North East Ohio Homes

10 tips for a healthy landlord-tenant relationship

2012-01-28T13:47:00.001-05:00

http://www.inman.com/news/2012/01/23/10-tips-a-healthy-landlord-tenant-relationship

Jackson Local Schools Home New Listing coming Monday 1/9/12

2012-01-08T17:56:00.003-05:00

I am listing a home in Jackson Local Schools on Monday Nice corner lot and 4 bedrooms 2 full and 1 half bath 2000+ sq ft be the first to view it

Existing-Home Sales Continue to Climb in November

2011-12-21T15:01:00.001-05:00

Daily Real Estate News Wednesday, December 21, 2011
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Existing-home sales rose again in November and remain above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Also released today were periodic benchmark revisions with downward adjustments to sales and inventory data since 2007, led by a decline in for-sale-by-owners.
Although rebenchmarking resulted in lower adjustments to several years of home sales data, the month-to-month characterization of market conditions did not change. There are no changes to home prices or month’s supply.
The latest monthly data shows total existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops, increased 4.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.42 million in November from 4.25 million in October, and are 12.2 percent above the 3.94 million-unit pace in November 2010.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said more people are taking advantage of the buyer’s market. “Sales reached the highest mark in 10 months and are 34 percent above the cyclical low point in mid-2010 – a genuine sustained sales recovery appears to be developing,” he said. “We’ve seen healthy gains in contract activity, so it looks like more people are realizing the great opportunity that exists in today’s market for buyers with long-term plans.”
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment ratefor a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to a record low 3.99 percent in November from 4.07 percent in October; the rate was 4.30 percent in November 2010. Records date back to 1971.
NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi & Associates Inc. in Miami, said housing affordability conditions have set a new record high. “With record low mortgage interest rates and bargain home prices, NAR’s housing affordability index shows that a median-income family can easily afford a median-priced home,” he said.
“With consumer price inflation rising by more than 3 percent this year, consumers are looking to lock in steady payments by taking out long-term fixed-rate mortgages. However, the problem remains that some financially qualified families who are willing to stay well within their means are being denied the opportunity to buy in today’s market by the overly restrictive mortgage underwriting situation,” Veissi said.
An elevated level of contract failures continues to hold back a broader sales recovery. Contract failures were reported by 33 percent of NAR members in November, unchanged from October but notably above a year ago when it was 9 percent.
Contract failures are cancellations caused by declined mortgage applications, failures in loan underwriting from appraised values coming in below the negotiated price, or other problems including lower conforming mortgage loan limits, home inspections, and employment losses.
Also released today are benchmark revisions to historic existing-home sales. The 2010 benchmark shows there were 4,190,000 existing-home sales last year, a 14.6 percent revision from the previously projected 4,908,000 sales. For the total period of 2007 through 2010, sales and inventory were downwardly revised by 14.3 percent. The revisions are expected to have a minor impact on future revisions to gross domestic product.
“From a consumer’s perspective, only the local market information matters and there are no changes to local multiple listing service (MLS) data or local supply-and-demand balance, or to local home prices,” Yun explained.
A divergence developed over time between sales reported by MLSs and sales determined by a U.S. Census benchmark; the variance began in 2007. Reasons include growth in MLS coverage areas from which sales data is collected, and geographic population shifts. “It appears that about half of the revisions result solely from a decline in for-sale-by-owners (FSBOs), with more sellers turning to Realtors® to market their homes when the market softened. The FSBO market was overwhelmed during the housing downturn,and since most FSBOs are not reported in MLSs, national estimates of existing-home sales began to diverge based on previous assumptions,” Yun said.
NAR consumer survey data in 2000 showed FSBOs accounted for a 16 percent market share, which fell to a record low 9 percent in 2010.
“In essence, Realtors® began to capture a greater market share. In addition to a decline in FSBO transactions, more builders began marketing new properties through real estate brokers that weren’t completely filtered from the existing-home data,” Yun said. “Some property listings on more than one MLS, and issues related to house flipping, also contributed to the downward revisions.” The new independent benchmark was discussed with government agencies and outside housing market experts, and will allow for annual revisions in the future.
Total housing inventory at the end of November fell 5.8 percent to 2.58 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 7.0-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 7.7-month supply in October. “Since setting a record of 4.04 million in July 2007, inventories have trended down and supplies are moving close to price stabilization levels,” Yun said.
The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $164,200 in November, down 3.5 percent from a year ago. Distressed homes – foreclosures and short sales typically sold at deep discounts – accounted for 29 percent of sales in November (19 percent were foreclosures and 10 percent were short sales), compared with 28 percent in October and 33 percent in November 2010.
All-cash sales accounted for 28 percent of purchases in November; they were 29 percent in October and 31 percent in November 2010. Investors make up the bulk of cash transactions.
Investors purchased 19 percent of homes in November, little changed from 18 percent in October and 19 percent in November 2010. First-time buyers accounted for 35 percent of transactions in November, up from 34 percent in October and 32 percent in November 2010.
Single-family home sales rose 4.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.95 million in November from 3.78 million in October, and are 12.9 percent above the 3.50 million-unit level in November 2010. The median existing single-family home price was $164,100 in November, down 4.0 percent from a year ago.
Existing condominium and co-op sales were unchanged at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 470,000 in November and are 6.8 percent higher than the 440,000-unit pace one year ago. The median existing condo price was $164,600 in November, which is 0.2 percent below November 2010.
Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast jumped 9.8 percent to an annual pace of 560,000 in November and are 7.7 percent above a year ago. The median price in the Northeast was $240,200, which is 0.1 percent below November 2010.
Existing-home sales in the Midwest rose 4.3 percent in November to a level of 960,000 and are 15.7 percent higher than November 2010. The median price in the Midwest was $133,400, down 4.0 percent from a year ago.
In the South, existing-home sales increased 2.4 percent to an annual pace of 1.74 million in November and are 12.3 percent above a year ago. The median price in the South was $143,300, which is 2.1 percent below November 2010.
Existing-home sales in the West rose 3.6 percent to an annual level of 1.16 million in November and are 11.5 percent higher than November 2010. The median price in the West was $195,300, down 8.4 percent below a year ago.
Source: National Association of Realtors®

