tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53799671296235406712024-03-05T21:03:09.543-08:00House Calls at HiddenCoastMari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-24902998167674940242013-02-19T08:27:00.002-08:002013-02-19T08:31:46.913-08:00Getting the Home Loan - Why It Takes So LONG to Close There are several reasons it may take what seems like ages for your home to close. Today I am going to discuss one of those reasons: <strong>Mortgage Loan Underwriters.</strong> Before the housing bubble, underwriters were careful to judge the worthiness of a loan (or were supposed to ). However, they were making judgements on the information they were given and in the short time allowed to examine that information. What did they want to know? Your <strong>credit worthiness</strong>, your <strong>job history</strong>, and the <strong>value of the property</strong>.<br />
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Fast forward to today, underwriters still want to know those three things. However, the information is examined carefully and throughly. Indeed, some lenders now have <strong>three seperate underwriters</strong> for each loan; one handling credit, one for employment, and one for appraisal info. Just imagine the delays possible with three underwriters and their maternity leaves, ill parents, vacations, etc. <br />
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To further complicate the lending process some lenders, primarily large banks, are <strong>outsourcing their</strong> <strong>underwriting</strong> to other countries. If there is anything about the property that might not be easily seen on paper by the underwriter, have <strong>your agent contact the lender or appraiser</strong> with the information. For instance, if all the other homes in an area are at a premium price, but this property is on a busy road, it should generally be appraised for a bit less.<br />
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Isn't real estate about local?? I digress.<br />
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Keeping all this in mind, it is easy to see how final approval for your loan can take weeks. In the meantime, <strong>DO NOT BUY ANYTHING ON CREDIT. DO NOT CHANGE JOBS. </strong>And breathe. :)<br />
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One possible way to <strong>shorten the length of closing</strong>? Buy local. Use a <strong>credit union</strong> or <strong>regional lending instution. </strong>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-63530347660597797762013-02-07T16:25:00.001-08:002013-02-07T16:26:49.021-08:00<a href="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/192/df/4f/61/df4f61ae1a57f9e9c5d9a6abfe6a6551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Laundry room before-and-after: This whole room was DIY-ed top to bottom for only about $150!" border="0" class="PinImageImg" data-id="130815564148361724" data-src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/192/df/4f/61/df4f61ae1a57f9e9c5d9a6abfe6a6551.jpg" height="561" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/192/df/4f/61/df4f61ae1a57f9e9c5d9a6abfe6a6551.jpg" style="opacity: 1;" width="192" /></a><br />
Here is a perfect example on how spending a little time and money can result in selling your home faster and for more $$$$. Thanks to <b>AlongTheWay.com </b>for sharing these photos.<br />
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This laundry area could be the detail that sells the house, especially in a subdivision where there is little to differentiate one home from another. <br />
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Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-45307913508557759592012-12-03T06:43:00.000-08:002012-12-03T06:43:58.408-08:00<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">While
looking for reviews of faucets, I found a website (in addition to
explaining price and quality issues) give wonderful American Made
alternatives to imported faucets.<br /> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fstarcraftcustombuilders.com%2Fsources.faucets2.htm&h=ZAQFAtkBBAQGnOMr-8jjSuwF89899klzKb7zdJ-exnMgTFQ&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><span>http://</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>starcraftcustombuilders.com/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>sources.faucets2.htm</a> Good info.</span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"><br /></span></span><img alt="virage bath Faucet" height="187" id="collection-photo" src="http://www.brizo.com/images/pic/catalog/bath/collections/large/virage.jpg" width="320" /></h5>
Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-8303708700405231442012-11-15T11:03:00.000-08:002012-11-15T11:03:49.430-08:00Handy Dandy House Cleaning Notebook - Sell Your House SomedayYou Will Sell Your House Someday <br />
In the meantime...enjoy a tidy, well maintained home.<br />
