Jeremy Rifkin on "the empathic civilization" | Video on TED.com
This is a wondrously illustrated brief history of civilization, and where we need to go to become the people we are, theoretically, capable of becoming...compassionate and cooperative.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Easy Guide to Using Relay® and Docusign®
Check out this presentation for real estate professionals wanting to easily streamline and manage transactions online:
Friday, May 7, 2010
What Entrepreneurs Are Learning From This Recession
Get Really Creative!
The wake up call of contracted money flow calls entrepreneurs to focus, plan strategically, acquire new skills, reinvent our business models, ourselves, our relationships, and prioritize -- not only money but, more importantly, our most precious personal resource: Time.
Aysha's contribution to: http://www.toiletpaperentrepreneur.com/blog/the-lessons-learned-by-entrepreneurs-from-this-recession
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
NO 4.0% "SALES TAX" ON HOME SALES IN HEALTH REFORM BILL
Contrary to reports and newspaper articles circulating widely on the Internet, there is not a 4.0% "sales tax" or "transfer tax" on the sale of a home included in the recently signed health care reform bill.
The analysis underlying these reports not correct and fails to take into account the interplay of the bill's provisions with already existing real estate tax laws that remain unchanged.
Included in the health bill is a provision that imposes a new 3.8% Medicare tax for some high income households that have "net investment income." Any revenue collected by the tax is dedicated to the Medicare hospital insurance program. This new tax will only apply to households with Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of more than $200,000 for individuals or more than $250,000 for married couples.
Since capital gains are included in the definition of net investment income, an additional tax obligation might result from the sale of real property. In the case of the sale of a principal residence, the existing $250,000/$500,000 exclusion from capital gains on the sale of a principal residence remains unchanged.
Consequently, even when the AGI limits are met, the new tax would not be applied to all capital gains that result from the sale of a home. Rather, it would only apply to any home sale gain realized in excess of the $250K/$500K existing primary home exclusion that pushes the filer's AGI over the $200K/$250K adjusted gross income limit.
The new Medicare tax will not take effect until January 1, 2013
(from article sent to members of the Santa Fe Association of Realtors)
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
60 Seconds to Being a Better Entrepreneur
Hold That Thought
Spend 60 seconds with eyes closed focusing on your ultimate goal. Watch how your mind wanders, contradicts, raises objections. Holding a clear unobstructed idea/image for even 15 seconds is a challenge to most people. When you can do it for 15, go for 30, then 45 seconds. If you practice and can truly stay focused for a minute, seeing and feeling your goal with your whole body and mind, it will manifest with great ease. Worth a try, eh?
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Santa Fe New Mexican Features GreenRoads Realty!
GreenRoads Realty is delighted to be featured in the "Santa Fe New Mexican"'s Easter Sunday paper, in the monthly Real Estate magazine insert.
In the article by editor Paul Weideman, I am interviewed about the reasons for an eco-real estate agency and my vision for a sustainable future.
Unfortunately, there is no link to this article on the newspaper's site. As soon as we can scan it, we'll post it. There was also no link to our website or phone number, so please visit our GreenRoads Realty website or our eZine, Green Living New Mexico, or call us to talk about Santa Fe real estate: (505) 995-0195.
If you read this article in the New Mexican, please leave us a comment. Thank you!
In the article by editor Paul Weideman, I am interviewed about the reasons for an eco-real estate agency and my vision for a sustainable future.
Unfortunately, there is no link to this article on the newspaper's site. As soon as we can scan it, we'll post it. There was also no link to our website or phone number, so please visit our GreenRoads Realty website or our eZine, Green Living New Mexico, or call us to talk about Santa Fe real estate: (505) 995-0195.
If you read this article in the New Mexican, please leave us a comment. Thank you!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Free Resources for Entrepreneurs
Barbara Findlay Schenck at Entrepreneur.com offers these no-cost marketing resources:
Market research: MapStats. Don’t rely on guesswork to determine whether the region you serve can support your growth goals or whether new markets are good choices for business expansion. Instead, tap into government-assembled facts about any U.S. state, county, city or congressional district. With just a few keyboard clicks you’ll see the region’s population and demographics, as well as facts about growth, housing, income, employment, number and nature of businesses, and business activity by sector. Through this single source you can gather valuable information to weigh as you plot your next marketing moves.
Customer research: Zoomerang and SurveyMonkey. These resources let you create customized surveys and view responses to them, giving you knowledge of how your products and services are perceived by consumers so you can improve your business offerings accordingly. Higher-level services are available for a fee.
Marketing-plan resources: U.S. Small Business Administration. Business advisors agree on one thing: Businesses with marketing plans market better. For help getting your marketing in order, the SBA provides a rich array of advice on a single Web page. Links lead to how-to instructions for conducting competitive analyses, writing marketing plans, placing advertising and more. For additional information, visit the Palo Alto Software site Mplans.com for marketing-plan advice, tools, and what’s described as “the largest single collection of free sample marketing plans online.”
