Real Estate Blogs

December 8, 2009

Using the Internet to your Advantage when Searching for a Home in

Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., ABR, local Real Estate Expert

As the Internet has evolved, so has real estate advertising and communication. It was not too long ago when you had to go to your Columbus, Ohio real estate agent's office to see pictures in a huge book of homes you would like to view. Nowadays, with the help of the Internet, you can look at prospective homes on your computer and get a good idea of which ones you would like to look at.

My ESSENTIAL Role as Your Real Estate Agent

If you think that you can find a home on the Internet and purchase it without the help of your real estate agent, then think again! A lot of people have tried this method and have run into serious problems. The Internet is a useful tool for real estate, but it in no means takes the place of the real estate agent in purchasing a Columbus and Central Ohio home.

When you see a house in Central Ohio you would like to view, as your real estate agent, I can advise you on whether it really is something you should take the time to see. A house that is really an eyesore can be made to look beautiful in a picture. As your local real estate expert, I will be able to tell you if there are problems with a home that are not evident in the pictures. I will also know how long it has been on the market, whether or not the sellers are anxious to sell, whether it is a “short sale” or bank-owned property, estimate how much the current owners still have outstanding on their mortgage, compare the home to sold comps in the area, and any other vital information you may need to know about the home in question.

Role of the Internet

The Internet should be used as a guide to help cut down the amount of time spent physically looking for Central Ohio houses to view. If used for anything more than this it can become a damaging tool. Trying to purchase a home without a real estate agent can lead you into big trouble. I have the experience to work with you to get the best deal, ask the right questions, write a purchase offer with YOUR protection in mind (NOT the SELLER’s!), and to have any documents processed legally, with your best interests in mind.

When purchasing your home use the Internet and your local real estate agent as they are meant to be used. They are both invaluable tools that will get you the most house, for the least money, in the fastest time possible.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Greater Columbus, Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com “I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

December 8, 2009

Creating a Homebuyer Wish List, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Columbus and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert, Broker Associate RE/MAX Achievers, ABR

Touring homes for sale in Central Ohio can be a confusing process, especially if one is attempting to do this without representation by an experienced real estate agent. There are many great homes for sale. An expert real estate professional, like myself, can not only schedule viewing appointments one after another for their clients, but I will screen through hundreds of properties in the MLS prior to choosing the very BEST of the BEST to spend your valuable time viewing! This series of appointments are groups of homes that fit the buyer’s needs and wants criteria, AND are priced appropriately for the features, location, and condition of the home.

Visiting one home after another is an efficient use of time as well as beneficial to the decision making process. It is easier for buyers to compare properties against each other when they are viewed on the same day. However, viewing several homes on the same day can become a confusing and even overwhelming process. I suggest creating a list such as the one in the example below to help you keep organized while touring potential homes for sale in Columbus and the surrounding communities. If you bring along a digital camera, take a snapshots of the homes that you think will end up on your “short list.” Also, I always advise my buyers to take notes at each home and jot down salient features whether good or bad to later remind you of the details of the home. Believe me, even the most savvy home buyer will begin to confuse the features of each home once you have seen only 4 or 5 homes, let alone more! This tip will help you remember the differences between each house choice, and I follow my own advice and take notes as well.

List 1 - Your Wish List

Make a realistic list of what your ideal home will be. The key word for this list is, “realistic.” If a seaside mansion is not within your budget, don’t include this on the list. Examples of a realistic wish list for the average homebuyer include:

- Single family home
- Attached garage
- Three bedrooms
- 2 bathrooms
- Two-story home, single floor plan
- Walking distance to schools
- Near post office, stores
- Hardwood floors
- Dish washer
- First floor laundry room
- Master bedroom near other bedrooms
- Master bedroom away from other bedrooms
- Color palette

- Presence or absence of a basement

I advise my buyers to separate their wish list items into 2 categories:

Needs and Wants. Obviously the “Wants” may be easier to give up than the “Needs” items when evaluating a home on the tour.

Note: Many items on your wish list may be fairly easy and/or inexpensive to change (minor cosmetics such as wall color or carpeting.) If a home already fits your needs and wants, that is one less item you would need to change and less expense out of your pocket. In the end, if you are torn between two properties, the little details may be what make your decision. As an experienced real estate expert, I have seen many home buyers torn between two properties. The home that comes closest to the buyer’s wish list is the one that they eventually will call home!

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more, please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com “I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!)

December 6, 2009

Five Tips for a Quick Home Sale in the Columbus, Ohio area, by

Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

Regardless of the current market situation, people continue to buy and sell homes in the Greater Columbus, Ohio area. Even in a difficult market, there are things you can do to increase your chance for a quick home sale. In addition to selling your house quicker, many of these tips have been proven to increase the sale price. Ultimately the increase in profit is more than the time and money spent on the projects.

1. Fix Deferred Maintenance
Deferred maintenance is a red flag for homebuyers. A broken door knob to an infrequently used closet may not bother you, the seller, but a buyer thinks differently. The buyer sees this deferred maintenance and wonders what ELSE has not been maintained! Perhaps larger, more important items are in need of repair. A quick trip to the hardware store for a new door knob can erase this concern in a buyer’s mind and protect your asking price. As professional real estate agent, I can go through your home and help you make a list of items to repair before putting your home on the market. Some common fixes are replacing burnt out light bulbs and repair or replace dripping faucets.

2. Paint
Dingy walls and little dings and scratches can have a big impact on the bottom line. A small amount of spackle and some paint will freshen up the interior of the home and invite buyers to make an offer. The amount of time spent in painting will be worth the value added.

3. Eliminate Shabby Items
Replacing or eliminating shabby furniture and accessories is another way to improve the appearance of your home for buyers. It’s never a bad idea to freshen-up curtains, carpets, and pillows.

4. Clean the House
Clean the entire house. Preparing your home for a quick sale requires a little elbow grease. A neat and clean house shows much better than a dirty home or a home with pet odor. One of the quickest ways to lose a potential buyer is with a messy home. This is the time to really clean your home thoroughly. Buyers scrutinize every nook and cranny. Make sure the interior of the range is clean. Clean behind the toilets. Get the cob-webs off of the ceilings, ceiling fans, and doorways.

5. Edit Possessions
Finally, remember the saying, “less is more.” Take down personal art and photographs. De-clutter rooms and closets. If necessary rent a storage unit to store your items while the house is on the market. Think of it not as a chore, but rather as getting a jump start on packing for your new home! I have personally done this when marketing my own home, and it works!

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com “I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

December 5, 2009

Before Closing Advice, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D.,

ABR, SRES, RFS, DRS, Real Estate Expert

House hunting has been a roller coaster ride, but you have finally found your dream home, congratulations!

As a real estate expert in the Columbus, Ohio area, I am often asked what happens during the time in-between finding a house and closing on the house. The answer is two-fold. The first part involves preparing to leave your current residence, and the second part involves preparations to begin your new life in the new house.

Part 1 – Saying Goodbye to Your Current Residence

Pack up your belongings
This is a good time to purge unwanted and unused items. Think of this move as a fresh start. If you won’t use an item in the next year, sell or donate it. Consider having a garage or yard sale.

Cancel Utilities
Notify the utility companies of your move. In some cases the utilities may be transferred from your name to the new owners, rather than having the service shut off. Coordinate this with your real estate agent. Also notify other home delivery services such as the local newspaper of your moving date.

Change of Address
Notify the post office of your change of address. Have your mail forwarded to the new address. Send out change of address cards or notices to friends and family. Contact credit card companies and other business relationships to update your information on file with the new address.

Moving Company
If you will be using the services of a moving company set up the specifics of the move. Will the moving company be packing your possessions as well as moving them? If not, ask for a guide to packing. Most moving companies offer tips on efficient and safe packing.

