Robert Israel

Pricing a home is one of the toughest jobs of a REALTOR, especially in today's market. There is a fine line between fulfilling our role to get the most for a property vs. keeping it competitive vs. making sure it appraises vs. underselling vs. obliging unrealistic sellers (our clients in some cases).

How many sellers have had to lower the contract price because the appraisal came in below it?

How many sellers have had their home linger on the market because their agent was not honest about the real value of the property?

How many sellers STILL have not sold their home because they are not pricing the home in line with their agents recommendation?

I bet everyone in today's market can nod their head in agreement with experiencing some of these scenarios.

To all of you sellers out there...LISTEN TO YOUR REALTOR. They are professionals with a code of ethics that are using real time data and information to price your home correctly. Remember, they want to sell it for the highest amount too because it affects their commission, but you need to trust their lead when it comes to pricing your home, remember, that's why you hired them.

To all of you agents, don't be shy about telling your client the truth (gently though) of the value of their home. If you don't you are doing your client a disservice by providing inferior information and service.

The Gallup organization has a pole open to Arizona residents interested in submitting feedback on shaping the future direction of our state. From infrastructure, job's and health care, to education, the economy & the environment, this pole solicits YOUR opinion about how tax dollars ought to be spent to shape our state.

To participate go to www.TheArizonaWeWant.org It took me 10 minutes to complete. Maybe the poiliticians (that are not corrupt) will actually listen.

Are you retiring to Prescott, AZ? You're not alone. Prescott was just voted the 4th Best Place to Retire by CNNMoney.com: http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2010/real_estate/1009/gallery.best_places_retire.moneymag/4.html

And its not the first time. For well over a decade Prescott has consistently been named of the best places to retire in the U.S. Here too is a Youtube Video highlighting Prescott as a place to retire for its climate, outdoor active lifestyle and educational opportunities for retirees: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abVFdxRtAVw

AARP names Prescott as one of the safest places to retire in the U.S. http://www.ehow.com/list_6966138_safest-places-retire.htmlin addition to its vibrant cutural life although many urbanites might argue the cultural offerings here as compared to a larger city.

Give me a ring if you think Prescott is thw place for you and I'll see to it that ALL of your real estate needs are met!

Zillow says that Prescott and Prescott Valley have either stopped depreciating or gained some value!!!
That's some really great news even if it is only temporary. Time will tell. Here is a link to their page, just scroll down for our cities numbers: http://www.zillow.com/local-info/AZ-Yavapai-County-home-value/r_2112/

Prescott and Prescott Valley Real Estate are the only cities in Yavapai County that have either stopped depreciating (Prescott) or actually gained some value (Prescott Valley) for the last month and the last quarter according to Zillow.com. Maybe its just a pause before further declines come.

There are many reasons why prices rise and fall in any market. The most common reason has to do with supply and demand. How do you interpret these numbers? Did the tax credit contribute to this?

Energy Audits are a great tool to learn how energy efficient a home is before or after you buy. Its also a great tool for sellers to market their property. Here's why...

An Energy Audit uses Blower Door and Blower Duct tests among other tools to see how "tight" your home is. Those tests pressurize those little leaks around doors, windows and in the ducts which cost you because your hot and cold air just blows away with your money. And remember, after your mortgage payment, its the utility bills that are your next largest expense.

Right now in Arizona where APS, our local utility operates, you can get a home energy audit done for just $99. They usually cost anywhere from $300 - $400. This is a fantastic deal. Go to Home Performance with ENERGY STAR^® program to learn more.

As a Buyer, getting an energy audit during your inspection period will educate you about how efficient a home is and what needs to be done to make it more efficient. You can also use the findings as a negotiating tool for upgrades or price reductions.

As a Seller, an energy audit is a great way to show buyers how efficient your home is and that you care! You can make many of the repairs yourself. A little caulk, weather stripping and duct tape will go a long way to sealing your home and saving money if need be and they are easy jobs to do for most home owners.

Any REALTOR can take a listing and stick it on-line but not all agents will help you find ways to make your property stand out from the rest.

Contact me for more information on Green Real Estate in the Prescott area and Home Energy Audits.