2009 Housing Market Predictions

The upcoming year will likely be rocky, but an improvement over 2008
By Kris Berg, FrontDoor.com Published: 12/02/2008

Real estate markets are cyclical; this much we know. We are all also painfully aware that we are currently experiencing a down cycle. Home values have declined across the country, dramatically in many regions. Experts and veteran agents agree, however, that this correction is different. It is much bigger than anything most of us have experienced in our lifetimes. This is because we all got a little crazy. Lenders got a little crazy throwing money around with no strings attached, and homebuyers got a little crazy overextending their credit and getting a cash advance on their equity, all on the premise that home values would continue on a skyward trajectory. This, of course, did not happen.
The talk around the water cooler lately is about what the housing market will look like in 2009. More specifically, the big question is, "When will we get there?"
I do know a few things with certainty. I know we will have volatility until we stabilize; I know prices will continue to decline until they stop declining. OK, I confess I'm a coward when it comes to predictions, especially when I don't control the variables.
First, there are those pesky external variables. Global events, jobs reports, and that wacky Wall Street, to name a few, can all influence the direction of the housing market. And those external factors feed that other important variable, consumer sentiment.
To predict the future of the housing market essentially requires that we are able to predict human behavior. I can't even predict what I will be cooking for dinner tomorrow. Nine out of ten dentists have never been able to agree on much of anything, and ask a dozen real estate agents about the future of the housing market, and you will get as many different answers.
Yet, in the spirit of the holiday season, I will be uncharacteristically bold and venture a few real predictions. If I am wrong, I will just blame all of those little variables beyond my control. "I didn't see that one coming! That changes everything!" On the other hand, I could be right, in which case I will spend 2010 gloating insufferably.
Home values will continue to decline throughout 2009, and declines will be greatest in the higher priced areas and among higher priced properties. The higher they go, the harder they fall, certainly, but less favorable loan limits will also play a part. Mortgage lending has generally been a two-tiered system. Lower limit, "conforming loans" (loans which conform to underwriting guidelines for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) carry lower interest rates, because they are considered less risky and can be sold on Wall Street, while larger "jumbo loans" involve higher interest rates. In 2008, the Government increased the loan limits for conforming loans to $417,000, and established higher limits yet for high-cost regions, effectively resulting in a new three-tiered system. As a result of the government's Stimulus Act, this three-tiered system will continue in 2009, the difference being that while conforming loan limits will remain at $417,000, the limits for higher-cost regions will be less than they were this past year.
While home values will continue to decline, the rate of decline will be lower than last year. We are already seeing the price decline trend line heading in a more horizontal direction. Interest rates remaining low will be a contributing factor. Absent a Presidential Cabinet position or a degree in economics, I cannot truly begin to know where interest rates will be in 2009, and even then my odds of being right will be only slightly better than if I had used my Ouija board. However, all indications from the "experts" are that we will be ringing in the New Year with more favorable rates.
Families will continue to lose their homes in painfully large numbers, but the numbers will be fewer. We are working through the subprime loan legacy of the first half of the decade, but we still need more time. Our free-lending, free-spending hangover will unfortunately continue. Too many troubled loans remain and until these are behind us, downward pricing pressure will continue. Government assistance programs and more willingness on the part of lenders to restructure loans at risk will help in the recovery, but we aren't "there" yet.
Home sales will increase. On the brighter side, declining home values have resulted in more affordability and opportunity for the homebuyer. Lower prices mean renewed buyer interest which, in turn, means opportunity for the home seller. I am seeing buyer activity and interest spiking in my area. But, even this brighter side comes with strings. Stricter lending guidelines mean a smaller buyer pool. The new rules now require that in order to qualify for a loan, buyers must make an actual (often 15 to 20 percent) down payment and, if that isn't bad enough, must demonstrate the ability to make the resulting mortgage payments. These new rules are ironically the old rules, and we should get used to them. They will be with us for awhile.
In short, 2009 will be a year of opportunity for qualified buyers as prices and interest rates remain low. Sellers will also benefit from renewed buyer activity and interest. But, 2009 will be more of the same, just to a lesser degree. I don't think we will turn the corner next year, but we will get a little closer to the intersection. And when we do get "there," there will be a place we have been before, a place where a home is not viewed as a lucky lotto ticket but as shelter, security, a lifestyle -- and a privilege.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

A Holiday Must!

22nd annual Holiday Lights at Shore Acres State Park
"A community tradition" - More than a quarter million lights - Thanksgiving thru New Year's Eve, the gardens are ablaze with thousands of colored lights and holiday decorations put up by community volunteers and The Friends of Shore Acres in cooperation with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
For information click here.
For photos click here.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

What Bargaining Chips Do You Have?

When you are selling a home, the haggling is not always limited to price

Prospective purchasers often make offers that include appliances and window coverings, for example, because these items are must-haves that are expensive to purchase new. Occasionally, a bidder also asks for other furnishings, recreational equipment or repairs and painting.

It isn’t just purchasers who use extras as bargaining chips. Sellers sometimes make counter-offers that include appliances and other contents as incentives for the bidder to agree to a higher price. This is an especially useful strategy when demand for homes in your area is weak and prices are low.

If you are selling your home, consider what you are willing to throw in to make a deal work and what items are off limits. It’s best to do this in advance of listing, so you are ready to deal with requests for inclusions and decisive about incentives you will offer.

Here are some of the items you may want to think about as potential bargaining chips:
major appliances, including washer, dryer, fridge, stove, dishwasher, water heater and water softener draperies, curtains, blinds and shutters
custom-built furniture, such as bookcases or shelves that fit a particular spot in the house area rugs that fit a particular room
barbeque
patio furniture, planters, garden benches and ornaments
garden shed
lawnmower, power washer, leaf vacuum or other maintenance equipment
garden or household tools
recreational equipment, such as ping-pong and pool tables, above-ground pools, trampolines, climbers, swing sets and hot tubs
boats, canoes, life vests and safety equipment, if you are selling a waterfront home

When deciding which potential bargaining chips you are willing to part with, you should consider how easy or difficult it will be to move them, how much you will need them and how much it will cost to replace them. You may love your top-of-the-line barbeque and patio furniture, for example, but they may not be worth the fuss and expense of moving them across the country. On the other hand, you may decide you can’t part with a china cabinet that’s been in the family for generations, no matter how much a purchaser wants it and how difficult it will be to move.

Light fixtures and built-ins such as central air conditioning and vacuum system, in-ground pools, water filtration systems, cabinetry and cook-tops are typically considered "includes," rather than extras. They should be factored into the asking price you and your selling agent decide on for your home.

Other requests come out of the blue and may seem downright odd or irritating. It’s hard to understand why a bidder would insist on including a coat of purple paint in a bedroom or a $30 shower curtain and matching bath mat in a deal worth $100,000 or more, but it happens. You can’t anticipate every demand, but as a rule, if it is easy and inexpensive to comply, you’re smart to agree graciously in order to expedite your sale.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Checklist: Getting Your Home Ready for the Market

Before you put your house on the market, set aside some time to spruce it up and maximize its sales appeal

A few weeks prior to listing your house, do an inspection tour, trying to look at things through the eyes of a stranger. Make a list of things that need to be cleaned and repaired and estimate the time, cost and priority of each chore. Take a particularly good look at your bathroom(s) and kitchen. Time and money invested in painting and refurbishing these key rooms will have maximum impact.

Real estate agents who are interested in listing a home often provide recommendations for increasing its sales appeal. Pay attention to their suggestions. They know what matters to buyers and can be objective about your home’s flaws.

To-do list for sellers
Prior to showing your house:
Get rid of clutter on shelves, countertops and closets. Consider packing seldom-used items you don’t want to discard in boxes and storing them until you move.
Put excess furniture and items that are showing wear in storage until you move.
Rearrange the remaining furniture attractively (ask your agent or a friend to help you decide what goes where).
Wash and/or paint walls that are dirty or chipped.
Wash blinds and clean curtains.
Shampoo carpets.
Fix leaky faucets and appliances that don’t work.
Get rid of junk that’s accumulated in your basement and garage. (You’ll have to do this before you move anyway, so why not get a head start?)
Consider having a yard sale.
While your house is on the market:
Keep the house clean – tidy up, vacuum and dust daily, if possible, and do laundry before it piles up.
Keep a list of things to do and places to go while prospective buyers are viewing your house.
Cut or buy fresh flowers every few days.
Bake cookies or a pie on weekend mornings when you expect a lot of traffic, and before open houses, to make your home more welcoming and cozy.

After your house is sold:
Make sure you keep everything clean and in good working order.
Do any repairs you’ve agreed to look after in the sales contract.
If you have small children and find it hard to keep the house tidy, think about hiring a cleaning service or a neighboring teen to help you. You can also ask your real estate agent about the possibility of intensively marketing your home for a short period of time, then holding an auction to reduce the period during which it will be on view.
If you have older kids, ask them to keep their rooms tidy and to take on chores like daily vacuuming and dusting.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Bright Ideas to Sell Your Home Faster

Increasing your home's lighting is the quickest and easiest way to make your home look brighter and sell faster.

