Monday, December 15, 2014

Selling Your #Asheville Area Home During The Holidays?


Great article from our friends at Movement Mortgage




It may seem like a terrible idea to try to sell your home during the holiday season — but actually it’s not. While selling a home can be somewhat stressful and the holidays are super-busy for most people, there are also some major advantages to selling at this time of year: your home probably looks wonderfully inviting and cozy, with pretty decorations; lots of other people are waiting until after the holidays to put their homes on the market, thus reducing competition; and people shopping for a home during the holidays are usually very motivated and will close quickly at or near your asking price.

So now that you’ve decided it’s a great time to put your house on the market, here are a few tips to help you attract buyers and close quickly.
  1. Create a cozy atmosphere. Especially if you’re in a cold-weather area, you will benefit from making your house warm and inviting. There are fewer hours of daylight now so make sure the rooms are well lit, and light the fireplace for added coziness.
  2. Pay attention to all five senses. Play soft classical music; put out some delicious and delicious-smelling treats with holiday napkins; scatter soft and snuggly blankets that will make prospective buyers want to hang around. The longer they stay, the more they’ll envision themselves living in your home.
  3. Decorate wisely. Usually when selling a home you’ll strip it down to the bare essentials and pack up personal items to make it easier for prospective buyers to envision their own belongings in the home. At holiday time, that conventional wisdom can go out the window. Make sure your visual presentation is festive, but don’t overdo it. Also, you’ll need to keep things more neutral and decorate on a seasonal theme, rather than being holiday-specific. Think snow scenes and pine boughs rather than Santas and menorahs.
  4. Know your market. In general, people who are homeshopping during the holidays are very motivated to buy. Some people need to close before the end of the year for tax reasons; some are looking for a bargain; some are forced to move. Many people will be relocating in January to start new jobs, such as military families or college professors. Your real estate agent will help you target the right kind of buyers.

Putting your home on the market during the holidays can mean ignoring all the conventional ideas about preparing your home for sale. But you’ve got a different kind of buyer at this time of year, and you’ll want to make sure you target them with features that will make your home irresistible.

Rely on your experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent to guide you through the season and help keep the holiday stress-free. And just think: Selling your home quickly at a great price is a wonderful holiday gift!





Tuesday, December 9, 2014

4 Tips for Selling Your Asheville Area Home With a Pet

....that Won’t Put You in the Doghouse


Selling a home is stressful enough for home owners, but selling a home with pets can be even more stressful. In addition to the usual concerns home owners have, clients with pets also have to consider if they should move their animals out while the home is for sale, how much it will cost to repair any pet-related damage and if pet odor will deter potential buyers.

Unfortunately for pet owners, the truth is that pets can turn away potential buyers and even lower the perceived value of their home if they are not addressed prior to listing. However, when properly prepared, homes with pets can be cleaned and staged in a way that makes the existence of the pets almost undetectable.

Here are some things to consider when listing your home with a pet.

Selling with pets


1. Eliminate Pet Odor
Although you might have become accustomed to it, pet odors can deter potential buyers. Our sense of smell has a powerful effect on our emotions and on our perception. The scent of pet odor in a house is sure to stick in a potential buyer’s mind, and this will likely cause them to deduct the cost of carpet replacement from their offer. Even worse, if a buyer walks in the home and smells a dirty cat litter box or soiled carpet, they might not even proceed with the tour. To eliminate pet odor and keep potential buyers moving through the home, consider the following:
  • If not replacing carpet, have it professionally steam cleaned. Don’t forget to also clean upholstered furniture and area rugs. Any surface that holds in pet odor should be cleaned, replaced or removed.
  • Weather permitting, open windows for a few days leading up to showings to help air out the home.
  • Be cautious when using air fresheners. You don’t want buyers to be blasted with the smell of artificial flowers that scream the seller is hiding an odor. Some fresh flowers can not only help with fragrance, but also add to the home staging. Also consider air neutralizers and odor absorbing products. Rather than masking the smell, these items actually absorb odor and neutralize the air.
  • Consider placing an air purifier in the pet’s main living area to filter the air.
  • Replace air filters that might have trapped pet dander and odor.
2. Repair Pet-Related Damage to Home and Yard

