Charleston AFB – How to Choose the RIGHT Agent to Sell Your Home

Once a Charleston Military family decides to sell their home and hires a professional agent to market it for them, most will interview a few agents before signing on the dotted line. This is a great idea! 

Unfortunately, many sellers don’t know how to choose the right agent and usually end up choosing an agent based on the following two questions:

1.      Which agent will sell my house for the most money? (That leads to overpriced listing inventory that sits unsold because today’s buyer is looking for a “deal” and NOT overpaying.)

2.      Which agent will charge me the least to do it? (That results in getting an agent less likely to invest in improving their performance through education or technology or an agent with a limited budget to spend on the marketing of your home.)

But this may not be the best way to choose your agent - You need an agent who is effective in getting results….Remember, you’re not hiring a friend; you’re hiring someone to do a job.

Here are questions that will give you a better indication of which agent is right for you:

1) “What percentage of your listings EXPIRE and how does your number compare to the average agent in the Charleston AFB marketplace?”

Expired listings are listings that didn’t sell during the time agreed to between the seller and the agent. If one agent has 95% of their listings sell without expiring and another has 25%, wouldn’t you want to know that?

2.) “What are your Average Days on Market?”

If the average days for homes listed “For Sale” in the Charleston AFB market is 180 days, and one agent is selling their listings in 90 days, wouldn’t you want to know what they do differently to get their results? Conversely, wouldn’t you want to avoid the person who is at 270 days?

3.) “What is your Average List Price to Sales Price Ratio?”

There are many agents who take overpriced listings in the Charleston AFB market, planning to lower the price once the seller becomes frustrated…knowing full well the house won’t sell at the overpriced amount. 

But – you want to SELL your home….not drag out the process.  Agents with big gaps between List Price and Sales Price are not doing you any favors – find this out early and save yourself the heartache. Great agents price correctly from the beginning because they know that price is the best possible marketing strategy and is the best thing for the seller!

You may be surprised to learn that some of the most “successful agents” in terms of “units sold” have a large percentage of listings that expire or a high number of days on market, or a significant gap between their initial list price and the actual sales price.  Or that once they list your home, they are off looking for another listing – and NOT looking for someone to buy your home.

Contact Military Homes of Charleston today – and let us show you what a great real estate agent can do for you!

**Information provided by the KCM Crew via www.KCMblog.com**                                      

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston – Charleston Air Force Base/Joint Base Charleston, SC Real Estate For Sale
Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.

Charleston AFB Real Estate, Charleston AFB Real Estate For Sale, Charleston AFB SC, Joint Base Charleston, Joint Base Charleston Real Estate

Jodie Hurt – Charleston Air Force Base, SC Real Estate For Sale

I specialize in helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston. I have a passion for helping people, and I love what I do. Call me (843) 819-4398 and let me make this the easiest PCS yet!

Charleston AirForceBase - Now is the Time to Buy!

Charleston Air Force Base families are asking: How do we get the wealthiest people in the country to advise us on the real estate market?  It’s actually rather easy……. Just look at what they are doing and do the same.

Right now the wealthiest people are investing in real estate. It was recently reported that sales of condos over $4 million have skyrocketed. Crain’s NY Business explains:

Nine apartments asking more than $4 million went into contract last week, according to brokerage Olshan Realty. The firm tracks the high-end residential market and began releasing its data to the public last month. By comparison, during last year’s Christmas week, no apartments over $4 million went into contract …

In fact, the number of luxury apartments that went into contract so far this month, 52, rose 62.5% from the same period a year ago. UrbanDigs, an analytics and consulting firm that tracks Manhattan housing activity in real-time, confirmed the strong contract signing activity for luxury apartments last week. It defines the luxury market as including properties listed at more than $5 million and found that there were 83 such contract signings this month, up 10 from a month ago.

Bottom Line
If we want to make great financial decisions, we must look at what the most affluent are doing and do the same. The wealthiest are buying real estate. So shouldn't Charleston  military families do the same?

Contact Military Homes of Charleston today, and let's get started!

**Information provided by the KCM Crew via http://www.kcmblog.com/**

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston – Charleston Air Force Base/Joint Base Charleston, SC Real Estate For Sale

Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.

Charleston AFB Real Estate, Charleston AFB Real Estate For Sale, Charleston AFB SC, Joint Base Charleston, Joint Base Charleston Real Estate

Charleston Military: Just Listed - 1450 Coopers Hawk

 http://www.militaryhomescharleston.com/1450CoopersHawk

This home is completely move-in ready and priced to sell and perfect for Charleston Military families!  The lovely sage green exterior and front porch will welcome you right in. There are 3 bedrooms plus a large 300 sq ft Bonus Room with built in shelves/media center, that can be used as a bedroom, media room, playroom, or exercise space. Throughout the home, you will find wonderful amenities such as ceiling fans, upgraded 2 inch faux wood blinds, and upgraded 4 inch base boards.  The downstairs boasts beautiful flooring throughout, and the upstairs has wonderfully plush carpeting that is virtually brand new!  Outside you will find a fenced back yard, stamped concrete front porch, & gutters.

