a higher price than a simpler, less costly short sale.

First Time Home Buyer Lexington SC

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS..........DON'T WAIT IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE THE $8000 TAX CREDIT. THE DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 30,2009. THE HOUSE HAS TO BE CLOSED BY NOVEMBER 30. BANKS HAVE GIVEN THE ALERT THAT PROCESSING TIME WILL BE TIGHT AND AT A CERTAIN POINT THEY GIVE NO GUARANTEE THAT THE LOAN CAN BE PROCESSED AND CLOSED BY DEADLINE

Economic Factors 2009

One of the most common economic fact is that all markets ( real estate, gold, stocks) have cycles. Real Estate value is down but based on historic data, it will increase. Real Estate is still one of the best long term investments. If you want to invest wisely and at the same purchase your own home the time is now.

October 2009 Sales

The October 2009 Edition of the Quick Report, gave stats showing that the lower price homes sales are up. Prices up to 100K are up by 38.8%. The price range of 100K to 250K sales are up by 8.7%. That is the good news but for homes in the 250K and higher range sales are down. The percentage of decline gets higher as the price range gets higher. The rebound has only affected the lower price homes. Sellers in the upper price ranges need to be aware that the rebound for them has not arrived, but hopefully is around the corner.

In my recent blog post on short sales, I mentioned educating yourself on the process. The process changes everyday. Most agents see short sales as a nuisance but I see it as an opportunity to become a specialist in a growing area of real estate. I read in the October 2009 Keeping Current Matters, Quick Report a quote by Albert Einstein that made me think of my short sale learning experience. " If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." Edwin Gerace will understand short sales well enough to explain it simply to buyers and sellers! Thanks Albert Einstein for helping me define my goal in short sale training!

Two industry leaders partner together, Lexington SC

Lexington School District 1 and Russell and Jeffcoat Realtors Partnered together to provide benifits to all employees at the District.

Columbia, SC: Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors and The Real Estate Advantage Program have partnered with Lexington School District 1 to offer an affinity program. This affinity program offers all employees of Lexington School District 1 an opportunity to earn money back when buying or selling a home. In addition to the program, employees are made aware of the federal grant monies that are available when purchasing a home.

After beginning to offer the Real Estate Advantage Program, two teachers from Lexington 1 enrolled in the program and received their cash rebate at the closing on their new home.

This program is available to all employees of Lexington 1 and their immediate family. For more information call Edwin Gerace 803-609-7653.

Lynwood L. Duke
Director of Career Development/Public Relations
1022 Calhoun Street
Columbia, SC 29201

FUND RAISER FOR ELEMENTRY SCHOOL CHILD

Save the Date - November 12th, Spaghetti dinner and Silent Auction at Pleasant Hill Elementary. Tickets are $5 per person. All proceeds will benefit a wonderful fourth grade boy who just found out that he has cancer. Stage 4, with 5 tumors in his l...ungs. His family needs as much help as possible, so please mark your calendars to attend. If you would like tickets, PLEASE CONTACT THE SCHOOL. More info to follow

Just listed: 141 Chesterton Dr, Lexington, SC 29072 for $158,500

Just listed: 141 Chesterton Dr, Lexington, SC 29072 for $158,500

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America we need a Wake Up Call for Judgement

Wake Up America !!!!

This is not a political stand this is a CALL to ACTION.

I want everyone to realize or make people aware that over the last 60 days some of the wost judgement calls happened in our country. These people are leaders and role models, and look at them NOW.

1) Gov Mark Stanford, Poor judgement with respect to his wife and state.

2) Serena Williams, Poor judgement in talking to fellow humans.

3) Joe Wilson, Poor execution of professionalism and control

4) Kanye West, Poor respect to a fellow professional

5) I am sure the list goes on.

This POST is not to beat up a person or a group, this is strictly to ask everyone around the country to think before acting. My mother told me if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all.........

Our country needs people, leaders,celebrities,politicians to help our country right now. If there is a time, it is now for us to think about others and how to build them up.

TIP OF THE DAY
If you have not seen the movie " Pay it Forward", DO IT. visit http://www.payitforwardmovement.org/ or go see the movie.

Have a great day.

Edwin Gerace

http://www.edwingerace.com/

FREE Home Buyer Seminar

PRESS RELEASE
Community Service Information Summit
Columbia, SC
Ph. (803) 957-5566 Fax (803) 957-4759

For Immediate Release

For More Information, contact Edwin Gerace, 803-609-7653






Free Home Buyer Seminar in a Location near you.
Learn about the Home Buying Process
Learn about the Mortgage Process


Columbia, SC - August 15, 2009 - This FREE homebuyer seminar will focus on 3 areas of the Home Buying Process. First step is Home Buying. The second step the mortgage process, and the potential FREE GRANT MONEY. Step 3 would be the closing process in buying home. The seminar will host professionals in the home buying process to offer FREE information about the home buying process. There will be professionals in those areas to answer questions about those areas. There will be information about the $8,000 Tax Credit, who qualifies and who is eligible for the credit. TIME IS RUNNING OUT ON THE TAX CREDIT
Free Home Buyer Seminar will be offered in Lexington, West Columbia, Columbia, and Irmo. This is an informational FREE seminar about the home buying process. The seminar will be available for groups, civic organizations and others on request. The schedules for the following seminars are as follows:
September 21, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Edwin Gerace for details 803-957-5566
September 28, Irmo Library 6:30pm-8:00pm, Call Jeff Riley for details 803-467-6440
September 29, Elgin Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Craig Connelly for details 803-957-5566
October 5, Lexington Library 6:00pm-7:30pm Call Edwin Gerace for details 803-957-5566