  • As much as we love our pets, the truth is they cause extra wear and tear on the home, especially in the yard. Assess the home for repairs due to pet damage before showing. Some areas to look at include:
  • Over-seed the yard or patch lawn areas to repair brown spots
  • Fill in holes created by canine gardeners. Not only are they unsightly, they can be                     potentially dangerous if someone were to trip in it.         
  • If doors and/or window screens have been damaged and scratched, replace them.         
  • Clean pet hair from hard-to-reach places such as behind appliances and behind doors
  • If wood or laminate flooring is scratched beyond repair, consider repairing the floor. This might be a large investment up front, but it can yield great results at sale.


3. Consider that potential buyers might be afraid of animals and vice versa.  
There is potential for liability, have the pets temporarily (either during the entire sale process or on days when there are showings and open houses) relocated if possible. If your client does not have a relocation option, consider crating them for showings and open houses. For pets that are not already crate trained, it can take time for them to enjoy being in the crate. You may want to contact a pet trainer to learn how to introduce your pet to a crate. You can create positive associations with the crate by giving the pet a treat-filled toy or bone to keep them busy while in the crate.   This is not only essential for the safety of potential buyers, but it also protects animals from getting out of the house, getting hurt, or causing harm to others.

4. Speaking of stress, animals can experience anxiety from having a lot of strange foot traffic in their home. Potential buyers might be distracted by a stressed pet and a nervous barking. Recommend that your client talks to their veterinarian to get a product recommendation to help their pets cope with this stressful event. National pet stores sell items such as plugins that release stress calming pheromones. The plugins do not emit any scent and can last up to three months. The pheromones released are only detected by the animals and will not affect humans.

We do understand that your pets are your family and these tips are merely a guide to helping you get your home sold with them there.

Buying or selling an Asheville area home?  Call us today, 828-771-2300.  Be sure to also take advantage of our free home valuation site to see what you could sell it for in today's market.


Tuesday, December 2, 2014

North Asheville, Home for Sale (28804)








Lindal cedar mountain chalet with room for all, top of the world views, dramatic two story cathedral great-room, cozy gas-log fireplace, rich hard wood and tile floors, granite and stainless kitchen with serving bar, whole house generator, and two large decks for outdoor entertaining. Includes PIN 9731-971-4504 DB/PG 4144/1631, currently approved as vacation rental, new owner will need to reapply.

Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300

Candler, NC Home for Sale (28715)




Immaculate cape cod in a private setting with mountain views that can be seen from the covered porch. Inside you will find a spacious floor plan with living on all three levels, a granite/stainless kitchen, vaulted ceilings. Exterior features include a low maintenance hardi-plank siding, privacy fencing, and babbling brook all on a no thru cul-de-sac.













Call us today to schedule a showing
828-771-2300




Friday, November 21, 2014

Asheville, NC Home for Sale (28805)


Bronze Certified NC Healthy Built home built with high quality construction in a private setting with city convenience and county taxes. Inside you will find an open floorplan with rich hardwoods, gourmet granite kitchen, main level master suite, in-law suite in the basement with living area and kitchen, and over $36,000 in improvements since 2008, see attached for details.



Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300.


Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Home Care Tips - November 2014

There is always something that needs to be done around your home no matter what time of year.  The holidays are upon us, here are some maintenance tips to be thinking about.



The Puffer Team, Keller Williams Professionals, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com

Monday, November 17, 2014

Asheville, NC Home For Sale (28806)

Cute two story traditional in a convenient north west location with a light and bright open floorplan, cozy wood burning fireplace, covered porch, inviting deck in back... all on a level lot at the end of the cul-de-sac.





Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300.



Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Weaverville, NC Home for Sale (28787)




Colossal custom chalet with view for miles and a dramatic two story cathedral great-room, two stack stone gas-log fireplaces, beamed ceilings, gleaming hardwood and tile floors, an open floor plan, gourmet island granite kitchen, cozy loft, wrap around open and covered deck for outdoor entertaining, all in a spacious upscale community.

www.homefinderasheville.com

Virtual Tour:  







Monday, November 3, 2014

This Month In Real Estate - November 2014 Edition

Interested in what's going on in the real estate nationally as well as here in the Asheville area?  Below is a video and chart that may be of interest to you.  For a better understanding of the facts and figures produced below feel free to give us a call, 828-771-2300.

For even more specific data, check out our market insider here.

Ready to buy or sell real estate in the Asheville area?  Call us today!

The Puffer Team, Keller Williams Professionals, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com





Thursday, October 30, 2014

Walkable Communities On The Rise

Walkable communities are on the rise, below is some interesting information regarding the benefits of such communities on local economies.  Asheville offers tons of opportunities to live in town and walk to shopping and dining such as Biltmore Park, Montford, River Arts District, West Asheville, Downtown Weaverville, and more.  Call us when you are are ready to begin your Asheville area home search, 828-771-2300.


Click to Enlarge Image

Walkable Urbanism on the Rise

Walkable Urbanism on the Rise
Infographic by CustomMade

The Puffer Team, Keller Williams Professionals, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Asheville, NC Home For Sale (28806)



Immaculate one level living nestled in a convenient location with a vaulted and inviting living room with cozy gas log fireplace, gas furnace and central A/C for year round comfort and a large paved parking area. 

Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300. 











Monday, October 27, 2014

Asheville, NC Home For Sale (28806)



Cozy West Asheville bungalow on a large city lot with and updated kitchen, fenced back yard, tons of trees, double detached carport, single garage in the basement, outbuilding, shower/sink/toilet in unfinished basement and more. Enjoy being a quick stroll from all West Asheville has to offer and less than 5 minutes to downtown Asheville.

Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300




Friday, October 24, 2014

Waynesville, NC Deltec Home For Sale


Carefree living is what you will find in this energy efficient Deltec home with long range mountain views, a wrap around deck, monitor heat, and two gas log fireplaces... all nestled within a wooded and scenic location.

Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300


Avoid These 5 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes


According to the dictionary, a mistake is an error resulting from deficient knowledge or carelessness. While we can't do anything about carelessness, when it comes to counseling first-time homebuyers, the real estate agent is a tremendous resource to help overcome knowledge deficiency.  That homebuyers lack knowledge about the process only makes sense when you understand that shopping for a home may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for some. Certainly, it's not something most Americans do frequently. The process is foreign and the pitfalls are hidden. This is why it's so important to find the right real estate agent to assist you along the way.  Let's take a look at some of the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes.

Mistake 1: Not Being Clear About Money

Going into a home purchase with your eyes closed to your finances is probably one of the biggest mistakes you can make during the process. Nobody likes unpleasant surprises, yet that's what you open yourself up to when you are ignorant about where you stand financially.  If you are unsure about your credit-worthiness, order your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus. By law, Americans are entitled to one free report from each bureau every 12 months. You can order your free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com, the only authorized website, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

Look for errors on the reports and dispute any erroneous information. Pay off what you can to help lower your debt-to-income ratio.  Then, see a lender to determine exactly how much you can borrow for a home.  Finally, when you have that figure, don't be tempted to shop for homes priced at the limit. Give your post-purchase budget some monthly wiggle room by purchasing at the middle of the price range, or a bit more.

Want to get pre-approved?  Click here.

Mistake 2: Not Being Clear About Your Wants and Needs

While you may not get everything on a wish list, it's a good idea to compile one – especially if more than one person will be living in the home.  Understand that your wish list isn't set in stone and you can plan on it changing once you start viewing homes. During the home-shopping process, you will get a better idea of which items are feasible with your budget and which will have to be struck from the list. Knowing what you want and need in a home is vital to your long-term satisfaction, so it's worth the time it takes to sit down and make a list.

Don't neglect the neighborhood wish list either. Do you need to be close to public transportation? If you'd like a family neighborhood with lots of kids for yours to play with, put that on the list.  The bonus to getting clear on your wants and needs is that when you share the list with your real estate agent, your time won't be wasted by viewing homes that don't fit your criteria.

