GORGEOUS Arcadia Lite Home!

GORGEOUS ranch style home in the highly sought after arcadia lite area! Open floor plan, oversized kitchen island with granite countertops for entertaining, diving pool and TWO master bedrooms! Did I mention the separate “playhouse”/”man cave”/”she shed” in the back? You will love this beautifully maintained home. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Monica Pendrick – MonicaPendrick@gmail.com – (602) 753-8710

  

8 steps to buying a home

8 Steps to Buying a Home as presented on Kw.com!

Step 1: Decide to Buy

The decision to purchase your first home is one of the biggest and best choices you could ever make. After all, a home is the largest – and most emotional – investment most people will face in their lifetime. So, how do you know if it’s the right time for you to buy?

There is never a wrong time to buy the right home. The key is finding the right buy and taking the time to carefully evaluate your finances.

A home purchase is an important step that can provide many advantages. Purchasing your own home is a great investment that can deliver several financial benefits – equity build up, value appreciation, automatic savings plan – not to mention a new sense of pride!

Step 2: Hire an Agent

When you’re looking for a real estate professional to help you, know that above all else, good agents put their clients first. This is your dream, and your agent is your advocate to help you make your dream come true.

A great real estate agent will:

• Educate you about the current conditions of the market.
• Analyze what you want and what you need in your next home.
• Guide you to homes that fit your criteria and budget.
• Negotiate on your behalf to get you the best deal possible.
• Check and double-check paperwork and deadlines.
• Inform and discuss with you, and suggest solutions to solve any problems that may arise.

Step 3: Secure Financing

To make the financing process as painless as possible, ask your agent to introduce you to the preferred financing consultant. This professional will work with you and your agent to make sure the financial aspect of your home purchase is stress free.

Step 4: Find your Home

So you’ve met with your trusted advisors, and now you’re ready to begin your search. But how or where do you start? There are a lot of homes out there, and diving in without a guide can become overwhelming and confusing. The right home will meet all your important needs, and as many of your additional wants as possible.

Determine your needs and ask yourself:

1. What amenities are crucial for you and your family?
2. How much space do you need and why?
3. Which is more critical: location or size?
4. Would you be interested in a fixer-upper?
5. How important is home value appreciation?
6. Is neighborhood stability a priority?
7. Is accessibility to main routes a priority?
8. What features are not negotiable in your new property?

Step 5: Make an Offer

Once you’ve found a home you love, the next step is deciding on a price. It’s important to remember that a home is an investment. Your agent can give you information on other properties in the neighborhood to help you ensure you make an informed decision when it comes to price. Look to your agent to explain and guide you through the offer process.

Some things to consider when deciding on the best price point are:

1. List price – Start with the price point that the home is listed at. This will give you a base when looking at the home’s value.
2. Market Analysis – Your agent will give you an idea of comparable home values in the neighborhood to help you decide if the price point is on par.
3. Improvements – Your agent can give you a list of improvements made to the home and help you determine its market value.

Step 6: Perform Due Diligence

Once you are under contract, you’ll have 10 days (unless otherwise coordinated) to complete a full home inspection. Hire a home and termite inspector to thoroughly go through the home and point out any major problems.

Knowing what work has and has not been done to your home is important information to have in the buying process. While updates can increase your home value, damages can take money out of your pocket. Your main concern is the possibility of structural damage, which can come from water, shifting ground or poor construction.

Very often a problem appears to be big, but can be fixed with very little effort and not a huge budget.

Step 7: Close

Once you’ve determined a price point you’re comfortable with, you’re in the “home” stretch! But, in order to ensure that you don’t put the property purchase at risk, you have a couple responsibilities that you’ll need to keep in mind:

1. Staying in control of your credit and finances – Do not make any large purchases during this time. It’s important to keep your financials steady throughout the buying process. Talk to your financial consultant for guidance.
2. Keeping in touch with your agent and financial consultant – It’s important to stay in constant communication with your Keller Williams agent and financial guide during this process. Be sure to return all phone calls and complete paperwork promptly. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your team is there to help you!

Step 8: Protect Your Assets

Congratulations, and welcome home! The home-buying process is complete, which means it’s time for your maintenance plan! It’s now your responsibility, and in your best financial interest, to protect your investment for years to come. Performing routine maintenance on your home’s systems is always more affordable than having to fix big problems later. Be sure to watch for signs of leaks, damage and wear.

