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CONTENTS
Let ter from the Editor
Departments 4
Market Report Create an Oasis that Sells!
November 2016 • Vol. 09 • No. 11 P.O. Box 24881 Barrigada, GU 96921 Tel: (671) 472-3495 | Fax: (671) 472-3498 email: office@yellowpagesink.com
Letter from the Editor Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
[ Publisher ] 8
Feature Beware of Wire Transfer Fraud
[ Business Sales Manager ] Jay-R S. Dominguez
[ Editor ] 12
Real Estate Spotlight
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
Lincoln Lost His
[ Display Advertising ]
Home...TWICE!
John Mendiola Doris Pangelinan
14
Profile Nestor Nimis
Emily Untalan
[ Traffic/Circulation ] Shaun Cruz
16
From the Experts Transform Your Home
[ Production Manager ] Mark S. Burke
Into a Relaxing Oasis
[ Graphics & Layout ] 18
How to D.I.Y.
Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia
5 Ways to Turn Your Home Into the Ultimate Healing Oasis
[ Website Development ] Edwin E. Valencia
[ Editorial Contributors ] 22
Curb Appeal
Jessica Ackerman
10 Curb Appeal Tips
Anthony R. Godwin
From the Pros
Emma Haak Jeremy Rojas
25
Who Ya Gonna Call?
27
Classifieds
28
Closing
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong Kim Anderson Young
Bueñas everyone! This year has gone by all too quickly! We will be celebrating Thanksgiving this month. . . and Christmas is just around the corner! This month’s issue gives tips on creating your own oasis at home. You’ll be needing that especially around this time of year! We even have tips to help you sell your home faster! Jeremy Rojas from Pacific American Title is our FEATURE writer this month. We have all seen it in the news, and maybe heard about it by coworkers or friends, but Wire Transfer Fraud is real. Find out how you can detect wire transfer fraud BEFORE it happens to you! Our PROFILE this month is someone who came about a change of career “by accident”. Read how Nestor Nimis stumbled upon a new career in a different industry. He is a solar engineer for Pacific Renewable Energy Solutions, and has been in the solar energy industry for 16 years and counting. He has much experience in his field, and he is even willing to share what he knows with you. Find out more! Check out From The Experts. There is a good article from Jessica Ackerman who gives us a breakdown on how to transform your home into an oasis you can relax in. We also have Kim Anderson for REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT. She has a great story about Abraham Lincoln and his family’s real estate woes. History buffs would especially appreciate the article. Anthony Godwin gives the MARKET REPORT and shares tips on how to sell your home quick and get a better price for it! President Deanna Palmer of Guam Association of REALTORS® shares information about how technology is becoming a useful tool in the real estate industry. Read more in MESSAGE FROM GAR. Peggy Illagas, Chief Executive Officer of GAR, touches on what few extra steps are needed to help and protect your Senior Citizen client as they go through the buyer/selling process. She even has information on Elderly Abuse! Read more to find out what to do if you suspect an elder is in immediate danger or is not being taken care of properly. Until next month, spend wisely this holiday season, drive safe, and remember to be thankful for all we have! Smiles are free, so give them away abundantly!
Cover Photo: Mark S. Burke CasaGuam is Published by:
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
CasaGuam Advertising Disclaimer All Advertisers agree to hold the publisher harmless and indemnify it against any and all claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses (including attorney’s fees) made against or incurred by the publisher, officers or employees with respect to, or arising out of, the content, text, graphics or representations of any ad published herein, including but not limited to the sole negligence and/or fault of the publisher. The publisher is not liable for any claims, losses or damages of any kind, arising from the wording, text, graphics or representations of any ad published herein, or the condition of the articles sold through the publication, or performance of services advertised in this publication. All advertising and/or performance of services advertising and/or submissions become wholly the property of CasaGuam Magazine. CasaGuam Magazine is a registered trademark of PTI Pacifica Inc. Copyright © 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. We reserve the right to edit or refuse any ad and to reprint any photo for promotional use.
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Market Repor t
Create an Oasis that Sells! ou are ready to put your home on the market. You’ve watched all the TV shows, searched the internet and are ready to put forth all that knowledge to get your property ready for sale. You might also want to check local websites, such as http://www.guamrealestate.com to take a look at the pricing and conditions of homes that will be competing with yours for buyers.