The downstairs includes a separate dining room with chair railing, as well as a separate office/study that is perfect for a home office or even a playroom.  The kitchen is well appointed with upgraded white cabinetry and ceramic tile floors, and all kitchen appliances will convey.  There is a wonderful eat-in area that looks out into the backyard - a perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee.  The first floor also includes a separate laundry area as well as a large half bath that includes a lovely pedestal sink.  The Living room hosts a gas-capable fireplace and pre-wired surround system and you will love the paint colors! 

The Master Suite has enough space for a sitting area or exercise equipment even with a king size bed! It features his and her closets and an upgraded Master bath complete with dual vanities, separate shower and Jacuzzi tub. The other bedrooms are well sized and lovely - perfect for a child's bedroom(s) or guest room(s).  The bonus room comes with built in shelving and is perfect for a media room or playroom.  With over 300 sq ft of space, this room can be virtually anything you like!

Ibis Glade is a highly desired location within Tanner Plantation. Close to everything -you will love nearby shopping and entertainment areas, as well as the neighborhood pool and playground.  This house is located in one of Charleston's most desirable school districts and is convenient to both I-26 and I-526.  Also close to Charleston Air Force Base and Naval Weapons Station in Goose Creek, SPAWAR, and BOEING.

Don't wait; this home won't last long at this price - so call us today to schedule your showing!  See more at http://www.militaryhomescharleston.com/1450CoopersHawk

Relocating to Charleston AFB/JointBase Charleston

Moving from one home to another is stressful, no matter how far or short the distance.   And if you’re a first-time home buyer, the process can seem absolutely overwhelming – But buying your first home in Charleston, SC will be easier than you think!

We understand what you are going through and are dedicated to helping you with each step.  Military Homes of Charleston specializes in relocation, with a particular focus on helping military families enjoy a smooth PCS in and out of Charleston.  We can help you find the home of your dreams – one that will fit your lifestyle and your budget!  Please check out our current listings, as you’re sure to find something you and your family will love. 

Military Homes of Charleston understands this is one of the most important and exciting moments of your life.  Our team of relocation specialists will answer your questions and assist you in all phases of the process; from financing your loan to the closing table.

                                                 

Our team will work hard to exceed your expectations and we will take the stress out of buying your first home.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston – Charleston Air Force Base/Joint Base Charleston, SC Real Estate For Sale

Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston AFB/JointBase Charleston, SC area. Call or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.

FHA 203k Rehab Loan for Charleston Military Families

Renovation financing provides Charleston military buyers a cost-effective way to live in their dream home, and the opportunity to purchase properties in need of improvement.

What is the FHA 203(k) rehab Loan and what can it do for you?

§        Turn a house into your dream home

• Buy a home that’s in the right area but isn’t quite perfect…..yet!
• Replace things like an aging roof or furnace with low-cost financing 
• Invest in a home in the Charleston AFB area that needs some work and resell it at a later time
• Remodel the kitchen & bath, create a master suite
• Up to six months mortgage payments can be included in the mortgage,
  if the property is not occupied during construction

Does the home have to be a HUD Property or run down to use a 203(k) loan?

§        No. ANY home more than one year old that a borrower wants to purchase and/or remodel is eligible.  Military Homes of Charleston can help you find the perfect home!

           
203(k) financing gives you:

• More money to work with. The amount you can borrow is based on the expected increased value of the home, after improvements are made.
• Less Strain on Your Budget. You can pay for the renovation gradually and affordably, over the loan term of your mortgage.
• Less to Pay at Tax Time. Unlike other credit options, the interest you pay on funds used for a renovation is tax deductible.
• Less Hassle. You’ll have one loan to apply for, one set of fees, one closing to attend, and one monthly payment to make.
• Faster Completion. Renovation work can begin immediately after closing
• Low Monthly Payments. Improvement costs are spread out over the term of your loan
• Simplicity. One application, one closing, one monthly payment
• Military Homes of Charleston works with an experienced Loan Officer who can guide you through each step of the 203(k) process.

                                                              

What types of improvements are eligible?

§        Structural alterations and reconstruction i.e., additions to a structure, finishing an attic, termite damage treatment

• Changes for improved function i.e., remodeling kitchens and baths, adding bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms, garages
• Changes for aesthetic appeal such as new siding, stucco, new windows & doors
• Reconditioning or installation of new plumbing, heating, air conditioning or electrical system.
• Remove old and install new roofing, siding gutters & downspouts
• Flooring, tile or carpet
• Installing energy conservation improvements, such as double-pane windows, insulation, solar domestic hot water systems. Attic insulation, window screens, weather stripping are mandatory
• Major landscaping and site improvement, patios and decks

Contact Military Homes of Charleston today for more information!