Market research: MapStats. Don’t rely on guesswork to determine whether the region you serve can support your growth goals or whether new markets are good choices for business expansion. Instead, tap into government-assembled facts about any U.S. state, county, city or congressional district. With just a few keyboard clicks you’ll see the region’s population and demographics, as well as facts about growth, housing, income, employment, number and nature of businesses, and business activity by sector. Through this single source you can gather valuable information to weigh as you plot your next marketing moves.
Customer research: Zoomerang and SurveyMonkey. These resources let you create customized surveys and view responses to them, giving you knowledge of how your products and services are perceived by consumers so you can improve your business offerings accordingly. Higher-level services are available for a fee.
Marketing-plan resources: U.S. Small Business Administration. Business advisors agree on one thing: Businesses with marketing plans market better. For help getting your marketing in order, the SBA provides a rich array of advice on a single Web page. Links lead to how-to instructions for conducting competitive analyses, writing marketing plans, placing advertising and more. For additional information, visit the Palo Alto Software site Mplans.com for marketing-plan advice, tools, and what’s described as “the largest single collection of free sample marketing plans online.”
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Hot Water Heater Device Cuts Your Heating Bills
If you are looking to take advantage of the 30% tax credits to cut your energy bills, there's a simple retrofit that attaches to your water heater, costs about $500 and can reduce your heating bill by 50% to 70%. If you have in-floor radiant heat, rather than forced air, it could save you be up to 70%, because radiant heating uses hot water to heat your house.
Made by Texas-based AirGenerate, their AirTap device was demonstrated at the Solar Decathlon, and helped the University of Illinois earn their perfect score for hot water energy efficiency.
This product claims to turn any conventional gas or electric water heater into an affordable, effective, heat-pump water heater, more than doubling the energy performance compared with a standard electric water heater.
The unit is 18″ wide by 14″ deep by 14″ high, and weighs 48 pounds. It saves energy by drawing heat from the surrounding air and transfers the heat into fluid within a sealed copper coil that is inserted into the hot water tank, heating up the water, so the gas does not have to work as hard.
The $500 cost can be reduced not just by the 30% tax credit, but may qualify for additional rebates, subsidies or tax credits.
Made by Texas-based AirGenerate, their AirTap device was demonstrated at the Solar Decathlon, and helped the University of Illinois earn their perfect score for hot water energy efficiency.
This product claims to turn any conventional gas or electric water heater into an affordable, effective, heat-pump water heater, more than doubling the energy performance compared with a standard electric water heater.
The unit is 18″ wide by 14″ deep by 14″ high, and weighs 48 pounds. It saves energy by drawing heat from the surrounding air and transfers the heat into fluid within a sealed copper coil that is inserted into the hot water tank, heating up the water, so the gas does not have to work as hard.
The $500 cost can be reduced not just by the 30% tax credit, but may qualify for additional rebates, subsidies or tax credits.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
What's Up With the Santa Fe Real Estate Market?
It's been a wetter and grayer winter than normal in Santa Fe. While we're all eagerly awaiting spring, this wetness (127 inch snow base at Santa Fe Ski area) will ensure a verdant landscape and full reservoirs.
Meanwhile, the local real estate market is slogging along with signs of pent-up buyer energy. With much inventory from which to choose and increasing motivation by many sellers, coupled with interest rates holding around 5%, qualified buyers have an excellent opportunity to seize upon their dream of owning a home in Santa Fe.
Having recently taken an 8-hour National Association of Realtors course to be certified in short sales and foreclosures, I can tell you that the frustration, uncertainty and lack of care on the part of banks is generally not worth the effort.
While buyers are being marketed to about the "great deals" in short sales and REO (bank owned) properties, that's not what we're seeing in Santa Fe. I am happy to discuss this with you. Call me: (505) 995-0195.
Moving along with changes and improvements to GreenRoads Realty, please visit our new eZine, www.GreenLivingNewMexico.com for articles about Santa Fe arts, cuisine, non-profit organizations and green real estate.
Meanwhile, the local real estate market is slogging along with signs of pent-up buyer energy. With much inventory from which to choose and increasing motivation by many sellers, coupled with interest rates holding around 5%, qualified buyers have an excellent opportunity to seize upon their dream of owning a home in Santa Fe.
Having recently taken an 8-hour National Association of Realtors course to be certified in short sales and foreclosures, I can tell you that the frustration, uncertainty and lack of care on the part of banks is generally not worth the effort.
While buyers are being marketed to about the "great deals" in short sales and REO (bank owned) properties, that's not what we're seeing in Santa Fe. I am happy to discuss this with you. Call me: (505) 995-0195.
Moving along with changes and improvements to GreenRoads Realty, please visit our new eZine, www.GreenLivingNewMexico.com for articles about Santa Fe arts, cuisine, non-profit organizations and green real estate.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Walk Away From Debt!
