FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - Housing Interest Rates Are More Affordable Than Ever!

Housing Interest Rates Are More Affordable Than Ever!

Calling all FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS !  Interest rates over the last few weeks have plunged even lower making an enticing invite for anyone sitting on the fence thinking about buying.   It is a great TIME TO BUY A HOME.

With the rates down this low, some are even buying the rental they live in and their payments are dropping - saving them a ton of money AND they are now owners of the property investing and not throwing money away!

You will be amazed at what you might qualify for and with the low housing prices you could finally afford your dream home.

The first step is to give me a call – I have a great loan officer who can pre-qualify you over the phone ! 

So, if you want to work with the BEST REALTOR IN MEDFORD, OREGON then call me - anytime.  You can also go to my website for a snapshot of the market and see what homes recently sold for and where the best deals are.

If you are a FIRST TIME HOME BUYER or just want to invest in Real Estate – now is the time. 

Cheryl Malone – Real Estate Broker

Windermere Investors Marketplace

541.951.1960

www.CherylMalone.com

Once you are pre-qualified for a home loan, I would love to help find your dream home - "Lets Go Shopping!"

Servicing the Rogue Valley including Medford, Central Point, Jacksonville, Talent, Phoenix, Eagle Point, Sams Valley, Rogue River & White City Oregon.

Buying A Property With An Investment Account - Financing Options

Buying A Property With An Investment Account may be what you are looking for.

A lot of people don't know this but you may be able to buy a piece of property with your investment account and not be charged taxes, fees or interest!

There are many different types of accounts as well as the companies that hold them. If you have a IRA, 401K, etc then call them (or your financial advisor) to see.

Many times you will be allowed to pull money from the account for your down payment on the property! Sometimes you may be charged interest, or certain fees, taxes, and so on - or not at all! It all depends on the
account you hold and the limitations/allowances you have.

For other financing options, give me a call - THE BEST REALTOR IN MEDFORD OREGON and see what works best for your situation.

CHERYL MALONE - Real Estate Broker
Windermere Investors Marketplace
http://www.cherylmalone.com/
541.941.1960

Remember, the first step in buying a home is to get pre-qualified on a home loan. Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even other 100% financing options). To do this, I recommend you call the BEST LENDER IN MEDFORD, OR:

DAVID DUBEAU - Loan Officer
Sterling Savings Bank
541.292.9663

Once you are pre-qualified, "Lets go shopping!"

As always, your comments are welcome!

First Time Homebuyers - The Best Way To Get Started In Searching For A Home

If you are a FIRST TIME HOMEBUYER and WANT TO BUY A HOUSE, then now is the time.  The process can be easy, much easier than in the past.  It is important that you work with someone you feel comfortable with.

First you should get pre-qualified for a loan.  There are many different loan programs available in today's market and a loan officer can help you select the best one for you. I have the best loan officer who can pre-qualify you over the phone. You will be surprised how much you can qualify for with today's record low interest rates.

Once you know what you can afford, it is time to figure out what is most important to you in a home.  This will be the basis of your search.  I can search different criteria, so this will help find you the best house for your money.

Looking on the internet yourself, can help educate you to what is available... but many of the homes you will find might be short sales and have pending offers in on them.

I can narrow your search to only available properties for you to see, this helps in some of the frustration that most buyers experience when searching for themselves.  I am also alerted to any new listings the day they come on the market. 

So, If you WANT TO BUY A HOUSE and WANT TO WORK WITH THE BEST REAL ESTATE AGENTin the Rogue Valley, give me a call.  I can get you pre-qualified and we can start looking the same day !  So, Let's go shopping !

Servicing Medford, Jacksonville, Central Point, Eagle Point, Talent, Phoenix, White City, Sams Valley, Rogue River and Wimer.

Cheryl Malone
Real Estate Broker
Windermere Investors Marketplace
541-951-1960

http://www.cherylmalone.com/

Looking for a LIST OF FORECLOSURES in MEDFORD, OREGON ?

Looking for a LIST OF FORECLOSURES in MEDFORD, OREGON ?

Most people's idea of a FORECLOSURE is a beat up old house that needs loads of work.  This is not always the case, especially in today's market.  I can give you a LIST of FORECLOSURES that the previous owners spent time and money upgrading and are a great deal at today's prices.

