When buyers look at a home, one of the first questions they ask is how long its been on the market. The thought process is that, if a home has been on the market for long time, there must be something wrong with it, right? Not necessarily. Below are some common reasons a house has been on the market for an extended period of time.

1. Overpriced: When the home was originally listed, it may have been way above what the market would bear, and hence, no interest in it. Overpricing of homes is one of the most common and often one of the main reasons some homes are on the market for so long. The tenet of real estate that we’re so used to hearing is, “location, location, location.” Now it’s more along the lines of “pricing, pricing, pricing.”
2. Difficulty Showing: If a home has occupants living there it may be difficult to coordinate times when people can come and look through the home. In some situations tenants may be unwilling and even Sellers may make it difficult to show a property.
3. Inflexible Sellers: Even if a price may be relatively reasonable, some sellers will not budge from the price they’ve set. This inflexibility can turn a lot of buyers away especially if a reduction in price is to accommodate something that may require repair with the home.
4. Down Real Estate Market: In a buyer’s market, which is our current situation, it can take longer to sell a home just due to the fact that there are so many properties available. It’s supply and demand.
5. Little Exposure: If the home received little to no exposure on the internet or the MLS then that will translate into larger cumulative days on market. This is hard to verify but is still quite common. For example, a listing with one or no pictures is unlikely to generate any interest. No pictures or description equals bad marketing.

What Does This Mean To You?

If you’re a home buyer or an agent representing a buyer, cumulative days on market is important. If you take quick look at how long it’s been on the market and making a decision based on that, you may miss some opportunities. Especially in the current housing market situation, homes being listed for much longer than usual is becoming the norm. As a buyer, consider the above and make sure you are evaluating the home on more than just how long it’s been listed. Sometimes, the longer the home is listed, the more motivated a seller is to sell.

If a home has been sitting vacant for a long period of time, that can also mean that it has gone without maintenance, heat, and general care.

As a seller, if you’re home has been on the market for an extended period of time, it may be time to reevaluate your listing. If it falls under any of the common reasons above, take action to resolve it.

Happy new year! As the new year begins, so do the resolutions for the upcoming year. As an agent, there are some things you can resolve to do that will not only increase your business, but will increase the success rate of your buyers and sellers.

Social Media

Utilizing social media to help advertise and expose your listings will not only help your sellers but it will also attract buyers looking for a home. If you haven’t already started using social media, ie. Facebook, Twitter, and others, you’re missing out on one of the fastest growing, and most useful tools you have available to you.

Newsletters

These may seem old-fashioned and out of date, but the fact is they’re great for staying in the minds of your constituency. People that you’ve done business with before will have you in mind when they recommend an agent to their family and friends or when they themselves are in the market for a new home or need to sell theirs.

Taking Pictures

This seems obvious, but if you’re searching for a home on the MLS or other home search tool, and you come across a listing with absolutely no pictures, or just one, what do you do? You ignore it. Don’t let this be you. It is doing a disservice to your client if you don’t take the time to take photographs. If you’re serious about selling the client’s home, you need to demonstrate the features of the home. And the best way to do that is through photographs.

Tidying The Property

As a agent listing a property, your responsibility is to get the home sold. There are a plethora of things you can do to ensure your listing gets seen. One of the best ways is to communicate with the seller about what the expectations are for the home. This also relates back to taking pictures. Make sure your photos are appealing and demonstrate the special attributes of the home inside as well as outside. Laying bark down in flowerbeds is a great way to add a landscaped and clean look to a property. Make sure that during the picture-taking process that the home is clean and uncluttered and that before potential buyers come to investigate the property, that it gets picked up and tidied.

If you’re already doing the above, these are just a few less resolutions you’ll need to make. For those that aren’t, working on the above will improve your exposure, and will help advertise yourself, and your listings.

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the office,

All of the attendants, were somewhere amiss,

Papers were stacked on the desks with care,

In hopes that when they got back they’d still be there,

The agents had gone home, and nestled in their beds,

While visions of closed deals, danced in their heads;

And my cat in his pajamas, and I in my sweater,

Were both poking fun at who ‘looked better’.

When out in the den there arose such a sound,

I lept from my chair, and flung the cat to the ground.

Away to my computer, I flew like the dawn,

I wiggled my mouse and turned the screen on.

The login screen appeared, and I typed like the wind,

As it processed my password, I happily grinned.

I searched for what, the sound had been,

Ho! Instant Messenger! A new email came in.

I opened my inbox, and to my eyes did appear,

A tiny digital sleigh, and animated reindeer,

With a little old driver, pixelated and thick,

I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick!

With animated vibrance, his coursers they came,

He whistled and shouted, and called them by name;

“Now Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now Prancer and Vixen!

I would have brought Cupid but didn’t know how to fix ‘im!

To the top of Matrix! To the top of the NWMLS!

Don’t let the down market keep you depressed!”

So navigating my browser to Matrix they flew,

With a sleigh full of .pdf files and St. Nicholas too.

And in a twinkling, like a candle against gold,

They showed me the house that I’d listed just sold!

