Went to a social networking class today. WHEW!! So much to learn. I am having fun and will continue to expand my repertoire. I met a lot of great professionals today and hopefully we will be able to do business together. My new real estate company is moving along. We currently have two listings and a couple of sales under our belt. We will be having a new listing in the spring. I love what I am doing and hope others will notice that too.
Buying or selling a home in Massachusetts? I can help.
With a little up-front planning, buying a home isn’t all that difficult, but the event is intimidating for a lot of people. I provide buyers with a detailed plan of the buying process so they’ll understand exactly what they can expect. Here are my nine steps to buying a home.
| When you’re ready to get started, simply call 781-632-6253 or send e-mail to linda@hodrealty.com. I’m happy to answer questions you have regarding this information. | |||
Step 1 – Get ready to buy a home
There are several things you need to do before you look for a home. When you begin your search, you’ll want to create a list of items you need in a home, get a feeling for what neighborhoods and school districts you want to live in and start working on your budget. Ensuring your mortgage payment is less than 30 percent of your net monthly income is a good rule to follow.
Step 2 – Get in touch with a real estate agent.
This is where I can help. We can plan a consultation appointment so we can talk about your real estate needs and get an idea of your future plans. We’ll talk about neighborhoods, school districts in the area you’ve chosen, the mortgage industry, and any additional economic factors that might affect your buying decision today or in the future.
In addition, I’ll assist you in getting started on your loan. I have a list of knowledgeable mortgage professionals I can refer you to. Having established a working relationship with them you can rest assured that you’re in great hands. They’ll assist you in figuring out which type of loan is best for you and help you get qualified.
Step 3 – Start looking for a house
After we meet for the first time, I’ll start searching for available homes on the market that meet the criteria you’ve established. We’ll schedule appointments to tour the homes at a time that’s convenient for you.
When we view the houses, I’ll ask you to point out what things you like and dislike. Usually, buyers revise their list of must-haves as we view homes and some items become more substantial than others. If that’s the case, we’ll look through all the listings another time and trim it down to the house you’ve identified as the best fit for you.
Step 4 – Get a feel for the housing market
Your agent’s knowledge of the local housing market is an essential element in your home search. Working as a real estate professional in the area keeps me abreast of developing real estate market issues.
As we view homes, we’ll begin to formulate a buying strategy which we’ll put into place when we find the right home for you. I’m a phone call or click away at 781-632-6253 or linda@hodrealty.com, and I’ll be glad to answer any questions you might have. My market expertise will help you stay a step ahead of the rest throughout the entire transaction.
Step 5 – Find the home you’ve been looking for
I know we’ll find your dream home. When that happens, we’ll formulate your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored with your needs in mind, including several contingencies. A few examples are acquiring financing, completing the inspection, and a clear title.
When we send in your offer, you’ll need to present “earnest money.” This is a cash deposit submitted to the seller to secure the offer to purchase the property. If your offer is accepted by the seller, we should close on the home within 30 to 60 days after. This allows sufficient time for your mortgage financing.
Step 6 – Negotiate the deal
Unfortunately most deals aren’t closed on the first offer so it’s really common to receive a counter offer. Don’t let it intimidate you. We’ll consider whether or not to accept the counter offer, present our own counter offer, or decline the seller’s offer and move on.
Market conditions determine how aggressively we negotiate the contract. In addition, we’ll work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we’ll formulate a deal that works well for you.
Step 7 – Secure a loan
Upon acceptance of your offer you’ll begin working with your lender to close the loan. Since you’ll already be pre-approved, it shouldn’t take much time at all. But you’ll want to stay in close contact with your lender. I’ll work closely with your lender to provide the information needed to close the transaction.
Step 8 – Close the deal
Your lender will provide you with a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) outlining your closing costs within three days of taking your application. Then it’s time to close on your house. This may take place at the closing attorney’s office or Registry of Deeds and will likely be a smooth and relaxing occasion.
Step 9 – Move in
Success! Now you can move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you need anything, simply contact me at 781-632-6253 or linda@hodrealty.com
Homes of Distinction is in business. We are concentrating on sellers in the Massachusetts area. We always welcome buyers and we work every hard to make sure they are satisfied.
