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Glen Russell Real Estate Professional Collegeville, PA

Glen Russell - Collegeville PA Realtor's - 6 Things you MUST Know Before You BUY!

Mortgage regulations have changed significantly over the last few years, making your options wider than ever! Subtle changes in the way you approach mortgage "shopping", and even a small difference in the way you structure your mortgage, can cost OR save you literally THOUSANDS of dollars and years of expense.

Whether you are buying your first home, or are planning to make a move to your next one, it is critical that you inform yourself about the factors involved.

1. You CAN, and SHOULD get pre-approved for a mortgage before you go looking for a home.

  • It's Easy
  • It will give you peace of mind while shopping for your home
  • It is free, and there are no obligations - it can even be done over the phone
  • A written pre-approval is as good as MONEY in the Bank!

2. Know what Dollar Amount You Feel COMFORTABLE Comitting to -

  • Find out what level you qualify for
  • It may be more or less than what you wanted to pay
  • Going back and forth with your lender can get you your perfect monthly payment
  • You won't waste time looking at homes that are not in your price range.

3. You should be thinking about your LONG TERM GOALS & EXPECTED SITUATION-

  • This will help you determine which mortgage is best for YOU
  • How Long do you think you will own this home?
  • What direction are interest rates going in, and how fast?
  • Is your income expected to change in the near future?
  • The answers to these questions will help you choose YOUR perfect mortgage

4. Make sure you UNDERSTAND what "Prepayment Privileges" & "Payment Frequency Options" are available to you -

  • More frequent payments (weekly, or every 2 weeks) can shave YEARS off your mortgage
  • It will also lessen the interest you pay over the term
  • Not all mortgages offer these options, so make sure you ask the right questions.

5. Ask if your Mortgage is BOTH PORTABLE and/or ASSUMABLE -

  • A Portable Mortgage is - one that you can carry with you when you buy your next home and avoid paying any DISCHARGE PENALTIES.
  • Unless you are moving into a much more expensive home, you will NOT have to go through the entire mortgage process again.
  • An Assumable Mortgage is - one that the buyer of your home can take over when you move to your next home.
  • This can be a very powerful tool at the negotiating table, making it much easier and more desirable for someone to buy your home, and again saves you any DISCHARGE PENALTIES.

6. You should seriously consider dealing with a MORTGAGE EXPERT -

  • Consider dealing ONLY with a professional who specializes in mortgages.
  • It can make a significant difference in the cost and effectiveness of the mortgage you obtain.
  • Typically there is no cost or obligation to enquire.

I have quite a few of Mortgage Loan Officers I would love to refer to anyone in any situation.

If you have any questions or for all of your real estate needs. Please, NEVER hesitate to call.

Make it an Awesome Day!

Glen Russell 610.792.3000

WWW.GlenRussell.Com

How to Prepare Your Home for Sale - By Collegeville Real Estate Agent - Glen Russell

What more could any seller want than to get their home sold for top dollar in a short amount of time with no hassles?

I have a few suggestions for sellers before you put your home on the market that will help you find your way to a successful sale!

The main goal is to simplify and depersonalize your home. This will do two things. It will make your home show more spacious, and it will also be a blank slate for potential buyers to see their own ideas they have for the future.

My first suggestions are just non specific basic ideas.

1. Air out your home. Many buyers are turned off by even the smallest odors. Chances are because you live there, you may not notice any smells. If you have any dogs, cats, young children in diapers, or if you are a smoker, this is crucial.

2. Get Carpets Cleaned. Now is the best time to do this. Bare floors should also be waxed and polished. Replace anything that is not fixable through cleaning.

3. Clean/Wipe Down all Woodwork - Doors & Cabinets especially. Use something such as Old English or Liquid Gold

4. Air Conditioners - Replace or clean a/c filters. Clean ALL a/c vents and intake grids. Also, Keep A/C no Hotter than 75, and no cooler than 70.

5. Air Fresheners - Keep on in EVERY room, however, you should stay away from FLORAL scents because they tend to be TOO harsh. A safe bet is usually vanilla or cinnamon.

6. Repaint Walls - In a neutral color such as antique white. Paint is your best improvement investment. Presentation is the most important thing when trying to sell a home.

7. Window Ledges - Clear them of anything, especially if they're cluttered. You always want buyers to get a nice big glimpse of inside and out.

8. Clutter - Ask Yourself "is there anything that is NOT going to make the move." Take your list and throw everything out. Don't wait until the move for you to get rid of excess belongings.

9. Think Positive - Your House WILL sell. Start packing small things that you don't use on an everyday basis. When moving day does come, you will be very thankful you did this.

10. Keep it Simple - NOTHING should touch the floor unless it is a piece of furniture. Remove all baskets, luggage etc. The more floor space the buyer can see the better.

INTERIOR*****

Lighting:

  • Upgrade the Wattage in all light fixtures to the highest level safety will allow.
  • Dust or Wash all light fixtures & Fans
  • Turn on all lights in the evening to "invite" potential buyers

Windows:

  • Dust blinds, windowsills, and plant ledges
  • Remove ANY cobwebs inside & outside
  • Clean inside and outside of all windows or glass doors
  • Take screens off before washing them, and leave the screen OFF the front of the house.
  • ALWAYS keep blinds or shades pulled open and curtains removed to allow the most possible light.