This seminar is FREE but RSVP is suggested due to the demand.
Follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/freehomeseminar
Follow us on FaceBook Home Buyers Seminar
For more information contact Edwin Gerace at 803-609-7653

#####

Straight Talk with Edwin Gerace

Let us look at the big picture that the economy we are in is not in the shape it was in 2008. Does that mean 100% doom and gloom? No, what that means is opportunity. The federal government and local governments are looking for ways to stimulate the economy with housing being the vehicle. Right, wrong or indifferent about your political views or opinions, things are happening.

Recently in housing, some great opportunities were available to many home buyers. Many of these opportunities were time sensitive and did not have unlimited amount of funds. Were they there, yes they were. Did many people take advantage? Yes, they did and many missed the chance.

Example of missed opportunity. I do A FREE HOME BUYER SEMINAR 2-3 times a month at Lexington County Library. I explained the home buying process and the steps involved. Then I have a mortgage professional explain mortgages and the process in buying a home. A local attorney explained the closing process. At the conclusion, we explained how a home buyer that qualifies could receive up to $30,000 in FREE GRANTS AND OTHER SOURCES ( Rural Housing, Lexington County Grant, and Tax Credit) on a $100,000 home. That is 30% pure equity for buying a home now vs. waiting.

As of today (August 26, 2009) that $30,000 is down to $18,000. On December 1st that amount goes down to $10,000. I cannot predict the future of the remaining or if other sources will appear. What I can tell you is that in July, you could have received $30,000 and in December, you can only get $10,000. In an economy where money matters, I would think some people were concerned about a $20,000 loss.

What I am trying to say is, call you local real estate professional, and call your local mortgage professional and say, do I qualify for grants and local funds? If they say they do not know, you need to talk to someone else!!!!!

Lexington Home Buyer Seminar is Free and time is running out on the $8,000 Tax Credit. http://ow.ly/kbVC LexingtonSC

Great Article about the economy in 1951 and how it mirrors 2009 in some ways LakeMurraySC LexingtonSC Time http://ow.ly/ksKw

Free Home Buyer Seminar http://ow.ly/kbVj LexingtonSC

Negotiating Tips for Buyers and Sellers

NEGOTIATING TIPS

FOR BUYER AND SELLERS

Rule #1:
Do not go back and forth between the Buyer and Seller more than 2 times in negotiating. The 1st round is about the home and getting it sold or bought. The 2nd round it is about money. The 3rd round it becomes about who wins and becomes personal. The end result becomes lost in the negotiating.

Rule #2:
Buyers and sellers must not dislike each other. You must make sure that the agents and the buyers and sellers don't talk about each other. Focus on the putting the deal together.

Rule #3:
Stay focused on the goal of completing the sale. Keep emotions, personality, and personalities away from the transaction. Stay relaxed, cool, calm and collected. Don't let the negotiations and concessions interrupt the goal of the transaction.

Rule #4:
People believe what is in writing. Everything that is negotiated or discussed be put in writing so that there will be no uncertainties. Verbal uncertainties can not be upheld in any court. When things are put in writing make sure they are written with zero grey area, because "Error falls on the Scribner".

Rule #5: When you negotiate concessions make it a two street. If you want something, give something in return. This goes back to Rule #3 and #5. Negotiating can be sometimes considered a team sport. When both sides do some give and take, it makes the negotiating more successful.

Rule #6:
Never respond to negotiating or offers to quickly. This can come off as eager, and anxious. Make all decisions and negotiating done in the time frame of the contract but don't make it seem that is was not cut and dry and simple. Eagerness can make you look weak.

Rule #7:
Never brag or gloat about the terms in the contract or disclose material facts to anyone prior to the closing. This can hinder future negotiating of concessions. Clients are less likely to work with others when they think they received the short end of the deal.

Rule #8:
When you work on a contract and hit a bump in the road or a wall, stop and work the other terms of the contract. You can not try to fix multiple issues at same time. Negotiate through the entire contract and then come back to the bump and focus on one singular issue. It is easier to solve one task at a time.

Rule #9:
Do not loose trust with the buyers,sellers and the agents. Trust can carry allot of weight. When trust is lost, buyers and sellers second guess all negotiating and concessions.


Rule #10:
Never disclose that you have any time pressure. This is a sign of weakness. Work the transaction as if time is not an issue. If you use time as part of negotiations, you say to the other person that you will do what ever needed to get it done in the time frame that you need.


All these rules work don't work all the time. Some of the rules work all the time.

These are not set in stone, but have worked in the past over the last 10 years in the Real Estate Business. For more information contact Edwin Gerace mail@609sold.com or http://www.edwingerace.com/ or follow him on twitter at www.twitter.com/edwingerace