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You’ve Come So Far, Don’t Quit Now – Running My 17th Marathon At Mesa-Phoenix

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Finishing with a savage kick- let’s finish this rainy parade of runners

On Saturday, February 10th, I completed my 17th marathon in 4:02:57 with a big kick and smile at the finish line.

I am very lucky when it comes to having good running weather, but on Saturday, the rain came down steadily for about three hours out of the four hours that I was running the marathon with zero stops for fear that I wouldn’t want to keep going.

My mantra during the entire race was to keep going and never stop, which I accomplished and felt good the entire time, but not as speedy as in other marathons. Yet, the farther I ran, the less interested I was in quitting, which reminded me of our teachers back in Romania, who used to repeat this phrase to us whenever they sensed that we were about to quit:

“You better keep going and not drown right when you’re about to reach the shore.”

As a child, I despised this expression, but as an adult, I appreciate it and practice it with my family, in my business, and in all the sports I do.

Why do I value this so much?

The answer is simple: “We don’t always see the shore, which is why we have to keep swimming, running, or whatever we’re doing.

A Short Course Analysis

My friend Youa absolutely loves this course, which is part of the Mesa-Phoenix Revel downhill course and is considered fast. She keeps hitting a PR every year that she runs this course, but she still needs to hit or break 3:30. Inspired by her and other runners, I signed up to run this marathon hoping to break 3:28:48, which is my PR at Mt. Charleston marathon, the fastest course I have ever run followed by Big Bear in Southern California.

Being a strong downhill runner, I figured that the PR could happen, even though I had a two-month training setback at the beginning of my marathon build-up due to my peroneal injury. However, January was a strong training month, so I was becoming even more hopeful until I got to run the course, and my inner monologue changed.

The start was delayed by 30 minutes, which meant standing in the rain and getting our shoes and clothes wet. After about 20 minutes into the delay, runners were allowed to start after about 20 minutes. I was still in the bathroom, so when I came out, I jumped to the start and started running with joy while trying not to run too fast my first mile. I only hit 7:59 pace in that first mile, after which I dropped in the low 8s.

The course was not crowded at all, which I liked. The course is supposed to be very fast in the beginning, after which there are two hilly miles from miles 5 to 7. During the course preview, we were promised all fast downhill after mile 7 till about 17, but I kept waiting for those downhills to appear and felt like Waiting for Godot, as all I got was a slight downhill and mainly flat course, which didn’t feel that fast to me.

I decided to settle at an easy pace and to take in all the spectators. To my great delight, I saw a family who held up signs written in Romanian just as I was thinking of my dear father who smiled and cried with joy through the raindrops that day.

I ran towards them and greeted them in Romanian, which made them cheer loudly for me. How awesome was that?

As I kept running in the cold rain, I tried to take in the scenery, but there was a long stretch of an industrial-type neighborhood – more than five miles, so I didn’t think the course was beautiful other than in the beginning with the saguaros dotting the road and looking eerie in the morning darkness. I always do better when the course is pretty like the London Marathon, which I consider the most beautiful marathon I have done so far with Big Sur following.

I didn’t know if it was me not feeling those downhills but at the end of the race, my good friend Tiffany Stratton Moreno and I found out from different runners that they also didn’t feel those fast downhills that were supposed to make this course speedy. Tiffany encouraged me to write a detailed race recap, as runners tend to perceive the course sometimes based on their PRs and not the true topography of the course.

Things that went well

My nutrition on the course was right on point. For this marathon, I followed the advice of many elite runners and took a Huma gel every 3 miles, which worked out very well, as I never hit the wall, but I also didn’t settle in my high 7s paces for whatever reason. It could have been running through the rain for so long, or simply not my day.

With the sparse scenery, I focused on the few but wonderful spectators, who were out there standing and cheering for us in the rain.

Every time, I shouted: “Like a savage,” they cheered loudly and laughed.

The fun interaction with the spectators kept me going – soaked with raindrops and the thrill of running another marathon – feeling good and even happy to welcome some fatigue but no real pain in my body due to my good training, a mixture of my own and coach Paul Carmona. I purchased his downhill advanced plan, which was very good and helped me run strong, although I will revert to my training plan next time and run a marathon six to seven weeks before running the marathon that I wish to PR.

Why? You might ask?

Because I am an advanced runner, know my body and all my three fastest marathons from 3:28 to 3:33 came six to seven weeks after I ran an easy marathon, except my first 3:30 Mountains to Beach marathon, which happened after I ran my first 50-mile race seven weeks prior. The marathon felt like a breeze!

Back to the Mesa-Phoenix marathon

As I ran in the rain that came down relentlessly and only stopped in the last mile of the marathon, I looked forward to inching closer to the finish line so that I could change clothes and celebrate another marathon.

The finish line of the marathon was slightly downhill, which helped me finish with my characteristic savage ninja kick and run at a 7:45 pace coming through the chute while shouting “like a savage.”

The spectators were having a blast and cheered me on as if I had won the marathon.

The marathon ended at Riverview Park, which is a large open space park with water features, playgrounds, and a stage, where they played music for us.

As soon as I crossed the finish line, my wonderful friend and Arete teammate Youa Xiong called me and we met up. To my great joy, she told me that she PRed for the fifth year in a row in this marathon, but due to the heavy rain we had, she didn’t hit 3:30 or faster, as she had hoped. She ran it in 3:33, which was so close.

“You seriously did amazing,” I told her while having someone take our picture.

Youa and I at the end of the marathon! Super proud of her! A shiny new medal and a PR!

My celebrations continued with my friend and wonderful roommate Tiffany. We even went on a short hike to see the Hole in the Rock by the Zoo, which was beautiful. My husband joked with me that apparently, I didn’t run hard enough if I was in the mood for hiking.

“It was just a short hike to get some blood flow into our legs,” I told Catalin, knowing that he liked to tease me.

Tiffany and I on our way to the Hole in the Rock- showing off our new shiny medals.

This marathon is still in the top 10 of fast marathons to run and it can be a good course on not such a rainy day.

A million thanks to the organizers of this Revel race for doing their best to make it a positive experience.

And when in doubt, remember that you’ve come so far, and quitting will feel like drowning by the shore, as my teachers back in Romania used to tell us. Let’s persevere!

Whether you’re interested in running or real estate, Running for Real Estate is a great place to learn more! Questions? Call 916–342–2446.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916–342–2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

And if you like podcasts, please listen and subscribe to my Seeds of Sunshine, a mother/daughter podcast for more info on sports, fitness, and real estate.

Running for real estate with joy!

Best Home Improvements, Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership

 How Flipping Houses Can Help You Go to College Debt-Free

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Having been in real estate for 23 years, I have dealt with many investors looking to buy a fixer-upper and resell it, or what we call flipping. My husband and I also have flipped a few homes, making good money and enjoying the end product. With our market changing, you would think there are not many flippers out there, but as the broker/CEO of Dynamic Real Estate, I receive multiple text messages from investors looking to buy and flip. 

This week’s article by Erin Reynolds matches what I have seen on the market and analyzes a unique way for college students to make some money and possibly go to college debt-free. 

You can find more info about Erin Reynolds on diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

As an adult returning to college, you might struggle to finance your education. But did you know that there are ways to pay for your college education while improving your financial situation at the same time? One strategy is to flip houses. House flipping essentially means purchasing a property, making some renovations or upgrades, and reselling it for profit. Today, Running for Real Estate discusses precisely how this prospect can help you pay for college and improve your overall situation!

Choosing a Good Property to Flip

The first step in flipping houses is identifying a property that has the potential for a good profit margin. The key is to look for something that is undervalued and has room for improvement. You’ll also want to consider the location of the property because it can greatly impact the resale value. Foreclosure auctions, short sales, and banked-owned properties are some excellent places to look for undervalued properties.

Exploring Kitchen Upgrades

Once you’ve chosen a property, it’s essential to make wise, cost-effective renovations that will boost the resale value. One area that can greatly increase the value of the home is the kitchen. After all, it’s the most important space for many buyers!

Consider making upgrades like new countertops, cabinets, or appliances. You could also attract buyers with a new range hood that helps improve the kitchen’s air quality. These kinds of upgrades are known to have a high return on investment and can significantly increase the house’s sale price.

Cleaning Every Room

Before listing your property for sale, you’ll want to take the time to thoroughly clean and declutter the space. A clean, organized home is much more appealing to buyers and can sell faster; it also signals to buyers that the rest of the property is in good shape. Be sure to clean every room in the house, including the windows, floors, and walls. And if you have laminate floors, be careful what kind of vacuum you use. Some vacuums with hard bristles will scratch the finish and leave you in a pickle!

Staging the Home

Staging your flip property for photos and showings will go a long way toward enticing potential buyers and getting a higher selling price. You can do this with some simple home decor and furniture arrangements. Try adding fresh flowers or plants, putting away personal items, and creating cozy spaces with pillows and throws.

Marketing the Property

Marketing is vital to a successful house-flipping business. One of the most effective ways to attract potential buyers is to go through online channels like social media and real estate websites. Consider using professional photos and descriptions that highlight the property’s features. It’s also important to write an appealing listing that will draw in buyers by discussing the benefits of the property and its location.

Go Back to School

One big benefit of house-flipping is that it allows you plenty of time to set your schedule and pursue other interests as desired — like going back to school! Furthering your education is a great way to boost your confidence while also opening lots of doors career-wise. There are plenty of lucrative degree options out there, like data analytics, and an online learning platform offers individuals the flexibility to earn their degree on their own time, from the comfort of their own home.

Hiring Professionals Along the Way

Flipping houses is hard work and can be overwhelming at times. Hiring professionals to help with specific aspects can ensure that everything runs smoothly while reducing your stress. You might include a contractor for renovations, an experienced real estate agent to help sell the property, a lender to help with the financing, and a photographer to capture professional images. These experts can help you navigate the process of flipping houses and make it more manageable (and successful).

Summary

If you need to pay for your college tuition as an adult, flipping houses is one of the best ways to do it. Learning to select a profitable property, making the right renovations, marketing the property effectively, and implementing the other tips above will put you in an excellent position to make money and finance your education. Remember that flipping houses will require time, effort, and a bit of financial risk. Be sure to do your research and plan accordingly so that you can turn this practice into a stepping stone to long-term success!

Whether you’re interested in running or real estate, Running for Real Estate is a great place to learn more! Questions? Call 916–342–2446.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916–342–2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Relocation, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate

Navigating Your Housing Dilemma: 
 Starter Home vs. Forever Home

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Photo by Freepik

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, I like to analyze the real estate market and give you my most honest advice and feedback. October for some reason is always the busiest month of the year for me and I have helped a few buyers and sellers achieve their goals and dreams, even though our interest rates are currently above 8 percent.

That’s one reason, we need to understand how to enjoy home ownership in any market conditions. As the guest author Erin Reynolds wrote in her article below, a homebuyer should weigh the benefits of a starter home. You can find more info about Erin Reynolds on diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

When it comes to the age-old question of whether to invest in a more affordable starter home or go all-in on a forever home, the decision can be a daunting one. Your choice of a home is not just a financial decision; it’s a life decision. In this article, courtesy of Running for Real Estate, we explore key considerations that can help you make an informed choice that suits your current circumstances and future aspirations.