We think of the spring and fall as home clean up time but taking advantage of the warmer weather and time off from work makes summer the perfect time to do a home maintenance checkup.
Get Ready for Cooler Weather
Do an Energy Audit
Take a walk around your home and take an inventory of gaps and cracks. Plugging leaks can save you 20% on heating and cooling bills. Look for gaps under switch plates. If you find gaps install foam inserts. Make sure to turn off the electricity at the circuit box before doing this. Don’t forget to check where windows meet walls, walls meet floors and pipes and wires enter the home. Plug all gaps caulk. Other places to find leaks fireplace dampers, mail slots, air conditioners, attic doors, baseboards and weather stripping surrounding doors. Look for daylight, feel for drafts and listen for rattles, all clues to escaping heat.
Now look outside the house. Look for gaps or damage where pipes, vents or wiring enter. Also check siding for gaps or damage, pay attention to corners where the material joins and where it meets other materials, like chimneys, windows or the foundation.
Save Money on Heat and Hot Water Save on heating costs next winter by insulating the hot-water pipes in the basement or crawl space. Insulating pipes is easy; all you need to do is snap foam jackets (called sleeves) around the pipes. Make sure you know the pipe’s diameter to get the correct fit.
Get the Outside in Tip-Top Shape
Pretty the Patio
There is nothing uninviting than dirty patio furniture. Mix up a bucketful of soapy bleach solution to keep your patio furniture squeaky clean. Mix 2/3 cup trisodium phosphate (TSP), 1/3 cup laundry soap powder, a quart of bleach and three quarts of warm water. Use a rag and soft-bristle brush to remove embedded dirt on synthetic coverings, metal and wood furniture. Rinse thoroughly and let dry.
Don’t destroy the deck
Don’t let your pretty deck flowers rot your wood deck. Make drainage room in your potted plants by setting pots on pot “feet” for a frugal solution; just prop bricks under the pots.
Look out for tree trouble
Trees that hang over your roof, rub against gutters or dropping loads of leaves and sticks onto the roof should be pruned. Overhanging branches can provide a ladder for rats and squirrels, and diseased or damaged trees may fall on your home in a storm.
Fix the fence
Look for damage along the fence line. Mow the grass next to the fence low so you can get good visibility. Keep your fence in tip-top shape by make prompt repairs. Check fence posts for signs of rot (poke soft spots in the wood for crumbling or decay). Remove and replace the damaged areas. Keep fences painted or stained to protect the wood. If dogs or other animals are tunneling under the fence attach a 2-foot-wide apron of wire mesh around the inside perimeter of the fence.
Try to use organics ingredients, if possible!
1. Corn flour scrub – for oily skin
2 Tbs. corn flour
apple juice(enough to create a paste)
Mix ingredients and apply to face. Massage gently in a circular
motion. Splash with warm water to remove, then cool water to help close pores.
2. Oatmeal facial scrub. Good for sensitive skin.
1/2 cup uncooked oats (for finer scrub you can blend into powder)
1 Tbs. honey(if you use ground up oats you may want to adjust honey)
Mix ingredients together to form a paste. Massage into face and neck. Let scrub
sit on skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
3. Argan oil and sugar scrub. Great for dry skin!
1 tbs. sugar (I use brown sugar or a coarse suger but any sugar will do)
few drops Argan oil (buy now: www.theposhpeddler.com)
Blend together both ingredients adding a few drops of oil at a time to form a
spreadable paste. Gently massage into skin. Rinse with warm water.
The ill effects of smoking, exposure to the sun and bad skincare and dietary habits
can appear on the face as early as a person’s mid 20’s. Although you can’t
reverse all the ravages of time, there’s a lot that can be done to protect your
skin from future damage.
Eczema, psoriasis, acne, wrinkles, dry skin, calluses, dandruff, hair loss, inability
to grow long hair are all treatable with regular use of Argan oil. However,
those without any skin or hair issues will also appreciate its ability to
protect from future damages, and provide a good dose of moisture. Best of all,
it does all of this without any additives. It’s just perfect as-is!
