Historically Low Rates

Now really is the time to buy! The expiration of the tax credit did appear to slow down activity in the real estate market, but let's get real! The fixed rates offered today should more than make up for that! When you can get a 30 year FIXED mortgage for today's rates it is silly not to buy! Even the homes that you thought are out of reach are suddenly affordable. Monthly payments are significantly decreased when the interest rates are so low. It's worth taking a few minutes to contact a mortgage broker to see exactly what your monthly payment would be on that dreamhome! It's probably more attainable for you than at any other time. And even better....check out the idea of building! Yes, even that brand new home where you choose the cabinets, lighting, flooring (imagine getting what you actually want!!!) is attainable...I look forward to hearing from you soon! Make your dream a reality; it's closer than you think.

Tax Incentives

Time is running out on the tax credit for first time homebuyers. In order to qualify for this you must be in contract to purchase a new home by April 30, 2010! Closing must occur by June 30, 2010. Time is ticking and this is a great opportunity to buy! Rates are at historic lows, inventory is high, prices are aggressive; it's the perfect situation! If you think this is the year you are going to STOP paying your landlord's mortgage and START putting your hard earned money to work for you, why not get the extra advantage of a tax credit??

Whether you are looking for a first time starter home, a vacation home by the shore or building the home of your dreams, opportunities are here! Fantastic mortgage programs are available. For more information just call or e-mail me!

Happy Spring!!

Priced for Sale!

A new fantastic listing will be coming available starting tomorrow (March 19 2010)! If you, (or someone you know) have been looking for a place to call home consider this! A 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath townhome in the Milestone neighborhood in Glastonbury. This is an end unit with a new kitchen (you have GOT to see these cabinets!!), granite counters, stainless appliances, hardwood floors all for just $179,900!! Yes, truly priced to SELL!! Remodeled bath, gas heat....and still time to take advantage of the tax credit.

With 30 year fixed mortgage rates still at historic lows, this is the perfect opportunity to become a homeowner! There is a real pride you feel when you go home to something that is truly yours...a place you have worked hard for.....a comfort in knowing you made it happen.

I'd love to help you reach your real estate goals! Wishing you the very best,

Dawn
www.housesbydawn.net

Selling in Today's Market

We've all heard the reports...listened to it on the evening news..... or read it in the daily papers; the real estate market is suffering. But is it?? Houses are still selling, people are still moving, some are even investing in real estate! What's different today is that properties are not simply selling because an agent puts a sign in front or runs an ad in the newspaper. Agents must prove their worth. And, in my opinion it's about time! There are many of us who have worked hard, toiled through the years of various market conditions, have worked ethically and with integrity for our clients. The real estate market of today requires an agent work harder than in the past few years, invest in themselves as a professional and invest in their business including effective marketing to make their client's property stand out and above the crowd!!

In today's real estate market it is imperative to have an agent that is not only available, but also knowledgeable about the market. Real estate is probably one's largest lifetime investment. When selecting the agent who is going to help you through the process of buying or selling, choose wisely. Choose based on knowledge of the marketplace, experience in real estate sales and marketing, marketing programs, and yes honesty. It's easy to select the person who tells you what you want to hear, but ask yourself "is it realistic?". Overpricing your property actually COSTS you money and selecting an agent with no plan for marketing can cost you money too! When choosing your listing representative ask to see marketing materials or better yet, go visit open houses and see the agent in action! Check their office and personal websites. Take some time to investigate. Choose carefully and remember this person is representing YOU in one of your largest financial transactions of your life!

I wish you much SUCCESS!!
Dawn
housesbydawn@gmail.com
www.housesbydawn.net

New Construction...Now's the time

So many people I meet dream of building a new home. Everyone has a "dream home" pictured in their mind. Many people even have stashed away the sketch and floor plan of their dream home. Yet, most people don't ever take the opportunity to make their dream a reality. And, I think that's sad. Sad because it's not really the overwhelmingly stress inducing experience people fear. To build a new home can be exciting, thrilling and gives a wonderful feeling of accomplishment!

One key factor to a good building experience is to find the right builder. I believe experience is important as is trustworthiness. It's also extremely important that you feel comfortable when talking with your builder. After all, this is someone you will be speaking with on a regular basis for months! Ask for references, call the references and usually when these people are happy, they are more than willing to invite you into their home to see the builder's work!

Financing. Also, not as confusing as anticipated. I work with a wonderful mortgage lender whose program for new construction offers one close! Yes, a construction loan that rolls into a traditional 30 year fixed loan with aggressive rates, closing costs and as I said earlier, only 1 closing! A fabulous program from a lender with a reputation that builders are pleased to work with!

Location, location, location! When selecting where to build your home, many lifestyle factors need to be considered. Ease of commute, noise level, view, through street or cul de sac? The list goes on and on. I am currently working to complete the selling of Bluff Head Estates in North Guilford. What fantastic lots! Some are perfectly level and open, others rolling and wooded, some on the cul de sac, others set away from the road. You get the gist. But all are in a peaceful location 30 minutes to Hartford or 20 minutes to New Haven. Cul de sac streets too! And the ability to bring in your own builder if you so choose!!

Think about it, you deserve to have your dream home become a reality. And, it's closer than you may have thought, I hope to hear from you soon!

Spring Market!

The real estate market is beginning to pick up! The phones are ringing and our homes are being shown more frequently. Mortgage rates continue to remain at historic lows, home prices are fair for all parties and tax incentives make it a great time to buy!

There are a number of considerations for homeowners when deciding whether or not to sell. Pricing is very important but what is more important is understanding what the home is really going to sell for. It is imperative the homeowner receive a true and realistic market evaluation. Sometimes as a professional Realtor, I have to give people news they really don't want to hear. They may be thinking (or hoping, who can blame them?) their house is worth significantly more than the market will bear. In the long run, Sellers benefit by pricing their property to sell. This is not the market for speculation, but it is a great market for homes priced fairly. As a matter of fact, homes priced at market value will sell quicker and for more money.

I have been selling homes for 18 years now and have been fortunate enough to see (survive!)many different market conditions. Today's market has everything going for it; great mortgage rates, fair housing prices and tax incentives.

Contact me to discuss whether or not this is the right time for you to buy or sell!

1221 Harbor View Drive Rocky Hill

This is a wonderful condominium located in Rocky Hill.

A wonderful place for a first time buyer or anyone looking for an easy maintenance home. Ferry Landing condominiums are located within walking distance to the Rocky Hill library, post office, town hall, community center, churches, the Connecticut River and restaurants.



At an asking price of only $91,900 this can be purchased for less money per month than one would pay in rent and offers all the tax advantages of home ownership! If entered into contract by April 30, 2010 the new buyer may also qualify for the $8000 tax credit!



A few years ago I had clients who sold their home of 30 years. They had retired and wanted to move to a warmer climate so they bought a place in Florida. I remember how they were concerned about leaving their children and grandchildren here and how when they came back for the summer they would feel like "visitors". A condominium like this would have suited them perfectly! Cozy 1 bedroom with brand new kitchen appliances, a renovated bathroom, secure building, elevator access and a pool for the grandkids to use when they visited! An affordable price point and still have a place all their own when the "snowbirds" came north.



Or how about the new college grad who really wants to have their own place? Prices in this area can be prohibitive for the "new" to the work force. This condo is affordable, needs minimal maintenance, and will be a wonderful long term investment!



Options are many, it's a GREAT TIME TO BUY!! If I can be of help just drop me an e-mail at housesbydawn@gmail.com