I have a beautiful, older house in one of our charming historic districts for sale currently. It is listed at $229,900, a "quick sale" price since the clients are moving out of the country. When we first put it on the market we had three offers and chose the best one. The buyers were represented by a new agent in town but had their prequalification letter and were fairly good to go. They decided since then not to use the local lender they were prequalified through, but instead an out of town lender, DiTech Funding. DiTech sent an appraiser out that isn't familiar with the neighborhood, just did a drive by and didn't use the correct square feet. It ended up appraising for around 20k less than what we had multiple offers on it for. Unfortunately, long story short, though another appraisal was done and it came out at $242K DiTech wouldn't accept that. During this fiasco, however, the new agent was never heard from. We would get the occasional phone call from her manager, or another agent that was helping, but repeatedly this agent wouldn't call back.
Fast forward and the house is back on the market. This same agent, along with two others brought us another very attractive offer. The seller, at this point, doesn't want to consider her offer because of her track record. Fair to her client? Absolutely not, but understandable to anyone.
When choosing an agent the only qualification isn't whether they can get you into the properties. Their reputation with other agents, and the general public, their experience, their knowledge are all necessary to get the job done. When choosing a buyers agent ensure that your agent is very familiar with lending practices and has been an agent for several years, or is a buyers agent for someone with an excellent reputation that will guide the buyers agent.
Don't loose out on the perfect house because of your agent!
Showing posts with label Bryan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bryan. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Storm Preparation for College Station and Bryan
Want to know the latest about Hurricane Ike, or any major storm that might roll into town? Go for all the latest information.
Looking for information on what to stock up on for a storm? Here is the place you need to be!
Information currently coming in states that
Due to inclement weather predicted in the wake of Hurricane Ike, the following closures and cancellations have been announced from the City of Bryan:
· Bryan and College Station independent school districts will be closed Friday.
· Texas A&M University and Blinn College will be closed Friday.
· All branches of the Bryan and College Station public library system will be closed Saturday and Sunday. The due dates on library materials are extended to Monday so patrons won’t have late charges. Patrons are asked to not use book drops.
· The Bryan Aquatic Center and Neal Recreation Center will be closed Friday through Sunday.
· College Night in Downtown Bryan on Friday night is canceled. It will be up to the discretion of individual restaurants and entertainment venues whether they stay open, but city-sponsored giveaways will not be effective. The event will be postponed to a later date.
· The Patriot Day 9/11 event originally planned for Veterans Park at 6 p.m. Thursday night has been moved to Southwood Park, 1600 Rock Prairie Road.
Other pertinent information:
· Evacuees are being asked to go directly to Veterans Park on Harvey Road. They should call 211 for more information.
· The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is extending free admission to all hurricane evacuees. Visitors simply need to identify themselves to staff as evacuees.
· 507 evacuees are currently being sheltered locally. Twenty-eight small animals and 46 large animals are being sheltered locally.
The local shelter capacity is about 2,500.
For the latest about Hurricane Ike go to the City of Bryan hurricane center website.
The weather is fine currently, with the sun up and just a few clouds in the sky. Probably will be changing rapidly tomorrow.
Keep Safe!
Looking for information on what to stock up on for a storm? Here is the place you need to be!
Information currently coming in states that
Due to inclement weather predicted in the wake of Hurricane Ike, the following closures and cancellations have been announced from the City of Bryan:
· Bryan and College Station independent school districts will be closed Friday.
· Texas A&M University and Blinn College will be closed Friday.
· All branches of the Bryan and College Station public library system will be closed Saturday and Sunday. The due dates on library materials are extended to Monday so patrons won’t have late charges. Patrons are asked to not use book drops.
· The Bryan Aquatic Center and Neal Recreation Center will be closed Friday through Sunday.
· College Night in Downtown Bryan on Friday night is canceled. It will be up to the discretion of individual restaurants and entertainment venues whether they stay open, but city-sponsored giveaways will not be effective. The event will be postponed to a later date.
· The Patriot Day 9/11 event originally planned for Veterans Park at 6 p.m. Thursday night has been moved to Southwood Park, 1600 Rock Prairie Road.
Other pertinent information:
· Evacuees are being asked to go directly to Veterans Park on Harvey Road. They should call 211 for more information.
· The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is extending free admission to all hurricane evacuees. Visitors simply need to identify themselves to staff as evacuees.
· 507 evacuees are currently being sheltered locally. Twenty-eight small animals and 46 large animals are being sheltered locally.
