Karen Staha, CRS,GRI,ABR REALTOR

Put the sign in the yard, talk to some buyers, sell the home. Sounds pretty simple on the surface, but if it were really that easy we'd all be doing it. Although it can be a fine way to save on commission fees, those who try to sell on their own usually develop some appreciation for how realtors earn their commission

In reality, the home selling process is a complex one and there are many details involved in the entire process. Sure, you could stagger through it and learn as you go. Just remember putting the sign in the yard is only the beginning process of legal contracts, appraisals, inspections and financing -- a lot of potential pitfalls.

If you're considering selling your home without a Realtor, I'd like to offer you a few points for thought....

Be aware of the legal rules that govern real estate transactions in your area. Know what necessary state-mandated contract forms and disclosures are needed, the ability to have access to them and who must sign the forms. If not executed properly, what might seem like a simple real estate transaction can turn into a nightmare.

Have the necessary tools and resources you'll need to ensure you're selling your home at a realistic price for your market. Not all homes are created equal so don't compare your home to the sold home down the street, and don't rely on Internet sites offering an online pricing analysis of sold homes in your neighborhood - you might not be getting the most accurate sold information.

Be sure also to stay informed as the marketing process unfolds with possible changes in the marketplace. Know what is selling and for what around you so you can adjust your pricing accordingly if necessary.

You're home is decorated beautifully - that is, to your personal taste and lifestyle. Beware! Buyers are very visual. What might appear in your eyes to be the best looking home in the neighborhood for sale is not necessarily how the buyer will perceive it. You'll probably need an unbiased professional opinion along with some guidance on decluttering and staging your home for most effective showing results.

Plan on advertising costs. If you want to expose your home to the largest possible audience of buyers to get you the maximum price, don't rely on the sign in the yard to do that for you. Without the advertising exposure a Realtor offers, you'll need to get creative. Even then, don't expect the results you hoped for. - most buyers are already working with Realtors who have access to the greatest number of homes for sale though the MLS.

Be prepared to open up your home to strangers with whom you have no background information. This is not a time to be shy about asking all the right personal pre-screening questions before you invite buyers into your home or accept an offer, and be prepared to waste valuable time if they have no real buying ability.

Put your emotions in a box. There's no gap between you and the buyer so you'll need to maintain the position of calm during all phases of selling process. This means dealing with potentially uncomfortable situations, letting go of your personal opinions and responding to criticism.

Know the type of loan program your buyer falls into when you get the contract offer. Loan programs and lender requirements differ so you'll need to have an understanding of how the buyer loan is structured for qualifying, who pays for what and how it can affect you.

Don't expect a full price offer. Buyers have an attitude of high expectation and, of course, you want the best price for your home so be prepared for the negotiation process - This requires skill and can get painfully emotional (remember the box). You'll need to be able to understand the needs of the buyer, know your leverage position, how to end up with a win-win situation and when to walk-away.

Once your in escrow, there's the details to attend to - Title commitments, surveys and inspection reports to review, along with keeping pace with the buyer loan progress are all a part of the tall order of priority. Be prepared to multi-task while trying to maintain your everyday schedule and prepare for your move.

Be prepared for the unexpected. There's a slew of complications that can take place during the process - missed critical contract deadlines, failed inspections, easement encroachments, title defects, lender required conditions, closing delays -- and the list goes on. You'll need to stay in-step with the entire contract process all the way to close to help insure you'll even get there.

The bottom line is this. When you tap into the level of experience and local knowledge provided by a real estate professional, it is well worth the investment you will make. You won't need to concern yourself with all the fine details because your Realtor will walk you through the entire process, making every effort to insure your goals are met and a successful transaction is accomplished.

If your relocating to Texas or already here and would like more information about selling or buying a home in Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Hutto or Cedar Park & Leander, I welcome your call or email.

Karen Staha, CRS,GRI,ABR, REALTOR

(512) 217-2435

email: kmstaha@aol.com web: www.karenstaha.com

Written by Karen Staha, All Rights Reserved ... "Selling your home without a Realtor ?"

If you weren't looking for it, you probably wouldn't even know it's there except for the small sign on the side of the 1920's built former home that spells it out ‘Mini Stitches'. Yet, owner Carol Kusmaul, has managed to obtain a long and loyal list of customers.

Mini Stitches caters to quilters, sewers and crafters. The shop is filled to the brim with a glorious color palette of first quality cotton fabrics. Beautiful finished quilts adorn the walls of every room. Each is a work of art in itself, handcrafted by an individual with the love of color and design from fabrics

Carol has sewn all her life She can tell you just about anything you want to know about quilting, and fabrics. The idea of opening her own quilt shop was conceived not only because of her love of the crafts but because needle workers in and around Round Rock needed a source for unique patterns, quality fabric, and a local supply of silk ribbon for embroidery.

If you are a beginner, the gals at MiniStitches will help you choose a pattern, gather supplies and make that 1st exciting stitch. If you have some experience, they be here when you need a second opinion or encouragement. If you are a master, share your masterpiece and teach a class! And classes they have!

MiniStitches offers a continually changing variety of classes taught by some of the best quilters and crafters around who love to share their talent. The round table provides a wonderful setting where laughter is in abundance and friendships are made. Call or stop by to learn more about classes, schedules, openings, and to sign up!

If you're quilter or always wanted to be, stop by MiniStitches and be inspired to create beautiful quilts that will be treasured for years.

