Many home buyers walk into prospective Rancho Cucamonga homes with an "as is" attitude. They fail to consider that the home sellers may be willing to make repairs or updates in order to get the home sold.

This isn't hard to understand. Most people do not buy Rancho Cucamonga homes frequently so they aren’t familiar with exactly what they can and cannot ask for. A home isn’t like a car that you might purchase new every few years, or clothes that you shop for all the time and know how to investigate, compare, and price appropriately.

This lack of knowledge is possibly the best reason for seeking the help of a qualified professional REALTOR®. They handle home purchases daily and can help you with what to watch out for, what price to pay and what you can and can't haggle over.  They’ll even handle the negotiations for you.

Let’s get back to repairs, updates or price reductions you may want to have your agent negotiate for you:

• Electrical Wiring: Especially in older Rancho Cucamonga homes the wiring is likely to be old, outdated or even hazardous. Make sure you have the wiring thoroughly inspected. This is not a cheap fix.  If there are problems, they should be solved before you purchase, or you should be offered a greatly reduced price to reflect the cost to you of replacement. This is a very important item and even if you accept a price reduction do not be tempted to simply enjoy the extra cost benefits without using it to make the needed repairs. Bad wiring is a fire hazard that can destroy your purchase, not to mention be fatal if not fixed.

• Breaker Boxes: Older homes may still have fuse boxes. These are very outdated and some may even use types of fuses that are hard to find. While updating an old fuse box to a breaker switch box isn't extremely expensive, it should be done by a qualified electrician. This is something that should be done before you buy. It isn't worth asking for a price reduction, but it also isn't something you should have to deal with when you move into your new home.

These are just a couple of negotiable items to think about when you look at a prospective purchase.

If you would like more information on things to consider when viewing a home, I can help. Contact me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

If you're anything like me, you've driven through neighborhoods, admiring the Rancho Cucamonga  homes and immaculate lawns.  You've pictured your dry, brown yard, wondering how these homeowners managed to get their lawns looking so great. 

Here are a few tips and tricks that can help achieve that plush, green grass that everyone hopes for:

1.  Choose a type of grass seed that's right for your climate zone.

There are three climate zones:  Warm, transitional and cool.  Warm season grass is better for lawns in the South, cool season for the North, and transitional for Central.  The best bet for the transitional zone is either a mixture of warm and cool season grass or using the same seeds as the warm zone.

2.  Plant at the right time.

Throw grass seed on the ground at the right time, and it’ll grow.

• Warm zone grasses - sown in the spring, once the soil is warm enough for sprouts to grow.

• Cool zone grasses – sown in the fall, generally between August 1 – 15 for the far North, and August 15 – 30 for the warmer areas.

3.  Cut at the right height.

No matter what zone the Rancho Cucamonga homes with gorgeous green lawns are in, you may notice that the lawns all seem to be about the same height.  There’s a reason for that.  Lawn care experts say you should never cut your grass shorter than two inches.

4.  Use the right mower.

You want to use mulching lawnmowers, replacing the blades every season to keep them sharp for cleaner cuts.  These lawnmowers turn the clippings into perfect grass-feed, which takes care of about half of the feed for the season. 

5.  Have a good watering schedule.

The best time to water a lawn is first thing in the morning.  You want to water all at once instead of in short spurts, soaking your lawn with about one inch each time you water.  Cool zone lawns should be watered whenever it's been dry for a week.  Lawns for warm zone Rancho Cucamonga homes should be watered twice a week during the summer.

Want to buy a home with a lush lawn?  I can help.  Give me a call today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

Moving to a new Rancho Cucamonga home and, in some cases, to a new location all together, can be an exciting event.  It can also be a difficult thing, especially for children. 

When a move means a new Rancho Cucamonga home, new school and new friends, children realize they’re leaving their comfort zone for the unknown.  This can be frightening, especially to very young children.

Along with packing up boxes and making plans for a move, parents need to spend time thinking about how to make the transition as easy as possible for kids.  Following are some suggestions for doing just that:

• Make a scrapbook:  Let your kids take pictures of friends and places they would like to remember.  Then put together a scrapbook you and your kids can take to your new home and look at, especially when homesickness strikes.