The Wall Street Journal article (Fri. Feb. 26, 2010) by Brett Arends makes a strong and logical case for homeowners who have lost equity in their homes to guiltlessly walk away. The numbers are staggering -- a quarter of all American families with mortgages! (See article below or at http://bit.ly/dnRnZj)
Offering tax breaks to those who have little or no income does not stimulate the economy. The fact that more than $42,000 per man, woman and child in the U.S. was given to the banks in bailout, without any mandate for them to loan it back, was one of the greatest financial mistakes of all time and has (and will continue to) bring down our economy.
Can you imagine what the financial landscape might look like now just two different choices been made at key junctures? 1. If the US response to the tragedy of the World Trade Centers had been humanitarian aid and not military invasion and occupation; which would have avoided the financial crisis we are in (see how much the US taxpayer has spent: http://www.costofwar.com/). 2. If, say, $100,000 per mortgage was paid down (much less than all the nonsense of bailout and ineffective programs) and recalibrated at 4% for the balance of time on the loan, making the banks solvent, keeping people in their homes, and truly stimulating the economy. Imagine the pride and confidence Americans would have in themselves and the benevolence and reason of our government. But that didn't happen.
The blind optimism of some of my colleagues is staggering. It reminds me of the many citizens and tourists in Sri Lanka who watched in awe as the ocean quickly receeded from the shoreline. They did not make the connection that if it goes out in force like that, it will come back in force, subsuming everything in its path. The difference between that analogy and the financial crisis is that a tsunami is caused by natural forces, the shifting of tectonic plates, with no ill intent. While the banking industry, controlled by a group of mega-wealthy individuals called The Federal Reserve, has been manipulated by human policies, driven by greed.
Such overthrow of fundamental economic principles can easily be traced to the early 1980s and, with deregulation and the free-for-all "free market" (which even its guru, Fed boss Alan Greenspan, has admitted wasn't such a good idea), and we saw the crisis reach a peak and collapse in Oct. 2008, like an over-inflated balloon exploding.
To think this the world as we knew it is coming back is simply wishful, magical thinking that ignores the policies that are in place now, making it more profitable and less risky for banks to foreclose because they will be reimbused by taxpayer money for any shortfall. There is no motivation on their part to work with people and keep them in their homes.
The only sane, rational and self-preserving response for those whose property is worth less than what they are paying, or whose hardship (medical bills, job loss, etc.) is making it impossible to meet financial obligations, is to preserve whatever capital they have and walk away. It is the only non-violent means of revolution, and I cannot help but think that Thomas Jefferson would approve:
From the Declaration of Independence: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
By BRETT ARENDS
Millions of Americans are now deeply underwater on their mortgage. If you're among them, you need to stop living in a dream world and give serious thought to walking away from the debt.
No, you shouldn't feel bad about it, and you shouldn't feel guilty. The lenders would do the same to you—in a heartbeat. You need to put yourself and your family's finances first.
How widespread is this? More than 11 million families are in "negative equity"—that is, they owe more on their home than it is worth—according to a report out this week by FirstAmerican Core Logic, a real-estate data firm. That's a quarter of all families with mortgages. And for more than five million of those borrowers, the crisis is extreme: They are more than 25% underwater—the equivalent of having a $100,000 loan on a property now worth just $75,000 or less. That's true for a fifth of mortgage holders in California, nearly a third in Florida and an incredible 50% in Nevada.
Are you in this situation? Are you still battling to pay the bills each month, even when it may make little financial sense to do so?
It's time for some tough talk.
Stop trying to chase your lost equity. That money is gone. Don't think like the gambler who blows more and more cash trying to win back his losses. That's how a lot of people turn a small loss into a big one.
And do the math. Even if you hope the real estate market is near the bottom—it's possible, but by no means certain—it may still take years to see any meaningful recovery. If you are 25% underwater, your home will have to rise by 33% just to get you back to even.
Is that likely? And over what time period? Even if home prices rose by 5% a year from here, that would still take six years. And during that time you could instead be building fresh savings elsewhere.
If you are reluctant to give up on "your" home, realize that it isn't "yours." If you are in negative equity, it's the bank's home. You're just renting it. And right now you may be paying way above market rates. You need to be ruthless about your cash flow.
Are you worried about the legal consequences of walking away? Certainly, you should check with a lawyer before doing anything, but the consequences will probably be more limited than you think.
In "non-recourse" states, the mortgage lender may have no right to come after you for any shortfall. They may have no option but to take the home, sell it and eat the loss. According to a survey last year by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, such states include negative-equity hot spots California and Arizona. Even in "recourse" states, lenders may have limited ability to come after you. Often they'd have to jump a lot of legal hurdles, and it's just not worth it for them. They're swamped with cases anyway.
