http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/ Lakewood Ranch Real Estate Blog en hourly 1 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/270/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/270/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 10 Mar 2012 09:00:46 -0700 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/270/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate markets: • Loans that were seriously delinquent or going into foreclosure declined to the lowest quarterly share since the start of 2009, according to the latest Mortgage Bankers Association Mortgage Delinquency Survey. • In January, existing home sales were at their highest since May 2010, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. • Job gains have exceeded expectations for the past three months. • In January, the unemployment rate fell to its lowest since 2009. In December, jobless claims were at their lowest level since 2008. • Applications for weekly unemployment benefits decreased for the third consecutive week, to 348,000; the fewest since the first week of March 2008. • Home builder confidence continues to grow. • Households are paying off their debts and accessing credit more easily. • Historically low mortgage rates continue. According to Freddie Mac, the national average rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage was a record low 3.92 percent in January. Please join us in celebrating these positive trends! Thinking of buying or selling Lakewood Ranch real estate? Please call your Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at alan@lakewoodranchareahomes.com to talk about how we can help you take advantage of the upcoming spring and summer selling season. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201. Links: U.S. Economic and Housing Market Outlook http://www.freddiemac.com/news/finance/ Mortgage Bankers Association http://www.mortgagebankers.org/NewsandMedia/PressCenter/79827.htm Unemployment rate fell to the lowest since 2009 http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/04/business/economy/us-economy-added-243000-jobs-in-january-unemployment-rate-is-8-3.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/270 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/267/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/267/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:29:55 -0700 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/267/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate surprisingly special. As a seller, you constantly hear tips about de-cluttering and depersonalizing a home that’s on the market. However, when you’re taking pictures to post online, be sure you capture the details you love most about your home, because buyers are likely to love them too. Below are a few photography tips to get you started: • Capture the heart of your home. Ensure that you get pictures of all the living spaces, from the kitchen and living room to the backyard. Any place that a family will spend most of its time together should be highlighted. • Make sure you have good lighting. Photograph on a day when there is a lot of natural light coming through the windows. Also be sure to turn on all inside lights and lamps — this gives your home that cheery, glowing feeling. • Highlight your home’s best features. Be sure to showcase each of those unique features in the photos of your home. You might be surprised at what catches the eye of a potential buyer. • Double-check your online upload. Take care to verify the online uploading of your photographs. Carefully read website parameters for picture size and captioning. This will probably be many potential buyers’ first impression of your home, so you definitely want to make it a good one! Don’t just quickly snap pictures using your phone. Be sure to employ a little love and effort when capturing your Lakewood Ranch real estate. Then you’ll highlight its best features and pass on that heartwarming image to potential buyers. If you’re looking for a Lakewood Ranch real estate agent who will photograph your home to show off its best features and market it extensively online and off, please call Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at alan@lakewoodranchareahomes.com . REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34201.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/267 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/264/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/264/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:14:34 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/264/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home, here are five tips to help you make the transition: 1. Start early: Downsizing to a smaller home is much less stressful if you have plenty of time to sort through your belongings to figure out what you’re getting rid of and what you’re keeping. Plan to do this at least a month before you put your home up for sale. (Bonus benefit: it makes your house less cluttered and more desirable to buyers.) 2. Evaluate your needs: Take an honest look at your lifestyle and what you truly enjoy. Are you really going to learn to play that piano? If you haven’t used it or thought about it in over a year, the answer is probably no. Advertise it in your local newspaper and sell it! With anything you’re having a hard time letting go of, put it in storage for six months. If you don’t think about it during that time, give it away or sell it. 3. Measure the rooms in your new Lakewood Ranch home: Measure the rooms in your new home as well as the furniture you want to take with you. Then, create a floor plan of your new home, including the location of doors and windows and where you can place each piece of furniture. You know what to do with any furniture that doesn’t fit. 4. Assess the storage in your new home: While you’re getting room measurements, make sure to evaluate the storage situation in your new home. Will you have fewer kitchen cabinets? How many closets will you have? To make up for lost space, search for hidden storage options and consider investing in inexpensive storage systems. 5. Relax and enjoy: You no longer have to worry about the financial burden or time-draining tasks of maintaining a big home. If you need help selling your current home or finding a smaller Lakewood Ranch home to buy, give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or email us at ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes.com. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Pkwy, Sarasota, Fl 34201. Links: Create a floor plan http://www.bhg.com/decorating/arrange-a-room/ Hidden storage http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/great-storage-ideas]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/264 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/262/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/262/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:20:34 -0700 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/262/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch homes, you have to get buyers to want them. So, what do they want? Based on the data just in from the 2011 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, here are what buyers want in a neighborhood in order of importance: 1. 67 percent favor a quality neighborhood 2. 49 percent of buyers said they want convenience to jobs 3. 45 percent look at the overall affordability of homes in the neighborhood 4. 39 percent prefer to live close to family and friends 5. 28 percent of buyers are interested in having shopping close by 6. 27 percent want a quality school district 7. 22 percent ask for a neighborhood that is convenient to schools 8. 21 percent like to live close to entertainment or leisure activities Assess your neighborhood. Which of the attributes most desired by buyers does your neighborhood have? Showcase those features in the marketing materials for your home: • Mention the schools, shopping, entertainment and leisure activities that are close to your home. • Give statistics on the quality of your school district.  Need help marketing your home? We specialize in selling Lakewood Ranch homes. If you’re ready to sell your home, let us market your home. Please give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or email us at ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes for more information. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Pkwy, Sarasota, Fl 34201. Links: Quality neighborhood http://www.good.is/post/you-are-where-you-live-what-makes-a-perfect-neighborhood/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/262 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/257/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/257/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:55:11 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/257/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home. You’ll want to get a permit if one’s needed; otherwise you might be required to undo your hard work and the repercussions could be severe when you eventually try to sell. They’re not out to get you — they just want to ensure everything is up to code with the latest safety and security standards. • Seek advice from a real estate agent. Before you invest any money in your property, ask a real estate agent to come over and give you advice on which renovations get the best return. Also, the real estate agent will be able to provide you with tips on trends, buyer’s wants and new features you might not have heard about. Don’t rush right into the renovation. Do your research, make plans and talk to experts who’ve had years of experience.  If you need help deciding how to renovate your Lakewood Ranch home, call Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201. Links: If You Are Looking For A Home Use Our Website http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/property-search Which renovations get the best return http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/home-improvements-that-boost-your-chances-1.aspx]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/257 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/254/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/254/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:39:39 -0700 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/254/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home is both easier and harder these days. Yes, it’s a buyer’s market, which implies that prices are lower, but there are a few things to do to before buying your home. Purchasing a home is a lot easier when you know how to be a savvy home buyer. Follow these five tips to get the Lakewood Ranch home of your dreams with less hassle and at a great price: 1. List your home before looking for another home. Contracts contingent on selling your existing home complicate the buying process and reduce your chance of getting a great bargain. Sellers are often unwilling to give any concessions if they have to wait for you to sell your home. 2. Get pre-approved for a loan.  Sellers prefer to negotiate with buyers who are pre-approved for a loan large enough to purchase their home.  The pre-approval may save you money because you’ll have more leverage to negotiate a lower price.  Additionally, you’ll save time by looking exclusively at homes within your price range. 3. Ignore easy-to-change design issues. If the shag carpeting isn’t your style, you can easily change it after purchasing the home. Don’t like wallpaper? Remove it after you own the home. Envision what the home can look like with your personal touch. 4. Get a professional home inspection. Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make, so be sure the structure is in good condition. During a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes a thorough, unbiased look at the property. 5. Make a serious offer. Listen to the price guidance your real estate agent provides and make an offer that won’t offend the seller. Most sellers expect an offer lower than the asking price, but they don’t want to feel insulted. You’ll get much closer to what you want to pay for the house if you treat the seller like you want to be treated – with respect and courtesy. If you’re ready to buy a Lakewood Ranch home, let Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 help you buy your home at the best price and with as little hassle as possible.  Give us a call today or email us at ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes.com to get started. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/254 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/251/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/251/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:49:24 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/251/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch homes. It's easy for us to get caught up in the hustle-bustle of real estate transactions, and we forget to slow down to appreciate the pleasures of owning a home. So today, we want to take a moment to reflect on the home aspect of real estate. Our job (one we love) is to help people just like you find a house that suits their lives.  Once you move in, you make that house into a home.  Holiday Traditions Your Lakewood Ranch home is where you and your loved ones celebrate holidays and where you create and continue family traditions. Whether you deck the halls with layers of tinsel and wreaths or have the whole family over to spin Hanukkah dreidels, the spirit of the season comes from the energy of the people gathering together in your home.  Season of Family Warmth While you're making your famous sugar cookies or spiking your secret-recipe punch with extra holiday cheer, pause for a moment to enjoy the warmth and beauty of your Lakewood Ranch home. Our wish for you is that you live every day like it’s a holiday, being thankful and spending time with loved ones. Happy Holidays! May your home be filled with the joy of family and friends this holiday season. There's truly no place like home for the holidays! Ellen Ferber Evans and Alan Evans Realtors, Lakewood Ranch Area Homes and REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34202 Links: Holiday traditions http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/10-new-holiday-traditions-710162/ Sugar cookies http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/easy-sugar-cookies/detail.aspx]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/251 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/248/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/248/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:46:35 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/248/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate agent to help you buy a home? Here are four surprising and not-so-surprising reasons why hiring a Lakewood Ranch real estate agent will save you time and money when buying a home: 1. Paperwork - Today's real estate contracts run more than 10 pages, and will take you hours to read, comprehend, process and file. Experienced agents handle the paperwork and legal issues for you, minimizing your hassles, headaches and anxiety. 2. House Hunting – It’s a jungle out there! Navigating through the short sales, foreclosures and thousands of homes for sale can be overwhelming.  Your agent can streamline that process for you by sorting through many homes and finding the gem that meets all your needs and fits your budget. 3. Goal Achievement – When you have an expert working on your team and looking out for your best interests, you won’t have to settle for less. A professional agent is by your side every step of the way, helping you achieve your goal. 4. Price Advice – Your agent can help you determine if a property you’re interested in is worth the asking price. She or he will also negotiate the price and terms for you, to get you the best deal possible.  Experienced agents have honed their negotiating skills through years of practice in many types of real estate markets and with a wide variety of personalities. Want to hire a professional, skilled and experienced Lakewood Ranch real estate agent?  Give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or email us at ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes.com to learn more about how we can help you achieve all your real estate goals. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/248 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/243/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/243/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 27 Nov 2011 16:48:06 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/243/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> search for Lakewood Ranch homes online, but what about searching for a neighborhood?  Although you can’t search each and every neighborhood, you can research almost any county or city online.  This gives you a pretty good idea of what the area has to offer in the way of schools, shopping and safety. • Hire a Realtor®.  While you’re searching online, your realtor can search the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for you.  She or he can email newly listed properties to you daily. • Share as much information with your agent as you can.  The more you research the area, the more information you are going to have to give to your agent.  Talk with your agent and let her or him know what you have found and any areas that you may have decided against.  This will save you and your agent time. • Visit to get a personal impression.  If at all possible, after you’ve narrowed the properties down to the top two or three, personally visit them.  While you can buy a house sight unseen, it's best to make at least one trip to get a feel for which home most appeals to you. For more information on long distance home buying or other tips to make your search for Lakewood Ranch homes easier, give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or send an email to ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes.com or alan@lakewoodranchareahomes.com. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201    Search for Lakewood Ranch homes online at http:////www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/property-search. Link to the property search on this website]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/243 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/239/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/239/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:27:28 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/239/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch, but you’re not sure whether it’s best to build a new one or buy an existing home.  The first thing you should do is identify your priorities.  Do you dream of a customized house built from the ground up or living in a house already built in an established neighborhood? Before you make up your mind or put in an offer, take the time to prioritize the following: • Location - Can you find a lot to build on in your desired location? If not, are you willing to consider a different area if it means you’ll get a house tailored to your specifications? If you’re extremely location focused, you might have to give up the idea of building your perfect house and concentrate on available homes in the area. • Timeline - How flexible is your timeline? If you absolutely need to be moved into your new home in Lakewood Ranch on a certain date, don’t even think about building. Building a house sometimes extends past the estimated completion date. If your timeline isn’t flexible, it might be time to start looking at existing homes. • Renovation - Are you willing to renovate an existing house? With property values lower than the cost of new, custom construction, renovating an older house may get you a lot more bang for your buck. However, do your homework first to find out exactly what needs to be done and at what price because renovation costs can skyrocket if you run into unexpected problems. • Communication - Do you have the time to monitor the construction process?   You’ll need time to drop by the building site on a regular basis to make sure everything is going according to your plan. • Resale Value - Are you likely to re-sell your new property in the relatively near future? If so, you might be better off buying an existing house. In new construction neighborhoods, most potential buyers will be thinking about building instead of buying. Ultimately, you can get a lot of satisfaction from either choice — just make sure you know what you want to do. If you need help deciding whether to build or buy your new home in Lakewood Ranch, call Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans  at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906. You can email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201. Links: Timeline http://www.repair-home.com/resources/home-building-timeline.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/239 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/236/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/236/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:13:49 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/236/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate agent.  Thanksgiving is a holiday of gratitude, and yet too few of us remember that, when we're stuck in traffic going over the river and through the woods to grandma's house for her famous pumpkin pie.  So today, we would like to say again, thank you.   Thank you for contributing to this community, online and in the real world, by asking questions, adding your insights, and trusting us with your housing dreams.    If we've worked together in the past, please know that we are sincerely grateful for your business. We hope the experience of working together led you to your perfect home and fulfilled your real estate goals. If you are new to this site and just beginning to investigate the sometimes confusing world of real estate, we would like to thank you for stopping by.  We hope that we will have an opportunity to work together.   One of our favorite things about working as a Lakewood Ranch real estate agent is that we learn so much about the lives of our clients. They let us inside their homes and tell us about their best visions for the future. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your life. Thank you for your trust.   We want you to know that we are honored by it, and take it seriously. As Lakewood Ranch real estate agents, we take pride in helping you find the perfect solution for your needs. We love hearing your stories as you embark on new chapters, and addresses, in your life.   During the warmth of this holiday season, we hope you and yours are safe and secure in a community that you love. And we hope your turkey emerges from the oven golden brown and delicious! REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201. Links: Thanksgiving http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving Turkey http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/holidays-and-events/thanksgiving/turkey/main.aspx]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/236 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/233/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/233/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 06 Nov 2011 13:43:19 -0700 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/233/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> real estate investment: 1. Determine if your area has a strong rental market. See what kind of homes are for rent and track how long they remain vacant. If the same properties are listed week after week, it might not be the best area to purchase a rental. 2. Keep an eye on the local Classifieds. Track how many rentals are available at any given time, and get an idea of the size of houses most commonly listed. 3. Make sure your potential rental property is located near amenities that are of interest to renters. For example, supermarkets and schools. 4. Find a house that’s in good shape. Would you live there? If not, either move on to a different property or immediately fix it up. Owning a rental home can be a great investment. Do your homework, and purchase a home people will be clamoring to rent — not one that continues to sit vacant. If you have questions about purchasing real estate as income property, please call Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/233 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/231/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/231/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 29 Oct 2011 15:32:40 -0600 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/231/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home, getting a home inspection is one of the most important steps you can take toward a successful real estate transaction. In order to get a thorough home inspection, you need to hire an experienced, professional inspector. Here five things to ask before hiring a Lakewood Ranch home inspector: 1. Are you certified? The oldest and largest organization of home inspectors is the American Society of Home Inspectors. Another noteworthy organization is the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Both these groups provide training and certification. If a home inspector is certified by either of these organizations, you know you’re getting a qualified inspector. 2. May I see a sample report? Ask the inspector to send you a sample inspection report. If you receive a report that is 4 or 5 pages long, keep looking. This is not the inspector for you. A typical inspection report is 20 to 50 pages long and often includes color photos. 3. How long will the inspection take? You don't want someone who will be in and out in 90 minutes. A thorough inspection should take 2 hours or more depending on the size of the house. You want to make sure that the inspector takes the time to go through everything completely. 4. What’s included in the inspection? Home inspections vary widely. Make sure everything you want to have inspected is covered including major items like the roof, heating and cooling systems, foundation, plumbing and wiring. 5. What are your re-inspection fees? If the inspection turns up a problem that the seller is willing to fix, ask if there is a fee to re-inspect the home after the repairs have been finished. Many inspectors will come back to check the repairs without charging you, but ask. A home inspection is not fool-proof. But, by asking your home inspector these five questions, you greatly reduce the likelihood of hiring an inspector who might overlook expensive or even dangerous defects. If you are ready to sell or buy, give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201. Links: American Society of Home Inspectors http://www.ashi.org International Association of Certified Home Inspectors http://www.nachi.org/ Home inspections http://www.altasup.com/What's-Included-in-a-Home-Inspection-.php]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/231 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/229/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/229/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:22:13 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/229/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate. You want to do all the right things to get the best deal, and you know one of the first steps is to line up your financing. To help you choose a mortgage that matches your goals and financial situation, here’s an overview of three of the most popular mortgages available today. Fixed Rate Mortgage If you plan on keeping your new Lakewood Ranch real estate for more than 10 years and you don’t expect your income to change, this is probably the loan for you. Although fixed rate loans charge a bit more interest, the rate will never change. This provides financial stability and the security of knowing what your monthly mortgage payment will be. By locking in the current low interest rates, you’ll save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage) With the ARM loan, the interest rate is usually very low at the beginning but can increase over time. If you plan on keeping your Lakewood Ranch real estate for only a few years (up to 7) or you expect your income to increase, then this might be a better choice for you. If you expect your income to increase, an ARM loan can allow you to buy a more expensive home now. The drawback to this type of loan is that you do not know what your mortgage payment is going to be in the future; if the interest rate jumps dramatically, then so does your payment. A particularly popular ARM is the 5/1 ARM. The interest rate of a 5/1 ARM is fixed for a period of 5 years. In the 6th year, the loan becomes a typical Adjustable Rate Mortgage. So if you plan to own your home for less than 5 years, the 5/1 ARM may be your best choice. FHA Mortgage An FHA loan may be a good fit for you. The qualifying criteria for FHA loans are not as strict as for traditional mortgages. Also, because these loans are guaranteed by the FHA, lenders often allow you to provide a smaller down payment than they would allow for other types of mortgages. If you’re in a time crunch, an FHA loan may not be right for you; processing times are typically longer than other types of loans because of the government paperwork involved. If you have any questions about mortgages or need a referral to a lender, call Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today or e-mail us at ellen@lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Fixed Rate Mortgage http://www.freddiemac.com/corporate/buyown/english/mortgages/what_is/fixed_rate.html ARM loan http://homeloans.bankofamerica.com/en/home-loan-options/buy/5-1-adjustable-rate-mortgage.html FHA loan http://www.hud.gov/buying/loans.cfm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/229 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/225/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/225/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 13:16:20 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/225/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home you’ve always wanted. If you’ve absolutely found your dream house, you should consider buying it now — even if your current house hasn’t sold. You might regret it later if you let the opportunity pass you by. Just make sure the house is truly worth it. • It’s too good of a deal to pass up. If you’ve researched the comparables and you know the home you want to buy is a great deal, then you should consider going ahead with the purchase. Waiting to sell might cost you more in the long run if you lose out on this bargain. • There’s more demand than supply. In a seller’s market (not right now in most places), you won’t need to worry about selling your property. • You have the money. Check with your real estate agent to find out how long it’s taking to sell homes comparable to yours these days. Then, do the math to determine if you have enough in savings to make the down payment on your new home and pay the mortgages of both homes while you’re waiting for your current home to sell. Sell first if … • You want to get the most money for your home. If you’re not in any hurry, you’ll be less tempted to take a lower offer. You also have negotiating power. It’s hard to hold firm on a price, if you’re carrying two mortgages. • You can handle moving twice. If you sell your home first, you can always live in a short-term rental until you find your new place. • You don’t want to be stressed about selling. The idea of carrying a second mortgage could be very stressful to many people. Give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com, if you need help deciding the right timing to sell or buy a Lakewood Ranch home. REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/225 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/221/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/221/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:53:52 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/221/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> they’re an expert, so relax and take their recommendations. 3. Have it your way. Make decisions based on your needs and desires, not those of your parents or friends. 4. Get early mortgage approval. The best time to shop for your mortgage is before you start shopping for a house. Get approved for your mortgage, and then start your house search. 5. Know when to give in. Are you really going to let that $500 the sellers refuse to give up keep you from owning the home you want? Successful negotiation depends on both parties doing some give and take. 6. Focus on the positive. It’s unlikely that you’ll ever find a home that meets all your needs, wants and desires. Focus on the positive aspects of the home you’ve chosen such as location, comfort and safety; don’t worry about the minor negatives that can easily be changed such as the lime green wallpaper or the shag carpet. 7. Expect buyer’s remorse. After making any big purchase, a little buyer’s remorse is bound to happen. Remind yourself of all the things you like about your new Lakewood Ranch home, and the buyer’s remorse will pass. If you’re in the market for a new Lakewood Ranch home, we can help you accomplish your real estate goals while keeping stress to a minimum. Give Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. REMAX Alliance Group,5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34201. Links: Mortgage approval http://www.bankrate.com/brm/news/mtg/20080710-mortgage-requirements-a1.asp Focus on the positive http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/4-simple-ways-to-focus-on-the-positive/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/221 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/211/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/211/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:01:24 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/211/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Hire a full-time Lakewood Ranch real estate agent. Part-time agents typically have less experience and fewer sold properties under their belts than full-time agents. Because part-time agents usually have another job, they don’t have as much time to take care of your needs and market and show your home to potential buyers. Full-time agents have bigger networks they can enlist to help find a buyer for your home. 2. Find a skilled negotiator. A seasoned Lakewood Ranch real estate agent understands the psychological nature of selling a home. They advise you during the contract negotiations to ensure that you get the best deal while alleviating your stress. 3. Pick an aggressive marketer. Without a well-implemented, far-reaching marketing program, your house will sit on the market these days. You want an agent who promotes your home both online and offline, in order to reach the greatest number of potential buyers. Simply having your home listed on Realtor.com is no longer enough of an online presence. You want your home showcased on multiple websites with a lot of professional photos and, ideally, a video tour. 4. Choose an agent who knows your neighborhood. Each neighborhood is unique. An effective agent knows your neighborhood and how to price your property. They know the local competition, which homes have closed recently similar to yours and how much they’ve sold for. 5. Ask about home staging services. If you want to sell your home for the most money in the least amount of time consider staging your home.  Choosing a powerful listing agent is your first step toward a successful home sale. If you would like to work with an agent who is a skilled negotiator, an aggressive marketer and works full time, give Lakewood Ranch Realtor® Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com or visit our website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com REMAX Alliance Group, 5411 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida  34201]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/211 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/189/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/189/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:38:51 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/189/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch homes for sale before often think selling is as simple as hiring an agent and putting a sign in the yard. It’s not, however, as you’ll soon discover. The Inside of Your Home The exterior of Lakewood Ranch homes for sale is te first up-close impression buyers get. So, when buyers make it inside, they’re one step closer to actually buying. However, if the interior is a mess, it could blow the whole deal. Here’s a checklist to make your home’s interior buyer ready:

1. Make sure the front door doesn’t stick
2. Test windows to ensure they open and close easily
3. Wash windows inside and out
4. Move pets and pet supplies to a temporary home if possible
5. Fix leaky faucets
6. Update fixtures on your cabinet hardware and door knobs
7. De-clutter closets and cabinets (yes, people open them!)
8. Replace or repair cabinet doors
9. Clean grout
10. Wash the walls if not repainting
11. Repair cracks or holes in the wall
12. Paint walls a neutral color
13. Remove personal items, such as knick-knacks and personal mementos
14. Clean the fireplace
15. Have the chimney professionally cleaned
16. Remove clutter from countertops, tables and shelves
17. Steam clean the carpets
18. Scrub all appliances
19. Clean cobwebs and dead bugs from light fixtures and ceiling fans
20. Make sure every light has a working bulb
21. Degrease the stove and oven
22. De-clutter and clean the garage
23. Remove excess furniture
24. Rearrange remaining furniture in good proportion (Or hire a home stager)
25. Clean the drapes
26. Replace broken panels for electrical switches and outlets
27. Wipe down baseboards

While each home is unique, this list is a good start for any home. If you’re ready to sell your home, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/189 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/183/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/183/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 01 Jul 2011 06:41:35 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/183/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate. In this article, you’ll get information on some of the broader issues that you should be aware of when moving into a community governed by an HOA. What is a Homeowner's Association? It is a corporation formed by real estate developers to market, manage and sell homes and lots within a development. Does the real estate developer retain control of the HOA forever? No. After a predetermined number of homes or lots are sold, the control is turned over, first, to a group of homeowners. Later in the process, elections are held once a year within the development to choose board members. Can anyone be a board member? As long as you’re a property owner in the development governed by the HOA, you can campaign for the position. Elections are held once a year. It is not a paid position; board members volunteer their time. What is the primary function of the HOA? The primary function of an HOA is to maintain the rules and restrictions that were put in place by the developers and to maintain the community’s common areas. Common areas include streets, parking lots, parks or green areas, pools and buildings used by the owners like a clubhouse or fitness center. If your Lakewood Ranch real estate is an attached condo unit, this would include the exterior of your unit as well. Can I elect not to join the HOA? No, HOA membership is written into the covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) when the development is formed. No matter how many times the property changes ownership, the HOA requirements remain with it. You’re also required to pay HOA fees, which are used to maintain the common areas. If you do not stay current on the fees, the HOA can put an assessment lien on your real estate. Before buying into a development with an HOA, read and understand the CC&Rs. Also, take the time to talk with some of the other homeowners in the development to find out how they feel about their HOA. If you’re interested in buying Lakewood Ranch real estate, we can help. Please give Lakewood Ranch Realtor Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ Association http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-homeowners-association.htm Covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) http://real-estate.lawyers.com/homeowners-association-law/CCandRs-and-other-Homeowners-Association-Documents.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/183 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/181/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/181/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:40:35 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/181/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Don’t put down their home. By pointing out everything that is wrong with a house, you could force the sellers to take less money, but this strategy rarely works. You’re more likely to anger the seller to the point that they won’t continue negotiations. That doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate for the best deal possible, but be careful not to shoot yourself in the foot. • Don’t present an absurdly low offer. In today’s market, there’s often room to negotiate on Lakewood Ranch real estate, but offering something too low will often insult the seller. You’re better off coming in with what you think is a fair or a slightly low offer — and negotiating from there. • Don’t put off getting a pre-approved loan. There’s nothing that will frustrate a seller more than going through the purchasing process only to find out you can’t get financing. With your pre-approval, you’ll know exactly how much you can afford so you won’t waste your time or the seller’s time. • Don’t renegotiate at the end. Never offer over what you want to pay and then attempt to ask for a massive price reduction to fix every minor repair. Of course, if a major repair needs to be completed, you can certainly expect that to be reflected in the price. Just don’t attempt to lure the seller in with a price you know you’re unwilling to pay. If you’d like to work with a real estate agent who can help you stay cool while purchasing Lakewood Ranch real estate this summer, call your Lakewood Ranch Realtors Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Keyword/Tag: Lakewood Ranch real estate Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/181 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/179/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/179/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 06:39:46 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/179/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch homes. So, what do we do to brighten those dark rooms? Increase Natural Light If a room has one large window, make the most of this natural light by placing a mirror opposite that window. The mirror will scatter and reflect the ambient daylight throughout the room. Add Artificial Light Another great way to lighten window-challenged rooms in your home is to add artificial ambient lighting. Ambient lighting, whether natural or artificial, sets the tone and mood of each room. Here are several ways to add artificial ambient light to your rooms: · Recessed fixtures: Recessed fixtures throw light downward in a cone shape, so place them in an evenly spaced grid pattern. This allows pools of light to overlap and provide consistent lighting. · Chandeliers: A chandelier can overpower a room if it’s too big or seem out of proportion if it’s too small. To calculate the best size chandelier for your room, measure the width of the room in feet. Double that number to get the diameter of the ideal chandelier in inches. For example, a room that’s 10 feet wide should have a chandelier no wider than 20 inches in diameter. · Surface-mounted fixtures: Unlike recessed fixtures, surface-mounted fixtures do not disappear into the ceiling or wall. If you want to achieve a unified look, match the color of the surface-mounted light with the color of the ceiling or wall. Surface-mounted lights come in a wide range of styles. They can be very functional fluorescent types with white diffusing plastic covers or decorative crystal designs that add sparkle and drama to the foyers and hallways. The best ambient lighting is subtle lighting that comes from all directions and softens the look of your room, making it more livable. Looking for a Lakewood Ranch home with a lot of windows or well-placed ambient lighting? We can help. Call Lakewood Ranch Realtor Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/PropertySearch l Lighting http://www.ehow.com/ambient-lighting/ Evenly spaced grid pattern http://www.ehow.com/how_6071746_decorate-lighting-spacing-between-fixtures.html Best size chandelier http://interiordec.about.com/cs/homelighting/qt/qt_chandelier_s.htm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/179 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/177/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/177/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 21 Jun 2011 06:38:52 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/177/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Here are a few tips to help you negotiate the best deal when buying your next Lakewood Ranch home: 1. Know your bottom line. Determine your bottom line and stick to it. This sometimes means you have to be willing to walk away from a deal. It also means being realistic about what you’re asking from the seller. Many sellers are faced with the fact that their home may not be worth what they paid for it. This puts limits on the concessions a seller can offer. 2. Stay flexible. For example, what if the Lakewood Ranch home you'd like to buy needs a new heating system. The seller is unwilling to replace the unit but is willing to put $3,000 toward your closing costs. The $3,000 you're saving in closing costs will cover the cost of a new heating system. If all you focus on is the seller replacing the heating system, you miss the chance to achieve your overall goal, which is purchasing a home without paying for a new heating system. 3. Find out how long the home has been for sale. If the home is newly listed, the seller is less likely to lower the price significantly or offer other concessions. However, if the home has been for sale for 12 months or longer, the homeowner is more motivated to sell, and you’re more likely to get a great deal. 4. Work with a pro. No one is better at knowing what sellers want and how to negotiate great real estate deals than professional real estate agents. Unless you are an experienced, savvy negotiator, leave it to the pros. Thinking of buying a Lakewood Ranch home? We would be pleased to represent you in your next real estate purchase. You can reach your Lakewood Ranch Realtor, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 by phone or send us an e-mail at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com http://www.brokeroutpost.com/reference/68021.htm How to negotiate http://www.ehow.com/how_2068186_negotiate-buying-home.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/177 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/175/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/175/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 19 Jun 2011 06:37:43 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/175/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> 1. Set the right price. A Lakewood Ranch home priced correctly from the start will sell faster. 2. Provide a thorough disclosure statement. 3. Add a one-year home warranty. They’re reasonably priced and provide peace of mind for the buyer. 4. Offer financial incentives. There are a variety of financial incentives you can offer depending on the needs of the home and the buyer. Here are a few to consider: a. Cost to replace the carpet b. Cost to paint the home 5. Make your home shine. Fix it. Paint it. Clean it. Polish it. If there’s anything you’ve put off, do it now. Your home has to be at its very best. 6. Get a pro’s opinion. Ask your Lakewood Ranch Realtor what they recommend you do to get your home in tip-top shape for marketing. Then do it! 7. Stage your home. This has proven to be one of the best things you can do to get your home sold faster and for more money. Many real estate agents now provide staging services for their clients, so ask your agent about this. 8. Remain unemotional. Keep emotions out of decisions you make when selling your home, especially during the negotiation process. Look at this as strictly a business transaction; you’ll stay sane and sell your home faster. 9. Work with qualified buyers. Ask your agent to qualify buyers before submitting any offers to you. Qualified buyers should submit at least a pre-qualification but preferably a pre-approval letter from a reputable lender with their offer. Want more details on any of this tips or need additional ideas to get your Lakewood Ranch home sold? Give Lakewood Ranch Realtors Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com, and we’ll give you all the specifics on how to implement these tips and answer any questions you have. You can visit our website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Stage your home http://www.kiplinger.com/features/archives/6-ways-to-stage-your-home-for-under-1000.html Pre-qualification http://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/prequalification.asp]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/175 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/173/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/173/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 17 Jun 2011 06:36:57 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/173/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> inspections to loans. The trick is to find the right Lakewood Ranch real estate agent or Realtor to fit your needs. Here are 5 tips to help you find your perfect fit:

1. Knowledgeable – You’ll want to find an agent who is experienced and doesn’t always agree with you. If they’re constantly telling you yes, then they may not be working in your best interest.
2. Hard working – Agents who’ve been in the real estate business for decades could be burned out and new recruits might not be as skilled. Look for an agent who has experience in your neighborhood, loves the work and has the energy to get the job done.
3. Responsive – Communication is key, so you want to find an agent who gives you constant updates.
4. Objective – When it comes to your home, making decisions can become extremely personal. You want an agent who will keep a level head and help you ensure you’re not making emotional or irrational decisions.
5. Innovative – A resourceful real estate agent who is always looking for new ways to market your property or looking in new places to find you a house will help you achieve your goals quicker.

Don’t endure the frustration of marching through the real estate maze alone. With the right agent by your side, you’ll experience less stress, get what you want faster and save money in the long run. If you’re looking for an experienced, energetic, resourceful Lakewood Ranch Realtor® or real estate agent or just have a few questions, give Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/PropertySearch http://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/mortgage/mortb_1.htm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/173 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/171/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/171/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 14 Jun 2011 06:35:49 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/171/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home owner can put money in the bank. It also gives you a sense of pride in contributing to community institutions such as the police force, local government offices, fire stations and free medical services. Did you know that statistically you and your neighbors are more likely to properly maintain and update your Lakewood Ranch homes when you own them rather than rent them? Maintaining and updating your home boosts the real estate market around you, giving you the chance to increase the value of your property, your neighbors’ property and eventually your entire community. 4 more reasons why you should buy instead of rent:

1. Building financial security – While it may take many years for you to actually make a profit on your house, you’ll still have your money secured in a tangible investment that you can pass down for generations to come.

1. Investing in your community – If you pay property taxes, you’ll be investing in your community. You could play a part in contributing to more parks, cleaner streets and better schools for you, your children and your neighbors.

1. Buying while the housing market is slow – With the rate of foreclosures and slow real estate market, you can scoop up amazing homes at great prices. Purchase while the market is slow and your investment could grow exponentially within the next 10 years.

1. Taking advantage of tax benefits – You’ll receive a federal income tax break, you’ll get to deduct the interest paid on your mortgage and property taxes — which means more money in the bank!

Use an online mortgage calculator to determine what you can afford to buy instead of paying rent. Want to discover more benefits of buying instead of renting a Lakewood Ranch home? Call Realtors® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.comfor more information. You can also visit our website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Property Taxes http://finance.kosmix.com/topic/Property_Taxes?p=hl&as=goog&ac=409&kgl=34828238]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/171 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/169/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/169/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 09 Jun 2011 06:33:48 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/169/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch Country Club, MOVE IN READY! Neal St. Raphael model with European feel courtyard entry complete with lovely fountain leading to a solid wood raised panel door. This home is a great room plan with Brazilian hardwood floors throughout (except in the bathrooms), crown molding and volume ceilings. Large Master Suite with luxurious tiled master bath, walk in shower, bathtub and double vanity. Also, there is a large second bedroom with adjacent bathroom and a den large enough for a floor to ceiling library on one wall. The kitchen has a granite topped island, granite counters, stainless steel appliances and 42" raised panel wood cabinets with under-cabinet lighting. A granite topped breakfast bar and a breakfast Cafe add more enjoyment to your morning meal. Oversized laundry room leads to a 2 car garage. Spending time outdoors is peaceful on the brick pavered lanai, with three fans, overlooking the mature landscaping. The nearby community pool adds more fun to this maintenance-free lifestyle For more information call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906. You can e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com, or go to our website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/FeaturedProperties. Virtual Tour:http://www.pfretour.com/2095]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/169 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/167/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/167/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 08 Jun 2011 06:32:27 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/167/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> over improving your home: Assess the value of homes in your neighborhood. Unless you plan on staying in your Lakewood Ranch home forever, do some research on the home values in your neighborhood before you begin any home renovations. Ideally, you want to add improvements that increase the resale value of your home while staying within the average market price of homes in your neighborhood. For example, if the homes in your area sell for an average of $250,000, with the highest priced home in the area going for $350,000, make home renovations that increase the value of your property to the average home price of $250,000 or less. You do not want to be the highest priced home in your neighborhood. And, the last thing you want to do is to put more money into your home than you can get back. Choose the projects you want to tackle. Start with home maintenance and repair projects such as fixing the foundation or roof, painting, carpeting and upgrading windows. If your home isn’t well cared for, it will show and potential buyers will move on to the next home for sale. "Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes." Sound familiar? Excluding location and price, this is a true statement. Updating your kitchen and baths are excellent projects to tackle to increase the value of your home. Refinish or replace rather than completely renovate. You don’t have to do a complete kitchen or bath renovation. Minor improvements such as refinishing cabinets, replacing old hardware and adding new fixtures make a big difference in the appearance of baths and kitchens. And, you’ll conserve your financial outlay. If you’re planning to renovate your home before putting it on the market, we can help you identify the projects that will increase your resale value. Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can also visit our website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/AboutUs: Over improving your home http://www.lifeorganizers.com/Moving-Real-Estate/The-Organized-New-Home-Finance/Pitfalls-of-Over-Improving-Real-Estate.html Refinishing cabinets http://www.wikihow.com/Refinish-Kitchen-Cabinets]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/167 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/164/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/164/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 02 Jun 2011 06:30:26 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/164/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home's monetary value, but to gain a true concept of your home’s worth, you must also take into consideration: 1. Pride of ownership. You don’t buy a pair of Prada shoes because you’re going to be able to resell them and make a profit. You buy them because they make you look good and feel good. 2. Security and stability. Your home provides a roof over your head that’s in your control. You can decorate it the way you want. You don’t have to worry about a landlord selling the property or asking you to move out. In the “olden days” (or should I say “golden days”), we called our homes our castles because, as owners, we felt like the kings and queens of our homes. You can still feel that way! Claim your castle and crown yourself king or queen today. 3. A safe haven. After a tough day at work or a day of disappointments, where’s the first place you think of going? Home! As Dorothy says, “There’s no place like home.” 4. A place to make memories. Your son’s tree house and daughter’s playhouse. The markings on the wall that tracked your children’s growth. The porch swing where you start and end every anniversary celebration. 5. A neighborhood full of friends. In the event of an emergency, your neighbors are your first line of defense. They’re also the simplest, best and least expensive form of security. Additionally, they may have the exact tool you need for a project; the extra pair of hands you need to complete a project or children to become playmates with yours. Neighbors also give you that much needed in-person, up-close social network. Even if your home’s economic value has dropped, you continue to benefit from its emotional values of community, stability, security and success. Thinking of buying a home? We can help you find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle. Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can also visit our website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Monetary value http://www.thefreedictionary.com/monetary+value Economic value http://www.ecosystemvaluation.org/1-01.htm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/164 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/161/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/161/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 27 May 2011 06:29:09 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/161/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Myth #1: It’s OK to test a high price on your Lakewood Ranch real estate just to see if anyone will buy it at that price. Truth: If you’re serious about selling your home, don’t play games. In this buyer’s market you have a very small window of opportunity to pull in serious buyers when your home first enters the market. If you play games, like over pricing your home just to test the market, buyers will stay away in droves. Myth #2: You should price your Lakewood Ranch real estate higher than the market value to allow for room to negotiate. Truth: No matter what your reasoning or rationale, overpricing your home is never a good idea. When your home is overpriced, very few potential buyers inquire about it or visit it. If no one wants to buy your home, you won’t have anyone to negotiate with. Myth #3: The appraisal value of your home has no impact on the sales price of your home. Truth: Lenders consider the value of your home to be the price for which the home is appraised. For example, if you and your buyer have agreed on a sales price of $300,000, but the appraisal comes in at $280,000, the lender considers the value of the home to be $280,000, not $300,000. When this occurs, buyers will want to renegotiate the sales price of the home to match the appraisal price. Myth #4: Real estate agents want to price homes high because they’ll make a higher commission. Truth: If you’ve done the work needed to find a great real estate agent, you should trust him or her to price your home correctly. Because of their experience, real estate agents understand more than anyone else the importance of properly pricing your home. If they’ve incorrectly priced your home, it won’t sell, and the agents earn nothing. Myth #5: Real estate agents want to price homes low because they’ll sell faster and easier without the agents having to do any work. Truth: Professional real estate agents know that setting the price too low can be almost as harmful as setting the price too high. Buyers who are looking in a specific price range may not consider your home because of the low price tag. They assume it will not fulfill their needs or worry that there’s something wrong with it. If you’re ready to sell your home, we can help you price it right. Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. You can also visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Keyword/Tag: Lakewood Ranch real estate Links: Market value http://www.creonline.com/articl37.htm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/161 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/159/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/159/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 25 May 2011 06:27:52 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/159/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Get rid of the excess: Eliminate as much as possible, and then do it again. Remember when staging yourLakewood Ranch home for sale, less is best. Swap out personal photos for framed art. The main idea is to remove as much as possible and replace personal items with neutral objects so that people can imagine their things in the home. 2. Repair and paint: Before painting, fix all those minor dings that don't really bother you. Buyers notice everything. A missing piece of baseboard, an outlet that doesn't work, or a closet door that won’t stay on track all seem minor, but they can have a huge affect on how a buyer views your home. The next step is to apply a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color. Freshly painted walls make a room look cleaner and larger. 3. Improve the curb appeal: You have to get people in the door before they’ll buy your Lakewood Ranch home for sale. If your house looks bad on the outside, buyers won’t waste their time taking a look at the inside. Improving your curb appeal doesn't mean you need to hire a landscaper. It can be as basic as trimming your hedges and trees, especially those closest to your house. Repair or replace loose porch railings and make sure the exterior paint is not chipping. If needed, scrape and paint; peeling paint is a real turnoff to buyers. Keep the lawn mowed. Put away bikes, toys and garden tools. Following these simple steps will go a long way to getting your home sold quickly. Ready to sell your home? We can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can visit our website at http://www.lakewoodrancharehomes.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/159 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/156/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/156/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 17 May 2011 06:25:49 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/156/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> The Price is Right In some ways selling your home as a FSBO will seem a little like the television game show "The Price Is Right." Some buyers will walk around your home and have no idea what local values are, but they will still do their best to talk down your price. Others that come to view your FSBO will have a very firm grasp on local real estate values and how your home stacks up against the competition. In either case, you must know what comparable homes in your area are selling for so that you can argue your own case and know when the offer is too low. Overpricing is Costly The temptation to want more than true market value for your home is common but counterproductive to selling your home. It will sit on the market so long that people will begin to wonder what’s wrong with your home. Then, when you drop your price, you’ll appear desperate. Potential buyers will devalue your house in their own minds, which decreases the chance of you getting a fair market price for your home. If you have questions about the current Lakewood Ranch real estate market, give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6906 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Please visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/156 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/153/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/153/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 15 May 2011 06:24:32 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/153/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> homes for sale by owner (FSBO), and even save a few dollars doing it. Those are the people who have five important skills: 1. They know how to market and advertise their Lakewood Ranch real estate both online and offline without spending a fortune. 2. They are excellent sales people. 3. They know how to pre-qualify buyers to be sure they’re actually able to afford the home. 4. They’re great at negotiating. 5. They know how to execute real estate contracts and all the other associated legal work necessary to sell a home. Additionally, they need to have plenty of time to: · Market and advertise their home. A lot of time can be spent writing ads, creating flyers, taking photos, and loading everything to a wide variety of real estate websites. · Show their home to potential buyers at times that are best for the buyer. · Negotiate with buyers. · Execute the real estate contract. If you do not have those five skills or the extra time needed to perform all the necessary tasks, selling your Lakewood Ranch real estate by owner probably isn’t a good idea for you. Instead, you can hire a real estate agent to do it all for you. A professional real estate agent is more than just someone who puts their name on a sign on your front lawn. · They are the person who is your first line of defense when it comes to dealing with buyers. They know how to be sure the person coming to look at your house really has the qualifications to actually make a purchase. · They also have the marketing know-how and the advertising power of a real estate company behind them. · They have vast connections and relationships with professionals such as home inspectors, title offices and mortgage companies. They work with these people many times a month year in and year out. · They’re skilled negotiators. · They understand what legal work has to be done and how to keep it on track. Obviously, a professional real estate agent saves you time, but they also save you money. Statistics show that homes sell for more money when sold by an agent, especially in today’s real estate market. How can that be? People who buy a FSBO know you’re saving money on commission and expect you to pass those savings on to them. If you’d like more information on how a real estate agent can help save you time and money by selling your home, give Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/153 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/149/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/149/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 10 May 2011 06:22:05 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/149/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate agents how long they've been in business and how many homes they’ve helped people buy and sell during the last year. An agent with experience is a very valuable asset, but with the current fluctuations in real estate, an agent with recent experience is even more valuable. Also ask how long they've been helping people buy and sell homes in the area in which you want to live. You want a real estate agent who is an expert in that neighborhood. If you’re looking for a professional real estate agent, call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tmapabay.rr.com to schedule an interview. Please go to our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com to read what our customers say about us.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/149 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/147/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/147/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 29 Apr 2011 06:21:13 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/147/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home sparkle this spring. Tip #1: Everything is blooming; take advantage of it. Clean out the flower beds and let them shine. Don't have a flower bed? Now is the perfect time to create one (or more). Visit your local nursery to purchase small starter plants, large mature plants and everything in between. Mix them to make your beds look their best. Tip #2: Get a lush lawn. Reseed your yard, or if you don't want to wait, purchase sod rolls. If your lawn is in good shape, take the time to edge the sidewalks and driveway. Mow in a pattern to give your lawn a manicured look. To keep your grass healthy, alternate the mowing pattern. Tip #3: Take it up a notch. Add little touches like decorative edging, mulch and walkway lights. Put edging around trees and shrubs then fill with mulch. Easy to install walkway lights along the driveway and sidewalk add style and security. Don't forget the entry light. A new light fixture with a high and low beam saves energy, provides security, and lets buyers see your Lakewood Ranch home easily in the evening. Dressing your Lakewood Ranch home for spring helps it stand out from the competition. It also gets buyers excited about seeing the interior of your home. Want some specific ideas on how to make your home sparkle this spring so it sells faster? Give Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Flower beds http://www.bhg.com/topics/lawn-and-garden/flowers/flower-beds.htm Mow in a pattern http://www.ehow.com/way_5246047_lawn-mowing-pattern-tips.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/147 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/145/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/145/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 27 Apr 2011 06:20:12 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/145/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> staging and well-thought-out marketing plans are now necessities — not luxuries. Do you know how to best present your property? What are the most effective ways to get buyers in the door? Using the tips and techniques below, you can begin to emerge from your rabbit hole and quickly move on to your next home with as much money in your pocket as possible. Selling techniques for Lakewood Ranch homes:

• Price it Right – No amount of marketing or staging will help if your property is overpriced. For most people, it’s hard to look at their home objectively. Compare it to other properties for sale in your neighborhood, and take into account square footage, upgrades, location, and amenities, as well as, current market trends.

· Develop a Marketing Plan – You have to decide the best and most cost-effective way to get potential buyers in your house. Rarely is a newspaper ad or an Internet posting enough. Today’s competitive real estate environment requires more aggressive techniques. . Stage your Home – You want your home to appear its best every time a potential buyer comes to see it. If buyers see dirt and stains, they might begin to wonder about how diligently the rest of the property has been maintained. De-clutter and depersonalize. Turn on all your lights and open all the blinds to make your house appear as light and open as possible. For open houses, take the extra time to add fresh flowers and have something baking in the oven. Do you need egg-stra help to sell your home? Give Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Staging http://www.stagedhomes.com/ Amenities http://www.housingzone.com/pb/FirstTimeBuyerSurvey De-clutter http://organizedhome.com/cut-clutter/declutter-101-cut-clutter-at-home]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/145 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/143/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/143/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 26 Apr 2011 06:19:28 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/143/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home: 1. Add dimmers: If every home in the U.S replaced two standard light switches with a dimmer, we could save $1.5 billion in electricity. 2. Recycle rechargeable batteries, plastic bags and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs): It’s as easy as taking them to your local Lowe’s Recycling Center. Simply drop the items in the bins near the store’s entrance. 3. Stop energy leaks: Seal all holes and cracks in your Lakewood Ranch home. Add weather stripping or caulk to leaky doors and windows. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates these changes can save you up to 20% on heating and cooling costs. 4. Wrap up your water heater: Cover your water heater with an insulating jacket. 5. Install a programmable thermostat: By adjusting the temperature in your Lakewood Ranch home slightly while you’re at work or on vacation, the thermostat saves money. 6. Repair Leaky Toilets: According to the EPA, a leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water a day. Depending how much you’re charged for water, a leaky toilet could add as much as $400 a year to your water bill. 7. Use a power strip: Save electricity and more than $500 over five years by plugging devices with standby power, such as TVs and stereos, into a power strip. When not in use, you can turn them all off at once by turning off the power strip. Saving energy not only helps the environment, it also lowers your expenses considerably. Want to buy an energy-efficient Lakewood Ranch home? We can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com at anytime. Links: Dimmer http://home.howstuffworks.com/dimmer-switch.htm Lowe’s Recycling Center http://www.lowes.com/cd_Recycling_368967519_ Environmental Protection Agency http://www.epa.gov/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/143 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/141/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/141/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 13 Apr 2011 06:18:31 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/141/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> spruce up your lawn a little, you won’t win the battle. You won’t even win a skirmish. In short, if you’re not doing everything you can to get your home taken off the list of Lakewood Ranch homes for sale, you’re not a motivated seller. Motivated sellers use all the knowledge they can squeeze from their agent. Unless it’s a matter of money, sellers don’t argue when the agent mentions such things as home staging. They ask, “What are my options?” Motivated sellers don’t think “negotiation” is a bad word. They consider it common business sense. If a potential buyer offers you less than your list price, actually think about it. You may not get another buyer anytime soon. Motivated sellers listen to their experienced real estate agent in marketing their home and do what they can to implement the marketing program. If you aren’t a motivated seller, why is your home listed? Now isn’t the time to test the waters, because the waters are full of sharks, barracudas and other dangerous things with big teeth. Before you wonder why that house of yours is still one of the Lakewood Ranch homes for sale, think about it. Are you a motivated seller? If you’re a motivated seller looking for a real estate agent who can help you win this war, call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com today. Links: Our Website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Spruce up your lawn http://www.scotts.com/smg/learn/infoHowToArticle.jsp?detailId=11700006]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/141 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/139/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/139/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 09 Apr 2011 06:17:37 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/139/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home’s comfort and value: 1. Uncover hardwood floors. Is there a hardwood floor lurking under your Lakewood Ranch home’s carpet? If you're not sure, pull up the carpet in an unnoticeable corner and investigate. If you find wood floors, you’ll probably need to refinish them, but that’s a lot less expensive than installing new hardwood flooring. 2. Add ceiling fans. Everyone likes to save money, and adding ceiling fans can reduce your electric bill considerably. Central air conditioning costs about 70 times more to run than a ceiling fan. In the summer, fans can make you feel 3 to 8 degrees cooler, allowing you to reduce the use of your A/C and still feel cool. 3. Install a new bathroom floor. Installation is typically the most expensive part of this home improvement, so if you can do it yourself, you’ll save quite a bit of money. Choosing a neutral-colored tile adds the most value. 4. Update bathroom and kitchen fixtures. Replacing outdated or unattractive fixtures is a low-cost, high-impact renovation project. In bathrooms, put in new spa-style showerheads and towel bars. In both rooms, put in new light fixtures, sink faucets, switch plates, outlet covers, cabinet knobs and drawer handles. Choose items in colors and finishes that appeal to a wide audience. 5. Power wash your Lakewood Ranch home’s exterior. Make your home look almost as good as new by power washing away the grime. Clean the siding, driveway, walkways, lanai and patio. Want more home-improvement ideas like these? Subscribe to my blog. It’s free and easy. If you want to sell a home call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906. You can e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com, or go to our website www.lakewoodrancharehomes.com. Links: Installing new hardwood flooring http://www.hometips.com/diy-how-to/installing-hardwood-floors.html Air conditioning costs about 70 times more http://michaelbluejay.com/electricity/cooling.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/139 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/137/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/137/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 02 Apr 2011 06:16:49 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/137/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate? · Pre-Qualified – This just means that the lender may approve you for a loan if everything checks out. Pre-qualification is based solely on information you give the lender about your income and debts. This is no guarantee that you will get a loan. · Pre-Approved – Once your lender pulls your credit report, they can give you an idea of what kind of loan you may get. When you’re pre-approved, you still have no guarantee that you will get a loan, but you have a better idea of your price range. Sellers like working with people who are pre-approved because it shows that their credit has been verified, and they are more likely to qualify for a loan. · Approved – When you are approved for a loan, your financial records have been verified, and the lender can say for sure how much they are willing to lend you for a particular home. You can be approved for a mortgage only after the lender has approved both you and the home. Once you have approval, you can move forward with the purchase. For more information about the mortgage approval process for purchasing Lakewood Ranch real estate, call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com http://www.ehow.com/how_5399_prequalified-home-loan.html Pre-approved http://www.smartmoney.com/personal-finance/real-estate/7-tips-for-getting-a-preapproved-mortgage/ Approved http://www.ehow.com/how_4602244_approved-home-loan.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/137 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/135/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/135/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 30 Mar 2011 06:15:31 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/135/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Price your home competitively from the start. Ask your agent to find out what similar homes in your neighborhood sold for in the last 6 months. Don’t bother looking at pricing prior to that. And don’t base your decision on listing prices. Some homeowners price their Lakewood Ranch homes high to start with but end up drastically reducing the price in order to get them sold. 2. Offer incentives. There are a lot of similar properties on the market, so in addition to competitively pricing your home, you should consider including incentives. You could offer a home warranty, pay part of the closing costs or leave the big screen television that fits perfectly over your fireplace. 3. Choose the right agent. Look for local agents who are listing, marketing, and selling in your neighborhood even though the market is slow. Interview several of them and ask what price they recommend and how they’ll market your property. 4. Get your home in tip-top shape. You cannot afford to let anything slip through the cracks… literally. If you have cracks in your driveway, walls or foundation, get them fixed before you put your home up for sale. Make your home shine. 5. Be flexible on the deposit. In a slow market, you may need to settle for a smaller deposit. 6. Negotiate. Buyers can and will be demanding in today’s real estate market. Prepare yourself for some tough negotiating. Make sure you’re working with an agent who excels at negotiating, and then let her do her job. Want to work with a local agent who is an expert negotiator and knows how to get Lakewood Ranch homes sold in this buyer’s market? Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can also visit our website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Cracks in your driveway http://www.doityourself.com/scat/repairingcracks]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/135 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/132/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/132/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 28 Mar 2011 06:13:53 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/132/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> find a great Lakewood Ranch real estate agent. Here are several other pitfalls to avoid when looking for a real estate agent: · Impulse: Just because you walk into a busy, bright, and productive looking office doesn't mean all the agents who work there are also busy, bright and productive. Take the time to get to know the agents you’re considering. Interview them, like you would any other professional you hire, to determine their abilities and knowledge of the community in which you want to live. · Easy Agreement: If you finally find an agent who instantly agrees with everything you have to say about the selling price of your home without question, beware. This is especially true if you've been to others who disagreed with your price. Consider why this one agent is so agreeable. As in any industry, there are people out there who will tell you anything you want to hear to get your business. · Lowest Commission: Don't go with a real estate agent just because they have the lowest commission on the block. Remember the old adage "you get what you pay for." These are just a few of the considerations when choosing a real estate agent, but they will get you started on firm footing. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable Lakewood Ranch real estate agent, call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 to schedule an interview or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/132 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/130/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/130/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 21 Mar 2011 06:12:50 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/130/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch homes come and go depending on many factors including the needs and desires of buyers, changes in technology and economic issues. Here are some 2011 design trends predicted for national and Lakewood Ranch homes. Kitchens Continue to be the Heart of the Home People still love kitchens that are open and airy. Popular kitchen countertops will embrace the green movement switching from granite to crushed recyclable glass under a solid, smooth surface. Energy Efficiency Remains Important According to The Joint Center for Housing Studies, homeowners and builders alike continue to make homes more energy efficient. This is led by regional certification programs as well as national green building standards. Vintage is Hot Reproductions from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s will be a hot design trend in home furnishings. Think of the furniture in the hit TV show “Mad Men.” Bold Lighting Touches are Added In addition to functional lighting, bathrooms will boast chandeliers. Ceilings Become a Focal Point Ceilings will no longer fade into the background with the addition of architectural enhancements such as domes and bold paint options including metallic colors. Whatever type of home you are looking for in Lakewood Ranch, we can help you find your perfect fit. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com to get started. Visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Domes http://www.oldhouseweb.com/product-showcase/ceiling-domes-beautiful-ceiling-embellishments.shtml]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/130 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/127/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/127/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 16 Mar 2011 06:12:08 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/127/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate makes good financial sense. According to the National Association of REALTORS® eighth annual Housing Opportunity Pulse Survey, nearly 8 out of 10 respondents believe buying a home does make good financial sense. Surprised? Let’s examine three reasons Americans believe buying real estate remains a good financial choice: 1. Lower home prices and low mortgage interest rates are making homes more affordable. 2. Almost 7 out of 10 believe that home values have stabilized in their area; the same number expect home sales to remain about the same through the end of the year. 3. The rate of foreclosures is also seen as stabilizing; 51 percent say the rate is about the same as last year. Another big advantage for you may be the tax benefits of home ownership. You will, as always, be able to deduct the interest you pay, as well as other real estate related items on your income tax return. For most people that deduction may equate to a sizeable amount of money. It can mean the difference between owing the government more money at the end of the year, and getting a refund. If you would like more information on how owning Lakewood Ranch real estate can make sense for you, give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website:http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Opportunity Pulse Survey http://www.realtor.org/government_affairs/housing_opportunity/- resource_center/pulse_survey_2010 Low mortgage interest rates http://www.bankrate.com/ Tax benefits of home ownership http://www.alllaw.com/articles/tax/article3.asp]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/127 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/125/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/125/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 10 Mar 2011 06:09:40 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/125/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> 1. Ask yourself if you're ready. Are you financially ready to buy a Lakewood Ranch home? Do you have a steady job and income? Do you have money for the down payment? 2. Get pre-approved. When you get pre-approved for a mortgage loan, your lender checks your credit and lets you know the amount of mortgage for which you qualify. Having a pre-approved loan will speed up the process. 3. Identify closing costs. The cost of closing on the sale of your Lakewood Ranch home should be considered. Closing costs may include origination fees, title and settlement fees, taxes and prepaid items such as homeowner’s insurance or homeowner’s association fees. 4. Calculate your total monthly housing cost. Include taxes and homeowners insurance. 5. Include home maintenance expenses in your budget. Consider the expense of maintaining your investment. 6. Find a Lakewood Ranch home. Identify the community you want to live in. Hire a full-time REALTOR® who specializes in that area to help you find and negotiate the purchase of the home. 7. Get a home inspection. Your agent should include a home inspection in your offer to buy a home. 8. Make it to closing. You have your financing, your offer has been accepted, and you’re anxiously awaiting the day you close on your home. Now, you just have to make sure you don’t do anything to jeopardize your credit. Do not change jobs, buy a new car or apply for credit cards. 9. Celebrate. Congratulations! You’re now the proud owner of your first home. Buying your first home can be exciting, especially if you’re knowledgeable about the process and prepared. If your goal for this year is to be a first-time homeowner, let us guide you through the process of finding and buying a home. Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com First-time homeowner http://www.bankrate.com/brm/news/real-estate/buyerguide2004/fthb-tips.asp]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/125 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/123/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/123/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 07 Mar 2011 06:08:10 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/123/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Familiar with the neighborhood. They know the schools and zoning laws.They can tell you the best places to shop and give you referrals to the best mechanics and home contractors. 2. Knowledgeable about the Lakewood Ranch real estate market. Local agents know all the neighborhoods, the homes and the amenities. 3. Involved in the community. Agents who are involved in community  projects are doing much more than just selling houses. They’re contributing to their community. Wouldn’t you prefer to work with an agent like that? 4. More attentive. When an agent knows they’re going to bump into you in the supermarket or hardware store, he or she is going to give you the very best service possible. He or she wants to ensure that you have no complaints and will give neighbors a glowing review about his or her real estate services. If you’d like to work with a professional agent who specializes in Lakewood Ranch real estate, give Lakewood Ranch Area Specialists a call today, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906, or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Laws http://www.business.gov/manage/business-location/zoning-laws.html Home contractors http://www.fixthehome.com/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/123 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/120/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/120/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 04 Mar 2011 06:05:41 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/120/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> landscaping. Here are some tips for choosing plants for your Lakewood Ranch home for a fast sale. · Stay close to home. Plants that are native to your area are always a safe choice for landscaping. They are adapted to your region, so you know they can survive there. They are also easier to take care of and better for the environment because they don’t require as much watering. This can be an important consideration if you are selling a vacant home. · Older is better. You can buy plants at varying stages of growth. Newer, smaller plants cost less and are easier to transplant; mature plants tend to have more foliage. Think about how they will look immediately after planting. You want to sell your home quickly, so you don’t want to wait around for your plants to grow. · Choose carefully. No matter what types of plants you choose, make sure you find plants with lots of color. You want your landscaping to look as attractive as possible. Choose plants that bloom often, form hedges, and are not high maintenance. The last thing you need right now is a plant that requires a lot of your attention. Let us help you sell your home quickly. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com: Landscaping http://landscaping.about.com/ Plants that are native to your area http://www.plantnative.org/ Plants with lots of color http://www.birdsandblooms.com/Gardening/Top-10/Seasonal-Gardens/Top-10-Fall-Color-Plants]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/120 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/117/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/117/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 01 Mar 2011 06:03:33 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/117/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home up for sale, you want to make sure it looks as attractive and modern as possible. Even if you lack the budget and space to turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, you can still give this room a quick facelift. 1. Get creative with color. If you don’t have the time or budget to replace dated ceramic tile, try camouflaging it with towels, rugs, and other accessories for a more modern color scheme. For example, you can pair pink with brown or bright blue with light green. 2. Replace your fixtures. Brushed aluminum and pewter bathroom fixtures are more modern than the shiny chrome fixtures. They are also easier to clean because they don’t show water marks as easily. 3. Find new lighting. A bathroom light can do more than just illuminate the space; it can create an atmosphere. Sconces placed on either side of a mirror tend to look better than harsh overhead light. Track lighting can be arranged to provide light in dark corners of the room. 4. Accessorize. Put your personal touch on your bathroom with shower curtains, soap dispensers, and scented candles. Don’t feel you have to stick to the bath accessories aisle. A clear vase can display bath salts. Baskets can hold rolled-up towels. A beautiful serving bowl can be filled with potpourri. Preparing your Lakewood Ranch home for sale is an important part of the process. We can help you prepare your home. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com to schedule a free consultation. Visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information. Links: Bathroom fixtures http://www.us.kohler.com/index.jsp Bathroom lighting http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,403815,00.html Bath accessories http://www.potterybarn.com/shop/bath/bath-accessories/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/117 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/114/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/114/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 26 Feb 2011 06:02:04 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/114/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch homes for sale before often think selling is as simple as hiring an agent and putting a sign in the yard. It’s not, however, as you’ll soon discover. The Inside of Your Home The exterior of Lakewood Ranch homes for sale is te first up-close impression buyers get. So, when buyers make it inside, they’re one step closer to actually buying. However, if the interior is a mess, it could blow the whole deal. Here’s a checklist to make your home’s interior buyer ready:

1. Make sure the front door doesn’t stick
2. Test windows to ensure they open and close easily
3. Wash windows inside and out
4. Move pets and pet supplies to a temporary home if possible
5. Fix leaky faucets
6. Update fixtures on your cabinet hardware and door knobs
7. De-clutter closets and cabinets (yes, people open them!)
8. Replace or repair cabinet doors
9. Clean grout
10. Wash the walls if not repainting
11. Repair cracks or holes in the wall
12. Paint walls a neutral color
13. Remove personal items, such as knick-knacks and personal mementos
14. Clean the fireplace
15. Have the chimney professionally cleaned
16. Remove clutter from countertops, tables and shelves
17. Steam clean the carpets
18. Scrub all appliances
19. Clean cobwebs and dead bugs from light fixtures and ceiling fans
20. Make sure every light has a working bulb
21. Degrease the stove and oven
22. De-clutter and clean the garage
23. Remove excess furniture
24. Rearrange remaining furniture in good proportion (Or hire a home stager)
25. Clean the drapes
26. Replace broken panels for electrical switches and outlets
27. Wipe down baseboards

While each home is unique, this list is a good start for any home. If you’re ready to sell your home, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Fix leaky faucets http://www.doityourself.com/stry/7-dos-and-donts-when-repairing-a-leaky-faucet Clean grout http://www.howtocleanthings.com/how-to-clean-grout.htm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/114 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/112/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/112/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 23 Feb 2011 06:01:12 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/112/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> FHA loans are available even after bankruptcy and foreclosure, if you have maintained good credit for the following two to three years. What are the requirements for FHA loans? FHA loans have strict home appraisal guidelines. The appraisal value helps determine the FHA mortgage limit. Each state has its own rules regarding maximum loan limits. What are the advantages to FHA loans? One advantage of an FHA loan is lower down payment requirements. You may qualify for a down payment as low as 3.5 percent of the purchase price of the property. Additionally, most of your closing costs can be included in the loan, so you’ll have less out of pocket expenses. An FHA loan can also be used to buy a house that needs improvement. If you need cash to make the repairs, you can apply for a loan to cover the cost of the expected repairs. The FHA also has energy efficient mortgages which include the costs of energy improvements. What are the terms of FHA loans? An FHA loan can take many forms: it may be a fixed-rate loan or an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM). · A fixed-rate mortgage has a set interest rate for a set amount of time. Typically, it will be a 15 or 30-year loan. · An ARM has a variable interest rate. Whether you’d like to finance a Lakewood Ranch home using an FHA loan or a non-FHA loan, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 can help. Give us a call today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can visit our website, www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com, for more information. Links: FHA loans http://www.hud.gov/buying/loans.cfm Energy efficient mortgages http://www.hud.gov/buying/loans.cfm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/112 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/110/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/110/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 21 Feb 2011 06:00:04 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/110/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Create a list of the features you want in your new home, so you make the most of your time by looking only at Lakewood Ranch homes that meet your criteria. Here is a quick guide to help you create a checklist: 1. Must Have. These are deal breakers; features that you cannot live without. Do you need a certain number of bedrooms? Do you work from home and need an office or maybe even an outside entrance to your home office? Perhaps you have small children or large dogs and need a fenced yard. Decide now what you must have in your new home. 2. Like to Have. Features you would “like to have” are those you prefer but are willing to sacrifice if the home is perfect otherwise. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of having your own swimming pool or cathedral ceilings or an oversized garage. Include on this list whatever you would like to have in your new home, as long as it doesn’t take away something from the “must have” list or go over your price range. 3. Can live without. Some features just aren’t as important as others. Knowing what you don’t really care about can help you stay focused on what really matters to you. Add to this list home features that aren’t important. If no one in your home ever takes a bath, you may not care if you have a whirlpool tub. Perhaps you don’t really want to take care of an oversized yard, so lot size many not be important to you. Once you have your checklist compiled, share it with your real estate agent. It will speed up your home buying process, reduce time and frustration and get you in a home you’ll adore. Let us help you find your dream home. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans At 941-773-6906 today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Links: Swimming pool http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/766045/the_pros_ and_cons_of_owning_a_home.html?cat=6 Cathedral Ceilings http://www.doityourself.com/stry/cathedral-ceiling-pros-and-conm Whirlpool tub http://ezinearticles.com/?Wait!-Before-You-Buy---Pros-and-Cons-of-Whirlpool-Tubs&id=3746843]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/110 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/108/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/108/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 12 Feb 2011 05:59:09 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/108/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Of course, the whole home buying process will go much faster (and smoother) if you do things the right way. If you’re a first time buyer looking for a Lakewood Ranch area home for sale, take some lessons from the pros. The following tips will help make the buying process fly:

1. Weigh the Benefits - Before you actually go house hunting, weigh the pros and cons of buying a home. Can you really afford this home? Is it a good idea, or are you caving under pressure from family and friends.

Make sure that you’ve actually considered the alternatives and decided home ownership is the best move for you. In our experience, homebuyers who are sure they’re ready to buy not only enjoy the process more, but also are more likely to enjoy the home they buy.

1. Define What You’re Looking For - Before you walk out the door to look at homes, figure out your goals. How do you do this? Begin on the internet. Between virtual home tours, online listings, photographs and aerial shots, you’ll be able to build a much stronger idea of the type of home and neighborhood in which you want to live.

Once you go through this process, you’ll have clearly defined goals you can then pass on to your realtor. You are now halfway to home ownership!

1. Pace Yourself - Your agent probably won’t show you 15 or 20 homes in a day. At the most, you might see between 5 and 9 homes. You see, a good agent pays attention to the goals you told him or her on the first day. The only homes you need to see are those that fit your goals.
2. See Your Favorites Before Buying – Okay, you’ve looked at 14 homes, and you’re torn between houses 2, 5 and 6. Since you’re only buying one house, you want to make sure you get the home you want. Therefore, before signing or making any kind of commitment, look over the ones you like the most again. You’ll see things you may have missed before, which will help narrow the choice down to one.

Buying a home is one of the biggest steps you’ll ever take. It’s a big investment, and the process can be time consuming. However, following the above steps can make owning the home of your dreams less of a hassle and more of a dream come true! If you’re looking for a realtor who can help you find the home of your dreams, call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Pros and cons of buying a home http://www.militarymoney.com/money/1066306390 Online listings www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/SearchtheMLS]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/108 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/106/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/106/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 10 Feb 2011 05:58:15 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/106/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch real estate in a down market.1. Inventory. When the market is down, more homes are for sale. This means you have more homes to choose from, which makes it easier to find a home in your dream neighborhood or closer to work or school. 2. Negotiation. There’s a reason down markets are called “buyer's markets.” Sellers want to sell their homes. This means that you have the advantage and can buy a home for a great price. You can also ask the seller for other incentives. 3. Mortgage Rates. When the real estate market begins falling, interest rates get cut. This can mean considerable savings for you over the course of your mortgage. You can even buy a larger home within your price range than you can when the market is booming. 4. Investment. Even though doom and gloom is forecasted in a down market, your home will still most likely go up in value or at least retain its value. Keep in mind that your home is your most personal investment. It’s a place where you will create memories and maybe even raise a family. If you’re considering buying a home, let us help you find a wonderful home at a great price. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Our Website-www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Mortgage Rates http://www.bankrate.com/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/106 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/104/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/104/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 09 Feb 2011 05:57:04 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/104/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> staging your Lakewood Ranch home for sale. 1. Remove personal touches. Buyers want to picture themselves in your home, not you and your family. Remove family photos, memorabilia and collections. 2. De-clutter. Clear the bathroom and kitchen counters. Take knickknacks off the shelves. Pack away half of the kids’ toys. 3. Organize your cabinets and closets. Take the time to neatly stack dishes and fold towels. Arrange your spices and canned goods. Interested buyers will look in all your cabinets and closets. 4. Make minor repairs. Go through your home and take care of issues like stuck drawers, missing cabinet hardware, and leaky faucets. This shows potential buyers that you meticulously care for your home. 5. Clean. Scrub every inch of your home. Remove cobwebs and the dust collected on your ceiling fans. Scour the grout on the bathroom floor. Replace worn rugs. Hang fresh towels. Clean out your refrigerator. 6. Freshen your yard. Remove and replace dead or dying plants. Trim hedges. Remove leaves. Clean the windows. 7. Get rid of odors. Take out the trash daily and avoid cooking with strong foods or spices. Place potpourri or wall air fresheners strategically throughout your home. 8. Think neutral. Neutral colors sell homes. Go ahead and repaint your rooms with a neutral color, especially if your home is decorated with very personal colors or wallpaper designs. 9. Make your rooms look bigger. Take extra leaves out of your dining room table. Remove the extra chairs and bookcases in your living room. 10. Rent a storage unit. Don’t stuff your garage with all those items you packed away or removed from your rooms to make them look bigger. Keep your garage looking great by moving the boxes and furniture to a storage unit. Let us help you stage your Lakewood Ranch home for a fast sale. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com to schedule an appointment. You can visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com anytime. Links: Neutral colors http://www.shelterpop.com/2010/07/27/best-neutral-paint-colors/ Rent a storage unit http://www.usstoragesearch.com/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/104 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/102/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/102/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 05 Feb 2011 05:55:29 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/102/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> need a house. Maybe an apartment is a better fit. Here are four factors to consider before deciding whether to buy or rent: 1. Maintenance: One factor you might use to decide whether or not you want to buy a Lakewood Ranch home for sale is maintenance. As a homeowner, you’re responsible for the roof when it leaks and the plumbing when it’s clogged. As a renter, you have a landlord who takes care of all that. 2. Frequency of relocation: Another factor to consider is how long you plan to be in the area. For example, if you plan to move in less than five years and don’t fancy renting out the home after you move, buying may not be for you. 3. Tax deductions: The interest you pay on your mortgage is usually tax-deductible. In addition, when you close on a home you have the option to pay “points” to reduce your interest over the life of your loan. The amount you pay to cover the points is also usually tax deductible for the year in which you buy the home. Now think about renting… none of your rent is tax deductible. You don’t get money back for living in a home; you get money back for buying a home. With that money, you could further pay down your loan, make repairs or any number of things you need to do. 4. Home decor: When you own, you can decorate any way you want. You can paint, hang pictures or even knock down walls. When you rent, you must live by the rules and regulations established by the landlord, which are usually very restrictive. So, should you rent or buy? I could tell you buying is the best thing to do, but I could be wrong because I don’t know your particular situation. However, if you are interested in a Lakewood Ranch home for sale and want to buy one, don’t pass up the best mortgage rates the real estate industry has ever seen! Still confused as to whether renting or buying is best for you? Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906, and we will personally help you figure it out. Have you decided owning a home is right for you? Let us help you find and buy a great home at a great price. Call us or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com, or visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information. Links: Rent or buy http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/housing/2010-10-08-personalfinance08_ST_N.htm Buying A Lakewood Ranch home for sale http://cgi.money.cnn.com/tools/houseafford/houseafford.html Best mortgage rates the real estate industry has ever seen http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/history-of-mortgage-interest-rates.aspx]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/102 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/98/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/98/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 01 Feb 2011 05:51:54 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/98/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> The Outside of Your Home Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers see up close. Online, you may have images of the front yard, back yard, kitchen and other rooms, but pictures can’t do justice to your home for sale in Lakewood Ranch. To prepare you home for that first up-close viewing, here are 16 outside tasks:

1. Power wash your siding and windows
2. Fix broken siding
3. Give the exterior a fresh coat of paint if it needs it
4. Paint the door and trim
5. Mow the lawn
6. Trim bushes
7. Remove oil spots from the driveway
8. Pick up all tools, toys or trash in the yard
9. Remove lawn ornaments
10. Clear weeds from the walkway and driveway
11. Plant seasonal flowers
12. Remove leaves
13. Clean roof and gutters
14. Sweep the porch, lanai, walkway and driveway
15. Clean fences
16. Add tasteful landscape lighting if possible

Of course, not knowing what your specific home looks like, I can’t give a complete list, but these 16 items should get you off to a good start. Don’t forget that a few seasonal decorations can be the added touch that gets your home for sale in Lakewood Ranch sold to a new owner! If you’re trying to sell your home and need more pointers, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Links: Power wash your siding http://www.hometips.com/diy-how-to/house-siding-power-pressure-wash.html Remove oil spots http://www.doityourself.com/stry/oilstainsconcrete]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/98 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/96/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/96/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 14 Sep 2011 05:51:06 -0600 Alan Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/96/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> real estate industry specifically, it’s still possible to replace that “Home for Sale in Lakewood Ranch” sign with a “SOLD” sign. You just have to figure out why it’s not selling, and fix it. I know it’s easier said than done. If you knew what the problem was you would already have fixed it. Here are the top three reasons a house won’t sell: 1. Price is the number one deal breaker. Price and value are the two things you need to wrap your thoughts around.  It’s not about what you consider good price and value for a home, but what the buyer considers a good deal. You can’t beat the competition by simply lowering the price. You have to compel the buyer with the “Goldilocks” price. This price says, It’s not cheap, so you aren’t getting a fixer-upper. It’s not expensive, because it’s less than others. It’s just right, because you can afford it and it’s beautiful. 2. Home selling is a beauty contest. Real estate agents say curb appeal and many potential clients roll their eyes. It’s as if we’ve said it so much that it’s become a myth. I assure you curb appeal is very, very real. Let a buyer pull up to a house with chipped paint and rusted hardware, and that’s one less buyer to worry about. The first impression is everything, and a poor impression never goes away. 3. People don’t want to see your stuff. Whether your “stuff” is an old, favorite easy chair with rips and springs poking out or a closet full to bursting, it’s a turn off to buyers. They don’t want to see what the home looks like with your footprint; they want to see what it would look like with their footprint. Reduce the amount of furniture, keeping the best pieces for show. Pack up your knick-knacks, bric-a-brac and family photos. Take half your clothes out of the closets and pack them away in moving boxes. Less is more! If you’re having problems with getting your home for sale in Lakewood Ranch off the market, don’t panic. Clear your head and see what you’ve missed! If you’re ready to sell your home, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Value for a home http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/how-to-calculate-a-home-s-value-1.aspx Moving boxes http://www.movingdayboxes.com/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/96 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/93/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/93/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:49:58 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/93/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> real estate industry specifically, it’s still possible to replace that “Home for Sale in Lakewood Ranch” sign with a “SOLD” sign. You just have to figure out why it’s not selling, and fix it. I know it’s easier said than done. If you knew what the problem was you would already have fixed it. Here are the top three reasons a house won’t sell: 1. Price is the number one deal breaker. Price and value are the two things you need to wrap your thoughts around.  It’s not about what you consider good price and value for a home, but what the buyer considers a good deal. You can’t beat the competition by simply lowering the price. You have to compel the buyer with the “Goldilocks” price. This price says, It’s not cheap, so you aren’t getting a fixer-upper. It’s not expensive, because it’s less than others. It’s just right, because you can afford it and it’s beautiful. 2. Home selling is a beauty contest. Real estate agents say curb appeal and many potential clients roll their eyes. It’s as if we’ve said it so much that it’s become a myth. I assure you curb appeal is very, very real. Let a buyer pull up to a house with chipped paint and rusted hardware, and that’s one less buyer to worry about. The first impression is everything, and a poor impression never goes away. 3. People don’t want to see your stuff. Whether your “stuff” is an old, favorite easy chair with rips and springs poking out or a closet full to bursting, it’s a turn off to buyers. They don’t want to see what the home looks like with your footprint; they want to see what it would look like with their footprint. Reduce the amount of furniture, keeping the best pieces for show. Pack up your knick-knacks, bric-a-brac and family photos. Take half your clothes out of the closets and pack them away in moving boxes. Less is more! If you’re having problems with getting your home for sale in Lakewood Ranch off the market, don’t panic. Clear your head and see what you’ve missed! If you’re ready to sell your home, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Links: Our Website: http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Value for a home http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/how-to-calculate-a-home-s-value-1.aspx Moving boxes http://www.movingdayboxes.com/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/93 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/91/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/91/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 26 Jan 2011 05:48:03 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/91/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> or a home seller. Yet, the problem with the news from the home buying standpoint is that it focuses on profit. The media says, “You can’t make a profit from buying a home.” They talk about prices dropping and more homes hitting the market, among other things. What they miss, however, are the real reasons most people buy a Lakewood Ranch home for sale. It’s your home. You can do what you want with it. You don’t have to worry about whether painting a mural on the wall will get you an increase in rent. You don’t have to deal with the noisy people who just moved into the apartment above you. You can paint the walls black and nobody can say “Boo” about it, because it’s your home. Fixed-rate mortgages stay put. Unlike rent, which can go up and up and up, fixed-rate mortgage loans stay the same? They work exactly like they sound; the rate you start at when you buy your Lakewood Ranch home for sale is the rate you end at when you finish paying off your mortgage. You can eventually stop paying out. Rent will always be owed. At no time in the future will your landlord say, “You’ve paid enough rent." "You don’t have to pay anymore.” Mortgages, however, will eventually be paid off. Therefore, while renters pay for 15 years and then must continue to pay, homeowners, who have a 15-year mortgage can pay for 15 years and then stop. It’s your castle. There’s a certain pride to owning a home that far outweighs profit. When you buy a Lakewood Ranch home for sale, you’re buying a castle – a safe haven where you can get away from the world. A place where you can relax and be comfortable. If you’re ready to find your castle, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Links: Our Website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Fixed-rate mortgage loans http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/fixed-rate-mortgages-1.aspx]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/91 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/89/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/89/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 24 Jan 2011 05:47:15 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/89/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Interview and get a comparative marketing analysis (CMA) from at least three agents from three different Lakewood Ranch real estate agencies. Each agent has a different opinion about the value of your home and how to best market your home. Learn from each agent and then sign a contract with the agent you decide to hire. 2. Research the number of foreclosures and short sales in your neighborhood. To sell your home, find out how many foreclosures and short sales you’re competing against. This impacts the value of your property as well as the length of time it takes you to sell. Your Lakewood Ranch real estate agent can help you with this research. 3. Be realistic about price. After reviewing your three CMAs, talk with the agent you hired and come to an agreement on the price that can get your home sold. Ideally, that price should be at or just below the selling price of similar houses in your neighborhood that have sold in the past 90 days. 4. Counter offers. Be calm if a buyer suggests a lower price than you want.  Consider your options. Can you afford to let the house go at the offered price? If you can and still want to say no, think about it… how long did it take to get this potential buyer? Super low bids are not insults; they’re a buyer’s way of testing you. So, even if an offer seems ow to you, counter it. If the buyer wants your home, he or she will come up to a realistic price. 5. Remain flexible. Make concessions where you can. The buyer wants you to pay part of the closing costs? That’s a great way to sweeten the deal. Fix those small problems found in the home inspection. Add a home warranty. A successful sale means everyone walks away happy. Put these resolutions into action, and your new year may turn out to be even happier than you expected! If you’d like a proven marketing plan to get your Lakewood Ranch real estate sold, give Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today for a free competitive marketing analysis or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can get more information on our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/89 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/87/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/87/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 18 Jan 2011 05:46:23 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/87/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Review your credit reports. To determine the interest rate and terms of your mortgage, lenders pull credit scores from each of the three credit reporting bureaus: Equifax, Experian and Trans-Union. You need to go through all three credit reports and dispute any credit report errors. 2. Establish a good credit rating. To take advantage of today's low interest rates, your credit score should be as high as possible. To improve your credit rating, fix all errors in your credit reports and practice good credit behavior by paying your bills on time and in full each month. 3. Find out how much Lakewood Ranch home you can afford to buy. To determine this, you need to know how much money you have for a down payment and how much money you can borrow. The best way to know how much you can borrow is to get pre-approved for a loan. 4. Shop around for a mortgage. Talk with a number of lenders before signing an application. Include a wide variety of mortgage providers such as a small local bank, a large bank, a credit union, a mortgage broker or an online lender. Learn from each lender and then negotiate to get the best deal. 5. Research the neighborhood before you buy a home there. Find out about the schools, the amenities and the proximity to shopping, etc. Visit the neighborhood during the day and again at night. Hire a real estate agent who lives and works in that neighborhood. 6. Read and understand all documents before signing them. I know they’re long, boring and complicated. It’s worth the effort to read and understand everything before signing. If you don’t understand something, ask before you sign. If buying a Lakewood Ranch home is on your list of things to do in 2011, let us help. Give Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call today or e-mail us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Visit our websitewww.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information. Links Dispute any credit report errors http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre21.shtm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/87 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/84/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/84/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 14 Jan 2011 05:45:41 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/84/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Paul Dales, U.S. economist at Capital Economics Ltd. For an example of interest rate increases, note what happened in December, 2010. · On December 2, the 30-year fixed interest rate hovered around 4.46 percent. · One week later, on December 9, it was up to 4.61 percent. · When I checked on December 26, the 30-year fixed interest rate was up again to 4.875 percent. National Foreclosure Rates Fall Has the real estate market hit bottom? One sign that it has is RealtyTrac’s report that foreclosures fell sharply in November. RealtyTrac’s November, 2010, U.S. Foreclosure Market Report™ indicated a 21 percent decrease in foreclosure activity from the previous month and a 14 percent decrease from November, 2009. According to RealtyTrac, a mortgage research firm, foreclosure activity decreased dramatically in November with fewer than 300,000 properties receiving a foreclosure notice for the first time since February, 2009. While foreclosures typically decrease in November, and we’re sure to see a rebound in foreclosure activity, these statistics are not to be dismissed because they show the lowest level of foreclosure activity since November, 2008. Additionally, both the 21 percent month-over-month decrease and 14 percent year-over-year decrease in foreclosure activity were the highest drops recorded since RealtyTrac began publishing the U.S. Foreclosure Report in January, 2005. Want to know more about the Lakewood Ranch real estate market? Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com to discuss our real estate market. You can also visit our website www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com for more information. We look forward to hearing from you. Links: Paul Dales, U.S. economist at Capital Economics Ltd http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-09/mortgage-rates-for-u-s-loans-climb-to-five-month-high-freddie-mac-says.html ]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/84 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/82/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/82/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 14 Sep 2011 05:44:51 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/82/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> You only get one chance to make a good first impression. With so many competing Lakewood Ranch homes for sale, yours has to pop out immediately as a good value or buyers will move on, unlikely to return. · Set the price too high and you could hurt your chances of selling your home. The amount of traffic a home gets in the first week on the market is usually greater than what it gets in the following weeks. The traffic continues to decrease every week. You might say, “Well, I’ll just lower my price.” This hurts almost as much as it helps. It conveys to buyers (the few who are still considering your home) that your home was overpriced and may still be overpriced. · Setting the price too low can be almost as harmful. Buyers who are looking in a specific price range may not consider your home because of the low price tag. They assume it will not fulfill their needs or worry that there’s something wrong with it. How do you know what that magic number should be for your home? Here are 3 factors to take into consideration when setting your asking price: 1. Neighborhood sales prices: Recent closed sales in your immediate neighborhood offer the most pertinent data for predicting the sale price of your home. List prices of homes still on the market should be taken into consideration also, because they show the current pricing trend. A professional real estate agent will do all this research for you as part of their services. 2. Condition of your home: If your home has been better maintained, is more up to date and shows better than the other Lakewood Ranch homes for sale, it will sell faster and for more money. Updates, even those as minor as having current paint colors, impact pricing. Updated kitchens and baths are especially important to buyers. 3. Appraisal value: As the seller, you can get an appraisal on your home before putting it on the market. You’ll have to pay for it, but it may be worth it to get access to this pricing tool. You should discuss this with your realtor. Ready to sell your home? Let us do the research for you and help you set the best price to get your home sold. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links: Lakewood Ranch Homes For Sale http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/SearchtheMLS kitchens http://www.remodelingcenter.com/kitchen/ideas/ Appraisal value http://homebuying.about.com/cs/appraisals/a/real_estate.htm]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/82 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/80/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/80/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 03 Jan 2011 05:43:24 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/80/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> You won’t get a decent price. Your Lakewood Ranch real estate will sell for whatever a buyer is willing to pay. A comparative market analysis (CMA) shows you what other buyers spent on property like yours. Of course, if you bought your home when values were up, you may not get the return on your investment you’d hoped for. However, most sellers get a fair price and some make a profit in a slow market. 2. Your Lakewood Ranch real estate will stay on the market too long. While it’s true that real estate tends to take longer to sell during a slow market, it’s not impossible to sell. People still buy in slower markets. If your home is priced right, prepared for sale and marketed professionally, it will sell. 3. Buyers only want foreclosures and short sales. The truth is that buyers want good deals, and this can be in the form of money or time. The price of a foreclosure or short sale may certainly be attractive, but a short sale can take a considerable amount of time to close while the banks negotiate their terms. Paying slightly more for a traditional sale is sometimes well worth the time they can save. Using our proven marketing plan, we can help you sell your home whether it's a slow market or a booming market. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Links Comparative market analysis http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/SellingYourHome Prepared for sale http://www.prepareyourhouseforsale.com/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/80 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/78/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/78/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 08 Dec 2010 05:42:09 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/78/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Start with a list. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t even know what’s inside your garage. Take a pencil and paper and walk through your garage, writing down everything you see. You don’t need a detailed list. For example, screws, bolts, and nails can be listed together as hardware. 2. Reduce the list. Cleaning your garage means getting rid of anything you no longer need or want. The general rule is that you can toss any item that you haven’t used in 1 year. If you don’t use it, it’s only taking up space. Give it away, trash it, or recycle it. 3. Group related items. It just makes sense to store items together. If all your camping supplies are stored in one place, you won’t waste time anymore looking for them. Place each item on your list in a group, like painting supplies, home repairs, gardening tools, etc. 4. Create zones. Decide what you want to do with your garage. If you want to park a car inside, designate a parking zone and don’t let anything but your car in that zone. Choose a work area where you can place a workbench or household projects. Garage storage zones should be at different heights throughout the garage. 5. Give it some personality. Once your garage is organized and clean, make it more attractive with some decorative touches. Paint the garage floor. Decorate it with an automotive theme. With a little work, your Lakewood Ranch home will be ready to sell in no time. Let us help you prepare your home to sell. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/78 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/74/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/74/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 06 Dec 2010 05:40:22 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/74/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Do Upload Photos The internet is one of most popular places for homebuyers to do their initial shopping. If your Lakewood Ranch home isn’t online, it needs to be there. If it is online, it needs pictures. If it has pictures, pay attention to the following issues:

• Dark or grainy pictures
• Images with closed windows, drapes and/or blinds
• Photos of rooms with clutter
• Only one photo, and it’s of the front of the house
• Images that haven’t been adjusted to look their best online

Finally, ask yourself, if a picture says a thousand words, what are the photos of my home saying? If your pictures don’t look friendly and inviting, and if they don’t make your home look it’s very best, you might as well take your home off the market. Do Add Data Don’t forget to add important information. Think about it. How many other homes are being sold online? What makes yours better/different? In other words, why should a buyer take the time to look at your house in person? Buyers aren’t mind readers. They can’t look at a picture and see that your home has 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. You have to tell them that. If your house also has a large backyard, walking paths nearby or green home features, by all means, brag about it. Don’t Restrict Showings People need to see your home in person before they’ll decide to buy it. Unfortunately, many sellers make the mistake of having restricted showing hours, needing appointments for a showing and not being available when they have a prospective buyer. Instead…

• Do use a lockbox, so you don’t have to be there for an agent to show the house.
• Don’t set restricted hours. This makes showing the home at the buyer’s convenience difficult, and you definitely want it to be convenient for your potential buyer.

There are several areas where marketing can go bad and become a missed opportunity for selling your Lakewood Ranch home. However, if you make it convenient, show your home at its best and don’t overprice, you’re well on your way to changing “for sale” to “sold.” If you want an agent who will market your home to its best advantage, give us a call today, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. You can visit our website-www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Green home features http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.nh_features]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/74 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/71/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/71/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 03 Dec 2010 05:38:59 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/71/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Type of Home For example, the type of home you plan to buy makes a difference:

• Are you buying a newly constructed Lakewood Ranch home? Any newly built home should already be covered by the builder warranty, at least for a specific timeframe.
• Are you buying an older home? If so, a warranty might be the right thing to have.
• Are you buying a foreclosure? In this case, a home warranty is an excellent idea.

Homeowners Insurance vs. Home Warranty Homeowners insurance is different from a home warranty. Insurance covers the home if there’s a natural disaster, fire or theft. On the other hand, a home warranty typically covers:

• Air conditioning
• Plumbing
• Heating
• Wiring
• Dishwashers
• Stoves

As with most contracts, it’s important to read the fine print of any home warranty before buying. Some may only cover an appliance if you pay an extra premium. As well, things like air conditioners may be pro-rated, where the payable amount is based on how old the unit is. To Buy or Not to Buy First, consider asking the seller to include a home warranty as a buyer’s incentive. If not, then take into account whether you’re an experienced handyman. If you aren’t, buying a policy may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you do get a home warranty, make sure you know exactly what that policy covers and provides. Like any other company, home warranty companies range from good to bad. And note that, for the most part, they’ll try to repair rather than replace. Only you can determine whether a home warranty policy for your new Lakewood Ranch home is best for you. For many, however, it gives a certain sense of safety and security from unexpected expenses. If you’re looking for a home to buy (with or without a home warranty), we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Visit our website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/71 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/67/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/67/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 14 Nov 2010 05:34:32 -0700 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/67/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/67 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/65/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/65/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 20 Oct 2010 05:32:46 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/65/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/65 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/57/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/57/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 14 Oct 2010 05:23:22 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/57/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]>

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) – More builders are employing eco-friendly practices during construction. Those that do can qualify for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation. These homes are designed for better IAQ, which means a healthier home for you. Rest assured, if a builder meets this designation they’ll tell you about it. However, just in case – ask!

Energy Efficient – If it qualifies for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation, the home for sale in Lakewood Ranch will also be energy efficient. However, if you’re not looking at a newly built home, look for those homes that are Energy Star efficient. According to the Energy Star website, “These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.”

Eco-friendly – Energy Star and EPA qualifications aside, you can also find homes in which the seller has made eco-friendly changes that will help you even though they may not meet the guidelines for qualifications. For instance, solar paneling, wind turbines and geothermal heating aren’t covered by the EPA or Energy Star qualifications by themselves, but they’re eco-friendly and can lower your utilities.

You can find an eco-friendly home for sale in Lakewood Ranch. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly home, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906. You can email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Links: EPA Indoor airPlus http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/about.html Energy Star efficient http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index Geothermal heating http://www.geoexchange.org/]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/57 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/54/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/54/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 12 Oct 2010 05:21:53 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/54/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch home before you purchase it. While you’re not required to attend the inspection, it’s an excellent idea to do so. So you’ll know what to expect, here are the basics that a typical home inspection covers: · Appliances. You will know if the appliances are in working order. · Electrical. The inspector makes sure the main panel, circuit breakers, lights, and outlets are working. · Exterior. An inspector looks for defects on the outside of the home, such as problems with the wall covering, landscaping, trim, and exterior electrical outlets. · Garage. You don’t have to worry about what the garage is hiding. You will know if the slab, walls, vents, and entries have any problems that need to be addressed. · Home structure. The inspector checks the foundation, ceilings, floors, roof, and wall construction for any possible structural defects. · Plumbing inspection. Although inspectors do not check sewer systems, they can tell you if you need to do any work to toilets, showers, sinks, and faucets. · Roof and attic. The roof inspection is not a guarantee of its condition, but you will know what type of roof you have and the condition of the roof covering, flashing, vents, and gutters. · Systems. They will also check the effectiveness of your air conditioner, duct work, fireplace, and heating system. A quality home inspector will look at every nook and cranny to gauge structure stability and present and potential dangers. But remember, a home inspection is not a guarantee or a warranty - it may not find everything. Let us help you find the right home for you. Call us today, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information about home buying. Visit our website-www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com. Links: Plumbing inspection http://www.homedetective.com/plumbing.html Roof inspection http://www.homedetective.com/roof.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/54 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/52/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/52/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 05 Oct 2010 05:20:31 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/52/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch area home buyer, your stress level might be reduced if you’re aware of some of the reasons a seller may reject your offer. Before I give you the list of reasons, I’d like to mention that even if you and your buyer’s agent do everything right, the seller may still reject your offer. It frequently has nothing to do with you. Here are 5 common reasons sellers reject offers on their homes: 1. The offer wasn’t enough for them to pay off their mortgage. For most sellers, the bottom line is paying off their mortgage. If your offer won’t cover the mortgage, they cannot accept it. 2. They may have just been testing the waters to see what they can get for their home. 3. Their plans may have changed. People put their homes on the market because they need to move, they want to upgrade their home, or they can no longer afford their home. If the circumstances change, they may not need to sell their home. 4. Their deal may have fallen through. Perhaps your seller was buying another house contingent on the sale of their property. If something went wrong with that deal, they may not be able to sell their Lakewood Ranch area home to you. 5. You may be asking too much of them. The seller may not have the time or money to make any repairs they think are insignificant. Perhaps you want to close too soon or would like to move in to the home before closing. Don’t get depressed when a seller rejects your offer. There may be many reasons for their refusal. Work with your real estate agent to develop a counter offer, or move on to a new opportunity. There are a lot of homes on the market. You may be pleasantly surprised when you start looking again and find a home that fits your lifestyle even better. When you’re ready to buy a home, we can help you find a great home and negotiate to a successful “Yes, we’ll accept your offer.” Call Ellen Ferber Evans today at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com to get started.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/52 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/50/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/50/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 03 Oct 2010 05:19:36 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/50/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> sell your own home. Your House—Not Your Home The first trick of selling your own home is to immediately stop thinking about it as your home. It may seem like an insignificant change and purely a matter of semantics but as your 'home' you will have far less ability to coldly assess its value than simply as a piece of Lakewood Ranch real estate—a house. As a 'home' it will be harder to handle rejection, off-handed comments by prospective buyers, and a feeling of general violation as strangers traipse through your rooms at all hours of the day interrupting your home life. As a house it is simply a piece of property you have to move. Thinking about your property as just a house, a structure you need to sell, will help you detach emotionally enough to have realistic expectations and the ability to handle the stress of selling. Be Realistic Carefully assess the value of your Lakewood Ranch real estate. Check out the competition. Know what others have to offer in your same neighborhood and what their prices are. Prepare and Market Get rid of personal items. Put them in storage. Eliminate all the clutter of everyday living and make your home sparkle. Also remember that no one will be viewing your house if they don’t know it’s for sale. Get the word out in as many ways as possible. If you would like help selling your home, give Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call or email at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/50 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/48/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/48/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 30 Sep 2010 05:17:47 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/48/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Buyers Are More Discerning In Today’s Real Estate Market Today’s real estate market is challenging for sellers, all the more reason why every little detail matters. Buyers know they are in a strong buyer’s market and literally won’t put up with any rubbish, when window shopping for homes. Before a potential buyer even considers stepping foot inside your home, they want to see curb appeal—and not just any curb appeal, mind you. The discerning home buyer of today wants everything “just so.” GOOD CURB APPEAL Here’s what buyers are looking for: • Precision lawn care:  That means weekly mowing and edging in the warm months. The perfect lawn features mowing done in precise straight lines resulting in a very symmetrical, uniform look.  Don’t forget to trim around the driveway, stones, garden, trees, and especially the sidewalk. A great manicured lawn will go a long way. • No junk lying around: Pack rats, you know who you are!  Put things in storage.  Don’t have vehicles blocking your driveway or bikes and toys strewn everywhere. • Beautify: Pick up leaves, weeds, branches and other debris.  Plant beautiful flowers.  You can even buy pre-bloomed flowers and replant. • Splash o’ Color: Paint the house, garage, doors and shutters in neutral, updated colors. • Fix and Re-Finish: Decks, lanais and porch railings should be in tip-top shape. Shoot for Showroom Shine Just imagine that you are trying to win a contest for best looking home in the area. Think model-home quality. You’ve got a Friend! Call us for a free evaluation of your Lakewood Ranch home today.  Give realtors® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 a call or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/48 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/46/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/46/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sat, 25 Sep 2010 05:15:31 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/46/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Keep in mind that your prospective buyers will most likely be viewing several Lakewood Ranch homes on the same day as your showing. The emotional elements you include will have a profound impact on their memory, and will make your home standout when they review what they’ve seen with their agents at day’s end. Preparing your home for the perfect showing is essential and comprises three basic elements that will make your home sparkle. Curb Appeal • A buyer is first introduced to your home from the outside. Make sure all shrubs, grass and lawn ornaments are looking their best. This gives the buyer a more positive outlook before they enter your home. Atmosphere • Soft classical music • Simmering potpourri • If you feel ambitious, bake an apple pie or some cookies in the oven. • Well-lit rooms and inviting indirect lighting • Air conditioning or heating set at a comfortable temperature Decorations • Garden-fresh bouquet of flowers near the entrance or on the kitchen table • Fresh neutral-colored paint and cleaned or new carpet • Remove family photos or personal items (allows buyer to imagine it is their home) Cleanliness • Meticulously spotless kitchen and bath • Walls spackled and painted as needed • No clutter whatsoever (uncluttered rooms look larger) • No pets – kennel them if needed (buyer may be allergic) • Clean closets (yes, people peek in your closets) Remember it’s the little things in life that matter, and the same is absolutely true when it comes to a buyer looking for a place to call home-sweet-home. For more ideas on how to sell fast and make the most from the sale of your Lakewood Ranch home, call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at: aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Important Links http://curbly.com/diy-maven/posts/2588-easy-homemade-simmering-potpourri-recipes http://www.homeandfamilynetwork.com/decorating/color.html ]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/46 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/43/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/43/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 23 Sep 2010 05:15:04 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/43/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch Area Realtor® in order to facilitate a sale. 1. Speed: If your property has been languishing on the market for more than three months, it is no longer fresh. People will avoid it simply because it hasn't sold. A Realtor can give your home wider exposure and get traffic moving through it again. 2. Knowledge: Fresh eyes on a project are helpful in any business endeavor. You can be too close to your home. You love it and see it in a positive light that can often overlook minor items that could prevent a sale. Your Realtor® can help you see the problems you didn't even know existed. 3. National Exposure: As a FSBO (for sale by owner) seller, you are not able to list your home on the official MLS (multiple listing service). This exposure alone can get much faster responses and sales. Additionally, a professional real estate agent markets your home on multiple websites which gives your home a virtual Open House 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 4. An Earthly Advantage: Many FSBOs price their homes way over market for two reasons. First, they love their home and see certain aspects of their home as more valuable than they really are. Second, they don't have extensive knowledge of the real estate market nor do they have the ability to do accurate home price comparisons. You 'might' know what your neighbor's house sold for 5 years ago, but do you know what it is worth now? And even more importantly, do you know exactly how comparable your house is to that one? A professional real estate agent has access to all that information. If you would like to know more about how a professional real estate agent can help you sell your home, we can help. Give us a call today, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 at Lakewoodranchareahomes.com or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. Hepful Links: FSBO's http://www.realtor.com/home-finance/sellers-basics/fsbo-woes.aspx MLS http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/SearchtheMLS]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/43 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/40/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/40/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 15 Sep 2010 05:13:39 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/40/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> homebuyers change their minds or still worry over that age-old question of, “Should I or shouldn’t I?” Two Cases of Cold Feet A 26-year old with a steady job, good paycheck and good credit, sums it up for many potential buyers. “My job’s steady and my credit is good. I keep watching the houses that go up for sale, thinking I could go ahead and buy, but then the ‘what if’s’ pop into my head. I don’t want to miss this opportunity to get a great deal and lock in a low interest rate, but there are so many unknowns…” A former seller shares why he took his home off the market. “My wife and I decided to sell and went through the process of hiring an agent. The agent suggested having someone come in and redecorate the house. While we were looking for another place, we kept coming back to this beautiful home and started remembering what we really liked about it in the first place.” He went on to say, “We also started thinking about all the things we no longer had to deal with. We own this home, but if we bought another one, we’d have to take out a mortgage. Our house started looking better and better. Turns out we didn’t need to move; we just needed to redecorate.” Should I or Shouldn’t I? Should you buy a home? Should you sell the home you own? Only you can really answer that question. For the buyers, however, if you can afford a home of your own but are holding off for lower prices, you could end up missing out. Home prices and mortgage rates are already at all-time lows; this may be as good as it gets. For sellers, consider why you want to sell your home. Is it too small? Too big? Would remodeling turn it back into your dream home? Or – do you really need to sell your home for some reason? Putting your Lakewood Ranch home up for sale or buying a new home should never be a spontaneous decision. Before you do either, take stock of your finances and reasons. If you’d like to sell your home or find a home to buy, we can help. Call Realtors® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907,Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today, or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/40 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/37/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/37/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Tue, 07 Sep 2010 05:09:17 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/37/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> What is a home warranty? A home warranty is a policy that covers the repair or replacement of home systems and appliances. They are typically annual policies that can be renewed and usually cost between $250 and $500. · Who pays for a home warranty? Either the seller or the buyer can pay for the home warranty, but sellers usually cover the cost as an incentive for selling their home. Sometimes real estate agents offer home warranties as a closing gift. · What is covered? This will depend on the terms of your warranty. Most warranties cover the air conditioner, dishwasher, furnace or heating system, water heater, ductwork, garbage disposal, inside plumbing, electrical systems, range and oven, to name a few. Check with your home warranty for your specific coverage. · What is not covered? Again, this will depend on the terms of your warranty. However, most warranties do not cover outdoor sprinklers, certain faucet repairs, refrigerators, washers and dryers, garage door openers, spas, and pools. Check with your home warranty for your specific coverage. · How do I file a claim? If you have to file a claim, contact your home warranty company. They will call a service provider who will set up an appointment. You will have to pay a small service fee that is usually less than $100. Want to buy a Lakewood Ranch home? We can help. Call Realtors® Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 today, or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/37 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/35/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/35/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Thu, 02 Sep 2010 05:07:47 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/35/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]>