Want to make your home more appealing with the simple flick of a switch? Install bulbs with the maximum wattage your fixtures will safely allow and turn on all the lights. With the right interior and exterior lighting, your home will become more appealing and easier to sell.

1. Outdoors
Make your home sparkle with bright exterior lighting. Dust off and clean the covers of outdoor light fixtures to let as much light shine through as possible. Also, add some low-wattage accent lights along your driveway or around your garden to show off your property’s best features.

2. Front entrance
Make a great first impression with a well-lit front entrance and hallway. Install high-wattage bulbs and keep light fixtures clean and cobweb-free. If you have pot lights or recessed lights (which can make a hall seem roomier), perhaps you can tilt them to highlight artwork. Another way to create a bright, open entryway is to paint walls a light neutral color and add mirrors.

3. Kitchen
The kitchen is the most popular room in the home, so make sure yours shines. Put the spotlight on your kitchen’s best features with a mix of recessed lights in the ceiling, task lighting around work areas (i.e. hidden fluorescent lights over the stove and countertops) and accent lights over your table.

4. Living room
The more light that fills the room, the bigger it will appear. So, keep the window shades and curtains open and let the sun shine in. Turn on all the lights during showings, trying not to cast any shadows. Ensure table lamps have 40- or 60-watt bulbs with attractive, translucent shades that cast a nice glow for entertaining or reading. Add a couple of non-scented candles for extra ambience.

5. Bathroom
There’s nothing worse than a dingy looking bathroom, so make sure the room has sufficient lighting -- especially over the tub, shower and vanity mirror. Use fluorescent bulbs with a color rendering index (CRI) of 80 or more to enhance skin tones and other colors. A night-light is also an inexpensive way to add a nice warm glow.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Tips on Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time

With careful planning, buying and selling a home at the same time can be a lot easier than you might think

Here are some tips to get you started.

Preparation
Hire a team of professionals who are experts in buying and selling homes. Ask family and friends which REALTOR®, lawyer, lender, appraiser, home inspector and mover they’d recommend. Meet with them and discuss your objectives, requirements and expectations right from the start.
Communicate with your team of professionals efficiently and regularly. For instance, more and more buyers are asking their REALTOR® to e-mail new home listings to save time and ensure they don’t lose out on a property that sells fast.
Ask your REALTOR® to keep you advised of important issues as they occur so you can resolve them together quickly.
Help organize all your buying and selling information. Dedicate a notebook to documenting the many dates and details of phone and face-to-face discussions, as well as important transactions.
Selling
Put your home up for sale far in advance of purchasing a new one. You may want to consider selling first, especially in a buyer’s market. You’ll know exactly how much money you have for your new home. Plus, you’ll decrease the risk of temporarily owning two homes at the same time.
Ensure you have ample time to find a new home (in the event that you sell first) by negotiating a long close or convenient rent-back option, where you can stay in the house as a rental tenant until you take possession of your new home.
Be motivated to sell; list at a competitive price. If you suspect your home has problems that may hinder its sale, work with a home inspector to coordinate repairs or ensure your asking price reflects the home’s condition.
Look at the big picture. You may want to consider a slightly lower offer if it is unconditional, or an offer that gives you more flexibility with respect to the closing date, as is often the case with first-time home buyers who don’t have to sell their existing house first.
Speed up the selling process by giving preferential treatment to offers without financing conditions, or insist that buyers be pre-approved within five to 10 days of accepting their offer.
Get the buyer of your old house and the seller of your new house to commit in writing to a specific window of dates and negotiate financial penalties to encourage both parties to stick to those dates.

Buying
Before you list your home, do a little digging and see what’s up for sale in your price range. Little within your reach? You may want to hold off on selling until you buy. When you do, negotiate a long close to give you the necessary time to sell.
Don’t waste your time looking at properties you can’t afford. Do the math and determine your budget. While you’re at it, select a lender and get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Once you’ve found a property that seems perfect, have it professionally inspected and ensure you can get insurance before you make an offer.
Give yourself enough time to review all the paperwork. From the get-go, tell your REALTOR® or lawyer you’ll need ample time to see and sign the closing documents.

Moving
Only move what you need and love. Donate old and seldom-used clothes, housewares and furniture to charity. Regardless of the season, do some spring cleaning so you’re not packing what should really be tossed out.
Organize your move by utilizing to-do lists and home-inventory lists (available from your REALTOR,® mover or the Internet). Make a master list of the items you pack and code all the boxes to ensure nothing gets lost and the movers can carry everything to the appropriate rooms in your new home.
Give your utility providers, postal service, associations and other contacts plenty of notice of your pending move and arrange new start dates for services at your new home.
Make sure you keep all your moving-related receipts. They could be tax deductible, depending on why you’re moving. Talk with a tax advisor to see if you’re eligible.
To make moving into your new place as easy as possible, pack a separate bag for everyone in your family containing clothing, toiletries, medication, work/homework, bedding and other items they’ll need the first day. Also, put together a moving-in toolkit for assembling furniture, etc.

Trouble-shooting
Things don’t always work out the way we plan -- especially when buying and selling homes. Life can get stressful and costly when you buy a new home before you sell your existing one or sell before you find something you want to buy. The good news is there are options.
In a situation where you need to carry two homes for a limited time, look into bridge financing. Backed by the equity in your old home, bridge financing is a loan to cover the down payment on your new home. It’s a great short-term solution, typically available for prime plus two percentage points.
If you have good credit but your income isn’t high enough for you to qualify to carry a bridge loan plus two mortgage payments, consider a no-ratio mortgage, which doesn’t take into account your debt-to-income ratio. You’ll incur a higher interest rate but you can refinance later, once your situation is more stable.
Alternatively, you could obtain extra funds by drawing on a line of credit on your old home. The interest rate is likely to be more than a point lower than on a bridge loan. The only downside is that you might have to pay a penalty fee if you sell the home within a year.
Should you need interim housing, there are always short-term rental properties (some even come furnished) and affordable storage facilities. Or perhaps you can even stay for a short time with family or friends.
Have children? Talk to school officials in both neighborhoods to work out the best schedule. For instance, if you’re not taking possession of your new home until the middle of a semester, with proper documentation, a new school may allow your children to start before you officially move in.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Good neighborhood characteristics

What should you be looking for when buying a home in a new neighborhood?

Finding the right neighborhood can be just as important as finding the perfect house. Most good neighborhoods tend to share the following characteristics: Access to an economic center Most people want convenience. That means an easy commute to their job as well as living close to shopping and restaurants. Although a good neighborhood does not have to be right next to any of these things, it should at least have easy access to them. Nearby public facilities such as libraries, as well as nearby parks or walking trails, also add appeal. Good public schools For anyone who has children or is thinking about having them, good schools are essential. A good neighborhood feeds into a well-regarded school system. Information about schools in the area can be obtained by talking to local parents and most states provide test scores and other pertinent school information online. Interested parents can also visit schools in person to get a better feel for what they are like. Solid reputation A good neighborhood appeals to a wide variety of people. Numerous factors play into that: well-manicured lawns and well-maintained homes, as well as junk-free properties. A good neighborhood also tends to attract a high percentage of homeowners as opposed to renters. Low crime rates are also important and can be researched online. When buying a home, it’s wise to keep in mind what other people will think of the neighborhood. It should appeal to a broad spectrum of potential homebuyers. Choose a location that’s convenient to shops and services, has good schools and a good reputation. A good neighborhood will add value to your home and make it easier to resell in the future.


For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Less-desirable homes: How to get buyers through the door

Turn your dated split-entry home into the object of their desire.