And the digital Santa with his mouth drawn like a bow,

And the beard of his pixel chin as white as the snow;

He gave me a wink, and sprang back to his sleigh,

And with a whoosh he was off and away.

And as I waved farewell, my lip did quiver,

I knew for a fact he had more emails to deliver.

But I heard him exclaim, ere he disappeared from my sight,

“Happy Holidays to all, and to all a good-night.”

Happy holidays everybody!

The first snow of the season has come and gone. It’s cold and will be getting colder. There are many families who will need help this winter staying warm. That is why Puget Sound Energy has a partnership with The Salvation Army to help provide qualified low-income families with heat and natural gas this winter. Puget Sound Energy’s customers, employees, and the corporate giving program contributed over $700,000 to the Warm Home Fund last year, providing assistance to nearly 4,000 families. Contact your local Salvation Army unit for more information.

In addition to the Warm Home Fund, Puget Sound Energy’s HELP Program provides additional bill-payment assistance to qualified PSE customers. Eligible customers can receive up to $1,000 per year in credits to lower their electricity or natural gas bills. Depending on the county in which you live, the maximum household income for eligibility ranges between 125 percent and 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. HELP assistance is offered year-round to eligible customers.

For more information, please visit Puget Sound Energy’s website.

It’s that time of year again. The winds are picking up, storms are brewing, and it’s getting colder. We’ve all been told it’s going to be a La Nina year, meaning wetter, and colder than normal years. Sitting next to a window and watching the clouds race by makes you marvel at how amazing nature is.

Since it is that time of year, it seemed only appropriate to reflect on the season, and things you can do to prepare for the inevitable blusteryness.

Clogged Storm Drains

The wind and the cold makes the leaves fall, and the leaves plug up drains like toy army soldiers plug toddlers’ noses. To reduce or prevent erosion and flooding in your neighborhood, make sure that storm drains are kept clear so that the rain water has a place to go during our classic Seattle winter rain storms.

Wind and Rain

As our rain storms come rolling in, so will the high winds. The ground, saturated with water from heavy rain can often cause instability for trees. As the high winds thrash the trees, some may lose their footing and fall. Check trees around your property and if you see one that already looks like the Leaning Tower of Piza, that may be something you’ll need to address.

Wear warm clothing, use umbrellas, and have some nice warm socks. Use ‘em and wear ‘em, you’ll be glad you did.

Be Prepared for Power Outages

The chance of us not losing power at some point this winter is about the same as the chances of winning a game of hopscotch with one peg leg (if you happen to be one of these people I don’t mean to offend you). It’s likely that we’ll lose power, so be prepared with extra food stuffs like crackers, canned foods, peanut butter and other non-perishable items that can be used in an emergency. Have a small stock of bottled water that you can have on hand in an emergency as well.

Have candles and flashlights ready and stock up on batteries. For those that have lived in the Seattle area long enough, you can recall some of the storms we’ve had. If/when it snows, be prepared with extra blankets and warm clothing as well.

If you keep all these things in mind, hopefully you’ll have a happy blustery winter. If you don’t prepare, Winnie-the-Pooh will knock on your door at some point and say, “Told you so.”

Efficiency for Fall and Winter

Save money and stay warm through the winter months:

• Check the condition of caulking. Any breaks in the seal can let in cold air or water. Look for air and water leaks around windows, doors, and anything else that goes through walls, such as pipes and vents. Ensure that door and weather stripping is in good shape. You may also want to consider installing a storm door (tax credits may be available). For complete air-sealing guidelines you can visit www.energystar.gov.
• Make sure that bathroom and kitchen fans are installed and vented properly to avoid and minimize moisture buildup.
• Assess home insulation and add more if needed.

Get Rebates!

Appliances

• New-appliance rebates from the state include $75 for Energy Star dishwashers, and $250 for energy Star heat pump water heaters. Rebates for qualifying clothes washers have increased to $150. This means you’ll get back $250 back when you combine the state’s rebate with the City Lights Wash-Wise rebate: www.seattle.gov/light/conserve/resident/appliances.

In-room heat pumps

• Ductless heat pumps are more efficient than baseboard heaters or wall fans. For a limited time, Seattle City Light offers a $1,200 rebate when a ductless heat pump is installed. You may also be eligible for a $750 rebate from the state and may qualify for federal tax credits.

Tax rebates

• The IRS offers tax rebates on home improvements such as windows, insulation, duct sealing, heat pumps, furnaces and furnace fans, and heat pump water heaters when placed in service before Dec. 31, 2010: www.energysavers.gov/financial.

For more information about any of the Seattle City Light’s conservation and renewable power programs for residential and business customers, visit www.seattle.gov/light/conserve or call 206-684-3800.

The West Seattle Farmers Market is one of the most wonderful aspects of West Seattle. Besides incredible views of the city and the water, West Seattle offers the renowned farmers market.

What Is The West Seattle Farmers Market?

Operating since 1999, the West Seattle Farmers Market features farmers and small food processors from all over Washington. The popular market is now a home for countless enthusiastic shoppers who revel in the freshness, variety, and value available from local farms. Fresh fruit from all over the state is available including berries, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apples, and melons. Along with the fruit, local organic produce is also available. Ranging from all kinds of seasonal vegetables, fresh farm cheeses, herbs, mushrooms, and fresh free-range chicken eggs. The West Seattle Farmers market has everything a shopper could want. There’s also pastured organic beef and delectable honey, preserves, and fresh baked bread and pastries.

