We Specialize In These Omaha Area Communities

Bennington - Benson - Belleview - Elkhorn - Gretna - La Vista  
Millard - Omaha - Papillion - Ralston - West Omaha

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July 15, 2015

MRG Realty Group:News You Can Use July 2015

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MRG Realty Group
Gary_Linda

Gary & Linda Carpenter
MRG Realty Group

15950 Dodge Road
Omaha NE 68118

402-680-7000 Office

Info@MRGOmaha.com

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Want to Sell Your Home Fast? Get My Free Guide

Preparing your home for sale can make the difference between getting the price you want - or ending up disappointed.

Discover some easy things you can do by requesting our free guide, "The 90 Things You Can't Afford To Neglect When Selling Your Home!"

Just reply to this email and I'll send it right out to you.
Quick Quiz

Each month I'll give you a new question.

Just reply to this email for the answer.

What is Bugs Bunny's catch phrase?
Why Not Pass Me to a Friend?

If you've enjoyed this newsletter and found its information useful, please forward it to a neighbor, friend or co-worker by clicking this link
Recipe: Chia Seed Pudding with Chocolate and Berries

This dessert is delicious and healthy.

Serves 4
  • 1/4 cup raw chia seeds
  • 2 cups vanilla almond milk (or any other kind of milk)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup assorted fresh berries
  • Quality dark chocolate for shaving
Place chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and salt in a medium bowl and whisk together.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate. After half an hour, unwrap and stir the mixture well to ensure there are no clumps of gelatinized chia seeds.

Cover and return to refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Stir again before serving. To serve, pour into dessert dishes and top with berries.

Use a vegetable peeler to shave the dark chocolate, and sprinkle shavings over berries.
Ask the Agent: This Month's Question

How do I find out about the area to which I'm relocating?

Looking for a new home in a new city can be a daunting experience, but it needn't be.

Ease the process by having the right team and as much information as possible before you even set foot in your new hometown. Do preliminary research from the palm of your hand with your smartphone. From crime statistics to the best and worst neighborhoods, the Internet is a great place to start.

Try local city guides and user reviews. Learn from the people who live, work, eat and play there every day. StreetAdvisor and TripAdvisor include useful reviews.

Talking to a local real estate agent is key. Ask your current agent to recommend someone in your new town. Use your social networks on- or off-line.

You want to ensure your new house and your new city, becomes a place you can all call home. Research will make it happen.

 

 
Inside Your Newsletter this Month...
Is Downsizing the Right Option for You?

Health concerns figure prominently-a bitter reality for older boomers who didn't believe they would ever have difficulty climbing stairs or navigating an older home. The result is that many are considering downsizing. But they still plan to age in place in one sense: Most would prefer to stay in their own neighborhoods with all the familiar comforts of home.

And the numbers are mind-boggling: One in 5 Americans will be 65 or older by 2030 - some 71 million people across the U.S. The impact will affect almost every aspect of society, including healthcare, employment - and, of course, housing.

Especially housing. Across North America, household debt has been growing, particularly in the age group of over 55ers; many seniors may have to-rather than choose to-downsize.

Is downsizing for you?

For those now considering the pros and cons of downsizing, here are some questions you need to ask yourself and your family:

Do I (and/or my spouse) need to downsize for health or financial reasons?

Is it likely that one of us soon won't be able to drive?

Am I hoping to stay near or in my current neighborhood, or move closer to family?

What to do now

You may have difficulty finding what you need in your neighborhood; in most areas, developers have been slow to catch up.

But if downsizing is on your horizon, your first connection should be a good real estate agent who has expertise working with senior buyers. It's also advantageous if your agent has a network of contacts such as lawyers, mortgage professionals, and organizing professionals to help with disposal of your possessions, and staging companies to prepare your home for sale.


Want to Get More ZZZZZZZZs? Log Off

SleepAccording to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 90% of Americans regularly use a computer or other electronic device before going to bed at night.