Part 2 – Getting Ready to Move In

Make Move-In Day Easier
Mark each box to be moved with the room it will be moved to in the new house. Many new homeowners in the Columbus and Central Ohio area use the numbering system. What this means is a big number is put on the door of each room (such as bedroom #1, #2, etc.) and every box to go in that room has that number marked on it. You can code the boxes as well with simple letters, such as “K” for kitchen, or “LV” for living room. This will make the move in day run much smoother.

Register In the Neighborhood
If you have school-age children, register them in the new school district. Also contact the local newspaper and have home delivery arranged to start after the closing date.

Establish Utility Service
Contact the utility companies and arrange to have service started for the day of closing. If seasonal services are required, contact those services as well so when the time comes, they have your information associated with the property. Seasonal services can include anything from septic maintenance and lawn care, to pool opening and closing services. Your real estate professional should supply you with the names of the companies the sellers used.

With everything in place the last piece of action required is gathering the funds for closing. This may include cash or certified checks. Your real estate attorney will inform you a few days before closing of the exact amounts needed for each check. Each closing is unique. Be prepared to show proof of insurance or other documents that will be required. Ask your real estate professional for specific items a few days prior to closing.

www.scarletnrayhomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com . I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!

December 4, 2009

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Builder in the Central Ohio Area, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., local Real Estate Expert, RE/MAX Achievers

Building a home in the Columbus and Central Ohio area is an exciting project for most home buyers. Avoid making some common mistakes by asking yourself the following questions before hiring a builder. Your answers will help you focus on exactly what your expectations are for the project. Another benefit of examining the project from the beginning is to help you determine a realistic budget. Rate your answers in order of importance. This will help you build a new construction home that will best fit your wants and needs.

New Construction Project Questions for the Homeowner:

- What part of the overall project is most important to you?
Some items to consider include budget, quality of construction and materials used, location, and time to complete the project.

- What type or style of home do you want to build?
Some architectural styles are more cost effective than others. If you would like more information about home styles, send me an email at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

- What size home do you want to build?
Consider the number of rooms you would like to have in your new home. List “must have” rooms (such as three bedrooms and two bathrooms) and list “desired” rooms (such as a home office or home theater room.)

- What overall square footage would you like to build?
Overall square footage of a project can be a factor in determining budget and which builder to hire. Some builders only work within a certain size home plan.

- Do you want to build your home in a sub-division, new development or on a private lot?
Often building in a sub-division or new development can be less expensive than building a custom home on a private lot. The reason for this is with sub-divisions and new developments the builder is buying materials in a larger quantity. Another reason for savings is that the builder already has the equipment and crews on-site. A down side to this is you may have to choose between a few pre-determined house floor plans.

- Of all the features a builder offers, which is most important to you?
Some features a builder may offer include on-time delivery, guaranteed price, reputation, credentials, quality materials, and communication.

- Do you want a custom built home or a spec built home?
The answer to this question can affect the budget. AS a local Real Estate Expert, I can help you find a builder that fits your project needs.

- What materials do you want used in the construction of your new home?
Make sure the builder you choose has experience installing any custom or unusual materials. Take advantage of a builder that has experience and connections with the vendors.

- Where do you want to build your new home?
Lot location can increase the cost of the project. Additionally, the typography of the land can affect the cost and ability of the builder to deliver a quality home.

- What size lot do you want to build your new construction home on?
Determining the size of your land may determine whether or not you build in a sub-division or other development. Neighborhood choice is a factor in lot size as well. If you want acres of land you may be limited with the neighborhood choice.

For help choosing a new construction project that suits your budget and lifestyle, contact me, Jeannie Andrews, M.D. of RE/MAX Achievers at 614-668-4400 or email at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus, Ohio real estate as well as all the great surrounding communities such as Powell, Lewis Center, Westerville, Worthington, Hilliard, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grandview, and more. For complete information including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything real estate in the Buckeye State at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Remember, I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

November 30, 2009

Why Buying your Own Central Ohio Home Just Makes Sense, By Jeannie Andrews, M.D., local Real Estate Expert, ABR, SRES, FRS. DRS.

While getting out of the Columbus and Central Ohio rental market may seem like a daunting task, it is a necessary one if you want to secure your financial future and have a stable environment in which to raise your children. Here are a few of the very important benefits of buying a home versus renting.

*****$8,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit!!!!*****

#1 Equity

This may be the most important advantage of purchasing a Central Ohio home that you can truly call your own. Your rent payments are money gone that will never be seen again. When you purchase a home some of the monthly payments will go towards building up equity in your home. At the beginning, a lot of the money will be put towards interest (which is an excellent tax deduction!), but as you continue paying off your home, more and more of it goes towards paying off the principal. This is basically the same as putting money back into your own bank account.

Have I mentioned the First Time Home Buyer’s $8,000 Tax Credit?

#2 Payment Stability

When you are renting in Columbus or any of the other surrounding communities, you need to sign a yearly lease that predictably rises in price each year. With a fixed rate mortgage you will have the security of knowing that your payments will never rise, and you will be able to better plan your future knowing your future monthly costs. It will not take long (and may occur immediately when tax deductions are taken into consideration) before your mortgage payment will be less than a rental payment, and the money that you are paying will be put back in the form of equity into your Central Ohio home.

Have I mentioned the First Time Home Buyer’s $8,000 Tax Credit?

#3 Freedom

Freedom is something we all strive for, and the freedom of owning your own home is incredible! You will have the freedom of choice to decorate or reconstruct your house and make it into the one that you have been dreaming of. You will no longer have to fear a landlord knocking at your door, and you will have certain rights that only a homeowner can have.

Have I mentioned the First Time Home Buyer’s $8,000 Tax Credit?

Buying your own home just makes sense, and when you consider buying versus renting, then buying in Columbus and Central Ohio wins hands down every time!

As a local real estate agent in I can offer you more free information about the Central Ohio real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more. Feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews, M.D., anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be happy to answer them for you! You can visit my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com which offers complete information about “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State.” You can also call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

November 20, 2009

Creating an Urgent Need in a Buyer, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., ABR, SRES, RFS, DRS, Associate Broker, Real Estate Expert in Columbus & Central Ohio

When you are selling your Central Ohio home, keep in mind some basic facts about marketing in general and you will find that your house will sell much quicker than any other house on the market! Selling a home is really no different than selling other tangible goods, except it is a larger purchase: A MUCH LARGER AND MORE FRIGHTENING PURCHASE TO A BUYER!

Create a need

Take a look at your home, decide on the best selling feature it has and then use that for everything it's got. Perhaps it is a view; perhaps it is a pool, or a large room that you have found to be invaluable. Your Real Estate Professional is especially knowledgeable and crucial in this area! Pick out one or two points and then use them for your marketing strategy.

Let the buyers know that they REALLY NEED to have these features in their Central Ohio home and explain why! Buyers make purchases because they NEED and WANT an item, and if you can truly make them understand why they NEED these features you have selected, then you will have buyers willing to make offers on your home in order to obtain these features.

Let's take the example of a view. Perhaps there have been times of stress in your life where you were able to find comfort in the view. This then becomes marketed as a selling feature to busy people that carry a lot of stress. The view now becomes "the tranquil view that relaxes". This can be done on any major feature of your home and can be turned into something that the buyer NEEDS to have in his life.

Quite often the kitchen is a main selling point for the home. How many times have you heard people say that they do not have enough cupboard space or room on the counter? If you have a kitchen with excess room for storage and preparing food, you already have a great selling feature that buyers need. Think about it and use it for all it is worth.