Weigh the Benefits of a Starter Home

The prospect of entering the real estate market is often less intimidating with a starter home, given the lower upfront costs. This kind of home offers you a way to start building equity rather than paying rent. Additionally, starter homes often have the potential for appreciation. For example, investing in a neighborhood that’s in the early stages of gentrification could lead to significant returns in a few years.

Recognize the Drawbacks of a Starter Home

On the flip side, starter homes often come with limitations, such as restricted space, which may not be suitable for a growing family. There’s also the possibility that you could outgrow the home quicker than you anticipated. Resale can be challenging as well, particularly if the market takes a downturn. For instance, homes in areas that become oversaturated with new developments could see a decrease in property value.

Understand the Advantages of a Forever Home

A forever home brings with it the promise of long-term stability. Unlike starter homes, these properties typically offer more room for growth and a variety of desirable amenities like nicer appliances, updated kitchens and baths, and more yard space. Imagine a spacious yard or extra bedrooms that could one day become a nursery or home office.

Consider the Pitfalls of a Forever Home

Forever homes certainly come with their own set of challenges, such as higher initial costs, which might necessitate a larger down payment or a higher mortgage rate. You’re also committing to a specific location for a longer period, and maintenance or upkeep can be significantly more demanding. For example, larger properties might require regular professional landscaping, something you’d need to budget for.

Plan for the Future

When considering which type of home to buy, think beyond the immediate concerns and anticipate your long-term needs. Life changes like marriage or having children can drastically impact your living situation. Moreover, it’s vital to consider the resale potential of the home. For example, a house in a good school district will likely be easier to sell down the line.

Connect with a Great Broker

Navigating the complex real estate landscape, whether you’re considering a starter home or a forever home, typically hinges on partnering with a reputable agent who comprehends both your unique needs and the dynamics of the local market. A skilled broker like Carmen Micsa, can be your guiding light, helping you navigate the intricacies of the buying process, identifying properties that align with your preferences and budget, and providing invaluable insights into the ever-changing real estate market conditions.

Explore Mortgage Options

Understanding the types of mortgages available can significantly impact your monthly payments and overall affordability. Different mortgage options have various interest rates and terms that can either constrain or stretch your budget. For instance, a fixed-rate mortgage offers predictable payments, while an adjustable-rate mortgage might provide lower initial payments but can fluctuate over time.

Safeguard Your Investment

Once you determine what to buy, it’s crucial to factor in the costs of insuring your property. Homeowners insurance covers damage to your home’s structure, theft of belongings, and injuries on your property. However, for comprehensive coverage against home system or appliance breakdowns, you’ll need a home warranty — an annual contract that can protect heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing systems, and appliances. Understanding these insurance and warranty options is vital as you weigh the decision between a starter home and a forever home, and this site could be helpful in making a well-informed choice that aligns with your long-term financial security and lifestyle preferences.

The choice between a starter home and a forever home is a deeply personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, considering your financial situation, and keeping an eye on the future, you can make a decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Remember, your home is not just a structure; it’s a place where memories are made and dreams are realized.

Choose wisely, and your home will be the foundation of a bright future.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Home maintenance, Moving, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Relocation, Remodeling

Finding Strength in Change: Journey of Starting Over in a New City

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Image courtesy of Pexels

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, my favorite part is being in the trenches – helping my sellers and buyers. August has been a super busy month for me working with sellers and noticing that moving to new states continues, which is why I accepted the article below by guest author Erin Reynolds. You can find more info about her at diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

Finding yourself at a low point in your life can feel isolating, overwhelming, and hopeless. However, one thing that can help turn your situation around is a change of scenery. Moving to a new city and starting fresh can provide a renewed sense of purpose and a chance to reinvent oneself. If you are considering taking on this challenge, it is important to approach the process with intention. Running for Real Estate shares some tips and tricks to help you navigate your move and make the most of this incredible opportunity.

Mental Health First

Before diving into the logistics of packing and planning, it is imperative to prioritize your mental health. Moving to a new city can be a stressful experience, even more so if you are dealing with negative feelings or mental health struggles. As you prepare to head out on your adventure, take the time to consider what self-care activities you can incorporate into your routine. This might include activities like regular exercise, meditation, or working with a therapist.

Pursue Your Passions

One of the most profound advantages of beginning anew is the chance to pursue one’s passions with newfound vigor. If you’ve been longing to take up a new hobby, activity, or interest, now is the perfect opportunity to delve into it.

By evaluating a bachelor of education degree, individuals who have an abiding love for teaching can transform their ardor into a fulfilling career that also helps shape the futures of young minds. With a degree in hand, you’ll have the credentials to teach elementary-age kids and do so with the convenience of taking online classes. By enrolling in courses, participating in clubs, or volunteering, individuals can connect with people who share their passions and build a community of like-minded individuals who encourage one another to grow and prosper.

Connect With Local Resources

When moving to a new city, it can be challenging to know where to begin in terms of making connections and building a support system. To start, consider working with a real estate agent who shares your interests and can offer guidance on the local area. This can be especially beneficial if you are looking for a neighborhood that aligns with your values or comes with built-in community support. Additionally, look for community groups or organizations related to your interests or hobbies. Attend local meetups, workshops, and events to start building a community and finding your footing.

Explore Your New Community

One of the joys of moving to a new city is the opportunity to explore everything it has to offer. From scenic hiking trails to farmer’s markets and local shops, there is always something new to discover. Try to set aside time each week to explore your new home. This can help you feel more connected to the area and provide a sense of adventure and excitement.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

While it is common to indulge in alcohol when feeling uncertain or lonely, it is important to stay mindful of your intake. Medical News Today notes that drinking excessively can lead to a host of physical and mental health challenges. If you feel yourself slipping or having a hard time managing your drinking habits, it may be worth considering checking into alcohol and drug rehab centers in the US. These facilities can provide you with the support, resources, and tools you need to overcome addiction and move forward in a healthy way.

While rehab can be expensive, most rehab centers accept health insurance from major providers. Contact your insurance company to verify your level of coverage.

Adopt a Pet

Finally, consider adopting a pet after your move. Thriveworks points out that pets can provide endless love, support, and purpose in our lives. Plus, having a furry friend around can make the process of settling into a new home feel a bit less daunting. If you are unsure of where to begin in terms of adopting, reach out to local animal shelters or rescue organizations. They can help guide you through the process and help you find the perfect pet for your lifestyle and needs.

Starting anew can be both exciting and terrifying. But with the right mindset and tools in place, it can also be incredibly transformative and empowering. Stay focused on your mental health, pursue your passions, drink responsibly, and more. These tips and tricks can help you make the most of this incredible opportunity and truly thrive in your new city.

Real estate pro Carmen Micsa of Running for Real Estate shows properties, handles marketing and social media marketing initiatives, manages listings, and oversees 16 agents who work for her. Contact Carmen today to learn more! 916.342.2446

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home Improvements, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Relocation, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Seller's market, Selling Your Home

Essential Tips for Moving While Starting a Home Business

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Our real estate market is as hot as the 100+ degree Sacramento weather

Image via Unsplash

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, my favorite part is being in the trenches, helping my sellers and buyers. July has been a super busy month for me working with sellers and noticing that moving can be a challenge, especially for people working from home, which is why I accepted the article below by guest author Erin Reynolds. You can find more info about her at diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

If you are considering starting a company from home, then you need to look around and determine if you have the space necessary to support your family and accomplish your business goals. If you don’t, then it may be time to move. But how difficult is it to accomplish both? Here are some tips from Running for Real Estate to help you start your business and have a successful move at the same time.

Finding the Right Property for Your Needs

The first step that you will want to take is to find a home that will allow you to live and work comfortably. Research the town or area where you plan to move and once you find the best city, sign up for alerts for houses that are up for sale that meet your criteria. You will probably want to start by looking at the area of the prospective homes and see how many rooms they have. You may want to have space between your office and where your kids will be so you can have the quiet that you need to get your work done.

If you need to get a rental in the meantime, no worries! There are plenty out there, so you can afford to be picky. In addition to price, check the amenities to find the perfect fit for your needs. This has the added benefit of allowing you to learn more about an area before purchasing a home, as well.

Make Moving Easier

Since you will have a lot on your plate with your business, you will need to find ways to split your time or make the moving process easier. We never realize how much stuff we own until we decide to move, so to make things more manageable, The Spruce notes that you should start decluttering each room one by one while you remove the items you no longer need and donate them to a charity so they can be used elsewhere.

Think Realty points out that you should also consider hiring professional movers to make things much easier. A good moving company will help pick up your stuff, load the truck, then drive to your new destination and help you unpack. That way, you can focus more on your business. When looking for movers, make sure to do your research by looking online and reading previous customer reviews so you can get a real feel for the company. Once you have a shortlist, ask for quotes so you can get a good deal.

Keep Your Business Running During Your Move

If you don’t want to wait to start your business until after your move then you will want to have some solutions for how you will keep your company going during the transition. For instance, you can access your files from anywhere by using a cloud computing solution, like those offered by Amazon or Microsoft. That way, you can download or modify your paperwork no matter where you are in your travels.

If you decide to start your business after the move, use a formation company to help you establish a limited liability company. They can make it easier for you to start an LLC. In just a few minutes, they can walk you through the process online, ensuring that your business is set up with full legal compliance.

Next, it’s time to start spreading the word about your business! First, create a well-designed logo that makes a memorable first impression, builds brand awareness, and separates your business from the others. If you’re on a tight budget, instead of paying for a design service, you can use a tool to create your text logo. Go online and design a creative logo by choosing a style and icon and adding any pertinent text. You’ll be able to view an assortment of logos for inspiration and customize fonts and colors of your choosing.

Like organizing a move, becoming an entrepreneur can be challenging. As you can see, though, with some thought and smart planning, you can successfully move while starting a new business at the same time. Search the rental market to help you learn more about the area, plan your move carefully, and upgrade your marketing game to keep your business running smoothly.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Accessory Dwelling Units, ADU, Post Pandemic Real Estate Trends, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring real estate market, Seller's market, Selling Your Home

Sacramento’s HOt real estate market – Five reasons to build an ADU (accessory Dwelling Unit)

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Carmen Micsa, Broker/CEO with Dynamic Real estate touring the anchored tiny homes, an event organized by our Sacramento Association of Realtors with Sacramento City and County officials explaining the requirements and approval process for homeowners looking to build an ADU (Accessory dwelling unit) on their property.

Two years ago I sold a home to a runner friend, and the house had more than six offers, even though it needed work. When my buyer asked me why was the house so attractive, I responded that the bigger lot and the large detached garage meant that someone could build a mother-in-law unit, or guest home in the back, which automatically increased the value of the house. During my 21 years in the business, finding two homes on one lot was almost like looking for the needle in the haystack, as the permit process was not conducive to allowing homeowners to build another in-law unit up to 1,000 square feet on their property.

However, more than a year into the pandemic, the City of Sacramento and the County of Sacramento have a much easier permit process, as they want to alleviate the housing crisis and increase affordability in our super hot Sacramento real estate market. For instance, the City of Sacramento is working on waiving any set-back requirements for the ADUs by the end of summer 2021, while Sacramento County will still require them, and you will need to do all the necessary research and go through the building permit process, which can take up to three months. Additionally, if looking to build a second unit for rental purposes, know that there are strict rules about that, and there is a difference between short term rentals, or vacation rentals, and year-round rentals.

