Real Estate in MetroWest, Massachusetts: March 2009

Before you begin house hunting, it is important to be Pre-Approved by a reputable Loan Originator. This will help to determine your buying power. It will be necessary to submit earning and debt documentation.Your credit score will be checked. The loan originator will review the gathered information and recommend a price range that will work best with your finances.

This will save both you, and your Realtor time and effort. By looking at affordable properties, you avoid the disappointment of falling in love with a property, only to find out it's out of your range. When you see homes in the proper price range, there will be no comparing and wishing for what you can't have, but rather the satisfaction of finding the right fit your you and your budget.

This Pre-Approval is part of the package your Realtor presents an Offer to Purchase. Most home owners require the pre-approval as "proof" that you are a worthy client and will be able to follow through with the purchase.

 Once you have a signed contract to purchase a home, you must choose a lending or mortgage company from which to obtain the loan. It is not necessary to use the same company which you received your pre-approval. It is wise to choose a local company that can provide hands on service. A good loan originator will meet with you face to face.

 The loan officer will need data on your place of employment, assets, and liabilities such as debts from credit cards or car payments. This will be more detailed than the info gathered for your pre-approval.

Make sure you understand all of the terms and conditions associated with the loan. Understand what the interest rate means, possible private mortgage insurance, length and interest involved with the loan. Don't be afraid to ask questions!

Randi Steckler will be happy to provide references to reputable mortgage companies.

Randi Steckler is an Accredited Buyers Representative. She is a Realtor with RE/MAX Executive Realty. You can reach Randi direct at 508-944-0090, or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

 Randi has the experience working with both Buyers and Sellers that is needed to achieve success. See Randi's blog  For valuable information regarding real estate in the MetroWest area.

 Want to see all available homes?  See Randi's website.

If you want ideas to narrow down your home search. Read my article Finding The Right Home

Curious if you should use a Buyer's Agent? Read my article on The Benefits of Working With a Buyer's Agent

A Warm Home is a Sign of a Happy Heart!

Waiting is so hard!!! With so many foreclosures on the market, and the values being so good, it's a smart move for buyers to consider them. Although some have problems such as destruction caused by angry people losing their home, or everything taken out including the kitchen sink (I'm not kidding!), many are in fine shape.

 I have placed an offer for a client on a bank owned property a little over a week ago. We are still waiting for the verdict. My client did not have the only offer. Nerves of steel are sometimes a requirement when working with bank owned properties.

It will be well worth the patience if things go their way, but the waiting is so hard!! There are phenomenal deals out there so the wait can be worth the agony.

 Some banks will respond to offers quicker than others. It is important to work with a Buyers Agent who is experienced in foreclosures. There are issues that could cause problems when it comes time for the appraisal. An experienced Buyers Agent will be able to alert you to the potential problems. For example, a cooking unit is required when financing with an FHA Mortgage. If there is no range, plans will have to be made ahead of time.

Randi Steckler is an Accredited Buyers Representative. Randi is a Realtor with RE/MAX Executive Realty.

You can reach Randi direct at 508-944-0090, or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

Randi has the experience working with both Buyers and Sellers that is needed to achieve success. See Randi's blog  For valuable information regarding real estate in the MetroWest area.

 Want to see all available homes?  See Randi's website.

A Warm Home is a Sign of a Happy Heart!

There are many advantages to using a Buyers agent.

One of the most important is that the Buyer Agent is working to promote the best interests of their buyer client. They are help negotiate the best terms and conditions for the buyer. The agent who is listing a property is working for the Seller. They work to get the best terms and conditions for their seller. Although all agents must be honest and ethical at all times, why not work with an agent who is on your side?

There are no reasons!!

In addition to negotiating, your buyer agent will help locate properties, & can preview properties to save you time. Imagine how nice it would be to see homes on your schedule instead of relying on Sunday open houses for viewing. The buyer agent, after helping you determine which properties are approprite will set up appointments for viewing and accompany you. A good Buyer Agent will know what to look for in a property. They know what will pose a red flag when it comes time for an appraisal. It is wise to know what to expect before the unexpected happens.