Y
You will often hear that price and time on market will determine how fast a property sells. It is true that a property that has been properly prepared for the market, and priced right, will pique the interest of multiple buyers. It may also sell faster and probably for a higher selling price! Poorly prepared properties may generate little to no interest, or may never sell or only generate a buyer at a ‘“rock bottom” price. You want your property to shine and stand out among all other competing properties. You want your property to be that oasis that sells! Get an experienced real estate agent involved in the process. During your walk around the property, ask for observations. What needs to be done to get the house sold with as little investment as possible versus what needs to be done to get a better price? Take notes. Classify what items need to be repaired versus what items need to be replace/updated. Remember, nearly all buyers start their home search online. Buyers compare properties and eliminate those that don’t attract their attention. You don’t want your property to be eliminated. You want your property to be that oasis that captures the buyer’s attention. In addition to properties that are currently listed for sale, ask your REALTOR® to show you listings of similar properties that have recently sold and how long they were on the market. This will ultimately help you determine the price point for your home. Generally, you might want to consider the following checklist as you consider preparing your house for the market. 4 CasaGuam November 2016
1) Repair any items identified in your walk through. Consider replacing items that are difficult to repair or that are dated. 2) Entry Door. The entry door continues to top the charts as the number one upgrade a seller can make when selling a property. After all, first impressions count. 3) Paint Inside and Out (including the roof ). A fresh coat of paint does wonders. Talk to your REALTOR® about color trends. Neutral tones still seem to work best. 4) Flooring. There are numerous options for flooring. If flooring replacements are needed – and depending on selling price point – consider all the new laminates. And yes, carpets for the bedrooms!
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Market Repor t
Market Snapshot January 1, 2016 through October 20, 2016 By Anthony Godwin
Condominium/Townhomes For Sale Number Sold: 140 Average Sold Price: $217,380 Average Days on Market: 138 Currently For Sale: 74
Condominium/Apartment/Townhome Rentals Number Rented: 834 Average Monthly Rental: $1,650 Average Days on Market: 56 Currently For Rent: 256 Ê
Single Family Home Sales Number Sold: Average Sold Price: Average Days on Market: Currently For Sale:
Single Family Rentals Number Rented: Average Monthly Rental: Average Days on Market: Currently For Rent:
256 $319,886 158 206
588 $2,312 59 166
Disclaimer: All information from the Guam Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for the period stated. Properties sold or rented that are not reported to the MLS are not included in this presentation.
5) Kitchen and Bath updates and upgrades are always a big plus when selling. These will depend on what you start with. Sometimes, for example, the cabinet boxes and drawers are good and all that’s needed are new doors, drawers and hardware.
10) Yep, you’ve heard it before and will hear it again. Stage that home. Staging helps the buyer to visualize the use of space. Staging creates a lifestyle and puts the finishing touches on your oasis that will sell!
6) Electrical upgrades. Consider changing out old light fixtures to the newer nickel color fixtures. Replace outlet and wall plate covers for a clean look after painting. Replace any nonfunctioning outlets and wall switches. Consider energy saving LED bulbs and fixtures. Make sure your REALTOR® mentions this in the remarks about the property. Buyers LOVE energy saving features.
During your preparation for sale, document everything that you do. This will help you and your agent put together a good story about your house when it’s ready for the market. Ask your agent about sources for materials and contractors. We have so many choices on Guam these days. Shop them all for the best prices and value!
7) Air Conditioning. Have unit(s) serviced; replace any failed units and have ducts cleaned. Yes, this service is available on Guam.
I’ve probably said this a thousand times over the years. No matter the market, the properties best prepared will attract the most buyers. More buyers will generate more offers. More offers typically generate a higher selling price.
8) Clean, clean, clean. Inside and out. 9) Get the yard in order too. Less is more. Remove dead trees and shrubs. Trim remaining trees and shrubs for a clean look. You want the buyer to stop and stay!
Comments or questions for future articles can be sent to: anthony@guamhome.com. Anthony Godwin is Principal Broker at Today’s Realty.