If you would like a LIST of FORECLOSURES in the ROGUE VALLEY including MEDFORD, CENTRAL POINT, JACKSONVILLE, EAGLE POINT, WHITE CITY, SAMS VALLEY, ROGUE RIVER or WIMER you have come to the right place.

I can search any of these locations and email you a LIST of FORECLOSURES in your price range.  You will be surprised at what your money can buy today.

This LIST of FORECLOSURES will include pictures and all the details you will want to know... call me at 541-951-1960 and your list is on it's way !

Cheryl Malone
Real Estate Broker
Windermere Investors Marketplace
541-951-1960

http://www.cherylmalone.com/

Investment Properties - Jackson County, Medford, Ashland, Jacksonville, and Southern Oregon: Investors Are Moving In

Investment Properties - Jackson County, Medford, Ashland, Jacksonville, and Southern Oregon:
Investors Are Moving In!

Distressed properties are everywhere on the market, and housing affordability has jumped to levels not seen in 20 years.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) / Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI) for the fourth quarter 2010, reveals that 73.9 percent of all new and existing homes sold were affordable to families earning the national median income of $64,400.

How To Find Deals:

(Call me for a list of Foreclosures/Bank Owned Properties & Short Sales)  I will send them to you by email and you will be able to view all the details along with pictures of the property.

The Realtor you are working with should be able to show you all of the distressed properties on the market. If you are not working with a Realtor yet, or having problems with your current one you are working with, call me - I would love to help!

Here is a great place to start looking:
1) Foreclosures, or REO's (bank owned)
2) Short Sales
3) Other properties that are discounted like fixers (or fixer-uppers) for example.

These homes all usually have deeply discounted prices and are great to invest in!

If you have any questions, contact:

CHERYL MALONE - Realtor
Windermere Investors Marketplace
541.951.1960
http://www.cherylmalone.com/

Remember, the first step in buying a home is to get pre-qualified on a home loan. Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even other 100% financing options) so just call:

DAVID DUBEAU
Loan Officer
541.292.9663
www.DavidDuBeau.net

Once you are pre-qualified, "Let's go shopping"!

Should I Buy A House Right Now? Are There 100% Financing Options To Buy A House?

Should I Buy A House Right Now?  

The short answer?  YES!

The best time to buy is when things are on discount and now more than ever before things are CHEAP.   

What that means is that buyers CAN afford to buy houses right now.

Lenders are lending money.

Now is the best time to buy a house… low interest rates and low housing prices… now is the time !

David DuBeau is still closing loans and still has many 100% financing options, "First Time Home Buyer" programs, and other products all the way to your normal conventional loans.  I always recommend you should check with us if you are wanting to buy a house right now.

CHERYL MALONE – Real Estate Broker

Windermere Investors Marketplace

541.951.1960

www.CherylMalone.com

DAVID DUBEAU – Loan Officer

541.292.9663

541.608.2161

www.DavidDuBeau.net

Remember, the first step to take if you want to buy a house is to get pre-qualified on a home loan. Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even other 100% financing options)

Once you are pre-qualified, "Lets go shopping!"

OTHER RELATED BLOGS:

Are you on the fence about buying a home?

http://sellingoregonhomes.blogspot.com/2011/03/are-you-on-fence-about-buying-house.html

What are closing costs?

http://sellingoregonhomes.blogspot.com/2011/06/what-are-closing-costs-when-buying-home.html

What is the difference between a Forecosure, REO, and Short Sale?

http://daviddubeau.blogspot.com/2011/02/difference-between-foreclosure-and.html

What kind of credit do I need to buy a home?

http://sellingoregonhomes.blogspot.com/2011/06/what-kind-of-credit-or-what-credit.html

What Are Closing Costs (When Buying A Home)? What Costs Are Included?

Getting pre-qualified and being approved for a mortgage are only part of the financial responsibility of buying a home.  As a buyer you should know and expect what to pay at closing - called closing costs.

Here is a list of common closing costs that you are almost guaranteed to see every time:

1. Down Payment: This ranges from 0 down 100% financing, to anywhere from 3.5% down upwards of 20+%. This is up to you and the loan program you choose and/or are approved for.

