“Going green” can mean something as simple as using recyclable paper bags from the grocery store to something as complex as buying green Rancho Cucamonga real estate.  A greener world is a dream for many people. Even without promotions pushing consumers towards healthier choices and better living, a shift in consumer minds has begun.

What does this have to do with Rancho Cucamonga real estate? Simply this:  If you’re a buyer trying to find a green or energy-efficient home, you may be surprised to learn that you could run into some difficulty.  And, if you’re selling your green home, you may not get the results you expect.

The Problem with Green

Energy-efficient and green homes are still a fairly new market. In fact, it’s still considered a niche market. This not only affects prices; it also affects appraisals.

Green Sellers

If you own a green home and are now trying to sell it, you and the appraiser may have a fight on your hands. For example, new regulations passed down over the past year say that loan originators can’t ask for appraisers experienced in green building evaluation. What this means is that you may very well get an appraiser who knows nothing about the value of green homes or green home improvements.

As well, some appraisers base their evaluations on foreclosed homes in the area. 
Depending on how hard hit the area has been by defaults, this could severely affect your appraisal.

Even if the appraiser understands green building and wants to give a fair home appraisal, they may not be able to assign full value for the green enhancements, because the market won’t support it. In other words, you may not get back what you put into the home when you sell it.

Green Buyers

Somehow, buying a green home has become as difficult as selling one. Sometimes, the issues don’t make sense in light of the difficulties sellers may have. For instance, the seller may have to take a cut in price when they sell. However, strangely enough, the buyer may end up having to pay more for a green home.

Often (and, again, because many don’t appreciate the value of a green home) the appraisal will come in for less than the home is actually worth. This means that the bank, which has agreed to pay a certain percent for financing, will only cover the percentage based on the appraisal. This leaves the buyer having to make a larger down payment than they might otherwise.

If you’re looking for green Rancho Cucamonga real estate or trying to sell your green home, have your real estate agent negotiate for you before throwing up your hands. Remember that buyers and sellers both have issues with green homes. Be willing to discuss and negotiate so everyone walks away happy.

If you’re trying to find an environmentally friendly home or have one you’d like to sell, I can help you avoid these problems. 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

With the many auctions here and throughout the U.S., you may be wondering if it’s worth buying Rancho Cucamonga real estate this way. Auctions let you bid at a public sale.  Some property is being sold by the owner, but most properties are foreclosures being sold by banks.

Like any endeavor, there are pros and cons in buying Rancho Cucamonga real estate at an auction. For instance, a pro for auctions might be the price; you can often get great discounts on nice homes through an auction. However, you may get caught up in the fervor of the bidding process and pay more for a home than you ever intended.

The Condition of the Home may be Questionable 

When you work with a real estate agent to buy a home in the traditional manner, you go through the home inspection process.  This ensures the home is in sound structural condition.

In an auction, you have to go with the timeframe of the bidding process and most likely will not have time to get a home inspection performed.  In fact, homes sold at auction are sold “as is.”  That means no improvements will be made to the home, even if you had it inspected and found something wrong.  Additionally, there’s no warranty and no legal recourse to get your money back if you find problems later.

Tax liens can be Costly

In foreclosure auctions, a property may have a tax lien. If you win the auction, you may then become responsible for the payment of the tax lien. It could be a small or large amount of money, but no matter the size, you may not be able to afford it on top of the cost of the house.

Large Payments in Short Timeframes

Lastly, consider that full payment may be required at the close of the sale; if not full payment, earnest money will at least be required. Because closing usually happens within a month of the auction, it’s always best to be pre-approved for your loan before you start bidding.

If you’re looking at Rancho Cucamonga real estate auctions for your dream home, do your homework first. You could end up with a fantastic deal, but, without enough information, you could also end up with a dead end.

If you’re looking for a great deal on a wonderful home, 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.
 

It's getting close to Halloween, and families across the nation are slowly but surely decorating their Rancho Cucamonga homes.  The spirit of the season is in the air, the leaves are changing colors, and pumpkins are going up for sale.  It's time to carve!