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Feature
Beware of Wire Transfer Fraud
By Jeremy Rojas
raudsters are out there and they want your money.” This statement was made at a conference I attended about 2 months ago in San Diego. The subject matter being discussed was the security of online communications and transfer of sensitive information or documents in real estate transactions. Let’s face it, almost everything we do nowadays, we do online if possible. Why stand in line to pay your bills when you can do it on a Saturday morning while drinking a cup of coffee in your underwear? It’s fast, efficient and convenient. But is it safe? The answer is yes, but we have to practice due diligence to keep it that way. There are so many avenues these villains use to defraud the good people of the world. For this article, I will focus on wire transfer fraud. Real estate transactions require that financial institutions, titl insurance and escrow companies use encryption software to transmit personal and financial information. If any of you have recently participated in a real estate transaction involving a bank or escrow company, this would be the encrypted email requiring you to open your message in a secured platform requiring a username and password. I know it is sometimes a pain to deal with, but this is done purely to protect you, the consumer. Here is an example of how an unsuspecting customer can become victim of wire transfer fraud. Wire transfer instructions are emailed to the buyer and sent in an unsecured fashion. The buyer, trusting that it is from their escrow company, follows the instructions and sends the funding as stated in the follow up email. The escrow company follows up the next day to check if the funds have been sent. The buyer calls the bank which confirms the funds have been wired as instructed. By now, however, the money is in the hands of a hacker. So how do they do it? Hackers will identify the email accounts of real estate agents and 8 CasaGuam November 2016
brokers involved in a transaction. They will then hack into the accounts and look for emails on pending real estate deals. The hackers will extract specific details about the real estate transactions to include the names of parties involved - the title company handling the transaction, the escrow officer handling the deal, and any other information they can gather specific to the transaction. Next, they send a fraudulent email to the buyer or lender, making it look like it was sent by the real estate agent, mortgage broker, or escrow agent. This email now directs the buyer and/or lender to wire the funds necessary to close escrow to a different bank account other than the one provided in the escrow instructions. However, this new bank account is controlled by the hacker, not the title or the escrow company. If the fraud is not detected, the money is wired to the bogus account controlled by the hacker, and is quickly withdrawn. There is a very slim chance of recovering the funds, and they would usually have to catch it before the bad guys move the money out of the bogus account. Because of the complex nature of investigating/prosecuting wire fraud and the amounts commonly involved, the odds are low that the authorities will be able to do much. These instances can be prevented with vigilance. Anytime you receive wire transfer instructions or other sensitive Non-Public
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Feature
Personal Information (NPPI), always be sure they are sent in an encrypted format. Call your escrow officer directly and verify that he/she sent the wire instructions and validate the account number on the instructions sent. Here are a few tips to protect your online communications: • Use only reputable email services. • Verify email addresses. Hackers will sometimes use addresses that are off by a letter, number or it may have a period where there shouldn’t be one. • Check the spelling and grammar. Often times the fraudster may not have proficient command of the English language. • Challenge suspect emails that require you to go to a link or website you do not recognize. • Separate your business communications from your personal communications. • Don’t accept online invitations from people you don’t know. • Verify/validate suspect email attachments as they could contain viruses or malware. It should provide some level of comfort to know the financial
industry continues to make improvements to provide greater security out of necessity. Protecting customer information is extremely important because the fraudsters are out there 24/7 just looking for the opportunity to steal your personal information and find a way to get your money. The Wall Street Journal reported that eight of the largest U.S. banks are forming a group focused on combating cyber-threats. The list includes J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., Bank of America Corp and the Goldman Sachs group. Your title and escrow companies are also doing their part as well by maintaining industry compliant firewalls, adhering to established best practices and using encryption software to provide secure communications. It is unfortunate that we have to deal with such villainous activity on the internet. It is too bad there are no real superheroes out there to swoop in and save the day. Until one comes along, we will have stand guard and use the devices at our disposal. Be safe out there.
About the Author Jeremy Rojas is the General Manager of Pacific American Title Company. He has over 15 years of experience working in financing and real estate industries. CasaGuam.com 9
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Real Estate Spotlight
Lincoln Lost His Home...TWICE! Writer’s Note: I found an old brochure from First American Title Insurance Company and thought the story interesting enough that I would share it with you in its entirety:
A
Abraham Lincoln was born in a meager one-room cabin on the Big South Fork of Nolin’s Creek near Hodgenville, Kentucky. It had a dirt floor, one window, and a sticky-clay chimney. Lincoln’s father, Tom, had paid $200 for the cabin and 300 acres of unproductive land. It wasn’t much, but it was home and the young family’s only chance for a decent life.