Once upon a time American homebuilders were enamored with the split-entry home. You walked into the front door to see a short set of steps going up and another short set of steps going down. These homes defined decades of suburbia in many parts of the country. These days, though, the split-entry home is considered a much less desirable home style by many, as outdated as hula hoops and mood rings. Bellevue, Wash., real estate agent David Oliver can’t count how many times prospective buyers have told him, “Anything but a split-entry.” That means sellers of less-desirable homes, like split-entry and split-level homes, need to go the extra mile to update the property and highlight its best features, he says. In fact, you’ll probably need to do more upgrading and updating to those types of homes than just about any other, short of a fixer-upper, he says. The desirability factor goes up exponentially if you update the homes with features like granite countertops, hardwood floors and new carpeting, says Oliver, who also appraises homes. “You want to pull it into the modern world,” he says. Buyers who might automatically consider a split-entry home less desirable can still be enticed to take a look by the description on the listing, says the RealEstate.com agent. A listing with hot high-end amenities like granite countertops or all-new appliances will still draw buyers in, he says. Square footage also works in the split-entry home’s favor. Most split-entry, split-foyer and split-level homes are relatively large, Oliver says. The typical split-entry home in Seattle and the communities north of the city range in size from about 1,500 square feet to 2,200 square feet, he says. “Usually families want to move to upgrade, like from a rambler into a larger house that’s already been updated,” he says. “Whenever you place a house like that on the market, you get multiple offers.” The various types of “split-” houses aren’t the only type of home that can be considered less desirable in today’s market. Homes on busy streets can be a challenge to sell, as can fixer-uppers. While some buyers look at fixer-uppers as either bargain investments or homes they can affordably renovate to reflect their own taste, most don’t want to be bothered. “Let’s face it, we’re lazy,” says Oliver. “We want someone else to do the work for us.” Given the extra challenges of marketing a less-desirable home, it becomes more important than ever to get the home into shape inside and out. The normal advice applies: Clear the clutter, take care of any deferred maintenance, update and freshen what you can before you put the home on the market. And perhaps most importantly, set a reasonable asking price based on current comparable sales. The price your neighbor got a year ago may be out of reach in today’s market, as the number of buyers and sellers equalizes, or more likely tips in favor of buyers. Buyers can afford to be choosy. And choosy buyers tend to choose homes that don’t still look like the Brady Bunch lives there.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

How to Bubble-Proof Your Second Home

Careful research can help you buy a vacation home that will become an income-producing asset.

With all the talk about our being in the midst of a real estate bubble, the decision of whether or not to buy a second home has become more difficult than ever.

But Christine Karpinski, author of two books on vacation home investing, How to Rent Vacation Properties by Owner and Profit from Your Vacation Home Dream, believes vacation homes are still a good investment. She says, “If you make well-researched, educated decisions, you’ll be setting yourself up for success, not failure.”

Karpinski suggests second-home buyers should:

Start with a plan
Whether you’re buying for personal use or for investment, you should start with a business plan just as you would if you were starting any new business. To be confident of a sound investment takes a lot of research.

Buy with your wallet not your heart
Make sure you’re buying a smart investment. It’s easy to get caught up and sign on the dotted line when you see that gorgeous beach home or perfect ski resort. But Karpinski cautions against getting caught up in the moment and not doing the necessary due diligence.

Research the area
Is it a new, emerging area? Or is it an older, more developed area? This makes a lot of difference, says Karpinski. If you are looking to purchase in an area that’s well developed, there’s less to worry about. But in an emerging market you should exercise caution to be sure that there are not so many new developments that the inventory exceeds demand.

Leave your options open
You may want to buy a vacation home with no intention of ever renting it out. But while today it may be financially feasible to not rent your home, you’re never sure what the future will bring. Your finances may change. The tax rate for the property could skyrocket. Buying in an area where you know you can utilize the option to rent your property is a great way to leave your options open.

Use your real estate agent
Pick your agent’s brain. Ask tons of questions. Scour through his or her Web site and absorb as much information as possible. After all, your agent is getting paid to be knowledgeable in this area. Use his or her expertise to your advantage.

Look for large, reputable developers
Developers do more research than any single buyer could ever dream of doing. They invest thousands of dollars into researching the market, tourism, growth and inventory. So if you follow large developers, your chances of failing are significantly less.

Beware of overextending with teaser mortgages
Yes, you can afford that property with a 3.5 percent interest-only payment, but be realistic. That payment is likely to go up, and maybe faster than you think. Mortgage rates are still at all-time lows, but if you’re using an adjustable-rate or interest-only mortgage only for the affordability factor, watch out. Rates could rise and you could end up stuck with a property you cannot afford.

Stay away from areas with short-term rental bans
The best way to protect yourself from market fluctuation is to have the option of renting your property on a nightly or weekly basis when you are not using it. Some complexes or counties have areas where there are covenants or laws against renting on a short-term basis. If you stay away from purchasing in those areas, you’re more likely to be able to turn your vacation home into an income-producing asset.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Decorating ideas made easy

Is your home in need of a new look? There are plenty of cheap and easy decorating ideas that can spruce up the look of your home without the expense of a remodeling project.

Rearrange the furniture
This is a decorating idea that requires no expense at all. Have fun with it. Draw a picture of the room and map out your plans. Try several different layouts until you get the look that you want. You can even bring furniture in from different rooms for a completely new look.

Experiment with paint
Another decorating idea that can change the look of your home is to paint the walls. You can paint the entire room or even just a single wall, called an accent wall, for a dramatic effect. Choose colors that really brighten up your house. Or, try a technique such as faux painting to create a designer look.

Have fun with accessories
There are also several little things that serve as great decorating ideas. Try adding plants to various rooms in your house. If you lack a green thumb, there is nothing wrong with using fake greenery. A new rug is also a great decorating idea. Hang picture or mirrors for decoration. Buy new decorative pillows for your couches and chairs. You can even replace your lamps or lampshades to give a room a whole new look.

Do away with clutter
One thing you should not overlook as you search for decorating ideas is to de-clutter your house. Through day-to-day living, it is too easy to let things accumulate. Eliminate those piles and you’ll be surprised at how different it can make a room look.

Use these simple and inexpensive decorating ideas, and you can give any room a fresh, new look.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Take Your Open House to the Next Level

Up the ante on the traditional way of showcasing your home
By Shannon Petrie

A glass of wine, some delicious hor'dourves and live music. This sounds like a great way to spend an evening -- and sell your home.

With standard open houses not doing the trick in today's sluggish market, some sellers are opting for "extreme open houses," with catered refreshments, prizes and entertainment. By throwing these elaborate shindigs, sellers hope guests will spread the word and generate buzz about their properties.

The extreme open house lets buyers see the home in a different light than a traditional open house does. Rather than a cold, uninhabited space, buyers get to see a real home that's brimming with life and energy. This helps them picture living in your home themselves.
The open house is also a good opportunity to show off your home's best features. If your home has a gourmet kitchen, hire a chef to cook for the guests. This draws attention to a big selling point. Plus, free food never turns anyone away. If you have a fabulous deck, show it off with an outdoor barbecue.

Even inviting people who aren't in the market to buy a home can be beneficial. People like to talk, so even though one guest isn't interested in buying, they may tell a friend who is.
Extreme open houses are expensive and come with some negatives (after-party clean-up, possible property damage from lots of lively guests). But many sellers and agents think they're worth it, especially for slow movers.

DO IT YOURSELF: Make a list of your well-connected friends and acquaintances and mail them invitations. Keep it manageable. You don't want an open house of wedding-sized proportions. Have flyers out with your contact information and relevant facts about your home, such as asking price, square footage, etc.

While the temptation to attend your extreme open house will be strong, you should consider having your real estate agent or a friend handle the hosting duties. As with any open house, buyers will feel more comfortable exploring and discussing your home if you are MIA.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Attract Buyers With an Inviting Atmosphere

By Shannon Petrie

There's no better time than the chilly fall and winter months to make your home seem warm and welcoming to potential buyers. When buyers walk into your house, use these tips to make it feel like a home. This will encourage them to stick around, giving them more time to admire the space.

Crank up the heat. When it's cold outside, buyers will be grateful for a place to warm up. Turn the thermostat up a couple of degrees to make it extra toasty, or light a fire in the fireplace for an extra homey touch. Just be sure not to leave a fire unattended.

Let in the light. To make your home look bright and open when it's a bit dreary outside, turn on all the lights and open all the shades and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. Use amber-colored light bulbs to give your home a warm glow.

Add holiday adornments. While overly large decorations can distract buyers from your home, tasteful wintry accents can complement your decor. Consider a simple wreath on the door, a vase filled with poinsettias on an end table, or a centerpiece made of pinecones on the dining room table.

Create appealing aromas. The scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls or apple pie is almost universally appealing. Avoid artificial fragrances like sprays and scented candles, which some buyers might be allergic to.

Offer warm treats. If delicious aromas are wafting through your home, follow through by having food and drinks available for buyers, such as cookies, hot chocolate or apple cider.
Play soothing sounds. Classical or jazz music playing softly in the background can add to your home's inviting atmosphere.

Emphasize comfort. As a finishing touch, emphasize the comfort of your home with luxurious and inviting fabrics, like soft blankets, plush towels or a silky tablecloth.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Selling During the Holidays Is Not All Bad

Buyers can, and do, get serious during this busy time of year.
By Shannon Petrie

The holiday season is generally known as the worst time to sell a home. While sales do tend to drop off between November and January, there are actually some good reasons to sell your home during these months:

Buyers are more serious. Anyone shopping for a home during the holidays probably has to buy before a certain deadline. January is a popular month for job transfers, so some buyers may be looking to relocate before the new year. Investors may also want to close before the end of the year for tax reasons. If you live near a university, students and staff may be looking for homes between academic sessions, and if you live near a military base, servicemen and women may be moving to the area. Work with your agent to target these motivated buyers.

Buyers have more time to house-hunt. Some buyers purposely wait until their families are together for holiday vacations to start looking for a home.