The local shelter capacity is about 2,500.
For the latest about Hurricane Ike go to the City of Bryan hurricane center website.
The weather is fine currently, with the sun up and just a few clouds in the sky. Probably will be changing rapidly tomorrow.
Keep Safe!
Bryan and College Station Schools Closed For Hurricane Ike on 9/12/08
Both Bryan and College Station School Districts have called school off for 9/12/08 because of Hurricane Ike. Reports are out that the City of College Station is also offering the employees extra time off today to prepare for the storm. Here in Bryan and College Station we will be relatively immune to the devestation of the storm, expected to make landfall somewhere between Galveston and Corpus Cristi. High winds, however, will be likely if the storm moves right through, along with flash floods. The roadways will be clogged with evacuuees and gas will be difficult at best to buy. All residents should prepare by filling gas tanks, picking up debris in their yard and securing loose outdoor items. Stock up on water, non-pershible items such as canned foods (make sure you have a manual can opener!) and ready to eat items that require no refrigeration. Please make sure you prepare and BE SAFE!!!
Monday, September 1, 2008
What You Must Know About Lenders!
Can your lender make or break your real estate transaction in Bryan or College Station? ABSOLUTELY!!!! Imagine that you have chosen a home, put down around $1000 earnest money, done inspections (cost of about $500), had an appraisal (cost of $450), and paid various application fees. You're confidentally waiting for the final approval and ready to move in. Can something go wrong? Absolutely! In the past I've had several properties where the closings didn't happen on time. Once the lender doesn't get their paperwork on time there is a chance that it will get sold out from under you and you will be left having done inspections, an appraisal and forfeiting your earnes money because the lender didn't perform.
Recently I had an in demand home listed with me. This house is in an amazing area, with over an acre, built in 1939 with beautiful wood floors. The house was on the market for four days before we got several offers. We accepted one with a preapproval letter from an in-town lender. The buyers then decided to go with an internet lender.
The transaction was going along smoothly until it was time for the appraisal. The appraiser that the lender hired didn't bother to enter the house to verify information. Our tax assessors have the house at a smaller square footage than recent appraisals have so I carefully documented this in the listing. Apparently the appraiser didn't look at the listing either. The result? An appraisal that didn't come up with a value that clearly (considering the interest) the house had. The buyers wanted a second appraisal, which ended up costing them another $350. Then the lender didn't process the paperwork fast enough ending up with the property not closing on time.
The property is back on the market currently and may, or may not, get sold to the people that are "almost there". At this point, if another offer comes in that will work, my sellers will almost certainly accept giving the buyer in this transaction a loss of around $2000. For what? If the transaction took place the buyers might have gotten a 1/8 point decrease in the interest rate. If they were financing 200K and if the interest rate was 6.5 with an in town lender and 6.375 with an internet lender the difference in the payments would be about $16 per month. If they were to live in the house the typical 7 years then the total difference in payment would have been $1344, or less than they lost in having a lender that couldn't deliver what they promised.
Many times what you see with the internet lenders is a "teaser" rate that no one qualifies for. Have you seen the internet commercials with people dancing saying that the interest rate is down to "an amazing 3% rate". That truly is amazing. I can tell you that none of my mortgage brokers has a rate that low on their own home....
Conider your lender a part of the team. Find someone that you can physically meet with if things go wrong. They are much more likely to fix the issue. We have many good local lenders! If you would like the names of some of them please give me a call!
Recently I had an in demand home listed with me. This house is in an amazing area, with over an acre, built in 1939 with beautiful wood floors. The house was on the market for four days before we got several offers. We accepted one with a preapproval letter from an in-town lender. The buyers then decided to go with an internet lender.
The transaction was going along smoothly until it was time for the appraisal. The appraiser that the lender hired didn't bother to enter the house to verify information. Our tax assessors have the house at a smaller square footage than recent appraisals have so I carefully documented this in the listing. Apparently the appraiser didn't look at the listing either. The result? An appraisal that didn't come up with a value that clearly (considering the interest) the house had. The buyers wanted a second appraisal, which ended up costing them another $350. Then the lender didn't process the paperwork fast enough ending up with the property not closing on time.