"In my experience, right now they're not really going after anyone," says Richard Nemeth, a bankruptcy attorney in Cleveland. "They just don't have the resources."
If you've taken smart steps to protect your money, you may be safer still. For example, money held in a 401(k), Individual Retirement Account or pension plan is sheltered from creditors.
Sure, a strategic foreclosure may hurt your credit score. But if you're in financial difficulties, it's probably already suffered. And your credit score is not the only thing in life that matters.
Still, when it comes to the idea of walking away from debts, many people are held back by a sense of morality. They feel it's wrong to abandon their obligations. They don't want to be a deadbeat.
Your instincts, while honorable, are leading you astray.
The economy is fundamentally amoral.
Sometimes I think middle-class Americans are the only people who haven't worked this out yet. They're operating with a gallant but completely out-of-date plan of attack—like an old-fashioned cavalry with plumed hats and shining swords charging against machine guns.
Do you think your lenders would be shy about squeezing you for an extra nickel if they thought they could get away with it?
They knew what they were doing when they wrote your loan. Many were guilty of malpractice, but they pocketed good money and they've gotten away with it. And if they thought your loan was "risk free," how come they were charging you so much more than the interest on Treasury bonds?
If you're only a small amount underwater on your mortgage, it's probably the case that you're going to be better off staying put. But if you are deeply underwater, it's a different matter.
Whether we like it or not, walking away from debts is as American as apple pie. Companies file for bankruptcy all the time, and their lenders eat the losses. Executives and investors pocketed millions from the likes of Washington Mutual, Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns when the going was good. They didn't have to give back one cent of that money when the companies went into bankruptcy.
Limited liability, after all, is one of the main reasons every business from your local dry-cleaner to a major multinational gets incorporated in the first place. They're not shy about protecting themselves if things go wrong. You shouldn't be either.
Write to Brett Arends at brett.arends@wsj.com
Offering tax breaks to those who have little or no income does not stimulate the economy. The fact that more than $42,000 per man, woman and child in the U.S. was given to the banks in bailout, without any mandate for them to loan it back, was one of the greatest financial mistakes of all time and has (and will continue to) bring down our economy.
Can you imagine what the financial landscape might look like now just two different choices been made at key junctures? 1. If the US response to the tragedy of the World Trade Centers had been humanitarian aid and not military invasion and occupation; which would have avoided the financial crisis we are in (see how much the US taxpayer has spent: http://www.costofwar.com/). 2. If, say, $100,000 per mortgage was paid down (much less than all the nonsense of bailout and ineffective programs) and recalibrated at 4% for the balance of time on the loan, making the banks solvent, keeping people in their homes, and truly stimulating the economy. Imagine the pride and confidence Americans would have in themselves and the benevolence and reason of our government. But that didn't happen.
The blind optimism of some of my colleagues is staggering. It reminds me of the many citizens and tourists in Sri Lanka who watched in awe as the ocean quickly receeded from the shoreline. They did not make the connection that if it goes out in force like that, it will come back in force, subsuming everything in its path. The difference between that analogy and the financial crisis is that a tsunami is caused by natural forces, the shifting of tectonic plates, with no ill intent. While the banking industry, controlled by a group of mega-wealthy individuals called The Federal Reserve, has been manipulated by human policies, driven by greed.
Such overthrow of fundamental economic principles can easily be traced to the early 1980s and, with deregulation and the free-for-all "free market" (which even its guru, Fed boss Alan Greenspan, has admitted wasn't such a good idea), and we saw the crisis reach a peak and collapse in Oct. 2008, like an over-inflated balloon exploding.
To think this the world as we knew it is coming back is simply wishful, magical thinking that ignores the policies that are in place now, making it more profitable and less risky for banks to foreclose because they will be reimbused by taxpayer money for any shortfall. There is no motivation on their part to work with people and keep them in their homes.
The only sane, rational and self-preserving response for those whose property is worth less than what they are paying, or whose hardship (medical bills, job loss, etc.) is making it impossible to meet financial obligations, is to preserve whatever capital they have and walk away. It is the only non-violent means of revolution, and I cannot help but think that Thomas Jefferson would approve:
From the Declaration of Independence: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
By BRETT ARENDS
Millions of Americans are now deeply underwater on their mortgage. If you're among them, you need to stop living in a dream world and give serious thought to walking away from the debt.
No, you shouldn't feel bad about it, and you shouldn't feel guilty. The lenders would do the same to you—in a heartbeat. You need to put yourself and your family's finances first.
How widespread is this? More than 11 million families are in "negative equity"—that is, they owe more on their home than it is worth—according to a report out this week by FirstAmerican Core Logic, a real-estate data firm. That's a quarter of all families with mortgages. And for more than five million of those borrowers, the crisis is extreme: They are more than 25% underwater—the equivalent of having a $100,000 loan on a property now worth just $75,000 or less. That's true for a fifth of mortgage holders in California, nearly a third in Florida and an incredible 50% in Nevada.
