Saturday, October 20, 2012

Sellers Advice-Price Your Home Right

Price Your Home Right for whom?
 
People often think selling a home is free. In fact, successful sellers must have a budget for marketing their home.

This is the most asked question by clients: "How do I price my home?" The answer will be different and situational.
-What's your motivation? Newly divorced, widow/widower, downsizing, upsizing, job transfer, relocation or closer to family?
-This will vary if the home in a custom-built area or a master-planned community of non-custom homes.

  1. Play up what is special about your property.
  2. Determine who is your target audience?
  3. Once you discuss this with your agent, be sure there is targeted outreach.
The first reality check is having at least three comps (Homes that sold in a comparable price range) from your neighborhood within a mile or gated master-planned community. You are in direct competition with comparable properties.

People make judgments about furniture
Be sure your furniture is well placed and in good condition with accessories.

Items to consider:
-You may require professional staging—Ask me about staging tips. This process may actually remove items to open rooms to appear more spacious.
-Paint using calm, complimentary tones.
-Accessorize with plants and mirrors.
-Provide a fresh door mat.
-Keep kitchen sink clean and clear.
-Wash windows inside and out.
-Toilets flushed.
-Carpets cleaned. 
-Improve grout condition.
-Kitchen counters free of clutter.

Immaculately white-glove clean on all surfaces
-Light bulbs replaced
-Cooking and pet odors are a big turn off for prospects.
-Garage is part of the house: Must be neat and clean
-Put extraneous items in storage
-Give it away.
  
Have a pet strategy like animal daycare:
-Fragrance vs. odor—Avoid fragrances that may be offensive. 
-People have allergies to them.
-Use spray fresheners sparingly.

Great curb appeal makes you memorable and forms that hard-to-shake first impression.
It is PULL marketing attracting people who will put you on their top property list.
  • Landscaping well maintained, creative architectural plan
  • Lighting
  • Manicured yard
Buyers mentally score points for the following:
  • Exposure on the lot—north/south is the most popular. It depends on where people come from. Canadians have different preferences than Europeans, for example.
  • What can you mask on your lot if there are obstacles like traffic, proximity to other homes.
  • For example, fountains are a useful way to add ambiance while minimizing street noise. Trellises with rich vines can cover a bleak wall.
  • Clean garage entry door.
Consider what you see first when entering from the front door.
  • Clutter impairs ability to imagine their things in the space.
  • Colors, accent colors are personal preferences. However, busy designs and loud colors are off putting to some people.
  • Neutral tones are benign.
  • Put prescription medications and valuables in safe deposit box.
Tips for open houses:
  • Consider having hard wrapped candy, not messy chocolate!
  • Bottled water is courteous.
  • Use a guest book—if people don't have a business card
  • Fish bowl drawing for a report or download.
  • Provide an inexpensive away with a photo of your property on a book mark.This makes you memorable especially when prospects see many places.
Consider these Resources for inexpensive touches and accessories:
-Pier 1
-World Market

It's up to us to position your property as the best value and dealWe work as a team to accomplish that and sell your home.

Regards,
Ted



Tuesday, August 28, 2012

How to Make A Difference/Race for the Cure Team Trilogy

GO WITH TEAM TRILOGY TO KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE
Sunday, October 14

Once again, our Trilogy neighborhood will have the opportunity to take part in Race for the Cure! What a great way to support an important cause, get some exercise, and enjoy an outing with neighbors! This year our goal is to have 100 people on TEAM TRILOGY.

BUS TRANSPORTATION  
Leave the driving and parking to us! Join the Trilogy team on the bus that will take us to the race in downtown Phoenix and home again. Sign up for the bus at the Kiva Club Guest Services desk by October 10.

Friends and family outside of Trilogy are welcome to join TEAM TRILOGY and take the bus, too! Cost for the bus is $10.00 per person, kept at a reduced rate for the eighth year, as Ted and Lana Friedman underwrite the cost difference for the bus.
-The bus departs promptly from Trilogy at 7:00 a.m. The 5K walk (3.1 mile) is at 8:40 a.m. -The bus will leave downtown promptly at 10:15 a.m. to return to Trilogy.


REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Register for the 5K WALK online (Adults: $30, Breast Cancer Survivors: $20, Youth, age 12 & under: $15) at  http://www.komenphoenix.org/komen-race-for-the-cure/teams. Click on “JOIN A TEAM”. Be sure to sign up on-line by September 28 by 5:00 p.m. to be a part of TEAM TRILOGY and to receive a FREE MAILING of your race bib and Komen t-shirt.  Team captain is Ted Friedman.  If you need help signing up online, stop by the Kiva Club Member Services desk.  Someone there will assist you in registering online.
TEAM TRILOGY T-SHIRTS   TEAM TRILOGY members will also receive a special complimentary team t-shirt to wear at the race.  Three years ago, for the first time, we had team t-shirts, thanks to several sponsors!  Our team was announced by the M.C. as we passed the start line.  The team members were very proud to represent our neighborhood!

RACE FOR THE CURE PASTA NIGHT
Race for the Cure Pasta Night is at the Kiva Club, Thursday night, October 11. The Cost will be announced. If you would like an email update, please contact Lana directly.
ALL Trilogy residents and guests are invited to attend! Come out and support the team!  Team members will receive their TEAM TRILOGY t-shirts at the dinner and breast cancer survivors will be recognized and honored.

For additional information, please contact Ted & Lana Friedman, Contact Lana directly
RSVP—623-476-2491 call or text
More information at Race for the Cure Komen.

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Tips from Ted—East Valley Eatery

People always ask me about where to go around town. Whether you're visiting from out of state, enjoying special events with family or just love a great deal, enjoy a meal at Buster's on the Lake in the east valley.

Buster’s on the Lake, Scottsdale, Arizona (Via de Ventura & Hayden)
480-951-5850
8320 N. Hayden Road

This is a great spot for client meetings overlooking the lake on McCormick Ranch.
Enjoy a range of deductibles from sliders ($4.95) to baby back ribs (half slab $10.95 with coleslaw), don’t miss these happy hour specials. Treat yourself when over in Scottsdale.
Daily 3-7pm.
Cosmo Martinis $5
Domestic drafts $2.50

I'd enjoy hearing from you on your experience. Call (623) 824-9016, text to that number or email your feedback. Thanks. TF

PS—Team Trilogy now forming-Race for the Cure. We could use your help even if you're not in the race. Sign up now. TF

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Tips from Ted -- Great Food, Great Fun!

Great Food, Great Fun . . . at great prices!

Johnny Fox's Authentic Irish Pub
Fantastic Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-6 p.m.
All menu items are 50% off.
$3 well drinks, $1 draft drinks, $3 house wines.
Enjoy yourself in this authentic setting of authentic Irish pub. Check out the entertainment as well.
Arrowhead Entertainment District (101 Freeway & Bell Rd. area)____________________________

The novelty never wears off the Grand Canyon Railway adventures. Youngsters especially love riding the train. Throughout the year, there are themes played out on board. The most notable is The Polar Express around the winter holidays. Children are mesmerized by the sights and sounds of the decorated train. Delighted children come in their P.J.s and enjoy the story telling, hot chocolate and decorated train cars. It is a lovely memory maker. It's delightful and not to be missed.

More information is online at www.thetrain.com


Enjoy our close-to-home fun and life in Arizona TF

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Do You Like Movies? Ted's Tips . . .

Ted's Tips . . .

Harkin's Theatres have great deals for movie goers:

1. Any age, loyalty cup & T-shirt program—What do you get? 
  • 1 shirt—you receive a medium popcorn good through the calendar year. Cost: $25.00 (while supplies last)
  • 1 loyalty drink cup—you receive refills for $1 through the year—Cost: $4.75 (while supplies last)

2. Kids "Summer Movie Fun" program through the summer—10 movies, 10 weeks per child=less than $1.00 per show.

3. Senior citizens (60+) enjoy $6.50 tickets any time except road shows.

Have fun and keep cool! TF

Monday, July 30, 2012

Tips from Ted July 30, 2012

Cromford Report: Demand for single-family homes is very strong . . . 