The property is back on the market currently and may, or may not, get sold to the people that are "almost there". At this point, if another offer comes in that will work, my sellers will almost certainly accept giving the buyer in this transaction a loss of around $2000. For what? If the transaction took place the buyers might have gotten a 1/8 point decrease in the interest rate. If they were financing 200K and if the interest rate was 6.5 with an in town lender and 6.375 with an internet lender the difference in the payments would be about $16 per month. If they were to live in the house the typical 7 years then the total difference in payment would have been $1344, or less than they lost in having a lender that couldn't deliver what they promised.
Many times what you see with the internet lenders is a "teaser" rate that no one qualifies for. Have you seen the internet commercials with people dancing saying that the interest rate is down to "an amazing 3% rate". That truly is amazing. I can tell you that none of my mortgage brokers has a rate that low on their own home....
Conider your lender a part of the team. Find someone that you can physically meet with if things go wrong. They are much more likely to fix the issue. We have many good local lenders! If you would like the names of some of them please give me a call!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Picking The Perfect Bryan or College Station Home for Sale
Picking the right house in Bryan or College Station is, of course, a matter of personal opinion. There are as many distincive homes as there are types of people, and the "right" home for some would be a disaster for others. However, it is important to keep a few things in mind when choosing your next Bryan, Texas or College Station, Texas home.
1. Pick your Realtor carefully. A good Realtor can make the difference between a successful search and a flop. Finding the right agent can be the first step in finding the right home, and negotiating the right price. Look for an agent with experience. Not necessarily a lifetime...sometimes too much can harm the transaction (do you really want your agent to not be in touch with todays prices?), but enough to help you in evaluating homes and negotiating the price. You also want an active agent. Last month was an extraordinarily busy month in real estate in both College Station and Bryan. Despite that only over 350 units were sold in July, 08', the busiest month in the last seven years. We have over 640 agents on the books in our BCS MLS! In July I closed 9 transactions...our srongest 25-50 agents are the ones doing most of the business and are the ones most in touch with the market. Pick your agent amongst those that are actually in the business full time with experience. It will make a better experience all around!
2. Search for your new home with resale in mind! It may seem strange you right now, but money is made on real estate when it's bought, not when it's sold! You need to negotiate the best possible price on the best possible property for it to be a successful transaction!
3. Stay within the market averages! Though it goes against many peoples grain, staying within the average purchase price of homes in the area is a smart move. You may be able to afford much more house that the 120-200K that our market pulls, but you will maximize your resale if you stay within a margin of plus or minus 50 percent when buying. Buying a home for over 300K can be a good investment if your are going to stay in place for quite some time. If, however, you are planning on moving (or would like to be able to entertain the idea) within the next 3-5 years stay at under 300K to maximize your return.
These are just a few of the tips I can give you to maximize your real estate investment. Call today to set up a complimentary meeting to find out how we can work together to maximize your real estate experience! Call Coti or Chris today at (979)575-7765 or (979)574-1084!
1. Pick your Realtor carefully. A good Realtor can make the difference between a successful search and a flop. Finding the right agent can be the first step in finding the right home, and negotiating the right price. Look for an agent with experience. Not necessarily a lifetime...sometimes too much can harm the transaction (do you really want your agent to not be in touch with todays prices?), but enough to help you in evaluating homes and negotiating the price. You also want an active agent. Last month was an extraordinarily busy month in real estate in both College Station and Bryan. Despite that only over 350 units were sold in July, 08', the busiest month in the last seven years. We have over 640 agents on the books in our BCS MLS! In July I closed 9 transactions...our srongest 25-50 agents are the ones doing most of the business and are the ones most in touch with the market. Pick your agent amongst those that are actually in the business full time with experience. It will make a better experience all around!
2. Search for your new home with resale in mind! It may seem strange you right now, but money is made on real estate when it's bought, not when it's sold! You need to negotiate the best possible price on the best possible property for it to be a successful transaction!
3. Stay within the market averages! Though it goes against many peoples grain, staying within the average purchase price of homes in the area is a smart move. You may be able to afford much more house that the 120-200K that our market pulls, but you will maximize your resale if you stay within a margin of plus or minus 50 percent when buying. Buying a home for over 300K can be a good investment if your are going to stay in place for quite some time. If, however, you are planning on moving (or would like to be able to entertain the idea) within the next 3-5 years stay at under 300K to maximize your return.