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If you have ever sold your house and rushed to do the deep cleaning, niggly repairs and finish those projects that have languished for years, you know how exhausting and stressful it can be. <br />
Sarah Turner has done what most of us vow to do...fix the problem before it becomes a problem. Step by step. Here is how she does it. Check more of her home treasures at <a href="http://www.memoriesoncloverlane.com/">http://www.memoriesoncloverlane.com/</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://www.memoriesoncloverlane.com/2009/02/spring-cleaning-andor-sell-this-house.html">Spring/Fall Cleaning and/or Sell This House!</a> </h3>
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Here's how I spring clean:<br />I take a notebook.<br />I make a heading for each room. Even closets.<br />I imagine that I'm a potential buyer of this house. You know...PRETEND!...and see the room through someone <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">else's</span> eyes.<br />I stand in each room and look around and see all the imperfections.<br />Then I write down what needs to be done if I were to put it up for sale. Every single thing.<br />Yes, this is scary.<br />But it works.<br />For example, in my master bath, the shower really needs to be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">recaulked</span> because some of it is peeling off and it looks messy. One of the towel bars is coming out of the walls. (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hmmm</span>, someone swinging perhaps?) And I think the closet in my bath needs to have some reorganization...bigger plastic bins for medicine and so forth are in order. It looks messy.<br />I write that all down. Numbered.<br />And proceed to the next room.<br />EVERY SINGLE ROOM.<br />No matter how small OR big, I write down what needs to be done.<br />That's my Master List for the year.<br />I go through it once or twice a year, and sometimes it doesn't get all done, but that's OK.<br />Because when it's written down I know it will be, eventually.<br /><br />I came up with this method when I had to show our past two houses in order to move. I learned this: It's super super annoying to have to do all those little things you procrastinated for years, for SOMEONE ELSE! My houses never looked so good as when they were ready to be put on the market. This really annoyed me. And I vowed it would never ever happen again. (I'm just kidding on that last sentence...I'm really not that dramatic about something so trivial.)<br /><br />But this way, I don't feel overwhelmed about all the little repairs and improvements that need to be done, because I know I'm working on them.<br /><br />When my list in my handy dandy notebook is done, I carry it with me to the first room, when I'm ready to get to the "cleaning" part. This way, I can write down what I need, the measurements, and so forth, and put all that on a separate sheet in the notebook. I can go to the store with my list, maybe 3 rooms out, and get everything I need, without making constant errand runs. If I need a new curtain, or organization bins, I have the measurements right there.<br /><br />Then I scrub like I'm showing the place.<br /><br />Sometimes, I know I will get just one room done a day. Or maybe even one a week. I set a realistic goal for myself so I won't burn out and I can still keep up with my daily happenings. </div>
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I relegate to a separate page, those BIG projects...painting a leaky ceiling, finding a new chair for the den, hanging <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">grasscloth</span> in the dining room, (yes I bought some, CHEAP!) etc., so I don't get too slowed down. This list can also serve as a "wish list" if I can't get it all done right away. </div>
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But the first step, remember, WRITE IT DOWN. Get a cute notebook at Target, your HOME IMPROVEMENT notebook, and start pretending. </div>
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Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-23499580041054704482012-10-09T07:47:00.000-07:002012-10-09T08:34:24.317-07:00How A 5 Minute 'Repair' Can Help Sell Your House<br />
When I am working as a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exclusive_buyer_agent" target="_blank">buyer's agent </a>and showing a house, some of the details that I suggest to my clients are: examine the HVAC filters, try all windows for ease in opening and closing, taste the water and check the water pressure.<br />
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If the HVAC filters are not clean, chances are good these sellers are
not very maintenance oriented. If the water tastes terrible (even if a
water test gives it a passing result) the buyer may want to have a water
filtration system installed. Good to know before you go into
negotiations. Many people just WILL NOT BUY a house with poor water
pressure.<br />
