Helena Talbot's blog - Buying Land as an Investment

In today’s foreclosure-heavy market, it’s not uncommon to find land properties for sale in your area. Land has always been a great investment, due to its limited supply and historic rise in value. In fact, banks are now putting land on the market at prices that are pennies on the dollar compared with the original cost.

Many investors are purchasing land across Georgia. Depending on what you plan to do with the land, there are two different courses of action you can take:

Improving the Land

There are many types of land that you can purchase, some of which has been improved and some not. In Georgia, we have a lot of “pipe farms” available, which are pieces of land that have been stopped midway in the process of creating a community. Roads and sewer may have been installed. If you are investor, this may be good or bad. When you purchase a partially developed piece of land, you are most likely committing yourself to finishing the project, which can add more cost and more risk.

Unimproved land, or land in its natural state, can be purchased specifically to be improved and then sold. Improvement usually consists of building some type of structure on the land, whether it is residential or commercial. Building a structure on the land can significantly raise the value, however, like development of a subdivision, can be costly and add risk.

In today’s market, purchase money financing and/or institutional funding is less available to investors, so cash deals are more frequent. Improvements are financed, in great part, based on the strength of a business plan that ties generation of income to the improvement. The investor might consider an improvement to be a good investment, but the lender may not see the tangible means necessary for repayment.

Unimproved Land

Historically, raw or unimproved land values have risen, but like the rest of the real estate market today, buyers can often purchase land at lower than perceived market value. Many investors choose to purchase and hold unimproved land speculating that value and demand will increase within a reasonable timeframe. This strategy doesn’t involve building costs and maintenance is sometimes less expensive. Additionally, ROI from real estate investments has historically exceeded other investment opportunities. This rationale is widely held by speculative real estate investors today.

Land prices can be dirt cheap (pun intended) in rural areas, but growth can be slow depending upon the intended use of the land. The price of land may be higher in more populated areas, but the potential for return greater. Commercial and residential land values vary with location and use.  There is no specific investment rule-of-thumb.

Helena Talbot's Free iPhone/Android App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App: Text "Exit9" to 87778 or enterhttp://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - 7 Steps to Buying a Short Sale

Today’s real estate market is yielding great opportunities for home buyers, such as short sales. Short sales, however, can be a complicated and often frustrating process for both buyers and sellers. From home inspection company Pillar To Post (www.pillartopost.com), here are some important tips for pulling off a successful-short sale transaction:

1. Finding Short-sale Properties
Most short sales are listed by real estate agents on local websites and in MLS feeds. Because some lenders complain that identifying a property as a short sale enables buyers to lower their bids, agents will slip in terms that more subtly identify the listing as a short sale, such as: 

• "Subject to bank approval"
• "Pre-foreclosure"
• "Notice of Default"
• "Preapproved by bank"
• "Headed for auction"

2. Choosing a Real Estate Professional
Make sure the real estate agent you choose to work with has experience and/or certification in short sales. The buying process is often far more complex and far longer than a typical home sale, so a trained ally on your side can make your experience successful.

3. Investigate the Mortgage and Liens on the Property
Your agent must be able to: uncover how much the mortgage is worth; find out how much the current owners paid and when; find out how many liens are on the property; find out which lender is the primary lien holder; research comparable sales in the area.

4. Have a Home Inspection
Since many short sales are sold “as is,” with no contingencies allowed, having a home inspection is imperative. If extensive repairs are needed, the home may not be a bargain after all.

5. Write a Complete Offer
Remember, the lender—not the owner selling the property—decides whether your offer will be accepted, rejected or countered, so helping the lender will help support your bid. Be sure to include the following materials with any short-sale offer:

• Cover letter
• Signed owner/borrower short-sale purchase agreement
• Seller hardship letter
• Seller payroll stubs
• Two years of seller tax returns
• Market comparables
• HUD-1 closing net sheet
• Repair cost estimate
• Pictures of property

6. Negotiate
If the lender rejects or counters your written offer, you’ll have to negotiate with the lender by making a higher offer. Be prepared to offer more money to close the deal, or to walk away if it doesn’t make financial sense.