Yet research suggests that artificial light from electronic devices disrupts brain chemicals that promote sleep. A study conducted at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and published in Applied Ergonomics journal indicated that exposure to artificial light from iPads or PC tablets suppressed production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep cycle.

It seems that light from the blue part of the spectrum is the main culprit in inhibiting melatonin production. Smartphones and tablets, which are often illuminated by light-emitting diodes (LEDs), tend to emit more blue light than incandescent products.

One option for blocking blue light is to wear orange-tinted glasses. Another is to cover the screen with a blue-blocking filter. But researchers caution that so-called "blue blockers" have not been adequately tested for effectiveness; it's still best to limit use of brightly lit electronics at night. Also recommended: Use a small screen, dim the screen, and keep the device as far away from the eyes as possible.


Get Your Zen on with Coloring Books for Non-Kids

Markers We loved them as kids; but now coloring books have a new audience: Adults. Coloring books have become a way for stressed-out adults to get their Zen on through a well-remembered and cherished childhood pastime, reinvented for today.

The trend was triggered by Johanna Basford, a Scottish illustrator whose Secret Garden-inspired coloring book is dominating the Amazon hit list. To date, she's already sold 1.4 million copies worldwide-and she's not the only one. Following Johanna are a flurry of other artists with deeply detailed illustrations to color. The objective: to stimulate imagination and mindfulness.

In a recent article in The Guardian, Basford explains the attraction: "For many people, a blank sheet is very daunting," and adds that with a coloring book the lines are already there, so all you have to add is the color.

The result is an opportunity to take a break from our hectic days. Says Basford, "Now it is socially acceptable...These are books for adults."

Using simple pleasures as a way to make sense of an ever-changing world is a relatively new social movement, visible not just in coloring books but in hot new management books: Seth Godin's V is for Vulnerable is for the 9-to-whatever crowd, but Godin has packaged it as if for a child, complete with cartoons.

Stress-coping strategies don't need to be complicated. Sometimes, the best way to de-stress is to sit down and put crayons to paper. Basford concludes, "I think it is really relaxing, to do something analogue, to unplug..."


Wondering How Much Your Home Is Worth?

How has the price of your home changed in today's market? How much are other homes in your neighborhood selling for?

If you're wondering what's happening to prices in your area, or you're thinking about selling your house, I'll be able to help.

Just give my office a call for a no-fuss, professional evaluation.

I won't try to push you into listing with me or waste your time.

I'll just give you the honest facts about your home and its value.

And maybe I'll also give you the "inside scoop" on what's happening in the housing market near where you live!

Just give my office a call or reply to this email to arrange an appointment. Alternatively, stop by at the office.


Security Systems: Be Safe and Add Value to Your Home

Here's a home upgrade you may not have thought of: Home security. It's not as aesthetically pleasing as new hardwood flooring or as much fun as an in-ground pool, but it can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential renters and prospective buyers.

Gains in technology have made home security slicker, more innovative, and easier to manage. How slim or robust a system you choose depends on the location of your home, its size, and your personal preference. These days it's easier than ever, as a fully automated system allows you to view your property via computer or smartphone, and even lock doors automatically.

A security system will give you greater peace of mind and put money back in your pocket, as most insurance providers offer a discount for homes with monitored alarm systems. If you're considering purchasing a system, speak with your insurance company first to learn about what is eligible for such a discount.

It may also be an attractive feature for prospective buyers. A modern system that has already been installed is a value-add, both for reasons of personal security and because of the insurance discount (if applicable).

As well, home security can give you a competitive edge when renting out a property in a crowded market. For renters in urban areas-especially tenants who will be living alone-an apartment with an alarm system can be a huge draw; many landlords who offer security systems will likely be able to charge premium rent.
 