Five Reasons to Build an ADU:

  1. An ADU, or a granny unit, can increase affordability without requiring new infrastructure for the neighborhood/community.
  2. Building an ADU in one’s backyard can help out family members, such as college students, older parents, or disabled relatives.
  3. Building an ADU can increase the income of the property owner, who can potentially rent out the back house, provided that they applied to obtain a rental permit and are following the city and county rules on rentals. In Sacramento County, ADUs might not be allowed as long-term rentals, but check on all the pertinent information before building.
  4. Building an ADU can increase the property value of the original house by more than $100,000 depending on the square footage of the ADU and the quality of construction.
  5. Building an ADU can provide extra housing opportunities in a real estate market where supply is much tighter than demand.

With so much flexibility in how an ADU can be added to an existing home, such as turning a basement into living quarters, turning a big shed into a small office, or artist studio, or building a brand new structure in the backyard, this might be the best time to start building your own ADU that can increase your family well-being and keep expenses under control for your college kids, aging parents, and so on.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide and uplift you during these uncertain and crazy times, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion on Amazon, or buy it straight from my blog by clicking on my books link, which will take you to Amazon. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book is going to Girls on the Run Sacramento chapter organization.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs), or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Moving, Post Pandemic Real Estate Trends, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Seller's market, Selling Your Home

FOUR POST PANDEMIC REAL ESTATE TRENDS

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The Good, the Bad, and The Ugly of Our Post Pandemic Real Estate Market

I like to compare our 2021 Sacramento real estate market to one wild roller coaster ride that besides having twists, turns, and upside down loops sending thrill seekers on the verge of fear and elation, it also has unexpected highs and lows that I correlate to our high real estate prices and extremely low interest rates oftentimes below 3 percent. Our real estate market’s frenzy and desperation, especially on the buyers’ side, is directly related to the sudden decline in housing inventory at the beginning of 2021.

Needless to say, I have never experienced this bidding war before in my 21 years in the business as a real estate broker. And how ugly are these bidding wars? How much over the asking price is enough, you might ask? I have had an offer accepted for my buyers at $50,000 over the asking price, and we had to remove appraisal and loan contingencies to be the winning bid.

The good: offer accepted for my happy clients! The bad: $50,000 over the asking price no matter of the appraised value. The ugly: I have submitted about 15 offers for my buyers before their offer got accepted for $425,000, which is such a hot price point. However, with patience, perseverance, and my professional guidance, my clients are happy homeowners. And in the case of other buyers of mine, I got their offer accepted on the very first try, so some luck never hurts.

This wild roller coaster ride has resulted in the following four unique real estate trends:

  1. Million-dollar home sales have had a 126.92% increase since last year. Additionally, as Ryan Lundquist, our local appraiser expert points out in his Sacramento Appraisal blog, there were 94.9 percent more sales above the $750,000 and 27.3 percent fewer sales under $400,000 price range. We have highs in our real estate market not seen since 2006.
  2. The prevalence of the ADU – an Accessory Dwelling Unit is a permanent dwelling unit that may share at least one wall with the primary residence (attached) or be a stand-alone structure (detached) from the primary residence. ADUs provide permanent facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.), or little homes built in the backyard of the main house, as the city of Sacramento is willing to approve ADUs either one home up to 1,200 sq. ft., or two homes 600 sq. ft. each depending on the lot size and setbacks. The approval of the ADUs is an important step in increasing price affordability and addressing Sacramento’s scarce inventory – see more info in my interview about the tiny homes trend with KCRA news.
  3. The big migration, which according to a LinkedIn data, show more workers moving to smaller US cities and away from larger cities in 2020 compared to 2019. Sacramento is in top five smaller US cities as far as positive growth in inflow over outflow of workers.
  4. Sellers’ confidence expected to grow as vaccine distribution is in full force, providing more peace of mind to sellers looking to make their move. According to Zillow economists, who show that 63 percent of sellers are also buyers, sellers’ mobility has increased for the following reasons: their desires to upgrade or upsize their homes, move to different neighborhoods, downsizing, and wanting a better work from home situation. 

For more information on the ADUs and the tiny homes and what type of approval process you need to have one in your backyards, stay tuned, as I will have a meeting with the city and county officials next week!

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide and uplift you during these uncertain and crazy times, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion on Amazon, or buy it straight from my blog by clicking on my books link, which will take you to Amazon. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book is going to Girls on the Run Sacramento chapter organization.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs), or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your Home Faster with Staging, Selling your home in the winter, Staging Your Home for More Money, Uncategorized

THREE key questions to ask before buying your first rental property

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By Katie Conroy, the creator of Advice Mine. She enjoys writing about lifestyle topics and created the website to share advice she has learned through experience, education, and research.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

With so many people investing in real estate these days, you may be thinking about taking the leap into being a landlord. It’s a move that can bring a lot of perks and profits if you plan carefully. So before you start looking for a residential or vacation rental, be sure to connect with an experienced agent from Carmen Micsa and go through these essential questions to help you make the right decisions.

What Costs Should I Be Concerned About?

If you are looking to buy an investment property, you already know that you will need to prepare for the initial cost of that home. Coming up with a reasonable price range is one of the most important financial considerations you can take when preparing to purchase a rental property, so think carefully about what your desired price range should look like. Depending on market trends in your preferred location, you could end up picking homes that are slightly above your target price and offer less, but you should research real estate trends carefully before doing so to see if a buyer’s or seller’s market exists. Keep in mind that Sacramento homes have been selling at a median price of $395,000 over the last month.

Aside from the cost of buying your first investment property, you should also be prepared for other expenses associated with owning a rental. If you are buying a vacation property, hiring a management company should be included in your budget, since an experienced property manager can provide 24/7 customer service, on-demand professional cleanings, and easy-to-understand info about bookings. By ensuring you and your guests have access to these perks, you can net more bookings and more glowing reviews.

What Upgrades Should I Be Focused On?

Chances are, you will need to make some repairs and improvements to your investment property before you list it as a vacation or residential rental. There are some pros and cons to marketing your home either as a long-term or short-term rental, so also be sure to think about these as you make your initial upgrades and repairs.

For both vacation and residential rental properties, investing in new paint for the exterior of the home can be an effective way to boost curb appeal, although this sort of improvement project can be a big job that necessitates detailed planning, thorough preparation and appropriate tools. The size of your home and materials needed will determine how much you’ll spend to freshen up your property’s exterior.

Wondering what color to use for your home’s exterior? If you want to add curb appeal to your investment property, most experts recommend shying away from bright hues and using pops of color in your landscaping or even for the front door. Speaking of landscaping, if you’re concerned about keeping your investment property secure, you can also consider using protective plants in the front yard.

What Other Steps Should I Take to Ensure Profits?

Creating a plan for your finances and home improvements can ensure some ROI for your rental property. If you want to maximize that ROI, there are some other measures you can use to attract potential renters and protect yourself from potential losses. You can start by making sure that your rental rates are not too high or low for your property and area. While you don’t want to miss out on potential profits by setting rental rates too low, you also don’t want to lose potential tenants because similar properties have much lower rental rates.

To boost profits and keep your own stress levels low, you may also want to consider using a manager to help out with your first investment property. While using a property manager means paying additional fees, the expertise and guidance you will receive in return can be well worth the added expense. Plus, you may be able to deduct management fees from your taxes as a rental property owner.

Owning an investment property can be worthwhile. You just need to take the right steps from the start. Take stock of overall expenses, necessary upgrades and get a read on what you can expect when it comes to making a profit. With a smart approach, you will see profits roll in much faster, and ensure ROI on your rental.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, or seasoned investor, Carmen Micsa will provide you with outstanding and dedicated real estate service! Call (916) 342-2446 or email carmenmicsa@yahoo.com to schedule a meeting!

Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your Home Faster with Staging

Sacramento Real Estate Inventory Low – Six Ways A Good Real Estate Agent Can Help You Find the Right Home and Beat Out the Competition

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After 20 years in the business as a real estate broker, helping buyers and sellers, I am just as baffled as you are by our Sacramento real estate market. What is going on? Weren’t prices supposed to go down? Not really! For instance, in August our real estate prices have reached the highest point in more than a decade. Sacramento county’s median price was $425,000 up from $386,000 last year in August, Placer County was $538,750 up from $500,000, and El Dorado County $570,000 from $525,000.

My new listing in Elk Grove. This beautiful Laguna home with Quartz countertops is very well-priced at $429,000. Showing appointments available!

Low Inventory

According to my esteemed appraiser colleague, Ryan Lundquist, our shortage of homes available for sale is due to a few important factors, as he explains in his blog Why is Housing Inventory so Low?

  1. Our pandemic – sellers are reluctant to put their homes on the market and have a bunch of strangers come through their homes.
  2. More demand from buyers due to historical low interest rates below 3 percent.
  3. Lack of new construction and not having enough building units available.
  4. Shift in demographics, as people choose to live in their homes longer.
  5. Increased migration, as Californians move to Idaho, Texas, and Nevada the most, and some Bay Area residents move to Sacramento, where home prices are much more affordable.

Six Ways A Real Estate Agent Can Help you Become a Homeowner in our tight Market

  1. My favorite way to find homes for my buyers when our listing inventory is tight is to walk the neighborhood they are interested in and drop off flyers telling homeowners that I have a qualified buyer ready to buy. Over the years I found a few homes this way and my buyers were able to buy the house without having to overbid, or deal with multiple offers.
  2. Social media is a great way to connect people and their needs.
  3. For sale by owners are another great way to find homes that are not listed on the MLS. When dealing with for sale by owners, or sellers who want to sell on their own, it is important to have an agent represent you as the buyer, making sure that you are guided by a professional and that you don’t end up having problems in the future due to repairs, or lack of proper disclosure from the sellers.
  4. Expired listings have also been a great way for me to help my buyers find homes and negotiate down on the price for them, since these are homes that used to be on the market and did not sell. Once again, a good agent, who is willing to go the extra mile for you, can sure help you find a good home by searching the MLS data for you.
  5. Pocket Listings are another great way to find listings that will soon hit the market, but the agents have not listed the homes on the MLS yet. As a real estate broker, I have numerous connections and do a lot of networking with other professionals like myself, and I can sometimes find my clients the right home before it even hits the market.
  6. Calling neighbors who are not on the do not call list on behalf of my clients and letting them know that I have a client looking to buy and move in the neighborhood.

To sum things up, when our market is so heated up and our listing inventory low, it is time to work with the best agent, who will find creative ways to help you find and buy the right home, so feel free to call me or text me, and I would love to help you. However, before getting serious about buying a home, the first and most important step is getting pre-approved by a good lender, who will guide you through the whole process and give you an estimate of your monthly payments. One of my preferred lenders is Eric Elovski with Essex Mortgage, and you can apply directly on his website http://www.ericwillclose.com to get pre-approved for the loan.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs), or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Legal documents for your aging parents, Moving, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter

Legal Documents You Need for Your Aging Parents

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By Arthur Bretschneider, CEO & Cofounder, Seniorly.com


As your parents grow older, it’s important to make sure you will be able to step in if they become unable to make medical or financial decisions on their own. It’s also critical to ensure you have the legal documents needed to make sure their end-of-life wishes are carried out. The team at Seniorly.com has put together a list of essential legal documents every aging adult should have. If your mom or dad doesn’t already have them in place, discuss the need for them as quickly as possible. 

Legal Documents to Obtain Before Your Parent Moves to Assisted Living

Before your parent moves into an assisted living community, part of the admissions process will involve preparing specific legal documents. Make sure you have this paperwork in place before they make their move.