7. Be Patient
In today’s market, short sales are overloading many lenders. Processing and decision-making times for some lenders can be quite long—up to a year or more. So make sure you’re prepared to hang in there.

Helena Talbot's Free iPhone/Android App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App: Text "Exit9" to 87778 or enterhttp://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - Advantages and Disadvantages of Rent-to-Own Homes in Loudoun County

For many people, a home will be the biggest purchase they ever make. Both buyers and sellers should carefully weigh their options before agreeing to any binding contract.

Let's look at some of the advantages and disadvantages for the buyers with rent-to-own homes.

-Buyers have time to build income and repair their credit history as they are renting the house

-Depending on the agreement, renters can walk away if they find something seriously wrong with the house. Although the renter will lose the option fee and all of their rent credit money, that amount will be much less than if the renter had bought the house outright and then tried to leave it later.

-Buyers may still have to pay an upfront option fee. It's usually a percentage of the agreed-upon selling price of the home and is often thousands of dollars. Although this money will go to the down payment should the renter decide to buy the house, it can still be difficult to accumulate that much money before renting.

-If the buyer is just one day late on a month's rent payment, most agreements void the rent credit for that month. Think about the previous example, where the three-year renter received a $400 rent credit each month. If the renter were late just three times each year, at the end of the lease period the renter would have $3,600 less for the down payment. Rent-to-own leasers must pay on time, every time.

-All of those repairs that used to be somebody else's problem in a rented apartment often become the responsibility of the new buyer, even during the rental period. Whether it means climbing on a ladder to unclog the gutters or having to pay for a new washing machine when the original washer breaks, the renter generally has to take care of it.

And what about the advantages and disadvantages to the sellers? Here are some pros and cons they can expect:

-If home values are falling, sellers can lock in a higher price at the start of the agreement.

-Renters who are looking to own generally treat their living space and community better. They're planning for their future, instead of living in a place they will vacate in a year.

-If a renter does back out at the end of the agreement, the seller still has the option fee if agreed and rent premiums as income. However, the seller is back to square one, which may be difficult for some homeowners who just want to be free of their old house.

-If a new potential buyer comes along who wants to purchase the house for a higher price, the sellers are out of luck. They entered a contract with the renter, and they have to abide by it.

Before entering into an agreement, sellers have to decide the sale price and rent they'll charge for the house. Both amounts are subject to negotiation, just as a regular sale would be. But sellers and buyers need to remember that once they sign an agreement, the sale price of the house is locked in until the end of their rental term, between one and three years. Even if other housing prices rise or fall during that time, the original agreed-upon sale price is final.

Renters may also have to pay an option fee and then a rent premium. The option fee is a set amount that the renter pays the seller. If, at the end of the lease period, the renter buys the house, the option fee becomes part of the down payment. If the renter doesn't buy the house, the option fee becomes income for the seller. Rent premiums are an amount slightly above the typical rent, with a portion of that money going toward a down payment.

Helena Talbot's Free iPhone/Android App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App: Text "Exit9" to 87778 or enterhttp://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - How an Appraisal Can Help Sell Your Home

While it’s standard practice for real estate professionals to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help price your home correctly for sale, you may also want to discuss with your agent the possibility of investing in an appraisal before you put your home on the market. 

Appraisals have long been a part of the transaction process for home buyers, however, pre-sale appraisals for home sellers have risen in popularity as a way to help confirm that your home is listed at the best possible price. 

A home appraiser will compare the condition of your house in relation to the comparable properties and will give you a reasonably good idea where your house fits in relation to recently sold properties. 

An appraisal can range in length from two pages to more than 100 and will include details about the house, a description of the neighborhood and side-by-side comparisons of similar properties. 

The appraisal report will also contain an evaluation of the area’s real estate market, notations of major problems with the property that will affect its value, and an estimate of the expected time it will take to sell the property. This also gives you a chance to correct problems before officially putting your house on the market—a sure-fire way to ensure a quicker sale.

