Showing posts with label buying. Show all posts
Showing posts with label buying. Show all posts

Friday, August 22, 2014

So You Think You Want To Sell


Sometimes you get a wild idea that you want to move. Sometimes your job tells you that a move is in your future. Life can even determine what you will need to do. Whether you know it is coming or think it might, here are a few things you can do now without listing your house.
You can always ask an agent in your area for a free market analysis of the area, and even your specific neighborhood. Knowing what is going on is important because it can help determine price ranges for listing, what you can do to improve your house, and if it is even a good idea to move if the choice is yours.

Request an appraisal. You know what you paid, you know the emotional value, but do you know the real value? Even though people can guess what they think it would be around – an appraisal is not a bad idea of you are on the more serious side of selling.
Get rid of the eyesores! You know you always talk about getting rid of the once red, now orange shutters. The large half dead tree in the back. The cracked bricks in the flower beds. Use this as motivation to fix all the things you said you would. You may get a better price, provide more curb appeal to buyers, to loving your house again.
Sometimes it just takes one or two things to figure out what it is that you need to do. To sell or not to sell – this may make your decision easier if it is up to you!

Friday, August 15, 2014

Increase Your Home Value!

If you’re like most homeowners, you are constantly looking for inexpensive ways to increase the value of your home. Whether you’re looking to sell or just want to spruce things up, getting top dollar for your home doesn’t require an over the top remodel or expensive landscape makeover.
Here are a few quick weekend projects that will add value to your home without breaking the bank.
A Cabinet Makeover 
The kitchen is often the most important and used room in the house. If your cabinets are scratched or the color is outdated, a couple cans of paint with a new finish often can turn even the dullest of cabinets around. Updating cabinet hardware is also an easy way to change the overall appearance of your kitchen without having to invest a lot of money or time. Plus, there is a wide range of stores and online resources for finding the perfect pulls, knobs, and handles to match your style.
Spruce up Your Curb Appeal
One way to attract potential buyers is to spend some time working on the front of your home. Cleaning or updating your mailbox, putting up new street numbers, and touching up chipped paint are quick inexpensive fixes.
Update your Lighting
If you have outdated lights in your living room or the dining room, consider replacing them with an eye-catching chandelier. Cabinet and track lighting are also ways to quickly update your home and make it feel more modern.
The cost of these home improvements are mere pennies compared to the money you’ll be saving after the value of your home increases.

Friday, August 8, 2014

Different Loan Programs

Shopping for a mortgage to buy your first home can be the best way to get a great deal! Be sure to compare all the costs involved in obtaining a mortgage. Shopping, negotiating, and comparing may save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
These are some of the most common loan types you’ll come across as you search for a mortgage that meets your needs.
Fixed-Rate and Adjustable-Rate Mortgages
These are two of the most popular loan types when buying a home or refinancing your mortgage. Both options are available for conventional conforming loan amounts, jumbo loan amounts, and FHA or VA programs.
FHA and VA Mortgages
Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) loans are popular homebuyer choices. These loans must meet certain requirements.
Jumbo Loan Option
If you have a higher property value and are able to manage a larger monthly mortgage payment, consider a jumbo, or non-conforming loan. A jumbo loan provides financing for loan amounts higher than the maximum conforming limits, set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. A “blended jumbo” combines a mortgage and home equity line of credit, and may provide greater payment flexibility.

Friday, July 11, 2014

First Time Mistakes to Avoid

It is easy to assume that in busying a house - you know what the right thing to do is, but you would be shocked at some of the moves that are actually not for the good that you might be doing already! There are so many things to consider when buying a house and not all of them are as obvious as you would think. That is why having a knowledgable real estate agent on a good team such as Les Bailey and Associates is helpful!
Thinking that you should pay off all that credit card debt that you have to qualify for a house. You may want to stop putting everything that you have into paying that off. To really understand what we mean - watch this video from Yahoo Finance Guru Trevor Curran HERE.