Are you in this situation? Are you still battling to pay the bills each month, even when it may make little financial sense to do so?
It's time for some tough talk.
Stop trying to chase your lost equity. That money is gone. Don't think like the gambler who blows more and more cash trying to win back his losses. That's how a lot of people turn a small loss into a big one.
And do the math. Even if you hope the real estate market is near the bottom—it's possible, but by no means certain—it may still take years to see any meaningful recovery. If you are 25% underwater, your home will have to rise by 33% just to get you back to even.
Is that likely? And over what time period? Even if home prices rose by 5% a year from here, that would still take six years. And during that time you could instead be building fresh savings elsewhere.
If you are reluctant to give up on "your" home, realize that it isn't "yours." If you are in negative equity, it's the bank's home. You're just renting it. And right now you may be paying way above market rates. You need to be ruthless about your cash flow.
Are you worried about the legal consequences of walking away? Certainly, you should check with a lawyer before doing anything, but the consequences will probably be more limited than you think.
In "non-recourse" states, the mortgage lender may have no right to come after you for any shortfall. They may have no option but to take the home, sell it and eat the loss. According to a survey last year by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, such states include negative-equity hot spots California and Arizona. Even in "recourse" states, lenders may have limited ability to come after you. Often they'd have to jump a lot of legal hurdles, and it's just not worth it for them. They're swamped with cases anyway.
"In my experience, right now they're not really going after anyone," says Richard Nemeth, a bankruptcy attorney in Cleveland. "They just don't have the resources."
If you've taken smart steps to protect your money, you may be safer still. For example, money held in a 401(k), Individual Retirement Account or pension plan is sheltered from creditors.
Sure, a strategic foreclosure may hurt your credit score. But if you're in financial difficulties, it's probably already suffered. And your credit score is not the only thing in life that matters.
Still, when it comes to the idea of walking away from debts, many people are held back by a sense of morality. They feel it's wrong to abandon their obligations. They don't want to be a deadbeat.
Your instincts, while honorable, are leading you astray.
The economy is fundamentally amoral.
Sometimes I think middle-class Americans are the only people who haven't worked this out yet. They're operating with a gallant but completely out-of-date plan of attack—like an old-fashioned cavalry with plumed hats and shining swords charging against machine guns.
Do you think your lenders would be shy about squeezing you for an extra nickel if they thought they could get away with it?
They knew what they were doing when they wrote your loan. Many were guilty of malpractice, but they pocketed good money and they've gotten away with it. And if they thought your loan was "risk free," how come they were charging you so much more than the interest on Treasury bonds?
If you're only a small amount underwater on your mortgage, it's probably the case that you're going to be better off staying put. But if you are deeply underwater, it's a different matter.
Whether we like it or not, walking away from debts is as American as apple pie. Companies file for bankruptcy all the time, and their lenders eat the losses. Executives and investors pocketed millions from the likes of Washington Mutual, Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns when the going was good. They didn't have to give back one cent of that money when the companies went into bankruptcy.
Limited liability, after all, is one of the main reasons every business from your local dry-cleaner to a major multinational gets incorporated in the first place. They're not shy about protecting themselves if things go wrong. You shouldn't be either.
Write to Brett Arends at brett.arends@wsj.com
Friday, February 26, 2010
7 Ways to Make Your House More Salable
If you're serious about selling your home and want to give it the best advantage in the marketplace...or if you're thinking of remodeling with an eye for future value (and who wouldn't?), here are 7 ideas worth considering.
1. A Pleasant Entry
This is the first impression, like the front door and porch, take into consideration sprucing up and defining the space where a prospective buyer first enters your home. A small table with a vase or sculpture, a coat rack or wall mirror with shelf can define even a home that does not have a formal or delineated entryway.
2. Hardwood Floors
Most buyers prefer hard surfaces to carpet as they are easy to clean, don't gather dust and can be enhanced with area rugs. (If you have ever seen a carpet underlayment filled with dirt, even a year after installation, you know why wall-to-wall carpet is gross!) Tile that is timeless (like saltillo or travertine) and in good condition is also a plus. Pergo, or other laminates, are also superior to carpet and less expensive. However, the plastic quality of the surface is not like the richness of real wood flooring and is best suited for secondary spaces like offices or play rooms)
3. Beautiful Bathrooms
Dated bathrooms (unless they're truly vintage) are a turn off. Fixtures don't need to be expensive to look attractive. Continuity of color and style gives any room a pleasing finished look, especially a bathroom. Get rid of the old brown-stained vanities, the formica or faux-marble countertops, the uncomfortable small tub and fiberglass shower surround, the cheesy light fixtures and faucets. Use tile or real stone, choose fixtures (lights, sinks, mirrors, towel racks) that match the style of the cabinets (traditional, modern, etc.). Walls can be painted with a semi gloss or venetian plaster. (See post on Decorating with Paint). Match soft goods (shower curtain and towels). Dimmers on lights, as in any room, can create atmosphere. Voila! A remodeled beautiful space to entice and enjoy.