And remember, just because the sale is complete, your relationship with your Keller Williams agent doesn’t need to end! After you buy, your agent can still help you – providing information on the real estate market, finding contractors and repair services, and even tracking your home’s current value.

Happy home-owning!

Price Your Real Estate Listings to Sell – KW Blog

Price Your Real Estate Listings to Sell – KW Blog.

Rentals Hold Steady

Rentals in Phoenix according to Debra Hill Fox, Arizona Sales Managaer at NPM Staffing, INC educator:

The home rental arena has seen a consistent incline for the past several years. Average rental prices and vacancy rates have become the hot topics as industry reports continue to point out that renting is the popular housing choice in Phoenix metro, especially for the millennials. It has become normal to see apartment communities popping up all over the Valley. Rental rates have been steadily increasing from an average of $750 in 4th quarter 2012 to an average of $808 in 4th quarter 2014. However, in 2015 we’ve seen rental rates remain fairly steady from the 2014 increases as the homeownership market is coming back.

Below are some average Phoenix metro statistics related to rentals:

ASKING RENT

– Highest rent: South Scottsdale: $1,126 ($981 in 4th quarter 2013)

– Lowest rent: West Central Phoenix $559 ($583 in 4th quater 2013)

The end of 2014 was the 10th consecutive quarter of year over year asking rent increases with 27 to 30 submarkets having higher asking rents than they did in 4th quarter 2013. In fact, the last quarter of 2014 recorded the highest ever average rents in Phoenix metro. At the same time, 2015 eviction filings have declined and complaints for fair housing have risen, which suggests a slowing trend in future rent growth.

VACANCIES 

– Highest vacancy: South Scottsdale: 17.5% (11.8% in 4th quarter 2013)

– Lowest vacancy: NW/SW County 2.7% (8.1% in 4th quarter 2013)

NEW CONSTRUCTION

The year 2014 generated 24 projects comprising of 5,658 units added to the market. In 4th quarter 2014 there were 34 projects comprising of 8,298 units scheduled or under construction in 2015.

The rental market in Phoenix metro will continue to remain strong throughout this year. It will be interesting to see how steady rental rates and the growth of homeownership will impact the real estate market overall.

Preparing for a Home Inspection

Buying or selling a home? A home inspection is most likely in your near future. While a buyer will almost always request an inspection, sellers are frequently jumping ahead of the game and hiring their own home inspector.

Here are some tips from Advantage Inspection Service for preparing for a home inspection:

While the home inspection is conducted by the home inspection professional, both sellers and buyers can prepare themselves for the process. Sellers will have the most work to do- prepare the house in advance to save time and make the most of the home inspection visit.

To start, sellers should clean their home! This may seem obvious, but it is often overlooked. A home inspector does not judge the home or its mechanical systems by its cleanliness, but a home in disarray may lead the inspector to wonder what lurks underneath. In addition, it will be much easier for the inspector to do their job without having clutter or belongings in the way.

In particular, areas around appliances, electrical panels, heating and cooling units, water heaters and shut-off valves should be clear and available to the inspector. Dishwashers and washing machines should be emptied because an inspector will turn them on, even if they are not included in a sale to make sure plumbing and electrical lines are working.

Home inspectors also need access to any attic space, garage shed, basement, or crawlspace. Doors should be open and unlocked.

As a seller, stay ahead of the game buy fixing obvious repairs before the inspector points them out. Fixing items such as handles, knobs, faucets, broken windows or hanging cabinets will keep down the number of items on the home inspection report.  Other issues that may send up a red flag for an inspector include ceiling stains, chimney defects, fogging windows, rotted exterior wood or mold.

The seller may not care to fix a larger issue such as an aging roof, but it makes sense to acknowledge such an issue and then adjust the home price accordingly. Always keep receipts and invoices for repairs.

Buyers should always plan to meet the inspector at the end to go over everything. Attending the inspection gives you the chance to learn your way around the home and get an in-depth look at the property. Be on time and having a list of pertinent questions that they wish to ask.

Remember that every home inspection will uncover some flaws in the property, even if it is a new build. Expect problems and be prepared to work them out with the seller.

For a full list of how to prepare for a home inspection,visit the National Association of Home Inspectors site.

