Oro Valley, AZ

Real Estate Tips for Seniors

Richard Lecinski - Long Realty

Oro Valley - Tucson Arizona

When selecting an agent, discuss the percentages that the agent will charge you for selling your property. If an agent tells you he/she is charging you a "standard" percentage rate for services, be weary, this is false. A percentage rate is negotiable by federal law. The length of the contract in which you list with the agent is negotiable as well.

Pick a real estate agent who is willing to show you a marketing plan. A solid marketing plan demonstrates a commitment and willingness that will be instrumental in selling your property in a timely manner, eliminating unnecessary expenses related to utilities, real estate taxes, interest expense and lost interest income. A marketing plan should include advertising in a variety of venues, (for example flyers, the newspaper, open houses, the Internet). The property should always be listed in the local MLS, which is the industry standard publication that is utilized by all agents.

Although a real estate agent is not a financial advisor, attorney or tax consultant, a good agent should possess basic knowledge in these matters. The agent should possess enough knowledge to let you know which expert you need to consult with should any issues or questions arise related to those topics.

Following these guidelines will go a long way towards creating a positive experience when buying or selling property. As an older American you deserve peace of mind during this time of transition.
Email: rlecinski@longrealty.com

Finding a real estate agent who understands the unique needs of older Americans is a crucial component in having a successful real estate transaction. Life changing events such as the passing of a loved one, illness, downsizing, and/or retirement are a unique set of issues that often accompany the buying and selling of property for older Americans.

Because this is an important and life changing decision, do not just pick a real estate agent out of the phone book, and/or stick with the first agent you meet - interview at least two agents. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the agent you will be working with. In the interview question the agents about their experience in handling clients dealing with the issues that you are dealing with. Try to get a sense of whether or not the agent would be sensitive to your needs; and make sure the agent is willing to deal with other family members if necessary.

Richard Lecinski

Long Realty Company

Tucson - Oro Valley - Vail - Marana Arizona

520-834-4663

http://rlecinski.longrealty.com

This 2481 square foot 4/3 with pool and incredible mountain views has brand new flooring and paint throughout. Don't miss out on the best opportunity in Oro Valley and the Amphitheater school district with Copper Creek Elementary, Wilson K-8, and Ironwood Ridge High. This is a Fannie Mae HomePath property which can be purchase for as little as 3% down. Property is approved for HomePath Mortgage Financing and HomePath Renovation Financing. Call agent for details. Just minutes from shopping, restaurants, and recreation at Catalina State Park or golf at the Hilton El Conquistador.

For more details and CURRENT pricing call 520-885-9000.

Jones, Mike Jones that is....As I drove home yesterday, I saw an incredible sunset on Pusch Ridge, an outcropping of rocks colored in pinkish hues. I thought to myself that this would make a great photo for Active Rain to show off the beauty of the Sonoran desert and Oro Valley,AZ.

As you may or may not be able to tell, most of the beauty had faded to gray by the time I got home (see Mike Jones' blog and photo dated 8/25/2009).

I still took two photos and posted them, but as we know from the Honda automobile commercials, "Timing is Everything".

"Johnny on the spot" and "the early bird gets the worm" also come to mind.

And to quote the movie "Glenn Garry, Glenn Ross": "ABC, Always Be Closing." I won't even get the steak knives for this one but I still love that view.

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Patrick Randles

Sunstreet Mortgage, LLC

Tucson, AZ 85718

(520)850-7485

One of a kind hilltop retreat! True Tucson Masterpiece of quality and detail in Oro Valley Country Club Estates. Gorgeous views and privacy. Unbelievable backyard oasis with lagoon pool, water feature and impeccably cared for grounds. Lush fruit trees, shade trees and herbs. Rustic charm embodied in saltillo tile floors, beamed ceilings, french doors, arches, Roman Tubs, talavera tile accents and Rainforest atrium! This home is a true gem! Located in the Amphitheater School District with Copper Creek Elementary, Cross Middle, and Canyon Del Oro High.

For more details and CURRENT pricing call 520-885-9000.

As I approach my 40th birthday in November, I am trying to set some goals for the upcoming months. For over a year now, I have told myself that I would get back to my college weight of 185 pounds. I tipped the scale 2 weeks ago at 209 pounds. So I have set out to drop 24 pounds in the next 90 days. While we are at it, I will introduce you to a running friendly community, Oro Valley, AZ. It has been my home for 15 years.

I'll give you a few basics about Oro Valley:

Founded in 1974.

43,000 residents

7 miles north of Tucson, Arizona

Ranked #44 of "top 100 places to live and launch a business "by Fortune Small Business Magazine

Considered one of the Southwest's most affluent communities with the median family income being very high for the region.

To put some of this into context, I was a competitive high school cross country and track runner. I ran a mile in under four and 1/2 minutes on a few occasions, finishing fourth in the state meet my senior year. I weighed 149 pounds when I finished high school and I stood 6'4" tall. A stiff breeze may have knocked me over. See below.

Aside from the fact that I had yet to pass the 150 mark on the scale, aren't the shorts nice? My kids keep asking where my hair went.

22 years, no running, a car, a mortgage, a wife and 2 kids later, I am just a tad under 210 pounds. My shorts are better. My hair, not so much. At least I don't have to pay a barber.

When I gave up running, I picked up basketball. In college, we played against the University of Arizona players during the offseason from the late 80's into the early 90's. That was really a treat. I still pine for the days of Lute Olson, Sean Elliott and Steve Kerr. I loved to run full court for hours until I got into my thirties when I got glasses and the aches and pains were becoming an issue . I gave into a sport I had always called a "sissy sport"- golf.

Four years ago, I trained for 6 weeks and ran a 1/2 marathon here in Oro Valley. During that time, I dropped to 190 pounds and felt pretty good out on the road. I ran 1:35 over a hilly 13 mile course. Not too bad.

That brings us to 2009. For the past two weeks I have been hitting the road at 5 AM. Oro Valley has done a fantastic job of building biking and running trails that go for miles. Several even have mileage markers.

I am grinding through the miles and I can tell it is getting easier already. After my four miles this morning, I was at 203 pounds on the scale. Only 18 more to go.

Views from the jogging path.

I am not much of a dieter as I love all of the foods you aren't supposed to eat so this is the best option for me. I am looking forward to the challenge of dropping this weight before my 40th on November 3rd and I certainly enjoy the scenery of beautiful Oro Valley, AZ. It remains to be seen if I can work through the aches and pains and stay motivated long enough to get back to my college weight.

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Patrick Randles

Sunstreet Mortgage

Tucson, AZ 85718

(520)850-7485