You Should Add Home Buying or Selling To Your Holiday List...Why???

Happy Holidays

 From The Joe Sciarrone Group...

It's December, the tree is up and decorated, the lights are on the house, and we are still busy selling houses! 

Most would think that it is an odd time of year to be shopping for a house, but the holidays are a great time of year to both

BUY and SELL.

Here are a few reasons why...

Photo From:  http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/Gs/white-wonderland-de.jpg

When homes are beautifully decorated, they appeal to buyers who tend to be more emotional during the holiday season, so they are more likely to pay your price!

People who look for a home during the Holidays

are more serious about buying.  Don't wait for the January rush of homes, list now and shine against your competition.

For the first time in many years, the cost of a mortgage is the same as or less than renting, allowing many first time buyers to get out of apartment living & make their first purchase!

Interest rates are incredibly low, making it a great time to purchase a new house, and there are tax incentives for

Homepath Program buyers through the end of the year!

If you are considering buying and selling, give us a call,

we are here to help!

Happy Holidays!

The Joe Sciarrone Group

269-9413



Join The Joe Sciarrone Group For the Fresno High Historical Holiday Home Tour

2010 Historical Home Tour This Monday!

Have you always loved the historic homes in the Old Van Ness area near Fresno High? 

We do, and can't wait to see four fantastic homes featured this Monday night

during the Fresno High Historical Holiday Home Tour...

Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at Gazebo Gardens (Shields and Van Ness). 

For more information click on the link below for the home tour web-site.

Even better is that the money will go to a great cause....Fresno High School!

Join us for this great event -- see you there!

The Fresno High Home Tour

Holiday Home Tips and Local Happenings From The Joe Sciarrone Group

Have you pulled out your holiday boxes from storage?  Not sure where to start this year?  Get some motivation compliments of Real Simple with the following decorating ideas...

30 Simple Decorating Ideas

We Love These Unique Holiday Cards from Minted. 

They have a new feature this year that lets you upload your photo

 and view it on dozens of cards at once! 

They also have great gifts from calendars to photo books.

Add A New Twist To Your Holiday Decor....

We loved these paper ornaments, they are easy to make and a great project with kids! 

Use old scrapbooking paper, newspaper or gift wrap - EASY!

Real or Artificial? 

How To Choose A Great Tree

If you l ike real -- today there is a great coupon from Living Social for 50% off a tree. 

Click Here  for the coupon.

Get Involved And Join A Local Tradition....Here are just a few ideas. 

Let us know what you do, we'd love to share other great events!

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides - Downtown Clovis

Christmas Tree Lane - http://www.christmastreelane.com/

Happy Holidays from the Joe Sciarrone Group! 

Featured House of the Week: Beautiful Historic Van Ness Boulevard Home

English Cottage on Historic Van Ness Blvd.

2634 N. Van Ness Blvd.

OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY

1:00 TO 4:00 P.M.

Traditional Sale $399,000

3,000+ Square Feet / 4 Bedrooms / 3 Baths

Traditional Sale: English cottage on historic Van Ness Ave. Inside you'll find a spacious floorplan, including formal living & dining rooms, a huge downstairs master suite with a large adjoining bath, featuring your own spa tub. This home boasts such custom features as decorator colors, crown moldings, arched doorways, in wall mounted speakers, French doors, stained glass, hardwood floors, and a large gourmet kitchen. Outside you'll find a nicely planned outdoor living area including ozone purified salt water pool, built in BBQ, and beautiful landscaping.

Incredible dining room -- perfect for entertaining and the holidays!

Stainless appliances including a gourmet gas range and beautiful white cabinetry.

Family room is warm and inviting for everyday living.

The backyard is landscaped with designer concrete touches and an incredible pool and built in BBQ.

This house won't last...make an appointment for a viewing today, or come by the open house this Sunday!

The Joe Sciarrone Group

269.9413

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Photo From: 

http://activerain.com/michelleminch

Staging Your Home

If you are considering putting your home on the market, staging your home will set it apart from your competition.  Why?  Home staging is about illusions.  It produces the thought of a potential buyer to think, “I could live here”.  Staging your home is beyond decorating and cleaning.  It's about perfecting the art of creating moods.  Staging makes your house look bigger, brighter, cleaner, warmer, more loving and, best of all; it makes home buyers want to buy it.

Contrary to what you might think, it's about more than preparing your house for sale.   Staging is what you do AFTER you've cleaned, de-cluttered, painted, made minor repairs; it's all about setting the stage for your home’s sale.

http://www.designspongeonline.com/ (Before + After)

Staging your home goes beyond the norm.  It's about adding the little details: the props, lighting and, for simplicity, a stunning showing. The Joe Sciarrone Group can help…we have a professional stager on our team, and include a FREE one hour consultation when you list your home with our team.