Agents, Home Owners Predict Where Prices Will Rise

2011-12-21T14:37:00.001-05:00

Daily Real Estate News Wednesday, December 21, 2011
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About 43 percent of real estate professionals and 48 percent of home owners say they expect home values to mostly stay flat over the next six months, according to HomeGain’s 4th Quarter 2011 National Home Values survey, based on a survey of 400 real estate agents and brokers and more than 2,000 home owners.
On the other hand, others are more optimistic: 15 percent of real estate professionals and 15 percent of home owners expect home values to increase in the next six months. Where are real estate pros and home owners the most optimistic about home prices rising?
The following are the 10 states where real estate agents say they think home prices will rise in the next six months, according to the survey:
Michigan
Arizona
Colorado
Florida
Texas
Wisconsin
California
Maryland
Washington
Ohio
The following are the states where home owners say prices will likely go up in the next six months, according to the survey:
Colorado
Massachusetts
Virginia
Arizona
Michigan
New York
Tennessee
New Jersey
Texas
Florida
Source: HomeGain

7 Ways to Have an Eco-Friendly Christmas

2011-12-16T12:51:00.000-05:00

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7 Ways to Have an Eco-Friendly Christmas

With a few conscious choices, your merry Christmas can also be an eco-friendly Christmas. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Thanksgiving is past and now Christmas Rambling

2011-12-01T17:48:00.005-05:00

I have some really great memories around Thanksgiving and Christmas. I come from a very large family 10 be exact. Most of my siblings were out of the home by time I can remember. We always managed to have a ice Christmas and I am not sure how,we were not poor (my brother thought we were) We always had plenty of toys clothes etc. One year my younger sister and I were playing and discovered our gifts. Being naive Mom said they were for someone else and we sort of (at least I did) believe it and went back to playing. As I got older and began to receive clothes etc. it just was not as much fun. On Christmas morning we would always be up early and in awe of the gifts and so excited. We always had to wait on Dad to have his morning coffee who I think took great pleasure in torturing us by drinking ever so slowly. My favorite Christmas cookie was and still is to this day Date Nut Pinwheels. One year I found some very hard pinwheels at Easter still good but had to dunk in coffee to eat which I did.