By Kim Anderson Young
potential flaws in title exist. A home is still the largest purchase most of us make in our lifetime. And, with escalating land values, the loss of property can still bring a family to ruin. Consequently, both buyer and seller should insist on the stability and reliability they receive from a First American Title Owner’s Policy. The unfortunate loss of the Lincoln family would have been covered by insurance had Tom Lincoln owned a title policy.
After four years of fighting mosquitoes, heat, and hardscrabble land, the Lincolns had to pack up and leave. There was a defect in the title. They didn’t have the right sort of papers and somebody else had a better claim to the land. With three-year-old Abe in his mother’s arms, the family moved eight miles away to Knob Creek. In less than four years, Tom Lincoln had to go to court to prove his ownership rights to this second farm. Another claimant to the land sued him as a “trespasser.” Tom Lincoln won the suit, but was haunted by the fear that he might someday lose another property. There was enough talk of land titles, landowners, landlords, land laws, land lawyers, and land sharks to make him unsure of his title. After all, Daniel Boone, the first pioneer of the Kentucky wilderness, had lost every inch of his once vast landholdings because he had “the wrong kind of papers.” Tom decided to move his family to Indiana where there was rich, black land — government land with clear title and the right kind of papers. Thus, Abraham Lincoln lost a second home to title problems.
It was the anxiety and outright losses of the Lincolns and other hardworking Americans, that gave rise to today’s title insurance industry. The first land title insurance company was founded in Philadelphia in 1876, to protect buyers against the hidden hazards of real estate ownership; forgeries; faulty surveys; hidden liens; conveyances by a minor or mentally incompetent person; the false representation of married person as being single; and many other title defects. Even the most complete search of records may not reveal them all. Stockunlimited.com Today, title insurance is just as important as ever. The same
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About the Author Kim Anderson Young, president of Security Title, has over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry. Contact her at kim@securitytitle.net or 647-8100.
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Profile
Nimis Advises to Work Passionately By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
T
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Nestor Nemis SOLAR ENGINEER PACIFIC RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS (PRES)
systems, Nimis welcomes those who want to learn. He enjoys reading CasaGuam magazine because it is a good resource for looking for new business. On his days off, you might find him on the tennis courts. He plays an average of 3 times a week. He also enjoys watching a little TV and cooking.
Share what you know. Most of all, do your work with passion not for money and promotion alone.
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The universe is a mysterious wonder. Some of us think that we got to where we are because of hard work and patience. It was planned. Some of us think it is all coincidental. Then there are others who think it was by chance. Nestor Nimis says he got into the solar industry “by accident.” Nimis is the Solar Engineer at Pacific Renewable Energy Solutions. If it was by accident that he came into the industry, the universe came into play and made him one lucky and successful fellow. Three years prior to working in the Solar Energy industry, Nimis did electrical construction work. Later, he became a supervisor in a manufacturing plant. One day, he decided to apply for a position at BP Solar Southeast Asia. He took an exam the same day and was soon hired as a replacement for a vacated field engineer position. He was in charge of testing and commissioning over 500 units of various battery-based PV solar systems located in different regions in the Philippines. He later started training others in solar and engineering workshops that the company offered to their employees. Not too long afterwards, he became the head of the Engineering Department. He's been in the Solar Energy field for 16 years now. Nimis really enjoys what he does. “My passion is to deliver service and produce results. Watching your design work successfully and having clients appreciate what you do, is not only enjoyable, but fulfilling.” He explained that you have to love what you do. If you fail a few times, you need to pick yourself up. You can’t give up! He shared that when challenges come your way, be happy! Challenges are just another way to learn, which will help you advance in your field.” Aside from solar energy solutions, Nimis has been expanding the business to include wind power. Part of his work involves designing different kinds of solutions, whether it be solar, wind, or hybrid systems. Thinking about building your own system? Nimis invites anyone interested, to come and see him. The consultation is free. He said, “Share what you know. Most of all, do your work with passion - not for money and promotion alone.” If you are interested in knowing more about solar energy
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From the Experts
Transform Your Home Into a Relaxing Oasis
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After a busy day at work or at school, most people truly look forward to coming back home at the end of the day. As such, you should try to make your home a relaxing and welcoming place where family members can rest, rejuvenate and have fun together. No matter what your decorating preferences might be, it can be advantageous to transform at least one room of your home into a relaxing oasis. If the prospect of coming home to your own private getaway sounds appealing, here are some decorating ideas you can use to make it happen.