These are just a few of the tips I can give you to maximize your real estate investment. Call today to set up a complimentary meeting to find out how we can work together to maximize your real estate experience! Call Coti or Chris today at (979)575-7765 or (979)574-1084!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Updated FEMA Maps Affect Bryan Homeowners
Bryan City Engineers recently revamped outdated floodplain maps. FEMA requires flood maps to be revised periodically. Approximately 10% of Bryan (around 2700 acres) now lies in floodplain. 180 homeowners were notified that their homes lie within the 100 year floodplain, the area that has a 1% or better chance of being flooded each year.
Help is on the way for residents newly identified as living in the floodplain as Bryan is part of a FEMA incentive program that will give 5% discounts for flood insurance.
Though I don't know of anyone happy about being identified as in the floodplain, these residents can sleep a bit better at night knowing that they are protected in case of flooding. Property values could be affected moderately, but a house that lies in the floodplain that never has flooded probably would be unaffected.
The cost of flood insurance, many times, is as little as $700 per year and can reap a huge payoff in the event of flooding.
College Station has been largely unaffected. Recent changes have even proved to be beneficial, and reduced the risk of flooding in neighborhoods at risk.
To find out if your home is in a designated floodplain visit FEMA's Website at www.msc.fema.gov. Remember that even if your home lies outside the designated floodplain it could potentially be flooded.
For Bryan and College Station real estate view the MLS Search on this site!
Help is on the way for residents newly identified as living in the floodplain as Bryan is part of a FEMA incentive program that will give 5% discounts for flood insurance.
Though I don't know of anyone happy about being identified as in the floodplain, these residents can sleep a bit better at night knowing that they are protected in case of flooding. Property values could be affected moderately, but a house that lies in the floodplain that never has flooded probably would be unaffected.
The cost of flood insurance, many times, is as little as $700 per year and can reap a huge payoff in the event of flooding.
College Station has been largely unaffected. Recent changes have even proved to be beneficial, and reduced the risk of flooding in neighborhoods at risk.
To find out if your home is in a designated floodplain visit FEMA's Website at www.msc.fema.gov. Remember that even if your home lies outside the designated floodplain it could potentially be flooded.
For Bryan and College Station real estate view the MLS Search on this site!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Celebrating a big event, or just want a quiet night on the town? Ready for some world class cuisine and excellent presentation? Head out to Christopher's World Grille located on the east side of Bryan off Booneville Road.
Lunch is served rom 11-2 and offers such selections as the Beef Tenderloin Enchiladas with ancho chili sauce, lime sour cream and salsa for $13.95. Whatever you do, don't forget to try some of the delicious soup!
Dinner offers fish dishes, steak and other incredible entrees and ranges from $18.95 to $29.95. Desserts are awesome and their selection of wine is incredible, so save some room!
Weekend Brunch is a nice get-away with moderate pricing!
See all their selections at http://www.christophersworldgrille.com/.
Brie with mango chutney for appetizers is ALWAYS good! Dessert anyone? The desserts here will be the highlight of your evening.
Enjoy the building while you are there! A renovated and extended 100 year old farmhouse is at the heart of it. Stop by the Casablanca Piano Bar and enjoy live jazz music, or perhaps the vocal bliss of Karan Chavis.
Bon Appetit!!!
Lunch is served rom 11-2 and offers such selections as the Beef Tenderloin Enchiladas with ancho chili sauce, lime sour cream and salsa for $13.95. Whatever you do, don't forget to try some of the delicious soup!
Dinner offers fish dishes, steak and other incredible entrees and ranges from $18.95 to $29.95. Desserts are awesome and their selection of wine is incredible, so save some room!
Weekend Brunch is a nice get-away with moderate pricing!
See all their selections at http://www.christophersworldgrille.com/.
Brie with mango chutney for appetizers is ALWAYS good! Dessert anyone? The desserts here will be the highlight of your evening.
Enjoy the building while you are there! A renovated and extended 100 year old farmhouse is at the heart of it. Stop by the Casablanca Piano Bar and enjoy live jazz music, or perhaps the vocal bliss of Karan Chavis.
Bon Appetit!!!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Small Cities, Large Presence
On a beautiful day last week in my bright and sunny office in my favorite area of the world a prospective client and I were talking and she mentioned that moving here from Atlanta she would be giving up cultural events and all the excitement of a large town and didn't know if she could do it.
I was immediately shocked at her suggestion and rose to the defense of my city!
To give you some background, Bryan and College Station, Texas are twin cities smack in the center of most of the larger cities in Texas. Dallas is around 3 hours away, Austin around 2, Houston about 1.5 hours and San Antonio around 4. The combined population is approximately 130,000. Small right? Yes....but for Texas A&M, one of the largest colleges in the United States, this is home. Having a large university in your backyard certainly changes things! Cultural events and drawn by the university crowd, who enthusiastically respond! Beyond that we are the home of the George Bush Museum, and this brings even more speakers and fun to the area!
