South Shore Buzz

For Sale: 2BR/2BA Single Family House in Norwell, MA, $559,900

2011-06-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

For Sale: 2BR/2BA Single Family House in Norwell, MA, $559,900

26 Silver Brook Lane, Norwell, MA - OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-3pm

2011-06-20T08:40:00.001-07:00

Stationery card

2011-06-01T14:06:00.001-07:00

Sweet Baby Rose Birth Announcement

Announcements for all occasions: graduation, a new baby, or wedding.

View the entire collection of cards.

For Sale: 1BR/1BA Condo in Weymouth, MA, $154,900

2011-02-22T15:10:00.000-08:00

JUST LISTED! Totally Updated TOWNHOUSE in Weymouth.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-3pm

231 Lake St, Unit C, Weymouth, MA

(click on link below for more info)

For Sale: 1BR/1BA Condo in Weymouth, MA, $154,900

4 Oakwood Rd in Quincy- $249,900 - Raised Ranch built in 1989

2011-02-07T15:36:00.000-08:00

This is a great house for a first time home buyer. Built in 1989, close to the expressway and T, open concept kitchen/dining area, seasonal water views, huge potential in the lower level to build that "man-town!"

Call or email me if you're interested in this house or something similar. Check out www.SouthShoreBuzz.com from a FREE property search.
LYerkes@SuccessRealEstate.com
781-964-1565

10 Ways to Increase Your Home's Value

2010-08-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

Here's some good advice offered by This Old House for ways to boost your home's value. If you're thinking about selling in the near future...this is great info:
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20247552,00.html?xid=hinewsletter-100824-boost-value

TAX CREDIT GETS EXTENDED!

2010-07-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

If you think you missed out on the first time home buyer tax credit...you might still qualify! Congress just passed an extension!! Buyers who had a contract to purchase a property dated on or before April 30th 2010 just have to close by September 30th 2010 (original deadline was June 30th). The following link has all the specifics:

http://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_credit

If you or anyone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home, feel free to pass my name along!
Laura Yerkes
Success! Real Estate
phone: 781-964-1565
email: LYerkes@SuccessRealEstate.com

Chance to own in Duxbury for under 400k!

2010-06-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

This is the perfect opportunity to get into Duxbury at a great price. This home has been totally updated and is located on a private cul-de-sac. Check it out:
6 Trout Farm Ln, Duxbury, MA Powered by Postlets

What's a SHORT SALE?

2010-06-09T19:34:00.000-07:00

You're probably hearing the term "SHORT SALE" a lot these days when the topic of real estate comes up. Here's a simple/non-technical explanation:

When a homeowner is in financial trouble and can not keep up with his/her mortgage, a real estate short sale is a method of avoiding foreclosure. It's called a "SHORT SALE" because the homeowner not only can't pay the mortgage but also owes more than the house is worth (making selling the home in the traditional way impossible). In order to find out if a homeowner is eligible, they usually submit an application to their lender. Then, when the homeowner receives and offer it is forwarded to the lender for review and an approval/rejection is decided by the lender (this is why you see the words "3rd party approval required" associated with short sale listings). The lender's review process can be lengthy.

So, why would a lender want to allow a short sale?? Its a way for them to regain some of the costs on a nonperforming loan and it may be better than foreclosure for the lender because there can be substantial costs involved in that process as well. Not all homeowners qualify for a short sale and it depends on the lender's guidelines and many financial factors.

Home Inspection...get your $'s worth!

2010-04-22T18:08:00.000-07:00

Think you've found your dream home? GREAT! But wait, before you go out and buy furniture, get it inspected by a licensed home inspector so you know if there are any problems/issues that could cost you a lot of $ to repair. A home inspection may seem expensive but its well worth it and strongly advised. Here are some excellent tips on how to get the best bang for your home inspection buck: http://rismedia.com/2010-04-20/4-things-first-time-home-buyers-need-to-know-about-home-inspections/

Moving?! Need boxes?

2010-04-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

You're moving! Yay! But wait, do you have boxes? They're expensive, aren't they? Well, check this website out: http://www.usedcardboardboxes.com/ Discounted boxes and, as a bonus, its recycling so its good for the environment! Another great resource is Craigslist where you can find FREE boxes from time to time (check out the 'free' page...but they go quick).