• Listen to your kids:  Children often have fears that they don’t share with their parents.  Your children may be very ambivalent about moving, but afraid to say so or don’t know how to put it into words.  Take time to discuss the move with your children.  Ask them how they feel about the move and then talk out any fears they may have.  Don’t dismiss the fear of making new friends by simply saying “of course you’ll make new friends.” Explain that you’ll also be without friends and together you’ll meet new people.

• Visit your new Rancho Cucamonga home:  If possible, take your children to the home you’ll be moving into.  Let them visit their new school, walk around the neighborhood and play at the local park.  Giving them a chance to visit the place they’ll soon call home will help alleviate some of their fears and perhaps even get them excited about the move.  If physically visiting your new home isn’t possible, virtually visit it.  Help your children explore their new hometown online.

Need to move to a new home?  Whether you want to move within Rancho Cucamonga or you need to relocate to another state, I can help.  Give me a call today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com for more information.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

If you have a home for sale in Rancho Cucamonga or anywhere else in the U.S., you may have heard of the term “disclosure.”  What is it, why is it important, and what does it entail?

What is disclosure?

First, disclosure is the act of informing a buyer about any issues that your home for sale in Rancho Cucamonga may have. For instance, if the home has water damage in the basement, you may have to tell the potential buyer about it. I say, “may have to,” because in some states disclosure is a legal issue. In some states, not disclosing issues may be illegal, while in other states, non-disclosure is perfectly legal.

Why is disclosure important?

Real estate transactions are fraught with pitfalls, many of which can end with a lawsuit. Non-disclosure is one of the pitfalls. Several sales throughout the years have ended in non-disclosure lawsuits, where the homebuyer believes, basically, that the homeowner knew a problem existed. The seller didn’t let the buyer know about the issue, which left the buyer feeling as if they’d been scammed – thus, the lawsuit.

What should I disclose to the buyer?

Many real estate agents (including myself), follow a simple rule when it comes to disclosure. “If you wonder whether you should tell the buyer about something, you probably should.” While disclosing problems may mean a lower sales price, not sharing may have you paying more than you ever wanted to in legal fees.

Some things, such as a violent death in the house, have a statute of limitations in most states. For instance, with few exceptions, California Civil Code 1710.2 requires that you tell the potential buyer if the death happened less than three years prior.

Certain disclosures are required, such as lead based paint, the presence of asbestos, or if there’s ever been toxic mold or termites. The rest of the requirements vary from state to state.

As you can see, disclosure isn’t a minor issue. What you have to share versus what you should share, however, all depends on whether you have a home for sale in Rancho Cucamonga or elsewhere in the U.S. If you’re up front, you’ll have a much better chance of keeping the money you made off the sale, versus spending it in legal fees.

If you’re trying to sell your home, I can help. Call me at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com for more information.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

The home inspection is one of the most important considerations that can directly impact your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale.  

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 84 percent of all residential real estate transactions include a provision for home inspection.  The purpose of this inspection is to provide an unbiased, analytical analysis of your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale.  In a sense, this is the purchaser’s opportunity to avoid the “buyer beware” syndrome.

Because of the importance of the home inspection, as the seller, it’s an excellent idea to get your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale inspected before putting it on the market.  That gives you a chance to fix any problems before potential buyers see your home.

How to Choose a Home Inspector

Not every state requires a home inspector to be licensed.  Therefore, you need to do your homework before choosing a home inspector.

Well informed buyers and sellers usually ask for inspectors who are members of either the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors.

Additionally, before hiring a home inspector ask for:

• A description of the services to be provided:  A typical home inspection should include a thorough and itemized written report detailing the home’s structural elements, an exterior evaluation, roofing, plumbing electrical and appliance testing.  Outbuildings and garages can also be included in the inspection.  Items such as insect and rodent infestation and radon inspections can also be performed.

• A list of references:  Be sure to contact these references and ask what they thought of the home inspector and whether or not they would use the inspector again.

Now What?