This post would get way too long if I mentioned all the performances in town. We have many peformers and speakers along the way and some awesome community theatre. I'll focus on OPAS for this write up, come back often for information about other events and venues. Come back often to find more entertainment in Bryan and College Station.
Texas A&M is proud to have MSC OPAS, whose mission is "Bringing World-Class Entertainment to the Brazos Valley". This year (2007 Season) is it's 35th year in operation!
Past performances have include Yo-Yo Ma, Van Cliburn, Itzhak Perlman, Stomp, Les Miserables, Rent, Hairspray and the world premier of the Bolshoi Ballet Brigorovich Ballet. This caused extra attention from international media here for OPA, including a write up in the New York Times.
This year for the 35th Anniversary they have quite the lineup for us!
September 24, 2007 The Ten Tenors. An Australian group performing jazz, opera, modern and classical pop all in the same venue. For more information go to http://www.thetentenors.com/.
February 1-2, 2008 A Ride With Bob: The Bob Will Musical featuring Ray Benson and Ashllep at the Wheel. Bob Wills, the father of Texas Swing and renowned for such songs as "Route 66", "San Antonio Rose" and "Faded Love" is lovingly portrayed by this beautiful show. For more information go to http://www.aridewithbob.com/.
February 21, 2008, Movin' Out. (I ventured to New York to see this one, and can personally give it glowing reviews!). Billy Joel's musical tribute to two decades of Viet Nam, it is a powerful performance!
March 4-5, 2008 The Producers. What more can be said than...A Mel Brooks Comedy! Visit http://www.producersontour.com/ for more information.
March 26-27, 2008 Blast Winner of the 2001 (created specifically for it) Best Theatrical Event Tony!!! More information can be found at http://www.blasttheshow.com/.
April 1-2, 2008 Chicago. Decade old winner of 6 Tony Awards and 6 Academy Awards. Watch it right here and find more information in the meantime at http://www.chicagothemusical.com/.
What do you think? A small city with a lack of culture and fun...? Didn't think so!!!!
I was immediately shocked at her suggestion and rose to the defense of my city!
To give you some background, Bryan and College Station, Texas are twin cities smack in the center of most of the larger cities in Texas. Dallas is around 3 hours away, Austin around 2, Houston about 1.5 hours and San Antonio around 4. The combined population is approximately 130,000. Small right? Yes....but for Texas A&M, one of the largest colleges in the United States, this is home. Having a large university in your backyard certainly changes things! Cultural events and drawn by the university crowd, who enthusiastically respond! Beyond that we are the home of the George Bush Museum, and this brings even more speakers and fun to the area!
This post would get way too long if I mentioned all the performances in town. We have many peformers and speakers along the way and some awesome community theatre. I'll focus on OPAS for this write up, come back often for information about other events and venues. Come back often to find more entertainment in Bryan and College Station.
Texas A&M is proud to have MSC OPAS, whose mission is "Bringing World-Class Entertainment to the Brazos Valley". This year (2007 Season) is it's 35th year in operation!
Past performances have include Yo-Yo Ma, Van Cliburn, Itzhak Perlman, Stomp, Les Miserables, Rent, Hairspray and the world premier of the Bolshoi Ballet Brigorovich Ballet. This caused extra attention from international media here for OPA, including a write up in the New York Times.
This year for the 35th Anniversary they have quite the lineup for us!
September 24, 2007 The Ten Tenors. An Australian group performing jazz, opera, modern and classical pop all in the same venue. For more information go to http://www.thetentenors.com/.
February 1-2, 2008 A Ride With Bob: The Bob Will Musical featuring Ray Benson and Ashllep at the Wheel. Bob Wills, the father of Texas Swing and renowned for such songs as "Route 66", "San Antonio Rose" and "Faded Love" is lovingly portrayed by this beautiful show. For more information go to http://www.aridewithbob.com/.
February 21, 2008, Movin' Out. (I ventured to New York to see this one, and can personally give it glowing reviews!). Billy Joel's musical tribute to two decades of Viet Nam, it is a powerful performance!
March 4-5, 2008 The Producers. What more can be said than...A Mel Brooks Comedy! Visit http://www.producersontour.com/ for more information.
