We are busily clearing out our 2009 files, getting our HUD statements out to those who bought this year, and just thinking how 2009 was a big year of changes, but we also helped some really good people along the way. Short sales were bigger than we had ever anticipated in our marketplace. We have become really good at holding on the phone and waiting for the counselors to answer their phones and help us through the sea of paperwork that comes along with this. Each one is vastly different from the other. But, overall, we have learned some very good steps in helping get them through with the least amount of headaches for all involved.
Some of the things that I am personally grateful for are my team members and the friendships I have with them. Angela came on the team with a background in sales management and has become an integral part of the team. I don't know how we ever got everything done without her. Certainly, we did, but not with nearly as much attention to details. Our team is like an extended family, and I have a renewed faith that we are here for one another through the good times as well as the slower times. We are blessed for having each other in our lives.
My favorite quote of the year came from one of our clients. He is a 90 year old gentleman who lives in a modest ranch across from a sprawling 12,000 sq ft new home. I asked how he felt about living across the street from this and he replied "I feel genuinely sorry for him". I didn't expect this, and asked him why. He said; "because he will never know what it is like to mow his own grass in the hot sun, come in, and pop open a beer and know just how good it tastes". That pretty much sums it up, doesn't it? It's the little things, not the big things that matter most. Hope you have a wonderful New Year. Stay safe, and enjoy your families! Take care, Susan
Above is a video of my daughter enjoying the little things in life! (Wiping out her big brother with her sled!)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Looking for a Fun Thing for Kids to do on Saturday?
Sounds like a lot of fun for our creative little ones. Columbus is full of opportunities to find different venues for our kids to explore.
Here's the link! Have fun!
Take care, Susan
Here's the link! Have fun!
Take care, Susan
Monday, April 20, 2009
Top Fortune 500 Companies Changed Up a Bit!
Click here for the List of Most Profitable Companies!
Sometimes it is good to see the "big picture". GE is in a lot of different categories, but one of things that seemed interesting was their financial side seems to be going back on track. The other one is Bank of America and they are trying to get into our local market. They just bought out Countrywide and seem to be a "stable giant".
Let's hope that the economy continues to edge back up as we enter an intriguing spring market. We have been busy, and are hearing the same from other agents!
Take care, Susan
Sometimes it is good to see the "big picture". GE is in a lot of different categories, but one of things that seemed interesting was their financial side seems to be going back on track. The other one is Bank of America and they are trying to get into our local market. They just bought out Countrywide and seem to be a "stable giant".
Let's hope that the economy continues to edge back up as we enter an intriguing spring market. We have been busy, and are hearing the same from other agents!
Take care, Susan
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tax Day is Over!
OK, now those of you who are getting tax refunds, let's think of a constructive way to invest your dollars! Real Estate is the best place to start investing. Rents are up across the board and there are plenty of folks who would prefer to rent. Just make sure you use an experienced agent who will help guide you in your quest to be the perfect landlord! Of course there are tax advantages to becoming a landlord on top of having someone else make your mortgage payment. What else could I talk about on this notorious day?
Happy April 15th! Take care, Susan
Happy April 15th! Take care, Susan
Friday, April 10, 2009
One More Update to the First Time Home Buyers Credit!
Here is the latest update to who is eligable for the first time home buyers tax credit. Click here
I hope you will look at this and you might be surprised to hear that some people will qualify for a tax refund in some cases! This will help you come up with that elusive down payment.
If you have any questions, as always, contact The Wainfor Advantage Group for all of you real estate investments!
Happy Friday! Susan
I hope you will look at this and you might be surprised to hear that some people will qualify for a tax refund in some cases! This will help you come up with that elusive down payment.
If you have any questions, as always, contact The Wainfor Advantage Group for all of you real estate investments!
Happy Friday! Susan
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Aetna is Hiring...Great News for Columbus!
Click here For further information! We are posting only good news this week to keep the momentum going!
It's snowing, but at least it is fluffy today! Susan
It's snowing, but at least it is fluffy today! Susan
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Gorgeous Day to View Open Houses!
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY OPEN 2-4PM VISIT: http://www.memoriesbeginathome.com/
Shannon Heights Dublin/Hilliard Area
Brendan Drive! $194,900
Shannon Heights Dublin/Hilliard Area
Brendan Drive! $194,900
Ridgewood!