There are fewer homes for sale. Lots of sellers take their homes off the market during the holidays, assuming no one will be buying at this time. But with serious buyers still out there and a lower inventory of homes, your home has a good chance of standing out.

Services are more available. Business slows down for real estate agents, lenders, home inspectors, appraisers and title companies during the holidays, so they all have more time to spend with clients.

Homes show better in the winter. Decked out in lights and garland, homes often look their best during the holiday months.

The holidays are stressful enough without having to think about staging and open houses, so if you're not truly motivated to sell, it's probably best to wait a few months. But if you absolutely have to sell, don't be discouraged. A good agent can take the burden off of your shoulders, giving you more time to enjoy the season.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

How to Choose a Great Listing Agent

Ask these 10 questions to identify the best real estate agent to sell your property.
By Jennie Phipps Published: 11/10/2008

The world is full of people who sell real estate. Some of them are smart, efficient, focused, versatile and willing to go the extra mile. And some of them aren't.

Finding an agent who will sell your home using a range of marketing tools to get you the best deal possible in a reasonable amount of time, all while charging a fair rate, takes some effort. Interview at least three candidates before you sign a contract.

Here, thanks to Alison Rogers, author of Diary of a Real Estate Rookie, and a practitioner in New York City, are 10 questions you really want to ask so you can identify the best real estate agent to sell your property.

How much? Ask potential agents how much they think they can sell your home for. If two agents say $600,000 and the third says $700,000, think hard. It's likely the high bid is an exaggeration to attract your business. In the trade it's known as buying a listing. In the end, you'll be the one who pays because the high price will scare away potential buyers before you inevitably drop the price.

How will you market it? Running a few classified ads in the local paper, listing it on the Internet and holding an open house shouldn't be the only answers. The practitioner should be able to talk about what kinds of people are likely buyers and how he will reach out to those specific people.

How has your business changed in the last five years? If she doesn't talk about website tours and smart phones, chances are this is not a highly wired agent. While Luddites can still sell houses, it is getting harder. And if this is one of those people who doesn't even use e-mail, you're letting yourself in for unnecessary aggravation. And you may cut yourself off from opportunities.

Tell me how your last two deals surprised you? Every agent has a success story, but this question will give you a much better feel for what this practitioner is like as a salesperson.

What's your specialty? If you're selling a starter home in a community full of young families, hiring an agent who specializes in seniors is probably a bad idea. It doesn't mean that if he only sells condos that he can't sell a house, but he may not be geared up to do the best job.

How many people are you selling homes for right now and what are you doing for them? It may not be a bad thing that a high-powered agent is juggling 15 homes, but don't expert her to give you personal service, although her assistant should be attentive. On the other hand, be wary of an agent with no other customers because she may lack experience and contacts.

What do you expect of me? A good salesperson will have expectations. He may want you to leave and take the dog when the house is shown, paint the garage, move some furniture around and scrub the tile in the bathroom. It shows that he can think like a buyer and that's a good thing.

What advice would you have for me if I get an offer from a buyer who wants to use an FHA loan? It wasn't very long ago when the right answer might be run the other way, but these days government-guaranteed financing from the Federal Housing Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs and state and locally managed loan assistance programs can be key to selling a property. Real estate agents shouldn't be pushing buyers toward their favorite lenders, but they should be able to help them and you wade through complex financing issues.

What's your fee? Forty-six percent of sellers Consumer Reports surveyed this year attempted to negotiate a lower commission rate. About 71 percent succeeded and those people were just as satisfied with the performance of their real estate agents as those who paid the standard 6 percent or more. In short, if you don't ask, you don't get.

Can I talk to one of your previous clients? You never know.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Staging Tips for the Holidays

Before you deck the halls, see how the right holiday decor can help you sell.
By Kara Wahlgren, FrontDoor.com Published: 11/10/2008

It's that time of year as calendars are packed with holiday parties, budgets are strained by gift-giving, and the roads are covered in freshly fallen snow. Alas, 'tis not the season for real estate. But the good news is, the brave few house-hunters who do venture out are serious about buying, and stylish trimmings will make them want to ring in the new year in your home.

"Holidays can be personal on a lot of levels, but you want to make sure your decor is neutral," advises Amy Powers, owner of Accent Home Staging & Interiors of Atlanta. "You want to romance your buyer, not invite them to your Christmas party."

Try these tips to get buyers in the right spirit:

Clean and stage. "Before you decorate, your house needs to be staged," Powers says. If your living room is already piled high with clutter and tchotchkes, your ceramic reindeer collection is only going to add to the sense of overcrowding.

Create a cozy vibe. The less-is-more mantra of home staging may tempt you to forgo holiday cheer this year. But a few subtle touches like a bowl of pinecones, an evergreen wreath, or a pot of cider simmering on the stove can create a warm and festive feeling in your home.

Complement your palette. Before you start untangling your tinsel, make sure your holiday collection matches your current decor. If your living room is painted a soothing ocean-blue hue, skip the clashing red garland and opt for white snowflakes or a silver glass-ball wreath. If you've got an earthy color scheme, accent with rich tones like cranberries, forest greens and gold.

Accentuate the positive. Too many trimmings may distract buyers, but the right accessories can draw attention to your home's best features. Dangle mistletoe in an arched doorway, or display your menorah on the ledge of a bay window; just don't block a beautiful view with stick-on snowflake decals or clutter an elegant fireplace with personalized stockings.

Go light on lights. Step away from the inflatable snowman, Clark Griswold. One man's "merry" is another man's "tacky," so tone down any garish light displays while your home is on the market. (No, your neighbors didn't pay us to say that.) Instead, use simple string lighting to play up your home's architecture or draw attention to the gorgeous fir tree in your front yard.

Be an equal-opportunity decorator. Leave the life-sized Nativity scene in storage this year, because overtly religious flourishes may be off-putting to some buyers. "You want to keep neutrality throughout, so you can attract any type of buyer," Powers says. Not sure what qualifies? Powers adds, "No matter what your religion is, you're not going to feel offended by a nutcracker."

Mind the tree. A tall Christmas tree can help you show off your two-story great room, but make sure the wide base won't overwhelm the floor space. If your living area is on the small side, save space with a skinny tree. Swap the gaudy heirloom ornaments and trim your tree in a cohesive theme such as icicle lights and silver tinsel, for example, or blue and gold glass balls.

Clear the clutter. A few decorations can stir the holiday spirit, but don't feel obliged to hang every last ornament. "A lot of people, when they decorate, tend to use all the extra space in their house," Powers says. "You still want each space to look as spacious as possible." Limit yourself to a few hints of holiday flair, but stash the rest in the basement for now. If you start to miss your Santa figurines, just remember that with a little luck, you'll be celebrating next year's holidays in a new home. And you can decorate that place any way you please.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Take These Pointers When Buying a Second Home

Brush up on location, lifestyle and finances while searching for your retreat
By FrontDoor.com Published: 11/01/2007

Buying a second home has become one of the fastest growing trends in the United States. In fact, more than 30 million Americans are expected to enter the second home market within the next decade. It can seem like a daunting task, but with a few essential steps you can learn how to turn buying your second home into a sane, reasonable venture.
Assess Your Lifestyle
Think about what spot you love the most and the amount of time you will be spending in your vacation home.
If this house will be for weekend getaways, anything more than two hours may seem like a long trip.
Condos have relatively low maintenance, making them a good option for those using their homes one season a year, or for those who want a place farther away from their primary home.
When considering a condo, find out whether you can live with the homeowners association rules.
With a single-family home, you will have more privacy but you'll have to handle all the maintenance.
Many hotels are now providing rooms as condominium hotel rooms. These offer all the services of a hotel, but yet you're still able to benefit from the appreciation of that property over time.
Choose a Location
The best way to spot the up-and-coming neighborhoods is to drive around the area that you like, and go farther out; the homes in these areas will likely see their value increase as well.
Find out from local people how the town has changed, what's being built and what types of people are moving to the area.
Pick up the local paper to obtain information about political issues, tax issues and more.
Visit your vacation spot during each season to get a good idea of what it's like year-round.
If you might retire in your second home one day, make sure that there is quality, accessible health care nearby and that the environment is both safe and affordable.
Find out if there are enough places to pick up part-time work if you want or need to.
It's always important to check out the weather, especially if you plan to use for all seasons.
Think beyond the price tag of the home:
Check out the area public schools.
Consider neighborhoods just off the beaten path.
Rent two or more years in a row to get the true flavor of a place.
Do a test drive to the location at peak times, look for alternate routes.
And, finally, ask yourself the following:
Do I love one spot?
Do I have enough time?
Is it close enough?
What can I afford?

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Open house & house hunting checklist

Evaluate and rate each house you tour with this helpful checklist

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Tired of Talking to a Voice Robot?

Tired of Talking to a Voice Robot? Want to Talk with a Human? Save this website to your favorites http://www.dialahuman.com/

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

It's almost Thanksgiving! I am working on my menu...