 The Buyer Agent can also do a Comparative Market Analysis to determine the value of the home you're interested in. This can save you money!! Instead of agreeing with the listing agent's price, it is best to be armed with knowledge of what other homes that are similar in the area are selling for. They can also verify the the data such as tax information on the listing sheet is accuarate.

The Buyer Agent can help you find a reliable home inspector, and will accompany you to the inspection to see if there are any structural problems that have to be dealt with.

Your Buyer Agent will explain the legal documents and paperwork that will be involved. They work closely with the attorney to be sure the transaction is kept smooth.

One of the most important aspects of your relationship with your Buyer Agent is CONFIDENTIALITY, and undivided loyalty.

This is likely one of the largest purchases of your life. There is no reason not to have a Buyer's Agent working for you to prevent problems, or deal with issues that do crop up.

Randi Steckler Is an Accredited Buyers Rpresentative. In order to earn this accreditation,Randi was required to successfully complete a comprehensive course in buyer representation and an elective course focusing on foreclosures,in  addition to submitting documentation verifying professional experience.

Randi is a Realtor with RE/MAX Executive Realty. She will be happy to provide references from previous Buyer clients.There is no fee for her service as a Buyers Agent

You can reach Randi direct at 508-944-0090, or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

Randi has the experience working with both Buyers and Sellers that is needed to achieve success. See Randi's blog  For valuable information regarding real estate in the MetroWest area.

 Want to see all available homes?  See Randi's website.     

A Warm Home is a Sign of a Happy Heart!

With so many people downsizing these days, and so many moving into their fist small condo or home, making the most of your space is important.

A small space can be made to feel cozy and intimate instead of cramped with a few simple techniqes.

Choose lighter paint tones to make a room appear somewhat larger. Warm tones such as pale yellow or gold give a room a warm glow. If you have an open floor plan, coordinate the colors throughout the house to avoid a chopped feel. Useing a monochromatic look by matching furniture to walls will make a room appear more spacious.

Mirrors and lighting add depth to a room. Mirrors can be placed above a mantle, as a statement piece or put together several small mirrors for a distinctive look in a hall or stairway. Increased lighting will open up a room. Consider using only a valance or window topper instead of a full curtain. This will allow maximum light to enter from the window. Remember to keep the windows clean to let the sun shine in.

Another organizing  tip is to make the most use of space. Use bins or storage containers. Label each and keep them categorized, such as holiday decor, sports equipment etc. Keep frequently used items toward the front. Consider boxes under the bed for less attractive items or off season clothes.

Use empty space above furniture to install shelves or shelving units. These shelves can hold both decorative items &  photos, and also be functional, holding wicker or cloths bins to store extra towels, placemats, or anything that needs a spot. If money allows, a shelving unit with doors will hold items you don't want to see daily.

Attractive bins or baskets can also organize books and magazines to keep tables clear and clean.

If you're interested in ways to Lighten to your home for spring, read my article Spring Spruce Up

If you want ideas to narrow down your home search. Read my article Finding The Right Home

Randi Steckler is an Accredited Buyers Representative. She  is a Realtor with RE/MAX Executive Realty.

You can reach Randi direct at 508-944-0090, or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

Randi has the experience working with both Buyers and Sellers that is needed to achieve success. See Randi's blog  For valuable information regarding real estate in the MetroWest area.

 Want to see all available homes?  See Randi's website.

A Warm Home is a Sign of a Happy Heart!

We've all been taught to Look Before We Leap, but sometimes, He Who Hesitates Is Lost!

 It is becoming commonplace to find multiple offers have been submitted on properties. Often, the status of the property is not updated to Under Agreement immediately.

 This can be very dissapointing for a buyer that have bonded with a property, and would like to call it home.

My advice to buyers is to view any property you're interested in as soon as possible, and narrow down your choices quickly. With many condos and single family homes being so reasonably priced, and tax incentives so enticing, competition is getting fierce.