 

How To Get Your Home Ready To Sell
 

Screen Shot 2015-06-15 at 9.53.10 AM
 
Linda Carpenter here with the MRG Team at CBSHome Real Estate in Omaha Ne. The other day I had a friend come to me and ask me to help her sell her Mom's house. Her Mom had lived there for 50 years and had never sold a house before. I thought this might be a good time to explain how we get houses ready for the market. I have 4 tips for you today. Click on the video
Current Omaha Market Stats
 
Screen Shot 2015-07-06 at 2.12.34 PM

As you can see from the above graph, we are still in a strong seller's market with the low inventory and average days on market at 37 days. Usually this time of year the market will start to slow a bit and days on market will start to trend upward. Looking at the above graph, when you start to see the pending homes drop and the inventory climb you will start to see longer market times.  This is an overview of the entire Omaha market, for a more detailed analysis of your specific area please email us at Info@MRGOmaha.com 
This newsletter and any information contained herein are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or medical advice. The publisher takes great efforts to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this newsletter. However, we will not be responsible at any time for any errors or omissions or any damages, howsoever caused, that result from its use. Seek competent professional advice and/or legal counsel with respect to any matter discussed or published in this newsletter. This newsletter is not intended to solicit properties currently for sale....
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Posted in Newsletter
May 21, 2015

MRG Realty Group: What's Happening with Omaha Metro Real Estate

Looking to sell your Omaha Area Home? Get a FREE home value report
Looking to buy a Omaha Area Home? Search all homes for sale


Hi my name is Gary Carpenter with the MRG Realty Group at CBSHOME and I would like to thank you for taking the time to tune into our video blog. First I’d like to draw your attention to two great offers above. If you are thinking about selling or just interested in your home ' s current value click on the “Get your FREE Home Value Report. If you are in the market to purchase a new home or just like browsing the current inventory, click on the “Search All Homes For Sale Link”



So let' s talk about a few key numbers that drive the the Omaha Metro Real Estate Market.

 
 
  1. Inventory Level - The current inventory level in the Omaha metro is 3010 homes or 3
    months worth of  inventory. What that means to you, the consumer, is that if we didn’t list another home it would only  take 3 months to sell the current inventory that we have. We are seeing record low inventory levels in the Omaha Metro area. As a rule of thumb, an inventory level of less than 3 months indicates a strong seller's  market while an inventory level greater than 6 months indicates a buyer's market. 
  2. Days On Market - The DOM is a very telling number of what kind of market we are in, either a SELLER’S MARKET or a BUYER ' S MARKET. To have a seller ' s market the average days on market are 45 days or less,  if we are in a buyers market the DOM is higher than 45 days. Currently we are experiencing a very strong seller' s market since the inventory is low and we are at an average of 31 days on the market. Typically a   seller 's market does not last for very long.
  3. Average Sale Price - The average sale price is typically different for different parts of the metro and even in specific subdivision's  the average sale price could fluctuate. The current average sale price is $172,000.00. 
  4. Interest Rates - The most common types of financing that our clients are working with are Conventional and FHA financing. On a Conventional 30 year loan the current interest rate is 3.875% and on a FHA it is 3.5%. On the MRG Realty Group we defer all financing questions to our Mortgage Partners. There are a lot of factors that go into financing including credit score and downpayment .  
Thanks again for tuning in today. If you are considering buying a house or selling a property, our group would love the opportunity to help you. Never hesitate to reach out to the agent that has shared this video with you or feel free to email us at Info@MRGOmaha.com or call us at 402-680-7000 and one of our professional sales associates will be happy to assist. Make it a fantastic day! 
May 19, 2015

MRG Realty Group: How To Get Your Home Ready To Sell

 

Looking to sell your Omaha Area Home? Get a FREE home value report
Looking to buy a Omaha Area Home? Search all homes for sale



                           Linda Carpenter her with the MRG team at CBSHome Real Estate in Omaha, Nebraska. The other day I had a friend come to me and ask me to help her sell her Mom's house. Her Mom had lived there for 15 years and had never sold a house before. I thought this might be a good time to explain how we get houses ready for the market. I have 4 tips for you today. 

