DECEMBER 2017/ JANUARY 2018
HOMES KELLERWILLIAMS® REALTY NEW ORLEANS METROPOLITAN AREA
The Picolo-Ramos Team Keller Williams 455-0100 504.500.SOLD 504.251.7920 picoloramosinfo@gmail.com www.picoloramos.com Licensed in Louisiana
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY CRESCENT CITY WESTBANK PARTNERS | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 455-0100 KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY PROFESSIONALS | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SERVICES | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY FIRST CHOICE KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY NEW ORLEANS | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY, 1-888-351-5111, LLC. EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED 34207.1.2.001.indd 1
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OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST
For More Info/Photos
Text R478897 to 52187
2-story 4 bed/2 bath 2819 sf home in Del Sol! Escape into this fenced-in backyard oasis featuring a large covered patio, beautiful wood deck leading out to aboveground pool and large shed. That’s just the outside! $289,900 MLS:2116638
STUNNING 4 BD/2.5 BA HOME
For More Info/Photos
Text R547097 to 52187
On 1.91 acres of pristine country living in the heart of Mandeville! Home features enormous den w/vaulted ceilings, wet bar, wood fireplace & tons of natural light. Kitchen includes granite counter tops, SS appliances, island! $435,000 MLS:2124048
Caroline Falconer Freeland
985.778.5719 | caroline.freeland@kw.com
“As an agent who was born and raised in this local area, I bring wealth of knowledge and experience about buying and selling real estate here. Real estate is not the same everywhere, so you need someone who you can trust for up-to-date information. Helping you should not just be about selling homes, it should be about building relationships and I am eager to serve you”
1522 W Causeway Approach Mandeville, LA 70471 - 985.727.7000 [Office] Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission - Each office is independently owned and operated.
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A N A WA R D - W I N N I N G T E A M O F R E A L T O R S R E A D Y T O H E L P YO U METRO-NEW-ORLEANS.COM
“Being new to the New Orleans market, the Nugent-Freeland team guided me the entire way. I couldn’t be happier.” - Faye Scott
THE NUGENT FREELAND TEAM IS AN AWARD-WINNING GROUP OF REALTORS READY TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE REAL ESTATE PUZZLE Lynda Nugent Smith, CRS, GRI
2016 LA Real Estate Commissioner, 2017 Vice Chair NAR Risk Management, Keller Williams Broker
Lesha Nugent Freeland, GRI, SRS
2016 President New Orleans Metro Association of Realtors, 2016 Realtor of the Year
Michael Freeland, ABR, AHWD
2016 NOMAR Grievance Committee, Certified Structural Inspector
WHAT’S YOUR HOME WORTH? VISIT METRO-NEW-ORLEANS.COM TO FIND OUT (877) 409-1939 | TEAMNUGENTFREELAND@GMAIL.COM Keller Williams Realty 455-0100 | Each office independently owned and operated | Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission
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HEART OF MADISONVILLE 105 ST. ANN STREET MADISONVILLE
IN AREA OF MANY RENOVATED HOMES. Restaurants, shopping, riverfront, schools, groceries, etc. Large corner lot for addition and easy access to back yard. $240,000 MLS:2121485 Text R529719 to 52187
Patsy Lang 504.669.7848 plang@kw.com
RARE NEW CONSTRUCTION 1044 CARROLL STREET MANDEVILLE
In the Heart of Mandeville! Granite Counter Tops, Stainless Steel Appliances! On Beautiful Corner Lot full of Oak Trees. Blue Ribbon School District! $339,000 MLS:2121095 Text R513435 to 52187
HIDDEN GEM 59525 NESLO ROAD SLIDELL
AMOUNG LIVE OAKS,3+ ACS., 600’+on Historic Bayou Liberty.Main house features wide plank pine floors,10’ ceilings, gourmet kitchen(stainless & Viking appliances) $1,500,000 MLS:2116167 Text R473877 to 52187
Brett Freret
985.789.5862 brettfreret@kw.com
Keller Williams Realty Services 1522 W. Causeway Approach Mandeville, LA - 985.727.7000 Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission | Each office is independently owned and operated.
