So What The Heck Do Agents Do? May 23, 2008
Posted by ScottAlexander in : Real Estate , add a comment
I am a retired teacher/basketball coach, and my wife always knew what I was doing when I was in the school business. Third period was Government, Fourth period, English, etc. When I scoot off to work now, I don’t think that she knows what I do. So it occurred to me that if the wife of an agent thinks that he is playing solitaire on the computer while he is waiting for the phone to ring….then what does the general public think?
So here’s what a real estate agent does. First of all, he knows the market. Remember that his job is to match buyers with sellers. So if he is working for a seller, he tries through a variety of methods to shout, (well, not literally) this house is for sale. He will of course know the needs of his buyers and those of other agents. This is why I spend a great deal of my day on the phone or on the computer…. Not playing solitaire… How does he “shout”? In the newspaper, on the internet, through direct mail, on the phone and via email, as well as knocking on doors are all things that work.
Of course, the agent “shows” homes to potential buyers and helps to price homes for potential sellers. This means that he has to know what buyers are looking for and what is important to sellers. The most important skill in this area is listening. Everyone’s needs are different: some seller’s want top dollar; others have to move rapidly. Often that is a factor in price. Buyer’s tastes and needs vary. What is important to them must become important to me: whether it’s schools, location, a big master bath, or a chef’s kitchen. I have to find out what they like and then find it.
The last thing that I do is something that the school business prepared me for…paperwork! Writing contracts, helping figure out financing details, and coordinating inspections requires a variety of skills. Writing the contract so that the deal gets done in a way that is favorable to my client is obviously important. The most important element is trying to operate in a way to that is fair to everyone but helps the interests of those who employ me.
So that’s what lots of us do every day….in between games of solitaire.
Scott Alexander, REALTOR
(325) 450-5099
scott.alexander1@coldwellbanker.com
Short Sales Explained by Steve Morris May 8, 2008
Posted by admin in : Real Estate, Short Sales and Foreclosure , add a commentIn this video, Steve Morris of Coldwell Banker Patterson Properties in San Angelo, TX will explain short sales and how they can save you from foreclosure.
First Time Home Buyers: Listen UP! May 6, 2008
Posted by JeannieBautista in : Financing, Real Estate , add a comment
My name is Jeannie Bautista and I specialize in residential real estate sales. In my experience, I have found that first time home buyers have a lot of questions and feel lost about where to start in their search for a home. Here are some simple steps to follow:
#1. Talk to a lender and get pre-approved.
- This will help you determine what price range is right for you.
- Give you the time and opportunity to shop for the best interest rate.
- Ensure you know the amount of cash needed at closing.
- Sellers will know you are serious able buyer.
#2. Choose a real estate agent.
- This will benefit you because you will have representation throughout the transaction.
- You can feel confident that your agent is looking out for your best interest.
- Working with you, your agent will negotiate the details on your behalf.
- Your agent will ensure that deadlines are met so that the transaction proceeds smoothly.
Buying a home is major investment and you want to be sure to make wise decisions and get the most for your money. If you’re ready take that step, please call me today so we can make it a reality.
Jeannie Bautista
325-763-8616
How Mortgage Interest Rates Are Set May 3, 2008
Posted by GregChaffin in : Financing, Real Estate , add a comment
Mortgage interest rates are not set by the Federal Reserve, nor are they set by the yields of US Treasury bills, bonds or notes. Despite what you hear in the Media, mortgage interest rates are actually set by lending institutions and are based solely on mortgage backed securities.
For many years, the media and inexperienced loan officers everywhere have suggested that the 10 year Treasury Note, a government backed security is directly tied to mortgage interest rates, that the two are separated by a specific interval – which is simply not true. The Federal Reserve cut interest rate 6 times from September 07 thru March 08, yet mortgage interest rates actually rose during that time frame.
Stop being misled, if someone you know is thinking about purchasing a new home, or refinancing their existing one, give me a call. I’ll give you the facts you need to make a truly informed decision.
Greg Chaffin
Mortgage Advisor
(432) 528-3192 - Cell
greg.chaffin@mortgagefamily.com
Posted by GregChaffin in : Real Estate