Okay.  Now, the inspection is performed and you’ve received the written report.  You have a couple of options to resolve any problems noted in the report:

1. You can fix the problems yourself.
2. You can hire someone to fix the problems.
3. You can reduce the sales price by the estimated cost to fix the problems.

While it’s ultimately your decision, a professional real estate agent can help you determine which option will get your home sold the fastest and for the highest profit.

If you’d like recommendations to the best home inspectors in the Inland Empire, or want help getting your home sold, give me a call at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams.

Buying a Rancho Cucamonga home can be a challenging process. Along the way you will experience a wide range of emotions. No matter how strongly you feel that you are alone, rest assured that most buyers feel the same way. Here’s a peek at what you can expect when…

• Looking for a Rancho Cucamonga home. Creating a wish list for a house that fits within your budget can cause the initial signs of stress. Once that list is created, a new panic may settle in as you wonder if you will find the right home for you within that budget. Expect this panic to increase as you look at more homes.

• Presenting an offer. No one wants to be rejected, even if it’s about property. Remind yourself that it is perfectly normal to worry about getting an accepted offer and that the sellers are also experiencing a similar feeling of woe at this point. Both sides want the same thing: a signed contract.

• Signing the contract. Once the contract is signed, a new panic may set in. You may wonder if you got a fair price or if you chose the right property for you. From this point until closing day, you will think about this decision and about all the changes before you. Moving means finding new stores and restaurants and new roads to work.  This is called buyer's remorse.  Just remember, it's a common phenomenon that you'll get through it.

• Closing. Once the papers are signed and the check has been turned over to the title company, a sense of finality takes over. You know that there is no turning back at this point and may still wonder if you made the right decision. Again this is perfectly normal and happens to almost everyone.

Don’t navigate the waters of home buying on your own. Let me help you find the Rancho Cucamonga home for you. Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

Spring is the rainy season for many parts of the nation and, for those areas where spring doesn’t bring rain, summer does. Rain brings mold, mold grows on your Rancho Cucamonga real estate and buyers run. Of course, if it doesn’t rain, there’s always humidity, which can also cause

How do I know if I have mold?

Well, for example, if you get up in the morning, walk into your living room and find a swimming pool where your couch used to be, you might have mold once the water dries up. Of course, if you have swimming pool in your living room every spring, you can always use it as a selling point… “Living room boasts natural, seasonal pool!”

On the serious side, mold is often indicated by a musty, often sharp smell in the home. You also might see dark smudges and/or blotches on surfaces. While excessive humidity can cause mold, those whose homes have had some form of water damage should be the most concerned. Types of water damage can include anything from a leaking roof to a toilet overflowing.

What’s the problem with mold and mildew?

The problem with mold and mildew is once it creeps into your Rancho Cucamonga real estate, it takes a brigade to kick it out. Also, mold and mildew problems fall under many states’ disclosure laws, so you may not be able to legally keep it from the buyer.

If you find out you have mold, you have two choices:

1. Tell the buyer and either lose them or take a hefty chunk out of your sales price.
2. Pay a hefty price to a mold removal company. The real kicker is even if you pay to have the mold removed, you may still be required to disclose that the home had a mold problem.

What should you do about mold?

The best way to deal with this smelly invader of the home front is to destroy it as soon as you first smell the musty, earthy odor. Track it down and kill it.  Plenty of mold-killing products out there do the job nicely on small patches.

If you think you might have mold and can’t seem to track it down, check with your health department. They may have recommendations of where to go, who to talk to or other ways to find the mold that you haven’t used.

If you’re trying to sell your Rancho Cucamonga real estate, you can’t let something as annoying as mold ruin the deal. Even if the property is sitting vacant, keep your eyes, ears and – most importantly – nose sharp!

If you’re trying to sell your home and need an experienced guide, I can help. Call me at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com for more information.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

Whew—you're finished! You've signed all the forms and the race is won, you think. Okay, go ahead and sigh that huge gasp of relief that your Rancho Cucamonga home is finally yours.