Why Settle for Synthetic?
Argan Oil naturally contains many of the same “additives” that high-end
cosmetics add synthetically to their formulas to promote anti-aging effects.
Bursting with skin-loving nutrients, Argan oil helps heal damaged skin and is said to
protect from the signs of aging as it corrects the effects of dehydration and
loss of elasticity. The high amount of tocopherols (vitamin E), which are
potent antioxidants, helps the skin to combat free radicals. Free radicals
ultimately result in the destruction of the skin’s cells, so by using Argan
oil, skin becomes noticeably softer and smoother, diminishing fine lines and
improving the appearance of scars.
Argan Oil is So Easy to Use!
Isn’t it great when things get easier? Beauty routines should be enjoyable and
simple, not cumbersome and complicated. This is why Argan Oil is a life saver.
It’s easy to incorporate into a beauty regime, and it’s easy to use. There’s no
right or wrong way to enjoy it, and that’s what makes it unique and wonderful.
Arguably the best thing about Argan Oil is its versatility. Carry a small spritzer
bottle in your purse, and spray a little Argan oil on the tips of your hair for
instant de-frizzing. Add to cream, or use a few drops straight from the bottle.
Use it as a carrier oil, and add your favorite essential oils for a luxurious
serum or massage oil. Use as a pre-shampoo treatment, or as a deep conditioner.
Add to your bath as a moisturizing and healing bath oil. Apply to scars or
stretch marks and watch them quickly vanish. Dap on your lips. Really, your
imagination is the limit!
A Little Goes a Long Way
Just 2 drops of Argan Oil, day and night (used pure, or blended into a face cream),
will achieve results that should make the top anti-age serums on the market
ashamed of their claims. Argan Oil achieves better results at a fraction of the
cost.
It may be pricey for oil, but it’s a bargain as a potent all-in-one beauty
treatment.
Here are Lab results on Argan Oil
It may be just a pure and simple oil, but Argan Oil is a real nutritional punch.
In a nutshell (no pun intended, here), Argan Oil is a moisturizer beyond
compare, and undoes damage done by evil UV rays. Here are some details of the
skin and hair loving components found in this wonder oil:
Vitamin E (tocopherols). Argan Oil is astoundingly rich in Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant which helps slow the process of lipids from the destructive effects of oxygen (oxidation) as well as other environmental effects. Vitamin E is naturally occurring in skin, and helps the skin function as a water-proof barrier. With age and exposure to sun
and pollution, this barrier is broken down and causes a lack of moisture, which
damages the skin’s lipids. Many skincare products contain synthetic vitamin E,
which helps keep skin hydrated and soft, however it is no match for naturally
derived vitamin E, such as that found in Argan Oil.
Essential Fatty Acids. Argan Oil is also incredibly rich in essential fatty acids, which have been scientifically proven to be beneficial both when taken orally, but also when applied topically to skin. Not having enough EFAs can cause conditions in which the skin becomes flakey, dry, scaly and uncomfortable; conditions like psoriasis and eczema, as well as acne. EFAs have an anti-inflammatory effect on skin, and also increase suppleness,
elasticity and youthful appearance and relieve painful skin conditions.
Exposure to UV also decreases the skin’s EFAs, and so treating sun damaged skin
with Argan Oil has been shown to repair damage to photo-aged skin, as well as
on scarring.
For hair, EFAs prevent breakage and promote smooth and supple strands by increasing
moisture content, which is the single best thing that can be done for your hair. Just a drop or two of Argan oil smoothed through brittle hair, from roots to tips, will improve its condition in no time. It also treats dandruff and itchy scalp.
Carotenes. Carotenes, found in Argan Oil, as well as in many fruits and veggies, is a precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin A, also known as Retinol, has been garnering a lot of attention from the beauty industry in the past few years. It is effective as an anti-aging ingredient in cosmetics, by protecting the skin from sun damage, and undoing damage already done. It also helps even skin tone, and adds a healthy glow. For hair, it
counteracts fragility, reduces split ends and encourages a healthy sparkle.