You can easily fall in love with a house that is very well your dream house. Making sure that you are  staying within your budget. Don't let your head run as fast as your emotions do when you find everything you want in one place. Remember buying a home creates additional expenses not included in the purchase price.
Know the difference between what you are pre-qualified for and pre-approved for. There is a difference and we can help. This is one of the single most worst mistakes made. People forget that you can qualify for something and still get denied.
Not using a realtor. We may be biased, but keep in mind, they know what they are doing, this is what they are in the business of doing. They can help negotiate pricing, counter bids, add things you missed into the contract, and take care of organizing the closing. Since the seller pays the commission, it is at no cost to you. You have nothing to lose when gaining some help from experienced professionals.

Friday, July 4, 2014

First Timer?

Are you thinking about buying your first home? If this is your first time looking into the Alaskan real-estate market, it can be a bit overwhelming. Knowing where to start and what needs more attention than other things - can be hard!
Alaska is a beautiful state and has many styles and sizes of homes available.  Knowing what you want is a great way to start. Keep these few tips in mind when hitting the market regardless of where you start:
  • Get pre-qualified, that way you know what you can afford.
  • Drive around different neighborhoods where you can see yourself living.
  • Make a list of the top 3 things that are a must for your new home.
  • How will you use your future home… to entertain? For your children or future children? Do you have pets?
  • Be open minded. You may not get your first choice, but your second one may be a perfect fit!
Here at Les Bailey and Associates, our team can guide you through the home buying process every step of the way. Just give us a call to start the process of understanding!

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

You're Cordially Invited! See our open house in Anchorage this Saturday, June 28, 1-4pm!

Price: $349,000

  • Inviting everyone to our Open House this Sat, June 28, 1pm-4pm. This event will be hosted by Erica Thynes. You may reach her at (907) 982-9676. Please bring your buyers and friends.

    7824 Cranberry Street Anchorage, AK 99502
    Amazing custom home with upgrades galore! Log accents throughout, travertine and slate tile, hardwood floors (Brazilian Cherry & Brazilian Teak), gorgeous kitchen with Viking range and range hood, solid surface counters, rustic hickory cabinets, wood stove insert, fenced yard, detached shed/shop, storage room above garage, large soaking tub, and much more. This is not a drive-by!

Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

Keller Williams Alaska Group

Direct: 907-694-1234

Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com






Friday, June 20, 2014

Landscaping Gone Wild!

When it comes to you may want to have landscaping that is beautiful and ornate.  This could still mean different things for different people. Above all of it there are still things to consider!

Trees - when they are planted they are usually small so that you can't predict potential issues. Will it hit power lines? Will it block visibility to your driveway of cars trying to exit?  Is it going to create any issues with root growth.  There is plenty to consider, so try to think through placement.

Shrubs - will they grow tall or wide? Will they hinder any visibility? Do they lose foliage so that it will be bare certain times of year? Will they bud and cause a smell that you enjoy? Again - plenty of things to play attention to!

Flower beds - are they on top or in front of any electrical boxes or water meters? If so make sure they are visible to the eye and you plant items accordingly so that they don't ruin stuff to be able to do their job.

All these things are great - but are they going to be as amazing in a couple years?

Thinking of buying a property or starting a business, why not have them both? This Eagle River property offers much much more!

Price: $875,000;

Phone#: 907-694-1234 or 907-229-9466

11633 Old Glenn Highway Eagle River, AK 99577

Property Type: Commercial

View: Mountains; Sq. Feet: 3,182; Lot size: 1.01 acres

 

Prime commercial location in the heart of downtown Eagle River. Perfect location for any business, restaurant, office, etc. This corner-lot site is three parcels including the historic boarded up Tasty Freeze.

Value is in the land. Parcels are the lot with old Tasty Freeze, lot w/Triplex behind it, and lot w/storage units behind the triplex.

Features-Commercial: On-Site Parking; DSL/Cable Available; Fencing; In City Limits; Corner Lot



Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

Keller Williams Alaska Group

Direct: 907-694-1234

Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com

Thursday, June 12, 2014

A gorgeous and spacious home located in Eagle River with a picturesque view of the mountains!

Price: $445,000;

Phone#: 907-694-1234 or 907-229-9466

Mitkof

19546 S Mitkof Loop, Eagle River, AK 99577

Enjoy this beautiful custom home with a rare mother-in-law basement apartment and an amazing fenced private backyard. Too many features to list. This is not a cookie-cutter home! Meticulously maintained close to all the amenities. It doesn't get better than this!!!