Senate supports Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension

2009-11-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

The Senate is in support of the Bill to not only extend the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit but to also expand it to "move up" buyers as well. The Bill will now move on to the House and we're hoping it will be fast tracked and reach the President by as early as Friday. CNN.com offers additional details: http://money.cnn.com/2009/11/04/news/economy/Extending_unemployment_benefits/index.htm?postversion=2009110418

DON'T MISS OUT on your dream home!

2009-11-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

I like to show buyers as many homes as they want to see. Pulling the trigger can be tough. I know today's buyers are smart and they want the best deal for their money! When you find your dream home (the perfect yard, house in great shape, good neighborhood)...DONT MISS OUT! Have the courage to make a fair offer. A popular home selling strategy is to price slightly under market value to generate maximum buyer interest. Don't be afraid of "multiple offer" situations. Use the guidance of your real estate agent to make your best offer right away (one that's within your budget and fair in today's market). "Low balling" in a multiple offer situation is a waste of your time and a strain on your emotions.

Will 'Move Up' buyers be eligible for the home buyer tax credit?

2009-11-03T11:03:00.001-08:00

There's talk that (in addition to the possibility of an extension on the first time home buyer tax credit) the tax credit may also be opened up to "move-up" buyers...(meaning those who have owned their home for at least five years). Check out the following link for more info: http://ow.ly/yU5x

2009-10-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

First Time Home Buyer credit extension??

2009-10-29T10:58:00.001-07:00

We're waiting to hear about whether the first time home buyer credit will be extended. Apparently, there's talk that it may get extended until the end of April 2010 and that it may also be opened up to "move-up" buyers as well but that the credit might be reduced to approximately $7,000...stay tuned, I'll update you with details as they emerge.

MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES ARE IN THE 5's!

2009-09-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

Curious about current interest rates? Well, Zillow.com reports that currently the national average for a 30-year conventional mortgage is in the low 5's! http://www.zillow.com/Mortgage_Rates/

If you're thinking about buying a home, but don't know how much you can afford, just email me and I'll put you in touch with a mortgage specialist.

Time to have your Heating System looked at!

2009-09-07T07:18:00.000-07:00

If you're a new homeowner, you may not know this...

Its important to have your heating unit regularly serviced. Not only will this keep your system running more efficiently (which will save you money on your heating bill) but it can also help you avoid costly emergency repairs in the middle of winter! In addition, when you're ready to sell your home buyers will often ask for the service history. If a buyer sees an older furnce, you can put the buyuer at ease by providing records of annual service.

September is a great month for this. Call 3 companies...get quotes for annual service and sign up. It can cost about $100/yr for this service and its worth it.

Foreclosures on the South Shore!

2009-08-18T11:58:00.001-07:00

Looking for bank owned properties? You can do a FREE search on my website http://www.southshorebuzz.com/. You can also sign up there to get notified as soon as bank owned listings hit the market. Here's a bank owned home for sale for $153,500 in Holbrook and one in Weymouth for $242,900 right now.

INTEREST RATES

2009-06-27T05:48:00.000-07:00

Attractive interest rates are still available!

We're hearing BUZZ that interest rates on new home loans will continue to fall...that's great news for first-time home buyers. Click here for the article on boston.com.

MORE TAX CREDITS!

2009-06-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

Homeowners can get a $1500 tax credit for saving energy

According to the US Dept of Energy:
"If you install energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment in existing homes, you can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, for improvements installed between January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2010"

Collect your $1500 tax credit. Click here for all the details.

Build Equity!

2009-06-11T12:19:00.001-07:00

5 Home improvement projects that WOW buyers

1. Kitchen countertops - Inexpensive updates in the kitchen can go a LONG way. New countertops are a great way to bring an outdated kitchen into the 21st century. Big name home improvement stores have a variety of affordable options. Just remember - stay neutral!!

2. Hardwood floors - Buyers DROOL over hardwood floors. If you're covering up old hardwoods with carpet, consider revealing the valuable floors. If the floors are in tough shape, hire a professional to buff and varnish them. The result can be a major transformation!