Your Home Loan Specialist Purchases and Refinances
Heather Braiwick
504.430.0028 NMLS# 96999 hbraiwick@gmfslending.com
Call 985.612.7373 or visit gmfsmortgage.com/heather.braiwick
Co NMLS #64997
Von Williams
Marketing Representative
985.264.5994 von@alltls.com Allegiance Title & Land Services, LLC, a Louisiana based Company, provides title insurance, escrow and closing services for residential, commercial and industrial real estate transactions throughout the state of Louisiana. 1502 W. Causeway Approach • Suite B • Mandeville, La 70471 (985) 778-2410 Office • (985) 778-2429 Fax • www.alltls.com 34207.1.2.004.indd 1
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Patricia Peyton - "Your Realtor for Life" Top Producer, Metro New Orleans Real Estate Expert Call me Today for all your Real Estate needs!
504.400.6911
Text R545318 to 52187
RENTAL PROFIT ABOUNDS. Shopping center! Money making opportunity in Mandeville. $2,295,000 MLS:2104465
SOLD
patriciapeyton.com
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 3197 Richland Ave., Metairie, LA 70002 | Office: 504-455-0100 Each Office Independently Owned & Operated | Licensed in the State of Louisiana & Mississippi
Text R545309 to 52187
Text R545327 to 52187
FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY for your big ambitions. Investment property. $950,000 MLS:2090348
WONDERFUL RENOVATED HOME on a large 50X150 lot. Beautiful open floor plan. $295,000 MLS:2110873
Text R545342 to 52187
John A. Costello
LOVELY AND METICULOUSLY RENOVATED CONDO
TOTAL SQ.FT 2,880 HAS 3 UNITS: 2B/2B - 2/B 1B - 1B/1B 275K MLS:2119031
Business Development Officer/ Notary Public 3939 N. Causeway Blvd, Ste. 105 Metairie, LA 70002
Office: 504.834.9733 johnc@titlestream.com
5 QUESTIONS to Ask Every Agent Before Listing Your Home
As encouraging news of the reviving housing market gains momentum, many homeowners will again consider selling their home. If you’re like most sellers, a home is your single largest fi nancial asset, and the commission paid to a real estate professional is substantial. Therefore, you should have high expectations of an agent, and fully understand the strategies and tools they use to market your home. As encouraging news of the reviving housing market gains momentum, many homeowners will again consider selling their home. To Ifbeyou’re surelike your andlargest for the bestasset, price, ask agent these listing mosthome sellers,is a sold home quickly is your single financial and thean commission paid to questions a real estate before professional is your home with them: substantial. Therefore, you should have high expectations of an agent, and fully understand the strategies and tools they use to market your home. To be sure your home is sold quickly and for the best price, ask an agent these questions before listing your home with them:
4 HOW WILL YOU MARKET MY HOME TO LOCAL BUYERS?
4 HOW WILL YOU MARKET MY HOME What TO OUT OF MARKET BUYERS? types of media will you use to advertise
How will you market my home to local buyers?
4 HOW WILL YOU MARKET MY HOME my TOhome? OTHER LOCAL TOP AGENTS? today’s multi-media world advertising is everywhere, and the way 4 WHAT TYPES OF MEDIA WILL YOUInconsumers USE TO ADVERTISE MY HOME? find information is constantly changing. Be cautious of agents who use PRICE only the web to market your home. Your agent 4 HOW ARE YOU GOING TO REALISTICALLY MY HOME? Buying a home typically takes about three months from the time
Real estate remains hyper local. In 2016, the National Association of REALTORS® reported that home buyers only moved about 14 miles from their previous residence.
a buyer starts their search to signing a contract. During that time, buyers continue to work, shop, eat, and play in areas adjacent to 34207.1.2.005.indd 1 their current home and community. Ask your agent how they plan to reach local buyers.
must understand the importance of multiple media, like social media, mobile apps, text codes, local real estate magazines, direct mail and other printed materials to actively reach out to buyers everywhere— 12/6/17 not just passively hoping for buyers to find your listing online.
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COVINGTON
GRACIOUS ELEGANCE AWAITS
LACOMBE
5BD/4BA on deep navigable Tchefuncte River, 2 living areas, kitchen w/dining area, covered porches, Elevator. Boat Dock w/lift. Terraced back yard. Never flooded. $799,900 MLS:2100693 Text R322631 to 52187
Beautiful home in Abita Lakes. 12 foot ceilings in the fam rm, formal living & dining rm, w/ hardwood floors & crown molding. $365,000 MLS:2095193 Text R396976 to 52187
Large lot! Nicely treed lot. Mobile home or modular home can be placed on the lot. $10,000 MLS:2022445 Text P101489 to 52187
Home of the Champagne Closing! Cindy Fandal 1522 W. Causeway Approach Mandeville, LA 70471 - 985.727.7000 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated | Licensed in Louisiana
985.966.5383
fandal@kw.com Home of the Champagne Closing!