Photo From:  http://www.restorationhardware.com/

Secrets of Professional Stagers

Professional stagers are highly skilled artists. Their work sells homes…period.  They can take a blank slate and create an inviting and appealing home, ready for a prompt and attractive sale.  Stagers possess the skills of a top-level designer and they create dramatic scenery that appeals to all five senses.  Here are some of their secrets:

·         Arrange select pieces of furniture in an appealing grouping.  Make sure you can easily walk around the furniture and the room, and if the room has a fireplace, make it the focal point.

·         Showcase a generous usage of soft fabrics with pillows, a throw, and curtains.

·         Display unusual accessories in units of 1, 3 or 5 and keep personal pictures to a minimum.  Group items by color, shape, texture, or another unifying element.

·         Use window coverings with simple lines and keep draperies clean and neat.

·         Add unique elements to shelving, bookcases and fireplace mantels, which draw attention to predetermined areas.  An accent paint color, large mirror or piece of art all work beautifully.

What Accessories Does a Stager Use?

Stagers bring in a vast array of items to spruce up the house. Here is a small sampling of items professional stagers often use to create appeal in each room. How they are utilized is limited only by the creativity and vision of the stager.

·         Mirrors:  Always a great way to bring attention to a mantle, entry, or hall niche

·         Plants and Fresh Flowers:  Orchids are always beautiful and last several weeks when cared for

·         Silk Flowers:  Use sparingly and tastefully

·         Floor & Table Lamps:  Lighting is essential to a well staged home

·         Area and Throw Rugs:  Define your furniture grouping with a rug and NEVER push your furniture up against the walls.

·         Small Love Seats:  Look great in any room

·         Ottomans look cozy and inviting to prospective buyers

·         Afghans:  A seasonal touch of color

·         Pillows:  Soft fabrics bring warmth and color

·         Inflatable Queen-Size Beds:  They look amazing when made properly

·         Baskets:  Everyone loves organization, and space.  Eliminate clutter and use baskets to organize any room

·         Plastic Tables & Chairs:  An inexpensive alternative when you don’t have furniture.  Use as accents and cover with fabric tablecloths and chair covers

Bathroom Staging Photos From:

http://activerain.com/blogsview/736387/staged-bathrooms-don-t-need-much-

Professional Staging Tricks & Tips

Kitchen

·         Apply orange oil to cabinets that appear dry, which will renew their original luster

·         Use fresh fruit in the kitchen.  Put out a large bowl of fruit such as polished apples, bright oranges, and luscious grapes

·         Arrange a colorful or seasonal cookbook on the counter, or a large interesting canister with coffee, beans, or grains

·         Make sure your kitchen nook table is size appropriate

·         At a minimum make sure the cabinetry hardware is up to date and polished

http://activerain.com/blogsview/1250509/kitchen-staging-makes-a-world-of-difference

Bathrooms

·         Towels neatly folded, rolled in a basket, or hung on updated towel bars

·         Have sleek, modern fixtures

·         Scented soaps collected in a simple glass jar or basket

·         Bath salts, candles and oils at the tub

·         NEVER – leave your daily essentials on the counter including:  toothpaste, shaving cream, medications, deodorants, etc.  Make sure counters are de-cluttered and clean.

The Yard

·         For patios and decks, bring in plants and potted flowers

·         Mulch boosts curb appeal

·         Yellow flowers are the most appealing color to brighten the flowerbeds

·         A new entry mat at your front door is a MUST

Photo From:  http://malcolmxpark.org/?m=200804&paged=2

Statistics show that staging a home properly reduces the homes time on the market and justifies your realtors recommended asking price.   If you are interested in staging your home, contact The Joe Sciarrone Group...we can help.

Joe Sciarrone Group

559-269-9413

joe@londonproperties.com



“Should I consider a short sale for my house?” is a question more and more homeowners are asking today.

Every household across the nation has felt the impact of the economy.  Many hard working dedicated Americans have lost jobs, taken pay-cuts, or accepted reduced work hours, causing increased financial stress at home.  The possibility of facing foreclosure is scary, and navigating the process of a loan modification, short sale, or foreclosure can be difficult and confusing.  The Joe Sciarrone Group can help determine what your options are, and walk you through the process. 

What is a Short Sale?
A short sale by occurs when a property is sold and the lender agrees to accept a discounted payoff, meaning the lender will release the lien that is secured to the property upon receipt of less money than is actually owed.

When lenders accept a short sale, they are accepting to take the loss of the difference between the homes’s selling price and what is currently owed.  For example: If the unpaid balance of a loan is, $150,000 and a property sells for $130,000, under a short sale the lender might accept $130,000 as payment in full and is “shorted” $20,000.  In the past, homeowner’s were taxed on this difference; however a current moratorium avoids taxation. 