Just thought I would share a little bit of nostaglia with you

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas

David

Video Tour 3262 Bloomsbury Jackson Twp

2011-11-23T09:17:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XVlBmrE_gs&list=HL1322057793&feature=mh_lolz

This home recently reduced to $175,500 4 bdrm and much more

Price Reduction

2011-11-12T14:29:00.002-05:00

Just in time for the Thanksgiving The price on the home at 3262 Bloomsbury has been reduced to $175,500 What a Christmas Gift this make for you and/or your family. Please contact me at david@davidangione.com or to view click the link below
http://dangione.dehoff.com/p/259/3262811?posc=4&post=9&aid=001200005&oid=001200000&temp=2003&aname=David+Angione&aimg=1&agent_hasfeat=9&&cfq=feat%3D1%26aid%3D001200005%26temp%3D2003%26SRSearchDate%3D1321125865%26SRRecordCount%3D9%26SRPage%3D1%26SRPageCount%3D1%26SRPageLinks%3D6

http://dangione.dehoff.com/p/259/3234725?posc=6&post=9&aid=001200005&oid=001200000&temp=2003&aname=David+Angione&aimg=1&agent_hasfeat=9&&cfq=feat%3D1%

2011-11-07T15:43:00.004-05:00

If you are looking for a place to call home and run a small business then you will want to copy and paste the above link or visit baldrealtor4you.com

Home IN NORTH CANTON Sold

2011-11-04T17:54:00.003-04:00

I just thought that i would share the great news that i just participated in the getting another north canton home sold.

Looking for homes for sale in the North Canton Ohio and surrounding areas

contact: http://baldrealtor4you.com

Have a great weekend

David

Hartville 4/5 Bedrooms

2011-11-03T14:05:00.006-04:00

Owner will entertain offers b/t $209,900-$239,876. This 4/5 bedroom cape cod home offers you plenty of possibilities both inside and out. Separate master suite offers plenty of privacy or a great guest room. Kitchen offers cherry cabinets and corian counters, Dura tile floors, fully applianced. Family room with gas fireplace and plenty of storage. Newer shingles (5 years). Above ground pool and enclosed patio. New carpet in 3 rooms in June 2011. Above ground pool and playset remain.

http://dangione.dehoff.com/p/259/3259839?posc=1&post=9&aid=001200005&oid=001200000&temp=2003&aname=David+Angione&aimg=1&agent_hasfeat=9&&cfq=feat%3D1%26aid%3D001200005%26temp%3D2003%26aname%3DDavid%2BAngione%26aimg%3D1%26agent_hasfeat%3D9%26SRSearchDate%3D1320345382%26SRRecordCount%3D9%26SRPage%3D1%26SRPageCount%3D1%26SRPageLinks%3D6

Exciting News

2011-03-19T09:36:00.001-04:00

Here at DeHoff REALTORS we are always looking for ways to serve our customers and clients. With that in mind we have implemented a new program that allows you to gain information on ANY HOME (listed) at ANY TIME using ANY PHONE. Please look for our signs around town in front of our listings and call the number to receive information about the home or call me at 330 323 6396 and I will set you up with a preferred account free of charge.

baldrealtor4you.com

Buying or Selling real estate does not have to be a hairy experience when you use the BALD REALTOR

When Home Owners May Want Something Besides Granite

2009-05-28T16:26:00.000-04:00

From NKBA: When Home Owners May Want Something Besides Granite
May 7, 2009 by Melissa Tracey · Leave a CommentFiled under: Home Trends
By Barbara Ballinger
ATLANTA—Granite may still be the benchmark for countertops—with its high quality, unique colors and patterns, and great durability—but more home owners are seeking alternatives in the latest chic materials that also offer sustainability.
Cosentino, a company based in Almeria, Spain, offers granite selections but also provides manmade quartz alternatives, including Silestone. It’s the largest quartz manufacturer in the world.
The company recently debuted its new Eco green line at the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s annual convention in Atlanta. The material is made from materials—glass, ceramics, ash, stone, resin—that are 75 percent recycled. Its Eco line comes in 10 colors.
For those who still desire marble with its luxurious old-world look and elegant veining, company executives say, “go for it,” but beware that it can stain and chip since it’s soft. If spills occur, it needs to be cleaned immediately.
To read more about the latest trends in kitchen materials, read Architecture Coach: From Corian to Corkto learn what design experts say are the hottest materials, and some old favorites, that offer a big impact in the kitchen.
Barbara Ballinger is a freelance writer for REALTOR® magazine.