Ted's Tip: Buy NOW before prices rise excessively and quickly. 

Why?
Multiple offers are back, especially in the $100,000-$300,000 price range. Investors are here with cash in hand. See something you like? Grab it. One property had 95 offers–51 of them were investors. 

Active adult communities have increased realty activity, but, not currently at the same pace as non-age qualified.

Be sure to call, text or email your requests to call (623) 476-2491 or ted@BirdieGolfHomes.com.

Complimentary Buyer's Guides are now available by emailing lana@BirdieGolfHomes.com and writing "Guides" in the subject field. TF

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Introducing Ted's Picks . . . Restaurants this post

Coming to the Valley of the Sun—for fun, investment or buying a home?
Check out my first restaurant pick—Don & Charlie's Steakhouse.
Enjoy this sports memorabilia heaven and perhaps seeing sports' celebrities while enjoying one of the best food places in the Valley.

What most people don't know is about the "Six by Six" Menu.

Six by Six Big Deal—Available Monday through Friday
From 5:00 TO 6:00 P.M. ONLY.
NOT AVAILABLE FOR PARTIES MORE THAN 10Don & Charlie's policy—separate checks divided equally.

Location: Less than five minutes from Scottsdale Fashion Square (Civic Center Dr. & Camelback Rd.)
Don & Charlie's Steakhouse
7501 E. Camelback Rd.
Scottsdale Arizona 85251
(480) 990-0900
Reservations recommended up to 20 people.
Call ahead same day.

Regular Hours: Closed on Mondays
5:00 - 9:30 Tuesday - Saturday
5:00 - 9:00 on Sunday

/TF

Friday, June 1, 2012

How much better can it get?

The Wall Street Journal reported today that 15-year mortgage rates fell further to average 2.97% with lowest fees circling 0.7% of the loan amount. These numbers are significant having fallen below 3% since Freddie Mac started tracking it.

Don't forget the 30-year rate fell last week to an average 3.75%.

Ask yourself if this is the time to buy—"Home much better can it get?" TF

Chicken Little was wrong!

 


It's not the sky that is falling, it's the mortgage interest rates!

Mortgage Rates Hit Century Low to 3.78% since long-term mortgages began in the 1950s.
The key is an individual's credit rating. It determines the rate.

Also, consider that activity is boosted by changing market conditions, too. For example, publicity about the Phoenix metro area has boosted interest from out-of-staters. 

Stay tuned . . . TF

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Ready for today's newest real estate reality?

Finally, good news from the marketplace—Multiple offers are back!


What you need to know about preparing an offer in today's market as a power player:

You will have more influence when you show up prepared.
1. Be initially pre-approved by your financial institution
2. Make a cash offer and provide proof of cash funds:
    -Bank statements
    -Securities statement
    -Insurance statement.
3.  Depending on your desired location, properties will rise and fall. Check the areas before going out with a Realtor® and you won't waste time, and  you're more likely to find what you want in the best location.
4. Consider there tends to be more inventory in age-qualified communities. These locales are ideal for vacation homes. The advantage is on resale, short sales or foreclosures where you may not be dealing with as many multiple offers in non-age qualified neighborhoods.

For example, Trilogy at Vistancia, in Peoria, Arizona since January, 65 homes sold (19 in the month of April alone!)

This is an ideal time to acquire second homes in Arizona. There is something for everyone. Consider the cosmopolitan and cooler temperatures of Flagstaff. You're only a five-hour drive to Santa Fe and off Hwy. 40 heading to Las Vegas in four hours. With the Northern Arizona University there, amenities—from theater to medical facilities, activities are abundant.

Heading northeast in Arizona, approximately four hours, is Pinetop with beautiful mountain vistas and a wonderful place to enjoy  mild temperatures during the summer season. Popular Prescott and world-class destination Sedona are easy to accesses well. Take your pick.

Happy interstate traveling! TF

Friday, March 16, 2012

Golf Anyone?