Upper Arlington Reed Road
Upper Arlington Reed Road
Go to our website and click on Open Houses! There are so many really great homes out there! I have been in the business for 26 years and this is the most refreshing group of "perfectly staged homes" I have ever seen!
We have them in ALL sizes, price ranges and styles. Let us help you with your next move!
Happy Sunday! Susan
We have them in ALL sizes, price ranges and styles. Let us help you with your next move!
Happy Sunday! Susan
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Keeping your Home Allergy Free!
Great Article since today I met with two clients who have mold and dust allergies. It is hard to keep your home dust-free, but it can be done. There are so many different allergies to wary of when selling your home. One client got a migraine brought on from the candles and incense burning while we were showing the home. We had to leave immeditately! So, ask your agents prior to using anything with a scent in it.
Our best scent seems to be warm bread and chocolate chip cookies. So, if you have time before showings, pop some in the oven!
Take care,
Susan
Our best scent seems to be warm bread and chocolate chip cookies. So, if you have time before showings, pop some in the oven!
Take care,
Susan
Monday, March 30, 2009
Recreation Centers to Open!
Recreations centers to open again! I had been worried about all of the folks who were not going to be using the recreation centers after they closed. It just seemed like a really bad idea! So, this is great news for the recreation centers in Columbus Ohio!
Happy sunshiney Monday to you! Susan
Happy sunshiney Monday to you! Susan
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Trends for Columbus Ohio Are Positive!
Click here for an interesting read on why we are so fortunate to live in Columbus Ohio. It has been such a great city for our family to live, work and go to school. With the variety of jobs and being the capital, we have an excellent diversity here that you don't see in other Ohio cities.
A stable yet strong real estate market in Columbus Ohio is a sure sign of a good economic climate.
Have a great evening! Susan
A stable yet strong real estate market in Columbus Ohio is a sure sign of a good economic climate.
Have a great evening! Susan
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Great News for Housing Starts!
Housing starts up
Click the above link to see the great news for the economy! With the start of new housing, the start of jobs will flow. This is great news for our economy both close to home and across the country!
Have a sun filled day! Susan
Click the above link to see the great news for the economy! With the start of new housing, the start of jobs will flow. This is great news for our economy both close to home and across the country!
Have a sun filled day! Susan
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Spring Starts March 20th at 7:44am!
Doesn't that sound absolutely wonderful? I am so ready for sunshine, flowers poking up and listening to the birds cheer us on.
Spring market started early for us this year! If you think real estate is not thriving in central Ohio, then you haven't been out on a Sunday afternoon! If ou are thinking of buying, now is the time for the most choices. Some sellers have pulled their homes off the market until the "market turns around". My personal advice is to get them on as soon as possible.
Happy Spring...6 days early! Susan
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Real Estate Agents Need to Take Preventative Action
Today's economic woes and tribulations are part of doing real estate transactions. You serve as mentors, confidants, and marriage couselors at many points in your career. Today, there was a shooting of an office manager in a real estate office. It bears repeating that if your agent asks you to provide id, please don't be offended. The stories are out there and they are real. Please know that we need to do so before we drive off in our cars and leave ourselves vulnerable. If you request a showing on a vacant home, the agent may bring someone with them or request that you meet at the office first. That is normal protocal. Our hearts break for the gentleman who is fighting for his life as we speak.
Have a good evening. Susan
Have a good evening. Susan
Friday, March 6, 2009
One Grad Got a Job! This was the only feel good article out there today!
Wow, I searched high and low and finally found a "keeper"! We have had this ongoing conversation in our office about how it has been a long time since there has been any "good news" in the media or on the internet. So when I saw this it leapt off the page and onto my blog! I know....it's Friiiiiddddaaay when you get a little silly. Have a great 70 degree weekend!
and... click here! Susan
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Unemployment Figures for Ohio
The unemployment figures are out! Here they are county by county. Let's be grateful for the small things in life like living in Franklin and Delaware counties! We are blessed to be in an economically diverse area rich with great employers and opportunities.
Hope you are staying toasty on this cold night! Susan
Hope you are staying toasty on this cold night! Susan
Home and Garden Show in Columbus Ohio!
Get out of your house and come visit the Home and Garden Show! Nothing like it to beat the winter blues (grays) in Columbus Ohio. It has had rave reviews and everyone is loving the new concept based on a movie theme!
