Shokoofeh Nowbakht

I know Halloween is over, but I just remembered to share this photo of an interesting and very creative costume with you. As you know our San Bruno Prudential participated in giving candies out to children at Serramonte and Tanforan Malls as before. It was a lot of fun. I saw the "Foreclosed House For Sale" walking and had to ask him for a picture. The turbulence in housing market has affected many aspects of our lives, including our holidays. I wonder what kind of real estate Christmas ornaments we will see this year.

My first time home buyers became terrified when their offer ratified! They had submitted few offers on other properties and were overbid every time. Is it the market we're in today? Is not expected for the first offer to get accepted? What has been your experience?

Would you buy cheaper and remodel or buy remodeled? Does it make sense for the first time home buyers to try to save money by buying a property that needs some TLC and remodel it themselves? How much TLC is reasonable? Just some thoughts and concerns! Do you have to be a good handyman to buy a fixer upper? Why do we realtors use "Contractors' Special" comment on MLS? Should a non-contractor buy a fixer upper? What do you think?