Pumpkin Picking Tips

• 
  
  Make sure your pumpkin has a stem; it won't last very long if it doesn't.
• Find a pumpkin with a flat bottom so it won't roll.
• Look for one with no holes or soft spots, because it'll rot.
• Choose a light-colored pumpkin for easier carving, or a dark-colored pumpkin for a longer lasting decoration.

Pumpkin Pattern Tips

On the steps of Rancho Cucamonga homes everywhere, pumpkin faces sprout fangs and witches ride their brooms.  Here are a few things to consider when choosing a pumpkin pattern:

• Keep in mind who'll be doing the carving.  Smaller children generally have a harder time with detailed carvings. 
• Use carving patterns as large as the pumpkin you're working with.
• Draw elaborate designs out on paper first.  You can't erase a cut.
• Remember that you have to leave space between the cuts.  The pumpkin needs to stay in one piece.

Pumpkin Carving Tips

• Wash the pumpkin and let it dry, before carving

• Use good carving tools - or a sharp knife and a small serrated knife - for the more elaborate designs.
• Start at the center of your design and work outwards.
• Apply petroleum jelly to the cut edges after you're done to help the pumpkin last longer.

Pumpkin Leftovers

Once you're done carving, you'll have a lot of leftover pumpkin.  Instead of throwing it in the trash try roasting the pumpkin seeds for a great snack, or using the flesh for a delicious pumpkin pie.

Soon, children will be visiting Rancho Cucamonga homes in mass, and with these tips on pumpkins, patterns and carving (and a good stash of candy, of course), you can have them oohing and aahing with delight.

                     Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.
 

During a slow market, buyers have the biggest advantages of all. That’s why now is a great time to buy Rancho Cucamonga homes. You can haggle without feeling guilty because you have the upper hand. Then, as the market bounces back, you get the extra bonus of rising prices making your home worth more than it was when you bought it.

Even in this buyers’ market, you need to be a strong buyer. Otherwise, you could crumble when faced with negotiating prices or needed repairs.

Three ways to be a strong buyer of Rancho Cucamonga homes:

• Walk in to any home for sale with a set idea of the value of property in the area. This means taking a little time to do your homework.  When you know the prices of the area, you can't be run over by a forceful seller who is determined to convince you his price is firm.  This knowledge also helps you deal with sellers who are emotionally attached to their homes and can't price them according to true market value.
• Walk into a home for sale with an experienced REALTOR®. When you have a professional REALTOR® by your side, you are not alone. You do not have to be self-conscious or even be the 'strong one.' Your agent will do all your negotiating for you. You will also benefit from their intimate knowledge of the area and what to look for in a Rancho Cucamonga home.
• Walk into any home for sale knowing your needs and price range. Going home shopping without a clear concept of what you want and can afford can lead to emotional decisions. That can be hazardous for your pocketbook too.

If you would like more tips on how to be a strong buyer of Rancho Cucamonga homes, 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.
 

Today’s slow real estate market is a hard place to sell Rancho Cucamonga homes. However, the fact remains that homes are still being bought and sold.  Buyers are out there; you just have to attract them to your home.

Here are a few tips for getting Rancho Cucamonga homes sold in a slow real estate market:

Prepare for the Sale

Your home needs to stand out from the rest. Give it a lot of sparkle and shine:

• Make minor repairs:  Patch holes, fix faucets and replace cracked tiles.
• Clean inside and out:  No cobwebs, dirty carpets, worn rugs or smelly odors.
• Check your curb appeal:  Mow the lawn, plant flowers, trim bushes, etc.
• Remove clutter and de-personalize:  If it isn’t essential, pack it up or get rid of it.
• Straighten your cabinets and closets:  Buyers will open them; make sure they’re nice and neat.

Stage Your Home

Hire a professional home stager or read informational home staging articles on doing it yourself. Here are a few quick tips:

• Carefully choose your window coverings.
• Tie new bathroom towels with ribbons for a “finished” bathroom look.
• Use color psychology.
• Bring in plants.

Use Good Marketing Techniques

A strong marketing campaign is a must.  A few techniques you want to be sure you or your agent includes in your marketing campaign are:

• Take photographs with good lighting that show off the positive aspects of your home.
• Create a virtual tour that showcases both the inside and outside of your home.
• Display the photos and virtual tour on as many real estate websites as possible.

