Reno/Sparks Real Estate

The Homeowner’s Fall Maintenance Checklist

smilesinthekitchen — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:17:40 +0000

Oh, the joys of homeownership! :)

Run through this handy checklist to make sure your house is on the up-and-up for the long-term:
(Checklist courtesy of Canada Mortgage and Housing Association).

Fall

~	Have furnace or heating system serviced by a qualified service company every two years for a gas furnace, and every year for an oil furnace, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
~	If you have central air conditioning, make sure the drain pan under the cooling coil mounted in the furnace plenum is draining properly and is clean.
~	Lubricate circulating pump on hot water heating system.
~	Bleed air from hot water radiators.
~	Disconnect the power to the furnace and examine the forced-air furnace fan belt, if installed, for wear, looseness or noise; clean fan blades of any dirt buildup.
~	Check chimneys for obstructions such as nests.
~	Vacuum electric baseboard heaters to remove dust.
~	Remove the grilles on forced-air systems and vacuum inside the ducts.
~	Turn ON gas furnace pilot light (if your furnace has one), set the thermostat to “heat” and test the furnace for proper operation by raising the thermostat setting until the furnace starts to operate. Once you have confirmed proper operation, return the thermostat to the desired setting.
~	Check and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season. Ventilation system, such as heat recovery ventilator, filters should be checked every two months.
~	Check to see that the ductwork leading to and from the heat recovery ventilator is in good shape, the joints are tightly sealed (aluminum tape or mastic) and any duct insulation and plastic duct wrap is free of tears and holes.
~	If the heat recovery ventilator has been shut off for the summer, clean the filters and the core, and pour water down the condensate drain to test it.
~	Check to see that bathroom exhaust fans and range hoods are operating properly. If possible, confirm that you are getting good airflow by observing the outside vent hood (the exterior damper should be held open by the airflow). See the About Your House fact sheet CMHC Garbage Bag Airflow Test for a simple way to estimate the airflow.
~	Check smoke, carbon monoxide and security alarms, and replace batteries.
~	Clean portable humidifier, if one is used.
~	Check sump pump and line to ensure proper operation, and to ascertain that there are no line obstructions or visible leaks.
~	Replace window screens with storm windows.
~	Remove interior insect screens from windows to allow air from the heating system to keep condensation off window glass and to allow more free solar energy into your home.
~	Ensure windows and skylights close tightly; repair or replace weatherstripping, as needed.
~	Ensure all doors to the outside shut tightly, and check other doors for ease of use. Replace door weatherstripping if required.
~	If there is a door between your house and the garage, check the adjustment of the self-closing device to ensure it closes the door completely.
~	Cover outside of air-conditioning units and shut off power.
~	Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall, so that water does not drain into your basement.
~	Clean leaves from eavestroughs and roof, and test downspouts to ensure proper drainage from the roof.
~	Drain and store outdoor hoses. Close interior valve to outdoor hose connection and drain the hose bib (exterior faucet), unless your house has frost-proof hose bibs.
~	Have well water tested for quality. It is recommended that you test for bacteria every six months.
~	If you have a septic tank, measure the sludge and scum to determine if the tank needs to be emptied before the spring. Tanks should be pumped out at least once every three years.
~	Winterize landscaping, for example, store outdoor furniture, prepare gardens and, if necessary, protect young trees or bushes for winter.

Rosie’s Challenge – And how YOU can help your local animal rescue shelters!

smilesinthekitchen — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 23:58:31 +0000

I’m in the process of adopting Rosie… She is coming home this week, and she is all I can think about right now!!

[Well, I'm pretty good at thinking about food, but... She is truly occupying all of my thoughts lately! I am so excited!]

Adorable lil Rosie! :)

[BIG SMILES.]

She’s a mastiff-pointer mix – check out how cute she is!!!

Isn’t she ADORABLE!!??

Here are her brothers and sisters (love, love, love!):

Rosie’s brothers and sisters…

Rosie and her littermates were on the euthanasia list at the pound for a week, and were very close to being put down. They had ringworm, which is an easily-treated disease. Treatment is a multi-step process, and it does require patience, but ring worm is absolutely curable.

Terri and her organization, Palomino Valley Pet Rescue, stepped in, and adopted the puppies right before they were to be euthanized. For three weeks, she’s nursed them back to health, and they’re making a full recovery.

I absolutely fell in love with little Rosie, and I’m so very, very excited to get her home next week.

But I was struck at the generosity of Terri and Palomino Valley Pet Rescue. An organization that saves lives of some of our best friends. It’s an incredible job.

In sharing with friends about Rosie’s history, I’ve come to notice that many peoplewant to help, but they just don’t know how.