A Wonderful Time to be in Real Estate Business

2009-05-20T16:47:00.001-04:00

What a wonderful time it is to be in the Real Estate Business and Market. The interest rate is the lowest that it has been in at least 30 years. Home sales are up in 17 states according to an article I recently read. I personally have been busy with sales and some of those have been multiple offer situations (more than one offer on a home). The First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit has brought a surge in home sales both in the entry level homes and move up buyers. Do not miss this opportunity call David Angione of DeHoff REALTORS. 330 323 6396

There are many reasons to consider myself and DeHoff REALTORS to market your home. Trying to pick one to share is difficult but I think the fact that if you sell your home through us, we give you free use of our truck to move yourself. (local use only)

Please feel free to visit me at www.davidangione.com

You may also call (330 323 6396) or email (david@davidangione.com ) for your free current equity evaluation.

Thank You for taking the time to read this and I look forward to hearing from you

Sincerely

David

$8000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

2009-05-19T15:59:00.001-04:00

From: Ray Hackenberg Sent: Monday, May 18, 2009 4:46 PMTo: AllUsersSubject: $8000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

FYI,

Last week, the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that home buyers would be able to use the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit for down payments on FHA loans through the use of bridge loans. HUD also posted the information on its website (HUD Mortgagee Letter 09-15). Since then, HUD has completely removed the information from its website, leading to speculation that the program is on hold. While no official explanation has been given, it appears that HUD and the IRS are researching the details of the program, leaving its status uncertain. As soon as any new information is available, we will let you know.

Ray Hackenberg
Vice President Secondary
Consumers Mortgage Corporation
7851 Freeway Circle
Middleburg Heights, Ohio 44130

Interior Pianting Tips

2009-05-18T21:09:00.000-04:00

4 Interior Painting Tips
Painting is a quick and easy way to liven up a listing. But some smart prep work can make a huge difference in the quality of the results.
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1.Get the surface ready.
You want the paint to glide on smoothly, so be sure the surface is clean before you start painting. Remove any handprints, dirt, or scuff marks. Lightly sand any glossy spots to avoid streaks.

2. Select a paint sheen and color.
Ah, the choices! Many paint stores are making it easier to narrow down your choices by offering small trial sizes so that you can test the color at home and look for any variations in daylight and night. Lighting has a big effect on the way color appears. Remember: Higher sheen paints tend to offer more durability than flat paints, so use them in high-traffic areas. Stain or low-lustre finishes offer more warmth and depth than a flat paint. Consider a high sheen paint on the ceiling, which offers good reflection in the room.

3. Don’t go cheap on the paint.
It’s always tempting to save a buck, but it might not be worth it on paint. Painting is a big job, so you want the expense and quality to show. The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute, a national painting education group, recommends purchasing top-quality acrylic latex interior paint, which will go on smoothly and allow for easy soap and water cleanups.

4. Choose the right paint tools.
If you’re using a roller to paint, select the right length of roller nap cover for proper paint coverage. The smoother your painting surface, the shorter the nap should be. Use synthetic materials, which are made from nylon or polyester, when applying latex or water-based paints.

www.davidangione.com

Source: The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute

Top 10 project paybacks

2009-05-15T14:46:00.000-04:00

Top 10 Project Paybacks

Once again, exterior remodeling projects lead the way for recovery on dollars spent in this year’s Cost vs. Value survey. When you compare the national averages, replacement projects that boost curb appeal—siding, windows, and decks—give you the greatest chance of recouping your money. Inside, only kitchen remodels can compare, at least on a national level.