 
 
                        1. Finding That Good Agent: Our team works a lot with referrals so you may find somebody in your community that you know and that you trust or you can ask a friend for a referral. Maybe they just bought or sold and had a really good experience. Another option is to research online. There's a lot of information at your fingertips and we do get a lot of referrals through the internet as well. I do suggest that you interview that agent though. You want to have a good rapport with them, you're going to be working closely with them for the next several weeks, maybe even several months and you want a solid relationship.

                        2. Talking To That Lender: It may seem odd that I'm asking you to talk to a lender when you're just selling your house but if you're planning on purchasing one after the sale of your current home you want to make sure you have all those financial terms laid out and figured out so that you're ready to buy when your home does sell. The last thing you want to do is get a contract on your home and you can't get pre-approved for that next purchase.

                        3. Getting That Home Market Ready: You should be working with your real estate agent to get your home ready for the market. This could include some improvement projects, maybe painting, new carpet, freshening up the landscaping and increasing that curb appeal. You could also work on staging the interior with either a home stager or a your Realtor. You may even consider getting your home pre-inspected by a certified home inspector.

                        4. Strategic Marketing Plan: Again work closely with your Realtor to develop a plan that's unique to you. No 2 homes are the same, no 2 sellers are the same. Make sure that plan fits your needs. That plan should include pricing according to the location of the home, according to the condition of the home and of course looking at comparable sold homes in your neighborhood.
 
 
Thanks again for tuning in today. If you are considering buying a house or selling a property, our group would love the opportunity to help you. Never hesitate to reach out to the agent that has shared this video with you or feel free to email us at 402-680-7000 or email us at info@MRGOmaha.com. 
Feb. 17, 2014

-January 2014 Omaha Market Area Stats-

Posted in Current Events
April 22, 2013

-Buying vs Renting-

-Buy vs Renting-

 

 

 Is now the right time for you to buy a home? You have many options to consider and choices to make. Buying a home is a big responsibility, financially and emotionally, but, most people want to own a home. Homeownership often is referred to as "the American dream." Why is it so special? Among the reasons: Real estate often is an excellent investment, perhaps the number one source of wealth-building for families. 

Owning a home has many benefits. When you make a mortgage payment, you are building equity - and that's an investment. Owning a home also qualifies you for tax benefits that may assist you in dealing with your new financial responsibilities - such as homeowners' insurance, real estate taxes, and upkeep - which can be substantial. But given the freedom, stability, and security of owning your own home, they are definitely worth it! Owning your own home also can be a great source of pride and stability. 

But homeownership may not be for everyone. It's a big financial commitment - starting with the initial shock of your purchase (including a "down payment" and fees paid to a real estate agent, the lender and others) followed by years of monthly mortgage payments, real estate taxes, property insurance and maintenance costs. When you decide to purchase a home, you accept responsibility for paying for these expenses. They are additional costs to your monthly mortgage payment and should be included in your budget estimates: Property Taxes and Special Assessments, Home/Hazard Insurance, Utilities, Maintenance, Home Owner Association (HOA) Fee if applicable. 

One of the advantages of renting is being generally free of most maintenance responsibilities and the flexibility of moving almost as soon as you decide. But by renting, you lose the chance to build equity, take advantage of tax benefits, and protect yourself against rent increases. Also, you may not be free to decorate without permission and may be at the mercy of the landlord for your housing needs. There are many considerations in choosing between renting and buying: 

  • Do you want to spend several years in a house and in a neighborhood?
  • Do you enjoy lawn and garden work?
  • Might you need to move suddenly to care for family?
  • Do you want to keep your assets accessible in the bank, or do you want to invest long-term in a home?

There are tax advantages to homeownership in both the short and long terms. The mortgage interest and real estate taxes are tax deductible, which allows you to subtract part of your housing-related expenses from your taxable income, which could reduce your tax bill. In many cases, the amount of money a renter spends on rent can be about the same as or less than the amount a homeowner spends on a mortgage. With the tax benefit for homeowners, the savings can be significant. 