Your real estate agent and you can discuss how you want to promote your home using pre-selected features as a marketing technique. Unless it is something far out, your real estate agent will work with you and help you promote your home the best she can. This is why it is important to get an experienced real estate agent in the local market that you feel you can work with right at the beginning. You will be able to make a great sale together, and then you will be able to further recommend her to your friends and family!

If you need more free information about selling, buying or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews, M.D. at 614-668-4400 or by email at jandrews@columbus.rr.com For complete information about the Columbus and Central Ohio real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more, please visit the most complete online website dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” www.scarletnrayhomes.com .

November 16, 2009

Emotional Selling - Striking the Right Chord in the Buyer, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Columbus and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

When you are selling your Central Ohio urban or suburban home it is critical to try to reach the buyer at an emotional level. Many home sales are based on an emotional feeling towards the property, and putting some effort towards making your home feel warm and inviting is worth your time. You will probably see your home sell much quicker with just a few efforts to connect with the buyer emotionally!

Plants

Plans can stimulate deep feelings in most individuals, so it is a good idea to have them available in your home and placed in strategic positions. Of course, you want your plants to be healthy and well maintained. A plant that is wilting and dying will have the exact opposite effect upon potential buyers, but a lively plant will touch them. They will have a warmer feeling towards your home and they will most often not even be aware of why they feel that way. Be careful, however, not to overdo the plants to the point of distracting from the other appealing features of your home.

Don't be afraid to put some plants outside as well. This will definitely improve the curb appeal of your Central Ohio home. If you have a bare front porch you may want to consider buying a nice plant to set near the doorway. It is these little touches that help sell your home faster!

Animals

This can be a very touchy subject! A lot of people get a warm fuzzy feeling from animals, but a lot of people do not like certain kinds of animals, and will not even consider buying a home if they know that this kind of animal has been living there. Although you love your pets, it is best to keep them (and any odors, hair, or litter boxes) out of your home when you are doing viewings.

On the other hand, cute animal pictures and portraits can have a positive effect on your viewers. It is quite different to have a picture of an animal than the real thing. Having some heartwarming animal pictures hanging on the walls can create an atmosphere of warmth in the home.

Although subtle, these points can affect your prospective buyers without them even being aware of it! Take some time to improve the emotional quality of your Columbus, Ohio home as you are taking the time to improve its physical properties and you are setting yourself up for a very quick sale.

As a local real estate agent in the Columbus and Central Ohio area, I can offer you more free information about the local real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more. Feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews, M.D., anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be happy to answer them for you! You can visit my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com which offers complete information about the Central Ohio real estate

November 12, 2009

Ranch and Split Level Style Homes in Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Associate Broker, RE/MAX Achievers, ABR, SRES, RFS.

The modern style of home design in the United States flourished after World War II. Although many styles are considered “modern,” two styles were the most popular. The most recognizable and perhaps the most popular is the ranch style. An off-shoot design of the ranch style is the split level house. There are many examples of ranch and split level homes for sale in Columbus, Ohio and surrounding communities today. Ranch homes give a feeling of sprawling out due to the one story architecture they have. This style evolved in part, thanks to the invention of the automobile. Families no longer had to rely on walking to work, the store, or other activities. Communities soon spread out. After World War II this style seemed to explode. Prosperity was seen as owning a large house on more land than ever before. Since the car was so important to this new lifestyle, this type of home incorporated a built-in garage.

Other key design elements with ranch homes are big picture windows and a low-pitched roof. You will see three common types of roof lines with ranch homes. A hipped roof is most common. However, cross-gabled and side-gabled roof styles are also seen. Eaves are seen on these homes with a wide or sometimes moderate overhang. The materials used for the exterior of these homes include wood and brick. To give some detail to an otherwise simplified exterior, builders and architects incorporated fancy ironwork for the porch supporting beams. Another splash of detail used was decorative shutters.

The split level style of modern architecture evolved from the earlier ranch style. Designers kept the best parts of the ranch style, and made changes to the rest of the design to make it more suitable for the modern family. The roof and eaves did not change. The big change was in the concept of how people lived inside. The idea was that people needed different areas within the home to perform different activities such as sleeping, quiet activities, and noisy activities. Each activity was grouped on a different level. Loud activities such as playing and watching TV, as well as garage activities were kept on the lower level. Rooms for quiet activities such as the dining room and living room were on the main level. The bedrooms were in another area of the home. It is important to note that these homes stagger the levels. They are not the same as a traditional two or three story home. This style of building differs from a traditional multi-story home in that there are fewer stairs to get to each level.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate whether you are interested in Columbus proper, or any of the fantastic surrounding communi9ties such as Powell, Worthington, Lewis Center, Westerville, Dublin, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, Grandview etc. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions, and I will be glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com . I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

November 8, 2009

Real Property or Personal Property? by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Columbus and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

The difference between real property and personal property may seem obvious – until closing day. As a professional real estate agent in the Columbus, Ohio area, I have seen many misunderstandings come about unnecessarily. An easy way to avoid problems at closing is to have a clear understanding of what stays with the house in writing. Negotiating every detail is vital to the success of a purchase and sale.

Real property consists of everything that is permanent including the house, the land, and permanently affixed items. Examples of permanent items are hard wired lighting fixtures and nailed down wall-to-wall carpeting. Examples of personal property are furniture pieces, dishes, and towels. Some items such as certain appliances, fall into a gray area and may be considered either real or personal property. In order to avoid misunderstandings at closing, make sure your purchase offer specifically lists any appliances or other items that are to remain with the house.

An item can become real property when negotiated as part of the sales contract. This has become common in the Central Ohio area especially with so many custom kitchen renovations taken place. For example, if a particular appliance fits perfectly within a space, the buyers would want that appliance to remain. The sales contract insures that appliance will remain in the home if negotiated as such. Visit www.scarletnrayhomes.com for examples of houses for sale in the Columbus and all the surrounding communities.

The bottom line is that it is better to list any items that you want to remain with the house in the sales contract, rather than to assume they will be there when you close. Take note of any item that you assume is part of the real property and ask your real estate professional if that item is part of the contract. If it is not, consider negotiating a clause for it. Ask if the curtains and rugs stay with the house. As a general rule, anything permanently attached to the house is part of the real property; don’t leave it to chance. If you need a real estate expert please contact me, Jeannie Andrews, at 614-668-4400 or email at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com . I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

November 4, 2009

Sell Your Home for Maximum Profit with Tricks the Home Stagers Use, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

Professional home stagers incorporate interior design principles to transform your home into a warm and beautiful showplace. Home stagers sell more than property – they sell a lifestyle. Their goal is to create an atmosphere with emotional appeal. You want the buyer to imagine their family living in the home.

Below are some tricks the professional home stagers use to make your home more desirable than the competition. If you want to hire a professional home stager, contact me, Jeannie Andrews, Associate Broker for RE/MAX Achievers, for a referral. I can be reached at 614-668-4400 or e-mail at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

Remove clutter from your home. Think, “less is more” and store or get rid of anything you haven’t used in three months or more.

Remove personal items from the buyer’s eye. Think of it as getting a head start on packing. Put away framed photos of relatives and other family related items.

Put items through the “stranger test.” Ask yourself if a stranger would be interested or use this item. If the answer is no, pack it away.

Make sure your furniture is arranged logically and that there is plenty of room to walk around.

Create a vignette. Simply group s few small pieces of furniture together to make a unified grouping.

Display your best accessories in odd numbered groupings. Keep the number of items to 1, 3 or 5 pieces.

Keep your fabrics neutral. If curtains and bedspreads are too bold to appeal to the masses, consider replacing them with a more neutral alternative.