Want to search for homes?  Click here.

Mistake 3: Not Reading the HOA Documents

If the home you decide to make an offer on is managed by a homeowners association, you'll be presented with a stack of paperwork to read over and approve. These are the HOA documents and, although terribly boring, they hold a wealth of valuable information that you must be privy to before making the final decision to purchase the property.  These documents govern how you can use your home, and they give you an idea of how much and how often your fees might rise. You'll learn about common and ongoing problems the association deals with and how financially solvent the association is.  Don't be like the couple that purchased a condo without reading the HOA documents and found out, three days after closing, that they - along with all the other homeowners - were being assessed $7,500 to remedy construction defects.  If you don't feel that you can read and understand the information in these documents, it's important to hire an attorney to help you wade through them.

Mistake 4: Making Big Changes

The best part of the home-purchase process is that point during the transaction when inspections are complete, all the contingencies have been removed, and it feels like smooth sailing to the close.
Unfortunately, this is a danger zone for rookie homebuyers. This is typically when they start picturing themselves actually living in the home and the urge may be overwhelming to shop for furniture, appliances and other big-ticket items.  Just before closing, many lenders perform what is known as a "soft pull" of your credit reports. It's called "soft" because it doesn't impact your score in any way. It's the lender's way of making sure all the circumstances under which it approved the loan haven't changed.  Any big changes you make, such as large purchases or getting a new job, may derail or delay the purchase. If the new debt you've taken on is substantial enough, it may change your debt-to-income ratio and you may be forced to reapply for the mortgage.

Keep your pocketbook closed and remain on your current job until you walk away from the closing table.

Mistake 5: Waiving the Home Inspection

Although foregoing a home inspection was unthinkable a few years ago, in a seller's market where multiple offers are common, it's tempting to agree to waive the home inspection as an incentive for the seller to pick your offer. It's also not very wise.  A professional inspection, even of a newly constructed home, may be the only way you'll know whether you're buying a lemon or a plum - a money pit or a smart investment.  When you forego a professional home inspection, you're essentially buying the home "as is." Without the inspection contingency, the buyer waives his right to ask for repairs or money to make the repairs.  Waiving the home inspection is never worth the risk.
Knowing how much home you can afford is paramount to a successful home purchase. Making the decision to remain within a certain budget, doing all you can to clean up your credit to get the lowest interest rate possible, and becoming clear on your desires and expectations all help to make the home-buying process as error-free as possible.

Ready to begin your Asheville area home search?  Call The Puffer Team today, 828-771-2300, or visit our website, www.homefinderasheville.com.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Arden, NC Home For Sale (28704)




Immaculate traditional home located in a private manicured lot in an established neighborhood. Inside you will find executive touches throughout including crown molding, chair railing, tray ceilings rich hardwoods, updated kitchens and baths, a breakfast area, formal dining room, and so much more. Enjoy the peaceful quiet corner lot, large deck for entertaining, large 3 car garage and the comfort of a whole house generator. 

Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300


Virtual Tour:









Home Selling Tips Every Seller Should Know


Do you have an Asheville area home to sell?  Here are some tips to helping you get it sold quickly and with little effort.  Call us when you're ready to take the next step, 828-771-2300.  Want to know the value of your home?  Click here for more details.





The Puffer Team, Keller Williams Professionals, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com 

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Black Mountain, NC Home For Sale (28711)



Neat as a pin updated bungalow, walk to Lake Tomahawk, gleaming hardwood floors, modern kitchen with serving bar, inviting family-room with cozy brick fireplace, built-ins and Trane heat pump for year round comfort.

Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300


Virtual Tour




Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Alexander, NC Home For Sale




Great location less than 10 minutes to Weaverville shopping. New hickory kitchen cabinets and wood floor. Fenced yard and garage with workshop space and plenty of storage. Propane tank and heater in garage can be hooked up to the house as a back up heat source. Well association fee of $7/mo. $75/year road maintenance fee. Seller is motivated. 


Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300

Monday, September 22, 2014

Fairview, NC Home For Sale



Immaculate recently updated raised ranch nestled in a private setting on over 14 acres. Inside, you will find an open floorplan with gas lot fireplace, eat-in stainless kitchen, full basement with wood stove, oversized garage, and so much more. Top portion of property has ridge line views and would make a great home site for someone looking to build their own hideaway. 



Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300


See Also: 

Monday, September 15, 2014

Marshall, NC Home For Sale



Charming log home nestled on a private wooded lot with features that include a cozy Jotel wood stove, beamed ceilings, an open floorplan, gleaming hardwood and tile floors, a master on the main level, a covered open porch in a natrual setting only minutes to shopping and schools in Marshall and about 25 minutes to Asheville. Logs are chinked/insulated with Permachink.



Call us today to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com

See also:

Monday, August 11, 2014

Livingston Farms (Fletcher, NC) Homes For Sale

Looking for a home in Livingston Farms? Take a look at these.





Virtual Tour



Welcome to 60 Meadow Walk Ct in The Cottages section of Livingston Farms. This immaculate move-in ready home on a cul-de-sac has vaulted ceilings, an open floorplan, cozy gas log fireplace, split bedroom plan, upstairs bedroom perfect for bonus/rec area, large patio in back for outdoor entertaining, and so much more.  **Fees include yard maintenance**




Welcome to The Meadows at Livingston Farms. This spacious 3BR/2BA home has a light and bright vaulted and split bedroom floorplan with hardwood and ceramic tile throughout the main living areas, bonus room upstairs, and private back yard, situated on a cul-de-sac. Enjoy one level living in a scenic neighborhood with trails and streams. **list price firm**

See also:



The Puffer Team, Keller William Professionals, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com

Friday, July 25, 2014

Weaverville, NC Homes For Sale in Reems Creek Golf Community

Do you play golf?  Want to be able to walk right onto the course?  Our team has three great options available in the Reems Creek Golf Community in Weaverville, NC.


Virtual Tour


18 Lakeway Circle; Weaverville, NC; a custom home on the Reems Creek Golf Course with mountain and golf course views. This is the perfect place for entertaining or just enjoying life, dramatic tray GR, gleaming hardwood & tile floors, gourmet eat-in kitchen w/gas oven/range, luxurious main level master, new washer/dryer, in-law suite, home office & a bar, open/covered deck, stamped concrete golf cart path/garage.


SOLD!

Virtual Tour


5 Manor Way; Weaverville, NC; a luxury home in the Reems Creek Golf Community w/panoramic mountain & golf course views where inside you will find a light & bright open floorplan w/a vaulted great room, skylights, a gourmet island kitch w/granite countertops & stainless appliances, a luxurious main level master suite & an in-law suite in the basement w/kitchenette. Enjoy entertaining on the open deck or relaxing on the screened porch & being just minutes to downtown Weaverville.


Virtual Tour




14 High Meadow Dr; Weaverville, NC; a custom luxury home in the Reems Creek Golf Community w/a dramatic vaulted GR featuring beamed ceilings, tons of windows that take in the mountain views, a stone FP, formal DR, crown molding, hardwoods throughout most of the main living areas, an eat-in kitch w/pantry, luxurious master suite, lower level living w/kitchenette, an an elevator. Home sits on a private lot, is walking distance to golf, has year round views, you will not be disappointed.

See also:









Mills River, NC Custom Home For Sale


Welcome to 193 Hollabrook Parkway in Mills River, NC; an immaculate custom home in Hollabrook Farms in a private, yet convenient setting. Inside you will find three suites, Mountain Showcase Blue Pearl granite countertops/custom cabinets, hickory hardwood floors in the main living areas, Kenmore Elite stainless finish appliances with a transferable warranty, a Rinnai tankless water heater, high efficiency Goodman HVAC, 9' ceilings, bonus room upstairs, & so much more. The community features a pool, park, and grilling area… come see for yourself!