Selling Rancho Cucamonga homes isn’t a quick or easy endeavor. Especially now, aggressive marketers are the winners. Taking the time to clean and stage your home, as well as create a wide-reaching marketing campaign, can get that for sale sign taken down for good.

If you’d like to sell your home, let me create a strong, wide-reaching marketing campaign to get your home sold.   Give me a call today at (909)938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

                    Brought to you be Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.
 

Many real estate aficionados worried that the ending of the homebuyer tax credits would mean an end to sales. However, a new real estate survey, conducted April, 2010, says homeowners with a home for sale in Rancho Cucamonga and throughout the nation have more chances to sell their homes.

Survey Group

• 1,000 American consumers
• Ages 25 – 64
• $35,000 + household income

Survey Results

• Over 90% of American consumers think the homebuyer tax credit program helped the real estate industry and first-time buyers.
• 65% actually looking for a home don’t consider the end of the tax credit program to be a factor in their own decisions.
• 46% expect area real estate prices to increase over the next year.
• 12% expect area real estate prices to decline over the next year.
• 79% expect to see an increase in prices over the next five years.
• 20% expect prices to rise significantly over the next five years.
• 75% of renters think renting isn’t as good a long-term choice as owning a home.

How You Can Benefit

As the survey shows, there are still plenty of interested buyers out there.  You just have to know where to find them.

Talk with your agent about which markets are hot in your area. For instance, have older individuals been buying in the area more than young families or vice versa? Maybe energy efficient homes have been selling better. Find out what your home for sale in Rancho Cucamonga has going for it that matches those hot markets.

Most importantly, don’t give up. Buyers are out there and consumer confidence is rising, which means nothing but good things for the real estate market and your home for sale in Rancho Cucamonga.

Want to work with an agent who can identify and target hot markets for your home?  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.

The fall holidays are just around the corner, starting with the scariest day of the year – Halloween. You may have always enjoyed Halloween in the past, but the most frightening thought now might be, “I have a Rancho Cucamonga home for sale! I can’t do Halloween right now!”

Sure, sure. Right, right.

Take a deep breath. Don’t panic. First, if the idea of Halloween or autumn decorations this year (versus before you had a Rancho Cucamonga home for sale) freaks you out, you need the break anyway. Secondly, it’s the perfect opportunity to sell your house. Holiday decorations can help buyers imagine the decorations they might use for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

There is, however, a difference between decorating before you put your home on the market and decorating now. For example, don’t go overboard. You want potential buyers to enjoy a relaxing stroll through the house, not scream when the skeleton falls out of the closet.

Pumpkins

If you decide to decorate for Halloween rather than just an autumn theme, that’s okay. Pumpkins, used wisely, can draw attention to an area. However, growling faces are a thing of the past until your house is sold. Use harmless, happy pumpkin expressions to help build the overall cheerful holiday house-buying mood.

Candles

Forget about burning candles right now.  The last thing you want is to have a candle fall over during negotiations and set the curtains on fire. It’s a sure bet the buyers will change their minds.  Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative.  They’re even available in autumn scents such as Pumpkin Spice and Cinnamon Fusion.

Colors

You can use autumn colors to warm a room.  A bowl of chrysanthemums and dried leaves will make a special touch in the bathroom, while pumpkin gourds can add warmth to a porch.

Because of the holidays coming up, autumn makes people nostalgic. For most, it brings thoughts of family and friends, pumpkins and turkey, fun and light-heartedness. A warm, inviting decorating scheme can further bring out that nostalgia, and get a SOLD sign put in front of your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale.

If you’d like to sell your home before the holidays begin, 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
 

We’ve all had to deal with problem neighbors near our Rancho Cucamonga homes.  The trouble might be a loud late night party or a dog that is always barking at odd hours.  It can be hard to fix the problem without causing a lasting rift in the neighborhood.  Here are a few tips for getting a peaceful resolution:

Bring it Up Gently

It may be that your neighbor doesn’t realize there is a problem.  Try to wait a day or two after the problem occurs and tactfully bring up the trouble you are having.  Be sure to speak in a calm and reasonable manner. 

If your partying neighbor is not receptive to making a complete change, suggest that they let you know ahead of time when a party is scheduled.  Sometimes being able to plan for a disruption can make it easier to bear.

