Doug Rogers- Your Pineville Louisiana Agent

Last night I dreamed about a house. It was an older two story on a nice lot that needed updating. After weeks of elbow grease and many trips to Lowe's the home was a showpiece. I woke up with a smile on my face.

Maybe it was the fact that I moved around a lot as a kid. For me our family house was a source of stability. Regardless of how far we lived from extended family, our house was our anchor. Even when we were going to live in a town short term, father insisted on purchasing a home. He understood the real value of "The Rogers' House".

In other industries that I have toiled in a love of product was not necessary. My time at the railroad was not due to a love of trains. Likewise, in the mid-1990's I thought cell phones were stupid even though I earned a commission on each on sold...

So I humbly ask, do you like houses?

A recent listing appointment turned awkward when it came time for the sellers to complete the home condition disclosure. In Louisiana sellers must complete a property condition statement at the time of listing. This form simple asks the sellers to disclose any defects they are aware of.

Apparently one spouse was more aware of the home's blemishes than the other. The husband was racing through the form checking "no defect" at the speed of light. As is usual the case the wife was the voice of reason. "Honey, don't you remember that the pipe under the house leaks. You were under there just last week". The look on his face was priceless! Let's examine what might have happened had the sellers not truthfully disclosed the defect...

1) Possibly nothing-- There is a chance the new owners would not find the problem until much later, then fix the problem themselves. Nobody would be the wiser, except the previous owners who sold their home on a lie...

2) The Buyers discover the defect during inspections-- in which case the seller will likely be asked to repair the problem. Or perhaps this is the straw that breaks the deal's back and they walk. How's that lie looking now?

3) The problem is discovered AFTER closing-- Keep in mind AS-IS does not cover fraud. If the seller knew of the problem odds are they will be in some trouble. We live in a small market. That plumber who came to your property last year may be the same person who comes out for the new owners. "I was at the Miller home last year. He told me he was going to cover up the leak." Believe it or not I have seen this happen. Think a plumbing leak is expensive? Go price an attorney...

When in doubt, disclose. Buyers understand that every home has a few winkles. If properly documented, there is no need for small defects to deter a serious buyer.

Need help selling your home? Call Doug Rogers with Bayou Properties Realty today at (318) 613-1994.

3 Bedroom Home For Rent in Pineville,La,71360

Looking for a 3 bedroom home for rent in Pineville, La? If so 618 Lallah Street needs to be on your must see list!

Tired of carpet that collects all sorts of germs and odors? This home for rent in Pineville features original hardwood floors and new vinyl in the kitchen. No carpet here!

Even in a old home with character people want new appliances. 618 Lallah has brand new kitchen appliances! Say goodbye to nasty old stoves and dishwashers from the Nixon era.

The spacious back yard is perfect for entertaining! Plenty of room for all your toys!

Ready to tour 618 Lallah? Call Doug Rogers with Bayou Properties Realty today!

I am still reaping benefits from the Raincamp I attended in 2010. Over my professional life I have attended dozens of conventions. Sadly, most were forgotten not long after my plane landed at Alexandria International Airport. There was always a nagging sense of regret for spending so much money for so little in return.

Raincamp was just the opposite. The speakers were great, and the information was first rate. I remember watching the clock with dread that afternoon realizing the training would soon come to an end.

Due to logistical/financial constraints Raincamp had to go virtual. And while I did benefit from the seminar, nothing beats the real thing. How about one mega camp once a year?

Frankly I would probably attend a yearly raincamp over NAR. The training is just that good. What would you pay for a one day raincamp? I would drop 199.00 in a heartbeat, maybe more. My guess is other members would as well. How about it community...would you pay to attend an old school Raincamp?

Let's face it. These days money is tight. Home buyers in Pineville are taking a close look at every charge associated with their home purchase.

Frankly that 400-500 home warranty fee LOOKS like a nice place to skimp. After all, what are the odds of something breaking in the first year of ownership? Based on the service reply cards I get from my past clients, pretty high.

Each time a client makes a claim, the warranty company sends me a courtesy card. I would post a picture, but the numbers might scare you...One client had 1,800 dollars worth of AC work done, TWO MONTHS into ownership! You better believe they were happy for the coverage.

As a buyer's agent in Pineville, I first try to get the seller to pay for the warranty. This works most of the time. But when we are unable to negotiate it, I strongly encourage clients to pay for the coverage. 500 dollars is cheap for one year's peace of mind!

Ready to buy or sell a home in Central Louisiana? Give me a call today at (318) 613-1994!