Buy vs. Rent: Pros and Cons

. Advantages Considerations

Buy

Property builds equity Responsible for maintenance
Sense of community, stability, and security Responsible for property taxes
Free to change decor and landscaping Possibility of foreclosure and loss of equity

Not dependent on landlord to maintain property

 

Less mobility then renting

Rent

Little or no responsibility for maintenance No tax benefits
Easier to move No equity is built up
. No control over rent increases
. Possibility of eviction

Buy vs. Rent: Cost Comparison

The chart below shows a cost comparison for a renter and a homeowner over a seven year period. The renter starts out paying $800 per month with annual increases of 5%. 

The homeowner purchases a home for $110,000 and pays a monthly mortgage of $1,000. After 6 years, the homeowner's payment is lower than the renter's monthly payment. With the tax savings of homeownership, the homeowner's payment is less than the rental payment after 3 years. 

Yrs

Rent

Mortgage Payment

Monthly Diff.

After Tax Savings

Yearly Diff.

After Tax Savings

1 800 1000 -200 -50 -2400 -600
2 840 1000 -160 -10 -1920 -120
3 882 1000 -118 +32 -1416 +384
4 926 1000 -74 +76 -888 +912
5 972 1000 -28 +122 -336 +1464
6 1021 1000 +21 +171 +252 +2052
7 1072 1000 +72 +222 +864 +2664
8-30 . . Savings increase every year

April 22, 2013

-2013 College World Series-

The 2013 College World Series is just around the corner! Below is a schedule of all the games! Who do you think will be a series favorite? 

 

 

2013 CWS Dates & Schedule

The 2013 NCAA Men's College World Series will begin with Opening Celebration Day on Friday, June 14. Games will begin Saturday, June 15, and continue through Tuesday/Wednesday, June 25/26.

 

Opening Celebration   Friday, June 14  All Day
     
 Opening Rounds    
 Game 1  Saturday, June 15  2 p.m.
 Game 2  Saturday, June 15  7 p.m.
 Game 3  Sunday, June 16  2 p.m.
 Game 4  Sunday, June 16  7 p.m.
 Game 5  Monday, June 17  2 p.m.
 Game 6  Monday, June 17  7 p.m.
 Game 7  Tuesday, June 18  2 p.m.
 Game 8   Tuesday, June 18  7 p.m.
 Game 9  Wednesday, June 19  7 p.m.
 Game 10  Thursday, June 20  7 p.m.
 Game 11  Friday, June 21  2 p.m.
 Game 12  Friday, June 21  7 p.m.
 Game 13*  Saturday, June 22  2 p.m.
 Game 14*^  Saturday, June 22  7:30 p.m.
     
Championship Series     
 Finals 1  Monday, June 24  7 p.m.
 Finals 2  Tuesday, June 25  7 p.m.
 Finals 3*  Wednesday, June 26   7 p.m.

*If necessary
^If necessary and ONLY one game is played

All game times are listed in Central/Omaha Time and are subject to change. 

Posted in Current Events
April 22, 2013

-"I Just Shipped My Pants!"-

Okay this is a funny ad by KMart! It suprises me that some people are offended by this! My opion is that if you are offended don't watch it! Please share your thoughts below!

Posted in Funny
April 4, 2013

-22 Simple Steps To Be Happy!-

                                                            

Photo by Rosie Hardy

There are two types of people in the world: those who choose to be happy, and those who choose to be unhappy. Contrary to popular belief, happiness doesn’t come from fame, fortune, other people, or material possessions. Rather, it comes from within. The richest person in the world could be miserable while a homeless person could be right outside, smiling and content with their life. Happy people are happy because they make themselves happy. They maintain a positive outlook on life and remain at peace with themselves.

The question is: how do they do that?

It’s quite simple. Happy people have good habits that enhance their lives. They do things differently. Ask any happy person, and they will tell you that they …

1. Don’t hold grudges.

Happy people understand that it’s better to forgive and forget than to let their negative feelings crowd out their positive feelings. Holding a grudge has a lot of detrimental effects on your wellbeing, including increased depression, anxiety, and stress. Why let anyone who has wronged you have power over you? If you let go of all your grudges, you’ll gain a clear conscience and enough energy to enjoy the good things in life.