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I was reminded of this when I started doing the dishes in our new rental. We just sold our farm and are building a small home on less acreage. The water pressure in the kitchen was terrible until....we<a href="http://www.familyhandyman.com/DIY-Projects/Home-Repair/Faucet-Repair/unclog-a-kitchen-faucet-aerator/View-All" target="_blank"> cleaned the aerator.</a> This five minute job can make the difference between a sale or no sale.<br />
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<img alt="Photo 1: Unscrew the old aerator" border="0" src="http://hostedmedia.reimanpub.com/TFH/Step-By-Step/display/FH02OCT_KITFAU_01.JPG" /><br />
Just another reminder: the details matter when selling (or renting) your home.Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-40356361333492714172012-08-28T08:53:00.000-07:002012-08-28T08:53:16.859-07:00Repair Request <i><b>Repair Request Negotiations:</b></i> CYA - Every one in any legal transaction wants to cover their ____ and, I believe, most people also want to create a <b>win, win, win</b>, outcome for all involved.<br />
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<b>CYA sometimes leads to complications for no real reason. </b> For example, the home inspection done our home "uncovered" flexible polybutelene piping. The home inspector, (because he has attended plumbing workshops and inspected homes with obvious damage from flexible pipes), brings this to the attention of the buyer and buyer's agent. Rightly so. He further regals the buyer about the many failures in a nearby city. <br />
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What he does not say is that the failures were due to a combinations of factors; first generation polybutelene, the plumbing also being used as part of hydro-heating system and that most failures in the early polybutelene were on the hot water supply. That accounted for the many, many failures in the development he referred to.<br />
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The <b>buyer's agent, trying to protect her client's best interest, is concerned</b> about the plumbing and wonders why we did not disclose the fact that the house had flexible plumbing.<br />
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<b>The seller (me) did not believe this was anything to disclose. </b> When I had my home inspection, the same plumbing was identified as 2nd generation polybutelene, not the piping that had caused so many problems. Not totally convinced, I had plumbers confirm that it is still the piping they use in homes today, especially homes on well water. Having lived with copper plumbing in a home with well water and dealing with the green stains on fixtures AND green hair, I was happy to have non-corrosive plumbing and less lead in the system. If anything, I felt the flexible piping was a plus.<br />
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Not sure how this will play out and if it will be a deal breaker. Will post our progress or lack thereof.<br />
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<b>In the meantime, still not packing.</b><br />
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<br />Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-14103528421376946492012-08-25T08:39:00.001-07:002012-08-25T08:39:55.181-07:00Due Diligence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlnZ0zaDHphF8T5CR0l5LgRhVAn8bzywLyf7iCZCnJU_RViCLcJSPAMVpprAlaVtJ1yV6Qyo25-tt_TYoCut1ueZAhvvZX-erRyjI5RzWnEY0b_htac-aPeSZRQkaPvqkxudM6M9CYYUl/s1600/barn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlnZ0zaDHphF8T5CR0l5LgRhVAn8bzywLyf7iCZCnJU_RViCLcJSPAMVpprAlaVtJ1yV6Qyo25-tt_TYoCut1ueZAhvvZX-erRyjI5RzWnEY0b_htac-aPeSZRQkaPvqkxudM6M9CYYUl/s320/barn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
North Carolina Offers to Purchase and Contract are now more like commercial real estate contracts in that the buyer pays (a negotiated amount) to have a due diligence period ( a negotiated time) to conduct inspections and/or to consider if they want to move forward.<br />
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This is great for the buyer. While inspections are done, the buyer can really consider at more of a leisurely pace if the property really suits their needs. <br />
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It is good for the seller, too. <b> After </b>the due diligence period. Until then, their home is essentially off the market and if the buyers walk they have to start all over again.<br />
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To be fair, the buyer has some risk, too. Once they commit, there is no asking for additional concessions as was possible in previous Offer to Purchase and Contract documents. Too, if they have too long of a due diligence period, the seller (depending on the market and the property) may get additional backup offers making the ability to negotiate for repairs less strong. Indeed, the backup offer may be better than the buyers own offer.<br />