2. Credit Report: The first step in qualifying for a mortgage is checking your credit. You generally must pay to view your credit score, and this usually costs around $7 - $20 (per person).  The lender that I work with, David DuBeau does not charge this upfront fee.

3. Home inspection: Costing around $300 - $500, a home inspection is always recommended but not always required. Even new homes (as we teach in our home buying classes) can have faults from horrible work. Your contract can leave you an out if something is wrong as well. 

4. Loan Origination and Points: You can pay points in order to get a lower interest rate, but you do not have to and your loan officer should not charge them unless it is talked over with you first. Please see my other blog about this. An origination fee is the cost of doing business with the lender doing your loan. David DuBeau is very good at making sure you do not get overcharged.

5. Appraisal: An appraisal costs around $400 - $500 depending on the type of loan and property. This is usually the only fee collected from the lender up front and usually a credit card or check is collected to hold. If the closing costs are being paid for by the seller, then the card/check will not be charged/cashed upfront, or at all when the seller pays.

6. Title Insurance and other 3rd party fees: There are other charges that vary based on the purchase price and loan amount like title insurance, government, and notary fees etc. Your lender will always provide a good faith estimate of your expected settlement costs. There are other costs associated with closings to be sure but the good faith estimate will cover them for you.

7. Property taxes:  Some lenders require that the property taxes be collected on a monthly basis (impounded).  The lender will then make the property tax payment to insur that it is kept current.  Therefore, several months (usually 6 months) worth of impounds are collected at the time of escrow closing.

In this "buyers market" it is very easy to get the seller to pay for your closing costs, so keep that in mind!  This is why you should have the BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT AND LOAN OFFICER working for you.

Getting prequalified for a home loan is quick, free, and easy.  I always recommend to call THE BEST LOAN OFFICER IN MEDFORD, OREGON:  David DuBeau 541-292-9663 at Sterling Savings Bank.  He has many different loan programs available including 100% financing.   

Then, call THE BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT IN MEDFORD, OREGON:

CHERYL MALONE  - Real Estate Broker

Windermere Investors Marketplace

541-951-1960

www.CherylMalone.com

Get USDA 100% Financing Loans w/ the Best Real Estate Agent and Loan Officer in Rogue Valley Oregon

A USDA Guaranteed Home Loan is a government insured 100% purchase loan. There is no required mortgage insurance with this loan which makes it even more affordable!

This means that you can literally buy a home with 0 down, 100% financing, and even have the seller pay your closing costs if you have the BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT AND BEST LOAN OFFICER working for you!

These USDA loans are offered in specific areas, but you would be amazed at how many areas actually qualify for this loan.

The only areas that have SLIGHT restrictions on where your house can be located is in main congested areas. Most of the areas in Jackson County, Southern Oregon or the Rogue Valley pretty much qualify (there are some spots that may not - Call us for a map).

THE BEST thing you can do is contact us and we can give you a link to check if the address of the home you want qualifies for the 100% financing or not.   If not, there may be other programs that you qualify for.

We can also prequalify you for the loan - and just a heads up, David can still close loans in only 2-3 weeks!

If you are looking to buy in any of these areas:  Medford, Central Point, Jacksonville, Eagle Point, Talent, Phoenix, Ashland, Jackson County, Rogue River,  Wimer  and Sams Valley or anywhere on the West Coast for that matter then I would love to help.

If you need a home to buy, or a home loan, I suggest you call THE BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT AND LOAN OFFICER IN MEDFORD, OR   and... "LETS GO SHOPPING!"

CHERYL MALONE
Real Estate Broker/Realtor
Windermere Investors Marketplace
Cell:  541.951.1960
www.CherylMalone.com

DAVID DUBEAU
Loan Officer
Cell:    541.292.9663
Direct: 541.608.2161
http://www.daviddubeau.net/

Remember, the first step in buying a home or refinancing is to get pre-qualified on a home loan! Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even other 100% financing options) As always, your comments are welcome

USDA 100% Home Loan Financing by using Best Real Estate Agent & Loan Officer in Rogue Valley

A USDA Guaranteed Home Loan is a government insured 100% purchase loan. There is no required mortgage insurance with this loan which makes it even more affordable!

This means that you can literally buy a home with 0 down, 100% financing, and even have the seller pay your closing costs if you have the BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT AND BEST LOAN OFFICER working for you!