3. "Man Town" - Convert your basement or other potential living area to an entertainment space or play room. Everyone knows more livable space = more $. Buyers these days aren't satisfied with just one living room...they want another space to use as a retreat.

4. Walk-in closet - OK, you may not have the space or money to build a walk-in closet...but consider buying a closet organization system that maximizes utilization of the space.

5. Laundry Room - Often times, there is a designated area for laundry but its wide open!! Buyers don't want to stare at their dirty laundry all day. Enclose the area using inexpensive materials such as bifold doors. Add some shelving and storage within that enclosure and you've got a desirable laundry room!

So many houses to choose from!

2009-06-08T14:50:00.000-07:00

Over 50 houses on the market right now in Abington, Weymouth and Holbrook for under $280k

The market is looking very good for buyers these days. So many houses to choose from! You can do a FREE search on my website, just click here. Average interest rates are in the 5's...the first time home buyer credit of $8000 is good until Dec 1st...

73 Moncrief, Rockland, MA | Powered by Postlets

2009-06-08T06:57:00.001-07:00

73 Moncrief, Rockland, MA | Powered by Postlets

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Mortgage Calculator

2009-06-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

How much house can I afford?

When considering buying a house, your first step should be to contact a mortgage person to request a pre-approval. The pre-approval will tell you the maximum loan amount you qualify for. You can then use a mortgage calculator to estimate monthly payments. I offer free access to a mortgage calculator on my website....just click here.

Interest rates are constantly changing but recently rates for FHA loans (which require a 3.5% down payment) have been approximately 5%-5.5%. If interested in getting pre-approved, email me and I'll refer you to someone I trust.

It's SUNDAY...get out and visit some Open Houses!!

2009-05-31T07:39:00.000-07:00

Where can I find info on Open Houses?

Today, I'm hosting an Open House at 247 Beach Ave in Hull 1-3pm. Almost every Sunday, I'm somewhere on the South Shore hosting an open house. When you're a first time home buyer, the best way to start your home search is to visit open houses in the areas you're considering. Don't feel funny!! Realtors love visitors!! Realtor.com and boston.com are two great resources for open house info.

Realtors should be accessible

2009-05-27T19:08:00.001-07:00

Does your Realtor love her blackberry??

Real estate agents are constantly on the go but have to stay connected with their clients. That's why I love my blackberry! This blogpost was created via text message.

New Listing: Waterfront Home in Hull

2009-05-27T18:29:00.000-07:00

This week, I put an oceanfront home in Hull on the market! This house is located on Nantasket Beach. Its a gorgeous ranch style home with three bedrooms/two and a half bath. The asking price is $699,000. Click here for more info. This home is great value and a good example of the deals available in this market.

$8000 Tax Credit for First Time HomeBuyers

2009-05-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT NEWS: '09 Change to the Home Buyer Tax Credit

Good news for 1st time home buyers!! Based on the new Stimulus Plan first time homebuyers have the potential to earn up to an $8,000 tax credit with no payback requirement. Click here for more details.This change makes it even better to be a buyer in this market!

3 Quick Tips for Sellers

2009-05-27T09:24:00.000-07:00

Selling your home in this market can be challenging. Here are a few tips that can make it a lot easier:

Pricing: Be aware of the most recent sales in your area and price accordingly. Don't shoot for the stars or you might shoot yourself in the foot. In this market, overpriced homes are likely to sell for much less and take much longer to sell than homes priced fairly.
Staging: If you want top dollar, stage your home! You don't have to hire a professional stager...usually, you can do it yourself. Remove extra furniture, de-personalize by removing all photos, de-clutter, and clean everything. Your home might seem empty to you after staging but that's a good thing! It will allow buyers to visualize themselves in the home.
Make sure your home is EZ to show: Capitalize on every opportunity to show your house. Be prepared to show the house at all times and at short notice. Buyers in this market have a lot to choose from and they're likely to move on to another listing if they can't see your home at their convenience.

These 3 simple tips are from my real life experience working with buyers and sellers in this market :)

House Hunting in Braintree

2009-04-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

Everyday, I study the market to try to find the best deals for the buyers I work with. Today I was happy to see, there are over 15 homes on the market in Braintree priced in the 200's right now. WOW! What a great time to be a buyer.