Keep home staged and show ready for buyer inspections & appraisal

I think everyone will agree that a well staged home will increase buyer interest in a home.  Research even shows that a buyer is likely to pay more for the home.  The buyer's inspector and the banks appraiser are no different.  If they walk into a home that's staged, clean, and ready to be shown they are naturally influenced to believe the owner has taken good care of the property and it's in above average condition.  Therefore, the inspector is less likely to nit pick and the appraiser is less likely to make negative condition reductions when comparing it to other properties.  So, once your home is under contract don't relax just yet.  Keep the property ready for the inspector and the appraiser to reduce heartache later in the transaction.

Johnson County, KS 4th Qtr 2011 Sales Increase

Increased sales in the 4th quarter of 2012 have created a Seller's Market to begin 2012. Currently Johnson County conditions show a Seller's Market (< 5 months supply) for homes priced under $400,000 with a Balanced Market (5-7 months supply) at $400K - $500K and a continued Buyer's Market (>7 months supply) $500K+. See the attached document for more details, Jan_2012_Stats.pdf  ,numbers used to calculate were pulled from Heartland MLS.

It's likely these conditions will be short lived as Spring market inventory will begin to come on the market. The question is will the increased buyer activity continue with historically low interest rates and increase consumer confidence I predict Yes. The time to act is now especially if you are a move up buyer. Call me to schedule an appointment to discuss your property and buying plans.

Just Listed! Overland Park Ranch - Blue Valley Schools

I just listed a 3 bedroom 2 bath Ranch home in Hunter's Pointe of Overland Park.  It's a fixer upper so it's a great instant equity opportunity.  It's currently listed $19K+ below Jo Co tax appraisal at $172,750.  Home does have some needs.  The carpets are pet soiled and will need to be replaced.  The exterior is in need of wood rot repairs and then paint.  The hall bath has been updated as well as the kitchen appliances.  Call me with questions or to arrange for a showing, 913-568-7355

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Why Buy a Home in 2011?

Are you considering buying a home but are still on the fence?  Get off it, it's time to buy. Here are a few good reasons why:
Currently inventory in Overland Park, KS is at an 8 month supply which indicates a continued strong buyer's market.
Interest rates are on the rise, view rates, as I write this 4.875% on a 30 year fixed conventional loan, last week it was as high as 5.25%. They'll most likely be above 5.0% again very soon for good.
The housing market in Overland Park, KS is back on the way up.  We've seen sales of existing inventory increasing over the last 3 months and I expect the trend to continue.  In a recent article on HousingPredictor.com, Overland Park, KS was predicted to be the 17th BEST real estate market in 2011, view article. This article supports the trend that our market is on the way up. If you as the buyer remain on the fence you'll miss out on a great time to buy - BUY LOW - sell high.
Owning a home is still important to your happiness and success. As cited in the Home Ownership Matters campaign by NAR the benefits of home ownership include 1) Higher Academic Achievement 2) More Cohesive Communities 3) Stronger Families 4) Improved Health & Safety 5) Stronger Economy. Sounds good to me, how about you?
Don't wait, get on the path to owning a home in 2011. I'll be hosting a FREE Home Buyer Seminar on Thursday Feb. 24th at 6:30pm, register today and get moving before it's too late. Can't make it on Feb. 24th? No problem, call 913-568-7355 or email me tohlde@kw.com and we can schedule a private buyer consultation.
I look forward to working with you soon!