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That said, there is much more uncertainty for the seller. Knowing whether to start packing, make arrangements for moving and for new housing is difficult without a commitment. Further complicating this scenario is when the closing date is close to the due diligence date, making this especially challenging.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjraKAsp2HptUzSXg92ja1X3nqDF8QCYS8itIX1Drbijqz1JpnRLjNmXG91dnhApG0NZ3tLzNfyBWyVUKYZ_BkIEY9KZxj9YS2bmmQUx4H23zsQx9c67Iwut-Hgap8J2sXPlkd-3PfHDK4Y/s1600/images.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjraKAsp2HptUzSXg92ja1X3nqDF8QCYS8itIX1Drbijqz1JpnRLjNmXG91dnhApG0NZ3tLzNfyBWyVUKYZ_BkIEY9KZxj9YS2bmmQUx4H23zsQx9c67Iwut-Hgap8J2sXPlkd-3PfHDK4Y/s1600/images.jpg" /></a>For sellers with children, elderly parents, or animals, how to proceed during the due diligence period can keep you up at night. Take heart and take the long view. It is a short period of time in a lifetime. BREATHE and get ready to pack!Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-53246516392147957992012-08-22T12:14:00.000-07:002012-08-22T17:36:53.069-07:00Why the Property Went to Contract So Fast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYzamctC1Ts6yZYghdNwTVmzczOQOU04nnpNiVDzkF2P1UYJFXJpbrBBb_iCcH5FpfZgQZz6ceoG2eFMHOMZuVYQfcLpYKDr9lVE6vUXoPqy2EgG5Bmo7BMuKw2VbaizoYRorITyBFgMD-/s1600/soldsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYzamctC1Ts6yZYghdNwTVmzczOQOU04nnpNiVDzkF2P1UYJFXJpbrBBb_iCcH5FpfZgQZz6ceoG2eFMHOMZuVYQfcLpYKDr9lVE6vUXoPqy2EgG5Bmo7BMuKw2VbaizoYRorITyBFgMD-/s1600/soldsign.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div>
<em>In my last post, I said I would reveal why my house sold so quickly.</em><br />
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Why did my property go to contract so fast? And why did the last property I owned sell in only two weeks? Both selling quickly in 'bad' markets. <br />
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They were both unique in that they <strong>sold a lifestyle, not a house. </strong><br />
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The property I sold 11 years ago had a guest cottage. Unusual at the time, it was at the front end of parents living with children and grown children coming back to live with parents.<br />
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My current home sold to a couple looking to have rural/urban experience. Not an unusual desire these days, but a challenge to find. This property has the ability to raise animals, comes with a large pond and is just minutes to a Money Magazine Top 10 town to live in location.<br />
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Selling <strong>a lifestyle home limits your market, but it also limits your competition.</strong> <br />
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Consider some of the lifestyle properties available; historic homes, Modernist homes, homes with show gardens, homes with second kitchens, income property homes, farm homes, loft homes, just to name a few. These properties are not for everyone, however, there are not several subdivisions of any of these properties. They are rare. Indeed, a buyer may have to wait months or years to find a suitable property.<br />
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My advice when buying or remodeling? <strong> Choose something unique, but that will have great appeal to a niche market.</strong> You will always find your buyer when you are ready to sell!<br />
<br />Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-52825830350966530712012-08-21T15:03:00.002-07:002012-08-21T15:03:41.130-07:00Selling Your House, Yikes! I'm the Client!<b>Every Realtor should sell her/his house at least every 10 years. </b> Reminds you how difficult it is for your clients to follow your advice!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fKApDbx5lcoopnCaHLGTCaQ0zhB_H8i8LfrpTnJmEhlWO6FFiW661cHq2rE49r18bmu-cH2AGsoEvqVZyJghTDSsdQU4pmuZDUGFka7iFIK-UwVze3rDqMLRrDYcxo4x90yLNRgzDr5F/s1600/The+farm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fKApDbx5lcoopnCaHLGTCaQ0zhB_H8i8LfrpTnJmEhlWO6FFiW661cHq2rE49r18bmu-cH2AGsoEvqVZyJghTDSsdQU4pmuZDUGFka7iFIK-UwVze3rDqMLRrDYcxo4x90yLNRgzDr5F/s320/The+farm.jpg" width="320" /></a>Once the decision was made to sell, we de-cluttered, depersonalized (somewhat), cleaned, we repaired (by we, I mean my handy husband) and worked on our curb appeal. <br />
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When you have almost 12 acres, working on curb appeal in August is a herculean feat. This year we were blessed with rain and slightly cooler weather, it could have been worse.<br />
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So, tired and apprehensive, we had our first open house. Wow! Everyone who came stayed for hours. The hard work paid off. We had two second showings <b>that week and got an offer that went to contract</b>. A week later <b>we got a backup</b> offer.<br />
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My advice to sellers is what you hear time and again: Do the work your agent requests, or at least as much as you can. It pays off in either a quick sale or the most money for your property, simetimes both.<br />