Clear off surfaces, especially in the kitchen. Put out a fruit bowl or other colorful accessory, but don’t overdo it. Keep the counters clean and clutter-free.

Make your kitchen cabinets shine like new with a little orange oil. Consider changing out old cabinet hardware with updated knobs and pulls.

Clear off the refrigerator. Remove magnets and children’s art. Nothing should be attached to the refrigerator.

Spruce up your bathrooms. Set out a basket with a few rolled up towels and fancy bath products. Leave out a dish containing a few fancy soaps.

Don’t forget the outside of your home. In order to get the buyer into your home you need to have an inviting yard and front entrance. Make sure the lawn is mowed and the front entrance is clean. Get rid of weeds and webs. Display a few potted plants and flowers in the front yard.

The back yard should look like you are about to have guests over. Consider creating an outdoor eating area with a picnic table. Set the table with colorful outdoor dishes.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in the greater Columbus, Ohio real estate market. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhonmes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”
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November 1, 2009

Victorian Style Homes in Columbus, Ohio by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

The Victorian style of architecture is made up of many sub-categories. Three of the more popular styles are the Queen Anne, Shingle, and Stick. The Queen Anne style is perhaps the most recognizable and most often associated with the Victorian style of architecture. Homes designed from this period are elaborate and decorative.

It is fairly easy to recognize a Queen Anne style home in the Columbus, Ohio area. First look for fanciful detailing on the exterior of the home. The outside coverings incorporate different styles and patterns such as what is called gingerbread. Another popular exterior pattern is called fish scale. Another tell-tale sign is the use of eclectic materials. Queen Anne homes are creative and have towers, wings, porches, balconies, and are usually several stories high.

Shingle style homes have wide porches. The exterior of the home is of course, constructed with shingles. They are similar to the Queen Anne style of architecture in that the homes are asymmetrical. However, there is much less ornamentation with shingle style architecture. This style originates in the Northeast, which might account for the sharply pitched roof line.

The stick style of architecture is similar to the Queen Anne and the shingle styles of Victorian homes. Stick homes blend parts from the shingle style and the Queen Anne style to create a new look. The roof line is steep. Gables will be seen on stick style home roofs. The roof line overhangs beyond the house. Although this style uses shingles as an exterior covering, it also incorporates stickwork. The stickwork separates this style from the other Victorian styles of architecture. It is this stickwork (boards) that gives this style its name. The typical stick style of home is found in the Northeast. Another style of stick architecture can be found out west, especially in California.

Victorian architecture can range from simple to elaborate. If you would like more information about Victorian or other style homes in the Columbus, Ohio] area please contact me, Jeannie Andrews, M.D. at 614-668-4400 or email at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything real estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

October 23, 2009

Finding the Perfect Neighborhood in Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, Real Estate Expert, ABR, SRES, RFS, DRS.

There is nothing more important when you are looking for the perfect home in the Columbus, Ohio area than to find the right neighborhood. Although it is common to hear the phrase, “location, location location” when discussing real estate, it is very common for the neighborhood to be a secondary consideration and the home a priority. This can turn out to be very problematic in the long run, and should be addressed right at the beginning of your Central Ohio house hunting efforts.

Here are a few things you should consider when deciding on a new neighborhood in the Greater Columbus, Ohio area:

#1 – Does it have a school nearby?

Nowadays this is a very important consideration when you have children. If you are concerned about their safety if they have to walk a fair distance to get to school then you should look for a neighborhood with one or more schools situated close to the home.

#2 - Is it a safe neighborhood?

Sometimes looks can be very deceiving. It is quite common to find a beautiful residential neighborhood that has been targeted for theft by local criminals. Your real estate agent can let you know how to get access to criminal statistics for different neighborhoods in Columbus, Ohio and the surrounding communities.

#3 - Is there a community center in the area?

Most neighborhoods in Central Ohio do have a community center in the area, but some do not. In addition, some neighborhoods are very large and the community center can be located at the other end of it.

#4 - Is there a local place of worship?

Depending on your religious affiliation you could find yourself driving to the other end of the city to get to a place of worship. If you have close ties with your place of worship, you may want to consider staying close to it.

#5 - Is there convenient shopping close by?

If you are like most people these days you probably find yourself running out to purchase necessities quite frequently. You should make sure that the shopping nearby offers the kind of shopping you are accustomed to.

These are a few of the most important things you should consider when looking at different neighborhoods in Columbus, Ohio and its surrounding communities. I always advise my clients to also put together their own list of what they would like to find in the area. We then sit down with that list and prioritize so that we will be able to properly acquaint them with the neighborhoods in Central Ohio that will suit their needs.

As an expert in the local real estate market, I can offer you more free information about the Columbus and Central Ohio real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more. Feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews, M.D., anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be happy to answer them for you. You can visit my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com which offers complete information about “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State.” You can also call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com . “I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

October 20, 2009

Home Warranty Facts, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D.,

Central Ohio’s Leading Real Estate Expert

A Home Warranty is like an insurance policy that benefits both the buyer and seller of a home.

It is common for sellers in the Columbyus, Ohio area to purchase a home warranty. Sometimes the real estate agent or the buyer will buy the warranty. No matter which party purchases the warranty, all of the parties involved benefit from this fantastic cost-effective tool.

A home warranty is unique in the fact that different individuals can make a claim against the policy. If a problem occurs prior to the sale of the home, the seller benefits from the warranty. If a claim is made after the sale, (usually up to one year) the buyer benefits from the same warranty. Most homes for sale in the Columbus, Ohio area offer a home warranty.

A home warranty offers security and peace of mind for the buyer. If a covered item needs repair or replacement during the coverage period, the warranty company will take care of it. Buying a home can be a financial burden. A buyer will have confidence to purchase a home knowing if certain items break or need repair within the first year, they will be covered. The buyer will have added confidence to purchase the home. This fact helps the seller because statistics show buyers are more likely to purchase a home with a home warranty.

The benefits for the seller to offer a home warranty are great. Statistics show homes with a warranty sell faster and for a higher sale price. The cost of the home warranty is negligible when compared to the benefits of selling a home quicker. Yet another benefit to the seller is that if something should go wrong with a covered item or system during the time the home is on the market, it will be repaired or replaced through the warranty.

Don’t let the lack of a home warranty stop you from purchasing the home of your dreams. Home warranties are available for purchase by the homebuyer as well, but it is very unususal (and unwise) for a seller to refuse to pay for a home warranty if the buyer requests it in the purchase offer. Ask your real estate professional for more information about home warranty programs in the Columbus, Ohio area.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values, and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com . “I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”
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October 17, 2009

The Best way to Start Searching for a Home in Columbus, Ohio by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., ABR, Real Estate Expert in Central Ohio.

The best way of starting your search for a home in Columbus and Central Ohio is by contacting an experienced and qualified real estate agent in the area. It is so easy to get sidetracked by real estate sites that show beautiful pictures and make every home look like a palace. You can easily become convinced that a particular home is right for you by merely seeing some pictures of it, when in reality the house is in shambles, or has underlying structural issues that cause a major problem.

A real estate agent in the Columbus, Ohio area can share with you the latest homes that are in your current price range and offer the best value for your money. They may have been in many of the homes that are shown in these lovely pictures and can tell you quite honestly what these homes really look like inside.

Knowledgeable real estate agents also know what kind of price range you can expect in different locations around the Greater Columbus, Ohio area. The same house that costs $300,000 in one area can go for $350,000 to $400,000 at the other end of the city. While you may not be able to take this into account because you do not know the different markets around the city, rest assured that your real estate agent does. She/He can let you know if the asking price of the house is a reflection of its true market value. ****In today’s market, if time is of the essence in finding a new home, your real estate professional will also have access to sale conditions for each home that might affect the timeliness of an actual closing: e.g short sale. Don’t expect to close that one in 30 to 60 days!