If you play birdie golf, you play like a pro. So, I named our website, BirdieGolfHomes.com, because our clients want pros working for them when  looking for exceptional homes.


Lana and I live and work in a golf community, Trilogy at Vistancia, next to Vistancia Village and Blackstone country club gated neighborhood. The award-winning Gary Panks designed golf course earned the prestigous Golf Digest 5-star designation. 

When visiting Phoenix, wrap up a wonderful day of golf at Trilogy on the beautiful 18th hole. Golf Digest says, "It's a must-play once in your life at any price." 

The clubhouse offers scenic views, ambiance, a pro shop and full-service dining at the Verde Grill. Stop by for a tour. Just email me at ted@BirdieGolfHomes.com and we will set a time. TF

Hit a home run while Spring Training is still on

This  is a great time to hit a home run with your home if you were wondering, "Is this a good time to sell?"

Spring Training, running through April 4, 2012, in its first week, experienced 250,000 spectators. People are here and they are looking because the weather is superb, great shopping and entertainment and they are getting the bug that, "I could live here, full or part time." Hm-m-m.

For golfers, visitors love our Metro Phoenix's golf courses. They become smitten with the variety of courses, levels of skill and surrounding beauty.

For tennis players, what a great time to fall in "love." Visitors enjoy the mild weather.


In many neighborhoods, multiple offers on homes are becoming common. TF

Friday, March 2, 2012

Shoppers Heaven Just Got New Wing!



Ready for another shopping experience?

Tanger Factory Outlet Centers Inc. intends to open a new open-air mall in the Westgate Shopping City Center in Glendale. This news is greeted with optimism for the Arizona economy.

This is a boom for Phoenix's West Valley. The 328,000 s.f. modern design site blends with the existing Westgate Shopping City Center, replete with dancing fountains and rich colors around on billboards. Pedestrian-friendly spaces have courtyards and some covered park like areas. The center will feature 85 brand-name stores to be completed by 2012 year end.

Most of the active adult-resort living communities (55+) are in the West Valley. This will add to the tax base and add a new entertainment center. TF


Ted Friedman, Designated Broker/Agent
623/476-2491
FriedmanRealtyAssociates@gmail.com
www.BirdieGolfHomes.com



Friday, February 24, 2012

Money Is Cheap




Money is cheap like never before.

So, why are people not rushing into the market, particularly in active adult communities? They don't want to be the first to take the plunge into the market.
Fact is, the market is turning and others have taken that first step. So, come on in, the "water" is fine and benefit from the exceptional bargains that are disappearing from the market.

The Fed projects low mortgage rates until 2014. (Wall Street Journal, 1/26/12)

People are spending money. They are putting themselves back into the market. Supply and demand is back. This is what we've been waiting for.

Considering a move to Arizona?
What does that mean for people considering a move to Arizona, Phoenix area? The wait is over.
Forget the media and get in on the heating-up marketing. Pent up demand is beginning to explode with multiple offers, something we haven't seen for years. For example, The Arizona Republic (1/31/12 Business/Retail) reported, " . . . . since November, purchases rose to $4 billion from last year."

Talk to your lender, whether it is a mortgage broker or financial institution. Act now! TF

Ted Friedman, Designated Broker/Agent
623/476-2491
FriedmanRealtyAssociates@gmail.com
www.BirdieGolfHomes.com

Phoenix, Peoria Offer Top-Tier Adult Resort Living Choices

Phoenix, Peoria, offer top-tier adult-resort living choices. These 5-Star amenities are rejuvenating for active adults.

Location, location, location . . .
Another factor for these prime spots is location—And, it's all relative.

A few ideas to consider when buying a home to fulfill your lifestyle:
    1.    What does your choice have to be near?
    2.    What types of facilities like medical, cultural, religious are deal breakers?
    3.    What are the issues regarding a commute for work or visiting friends and family.
    4.    Can I 'sample' the location before I buy?

