Featured 1

Curabitur et lectus vitae purus tincidunt laoreet sit amet ac ipsum. Proin tincidunt mattis nisi a scelerisque. Aliquam placerat dapibus eros non ullamcorper. Integer interdum ullamcorper venenatis. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas.

Featured 2

Curabitur et lectus vitae purus tincidunt laoreet sit amet ac ipsum. Proin tincidunt mattis nisi a scelerisque. Aliquam placerat dapibus eros non ullamcorper. Integer interdum ullamcorper venenatis. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas.

Featured 3

Curabitur et lectus vitae purus tincidunt laoreet sit amet ac ipsum. Proin tincidunt mattis nisi a scelerisque. Aliquam placerat dapibus eros non ullamcorper. Integer interdum ullamcorper venenatis. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas.

Featured 4

Curabitur et lectus vitae purus tincidunt laoreet sit amet ac ipsum. Proin tincidunt mattis nisi a scelerisque. Aliquam placerat dapibus eros non ullamcorper. Integer interdum ullamcorper venenatis. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas.

Featured 5

Curabitur et lectus vitae purus tincidunt laoreet sit amet ac ipsum. Proin tincidunt mattis nisi a scelerisque. Aliquam placerat dapibus eros non ullamcorper. Integer interdum ullamcorper venenatis. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas.

Translate

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Beautiful Interior Design Collection Designed by Kube

Kube is a playful interior design set with a unique personality. Colorful and fresh, this furniture collection can completely turn around the way a room looks. It is very dynamic which is good enough to inspire the people who are around it to be the same. Designed by ZeroTreArchitetti for Linea Italia, Kube is a modular set which can be arranged in a variety of ways. One can choose to place the similar colors together for a “tidy” feel, or mix them up real good for a joyful and color-messy interior. There is no way you can go wrong arranging these furniture pieces, that’s for sure. The set also comes with a few pillows, perfectly adapted to the collection.

Beautiful Interior Design Collection
Beautiful Interior Design Collection
Beautiful Interior Design Collection
Beautiful Interior Design Collection

5 Steps on How to Buy A Bank Owned Property

5 Steps on How to Buy a Bank Owned Property
Learn how to get a great deal in today's market.

During this stage of home buying, the bank has taken ownership of the property through either a pre-foreclosure or public auction.  Bank Owned Property is also referred to as Real Estate Owned property (REO).  This indicates the home has already been through the foreclosure process and has been repossessed by the lender.

When the bank owns the property, the lender usually places the home on the market for the remaining balance of the loan. 


5 Steps to Buying a Bank Owned Property or REO

 

1.  Searching bank owned homes for sale and previewing them.  Bank owned property can usually be found on the local Multiple Listing Service.  An agent would have access to this.  Contact an agent that has experience with bank owned properties.

Once you have identified the property, get a better idea of the neighborhood.  Drive by the neighborhood, greet the neighbors, etc. 

2.  Find the potential bargain in the home.  Gather the following information:

  • The balance owed on the property minus any fees incurred during the foreclosure process.

  • Market Analysis on how much the property is worth market value.

  • Calculate monthly expenses as a home owner. 
3.  Have your agent contact the lender and place an offer on the bank owned property. 

4.  Negotiate a purchase agreement.  Your goal is to purchase the property below market value. 

Consider the following when buying a Bank Owned Property:

  • Buy the property "As Is." 

  • Prove you can have the power financially and can close quickly.  This is done through a preapproval letter from the bank.

  • Build relationships.  Keep in contact with your agent. 
Make sure to have contingies in the purchase agreement.  This should include a clean title and a professional home inspection.  Even when buying the property "As Is," have a professional home inspection done to know exactly what you are getting into.

5.  Close the Deal! 

Friday, June 25, 2010

Ballston Spa's Family Fun Day http://ping.fm/Ndunv

Celebrate at Ballston Spa's 17th Annual Family Fun Day This SUNDAY June 27, 2010

Celebrate At Ballston Spa's 17th Annual Family Fun Day

Sunday June 27, 2010




Are you looking for something to do this weekend? June 27, 2010 Ballston Spa will be celebrating it's 17th Annual Family Fun Day.  And best of all it's FREE Admission. 

Your Invited: Ballston Spa's 17th Annual Family Fun Day
When: Sunday April 27, 2010 3:00 p.m.
Where:Saratoga County Fair Grounds
Admission is FREE

Ballston Spa's 17th Annual Family Fun Day will include activities for all ages from a reptile show, juggling and magic acts, to bouncy bounces, to karaoke and a dance party.  There will also be free face painting and music.  Along with fireworks to top off the night. 