These USDA loans are offered in specific areas, but you would be amazed at how many areas actually qualify for this loan.

The only areas that have SLIGHT restrictions on where your house can be located is in main congested areas. Most of the areas in Jackson County, Southern Oregon or the Rogue Valley pretty much qualify (there are some spots that may not - Call us for a map).

THE BEST thing you can do is contact us and we can give you a link to check if the address of the home you want qualifies for the 100% financing or not.   If not, there may be other programs that you qualify for.

We can also prequalify you for the loan - and just a heads up, David can still close loans in only 2-3 weeks!

If you are looking to buy in any of these areas:  Medford, Central Point, Jacksonville, Eagle Point, Talent, Phoenix, Ashland, Jackson County, Rogue River,  Wimer  and Sams Valley or anywhere on the West Coast for that matter then I would love to help.

If you need a home to buy, or a home loan, I suggest you call THE BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT AND LOAN OFFICER IN ROGUE VALLEY, OR   and... "LETS GO SHOPPING!"

CHERYL MALONE

Real Estate Broker/Realtor

Windermere Investors Marketplace

Cell:  541.951.1960

www.CherylMalone.com

DAVID DUBEAU

Loan Officer

Cell:    541.292.9663

Direct: 541.608.2161

www.DavidDuBeau.net

Remember, the first step in buying a home or refinancing is to get pre-qualified on a home loan! Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even other 100% financing options) As always, your comments are welcome

Are You Looking For A VA Home Loan? VA Home Loan Rates

If you looking for a VA HOME LOAN and VA HOME LOAN RATES you have come to the right place.

A VA Home Loan is one of the best home loans you can get when you buy a home and the rates are incredible!

The rates in the housing market can change sometimes 2-3 times a day, and it is common to do so. The VA HOME LOAN RATES are usually lower than the rest of the lenders home loan rates out there.

If you are looking to find where the rates are at and you want a professional to talk to who SPECIALIZES in these types of loans, then contact THE BEST LOAN OFFICER IN MEDFORD, OR:

DAVID DUBEAU
541.292.9663
541.608.2161
http://www.daviddubeau.net/

David DuBeau, having also served in the ARMY for 6 years, has now done home loans for over 7 years and VA Loans are his specialty among his many products.
He knows how to help and take care of your needs.
He can still close in 2-3 weeks on average as well!

Once you are prequalified for a home loan then call THE BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT IN MEDFORD, OR:

CHERYL MALONE
541.951.1960
http://www.cherylmalone.com/

And "Lets Go Shopping!"
You will be one step closer to your dream home when you have the BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT and THE BEST LOAN OFFICER working for you!  Service you won't be disappointed in !
We service the Rogue Valley including Medford, Jacksonville, Central Point, Talent, Phoenix, Eagle Point, White City, Sams Valley, Gold Hill, Rogue River and Wimer Oregon.

How To Create Equity In Your Home, Investment Or Fixer-Upper !

When you are trying to create equity in a home by making improvements, here are some tips and things that can help.

***NOTE- "What is equity?"  It is the difference between what you owe on a property, and what it is worth.

Example: If you have a property worth $200,000 but only owe $150,000 then you have $50,000 in equity in the home. If you owe 0.00, then you have $200,000 in equity, make sense?

Keep in mind that almost all the improvements you do in your home can increase the value. But, if you are like most people, you want to spend the least amount of money while creating the most amount of value.

These things are traditionally known to create the most value in a home:

1) Increasing the size of living space- Since a home is valued at a dollar amount per square foot, increasing the square footage by adding another bedroom, bathroom, etc naturally increases the value.
2) Remodeling or Updating the Bathrooms and Kitchen- This is a great way to increase value and to help the home sell quicker as well, if that's the goal.
3) New Windows- Updating to energy saving windows not only increases monthly savings but increases the "curb appeal" of your home.
4) New Siding- Again, see the notes on windows as this is the same.

