If a full fee was the rule in 2006 when completing a deal was so much simpler, why would you now consider cutting the fee of your agent in today’s tumultuous market? You are depending on this person to help you reach your goals in a sale or purchase. In 2006, buyers were willing to pay almost anything to a seller just to get into a home. Banking entities seemed to be willing to mortgage any property for any buyer. The process was rather simple.

Today, a person looking to buy or sell should be willing to pay a full fee for two reasons:

You need an expert guide if you are traveling a dangerous path!

The field of real estate is loaded with land mines. You need a true expert to guide you through the dangerous pitfalls that currently exist. Finding a buyer willing to pay fair market value for your home at a time that there are mass inventories of foreclosures and short sales will take a true real estate professional. Finding reasonable financing can also be tricky in today’s lending environment.

Experts in any profession do not discount their fees; especially when the job is becoming much more difficult.

You need a skilled negotiator!

In today’s market, hiring a talented negotiator could save you thousands, perhaps tens of thousands of dollars. Each step of the way – from the original offer, to the possible re-negotiation of that offer after a home inspection, to the possible cancellation of the deal based on a troubled appraisal – you need someone who can keep the deal together until it closes.
When an agent is negotiating their commission with you, they are negotiating their own salary – the salary that keeps a roof over their family’s head; the salary that puts food on their family’s table. If they are quick to take less when negotiating for themselves and their families, what makes you think they will not act the same way when negotiating for you and your family? If they were Clark Kent when negotiating with you, they will not turn into Superman when negotiating with the buyer or seller in your deal.

Bottom Line!

We believe that famous sayings become famous because they are true. You get what you pay for. Just like a good accountant or a good attorney, a good agent will save you money…not cost you money.

Related posts:

1. Why Use a REALTOR? Why Use a REALTOR® When Selling A real estate agent...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Terms may include inspections, requests for specific property repairs, or timing considerations, such as a conditional purchase clause (if, for example, you must first find a buyer for your current home).

DETERMINING A PRICE

Some buyers mistakenly believe there is a predetermined formula for offers—that offering prices should be X percent lower than the seller’s asking price or the amount they are really willing to pay.

In practice, your offer price actually depends more upon the basic laws of supply and demand. If many buyers are competing for homes, then sellers will likely get full-price offers and sometimes even more. If demand is weak, then offers below the asking price may be in order.

HOW TO MAKE AN OFFER

The process varies by state. In most cases, you complete an offer that your representative presents on your behalf. The owner, in turn, may accept the offer, reject it or make a counter-offer.

Because counter-offers are common (any change in terms can be considered a “counter-offer”), it’s important that you remain in close contact with your representative during the negotiation process so that any proposed changes can be quickly reviewed.

INSPECTIONS

Inspections are common in residential realty transactions. Depending on your needs and where you live, they may include:

• mold inspections
• “green” issues, including energy efficiency and eco-friendliness
• surveys to determine boundaries
• appraisals to determine value for lenders
• title reviews
• structural inspections
• Structural inspections are particularly important. During these examinations, an inspector evaluates the property for any material physical defects and whether expensive repairs and replacements are likely to be required in the next few years.

For a single-family home, these inspections often require two or three hours. You should plan to attend too. This is an important opportunity to examine the property’s mechanics (plumbing, wiring, etc.) and structure, ask the inspector questions and learn far more about the property than is possible with an informal walk-through.

Compliments of Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council of the National Association of REALTORS® - REBAC.net

Related posts:

1. Preparing for a Home Inspection Everyone knows that a professional home inspection can uncover previously...
2. 12 important tips to turn your home into a rental property Whether you are moving out of your house or have...
3. Why Use a REALTOR? Why Use a REALTOR® When Selling A real estate agent...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Disclosures are a key component of any real estate transaction. Past problems including fire or water damage should be noted in the disclosure documents. Homeowners need to have access to building permits and plans issued for any major renovations; proof that such changes were done legally is extremely important. If there was work done that lacked proper permits, this will need to be disclosed as well. Have invoices and warranties available for major improvements, roofing, furnaces, and major appliances.

Routine exterior maintenance is an easy way to keep up with minor problems before they escalate. Prior to inspection, repair any damaged masonry on steps and walkways, and seal cracks in the driveway. Not only will the home look better, but future problems can be prevented. Recaulk around exterior doors, windows, and flashing, and replace any missing or damaged shingles.
Inside the home, relatively minor fixes can improve the home inspection results. Repair leaky faucets and fixtures, and recaulk around tubs and sinks. An electrician should inspect receptacles and switches and make any needed repairs. Replace any cracked or broken window glass, and loosen any windows that are painted shut. If there is a fireplace, have it and the chimney cleaned and checked by a professional. If the home inspector can’t see into the chimney because of soot buildup, they won’t be able to inspect it and may need to return after it’s cleaned.

Arrange service for the furnace and central air conditioning so that any issues can be addressed before the home inspection. If the home has battery-operated smoke detectors, install fresh batteries and install additional units if any are missing. Install carbon monoxide alarms if the home does not have them.