A dog that barks at all the wrong times is harder to fix.  If you have a specific reason for needing the dog to be quiet, for instance, you work nights and need to be able to sleep in your Rancho Cucamonga home during the day; a gentle reminder that the dog is barking excessively may do the trick.

Ask For Help

If you’ve talked with the problem neighbor nicely and are still getting nowhere, try recruiting others in the neighborhood to help solve the dilemma.  Sometimes it’s easier to get results when a group is asking for change.  The disapproval of the entire neighborhood isn’t something that most people are willing to risk.

Occasionally, there might be that stubborn person who simply refuses to be courteous to anyone nearby.  It may seem that you have no options left.  Before you give up hope, check with your homeowner’s association, they may have the ability to enforce a change that you cannot.

If at any time you feel that your neighbor is trying to force a confrontation, and may become dangerous, call the local police and ask for help.

Trying a few of these suggestions can be an easy and effective way to bring the peace back to your neighborhood.

Want to find a Rancho Cucamonga home in a peaceful neighborhood?  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.
 

Searching for the right home takes time and patience. Before you start looking at Rancho Cucamonga homes on the market, you need to know exactly what you want in your new home.

Create a list of the features you want in your new home, so you make the most of your time by looking only at Rancho Cucamonga homes that meet your criteria. Here is a quick guide to help you create a checklist:

1. Must Have. These are deal breakers; features that you cannot live without. Do you need a certain number of bedrooms? Do you work from home and need an office, or maybe even an outside entrance to your home office? Perhaps you have small children or large dogs and need a fenced yard. Decide now what you must have in your new home.
2. Like to Have. Features you would “like to have” are those you prefer but are willing to sacrifice if the home is perfect otherwise. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of having your own swimming pool or cathedral ceilings or an oversized garage. Include on this list whatever you would like to have in your new home, as long as it doesn’t take away something from the “must have” list or go over your price range for Rancho Cucamonga homes.
3. Can live without. Some features just aren’t as important as others. Knowing what you don’t really care about can help you stay focused on what really matters to you. Add to this list home features that aren’t important. If no one in your home ever takes a bath, you may not care if you have a whirlpool tub. Perhaps you don’t really want to take care of an oversized yard, so lot size many not be important to you.

Once you have your checklist compiled, share it with your real estate agent.It’ll speed up your home buying process, reduce time and frustration and get you in a home you’ll adore.

Let me help you find your dream home. 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

Nothing makes a Rancho Cucamonga home for sale look better than a new coat of paint.  Many people are intimidated by the thought of painting the exterior of their home, and hire someone else to do it.  But, you can do it yourself, with these easy steps:

Getting Your House Ready to Paint

The first thing that you’ll need to do is inspect the house.  Look at all the walls, under the eaves and around the doorframe and windows.  Check for peeling paint, mildew and rough surfaces.

You’ll need to gather a few tools before getting to the repairs and putting your Rancho Cucamonga home up for sale:

• Power-washer
• 2-3” inch putty knife
• 2-3” inch pull scraper
• Wire brush
• Sander
• Chlorine bleach

Preparing the Surface

Power-wash the walls so you'll have a clean surface.  You don’t need to use detergents; plain ol’ water works the best.

The putty knife and the wire brush remove problems where paint has peeled, blistered or wrinkled.  Avoid gouging the surface by holding the putty knife perpendicular to the wall and using moderate force. 

The pull scraper is for areas that won’t easily come clean.  It’s used the same way as the putty knife, but it has a sharp blade attached that quickly gets through old paint.  The walls will need to be sanded smooth after you finish this step.

For small spots, a piece of sandpaper wrapped around a sanding block works just fine.  An electric sander is best for large areas; it'll save you time and energy.

Removing Mildew

Mildew is a dark patch of fungus, like a dirty spot, often found on a damp, shady spot in your house.  If you aren’t sure it's mildew, put a few drops of chlorine bleach on it.  If the spot fades away, you know you have a mildew problem.

Mildew shows through new paint, so you’ll need to get rid of it before you start painting.  A simple mix of chlorine bleach will kill it quickly.

All you have to do now is pick out a paint color and wait for the right weather to paint.  Soon you’ll be ready to put up your Rancho Cucamonga home for sale. 