Remember, the first step in buying a home or refinancing is to get pre-qualified on a home loan! Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even other 100% financing options)

I recommend you talk to:

David DuBeau
Mortgage Loan Officer
541.292.9663
541.608.2161
www.DavidDuBeau.net

If you want to list your home or buy a home, then give me a call.  Now is a great time to move up and use your equity to buy a larger home.  Find out what your home is worth, no obligation.
Cheryl Malone
Windermere Investors Marketplace
www.CherylMalone.com
541-951-1960

Buy a Foreclosure - One Could Be Your Dream Home - Great Deals On Foreclosures - Medford, Oregon

With the amount of  FORECLOSURES  on the market there are some great deals out there right now.  If you are able to  BUY A FORECLOSURE , now is the time.  If you are looking for your dream home, you may now be able to afford it.

You don't need to buy a short sale to get a great buy in today's market.  There are plenty of regular home sales, along with FORECLOSURES (bank owned properties) to choose from.  In some cases values are
30%-50% less than they were in the peak of the real estate market.

Given the rock bottom prices and the record low interest rates, your dream home may just be a phone call away.  The low interest rates allow many buyers to afford much more home than they would if they wait.  Once interest rates rise, then you will qualify for less.

Real estate is still a solid investment, you must think long term.  Give me a call and we can get the process started.  It's easy and once you are prequalified... Let's go shopping!

If you want to BUY A FORECLOSURE you need to get prequalified... I work with a great loan officer who has many different programs available, including 100% financing.  Let's see which one is best for you!

Servicing the Rogue Valley including Medford, Jacksonville, Central Point, Eagle Point, Sams Valley, White City, Talent, Phoenix, Rogue River and Wimer Oregon.

Cheryl Malone
Real Estate Broker
Windermere Investors Marketplace
541-951-1960

www.CherylMalone.com

VA Home Loan Benefit - The IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan)

VA Home Loan Benefit - The IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan)

Many veterans do not understand one of the best benefits of their VA home loan. It is designed to allow you to lower your interest rate and monthly payments. It is called an IRRRL: Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan.

An IRRRL is a streamline refinance process which allows you to refinance without an appraisal to take advantage of a lower interest rate! There is minimal documentation needed and a long as your payments have been made on time you should be able to qualify.

These loans can be closed quickly and provide relief when it is needed in a down market.

If you want to lower your payments or interest rate on your VA loan, or to apply for a VA loan, call the Best Loan Officer in the Rogue Valley to discuss your options:

David DuBeau
541.292.9663
541.608.2161
www.DavidDuBeau.net

Once you are prequalified for a VA home loan:

Call The Best Realtor In The Rogue Valley,
Cheryl Malone at Windermere Investors Marketplace and "Lets Go Shopping"! 
541.951.1960  www.CherylMalone.com

OTHER RELATED BLOGS:
How Do I Use My VA Home Loan?
http://daviddubeau.blogspot.com/2011/02/va-home-loan-how-do-i-use-my-veteran-va.html
What is a "Preapproval Letter"?
http://daviddubeau.blogspot.com/2011/02/what-is-preapproval-letter-when-buying.html
Should I Buy A Home Right Now?
http://daviddubeau.blogspot.com/2011/02/should-i-buy-home-right-now-john.html
Is it cheaper to rent, or buy?
http://daviddubeau.blogspot.com/2011/02/it-is-cheaper-to-buy-than-rent-home.html

What is the difference between a Foreclosure, REO, and Short Sale?
http://daviddubeau.blogspot.com/2011/02/difference-between-foreclosure-and.html

Best Real Estate Agent in Medford Oregon - Cheryl Malone - Windermere Investors Marketplace

If you are thinking about buying or selling real estate in the Rogue Valley then you need to have the best Real Estate Agent working for you.

 

I believe in providing the BEST service possible to all of my clients.  Communication is key to any successful transaction.  All phone calls are returned promptly and you are never left in the dark.

While your property is listed with me, we work together to obtain the best possible sales price in today's market. I have a unique marketing plan for each and every property.

When you are ready to buy, it is not just a house you are looking for - it's a home.  By listening to your needs I can make that happen.

I have been in the real estate business since 1987... I am licensed in Oregon and California.  I have bought, managed, listed and sold many homes and apartments throughout my career.  I would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

I service the Rogue Valley including Medford, Jacksonville, Central Point, Talent, Phoenix, Eagle Point, White City, Rogue River & Wimer Oregon.