1. Make Things Personal It's important to understand that what's relaxing to one person might not be relaxing to somebody else. As such, it might not be possible to make a single room of your home into an area that will satisfy every family member's needs. It can be helpful to have a family meeting so that you can discuss everyone's personal preferences. Then try to figure out a way to meet as many of these personal needs as possible. If you simply cannot find a way to add everything to a single room, why not create several oasis areas throughout your home? In fact, you might even be able to use your outdoor environment as one of the locations. When the weather is nice, a secluded area of the yard or a quiet corner of the patio could be the perfect spot to rest and relax.
family activities. In the living room, a comfortable sofa or loveseat combined with several chairs can provide a setting where everyone can rest, relax and enjoy time together. In the backyard, a comfortable chaise lounge or a hammock might be the perfect choice.
4. Family Togetherness Vs. Personal Space When designing your home oasis, it's important to understand that while some activities are fun to do as a family, other times it's simply more relaxing to spend time by yourself. Adding features that make it easier for family members to enjoy a bit of "me" time can be a great way to enhance the enjoyment of your home. Cozy reading corners, headphones for listening to music or relaxing spa features in the bathroom are all great ways to ensure that everyone in your family will find it easy to enjoy a bit of alone time whenever they feel the need for some.
2. Versatile Lighting Options Having the right level of light can be very important to the enjoyment of your leisure activities. In the media room, the ability to dim the lights by using a remote control can really add to your overall enjoyment of the room. If reading is your favorite relaxing activity, place a good reading lamp beside your favorite comfortable chair. Candlelight can also be very conducive to relaxation, such as in a bathroom spa, the bedroom or the living room. If you don't want to clutter your tables and countertops with candles, candle sconces can be the perfect solution.
3. Relaxing Furniture Choices When selecting furniture pieces, try to make them a good match for your favorite relaxing activities. For example, if your family decides that listening to music is one of their favorite ways to relax, you might want to create a media room. Add plenty of comfortable chairs, as well as a table area that can be used for snacks or other 16 CasaGuam November 2016
By Jessica Ackerman
Citing Source: www.sheknows.com
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H o w To D . I . Y.
5 Ways to Turn Your Home Into the Ultimate Healing Oasis
By Emma Haak
W
We think of Lourdes or Sedona, but the most healing place on earth can be your own address, once you learn to apply the science daily. Follow these 5 tips to find your own little piece of peace...at home.
3. Breathe into it. While sitting or standing in your spot, says Peper, tighten your whole body for an instant, then relax. Take a few deep breaths into your lower abdomen and exhale softly and slowly; repeat a few times. Now think of a memory—one of a time when you felt happy, safe, and loved. Allow yourself to go back to that place and stay there for a few more deep breaths. 4. Don't be a dabbler. To make your sanctuary effective, try to seek it out at the same time every day, so it becomes a form of practice. "The underlying idea of having a healing space in your home is to make it a ritual," explains Peper.
1. Corner your fears. You can't build up emotional strength until you feel safe. Pick a positive place, not the epicenter of household arguments, and make sure your back faces a wall—this gives you the feeling of being protected, says Erik Peper, professor at the Institute for Holistic Health Studies at San Francisco State University. 2. Keep your eyes up. Line up your view, trying to make it one of nature or of objects or photos that conjure up memories you love. Set them above eye level—research shows that it's easier to be positive when looking upward.
5. Take it down the street. A church, temple, or museum in town can also serve, particularly if light shines into the space from above. Even your favorite seat at the local coffee shop can suffice. "Just ask yourself, Do I feel more centered and grounded when I leave?" says Peper.
Citing Source: http://www.prevention.com/mind-body/emotional-health/5-elements-healing-home
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Curb Appeal
10 Curb Appeal Tips From the Pros
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A good-looking face isn't just memorable – in real estate, an attractive exterior can make or break a home sale. We asked home professionals for their best tips on creating a sparkling outside that beckons potential buyers inside.
Why Curb Appeal Matters First impressions are everything – at least when it comes to selling your home. According to the National Association of Realtors, 63 percent of homebuyers will drop by after viewing a home they like online. What will they see? The home's exterior – including the front entry, yard, driveway and sidewalk -- should serve as a snapshot of what's to come when potential buyers enter your home, says Caroline Wilkes, owner of Caroline Wilkes Interiors on Long Island. Read on to learn 10 ways you can wow homebuyers from the curb.