While working on my Thanksgiving day menu I came across this recipe that looks pretty good, I thought I would share...

Baked Artichoke Hearts

Ingredients
Serves 8
1 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh curly leaf parsley
2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 cup)
2 ounces Pecorino Romano, grated (1/4 cup)
1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, and savory, or Italian seasoning blend
1 teaspoon coarse salt
Freshly ground pepper
3 packages (9 ounces each) frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and drained
2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for baking dishes
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
2 garlic cloves, minced (2 teaspoons)

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine breadcrumbs, parsley, cheeses, herbs, and salt in a medium bowl, and season with pepper.
Brush oil inside two 4-cup, 9 1/2-inch ceramic baking dishes. Divide artichoke hearts between dishes, and spread into a single layer. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over artichokes, pushing it into cracks between hearts. Tap bottom of dishes on counter to settle breadcrumb mixture.
Whisk oil, lemon juice and zest, and garlic in a small bowl. Drizzle dressing evenly over breadcrumb topping. Cover dishes with parchment, then foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Increase temperature to 375 degrees. Uncover, and bake until breadcrumbs are golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve immediately.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Opportunities for First-Time Homebuyers in Today's Market

Historically low interest rates make right now a good time to buy
By Bo Menkiti, FrontDoor.com Published: 9/01/2008
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The Real Estate Bubble has Burst...Mortgage Meltdown...Home Sales Thud to Five-Year Low! These are the dramatic headlines that dominate the national conversations about the housing market, but what does all of this mean for the first-time homebuyer?
The reality is that housing sales have slowed across the country, but the interest rates remain historically low -- 6.35 percent doesn't look bad compared to the 10 percent we saw in the early '90s and 17 percent in the '80s. The combination of these two factors can easily translate into great opportunities for first time homebuyers to maximize their purchase power by taking advantage of the changing market conditions.
The shifting market provides buyers with broader housing inventory to choose from as well as the opportunity to do more due diligence before making a final purchase decision. There is also increased opportunity to negotiate with both motivated sellers and new construction developers. With low interest rates buyers are able to leverage significant borrowing power to find a home that meets their needs while maintaining or in some cases reducing monthly housing costs and positioning themselves well for future wealth building.
There are some key factors to consider when deciding if it's the right time to make the commitment to home ownership:
Compare current monthly spending on rent with the costs of owning. This is a valuable exercise that can make the decision-making process a more logical one. When making the rent vs. buy calculations make sure to take into account the principle reduction you will experience in a fix rate amortizing loan as well as the immediate and long term tax benefits of home ownership. Engaging an experienced lender in your market can also be a significant asset in this phase. The lenders expertise will assist first-time homebuyers in uncovering potential resources and assets that facilitate the home buying process.
Look at local market trends rather than national trends. Median home sales in your area could range from $141,510 in Memphis, Tenn. to $825,100 in San Francisco, Calif. and the supply and demand ratio will vary just as drastically. When tracking the market, you'll need to look at the local sales trends and average pricing to determine what is happening, and what you can afford. Although a significant amount of information is available through the Internet, this is the stage where a Realtor in your area can provide great insight about the market conditions. It is important to identify an agent that is experienced with the areas where you are focusing the search.
Research the Community Based Lending Programs and First-Time Homebuyer Programs available in your market. Some programs offer 100 percent financing, below market interest rates or down payment/closing cost assistance. Many of the programs only require attendance at a home buying seminar, so six hours on a Saturday could save you thousands on mortgage expenses. These programs are often locally based and another area where a local real estate agent and lender can be of assistance.
Decide how long you plan to stay in the home and look at appreciation in your market. The key in all of this is to have a long term perspective. The days of homes values doubling or tripling in a few years are gone, but those who buy well located quality property with a three to seven year time horizon (depending on the market) are bound to continue to realize the significant benefits of home ownership.
Ultimately the decision on whether to stop renting and make the move to home ownership should be made based on personal finances and local market conditions. Engaging a talented team of real estate professionals will allow first-time home buyers to navigate the home buying process and be better positioned to take advantage of the market shifts that can create long-term benefits to buyers.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Packing for a Move

6. Place a clean set of sheets and bedding in a dresser drawer in each bedroom. That way, when your furniture arrives at your new home, you can get fresh bedding without having to find the carton in which it was packed.
7. Wrap breakables in colored wrapping paper or tissue paper before you place them in the moving box. The brightly colored paper will draw attention to the item and prevent them from being accidentally thrown out with the packing paper.
8. Use blankets, pillows, towels and other linens as fillers in the box when packing fragile items.
9. Prune houseplants about two weeks before the move. You may want to consult a florist or plant book for instructions. One week before the move, place them in a black plastic bag along with bug/pest strips, conventional flea colors or bug powder. Close the bag and place in cool area overnight to kill any pests on the plant or in soil. The day before the move, place plants in cardboard containers. Hold them in place with dampened newspaper or packing paper. Use paper to cushion leaves and place a final layer of wet paper on top to keep them moist. Punch air holes in the top before loading into your car or moving truck.
10. If you are moving out of state you'll want to check with the local U.S. Department of Agriculture for regulations regarding moving plants from one state to another.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Pumpkin-Swirl Brownies

I think one of the very best things about Fall has to be Pumpkins! I'd like to share a wonderful Pumpkin-Swirl Brownie Recipe with you

Ingredients
Makes 16
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for pan
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups solid-pack pumpkin
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts or other nuts

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch square baking pan or dish. Line bottom of pan with parchment paper; butter lining.

Melt chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Whisk together flour, baking powder, cayenne, and salt in a large bowl; set aside. Put sugar, eggs, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat until fluffy and well combined, 3 to 5 minutes. Beat in flour mixture.

Divide batter between two medium bowls (about 2 cups per bowl). Stir chocolate mixture into one bowl. In other bowl, stir in pumpkin, oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Transfer half of chocolate batter to prepared pan smoothing top with a rubber spatula. Top with half of pumpkin batter. Repeat to make one more chocolate layer and one more pumpkin layer. Work quickly so batters don't set.

With a small spatula or a table knife, gently swirl the two batters to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle with nuts.

Bake until set, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into 16 squares.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Organize Your Day

How's tomorrow looking? Learn to plan tomorrow today, so you can boost productivity and look back and say, "That was easy."
These 5 simple rules of thumb will help you get through your day in an organized and productive manner.

1. Start the night before. Make a list of the things you have to do tomorrow, the evening before. Prioritize and organize each item in the sequence that it should be accomplished. Consolidate similar tasks together. When you wake up in the morning, you'll have a clear-cut guide detailing everything that must be done.

2. Watch out for diversions. Very often, a schedule gets thrown off track due to distractions, such as unexpected visitors or unscheduled phone calls. If you find that you constantly get off track, get a watch with a timer and set it so it goes off every 30 minutes. Every time it sounds, be sure you're working on what you originally said you would. If you're not, stop what you're doing and get back on schedule. Most distractions are not emergency situations.

3. Call before you leave. If you have an appointment during the day, always call to confirm before you leave your home or office. This will ensure that the person you're meeting did not forget about the appointment. Also, if there is going to be a long waiting time, perhaps you can do something else first, before you leave.

4. Check it off. Every time you finish something, cross it off your To Do List. This will give you a sense of accomplishment throughout the day and allow you to easily see what's still left.

5. Do a final check. At the end of the day, take a look at your list. How many items were you able to accomplish? Are there only 1-2 things left undone, or many? If there were just a few undone, simply move them to tomorrow's To Do List. If there were many undone, and you worked diligently on everything all day, then you probably had too many things on your list to begin with. Re-think how much you can possibly do in a given day. Remember, you only have 24 hours, and you should be using a third of those hours to sleep!

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Downsizing

How can you scale down your home without overcrowding your new dwelling? Plan to declutter your life. Whether you do it alone or hire a downsizing specialist, look hard at what you own and eliminate excess belongings.

Are you or a loved one faced with the challenge of downsizing? Perhaps the time has come to move to a smaller home or assisted living facility? Whatever the reason, many people are faced with the challenge of sorting through and cleaning out most of their belongings. The daunting task of sorting belongings, finding a home for those you cannot move, organizing the move, unpacking, and finally getting settled into your new, albeit smaller home can be overwhelming.
There are three choices when it comes to downsizing. You can do it yourself (or allow family members to help you), hire someone to do the downsizing for you, or do a combination of self and assisted downsizing. If you plan on hiring someone to help you downsize, there are many services available. Resources such as senior move managers and other organizational professionals can be invaluable. Most of us, however, will plan on either downsizing ourselves or having some partial assistance to help us complete the task.

First, let’s tackle the procedure for downsizing. Most important, estimate how much space you will have in your new home. Obviously, you can take more furniture and other items to a retirement community home than you can into a room at a nursing home. Once you have an estimate on space issues, figure that you are overestimating the space by about 20%. You will actually have less space than you think! Nothing is worse than living in an overcrowded dwelling!

