Why Agreements in Real Estate are Important

As real estate professionals, our job at Take A Look Real Estate Brokerage is to service our clients needs with professionalism and an attention to their best interests. In order to be as effective as you need and to get the highest quality of service, agreeing to certain standards of dedication is in the best interest of the homebuyer or seller. For some clients, signing agreements doesn’t always make sense to them. In this article, we will explain why an agreement can be your best ally.

First of all, when an agent presents a buyer or seller with an agreement of exclusivity, they are going to bat for their reputation and their diligence in servicing you. They are, in essence, saying that their job is an allegiance to your needs, desires, resources and time. Most agreements specify a time frame that they intend to dedicate to helping you to get what you want and certain actions that they will and won’t take to keep you satisfied and taken care of. By law, it holds them to the fire. It forces them to take initiative to execute and deliver services to you that will help you to buy or sell the right property in the right amount of time.

A buyer-broker agreement is the agent’s promise to give you access to the largest quantity of quality properties that will fit your needs and price point. For a seller, a listing agreement, particularly with Take A Look, is assurance that consideration of your home will be given to qualified, serious prospects and agents that are also bound by the rules of the Columbus Board of Realtors. When our agents are tasked with servicing you, they are tasked with being devoted to protecting your resources while respecting your time.

But an agreement lets our agents know that you are as serious as we are in providing assistance to you. We understand that real estate transactions can be tedious and even scary for people because of the high dollars amounts being transacted. For many, real estate is the most expensive investment and undertaking a person will ever commit themselves to. When you make an official agreement with an agent, you are holding yourself accountable to making a move that can be a positive investment or retrieval of equity for your future.

At Take A Look, our agents are not only licensed, but receive ongoing training, support and resources that make the time that we spend working with you valuable. Our attention to your needs and the details of your transactions are of the utmost importance to us. And our allegiance to the precepts of the Board of Realtors holds us accountable to upholding ethical standards and behaviors.

You can rest assured that when you sign an agreement with an agent with Take A Look Real Estate Brokers, our agents, backed by the brokerage itself, are on your side. If you would like to speak with one of our agents about buying or selling a property, contact us at 614-778-8503. Also follow us here on Facebook for local market info, available listings, property tips and inspiration.

How the Government Shutdown Will Impact the Real Estate Market

For more questions about how you might be able to take advantage of lower interest rates and/ or how to best begin and manage a home loan during the government shutdown, please contact Theresa Barron at 614-778-8503 or shoot us an email at admin@takealookbrokers.com.

As the U.S. government shutdown over border control continues, with no foreseeable end date on the horizon, we can expect a couple of changes to the real estate market. And with both parties at an impasse over whether or not to fund a $5.7 billion dollar wall, it’s unclear when a resolution would reopen the government and its normal procedures. So far, it isn’t clear whether or not these changes will be of extreme positive or negative impact. But there will be an impact nevertheless to real estate. Here are the three areas that will be affected by the shutdown.

Interest Rates May Drop

During shutdowns, mortgage companies are uncertain about the tides of real estate values and the speed with which loans will be processed. For this reason, interest rates are expected to decline. In the government shutdown of 2013, mainly over disputes over the national budget, interest rates dropped from 4.8 to 4.25, remaining there for the majority of the shutdown, according to the Federal Savings Bank. CNBC online expressed, on January 9, 2019, that though the interest rates plunged from 4.84 to 4.74, the overall mortgage applications spiked a whopping 23.5% the previous week! However, there have been reports of government employees being unable to continue with loan applications due to reported loss of income or simply pulling out of the process altogether.

Loans May Be Processed Slower

Though Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will continue on with their normal functions and processes, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will not be processing any rural loans. USDA is managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which is closed until further notice according to HUD.gov. And though the department will process single family loans, national economist with the National Association of Realtors, Lawrence Yun, expects delays because the U.S.D.A. is not expected to be staffed adequately.

Because the Federal Housing Association (FHA) is managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, one can expect delays in loan processing. According to HUD, single family home loans will be funded, however home equity conversion mortgages will not. The Veterans Administration is also managed by HUD and will continue to be processed, though delays can also be expected.