1: Curb Appeal Starts Online Since 88 percent of homebuyers begin the process on the Web, fabulous photos are critical to getting homebuyers to the front door, says Jennifer Ames, a top Chicago real estate agent. "Find the best time of day to shoot each room, avoiding too much sunlight, which will give the photo a glow effect," Jennifer advises. "Overcast days are often the best time for a photo shoot." Take a digital shot and examine it as if you were a buyer, and get rid of extras – bikes on the front porch, platters stacked on top of the fridge – that don't show your home at its best.
2: Act Like a Buyer Walk around your entire home's exterior with a critical eye and a notepad and pen, says Paul Brennesholtz, a Keller Williams agent in the Atlanta area. Take notes on what looks "off " and needs repairing, replacing or cleaning. Get in your car and drive by slowly from both directions during the day and night. You might see something you've never noticed before, like a Frisbee on the roof or a missing piece of siding.
necessary, a roof replacement will up your home's curb appeal factor tremendously.
4: Shiny, Happy Numbers If your house numbers aren't easy to see or if they're dirty and dingy, replacing them carries a tremendous impact, Caroline says. Consider the style of your house – traditional, transitional or modern – and create a harmonious or contrasting effect with new house numbers.
3: Look Up to the Sky
5: Get a Second Opinion
Most homeowners don't give their roofs a second glance, but the roof is an important curb appeal item that buyers do notice, says Jean Miskimon of the Metal Roofing Alliance. Is yours missing any shingles, or is it dingy and streaked? A good cleaning or, if
Homeowners often get used to certain defects –chipped paint on the front door from the keys banging against it, cobwebs on the porch ceiling, cracked or stained steps – and might need a new set of eyes to help them prioritize what needs to be fixed and
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Curb Appeal cleaned up, says Kelly O'Ryan, office manager for Coldwell Banker in Lexington, Mass. "Know your budget and how much time you can spend, and get an outsider to help you decide what needs work," she says.
prettier on the street," he says. Go outside and look at your window treatments from the street, and try to keep a uniform look throughout.
9: Light Up Your Landscape 6: Under Pressure Budget-conscious homeowners will love this tip: Pressurewashing the dirty siding and deck, as well as the oil-stained driveway and faded walkways is an extremely cost-efficient way to increase your home's curb appeal. If you don't own a pressure washer, you can rent one from your local home improvement store for the day.
Give your walkway an edge with solar light fixtures, which are affordable and a cinch to install, says Rick Hoffman, president and COO of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage of San Diego County and Temecula Valley. "Solar lights are inexpensive, and you can place them where they highlight your home's best attributes – landscaping, walking paths and any custom fixtures.”
10: Add Some Polish 7: Plant Some Color Except for the dead of winter, some types of annual plants are always in bloom, says Sheri Silver, a landscape designer and owner of Fiori Garden Design. "Spruce up your porch containers, window boxes and front beds with some colorful flowers for instant lift," Sheri advises. Never plant artificial flowers – a few inches of dark mulch will brighten up the beds without screaming “fake."
Paint is only about $25 per gallon, and painting the front door, trim and shutters is a great way to polish the look of your home, Kelly says. Other inexpensive fix-ups: a new mailbox (research your city's regulations to make sure you're up to code first), a new porch light fixture and a cheery new welcome mat.
Citing Source: http://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/10-curbappeal-tips-from-the-pros-pictures
8: Open Up Fling open the shutters, curtains and blinds, Paul says. "Homes that are brighter inside sell faster, and open curtains look
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W h o Ya G o n n a C a l l ?
472-3497 dvertising “Your Ac Spe ialist” Arlene Taitingfong Editor
Email: ataitingfong@yellowpagesink.com CasaGuam.com 25
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Classifieds Commercial Rentals Hagåtña Commercial space for rent. 1,792 square feet. $3,500/month. Call Ellen’s Realty at 647-0888 for more details!
Ordot-Chalan Pago
Chalan Pago
Agat
Peaceful and serene 4BD/2BA home. 1,922+/-sf of living space. Upgrade master suite. 3-car covered car port. Call Suzanne @ 482-6426.
Pago Bay, Newly Built Home for Sale by Developer. Starting from $525,000. New subdivision, 2 story home, high ceilings, 3BD/3BA, 2 living rooms, dining room.
14,221 SqMtrs. Fairly level. $711,050.