Everything we wanted . . .
One of the many reasons Lana and I chose Trilogy at Vistancia was the projected proximity to everything we wanted:
    •    We're avid sports fans and we attend the games. The northwest valley is home to the Arizona Cardinals, for example, and the stadium is 20 minutes from Trilogy in Peoria, Arizona. Also, spring training for major league baseball is big here. Take your pick from the Seattle Mariners, SF Giants, and San Diego Padres. These events bring vibrancy and fun to your lifestyle.
    •    The Phoenix/Peoria northwest valley is teeming with energy and entertainment when you want it. Miles of hiking trails and camp grounds are easily accessed of the freeways. As a gateway to Sedona, Flagstaff, Wickenburg, Prescott and other desirable "get aways," you can be on a perpetual vacation whenever you want.
    •    Trilogy has the benefit of proximity to Lake Pleasant and the new Scorpion Bay Mariner. Rent a boat, jet ski, kayak or fishing are a few of the pleasant choices you can make. Also, there is full-service restaurant, Dillon's, at the mariner. You can make a day of it.

Trends are moving fast
People ask me, "Is this the time to buy?" It couldn't be better—rates are the lowest in decades and inventory has dwindled so as each day passes there are less choices. Now IS the time. TF

Ted Friedman, Designated Broker/Agent
623/476-2491
FriedmanRealtyAssociates@gmail.com
www.BirdieGolfHomes.com

Peak Season is Now in Phoenix!


Hole-in-One-Report

Peak Season is NOW!

Each year Arizona has a huge influx of folks from around the world who are drawn by Metro Phoenix's world class events:
    •    Spring Training around the Valley of the Sun
    •    Barrett Jackson Car Show and Auction
    •    Arabian Horse Show
    •    TPC Golf Tournament
    •    PF Chang's Rock 'N' Roll Marathon
    •    and the list grows . . .
Annually these events focus attention on our communities.

Plus, snowbirds and people from cold winter states or cities are eager to move to Phoenix, especially after escaping inches of ice, snow and storms. Who can blame them when within two hours drive, there is a 25 degree differential if they want a change of scenery. (When speaking with folks, few realize that Arizona has four seasons.)

To the sellers benefit, people from out of town have different perspectives than locals. Many are on a vacation and are relaxed. They can easily "fall in love" with Phoenix/Peoria/West Valley area and want to purchase a home. It can be an impulse and you want to have that on your side.

Watch the headlines about Arizona's  turnaround, lower prices for utilities, groceries, gas, food and services. Get in on the upswing.

If you are looking to sell, now is the time to maximize your benefit and sell your home! TF


Ted Friedman, Designated Broker/Agent
623/476-2491
FriedmanRealtyAssociates@gmail.com
www.BirdieGolfHomes.com 

 

Shifting from Home Buyers Market to Sellers Market—Points to Ponder









Hole-in-One-Report

News Flash!

Prices are firming up . .  Supply is shrinking . . . Investors are swooping in and sucking up low priced homes. . . 
Pent up demand=not enough product available. An example is the multiple offers on a property.

Using Phoenix as a center point, rule of thumb is the farther out from the center, there is more inventory.


It's about neighborhoods—
    •    Do you want the area self contained?
    •    Family friendly, active adult, equestrian properties
    •    Lifestyle issues—active, facilities
    •    Schools, recreation areas, lakes (paddleboats, canoes, waterslides), amenities
    •    Shopping
    •    Medical access.

Appraisals
With the changing market, appraisals have become very strict. You need a minimum of  4-6 weeks to get a mortgage . . . 
That's why cash buyers have leverage . . .  Can close quicker . . .



Our Conversation to Buyers, "We need to get our offer in."
Ted to Sellers—"It's time to come to market with your home!"
You don't want to miss the turn!

Resources
Use our resources—Call us for specific materials:
    •    Chambers are helpful.
    •    School districts rating
    •    Highway maps
    •    Medical facilities
    •    Shopping
    •    Public Safety—is it staffed or voluntary?

When you do your homework, you can buy or sell with confidence. Get in the ground level of the turnaround—TF

Ted Friedman, Designated Broker/Agent
623/476-2491
FriedmanRealtyAssociates@gmail.com
www.BirdieGolfHomes.com