Squalene. Squalene is found naturally in all plants and animals. As an additive in cosmetics, it penetrates skin easily and is absorbed readily, without leaving a greasy residue and is non-irritating. It does not cause skin to breakout, and is effective in healing scar tissue and preventing stretch marks. Squalene may also reduce hair loss and is a highly effective conditioning agent.
Quick Results
Argan Oil has the rare benefit of immediate improving hair condition. Whereas conventional hair products –conditioners, serums, styling creams- merely coat the hair shaft, resulting in temporary glossy locks, Argan Oil is actually absorbed by the hair. Argan Oil promotes silky soft hair, prevents moisture loss and adds elasticity and suppleness, but also provides an immediate sparkle and shine. So when your hair looks amazing because of Argan Oil, it’s because it’s in great health, and not just coated in silicones. Fine-haired people will benefit from the added strength this oil provides, and those with coarse hair
will appreciate how smooth their hair will feel.
Socio-Economic Value
It’s nice when a product can do double or triple duty; it makes things so much easier. From simplifying our beauty rituals to saving space on our bathroom shelf and money in our wallets, we want our products to put in overtime for us. However, it’s even nicer when purchasing a product gives back to not only a community, but to an ecosystem.
The increased interest in Argan Oil has allowed Berber women to earn fair wages and
work in better conditions. It has also raised awareness about the Argan tree,
which are now protected by UNESCO, so that they can no longer be destroyed for
firewood, and the cultivation of the fruit is sustainably managed.
By working directly with our Agadir provider, we are able to contribute to the
well-being of Moroccan women and the conservation of the Argan tree. This way,
we are also able to provide our customers with the purest, most luxurious Argan
oil available, at a fair price.
Real Estate – First Time Home Buyer Tips
Buying a home for the first time can be one of the most stressful and challenging things you’ll ever do. There are a multitude of things that must be completed and addressed and many approvals must be obtained. You can never be too prepared for a purchase. Some buyers try to search properties without using an agent. In my opinion I think this just doesn’t make sense. Having an agent represent you and your interests is a bonus. They know the market, have a good idea on whether or not a property is priced appropriately and can alert you to things that don’t seem quite right – experience counts – and real estate agents are in and out of homes all the time. Having an agent represent you adds nothing to the cost of buying the home as the fee is usually paid by the seller’s agent.
Credit and Initial Preparation
Before you actually begin the purchase of a new home, it is important that you begin to organize your documents and review your credit standing. Your credit, though not always the only factor, is the most important factor when financing a home loan. You should review your credit reports and get a clear understanding of where you stand. Lenders look at your income-to-debt ratio, as well as your credit score and activity. It is important that this ratio reflects that you can afford the expenses of the home (principal, interest, taxes and insurance). Most lenders agree that your income-to-debt ratio should not exceed 28 percent to 30 percent of your overall income. If you find that your credit needs improvement or your ratio is too high, this is the time to initiate the adjustments that are needed.
Paperwork is also very important in your preparation. You will need to gather your yearly tax returns, W-2s, regular pay stubs and bank statements. Your lender may require additional information, however, if you have these initial items readily available, you will be on the right track.
Mortgage Interest Rates, Loan Types and Lenders
Mortgage interest rates are ever-changing and vary by loan type. These variances should be considered when making your purchase. If the interest is higher than the normal average, you might consider delaying your purchase or reconsidering your lender. Choose your lender wisely. Research your lender before contacting them. If you are dealing with a real estate agent, ask for recommendations. Make sure that your lender is reputable and has a good financial history. Have a few lenders on your list as not all lenders finance all locations.
When preparing for your purchase, you should also understand the various loan types. The most common loan types are conventional, FHA and VA loans. Conventional loans are backed by general banks and/or finance companies. FHA and VA loans are sponsored by the government and its branches. Investigate your options. While you may not qualify for one type, you may qualify for another. Additionally, different loan types allow for varying interest rates.
The most common loan option is the 30-year fixed mortgage. This loan option provides for 30 years of monthly payments on a fixed interest rate. However, there are other options that include the 15-year fixed mortgage, the five-year fixed mortgage and the three-year ARM, or adjustable rate mortgage, where the interest is periodically adjusted and the loan is paid off much quicker.