Piti
Yigo Northpoint Commercial Complex Space for Rent. $1.80 per square foot, $0.60 per square foot for common fee. Call Rowena at 483-4317.
Almost one acre lot ready for farming or 2BR, Ocean view! Across the beach! Close to Port, Naval Station, Polaris, & Stores. Max two tenants. $700 (Price does not include utilities) Call 649-8265 or 727-8265.
Dededo
Agat Agat 2BR. Ocean View! Renovated! Ocean View BBQ Patio! Near NavSta, Port, Polaris, beach, stores, and schools! $1200.00. 649-8265 or 727-8265
Barrigada 4BD/2BAHome . Central living close to the airport, schools and shopping areas. $2,700/mo. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.
Dededo 5BD/5.5BA home. $4,800/mo. Call Ellen’s Realty @ 647-0888 for more details! 3BD/2BA home for rent. $1,980/mo. Fully renovated. Fenced & gated. Call Loisa @ 727-6880.
Nimitz Hill
Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Ordot-Chalan Pago
Santa Rita
880+/- square meter land in a great
Sinajana Holiday Tower Condo - 2BD/2BA. Corner unit. Ocean & island views. Upscale & upgraded kitchen w/ extra counter space & stainless appliances. $2,205/mo. Call Sandy @ 687-6006.
central location and immediately available 4BD/3BA upgraded home. Fully fenced. Minutes away from Naval Station. $310K. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.
Tamuning 4BD/2BA centrally located home for rent, along Carlos Heights. Tumon is closeby. Call Lolita @ 688-6743 or 479-8891 for more details.
Large 3BD/3BA home. Includes 25K generator, 650 gal water tank. $360K. Call Dennis at 727-3815.
Tamuning
Tecio Tumon Villa - Awesome 3BD/2BA unit in the heart of Pleasure Island. Walking distance to beaches, dining, shopping & more! $2,600/mo. Call Janet @ 687-1841. Tumon Horizon Condo - 2BD/1BA. Fully renovated & furnished. Water included. Call Weiwei @ 777-0688.
Yona 4BD/2BA Home. Peaceful and safe environment. Breezy and airy location. $1,500/mo. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.
Residential Sales 4BD/5BA modern home with spacious living area. Includes executive master bath with jacuzzi. Lot +/- 969 square meters. Price dropped to $508K! Call Karen at 988-1883..
to build. Quiet neighborhood but close to central shopping and business areas. $65K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Piti 24,173+/- square meter lot with partial ocean view for agriculture or developers. Close to Harbor, Port Authority & Naval Base. $846,055. Negotiable.
Tumon
Barrigada 5BR/4BA 3000f2 Officer/Executive House. 180 degree Ocean View. Watch The Ships Come In! Military Approved. Landscaped. 213 Mama Sandy Nimitz Hill. $4400.00. (MLS 16-2334). Call 649-8265 or 727-8265
dream home in quiet but lush area. $44K.
3BD/2BA home. Fully fenced. Price reduced. $305K. Call Ellen’s Realty at 647-0888 for more details!
Talofofo
Residential Rentals
Merizo
Ocean & mountain views.
Tamuning 5 contiguous spaces available right on Guam’s busiest intersection! Highly visible, ample parking, backup generator. $1,312.50/mo each. Call Sandy at 687-6006.
Call 649-2121 for more details.
Oka Tower Condo. 2BD/2BA 1st floor unit. Superb amenities. $298K. Call Sandy at 687-6006.
Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Talofofo
Tumon 929+/- square meter land for sale. Tumon Condo. 3BD/2BA. Great location close to restaurants, shopping areas, and minutes away from beaches. Grea investment. $150K. Call Karen @ 988-1883.
Quarter acre lot, rectangular in shape.
Yigo
Yigo
Wonderful 2BD/2.5BA home. 1,714 +/- sf living space. Fully fenced. $321K. Call Suzanne at 482-6426.
2,787+/- square meter land in the midst of quiet ambiance. Almost 3/4 acre lot just outside the back gate of AAFB. $105K. Negotiable. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
$57,400. Call Lolita @ 688-6743 or 479-8891 for more details.
Land for Sale Agana Heights
Yona
Lovely 1,640 +/- sm parcel fronting Chalan Macajna. R-2 zoned. Includes 2 lots. Close to the Firary. Rare opportunity. $169,500. Call Anthony at 688-8198.