1. Upscale fiber cement siding (86.7%)
2. Midrange wood deck (81.8%)
3. Midrange vinyl siding (80.7%)
4. Upscale foam-backed vinyl (80.4%)
5. Midrange minor kitchen remodel (79.5%)
6. Upscale vinyl window replacement (79.2%)
7. Midrange wood window replacement (77.7%)
8. Midrange vinyl window replacement (77.2%)
9. Upscale wood window replacement (76.5%
10. Midrange major kitchen remodel (76.0%)

Down Payment via U.S.

2009-05-13T10:58:00.001-04:00

I recieved this article concerning use of FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS TAX CREDIT for a down payment. In order to look for information on homes on the market visit me at davidangione.com or email david@davidangione.com

Please read the article below

There appears to be a lot discussion regarding the use of the $8000 tax credit for a down payment prior to receiving this refund.
Please read the brief article below forwarded to me by our V.P. of secondary marketing.

Randy

Randy Milani
Vice President
Consumers Mortgage Corporation
1953 Englewood Ave.
Akron, Oh. 44312
Office: 330-798-4677
Fax: 330-798-4678
Cell: 330-603-7400
Email: rmilani@consumersmortgage.com
From: Ray Hackenberg Sent: Wednesday, May 13, 2009 9:39 AMTo: AllUsersSubject: Down Payment via U.S.

Down Payment via U.S.
U.S. housing officials are working on a plan that would allow some first-time buyers to purchase homes without digging into their pockets to fund a down payment. Rather, they would be able to put an $8,000 income tax credit for first-time buyers toward their down payment on loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration.
Under such a program, the FHA would allow approved lenders, nonprofits, and state and local governments to fund short-term loans that could be down payments to be repaid once the borrower received the tax credit.
The FHA requires a minimum 3.5% down payment on loans backed by the agency, which means that homeowners could pay little or nothing upfront on homes up to $230,000.
—Nick Timiraos Printed in The Wall Street Journal, page C6

Ray Hackenberg
Vice President Secondary
Consumers Mortgage Corporation
7851 Freeway Circle
Middleburg Heights, Ohio 44130

440-826-1000 ext 239
440-398-8010 Fax
rhackenberg@consumersmortgage.com

Tips for Finding the Perfect Neighborhood

2008-05-23T09:32:00.000-04:00

Because Moving is a Moving Experience?
The neighborhood you chose can have a big impact on your lifestyle—safety, available amenities, and convenience all play their part.
Make a list of the activities—movies, health club, church—you engage in regularly and stores you visit frequently. See how far you would have to travel from each neighborhood you're considering to engage in your most common activities.
Check out the school district. The Department of Education in your town can probably provide information on test scores, class size, percentage of students who attend college, and special enrichment programs. If you have school-age children, also plan to visit schools in the neighborhoods you're considering. Even if you don't have children, a house in a good school district will be easier to sell in the future. Another source is SchoolMatch.
Find out if the neighborhood is safe. Ask the police department for neighborhood crime statistics. Consider not only the number of crimes but also the type—burglaries, armed robberies—and the trend of increasing or decreasing crime. Also, is crime centered in only one part of the neighborhood, such as near a retail area?
Determine if the neighborhood is economically stable. Check with your local city economic development office to see if income and property values in the neighborhood are stable or rising. What is the percentage of homes to apartments? Apartments don't necessarily diminish value, but often do mean a more transient population. Do you see vacant businesses or homes that have been for sale for months?
See if you'll make money. Ask a Prudential DeHOFF REALTOR® to get information about price appreciation trends in the neighborhood. Although past performance is no guarantee of future results, this information may give you a sense of how good an investment your home will be. A Prudential DeHOFF REALTOR® may be able to tell you about planned developments or other changes in the neighborhood—like a new school or highway—that might affect value.
See for yourself. Once you've narrowed your focus to two or three neighborhoods, go there and walk around. Are homes tidy and well maintained? Are streets quiet? Pick a warm day if you can and chat with people working or playing outside.