That's enough. Now, get yourself up and realize the heavy work is about to start. Oh yeah, you have to move all that stuff you've managed to accumulate over the past however many years you've been alive. Stuff doesn't ever die; it just continues to follow you around.  So, how do you get it to your new Rancho Cucamonga home?  Here are a few ideas to help:

Send out invitations: You would do it for any other big event in your life. Send out invitations to your family and friends and invite them to help you on your big day. Make it sound like fun by promising a picnic in your new backyard either the day of the move or soon after. It doesn't have to be a big complicated affair.  Order some take-out fried chicken or pizza and have plenty of beverages for sweaty, tired helpers.  Make it a real event that everyone can enjoy while laughing about the day's adventures.

Store it:  If you're like most people, you have plenty of things you rarely use but can't bear to get rid of. Take advantage of the fact that you'll be packing all your things, and put those items you never use into boxes and tote them to a storage unit. You get to keep them, at least for now, but they won't be cluttering up your brand new Rancho Cucamonga home.  In six months, if you haven't missed the items, take the boxes (without opening them) to your favorite donation location.

Safeguard your pets: Moving day is hectic and can be frightening for your pets. Board your cats or dogs for the day. It will be worth the expense to make sure they don't escape through doors propped open for moving.

Still looking for your dream home?  Give me a call today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com , and together we’ll find your dream home fast.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

If the thought of spring cleaning your Rancho Cucamonga home doesn’t bring a smile to your face, you’re not alone.  To help you (and me) get going now, I’ve come up with this short list of the 6 essential, in my opinion, spring cleaning chores:

1. Store winter clothes:  It’s time to pack away your winter clothes. Coats, sweaters, and your heavy winter clothing need to be inspected, cleaned if needed and packed away.  Don’t skip the step of cleaning, or, when you get your clothes out of storage next fall, you might find that they’ve been damaged beyond repair by insects or set in stains.  Where should you store your clothes?  Somewhere clean, cool, dark and dry. 

2. Wash window treatments:  Spring is the perfect time to inspect and clean the window treatments in your Rancho Cucamonga home.  Clean window treatments brighten any room. Wash blinds, launder curtains that are machine washable and send drapes to the dry cleaners. While you’re at it, dust the window casing, wash window sills, and clean any window hardware.  You’ll be surprised at the huge amount of dirt and grime that a thorough window cleaning removes.

3. Clean carpets and upholstery: Deep clean fabrics that have absorbed a winter's worth of dust and germs.  Shampoo your carpets; clean cloth furniture.  Open windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more.

4. Wash woodwork, walls, baseboards and cabinets: Even if your Rancho Cucamonga home’s walls don’t look like they need cleaning, they do.  Just enough dust clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal bath.  Using a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, wash the surface in sections to make sure you don’t miss a spot.

5. Clean light and ceiling fixtures: To clean your light fixtures, remove the light bulb and fixture if possible.  Wash glass fixtures in soap and water.  If the fixture cannot be removed from the ceiling, use a damp cloth to wipe it off.  Dry the fixtures.  Wipe the light bulbs with a rag.  The easiest way to clean your ceiling fans is to use a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.

6. Check your coils: Caked on dust can cause your refrigerator to overheat, so take the time to clean the condenser coil.   It’s usually found behind the toe grille.  Clean it with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose.  If the condenser coil is on the back of your refrigerator, carefully pull the fridge out several feet and vacuum thoroughly. 

Put on your favorite music and start your spring cleaning.  It’ll be done before you know it.  Then you can relax and enjoy your sparkling clean home.

Spring is also a great time to shop for a new Rancho Cucamonga home.  Call me at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com to find out what your home is worth in the current market. 

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

The debate is as old as the real estate industry.  Does a low, highly competitive selling price for Rancho Cucamonga real estate actually generate a faster, more profitable sale than a slightly inflated price with a willingness to negotiate?  Yes, it is an age-old debate.  Yes, it has never been more important that sellers make informed decisions about their asking price and negotiating strategy.

A seller with an unreasonable opinion of their home’s value is either a wishful thinker or does not have the benefit of an accurate comparative market analysis and a real estate agent who specializes in the area.

Get Real, Know the Facts

When sellers decide to list their home in the Rancho Cucamonga real estate market, they usually have an opinion of value based on reported sales of similar properties.  Consciously or subconsciously, most homeowners follow the real estate activity of surrounding homes.

