Pekin, IL

Allow though it is definitely the job of your Realtor to keep track of your deadlines on the contracts, you should be keeping track of those dates as well. If for no other reason than to protect yourself. What if your Realtor is injured, incapacitated, or even, lets face it just plain lazy or incompetent? Sure, you probably have grounds for a lawsuit against them at a later date but in most cases you will not have any immediate relief for the missed deadline. So be sure to read your contract and know when your inspections are due by and when repair amendments must be submitted by in case someone is asleep at the wheel.

Looking for the most profitable path to selling your home? Using a marketing plan is your map and an experienced real estate agent is your guide.

A knowledgeable agent will keep you on course with a complete marketing plan that includes fact-based market analysis, signage, virtual tours, brochures, MLS placement, direct mail, home showings, open houses, and the resources of their active network.

Know-how also counts on the road to "sold!" Select an agent with a proven track record who will aggressively market your home, anticipate problems, and skillfully resolve any unavoidable issues.

It's tax season again and thoughts of home ownership weigh heavily on the minds of renters and other prospective homebuyers. Renters are often apprehensive about the financial responsibility of owning a home. WeSellPekin.com wants to remind taxpayers that ownership, rather than renting, offers financial benefits. Below are tax incentives for home ownership, but as always, taxpayers should seek the advice of a financial professional:

• Deductible property taxes and interest. Most homeowners can deduct property taxes and interest paid on their mortgage for each year of ownership.

• Borrowing against equity. Homeowners can borrow against the equity they have built up in their homes. Equity from a home can be used to improve the property, buy a car or pay for education.
• Real estate tax exemption. Depending on the state, certain real estate tax exemptions apply for homeowners who meet specific criteria.
• Yearly home appreciation. Although it is not a tax advantage, homes build equity over time. Renters receive no financial return on monthly rental costs.

You are out looking for that home of your dreams and never quite find it. This one has bad lighting and that one has a bad kitchen layout. Then the clouds part, the sun begins to shine and you find the "one". But you can't put in an offer because you haven't taken the very crucial step of getting pre-approved for a loan or you put an offer without a pre-approval and the seller tells you to take a hike because your offer is useless without it. Now you have to scramble and get that pre-approval so you can secure your dream home, meanwhile someone else waltzes right in with a pre-approval and makes an offer and buys your dream home. Save yourself this heartache and get yourself pre-approved at the start of your home search. Keep in mind two key items 1. you are not the only person looking for a home in your price range 2. a seller will not take your word for it that you can afford their home. A pre-approval will help you avoid either item costing you a home.

We hope to help anyone and everyone with the questions they have about out local Real Estate market. See us and more at www.WeSellPekin.com