About Home Insurance

2008-05-19T09:49:00.001-04:00

Some things are meant to be!
Things to Understand about Homeowners Insurance
Look for exclusions to coverage. For example, most insurance policies do not cover flood or earthquake damage as a standard item. These coverages must be bought separately.
Look for dollar limitations on claims. Even if you are covered for a risk, there may be a limit on how much the insurer will pay. For example, many policies limit the amount paid for stolen jewelry unless items are insured separately.
Understand replacement cost. If your home is destroyed you'll receive money to replace it only to the maximum of your coverage, so be sure your insurance is sufficient. This means that if your home is insured for $150,000 and it costs $180,000 to replace it, you'll only receive $150,000.
Understand actual cash value. If you chose not to replace your home when it's destroyed, you'll receive replacement cost, less depreciation. This is called actual cash value.
Understand liability. Generally your homeowners insurance covers you for accidents that happen to other people on your property, including medical care, court costs, and awards by the court. However, there is usually an upper limit to the amount of coverage provided. Be sure that it's sufficient if you have significant assets.
Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Costs
Raise your deductible. If you can afford to pay more toward a loss that occurs, your premiums will be lower.
Buy your homeowners and auto policies from the same company and you'll usually qualify for a discount. But make sure that the savings really yields the lowest price.
Make your home less susceptible to damage. Keep roofs and drains in good repair. Retrofit your house to protect against natural disasters common to your area.
Keep your home safer. Install smoke detectors, burglar alarms, and dead-bolt locks. All of these will usually qualify for a discount.
Be sure you insure your house for the correct amount. Remember, you're covering replacement cost, not market value.
Ask about other discounts. For example, retirees who are home more than working people may qualify for a discount on theft insurance.
Stay with the same insurer. Especially in today's tight insurance market, your current vendor is more likely to give you a good price.
See if you belong to any groups—associations, alumni groups—that offer lower insurance rates.
Review your policy limits and the value of your home and possessions annually. Some items depreciate and may not need as much coverage.
See if there's a government-backed insurance plan. In some high-risk areas, such as coasts, federal or state government may back plans to lower rates. Ask your agent.

A Final Walk-Through

2008-05-18T21:45:00.001-04:00

Because Moving is a Moving Experience?
When you have found your special home, when the feelings are all there, you need to keep in mind that there are a few final issues that must be addressed. When you do your final walk-through, make sure that the following things have been done to your satisfaction:
Be certain that repairs you have requested have been made. Obtain copies of paid bills and any related warranties.
Note if all items that were included in the sale price - draperies, lighting fixtures, air conditioners, etc., remain in the home.
Make sure screens and storm windows are in place or stored.
Inspect all included appliances and be sure they are working.
Check the intercom, doorbells, and all alarms to be sure they are operational.
The water heater should be inspected and operational.
The HVAC should also be checked out to be sure it is working.
Inspect the yard to be certain that no plants or shrubs have been removed.
Do a once-over with the garage door opener and be sure the remotes are available.
Make certain that the pertinent instruction books and warranties on appliances and fixtures are there.
Be sure, before you begin moving in, that all the sellers' personal items and all debris have been removed.

Take the Trauma Out of Buying

2008-05-17T15:32:00.004-04:00

Because Moving is a Moving Experience?
Find a real estate agent who connects with you. Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It's critical that the agent you choose is both skilled and also a good fit with your personality.
Remember, there's no "right" time to buy, any more than there's a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don't try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting. Changes don't usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home won't stay on the market long.
.
Don't ask for too many opinions. It's natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision.
Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.
Don't try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to "win" by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love.
Remember, your home doesn't exist in a vacuum. Don't get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself—room size, kitchen—that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it's like to live in your new home.
Don't wait until you've found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers. Ask your REALTOR for advice on this matter.
Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-home buying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don't leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.
Accept that a little buyer's remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but it also yields big benefits.
Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated an average of 5.4 percent annually over from 1998 to 2002, a home's most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live.

Prudential DeHOFF REALTORS®
821 South Main Street
North Canton, OH 44720
330-323 6396

Things a Lender Needs

2008-05-16T08:47:00.000-04:00

W-2 forms or business tax return forms if you're self-employed for the last two or three years for every person signing the loan.
Copies of at least one pay stub for every person signing the loan.
Copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements for both checking and savings accounts.
Copies of personal tax forms for the last two to three years.
Copies of brokerage account statements for two to four months, as well as a list of any other major assets of value, e.g., a boat, RV, or stocks or bonds not held in a brokerage account.
Copies of your most recent 401(k) or other retirement account statement.
Documentation to verify additional income, such as child support or a pension.
Account numbers of all your credit cards and the amounts of any outstanding balances.
Lender, loan number, and amount owed on other installment loans, such as student loans and car loans.
Addresses where you have lived for the last five to seven years, with names of landlords if appropriate.