On the day of the home inspection, a few easy steps will facilitate the inspection process. First, allow sufficient time for the inspection. A professional home inspection will take two and a half to three hours on average, longer if the home is very large. Most homeowners choose not to be present for the inspection, though the potential buyer will usually want to be there. The homeowner will need to provide keys to any locked areas, and access to the attic, crawl space, storage sheds, the garage, and yard. Be sure that the inspector has access to components such as electrical panels, the water meter, and gas meter. Move objects from around the water heater, furnace, and central air conditioning unit so that the inspector can access them. In winter, clear walkways of snow and ice for safe access to the home.

Make arrangements for pets to be out of the home or in a crate for their own safety and that of the home inspector. Dogs in particular can be disruptive, and some may even be distressed by having an unfamiliar person in their “territory”.
It is always a good idea to store small valuables and medications out of sight and in a secure location for your own peace of mind. One option is to simply take them with you when you leave the home during the inspection.

Taking these steps can go a long way in preventing or addressing problems that could negatively affect the inspection report. An inspection-ready home presents itself best for evaluation and makes the entire process go more smoothly.

<hr3>

Compliments of: Socrates Muller | Pillar to Post - www.PillarToPost-HunterdonSomerset-SM.com

Related posts:

1. 12 important tips to turn your home into a rental property Whether you are moving out of your house or have...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

8 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Twp, Hunterdon County

* FOR SALE – $839,750 *

Brand New Colonial with Four Bedrooms and Four Baths in Raritan Township;  The Augusta Model at
“Milestone At The Glen” includes a Full Brick Front; Conservatory; Premium Lot; Over $100K in Upgraded Options and a Walk-Out Basement too!

This home features a 2-story foyer with signature waterfall staircase, 2-story family room with floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, full bath on 1st floor, secondary stair access from kitchen area to second floor, owner’s suite with separate sitting room, expansive walk-in closet, luxury owner’s travertine bathroom with corner jetted tub, 5 foot shower, dual vanities with marble sink tops and separate water closet / toilet room.

Built on private cul-de-sac street, this home has the feel of a quiet country setting yet is still conveniently close to downtown Flemington. Custom Crafted by RobinHill Homes, a well known and respected Flemington builder whose name is synonymous with innovative design and quality construction.

Property Details

Link to MLS Listing Data for 8 Stillwater Lane

Marketed By: The Hunterdon Realty Group | 908.782.0095 | Patricia Mortara – Broker Owner

Related posts:

1. 15 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 15 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Twp, Hunterdon...
2. 10 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 10 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Township, Hunterdon...
3. 68 N Franklin Street | Lambertville NJ 08530 68 N Franklin Street, Lambertville NJ 08530 | Hunterdon County *...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

* UNDER CONTRACT – $420,000 *

Charming 3 Bedroom Vintage Colonial in a Quiet Section of Lambertville. Features: 9ft Ceilings, Pumpkin Pine Floors, Huge Gourmet Kitchen with Vaulted Ceiling, Jenn-Air Stainless-Steel Professional Range and 7ft Butcher Block Center-Island. Major Renovations Include: 2-1/2 Totally Remodeled Bathrooms, Newer Roof, Thermal Windows and Furnace / Central Air Conditioning System.

Antique Charm Combined with Modern Convenience and a Flowing Floor Plan thats Perfect for Entertaining. Over-Sized Very Large, Fenced and Private Yard with Brick Patio. Off-Street Parking for 3 cars. Walking Distance to Main St / Bridge St. PLUS there is a Detached Studio / Workshop with Electric and Heat… Perfect for the Artist or Craftsman!

Link to MLS Listing Data for 68 N Franklin Street 

Property Details

Marketed By: The Hunterdon Realty Group | 908.782.0095 | Patricia Mortara – Broker Owner

Related posts:

1. 15 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 15 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Twp, Hunterdon...
2. 30 Seabrook Road | Stockton, N.J. 08559 30 Seabrook Road, Stockton NJ 08559 | Delaware Township, Hunterdon County...
3. 10 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 10 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Township, Hunterdon...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

A 10-step primer on short sales and the steps you will need to take to purchase one… By Bobbi Dempsey of Bankrate.com -

Foreclosure is a fairly well-understood process, but as “short sale” signs sprout like weeds, you may wonder what they are all about.

When a lender agrees to accept a mortgage payoff amount that is less than what is owed in order to facilitate a sale of the property by a financially distressed owner, it’s called a short sale. The lender forgives the remaining balance of the loan.  READ MORE

Related posts:

1. Buying a Foreclosure Foreclosure Basics How Much Can You Save? Foreclosure properties can...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

5 Hahola Farm Ct, Pittstown NJ 08867 | Alexandria Twp, Hunterdon County
* FOR SALE – $259,900 *

Cul-De-Sac Building Lot  - 2.44 Acres with Pastoral Views. Construction is already underway for a 4,175 sq ft / 4 Bedroom Colonial;  Price includes a full set of architectural drawings, initial building permits, a poured foundation set up as a “walk-out” and floor framing of the main level and installed septic system.