2. Treat everyone with kindness.

Did you know that it has been scientifically proven that being kind makes you happier? Every time you perform a selfless act, your brain produces serotonin, a hormone that eases tension and lifts your spirits. Not only that, but treating people with love, dignity, and respect also allows you to build stronger relationships.

3. See problems as challenges.

The word “problem” is never part of a happy person’s vocabulary. A problem is viewed as a drawback, a struggle, or an unstable situation while a challenge is viewed as something positive like an opportunity, a task, or a dare. Whenever you face an obstacle, try looking at it as a challenge.

4. Express gratitude for what they already have.

There’s a popular saying that goes something like this: “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.” You will have a deeper sense of contentment if you count your blessings instead of yearning for what you don’t have.

5. Dream big.

People who get into the habit of dreaming big are more likely to accomplish their goals than those who don’t. If you dare to dream big, your mind will put itself in a focused and positive state.

6. Don’t sweat the small stuff.

Happy people ask themselves, “Will this problem matter a year from now?” They understand that life’s too short to get worked up over trivial situations. Letting things roll off your back will definitely put you at ease to enjoy the more important things in life.

7. Speak well of others.

Being nice feels better than being mean. As fun as gossiping is, it usually leaves you feeling guilty and resentful. Saying nice things about other people encourages you to think positive, non-judgmental thoughts.

8. Never make excuses.

Benjamin Franklin once said, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” Happy people don’t make excuses or blame others for their own failures in life. Instead, they own up to their mistakes and, by doing so, they proactively try to change for the better.

9. Get absorbed into the present.

Happy people don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. They savor the present. They let themselves get immersed in whatever they’re doing at the moment. Stop and smell the roses.

10. Wake up at the same time every morning.

Have you noticed that a lot of successful people tend to be early risers? Waking up at the same time every morning stabilizes your circadian rhythm, increases productivity, and puts you in a calm and centered state.

11. Avoid social comparison.

Everyone works at his own pace, so why compare yourself to others? If you think you’re better than someone else, you gain an unhealthy sense of superiority. If you think someone else is better than you, you end up feeling bad about yourself. You’ll be happier if you focus on your own progress and praise others on theirs.

12. Choose friends wisely.

Misery loves company. That’s why it’s important to surround yourself with optimistic people who will encourage you to achieve your goals. The more positive energy you have around you, the better you will feel about yourself.

13. Never seek approval from others.

Happy people don’t care what others think of them. They follow their own hearts without letting naysayers discourage them. They understand that it’s impossible to please everyone. Listen to what people have to say, but never seek anyone’s approval but your own.

14. Take the time to listen.

Talk less; listen more. Listening keeps your mind open to others’ wisdoms and outlooks on the world. The more intensely you listen, the quieter your mind gets, and the more content you feel.

15. Nurture social relationships.

A lonely person is a miserable person. Happy people understand how important it is to have strong, healthy relationships. Always take the time to see and talk to your family, friends, or significant other.

16. Meditate.

Meditating silences your mind and helps you find inner peace. You don’t have to be a zen master to pull it off. Happy people know how to silence their minds anywhere and anytime they need to calm their nerves.

17. Eat well.

Junk food makes you sluggish, and it’s difficult to be happy when you’re in that kind of state. Everything you eat directly affects your body’s ability to produce hormones, which will dictate your moods, energy, and mental focus. Be sure to eat foods that will keep your mind and body in good shape.

18. Exercise.

Studies have shown that exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft does. Exercising also boosts your self-esteem and gives you a higher sense of self-accomplishment.

19. Live minimally.

Happy people rarely keep clutter around the house because they know that extra belongings weigh them down and make them feel overwhelmed and stressed out. Some studies have concluded that Europeans are a lot happier than Americans are, which is interesting because they live in smaller homes, drive simpler cars, and own fewer items.