Ok, you have your space estimate. Choose your furniture for function as well as form. Try to make the best use of your space with these larger pieces of furniture. As painful as it is now to get rid of that behemoth tiger maple wardrobe, you may be thankful that you have not crammed it into your 10’ X 10’ master bedroom! Consult family members and friends to see if they would like these pieces. For valuable furniture, estate liquidators or antique dealers/liquidators are a great resource: a reputable dealer can get you top dollar. You can also call local consignment shops to sell nice furniture. Who wouldn’t like to start out their new living quarters with some extra money? If you can’t or don’t want to sell your furniture, many charities enjoy donations of nice furniture and some will even pick it up for you.

Now that we have pared down the large pieces, we are down to the toughest part of downsizing: those well-loved knick-knacks and collectibles, as well as just plain old clutter. Sad to say, most of these items are beloved only by you. Although you treasure them, others may not. The trick is to ask yourself if you can’t live without the item. This works for clothes, artwork, area rugs, shoes, books, really just about anything! I usually start with three boxes and a trash bag. One box I label with a black marker as “Charity”, one gets labeled “Give Away”, and one “Keep”. Of course, the trash bag speaks for itself. This is also the time to consider whether or not you would like to have a yard sale. If so, you’ll need a box (or several) labeled “Yard Sale”. To encourage yourself, remember that every item you can give away, sell, or trash is one less thing you’ll have to move and unpack in your new place!

Sorting can be boring! One way to break up the monotony of sorting is to set a timer. That way you break up a room into bite sized chunks, and you won’t feel so overwhelmed. Maybe you want to work on this 15 minutes a day? Perhaps you can devote an entire hour? Choose an increment of time, set that egg timer, and get to work!

Ask yourself the following questions:
Have I used/worn/read it this year?
Do I like/love it?
Will I wear/use/read it again?
Does it need repair?
Is it valuable?
Does someone else in my circle of family/friends love it?
Is it ugly?

You get the idea by now, I’m sure. Choose wisely what you place in the “Keep” box!
After you have completed your allotted time, you can close up the boxes. Leave them in the room if it is unused, if not, move them to the garage or another unused room. Work on one room at a time in manageable increments until it is complete. When the room is complete, look in your “Keep” Box, remove a few more items; be ruthless. Put those items into one of your other boxes or bags. You can now pack up this smallish box of “Keepers” and that room is packed!! Put this box in a safe place!

Move from room to room after each is completed. Don’t forget to sort through your attic, basement, or shed. Make sure you consider yard furniture and décor pieces: be thorough! You will be surprised at how quickly it goes. Sort carefully and you will be surprised at how many unused/unnecessary items you currently own. Remember, you may no longer need or want it, but someone else might!

Now comes the assistance part. You have done a phenomenal job of decluttering & sorting. Pat yourself on the back. However, now you may have some heavy boxes of things that are marked “Charity” or “Give Away”. You may have also have several Hefty Bags to get rid of. You have a choice. You can heft these boxes out to your car; make several trips to local charity, the landfill, friends or family, the library (they love good used books), etc. You can try to fit that gargantuan tiger maple wardrobe into your Honda, and try not to herniate any more disks in your back. You can take advantage of your friends and ask them to help you schlep all this around. A good alternative is to call in the assistance of a junk removal company. One well known company, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is noted for doing an exceptional job of removing items that you may no longer want. While you sit on your favorite chair (marked “Keep”), these friendly, uniformed people will do all the heavy lifting for you in no time flat. They will even remove the stained plaid sofa your basset hound used to sleep on or the old mattresses that you don’t know what to do with. That ancient avocado refrigerator in your garage? Gone, in a single phone call. Items marked “Charity” will go to charity, items for the landfill will go there. These folks arrive on time in clean, shiny trucks, and remove your junk with a smile. When they are done, they’ll even sweep up the mess.

Ahhh! Now, you can invite your friends and family to come into your now spacious, clutter-free home to choose from the “Give Away” Boxes.

Think how easy this next move is going to be, with a little planning and a little help
For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Selling A Home: Remove Clutter!

Cleaning to show a home may seem like a simple or even unnecessary step. But the process is important. The pictures and mementos that make up our memories only clutter a potential buyer's image of "their" new home. Help make the sale by giving them a fresh view of the home.
Most sellers understand keeping a house clean and picked-up but have difficulty understanding how to really remove clutter. It is more than keeping the house neat. Try some of the following and impress your agent and, more importantly, potential buyers.

The first task I suggest it to pretend you are not the owner or even that you have ever seen the house before. Tour your property both inside and outside and make a list of anything you see that catches your eye and takes away from the homes appeal. These will be offensive to your eye such as toys in the front yard, hoses that are not put away, busy shelves and too many items on the mantel. It could also be stacks of magazines or newspapers.Make the tour several times and keep adding to your list. The more you notice the less the potential buyers will. Most home owners, including myself, are attached to our home, how we have decorated it and our possessions we proudly display. Sellers must accept the fact they will not be in the house much longer and be willing to repaint rooms with neutral colors, remove pictures and put away those souvenirs from last years vacation. A good idea is to start by removing most of your personal items from each room. Get boxes or storage containers to store your items. Approach the removing clutter as if you are staging or preparing a model home for viewing by buyers. Remember you want the buyers to be able to imagine their belongings in the house. You will know if you have successfully removed clutter in your home by the number of boxes or storage containers you have when you are done. Your first thought may be to put all these boxes neatly in a closet. Resist the temptation and consider closet space can be a selling feature. They too should look as good as possible. Not overly packed closets will help create a spacious feeling in your home. If your closets are packed full or messy, the potential buyer may get the feeling the house is not big enough.

Don't overlook your garage as this is the place most of us consider as a storage area. Find a friend, neighbor or family member willing to store your boxes and containers. If this is not possible consider renting a storage facility on a short term basis. Selling your home quickly and at a higher price will more than cover the cost. After making your tours, list and removing your personal item I suspect your real estate agent will still think you have too much in the house. Don't be timid about asking your agent to help point out these final few items. We spend a fair amount of time in homes and have a good feel for which ones show best and why. If you ask, be prepared to accept their suggestions. We are here to help you sell your house, not be critical of your possessions. If all of this seems more than you want to cope with, consider using a professional stager. They can remove clutter and even help you bring in items that will make your house look like a model home. Again selling quickly and for the best price possible can more than pay for this service.Like above, consult your agent, they can help you make this decision.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Choosing Your Home Type

Home! Home, sweet home — it’s a lovely image, isn’t it? Parents relaxing after a hard day’s work. Kids doing homework or playing in the yard. Maybe a cat in the windowsill, a dog in the yard. Isn’t that what it’s all about?
Well, it’s not that simple.
The fact is, there is no single ideal home because there isn’t just one type of homebuyer. Some of us are single, some have spouses but no kids, and some would gladly forgo the yard (and the attendant yard work) for a balcony with hanging plants and a panoramic view. Home ownership, like love itself, is a many-splendored thing.

Condos, Co-ops, and Townhomes, Oh My
There are, of course, thousands of types of homes, but the vast majority fit into one of several broad categories. Depending on your particular situation, it may be best to focus on one of the following:
Single-family detached
It can be anything from a 100-year-old handyman’s special to a designer home in the poshest planned community in town. Yet whether it’s a starter home or a starter castle, it is, by definition, a single house on its own parcel of land.As the owner of a single-family detached home, you get to make all decisions (within reason) regarding exterior style, yard improvements, and household rules (parking, pets, late-night noise, etc.). The flip side, of course, is that you also get to pay for all repairs and routine maintenance.
Condominium
Condos, too, take many shapes and forms (attached townhouses, warehouse lofts, high-rise apartments, etc.), but all adhere to two basic principles: 1) Each owner owns the interior of their unit — “from the paint in,” as they say — and a portion of everything else from the roof and exterior walls to any communal facilities. And 2) All owners pay dues to fund a homeowner’s association that handles maintenance, common-area repairs, insurance, and unpleasant surprises.For some buyers — singletons, for example, and couples without kids — a condo can be an excellent choice. They tend to be more affordable (lower construction costs, shared expenses), require less maintenance (someone else cleans the gutters and mows the lawn), and often have amenities (a pool or fitness center, perhaps) that few of us could afford on our own. The downside? More noise, less privacy, and possibly less appreciation when you’re ready to sell.
Co-op
It’s short for co-operative apartment, and although they’re not common (except in high-cost, high-density areas like New York City), they are an option. They typically resemble condominiums, but instead of owning their own unit, co-op owners become shareholders in the corporation that owns the entire property. The corporation (through a board of directors) assesses monthly dues, manages the property, and pays the mortgage and other bills.
More to the point, perhaps, shareholders get to vote on all major decisions, including who gets to live in the co-op. In other words, your fellow owners can turn down prospective buyers based on everything from financial concerns to perceived reputation (although, by law, they can’t discriminate). In other words, getting out (i.e., selling) can be just as difficult as getting in.
A Word About Townhouses
The term “townhouse” or “townhome” isn’t a legal one, but rather a decorative one. Simply put, it refers to homes that are individually owned (along with the land beneath them), but that also share common walls with one or more neighboring homes. From inner-city row houses (think Rocky) to downtown duplexes to golf-course villas, they occupy a sort of middle ground between condominiums and single-family detached homes.Are they a good idea? It depends on your tastes and interests. Like detached homes, most provide a yard (although usually quite small); like condos, they often provide communal amenities (e.g., a swimming pool, tennis courts), but with the same noise, privacy, and stylistic issues. And, assuming you’ll sell someday, be aware that, all things being equal, townhouses generally appreciate more than condos, but less than detached homes. However, they are usually cheaper than a detached home.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

