Sandy, UT

New Condo' Regs to look out for as of October 1st ::: Attention agents and homeowners. As of October 1st the whole world of condo's change. If you are trying to sale a condo by yourself, you will need to know that its going to be a lot more complicated. Contact your lender and your favorite agent to get all the details. This will effect everyone both buyers and sellers.

Sandy city has rolled out a home-buying incentive program!

Sandy city has created a new program that will provide low- and moderate-income home buyers with $5,000 for buying a new home in the city. These funds, which can be applied to the down payment and/or closing costs, are actually interest-free loans. After staying in the home for three years, the loan becomes a grant and does not need to be repaid.

Sandy plans to provide 10 loans to buyers of existing, never-occupied homes, and another 10 to buyers who would like to build their home. To qualify for the grant the purchased home needs to be within Sandy city limits, and must be a "single-fmaily" dwelling (this includes townhomes and condos). Also, the purchase prices cannot exceed $305,000 and household incomes must be below certain limits to qualify. This grant is not only for first-time buyers, ANYONE who qualifies has access to this money.

If the program is successful additional grants may become available after the original 20 are gone. However, the only guarantee is for the first 20 grants! Contact a Utah Dave Grant Specialist to see if you qualify for one of these grants so you can take advantage of this great opportunity.

Ever had a seller that doesn't want to leave during showings? We all know its best to have the sellers gone when showing property, but some sellers dont feel comfortable with that scenario. Here are some common complaints I've heard over the years.........

They follow the "buyers"agent and the potential buyers around with a photo album sharing stories

They want to take them on a tour of the home and talk non-stop

They answer the door with a grumpy face

Do they even open the door?

They answer the door half-dressed and not presentable when the scheduled showing arrives

The home is a wreck and not presentable when the scheduled showing arrives

Sellers if you insist on being home, make sure you are courteous, the buyer is not there for a social situation but does want to feel welcome. Be humble and cooperative. Do not crowd the buyers; they will rush through the home and not return. Above all let your Realtor discuss price, terms, possession and all other questions.

Happy Showings! Remember to smile

Preparing your home for sale. Pay attention home owners. First impressions are lasting impressions! Here are few simple steps to take to help ensure a better "showing."

1. Make sure your front door is freshly painted, clean and don't forget the trim

2. Lawn, keep it free of garbage and clutter. Keep lawn mowed,trimmed and edged. During the winter, shovel your walks and steps.

3. Open your drapes and let the sun showcase your room.

(hide litter box and animal toys)

4. Clean your windows, make sure drapes and blinds are clean. People do look out the windows when they view your home.

5. Fix all plumbing leaks

6. Avoid clutter to showcase the home

7. Pack all excess items away. Closets need to look organized or they will give the image of "not enough space/storage in the home."

8. Make sure your bathrooms sparkle. New caulk and grout when needed

9. Make sure your kitchen sparkles. Clean off the counters, put away the big appliances that you normally leave out (blenders, coffee pots etc.) make sure your cabinets are clean and organized.

10. If you really want to see what other people see when they look at your house, take some photo's around your house. With digital camera's it's so easy to download and view the pictures. A picture truly is worth a 1,000 words. You may think your home is in perfect showing condition. The pictures might prove otherwise.

Best wishes and happy home selling,