Start Looking
Begin your home search. Search wisely and never rush into a home purchase. Of course, I recommend using a Real Estate Agent. Having an agent assist you in finding a home can help narrow down the process. Their experience can be very helpful. It doesn’t cost more to have an agent on your side. Interview a few agents and go with the one with whom you feel most comfortable. Your agent will become your greatest ally. Consider what type of home fits, not only your current needs but your future needs. Are you planning to start or expand your family, or is it just you? Will you have pets? How close is it to your employment and favorite shopping areas? How close or far do you want to be? How long do you plan to own the home? Don’t feel uncomfortable calling a local real estate office and making an appointment to interview an agent. Tell them you are in the process of buying a home and are looking for representation. Do not sign anything at that time. After the interview, leave the office, take a day or two to think about the agents you have interviewed and select the one that most suits your needs. You can also search the web for local agents. Usually there is information on their site about their qualifications and experience.
Make the Offer
Once you have found the home, it’s time to make an offer. Your agent can help you with this. A good agent will already know the area and have a good idea on a fair market value of the home you are interested in purchasing.
When you make your offer, be prepared to provide the agent with a deposit, normally referred to as ‘earnest money,’ usually $1,000.00 and a mortgage pre-approval letter from a qualified lender. The deposit is placed in escrow with the real estate agent or agent’s company. The deposit shows the seller that you are committed to purchasing the property and would like the utmost consideration toward your offer and the pre-approval letter shows the seller that you have already been pre-approved. If the seller chooses not to accept your offer, your money will be returned. Also, the seller may choose to counter-offer because your initial offer was too low. Your agent will guide your through this process.
Home Inspection
Home inspections are an important part of the home buying process, but home buyers sometimes view home inspection costs as more of an extra burden than an essential. Closing costs and escrow fees are overwhelming enough: are home inspection costs really worth the trouble?
YES, YES, YES!! Home inspection reports provide home buyers with a unique insight into a home’s strengths and weaknesses. In some cases, the information found at a home inspection means the difference between buying that house or the need to continue the house hunting process.
A good home inspector will point out what needs to be corrected, any structural issues, insect infestations, electrical issues, plumbing issues, etc. In Massachusetts homes with private sewer systems need to get a Title V certificate. This certificate shows the house is in compliance with State requirements. It is also a good idea to have a Radon test done (usually an extra $50 to $150 depending on what type of test you have done). A home inspection can run about $350 and up depending on the house. Of course, extra structures on the property will add to that cost.
I believe buying a home without a home inspection is a huge mistake and one that any new home homeowner should never make. This is money well-spent.
Financing
Once your offer has been accepted and the home inspection has been done, you will be required to sign a Purchase & Sale Agreement (as least that is how it is done in Massachusetts), I recommend hiring a good real estate attorney to look over this document before you sign it. Once again, your real estate agent can usually recommend one. At that time you will be asked to put down an additional deposit, usually totaling 4% to 5% of the purchase price. This deposit will be held in escrow until the closing takes place at which time it will be distributed properly. Now, it is time to establish financing. Generally, you will have only 30 to 60 days after the acceptance of your offer to establish financing and complete the closing. I recommend finding a local bank or qualified mortgage broker to help you with this preparation. You probably will be using the lender who gave you the pre-approval letter. If not, your real estate agent can help you with this.
Appraisal
During the purchasing process, the lender will send out an agent to complete an appraisal of the property. This appraisal will ensure that the home is being financed for its actual value.
Approval
Once approved, the lender will schedule a closing date. On this day, you will come together with your lender’s representative, your closing attorney (usually the attorney you used to look over the Purchase & Sale Agreement) and the seller to complete the purchase and provide the final signatures of transfer. Once the signatures are gathered, and the transfer is recorded with the Registry of Deeds, you will be given your keys. As a first time home buyer, you have now completed the purchase of your first home, Congratulations! Pay your mortgage in a timely fashion and enjoy!! www.lindadillonrealestate.com