However, every real estate transaction stands independently.  In today’s market, buyers and sellers negotiate to capitalize on tax incentives, green-initiative improvements, closing fees, homeowner credits and local incentives.  Thus, the “neighborhood selling price” may not represent the price you can actually get for your home.

Real estate agents use differing strategies to secure listings and set sales prices.  Therefore, a seller who requests proposals from three different Rancho Cucamonga real estate agents may well get three different opinions of value:

1.  One agent may want the listing at any price and be willing to accept an owner’s requirement for a high asking price just to land the listing.
2. Another agent may be conservative and encourage a low asking price in the hopes of generating superior demand.  This strategy was effective in the boom years of 2006 and 2007.
3. A third agent may combine his knowledge about the property, the neighborhood and today’s real estate market to come up with the optimal listing price.

The Optimal Listing Price

Responsible Rancho Cucamonga real estate agents view the property from three postures. 

1. First we inspect the property, top to bottom.  We understand its history, the neighborhood, its strengths and its weaknesses. 
2. Next, we do our research.  We compile a complete, relevant list of recent sales, a thorough list of properties on the market and a comparable list of recently concluded Rancho Cucamonga real estate transactions.

3. We balance this information against the cost of new construction.  We factor in what improvements might be necessary to stage the home more effectively.  And, we use this quantitative analysis, called a comparative market analysis, to recommend a strong selling price designed to garner demand.

This is not a whimsical exercise.  This is about establishing the maximum se

To further discuss how you can realize the greatest real estate value for your home, contact me today at (909) 938-9568 or by email at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

Modern technology is a wonderful thing, creating easy “connectivity” between people all over the nation.  But it’s also causing problems in many areas, and buying Rancho Cucamonga real estate is one of them.

Here’s the problem: Many people selling Rancho Cucamonga real estate may live in another city or state. In this case, negotiations may be conducted over the phone, through email, via Yahoo conversations – some even use Twitter for real estate deals and information.

At the same time, this also means that legal documents may be passed through email, uploaded to a website for easy viewing or through any number of other online methods. PDF documents, for instance, have become a very popular way to pass on legal forms because they’re easy to fill out, don’t have to printed, etc.

As the buyer, you can’t afford to take the seller’s word that they’ve accepted your position – especially through email. For instance, a buyer recently had a home sale fall through. The seller accepted the terms through email, told the buyer that the seller had signed the contract and sent it on to the agent. Somehow, even though the buyer was positive the contract had been agreed upon, the house was sold to another buyer.

Although laws change from state to state, it’s always best to have the contract in printed form, with an actual signature – in ink. Without the actual contract, all you have is an email. Although emails can be legally binding, they don’t hold a candle to having the printed and signed contract in hand.

Here are a few tips to make sure your housing purchase goes off without a hitch:

• Meet in person – This may be a difficult prospect, especially if the seller lives out of state. However, if you can’t meet them in person, their agent should at least be local. Meeting with the home seller’s legal representative (i.e. Real estate agent) is the next best thing.

• Get it in writing, and get it in print – Who wants to wait for the post office to deliver a paper contract when you can get it from an email? Well… you do. Yes, it might slow the process of buying a house and closing the deal, but so will having the seller back out.

• Verify the important points – Make sure you and the seller really do agree on the terms of the contract before you put your signature on it. You, or preferably your buyer's agent, should go over the contract with the seller’s agent who should go over it with the seller.

It’s a great time to buy Rancho Cucamonga real estate, but don’t let technology lose you the contract. Cross your t’s and dot your i’s – on paper!

If you’re looking to buy a home, I'll make sure all those t's are crossed and i's are dotted for you. Call me at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com for more information.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

When you begin your search for the perfect house it usually starts with a search for the perfect Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent. A good agent can help you with every aspect of buying a home.

They know the proper price ranges, what properties are available that match your needs and all of those pesky legal details required for closing. Your Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent will keep things moving and make sure deadlines are met and everything goes smoothly.

Here are four tips to help you choose a real estate agent:

Meet Them Face to Face

Perfect harmony should be as instantaneous as love at first sight. You simply know you hit it off with someone, or you don't. Don't fight the feelings if you have doubts. Even the best Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent isn't going to have a connection with everybody.  There will be one that is perfect for you. Keep looking.