Ten Steps to Prepare for Home Ownership

2008-05-15T20:21:00.000-04:00

Because Moving is a Moving Experience?
Decide how much home you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between 2 and 3 times your gross income.
Develop a wish list of what you would like your home to have. Then prioritize the features on your list.
Select three or four neighborhoods you'd like to live in. Consider items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansions plans, and safety.
Determine if you have enough saved to cover your down payment and closing costs. Closing costs, including taxes, attorney's fee, and transfer fees average 2 and 7 percent of the home price.
Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report.
Determine how large a mortgage you can qualify for. Also explore different loans options and decide what's best for you.
Organize all the documentation a lender will need to pre-approve you for a loan.
Do research to determine if you qualify for any special mortgage or down payment assistance programs.
Calculate the costs of home ownership, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and association fees, if applicable.
Find an experienced Prudential DeHOFF REALTOR® who can help you through the process. Our agents can guide you through these steps to help you make the best and smartest home buying decision.

Pros & Cons of Condos

2008-05-14T14:36:00.000-04:00

Condominiums and townhouses offer an affordable option to single-family homes in most areas. But consider these facts before you buy.
Resale. The ease of selling your unit is more dependent on what else is for sale in your building, since units are usually fairly similar. Single-family homes are usually more individual, so even if there are others for sale in your area, they probably won't be exactly like yours.
Maintenance. Many condos have onsite maintenance personnel to care for common areas, do repairs in your unit, and let in workers when you're not home.
Storage. Some condos have storage lockers, but usually there are no attics or basements to hold extra belongs.
Amenities. Many condo properties have swimming pools, fitness centers, and other facilities that would be very expensive in a single-family home.
Proximity. You're much closer to your neighbors in a condo or town home. Look at profile of other owners to be sure you'll be comfortable. If possible, try to meet your closest prospective neighbors.
Reserve funds and association fees. Although fees generally help pay for amenities and provide savings for future repairs, you will have to pay the fees agreed to by the condo board, whether or not you're interested in the amenity.
Security. Many condos have keyed entries and or even doormen. Plus, you'll be closer to other people in case of an emergency.
Freedom. Although you have a vote, the rules of the condo association can affect your ability to use your property. For example, some condos prohibit home-based businesses. Others prohibit pets. Read the covenants, restrictions, and bylaws of the condo carefully before you make an offer.
Outdoor space. Yards and outdoor areas are usually smaller in condos, so if you like to garden or entertain outdoors, this may not be a good fit. However, if you hate yard work, this may be perfect option for you.

Home Inspections

2008-05-13T12:46:00.002-04:00

Feel free to ask your Prudential DeHOFF REALTORS® to guide you with the home inspection. We are here to assist you.
When choosing a home, here are some of the things you need to look at carefully to make sure your investment is a solid, well-maintained property.
Siding: Look for dents or buckling
Foundations:Look for cracks or water seepage.
Exterior Brick: Look for cracked bricks or mortar pulling away from bricks.
Insulation: Look for condition, adequate rating for climate (the higher the R value, the more effective the insulation is).
Doors and Windows: Look for loose or tight fits, condition of locks, condition of weather stripping.
Roof: Look for age, conditions of flashing, pooling water, buckled shingles, or loose gutters and downspouts.
Ceilings, walls, and moldings: Look for loose pieces, dry wall that is pulling away.
Furnace/Air Conditioning: Look for age, energy rating. Furnaces are rated by annual fuel utilization efficiency; the higher the rating, the lower your fuel costs.
Electrical: Look for condition of fuse box/circuit breakers, number of outlets in each room.
Plumbing: Look for poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust spots or corrosion that indicate leaks, sufficient insulation.
Water Heater: Look for age, size adequate for house, speed of recovery, energy rating.
Porch/Deck: Look for loose railings or steps. Check for rot.
Garage: Look for exterior in good repair; condition of floor—cracks, stains, etc.; condition of door mechanism.
Basement: Look for water leakage, musty smell.
Attic: Look for adequate ventilation, water leaks from roof.
Septic Tanks (if applicable): Adequate absorption field capacity for the percolation rate in your area and the size of your family.
Driveways/Sidewalks: Look for cracks, heaving pavement, crumbling near edges, stains.