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In my next post, I will reveal <b>why, </b>I believe, it went to contract so quickly.<br />
<br />Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-81831146519791793232012-07-04T08:45:00.001-07:002012-07-04T08:46:00.802-07:00<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAy4sAS07hab42AcXe0DWrNbIkxQ-7nn8f5gUKqb7IVPF1LpM5MB2LXkV4RgcRashq_QTsde49lRE3RgishyphenhyphenV5_lkPJF8wxSw-2eem3buYfU_Q6f4_nQgDXGYvvYA2zsAhGlw9aOsWlQv4/s1600/painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAy4sAS07hab42AcXe0DWrNbIkxQ-7nn8f5gUKqb7IVPF1LpM5MB2LXkV4RgcRashq_QTsde49lRE3RgishyphenhyphenV5_lkPJF8wxSw-2eem3buYfU_Q6f4_nQgDXGYvvYA2zsAhGlw9aOsWlQv4/s1600/painting.jpg" /></a>Desperate to find an indoor activity to escape the heat, I am doing some painting. A painter friend shared this tip: rub your high quality paintbrushes with a dime size amount of hair conditioner. It makes clean up a lot easier and will extend the life of your brushes. <br />
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He has some that are fifteen years old!</div>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-86616020166923121052012-06-15T11:54:00.002-07:002012-06-15T11:55:58.437-07:00Choosing Annuals for Containers and Gardens<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
This spring I worked part time in a local greenhouse. What a delight to be among the flowers, herbs and vegetable plants. </div>
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I don't have a greenhouse, so this was learning experience, too. Watering was one of the tasks that had a learning curve. Amazing what the time of day, outside temperature and cloudy days made in watering requirements..even in different areas of the greenhouse. </div>
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One thing I now suggest when buying nursery plants is asking a nursery employee which plants they have to water most often. Avoid those that require watering twice a day unless you need a new career path!<br />
Bacoba was one of those plants. It needs watering at least twice a day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDf8uKdyy0785K7FLmNiLljJ6uZmjiOREIpUvwnQDXccGYvAzJApexCbkXLZQlpv_MbgDpxEopheEPVVoufDts6hSoZsjuf3A7ZN9oPb8yGgVoeXWMMCf5KrXIvM0NoPUZck61zv8gBTk/s1600/bacoba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" pca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDf8uKdyy0785K7FLmNiLljJ6uZmjiOREIpUvwnQDXccGYvAzJApexCbkXLZQlpv_MbgDpxEopheEPVVoufDts6hSoZsjuf3A7ZN9oPb8yGgVoeXWMMCf5KrXIvM0NoPUZck61zv8gBTk/s1600/bacoba.jpg" /></a></div>
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Polymer granules added to potting soil reduces watering as often. An alternative is to roll newspaper tightly and line the bottom of the pot (or planting hole) and soak it with water. The newspaper will hold moisture and release it slowly. Eventually it will degrade and feed the soil.</div>
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<br /></div>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-39684905395895695172011-11-09T07:58:00.000-08:002011-11-09T07:59:36.228-08:00In the KitchenYesterday, I stumbled upon a wonderful cookbook? history? tome in the children's department of the Chapel Hill library; <b>The American Ethnic Cookbook for Students</b> by Mark H. Zanger. It has recipes from almost every imaginable American ethnic group. Some you probably didn't imagine.<br />
<br />
This would be great to cook your way through with your children or your gourmet group. Even if you don't cook, this book is a treasure. You learn about people, you learn about history and you learn about food.<br />
<br />
The Guamians (Chamoros) recipe I tried yesterday called for a fresh coconut. The first step was to pierce the eyes of the coconut and drain the liquid. The technique I use to cut acorn squash in half works well for coconut piercing, too. Namely, place the pointed end of squash or coconut in the clean kitchen drain to keep it steady, then proceed with cutting or piercing, depending on the produce being used.<br />
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<br />Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-74029469604805449422011-11-09T07:39:00.000-08:002011-11-09T08:00:06.100-08:00Deer and Car Collisions<b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">This piece of info from an insurance agent acquaintance: Deer-vehicle
collisions are three times more likely to occur on a day in November
than they are on any day between February and August! </span></i></b><br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;"> October is the
second most likely month for a crash involving a deer and a vehicle…
December is third. </span></i></b><br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt;">Collisions with deer and other large animals can
cause significant damage to vehicles, may cause injuries to the driver
and passengers, and cause suffering to the animal. A deer collision
claim is covered under the Comprehensive section of your auto policy.
