The housing market remains troubled and it may be years before the market levels out, according to Dr. Austin Jaffe, Pennsylvania Association of Realtors (PAR) consulting economist. Jaffe, who spoke at PAR's Business Meetings on Monday, said, "The new real estate market will be dramatically … [Read more...]

After a rising surge from September through November, existing-home sales fell as expected in December after first-time buyers rushed to complete sales before the original November deadline for the tax credit. However, prices rose from December 2008 and annual sales improved in 2009, according to … [Read more...]

The Exclusive Right to Sell An agency "exclusive right to sell" agreement to list and sell your property does not mean that agents from other offices will not try to sell your house. The "exclusive right" agent is simply the listing agent. Their job is to advertise and market your home to other … [Read more...]

The REALTORS® Relief Foundation of the National Association of Realtors® is contributing $550,000 to the relief of victims of the Haiti earthquake, and is calling upon its 1.2 million members to help. "Realtors® help build communities and there is no better time than now to do that in Haiti," … [Read more...]

De-Cluttering is the most difficult thing for people to do because they are emotionally connected to things throughout the house. After many years of living in the same house, clutter collects in a way that is only comfortable by the current homeowner. But, it can ultimately affect the way a buyer … [Read more...]

In most cases when making an offer, you typically know what the seller is asking. But how do you know what price to offer? An educated buyer should compare recent sales of similar homes to come up with a reasonable price range. You can analyze information about the homes, such as conditions, … [Read more...]

The Exterior One thing many sellers consider is whether to paint their house prior to sale. When you look at your house from across the street, does it look worn-out and faded? If it does, a paint job may be in order. It is often a very great investment of time, and at minimal cost, spruces up … [Read more...]

Lenders quoting you rates Before a lender or mortgage broker quotes you an interest rate, the loan officer will add on how much their branch wants to earn. The branch or company typically sets a policy on how little those earnings can be (the minimum amount a loan officer can add on to his or her … [Read more...]

Disclosures  Although you have toured the home, took a look at the walls and ceilings, turned on the faucets and checked the light switches, you have not lived in the home. The seller has years of knowledge about his or her home and there may be some things you want to find out about as quickly … [Read more...]

Doors and Windows Ensure all windows open and close easily. If they do not, spray some WD40 on them to help. Make sure there are no cracked or broken windowpanes. If there are, replace them before you begin showing your house. The same is necessary with the doors. Ensure doors open and close … [Read more...]