Ask Questions

When you do find a real estate agent you have a connection with, ask questions. There needs to be more than just a friendship between you. Make sure the agent has a real grasp of the area, the types of houses that are available, and seems in tune to what you are looking for.

Assess

Do they listen to your needs?  If they’re not listening to what you want, move on.  Did they answer your questions thoroughly?  If they were unable to answer your questions or purposely avoided answering any of your questions, this is not the right agent for you.

Answer Their Questions

Your Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent will have plenty of questions for you too. They want to be sure you can afford a new home. Don't be offended by what may seem like personal questions. They need this information in order to give you the best advice.

If you’re searching for your perfect real estate agent, I’d be honored if you’d interview me for the job.  Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton to schedule a face-to-face meeting.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

Condition Counts

You can get great deals on amazing homes when they need a little repair. However, that is a big trap if you don't take into consideration how adept you are with a hammer and nails. If home repair isn't up your alley, that's not a sin.  But, it is unwise to buy a fixer-upper if you're not into fixing or not financially prepared to hire professionals to do the fixing.

Wide Open Spaces

Rural living or huge parcels of property can be very appealing. The desire to own a big spread with rolling lawns can make you feel like a real land baron—until you have to maintain it. There are other aspects to looking at property removed from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Lack of convenience that might seem like a good thing will soon become just inconvenient. Consider the trade-offs if your idea of a perfect Rancho Cucamonga home isn't exactly in the city.

Don't Settle

While you need to be realistic if your budget isn't unlimited, you should not settle for less than what you truly need. Take the time to determine exactly which features are most important to your family. Consider:

• Which rooms will be most used
• How many people will be living in the house
• How many bedrooms you need
• How many bathrooms are necessary

Don't try to squeeze into something that won't fit those needs. If you have to wait a little while until you can afford a home that is the right size, it will be worth it to avoid the frustration of being dissatisfied with something as important as your Rancho Cucamonga home.

If you would like more information on what to consider before buying a home, I can help. Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you wherever you go – Irish blessing

St. Patrick’s Day is coming up and, as you know, it’s the perfect time for a whole bunch of tomfoolery. What you may not know is that it’s the perfect time for an open house to sell those Rancho Cucamonga homes. However, if you’re going to do it, it needs to be done right – and the best time to get started is now.

Themed Open Houses

Okay, we (as in real estate agents) often say, “Don’t get your personality all over the house you’re selling” and we mean it. That’s not to say that you can’t have a little bit o’ fun with a themed open house party, though. Here are a few tips to get you started on the right path for getting those Rancho Cucamonga homes sold:

1. Keep your St. Patrick’s Day decorations minimal, but the atmosphere fun. In other words, pick decorations that are bland, but still lighten the mood of the home.

2. Lights for the evening, windows for the day. If your open house happens during the day, use as much natural lighting as possible. If it’s in the evening, use lighting that isn’t harsh or overbearing.

3. Offer tasty, “smell good” snacks. You don’t have to make a meal to feed an army, but a few Irish snack dishes can go a long way. You don’t have to stick to Irish food, however. A backyard barbecue is a wonderful way to show off the home’s entertainment possibilities.

4. Keep the alcohol low, if available. You’re not trying to throw a rip-roaring party, but there are two things to consider with alcohol. One is that it’s St. Patrick’s Day and almost a national drinking day. Two, is that the more relaxed a potential buyer feels, the more positive they’ll feel about the house (this is not to say that you should get the visitors drunk, however).

The main purpose of holding an open house is to get potential buyers to come and see what Rancho Cucamonga homes have to offer. You want to show off the inside, but you also want to show off the outside and the home’s ability to entertain guests. If you have a real estate agent, discuss the open house with them. If you don’t have an agent, give me a call at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

Major news in the short sale and housing industry!

The HAFA updates will go into effect on June 1, 2012, and will allow more distressed homeowners to seek assistance. Most importantly, the deadline for submitting for HAFA eligibility will be extended a full year, from December 31, 2012, to December 31, 2013.