It is considered a non-fault accident and will not cause you to incur
any insurance points on your policy. </span></i></b>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-84237363344863410782011-11-04T12:08:00.000-07:002011-11-04T12:08:56.388-07:00Realtor to Real Estate Agent: Why Some Realtors are DefectingYou may not know there is a difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor. Most folks use the terms interchangeably, however, a Realtor is an agent that is a member of the National Association of Realtors. The big difference? Realtors have access to the MLS.<br />
<br />
This year the National Association of Realtors made a huge decision against the wishes of 80% of it's membership. It is requiring a mandatory $40 political fee for the years 2012 and 2013.<br />
<br />
As <a href="http://www.realestateindustrywatch.com/author/eric-blackwell/" target="_blank">Eric Blackwell </a>reports:<br />
<br />
At the National Association of REALTORS midyear meetings, NAR’s board voted to approve and put into effect a mandatory $40 increase in fees, known as RPPSI, that would provide that money for NAR to use for donations to political candidates of their choosing. While NAR officials indicated that there was not much discussion about it at the midyear meetings, on the street in the industry, the story brought apparently a number of different reactions.<br />
<br />
“I want to quit NAR” was one reaction.<br />
<br />
“I REALLY don’t like the fact that I have to donate to political candidates that may or may not be of my choosing.” was another.<br />
<br />
“Am I now a union employee? Forced to donate to candidates that I don’t like in order to have my listings on the MLS?”<br />
<br />
One thing that is almost universally true. In the people we have talked to, almost no one who is an agent or broker and has to pay the dues agrees that it is a good idea. The issue does not appear to be the amount of money, but the principle of donating to candidates that they disagree with. EB<br />
<br />
Being forced to give money to candidates that I am actively working against is my issue and why I am going independent for the next two years, perhaps forever. In the new economy of social media and buying local, the MLS is not the end all that it was at one time. If it were, agents would not be on Trulia, Zillow, private company virtual tours, CraigsList, etc.<br />
<br />
The ability to assist sellers to prepare their property for market and getting that property in front of the right eyes is what your real estate agent needs to do whether she/he are members of the MLS or not.<br />
<br />
Buyers need an experienced real estate agent that knows the area and the market and negotiate the best deal.<br />
<br />
Realtors are independent contractors. They get no salary. They get no benefits. Now they get no voice.<br />
<br />
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Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-2081357414149677002011-10-31T12:16:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:16:16.511-07:00Tip for the CookTo get the smell of garlic or onion off your hands (difficult no matter how much you wash) rub your fingers and hands on the metal spout of your faucet. Works like magic.Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-58326384267296051772011-10-24T07:53:00.000-07:002011-10-24T07:53:10.592-07:00Log Homes: Things to ConsiderLog homes are the dream home ideal for many people. However, there are things to consider you may not have thought of when choosing to build a log home. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqsHvHktfBqR7EWxnTCf4pouIV0L-IQR-Ph5D8PrHghcl6BMoFUD293gEy4ajeqy3gw0TDMqkKNGwZcQRcNRu99IID2XKoyItkCGJiEa53cfylxrZkleW_ImHDdTU9jrkZRt2E2WCxVYe/s1600/7c_1_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqsHvHktfBqR7EWxnTCf4pouIV0L-IQR-Ph5D8PrHghcl6BMoFUD293gEy4ajeqy3gw0TDMqkKNGwZcQRcNRu99IID2XKoyItkCGJiEa53cfylxrZkleW_ImHDdTU9jrkZRt2E2WCxVYe/s320/7c_1_s.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
There may be more maintenance with a log home than you imagine. Repointing every few years is not uncommon.<br />
<br />
Insect pests (carpenter bees and termites) may not be covered by your insurance.<br />
<br />
Speaking of insurance, log and timber homes are insured differently than conventional homes. Talk to your insurance agent.<br />
<br />
Your log home or any rural home for that matter, may be a challenge for a fire truck to access. Again, talk to your insurance agent before building and ideally before purchasing your property!<br />
<br />
Finally, if you ever have to sell, the number of potential buyers is smaller. Many buyers fear the house will be dark or they will tire of all the wood.Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-65461408974373063672011-10-24T07:34:00.000-07:002011-10-24T07:34:50.374-07:00Duct Work: An Easy Fix to Save BucksAt a Green Builders meeting a year or so ago the following stats were relayed:<br />
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Most newer homes lose up to <b>10%</b> of the heat in the duct work.<br />
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Homes 15 years and older lose about <b>40%</b> in the duct work.<br />
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<b> THAT </b>got my attention. And energy prices are expected to increase by 50% in the next 7 years.<br />
