Some of my thoughts regarding real estate...

Time for me to enter the Blogging world!!! Let's all cross our fingers collectively.

I'd like to share a few ideas from some conversations and experiences I've had regarding buying, selling and renting homes.

Most of you know, if you don't have an accepted offer on a property right now, you won't qualify for the last government tax credit. Not to fear! There are some REALLY great deals out here still to be had. Here's a GREAT example....take a look at the photos.
http://www.mlsfinder.com/ma_mlspin/maureenburke/index.cfm?action=listing_detail&property_id=71035484&searchkey=5ebaf51b-08ef-179e-a824-cefe5970293a&npp=8&sr=1
(It's not even my listing-that's how great of a buy/house it is!) Absolutely amazing deals like this one are everywhere. If you've ever dreamed of flipping, owning a second home or building your "Trump-esque" property portfolio, now is the time to jump in. Especially while the rates are still low.

Another thought. I've been hearing of some banks with solid reputations having financing fall apart. They are pulling the financing after a lot of expense has been spent by potential Buyers and Sellers. Isn't THAT fair...NOT! I implore you, seek advise from your Real Estate Professional. Ask your friends about their RECENT experiences about their loan process. (I emphasize recent because the bank I'm hearing awful things about holds my current mortgage and I have no problems with them. It's not a new loan though. So, my experience is very different than someone who just lost buying their dream home because of them.)

Lastly, for now. If you really, REALLY want to sell your home, LISTEN to your Realtor. No, you don't HAVE to do what they say. But, 99.9% of us really want what's best for you. When the price we suggest you sell your home at is lower than you expected, it is not us putting a value on your decorating taste, your treasured memories in your home or to insult you. It's based on us trying to do what you've asked us to do. Sell your home. I've had to do this myself recently. To be frank, losing $25k of our money just plain stinks. It brings out a LOT of negative emotions and has at times made me feel like a failure. That's when I let the Realtor side of me do the thinking. What I'll be gaining when I buy again is a better value built into the house. A firmer foundation for me and my families future and most importantly, I'll be achieving the goal of being closer to friends and family.....I would pay any price for that.
So, I ask you to keep sight of your goals and don't second guess yourself. When you do need that person to lean on or put your goals back into perspective, that's what I'm here for.

Maureen