Other major changes from March’s updates to the HAFA program include:

• The removal of occupancy requirements. Previously, HAFA required homeowners to have lived in the property within the last 12 months.

• $3,000 relocation incentives will be limited to properties occupied by an owner or tenant at the time of the short sale.

• Mortgage payments will be allowed to exceed 31% of the homeowner’s gross monthly income. This update will allow a homeowner to stay current on her mortgage and still qualify, minimizing the overall impact to her credit.

• Secondary lienholders may receive up to a maximum of $8,500, up from $6,000 previously.

• And one of the most dramatic changes: The Credit Bureau Reporting will be Account Status Code 13 (paid or closed account/zero balance) or 65 (account paid in full/a foreclosure was started), as applicable.

With these updates, a homeowner can be current on their mortgage, qualify for HAFA, continue to make their payments, and execute a short sale with minimum impact on their credit!

Reprinted with permission from the CDPE Blog.

Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

When you’re ready to sell your Rancho Cucamonga real estate, you want to make sure it's attractive to potential buyers. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home, but with all the paint colors available to you, you may wonder which colors are best.

There are two primary things to consider:

1. Function. What is the room primarily used for? Some rooms are easy to label. After all, there are only one or two uses for the kitchen or bathroom. But what about great rooms or family rooms?  Rooms like that are most often used for relaxation and recovery from a busy day, and, therefore, should be painted in soothing shades of blue or green. Busier rooms, like the kitchen, can handle stronger colors like red, orange, or bright yellow.

2. Size. Generally, the smaller the room the lighter the wall color. Lighter colors make rooms look bigger, while darker colors make rooms look smaller. Your bathrooms and smaller bedrooms will mostly likely look better with a lighter shade than your living room or family room. Since colors are part of a spectrum, you can find a shade of any color that will work for you.

Buyers like to picture themselves living in Rancho Cucamonga real estate before they buy it. This is why you should stick to neutral colors throughout your home.  As your buyers walk through, they can imagine their own furniture and art and belongings up against a white or cream colored wall. It’s a little trickier to do this when the walls are bright orange.

Don’t overlook the power of a new paint job. Let me help you prepare your Rancho Cucamonga  real estate for a fast sale. Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought To You By Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

In today’s real estate market, it’s helpful when homeowners add incentives to sell their Rancho Cucamonga homes. Incentives may include paying a portion of the buyer’s closing costs, reducing the sale price or offering a home warranty.

Many sellers and buyers are unaware of the advantages of home warranties, so below are answers to some frequently asked questions about home warranties:

• What is a home warranty? A home warranty is a policy that covers the repair or replacement of home systems and appliances. They are typically annual policies that can be renewed and usually cost between $250 and $500.
• Who pays for a home warranty? Either the seller or the buyer can pay for the home warranty, but sellers usually cover the cost as an incentive for selling their Rancho Cucamonga home. Sometimes real estate agents offer home warranties as a closing gift.
• What is covered? This will depend on the terms of your warranty. Most warranties cover the air conditioner, dishwasher, furnace or heating system, water heater, ductwork, garbage disposal, inside plumbing, electrical systems, range and oven, and telephone wiring. Check with your home warranty for your specific coverage.
• What is not covered? Again, this will depend on the terms of your warranty. However, most warranties do not cover outdoor sprinklers, certain faucet repairs, refrigerators, washers and dryers, garage door openers, spas, and pools. Check with your home warranty for your specific coverage.
• How do I file a claim? If you have to file a claim, contact your home warranty company. They will call a service provider who will set up an appointment. You will have to pay a small service fee that is usually less than $100.

Want to buy a home in Rancho Cucamonga or another area of the Inland Empire that comes with a home warranty? Would you like information on Home Warranty Companies?  I can help.  Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

If you’re thinking of building a new Rancho Cucamonga home, you should consider incorporating some green building practices or materials into your plans. Green building designs can include anything from using recycled materials to installing a rainwater collection system outside your home.