10 More tips for an exciting Halloween

1 - Fog machines are now very inexpensive and readily available during the Halloween buying season, adding one to your haunt or party makes a big impact on your Halloween celebration and will add that extra effect to thrill and scare your trick or treaters. Visit Got Fog? for everything you need to know about fog machines!
2 - Add some spider web to your party decorations and haunt, you can find it at most stores selling Halloween products. Just attach to something and pull it out all over!
3 - Use apples for taper candle holders. Choose small, round apples that will sit stable on a flat surface and remove the stems. Cut a small round hole in the top of each apple - deep and wide enough to securely hold a taper candle. Make sure the apples are shaped so that they have a flat bottom, so they won't tip over.
4 - Great party idea, start a circle ghost story! Sit in a circle and start a scary ghost story. Each guest adds on to the story until it reaches a scary ending!
5 - Videotape your Halloween memories! Interview some of your trick-or-treaters, your yard haunt, carved jack-o-lanterns. You'll be glad you did when you sit down to watch it later!
6 - You can find candy companies on line that will add a personalized wrapper to your candy bars! They are relatively inexpensive and make a great treat to hand out at your yard haunt!
7 - Having a party for little ghouls? Let them make their instruments out of oat meal cans, tin cans, add a inexpensive plastic flute, noise makers, kazoos and start a musical Halloween parade through your neighborhood! The kids love it and the neighbors will, too!
8 - An alternative to bobbing for apples is to hang them by their stems with thread from the ceiling and let party goers try to bite them!
9 - Hang long strands of white thread on your porch to simulate spider webs. Make them long enough so that little kids will be able to feel them, too. Spray them with water to add an extra creepy factor.
10 - Have a pumpkin carving contest for your kids and their friends. Buy a few smaller pumpkins and give prizes for the most creative. You can also use paints as an alternative.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Looking to try something new this Halloween? Find some inspiration with these suggestions.

1 - Spookify your computer with a scary screensaver!
2 - Old tree trunks or cut sections of thick limbs make great stands for your Jack O' Lanterns, witches cauldrons and other props. You can sometimes find these at nursery's. You can also check with local firewood providers.
3 - Hollow out mini pumpkins and use as votive candle holders. They are inexpensive and look really great, you can even carve or paint faces in them!
4 - Ask your Halloween party guests to bring a carved pumpkin to the party. Set up a special table to display them all on (this will also enhance your party décor!)
5 - Serve fresh veggies using a hollowed out pumpkin as a bowl. Cut of the top and clean out, leaving the top in a jagged edge design! Use mini pumpkins to hold dips!
6 - Add the effect of lightning to your haunted house, yard haunt or Halloween party with the Lightning Machine from Haunted Creations. This unit realistically simulates the effects of both thunder and lightning! Read all about it in the lighting section at: The Yard Haunter
7 - Use clear food handlers plastic gloves to freeze ice hands to throw in the punch bowl. It will keep it cold and look great!
8 - For an eerie effect, hang glow-in-the-dark bats, skeletons and spiders from the ceilings and trees! Write scary Halloween messages or body outlines on your front walk using colored chalk or washable fluorescent paint. Use a black lights to enhance the effect. Check out the Black Light Magic section of this site.
9 - Treating your kids to a spooky Halloween dinner will make them less likely to eat the candy they collect before you have a chance to check it for them. Check here for some recipes for main dishes using pumpkins!
10 - Create creepy autumn centerpieces by filling vases with dried flowers, brown leaves, and empty branches. Tie a black ribbon bow around each centerpiece.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Top 10 things to do before you list your home

Homes that have been staged sell 3-10% higher and 60% faster than other homes. Stage your home before you list your home for sale.

1. Make a great first impression
Make your home memorable. Home buying is an emotional purchase, with buyers deciding in the first 30 seconds of seeing the home if this is the one. The front entrance should be warm and welcoming. Does your home look great from the street (i.e., does it have great curb appeal)? Your home should be the one buyers want to see the rest of when they enter.

2. Clean, Clean, Clean
This is something most sellers overlook but the buyer will not. Buyers will look at the kitchen and bathrooms with a critical eye. So, if the grout around the sink or the shower needs to be recaulked, do it! Clean the carpets and rugs (this might eliminate any weird odors, too). If buyers see evidence that they will have to clean and fix things, they will offer less money for the home. A clean home looks like it has been taken care of and loved. If you need help, enlist a friend or hire a professional cleaning service.

3. Declutter
Nothing is worse than entering a home with clutter. And, since you are already planning to move, START PACKING! Get all personal items that you do not need or use packed and stored, such as photographs and children's art. You want the potential buyer to see themselves in the home and they can't do that if all they see is you and your family. Remove magnets and notes from the fridge.

4. Store it
Most of us have more furniture than we need or use. Grandma's chair, or that special rocker being saved for the grandchildren needs to be packed up and stored. Remove any furniture that is not absolutely necessary. If a room is open, it looks large and adds square footage to the home; this is $$$ in the real estate market. Have the kids put a few toys in special basket and pack the rest.

5. Let there be light
Open the curtains and let the sunshine in! You may like your privacy, but the buyer doesn't want to think about that when looking at a home. They want to know that light will come in and the house won't be dark. Turn on all the lights before a showing or open house.

6. Neutral background
Look at your walls -- are they clean and bright? Has it been years since you painted? Neutral walls (not just white) that are clean and have an up-to-date color makes a huge impression. Make sure your artwork matches your decor tastefully and the scale and size is right for the room and furniture. Don't forget the woodwork -- make sure it is painted and clean. If your woodwork is stained, make sure it's clean and dusted.

7. Set the stage
Most people only use their dining room on special occasions. Make it look as though you are having a dinner party in an hour. Make sure you have a center piece and fresh flowers are an inexpensive way to make someone want to sit down and join the party. If your home is casual, set a casual table. If your dining room is formal, pull out all the stops and set it with China.

8. Empty closets
Empty every closet as much as you can. Remove out of season clothes. Pack all items that you are not going to use in the next 3 months. The kitchen cabinets should not be overlooked, nor should the bookcases, hutches, built-ins, entertainment centers or any other storage space. You want it to look as though there is room for the buyers' things. Buyers will open cabinet doors to see inside, make sure they see space. If you have a lot of stuff in the attic, basement or garage now is the time to pack it up or get rid of it; remember you are moving.

9. Pet smarts
If you have pets, contain them. Preferably, move them out of the house during open houses. Find a friend or neighbor to help if you can't board them. If you are leaving for a showing or open house take them with you. Remember that a litter box should always be out of sight and clean. Pay attention to the yard, when a buyer steps out to see the property make sure they don't step in anything.

10. Smells good
Remember smell is a very important sense and your house has a smell of its own. Does yours have a good smell or a bad smell? Do you have pets? Most owners are immune to the smell of their pets and the odor of their home. Ask a friend who is sensitive to these things to give you feedback. Does she smell Rover, or the cat? Can she smell the fish you had last night or your teenage sons shoes? Odor eliminating sprays work very well, baking cookies or cakes is a good idea, but a high-end home fragrance is another great alternative.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Staging Your House

Dressing homes for success before their debut day on the market has not only become de rigueur but it has spawned a booming industry that even has a trademarked name. It's called "staging," and if you think of it a little like getting a stage ready for a theater performance or the television crew, you're not far off.

Seducing the Buyer
The idea is to set the "stage" for would-be buyers to imagine themselves happily living in your home. Setting the stage to sell your home does indeed mean that your home must be attractive and appealing even beyond being clean and in excellent repair. In short, your home needs to seduce.

There are professionals called "Home Stagers" who are trained in assisting home sellers and Real Estate Agents in preparing homes to sell. In fact, statistically professionally staged homes sell 50% faster and for 6% more then homes not professionally staged. You can find a directory of professional home stagers and additional home staging resources at the Home Staging Resource (http://www.homestagingresource.com).