Choosing the right appraiser is critical, however—whether you are selling or buying a home. Work with your agent to select an appraiser who understands the nuances of your particular neighborhood, as prices can vary significantly based on school district and street location.

The Appraisal Institute offers the following tips for consumers, providing important guidance for homeowners and buyers seeking to ensure their sales are completed in a timely manner:

• Make sure a qualified appraiser is hired (such as a designated SRA, SRPA or MAI member of the Appraisal Institute). The lowest priced appraiser does not necessarily equate with the most qualified.
• Accompany the appraiser during the inspection of the property, if possible. The more active of a participant you are in the process, the more you will understand it and be able to catch any errors.
• Request a copy of the appraisal report. Federal law requires that you receive a copy of the appraisal within 30 days.
• Appeal the appraisal if appropriate. Market conditions do change, especially in these economic times. If you feel that new information may change the appraisal, be sure to contact them.
• Have your agent ask the lender to order a second appraisal by a qualified and designated appraiser.
• File legitimate complaints with appropriate state board or professional appraisal organizations.

Remember, one doesn’t need to agree with the outcome of an appraisal. A home appraisal, no matter how scientific, still ends up being the opinion of the appraiser and, to some degree, a judgment call. However, the appraisal, when combined with your agent’s expertise on market conditions, will be a powerful way to determine the very best price for your home.

Helena Talbot's Free iPhone/Android App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App: Text "Exit9" to 87778 or enterhttp://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - 6 Tips to Keep Mold Out of Your Home

When it comes to maintaining a healthy home, being vigilant is a key step toward keeping you and your family safe. Whether it’s keeping things neat and organized or giving the home a thorough cleaning from top to bottom, homeowners take the overall health of their homes seriously. 

As we make the transition from summer to fall, it’s crucial that homeowners be on the lookout for mold growth. This is especially important if you live in an area that’s been exposed to excess moisture and water—which could lead to mold growth if not handled properly. 

To help homeowners ensure a healthy home, CertainTeed Corporation—one of North America’s largest building product manufacturers—offers the following tips: 

-Fix leaks. Check for leaky roofs, foundations, faucets and pipes on a regular basis, making sure extra moisture isn’t accumulating in these areas. Be sure to fix any leaks as soon as they are found. 
-Keep humidity under control. The ideal humidity for a home is between 30 and 50 percent. Measure your home’s relative humidity with a moisture or humidity meter.
-Plan your foundation. To ensure that water cannot collect around or enter the foundation, make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation. 
-Keep it dry. Prevent mold growth by cleaning and drying any damp furnishings within 24 to 48 hours. 
-Check for odors. If you have had a leak, the first sign of mold may be musty or moldy odors. If you suspect a mold problem, contact a certified mold inspector instead of sniffing or touching for mold yourself.
-Watch for ground water. Check the exterior of your home regularly to help avoid the accumulation of ground water, which can cause mold. If standing water is found, route the water away using downspouts and take the time to re-grade in order to slope water away from the home.

Helena Talbot's Free iPhone/Android App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App: Text "Exit9" to 87778 or enterhttp://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - Mortgage Rates Retreat

Good news for prospective homebuyers: According to Bankrate.com’s weekly national survey, mortgage rates moved lower after reaching a 4-month high last week, with the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rate retreating to 3.60 percent this week. The average 30-year fixed mortgage has an average of 0.36 discount and origination points. 

As the positive energy generated by the fiscal cliff deal begins to wear off, mortgage rates are now sliding back after a brief run-up to start the year, Bankrate explains. Although recent economic data has been pretty positive, the pace of the decline in bond yields and mortgage rates will likely pick up as nervousness about the debt ceiling debate increases. Mortgage rates are closely related to yields on long-term government bonds.

According to Bankrate, the average 15-year fixed mortgage rate pulled back to 2.89 percent and the larger jumbo 30-year mortgage dropped to 4.04 percent. Adjustable rate mortgages were lower across the board, with the popular 5-year ARM sliding to 2.74 percent and the 7-year ARM sinking to 2.88 percent. 