Mayor John Romano gave the only insight to this years Ballston Spa's Family Fun Day.  It will be "Our version of wet."

This will include:

  • Water Safety Fair from 3-7 featuring Nick Bablin with his Eagle Scout Project.

  • The American Red Cross will be training people on water safety

  • The Fire Department, Coast Guard, and State Police will also be represented
Join in some more fun including children's games between 3-4 pm.  As well as drawings for new bicycles at 5:30.

This years Ballston Spa's Family Fun Day is sponsored by the village, towns of Milton and Ballston, and Saratoga County Board of Supervisors.  It is open to everyone.  If you would like more information contact the village office at 518-885-5711.

So come enjoy the fun at this year's 17th Annual Ballston Spa's Family Fun Day. 


Thursday, June 24, 2010

Pay Dirt

Right: Our soil when we first moved onto our land...the worst dirt in the history of dirt! Eddie actually broke a pick ax trying to dig a hole. Tilling was an impossibility. After years of use as a pasture, the land would barely sustain bermuda grass, let alone a productive garden.

The solution: Sheet composting! I found a lovely book by Pat Lanza called 'lasagne gardening'...it is an introduction to starting a garden without any tilling or heavy equipment. Over the last three years, we have converted well over a full acre, and more than 4 tons of biodegradable wastes, into lush garden soil!

We gathered boxes from local businesses, as well as newspapers.
Thick layers were overlapped to completely smother the pesky and invasive pasture grasses, and grass clippings, manure from local stables, leaves left curbside in the city, and compost were layered on top of the boxes. In 18 months, the result was fertile soil!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Top Ten Red Flags When Buying a Home In Clifton Park http://ping.fm/byEMh

Top 10 Red Flags to Look For When Buying A Home In Clifton Park NY

Top 10 Red Flags When Buying A Home in Clifton Park

What are some signs home buyers should be aware of when buying a home in Clifton Park?


Picture courtesy of Front Door.com



When searching for a home in Clifton Park, it is important to watch out for some common red flags.  Seller's do not always disclose the entire truth to home buyers.  This is especially true when sellers are very motivated to sell.  It is important to have a home inspection done when buying a home in Clifton Park. 


Top Ten Red Flags to Look For When Buying a Home in Clifton Park



1.  Lack of curb appeal throughout the neighborhood.  Look at other homes in the neighborhood, are they boarded up or vandalized.  Check with the neighbors. Are they ready to pack up and leave as well? 

2.  Minor maintenance.  When buying a home in Clifton Park, check for signs of poor maintenance.  For example three layers of the roof and plants growing where they should not be.  As a home buyer, ask yourself what else did they neglect?   

3.  Failure in the foundation.  Look at the yard grading.  If the yard is sloping downward towards the house, this could cause water to run down the foundation walls or into the basement.  When buying a home look for cracks or bulges in the foundation.  This could indicate a serious issue and you should have a home inspection done.  

4.  Bad smells indoors or outdoors.  Be aware of smells while looking for a home.  If there is mass amounts of potpourri this could indicate a red flag.  

5.  Faulty and old wiring in the home.   Although you may not be an electrician, when buying a home check and see if all the switches work in the home.  Symptoms of faulty wiring include flickering lights, circuits that do not work, and warm or hot outlets. 

6.  Fresh paint just on one wall.  When buying a home fresh paint can be appealing to home buyers, however it can also be used to cover up problems, such as mold or mildew.  If a room smells or has sagging walls or ceilings make sure to have a home inspector check for leaks. 

7.  Off limit rooms or blockades.  When buying a home locked doors or blocked areas could be a major red flag.  Make sure you tour the entire house.

8.  Non functioning windows.  Make sure all the windows work.  When buying a home check for water in between double paned windows.  Also make sure the windows all function. 

9.  Floors or structural walls are removed.  Open floor plans are becoming more and more popular today.  However during rennovations if a load bearing wall is removed with out adjustments, this shifts the weight to other parts of the home. 

10.  Pests!  Be aware of any unwanted creatures in the home.  Have a pest inspection just to be sure.  This can save you money in the long run.

The bottom line is when buying a home in Clifton Park NY, always have a home inspection done. The small inital fees will save you from possible costly future repairs. 