Home of fortheOurChampagne Closing! Known Lifetime Benefits! Residential and Commercial Known forReal OurEstate Lifetime Benefits! Closings Title Insurance Residential and Commercial Residential and Commercial Real Estate Business Formation and UCC Filings Real Estate Closings Title Insurance Closings Titleand Insurance
BusinessFormation Formation and Business andUCC UCCFilings Filings Buying, selling or refinancing? Call today for a quote! Se Habla Español
3421 N. Causeway Ste. 300 Metairie, LA 70002 3421 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. 300 Metairie, LA Blvd., 70002 2621 N. Causeway 2621 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, LA 70471Blvd., Mandeville, LA 70471
closing@titlemg.com 504-834-2977 www.titlemg.com closing@titlemg.com 504-834-2977 www.titlemg.com
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BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED, Spanish style, split level home in the heart of Gentilly. $469,000 MLS:2125509 Text R561080 to 52187 BEAUTIFUL RENOVATION on a corner lot with gated off street parking. Master Suite with large walk in closet. $300,000 MLS:2131127 Text R602550 to 52187 NEW CONSTRUCTION: Each unit complete with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. $325,000 MLS:2122343 Text R560592 to 52187
SPLIT TRI-LEVEL DESIGN CONDO in Beau Chene Golf Course Community. 3BD/3BA. $219,000 MLS:2113554 Text R551286 to 52187
Gina Lupo
Laurie M. Lionnet 504.462.9376
laurielionnet@kw.com 3197 Richland Ave., Metairie, LA 70002 | Office: 504-455-0100 Each Office Independently Owned & Operated Licensed Agent in the state of Louisiana
www.laurielionnet.com
985.264.0837
realtorlupo@bellsouth.net
1522 W. Causeway Approach Mandeville, LA 985.727.7000 Licensed in the State of Louisiana Independently Owned & Operated
GinaLupo.com
2017 NEW CONSTRUCTION, A Gentilly gem is quality through and through. $349,000 MLS:2132701 Text R624172 to 52187 THIS GENTILLY GEM has custom paver driveway, big backyard and real hard wood floors. $398,000 MLS:2129985 Text R624171 to 52187
DREAM HOME! 1K Agent bonus if closed by 11/15/2017!
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! Beautifully remodeled home featuring Oversize bdrms & 20x20 bonus room. Vaulted ceiling, 15ft fireplace, new chefs kitchen w/wet bar, spa like master bath. $337,000 Text R566059 to 52187
Jamie Johnson 504.723.7213
2017 NEW CONSTRUCTION. This is the new Gentilly , high end finishes every where you look. $374,000 MLS:2122525 Text R625994 to 52187
CHRISTIAN SULLIVAN
504.214.9841
jamiej@kw.com 3197 Richland Ave., Metairie, LA 70002 | Office: 504-455-0100 Each Office Independently Owned & Operated Licensed Agent in the state of Louisiana
www.HomesInGreaterNewOrleans.com 34207.1.2.007.indd 1
3197 Richland Avenue Metairie, La. 70002 Office 504-455-0100 Independently Owned and Operated
cpsullivan@kw.com Licensed in Louisiana
12/6/17 2:48 PM
HOMES
NEW ORLEANS METROPOLITAN AREA
Jan Autin Publisher 985-264-8748 Josh Landry Marketing/Sales 985-674-7983 Amy Little DFLYDesigns LLC Design & Graphics
Custom Luxury Home
Brittny Garcia Production kellerwilliamsproduction@gmail.com DECEMBER 2017/ JANUARY 2018
HOMES KELLERWILLIAMS® REALTY
4 Yrs Young Custom Home Was Recently Built W/ 2 Master Suites, Theater RmSurround Sound, & Top Level Industrial Appl. Cast Iron Claw Foot Tubs, Lg Windows W/Plantation Shutters. Solid Mahogany Exterior Doors, Real 3/4 Inch Nailed Down Red Oak Hardwood Floors Throughout, Level 5 Paint Job, Hand Made Iron Work, 60K Raised Slab, 14 Ft Ceilings. French Insp. Center Galley Kitchen- Low Flood, Corner Lot!