Cheryl Malone - Service you won't be disappointed in!
541-951-1960

How To Get Pre-Qualified or Pre-Approved For a Mortgage (Or Home Loan)

Working closely with a lender is an important part of my business.  I like to stay informed and help my clients understand everything about buying a home.  Many people have heard a lot of real estate terms, but don’t always know what they mean.  I asked a loan officer to help explain the initial qualification process for me.  This is what he had to say about Pre-Qualifing/Pre-Approvals:

This is a touchy topic these days with all the different regulations and laws that have come out. Everyone has to step lightly as to not get in trouble for saying the wrong things that could be taken as misleading or misguiding.


Take for example the words pre-qualification, and pre-approval. As a loan officer, you are not allowed to market a "Pre-Approval" anymore because "Approval" indicates you just approved a person for a specific loan. Although loan officers can issue pre-approvals, it is not allowed on marketing materials because it simply cannot be done correctly until a borrower has picked out a property, and a full loan application has been made.


"Pre-Qualification" simply means to sit down and cover the very basics of getting a loan. This simply means that you are "Qualified" to apply for a mortgage and have high chances of obtaining a mortgage and so this is the lingo they want loan officers to use. This is what realtors and sellers want to see happen before you write an offer on a house. Once you have a letter from a lender they then begin to take you seriously.


This is good for you too. You need to know you qualify for a loan (mortgage) before you buy anyway. And after the process is complete the loan officer can tell you how much money you qualify for, what payment ranges will be, and also a lot more needed information that you might not realize you need to know.


The process usually should take only 10-15 minutes. You can fill out information online, over the phone, or in person. Most people love a in person meeting at their place of business because of fraud these days. 


What information a loan officer will need during the pre-qualification is your rough estimated income (gross- not after taxes!) to see what debt to income ratios you are at. He then talks to you about your overall credit situation, and then other details associated with each individual that may effect things like if you have any money to put down, etc. Every transaction is different and it is best at this point to be very open and give all the information you can.


After you sit and talk, your loan officer should be able to tell you what loan programs you qualify for or if there are any challenges you need to overcome before looking for a home. But, if you do qualify, your loan officer should issue a letter for you to give to your realtor to put an offer in on a home you love!

If you want to do this, contact David:

David DuBeau – Loan Officer

Sterling Savings Bank

541-292-9663

541-608-2161

www.DavidDuBeau.net

Once you're pre-approved, "Let's Go Shopping!"   Shopping for a home has never been easier.  I can send you information via email so you can preview many homes from your computer.  Then, you can select which ones that best fit your criteria and then we see those in person.   We can have you in a home sometimes in less than 30 days.

For a list of properties, give me a call:

Cheryl Malone – Real Estate Broker

Windermere Investors Marketplace

541-951-1960

www.CherylMalone.com

Remember, the first step in buying a home is to get pre-qualified on a home loan! 

Sellers do not like to deal with buyers who might not qualify. There are plenty of different options out there (even up to 100% financing). 

So get the best Realtor / Real Estate Agent and Loan Officer in Medford and the Rogue Valley working for you today.

When is it a good time to make a good first impression?

Always.  In this market many homeowners are anxious to sell their homes.  Like most people, they too want to get top dollar for their home. 

Buying a home is an emotional time for many buyers, especially 1st time homebuyers.  When they walk into a house, they want it to feel like a "home" - their home.  Therefore, it is very important for sellers to prepare their home to grab the attention/emotion of the buyers.  If done right, it can have a very positive result.

It starts with decluttering, rearranging and cleaning.  Every detail should be addressed.  You will be surprised at the difference this will make.  If you have a budget that can afford it, you should bring in a stager or decorator.  You may be able to get someone for a few hours to give you advise on colors or furniture arrangements.  This will be money well spent.  You will sell your house faster and probably get closer to asking price if it shows well.

Remember, you need to have a good first impression and then build from there.

Call me if you are interested in this type of marketing approach.  I have people I work with that can help us get you on the road to selling your home.

Servicing Medford, Jacksonville, Central Point, White City, Phoenix, Talent, Eagle Point and Sams Valley Oregon.

Cheryl Malone
541-951-1960

Investment Property - It's A Great Deal - Invest In Your Future

If you are thinking about investing in rental property... now is the time.  In addition to purchasing a home for your primary residence, one should consider purchasing a rental property too.  It is not as scary as it might seem. 