IRS Tax Refund Processing May Be Delayed

Russell Vought, director of the White House office of Management and Budget, indicates that tax returns will be processed as usual, beginning January 28, 2019. According to a statement released by IRS commissioner Chuck Rettig, “We are committed to ensuring that taxpayers receive their refunds notwithstanding the government shutdown.” However, there may be delays as only a portion of the IRS will be staffed during the shutdown. IRS.gov indicates they have the authority to issue payment refunds through a permanent, indefinite appropriation directed by Congress. Any delays that are created by the IRS not being fully staffed might also delay the processing of mortgage loans, as lenders will require that homebuyers present their tax returns in the processing of a loan application.

For more questions about how you might be able to take advantage of lower interest rates and/ or how to best begin and manage a home loan during the government shutdown, please contact Theresa Barron at 614-778-8503 or shoot us an email at admin@takealookbrokers.com.

10 Ways To Add Value To Your Home

In this article, we are going to share the top 10 ways that a homeowner can improve their house to add real value and to appeal to a buyer willing to pay top price.

When a homeowner considers the things that may add value to their home, sometimes they mistake personal aesthetic preferences with necessary additions. Things like “man caves” and “she sheds” can often be designed in a way that is too specific to the owner’s style to appeal to a potential or future buyer. Movie theater rooms are more likely to sell better in high-end neighborhoods, if they are neutral in design, but that’s not always a guarantee. And don’t let us start with pools, which create too much liability, expense and insurance issues to be worth it. In this article, we are going to share the top 10 ways that a homeowner can improve their house to add real value and to appeal to a buyer willing to pay top price.

Fresh Paint

Remember, neutral colors are best such as whites, grays and calming tans. You can get a good quality paint for about $30 a gallon and it will do wonders to adding freshness and a sense of simple style to your home.

Update the Kitchen Hardware

It’s not always necessary to go through the expense and hassle of changing out cabinets and countertops, unless they are in horrible condition. New handles and hardware can update your kitchen in a major way and can be inexpensive to boot. Cabinets and counters can use fresh paint and there is paint made appropriately for those items.

REMOVE THE CARPET

(If there is hardwood under the carpet) This is typically the case in older model homes. Carpet holds allergens, odors, dirt and stains that can often be hard and expensive to remove. On top of that, a lot of carpet just makes the house look dated. If you have hardwood floors, opt for it and just remove that carpet.

Curb Appeal

The outside of your home if the first thing that people will see when coming to view your house. Therefore, it’s important that the lawn be neat and mowed. The walkways should be swept, the doors and porch may need to be painted to update the look. And during the holidays, add simple decorations to create a welcoming feel. Make sure the lights work and the gutters and spouts are cleaned. And don’t forget to clean and sweep the patio.

Take Care of Major Repairs

When a home goes into contract, an inspection is always necessary if the buyer is using a mortgage company for a loan. If the major items are not in good working condition, you’ll be asked to take care of them or to lower your asking price. Take care of them sooner rather than later. Leaky faucets and runny toilets are huge. But so is the plumbing and any water damage therein. Update old that furnace and hot water tank, even if just for your own safety and peace of mind. And don’t forget to have any electrical issues repaired.

Declutter Your Home

Make sure your space is neat and organized. A messy, disheveled home is a major distraction to someone interested in your home. Find a proper place for your items and keep it clean. Organize rooms, closets and storage spaces so that all of your things fit neatly and properly.

Update the Kitchen Appliances

The kitchen is the space used for cooking and entertaining, so it tends to be the place where people congregate. Updated appliances are very important to creating a great vibe in the kitchen, that feels current. Here’s a secret: three times a year Lowe’s deeply discounts their appliances to make room for new inventory. You can get great appliances at very affordable prices.

Bathroom Updates

The bathrooms are very important to the value of your home. Make sure that the hardware is updated. If necessary replace the toilet (or just the seats if that’s all that’s necessary). Make sure that the faucets and shower heads are not leaking and that the toilets are not running. The caulking around the tub should be neat, floors should be clean and if need be, add a fresh coat of paint.

Smells Smells Smells

The way your home smells will either attract or repel potential buyers and guests in general. Please don’t smoke inside your home, please do neutralize pet odors and heavy cooking smells. Carpet tends to hold a lot of these odors, so replacing it might be a good idea, if you can afford it. And cleaning your vents will help with the odors a great deal.

Lights Must Work

Visit every room and outdoor space in your home that has a light socket. Make sure the bulbs and all switches work appropriately. Buyers need to see the home as clearly as possible. As well, if the lights don’t work, it could point to an electrical issue that will repel a buyer from giving an offer. Take care of those lights as soon as possible.