Understanding Agency Relationships

2008-05-12T09:51:00.001-04:00

We are the matchmakers!

It is important to understand what legal responsibilities your real estate salesperson has to you and to other parties in the transactions associated with the selling of your property. Ask your salesperson to explain what type of agency relationship you have with him or her, and with the brokerage company.
Seller's representative - (also known as a listing agent or seller's agent). A seller's agent is hired by and represents the seller. All fiduciary duties are owed to the seller. The agency relationship usually is created by a listing contract.
Subagent - A subagent owes the same fiduciary duties to the agent's principal as the agent does. Subagency usually arises when a cooperating sales associate from another brokerage, who is not representing the buyer as a buyer's representative or operating in a nonagency relationship, shows property to a buyer. In such a case, the subagent works with the buyer as a customer but owes fiduciary duties to the listing broker and the seller. Although a subagent cannot assist the buyer in any way that would be detrimental to the seller, a buyer-customer can expect to be treated honestly by the subagent. It is important that subagents fully explain their duties to buyers.
Buyer's representative - (also known as a buyer's agent). A real estate licensee who is hired by prospective buyers to represent them in a real estate transaction. The buyer's rep works in the buyer's best interest throughout the transaction and owes fiduciary duties to the buyer. The buyer can pay the licensee directly through a negotiated fee, or the buyer's rep may be paid by the seller or by a commission split with the listing broker.
Disclosed dual agent - Dual agency is a relationship in which the brokerage firm represents both the buyer and the seller in the same real estate transaction. Dual agency relationships do not carry with them all of the traditional fiduciary duties to the clients. Instead, dual agents owe limited fiduciary duties. Because of the potential for conflicts of interest in a dual-agency relationship, it's vital that all parties give their informed consent. In many states, this consent must be in writing. Disclosed dual agency, in which both the buyer and the seller are told that the agent is representing both of them is legal in most states.
Designated agent - (also called, among other things, appointed agency). This is a brokerage practice that allows the managing broker to designate which licensees in the brokerage will act as an agent of the seller and which will act as an agent of the buyer. Designated agency avoids the problem of creating a dual-agency relationship for licensees at the brokerage. The designated agents give their clients full representation, with all of the attendant fiduciary duties. The broker still has the responsibility of supervising both groups of licensees.
Non-agency relationship - (called, among other things, a transaction broker or facilitator). Some states permit a real estate licensee to have a type of nonagency relationship with a consumer. These relationships vary considerably from state to state, both as to the duties owed to the consumer and the name used to describe them. Very generally, the duties owed to the consumer in a nonagency relationship are less than the complete, traditional fiduciary duties of an agency relationship.

2008-05-11T19:36:00.000-04:00

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

PVRM

2008-05-11T19:34:00.001-04:00

PVRM Prudential Value Range MarketingBecause Moving is a Moving Experience?-->Rather than listing your home at a "fixed price," you can now select a Value Range in which you are willing to entertain offers. You control the selling price of your home, while encouraging offers.This exclusive Prudential DeHOFF® Value Range Marketing (PVRM) is the key to a new system of marketing your home. Finally, you have a choice, PVRM or Fixed Price Marketing. It's possible to shorten the time it takes to sell your home. Representing all properties sold through Prudential DeHOFF REALTORS® in 2004*This reflects information provided by Stark County Association of Realtors® (SCAR)

We also offer team pricing for your home! Please call me for information on either of these procedures.

Current Listings

2008-05-09T18:03:00.007-04:00

Two homes on one lot. Live in one! Rent the other or use as a home office? Another family member? Lot is irregular triangle shape. Other is being used for a business!!! To view more pictures go to davidangione.com