The market includes not only food, but also live music, children’s activities, and other events throughout the season. Gardening and composting information booths are also available at the market each week during the summer.

When: Every Sunday, 10am to 2pm year-round.

Where: At the junction of 44^th Avenue SW & SW Alaska St., Seattle, WA 98116

Parking: There is free street parking in the area surrounding the market.

For more information please see the official West Seattle Farmers Market web page as well as a list of vendors and products.

David Rambo’s play invites audiences to spend an evening of home truths and delicious dish with renowned advice columnist Ann Landers. She will share some of her favorite letters and memories while struggling to write the toughest column of her life. The play depicts an irresistible portrait of the woman who used charm, chutzpah, and “one hell of a Rolodex” to become America’s Therapist – and Best Friend Forever!

Starring Julie Briskman as Ann Landers!

When: September 10 – October 31, 2010

Best Available Shows:

Due to the intimate seating of the Bullitt Cabaret, many performances are already sold out. However, there is good availability in the following shows.

10/23 8:00pm | 10/28 8:00pm | 10/29 8:00pm | 10/30 2:00pm | 10/30 8:00pm | 10/31 2:00pm

Location: ACT-A Contemporary Theatre, 700 Union Street, Seattle WA 98101

Facility/Site: Bullitt Cabaret

Contact: Act Theatre Box Office

Phone: 206-292-7676

Email: service@acttheatre.org

Cost: $10-$55

For more information please see the ACT Theatre’s Webpage.

Deciding whether or not buying a home is right for you can be a difficult decision. While a home can be a great asset, it can also be a large burden as well. The below list of advantages and disadvantages should help sort out what will be right for you. Consider the following.

Advantages of Buying Your Own Home

1. Tax Deductions: Most of the interest you pay on your home mortgages (a majority of the monthly mortgage payments is interest) is tax deductible.

2. Equity: Over time, and as you continue to make your monthly payments your home’s equity will increase. It will increase as the value of the home increases. You can even borrow against the equity in your home in the form of a home equity loan.

3. Asset: A home is generally an appreciating asset. The home’s value is likely to increase which means if you hold onto it for usually longer than five years, you’ll be able to sell it for a profit.

4. You Own It: The House is yours. You don’t have to ask someones permission on whether you can change the color, remodel, landscape, or have pets.

Disadvantages of Buying Your Own Home

1. Maintenance: All the maintenance required will have to be done by you, or you’ll have to pay someone else to do it.

2. Taxes: You will have to pay property taxes, which will be included in your monthly mortgage payment. These are not tax deductible.

3. Risk: The property value of your home could decline or you may be unable to sell it later, causing you to lose money on your investment.

4. Opportunity Cost: A home is a fairly large investment. If you could put the money down into an investment like stocks or mutual funds, or go back to school to earn a degree, you could be losing an opportunity.

If you’re considering buying a home, the first thing you’ll need to do is determine how much you qualify for. Contact your lender to see how much you can pre-qualify for.

“Get your green on!” The slogan for the Seattle Home Show 2 focuses on living green and natural, and green design.

Beginning Friday, October 8^th through Sunday, October 10^th, 2010, the 12^th annual housing extravaganza, the Seattle Home Show 2, will open at Qwest Field Event Center. The Home Show will have on display hundreds of home and garden products; daily “Meet the Experts” seminars; cooking demos conducted by local chefs and more. The Seattle Home Show 2 will show you ways you can save money in this tough economy. From cutting your painting costs, to saving energy on electricity, there’s so much here you’ll want to see and learn about.

Some Highlights of the Show

• Remodeling tips and information from experts in the industry.
• Home designs focusing on classic and simpler lines.
• How to save on lighting and energy bills through home automation.
• Tips for cleaning the home from the guru of household hints, Joey Green.
• Cost effective tips for green design and green living.
• Things you can do now to be ready for the housing rebound.
• Chef cooking demonstrations.
• Seminars conducted by experts in home improvement, decorating, and landscaping.

Where To Park

Parking for the Seattle Home Show 2 is available in the Quest field Event Center parking garage, Quest Field North Lot, Safeco Field parking garage as well as other lots in the area. If you have four or more occupants in your vehicle, you should take advantage of the “Four or More Park Free” designated parking areas (Quest Field Event Center lots, and Safeco Field).

Show Hours and Information

When: October 8 – 10, 2010

Times: Friday and Saturday, 10AM to 8PM. Sunday, 10AM to 6PM.

Paid attendees can return a second day for free through “Too much to see, come back for free!” by registering with valid ID, parking not included.

Admission: $10.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors (60+) and $3.00 for juniors (ages 7 -15), under 7 are free. Visa and Mastercard are accepted.

E-Tickets

E-Tickets can be purchased online at SeattleHomeShow.com. E-Tickets include free parking for the show at Quest Field Event Center and Safeco Field.