                                     

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston – Charleston Air Force Base/Joint Base Charleston, SC Real Estate For Sale

Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.

Charleston AFB Real Estate, Charleston AFB Real Estate For Sale, Charleston AFB SC, Joint Base Charleston, Joint Base Charleston Real Estate

                                          

Why Charleston Military Families Should Buy Now

Why buy now?
Price is a major concern for anyone selling a home, but when you’re buying a house – your monthly payment should be your primary concern. Your monthly payment is impacted by the price of the home and the interest rate of your mortgage – this equals the COST of the home.  Waiting for prices to bottom out in the Charleston AFB market, while rates are increasing - can actually end up costing you more over the life of the mortgage.  The KCM Crew reports the following:

§        Just in the last seven weeks, rates have increased over 1/2 a point going from 4.17 to 4.86.

§        In an article last week CNN Money reported:  “You can kiss those record lows goodbye,” said Greg McBride, chief economist for Bankrate.com.

§        Keith Gumbinger of HSH Associates, a provider of mortgage information said that the market reached a new plateau.  “I don’t think we’re going back to a 50-year low anytime soon without an economic collapse,” he said. “Rates will probably never revisit those levels.”

While prices may continue to soften this next year, the experts project prices to rise reaching a cumulative appreciation of over 10% by 2015.

 Purchasing a home in the Charleston AFB area today makes great sense from a financial standpoint.  Remember the saying “Buy low and sell high”?  We definitely may be at the low point regarding the COST of a home.

 Why do Charleston Military families buy a home in the first place?
For most, the reason has nothing to do with finances. The Fannie Mae National Housing Survey shows that the four major reasons people buy a home have nothing to do with money:

·         A good place to raise children and for them to get a good education

·         A place where you and your family feel safe

·         More space for you and your family

·         Control of the space

 

Bottom Line
The COST of a home will most likely remain basically unchanged even if prices continue to depreciate.  In the long run, the finances will work in your favor – so contact Military Homes of Charleston today!

 

**Information provided by the KCM Crew via http://www.kcmblog.com/**

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston
Charleston Air Force Base/Joint Base Charleston, SC Real Estate For Sale
Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.

Charleston AFB Real Estate, Charleston AFB Real Estate For Sale, Charleston AFB SC, Joint Base Charleston, Joint Base Charleston Real Estate

2011: The Year a House Becomes a Home for Charleston Military Families

For almost a decade now, every time we talked about real estate in the Charleston AFB area, we immediately discussed money. We didn’t talk about the value of a home but instead about the price of the house. We didn’t worry about a roof over our heads but instead the ceiling on our interest rate. We didn’t care as much about where we raised our family as we cared about how much we increased our family’s net worth.

That will change in 2011. Military Homes of Charleston believes that real estate will return to what it has been for the 200+ year history of this country: a place for us and our families to live comfortably. It will also prove to be a great long term investment as it always has been.

Our parents and our grandparents didn’t buy their homes as a short term financial investment. They bought it so they had a place of their own to come home to at the end of the day; a place to raise their family; a place they could feel safe.

However, in the last decade, we somehow forgot that the financial aspect was simply the icing on the cake – and not the major reason to buy. We believe that 2011 will be the year that people remember that homeownership is a major part of the American Dream.

What about the challenges to a housing recovery? Let’s look at them.

The Economy - Most reports are showing that the economy is doing better than expected.  As the economy recovers, so will consumer confidence. This will be great news for housing in the Charleston market.

Unemployment - People no longer have the felling that ‘they are next’. The fear will diminish and people will start moving on with their lives. This too will be great news for housing.

Interest Rates - It seems the bottomless pit in which rates have been falling does have a floor after all. And it seems we have found it. Those purchasers who had been waiting for the best interest rate may have already missed it.  So don’t delay any longer – now is the time to contact Military Homes of Charleston.

Prices - Economists are projecting that prices will not see any appreciation in 2011. Sellers who had been waiting for 2006 to return will come to the realization that waiting any longer makes little sense. They will instead decide to get on with their lives and sell this year.

Bottom Line - This is the year that normalcy returns to real estate. Charleston military families will buy and sell based on the desire for a better life for themselves and their families. They will realize that is the true value of homeownership and they will be willing to pay for that value.


**Information provided by the KCM Crew via http://www.kcmblog.com/**

                                                                        

Torri Jacobsen, Military Homes of Charleston – Charleston Air Force Base/Joint Base Charleston, SC Real Estate For Sale
Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be hard, but choosing the right Realtor DOES make a difference. I specialize in making first-time home buying a great experience for military families moving to the Charleston, SC area. Call or email today, and let’s make this your best move yet! You’ll feel right at home with me.

Charleston AFB Real Estate, Charleston AFB Real Estate For Sale, Charleston AFB SC, Joint Base Charleston, Joint Base Charleston Real Estate