NEW ORLEANS METROPOLITAN AREA
For More Info. Text R591032 to 52187
The Picolo-Ramos Team Keller Williams 455-0100 504.500.SOLD 504.251.7920 picoloramosinfo@gmail.com www.picoloramos.com Licensed in Louisiana
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY CRESCENT CITY WESTBANK PARTNERS | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 455-0100 KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY PROFESSIONALS | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SERVICES | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY FIRST CHOICE KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY NEW ORLEANS | KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY, 1-888-351-5111, LLC. EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED 34207.1.2.001.indd 1
December 2017/ January 2018
12/6/17 2:10 PM
Brittany Picolo-Ramos The Picolo-Ramos Team (504) 500-SOLD (504) 251-7920 picoloramosinfo@gmail.com www.picoloramos.com
3197 Richland Avenue, Metairie, LA 70002
Licensed in Louisiana
Slidell Office 2053 Gause Blvd. E, Ste. 100 Slidell, La 70461 Mandeville 1522 West Causeway Approach Mandeville, La 70471 Hammond 710 S W Railroad Ave. Ste. C,D,E Hammond, La 70403 Laplace117 Belle Terre Blvd. LaPlace, La 70068 Gretna 1601 Belle Chase Hwy Ste. 101 Gretna, La 70056 New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, La 70118 Metairie 3197 Richland Ave. Metairie, La 700xq02 Each Office Independently Owned & Operated
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Jodi Archer
REALTOR®, MBA, Top Producer
504.301.6100
3197 Richland Ave., Metairie, LA 70002 Office: 504-455-0100 Independently Owned & Operated Licensed Agent in the state of Louisiana
www.JodiArcher.com
LOOKING TO PURCHASE OR LEASE A NEW HOME?? CALL ME TODAY for complimentary access to MLS.
THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME/CONDO?? CALL ME TODAY for a complimentary market analysis.
10912 Chaucer St. • $198,500 3bd/2ba. Granite Counters, Frigidaire appliances. Detached garage. MLS: 2112670 Text R551283 to 52187
1425 Cherokee Ave. $699,000 Stunning 4bd/4ba home in Lakeshore Subd. Dual Master Suites. Listing Agent/Alyson McStay MLS:2129560 Text R469595 to 52187
4405 Jeannette Dr. • $275,000 Spacious New Orleans style home in the heart of Metairie. 4bed/ 2.5 baths. MLS:2092904 Listing Agent/Alyson McStay Text R626156 to 52187
Interested in a Career in Real Estate? CALL ME TODAY to learn more.
Real Estate Title Closing Services For Residential and Commercial Properties For closing quotes contact Attorney Sean Pilie spilie@truetitle.net
TEAM GARRITY
For All of your Insurance Needs
true title of Metairie, LLC hand, holmes, pilie, & matthews 110 Veterans Blvd Suite 525 Metairie, LA 70005 www.truetitle.net (504) 309-1030
CALL US TODAY for a complimentary quote on Home, Flood, Auto or Commercial. Richard 504.756.0966 | Evan 504.202.3234
www.garrityinsurance.net 34207.1.2.009.indd 1
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The Title Source of Louisiana “The source for all your title needs”
For Quotes or new Orders email us at: info@latitlesource.com
985-345-3797 •Residential Closings •Commercial Closings • Sales • Refinances • Construction • Abstracts • Title Exams and Insurance
4 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Metairie ~ Mandeville Hammond ~ Baton Rouge
ABOUT OUR AGENCY The Title Source team has performed numerous residential and commercial real estate closings, including extensive curative work in the areas of property litigation, successions, tax free exchanges, and adjudicated properties. The Title Source of Louisiana won Top 5 Title Companies in LA in 2015 & 2016 and “Highest in Ethical Standards & Professional Excellence” in 2013.