MiniStitches is located at 208 West Bagdad Ave in Round Rock Texas (on the corner of Brown and Bagdad) Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm

For more information visit their website at www.ministitches.us or call 512-255-8545

I shop in Round Rock and support local retail shopping.

Interested in Pflugerville Real Estate? I'd love to help you!

Karen Staha, CRS,GRI,ABR, REALTOR

www.karenstaha.com kmstaha@aol.com (512) 217-2435

Beads, beads and more beads. That's what ‘The Bead Choice' is all about.. And an awesome selection of beads at that - glass beads, seed beads, gemstones, turquoise, coral, peal and shell to name just a few. They also offer a ‘choice' selection of stringing supplies, tools, sterling silver chains, suede and other products for completing your craft projects

Stop in on any given day and you're bound to find co-owner, Brandon Turner, manning the shop and stringing beads. What started out as a hobby for Brandon, developed into a passion and then into his own business. "We work hard to build our business by having a good selection beads on hand, keeping our prices as low as possible and providing excellent customer service. We're always eager to answer questions and help with design assistance." says Brandon.

The Bead Choice, located at 1101 W. Pecan Street in Pflugerville Texas, offers a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere where customers are invited to linger and browse the wall-to-wall bead selections and jewelry findings. And while the store mostly serves the needs of walk-in customers who come from miles around, Brandon has also established an internet presence by offering mail order beads and findings along with beaded jewelry pieces he has made. This past year alone generated over 1.000 orders of his handmade jewelry. That's a lot of beads!

On Saturday afternoons, Brandon hosts private parties and lessons in his shop. During that time, customers can use his tools and string their own beads and someone will always be on hand to assist. "Beading, like any craft." Brandon says, "is the art of creating something unique and personal to keep or give as a gift. A part of your personality is attached to it, and it's very rewarding to see the end result of your finished piece. People spend hours beading. It's relaxing and fun."

So weather you're a beginner or long time beader, The Bead Choice is a great choice for all your beading needs. You can also visit them online at www.thebeadchoice.com or call (512) 989-1110

I live in Pflugerville and support local retail shopping.

Interested in Pflugerville Real Estate? I'd love to help you!

Karen Staha, CRS,GRI,ABR, REALTOR
web: www.karenstaha.com email: kmstaha@aol.com direct: 512-217-2435

What a great place to unwind, relax, and have fun with family or friends! Ceramics -N- More is a paint your own pottery studio and more located in the heart of downtown Pflugerville Texas at 101 W. Pecan Street. Willie Jackson, a local resident, has always had a talent and love for ceramics and other arts. Her dream of opening a ceramics studio finally evolved in 2006 and we're glad she's here!

Here's how it works - Choose from a large selection of pottery such as plates, mugs, spoon rests, banks, boxes and more. Once you've selected the piece, pick your colors and create your own one of a kind work of art. When you're finished, Ceramics -N- More will glaze and fire your masterpiece and have it ready for you in a couple days to take home or give as a gift. What a perfect way to say ‘I Love You' on any special occasion!

But wait! The fun doesn't stop there! Ceramics -N- More also offers Glass Fusion for all ages and skill levels - everything from jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, earrings) to bowls and vases. Or, go groovy and create your very own Tie Dye T-Shirt.

No experience or artistic ability is necessary for any of the activities. The friendly Ceramics -N- More artists will work with you to get you started on your project and be available to answer questions as you create your unique masterpiece

Ceramics -N- More also throws great parties! Fun for birthdays, showers, ladies night, summer camps, scouts, and preschool groups. You can bring your own refreshments, and they will provide a place for you to have fun!

If you can't make your way to the studio, they will bring the excitement to you at your daycare, church, or business.

For more information check out their website at www.ceramicsam.com or call them at 512-252-2243.

I live in Pflugerville and support local retail shopping.

Interested in Pflugerville Real Estate? I'd love to help you!

Karen Staha, CRS,GRI,ABR, REALTOR
web: www.karenstaha.com email: kmstaha@aol.com direct: (512) 217-2435

Fun, Casual, Chic, Unique! Welcome to Diva Valentine Boutique & Bistro at 306 West Main Street. Established in 2007, Diva Valentines is located in a vintage home on a quiet tree-lined street in the Old Town district of Round Rock, Texas. This irresistible boutique combines a unique blend of shopping and cottage style dining all under one roof.

Each room you venture into offers a shopping experience that reflects the love for Shabby Chic, Cottage Style, Victorian French Country and Baby Boutique. Selections and one of a kind treasures include distressed furniture, jewelry, home décor, handbags, soaps, pillows, lotions and so much more. Here too you'll find a nice mix of products by creative local artists.

Sip on flavered teas. Order a frappuccino. For lunch, choose from daily menu of sandwiches, soups and salads. All are fresh made and served to you in a delightfully decorated room filled with vintage world charm. Be sure to leave room for the delicious home-made deserts!

Diva Valentine Boutique also offers baby and bridal shower services, sewing classes, alterations, wedding gown cleaning and steaming and custom gift baskets Talk about multi talent!

Be sure to stop by this sweet boutique the next time you're in the area. It's truly a special treat from the norm.

For more information and directions check out their website at www.divavalentine.com or call 512-731-5807

Are you interested in Round Rock Real Estate? Kmstaha@aol.com