Here are just a few reasons why a green home is better for your health, your bank account and the environment:

• Better health. Surprisingly, indoor air pollution from toxic materials and cleaning products is usually far worse than outdoor air pollution. This aggravates conditions like asthma and allergies. Green homes tend to have better ventilation and fewer problems with mold and mildew. A simple switch to toxin-free building materials and cleaning products makes everyone breathe easier inside your Rancho Cucamonga home.
• Lower cost. It’s true that building a green home will cost more upfront. However, the difference is probably not as great as you think. Green building materials are more available and less expensive than they used to be because more people are using them. You have to look at more than just the cost of the home, though. A green home will consume up to 40% less energy and up to 50% less water than a standard home. This means you will save money on your utility bill each month.
• More environmentally friendly. Green homes use less energy which helps us reduce our dependency on non-renewable energy sources.  Plumbing, environmentally-friendly bathroom fixtures and water-conserving irrigation systems lower water consumption and help protect our water resources. Most green building materials are made with recycled products and reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our landfills.

You can build a green Rancho Cucamonga home that’s ideal for your family. To help you get the best price and terms for your new home, call me before you visit the new home building sites.   Even better, call me today to find out how I can help you save money when building a new home.  You can reach me at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

Here are 5 tips to keep your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale ready to show (without driving yourself crazy):

1.  Decree some rooms off limits.  There are a few obvious rooms that can easily be declared off limits such as the formal dining room and living room.  But there are others you may not have considered.  If you have 3 bathrooms, proclaim 1 or 2 of those bathrooms off limits.  Have a guest room but no guest?  Shut the door and forget it.

2.  Hire a maid service.  You may not be able to afford a cleaning crew on a regular basis, but to reduce your stress while your Rancho Cucamonga home is for sale, consider hiring a house cleaner to come in once or twice a month.

3.  Leave your shoes at the door.  Sure, it’s inconvenient, but it really does keep your floors clean much longer which means less vacuuming, sweeping and mopping.

4.  Clean as you go. Anytime you get something out, put it away when you’re done with it.  Persuade every member of your household to do the same.

5.  Use potpourri.  You may have read some tips I’ve given about baking cookies to make your home smell great for showings.  That’s an excellent idea for people who have lots of time or just love to bake.  But for the rest of us, put out a bowl of cinnamon scented potpourri and avoid cooking smelly foods such as liver, fish or anything fried until your home is sold.  If you can’t do without your fish, go out to eat. 

Need to sell your home?  Let me help you get it sold so you can relax.  Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

​Brought To You By Randy Charlton Of Keller Williams Realty.

With the staggering economy, the national unemployment rate is still sitting above 9%.  Many young adults just out of college are having trouble find jobs.  In fact, the age group hardest hit seems to be between 16 and 24.  As well, there are a number of people without homes due to foreclosure.  How are Americans weathering the economic fallout?  Many are doing so by consolidating multiple generations into one home.

2 Things That May Change How You Market Your Rancho Cucamonga Home for Sale

A Pew Research Center study on living conditions and an Associated Press - iVillage poll on dinner habits may change how you market your home.

The Pew study, based on information gained from the Census, shows that over 16% of U.S. households had multiple generations living together by 2008. Although the results of 2010 and 2011 aren’t in yet, you can assume with reasonable surety that this trend continues to rise.

The iVillage poll shows that over 60% of families – no matter how big or small – still eat together. Granted, dinner may be full of texting, phone calls and TV, but it’s also full of home cooked meals most of the time.

What does this mean for you and your home?

A larger family in one household, eating home cooked meals together, equals the need for a bigger kitchen. According to several surveys through the years, dinnertime is one tradition that’s held on – despite both parents working. Also, keep in mind that the cost of eating out may have many more people eating at home.

Lastly, buying bulk food, which also needs bigger kitchens, is fast becoming another trend.  According to the Bulk is Green Council, bulk buying is one of the biggest money-saving trends for this year.

The next potential buyer may just be looking for a big kitchen.  If you have one, it may be the number one benefit of your home.  Don’t sell it short. Make sure the large kitchen and/or dining area is highlighted in the marketing material for your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale.  With the above-mentioned trends, big kitchens are – well, big!

If you’re looking for a home with enough room to make and sit down to a home-cooked meal, I can help. Call me today at (909) 938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com for more information.

Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.