• Title Opinions •Title Commitments • Curative Work • Closing Documents • Escrow Services • Estate Planning • Notary Work • Recording Services
www.latitlesource.com 34207.1.2.010.indd 2
Tyffanie Vial,
Owner/Attorney
12/6/17 3:25 PM
504.462.0734
Keller Williams Realty 504-455-0100 3197 Richland Avenue Metairie, Louisiana 70002 Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
Text R604806 to 52187
Text R545337 to 52187
RENOVATED ANTOINE CRUZAT HOUSE. Greek Revival Town home style with servant quarter. $1,450,000 MLS:2130783 PERFECTLY MAINTAINED BRICK HOME on corner lot in the heart of Metairie. $259,000 MLS:2113682
LARGE HOME ON QUITE STREET in River Ridge. Perfect home for entertaining! $489,000 MLS:2131546 Text R609926 to 52187
Text R599271 to 52187
COMMERCIAL LOT on Old Hammond Highway ready to develop. Zoned OBM2 $899,000 MLS:2130409
Are you ready for a house so you can decorate the way you want? T ired of renting? Now is the perfect time for you to buy the home you have always dreamed of decorating. When you choose Caliber Home Loans, Inc. to provide your home’s financing, you can trust we’ll do our best to get you into the home you’ve always envisioned. Call me today to get started!
Connye Bauer-Ingram
Branch Manager NMLS ID 297885 Mobile 504-460-1218 connye.bauer-ingram@caliberhomeloans.com www.caliberhomeloans.com/cbingram Caliber Home Loans, Inc., 3701 Regent Blvd Irving, TX 75063 NMLS ID #15622 (http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/15622). 1-800-401-6587. Copyright © 2017. All Rights Reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Not all products are available in all states or for all dollar amounts. If you are refinancing your existing loan, your total finance charges may be higher over the life of the loan. Other restrictions and limitations apply.
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Your Home Loan Specialists.
Mark Boasberg Vice President 504.388.8684 NMLS - 111912
Ryan Thomassie Vice President 225.938.1875 NMLS - 350514
Rachel West 504.439.0018 NMLS - 360470
Patrick Holder 504.453.1577 NMLS - 138793
Kara Kohls 504.250.6298 NMLS - 334789
Jeff Johnson 504.250.7210 NMLS - 190523
Meredith Garrett 985.502.4347 NMLS - 755832
Rick Sedberry 985.969.8048 NMLS - 112326
James Fidler 504.478.0840 NMLS - 408681
Luzine Bickham Jr. 504.913.3773 NMLS - 708043
Joey Piel Vice President 504.315.0627 NMLS - 365511
Courtney Jenkins 985.778.3705 NMLS - 832159
Georgia Harrington 504.473.0836 NMLS - 131411
Coleena Zimet 228.218.3521 NMLS - 394007
Clay Fritscher 985.951.9441 NMLS - 1464958
Metairie | 504.210.8487 | www.nolalending.com/metairie New Orleans | 504.355.5138 | www.nolalending.com/new-orleans Co. NMLS#488639
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BUYING A HOME? FACTOR THESE INTO YOUR INTEREST RATE CALCUL ATIONS By Liz Dominguez The mortgage process can be complicated if you jump in without any prior knowledge on home-buying and lending. The best tool you can arm yourself with is an understanding of how your mortgage interest rate is calculated.
CREDIT CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOU. Your credit score will determine how reliable you are in the lending world. The higher your score, the lower your interest rate will likely be. Check your credit on one of the three major credit reporting agency sites—TransUnion, Experian and Equifax—or your credit card company may have a free credit report service (although these aren’t as reliable). Improve your FICO score for a better chance at a lower interest rate.
FACTOR IN SIZE & LOCATION State or County: Even your place of residence can affect your rate. Local Mortgage Lenders: Shop around. Interest rates can vary from company to company even if they’re located in the same town.
Loan Size: The size of your home can also impact your interest rate. The bigger the loan, the higher your interest rate will be if you’re not putting more money down. Down Payment Size: Your mortgage interest rate may also depend on how much
you’re putting down and if your loan includes closing costs and private mortgage insurance (PMI). Putting down less than 20 percent can increase your risk factor and may require PMI, but your interest rate may be lower depending on the loan.