Virtual Tour






Property Features 

- Individual BR/BA suites 
- Custom built 
- Custom tile in showers w/frameless glass 
- Large walk-in shower and 6 ft soaker tub in master bath 
- Custom vanities by Mountain Showcase with Blue Pearl granite tops 
- Moen fixtures throughout 
- Engineered hickory floors in living room/kitchen, finished on site 
- Custom cabinets and Blue Pearl granite in kitchen, also by Mountain Showcase 
- Kenmore Elite kitchen appliances with stainless finish (double convection oven, dishwasher, 
built-in microwave and French door refrigerator with two freezer drawers) 
- All appliances have a transferable 5 year service plan from Sears; includes repairs and annual 
service at no cost. 
- High efficiency, high capacity Rinnai tankless hot water heater, gas fired, mounted in garage 
- Remote controlled Mendota gas log fireplace with ceramic glass and blower 
- All windows are double hung, double sash, duel finish, and highly efficient with wood trim inside 
and black aluminum outside 
- 9’ ceilings and ceiling fans throughout 
- High efficiency Goodman HVAC; gas heat/central air, dual zoned 
- Large walk-in pantry and ample storage throughout 
- Custom built wood shelving in all closets 
- Large double garage with 11’ ceilings and overhead storage 

About Hollabrook Farms

- Conveniently located to schools, shopping and easy access to I-26 
- Low HOA fees of $100/month 
- Community pool, large clubhouse, outside lakeside pavilion with gas grill and stone fireplace 
- Community park with gazebo, sings and lake for fishing 
- Located directly behind Glen Marlow Elementary, you can walk your children to school 
- Rural setting yet conveniently located 

Call The Puffer Team to schedule a showing, 828-771-2300; www.homefinderasheville.com.

See also:





Monday, July 21, 2014

What to Expect When Buying Rental Properties


Buying an investment property?  Below are things to consider before you begin your search, provided courtesy of our partners at Movement Mortgage.  










While housing is still very affordable in many areas of the country, it seems like a good time to purchase real estate as an investment — that is, to own rental property. Should the average American consider this as a legitimate means to grow their financial portfolio?

In a word, yes. Even during the housing recession you heard the experts maintaining that real estate was still a valuable investment. There are many reasons to take the plunge and invest in rental properties. Here are a few.

It’s a good time to buy property. Rates and property prices are generally low right now, which means you can get a great mortgage rate and a good price on a property you like. But rates and prices are slowly building all across the country. This is both a plus and a minus: every eighth of a point rise in rates means your purchase power goes down. You’ll get less property for the money, and as home prices rise you’ll pay more for less as well. But keep in mind that property you purchase now will cost more in the future. As the market continues to recover, your investment should appreciate steadily.

Your expenses are offset in several ways. By buying a property and renting it out, your tenants will be covering a large portion of the costs you incur. Over time, rents will increase as you pay off the mortgage, leaving more income as profit. In addition, you’ll benefit from tax breaks and incentives* on your depreciation and expenses.

Appreciation works in your favor. Your investment will be appreciating on the entire value of the property. If you put 20% down on a $200,000 property, you may be paying 4% interest on the 80% you borrow, but a 3% appreciation on the value of the property is on the entire $200,000, not just the $40,000 you put down. Compare that to your return on an investment in the stock market.

Diversity in your investment portfolio is a good idea. See above. And remember that by spreading out your investments, you’re more likely to reap the benefits of a changing economy.

You can invest in your retirement. If your $200,000 investment appreciates 3% per year for the next 20 years, just think of what you can do with the money when you sell the property upon your retirement. Or perhaps you bought a property you would want to retire to.

It’s true that being a landlord can be stressful for many people. However, the benefits of investing in property outweigh the negatives for many. I am always available to review your finances and help you determine the strategy and mortgage options that can benefit you the most. Call me today to take advantage of the market and invest in your future!

*We are not a tax advisory firm. The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and may not reflect current tax year rules and regulations. Consult your tax advisor or the IRS for current tax year rules, restrictions and regulations.

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Ready to begin your search?  Call The Puffer Team today, 828-771-2300, www.homefinderasheville.com.

Have an investement property your're ready to list?  Click here for the current market value.