Have fun! Susan
Have fun! Susan
Friday, February 27, 2009
Federal Tax Credit Information
For those who are wondering about the details of the $8,000 tax credit, click HERE for the link to the federal government web site giving you all the official details. If we can be of any help in finding your dream home, please call us today! 614-582-7355 We have a licensed person on duty now!
First time home buyers...click HERE to see what the interior looks
like! This one is a keeper! Let the government stimulous package help you buy this home today!
$144,900 5139 Goldfield Drive
Hilliard Ohio
Have a great weekend! Susan
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Time Magazine Article on Foreclosures
Time Magazine offers their take on the foreclosure crisis. If you have any questions, please call our team We have help over a dozen people reach an agreement with their mortgage companies in a short sale arrangement in 2008. It isn't easy, but it is one of the ways to help get people get out from under a stressful situation.
We hope we can help people who may not know where to turn. Believe me, if you are worried or embarrassed about a situation, we have heard it and worse before...if that is any relief!
Stay warm and enjoy the sunny day! Susan
We hope we can help people who may not know where to turn. Believe me, if you are worried or embarrassed about a situation, we have heard it and worse before...if that is any relief!
Stay warm and enjoy the sunny day! Susan
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
$8,000 Tax Credit First Time Home Buyers Columbus Ohio
Here is the best information available for first time home buyers and it is up to the minute!
We would be happy to help you find your first home! In a few years, many of the first time home buyers who qualify for this and don't make that call, are going to be telling their kids....I could have paid $150,000 for that home in 2009! So, be the one who says I got this home a the right time and only paid $150,000 for it. Let us help you make an informed decision and take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit! Susan
We would be happy to help you find your first home! In a few years, many of the first time home buyers who qualify for this and don't make that call, are going to be telling their kids....I could have paid $150,000 for that home in 2009! So, be the one who says I got this home a the right time and only paid $150,000 for it. Let us help you make an informed decision and take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit! Susan
Friday, February 13, 2009
Latest News on Tax Credit!
Temporary credit for home buyers: The bill increases the size of an existing temporary and refundable first-time home buyer credit to $8,000, up from $7,500. It also removes the requirement under current law that the credit be paid back if the buyer stays in the home for at least three years. And it would extend the credit's expiration date to Dec. 1, 2009, from July 1. Those eligible for this credit must have purchased a home after Jan. 1, 2009, and before Dec. 1, 2009.
The full credit is available to those making $75,000 or less ($150,000 for joint filers). Estimated cost: $6.6 billion.
By Jeanne Sahadi, CNNMoney.com senior writer
February 13, 2009: 5:38 AM ET
The full credit is available to those making $75,000 or less ($150,000 for joint filers). Estimated cost: $6.6 billion.
By Jeanne Sahadi, CNNMoney.com senior writer
February 13, 2009: 5:38 AM ET
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Now, it's $8,000 on the tax credit...
we will keep you posted! I hope they keep the most helpful parts in the package...we are awaiting the latest and will let you know! Susan
Friday, February 6, 2009
$15,000 ANYONE Will Receive a Tax Credit if You Buy a Home This Year!
Hang on to your hats...whoa! This is going to be a great thing for home buyers and sellers! This is fantastic news. Contact The Susan Wainfor Advantage Group for up to the minute details!
Click for a link to up to the minute details!
Happy Friday...enjoy the 50 degree weather this weekend...great weekend to go and pick up a house! Susan
Click for a link to up to the minute details!
Happy Friday...enjoy the 50 degree weather this weekend...great weekend to go and pick up a house! Susan
Thursday, February 5, 2009
$15,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Break!
Click here for MSNBC article regarding this extraordinary tax bill.
If you are a first time home buyer, get out there and start looking before everyone else gets the "good ones"! I feel this is a breath of fresh air in a stale economy! Think of who will be the beneficiary of this change: your friendly mortgage banker, the appraiser, carpet installers, your local appliance store, home goods stores and hardware stores! Finally, it makes sense to start at the bottom and see that the sellers of the smaller home will move up and buy a larger home! It may be a slightly larger home, but people are being much more cautious which I applaud!
Have a good afternoon! Susan
If you are a first time home buyer, get out there and start looking before everyone else gets the "good ones"! I feel this is a breath of fresh air in a stale economy! Think of who will be the beneficiary of this change: your friendly mortgage banker, the appraiser, carpet installers, your local appliance store, home goods stores and hardware stores! Finally, it makes sense to start at the bottom and see that the sellers of the smaller home will move up and buy a larger home! It may be a slightly larger home, but people are being much more cautious which I applaud!