Staging Tips From the Pros
De-clutter one more time. Think of it as a second, more thorough editing. When you removed clutter and personal items the first time around, you probably weren't hard-nosed enough.
Remove large unnecessary items. Even if it means paying for storage somewhere else. Large items can make rooms smaller than they are.
Get serious with the closets. Staging pros suggest removing about half the clothes from your closets, then buying new, attractive, matching hangers for all the clothes that remain. Hang the clothes all facing the same direction. Organize shoeboxes into neat stacks. In linen closets wash all the towels and sheets so that nothing smells musty, and fold them perfectly, as if they were on display at a high-end department store.
It may be worthwhile to invest in some plush new bathroom towels and an attractive new bedspread. Remember you will take these with you when you move, and if your old towels and bedspread look threadbare or faded, the message is that your home is dated or unkempt.
Make sure every window sparkles and that the drapes/blinds are all open. No one wants to live in a dark house so make sure every possible ray of light gets in. Check all the light bulbs in every single fixture to make sure they work. Replace them with brighter ones, if possible.
Professional stagers have lots of "beauty tips," such as replacing shabby throw pillows in the living room with new ones; turning every jar and bottle in your kitchen pantry and bathroom medicine cabinet so that the label faces toward you - this gives your pantry and medicine cabinet an orderly look; organizing books on books shelves so that books of the same height are arranged next to each other; and storing any kitchen appliances or cookware that doesn't fit easily into a cupboard. Since people will open your kitchen cupboards, consider removing any truly ugly or dinged up cookware.
Make sure your home smells good. Now that you've ridden it of any animal, smoke, or cooking smells, throw open the windows for a while.
All ready for your visitors? It never hurts to take one, last, very careful look. Leave the house. This is important. Many buyers find it weird to encounter the seller when they go to an open house. They will hesitate to look in rooms and closets and will leave quickly, never a good sign. If you're selling it yourself without an agent try not to hover and don't follow visitors from room to room.
Also, don't forget about the outside of the home. Plant blooming flowers near the front and back doors and add fresh bark around the yard. Make sure your shrubbery is well trimmed and the grass is mowed and fertilized. A buyer gets a first impression of your home by driving by, so the outside look is just as important as the inside.


Real Life Example ...
Who: Home seller on a last tour of a rental home she was selling.The quote: "I power washed the house, cleaned the gutters, cleaned the roof, cleaned the driveway, put beauty bark and gravel around the house, painted one room, and that was it. I came by one last time to mow and found a dead rat on the workbench in the garage and an agent coming up the driveway. I flung the rat into my neighbor's yard and then went back later to retrieve it."Who: Seller hid loads of soiled laundry in her car during a showing.The quote: " Buyers were not looking at or in my car so it was a safe place to hide my piles of unfinished laundry."

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Enticing Buyers With a Home Warranty

When you buy a new home from a contractor or housing developer, it comes with a warranty guaranteeing that the home's mechanical systems, including plumbing, heating, electrical, and air conditioning, will work for a certain period of time. The major appliances, if included in the new home, are also covered by the warranty. If anything malfunctions while under warranty the appliance or mechanical system is repaired or replaced for a small deductible of usually no more than $75 paid by the homeowner. Warranties on new homes typically cover one to five years, and can be renewed.

Competing With the New
Sounds like a pretty good deal, right? Homebuyers naturally love warranties that are included in the price of the home. Often homebuyers have plunked down a lot of their savings and have borrowed heavily to make their home purchase. The last thing they want to think about is the possibility of having to make costly repairs in the first year or two. A warranty means no big repair bills for at least a year.But say the home you want to sell isn't new. It's 30 years old and you've been living in it for the last 10 years. How do you compete with the new homes in your market and their attractive warranties?Easy. Buy a seller's warranty, which is essentially a home warranty that you buy to make your older home more attractive to would-be buyers. Basically it's the same deal as any home warranty: You pay about $300 to $400 for a year's worth of coverage, and if anything malfunctions during that time, the new homeowner only pays a deductible of $50 to $75. There are many places to buy home warranties, from insurance companies to banks. Some companies that offer home warranties even have programs for home sellers whereby you don't have to pay the warranty premium until you actually sell the home. Also, most companies will offer a warranty even on homes that are quite old.Do not confuse home warranties with homeowner's insurance. Homeowner's insurance almost never covers a home's mechanical systems or appliances. It generally covers damage due to fire, theft or vandalism, windstorms, or other natural disasters, accidents, or crime.A seller's warranty can also be a nice bit of insurance for you as home seller. The last thing you want is to be settled in your new home and get a call from the guy who bought your previous home complaining about the heating system, which, now that it's October, is not working. Even worse, you may get a call from his lawyer.More than half the states in the nation now have strict disclosure laws obligating sellers to inform would-be buyers about a home's existing problems, if any. If you live in a state with a disclosure rule you are legally required to tell the truth about such past and existing problems as whether your home was ever flooded, when you last replaced the roof, and if you know of any problems with your mechanical systems. (See Tell All: Disclosure for the Seller.) Still, despite these required disclosures, in the worst-case scenario you still could be vulnerable to a lawsuit if the buyer of your home suddenly finds himself with a completely non-functioning plumbing or heating system. A $400 warranty may be worth it for your peace of mind.

Warranties and Market Trends
However, in a housing market that is relatively hot - meaning lots of buyers chasing a limited number of existing homes - few sellers offer warranties. As long as you follow your state's disclosure requirements, if any, and do not lie about existing problems, most buyers assume they are taking on the responsibility of maintaining the home and fixing future malfunctions. If they love your home and its location, they'll buy the house with or without a warranty.In a very hot market, would-be buyers may be contemplating buying your home primarily for its location and then doing a major remodel, including adding entirely new heating or plumbing systems. A few years ago, for instance, one of the most popular high-end remodels was to replace older plumbing systems, often made of lead, using copper pipes. Buyers in such a market know they'd better jump to get the house and figure out how to remodel later. They would have no particular interest in a home warranty. And you would waste money buying one.Most sellers of existing homes do not offer warranties. And if you are selling in a strong market, there's probably no big reason to offer one as a competitive advantage. But, if you think your home needs a bit of a boost to make it stand out from the competition, you might consider buying a warranty.

Seller's Tip: As always, you need to research your market. Go to open houses for homes like yours and see if sellers offer warranties. Ask friends and colleagues who've recently bought if the sellers threw a warranty into the deal. If you really need a competitive advantage to sell your house, you can think of the $400 premium for a warranty as a part of your marketing plan. If your house is highly desirable anyway, skip the warranty and save your money.

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com

Do I Need a Home Warranty?

A warranty is a kind of insurance against defects or malfunctions that might occur in the home after the sale. As with anything else, you usually get what you pay for. Your real estate agent can advise you about the kinds of warranties available in your area, including what they cover and what they cost. You can also look for home warranty companies in the phone book, in the real estate section of your local paper, or online.Typically, home warranties protect buyers (or home owners) for such items as:
Repair costs of built-in appliances
Roof leaks
Plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems
Structural problems
Some sellers include a home warranty as part of the sale—and if not, you might be wise to ask for it. Sometimes buyers and sellers split the cost; it offers peace of mind to both parties. Be sure to educate yourself as to what a warranty in your area covers and what it costs.Some warranties exclude appliances from coverage. Some warranties also specifically exclude swimming pools and spas, or else require an additional fee to cover them.
Warranty Policy Example
How one warranty policy describes what is covered and what isn’t:KITCHEN REFRIGERATOR/SUB ZERO UNITCovered: All parts and components that affect the operation of the unitNot Covered: Ice-makers (except where noted, subject to all other agreement limitations), crushers, dispensers and related equipment, internal shell, racks, shelves, food spoilage, independent freezers (except where noted, subject to all other agreement limitations)MICROWAVE OVEN (BUILT-IN)Covered: All parts and componentsNot Covered: Interior lining, door glass, shelves, rotisseries, meat probes, portable countertop units, lightsGARAGE DOOR OPENERCovered: Motor, wiring, switches, receiver unitNot Covered: Garage doors, remote transmitters, track drive, sensorsELECTRICAL SYSTEMCovered: Outlets, switches, junction boxes, breakers, main panel, sub panelsNot Covered: Power failure/surge, D.C. components, low voltage, and accessories. All intercoms, fixtures, inadequate wiring capacity, cable wiring, fiber optic, access to wiring
What to Look For
Whether the seller buys the warranty or you purchase your own, read it carefully. If what you read is not satisfactory, choose a different policy or a different company. Make sure the policy spells out:
The term of the warranty (usually one year but there may be an option to extend)
The names of the persons being protected by the warranty
If the warranty is being transferred (from the seller to you), clear specifics of how that transfer will take effect
A precise explanation of how to file a claim
A clear description of what is covered — what is included, what is excluded, any limitations on personal property coverage. Any deductibles or other fees besides the cost of the policy itself
A clear explanation of who will make repairs (Does the warranty company have its own repair people? Does it have a designated service company? Or will you be reimbursed for the cost of having repairs done?)

For more information about Florence Oregon Real Estate give me a call 541-991-7794 or visit my website www.maureensellsflorence.com