So… Rosie and I have a two-pronged challenge for you…

1) I’m determined to make a difference… Somehow, some way. And, since I’m a REALTOR® by trade, I want to offer this:

For current, previous and future clients, friends and readers of this blog… If you buy or sell a home with me from now till the end of October, 2011, I will donate (in YOUR name) $100 to Palomino Valley Pet Rescue. If you’d like to match the donation, I encourage you (and challenge you) to do it.

2) If you don’t live in the Northern Nevada area, I encourage you to reach out to your local animal shelters. If you feel moved to do so, donate money. Keep in mind that you can also donate your time. If you have questions on shelters that you can help in your area, simply comment on this post, or send me an email at LoraRealEstate@gmail.com. I will help you find a quality shelter that you can help. I’m happy to do it, because I’m so in love with these furry little people with four legs. :) And, I’m an avid believer in helping those furry friends that add so much to our lives.

Either way, YOU are making a big difference in the lives of animals just like Rosie…

Take Rosie’s challenge today… You’ll get a lifetime of love in return.

Rosie update – she’s the apple of my eye! Take a look at how Rosie’s grown!!

Click to view slideshow.

Free House Hunting Apps for Your Mobile Life! | iPad, iPhone, Droid, Windows7, Courtesy of Realtor.com

smilesinthekitchen — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 18:12:11 +0000

What did we ever do without our mobile phones and laptops?

Honestly, I have absolutely no idea…

[The thought kinda scares me, to be honest...]

One of the coolest parts about the mobile revolution is the increasingly-available tools to make your life easier, more efficient and more mobile.

Take, for instance, the following free apps that help with your house-hunting, courtesy of Realtor.com (click here for the overview):

* Find Your Dream Home with the free iPad App from Realtor.com

* Find Your Dream Home with the free iPhone App from Realtor.com

* Find Your Dream Home with the free Android App from Realtor.com

* Find Your Dream Home with the free Windows7 Phone App from Realtor.com

Efficient house-hunting in real time?!? Yes, please!

And that, my Friends, is today’s reason why – real estate is great!

Homeownership Matters

smilesinthekitchen — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:06:16 +0000

When you think of owning a home, what do you think of?

Perhaps you think of… your very own garden… your living room wall that you recently painted in your favorite accent color… your kitchen where you go to cook and unwind… your bedroom that is your safe-haven from the world… your garage that stores your childhood classic car… the tall oak trees that sway in your front yard… the laughter and great friendship your dining room has seen… the bathtub where you gave your baby’s first bath… the front porch that you relax on while watching the sun set…

Homeownership means so many different things to different people. It’s something that binds us; something that we have in common.

It also means more than that to our economy and overall quality of life…

Take, for instance, this:
* For every 2 homes sold, 1 job is created in the US
* Each home purchase generates as much as $60,000 in economic activity over time
**Source: HouseLogic

There’s an ongoing debate, however, that could change the dynamic of homeownership and how it affects you (and your pocketbook). Several people in power argue that we’d be better off as a nation of renters…

As a homeowner (or a future homeowner), it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest homeownership issues. I encourage you to follow the debate about federal government incentives to home ownership, as its outcome will affect the average American’s ability to obtain an affordable mortgage and whether homeowners can continue to deduct their mortgage interest, as a benefit of homeownership.

If you’re concerned, consider writing your Congressional representatives. Locate your House Representatives here, or your Senate Representatives here.

Homeownership matters, in so many ways… And that’s today’s reason why – real estate is great!

More Help for First-Time HomeBuyers!

smilesinthekitchen — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 22:55:34 +0000

Just when you thought the last of the down payment assistance programs had left the building…

Nevada Rural Housing Authority announced a new down payment assistance program, along with rates in the 3.85%-ish range.

You read that right… Three point eight-five-ish range.

Holy moly, that’s a good interest rate!

Now, pile on the fact that this new program also offers down payment assistance… Translation: for those who qualify, the program will grant (i.e. free, as in never has to be repaid) 3 percent of the loan amount (source: nvrural.org).

So… If you’re a first time homebuyer that qualifies for this Nevada program, and you obtain an FHA loan, you only have to cough up .05% (half a percent) for the down payment… Then your real estate agent asks for closing costs assistance from the seller, and… BAM! You’re in a house!

Seriously. That’s some fantastic news.

Of course, there‘s fine print, and you have to qualify for the program. But that’s what you have me here for! To help you, every step of the way.

Questions? Comments? Email me (LoraRealEstate@gmail.com), or simply comment in the area below this post. I’ll get right back to you.

Here’s the program “particulars” from the Nevada Rural website (nvrural.org):

NRHA announces Home At Last™ Plus-record low rates plus down payment help!