4. Kitchens
Countertops make the biggest impression. Most people want solid surfaces, not tile with grout lines or formica. Slab granite (pricey) is particularly popular but there are imitations and substitutes in soapstone and Corian composite surfaces. Butcher block, a less expensive alternative can give more of a rustic feel. If you're buying new appliances, stainless steel is the most popular, followed by black. Be sure to ask about rebates for Energy Star appliances and discounts for everything you buy (even if just free delivery and hauling away old appliances). Declutter and organize your cabinets and pantry.
5. Closets
Closet organizers bring order to chaos. Get matching hangars, sort hanging clothes in some logical order (all shirts together, pants together, by color, etc.). Organization creates a sense of calm. Home buyers may not notice this consciously, but it registers as positive feelings about your space.
6. Lighting
Lighting, like organization of stuff, can be a subtle and often overlooked aspect of preparing a home for sale. There are 3 types of lighting of which to be aware and balance in every room: ambient, decorative and task. Balanced natural light is best for daytime, but many homes have too much or too little and, in any case, evening lighting is ultimately what concerns most people. Every room should have an overhead light or lamp that can be switched from the doorway. Replacing an overhead fixture for style is an easy option. Auto lights for closets or touch-sensitive under-counter lights can solve some task lighting problems, using batteries, without requiring an electrician.
7. Landscaping
In the Southwest, where water conservation is always in style, tidy rock gardens, colorful bushes and perennials, well-installed hardscape (flagstone, brick, stamped concrete), stone walls, a water feature can give definition to otherwise chaotic or bland spaces. In other parts of the country, a small lawn and defined flower and tree areas are attractive. As in all remodeling or changes in a home, consider ease of maintenance, cost, resource and energy efficiency.
If you are considering listing your home for sale, call us for a free consultation in the Santa Fe, NM area - (505) 995-0195 - or for referrals to excellent brokers wherever you live.
Paraphrased from HGTV article: http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/10-Things-That-Make-Buyers-Bite/64/p1
1. A Pleasant Entry
This is the first impression, like the front door and porch, take into consideration sprucing up and defining the space where a prospective buyer first enters your home. A small table with a vase or sculpture, a coat rack or wall mirror with shelf can define even a home that does not have a formal or delineated entryway.
2. Hardwood Floors
Most buyers prefer hard surfaces to carpet as they are easy to clean, don't gather dust and can be enhanced with area rugs. (If you have ever seen a carpet underlayment filled with dirt, even a year after installation, you know why wall-to-wall carpet is gross!) Tile that is timeless (like saltillo or travertine) and in good condition is also a plus. Pergo, or other laminates, are also superior to carpet and less expensive. However, the plastic quality of the surface is not like the richness of real wood flooring and is best suited for secondary spaces like offices or play rooms)
3. Beautiful Bathrooms
Dated bathrooms (unless they're truly vintage) are a turn off. Fixtures don't need to be expensive to look attractive. Continuity of color and style gives any room a pleasing finished look, especially a bathroom. Get rid of the old brown-stained vanities, the formica or faux-marble countertops, the uncomfortable small tub and fiberglass shower surround, the cheesy light fixtures and faucets. Use tile or real stone, choose fixtures (lights, sinks, mirrors, towel racks) that match the style of the cabinets (traditional, modern, etc.). Walls can be painted with a semi gloss or venetian plaster. (See post on Decorating with Paint). Match soft goods (shower curtain and towels). Dimmers on lights, as in any room, can create atmosphere. Voila! A remodeled beautiful space to entice and enjoy.
4. Kitchens
Countertops make the biggest impression. Most people want solid surfaces, not tile with grout lines or formica. Slab granite (pricey) is particularly popular but there are imitations and substitutes in soapstone and Corian composite surfaces. Butcher block, a less expensive alternative can give more of a rustic feel. If you're buying new appliances, stainless steel is the most popular, followed by black. Be sure to ask about rebates for Energy Star appliances and discounts for everything you buy (even if just free delivery and hauling away old appliances). Declutter and organize your cabinets and pantry.
5. Closets
Closet organizers bring order to chaos. Get matching hangars, sort hanging clothes in some logical order (all shirts together, pants together, by color, etc.). Organization creates a sense of calm. Home buyers may not notice this consciously, but it registers as positive feelings about your space.
6. Lighting
Lighting, like organization of stuff, can be a subtle and often overlooked aspect of preparing a home for sale. There are 3 types of lighting of which to be aware and balance in every room: ambient, decorative and task. Balanced natural light is best for daytime, but many homes have too much or too little and, in any case, evening lighting is ultimately what concerns most people. Every room should have an overhead light or lamp that can be switched from the doorway. Replacing an overhead fixture for style is an easy option. Auto lights for closets or touch-sensitive under-counter lights can solve some task lighting problems, using batteries, without requiring an electrician.