Remember, there is no one perfect home. If one is lost, move on to the next, and maybe that will be more suitable than the first. Stay in the game and don't get frustrated.

Be sure to work with a Realtor who is experienced working with Buyers. Your Realtor can help you investigate the the best area for you, bearing in mind proximity to highways, public transportation and school systems.

This is good news for sellers contemplating putting their homes on the market. Don't be left behind, the time is now to make a move.

If you're interested in ways to Lighten to your home for spring, read my article Spring Spruce Up

If you want ideas to narrow down your home search. Read my article Finding The Right Home

Randi Steckler is an Accredited Buyers Representative. She  is a Realtor with RE/MAX Executive Realty.

You can reach Randi direct at 508-944-0090, or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

Randi has the experience working with both Buyers and Sellers that is needed to achieve success. See Randi's blog  For valuable information regarding real estate in the MetroWest area.

 Want to see all available homes?  See Randi's website.

A Warm Home is a Sign of a Happy Heart!

I recently signed up for an outside blog. I was encouraged to do this by reading so many positive responses from fellow Active Rain members. With the economy being as it is, I was cautious to spend any additional money (For about 5 minutes) until I began to think about how 95% of people are now serching for their homes on the internet. It was a NO Brainer!! I have long known that snail mail and paper advertising have limited benefit.

When I host an open house, One question I always ask is "How did you hear about this open house?" Sometimes buyers have driven by the OPEN HOUSE sign, but most often, people state they saw it online.

If we want to stay in business (I DO!!!) then we need to keep up with the times, and that means social networking and blogging.

After making my decision, I signed right up for the Outside Blog. Sadly, I might have done this before thoroughly researching how to use the new blog. Guess what? I made some mistakes. I was frantic. How can I fix my blog site so consumers can find me?

I called Active Brad who returned my call the same day. Magically, he was able to fix all of my mistakes. I also E-mailed in with some questions and have had return E-mail answers. It's refreshing to see that a large company makes the effort to help each individual succeed.

I have named my outside blog http://www.metrowestareablog.com because I have lived and worked in MetroWest Area for over 20 years!! My familiarity with the area is key when working with Buyers and Sellers in Metro West. I have also added a new domain name to coincide with the blog called http://metrowestarearealestate.com My clients and consumers can reach me through this new domain and my original website domain of http://www.randisteckler.com

I am hopeful that these changes will bring the GoogleJuice I've been hearing about.

Thanks for all of your help Brad and Active Rain!!

Randi Steckler or RE/MAX Executive Realty is available to help Buyers and Sellers achieve all of their Real Estate goals. You can reach Randi by phone at 508-944-0090, or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

A Warm Home is a Sign of a Happy Heart! 

Not all Realtors go to the same legnths to sell a home!

Randi Steckler has  a home listed at 2 Murray Hill Rd In Framingham. This house is truly a COMMUTER'S DREAM HOME! It is 5 minutes to the MassPike, Natick exit. It's a really nice house and shows well.

The only problem was, the house didn't meet Randi's standard of cleanliness. With a showing today, and  an open house tomorrow on March 8 from 1-3.( See http://boston.craigslist.org/bmw/reb/1063315298.html (real estate - by broker) for more info), action was needed!

There was only one thing to do! Randi loaded her car with her dustbuster, Swiffer WetJet, paper towels and windex and hit the road.She sprayed, wiped, scoured and vacuumed. The house now shows in clean condition! All of the blinds were opened to let the sun shine in, and show off the great view.

These times call for a Realtor who is completely dedicated. If you're considering selling a home, and would like this level of service, contact Randi Steckler at randi@randisteckler.com. For up to Date info on all homes listed ,visit Http://www.metrowestareahomes.com

For a private showing of this home, contact Randi at randi@randisteckler.com or visit http://www.metrowestareahomes.com for more details on this and other homes in the area.

A Warm Home Is The Sign of a Happy Heart!

One of the best ways to Receive a referral is to Give a referral.