Have a good afternoon! Susan
Monday, February 2, 2009
Fresh Positive Numbers for Columbus Ohio
I must warn you that I had hesitated to post this as it was rather boring a bit at first glance. But, upon closer inspection, it truly does have an effect on our daily real estate business. If the PMI companies rate the areas as declining markets, then your home may not appraise even if you have a ready and willing buyer. That is especially true with relocating buyers. Their lenders are looking out for their best interest and their employer's interests as they may need to buy the home later should their employee move again. We have very few issues in the areas where we serve but did have one or two inquiries from appraisers last year about these very issues.
Number seven is a good place to be!
Only dedicated number crunchers click here!
Take care, Susan
Number seven is a good place to be!
Only dedicated number crunchers click here!
Take care, Susan
Thursday, January 29, 2009
$7500 First Time Home Buyers Credit
$7500 Tax Credit information
In order to help stimulate the economy, congress is considering making the tax credit a true credit where the buyers do not have to pay it back if they sell within 15 years. That seems to be a true awakening as when people buy homes, they will buy appliances, carpeting, furniture and other goods. This seems to be a much safer way to approach shoring up a sagging economy than the other drops in the buckets where people are using the stimulus checks to pay utilities, or pay down credit cards. We need to consider the big picture!
If you know of any buyers who have been waiting for the "bottom" of the market, then let them know about the credit. If everyone was more positive about the market, including the media, then we just may see some positive news stories on the air!
I hope everyone got out from under this blanket of snow and are staying warm and safe!
Take care, Susan
In order to help stimulate the economy, congress is considering making the tax credit a true credit where the buyers do not have to pay it back if they sell within 15 years. That seems to be a true awakening as when people buy homes, they will buy appliances, carpeting, furniture and other goods. This seems to be a much safer way to approach shoring up a sagging economy than the other drops in the buckets where people are using the stimulus checks to pay utilities, or pay down credit cards. We need to consider the big picture!
If you know of any buyers who have been waiting for the "bottom" of the market, then let them know about the credit. If everyone was more positive about the market, including the media, then we just may see some positive news stories on the air!
I hope everyone got out from under this blanket of snow and are staying warm and safe!
Take care, Susan
Friday, January 23, 2009
Newest Real Estate Statistics From The Columbus Board of Realtors
CLICK HERE FOR STATISTICS FROM THE COLUMBUS BOARD OF REALTORS
Well, the final 2008 number are here and we can be happy we are in 2009! Here's to a much more positive outlook for 2009 for all of our home buyers and sellers!
Take care, Susan
Well, the final 2008 number are here and we can be happy we are in 2009! Here's to a much more positive outlook for 2009 for all of our home buyers and sellers!
Take care, Susan
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Fun Staging Idea!
I love snow days! I had an unattended open house today, so I perused ideas to "stage homes". Here is a funny marketing idea, but do you think it would play in Columbus?
Stay warm! Susan
Stay warm! Susan
Thursday, January 15, 2009
10 Happiest Places to Live Forbes Magazine
Why aren't we on this list? Maybe we all need to do something to make us happier! I find happy people all the time in our line of work.
Click here for happy reading!
Happy day to you! Susan
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Slow Real Estate News Day...so...
Here is an interesting take on top 10 cities! At least we didn't land here...how do they figure this stuff out? I did weigh in at the Doctor's office the other day and had lost 7 pounds! So maybe that 7 pounds kept us off the list this year?
Top ten fattest cities...I have to say I am shocked at the number 1 placement!
Click here for the article.
I am a little bit bored...can you tell? I can't show homes, can't really go outside because it is freezing and trying to coax people to go look in this weather, is not a good idea! We did have a group out yesterday in the ice and snow looking and felt so bad that they were freezing all the way back to the airport! Relocation is big in January.
Have a great evening and stay toasty! Susan
Top ten fattest cities...I have to say I am shocked at the number 1 placement!
Click here for the article.
I am a little bit bored...can you tell? I can't show homes, can't really go outside because it is freezing and trying to coax people to go look in this weather, is not a good idea! We did have a group out yesterday in the ice and snow looking and felt so bad that they were freezing all the way back to the airport! Relocation is big in January.