If you're thinking of selling your home, 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.

Are you moving to a new Rancho Cucamonga home or thinking about it? When you have young children, it can be a dramatic – or even traumatic – event. Here are a few tips to help your children adjust to a new home:

Tip # 1: Share exciting points about your new Rancho Cucamonga home.

Does the house have a big back yard? Is there a park or bike path close by? Talk about the things you might be able to do together at the new place. Build up excitement, so your kids can’t wait to see where they’re going to live.

Tip #2: Let your kids be part of the packing process, if they’re old enough.

Children like to help when there’s a lot of hustle and bustle going on. You’ve probably noticed this yourself; every time you’re busy, they become your shadow. One way to let them help is to give them a moving box to fill up. Depending on their age, you’ll probably want them in the same room as you, but a little supervised packing can keep them out from underfoot and happy.

Tip #3: Let them chose the packing labels for each room.

Online or at most local office supply stores, you can find several types of packing labels. If you choose different colored packing labels, you can let your child decide which label color or type should be used for each room. While moving in, you can even supervise a “treasure hunt” for each room’s labeled boxes.

Tip #4: Involve them in unpacking their rooms or family areas.

By asking, “Where do you think this should go,” and letting your children choose, you’re also helping them make the new house their own. If you’re worried about an oddly decorated home with a picture of Daffy Duck over the mantle, give them a few choices of places you wouldn’t mind an object being for a while. I say “a while” because if you move the objects, your child will notice, which could make it harder for them to begin feeling at home.

Moving into a new Rancho Cucamonga home is a big adjustment for anyone, not just children. However, children seem to have a harder time getting used to a new place.  Keeping them involved in the packing, moving and unpacking can help turn your new home into their new home.

If you’re looking for a new home for your family, I can help. Call me at (909)938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com to get started today.

               Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty

Many potential homeowners are starting to look towards Rancho Cucamonga foreclosures as a way to get the home of their dreams without spending their life savings. What they may not realize is that the sheer amount of foreclosed properties can be daunting. Some are so completely overwhelmed by the choices that they give up and walk away.

Rancho Cucamonga foreclosures can be great deals, but you’ll have a few decisions to make before you even go looking. Because there are so many options, here and throughout the nation, it’s important to figure out what type of foreclosed home is best for you.

Government Foreclosures

Homes with federally sponsored loans, such as HUD homes, are repossessed by government housing agencies. Because these homes offer a lot of opportunities for discount purchases, they move quickly.

Foreclosure Auctions

One of the most common ways to buy a foreclosure is while it’s on the chopping block of a traditional real estate auction. The auction is public, with homes sold to the highest bidder.

REO Foreclosures

Repossessed by the bank, real estate owned properties have been through a foreclosure auction without being bought. There’s not necessarily anything wrong with the home itself.  In fact, many foreclosure auctions fail to sell the home.  The primary reason foreclosure auctions do not succeed is that the auction price is more than what the property is worth. When the auction does fail, ownership reverts to the bank and the home becomes an REO.

REO foreclosures also have auctions, but the bidding process is closed and blind – no haggling allowed. You look over the available properties and come up with an offer to buy the home directly from the bank, rather than competing with other buyers in a public sale.

The good thing with REO foreclosures is that you can also set up the financing and mortgaging options through the same bank. Often, this gives the bank encouragement to give you a better price for the home.

Whether you’re looking at Rancho Cucamonga foreclosures for investment opportunities, or to buy your dream home, you have a myriad of options. Knowing what you want - before you start looking - is one of the best ways to ensure you get the deal of a lifetime!

If you’re unsure which type of foreclosed home is best for you, or if you want help finding a great deal on a foreclosure, 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.

If you pay attention to national and Rancho Cucamonga real estate at all, especially if you access news on the internet, it has to be confusing. I read stories online, and I’m amazed by the conflicting information, and I worry about how it must come across to individuals trying to buy or sell Rancho Cucamonga real estate.

For instance, only a month or two ago, experts were concerned that we didn’t have enough of a housing supply. Now, online sites like the Wall Street Journal are reporting that the U.S. actually has 103 months worth of foreclosed homes – a heavy load that would take 9 years to get rid of. Honestly, it often gives me a headache. Occasionally, it makes me laugh - in a slightly horrified, appreciating the irony type of way.

