Residential properties in the Mason School District continue to sell in January, 2008.

If you have any questions about your property or the values of your neighborhood- call or send and email.

Share This

The real estate numbers for the Fairfield, Ohio School District for January, 2008.

Trying to decide about the current value of your property- call or send an email.

Share This

January numbers are now available for home sales in the Lakota School District.

This is the simplified version of the numbers.  If you would like a detailed break down for your property- call or send an email.

Share This

Hot off the press- read all about it!

Let’s look at real numbers for the greater Cincinnati real estate market comparing January, 2007 to January, 2008.      

(Per the greater Cincinnati Multiple Listing Service for single family and condos)                                            

While the media will probably focus on the increase in Active Inventory and the decrease in the number of Closings- take a look at the pendings.  There is a slight uptick in the number indicating an increase in purchase activity.

This is no surprise with mortgage interest rates at a historic low, cautious buyers are tip toeing back into the market.

Low mortgage rates + lower prices on homes = great time to buy (and sell).

If you need more information to make an informed decision- ask me.

Share This

The other day I chuckled while watching a mechanic, in his mid twenties, pop the hood on a vintage automobile from the 1960’s. 

 This “kid” was given the honor of pulling the engine block from the 42 year old Chevy in order to rebuild the engine. 

At that moment the parallel between today’s first time home buyers and this mechanic became crystal clear.

He paced around, admiring the car and engine from all angles, and then got down to business. He’s lucky because he’s surrounded by fellow mechanics with many more years of experience, who are ready and willing to provide advice and, if needed, an extra set of hands.

First time home buyers look at many properties before getting down to business. And once the decision to purchase is made, experienced inspectors do a thorough inspection providing you with a work sheet of items to be corrected, maintained or updated in the future.

My guess is not too many of you would expect a 1965 automobile to have power windows, power door locks, sun roof, air conditioning, electric seats and seat warmers….but many of today’s buyers expect a 42 year old home to have all the bells and whistles of newly built homes.

Many older homes have been well maintained- the roof, major mechanicals and decorating have been updated at some time.  However, well maintained does not mean “bells and whistles” are included.

Today’s buyers need to understand slightly older homes ( I am staying clear of any discussion about really old homes) may require some updating after they assume ownership.

The major items which may impact you are:

• Furnace efficiency- high efficiency furnace or just adequate?
• Window quality - insulated, double paned, gas filled or single pane?
• Electrical wiring - grounded- don’t laugh- enough juice to handle today’s electrical equipment or just basic service?
• Insulation - high r factor, exterior walls and attic.  Old insulation loses it’s capacity over time.
• Plumbing - water pressure, type of piping all been updated or are looking at 40 year toilets and sinks?

Most sellers are not going to upgrade their entire home prior to selling and as educated buyers comparing several houses in your price range you know what is priced right.  A “vintage” home in good repair but in need of updating may be the most affordable way for you to enter the housing market.  Don’t confuse updating with code requirements- for example newer (late 70’s) require GFI outlets near sinks in kitchens and bathrooms - older homes do not.  That is not a code violation unless  major renovation was done to the room.  Discuss these items with your home inspector.

Just like the old Chevy, older homes can offer many unique things to today’s buyers. 

Tree lined streets, sidewalks (usually), some variation in architecture of homes and established landscaping- green grass and shrubs you can see from a distance.  If you are sure that you are comfortable being the “kid mechanic” or have access to service providers with good product knowledge…then sit back and enjoy the ride!

Need more information on new or “vintage” homes or have a story to share-call or email me.

Share This