By the way, the last time mortgage rates were above 5 percent was April 2011. At the time, the average 30-year fixed rate was 5.07 percent, meaning a $200,000 loan would have carried a monthly payment of $1,082.22. With the average rate now 3.60 percent, the monthly payment for the same size loan would be $909.29, a difference of $173 per month for anyone refinancing now. 

I encourage you to move forward with your plans to buy a home while these phenomenal interest rates are still in play. As the economy continues to gradually improve, rates will rise. For a full analysis of this week's move in mortgage rates, you can visit http://www.bankrate.com/mortgagerates.

Helena Talbot's Free iPhone/Android App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App: Text "Exit9" to 87778 or enterhttp://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.
I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - How To Avoid The Temptation To Overprice Your Home

Pricing your home is one of the most important decisions you will have to make once you decide to sell your home and one that could cost you big if you get it wrong.   We know what you are up against.  You want to sell your home for top dollar and you want to sell it fast.   Right?  So how exactly do you go about finding that sweet spot?

We know how tempting it can be to overprice your home.  You want to test the market or ask for a higher amount and then negotiate down, but remember, the market is flooded with competition and if you do any of those things you might just be deterring potential buyers or buyers may perceive you as being a desperate seller and you will continually get low ball offers.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you avoid overpricing your home.

• Research Your Competition.  Have your realtor put together some information about similar homes on the market in your area and the ones that have recently sold and what they sold for.  If you overprice your home, buyers will not want to hassle with it and move on to the next one.  Additionally, home appraisers will use the area comps to determine your homes current value.  So even if you do get a higher offer, the appraiser may find your home is overvalued compared to other nearby homes and this can cause major delays in the mortgage process or you could lose the deal altogether

• Where Are Your Buyers Coming From?  The vast majority of home buyers begin their home search online.  They type in a price range, number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms etc. and if you have overpriced your home then your house will not even be seen by potentially thousands of possible qualified buyers

• Visit The Open Houses Of Your Competitors.  Before you put your home on the market, it might be very helpful to visit some open houses in your area.  See what your buyers will be seeing.  How do they compare to your home?  How are they priced?  Learn what strengths and weaknesses your home has so you can address them in advance.  Doing this is the best way to get a reality check on exactly how to price your home

• Get A Home Inspection Now.  If you are thinking about putting your house on the market you should consider getting a home inspection in advance.   Home buyers always use the home inspection to get you to lower your price.  However, if you learn the issues in advance,  you and your realtor can decide which ones to take care of prior to listing your home so that they will not be an issue with your home buyer.  This could potentially save you thousands of dollars in the long run.  In addition, you can set the price of your home contingent on any needed repairs

Talk to your realtor to help you make the best possible decision for pricing your home.  Your realtor will be more than happy to do all of the leg work for you and provide you will all of the competing information and stats you will need.  When in doubt - go low.  An overpriced home will cause more problems for you in the long run and once the damage is done, it may not be easily reversed.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - How To Qualify For A House If You Are Self Employed

You are all excited because you are ready to buy a house.  We don't blame you.  This is one of the most exciting times in a person's life.   But wait- you are self employed.  How can you possibly qualify for a home loan?

It is true that it is a bit more challenging to qualify for a home loan if you are self employed versus someone that is  working for a regular salary.  However, there is no reason that you should stop yourself from buying a home just because you are self employed.

Here are a few things you can do to help qualify for a loan if you are self employed.

1.  Generally you will need to have been in the same field for two years

2.  You should meet with more than one loan officer before you begin your home search

3.  Be prepared to show your tax returns for the last two to three years

4.  Loan officers realize that many self employed people look worse on paper than they really are due to being able to write off some expenses that salaried people cannot

5.  You should attempt to get a pre-approval letter from your chosen lender and have it state that you are pre-qualified for a loan

6.  Your realtor will attach this letter to any offer you submit on your potential new home

7.  This letter will make your offer more attractive to sellers

8.  Talk to your realtor for helpful tips on additional ways to help you get approved

Being self employed makes it a bit more challenging to qualify for a home loan but it is not impossible.  But you will need to have the proper documentation to prove that you can re-pay the loan without difficulties.  Your realtor will be able to supply you with a list of lenders that specialize in helping self employed people qualify for their new home.