You can waste a lot of time and energy looking for a house on your own. Using the services of a good real estate agent in Columbus and the surrounding communities will save you a lot of time and frustration. The agent will take into account everything you have told her about your desired home and guide you through homes that are in your price range, in a good location, and have all or most of the features you require in a home.

Remember that real estate agents in are in business to service you, and if they are not able to do that properly they will make no income. Use their knowledge and guidance to help you find the best home in Columbus and Central Ohio that you possibly can. As an experienced local real estate expert, I can offer my expertise and services to you anywhere in the Central Ohio area, whether it is in Columbus proper or any of the other surrounding communities such as Dublin, Westerville, Powell, Worthington, Lewis Center, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, Gahanna, Grandview, Grove City, and other Franklin & Delaware County areas.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus, Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com. I’m the doctor Who Loves House Calls!

October 14, 2009

Creating Curb Appeal – A Checklist, by Jeannie Andrews, Columbus, Ohio Real Estate Expert

Curb appeal is a vital part of successfully selling your house in the Columbus and Central Ohio area. The exterior of a house and its surrounding property is a visual invitation to the buyer to enter the home. If your curb appeal is not inviting, potential buyers may not even walk in the front door to see all of what your home has to offer. I have compiled for my clients a curb appeal checklist similar to the one listed below. The checklist is meant as a guide to help homeowners focus on areas that will attract buyers to view the interior of the home.

More information about preparing your home for sale in the Columbus, Ohio can be found on my personal website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com or by calling me directly at 614-668-4400.

Curb Appeal Checklist:

Lawn Care
-     mow lawn
-     remove weeds
-     rake and remove yard waste

Plants and Shrubs
-     trim
-     remove weeds
-     rake and remove yard waste
-     perennial plants add interest and value to a property
-     annual flowers add a punch of color to the yard

Trees
-     trim branches as necessary
-     consider having damaged or dead trees removed

Fences
-     inspect for damage
-     repair as necessary
-     paint if needed

Mailbox
-     check condition, repair or replace if necessary
-     secure in the ground
-     check for plumb

Driveways
-     safe
-     clean
-     repair cracks
-     consider seal-coating if appropriate

Garage
-     keep organized
-     keep swept
-     consider painting interior walls

Tools and Toys
-     keep in good working condition
-     keep stored in proper place
-     put bicycles and outdoor toys away when not in use

Lighting
-     clean outside fixtures
-     replace burnt exterior bulbs

Exterior Home Features
-     inspect trim and shutters – clean, repair, replace as necessary
-     gutters – clean, repair, replace as necessary
-     Polish metal items such as brass or chrome accents

Porches and Patios
-     inspect and make necessary repairs
-     clean cobwebs, paint as necessary

Real estate agents are experts with selling homes. They have experience with curb appeal and can help you present your home in the best possible way to achieve a sale in the Central Ohio area. If you would like to discuss the status of your home’s curb appeal, send me an email to jandrews@columbus.rr.com or feel free to call me on my cell at 614-668-4400.

October 9, 2009

Understanding Floor Plans and Traffic Flow When House Hunting

by Jeannie Andrews, M.D.,

Columbus,Ohio Real Estate Expert & Accredited Buyer’s Representative

A well designed floor plan can sell a house according to recent trends in the Central Ohio area. Buyers have a lot of options in today’s market, and want to get the most for their money. A perceptive buyer will scrutinize each potential house for items such as traffic patterns and overall flow of the floor design. He or she will imagine living in the house as they walk through and make note of how well the floor plan fits their personal lifestyle.

As a Professional real estate agent I recommend all buyers take notice of a home's functionality from the moment they arrive at each property. Imagine walking into the home. How will you enter? Will you enter the house through the front door, side door, or perhaps the garage? What are your current habits upon entry? If you are accustomed to placing your keys, purse, briefcase, or shoes down as soon as you enter the home, is there a place for this ritual in this house?

A tip I recommend to buyers is to imagine bringing packages or groceries into the home. Notice where you would park and what is the distance is to the kitchen. Are there steps? Is there enough counter space to place the packages down near the cabinets and refrigerator?

There are no right or wrong answers. Floor plans and traffic patterns differ because homeowners differ. Find a floor plan that fits with your lifestyle.

Buyers with children may want to pay special attention to the layout of the bedrooms, hallways, closets, and bathrooms. Noise can be a big issue with growing families. A floor plan that places hallways, linen closets, and bathrooms between bedrooms creates a great noise buffer zone.

Finally, take note of where the living room fits into the floor plan. Are there rooms on either side, or is it at the end of the house? The answer can make the difference between the living room becoming an active pass-through, or a a quiet relaxing retreat.

A great floor plan has a traffic pattern and flow that meets the needs and lifestyle of the homeowner.

For more information about floor plans, traffic patterns, and finding a great house in the Columbus and Central Ohio area, or for more free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in local real estate, please visit the most complete website on line dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them! Call me, Jeannie Andrews, on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

October 5, 2009

The Role of the Real Estate Agent when Selling a Home in Columbus, Ohio by Jeannie Andrews, M.D. Real Estate Expert in Central Ohio

Do you really need a real estate agent to help you sell your home? After all, other people are doing it themselves, so why can't you? Well, the truth is that most of the people that are selling their homes in Columbus and Central Ohio on their own are losing out on a lot of potential money, sometimes tens of thousands of dollars, by not having the guidance and of an experienced real estate agent within arm's reach. When you look at the commission your real estate agent will make, versus the profit you can lose, hiring a qualified agent to assist with your sale is a no-brainer. They have been working on behalf of other clients for many years and know from experience what works and what doesn’t when dealing with property sales.

Professional real estate agents are top-notch negotiators that use their expertise to negotiate the best deal possible on your behalf. Using a qualified agent such as I puts you in the best position when negotiating for the best possible offer on your Central Ohio home, whether your home is located in Columbus or one of the surrounding communities such as Dublin, Worthington, Powell, Westerville, Hilliard, or any of the other great communities around the Columbus, Ohio area.

Agents also know the tricks of the trades that get homes in Columbus, Ohio to sell quickly and for higher amounts. It is possible for my partner and I to come into your home and make a few suggestions that can add up to thousands of dollars in your pocket when the sale is complete.

There are also things that we can point out that can save you a lot of money. Sometimes certain repairs or remodels are put into the home, and they may not really raise the value of the Central Ohio property significantly. As with anything, using an experienced advisor can save you time and money in the end. Use us, your real estate experts, for all we are worth, and make more money on your home!

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the Columbus, Ohio area real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “everything real estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayshomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com . I’m the Doctor Who Loves House Calls!

September 28,2009

Questions to Ask Your Agent when Selling Your Home in Central Ohio by Jeannie Andrews, M.D.,Real Estate Expert in the Greater Columbus Area

If you are planning on selling your Central Ohio home, here are a few simple questions you can ask your agent. These questions will help you establish rapport and a confidence in your real estate professional right from the start.

#1 Will the home be listed in the MLS?

You definitely want to have your home listed there because this makes your home viewable by every agent in the Central Ohio area. This will get more buyers actually looking at your home, which will lead to a much quicker sale. Being in the MLS is a must when you are selling your Central Ohio property whether it is located in Worthington, Westerville, Powell, Hilliard, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grandview, Clintonville, or any of the other great surrounding communities, especially in today’s market!

#2 Does your local agent typically list homes?

There are different kinds of agents belonging to the Columbus Board of Realtors. When an agent begins working in the housing market he/she may often prefer either representing homeowners that are selling, or prefer to only work with people that are buying. There are some agents that do an equal amount of both buying and selling, and they can be highly specialized in both areas. Find a great Central Ohio agent and find out what kind of real estate transactions he/she has done in the past.