If the HAMP legislation cannot provide relief for you through loan modification, a short sale might be right for you.  Recent reports show that between 85% and 97% of all loan modifications are either denied or never see completion.  If bankruptcy or foreclosure options are undesirable because of the amount of damage to your credit score; a short sale may be your answer…

If you’re considering a short sale, or have applied for a loan modification, the following steps will help you though the process:

1.   Contact The Joe Sciarrone Group.  Find out if you’re a candidate for selling your home via the Short Sale process.  We are highly knowledgeable and will help you determine if a short sale is right for you.  Don’t fall for a scam…You should NEVER pay for loan modification help.  (Please refer to the HAMP legislation for more information.)

2.   Contact Your Lender.  Typically you have to talk to someone in the “loss mitigation” department; however it may take several calls before you actually speak to someone who can help you.  Have account numbers ready and be patient.

3.   Submit a Letter of Authorization.  The lender will not disclose any of your information without authorization.  If you’re working with a Realtor, a lawyer, or title company, you will receive better cooperation if the lender has authorization to speak to those parties regarding your loan. 

4.   Preliminary Net Sheet.   This is an estimated closing statement showing the expected sales price, unpaid loan balance, outstanding payments due and late fees, and real estate commissions.  If your net to seller shows money to seller at closing, you do not need to do a short sale. 

5.   Hardship Letter.  This is a letter you provide to your lender explaining how you got into the financial bind you’re currently in.  Typical examples are loss of a job, substantial medical bills, death in the family, etc.   

6.   Proof of Income and Assets.  You must be truthful and disclose any assets.  Lenders will want to know if you have savings accounts, money market accounts, stocks or bonds, negotiable instruments, cash or other real estate or anything of tangible value. Lenders are not in the charity business and often require assurance that the debtor cannot pay back any of the debt that it is forgiven. They will also want proof of income via recent pay stubs.

7.   Copies of Bank Statements.  Lenders will need these once the process is started.  If they show large transfers or withdrawals, those will need to be explained.  Plan to provide your last 3 months of statements at a minimum.

8.   Comparative Market Analysis.  There are many declining markets based on the current economy.  And this can be part of the reason you cannot sell your home for enough money to pay off your mortgage.  We can provide this information for you, showing comparable active, pending and homes recently sold. 

9.   Purchase Agreement & Listing Agreement.  The lender will require copies of this documentation and must approve the selling price.  We will act on your behalf as the mediator between your lender and the buyer’s agent.  Be prepared for the lender to negotiate.

Please keep in mind your credit score will be affected by a short sale.  On average your score can be reduced approximately 90 points, vs. a foreclosure which is around 150.  

There is not now, nor has there ever been, anything any one person can do to change the facts of life.  Certainly not facts like mortgage interest rates will rise while property values decline, credit card rates will continue to go higher even when you have a good credit history and even the best workers will lose their jobs if their company closes in these uncertain economic times.

If you have any questions, or would like to discuss the option of selling your home as a short sale, please contact the Joe Sciarrone Group!  We’re here to help…

Moving Check List

Two months ahead of moving day:

Search and Purge!
1. Go through your house and decide what you'd like to hold on to, what will need special packaging and what will take some extra insurance to cover.

2. Create a Binder!
Fill it with your children's school records for transfer, research you've done on moving companies, receipts, etc.

Six weeks ahead of moving day:

1. Order your boxes, take measurements of your new home if possible to see what doors your large furniture can fit through. Also start using your perishables and cleaning supplies because it is a waste to package those.

One month before moving day:

1. Choose your mover and begin packing. Start by labeling everything. Label each box with its contents and its designated room. Label essentials for things you will need right away.

2. Separate valuables such as jewelry in a safe box that you will transport yourself.

3. Go to the local post office and fill out a change of address form or online at usps.gov. 

4. Notify important parties such as banks, brokerage firms, your employers human resources, magazine and newspapers you've subscribed to, credit cards, insurance companies, and utilities companies.

5. Also forward your medical records and ask for referrals.

Two weeks before moving day:

1. Arrange to be off work on moving day by notifying the office a couple weeks ahead of time to avoid complications.

3.Clean out your safe deposit box if you'll be changing banks.

4. Reconfirm the arrangements with the movers.

One week before moving day:

1. Refill your prescriptions

2. Finish packing your suitcases

A few days before moving day:

1. If your taking your fridge, start defrosting it

2. Double check that the moving staff has clear directions to your new house and your contact information

3. Plan for your movers payment. 10% to 15% of the total fee is a good tip and if the moving was especially difficult it would be kind to give $100 to each mover. Also, refreshments are always a plus.

