What does CRS mean?

You've probably seen these initials on my card and wondered what they mean. The National Association of Realtors explains it this way:

Buying or selling a home can seem like an overwhelming task. But, the right Realtor can make the process easier and more profitable. A Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), with years of experience and success, will help you make a smart decisions in a fast-paced, complex and competitive market.

To receive the CRS Designation, Realtors must demonstrate outstanding professional achievements,including high-volume sales and pursue advanced training in areas such as finance, marketing and technology. They must also maintain membership in the National Association of Realtors and abide by its code of ethics.

Work with a realtor who belongs among the top 4 percent in the nation. Contact a CRS today.

Buy this home with no money down!

This is the perfect home for all ages. The finished lower level is great for entertaining. Sellers are willing to help with closing costs.

Price Reduced

JUST REDUCED!!! Schedule your appointment today!

A worthy cause that I need your help with

I rarely do this but I feel that the need is so great in our community that I am reaching out to ask for help for those in need. As many of you are aware, unemployment is high in our area and there is a greater need than ever before for assistance with everyday living expenses. The local food pantry is in desperate need of donations. They need everything from food to toiletries. I am trying to make an effort to commit to purchasing a set amount of grocery items every week to donate to the food pantry. I feel that if we all can make a small sacrifice we will be able to make a big difference to those in need. If you are able to help, drop off donations at the Church in Missions located on Indiana Street on Mon., Wed., and Fri. from 9:00-12:00. Or, you can bring your donation to my office at 13969 N St. Rd. 67 just North of Pedigo Chevrolet.

Time is running out for first-time home buyers

Time is quickly running out for the first time home buyers to cash in on the tax incentive package. You can receive either 10% or up to $8,000.00. This is only going to be available for a short time longer. If you or someone you know is interested in buying a home, give me a call. If you don't act quickly you will miss out on this deal.

Energy Audits

Fall is here and winter is right around the corner. That means it is time to start winterizing your home. There are several different things you can do to lessen your energy loss.

Air leaks: You can save as much as 30% a year on your energy bills by finding and fixing leaks. Start by checking for obvious leaks. Inspect windows and doors. If they rattle chances are, you have a leak. Caulking or weather stripping is an easy fix. Check baseboards and electrical outlets. Once you are done inside, head outside to inspect all areas where two different building materials meet such as siding and chimneys and the foundation and siding. Plug and caulk any holes you find and seal other cracks in appropriate materials.

Insulation: Check the attic hatch to see if it is as heavily insulated as the attic. Look for openings around pipes, duct work and chimneys. Seal gaps with expanding foam caulk or other permanent sealant. Check to see if you have a vapor barrier under the attic insulation. if not, paint the interior ceilings with vapor barrier paint to reduce the amount of water vapor that could pass through the ceiling.

Check your heating and cooling equipment. If it is more than 15 years old, you might consider switching to a newer model.

Lighting: Check the wattage of your lightbulbs. You might be using a 100 watt bulb when you could be using a 60 watt. Consider switching to compact fluorescent lamps for lights that are on for hours at a time.

Source:www.energysavers.gov

Home Warranties

Ok, you've decided to buy a home and now you need to decide whether or not you should ask for a home warranty. I always recommend that my buyers ask for one. Your home is your biggest investment so why wouldn't you want to protect it? Most cars come with warranites, appliances have them so why not your home?

Jerry Dotson was very fortunate to have a warranty. He closed on his home that cleared inspections with almost no problems. As fate would have it, the refrigerator decided to quit working. Since he had a warranty, he only paid a $75.00 deductible for a repair instead of several hundred dollars.

I like for sellers to list their homes with warranties as well. There is nothing worse than having to pay money for a repair on a home that you hope to sell soon. If your diswhasher breaks do you really want to buy a brand new one? If the home is warranted you would pay a small deductible.

So, my advice, always buy and sell with a warranty.