Thursday, April 26, 2007
Energy Saving Tips
Here is a link to view some energy saving tips from Lowe's.
https://www.lowesrealtorbenefits.com/newsletter/pdf/042007.pdf
https://www.lowesrealtorbenefits.com/newsletter/pdf/042007.pdf
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Tips For Purchasing a Condominium
1. Know the financial condition- watch out for low maintenance fees where the owners are accessed for every major repair. Each maintenance fee should include an amout set aside for roof's, painting, windows and pool repairs. A rule of thumb is 25% of the total monthly maintenance fee should be for the reserve. What is included in the maintenance fee besides the reserve? Typically the lawn, pool, pest, water, sewer and garbage is included. Often you will find cable included as well. Ask to see the financials and the current year budget.
2. Compare- review the association documents, financials and budget and compare with other similar properties in the area.
3. Management- ask who manages the property. Is there proper lawn, pool and pest control companies taking care of the facility? Are there annual meetings? Who is on the board?
4. Inspections- always hire an inspection company to check for water damage, termites, operating windows, wiring up to code, etc.
5. Neighbors and owners- find out what the owners think about their property and what kind of neighborhood the property is located in.
If you work with a buyers real estate agent, they should guide you through this process. Also, make sure a condominium is right for you. The advantages are cost sharing, less concern about upkeep if you are traveling and more security when away. Some disadvantages are policies and rules that you may not like, neighbors you don't like, close quarters with possible noise and lack of control of fees, etc.
2. Compare- review the association documents, financials and budget and compare with other similar properties in the area.
3. Management- ask who manages the property. Is there proper lawn, pool and pest control companies taking care of the facility? Are there annual meetings? Who is on the board?
4. Inspections- always hire an inspection company to check for water damage, termites, operating windows, wiring up to code, etc.
5. Neighbors and owners- find out what the owners think about their property and what kind of neighborhood the property is located in.
If you work with a buyers real estate agent, they should guide you through this process. Also, make sure a condominium is right for you. The advantages are cost sharing, less concern about upkeep if you are traveling and more security when away. Some disadvantages are policies and rules that you may not like, neighbors you don't like, close quarters with possible noise and lack of control of fees, etc.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Area Demographics
The Federal Government collects various statistical data on housing, wages, ages of the population, etc. To obtain such demographics for the area you are interested in go to www.zipcodestats.com and key in your city of interest, the county and state and you will see a nice condensed summary of this data.