7. Landscaping
In the Southwest, where water conservation is always in style, tidy rock gardens, colorful bushes and perennials, well-installed hardscape (flagstone, brick, stamped concrete), stone walls, a water feature can give definition to otherwise chaotic or bland spaces. In other parts of the country, a small lawn and defined flower and tree areas are attractive. As in all remodeling or changes in a home, consider ease of maintenance, cost, resource and energy efficiency.
If you are considering listing your home for sale, call us for a free consultation in the Santa Fe, NM area - (505) 995-0195 - or for referrals to excellent brokers wherever you live.
Paraphrased from HGTV article: http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/10-Things-That-Make-Buyers-Bite/64/p1
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Change Your Decor with Paint
Paint is perhaps the easiest and least expensive way that can change the entire look and feel of a room. I suggest low-VOC paints which gas-off minimally, as the toxicity of cheap paints can be damaging to your health. Also, more expensive paints tend to give better coverage, cutting down on your labor time.
Another fool-proof type of paint I highly recommend is Venetian Plaster, which gives an elegant look and covers inconsistencies in drywall. Pre-mixed in a variety of colors, the best I’ve found is Behr (Home Depot) for about $30/gallon. You apply two coats with a pallet knife in broad strokes and then, after dry, burnish with the pallet knife flat against the wall. It takes some "elbow grease" but the effect is stunning.
From a decorator standpoint, consider an accent wall — one wall of a room painted in a different, often bold, color. The key to a great paint job is preparation.
While the temptation is to get out the paint and brushes or rollers and start in, don’t skimp on time and attention to taping off all areas not to painted, removing fixtures and wall plates and covering floors and furnishings. This will save a lot of time and aggravation on clean-up and make the painting process easier and more fun.
Another fool-proof type of paint I highly recommend is Venetian Plaster, which gives an elegant look and covers inconsistencies in drywall. Pre-mixed in a variety of colors, the best I’ve found is Behr (Home Depot) for about $30/gallon. You apply two coats with a pallet knife in broad strokes and then, after dry, burnish with the pallet knife flat against the wall. It takes some "elbow grease" but the effect is stunning.
From a decorator standpoint, consider an accent wall — one wall of a room painted in a different, often bold, color. The key to a great paint job is preparation.
While the temptation is to get out the paint and brushes or rollers and start in, don’t skimp on time and attention to taping off all areas not to painted, removing fixtures and wall plates and covering floors and furnishings. This will save a lot of time and aggravation on clean-up and make the painting process easier and more fun.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Fannie to Offer Closing Cost Aid on Foreclosures
For help on any home purchasing issues, please contact me and/or visit our new and improved website: www.GreenRoadsRealty.com
Daily Real Estate News | January 29, 2010 | Fannie Mae, the largest provider of residential home funding in the United States, announced Friday that it would pay the closing costs on purchases of foreclosed homes in its inventory.
The government-controlled company said buyers of qualified properties will get up to 3.5 percent in closing costs, or an equivalent amount for the purchase of new appliances.
The goal of Fannie is to clear out the nearly 50,000 properties it has in inventory— listed on HomePath.com, the Web site created by Fannie Mae last year to sell the growing number of foreclosed homes.
"Attracting qualified buyers to the market and reducing inventory of vacant homes is critical to stabilizing neighborhoods and helping the market recover," said Terry Edwards, executive vice president for credit portfolio management, in a statement.
Source: Reuters News, Al Yoon (01/28//2010)
Daily Real Estate News | January 29, 2010 | Fannie Mae, the largest provider of residential home funding in the United States, announced Friday that it would pay the closing costs on purchases of foreclosed homes in its inventory.
The government-controlled company said buyers of qualified properties will get up to 3.5 percent in closing costs, or an equivalent amount for the purchase of new appliances.
The goal of Fannie is to clear out the nearly 50,000 properties it has in inventory— listed on HomePath.com, the Web site created by Fannie Mae last year to sell the growing number of foreclosed homes.
"Attracting qualified buyers to the market and reducing inventory of vacant homes is critical to stabilizing neighborhoods and helping the market recover," said Terry Edwards, executive vice president for credit portfolio management, in a statement.