HIPAA Authorization Form

The Health Information Portability and Accountability Act, often simply known as HIPAA, lays out legal standards for ensuring an individual’s health records and information are kept private. This means that healthcare professional can’t share information with you about your parent unless they have provided you with written consent for you to receive this information. A HIPPA authorization form is a straightforward yet critical document for parents to complete. This form authorizes doctors, medical facilities, and other healthcare professionals to keep you and other family members your parent approves informed on their medical status. Most doctor’s offices have them on hand, and they only take a few minutes to complete.

Durable Financial Power of Attorney

A durable financial power of attorney provides you or another appointed agent the authority to take care of financial transactions on your parent’s behalf. Keep in mind, your loved one has to be mentally competent when the document is created. The durable power of attorney differs from a standard power of attorney in that it will remain effective even when your parent is unable to make decisions. When your parent passes away, this document is automatically terminated.

Durable Medical Power of Attorney

A durable medical power of attorney names at least one person to make medical decisions on your parent’s behalf if they’re unable to communicate or make decisions on their own. It’s wise to have more than one agent in case one cannot be reached when there’s an emergency. Take time to discuss your parents’ wishes on critical medical decisions in advance so you are able to carry out their wishes if they become too ill to direct their own medical care.

Physical Assessment Form

Before your aging parents enter an assisted living community, their doctor will be required to complete a physical assessment form. It provides information relating to your parent’s medical history, current diagnoses, behavioral or cognitive status, and sensory or physical limitations they may have. Within the assessment, the physician can also indicate what therapy or medical services are needed by your loved one, as well as information on the amount of assistance that may be necessary with self-care and daily living tasks.

Legal Documents for End of Life

A few specific legal documents are needed to dictate your loved one’s end-of-life wishes as well as what happens to their estate when they are gone.

Living Will

A living will, often called an advanced directive, allows your parent to record their wishes for end-of-life care. It keeps family members from having to agonize over tough medical decisions in the future. Your parent can use a living will to make it clear whether they would like life support to be used in the case of a permanent coma, persistent vegetative state, or terminal condition. It can also be used to specify in which situations they would like to receive water and food via feeding tube, and when they’d like to be provided with comfort care.

Last Will and Testament

A last will and testament states what happens to your loved one’s assets after they pass away. It can include their property, money, estate, and possessions. Failing to have a will means that the government will determine how to divide your parent’s property, regardless of their wishes. When creating a last will, they’ll need to list beneficiaries and appoint an executor and alternate executor. By drafting a last will and testament, parents ensure their estate is taken care of according to their wishes instead of the will of the government.

DNR

A Do Not Resuscitate or DNR document informs medical professionals that your parent does not want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or advanced cardiac life support if their heart stops or they stop breathing. A DNR differs from a living will in that it’s a medical order actually written and signed by a physician, making it a legally recognized medical order. In some states, the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) serves the same function as a DNR form.

Other Important Documents to Have on Hand

You should have several other important healthcare, financial, and personal documents on hand as well, including your parent’s:

  • Personal medical history
  • Insurance card
  • Long-term care insurance policy
  • Tax returns
  • Deeds to all property
  • List of bank accounts
  • Documentation of debts and loans,
  • Stock certificates, brokerage accounts, savings bonds
  • Life insurance policies
  • Organ donor card
  • Marriage and/or divorce papers
  • Birth certificate
  • Social security card
  • Military records (if applicable)
  • Driver’s license
  • Passport

Many thanks to our guest writer for this information article that outlines all the necessary documents needed when selling a home for their aging parents. For more info on Seniorly.com, please go to their website.


For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount)! Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter, Uncategorized

Sacramento 2020 Real Estate Forecast for Buyers and Sellers

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At the end of each year, most people are focused on new year’s resolutions, as well as being happier and more prosperous. As we all know, our prosperity is tied to a few economic factors, such as unemployment, stock market, and real estate, to name just a few. When it comes to buying a home, buyers want to make sure they are buying the right house at the right price, which makes the real estate forecast an exciting moment at the end of the year. On the other hand, sellers want to make the most money when selling their home, so they also watch the market and try to find the perfect moment to sell, especially if they don’t have any immediate urgency or need to sell. Before delving into specific market details, I can tell you even though I don’t have a crystal ball, I have 2020 vision, a joke I am borrowing from one of my dynamic agents, that our 2020 real estate market will be great for both buyers and sellers for the following reasons:

  1. The average 30-year, fixed mortgage interest rates will dip to 3.7 percent in 2020, down from 3.9 in 2019. Lower interest rates equate to more purchasing power.
  2. California Association of Realtors 2020 Housing Market Forecast sees a small uptick in single family homes sales of 0.8 percent next year. California median home price is forecast to increase 2.5 percent, followed by a projected 4.1 percent increase from 2019.
  3. With prices slightly going up, sellers will continue to cash in on their equity in order to move into a bigger home, downsize, or move out of state, which approximately 30 percent of sellers will do.
  4. The lack of inventory nationwide was a major theme in 2019. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of REALTORS®, warned often that first-time buyers would have a difficult year, as the housing crunch became most acute in entry-level price points. Unfortunately, low inventory of affordable homes will continue in 2020. “Real estate is on firm ground with little chance of price declines,” Yun said during the Forecast Summit. “However, in order for the market to be healthier, more supply is needed to assure home prices as well as rents do not consistently outgrow income gains.”
  5. The rise of the iBuyer will continue in 2020, but my personal recommendation is to go the traditional way, or at least get a second opinion, as you will make on average $20,000 to $30,000 more on your home after paying the commission. The fast cash offers are not that hassle free and are usually about 80 percent of your home value. They also come with request for repairs and added fees, so don’t give away your equity, because I can get you a strong offer, as is with no repairs if necessary with a fast close and the least amount of hassle.

To search free listings, please go to http://dynamicsacramentohomes.com/
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Bedroom remodel, Best Home Improvements, Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home maintenance, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Selling Your Home

Three of the Best Home Improvement Projects to Increase Your Resale Value

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Bing.com images

 

Increasing the resale value of your home is a good idea, regardless of when you plan to sell. Many homeowners complete DIY projects to save money; after all, it’s cheaper to purchase materials and do the labor yourself than hiring a contractor. But, homeowners save money on improvements only when the projects are within the scope of their capabilities. To help you get the most out of your improvements, we suggest both DIY and professional projects.

 

1. Make Roof Repairs

 

Making repairs to your home is important not only for maintenance purposes, but also to show potential buyers that you have been taking care of your home and preventing damage. One such repair is fixing your roof. Buyers shy away from homes that need roof repairs and new roofs because they fear a large expense immediately after investing in a home.

 

Image via Pixabay

 

When you repair your roof, you not only prevent water damage, but you also attract more buyers who appreciate that you have taken care of the repair. You’re more likely to sell your home quickly when you repair the roof, and you are much more likely to get your asking price, too.

Of course, making roof repairs or replacing your roof is a home improvement project best left to the professionals. When hiring a roofing contractor, you should take the time to ensure you choose a reputable one.

Watch out for traveling contractors or those that come to town immediately after a storm assuming that you have roof damage. Get bids from several reputable, local firms and ask for references that you can call to ask questions.

 

2. Update Your Lighting Fixtures

 

One simple DIY home improvement is updating your lighting fixtures. Old fixtures date your home and don’t deliver the fresh look potential buyers seek. There are several ways to update your lights, from spray painting them to change the finish to completely replacing them. In fact, Good Housekeeping shares nine DIY ways to transform lighting fixtures for homeowners who do not want the expense of buying new ones.

If you do opt to replace your lighting fixtures, make sure you put safety first by turning off the light at the breaker box instead of flipping the wall switch off. You also should test the wires with a circuit voltage tester from a hardware store before doing any work.

Also, make sure that you replace a fixture with the correct wattage bulbs and avoid exceeding the maximum wattage of the fixture. And, always have an assistant to hold the fixture while you wire it or attach it to the ceiling.

 

3. Update Your Kitchen

 

Kitchen updates are one of the best ways to increase the resale value of your home because people use this room more than any other room in the house. Potential buyers look for updates such as stone countertops, tile backsplashes, islands, and high-end appliances. So it goes without saying that a kitchen remodel can be quite the undertaking.

Because an entire kitchen remodel gets to be costly, decide which projects fall within your budget and which you are comfortable completing yourself. For example, you likely can handle giving your kitchen a fresh coat of paint or installing a tile backsplash.

But, these projects can be overwhelming and costly if you do them incorrectly. Planning ahead when attempting DIY projects can save you a lot of time and money. When in doubt, consult your real estate agent to help you determine what’s worth upgrading.

There are several DIY and professional home improvements that will increase your home’s resale value. Hire a roofing contractor to repair or replace your roof if necessary. Then, update your lighting fixtures and your kitchen by practicing a project you’ve never done before and hiring pros to complete the ones that you can’t handle.

 

Article written by guest writer Erin Reynolds with www.diymama.net.

 

Now that spring is here, I have special incentives for buyers and sellers, such as money back towards closing costs and reduced commission when selling, so please mention this blog and you will also receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

To search free listings, please go to http://www.dynamicsacramentohomes.com.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Home inspections, Home maintenance, HVAC, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter

Keeping Up with Your HVAC System: Tips for Homeowners

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Photo via Pixabay by ElasticComputeFarm

 

 

For most homeowners, the joy of having something to call their own is tempered by the upkeep and maintenance that must be done. When you own a home, you also own everything that comes with it, from the furnace to the lawn, and those things become your responsibility. While many home projects can be tackled as DIY weekend jobs that won’t empty your wallet, others can be quite costly and require a professional to handle. When it comes to your HVAC system, sometimes it’s a little bit of both. However, keeping up with cleaning and maintaining your system all year-round will prevent any major issues and keep your home clean at the same time.

 

The HVAC system is a pricey piece of machinery, so it’s important to make sure you take very good care of it and call in a pro when necessary. Changing filters is the easiest way to keep it running smoothly, but you can also make sure the area around the outdoor system isn’t overgrown and that it has plenty of ventilation.

 

Keep reading for some great tips on how to keep your system running well all year.

 

Have It Checked Every Season

 

It’s a good idea to have your unit checked out at the start of each season, especially if you live in an area that has great temperature changes throughout the year. Having a professional make sure everything is in good working order could help prevent costly repairs down the line, and it will help you ensure that the system will be ready to go when you need it the most. Hot summers are particularly hard on these units, so call a pro when fall rolls around.

 

Learn the Ins and Outs of Your System

 

There are several ways you can take care of your system yourself, such as changing the filter often and grooming the area around the outdoor unit, but it’s important to understand how it all works before you make any changes. This will help prevent damage to the unit and injury to yourself, so read up on the system using online guides prior to attempting any maintenance.

 

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

 

The quality of the air in your home can have an impact on everything from your family’s ability to sleep to allergies and breathing issues, so it’s imperative that you take steps to ensure that your HVAC system is clean. This means changing the filter often — typically once a month will work best when you run it every day — and check the return ducts to make sure they’re clear of debris and don’t have any tears or cracks, which can pull pollutants from outside and distribute them in your home. Not only can this affect the air quality, but it can also leave behind dust and pollen.