There is no longer a federal tax credit to entice buyers and get them interested.

Your house is competing with several foreclosures – many of which are priced as low as the lender can handle.

If your house sits on the market too long, waiting for a buyer, the harder it will be to actually attract a buyer.

There is very little incentive for buyers to go out and buy now, especially higher priced homes.

Mortgage rates are low, but lender qualifications are much tighter now.

Any seller hitting the market in today’s economy has two choices: wait or cut your losses. They aren’t pretty choices, but life is seldom convenient, no matter what the commercials say. If selling your home isn’t an absolute necessity, consider the fact that it might serve you better to hang in there. If you don’t have a compelling reason to sell your home now, don’t. If you must sell your house, don’t let it be a market bully. Price it according to the local market, not the price of a home across the country. In this case, you want your house to be part of the “in” crowd. Listen to your real estate agent’s advice and use the data he or she provides in the Comparative Market Analysis to set the best price. With the way the economy is now, you can bet that owners of competing Lakewood Ranch homes for sale are serious about selling. The competition is tough, so, when pricing, be kind to your home and price it low enough to sell. If you’re ready to sell your home, we can help get it sold. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907,Alan Evans at 941-773-6906, or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information or for a CMA(Comparative Market Analysis). Visit Our Website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/35 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/33/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/33/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Sun, 01 Aug 2010 05:05:34 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/33/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Situated on Florida's Gulf Coast, just minutes away from Siesta Key's celebrated beaches, you will find one of the most successful Master Planned Communities in the United States. That community is Lakewood Ranch Florida. Lakewood Ranch Florida encompasses a 28,000 acre Master Planned Community, where you will find a variety of residential and commercial real estate ranging from single family homes, estate homes, condos and townhomes, a town center with shopping, dining, entertaining, medical facilities, hotels and great schools. With 50 percent of the land set aside for recreation and open areas, Lakewood Ranch Florida has established the perfect balance between people and nature. Golf courses, tennis, fitness center, boating, walking trails and parks make up only some of Lakewood Ranch's recreational options. Main Street at Lakewood Ranch is located across from the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. This outdoor venue offers more than 30 stylish boutiques, 7 international restaurants, and the Lakewood Ranch Cinemas. Main Street combines elements of the ideal downtown with easy access to stores that make year-round shopping a pleasure. Famous names and specialty shops line the streets. The open-air environment provides a unique plaza for strolling and shopping. At the Center's hub, the pavilion hosts special events, farmers markets, concerts and festivals throughout the year making this the focal point of the community and Lakewood Ranch's "downtown." Grab a cup of coffee at Starbucks and start your stroll. Restaurants include Ed's Tavern, MacAllisters Grill & Tavern, Paris Bistro, Polo Grill, Saijo Sushi and The Serving Spoon. Office suites line the second story of the street and loft style condos make Main Street the ideal place where you can truly live, work and play. LAKEWOOD RANCH MEDICAL CENTER When medical care is necessary, you'll find the 120-bed acute care Lakewood Ranch Medical Center offers fully integrated in and outpatient services, while the Lakewood Ranch Women's Center caters to the special needs of women. Adjacent to the hospital is a 60,000 square foot medical office building housing a full range of physician and mental health specialists as well as diagnostic and laboratory facilities. LAKEWOOD RANCH, COME SEE FOR YOURSELF...YOU WILL WANT TO STAY!]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/33 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/27/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/27/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:00:21 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/27/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> “For Sale by Owner” sign up, however, make sure you’re ready for the work and headaches.

• Time. Yes, you can sell your Lakewood Ranch real estate on your own without the help of an agent, but it takes a lot of preparation and time. How much is your time worth and how much time do you have? Before you step out on your own, make sure you can afford the time and energy investment.
• Extra services for better value. You’ll lose out on a wide variety of services offered by real estate agents. For example, many agents  provide home staging services as well as extensive advertising and marketing services both online and off.
• Dealing with the legalities. Selling a home involves contracts, closings and a multitude of legal issues that can make or break a sale. Real estate transactions have occasionally led to outcomes that were unexpected, including lawsuits. A professional helps ensure that the contracts are legally sound and binding.

• Knowing the market. Real estate agents have instant access to current market information. We can find an accurate selling range quickly. Since the real estate market constantly fluctuates, it’s important to know what area homes sell for before pricing your own. Otherwise, you risk underselling or overpricing your home.

These are just a few points. You also need exposure to buyers, experience with legal contracts and excellent negotiating skills. Can you sell your own Lakewood Ranch real estate? Yes, but can you really afford to? If you’re trying to sell your home and need professional expertise, we can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907, Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/27 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/24/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/24/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 18 Aug 2010 04:59:21 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/24/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Stop. Take a deep breath. Quit worrying for a moment and ask yourself… Why am I selling? There are good reasons to sell: • Your house has become hard to afford. • You’re getting older and need to move somewhere that doesn’t take as much maintenance. • You need to relocate for your job. But there are a lot of not-so-good reasons to sell: • You’ve read so much about people who have been unable to sell their homes that you became alarmed and put yours on the market “just in case” you want to sell it later. • You’re simply tired of your home.  If that’s the case, all you actually need to do is update or redecorate your home to make it sparkle again. • You’d just like to see what you can get for your home. It may seem strange for a real estate agent to speak against selling homes. However, our first motivation is always doing what’s best for our clients, including giving them the best advice we can. So, we urge you to take a moment and think about it:  do you really need to sell your home now? Even if your home has lost some of its value, there are many ways that your home is still very valuable: • Building credit - Home ownership is still a good way to build credit. With good credit you can borrow for other major expenses, such as a new car. • Building equity – On a long term basis, your home will build equity. When you are ready to sell, that equity will be there to put toward your next home purchase or your retirement savings. • Saving money on taxes – Owning a home offers several tax benefits.  For most Americans, the biggest benefit is deducting the annual interest paid on a mortgage. • Living well – There’s a reason why homeownership is still called the American Dream.  It simply feels good to live in a home you love.  That you can decorate any way you want.  A home that’s your very own. Now think about why you bought your home in the first place. Do the things still exist that made you value the home enough to buy it?  If yes, maybe you should stay. If you do need (or want) to sell your home, we can help. Call us today, Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907 or Alan Evans 941-773-6906, or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com for more information. We have helped many customers sell their Lakewood Ranch Home and homes in the communities in the Lakewood Ranch area. Visit our website www.lakewoodrancharehomes.com. Interesting Links http://www.freddiemac.com/corporate/buyown/english/preparing/credit_and_homeownership/establishing_credit.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/24 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/21/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/21/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 16 Aug 2010 04:57:03 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/21/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]>

Go back to school. In other words, do your homework. Yes, due to the buyer’s market, you have an advantage, but you still need to do your research. Talk with a real estate agent who specializes in the area and look at the prices of homes sold within the past year. The main point of the research is to find out how much homes are actually selling for in the area in which you want to live, and determine if you can afford to buy there.

Line up the home team. Be prepared to jump on a deal as soon as you find it. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Gather your real estate agent, home inspector and insurance agent. By having this team of real estate professionals on hand, the transaction will be smoother and faster.

Look for motivation. There are motivated sellers and not-so-motivated sellers who just “think” they “might” want to sell if “the right buyer” comes along (quotes are so handy, aren’t they?). You don’t have to guess which is which, however. Has the price been reduced? Is the home vacant? These clues may lead to a motivated seller, willing to genuinely negotiate to get the home sold.

1. Don’t buy angry. One of the worst mistakes a buyer can do is to get into a war with the home seller. Emotions grab hold and you find yourself in a fierce competition based on who’s going to WIN WIN WIN! If you find yourself in this situation, learn how to negotiate and listen to your real estate agent’s advice. If you don’t, your great deal can turn into a big mess.

There are plenty of Lakewood Ranch area homes for sale out there and great deals to be had, but being knowledgeable is the best way to get the best deal. Are you a motivated seller or a buyer looking for a great deal? We can help. Call Ellen Ferber Evans now at 941-773-6907,Alan Evans at 941-773-6906  or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com to get started! Visit our Website: www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com Helpful Links http://www.smartmoney.com/personal-finance/real-estate/7-tips-for-getting-a-preapproved-mortgage/ http://www.smartcreditinfo.com/home_negotiate.html]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/21 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/19/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/19/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Mon, 09 Aug 2010 04:52:21 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/19/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> Lakewood Ranch Condos or Houses:  that is the question! You may be thinking of buying a home but wondering how much space you really need. If you opt to look at houses, your choices are vast.  Houses, both large and small, are abundant in today’s real estate market. Even though Lakewood Ranch Condos are typically smaller than most houses, there are large condos available (even condos larger than houses).  And, just like traditional houses, there are a lot of condos available in this buyer’s market. So, how do you choose?  Your selection should be based on your current and near-future needs. Let’s demystify the differences and clarify your selection: • Space: Is your family large?  Are you planning to add many more?  Do you work from home?  Consider your plans for the next 5 to 7 years, and buy the size that fits those needs. • Price: Condos can be more affordable, especially the smaller ones.  But, with condos you have to pay condo association fees and other fees associated with the community. • Location: If you want a condo with a great view, close to work, for example, prepare for a premium.  Conversely, many homes with great yards and neighborhoods are quite affordable.  Not choosy?  Competitive pricing awaits you with either choice especially in today’s market! • Luxury: Lavish condos, much like ideally-located ones, are often steeply-priced.  Luxury houses are expensive, too.  The good news is that whichever style of housing you choose, you’ll find luxurious versions. • Availability: There are typically more houses on the market than condos, so, in general, your selection is greater with houses. • Privacy: Houses typically offer more in the way of privacy.   But, the trade off is that you also have more responsibilities and maintenance when you own a house.  Want a carefree, low-maintenance lifestyle?  A condo may be your best bet! • Acreage: If a smaller yard (or no yard) doesn’t bother you, a condo can offer excellent square footage and lower payments.  Looking for land?  A home is your best way to go. Still Unsure? We’d love to assist you in making your final decision.  Whether the condo or house will be in Lakewood Ranch or other Lakewood Ranch Area Communities, call Ellen Ferber Evans at 941-773-6907, or Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Together we’ll find the perfect home to fit your budget and lifestyle. How Much Space? See Article.]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/19 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/16/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/16/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 03 Aug 2011 04:47:59 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/16/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> professional real estate agent Having your own buyer’s agent to walk you through the entire home buying process saves you a lot of time and stress, as well as money. You decide: • Size of home desired • Style preferred • Location • Price range That’s easy!  With this basic information, your agent begins the hard part: searching for the perfect home for you and successfully guiding you through the purchase process. Your agent helps with: • Generating a small defined list of good choices • Forming a realistic budget • Financing • Determining what a home is really worth • Making offers for you • Negotiating with the seller • Alleviating stress that’s a part of any transaction of this magnitude • Overseeing your home inspection • Explaining and demystifying taxes, interest, and other particulars • Finalizing all the paperwork and details with the lender, seller and title    company • Closing on the sale All the hours your agent invests assisting you and making sure your best interests are looked after financially, legally and emotionally are well worth the real estate commission he or she receives after you finalize your purchase.  And typically, as the buyer, you don’t pay the commission.  The seller pays it! Where to find a professional Lakewood Ranch area real estate agent We specialize in helping people just like you buy homes in Florida at Lakewood Ranch or in the Lakewood Ranch Area.  Let's get started!  Give Ellen Ferber Evans a call today at 941-773-6907,Alan Evans at 941-773-6906 or email us at aevans15@tampabay.rr.com. Buying A Home, Ideas from HUD http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/topics/buying_a_home]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/16 0 http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/14/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/14/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers#comments Wed, 26 May 2010 04:46:53 -0600 Ellen Ferber Evans http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/ourblog/post/14/good-news-for-lakewood-ranch-real-estate-buyers-and-sellers Continue reading →]]> http://www.lakewoodranchareahomes.com/commentfeed/14 0