NOT ALL LOANS ARE CREATED EQUAL Loan Length: Your loan terms play a bigger role in interest rate calculations than you think. Have you decided whether you want to pay off your loan in 15 or 30 years? You may pay more per month with a shorter term, but you’ll be paying less interest over the life of your loan. Short-term loans may also have a smaller interest rate. Fixed or Adjustable: You’ll also have to consider whether a fixed, or adjust-
able-rate, loan is right for you. Your interest rate can change over time if you choose an adjustable-rate loan. It may start off low or fixed, but can increase over time depending on market conditions. Fixed-rate loans, however, will have a higher interest rate attached to them. Loan Type: Interest rates can also vary according to your loan type. Choosing a loan can be overwhelming, but a local lender should be able to provide you with
the best options. Some of the more popular loans are conventional, FHA and VA loans. While FHA loans have less down payment restrictions and a smaller interest rate, your monthly payment can be more expensive due to the required PMI added on. VA loans can have smaller interest rates and don’t require PMI like FHA does. Conventional loans are widely accepted in the real estate industry as dependable, but your interest rate may be higher.
Editor’s Note: This was originally published on RISMedia’s blog, Housecall. See what else is cookin’ now at blog.rismedia.com Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2017. All rights reserved.
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Appraisal Disappointing? STEPS TO TAKE
A
r e you disappointed by the results of your appraisal? If so, don’t fret too much, you have options to explore, according to the Appraisal Institute.
“Homebuyers and sellers should first understand what an appraisal is and how it’s used,” says Jim Amorin, president and acting CEO of the Appraisal Institute. “Real estate appraisals for mortgage finance applications are prepared for the bank or financial institution so they can better understand the collateral risk in making the loan. This can be confusing, because homebuyers typically pay for the appraisal and receive a copy of it.” In some cases, the appraisal may not match the contract price— but just because an appraisal comes in below (or above) the listing or contract price doesn’t mean it’s flawed, Amorin says. The agreed-upon contract price may be above market value, for example. In those situations, the buyer and seller often renegotiate the contract at more favorable or balanced terms. “Homebuyers should ask their lender for the qualifications of the appraiser, including whether they are designated by a professional association like the Appraisal Institute,” says Amorin. Only a qualified and competent appraiser should be chosen, as they know how to conduct a thorough market analysis and how to make appropriate adjustments.
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Homebuyers also can ask whether the appraiser is employed directly by the bank or whether the bank utilizes an appraisal management company, and what their procedures are for engaging qualified appraisers. “The best way for consumers to combat potential problems with appraisals is to ensure the appraiser hired by their lender is highly qualified and competent,” Amorin says. “Consumers have every right to demand the use of a highly qualified appraiser, someone with field experience in their market and knowledge and experience to handle the assignment properly.” “Contrary to incorrect interpretations of appraiser independence requirements, appraisers welcome information that would assist the development of credible assignment results,” says Amorin. If lender policies permit, consumers can accompany and follow along appraisers as they conduct the property inspection and may provide the appraiser with any information they consider important. Amorin suggests consumers ask their lender for permission to do so, and confirm the appointment. Consumers should also take note of whether an adequate inspection is performed. Did the appraiser spend enough time at the property to observe important features or improvements or potential problems?
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“Homebuyers should take advantage of their right to obtain a copy of the appraisal report,” Amorin says. Even though the appraisal is ordered to help assess lender collateral risk, buyers are entitled to a receive copy of the appraisal report to review and keep for their records. Federal regulations require lenders to provide property buyers with free copies of appraisal reports no later than three days before the loan closes, so homebuyers should definitely obtain one before then. “Although appraisal review is best performed by qualified appraisers, consumers should examine the appraisal for potential deficiencies,” says Amorin. According to “Appraising the Appraisal: The Art of Appraisal Review,” common errors in appraisals include: misuse of adjustments to comparables; disregarding special financing and concessions; or miscalculation of gross living area (GLA). Amorin suggests consumers ask themselves:
99 Does the floor plan have any functional problems? 99 Does the house (particularly the kitchen and bathrooms) require major remodeling to make it comparable with similar homes in the same price range? If so, how much would that remodeling cost? 99 Is the number of bedrooms and baths in the home comparable to similar homes in the same price range? 99 Did the appraiser perform an adequate inspection? “Most lenders have appraisal appeal procedures, known as ‘Reconsiderations of Value,’” says Amorin. “If you’re aware of recent, comparable sales information or items that may not have been available or considered by the appraiser, provide those to the lender. If problems were found with the first appraisal, you can and should obtain a second appraisal.”