For all of your Home Inspection Needs Contact House Detective 518-884-0675



 



Sunday, June 20, 2010

Beautiful Chandeliers To Make Any Room More Classic

Chandeliers are awesome things for interior decorating. They not only provides the light but some beauty too. Even a simple chandelier could become a centerpiece of almost any room and add a touch of classic and elegance to it. The best thing is that they fit not only classic interiors but even modern ones. There are really a lot of chandeliers designs out there but all of them ofter characterized by containing dozens of lamps and complex arrays of glass or crystal prisms. That’s why they mostly give reflective light. In case you wonder, how a chandelier could change a room look check out our roundup below.






Friday, June 18, 2010

Living in a Tourist Town- Buying a Home in Orlando Florida http://ping.fm/Q3aSE

The Life of Living in a Tourist Town - Buying a Home in Orlando Florida

The Life of Living in A Tourist Town

Buying a home in Orlando Florida

Orlando locals share what it's like living in a tourist town. 




Are you considering buying a home in the tourist town of Orlando Florida?  Home prices in Orlando Florida are still significantly lower than in previous years. 

Orlando Florida was once known as a city of cattle and citrus groves.  It is now known as an international tourist destination.  Orlando is thriving with attractions such as Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, and more.  Disney World itself see's close to 50 million visitors each year. 



Getting Around A Tourist Town

As a native, you get used to maneuvering through traffic.  This is one skill you need in Orlando where congestion is common on Interstate 4 and in the tourist district south of downtown.  While vacationers may be the source of the traffic, many people visit Orlando without seeing the city itself. 

Buying and Owning A Home in Orlando Florida

Orlando has many different, diverse neighborhoods.  It suits a number of different styles including those with a "Disneyesque" atmosphere.  Celebration, which is a developed community designed by Walt Disney, offers a picture perfect appearance based upon Disney's Main Street. 

Currently, there are 5,803 homes for sale in Orlando Florida. The median sales price on a home for sale is $95,000. This year alone there has been 10,348 foreclosures. It is a great time to buy a home in Orlando Florida.

When you are ready to buy in Orlando please give us a call.  House Detective is a full service Home Inspection and Appraisal Company and we are here to help you.  888-692-2711


Thursday, June 17, 2010

Common Boston monochrome party tonight!

 
: : I for sure can't pass up on the opportunity to dress up in monochrome and party together with other designers and artists. My outfit is already picked out, it's going to be all different shades of pink. The Common Boston group is kicking of their event week with the (d)Party tonight at the Artist for Humanity Epicenter. Come join us! The party is organized by my two lovely friends, Katie and Mary.  
Connect with Boston’s architecture, design & non-profit community for drinks, DJed tunes by Mark E. Moon and DJ Pink Sweatshirt from the Big Digits, and good times in head-to-toe monochrome among inflatable dressing rooms, which you can use to change if you are short a single-color outfit (rent one in exchange for donating $10 or 5 pounds of clothing to local used-clothing charities). While you are there, get the scoop on Common Boston Week 2010, mingle with friends and like-minded folks you never knew before. We kick this party off at 6pm June 17 at the Artists for Humanity Epicenter, 100 West 2nd street, South Boston. 21 and older only, please.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Top 10 Questions to Ask A Home Inspector http://ping.fm/vxz0T

Top Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector

Top Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector

What should you know when having a home inspection done?




1. What does your home inspection cover?

The home inspector should ensure you that their inspection and report will meet all your state's requirements.  House Detective Inc.  home inspectors are certified in New York, North Carolina, and Florida.  We assure you, we will meet all of your state's requirements. 

2.  How long has the home inspector been in practice and how many home inspections have they preformed?

The home inspector should be able to provide you with a brief history of their profession.  Newer home inspectors can be qualified and they may work with a partner to assist them.  House Detective Inc. Home Inspections and Appraisals opened in 2003 and has performed thousands of home inspections.  
3.  Are you specifically experienced in residential home inspections?
Related experience in construction or engineering can be helpful.  However, there is no substitute for a home inspector that specializes in residential home inspections.  House Detective Inc. has home inspectors that specialize in both residential and commerical real estate. 

4.  Does the home inspector offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection report?

Most states will not allow the home inspector to do repairs based upon the inspection. This is found to be a conflict of interest.

5.  How long does an home inspection usually take?

The average home inspection for a single inspector is 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a single family home.  Anything less may not be enough to conduct a thorough inspection.