March 26-27, 2008 Blast Winner of the 2001 (created specifically for it) Best Theatrical Event Tony!!! More information can be found at http://www.blasttheshow.com/.
April 1-2, 2008 Chicago. Decade old winner of 6 Tony Awards and 6 Academy Awards. Watch it right here and find more information in the meantime at http://www.chicagothemusical.com/.
What do you think? A small city with a lack of culture and fun...? Didn't think so!!!!
Monday, July 2, 2007
College Station ISD Planning For New Elementary Campus
College Station is now planning for it's 7th elementary campus, the new Creek View Elementary. Plans currently are to locate it on Graham Road, presumably where the newest elementary school, just opened last year was initially slated to be. Forest Ridge, the newest elemntary, is the fastest growing school in the district, but officials are taking no chances and commissioning a high priced, no doubt, study on where the growth lies.
According to current data most students live in the central part of the city. Most Realtors feel that the true growth that would support our younger citizens occurs at the southern portion of the city. With Creek Meadows in the far south side of College Station soon opening up over 1000 homesites, plus a slew of other new subdivisions breaking ground and Castlegate finishing completion, I don't believe it takes a report to figure out where the growth is.
According to current data most students live in the central part of the city. Most Realtors feel that the true growth that would support our younger citizens occurs at the southern portion of the city. With Creek Meadows in the far south side of College Station soon opening up over 1000 homesites, plus a slew of other new subdivisions breaking ground and Castlegate finishing completion, I don't believe it takes a report to figure out where the growth is.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Aggieland First Time Buyers Make 2007 Your Year!
Real estate for me is more like a calling rather than just a profession. The pleasure I get by handing first time buyers their keys is one of the biggest thrills of my life. I've had the pleasure this year of working with three families, who, through different circumstances never grew up in a home of their own. Either it was apartment living, mobile homes, or relatives homes that their families stayed in. There is no satisfaction greater than finding these people, and working with them to help their dreams become a reality.
First time homebuyers are often nervous or afraid of rejection when it comes to buying a home. Nervous because they might make a mistake and afraid of rejection because they are concerned no lender would want to touch them. I've had people with perfect credit walk into my office worried that they would never get approved for a loan.
The way to calm your nerves about making a mistake is simple. Choose a Realtor that you believe will work hard for you, not just the commission that the seller pays. Find one that will go out of their way to educate you about the process and negotiate hard for you. Go ahead and interview agents. Many years ago when I got into real estate a very wise person told me that you don't make money when you sell a home, but rather, when you buy it. This is how I would want your agent to negotiate for you, as if every penny counts.
The way to calm your fear of rejection on credit issues is to talk to your Realtor or financing source. I have a team of people that can help. Anything from credit cleansing to advising you how long to wait to avoid negative items on your credit and some unique programs that can lower the interest rate. Don't worry about no money down or any issues. Talk to a good financing source or a Realtor first and let them tell you what can be done. Saving for the perfect downpayment can set you back. If you save $2000 a year, but the average home price is rising 3% per year and you look at a $150K home, the next year that same house is worth $154,500 and you've saved $2000 towards the down payment. At that rate you can't afford to save.
Make 2007 the year you get into a house of your own!!!!
First time homebuyers are often nervous or afraid of rejection when it comes to buying a home. Nervous because they might make a mistake and afraid of rejection because they are concerned no lender would want to touch them. I've had people with perfect credit walk into my office worried that they would never get approved for a loan.
The way to calm your nerves about making a mistake is simple. Choose a Realtor that you believe will work hard for you, not just the commission that the seller pays. Find one that will go out of their way to educate you about the process and negotiate hard for you. Go ahead and interview agents. Many years ago when I got into real estate a very wise person told me that you don't make money when you sell a home, but rather, when you buy it. This is how I would want your agent to negotiate for you, as if every penny counts.
The way to calm your fear of rejection on credit issues is to talk to your Realtor or financing source. I have a team of people that can help. Anything from credit cleansing to advising you how long to wait to avoid negative items on your credit and some unique programs that can lower the interest rate. Don't worry about no money down or any issues. Talk to a good financing source or a Realtor first and let them tell you what can be done. Saving for the perfect downpayment can set you back. If you save $2000 a year, but the average home price is rising 3% per year and you look at a $150K home, the next year that same house is worth $154,500 and you've saved $2000 towards the down payment. At that rate you can't afford to save.