5 Tips for finding a great real estate agent

Choosing your real estate agent can be a tough decision. Agents are a crucial part of the real estate transaction and are responsible for negotiating on your behalf. Finding the right agent can take a little work.

Here are five tips from azcentral.com for finding a great real estate agent:

1. Interview family and friends: It’s likely that you have friends or family who have recently bought or sold a home. Find out what they liked, didn’t like and what they learned. Ask if they’d recommend their agent and the reasons why.

2. Look around: Check out the neighborhoods you are possibly interested in living in. Look at online listings for houses that meet your basic wish list. Attend open houses to meet agents hosting them and determine if that agent fits your criteria. If the agent specializes in that area, even better!

3. Consider a specialist: Kara Morrison from azcentral.com suggests, “If you’re looking at a particular kind of property, such as a historical home, contemporary architecture, a short sale or even a new-construction home in an age-restricted community, you may want to find an agent who has special experience in these areas.”

4. Interview the agent: It’s recommended to interview an agent, or two, to determine if he or she fits your needs. Meeting an agent in person will help you determine how they will communicate, their energy and motivation. Share your wants and needs with the agent to see if they are able to properly assist you in the process of finding your new home. 

5. Check that the agent is licensed: In order to be a practicing agent, you must have an active license. If an agent is a true Realtor, then they are a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

For more information visit azcentral.com

Underestimate Keller Williams at Your Own Risk

Without the support and training from my KW office I wouldn’t be where I am at today. Thank you to KW & KWBP for putting your agents and their goals as a priority. Can’t wait to see what 2015 brings us!

Robert Santilli

Explosive growth, agent-centric, and resource-abounding; just 3 reasons why I’m humbled to be apart of this thriving, international real estate organization.

Underestimate Keller Williams at your own risk | Inman News

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Home Maintenance Tips for first time homebuyers

Congratulations! Buying your first home is an exciting and proud moment.. You’ve put a lot of time, money, hope and joy into this process and now you’ve finally received your keys- YAY! Here are some valuable tips for maximizing the value and comfort of your home from home inspection expert John Elson at Inspect-it 1st.

Garage Door

Garage doors are typically very heavy and are controlled by a spring or cable and roller and track system that assist the door panels to move up or down. Your door can be one of the most dangerous appliances in your home- with the click of a button it can be opened or closed.

Elson recommends:

• Keep doors lubricated by applying a spray on the spindles, at least once a year.
• Make sure the electronic door sensor at the base of the track on both sides are properly aligned so that the door will reverse if something crosses the sensor’s path

Washer & Dryer

As with all appliances, the washer and dryer in your laundry room require periodic attention to function at peak performance.

• Consider having a licensed plumber install a unified ball valve that allows you to easily turn off both hot and cold supplies with a quarter turn of a single handle.
• Keep the dryer lint filter clean and be certain that your dryer vents to the exterior of your home.
• Consider converting rubber washing machine hoses to wire mesh hoses; wire mesh is less likely to leak at the couplings.

Water Heater

In general, water heaters are low maintenance appliances. Set the water heater thermostat to a temperature no higher than 120 degrees. The goal is to not have scalding water come out of the faucet so if there isn’t an actual temperature gauge, try using the “medium” setting and wait a few hours before testing.The hotter the water, the more energy you use.

• If your heater is new, regular or periodic draining of the tank is recommended to remove sediment build-up.
• If the water heater is more than a year or two old, daring the tank may cause the drain valve to leak or not completely shut off as a result of turning.

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)

According to Elson, HVAC systems are some of the most sophisticated and costly items in the home. He recommends annual maintenance by a qualified technician to ensure both systems are functioning properly and stay clean.

• Install vent filters in the return vents of HVAC systems. Elson recommends a mid-level filter of medium thickness for most homeowners.
• Look for dirty grills at both return and supply vents on the ventilation system. Dirty grills impair performance and may cause dirt and dust to become airborne. Keep grills clean by either vacuuming or spraying with a non-toxic cleaner and then cleaning with a rag.

Toilets

Any appliance that uses water should be paid special attention, especially one used as frequently as the toilet.

• Verify proper operation to ensure that it shuts off completely after the flush cycle is done.
• Ensure that the caulk at the base of the toilet is in good shape- it’s there to help prevent water from a wet mop from damaging the flooring material underneath the toilet.
• Check all connections and bolts including the water supply line for leaks at both couplings and supply shut-off, as well as the tank hold-down bolts if installed.