So don't put off your dream of home ownership.  Talk to your realtor today about helping you prepare for this process.   They will be more than happy to supply you with all of the information you will need to qualify in addition to a list of available homes in your area.  The longer you wait, the longer it will be until you are able to get moved into and enjoy your new home.

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. 

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn  www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot

Helena Talbot's blog - The Facts About Financing A Second Home

Buying a second home is very exciting.  This may be a home in the place where you vacation every year, somewhere that you like to  go and relax and enjoy your time off.   Perhaps you are looking for an investment opportunity.  Whatever the case may be, here are some things to consider when it comes time to buy and finance your second home.

• It is a great time to buy a second home - the mortgage rates are low
• If you have a strong credit history you are guaranteed the best rates
• You can use the equity in your current home as a down payment or closing costs
• Lenders are offering some really affordable loan options right now
• Remember, the guidelines for how much you can quality for is based on 28% of your gross income
• If you are a long term homeowner, you may be able to borrow more than you think

A second home as an investment property is a fantastic idea.  If you are looking for a way to save money for your retirement,  this is it.  A second home forces you to put away money every month in the form of a mortgage payment.  When it comes time to retire, you can sell it or use the income, which could be significant if you have it paid off.

Another reason a second home as part of your retirement plan is a good idea is due to the fact that your investment money is subject to less income tax and the interest and taxes may be deductible.   So planning ahead could pay off in a big way.

You must make sure; however, that you have enough money to cover the mortgage payments plus any additional expenses such as repairs, yearly taxes and insurance, if they are not a part of your mortgage payment, and anything else that may arise.  The good news is if you buy the right house at the right price, your rental property should always stay rented.

So if you are able, don't hesitate to call your real estate agent and let them know that you are ready to buy a second home and they will move heaven and earth to help you find a home that fits your needs.  Your realtor has "inside information" if you will, about all types of homes in all types of markets and some that are not even on the market yet.  So take advantage of their wealth of knowledge and the next thing you know you will be vacationing in your second home or enjoying the benefits of all that extra income!

Helena Talbot’s blog – The Facts About Financing A Second Home

Buying a second home is very exciting.  This may be a home in the place where you vacation every year, somewhere that you like to  go and relax and enjoy your time off.   Perhaps you are looking for an investment opportunity.  Whatever the case may be, here are some things to consider when it comes time to buy and finance your second home.

• It is a great time to buy a second home - the mortgage rates are low
• If you have a strong credit history you are guaranteed the best rates
• You can use the equity in your current home as a down payment or closing costs
• Lenders are offering some really affordable loan options right now
• Remember, the guidelines for how much you can quality for is based on 28% of your gross income
• If you are a long term homeowner, you may be able to borrow more than you think

A second home as an investment property is a fantastic idea.  If you are looking for a way to save money for your retirement,  this is it.  A second home forces you to put away money every month in the form of a mortgage payment.  When it comes time to retire, you can sell it or use the income, which could be significant if you have it paid off.

Another reason a second home as part of your retirement plan is a good idea is due to the fact that your investment money is subject to less income tax and the interest and taxes may be deductible.   So planning ahead could pay off in a big way.

You must make sure; however, that you have enough money to cover the mortgage payments plus any additional expenses such as repairs, yearly taxes and insurance, if they are not a part of your mortgage payment, and anything else that may arise.  The good news is if you buy the right house at the right price, your rental property should always stay rented.

So if you are able, don't hesitate to call your real estate agent and let them know that you are ready to buy a second home and they will move heaven and earth to help you find a home that fits your needs.  Your realtor has "inside information" if you will, about all types of homes in all types of markets and some that are not even on the market yet.  So take advantage of their wealth of knowledge and the next thing you know you will be vacationing in your second home or enjoying the benefits of all that extra income!

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods include Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell  703.727.9885    Office  703.574.3800   www.facebook.com/LoudounCountyConnect  www.twitter.com/ExitAshburn www.Linkedin.com/in/HelenaTalbot