Make 2007 the year you get into a house of your own!!!!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Holiday Fun in Aggieland!
Well, it's time for hot chocolate and caroling in the Brazos Valley. Are you new to the area and needing to know the hot places to go?
November 28th- Christmas by Candlelight, Christ United Methodist Church. Holiday benefit with music and great food ( the desserts are supposed to be heavenly!). Call (979)690-4673 for ticket information. College Station
November 28th&30th-Holidays in the Rotunda-George Bush Library with local musicians, crafts and refreshments. Admission is free, so join them from 6-8 pm. The library is always a great place to visit and the extra lights and Christmas cheer makes it especially wonderful! College Station
November 30-MSC OPAS-The Irish Tenors 7:30 pm. Irish Tenors with full onstage orchestra for holiday music. Visit www.mscopas.org/irishtenors.htm or call (979)845-1234 for tickets. College Station
November 30-December 2, December 7-9, 14-16 7:30 pm. Inspecting Carol: A Christmas Comedy Written by Daniel Sullivan and the Seattle Repertory Theatre. http://www.stagecenter.net/ or call (979)696-2787 for more information.
Santa's Wonderland Now through December 31. Millions of lights and great shopping. Go to this website for pictures of this awesome attraction. Guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit! http://www.santas-wonderland.com/ (979)696-7212 College Station
Christmas in the Park Dec. 1,2,8,9,15&16. Kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony December 1st in Central Park. Lots of free entertainment, past years have included Aggie Wranglers, pet contests and caroling from local groups, free hayrides, hot cocoa. (979)764-3486 College Station
Bryan's Holiday Magic December 1st at 5:30-8:30 pm. Sue Haswell Park. Free event with "snow" covered hill for sledding, light displays, snacks, live music and a clibing wall. Polar Express train rides ahte the ever-present Santa with lots of photo opportunities. Bryan
Jingle Bell Jubilee, December 2nd all day event in Bryan. Brunch With Santa December 2 9-noon at the Children's Museum. Holiday arts and crafts, playtime and photos with Santa. $20/each. http://www.mymuseum,.com/. Rudolphs 5K Fun Run and Walk 9 am. Downtown Bryan. $15 to register, $20 for 5K Run/Walk and Brunch with Santa. Live enrertainment at the Palace Theatre and car show to follow. Parade begins at 6 pm and tree lighting ceremony at 7 pm at the Carnegie Library. Evening events include carriage rides and a rock concert. http://www.mymuseum.com/ Bryan
A Victorian Christmas Stroll December 2nd. Hosted by ther Brazos Heritage Society through Heritage Park and a living history tour of the Cavitt House from 6:30-8:30 pm. Entertainment and snacks provided. Tickets $2 each, free for children 12 and under.
Breakfast with Santa December 2nd 9-noon at the Lincoln Center. http://www.cstx.gov/ (979)764-3779 College Station
25th Anuual Christmas Shoppers Arts and Craft Show December 2-3 10a.m - 5 pm at the Brazos Center 3232 Briarcrest Drive. Awesome shopping opportunitie with unique gifts, handmade jewelry and woodwork, gift baskets and more! Bryan
Bryan-College Station's Holiday Parade December 3rd at 2 pm. Sponsored by the Eagle. Starts on University Drive and ends on Villa Maria and Texas Avenue. Floats from all over Brazos Valley and free candy tossed from many floats! (979)776-4444. Bryan & College Station
Messina Hof: Big Reds for a Winter Evening December 5th. 7 pm. $25 class fee. Red wine class and tour of winery with gourmet foods. http://www.mesinahof.com/ (979)778-9463 X 34 Bryan
Food for Families Food Drive December 7th. The largest fundraiser for Brazos Valley Food Bank. Drop off non-perishable food items at The Brazos Center in Bryan, the Kimbro Center in Madisonville, or the Mid South Synergy office in Navasota.
Christmas Carnival at the Lincoln Center. December 8th 6-9 pm. (979)764-3779. College Station
Mistletoe & Merriment Concert, December 9th 7:30 Brazos Valley Chorale presents their holiday concert. Tickets $15 adult/$6 student. College Station.
2006 Christmas Favorites from Around the World Ice Show December 15-16 5:45 pm. Artic Wolf Ice Center, College Station. (979)694-3900 for tickets.
ChildreNinos Mexican-American Workshop December 18th 10 am. Bilingual stories, games, songs and activities. Children's Museum, Bryan (979)229-5625
Don't stay home this holiday season!!! Get out there and enjoy some of the fun, Brazos Valley Style!!!