6.  How much will the home inspection cost?

Costs vary depending on the area and size of the house.  HUD does not regulate the cost of a home inspection.  Check out House Detective's Pricing.  We have competitive rates in your area. 

7.  What type of home inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?

House Detective provides a very comprehensive report.  You will find all the details of the home and its components. House Detective also includes a summary page of marginal and defective items.  This is an easy, quick reference to any issues the house may have.  We provide the report within 24 hours of the home inspection.  Reports are sent via email and hard copy.

8.  Will I be able to attend the home inspection?

Absolutely.  In fact, we encourage it.  This can be an educational opportunity for the client.  If an inspector refuses to allow you to attend, this should send a red flag. 

9.  Do you maintain a professional membership for home inspectors?

There are many state and national home inspector memberships.  This can be a plus to have, although it does not break the deal.  House Detective Inc. does belong to the National Association of Home Inspectors and all House Detective Inspectors are certified in their State. 

10.  Do you participate in continuing educational programs to keep up to date?

As we all know, one can never know everything. The home inspector's commitment to continuing education is a measure of his or her professionalism.  House Detective home inspectors are required to take continuing education.  We are always up to date on the key issues. 


For More Information Contact House Detective 1-888-692-2711


 


Friday, June 11, 2010

Contingencies You Must have when buying a home http://ping.fm/z7kCm

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Contingencies You Must Have When Buying a Home

Contingencies You Must Have When Buying A Home

Have a back up plan when buying a home.



When buying a home, it is important to have a back up plan (contingencies) in the original contract.  That way, if there are unresolvable flaws within the condition of the home,  the home will not appraise for the purchase price, or your lender refuses a loan on the property for what ever reason, you are allowed to back out of the transaction without penalty.  Your agent and attorney can advise you on the contingencies that best fit your situation. Remember, the people on your team are here to help you.

Contingencies = Right To Bail 

Completing a home inspection will help you decide whether to bail on the property or not. The number one component overlooked when buying a home is not having a home inspection. Home Inspections can be fun and very educational. They can also be much less expensive than you may think.  It is very important to have a home inspection, so never over look this one.  Buying a home is a major investment and when you do not have a home inspection done you can run into major problems down the road.  Besides, in most cases the ethical seller will be happy to work with you on repair costs.

Top Ten Red Flags When Buying A Home
  1. Neighborhood warning signs
  2. Signs of poor maintenance
  3. Foundation problems
  4. Bad smells
  5. Old or faulty wiring
  6. Fresh paint on only one wall
  7. Locked doors or blocked areas
  8. Walls or floors removed
  9. Bugs
  10. Basically, always have a Home Inspection done. 



Monday, June 7, 2010

Favorite online magazines

: : This past year was a sad year for the magazine industry. I still miss my domino and gourmet.
They left an empty space behind them, but some of that space is being filled by new online magazines. These are my three favorites at the moment (in order of the photos of above):

1. .By Fryd.-Home, kids rooms, crafts
2. .Sweet Paul.  -Home, food & crafts
3 .Utterly engaged. -Wedding

Friday, June 4, 2010

Raleigh NC Hits #1 Again

Raleigh NC Hits #1 Again

Raleigh NC is recognized as the number 1 place to live.



Raleigh NC has been recognized as the number 1 city for the best overall quality of life. Raleigh NC has it all with high tech jobs,  good education, and economic stability. 

Although Raleigh NC can't compete with New York's culture, the financial clout of Chicago, or the diversity of Los Angeles.  It has many attractive qualities of its own. 

There were several factors involved in pushing Raleigh NC to the top of the list.  These factors include:

•The growing rapid pace. The metropolitan population has risen 37 percent since 2000.


•The vast majority of new homes. More than half of Raleigh NC home's were built after 1990.

•The supply of high level jobs. 40 percent of Raleigh NC workforce holds management or professional positions.

•Raleigh NC has been its own Mecca for high tech industries.

•Surrounding high profile universities has cemented Raleigh NC as an educational center.

•The status of being the capitol has brought political prominence and economic stability.


Complete List of the Top Ten City's for Best Overall Quality of Life


1.  Raleigh NC

2.  Washington DC

3.  Minneapolis-St. Paul's MN

4.  Bridgeport-Stanford CT

5.  Salt Lake City UT

6.  Denver CO

7.  Seattle WA

8.  Boston MA

9.  Austin TX

10. San Jose CA
 
 
 
For ALL Your Home Inspection Needs Contact House Detective
 
 
 
 
 
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...