I felt the need to lighten the load a bit and share something humorous with you. The idea for this blog came from a friend of mine, who asked her 10-year-old son what he’d learned in Social Studies that day. He replied, “Nothing. We’re still looking for the government.”

Yesterday, I came across a page from Kensington Realty Advisors on which they share a bit of real estate humor. Here’s an excerpt: “LODGING - All employees are encouraged to stay with relatives or friends while on Company business. If weather permits, public areas such as parks and parking lots should be used as temporary lodging. Bridges may provide shelter in periods of inclement weather.”

Will this help you sell your house? Probably not, but it might.

You have to keep a little humor going. Tons of clichés fill our vocabulary: “when the chips are down,” “when life gives you lemons,” “look on the bright side.” They all add up to the same message, that you can’t take life too seriously – even the life of real estate.

So – when a buyer walks into your piece of Rancho Cucamonga real estate, looks around and notices a big puddle in the back yard, you can always tell them you were starting a pool.

Want to work with a professional real estate agent who knows how to get the job done while keeping life in perspective?  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.

When you look for a mortgage, you want to find one that allows you to buy the biggest house possible for a monthly payment you can afford. This seems simple enough. All you need to do is a little division to determine your monthly payment.

Unfortunately, this isn’t the entire picture of your monthly mortgage payment, and lenders don’t always explain this to you. Here are three things you need to know about your monthly mortgage payment for your new Rancho Cucamonga home:

1. Interest and Principal. Only part of your monthly mortgage payment actually pays down your loan. A portion of your mortgage payment goes toward your loan principal and part of it pays the interest. The longer you have your loan, the more money goes toward your principal. Be aware that at the beginning of your loan term, most of your payment goes toward interest and does little to reduce the amount of money you owe on your home.
2. Homeowner’s Insurance and PMI. Typically, your lender collects money to pay your homeowner’s insurance premium. This increases the amount of your monthly payment and can change if your insurance company raises or lowers premiums. Depending on your loan amount and property value, you may also have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) which protects a lender against loss if you default on your loan.
3. Property Taxes. In most cases, your annual property taxes will be paid through your lender. The lender collects extra money each month that they pay to your local government at the end of the year. When local taxes increase or decrease, so does your payment.

Call me today at (909)938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com to help you find the home (and mortgage provider) of your dreams.

             Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty.

There has truly never been a better time to think about buying a new home. The current economy has created a buyers’ market like never before. This works to your advantage, and the fact that the real estate market is recovering means that buying Rancho Cucamonga real estate as a future investment is a smart move.

Consider New Construction

Builders are faced with unsold homes in developments and are willing to make deals. They are interested in all reasonable offers, and, especially if you have pre-approved financing, will negotiate with your real estate agent to give you better price and terms. It is in their best interest to get their existing homes sold.

Best Mortgage Rates in Current History

You can take advantage of the low mortgage rates  to get fantastic payments on your new Rancho Cucamonga real estate. These low rates won't last forever, so if you have good credit and solid employment, buy now to make your new home truly affordable.

Tax Credits

If you or your spouse has never owned a home, or if neither of you have owned a home as a principle residence in the past 3 years, buying a home now makes financial sense. You will get a large tax rebate at the end of the year for making a home purchase now.  However, you must act immediately because you have to have a binding contract signed no later than April 30, 2010, and close on the home no later than June 30, 2010, in order to qualify for this  first-time home buyer tax credit.

If you’re a repeat home buyer, you too might qualify for a tax credit.  Again, you must act fast.  The same dates apply for this repeat home buyer tax credit as for the first-time home buyer tax credit. 

Affordability and Availability

The market is wide open for buyers now, and finding the perfect home at a reasonable price is easier than ever before. Waiting too long can prove to be a very costly decision. The market is getting stronger and tax credits are coming to an end. Over the course of the next year, it will become increasingly more difficult to buy Rancho Cucamonga real estate at prices and rates now available.

If you would like more information on the intelligence of buying a new home now, please call me today at (909)938-9568 or email me at Randy@teamcharlton.com.  I look forward to talking with you.


                Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty

A past filing of bankruptcy does not mean you can’t buy Rancho Cucamonga real estate.  Your real estate agent may be able to help you get a mortgage or find other ways to buy a home, if you do get turned down for a traditional mortgage. 

Before you meet with your Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent, here are a few ways to prepare:

• Have a copy of your current bank statement
• Have written proof of your monthly income
• Make a list of all your current monthly bills
• Collect all your recent credit card statements
• Have a copy of your bankruptcy agreement

Put all this info in a file folder and take it to your meeting.  Your Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent will appreciate you doing your homework!

If you have straightened out your credit since the bankruptcy, you are in a much better position to get a mortgage. Hopefully, you are currently paying all your monthly bills on time and rebuilding your credit rating.

The bigger your down payment, the easier it will be to get a mortgage.  So, where can you get money for a down payment?

• Have you been having money taken out of your checks and put into a savings?
• Do you have any money market accounts?
• Do you have money invested in mutual funds?
• Do you have certificates of deposit about to come due?
• Will you be receiving a bonus from your employer?
• How about a friend or relative who would loan you the down payment?

Hopefully, you are now ready to go shopping for your new home. To get started, give me a call today at (909)938-9568r email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

                             Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty
 

In bygone days, the key to closing many of the deals on Rancho Cucamonga homes for sale often relied on an agent’s networking skills. Those of us with a successful real estate history knew where to go to bring Rancho Cucamonga homes for sale, financers and buyers together.

In fact, the real estate community became so used to “the way things were done,” the standards for home purchasing and financing became a little lax. Today, regulators have taken aim at any less-than-transparent practices by, quite simply, changing the rules.

Were the “good ole’ days” competitive? Most definitely. Were they as competitive as they are today? Not even close.

Now, in order to complete contracts on Rancho Cucamonga homes for sale, you have more transparency and a stricter set of industry standards, particularly when it comes to working with lenders. The good news is the changes in transparency and industry standards are designed to protect you as the seller and your buyer.

With Change Comes Education

With all the changes to the real estate industry, we, as real estate agents, have to stay informed in order to serve your best interests. After all, would you really want an agent following outdated rules from 10 years ago? Probably not, especially if you knew that outdated rules might make your sales contract useless.

How do we stay informed? One way is through the NAR. The National Association of Realtors®, the nation’s largest trade organization, has started several programs to keep agents updated on exciting developments and market trends. Some of the most beneficial programs include:

• Accredited Buyer Representation (ABR)
• Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)
• Green Principles
• Graduate Realtor® Institute
• Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
• Short Sale and Foreclosure Certification (SFR)

Without continuing educational courses like these, staying updated on the real estate industry would be a lot harder. Most of us already have the experience, but ongoing training is also important. Why? So we know all the ways to attract buyers to your home, no matter what they’re looking for. In other words, learning what they’re looking for helps us to better understand what selling points your home has, and how best to market them.

Now, real estate deals are upfront and hidden agendas are (mostly) a thing of the past. Your goal, as owner/seller of one of the [city] homes for sale, is to make sure the agent you hire is up-to-date on any changes that may affect the sale.

Don’t be afraid to ask about their education and training. The best agent is the one who doesn’t hesitate to answer with a list of certifications and current courses.

If you’d like to sell your home and want an informed real estate agent,  look no further. Give me a call today at (909)938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com for a complete list of all my certifications and education.

                     Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty

There are a few things you can do to make the process of buying a new Rancho Cucamonga home easier and faster.  Getting pre-approved for financing is one of them.  Here are four advantages of loan pre-approval:

REALTORS® Take You Seriously

When you walk into an agent’s office with pre-approved financing, the agent knows he is not wasting his time showing you homes. If you do not have pre-approved financing be prepared for agents to ask a lot of questions and even possibly request that you get financing in hand. They are not trying to be invasive. They are avoiding "tire kickers" while helping you streamline the process.

Home Sellers Feel More Comfortable Dealing with You

When you have pre-approved financing, sellers are more apt to work with you on price, or other needs, in order to close the deal. They know that there are not going to be contingencies on a loan, or waiting and wondering if you qualify for the loan. They know they don't have to worry about turning other prospects away and then finding out you haven't been able to get a loan.