 

Keep Your Lawn Tended

 

Your lawn can have an impact on your HVAC system because the outdoor unit can become blocked by grass, leaves, and other debris. Keep these items away from your system by weeding, cutting the grass often, and making sure animals steer clear of the unit. Make sure branches and twigs are cleared from the area often, especially in fall and winter, and cover the unit with a heavy tarp before you cut the grass to prevent clippings from flying into it.

 

Keeping up with your HVAC system can be quite a job, and it can be a costly one if you aren’t careful. Taking pains to make sure the area around your unit is clean and free of debris is a big step since the system can pull in outside elements and pollute the air inside your home. With a little research, you can find the best ways to take care of your system without going broke.

 

Blog written by Suzie Wilson who is proud to announce that her debut book, The Ultimate Guide to Prepping Your Home for an Open House, is COMING SOON to online retailers and bookstores near you!

 

I am always busy during the winter months, selling my listings, or helping my buyers buy the right home, so please mention this blog and you will receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real estate market outlook, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter, Tips for a Successful Open House

What You Need to Know When Selling Your Home During the Off-Season

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Image Courtesy of Pexels.com

 

Most of us know that the big selling times for homes are spring and summer. That doesn’t mean, however, that we need to feel panicky if we must sell our home in autumn or winter. There are strategies to make this season the one to successfully sell your property.

 

Maintain Curb Appeal

 

This is the perfect time of year to make your property look cheerful and bright, despite gray days and colder weather. As the seasons change, consider putting a festive wreath or some simple decoration on your front door to make it inviting. Touch up paint where needed, including your mailbox and the trim around your door. Don’t overlook smaller nuances as well, like cleaning the windows to give your home a bright shine or updating your house numbers for a fresh new look. Just because many plants are dying down for winter slumber does not mean our homes cannot look lush and gorgeous. A winter flower garden can be beautiful and add a colorful touch as a border or in pots by the door. Holly, snowdrops and hellebores are all excellent cold-weather options.

 

Stay on Top of Maintenance

 

You also need to think about ease of access to your home, especially when the temperatures drop, as there may be a few more hazards to consider during the colder months than in warmer ones. If you live in an area where snow is abundant, you are probably used to shoveling your driveway. However, you need to think not just of your family’s car getting in and out of the garage, but of buyers coming up to the home. That means you should shovel the entire driveway and every walkway around the house. It looks nicer and keeps buyers in a happy mood due to ease of access, but also makes navigating any open house showings you host a safer endeavor. Keep your gutters clean and clear, ensure your pipes are insulated, and that your chimney is ready; a nice fire can add a cheerful touch to any open house.

 

Bring on the Light

 

A bright home full of light sells better than one that is dim or dark. Adding lighting is more important now than ever, as the colder seasons also tend to turn dark earlier than the rest of the year. Make sure you add white light. It’s warm without coming off as too artificial. Put lamps on bedside tables and in dark corners of rooms, and consider installing some hanging fixtures or mounting lights on the walls themselves. If you have screens on your windows to keep out bugs in the summer months, it may be best to remove them during winter. This will bring in a startling amount of natural light, something we should be striving for during open house showings. Keep pieces such as your couch coverings and pillows, curtains, drapes, and table runner a pale color to reflect light.

 

Sweet Little Extras

 

Does a chilly house sound appealing to you? Is it a place you want to return to when the weather outside is nippy? No, and buyers agree, so keep your home heated and cozy. Little niceties can go a long way to making your home stand out, such as providing treats for visitors to nibble on while they tour your house. To emphasize how comforting your property is, consider brewing some hot chocolate for guests to enjoy or lighting some festive holiday candles in different rooms. Make sure whatever scent you opt for is not overpowering, as nothing is worse than one that’s too strong and artificial.

 

You don’t need to worry about selling a home during the off-season if you make some smart preparations. Keep your curb appeal sharp with attention to detail and pops of color, and make sure your home is bright and easy to navigate. Add in some sweet extras, and you may be surprised by how quickly your home flies off the market this fall or winter.

Blog written by Suzie Wilson who is proud to announce that her debut book, The Ultimate Guide to Prepping Your Home for an Open House, is COMING SOON to online retailers and bookstores near you!

 

I am always busy during the winter months, selling my listings, or helping my buyers buy the right home, so please mention this blog and you will receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Bedroom remodel, Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Staging Your Home for More Money

How to Plan a DIY Bedroom Remodel

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Image via Unsplash

 

A dated bedroom can age your home in an instant. Remodeling is a great way to upgrade the aesthetics of your bedroom, but that’s not the only reason to give your bedroom a facelift.

In fact, an updated master bedroom can also make it easier to sell your home and you’ll see a 40 to 80 percent return on investment when you do. While that’s less than the ROI on kitchen and bathroom remodels, bedroom remodels are also much less expensive.

On average, bedroom remodels cost about $10,000 to $30,000, with additional expenses for high-end upgrades. Completing the remodel yourself brings the cost down significantly. However, DIY remodeling comes with challenges of its own. Without pros to handle the planning, purchasing, and renovating for you, it’s up to you to manage and execute the project.

Use this guide to plan your DIY bedroom remodel so it’s a smooth process from start to finish.

Choose a Style

Before planning projects and shopping for materials, you need a vision of how you want your bedroom to look. If you intend to sell your home in the future, choose a style with resale value in mind. The style should be both soothing and cohesive with the rest of your home’s interior design. It should also include the features that buyers want in bedrooms, such as built-in storage and plenty of natural and ambient lighting. For inspiration, check out these bedroom before-and-after pictures from Architectural Digest.

Plan Projects

With a vision in mind, list the projects that will get you there. Remember that for a DIY remodel, you need to stick to projects you’re confident you can complete.

These projects are ideal for a DIY remodel:

● Repainting
● Installing trim and molding
● Updating lighting fixtures and ceiling fans
● Replacing carpeting or flooring
● Adding built-in storage
● Installing a new closet door
● Replacing furniture, linens, and window treatments

Things you shouldn’t do yourself include installing new electrical fixtures, moving walls, adding or moving windows, and installing gas fireplaces.

Set a Budget

Next, decide what you’re able to spend on a remodel. Your budget should reflect the value of your home and your personal financial situation. Zillow recommends basing your budget on the value of the room as a percentage of your overall house. It’s not necessary to pay cash for home renovations, but if you choose to finance, ensure the payments fit within your budget.

Price Out Projects

Now that you have a plan and a budget, it’s time to determine how much each project will cost. Research costs for construction materials as well as new furniture and décor, keeping your budget in mind as you select options. Don’t forget taxes and shipping costs in your calculations.

With a list of projects and prices in front of you, revisit your budget. Do your plans fit within the constraints of your budget, including a buffer for unexpected costs (Curbed suggests 5 percent, but if it’s your first DIY remodel you might want a bigger cushion)? If not, you’ll either need to cut low-priority projects or find ways to reduce costs, such as choosing less expensive materials. However, be mindful of cutting too much: It’s better to do a few projects to a high quality, saving the rest for later, then to end up with sub-par results.

Get to Work!

With your project planned down to the penny, you’re ready to get started. Stay flexible as you remodel — you never know what kind of unexpected surprises could pop up — but avoid deviating from the original plan too much. By planning carefully and following through on that plan, you can achieve a DIY bedroom remodel that fits your vision and your budget.

Article written by guest writer Erin Reynolds with www.diymama.net.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Sacramento buyers, Selling Your Home, Selling your Home Faster with Staging, Staging Your Home for More Money, Tips for a Successful Open House, Uncategorized

Selling Your Home Faster and for More Money with Staging – Tips for a Successful Open House

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Photo credit: Pexels.com

Staging is the key to a successful open house

 

Holding an open house is no guarantee that your home is going to sell and more often than not sellers end up feeling disappointed after the big day has come and gone. Simply opening up your home to buyers isn’t enough. First, make a few simple changes to boost your home’s buying potential. Too many sellers neglect these easy open house preparations that will make a huge difference.

First Impressions

 

No matter how much time and money you spend fixing up the inside of your home, it’s the outside of the house that potential buyers are going to see first. Never underestimate the importance of first impressions, particularly in home-selling.

Wash the outside of your home. According to HGTV, this can give you a big boost of curb appeal. Clean out the gutters, wash the windows and make sure the front door is nice and clean. Repaint the door and window trim if needed. A set of brand-new house numbers may also be in order, an inexpensive way to make your home look nice and fresh.

Spruce Up Your Lawn

 

Curb appeal will get people in the door of your house, and that’s how you find buyers. Make your home look so appealing that house hunters can’t resist. Start by making your lawn look amazing. Mow the grass, get rid of leaves and make sure there are no weeds. Give attention to your flower beds and landscaping. According to House Logic, fresh mulch and nicely pruned shrubs go a long way toward boosting your curb appeal.

Add some pops of color to your landscaping. Plant a few flowers in bright hues of yellow and orange. They will quickly catch the eyes of potential homebuyers. Pansies, tulips and geraniums are easy to find everywhere and grow in pretty, vivid shades.

Consider having the driveway repaved. It’s not as expensive as you think to have fresh asphalt put down and this will greatly increase your curb appeal. A nice, new driveway makes a huge impression.

Don’t forget the mailbox. Clean it or repaint it to make the mailbox look new, and add a pretty border of flowers around it.

What Else Curb Appeal Can Do

 

Great curb appeal doesn’t just get people to notice your home, but also it can actually increase the resale value of your home, according to Forbes. The money you put into landscaping will actually go back into your pocket when you sell your property, so it’s worth it to put extra care and attention into this detail.

Plant shrubs to fill in empty spaces and bare areas. Shrubs are relatively inexpensive and easy to plant, and you can buy them full-grown so you don’t have to wait for the fruits of your labor to appear.

Use Staging for Selling Success

 

Once you get buyers in the door of your home, make sure they like what they see. With a little bit of simple staging, you can encourage people to start bidding on your property.

First, remove clutter and knickknacks. Potential buyers want to see a simple design so they can imagine their own belongings, not your favorite family photos. Stick with simple furnishings, but don’t make the interior of your home too bare. Add some colorful pillows to the sofa, put a pretty vase of fresh flowers on your kitchen table and leave just a couple of small appliances on the kitchen counter. Display guest towels in the bathroom, and make up all the beds with beautiful linen and blankets.

Have an Easy Open House

 

Make some simple preparations before the big day will help you to impress potential buyers. Focus on your curb appeal, stage your rooms, and you will get the results you want.

As a real estate broker working with many sellers and buyers and owning my own company, I can offer a commission discount or two months of free staging for new clients who mention this blog. Some conditions and restrictions apply! When you work with the best, you get the best, so feel free to call me at 916-342-2446, or e-mail at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com. To search online and get free listings, go to www.dynamicsacramentohomes.com. 

Author

 

Suzie Wilson is an interior designer with more than 20 years experience. What started as a hobby (and often, a favor to friends) turned into a passion for creating soothing spaces in homes of every size and style. While her goal always includes making homes look beautiful, her true focus is on fashioning them into serene, stress-free environments that inspire tranquility in all who enter. The Ultimate Guide to Prepping Your Home for an Open House is filled with tips, tricks and other advice based on Suzie’s years of experience in interior home design that will set you up for success.

Buying and selling a home, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home inspections, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers

Important Real Estate Question Answered for Buyers and Sellers – Sacramento Hot Real Estate Market

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“How is our Sacramento real estate market?” is a question I get quite frequently when talking to friends, past and new clients. Before elaborating on this question, I try to start with a simple answer, such as : “Well, it is a seller’s market right now.” This straight forward statement is immediately understood, but oddly enough, I have come across seasoned agents who still do not explain our purchase agreements to their buyers correctly and honestly.