Have a great evening and stay toasty! Susan
Monday, January 12, 2009
Columbus Forecast
Click here for the latest Columbus Economic Forecast. The numbers speak for themselves. Happy Monday! Susan
Friday, January 9, 2009
State of Ohio High School Rankings
Click here for the rankings of Ohio High Schools including Hilliard Davidson, Upper Arlington, Worthington, Jerome Dublin, and various others in the state of Ohio.
It is interesting to compare, of course, however I do feel that parents are the key for success in any child's progress.
Overall, we had a good ranking for all of the local schools. We are very fortunate to live in this wonderful area of the world where schools are very important to us.
Take care, Susan
It is interesting to compare, of course, however I do feel that parents are the key for success in any child's progress.
Overall, we had a good ranking for all of the local schools. We are very fortunate to live in this wonderful area of the world where schools are very important to us.
Take care, Susan
Monday, January 5, 2009
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Today's Market
If you need to sell your home in a market that is tough, how do you decide which agent to use? If you think placing it on a couple of web sites will do it, that is asking the elusive buyer of your home to find a needle in a haystack! With all of the search engines and agents buying more adwords, search placement, twitter, blogs and the list goes on and on. If you look at it from this perspective, you will begin to see a picture of the competitive nature of the business. You need to find an agent who is web savy, but also adheres to the simple business of marketing via print media. If your agent doesn't believe in print, then I would move on to the next until you find someone who understands 360 degree marketing.
Interview several agents until you find one who is on the same page with you on goals, attitudes and communication. Find out if they can text you if that is your best communication tool. Tell them when you expect a phone call and when you want to be emailed.
Ask friends for a referral and how the process worked for them.
Have them show you their 6 month plan. Everyone signs up for color pages with a contract to get the best placement in the four color back pages of the suburban papers and magazines. If they don't have a plan in place, then you need to move on and please get it in writing! The one with the most pages, will more than likely have better placement & have more flexibility with their vendors.
Rather than have them over to your home, go to a few open houses on a Sunday afternoon and see how they work. Are they friendly or introverted? Do they follow up? Do they seem approachable?
Get the agent's statistics. How many homes do they sell per year? What are their average days on market? Be careful on this one. Once, I had an agent say theirs was 22 days on the market and while it was true, they only had one listing for they year!
Get the details before you sign! Do they work with a variety of prices? Are they available in the evenings and weekends? If they have a team, who will be the primary contact? Do they do it "all" or do they have someone to do the fact sheets, ad layouts, take photos, maintain office hours for questions about showings or technical questions. Are the team members licenses or unlicensed? You don't want an agent who is out delivering fact sheets to a home themselves instead of being available to answer questions about your home when the call comes in? Do they maintain regular hours of operation?
Ask what they will do to expedite the sale if someone is on the fence. Then, sit back and listen to their experience and what they have done in the past.
I hope this is helpful to those thinking of those thinking of selling and buying this year. We think it is going to be a strong market with the interest rates dipping below 5%!
Take care, Susan
Interview several agents until you find one who is on the same page with you on goals, attitudes and communication. Find out if they can text you if that is your best communication tool. Tell them when you expect a phone call and when you want to be emailed.
Ask friends for a referral and how the process worked for them.
Have them show you their 6 month plan. Everyone signs up for color pages with a contract to get the best placement in the four color back pages of the suburban papers and magazines. If they don't have a plan in place, then you need to move on and please get it in writing! The one with the most pages, will more than likely have better placement & have more flexibility with their vendors.
Rather than have them over to your home, go to a few open houses on a Sunday afternoon and see how they work. Are they friendly or introverted? Do they follow up? Do they seem approachable?
Get the agent's statistics. How many homes do they sell per year? What are their average days on market? Be careful on this one. Once, I had an agent say theirs was 22 days on the market and while it was true, they only had one listing for they year!
Get the details before you sign! Do they work with a variety of prices? Are they available in the evenings and weekends? If they have a team, who will be the primary contact? Do they do it "all" or do they have someone to do the fact sheets, ad layouts, take photos, maintain office hours for questions about showings or technical questions. Are the team members licenses or unlicensed? You don't want an agent who is out delivering fact sheets to a home themselves instead of being available to answer questions about your home when the call comes in? Do they maintain regular hours of operation?
Ask what they will do to expedite the sale if someone is on the fence. Then, sit back and listen to their experience and what they have done in the past.
I hope this is helpful to those thinking of those thinking of selling and buying this year. We think it is going to be a strong market with the interest rates dipping below 5%!
Take care, Susan
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