I enjoy passing referrals to others professionals who I know and trust. Trust is key here. You must have confidence that the person to whom you're referring will follow up quickly and professionally. The referral is a direct reflection back to you.

Having a data base of local tradespeople as well as mortgage professionals, home inspectors and attorneys is an excellent benefit to give your clients. Often clients don't know who or how to choose people to perform these skills. My clients have been thankful to get the name of someone who has proven to be trustworthy and skilled. I have even had thanks from a client for creating "An all star team".

I feel a sense of accomplishment when I am able to give a referral. It's like giving a gift to someone! You get a good feeling when helping someone. These referrals often are returned to you!

Contact me if you'd like a referral to a :            

• Painter                                                                 
• Contractor
• Attorney
• Loan Originator
• Attorney
• Home Decorator/Stager
• CPA
• Commercial Real Estate Agent
• Heating and Cooling Specialist
• IT Professional
• Web designer, Network Management
• Used Car Sales
• Massage Therapist
• Graphic Design
• Insurance Agent
• Licensed Electrician
• Licensed Plumber
• Cleaning Service
• Financial Planner
• Business Coach
• And More!

Randi Steckler is a Realtor with RE/MAX Executive Realty specializing in Residential Sales. She services both buyers and Sellers. She works with dedication, honesty and integrity.

Randi services MetroWest, Franklin and Milford Massachusetts areas

Need a referral? Want to know the value of your home in today's market? Want to buy a home or investment property?

Contact Randi Steckler  Direct: 508-944-0090  E-Mail randi@randisteckler.com

For Valuable Information on Real estate Visit http://www.metrowestarearealestate.com

In February there were 108 Single Family homes on the Market. The Average Days on the Market was 194.

16 Homes had Price Changes resulting in an 8.74% reduction.

8 Homes went Under Agreement, with a median price of $427,000.

7 Homes Sold, with a median price of $475,000.

4 Homes Expired (Didn't sell during the time of their agreement with their Realtor) Average price of these expired homes was $249,450.

There were 31 Condominiums on the market. The Average Days on the Market was 249

1 condo had a Price Change resulting in a 15.23% reduction.

3 condos went Under Agreement with a median price of $515,000.

0 Condos Sold

0 Condos Expired

Let's compare Today to 6 Months Ago

9/1/08                                                                              3/1/09

                    Single Family Homes on the Market

131                                                                   108

               Average Days on the Market

149                                                                   194

               Median Price

$465,000                                                           $433,000

               Condos on the Market

36                                                                     31

               Average Days on the Market

170                                                                   249

What Does this Mean?

There are fewer homes on the market than 6 months ago. Many sellers are afraid to list their home, fearing they won't get the value they're looking for. With the interest rates being low, and with the new tax credit incentive, the buyers are out searching for properties. Many times, there are just too few properties to choose from. With sellers holding off, and the buyers waiting, it creates a stalemate.

Instead of waiting for the spring market (Which actually is beginning now) consider listing your home ahead of the competition. This will allow for a quicker sale! It's important to remember that the current market value is determined by the "market" and not by your Realtor. A good Realtor will do a Comparative Market Analysis and suggest a Listing Price based on what the market can bear.

When Randi Steckler does a Comparative Market Analysis, she takes the time to study the other homes in the area, including Active (currently on the market), Under Agreement, Sold and Expired. She bases the value on data accumulated through this study. It is often difficult to tell a prospective seller that the value of their home is not what they expected. It is far better, however, to be honest. This will result in a quicker sale with less price reductions. When a home has multiple price reductions, the buyers wonder what's wrong with the house? Why has it been on the market so long? They then feel the seller is desperate to sell and make a lower offer.

Most often, there is nothing wrong with the house other than an initial asking price too high.

If you would like to know the value of your home, and would like to work with a Realtor who can offer you honesty, integrity, and exceptional service and support, contact Randi Steckler.

You can reach Randi direct at (508-944-0090) or by E-Mail at randi@randisteckler.com

For more info on all homes listed on the Multiple Listing Service, or to sign up for a complimentary Market Analysis, visit www.metrowestarearealestate.com