Once you have decided that this might be an option, you should contact a local realtor in your area to find out what kind of property would best suit your needs.  Some people prefer an apartment building (2+ units) and some prefer a single family residence.  After deciding on which type of property you feel most comfortable with (they each have an advantage), ask your realtor to refer you to a property management company that is reliable.  Set up an appointment and interview several to get a feel for what services they offer.

Single family homes are nice because you have only one tenant to deal with.  These tenants seem to have a sense of "pride of ownership" and may take better care of your property (although that is not always the case!).  Multifamily units (2 or more units) can have more of a turnover, but when you do have a tenant move, the loss of rent is a fraction of what it would be on a single family home.  Ask your property managerand Realtor what they have experienced in your area.

According to AXIOMetrics, an apartment market research firm in Dallas, said last year was one of the best periods for landlords over the past 15 years and may mark a turning point in the short term.  With supply in demand, rental properties are a good investment.

You can manage the property yourself, if you feel comfortable doing so... keep in mind that you must know the local rental laws and codes in your area.  If you prefer, you can hire a property management company and they will handle everything for you for a monthly fee.

I have had many, many years managing rental property for myself and others.  It can be a very rewarding experience, if handled right.  Other advantages include tax deductions and appreciation on the value of the property.

If you have any questions or think you would like to take the plunge... give me a call.

Cheryl Malone

541-951-1960

Check out my other blogs:
www.sellingoregonhomes.blogspot.com

Habitat For Humanity - How You Can Help

You might have heard of Habitat for Humanity before so I have included a link to their site. They raise money to build homes. As a realtor, I feel that homeownership is very important.

This is what it says on their website...

"Habitat for Humanity International is founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat and its homeowner families have built or rehabilitated more than 400,000 houses. A nonprofit, nondenominational Christian housing ministry, Habitat invites people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build together in partnership." I have been volunteering for them and it is a really great organization.

There are several different ways you can help.

* You can help build the homes... even if you have no construction experience, there are things for you to help with - so don't let that stop you.

* You can volunteer in their "ReStore"... which is where they sell new and used donated building supplies to raise money for their projects.

* You can donate money... which is always needed.

It is a great way to help people in your community... give it a try.

Here is the link to their website.

www.habitat.org/cd/giving/lander/lander.aspx?st=My8xMi8yMDExIDI6MTk6MTUgUE0%3d&media=GooglePd&source_code=DHQOQ1008W1GGL&keyword=brand&tgs=My8xMi8yMDExIDI6MTk6MTUgUE0%3d

Want to buy a home with no money down?

If you want to buy a house with no money down, you have come to the right place.  Luckily, there are programs out there that allow 100% financing.

Many people today have lost their retirement investments or equity in their homes, but still make enough money to afford a house payment.  There are many benefits to owing a home like tax deductions, pride of ownership and appreciation in value.  With todays interest rates and low home prices, it is a great time to take advantage of these 100% financing programs.

If you are a veteran you may qualify for a 100% financed VA loan.  There is also a 100% financing USDA program for rurual properties.  Both of these programs allow for the seller to pay a portion of your closing costs.  How much better can that get?

So, give me a call and we can see if you can fit into one of these programs.  A new home is just a phone call away !

Cheryl Malone

541-951-1960

What To Look For In A Property Manager.

Are you thinking of hiring a property management company to handle your rental property?  How do you pick a good property manager?

I have had rental property most of my life.  I had worked as a property manager for many years.  Here are 10 things that one should consider when hiring a property manager.

1-Do they return your calls in a timely manner?
2-Do they give you copies of workorders and receipts for repairs?
3-Do they get more than one estimate on repairs?
4-Do they use a handyman whenever necessary instead of a contractor?
5-Do they do routine inspections or drivebys?
6-Do they check for hazards, leaves on the roof, unkept yards, or potential problems?
7-Will they take a picture of the property and send it to you?
8-How/where do they advertise your vacancy?
9-Are they raising the rents to keep up with the market?
10-Are they notifiing you if the rent is not collected on time?

These are all important aspects of property management.  These items should be part of their monthly serive fee.  Don't let them collect their fee and then charge you for inspections & time getting work done - those should be part of their job.

A good property manager can make or break your investment.  Don't be afraid to ask questions or check on what services they are providing.

http://www.cherylmalone.com/