Fast Closings

Getting pre-approved for a loan means no waiting on the biggest of all hurdles before closing.  Other items needed to close on a Rancho Cucamonga home purchase usually move quickly, but loan applications can drag out and require setting a closing date far into the future to allow for the time needed.

Less Stress

Above all else, having your financing in hand before you even begin to look for the perfect Rancho Cucamonga home makes the entire process less stressful for you. Knowing you have the money to back you up when you find the home of your dreams is much better than finding paradise and having to worry about getting financed and possibly losing it.

If you would like to find out more about pre-approved home loans, I can help. Contact me at (909)938-9568 or email me at Randy@TeamCharlton.com.

                        Brought to you by Randy Charlton of Keller Williams Realty
 

Whether you’re looking at Rancho Cucamonga homes, homes across the nation or homes abroad, there's always the possibility of getting caught in a scam.

Many potential homebuyers and renters choose to go it alone and find the home of their dreams without professional help. While this method of house hunting works for some it definitely doesn’t work for all, and the consequences often far outweigh the benefits. Yes, the same can apply for home sellers as well!

Real Estate Scams

Here are a few real estate scams to watch out for:

• Down Payment Assistance Programs are wonderful gifts for potential buyers of [city] homes. However, there are certain rules that have to be followed for this down payment gift to be legal. For instance, as a gift, the homebuyer doesn’t have to pay it back. Some unscrupulous companies offer Down Payment Assistance Programs but expect the money back. This isn’t a gift; it’s a loan, and illegal if the program is listed as “down payment assistance."
• Property flipping scams happen when a con artist buys a home and sells it as an investment opportunity with zero down payment, no closing costs, low interest rate, etc. Although it sounds like a great deal, it becomes a scam when the house is severely overpriced and the buyer pays way more than the house is worth.
• Craigslist is an excellent resource for those wanting to buy or sell something. However, it is also a great source for con artists, who have turned their eyes to the real estate market. The scammers take information from legitimate listings on other websites (such as REALTOR® websites) and post it as their own on Craigslist. They often mention that they had to move for some reason, but can still rent/sell the home. All the buyers or renters have to do is send them their personal information and the first month’s rent or down payment.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to protect yourself. Be cautious when looking for Rancho Cucamonga homes or selling them. Always check references and backgrounds. As well, if the home seller is in another country or another state, ask them if they’d be willing to use a local real estate agent.  Then be sure to verify the agent’s credentials.

If you want to buy or sell a house and need a professional, 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

Technology has improved our lives over the last ten years, but it’s also caused some problems along the way for Rancho Cucamonga real estate buyers.

As a buyer, you naturally want to take advantage of every tool and service available to make it easier to find the home of your dreams. However, the Internet, which is one of the most common places for people to shop for Rancho Cucamonga real estate nowadays, has also become a place where the unscrupulous hang out.  You can’t believe everything you read online, even when it comes to shopping for homes online.

If you’re trying to find a home, here are two things you need to be aware of:

Home Valuation Sites

Many potential buyers find an interesting home and then research the home value. This is commendable and just plain good sense. You want to make sure you’re not overpaying. Thanks to the Internet, we have sites like Zillow and Realtor.com that provide home valuations.

The problem is that these sites hardly ever agree on the home value. They can differ as much as 20% or more. While home valuation sites are an excellent place to get a ballpark estimate, you shouldn’t base your buying price on their information alone. Hire a reputable Rancho Cucamonga real estate agent who knows the surrounding area and recent sale prices.

Dream Home or Nightmare

One of the best things to happen for real estate agents and sellers alike is the ability to post digital photos and walk-through videos of the homes they’re selling. This is also great for you, as the buyer, because you can view the homes without going anywhere.

Unfortunately, many buyers take those images and videos at face value. Thanks to some high-tech graphics programs, however, you can’t guarantee that what you see is what you get. Videos and images can both be manipulated to show you the best face of any piece of property.

Any time you see a home online that you’re interested in, it’s a good idea to check Google Maps and use the Street View option. At the very least, you can usually see the front and sides of the home. If you’re still interested, visit the home in person, or, if that’s not possible for some reason, ask your [city] real estate agent to visit the home and take pictures for you.

If you’re trying to find your dream 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