The Nevada Rural Housing Authority continues to make the dream of buying a home a reality for many moderate-income Nevada households with innovative first-time buyer programs. They have just launched Home At Last™ Plus offering a great, below market mortgage rate, plus down payment assistance in the form of a cash grant.
What does the Home At Last™ Plus offer buyers:

• FREE cash down payment grant equal to 3% of loan amount (never has to be repaid)
• 3.85% 30-year fixed mortgage rate
or
• 3.35% 30-year fixed mortgage rate (without down payment grant)
• Instant home equity
• No asset limits for homebuyers

Who qualifies:
• First-time homebuyers or qualified Veterans who will live in home as primary residence
• Households meeting income qualifications and normal FHA, VA or RHS underwriting requirements
• Home purchase is in rural Nevada (population fewer than 100,000) and falls below maximum price

Maximum home prices:
Carson City…………………$363,417
Clark…………………………$364,556
Douglas……………………..$427,215
Elko, Eureka & Nye.……….$296,202
Lyon……………………..……$301,898
Storey & Washoe…..………$367,974
All other areas.……………$247,032

Maximum income limits:
Carson City
2 or fewer persons…………$81,840
3 or more persons…………$95,480
Churchill
2 or fewer persons…………$66,878
3 or more persons…………$76,910
Clark
2 or fewer persons…………$78,120
3 or more persons…………$91,140
Douglas
2 or fewer persons…………$91,080
3 or more persons…………$106,260
Elko
2 or fewer persons……$80,741
3 or more persons……. $92,852
Eureka
2 or fewer persons……$81,240
3 or more persons……. $94,780
Humboldt
2 or fewer persons….. $71,400
3 or more persons………$82,110
Lyon and Nye
2 or fewer persons…… $78,120
3 or more persons………$91,140
Storey & Washoe
2 or fewer persons…..$84,600
3 or more persons…….$98,700
All other areas
2 or fewer persons…….$67,078
3 or more persons………$77,140

********

And, that, my Friends, is today’s reason – why real estate is great!

Congratulations to the Jason and April R. Family!

smilesinthekitchen — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 23:56:46 +0000

There’s scant a better feeling than handing over the keys to a home…

Seriously. It’s incredible.

Buying a home is quite a journey… It can be incredibly exciting and sometimes painfully stressful. But, in the end, when that precious metal falls into your hand and you open the door to your new home that very first time…

Well, that, my Friends, is pretty darn amazing.

I had the privilege to do that today.

Jason and April R. closed on a gorgeous home in Hidden Valley. It’s an exquisite home with panoramic views of the valley and Downtown Reno… Situated in a quiet neighborhood nestled in the eastern hills, this is a great place to call home.

And, Jason and April – I am honored to have had the opportunity to help you and earn your business.

Best wishes for lots of love, laughter and happiness in your new home… :)

Enjoy a quick slideshow of the listing pictures… Seriously – that is my kind of kitchen! And the views!!? Ah-maze-ing!

Click to view slideshow.

Jason and April’s new house keys? Now, that’s today’s reason why – real estate is great!

Have a fantastically fun-filled weekend, my Friends!

The “Home at Last Wish Program” – Down Payment Assistance for First-Time Buyers

smilesinthekitchen — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 22:26:07 +0000

I work with a ton of first-time homebuyers. And they hold a very special place in my heart.

It is so rewarding to be able to counsel them through the process, gently guiding, helping and protecting their interests.

And with the great values there are in real estate today, there’s scarcely been a better time to buy.

What’s even more encouraging are the special programs available that help buyers get into that first home.

Take, for instance, a program co-sponsored by Nevada Rural Housing Authority and Heritage Bank. It’s called the Home at Last^TM Wish Program. For those who qualify, the program matches the amount of a buyer’s down payment 3-to-1.

That means… If you have $5,000 saved for your down payment, the Wish Program will contribute $15,000. Your total down payment would then be $20,000!

[Holy hot tamale, that's a lot of money!!]

There are qualifying parameters; here they are in a nutshell:

• First-time homebuyers (have not owned a home in the past three years) who will live in home as primary residence
• Households meeting income qualifications and normal FHA, VA, Conventional or RHS underwriting requirements
• Home purchase is in rural Nevada (population fewer than 100,000)
• Homebuyer must stay in home 5 years (or repay portion of grant)
• Homebuyer must complete a homebuyer counseling program
• Homebuyer must use in conjunction with Home at Last™ MCC Program

Here’s a handy Wish Program brochure, along with a link to more information on Nevada Rural Housing Authority’s website.