November 28th- Christmas by Candlelight, Christ United Methodist Church. Holiday benefit with music and great food ( the desserts are supposed to be heavenly!). Call (979)690-4673 for ticket information. College Station
November 28th&30th-Holidays in the Rotunda-George Bush Library with local musicians, crafts and refreshments. Admission is free, so join them from 6-8 pm. The library is always a great place to visit and the extra lights and Christmas cheer makes it especially wonderful! College Station
November 30-MSC OPAS-The Irish Tenors 7:30 pm. Irish Tenors with full onstage orchestra for holiday music. Visit www.mscopas.org/irishtenors.htm or call (979)845-1234 for tickets. College Station
November 30-December 2, December 7-9, 14-16 7:30 pm. Inspecting Carol: A Christmas Comedy Written by Daniel Sullivan and the Seattle Repertory Theatre. http://www.stagecenter.net/ or call (979)696-2787 for more information.
Santa's Wonderland Now through December 31. Millions of lights and great shopping. Go to this website for pictures of this awesome attraction. Guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit! http://www.santas-wonderland.com/ (979)696-7212 College Station
Christmas in the Park Dec. 1,2,8,9,15&16. Kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony December 1st in Central Park. Lots of free entertainment, past years have included Aggie Wranglers, pet contests and caroling from local groups, free hayrides, hot cocoa. (979)764-3486 College Station
Bryan's Holiday Magic December 1st at 5:30-8:30 pm. Sue Haswell Park. Free event with "snow" covered hill for sledding, light displays, snacks, live music and a clibing wall. Polar Express train rides ahte the ever-present Santa with lots of photo opportunities. Bryan
Jingle Bell Jubilee, December 2nd all day event in Bryan. Brunch With Santa December 2 9-noon at the Children's Museum. Holiday arts and crafts, playtime and photos with Santa. $20/each. http://www.mymuseum,.com/. Rudolphs 5K Fun Run and Walk 9 am. Downtown Bryan. $15 to register, $20 for 5K Run/Walk and Brunch with Santa. Live enrertainment at the Palace Theatre and car show to follow. Parade begins at 6 pm and tree lighting ceremony at 7 pm at the Carnegie Library. Evening events include carriage rides and a rock concert. http://www.mymuseum.com/ Bryan
A Victorian Christmas Stroll December 2nd. Hosted by ther Brazos Heritage Society through Heritage Park and a living history tour of the Cavitt House from 6:30-8:30 pm. Entertainment and snacks provided. Tickets $2 each, free for children 12 and under.
Breakfast with Santa December 2nd 9-noon at the Lincoln Center. http://www.cstx.gov/ (979)764-3779 College Station
25th Anuual Christmas Shoppers Arts and Craft Show December 2-3 10a.m - 5 pm at the Brazos Center 3232 Briarcrest Drive. Awesome shopping opportunitie with unique gifts, handmade jewelry and woodwork, gift baskets and more! Bryan
Bryan-College Station's Holiday Parade December 3rd at 2 pm. Sponsored by the Eagle. Starts on University Drive and ends on Villa Maria and Texas Avenue. Floats from all over Brazos Valley and free candy tossed from many floats! (979)776-4444. Bryan & College Station
Messina Hof: Big Reds for a Winter Evening December 5th. 7 pm. $25 class fee. Red wine class and tour of winery with gourmet foods. http://www.mesinahof.com/ (979)778-9463 X 34 Bryan
Food for Families Food Drive December 7th. The largest fundraiser for Brazos Valley Food Bank. Drop off non-perishable food items at The Brazos Center in Bryan, the Kimbro Center in Madisonville, or the Mid South Synergy office in Navasota.
Christmas Carnival at the Lincoln Center. December 8th 6-9 pm. (979)764-3779. College Station
Mistletoe & Merriment Concert, December 9th 7:30 Brazos Valley Chorale presents their holiday concert. Tickets $15 adult/$6 student. College Station.
2006 Christmas Favorites from Around the World Ice Show December 15-16 5:45 pm. Artic Wolf Ice Center, College Station. (979)694-3900 for tickets.
ChildreNinos Mexican-American Workshop December 18th 10 am. Bilingual stories, games, songs and activities. Children's Museum, Bryan (979)229-5625
Don't stay home this holiday season!!! Get out there and enjoy some of the fun, Brazos Valley Style!!!
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