99 Do adjacent homes add or detract from the value of the subject property? 99 Is the subject property equal to or lower in price than surrounding homes?
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IS YOUR HOME PREPARED FOR AN EMERGENCY? If there’s anything we’ve learned over the years, it’s that Mother Nature is unpredictable and fierce, and that no one is safe from her path. Despite your best efforts to prevent it, sometimes disaster strikes. That means you should always be prepared for the unexpected. The right preparations and supplies will help you protect your family and your home. There are steps every homeowner could and should take to prepare for a natural disaster. Gold Medal Service, a New Jersey-based heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical service company advises taking the following steps to make sure your home is storm-ready: Waterproof low-lying areas. Basements are particularly susceptible to water issues such as flooding and leaks. Look into a variety of solutions, such as submersible sump pump systems, door and window sealing, waterproof sprays and interior drainage systems. If you live in an area with a propensity for flooding or rising water, have sandbags readily available in a shed or garage in case you need to build a dam around doors or windows. Install or inspect generators. While going without power may seem like an inconvenience, it’s actually a serious safety issue. For example, a HVAC system going out, or the inability to run fans in extreme heat can prove dangerous or deadly. A backup generator is a great alternative power source, however, make sure it’s professionally installed and periodically inspected. Also when running it, make sure it’s being run in a well ventilated or outdoor area to prevent carbon monoxide build-up.
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Have your heating system inspected. Make sure the flues and vents throughout your heating systems are clean and clear of debris. Blocked vents can cause a dangerous carbon monoxide build-up in your home. Have a professional conduct the inspection if you’re unsure how to do so. Install and inspect alarms. Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are a life-saving must; however, if they’re not functioning properly, it defeats the purpose. Make sure the batteries are fresh so they can run in case of a power outage, and bring in a professional inspector to ensure everything is working properly. In addition to having your home’s systems inspected and ready to go, have the following in place for you and your family: Water, flashlights, extra food and other necessities, such as medicines and eyeglasses A solar charger for your cell phone A battery-powered radio A list of your city’s emergency shelters An updated insurance policy with adequate coverage, especially flood coverage A rehearsed plan for what your family will do in the event of an emergency
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Improve Your Home’s Air Quality You may think about air pollution while you’re running alongside a busy road or strolling to your favorite coffee shop, but do you ever think about the pollutants inside your home? Between sleep and home hangouts, the majority of your time is spent between your own four walls. According to Aire Serv, you should regularly change the HVAC filter in your home to help improve indoor air quality. For ease, stock up on a few filters at a time and plan to check the filter monthly. Other considerations to keep in mind include:
1
Dust and vacuum often. It’s easy to put off dusting and vacuuming, but removing dust means you get rid of one of your home’s most prevalent pollutants. Instead of a feather duster, use a wet rag or electrostatic cloth to trap dust instead of spreading it around. When you vacuum, turn the thermostat setting to ON so the fan blows continuously, drawing up dusty air and filtering it before sending it back into the air you breathe.
2
Avoid chemicals. Everything from cleaning products and air fresheners to personal care items give off harmful vapors that become trapped in your home. Avoid chemically laden products and choose non-toxic, non-aerosol, unscented products instead to promote good indoor air quality.
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3
Utilize existing spot ventilation around your home. For example, run the bathroom exhaust fan when you shower and clean; flip on the kitchen range vent when you cook and clean; and turn on the laundry room exhaust vent when clothes are drying. These habits help you eliminate pollutants at the source.
4
The air filter in your furnace should be cleaned or replaced at least once every three months. Irritants and allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites and more build up in dirty filters, increasing exposure and worsening the effects on those with sensitivities.
5
If your furnace uses natural gas, propane or oil to keep your house warm, the air quality in your home could become contaminated by dangerous carbon monoxide gas. If not properly and adequately ventilated, its build-up in your home can be deadly.
6
Run an air cleaner. A small portable air cleaner is perfect for your bedroom at night while you sleep. This device collects airborne dust and debris, leaving the air cleaner than ever. If you opt for a whole-house model, it replaces the air filter. This type of installation is known to decrease asthma and allergy symptoms.