The Rebuilding of Parsons Avenue and Why You Should Invest There

There’s a rejuvenation taking place in one of our beloved Columbus communities. There’s a two mile stretch between Livingston Ave. and Rt. 104, on the south of Parsons Avenue, where real estate developers, entrepreneurs, businesses, and residents are vying for access.

During the late 1800’s, Old Towne East was a community in which affluent, business class members lived, worked and communed. This took a turn in the 1920’s when suburbs began overpowering them creating a class struggle, survival of the fittest.

By the 1950’s, things had rapidly changed. First, the Broad St. Boulevard was removed to make way for Interstate 71. This completely destroyed the thriving businesses and establishments for the current community that ran along the boulevard. And by the time the wealthy elite had relocated, home ownership simply declined. Parsons Avenue was in no way spared.

Based on the 2006 Parsons Ave. Area Revision Plan, the consensus was that the area would need to be restored to prevent crime, violence, poverty, and property vacancies. The initiatives sparked investors and entrepreneurs alike to jump on the bandwagon. And with the masterful engine of Nationwide Children’s Hospitals investments in the area, massive regeneration has taken place. New and updated restaurants, shops, and renovated buildings can be see along Parsons Avenue, with new age design and appeal.

Community revitalization efforts also become a warm oven for condo and apartment communities. These apartments tend to be sleek, cutting edge and trendy to fit the style of that community and the texture of the power players’ wallets. Parsons Avenue is a prime example of this. With an updated Parson’s Corridor as the areas point of focus, real estate developers are all vying for competitive space.

One such community is The Arbor, located on Lehman St.,  conveniently nestled around Parsons Avenue improvement efforts. Right across the street from Nationwide Hospital, it’s a modern lifestyle community made with ecological sustainability at the heart of its branding.

The stylish apartments, between 743 sq. feet to 1436 sq. feet, come with chic appliances, modern amenity and a community embrace. From one bedroom apartment layouts all the way to 2 bedroom townhomes, rents range anywhere from $1209 to $1867. It’s a short distance from dining spots, shops, the updated Parsons Ave. library, markets, and places of business.

For those who opt for a modern lifestyle with access, convenience, amenity, and community, The Arbor might be a great choice.
For those who see the value in investing in this area, getting to know Realtor who understands that marketplace is a great first step. Theresa Barron and the Take A Look Real Estate Brokers team have served, worked and invested in and around this area for many years. Theresa understands the trends, patterns and values of this market. Don’t hesitate to contact her if you would like to know how she supports clients investing in this area.

The Success Mindset of a Real Estate Agent

Becoming successful in real estate, or anything for that matter, requires a mindset that supports and creates success. It seems that many people in real estate struggle with discovering the right philosophies to guide them to success. Maybe it’s because your brokerage doesn’t provide enough training, support and mentorship. Or maybe it’s because you haven’t dived deep into the waters of personal development. In this article, we’re gonna share the necessary mindset to inspire a successful, six-figure real estate business.

Find your why.

If you don’t know why you are even in the real estate industry, maybe it’s time to take a step back. Knowing why you chose real estate as a career option is crucial because if your reason isn’t strong or firm enough to get you out of bed, on the phones, or to a listing appointment, then you have some serious rethinking to do.

Look, for many people, the idea of being able to make more money in less time than the average 9 to 5 gig, and be free from the restraints that come with having a boss is enough. Remember you can achieve $100,000 in two transactions a month, in under 30 hours worth of work. That should be enough to get anybody up and at it.

Stop whining and do what it takes.

Yes, the truth is that it takes more time and energy to lay the foundation of a business in the beginning. However, the pay-off is so sweet. Because once the systems are set up and your marketing efforts have developed a momentum, much of your business simply becomes maintenance.

So stop whining about what it takes and just DO what it takes. And what it takes is for you to find people who want to buy and sell houses. And, if they’re not coming to you, you need to go to them. The best way to go to them is by phone and face to face. Let people know who you are and what you can do to help them. Get to know them and find out what their needs are. And then become a service professional and help. Allow them to become familiar with you and trust you. You just can’t think that hiding behind signs, social media posts and emails are ways to build relationships. Don’t worry, there is still a place for passive marketing and attraction marketing too.