Bathrooms:

  • Clean all tubs, toilets, sinks, & shower curtains. Then polish the sinks with lemon or vegetable oil.
  • Store unused shampoo's, soaps, sponges, razors etc. under the sink or somewhere else.
  • Store Laundy Hamper in a closet.
  • Rugs & lid cover should be removed.
  • MAYBE leave 1 or 2 decorations if any. KEEP IT SIMPLE.
  • Linen Cabinets should be organized & never crowded.
  • Bathtubs, Sinks, & Showers should be freshly caulked. Grout and tile should be in good condition. There should be NO LEAKS in any faucet. And it's smart to bleach discolored grout.
  • Remove any wallpaper that is not conservative & plain. There is no need to re-paper. Just paint it antique white.
  • Decorate with conservative colored towels.

Kitchen:

  • Keep all flat surfaces (Counters, Applianes, Furniture) cleared off as much as possible.
  • Review your kitchen as if you were a health insepctor.
  • Remove all magnets, notes, pictures from the front and side of the refrigerator.
  • Store your trashcan in the pantry.
  • Replace any broken appliances, repair squeaks, drips or binds in cabinet drawers.
  • Throw out any old food and leftovers from fridge.
  • If it hasn't been used in months - PUT IT AWAY

Utility Room

  • Organize shelves & put away non-cleanser items
  • Keep area clear of clothes

Living Area

  • Make sure there is not too much furniture
  • Take down personal photo's & patch nail holes & paint
  • Clear away all magazines, books, and any other objects from furniture throughout the house.
  • Open the Curtains
  • Set out FRESH flowers
  • If you have a fireplace, Clean it and remove any items that are in front of it.
  • Create an easy going relaxed atmosphere

Bedrooms

  • The master Bedroom is the 2nd most important room is the house.
  • Define each area (sleeping, dressing, etc) Keep areas simply furnished
  • Clothes always need to be hung up.
  • Store off-season clothes somewhere else - Make closets seems larger & more appealing

EXTERIOR*****

House:

  • Thoroughly sweep down all exterior sides of house
  • Remove window screens & keep windows clean at all times
  • Check for any broken roof shingles
  • Put away tools, garbage cans, hoses, toys, grills, etc.

Yard:

  • Keep lawn mowed, weed free, and well edged.
  • Trim tree's and shrubs
  • Clean out flower beds and invest in a few flats of colorful flowers & mulch beds

Front Entry Porch:

  • Be sure front door area is clean & free of dirt, dust & cobwebs
  • Repaint door and trim
  • Add a new THICK welcome mat - keep it clean
  • Make sure doorbell is working properly

Garage:

  • Drastically clean & reorganize

Obviously this isn't everything you could do to help your house sell. But it is an awesome start & you would be way ahead of the competition. If you would like any more tips, Please call me anytime!

Make it an Awesome Day!

Glen Russell

610.792.3000

WWW.GlenRussell.Com

Limerick Community Day 2008 - Back on!

Hello Everyone! Great News!

The Hurricane pushed us back a few weeks, but Limerick Community Day 2008 is rescheduled for September 27th. Please refer to my previous blog for all the fun and games that are planned.

I am looking forward to seeing lots of community members there. Please keep an eye out for The Glen Russell Team's table.

Make it an awesome Day!

Glen

610.792.3000

Collegeville PA Home Buying Process - Step By Step

If you are a first time home buyer, or even if your just a litte shabby on the home buying process, here is a step by step guide that will help explain exactly what will happen when you buy a house with my team and I.

Obviously I can't speak for all agents, but this is the way it works for my sastisfied clients. I guarantee it!

1. Find a Realtor You Can Trust

  • I will make sure all of your needs are met
  • I will represent you and your best interest through the entire process

2. Getting Approved

  • I can help you find a great lender
  • Your lender can explain financing options & approval
  • Your lender can also help you understand your price range

3. Consulting Session

  • We will meet one on one to discuss everything you want and need in a home
  • Pinpoint the area you wish to live in

4.Looking For a Home

  • You will go on showings with me or another expert on my team until you find your dream home!

5. Your Offer (Be Careful) This is a BIG Step

  • When you do find your dream home, we will make a competitive offer as soon as possible
  • I have extensive negotiating experience, and will ensure you get the best deal

6. The Accepted Offer (Things are Moving Faster Now)

  • Once your offer is accepted, it becomes "Pending"
  • Every detail must be handles accurately and immediately
  • The Glen Russell's Team Closing Manager will make sure your home closes properly and on time.

7. Inspections

  • Inspections are performed to make sure your property is perfect for you
  • I will be further negotiating contract details

8. Finalize Lenders Commitment - Sign Loan Documents

  • Make sure you bring your cashiers check, Insurance binder, and Drivers lisence with you
  • We're almost Done!

9. Your Finally Home!

  • After the Deed is recorded, and posession date is decided upon
  • Pick up the keys, and your home!

Please feel free to call me with any further questions you might have on the home buying process or any of your real estate needs.

Make it an Awesome Day!

Glen Russell (610.792.3000)

WWW.GlenRussell.Com

The Ten Commandments When Applying For a Loan in Collegeville PA

The Ten Commandments

When applying for a Real Estate Loan

1. Thou shalt not change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job.

2. Thou shalt not buy a car, truck or van (or you may be living in it)!

3. Thou shalt not use charge cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind.

4. Thou shalt not spend money you have set aside for closing.

5. Thou shalt not omit debts or liabilities from your loan application.

6. Thou shalt not buy furniture.

7. Thou shalt not originate any inquires into your credit.

8. Thou shalt not make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer.

9. Thou shalt not change bank accounts.

10. Thou shalt not co-sign a loan for anyone.

They may sound like common sense, but breaking any one of these rules could endanger everything you've worked towards!

Make it an Awesome Day!

Glen 610.792.3000

WWW.GlenRussell.Com