 

One of my listings that I have sold for my sellers in three days with multiple offers. Yet, the buyer asked for $5,000 credit for repairs following the home and pest inspections, even though the repairs were quite minor. Their intention was to renegotiate on the price after the inspections, which should not be a buyer’s focus or hope when making an offer.

 

I have recently sold properties in Auburn, Rancho Cordova, Carmichael and acted as the listing agent, meaning that I represented the seller. On all the listings, I received offers at or above asking price with no mention about repairs on them, which is why I want to answer and clarify the following question for future homeowners, as well as sellers.

 

  1. Is the seller obligated to do repairs for the buyer after buyer’s home and pest inspections to name just a few?

    The answer is: NO. The seller can certainly choose to do some repairs, all, or no repairs based on the “as is” clause, or paragraph 16 that is in our contracts. Yet,  most selling, or buyers’ agents do not bother to explain this clause to their buyers, who will get upset and frustrated later, if sellers do not agree to do repairs.

16. CONDITION OF PROPERTY: Unless otherwise agreed in writing: (i) the Property is sold (a) “AS-IS” in its PRESENT physical condition as of the date of Acceptance and (b) subject to Buyer’s Investigation rights; (ii) the Property, including pool, spa, landscaping and grounds, is to be maintained in substantially the same condition as on the date of Acceptance; and (iii) all debris and personal property not included in the sale shall be removed by Close Of Escrow.

With older homes there are more items that home inspectors point out on their reports. However,  our purchase contracts are written as is. You can always try to negotiate, but sellers do not have to agree.

 

The moral of the story for buyers and sellers:

 

  1. Buyers – Do not expect the sellers to bend over backwards to do repairs, or offer a credit. Be reasonable if you do ask for repairs and evaluate the repairs needed before making an offer in case sellers will not agree to do these repairs after your inspections.
  2. Sellers – I hope you will work with an agent who will fight for every dollar on your behalf and who will not make you do unnecessary repairs, especially if you are selling your home at a great price and have had multiple offers. Have your agents negotiate on your behalf, and feel free to refuse doing minor/petty repairs that come across on the famous, or most precisely, infamous Request for Repairs form. Yet, be flexible with repairs that are major or safety items, as it is not always easy to start with a new buyer and it will definitely delay the close of escrow.

 

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market

Top 10 Tips to Tidy Up and Sell Your Home for More

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Most sellers getting their home ready for the market have consistently heard one word from their agents: declutter. Why is clutter bad? It obstructs the view for your potential buyers, as well as it diminishes the size of the house. The solution to sell for top dollars and not hear about clutter anymore is outlined in a great and practical book I read recently.

I found many answers to this question by reading New York Times Best Seller The Life-Changing magic of tidying up – the Japanese art of decluterring and organizing.

The author of this practical and powerful book is diligent to point out why people fail to declutter their homes using old methods of cleaning and organizing,,

 

TOP 10 TIPS TO TIDY UP & DECLUTTER

 

The book inspired me to get rid of too many clothes I don’t wear, like, or need anymore.

Here are my favorite top ten tips from Marie Kondo’s book, which I have enjoyed reading and has taught me a lot about cleaning, organizing, and decluttering, which I will apply to my own home.

  1. Kondo starts her book by pointing out that changing one’s habits depends upon changing one’s way of thinking.
  2. Her statement: “If you tidy up in one shot, rather than little by little, you can dramatically change your mind-set” has come as a revelation, but also as an obstacle to people who really have a lot of stuff.  Kondo adds that by using this method, people are able to keep their space clean afterwards.
  3. Storage methods provide superficial answers to the clutter, so get rid of things and don’t focus too much on storing and re-storing.
  4. Another new concept to me, was tidying by category and not location/place.
  5. If we need to understand clutter and declutter, we need to apply Kondo’s astute remark to our daily lives and activities and really start discarding and disposing of things, instead of worrying that we might need them one day. Kondo says in her book: “Effective tidying involves only two essential actions: discarding and deciding where to store things. However, discarding comes first.”
  6. How does discarding work? Kondo believes that every item that does not bring us joy anymore needs to be discarded, unless we really use and need that object. When discarding, clothes are the easiest to deal with and photographs are the hardest. With this in mind, Kondo suggests that the order or sequence to tidying up should be: clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous items, and mementos.
  7. Since discarding makes tidying up a smoother process, Kondo says: “to truly cherish the things that are important to you, you must first discard those that have outlived their purpose.” Great lesson to follow!
  8. Get rid of “Just because,” Kondo points out, which means that people live surrounded by clutter and things they don’t need out of fear that one day they might need them.
  9. When it comes to disposing of sentimental items, Kondo remarks that we cannot live in the past. Instead, the joy and happiness come from living in the NOW moment.
  10. And last, but not least, decluttering and tidying up, according to Kondo means to reset your life and settle your accounts so that you can take the next step forward.

 

As wonderful as this book is, sellers need to know one thing: declutter should not be a dreadful chore, even though it is not easy to tidy up. Instead, declutter should be a  means to attract more joy and  more buyers willing to pay top dollars for a tidy house that will be appealing and attractive.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, The joy of running

Running for Real Estate – 10 Tips on buying a home sight unseen!

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When I first came up with the name of my blog, I felt pretty good about it and even gave myself a pat on the back for it. How appropriate! I love real estate and running, so running for real estate was created.

RUNNING FOR REAL ESTATE

 

Last weekend, I had the chance to literally run for real estate. I ran from home to a house in Carmichael that one of my out of town buyers was very interested in. I put my MLS key inside the pocket of my water hand held bottle and off I went all giddy at the thought of putting the title of my blog into practice. I felt like an inventor who is about to test his/her own creation after all the hard work that went into it. I felt like being a runner and real estate broker with a bigger purpose. I felt like a super efficient business woman mixing work with running. It was great to be able to do that.

Once I arrived at the house, I took a great video of the neighborhood and the house for my pre-approved buyer who was looking to move to Sacramento.  Later that day, we made an offer on the house, but the buyer did not accept the seller’s counter offer, so we’re looking for other homes.

Speaking of running, good shoes are always a necessity. My company Dynamic Real Estate is the proud sponsor of Soles4Souls and we collect shoes that get sent out all over the world. Many thanks to everyone who donated and please keep the donations coming so that people all over the world can explore their environment in their new shoes.

 

10 Tips on buying a home sight unseen:

 

  1. When buying rental properties, it is easier to buy something based on capitalization rate, as it is all about return on investment. Thus, having your agent take a video of the area/neighborhood and the house will be enough to help you with the purchase.
  2. Videos can be great, but doing your own research regarding the neighborhood, schools, freeway access, shopping, public transportation, and parks is key when deciding to make an offer on a house that you have not personally seen inside.
  3. Make sure your agent is honest and can share his personal opinion about the house, as if he/she were to purchase the house for themselves.
  4. Ask your agent the following question: “Would you purchase the house if you were me?” “Why? Why not?”
  5. Ask more questions about the location of the house, such as busy street, proximity to shopping, transportation, etc., because the video is just not enough  in making the decision.
  6. If making the offer first and then seeing the house inside once the offer has been accepted, which is not recommended for buyers planning to live in the house, unless they are very familiar with the neighborhood and floor plan, be open-minded. Reality is sometimes different than a short video.
  7. If making an offer on a house just like I helped many international and out of state investor buyers without seeing the house till after close of escrow, make sure you obtain a thorough home, pest, and roof inspection to know what’s in store for you. Even with those inspections, there might be items such as the roof, or heating and air that will require work, so be prepared for future repairs/remodeling.
  8. Make sure you hire a good property management company that will get you a good tenant and help with the maintenance and repairs.
  9. Arrange to see your investment property shortly after close of escrow if possible. I helped my mom buy a house this way in Savannah, GA and she only got to see the house a year later. Luckily, she liked the house and was happy with her investment property.
  10. Enjoy the adventure and find trustworthy professionals who can help you purchase the right property.

 

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Condos and townhomes, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring real estate market, Seller's market, Uncategorized

Sacramento Hot Real Estate Spring Market – Difference between a Condo and Townhome

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With our Sacramento real estate market getting hotter, many first time buyers and investors will turn their interests to condos and townhomes for a few reasons: they are more affordable, require less work, as some of the exterior and roof repairs are covered by the Home Owner’s Association, and offer more security features, especially the gated ones.  When I showed a condo to my cash investors last week, they asked me: “What is the difference between a condo and townhome?” Excellent question!

Just listed! Great condominium close to Sac State, Arden Fair Mall, and downtown!

 

CONDOS AND THEIR FEATURES

According to the article below from Realty Times,  “a buyer of a condominium owns his or her individual unit, plus a percentage of the surrounding property, including land and any amenities on the property (The word “condominium” is Latin, meaning “common ownership” or “common control”).

http://realtytimes.com/archives/item/20020-20000629_condotwnhome

  1. The condo shares more common areas.
  2. Common areas include stairs, driveways, walkways, hallways, parking lots, and Home Owner’s Association amenities, such as pools and club house.
  3. Only few condos have garages; most of them have shared carports.

TOWNHOMES AND THEIR FEATURES

 

As opposed to the condo, the townhome has a very distinct characteristic: owning the ground underneath the unit and having their own roof. Additionally, some townhomes look like a detached home and have garages, which is not that common with condos.

When I first got into the business, my first sale was a condo and then I kept selling quite a few others, so my nickname was “the condo queen.” I learned about each condo complex and sold a few townhomes, too. I am helping one of my clients who bought this condo with me 17 years ago. She used it as a personal residence and then turned it into an investment property. Thus, condos or townhomes can make great financial sense in a hot market, in which it might be hard to buy a home.

For more info on my new condo listing, check out the virtual tour, and feel free to call me for a viewing. This one will go quickly!

http://1520hoodroad.ihousenet.com/

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate

Running and Real Estate- 6 Reasons Location Can Make or Break Your Fitness

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Are buyers super tired of hearing about the importance of “location, location, location” every single time they work with a real estate agent like myself?  Do we agents sound like a broken record, or is there more to these three repetitive nouns?

I have to be honest and tell you that when my husband and I bought our home in Carmichael, CA, I was not much into exercise and I was definitely not a runner. All my husband and I knew was that we wanted to live in Carmichael – the rural feel and yet the central location of Carmichael appealed to us. We loved playing tennis and we did notice that the house we bought was within walking distance from Carmichael Park, which made us happy. Good location!

Since I became a runner, I go to Carmichael Park to play tennis or run. I also go for walks with our kids and play Pokémon Go, because we are close to it and it is convenient to get there.

 

IMPORTANCE OF LOCATION

 

I have been in real estate for 17 years and I always try to educate my buyers about the importance of location for two reasons:

  1. Buying a house on a cul-de-sac, one of the most desirable locations, because of reduced traffic, next to a beautiful park, golf course, bike trail, etc. can enhance the property value of a home and the well-being of its occupants, as it is convenient to  exercise.
  2. Buying a house next to railroad tracks, close to an airport, or on a busy street can decrease the property value of one’s home by as much as 20 percent. http://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/slideshows/8-types-of-roads-that-can-have-a-big-impact-on-home-sales

Therefore, buyers who are more nature, outdoor, and fitness enthusiasts might want to work with an agent who understands the importance of location when it comes to easy access to the bike trail, a public track, close proximity to a fitness club, nature parks, and so on.