At this point, the program was so popular, that there are no funds remaining (of the $350,000 granted) for 2011. However, it appears that the program is going to be extended into 2012. Here’s how to get a jump on next year:

If you would like to be put on the waiting list for 2012 please e-mail Nicole Larrimore your contact information and expected date of closing to Nicole@nvrural.org.

Enrollment documents:

WISH Program Assessment
Last three paystubs
Current bank statement
Proof of other income (social security, child support, unemployment)
CERTIFICATION OF ZERO INCOME Fill In
Last three years of tax returns (tax transcriptions are allowed)
2010 W2s
Proof of homebuyer education completion
Pre-approval letter from lender (let me know if you need a recommendation)

If you have questions about the program, or if you need guidance, feel free to email (LoraRealEstate@gmail.com) or call (direct: 775.342.9196) me anytime. I’m here to help, however I can.

And the Wish Program is today’s reason why real estate is great!

New Nevada Law Affords Distressed Homeowners Greater Protection

smilesinthekitchen — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:09:39 +0000

I love a day when I have the opportunity to write about not one, but two reasons why real estate is great!!

Take this new law that was recently passed to protect distressed homeowners…

In a nutshell, the measures require stricter documentation from banks (this is protects against unscrupulous debt buyers who “double-dip” by purchasing mortgage notes for cents on the dollar and then turning around and collecting from the borrower’s original note amount). In addition (now this is really cool), the banks are required to respond to a short sale request within 90 days, and failure to do so could be classified as a misdemeanor.

Read a synopsis of the law here: Short Sale Update – Aug. 9, 2011

Source: Reno Gazette-Journal, Jason Hidalgo, July 26,2011.
Link to original article here.

Now, that, my Friends, is some great news!

Sold in 1 Day… And they say real estate isn’t moving!

smilesinthekitchen — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:48:36 +0000

You better believe that real estate has seen its fair share of challenges lately. Absolutely.

But what about the success stories? The great values that buyers are getting today? The homes that are selling quickly, and sometimes with multiple offers? Yep – nice house, priced right – I guarantee you, it’s gonna fly off the shelf (so to speak).

Take, for instance, my beautiful listing at 400 Miesque Court in Reno. Listed and under contract in 1 day.

Yes, it was priced right and move-in ready. Take a look at the pictures and description:

Click to view slideshow.

Flier for 400 Miesque Court

What an absolutely incredible home! Our inspections are scheduled for Thursday, and we’re moving right along!

Can I help you with something like this? Absolutely. You can email or call me anytime (LoraRealEstate@gmail.com or 775.342.9196). I’m here to help, however I can.

That’s today’s reason – why real estate is great!

Have a fantastic day filled with smiles and laughter!

Why Real Estate is GREAT

smilesinthekitchen — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 02:36:05 +0000

I have a passion.

Well, quite a few, honestly.

Selling real estate, cooking, boating, wakeboarding, camping, spending time with family, playing with our dogs, shopping, working out… Just to name a few.

But the main reason for this website/blog is my passion for real estate.

I love it (even on the most challenging days), and I truly believe that I was put on this earth to help others buy and sell real estate.

There’s something different every day… A key to give to a new buyer, a new listing to photograph and market, a challenge to overcome, a tour to give, homes to show, an escrow company to work with, an investment to protect, an inspection to attend, contractors to be hired and repairs made, a way to make sure a transaction is a win-win for everyone involved…

I could go on. But you get the idea.

You might think it a tad bit odd that I’m formulating a full-service real estate website as a blog.

It’s simple.

There’s rarely an industry so dynamic and constantly-changing as real estate. From interest rates and home prices, to lender requirements and home supply vs. demand.

Many agents (even good agents) create a fantastic site for potential clients.

And then they let it sit.

Why can I throw stones? Because I did it.

I made a great, information-rich site many, many moons ago. And then I forgot about it. I never revisited it (at least, very often). My site got lonely. And out-dated. And tired. And, well, not-so-useful.

So what’s the point of having a site in the ever-changing, astonishingly-dynamic industry of real estate if it doesn’t do a darn thing for the public???

Ummm. Yeah. There’s no point. Non-timely information is useless information.

Which is why… Why I’m making the commitment to You. To keeping you constantly informed with rich content, helpful articles and posts… A dynamic site to match the industry I’m in.

There’s another reason too. My field, as of lately, has faced challenges [cough, cough], to say the least. I want to shed a light on what’s going well with real estate – several days a week. Current information that inspires, protects and educates. Home-ownership is an incredible privilege, and it’s something that is at the core of us.

So… here’s my invitation to you. Don’t be a stranger. Come visit with me. You can peruse the site and my posts anonymously. And if there comes a point where you’d like to reach out, whether it’s for you or a friend, I’ll be here. Ready to help, however I can. You have my word on that.