#3 Find out what kind of marketing he plans to do.

The sign goes up, an open house is scheduled. What more is there to do? Plenty! Your chosen agent has a lot of work he must do behind the scenes to ensure that you get a timely sale and the best price. Ask him/her what kind of marketing he/she plans to do for your Central Ohio home, and what you can possibly do to help sell the home more easily. Today’s successful listing agents will utilize the most modern & effective means of marketing your home such as MLS, company websites, personal web site (does your agent have one?... it will more than double the exposure of your home!), email flyers, postcards, blogs, Twitter, etc. The days of advertising in throw away magazines are over.

These are just a few questions you should ask your agent. You should feel comfortable enough working with him to ask anything you feel you need to know. Your agent should take the time to make sure that you are satisfied with the answers. A good open relationship between you and your real estate professional will set the stage for a smooth transaction during the final sale.

As a local real estate agent in the Columbus and Central Ohio area, I can offer you more free information about the local real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more. Feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews, anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be happy to answer them for you. You can visit my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com which offers complete information about real estate in the Buckeye
State. You can also call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .

September 22, 2009

Understanding The Earning Money Deposit, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Columbus and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

Once a purchase price has been established on a house sale, the next question becomes, “How much of a deposit should I give?” Individual real estate agents and brokers in the Columbus, Ohio area may each have a different answer, but follow the same general guidelines.

The point of leaving a deposit with an offer to purchase a property is to let the sellers know you are serious or “earnest” about your offer. That is why it is referred to as “earnest money.” If a potential buyer did not leave any money with an offer they would not have any risk involved. Money offered with the offer to purchase tells the sellers the buyer is serious about the offer. There is risk involved for both parties. In the Central Ohio area it is common for buyers to leave a deposit of between one and five percent of the purchase price. It is my opinion that,under certain conditions, a larger deposit is wise. For example, if the purchase offer is weak, or if there are several offers competing against each other, a larger deposit may sway the sellers towards the buyer’s offer. However, normally, the lower deposit is sufficient.

There are some risks when giving a deposit with a purchase offer. However, these risks have been minimized through strict regulations by the state of Ohio. Although the deposit “belongs” to the seller, it is held by either the real estate company or an escrow company until closing. If the deal falls through it is easier to get the deposit back to the correct party. In some cases that would be the buyer and in other cases it would be the seller. In order to protect your interest it is best to use a professional real estate agent or broker in the Columbus and Central Ohio area. There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com .
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September 14, 2009

Handling the Heartache of Selling your Home in Columbus, Ohio by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., ABR, SRES, RFS, DRS, an Experienced Expert in the Central Ohio Real Estate Market

It is time to sell your home, and you know that you will be leaving memories behind. On top of the stress of moving, you must also deal with the sorrow of saying a final goodbye to the Central Ohio house you had grown to love as a home. Here are a few tips to help you deal with these emotions and move forward.

Tip#1 View your Columbus, Ohio home as a marketable commodity

Hard as it may seem to realize, you are putting a tangible object up for sale. The people that come in to view your home in Columbus and surrounding communities are not viewing the memories that you hold; they are looking at the house and the potential it holds for them as a home. Try to take their point of view when selling your home and try to see what they are looking at. This will help you deal with any sadness you may be feeling.

Tip#2 Take pictures – plenty of them

Take some time to walk around your house and take some pictures of anything you have become attached to in the home and that you will be leaving behind. Maybe it is a growing chart you kept as your children were growing, with nicks on the wall. It can be anything that is associated with a positive feeling that you will miss. You may find that some of the pain of leaving dissipates when you take pictures that you can bring with you to your new home.

Tip#3 Leave the past by focusing on the future

The more attention you give to the immediate present and future, the less time you will have to think of the past. Look at all of the pleasant things you have to look forward to in the future. You are embarking on a new housing experience in Central Ohio that will begin a new string of memories. Focus on the future as much as you possibly can.

Try these tips when it hurts to part with your Columbus, Ohio home. They can really help you deal with it.

If you need more free information about selling, buying or investing in local real estate feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews. For complete information about the Central Ohio real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more, please visit the most complete online website dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. Do not hesitate to contact me anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be happy to answer them for you. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com. I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

September 13, 2009

Is a Condo in Central Ohio Right for You? – By Greater Columbus, Ohio Real Estate Expert Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Realtor, ABR, SRES, DRS, RFS

There are some great stories from people that have bought a Columbus area condo and settled down in it. While some people will tell you that it is not as good as owning your own home, others insist that a condo is the best thing they ever bought into. Here are a few points to think about if you are considering buying a condo in the Columbus, Ohio area.

Community spirit

You will be part of a community when you purchase a condo: a part of a group that has the purpose of keeping their living area up to a certain standard. In most cases you’ll be part of a Condo Association and have to pay fees to keep the area clean and upgraded, but this is just money you would have had to otherwise spend on lawn maintenance and other forms of upkeep.

Condo Association

A condo association sets basic rules for the members that are enforced by the members. This can mean problems only if you disagree with any of them. A condo association works great for people that have thoroughly read through the expectations of that association and agrees with them. Usually the only time something goes wrong is when the condo owner has not reviewed the documents, or has misunderstood something. If there is total understanding about the rules and bylaws, then a condo association can be simply wonderful. It takes all the worry and stress out of owning a Central Ohio property since all of the maintenance will be taken care of for you. If you are considering getting a condo in Columbus, Ohio or any of its outstanding surrounding communities, just make sure that you read all of the paperwork carefully and have a full understanding of them. The provision of these documents to you by the seller for your review should always be included as a contingency of the purchase contract.

Investment

As the population ages, condos in the Columbus, Ohio area are becoming increasingly popular. They are a good step back from home ownership for older people that still want ownership of a Central Ohio property without all the hassles of maintenance. For this reason, condo prices have had steady increases in the market during good economic periods. Indeed, many investors are only putting their money into Columbus,Ohio condos because they are looking ahead to the future and where the housing market is heading.

Condos are a great buy at this time, and whether you are looking at one for an income opportunity or a place to live, Columbus, Ohio condos offer something for everybody.

As a local real estate agent in Columbus, Ohio and its surrounding communities, I can offer you more free information about the local real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more. Feel free to contact me, Jeannie Andrews,anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions, and I will be happy to answer them for you. You can visit my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com which offers “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State”. You can also call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com. I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

September 5, 2009

5 Useful Tips for Selling a Columbus and Central Ohio Home Quickly, by Real Estate Specialist Jeannie Andrews, M.D., ABR, Real Estate Broker

Most first-time sellers in the Columbus, Ohio area may not be aware of the basic principles of selling a home fast. While your real estate agent will brief you on these tips, it is a good idea to look them over again so that you are always prepared for a viewing.

#1 - Make your home welcoming

First Impressions are lasting. The yard and exterior of your home wil make the difference as to whether the Buyer even steps into your home! This is a business transaction, and the better the buyer feels about stepping into the home the more chance there is that he will consider it for a purchase.

#2 - Keep it clean

This may seem quite obvious, but as time goes by and the house hasn't sold, you need to remember on a daily basis to keep it as clean as possible. It can be quite difficult if you have little children running around the house, but do your best. You may want to hire a maid service in the Columbus, Ohio area to come on a weekly basis to keep your house shiny while you are in the midst of selling. One handy hint: During a showing,your washer and dryer are great places to store those items that tend to clutter up floors and countertops!