Doors & Windows

Maintenance of windows and doors is easily and often overlooked. Keeping doors and windows clean and lubricated is important.

• Use a vacuum to clean door and window tracks, thresholds and sills. Dust and debris can prevent proper closure of doors and windows, and can cause damage to the hardware.
• Once clean, Elson recommends lightly sprang moving parts such as hinges and locks with silicone spray to keep them moving freely.

For Elson’s full report and more information, click here.

The 12 Days of Holiday Safety

Today we bring you the 12 Days of Safety for the holiday season.

A Christmas fire would most certainly be a Christmas disaster. Exposed candles could create havoc in your home so place them safely in the center of a table and out of reach of any young children.

Pointsettia plants are beautiful to the eye but are actually very poisonous. Keep your pets and children safe by keeping these and other poisonous plants on top of shelves and out of reach.

Real trees can dry up if not given enough water. The dry needles are very susceptible to fire so you must keep your tree out of reach of any spark or ash that may pop out of nowhere.

No one wants their tree to topple over, especially when animals or children are running around it. Purchase a stand that is wide enough to support your tree. Secure the tree in place with the mounting screws.

When choosing an artificial tree, find one that is fire resistant. Many people choose an artificial tree for safety reasons so ensure that yours is fire resistant so that you can leave your lights on as long as you’d like.

Water your tree every 2-3 days to ensure that it doesn’t dry out. To keep your tree healthy even longer, purchase tree food to mix with the water. Giving your tree proper nutrients will help it last a lot longer.

Gaps or frayed wires can result in a fire or burnout. While you’re untangling your lights from the box, keep an eye out for any missing parts or worn out strands. It’s worth the money to replace the strands and save yourself from the risk of fire inside or out.

It’s easy to forget to turn off your lights late at night, especially if they are outside. If possible, buy a timer for your lights to turn on just after dusk and to turn off around your usual bed time. Leaving your lights on can burn them out or lead to other accidents. Plus, it’ll cost you a lot of extra money if you keep the lights on 24/7.

Make hanging the lights an easy process. Use a step stool or ladder to reach places above your head. Losing your balance while holding a strand of two of lights could end in a mess. Kids love participating so get out a step ladder so they can help decorations in those “out of reach” places.

Obviously this should be an unwritten rule every day of the week. With so many Christmas parties, holiday events and family get togethers it’s almost inevitable that someone will be having a drink or two. Designate a sober driver or commit to taking a cab. Uber is an awesome alternative to traditional cab rides and offer free rides to new clients with special codes.

Safety in the kitchen is always a major priority. When handling any raw meats or ingredients such as peanuts that many people are allergic to, keep the kitchen clean. Wash your hands often and don’t cross contaminate utensils. When it don’t, wash it out.

At Christmas parties it’s easy to get carried away in conversation and forget to put away food. Be mindful of dishes that need to be refrigerator and don’t let them sit out too long. When preheating foods, allow them to cook to at least 165 internal temperature to ensure that any bacteria or germs are killed off.

Prime Time to buy or sell in Phoenix.

Contrary to other parts of the county, housing deals can simply be made over the holidays. In Phoenix, were not out shoveling snow or fighting below freezing temperatures.. It’s quite the opposite. We’re bundling up with light hoodies and boots in 60-70 degree temperatures (on a good day). With that being said, the next few months are a prime time for the housing market!

According to Catherine Reagor from azcentral.com, “The first three months of the year are some of the Valley’s strongest for sales. Many deals made during the holidays close during the first quarter.”

Listings have jumped up 13% from last month!  With almost 10,000 new listings it’s a great time for a buyer to start shopping. Home prices and sales have been trending down during the past months, and sellers should be prepared for buyers looking for deals during the holidays.

With Christmas season in full effect, buyers will feel welcome in a wonderfully decorated home.  Very few home buyers are truly turned off by holiday decor. Home buyers like the idea of a home looking like it fits into a neighborhood- just constrain yourself from going all out on the 10 foot blow-up Santa on the roof. Buyers don’t want to be drowned in your personal treasures, but a little big of personality adds comfort and joy to most homes.

Home sales in Phoenix are expected to climb back up as tens of thousands of visitors come to the Valley for the Superbowl, Pro-bowl and Phoenix Open. Act now and reward yourself with one of the greatest Christmas gifts of all- a new home for you and your family.