Now. while it is cooling down but before it gets too cold, is the perfect time to make sure the seals to the heat registers are secure, the ducts are sealed and the returns are sealed.<br />
<br />
One inspector told me he has noticed a higher incidence of mice chewing holes in flexible ductwork than in the past. Here in the south where crawlspaces are common, it pays to check your duct work for holes every couple of years.Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-43896428889021397112011-10-24T07:31:00.000-07:002011-10-24T07:31:41.209-07:00Solar Skill Set: Real Estate Agents Need to Become Familiar with Residential Solar Options<div class="MsoNormal">Last year I attended a two day workshop in Pittsboro on solar power.<span> </span>We discussed the pros and cons of <strong>grid tied systems </strong>(about 95% of systems)<strong>, hybrid grid tied systems</strong> (more complicated but useful in areas that have frequent power outages)<strong> and off grid systems.<span> </span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal">Other topics and exercises included:</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span> </span></span></span>Using a multi meter to measure volts and current in various pv modules (panels)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span> </span></span></span>Finding the amount of sunlight a site would receive year round by measuring with a solar pathfinder (such a cool tool and great for gardeners, too!)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span> </span></span></span>Measuring temperature of the panel itself<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span> . </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"> Wiring the charge controller and safety disconnect to attach to the inverter, batteries and pv module that powers the small off grid <a href="http://theabundancefoundation.org/" target="_blank" title="Abundance Foundation in North Carolina">Abundance Foundation</a> office seen here in the picture</div><img alt="Off grid Abundance Foundation office in Pittsboro NC " height="235" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/6/8/2/1/ar128500418612862.jpg" title="Off grid Abundance Foundation office" width="312" /><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">The skill level of the attendees was all over the spectrum; electricians, contractors, homeowners, non-profit staff, and moi. Our instructor, <a href="http://theabundancefoundation.org/photovoltaic" target="_blank" title="Rebekah Hren"><strong>Rebekah Hren</strong></a>, a NABCEP certified solar PV installer and licensed NC electrician somehow kept us all engaged.<span> </span>I believe everyone left with loads more knowledge and skill than when they arrived on Saturday morning.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">My reason for attending was to better serve my real estate clients buying or selling a home with solar components or systems.<span> </span>The experience with a recent transaction, made clear having a good working knowledge of the difference in systems, a ballpark figure of cost/lifespan and how they work could translate in thousands of dollars in the cost of the home for buyers or the sale price of the home for the sellers.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;">During the transaction I mentioned earlier, I was working with the buyer and the lack of expertise of the appraiser sent by the lender in solar saved my buyer a bundle, but it was clear I needed a group a professionals to call upon the next time I have solar power systems<span> </span>in a property.<span> Happily, I now can call upon the expertise of a</span> team of professionals that include an appraiser with solar knowledge, lender with green certification, and solar inspector. </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;">That's me below, genuflecting to the sun god.</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;"><img alt="" height="327" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/2/1/6/1/ar128500668316128.JPG" width="436" /></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; padding-left: 60px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; padding-left: 60px;">Rebekah Hren and her husband Steven wrote a book featuring 36 projects to work toward <a href="http://thecarbonfreehome.com/" target="_blank" title="The Carbon Free Home"><strong>The Carbon Free Home</strong></a>. While many of the projects might be extreme for most folks. Almost everyone can use some of the ideas and projects in the book. </div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; padding-left: 60px;">Rebekah, who is a nationally sought after solar instructor for <a href="http://www.solarenergy.org/" target="_blank" title="Solar Energy International"><strong>Solar Energy International. </strong></a>Her newest book, <strong>Let the Sun Shine In</strong>, a buyers guide to photovoltaics and solar thermal, is now availabl<span style="color: blue;">e.</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="color: blue; margin-left: 0in; padding-left: 60px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; padding-left: 60px;"><b style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.cccc.edu/green/greenbuilding/">Central Carolina Community College</a></b> in Chatham County (Pittsboro and Siler City) have terrific green building programs. They also sponsor a green home tour every October. </div>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-25441141645485903372011-10-17T07:21:00.000-07:002011-10-17T07:24:55.130-07:00Title Insurance and Surveys<div class="hr"></div><div class="entry">Many lenders no longer require a survey. While most Realtors and closing attorneys recommend them, cash strapped buyers often opt not to purchase a survey. This is NOT the place to save money. <br />
