1209 Ridgeview Place, Pleasant Hill – $394,000 is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Impeccably maintained town home in quiet North Pleasant Hill. Please stop by Saturday, 9/4, 1-4pm for our open house.

Where is the Real Estate Market Going? is a post from: Mark's Remarks

With the Federal Tax Credit expired, mortgage interest rates at their all time low, values down 20-80% off the peak and a pent up demand for housing, just where is this market going? If I knew the answer, I’d be Warren Buffet and even his crystal ball is in the shop…

My best guess, is that with the numbers of defaults continuing, especially on loans over $1Million, we have not seen the end of the housing collapse; which makes this, an ideal time to buy! Many buyers are paying less for a mortgage than they are for rent. Most of that is because of low rates. When I bought my first home, the rate was 8.87%…and that was a good rate. Believe it or not, there are many markets which are still entertaining multiple offers. 

The time to buy is not when the economy is surging upward, rather it is when blood is running in the streets.

Jascha Heifetz Plays Tchaikovsky is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Words cannot describe the playing of the legendary Heifetz. His playing speaks for itself…

1920 Cameron CT, Concord CA – $209,000 is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Opportunity knocks. Solid 3 bedroom, 2 bath cosmetic fixer tucked away from it all. Excellent pocket of homes in central location, close to freeways, shopping and BART. Hardwood floors, 2 car garage, private lot. Why rent? 

Time is Running Out – Federal Homebuyer Tax Credit Expires 4/30/10 is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Remember that Uncle Sam is cutting off the $8000 homebuyer tax credit on April 30, 2010.  Buyers wishing to take advantage of this generous creit must be in contract by 4/30/10, and close by 6/30/10.  Buyer must live in property for minimum of 3 years. Please check all information provide here with a tax professional or attorney.

Last Call: Champagne Tuesday, 2/9/10. is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Eight Home Buying Tips in 2010 is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Buying a home in any market can be daunting. No matter how left brain you are, most people buy emotionally, then justify logically. Here are ten tips to make your home buying adventure a little less “adventurous”…

1)      Pre- Qualify: Don’t forget to work closely with a qualified Loan Agent before you find the house of your dreams. Banks are currently demanding more documents such as tax returns, pay stubs and bank statements. Be sure to hold off on large purchases which may affect your credit. 

2)      Keep Closing Costs in Mind: Remember to set aside funds for closing costs. Loan points, escrow fees, appraisals, inspections and other fees will need to be addressed at the time of closing on your new home. 

3)      Make Use of Technology: Although nothing beats an actual walk through of the home of your dreams, great websites, email updates, voice activated IDX systems and virtual tours can save you time with your search. Even if you have a clear picture of what you want in a home, you may turn a corner and surprise yourself. 

4)       Look for Incurables: Deficiencies such as power lines, freeways, commercial areas and busy streets can all affect the marketability of a home, even in the best of times. Pay attention to the incurable aspects or most expensive items first (lot position, floor plan), then work your way to the least expensive (carpet, paint, touch up). 

5)      Work with an Experienced Agent: Nothing replaces experience. A good Real Estate agent, whom you preferably find by referral, will pay great dividends. The 3 questions to keep in mind are: (1) Can I trust you? (2) Are you good at what you do? (3) Do you care about me? 

6)      Don’t Major in the Minors: Every home has defects and deficiencies – even brand new ones. Once in escrow, do your best to focus on what the home has to offer in the long run (neighborhood, quality of life, utility), not on all the minutia that turns up on the home inspection. Avoid getting caught up in the “process” as it can be taxing, stressful and somewhat anticlimactic. Keep your eye on the prize and always retain a “business” mindset. Resist the temptation of making it a “personal” shootout with the Seller.

7)      Count on Repairs: Although most home sales have a home warranty negotiated, have a few dollars set aside after closing for unexpected repairs. 

8)      Look into the Future: Even though you haven’t even closed on the home yet, you will most likely sell it someday. When searching,  focus on location, neighborhood and the amenities that get you excited. Chances are your next buyer will feel the same way.

Champagne Tuesday, February 9th is a post from: Mark's Remarks

Fundraiser for "Moment by Moment" Tuesday, 2/9/10

The Real Estate Market: Where is it going? is a post from: Mark's Remarks

In a market that changes almost weekly, Real Estate in 2010, looks like a good bet to bounce back slightly as housing inventories remain relatively low. The big question remains: what about the banks’ shadow inventory? 

With over a million homes being held by banks throughout the country, will the banks release a foreclosure tsunami or will they dole out REOs more judiciously than the last time around? Only time will tell. Word on the street has it that we may be seeing a fresh batch of foreclosures as early as the first week of February and into March, April and May. What will this do to the existing market? Stay tuned…

Are Appraisals Getting Easier? is a post from: Mark's Remarks

In recent months, I have experienced a relaxing of appraisals on single family homes. Earlier this year, it was like pulling teeth to get an appraisal through and now with Obama getting touch with banks, we may see Real Estate transactions boosted. 

Condominiums and Townhomes can still present a challenge as there are new bank guidelines which scrutinize Homeowner Associations to the gnat’s eyelash.