A great time to buy & sell

Summer is over and school has started. Soon will come cooler weather and the buyers and sellers will come out and the market will heat up. Are you ready to buy or sell? PLEASE give me a call/text/email!!

Kim Pratt
kimwillsellyourhouse@gmail.com
469.865.6882

Have you "LIKED" my facebook page? http://goo.gl/iynEik

Winter Lawn Tips

Here are some steps to help your lawn for this Winter.

1.Gradually lower the mowing height of your mower. Any young growth makes your lawn more vulnerable to winter diseases which can leave you with a dried out brown winter lawn. However, trim the lawn gradually in several steps to avoid suddenly removing all the green leaf tissue and damaging the turf.

2.Clear your lawn of any debris that can smother your grass. Toys, kid pools, and other items should not be left of the grass and turf, especially if you live in a climate that may cause snow.

3.Research what plants thrive in your region. Apply this knowledge when planning your spring planting.

SAVE MONEY...Even When Dining Out.

Here are 5 Simple Things to Save a Little Money:

1. Go for lunch instead of dinner, entrees are cheaper.
2. Eat earlier and take advantage of twilight specials or happy hour menus.
3. Skip drinks and opt for tap water.
4. Have dessert at home.
5. Look for coupons or discounts on weeknights.

Have a GREAT Day && SAVE some MONEY!!

The Advantages of Buying a Property through a Real Estate Agent

The advantages of buying a property through a real estate agent

There are several benefits to purchasing a property through a real estate agent. See below for just some of the reasons why you should hire an expert.

• Education - A qualified agent has been educated in the real estate market and has valuable professional experience in assisting in the sale and purchase of properties.
• Pricing expertise - Agents will tell you when a house is overpriced or underpriced according to the comparable.
• Buffers - Agents will field phone calls from contractors (if you are looking at new construction) or homeowners, saving you time and aggravation.
• Location information - Agents either have knowledge or they know where to find the industry buzz about your neighborhood. They can identify comparable sales and advise you if a neighborhood is likely to hold its value.
• Code knowledge - An agent will be familiar with local zoning ordinances and answer any questions you may have regarding future construction.
• Skilled negotiators - Agents can remove themselves from the emotional aspects of the transaction and submit requests objectively and forward them to the seller. They are professionals who are trained to present their client's case in the best light and agree to hold client information confidential from competing interests.
• Paperwork - Property transactions require a lot of paperwork. One mistake or omission could land you in court or cost you thousands, so it really pays to let a licensed professional guide you.

Give me a call today and let me help you!!

469.865.6882

---

Tips for Selling Your Home this Fall

No matter what the season, or where you live, remember the tried-and-true tips when presenting your home to potential buyers. It is always important that your home is neat, organized, clean and clutter-free during an open house or private showings. However, here are some ideas on how to take advantage of the fall season to really make your house stand out.

1. ‘Tis the season - spruce up your entryway and yard with plants that thrive in the fall like chrysanthemums. A cornstalk or pumpkin on the front porch, or a decorative fall wreath on the front door is a nice touch…though all accents should be in moderation.
2. Safety first - Don’t forget to rake the leaves, as they can be slippery on sidewalks and steps. Also, scattered leaves may detract from your home’s facade.
3. Sugar and spice - Capitalize on the season with scented pinecones or cinnamon sticks to create warm fall aromas inside your home.
4. Rain or shine - Depending on the weather, you may need an indoor mat so the floors don’t become treacherous.
5. Warm hearth - A fireplace is a desired feature, make it a focal point of your open house with a fire and arrange the furniture accordingly.
6. Food for thought - It’s always good to provide delicious treats during an open house so potential buyers linger. Warm pie, hot apple cider, or fresh cookies and milk are good selections for a cozy fall snack that will make potential buyers feel at home.

I would love to get your home on the market and SOLD this fall.

Give me a call today!!

469.865.6882

Are YOU working with the right lender?

In the whirl wind that surrounds the home buying and mortgage process, how can a consumer be sure that they are working with the right lender? I mean there are so many choices…here’s some things to consider:

What type of company is it?

There are mortgage brokers, mortgage bankers and banks/credit unions. Mortgage brokers have been hamstrung by many of the recent regulatory changes and typically lack the actual ability to approve and/or lock a loan. Banks are usually limited in program choices and hamstrung by tighter underwriting. Mortgage bankers have the financial stability and direct lending capability of the bank coupled with the wide product menu and expertise of the mortgage broker. From a global perspective, I see mortgage bankers as a clear winner.

How does the company operate?

Many people are dismayed when they find out where their loan is processed or underwritten….or where the appraiser is from. It is important to work with a company (and their affiliates) who understand the nuances of your local market. Asking the questions up front can save you headaches down the road.

What about the individual loan officer?

Your relationship with your LO (and their processor) becomes the most important ingredient to a successful transaction. How well do they educate you about the process, the requirements…the factors that determine your approval or the interest rate you will get? Many LOs are “order takers”. Others are weak in follow up or communication. This is difficult to determine on your own which is why the referral from another person who used them or your real estate agent has far more value than most people know (until it’s too late).

Too many people stay focused on quoted rates and fees and neglect to see the whole picture of what is needed from a lender. Look for great communication, superior information and education, understanding of the local market and someone who looks at your application as something more than a number. Be prepared to pay a little more to get a better experience (even though it might not cost you any more)….in the long run, lowering stress can be more important.

I work with a GREAT Lender at Cendera Funding, Jill Clifton...

Her cell is the best way to reach her - 214.232.0979.

Give her a call and she will take GREAT care of you.

Thank you KCM Blog for this GREAT Information.

Need Listings in Mansfield, TX

Thought You'd be Interested

I have clients ready to purchase in the Walnut Creek area of Mansfield, TX...I also know of several agents who have clients looking in the same area. Let me know if you or someone you know is interested getting your home on the market with the potential of selling right away!! kimpratt@judgefite.com