Sacramento has one of the best multi-purpose trails in the country. Jedediah Smith Memorial Bicycle Trail, known as the bike trail,  or  the Parkway,  stretches along 32 miles of parkway from Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake.

Ancil Hoffman Park, where one can watch deer, coyotes, and turkeys while exercising. The nature center and golf course are one of Carmichael’s hidden gems and treasures.

 

FITNESS CHECKLIST

 

As a real estate broker and fitness fanatic (I am an avid runner and tennis player), I recommend buyers the following checklist to make sure their new home will enhance their easy access to exercising whether it is biking, running, playing golf, tennis, etc.

  1. Use Google maps to determine the walking distance from your new home to the above-mentioned locations.
  2. Create your walking/biking/running routes and see how conveniently located you are from your new gym, for instance. I am 1 mile away from two of the gyms I belong to. I love to run or ride my bike there, which makes me feel that I kill two birds with one stone, because I get my run in and do strength training, or take various classes there.
  3. Rate all the homes you visit based on the exercise convenience factor. For instance, five stars rating means extremely easy access to parks, nature preserve areas, golf courses, tennis courts, and fitness clubs.
  4. Be realistic about the importance of your fitness goals and the convenience of achieving them based on the location of your home and decide if you can settle for anything less than three stars. Let’s say your new home is close to fitness club, tennis courts, and parks. That is a pretty good location, but as you go lower in stars, you need to decide if you need to keep looking for that three stars or higher fitness house.
  5. Be very clear and specific with your agent about your fitness goals and the location of your new home and make sure that you do not waste time looking at homes that are far from your desired criteria.
  6. After having your offer accepted and while in escrow, try some of your routes to make sure that your new neighborhood has a high walking score. Additionally, use this website to find the walking score of your new home https://www.walkscore.com/

To sum things up, I believe buyers should take the fitness factor seriously when buying a home. Analyzing a home’s curb appeal and all the remodeling should be done in connection with your ability to walk many places around your new home/neighborhood. Happy house hunting! Happy feet and happy to help you find that perfect FIT home of your dreams.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate

The Future of Sacramento and Real Estate Market – Meeting with Mayor Darrell Steinberg

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Today at our monthly Sacramento Association of Realtors meeting, we had the honor to listen to Mayor Steinberg talk about Sacramento’s future as a growing city.  He was engaging, informative, funny, and invested in making Sacramento not just a government town, but also a destination city.

Mayor Darrell Steinberg talking at our monthly meeting at the Sacramento Association of Realtors

Some of his immediate items to address as a newly-elected mayor were:

 

  1. Working on our city’s image and transforming Sacramento into a more sophisticated and more visited city. A few ways to attract more visitors would be through the Kings Arena, a world class Science Museum and Exploratorium, an Aquarium, increasing the visibility of arts, opening up the water promenade, and connecting West Sacramento to Sacramento.
  2. Working on providing more shelters and programs for the homeless.
  3. Passing an immediate law regarding teenagers who will be paid for their summer work (just for a certain amount of hours). They will also be employed and paid for two months in their line of work right after college and paid. This will create a more robust work force and will help young people compete fairly in an already competitive market.
  4. Encouraging and expanding the housing market with a variety of newly-built projects, such as the L St. lofts, I St. studio, as well as other ones that are being marketed and that I can help you show and purchase.
  5. Creation of more jobs.
  6. Keeping the real estate market affordable by increasing the supply through building new homes and condos.

https://www.facebook.com/cmicsa/videos/1384150288304380/

To sum things up, Darrell Steinberg’s speech and presentation emphasized the need to increase Sacramento’s positive image, as well as continue to have a robust real estate market while keeping things affordable in our growing city.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers

Sellers and Buyers Pace Yourselves When Deciding to Get the PACE Energy-Efficient Program- 2017 New Laws to Protect You!

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HERO AND PACE PROGRAMS – ARE THEY REALLY HEROES?

Do you ever feel satisfied and happy when you obtain something so easily that it feels unreal? Of course, not! Satisfaction and enjoyment come from some resistance, hard work, and some challenge.  And yet, when it comes to one’s home, the biggest investment in one’s life, many people have jumped to obtain the Home Energy Renovation Opportunity (HERO), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HERO_Program, which is a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PACE_financing and continue to do so in order to retrofit their homes.

Types of residential and commercial retrofitting:

  • installing energy-efficient, water conservation retrofits
  • seismic retrofits
  • solar panels
  • energy efficient windows
  • energy-efficient heating and air systems

Installing solar panels is one of the most popular with homeowners

The PACE loan program was introduced in 2008 to finance energy and other retrofits with ease and very few requirements or disclosures. To qualify for this loan, homeowners need to have equity in their homes, so credit scores do not matter. It is also 100% financing with no money down from the homeowner. So far PACE sounds enticing and an amazing way to lower one’s utility bills by doing certain retrofits. Well, it really depends on your future plans, and if you have to sell the home, as this loan is designed to pass the debt unto the new homeowners, which might not make them happy.

HOW DOES PACE IMPACT BUYERS AND SELLERS?

 

  1. Due to the fact that repayments of the PACE loan are made through the property taxes.
  2. The house has higher property taxes than a similar home on the same street with no PACE loan on.
  3. Sellers will leave debt behind to the new homeowners who assume all these upgrades whether they want them or not.
  4. PACE is shown on the preliminary title report as a first lien.
  5. The property taxes will reflect the additional assessment fees incurred through the PACE loan.
  6. New owners assume the remaining assessment payments, or sellers are forced to reduce the selling price of the home to make the sale go through.
  7. Interest rates can be 3 to 4% higher than traditional loans.
  8. Having a PACE loan might be the only way for some homeowners to install a new HVAC system or new windows, but be prepared for the future impact when reselling the house, as it is not as easy to sell in comparison with a debt-free home.
  9. Are the upgrades worth it in the long run? Sure, they are, but think of how long you will live in that house before getting this loan.
  10. To sum thing up, pace yourselves when it comes to PACE and think of the future plans and the impact of trying to pass debt to the new homeowners. We all know that debt is not sexy!

Debt is a vicious circle

 

2017 NEW LAWS REGARDING PACE PROGRAMS

 

Under the new law, which took effect Jan. 1, entities that offer PACE financing providers are required to do the following:

  1. Provide homeowners with a standard written financial disclosure similar to the federal Truth in Lending Act disclosure.
  2. Give the applicants the right to cancel PACE contract within three days.
  3. It limits the amount a homeowner can borrow.
  4. It specifies that homeowners must own the property on which the home sits, be current on their mortgage and property taxes, and not in default or involved in bankruptcy proceedings.

When things sound too good to be true, most often they are, so be aware of the potential future hurdles when selling or buying a home under this program. Maybe try to qualify for a standard loan instead, as well as understand that it can take up to 20 years to break even on a solar system and that the money saved on energy bills is not that significant.

Do your homework, and let me know if I can answer any questions.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market

Pricing Your Home Right for Top $$$ in our 2017 market – Dos and Don’ts!

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Buying and selling a home are both emotional events, but selling a house in our Sacramento real estate market and any other market is even more emotional, as sellers put their heart and soul into their homes, remodeling, improving, and leaving behind indelible memories. With our low housing supply inventory that will continue in 2017 sellers rejoice in their opportunity to sell their homes for top dollars with little hassle and even with multiple offers. Yet, pricing your home right in a hot market is still key and Realtor.com offers some great advice and six rules on pricing your home right. http://www.realtor.com/advice/6-rules-follow-pricing-home/

Pricing Your Home Right

DO PRICE YOUR HOME RIGHT! When it comes to pricing a home, the majority of the sellers feel that their house is worth so much more than the rest of the homes that have sold recently. https://www.houselogic.com/sell/how-much-is-my-home-worth/?cid=pm_ps_bing_cac

DON’T  FOLLOW YOUR FEELINGS; FOLLOW THE DATA! My duty as a real estate broker and professional is to present all the data, such as recent comps of other similar homes that sold in the neighborhood, statistics, and market analysis, which will help my sellers decide upon my suggested listing price. Thus pricing their home will be done based on carefully researched data and not emotions, feelings. By relying on the most current market data, sellers will avoid pricing their home too high. Also according to local appraiser Ryan Lundquist, it is important to http://sacramentoappraisalblog.com/2017/01/03/trends-to-watch-in-real-estate-in-2017/ choose similar homes to the one the seller has to sell, instead of focusing on the highest sold in the neighborhood and have appraisal issues later on during the escrow. Lundquist also points out that just because our housing inventory is low does not mean that sellers should command unreasonably high prices, which is also my position as a real estate broker. I like to be honest and upfront with my sellers during the listing appointment and not create false expectations.

Not all buyers will appreciate the older flushing system, so changing the toilet might be a great idea, giving buyers fewer things to nitpick.

Reasons Your Home is Not Selling:

  1. Home is overpriced.
  2. Home is outdated.
  3. Home is over-improved for the neighborhood.
  4. Home has been nicely updated and remodeled, but price is too high and buyers are not willing to pay for it.
  5. Few, or no showings at all is a clear indication of the house being overpriced.
  6. Plenty of showings, but no offers is also a sign that the house is overpriced.
  7. Price is king!

Top Cures for not Selling:

  1. Be proactive, not reactive, which simply means not waiting months and months before dropping the price and selling your home at what the market will bear.
  2. Do not wait till you receive a bunch of low ball offers; instead, adjust the price accordingly to attract those highly motivated and well-qualified buyers.
  3. Do not let too much time elapse in between price adjustments, or buyers will think there is something wrong with your house.
  4. Enhance the curb appeal on a budget and make things inviting, so buyers can feel at home.
  5. Work with highly reputable, honest, and experienced agents who can aggressively market your home and get it sold.

    Besides having a three-page marketing plan for my sellers, I also market their homes on the radio show Real Life Lending on 105.5 FM

     

    And least, but not last, remember that buyers today have so much more information at their fingertips and they are not willing to overpay for a house, so evaluate the recent sales and price your home to sell and you might even get more than asking price with the right marketing strategy.

    For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Long runs, Real estate, Running and real estate, Running and Spirituality, The joy of running

16 Life Lessons I Learned from Running in 2016!

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“Running gives us the total freedom to be ourselves, while negotiating life one stride at a time.” Carmen Micsa

Physical Fitness Lessons

  1. When in doubt you can do something, just do it anyway. I have learned this lesson this summer during the week I ran 101 miles just to see what it is like to run like an elite runner. I had started my week with a 15-mile run on the American River Parkway in the morning. In the evening, I went running through Ancil Hoffman Park and doubted I can have a decent 5 mile run, but to my great surprise, I ran in the low 8s and felt great. It also helped to see a coyote roaming around and trying to beat the summer heat.

    On the American River Parkway

    Coyote prowling around Ancil Hoffman Park

    2. When the legs get heavy, stop clenching your fists and teeth; instead, lighten up! Anytime I am tired, I love looking up at the sky. The turkey vultures seem to  have the smoothest and seamless fight pattern. They glide effortlessly and float with grace. I try to imitate them, while making my body glide down the trail with ease and determination to  end the heavy breathing and my body’s fatigue.

    The ducks were quaking and moving while I was just admiring them and taking a break from my long run.