#3 – Keep it smelling fresh

Try to keep your house smelling fresh. You may want to burn some pot pourri, which emits a soft subtle fragrance into the air. You can do this at various times during the day so that you are always ready for a surprise viewing. Don’t go overboard with room deodorizers! Nothing turns off a buyer more than a strong smell of deodorizer trying to hide the pet odor in the home!

#4 - Keep your house tidy.

Always remember to pick up things as you use them especially while your Central Ohio home is on the market. It only takes a few things out of order to make the house seem messy.

#5 - Be honest

Even a freshly built home will have minor problems associated with it, and viewers expect your Columbus, Ohio area home to have had a few minor problems as well. The Residential Property Disclosure allows you to disclose previous issues, what was done to repair the problem, and state that there is not an ongoing issue. Buyers will appreciate your honesty.

These five tips can help you sell your Greater Columbus, Ohio area home much more quickly. Although they are quite simple and basic, you might be surprised at just how often they are overlooked by the seller.

If you need more free information about selling, buying or investing in Central Ohio real estate feel free to contact me. For complete information about the Columbus, Ohio and surround communities real estate market, including the most recent homes for sale, current property values and more, please visit the most complete online website dedicated to “Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State” at www.scarletnrayhomes.com Do not hesitate to contact me anytime with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be happy to answer your them for you. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com. I’m the “Doctor Who Loves House Calls!”

August 12, 2009

When Buying a Home in Columbus, Ohio Is a Great Idea by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Central Ohio Real Estate Specialist

$8,000 TAX CREDIT, $8,000 TAX CREDIT, $8,000 TAX CREDIT..need I say more? Probably not, but I will!

During these economic times, there is the common debate of whether or not buying a home is a good idea. Many people spend years of their life paying rent on an apartment, and they hear whisperings about how buying a home is probably a much better investment. However, these people somehow remain unsure of whether or not it really is a good idea to buy a home. Well, here is when buying a home in Columbus, Ohio and its surrounding communities is a great idea, plain and simple.

The only other option to buying is renting, and while renting may be convenient, it certainly is not the best investment for your hard earned money. Actually it isn't an investment at all. You will never see that money you are giving your landlord ever again. However, since as an owner, you will eventually sell your home in Central Ohio, you will make some of that hard-earned money of yours back. You may even make more money than you imagined from selling your home in in the Greater Columbus, Ohio area!

Furthermore, when living in an apartment, you are very limited to the improvements you can make on the home. Sure, some landlords say that you can paint the walls or add in some carpet of your own, but in the end, you will be moving out and all of that work you did will be there just benefiting the landlord.

So when you rent, you often lose both your hard earned money and any work you plan on putting into the apartment. Furthermore, oftentimes, the landlord is looking out for his or her best interests. That means he or she may not try to make as many improvements on the place as you would like. Improvements can get expensive, and the landlord is always on a budget that suits his or her interests, not yours.

A rental space is usually smaller than the amount of space you would have in your own home. A rental property is made to fit in a lot of renters so that the landlord can make a lot of capital. Therefore, apartments may be a bit small.

However, in a home in Columbus and CEntral Ohio, you usually have more space, and you can do whatever you want with all of it. You can get creative and paint the walls nice colors or you can buy all kinds of neat furniture. There is really no limit to how comfortable and beautiful you can make your home if you own it!

So when is buying a home in the GreaterColumbus, Ohio area a great idea? Anytime, especially now! Owning a home is better than renting for all kinds of reasons. For more information, you can visit the my personal website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. It offers "Everything Real Estate in the Buckeye State!" I welcome you to contact me on my cell phone at 614-668-4400 at any time, or you may contact me by email at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

I'm the "Doctor Who Loves House Calls!"

August 7, 2009

The Role of the Real Estate Agent when Selling a Home in Columbus and Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D.,
Real Estate Expert, Associate Broker, RE/MAX Achievers

When you look at the commission your real estate agent will make, versus the profit you can lose, hiring a qualified agent to assist with your sale is a no-brainer. They have been working on behalf of other clients for many years and know from experience what works and what doesn’t when dealing with property sales.

Professional real estate agents are top-notch negotiators that use their expertise to negotiate the best deal possible on your behalf. Using a qualified local agent puts you in the best position when negotiating for the best possible offer on your Central Ohio home.

Agents also know the tricks of the trades that get homes in the Buckeye State to sell quickly, and for higher amounts. It is possible for one of these Central Ohio professional agents to come into your home and make a few suggestions that can add up to thousands of dollars in your pocket when the sale is complete.

There are also things that he can point out that can save you a lot of money. Sometimes repairs and paint jobs are put into the home that do not really raise the value of the property significantly. As with anything, using an experienced advisor can save you time and money in the end. Use your experienced real estate agent for all she is worth and make more money on your home.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to "Everything real estate in the Buckeye State" at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400, or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

August 6, 2009

How to Find the Top Real Estate Agent For Buying a Home in Columbus and Central Ohio by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., local Real Estate Expert

Buying a home can be a very daunting process. Let's face it. This will be one of the biggest decisions you will ever face in your life, and you don't want to take this decision too lightly. There's no doubt that you will be very satisfied with your home in the Columbus, Ohio area, but will you pick the top agent to work with you in finding your home? Here is what to look for when trying to find an agent who is at the top of their game.

One of the easiest ways to know if a real estate agent in the Central Ohio real estate market is a good fit for you is to interview the agent. There all kinds of questions you can ask to get key information.

What you find out will reveal to you whether or not the agent is right for you. During your interview, you want to know if the agent is licensed and if so, for how long. You may want to inquire if the agent has received any rewards or recognition for his or her skills. Does the agent have a particular marketing plan or strategy in place for you? What will the agent charge you for his or her services? Is the agent able to provide you with any sort of references? You may even want to ask the agent what separates him or her from the competition.

You may also want to pay attention to how knowledgeable the agent is about the Greater Columbus real estate market and whether or not it truly seems that the agent is working towards your best interests rather than solely the interests of the sellers of the home.

The interview should reveal that the agent understands your needs and is accessible. Can your agent be reached by both phone and email? Do his or her office hours fit in with your schedule? If the agent's answers to all of the above questions are suitable for you, you have found your top real estate agent for buying a home in Columbus, Ohio and surrounding communities.

Your real estate agent will be your partner and your confidante during the home buying process. You want someone who you feel great about, and if you know that they are tops, then you're sure to have a great home-buying experience.

Buying a home can be one of the best things you'll ever do for yourself. The real estate agents for Central Ohio homes are some of the best in the business. There's a wealth of free information available on my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. On my site, you can find great photos of properties, do free MLS searches, learn about buying, selling, and obtaining the right mortgage.

For all of your agent needs, contact me, one of Central Ohio's top real estate agents, at 614-668-4400. You can also email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com. Hope to hear from you very soon!

August 5, 2009

Time to Sell - Time to Paint? by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., real estate expert in Columbus and Central Ohio

One of the most important factors in selling a home involves the overall condition of the paint on both the interior and the exterior. In both cases this can be a make or break point for the sale. If there is any painting that needs to be done, it can be done very affordably and can add a lot of value to any home in Columbus and Central Ohio. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you need a paint job done.

#1 - Choose a neutral color

Neutral colors are the safest as far as selling a home quickly is concerned. If the outside of the home needs painting, find a color that blends in easily with the other colors of homes on the street. This will raise the curb appeal of your home substantially.

#2 - Finish the painting before any showings are scheduled

It will be a big turn-off to any potential buyer to see an incomplete paint job. Add to that any tools that are left out for the job and you will have your buyers leaving in a hurry. Make sure that the job is one hundred percent complete before scheduling any showings.