20. Tell the truth.

Lying stresses you out, corrodes your self-esteem, and makes you unlikeable. The truth will set you free. Being honest improves your mental health and builds others’ trust in you. Always be truthful, and never apologize for it.

21. Establish personal control.

Happy people have the ability to choose their own destinies. They don’t let others tell them how they should live their lives. Being in complete control of one’s own life brings positive feelings and a great sense of self-worth.

22. Accept what cannot be changed.

Once you accept the fact that life is not fair, you’ll be more at peace with yourself. Instead of obsessing over how unfair life is, just focus on what you can control and change it for the better.
If you’d like to see more posts like these, follow my blog or share with your friends below! Thanks!
Kris

 
Posted in motivation
April 4, 2013

-Do's and Don'ts for Choosing the Right Contractor-

                                     Click to find some great business contractors in Omaha                              

                       

The Most Essential Do's and Don'ts for Choosing the Right Contractor

Americans spend billions of dollars on construction and home remodeling each year.Many homeowners have discovered that improving their present residence with an updated kitchen, an additional bathroom, new windows or a new roof can be a more prudent investment than purchasing a new residence. However, adding a room or updating a kitchen can cost more than a new car, and consumers should take some time and care in planning a costly home improvement project. Unfortunately, most consumers spend less time choosing a contractor than they do choosing a car. Here is a checklist of important things to consider before starting any major construction project: 

The Do's

  • Do plan your project carefully.
  • Do shop around before hiring a contractor.
  • Do get at least three written bids on your project.
  • Do provide all contractors with accurate plans or drawings that will enable them to determine the scope and cost of work when requesting bids.
  • Do check with the Contractors State License Board to make sure the contractor is properly licensed, and to check the status and disciplinary history of the license.
  • Do check out contractors with your local building department, trade associations or unions, consumer protection agency, and the Better Business Bureau.
  • Do look at work the contractor has completed.
  • Do ask your contractor to furnish a completion or contract bond.
  • Do consult with more than one lending institution regarding the type of loan to obtain.
  • Do ask your lender to recommend a funding-control company.
  • Do make sure your contract provides for a "retention," apercentage of each payment or of the total job, ordinarily 10 percent, which you retain until the job is completed.
  • Do make sure everything you and your contractor have agreed to is included in your contract, and don't sign anything until you understand and agree with all terms.
  • Do ask your contractor about inconveniences that may occur, and plan accordingly.
  • Do keep a job file.
  • Do make sure you receive unconditional lien releases from subcontractors and material suppliers.
  • Do make frequent inspections of the work, including a final walk-through.
  • Do consult an attorney if a mechanics' lien is filed against your property.
  • Do negotiate with the contractor first if problems or disagreements occur.

The Don'ts

  • Don't hire an unlicensed contractor.
  • Don't hire a contractor without first shopping around.
  • Don't be fooled or pressured by a smooth-talking salesperson. Take the time and effort to make sure that the person or business doing your home improvement is going to perform in a professional manner.
  • Don't act as an owner/builder, unless you are very experienced in construction.
  • Don't sign anything until you completely understand it and agree to the terms.
  • Don't make agreements with subcontractors or workers without consulting the prime contractor.
  • Don't pay cash without a proper receipt.
  • Don't make a down payment that exceeds the legal limit,usually ten percent.
  • Don't let your payments get ahead of the contractor's completed work.
  • Don't hesitate to ask questions of the contractor.
  • Don't make final payment until you are satisfied with the job
April 4, 2013

-Selling it or Smelling It?-

            

Pet odors can be a problem when you're in the process of selling your home. If your house has an odor problem, you should remove any offending furniture or carpets or hire a professional to clean them. Be sure to check the cat box frequently and keep the litter fresh. 

Since some people have allergies or fears of certain animals, it's a good idea to put dogs or cats outside or confine your pets to one area when your house is being shown. It's hard for buyers to fully appreciate your home through itchy, watery eyes or in between sneezes! Even if the house is exactly what they want, your chances of selling it are less if the scent of Spot lingers in their memory.