Conveniently located close to Interstate 78 and the town of Clinton. Community it exempt from COAH contributions! Six additional homesites are also available as a separate purchase.

Link to Additional Photos

Link to MLS Listing Data for 5 Hahola Farm Court

Marketed By: The Hunterdon Realty Group | 908.782.0095 | Patricia Mortara – Broker Owner

Related posts:

1. 1 Hahola Farm Court | Pittstown NJ 08867 1 Hahola Farm Ct, Pittstown NJ 08867 | Alexandria Twp, Hunterdon...
2. 39 Mason Farm Road | Ringoes, NJ 08551 39 Mason Farm Road, Ringoes NJ 08551 | Raritan Township,...
3. 15 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 15 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Twp, Hunterdon...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

15 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Twp, Hunterdon County

* FOR SALE – $747,750 *

Brand New Colonial at “Milestone At The Glen” with 4 Bedrooms and 3-1/2 Baths in Raritan Township. The Lancaster Model with elegant Stucco & Stone Facade, is currently being built by RobinHill Homes, a well known and respected Hunterdon County builder whose name is synonymous with quality construction and innovative design.

This classic “Center Foyer” home has a formal Living Room, Dining Room and a first floor Study. It also features a dramatic 2-story Family Room that’s adjacent to the Kitchen & sunlit Breakfast Room. On the second floor is an expansive Owner’s Suite with sitting area, Luxury Bath and plenty of closet space! There is also an additional 3 Bedrooms and desirable 2nd floor Laundry!  This home also offers full-height walk out Basement with French doors and daylight windows, PLUS its already insulated, with pre-framed perimeter walls and ready to finish. Buyer can select all flooring, cabinetry and paint colors!

Link to MLS Listing Data for 15 Stillwater Lane

Marketed By: The Hunterdon Realty Group | 908.782.0095 | Patricia Mortara – Broker Owner

Related posts:

1. 10 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 10 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Township, Hunterdon...
2. 30 Seabrook Road | Stockton, N.J. 08559 30 Seabrook Road, Stockton NJ 08559 | Delaware Township, Hunterdon County...
3. 39 Mason Farm Road | Ringoes, NJ 08551 39 Mason Farm Road, Ringoes NJ 08551 | Raritan Township,...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

1 Hahola Farm Ct, Pittstown NJ 08867 | Alexandria Twp, Hunterdon County
* FOR SALE – $750,000 *

SUBDIVISION with FINAL APPROVAL in Alexandria Township / Hunterdon County. SIX Building Lots from 1.75 to 3.75 Acres with Pastoral Views. On-Site Improvements Include: Road Cut with Stone Base, Detention Basin Installed; Septic Systems Installed on Lot 5.01 & 5.02; All Engineering and Permits Completed.

Convenient to Interstate 78 and the Town of Clinton. Owner will Consider Joint Ventures. Exempt from all COAH contributions! NOTE: Cul-De-Sac Lot 5.03 w/ Septic & Foundation is also Available as a Separate Purchase.

Link to Virtual Tour for 1 Hahola Farm Court

Link to MLS Listing Data for 1 Hahola Farm Court

Marketed By: The Hunterdon Realty Group | 908.782.0095 | Patricia Mortara – Broker Owner

Related posts:

1. 39 Mason Farm Road | Ringoes, NJ 08551 39 Mason Farm Road, Ringoes NJ 08551 | Raritan Township,...
2. 31 Messenger Lane | Ringoes, NJ 08551 31 Messenger Lane, Ringoes NJ 08551 | Raritan Township, Hunterdon...
3. 10 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 10 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Township, Hunterdon...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

30 Seabrook Road, Stockton NJ 08559 | Delaware Township, Hunterdon County

* FOR SALE – $569,900 * 

Nature Abounds & Surrounds this Completed Renovated Custom-Home Nestled in the Woods off a Quiet Country Road in Delaware Township Gorgeous Updated Kitchen w/ Cherry Cabinets, Stainless-Steel Appliances, Pergo Flooring and a 7×8 Walk-in Pantry; First Floor Study / Guest Room with Adjacent Full Bath.

Huge Family Room with Vaulted Ceiling and Floor-to-Ceiling Stone Fireplace; Amazing 400+sqft Covered Porch w/ Accent Stone Wall and Cedar-Slat Ceiling; Just 5 minutes away from Lambertville & New Hope Offering a Vast Selection of Shopping & Dining Options; Access to Route 29 and Route 202 for Easy Commuting.

Property Details 

Marketed By: The Hunterdon Realty Group | 908.782.0095 | Patricia Mortara – Broker Owner

Related posts:

1. 39 Mason Farm Road | Ringoes, NJ 08551 39 Mason Farm Road, Ringoes NJ 08551 | Raritan Township,...
2. 10 Stillwater Lane | Flemington, NJ 08822 10 Stillwater Lane, Flemington NJ 08822 | Raritan Township, Hunterdon...
3. 32 New York Avenue | Flemington NJ 08822 32 New York Avenue, Flemington NJ 08822 | Flemington Boro,...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.