One of seven lots and could become a developer’s dream. Located in the heart of Pulantat, Yona. 1,858+/- square meters. $50K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
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Closing
Message from the President Deanna Palmer 2016 President Guam Association of REALTORS®
Technology in Real Estate Last month, Guam experienced some major internet problems that affected us all — including REALTORS®. I was suddenly aware of how MUCH of the real estate business is through technology. Gone are the “good old days” of paper MLS (Multiple Listing Service), with weekly meetings to get our new updates that were manually put into reference binders. Those binders were our gold. Fast forward to today. . . Web-based programs for MLS, our real estate contracts, Google Maps and more, are now the norm. REALTORS® have joined together to help our clients in the fastest way possible. Now our sellers, buyers and tenants, can search for themselves when THEY have time to see what is available on Guam, that will possibly meet their needs. They can even contact a REALTOR® through their mobile phone through Google Ads and websites. It is really so much more convenient for you to be “in the know” about real estate on Guam. Social media and multi media are also an avenue to discover information on real estate. Advertising includes more pictures per listing and more videos of listings. Social media also has advertising too. If a picture is worth 1,000 words, a video is worth more. Being able to view properties through pictures and videos grows daily. Almost everyone has a smart phone, iPad or other devices that are portable and are browsing the internet to get information. Did you know you can find a listing on Google maps? When a listing has a map tag, open it on your device and it will be able to give you directions to the property. Amazing! REALTORS® are invaluable in getting you an appointment to actually walk through the properties you are most interested in for your budget. All the technology is only enhancing a their ability to provide you with a successful transaction, whether it is to sell, buy or rent a property. Technology is our assistant to the transaction through a wide variety of communication media from start to closing the transaction. We use technology to best serve your Real Estate needs. In an every changing market, using the latest technology REALTORS® make it happen.
GUAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® The Voice for Real Estate on Guam Suite 236A Julale Center 424 West O'Brien Drive, Hagatna, Guam 96910 Office: (671) 477-4271 • Fax: (671) 477-4275 28 CasaGuam November 2016
Message from the Chief Executive Officer and Government Affairs Director Peggy Araullo Llagas Guam Association of REALTORS®
Prevent Elder Abuse In any five year timeframe, an estimated forty percent of seniors may be subjected to some form of financial abuse, at a staggering combined loss of approximately thirty-six billion dollars. Financial schemes against elders So how do we spot senior financial abuse? Elder abuse can come in many forms – physical, psychological, and financial. Warning signs that a senior is being abused in any of these ways can include: • Frequent arguments or tension between a caregiver and an elderly person; • The elder becoming withdrawn or depressed; • Suspicious changes in the elder’s financial condition; • Frequently unpaid bills; or • Signs of a lack of medical or physical care. As a real estate professional, there are a number of steps you can take to protect seniors, while simultaneously reducing your legal risks of becoming involved in a transaction tainted by elder abuse: • First – take extra care to ensure that your senior client understands and consents to every stage of the transaction. You can do this by following up important oral communications with a written recap. This can help your client stay fully apprised of the transaction, and may also be beneficial to you down the road if legal questions arise. • If you suspect that a senior is being abused – financially, physically, or emotionally – report it. You can do this by calling the local Adult Pro tective Services, and - if you feel that elder may be in immediate danger – by calling 911. The Administration on Aging has a comprehensive resource on how to report elder abuse, which can be accessed at this link: http://www.aoa.acl.gov/AoA_Programs/Elder_Rights/EA_Prevention/WhatToDo.aspx
• If you suspect that an elder involved in your real estate transaction is being abused – in addition to reporting the abuse, hit pause on the transaction and consult with your attorney to determine the appropriate next steps. • If an elderly home owner’s family member or other caregiver asserts control over a real estate transaction by claiming to hold a power of attorney, insist on receiving a copy of that power of attorney, and provide it to your lawyer to verify that it is both legitimate and applicable to the real estate transaction at hand. • Finally, education is a key resource in the fight against elder abuse. Licensees who regularly work with seniors may benefit from taking continuing education courses specific to serving the elderly. The effects of elder abuse are far-reaching and devastating. As a real estate professional, you can help protect elders from financial predators, and, in the process, ensure that your business remains on the right side of the law - National Association of REALTORS® Ask if your agent is a REALTOR®. A member of the Guam Association of REALTORS® who shall remain your leading advocate in protecting your best interest. Visit our website at www.guamrealtors.com.
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