    3. When you feel sluggish, look for someone slower than you to make you look better. I remember being at the end of my run and getting into a desperation mode when I came across this steady and determined tortoise crossing the bike trail. I smiled big and understood that slow and steady is a good thing; yet, I still found enough strength to push a little faster and not listen to my tired body.

    Feeling as slow as tortoise? Get those legs moving!

    4. Body aches all over, but you still need to get your easy run in, which is by no means easy. I remember starting my group strength training class this summer to get my body stronger and avoid injury. After my first class, I got  super sore, as my bosy was not used to the intensity. The next day, I had to do a Fartlek run that started with a 2-mile warm-up. I felt the gluteal muscles halting my entire being and thought to myself that I could just skip this and wait till the next day to run. Yet, once I finished my first two miles and got into doing my Fartleks, I felt so much better and the speed agreed with me.  Moral of the story: find that sweet spot to push past pain and a tired body.

    I used to wear knee sleeves, but not anymore.

    5. Knee pain is making you wince and stop more often than you want. My knees used to bother me until I started to run faster and changed my form and cadence. The quicker turnover of my feet also alleviated the strain I was putting on my body, so every time I get tired, keeping my form as intact as possible is key. http://www.runnersworld.com/race-training/the-great-cadence-debate

Mental Lessons

6.  Relax the mind. Although this is only my second year as a runner, I ran 18 races ranging from 5Ks to 50K this year. I PRd 16 of them and won 7 races in my age group. One reason I enjoy racing so much is because I am really good at relaxing my mind. I know I will be prepared and I do not worry or stress about the outcome of the race. I try to enjoy every minute, while I visualize myself running at a great pace propelled by all the racers around me. I can honestly say that I am not nervous when racing, whether I run a 5K or a marathon, which is why relaxing my mind with positive images and a good pep talk really works.

Winning first place in my age group at the Fabulous 40s 5k run, which felt hard due to the heat, but I ran relaxed and was excited to see my results at the end.

7. Tell your brain stories. You might scratch your heads here, but the reality is that our brains will not distinguish between a true statement or a little white lie, which by the way you should not make a habit to use unless you need to make yourself believe in your ability to keep on running strong. For instance, my favorite mantra is “fresh legs,” which I tell my brain towards the end of a race when I am tired. My brain will accept the story; my finish will be much stronger.

My body was done after 7 hours of running my first 50K, but seeing my sweet Sophia at the finish line running next to me has activated my “fresh legs.”

8. Let the positive energy carry you over the mental threshold. At the beginning of a race, most of us possess this positive energy, but towards the end when legs are tired and want to quit, the energy decreases. My trick to increase and keep my positive energy consistent is simply to observe my breath, the sky, the trees, and anything else that will take my mind off any negative feelings or remarks.

During my first 50K Folsom Gold Rush, I kept my positive energy by noticing the harmony and perfect flow of nature.

9. Surround yourself with positive and vibrant people to boost your own mental strength. We runners underestimate the power of our own words and others, so in order to perform at the level we want, it is imperative to surround ourselves with the doers and believers instead of the naysayers. When our family and friends believe in us, our minds are like a well-prepared plot of land waiting to receive the seeds that will later will grow into healthy plants. Our minds are no different and need the same clearance and preparation.

Finishing California International marathon strong. I had so many friends and family who cheered on me and believed in me so that made my running the marathon easier and more enjoyable, as my mind received all the good vibes.

10. The power of distracting the mind and redirecting our thoughts. I can honestly say that all women who are mothers like myself will get this very easily. During long runs, I have learned to distract any negative objections my mind brings up, as well as redirect my thoughts to more positive images, such as celebrating at the finish line. Additionally, whenever necessary, I treat my mind the same way I used to treat our toddler kids by using the power of distraction. The beauty of this is that my mind will accept distractions when body and legs are tired, whereas our children who are older now detect any attempt to distract them when I change the subject.

Even stopping for a jumping picture can be enough to distract the mind and infuse energy.

11. Let imagination guide the mind. During my 20-mile race before running CIM (California International marathon), I used one of the signs someone made for us runners to fuel my imagination and to make me run at marathon pace the entire race. The sign read: “Pain is temporary. Facebook pictures are forever. ” I smiled when I saw that, because as the Facebook queen- ha!ha! I could totally relate to the sign. I even started to write my won FB post in my mind, which helped me continue my run at a strong pace without hardly any pain.

Feeling strong during my 20-mile race three weeks before my CIM marathon.

Spiritual Lessons

12. Running brings us closer to God. With every step and stride, we go through a giant leap of faith. We believe in ourselves and are grateful to the higher powers guiding us. Moreover, when I ran my first marathon in 2015, I felt that God attached angel wings to my shoes that helped me run non-stop for 26.2 miles.

Finishing the first marathon CIM 2015 was truly a divine feeling.

13. The Zen of Running. Running with calm and composure turns us into Zen runners.  It is easy to overreact and worry about things that are not under our control, but if we learn to harness the Zen in us and smile when things get tough, then we will enjoy ourselves more and will be stronger mentally.

Enjoying a trail run on a frosty morning and feeling Zen about my run and life.

14.  Running is humbling. We as runners know that every race can take a sharp turn in a good or bad direction, so we  try to stay humble and not let our minds take off with too much elation and excitement.  As Lao Tzu says in one of my favorite books Tao Te Ching: “The further you go, the less you know.”

A humbling view from one of my trail runs through Cronan Ranch. The view left us in pure awe.

15. Running is serenity soothing the mind, soul, and body. When calmness turns into serenity during my runs, I experience an exhilaration similar to being on the peak of the tallest mountain. My poem about serenity that I wrote after one of my runs can also attest to this indelible feeling:

Serenity

“The crowns and branches of the trees

dip themselves in a pool

of serenity.”

The flowers at the edge of the river brought peace and serenity to my run at the beginning of spring this year.

16. And last, but not least, running is my meditation in motion. With every stride, I feel the pulse of the earth underneath my feet. I meditate on the mundane, the nature around me in correlation with God’s amazing grace, life and death. When I meditate and run, I am in sync with the world around me and feel so ALIVE. Running is LIFE.

The blooming trees in spring offer the perfect backdrop for my meditation in motion.

 

With all the lessons learned in 2016, I feel that I am barely scratching the surface of life and that the further I go with my running, work, being a mom, wife, professional, writer, friend, the less I know. I ran 1,649 miles in 2016 and looking forward to running even more in 2017. Namaste! Happy 2017 filled with wonder and many spiritual wanderings.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

 

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Real estate market outlook, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers

A Quick Recap of Our 2016 Sacramento Real Estate Market and What to Look for in 2017!

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2016 Sacramento Real Estate Market recap

As we are getting close to leaving 2016 behind and usher 2017, it will be helpful to look at our November numbers and stats to understand where we are heading and what the new year will have in store for us. These numbers deal only with Sacramento county, but if you need stats for other counties, please feel free to click on Ryan Lundquist’s excellent blog that I quoted below.

  1. The median price is the same as it was in August 2007.
  2. Housing inventory is 22% lower than the same time last year (there is only a 1.36 month housing supply).
  3. Sales volume was 17% higher this November compared to November 2015.
  4. There were only 36 short sales and 34 REOs in the county last month.
  5. Cash sales are down 11% this year.
  6. The median price is $325,000 and is down 2% from the height of summer and 12% higher than last year.
  7. The  average sales price at $349,659.

2017 Real Estate Outlook

 

So with these stats in mind, I know that you want to receive the answer to the what I call the crystal ball question: “So how will our real estate market be next year?”

My answer is evasive and honest at the same time. “We never know exactly what the new year will bring, but according to economists and Realtor.com, we will see a 7% increase in value.”

This might be exciting news, but as Ryan Lundquist astutely pointed out in his wonderfully written and researched blog http://www.sacramentoappraisalblog.com, this is what our market has been doing for the last two years, which means that Sacramento will continue on the same steady path. Additionally, even though the Sacramento Bee called Sacramento the 4th hottest real estate market in the country, just because median prices went up 7%, it doesn’t mean that actual values increased by that much.

Getting a Loan and 2017 Interest Rates

 

These are some of our predictions for 2017 together with the fact that interest rates will go up by about half a point, but they are still super affordable. Today I have also had the pleasure and honor to talk about this on Real Life Lending 105.5 FM radio show hosted by Eric Elovski McKay who is one of my preferred lenders due to his extensive knowledge of the lending industry, his hard work, dedication, and professionalism. To apply for a loan with Eric, just go to his website http://www.ericwillclose.com.

With Eric Elovski McKay, host of Real Life Lending

Another important report that helps us real estate professionals is presented by our California Association of Realtors. According their forecast the California median homes price, this is not just Sacramento, is forecast to increase 4.3 percent in 2017, representing the slowest rate of price appreciation in six years. C.A.R president Pat Zicarelli also predicts that “San Francisco Bay Area will experience a decline as home buyers migrate to peripheral cities with more affordable options.”

Overall, we all need to be excited and positive about the new year, and let’s prepare our Champagne glasses for a prosperous, better, and brighter 2017.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Real estate market outlook, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Uncategorized

Sacramento Real Estate Market Outlook for 2017- Prices Going Up or Down?

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As the title of my blog is running for real estate, I am pleased to combine my passion for real estate with running. Moreover, rest assured that I will run and hustle to help you buy or sell a house the same way our bunny Peter runs up and down the stairs in this video! I believe in being quick and efficient in taking care of all your real estate needs, so never hesitate to call me with any questions. No strings attached!

 

 

As we approach the end of the year, almost everybody wants to know what to expect in the coming year, especially because of the elections and the rumors about interest rates going up, which are not just rumors. Interest rates will be going up a little bit in 2017, according to Oscar Wei, senior economist for California Association of Realtors.  During our monthly meeting at Sacramento Association of Realtors, Wei did a detailed presentation on our real estate market- see entire link and forecast below.

http://www.car.org/3550/pdf/econpdfs/09-29-2016_EXPO_Forecast_Final.pdf

10 Key Points to Remember as We are Heading Towards the End of 2016 and Ushering 2017:

 

  1. Real estate is still considered a very good long-term investment.
  2. Listings inventory is still low, making is more difficult for first-time buyers to afford to buy.
  3. Long-time homeowners are not moving that often and wait about 10 years to move, choosing instead to remodel their homes and stay.
  4. Boomers are not moving as often.
  5. Builders are still not building enough new homes, which contributes to a lower supply of homes.
  6. Interest rates are below 4% for now until the FED will decide what to do.
  7. Consumer confidence is 9-year high.
  8. Unemployment rates are 8-year low.
  9. Majority do not plan to sell their home when they retire.
  10. Most homeowners, as a matter of fact 92% of them, have equity in their homes, which is why we have seen a very low supply of short sales and foreclosure homes.

 

10 Key Points to Remember about 2017 Market Outlook:

 

  1. We will see a modest price increase in 2017 of about 3%.
  2. A 2% increase in sales.
  3. The American dream and homeownership is still very important for the Millennials.
  4. Investors buyers are dropping, but still active in the lower-priced market.
  5. Unemployment in California will be around 5.3%.
  6. Interest rate projected at 5% in five years.
  7. Home prices will grow steadily next year.
  8. Biggest challenge for buyers in 2017: lack of affordability.
  9. Buyers will need to educate themselves on our market, the various loan programs, and the down payment assistance.
  10. Pursue your dreams and find a way to build your own equity by stopping to rent and buying a home.

 

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!