Property Type: Single Family Residential
Style: Multi-level
Bedrooms: 5; Total Baths: 4; Garage: 2, Attached, Heated;
Year Built: 1994; Sq. Feet: 3,250; Lot size: 0.27 acres
Heat: Baseboard



Just Listed!



Features: Amazing View; Covenant/Restriction; Deck/Patio; Private Yard; Fenced Yard; Fire Service Area; Garage Door Opener; Home Owner Assoc.;Landscaping; Mother-in-Law Apt; Road Service Area; Motion Lighting; Storage Space/Unit;Home Warranty; DSL/Cable Available; Paved Driveway; Basement; Den &/Or Office; Dishwasher; Electric; Family Room;Fireplace; Range/Oven; Refrigerator; Workshop; CO Detector(s); Jetted Tub;Washer &/Or Dryer; Carpet; Ceiling Fan(s);Vaulted Ceiling; Smoke Detector(s)




Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

Keller Williams Alaska Group

Direct: 907-694-1234

Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com

Friday, June 6, 2014

A home that looks fresh all the time, with breathtaking views of the mountains and the inlet in Chugiak, a must see!

Price: $485,000

Phone#: 907-694-1234 or 907-229-9466

Sumac

23110 Sumac Drive Chugiak, AK 99577

Awesome custom home in a private setting w/amazing views of inlet and mountains! Very large over-sized 2 car tandem garage, wine cellar, new roof, office/den, rec room, mud room, sauna, newer high efficiency furnace, gas-assist see through wood fireplace, luxurious master suite with his/her sinks, Jacuzzi tub, steam shower, and best of all, approximately 1100sqft of decking, lots of sunshine.


Property Type: Single Family Residential
Style: Two-Story with Basement
Bedrooms: 3; Total Baths: 3.5; Garage:2, Attached
Year Built: 1987; Sq. Feet: 3,398; Lot size: 1.05 acres
Heat: Forced Air



Just Listed!



  • Features: Spectacular View; Deck/Patio; Private Yard; Fire Service Area; Landscaping; Road Service Area; RV Parking; Storage Space/Unit; Home Warranty;DSL/Cable Available; Paved Driveway; Shed; Basement; Den &/Or Office; Dishwasher; Electric; Family Room; Fireplace; Range/Oven; Refrigerator; Washer &/Or Dryer Hookup; Wet Bar;Window Coverings; CO Detector(s); Jetted Tub; Washer &/Or Dryer; Carpet; Ceiling Fan(s); Vaulted Ceiling; Hardwood Flooring; Smoke Detector(s)


    Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

    Keller Williams Alaska Group

    Direct: 907-694-1234

    Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

    www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com

Friday, May 23, 2014

Enjoy the chic architecture and the amazing view surrounding this humble abode in Eagle River!

Rare home with 2 master suites, one on the main level and another on the upper level, making this custom home handicap friendly. You'll love this well kept home situated on a fully landscaped corner lot with fenced backyard, breathtaking views, large kitchen, formal dining, cozy gas fireplace, RV parking and plenty of space for your Alaskan toys, and much more.

    Property Type: Single Family Residential
    Style: Ranch-Traditional, Two-Story Traditional
    Bedrooms: 4; Total Baths: 3.5; Garage:2, Attached
    Year Built: 1993; Sq. Feet: 2,364; Lot size: 0.35 acres
    Heat: Forced Air



Just Listed!

Features: Amazing View; Deck/Patio; Private Yard; Fenced Yard; Fire Service Area; Garage Door Opener; Landscaping; Road Service Area; RV Parking;Satellite Components; Satellite Dish; TV Antenna; Lot-Corner; Storage Space/Unit; Home Warranty; DSL/Cable Available; Paved Driveway; Shed; Dishwasher; Disposal; Electric; Family Room; Fireplace; Range/Oven; Refrigerator; Security System; Telephone; Washr&/Or Dryer Hkup;Window Coverings; BR/BA on Main Level; CO Detector(s); Jetted Tub; Washer &/Or Dryer; Wired Audio; Carpet; Ceiling Fan(s); Central Vac Rough-in; Laminate Flooring; Vaulted Ceiling; Smoke Detector(s)

We also have vacant lots available.

    Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

    Keller Williams Alaska Group

    Direct: 907-694-1234

    Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

    www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com

    Tuesday, May 20, 2014

    What is your One Thing?

    “Have you ever wondered if everyone has the same number of hours in a day? Why do people seem to get more done than others? Are they putting in longer hours or are they not taking vacations? Are their personal life suffering?

    The truth is, it's not that we have too little time to do the things we need to do, it's that we feel the need to do too many things in the time we have.

    The people who achieve extra ordinary results don't achieve them by working more hours, they achieve them by getting more done in the hours they choose to work.” Nani Palmer



    Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

    Keller Williams Alaska Group

    Direct: 907-694-1234

    Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

    www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com

    Friday, May 16, 2014

    A serene home for nature lovers and outdoor-activity seekers with splendid mountain views in Chugiak.

      Price: $320,000
      Phone#: 907-694-1234 or 907-229-2352
      Bedrooms: 3; Total Baths: 2.5; Garage:2, Attached
      Year Built: 1982; Sq. Feet: 2,024; Lot size: 0.31 acres
      Heat: Baseboard; Property Type: Single Family Residential
      Style: Two-Story Traditional

    21641 GRAYBILL Street Chugiak, AK 99567
    This home has a family room and living room with a wet bar and bar-B-Q deck facing the mountains. There are great views and a nice flat yard. Wood doors throughout and well maintained. All 3 bedrooms are generous in size and on the 2nd floor of the home. Don't miss out on this great home!

    Just Listed!

      • Features: View; Deck/Patio; Garage Door Opener; Motion Lighting; In City Limits; DSL/Cable Available; Paved Driveway; Cable TV; Dishwasher; Disposal; Electric; Family Room; Fireplace; Microwave (B/I); Range/Oven; Refrigerator; Telephone; Washr &/Or Dryer Hkup; Wet Bar; Workshop; Jetted Tub; Ceiling Fan(s); Central Vac Rough-in; Laminate Flooring; Range-Downdraft; Smoke Detector(s) We also have other vacant lots available.


      Les Bailey & Associates Real Estate Team

      Keller Williams Alaska Group

      Direct: 907-694-1234

      Toll Free: 1-800-784-2912

      www.LesBaileyAndAssociates.com

     

    Friday, April 25, 2014

    Moving to Alaska?

    So you decided on the fact that you are coming to "The Last Frontier" - Now What?
    Do you have any idea how will you get here? Should you drive the Alaska Highway or fly and ship everything up? What about the ferry for part of it?
    Here is a very basic checklist to get you started!
    A month or more before the move:
    Start a log of expenses - some may be tax deductible!
    Moving companies - do your research! How much time will there be before pick-up and delivery? Do they have insurance?
    Going to having housing right away or will you need storage?
    Contact your bank - do you have access to them if they do't have a branch in state?
    Contact your insurance companies to change property, auto and medical policies. Don't forget to run through housing scenarios!
    If you are in the market for an Alaskan home, we would be more than happy to talk with you about the many options for buying in Anchorage!

    Monday, March 31, 2014

    Video to Sell Your Home

    If you have been checking out our website you can see that we are using video for some of our clients. This is another medium that is gaining popularity as people like to do as much homework as they can before they step into a realtor's office or into the actual home.

    According to trulia.com “90% of home buyers and sellers start the process online.”  When it comes to standing out - why not try what the newest craze is and that is video.  When it comes to the making of the actual video know that most of us are not professional video personnel, but we can do our best. The actual house itself is still going to be what seals the deal.

    Regardless of video, pictures, or walk through, the same basic principles will apply. You will want to clean the house and make it as open as possible. Stage the house to what will show off the features that are highly sought after. You want to still keep it as neutral as possible and not overloaded with personal features.


