This winter weather can either contribute to the "blahs" or it can be a motivator to make use of the time indoors to start a project. It's proven fact that even minor upgrades to your home such as new tile in the bathroom, replacing faucets & light fixtures, or sprucing up kitchen cabinets can yield great return on investment! This is the time many folks are considering placing a home on the market and now is the time to take advantage of being stuck at home. For only a few hundred dollars (less if you're thrifty!) and a weekend,your home could have an advantage in the marketplace when ready to sell. Not only will you get 100% of that investment but it'll show better and without question, sell faster!

Labels: home repairs, home selling, kay pratt, projects, remodelling

Now that we are looking a remodel square in the eye, since the devastating tornado, this might be a good time to reflect about how one goes about deciding on a builder. Fortunately for me, the selection process was simple! We've known Jim Hemphill and his wife for many years, long before my real estate business. I've had the privilege of watching Jim's business grow and had the opportunity to see for myself his consistent commitment to quality over the course of 20 years. Our first buisness meeting with him confirmed that we were in good hands and felt comfort in knowing that he and his crew have the experience to bring our home up to the standard and beauty I imagine in my head. From his gentle voice of reason to his unique ability to assist us in decision making, Jim quickly became a professional we knew we could trust and work with. Our remodel is well under way!
Not everyone, however is lucky enough to personally know a reputable builder. In that case, rely on referrals and ask friends and family. People are quick to want to share their experiences, good or bad. Once you ask around and gather a list of builders, visit some homes they've built, then go to the NAHB (National Home Builders Association)
website: http://www.nahb.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=123&genericContentID=284
and check to see if they're a member. That website is a great resource for getting all your questions answered about the home building process.

Labels: Home Building, Jim Hemphill, kay pratt, real estate, remodel, remodelling, tornados

For Donald and Amy, the choice came down to location, location, location. After endless discussions and careful thought, the home that really fits for them is the existing home on the cul-de-sac that first called their name when they drove by it two weeks ago!

Although a brand new home was very enticing and could be built for nearly the existing home price, they wanted the established neighborhood in the same school district they have their children in now. They've made their decision.

In this business, I wear many hats. This time I donned my "horse and buggy" hat and told them the worst case scenario when the cart is before the horse in a real estate transaction. I'm known for 'making things happen' and though it's nice to make a sale, it's far better to have a happy client. Having gotten to know the Denards, they made it clear to me that owning two homes may not be in the best interest for this family of five. After discussing ALL the possibilities, for now they feel that it's better to wait until at least an offer comes in on the home they own, giving them better options for negotiations on the one they want.

Since the lease they're in is flexible, the only thing left to do is get their current home under contract and we'll start the ball rolling! Anybody need a home in Martinez, Georgia:

Labels: existing homes, kay pratt, new construction, real estate

Just as many home buyers do, Donald and Amy Denard are considering whether they will build a home to suit their needs or purchase a home in their neighborhood that already does. It's a tough decision because they have to consider the time involved in the building process as well as the stress involved and of course, the cost. A newly constructed Heartland Home giving them the square footage they want and the extra half bath they'd like may prove to be a little out of their budget. But of course, Donald and Amy would get just what they want by stretching their budget a bit and would be a home they could grow in with their children.

On the other hand, the existing home they feel fits their need but needs updating is in a neighborhood with a pool, a very desirable attraction during the summer months for the Denard's three young boys.

Today they will take a closer look at floor plans, suitable lots and pricing and then compare it with the amenities of the existing home they are also considering. Will they choose to build brand new and get what they want or buy existing and get a home that needs a bit of work but is in a great location for them?

Stay tuned for the next post and find out!

Labels: Buying new vs. existing, Donald and Amy Denard, Edmond, kay pratt, real estate

According to the Preston Market Report, the 2008 home sales were down 13.3% while the national average was 15.5%. The average home sales price, however, was up over 4% from 2007 while the national average was down 12.4%. Areas like Las Vegas, Houston and Phoenix had drops ranging from 28% - 37%! Although it was our lowest sales in five years and a lower total volume than the past two years, we are still better off than most of the nation!!!

Labels: Brian Preston, Home Market Report, Home sales, kay pratt

For many folks, the process of buying a home can be a daunting one. My job mostly consists of guiding, advising, showing, calculating as well as sometimes providing counseling to the stressed-out buyer or seller. From showing properties to the home loan to managing the mountain of paperwork required to get the keys to that dream home, this job can be as frustrating as it is rewarding!

The rewarding part came yesterday as we completed the closing and I tossed Josh the keys to his new home. He seemed a bit nervous at the closing but I chalked it up to first-time-home-buyer jitters. With his girlfriend Amy there for moral support, the closing went well and just as planned. They both went straight to the house to marvel at the new purchase. Even though I knew of his intentions, I was still surprised and moved to tears when he texted me from his brand new home: "She said YES!"

He had planned to propose and awaited the perfect moment. As they looked around Josh's new home, he mentioned a house warming gift for her. He then dropped to one knee and presented the ring! It's gratifying to be part of such a momentous ocassion and watch dreams come true!

Labels: closing, job, josh harrell, kay pratt, real estate