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Guide to Choosing Siding & Shutters That Don’t Clash By Megan Wild
It’s time to redo the exterior of your home. The place is looking a bit worn, and you’ve seen how a fresh coat of paint and updated colors can transform a structure. You’re considering going bold, maybe it’s time to shake things up. Then again, you don’t want to overstep bounds and glaringly stand out either. You begin to notice the color combinations on other houses. In fact, you’re kind of obsessed. You note a soft sage green home with butter yellow trim and realize that — while you would never have chosen those colors — you love the way they look. You pass a stately white home with long black shutters and consider how that classic combination enlarges the home’s appearance. We’ve compiled several tips to help you choose the siding and shutter color combination that’s right for you and lends the updated look you desire.
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Style First, look at your home objectively and identify its architectural style. Is it a simple, boxy home with clean lines? Or perhaps ornate with lots of decorative detailing? Plain, uncluttered exteriors look best when painted with a straightforward one-two color combination. Uniformity of color matches the regularity of home construction. More elaborate house styles may call for between 4-6 different colors. Next, observe your home critically in the outside light. Does the house stand in full sun much of the day? Are there sections of perpetual shadow? How do you expect bright light or shade might alter the appearance of your color choice?
Location Do you live in a beach community? Does your home sit on rural land, or in suburbia? Certain color combinations look best depending on the geographic location of your structure. You wouldn’t paint a farmhouse teal, for example, but against the backdrop of water teal perfectly complements a marine palette. If your home is rural, take color cues from the earth. Bronze-brown, russet red and deep forest green all reflect natural surroundings, and confirm their place in it. Dark colors also tend to make a structure appear smaller. In a rural setting, this leaves more visual space for the beauty of adjacent fields and woodlands. Suburban home color combinations can go bold, but remember that community feel comes into play. You don’t want to stick out significantly from your neighbors. In fact, some homeowner associations won’t allow it. And if you are thinking about putting your home on the market, you want to stay with colors that appeal to a wide variety of potential buyers.
History Consider the history of your home. Do you know there are color charts designated explicitly for historic structures? If your house is old, honor its origin with color combinations unique to the period in which it was built. And if you reside in a historically preserved area, your home’s updates will play an essential role in enhancing the entire district.
Trial Once you’ve come up with likely color combination candidates, it’s time for a trial run, or two. After all, this is a decision you’ll be living with for a while. First, print out pictures of your house in broad daylight. Bring those images to the paint store and compare color chips directly. Seeing small-scale combinations right up against the image of your home may narrow your final contenders. Next, buy tester-size canisters and paint small areas of the house. You’ll probably be surprised to see hues change as the paint dries. You may also note significant color differential in shady spots as opposed to areas with full sun. Most homeowners choose different shades, either lighter or darker, after direct application tests. Once you’ve finally determined the siding and shutter color combination that’s right for you, you can rest assured knowing it also ties together your home’s unique style, location and history. Now, that’s a good vibe!
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HOW-TO UPGRADE YOUR E N T R Y W AY BY ZO E EIS ENB ER G They say first impressions matter, and the entryway of your home is the perfect example. As a part of your foyer area, an entryway can make or break your home’s appearance. Below are some helpful tips for making sure your space wows you--and your guests-- every time you enter. K ILL C LU TTER. Clutter is a huge no-no in your entryway, as it impacts the entire vibe of your space from the moment you set foot in the door. However, this can be hard, as the entryway is the space you dump your keys, mail, boots and coat. To remedy this, make sure you have designated, tucked away spaces for everything you store at the entrance of your home. Hooks for coats, baskets for mail, a covered bin for shoes can all work wonders. As a bonus, this will also prevent you from losing the things you need the most when the time comes to head out. A DD A S TATEMEN T. Placing a beloved piece of art or furniture in the mouth of your home is a great way to appreciate it every time you enter, and can offer a fantastic conversation starter between you and guests. Decorative mirrors, abstract art, and pictures are all ways to implement a statement piece. H AVE A S EAT. Whether it’s a plush chair or a simple bench, a seat in your entryway is great for roosting as you tie your shoelaces, and makes a perfect place for attractive accent pillows. LIGH T IT RIGH T. Good lighting in your entryway is a must. Add an attractive lighting fixture, set up a dimmer for mood, and a floor or table lamp for added options. P ERS O N A L TO U C H ES . Placing photos of your family and pets in your entryway can add a nice personal element and warm your heart every time you pass by.
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EDWARD FAKIER c 985.870.2811
EDWARDFAKIER@KW.COM
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