Moving Day:

1. Verify that the moving truck that comes to your house is from the moving company you hired. The USDOT number painted on the side of the truck should match the estimate you were given. Scams are not uncommon.

2. Take inventory. Before the movers take off, make sure to sign the bill of lading/inventory and keep a copy.

3. Enjoy your new home.

Top Ten Things that can Turn Away a Potential Buyer

If a potential buyer were to walk into your home and find one or more of the following, they wouldn't hesitate to walk right back out the door.

1. Odors
Smells like cigarette smoke or a pet odor can make a buyer uncomfortable. Make sure to eradicate any odor prior to listing your home. You may not notice the odor yourself so listen to your agent if he tells you that there is noticeable smell. Make sure to remove litter boxes from inside the house, and to change the litter often to avoid a lingering odor.

2. Dogs that meet you at the door or in the driveway
It is not uncommon for people to be afraid of dogs or be irritated by them, so try to control your dogs and other pets during the showing and it will turn out much better. It could pay off for you to take your dog for a walk before a showing to calm them down or remove your cats while the house is being shown and for any other open houses.

3. Dirty Bathrooms
An immediate turn off. If your serious about selling your home, the extra work is a must to make it shine again. Consider new rugs, curtains, light fixtures, and possibly a paint job. Clean your counter off and remove your personal hygiene items. Don't forget to remove built up grim.

4. Dimly Lit Room
Dark homes are a turn off to most. No one ones to live in a dungeon or cave so brighten up.

• Replace dim light fixtures
• Install additional light fixtures like "can" lighting 
• Install (quality) sun tunnels or skylights
• Remove heavy drapes to let the light stream through windows
• Repaint dark rooms with neutral colors that reflect light
• Trim tree limbs that shadow the house
• Keep your blinds open

Also make sure to clean the inside and outside of dirty windows to let more light in.

5. Busy Wallpaper
Wallpaper is a personal touch so even those who may love wallpaper may not like what you've chosen. You must appeal to the masses so take a good look at your wallpaper and decide if its just too much. Don't paint over it though! That just makes it even harder to remove.

6. Bugs
Get rid of any bug that doesn't belong in your home. Also make sure to remove spider webs from porches or high ceilings.

7. Poor Curb Appeal
Its not uncommon for a potential buyer to refuse going into an unkempt home with peeling paint, a dead lawn, weeds, and over grown hedges.

8. Curbs with plants growing in them
A lot of people don't clean their gutters and for a first impression may make the buyer wonder what else isn't maintained.

9. Sellers who hang around during a showing!
Buyers are very uncomfortable to go through closets or master bedrooms when the seller is tagging along.

10. De clutter
Potential buyers are looking for a spacious house so make sure to remove built up clutter, family photos, refrigerator magnets, and stacks of paper. Start packing now by boxing up any unneeded items. 

Closing Words
Utilizing these ten tips will make your house stand out above the others and will ensure positive showings on your property. Remember, the Sciarrone team is always here and happy to help you, so if you have any questions don't hesitate to call (559) 269-9413.

Keeping Your Lawn Fresh and Attractive

It's now Autumn and the temperature is dropping. Your lawn is craving a new breed of attention. The leaves will be falling soon littering your yard with vibrant oranges and yellow, and now that it is a cold season you may need to change your grass type. Like all cool season grass, Kentucky Blue Grass, survives best during Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons, but if you want the best of the best you should choose Tall Fescue Grass. This is probably the most beautiful type of grass out there. If it is dense enough, it can provide a good weed and disease resistant lawn. It needs plenty of water to remain dark green, but makes for a stunning lawn year round.   

 Landscape your yard, and keep it clean! Make sure that your trees and bushes are pruned, and your grass is cut. Maybe even plant some pretty flowers. A nice yard automatically adds to any house. Cool season flowers bring an abundance of color to a fall garden. Personally a favorite combination of mine would have to be Enchantment Linaria's with very fragrant blooms of intense magenta and gold blend with Citrona Yellow erysimum and  Matrix Blue pansies. Simple colors like yellow can make your home very inviting.

If your goal is to sell your home, then keeping your yard appealing is a must. Take a stroll across the street or down the block to get a good view of your home. You could notice areas that once spruced up, can make your home much more attractive. How clean is your home? Do you have any mildew on the sides of your house? Is your sidewalk and driveway in good condition? You could make your home sparkle with only a few hours of spare time and a pressure washer. Remember, even little things like making your house numbers clearly visible can make your house stand out from the rest.

Timing

Finding a new home is all about timing. Buy now or wait? Have the prices hit rock bottom yet or will they coninue to slide? Experts are warning buyers against trying too overthink the market, which puts you at risk of miscalculating the "bottom". Especially for first time buyers. Instead, try and pick the time that is right for you, not the rest of the market.