    Why not try something new if you have a house that needs to be sold.  Meeting people where they are is always a benefit to you selling your house and getting it seen. Check one out below:

    Friday, March 21, 2014

    Down Payment Funds

    When it comes to saving for a down payment it seems like a daunting task if you have not been saving since your first paycheck. Don’t get discouraged – there are still changes you can make, it just takes some dedication and discipline depending on your time frame!



    If you are by yourself, or a young couple with no kids – why not downsize now? Move from that two or three bedroom apartment to a one bedroom apartment? Save the difference monthly in an interest baring account. This will also cut down on your monthly expenses to add to the savings.

    Get a second job. No one likes to hear that, but why not choose a job related to one of your hobbies? That way the extra time you are spending away from the house is enjoyable and not miserable, otherwise it isn’t worth it. Don’t sacrifice your sanity for this.

    Sell those items you no longer need. You bought a treadmill that is holding clothes that need to be ironed. You have golf clubs that have not seen a golf ball since you had the idea to start! These are all things that may not seem like a lot, but as you get rid of them and add them to that savings account – they can make a difference!

    Other simple tricks – eat at home, bring your lunch, carpool, or go to the library. Everything you do adds up and can lead you to the house of your dreams!

    Friday, March 7, 2014

    New Construction Trends

    As the world changes and trends evolve – new construction sees a change in items that appear on floor plans, and disappear in floor plans. Here are some of those that have started to appear more and more.

    Large is in. Garages, closets, kitchen, and pantries. People want large garages to give their toys more room, or provide more space for those who want to work indoors but not in the house. Closets are becoming large for the all in one feel. Organizational built-ins create a need for less furniture and less clutter. Kitchens and pantries go hand-in-hand and they have to be readily available to feed the masses.

    Media and resource centers (home office space). These items are starting to trend do to the age of telecommuting, entrepreneurs, and “stay-cations.” People want to do as much as possible from home to cut costs, and enjoy the place they live in, with enough separation from the look of a created space in the home. Making it part of the plan from the beginning allows these types of spaces to work.

    Along with media and resource centers, people like the hidden electronics. More simply put, people don’t want to see wires. Elaborate electrical plans are coming into play to make sure the living space does not get tangled with wires, but filled with connectivity.

    With different trends on the rise – what would you put as a must have in a new building if that is the route you will be taking?

    Monday, February 17, 2014

    New Builds Have Advantages

    Sometimes you want to buy an already established home so that you can move right in and go from the day it is yours. New home builds have some upsides to them as well even if it isn’t ready the day you close.



    You have the ability to personalize and customize your home from the start. There are plenty of upgrades, design choices, and color ideas that can really make this house your new home.

    Your home with be up-to-date with all codes and safety features. This will allow for your house to pass inspections without any fixes if done right! This should set your mind at ease instead of waiting for the list of things to be fixed to come back.

    Maintenance and repairs should be almost non-existent during the first couple year or so. The items they are using are brand new, and most likely energy efficient or green. This will end up saving you instead of costing you.

    Builders most often times provide a warranty. Warranties are good. When you buy an established home the previous seller may opt to buy you a warranty the first year, but that is if you are lucky. Within reason there might be some things to go wrong as the house settles and gets “lived in” so builders are happy to make adjustments to make them right.

    There are other benefits to new builds are we are more than happy to help you get the answers to your questions. Give us a call and let us help you decide what is right for you.

    Monday, February 10, 2014

    Winter Selling Tips

    Ah winter. It is just as good of a time to sell as any – you just may have to work a little harder to keep the same appeal going for those tired of marching around in the cold looking for their forever home.

    Keep snow and ice out of the walkways as much as you can. How nice and inviting is it that you can walk into a home without wondering what is under that inch thick sheet of ice? It also shows that you are proud of your home and want people to come visit.

    Take advantage of the natural light while you can. Show your house during the day so that it can be seen as it will look during the summer months as well. Open the curtains and let as much in as you can.


    Wash your windows. Inside and out. If you want the beauty of natural light to be seen, make sure your windows will allow it to happen.

    Make it comfy and cozy. People want to buy a home. Have some background noise going, light a candle or two, start a fire if there is a fireplace. Make them feel like they are actually in a home, not a staged home. A great staged home doesn’t really feel like a staged home.