Source: Reuters News, Al Yoon (01/28//2010)
Friday, January 22, 2010
Energy Efficiency & Home Buyer Preferences
Residential real estate accounts for a fifth of all energy consumption in the U.S. And the costs of that energy can be significant. Because of that, homeowners and home buyers are looking for ways in which their homes can be more energy efficient. In the NAR Market Intelligence feature this month, Research Economist Arun Barman looks at some of the trends in energy usage, as well as the increasing preference of home buyers for more energy-efficient homes.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy's 2008 Annual Energy Review, the residential real estate sector accounts for roughly a fifth (22 percent) of all energy consumption in the country. This considerable share of all energy consumption has led lawmakers to propose policies to improve energy efficiency in homes. At the same time, homeowners and home buyers are showing a greater preference towards energy efficiency for reasons varying from a desire to become more environmentally conscientious to cutting down on their monthly energy bills. When formulating policy, however, there are several factors to consider.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy's 2008 Annual Energy Review, the residential real estate sector accounts for roughly a fifth (22 percent) of all energy consumption in the country. This considerable share of all energy consumption has led lawmakers to propose policies to improve energy efficiency in homes. At the same time, homeowners and home buyers are showing a greater preference towards energy efficiency for reasons varying from a desire to become more environmentally conscientious to cutting down on their monthly energy bills. When formulating policy, however, there are several factors to consider.
Older vs. Newer Homes
Older homes consume more energy than newer homes. According to the Department of Energy's 2005 Residential Energy Consumption Survey, homes constructed before 1970 consume roughly one and a half times what newer homes consume, on a per square foot basis. It should be noted that the average size of homes has been steadily increasing since the 1970s, though older homes still in existence tend to of similar size compared to recently built homes. However, recently there has been a decline in the median size of homes. This is likely due to the slowing of the housing market over the past couple of years as well as rising energy costs.
Also, according to the 2007 American Housing Survey, older homeowners tend to occupy a larger share of older homes. This is an important point as it may have ramifications in terms of public policy. Government restrictions or mandates that require energy audits or upgrades may place an excessive burden on older home owners who often are retirees with less flexible incomes or restricted in their geographic mobility.
Cost Variations
Regionally, great variations persist in terms of energy consumption and costs. Some of this is attributable to climate variation throughout the country. The Pacific and South Atlantic regions are generally warmer in the winter; in the case of the Pacific the weather is also milder in the summer than in areas like New England or the Middle Atlantic. This variation in climate means that certain regions have lower demand for heating or cooling.
Consequently, energy costs for the typical household can vary widely, according to the DOE's 2005 Residential Energy Consumption Survey. In the Northeast, the typical yearly energy bill was $2,319, compared to $1,491 in the West. Federal legislation regarding residential energy policy should take into account these regional variations when it comes to energy costs.
Similarly, energy consumption varies by state. For instance, the typical yearly energy bill for a home in New York was $2,409 while in California the typical bill was $1,396. A major reason for the difference is heating costs, which account for almost two-fifths of energy bills in the Northeast and Midwest,
compared to approximately one-fifth in the South and the West.
Marketing Homes to Energy-Conscious Buyers
For homeowners looking to sell their properties (as well as the real estate professionals who assist them), they may want to take into account the fact that current home buyers are placing greater significance on homes' heating and cooling costs as well as energy efficient appliances and lighting in their home-buying decisions. According to NAR's 2009 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 88 percent of recent home purchasers indicated a home's heating and cooling costs were at least somewhat important in their home-buying decision. In addition, roughly 70 percent said that energy-efficient appliances and efficient use of lighting was important. In fact, reducing energy costs through energy efficiency appears to take priority over other energy or environmentally friendly home features such as "Landscaping for energy conservation" and "Environmentally friendly community features" which about half of home buyers said were important to their buying decisions.
Homeowners may need to consider improving their homes or retrofitting in order for their current properties to be more energy efficient. A few things need to be considered such as the length of time home owners plans to own their homes (the median, according to NAR's 2009 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, is about 7 years) and the cost of the upgrades. There are a few ways that homeowners can benefit from upgrades. First, homeowners will save on energy costs. Some projects have longer payback periods (i.e., the amount of time that it takes to recoup the cost of the energy efficient upgrade through reduced energy usage), while others have a universally low payback period like programmable thermostats which are relatively cheap and easy to install. The energy savings from a programmable thermostat can be recouped in as little as a year. However, some projects may be more expensive to undertake and the payback period can vary greatly depending on the region where the home is located. For example, sealing air ducts or replacing windows may be much more cost effective with a shorter payback in regions where heating costs are greater. Second, since home buyers are increasingly aware of energy efficiency, certain upgrades may increase a home's resale value. Finally, there is the "peace-of-mind" benefit that homeowners may feel by being friendlier to the environment.
Potential Impact
Federal policy options should take into consideration a variety of factors like the variations in region, age of homes, and mix of homeowners when creating new laws. Likewise home buyers and sellers making updates to homes should be aware of such factors when making upgrades to their existing home or when purchasing a home.
For more information about home buyers' views on home characteristics - including energy-related issues - visit www.realtor.org to access the latest 2009 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. NAR members can download the full report in PDF format at no cost. Those interested in more complete data on the Department of Energy's tracking of energy consumption and cost should visit www.eia.doe.gov.
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