#3 - Seek professional advice

If you are completely lost as to what colors to choose and cannot envision how the job will appear when finished, you can hire a professional designer in Columbus, Ohio for a quick consultation. There are qualified designers that will come to your home for an hour and tell you the exact shades of color you should use to keep the color scheme neutral, light and calming. It is a small investment towards a higher selling price for your home, and a quicker sale.

Don't be afraid to ask for help if need be. You can also ask your real estate agent for any references they may have for painters and design consultants in the Central Ohio area.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Greater Columbus real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to "everything real estate in the Buckeye State" at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

August 4, 2009

Selling a Vacant Home in Columbus and Central Ohio with Proper Staging, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Real Estate Expert

Selling a vacant home in can be very difficult unless it is properly staged. A home without furnishings can appear very cold and lifeless and can indeed take much longer to sell than one that is furnished. Any offers made on the home may very well be lower as well.

It is important to consider getting the home professionally staged in order to attract the right kind of buyers and sell your Central Ohio home as quickly as possible. Anybody looking for a new home in Columbus, Ohio area is looking for a warm environment that is inviting and friendly. A vacant house has an empty feel and can stay on the market for a long time.

The only kind of prospect for a vacant home in Columbus, Ohio is one that can get past the emptiness and envision the house as it will be once furnished. You may have to wait until that person comes along and it may take awhile.

Vacant staging services in Columbus and Central Ohio can provide top quality furnishings that will improve the look and feel of the home. These companies are run by staging experts that have been trained in matching furniture to target markets. They also work with color and design and can make any home seem much more appealing. Usually these services are quite reasonably priced and are available in most major cities.

In most cases the money spent on a vacant home staging service is a wise investment because it will more than pay for itself with higher offers on the home. Your real estate agent will be able to recommend a good staging company in Columbus, Ohio that she has worked with in the past and be able to give you a general idea of the cost factor involved

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Columbus and Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more please visit the most complete website online dedicated to "everything real estate inn the Buckeye State" at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

August 3, 2009

Common Mistakes When Buying a Home in Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., local Real Estate Expert

It's a common scenario. You're all ready to buy your lovely Columbus, Ohio area home. Your blood is rushing. You feel the clock is ticking, and you can just picture your nice clean home, and you can't wait to move in. Well, not so fast! You have to tread carefully when buying a home. Otherwise you will make some very common home buying mistakes. Here are a few of them and how to avoid them.

Taking too much advantage of the Internet
Many people rush into the buying process too quickly. It's easy to do this with the use of the Internet. All too often people get on the Internet looking for loans. Then they get approved. It all happens so fast that before the buyers know it, they've locked themselves into a contract they simply can't get out of.

Many times, companies will get calls from people who have already signed contracts. The homebuyers will say, "We've found another home." or "We've bought too big of a home." However, a contract is a contract, and once you sign the dotted line, you will be living in that home. To avoid this mistake, you'll want to be a little more patient in the home buying process. A [Profile.market] real estate agent can work with you to make sure that your perfect home isn't out of your reach. There's no need to rush when you have the professional help of an agent during the home buying process. What you have to do is plan, research and prepare. Sometimes, buying a home can take up to twelve months, but at least then, you will be sure that you have made the right choice, even if it takes a little bit longer than you thought it would.

First time homebuyers often buy a home that is outside of their budget
Have you ever seen a beautiful and spacious home with little to no furniture in it? That's exactly what happens when you buy a home that you can barely afford. Sure, homes in the Columbus, Ohio area are very tempting, but there's definitely a home in the local area that you will be able to pay for comfortably.

Many first time homebuyers push themselves right up to or beyond their limits. Inevitable circumstances such as an economic or personal crisis can leave one headed for foreclosure. You want to have a peaceful time in your home in [Profile.market]. Therefore, give yourself a little room to breath. When you go to that lender, take out a loan you are sure you can make the payments on comfortably. Otherwise, you may end up living a life of just barely being able to make the payments on your home.

You can avoid many home buying mistakes if you work with professionals who are knowledgeable about buying a home. If you need someone to partner with you in the home buying process, it is best for you to contact an agent to work with you. The Columbus and Central Ohio real estate market is one of the top markets to live in right now, and an agent like myself is ready and willing to help you find your dream home.

For more information, you can visit my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. You can also contact me on my cell phone at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

August 2, 2009

Coming up With the Down Payment for A Home In Columbus and Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., Associate Broker, RE/MAX Achievers

The days of getting a mortgage without putting up a down payment are pretty much dwindling away. Today's rough economy has made many lenders tighten their belts. These days you need to be able to come up with about a 20% down payment to get a home.

Coming up with the down payment is worth it for many different reasons. You just can't beat buying a home in Columbus and Central. These homes are great! However, if you don't have a down payment, how do you come up with one? And why do you really need to make a down payment in the first place?

There are several reasons why it's a good idea to put a down payment on a home. Only a few zero down payment plans exist today. Therefore putting a down payment on the home might just be the only way you end up qualifying for the loan in the first place. Furthermore, the higher the down payment you put on the home, the lower your monthly payments will be.

Also, putting a down payment on your home creates equity. Later on, you will able to borrow against this equity if you need to in the form of a line of credit or a home equity loan. A down payment will also help you to get a lower interest rate, and if the payment is at least 20%, you may not have to get mortgage insurance at all.

Also, since most lenders are now requiring that you put some kind of cash up on the home, with a down payment in hand, you will be able to shop amongst more lenders. That means you can get a better deal on your mortgage and not have to worry about dealing with only those few people who will let you get by without making a down payment.

There are several ways you can come up with this money for buying a home in the Columbus and Central Ohio area. One way is to make use of your $8,000 First Time Home Buyer's income tax refund! You could also create a monthly savings plan. You may also want to consider using the holiday bonuses you get from your employer or applying for government assistance programs. Putting up a down payment is definitely worth some of the legwork it may take to get the funds together.

Homes in the Columbus, oHIO real estate market are great homes for anyone to live in. There's a vast amount of free information that can be found about Central Ohio homes on my website at www.scarletnrayhomes.com. With the help of agents like myself, you can get the assistance you need to find the home of your dreams. You can call me on my cell phone at 614-668-4400 or you can email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

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August 1, 2009

Buying a House During a Recession in Columbus and Central Ohio, by Jeannie Andrews, M.D., ABR, Real Estate Expert

When the economy is down you can pick up a great Central Ohio home for an incredible price. The time has never been better to find yourself a great deal. It is truly a buyer's market, and if you play your cards right you can walk away with a better price than you would have ever thought possible.

Many millionaires made their mark during the last recession. They thought big and used the state of the economy to their advantage. They thought smart and acted smart and got the rewards. It is possible to invest in real estate now and see major future profits in the near future. Think smart and profit.

There is no way that this great country will not rebound to a higher economic level. It may take time, but have no doubt; this recession will come to an end. Use it now to your advantage.

If you have enough money for a down payment for a nice house in Greater Columbus area, why not look at downgrading your house expectations and look at purchasing two? You can have a nice rental unit on the side that will be worth more as the economy springs back into shape.

Don't have enough for that? Consider partnering with a friend or family member to make a real estate investment in Columbus. The time is now to do it!

Most self made millionaires started off small and worked up from there. Instant riches are not a part of real estate investment when you are first starting out on a limited budget. There are, however, unlimited opportunities in Columbus and Central Ohio to invest in now and see high profits in the near future.

Take a few minutes to re-evaluate your current financial situation to determine whether purchasing a Columbus, Ohio area property is a possibility.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Central Ohio real estate. For complete information about the local real estate market including current homes for sale, property values and more, please visit the most complete website online dedicated to "everything real estate in the Buckeye state" at www.scarletnrayhomes.com . Please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions and I will be more than glad to answer your them. Call me on my cell at 614-668-4400 or email me at jandrews@columbus.rr.com.

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