Don’t be afraid of sales conversations.

Regardless of what you think on the subconscious level, regardless of what society says, sales is an honorable lot in life. Sales is the exchange of currency for a product or service. It’s how most humans get access to the things that they want and need. Sales people are simply those who service that process. Granted there are people who make a mockery of sales with slime ball tactics, slick claims and subpar offerings, the truth is there are many more sales professionals with integrity. If you are that sort of real estate professional, you have no reason to be timid about approaching people to service their needs.

The truth is, what we do is more about service than sales anyway. Our goal is to find out they need and help them with it. People decide to upgrade, downsize and invest everyday. They are newlyweds, growing families, divorcees, retirees, widows and those looking to grow their portfolios. People actually want what you have to offer!

But how are they to know that you can help them if you don’t tell them? Pick up that phone for an hour a day and let friends, family member, colleagues, coworkers, business owners, medical professionals, postal workers, school principals, beauty experts, neighbors and strangers in the check-out line know that you are the real estate professional they need in their corner. Leave them with all your forms of business contact information. Get involved in the community where they can interact and engage with you on deeper and more meaningful ways.

It’s all about relationship marketing and it’s your responsibility to build those relationships that can support and sustain and six-figure or more business, not to whine. Make it happen!

If you believe that you really need more real estate training and support, click the button below to join our private facebook group. It’s free and so is all the training included.

Take Your Real Estate Business from Struggle to Success

Are you a real estate agent struggling to achieve 6 figure success? In this article, we’ll share how our free training group can help you to become a success in real estate.

When I became a real estate agent in 1994, I joined a big box brokerage. They provided the big box name, but they did not teach me how to produce. There was very little training, and what training there was, wasn’t working for me. I even tried to listen in on office talk to learn what to do and how to get started. But as a single, working mom of three kids, being at the brokerage office wasn’t always feasible. I also discovered that the money wasn’t being made hanging out at the office.

I figured I probably needed to be walking around neighborhoods and talking to people. I also got my hands on a marketing book that explained how to develop a network of people that would do business with me. It said I “should speak to every person” I came in contact with. I did just that. But what I didn’t understand was that I needed to implement the process of qualification. I found myself running around town with interested people who weren’t ready to buy.

I started to wonder where I could find a regular source of qualified buyers. Then I began to sort through people who worked with me at my place of employment. Because we worked in banking, I thought many of them would be qualified. That helped me begin selling! Word got around the bank that I was a real estate professional they could trust to get the job done. Within four years, my real estate income was as much as I made on my job, and on a very part-time basis.

But life happens and after marrying, having my fourth child and my bonus daughter, while supporting my sick mother, I quit my job at the bank. I went full time in real estate and enrolled in school. I knew that now I needed to find more clients. But I realized I hadn’t found a new path to those clients and would have to start from scratch. I had a heavy expense load and lots of personal and educational responsibilities. And I really struggled to find some direction.

But things seriously improved after reaching out to an independent broker named Terry. She increased my commissions by 30%. She provided me detailed mentorship and how to get restarted. She talked to me on a very regular, consistent basis to make sure I was clear on what I needed to do. In addition, she showed me how to develop new business.

In the first six months with Terry, I made $60,000 in gross commissions!

That’s how I know that mentorship works. I went from a struggling agent to a thriving, successful realtor earning six figures in 6 months. And it was all because I had the right coaching and was like a sponge, ready and willing to learn. Just like with my old broker, we don’t seek to diminish else’ shine. What we do intend is to develop our agents under the Take A Look Real Estate Broker umbrella so they reach a success point of $100,000. And with us, the sky’s the limit!

See, I was amazed by the fact that in only two transactions a month, I could earn $100,000 a year. And I realized that each transaction could be completed in less than 15 hours. That means 30 hours a month! Now that’s a far cry from when I worked 40 hours a week for less than $50,000 a year, feeling like I was giving up all my time. Plus, I had to wait 2 weeks to get paid and give up 20% to the government!

To give you an idea of some of the strategies we are using here at Take A Look, we invite you to join our Platinum Success Facebook group.

And as our special thanks, we are going to give you our 14 day strategy course… FOR FREE! Everyday for the next two weeks, you will receive an email focused on dramatically improving your business, setting your foundation.

Remember, we are better than halfway through 2018. Let’s finish the rest of the year strong!