You will get the accurate boundary of your property as well as learn of any encroachments or undisclosed easements. <br />
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Here is another reason to get a survey: The title insurance you buy may only cover the lender unless you ask your closing attorney to include title insurance for the buyer. In other words....if there is a title dispute you could be on your own. Please get a survey when purchasing property!<br />
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An example at how wrong things can go with no survey:<br />
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While touring a property with a client, we noticed a fairly recently built building near by with a condemned sign on it. The property we toured was appealing to my client, so of course, she wanted to know what the issue was with the condemned building.<br />
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My inquiries turned up the fact the duplex had been built in the Duke Power easement.<br />
How could that have happened? NO SURVEY!<br />
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No one ever lived in the property. It will now have to be moved or torn down.<br />
How it got a building permit and passed inspections up to completion is another story.<br />
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Get a survey! It is money well spent.<br />
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</div>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-72242387330796722142011-10-17T07:12:00.000-07:002011-10-17T07:12:01.350-07:00Be Prepared for Unexpected Repairs<div class="entry">When things break, they always break at the worst time.You know, on the weekend, during a party, etc. <br />
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When our well pump stopped working it was in mid shower on the weekend. After a tirade of colorful language, my husband did the smart thing. He turned off the well pump. We had enough hot water stored in the tank for the necessities until morning.<br />
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Happily, we had the phone number to the repair person on a magnetic business card on our hot water tank and he came right away. Even though I have numberous resource numbers in my database, it was comforting to not have to rifle through names and numbers while under the stress of no water.<br />
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The take away? <strong>Have your repair service contacts at the point of the problem</strong>; electrician at the breaker box, HVAC person at the air handler, etc.<br />
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By the way, turns out a fuse caused our problem. My husband saved our pump by turning it off.<br />
</div>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5379967129623540671.post-36485050174746419502011-10-17T07:10:00.000-07:002011-10-17T07:12:32.183-07:00What the IRS Considers An Improvement vs. A Repair<div class="hr"></div><div class="entry"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9qdokhXKqajSngrVPQ09LU8KubatFn59bj59xaor9OmGlZVUsNKZ-rK0T66Kh2bcAzAL3ryIwPfSfNDjpxT7SZ5ntKSNuxtWcQPbjtTDrZg2fh1eMatdKS0fmkTC6EM-_lQknDNgOzM6/s1600/architectural+block+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9qdokhXKqajSngrVPQ09LU8KubatFn59bj59xaor9OmGlZVUsNKZ-rK0T66Kh2bcAzAL3ryIwPfSfNDjpxT7SZ5ntKSNuxtWcQPbjtTDrZg2fh1eMatdKS0fmkTC6EM-_lQknDNgOzM6/s320/architectural+block+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><strong>Improvement vs. Repair?</strong></span><br />
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Planning to make improvements to your home? You can include them in the cost basis of your house and thus reduce your capital gains tax if you ever sell ( be sure to keep the receipts). If you're making repairs, however, there is no tax benefit.<br />
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<strong>What's the difference?</strong><br />
According to the IRS, an improvement "adds to the value of your home or prolongs its life," whereas a repair keeps it in "ordinary, efficient operating condition." There is a fine line between the two, but here are some general guidelines:<br />
<strong>Improvements:</strong><br />
<ul><li>Wallpapering</li>
<li>Installing tile floors</li>
<li>Replacing lighting fixtures</li>
<li>Paving your driveway</li>
<li>Adding insulation</li>
<li>Installing a water heater</li>
<li>Installing metal roof</li>
</ul><strong>Repairs:</strong><br />
<ul><li>Painting your home</li>
<li>Refinishing wood floors</li>
<li>Replacing broken window panes</li>
<li>Sealing your driveway</li>
<li>Replacing gutters</li>
<li>Installing new pipes</li>
<li>Repairs to asphalt roof</li>
</ul></div>Mari Trosclairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00897525035585671059noreply@blogger.com0