Andi Grant's Blog - Everyday Real Estate with a Twist

Searching Long Beach Rentals is so 2011! First Time Home Buying is Where It's At in 2012!

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:11:09 -0500

Searching Long Beach Rentals is so 2011! First Time Home Buying is Where It's At in 2012!

"Every time tax time rolls around, I become mad at myself that I didn't buy a home to write off while my landlord gets one and continues to collect rents from me!"

I heard this from a Long Beach renter last week who called to ask about first time home buyer programs in Long Beach. This Long Beach renter was paying nearly $1800 a month rent! That's unbelievable considering that with record low interest rates, a large population of Long Beach apartment dwellers could easily afford to own in one of many great Long Beach neighborhoods as well as in any of the nearby cities of Los Angeles, Downey, Lakewood and Carson for nearly the same monthly payment, while being able to possibly have a great a tax write-off to boot!

With what I've been calling the holy trinity of homebuying: low home prices, low interest rates, and low down payment assistance, why not at least see if you can go from being a Long Beach renter in 2011 to a Long Beach first-time home buyer in 2012! Why continue to pay a landlord who only knows you as a check or an apartment building unit # when you can become a Long Beach homeowner with your own address and most likely be able to be reap the benefits of it around tax time?

We can help 1st time buyers with the following:

Mortgage Pre-Qualification Application
Down Payment Assistance Request
Answering your FAQs about the home-buying process
Choosing from one of many First-Time home buyer lenders
Connecting you to a first time home buyer Realtor® who can negotiate a great home price for you that's within your budget!

If you are currently a Long Beach apartment dweller or house renter and would love to become a first time home buyer and home owner in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Downey, Lakewood, Carson or in any of their surrounding cities, while also acquiring what could be a great tax write-off, do not hesitate to call us today at 310-508-4354

We look forward to working with you soon! Happy Househunting in 2012!

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Did You Know: A first time homebuyer is generally considered to be a person that hasn't held any title interest or ownership of real estate property within the last 3 full years?

APPLY NOW (no SS# required):

Pre-Qualification Mortgage Application

Down-Payment Assistance

Your Right To Privacy

Please note, we understand the importance of protecting your contact information. Our team will never share or sell your private contact information with a third party. By giving us your contact information to start the application process, you are giving us permission to contact you via email or phone per your preference. Click here to view our privacy policy.

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Are there any bookstores still OPEN in Long Beach? Why yes…yes there is!

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:17:57 -0500

Are there any bookstores still OPEN in Long Beach? Why yes…yes there is!

In my dream, I'm shopping Long Beach's Retro Row when I hear a sound that I haven't heard in awhile. But could it be? At first I think it's a figment of my imagination and then I hear it again. This time what appears to be the faint sound of a book being cracked open is immediately followed by the oh-so-subtle swish of a page turn. I hook the corner and there it is! OPEN, waiting for me to enter, a bookstore located on Long Beach’s famous Retro Row. No, you don’t understand, is the name of the great independent neighborhood bookstore located at 2226 E. 4^th st. in the heart of 4th St's famous Retro Row in Long Beach!

As I walk into the {open} bookstore, I'm surrounded by wall-to-wall bookshelves containing, get this, books! Real live bound books of gently used unique reading material of classic literature, sci-fi, biographies, children's books, fiction, comic books, back issue magazines, new independently published books and so much more! If that ain't cool enough, {open}'s founders and owners Sé Reed and Shea M. Gauer are introducing new independent authors, musicians, and artists to the city of Long Beach and it's press by allowing them to have book releases, concerts, literary performances and art exibitions at their {open} venue throughout the year. How awesome is that for Long Beach's huge eclectic and creative community?

All of a sudden I'm jarred out of my sleep by a nearby gardner's buzzing weed wacker. In a panic, I check the calendar on my phone and I'm elated to see that it's only 2012! Phew! The "e-age" hasn't completely taken over and {open} isn't only a dream! Unlike the impersonal mega-chain bookstores that are closing all around us, the {open} bookstore in Long Beach is still not only open, but remains a favorite neighborhood bookstore among many of Long Beach's locals and visitors to Retro Row alike.

So when you feel like cracking open a good book, checking out a new undiscovered artist or hearing a new twist on a favorite genre of music, be sure to visit {open} at a 4th Street Retro Row bookstore near you!

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2226 E. 4th St. @ Junipero Long Beach, CA 90814

Books ~ Magazines ~ Music ~ Art 　

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Which of the following first time home buyers is in a better position to negotiate a purchase on their behalf?

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:03:41 -0500

Which of the following first time home buyers is in a better position to negotiate a purchase on their behalf?

Buyer agency and Dual Agency have always been hot button topics among real estate agents across the country. There are states that allow dual agency as a legal and viable form of representation of buyers and sellers and others that do not. In response to a recent blog about agents slamming other agents for their practices for and against, I think professionalism should always be the first order when expressing one's opinion in a forum that has allowed and welcomed public comments from peers and consumers alike. Name calling and bullying those who do not agree (on either side) is unacceptable.

With that said, buyers have choices of having representation or not having it. I am pro-buyer's choice because democracy is the power of choice and that's a wonderful thing! Since we are speaking of choices, I do present a very basic elementary multiple choice question.

WHICH SET OF THE FIRST TIME BUYERS LISTED BELOW IS IN THE BETTER POSITION OF NEGOTIATING A PURCHASE TO THEIR MAXIMUM BENEFIT ON THEIR BEHALF? WHAT ORDER AND WHY?

A) First Time Home buyers representing themselves in a FSBO (For Sale By Owner)?

B) First Time Buyers having their own professional buyer representation?

C) First-time Buyers allowing listing agents (who already represent the seller) to represent them as well?

MY ANSWER AND OPINON OF WHICH FIRST TIME BUYER IS MOST LIKELY TO BE IN THE BETTER POSITION TO NEGOTIATE A PURCHASE ON THEIR BEHALF:

Choice B) Buyers having their own representation in a buyer's agent AGENT: 1 team (Buyer's) = 1 loyalty

The first time home buyer in this scenario is in a better if not best position in my opinion to most likely reap the maximum benefits in their home buying situation. Many agents on both sides can know the inventory and the market, negotiate pricing, ensure all inspections, reports and repairs have been performed, but only one listed in the above scenarios has the legal fudiciary obligation to NEGOTIATE AND FIGHT IN THE BEST INTERESTS SOLELY ON BEHALF OF THE HOME BUYER AND NO ONE ELSE IN THE TRANSACTION.

Choice C) Buyers allowing listing agent to represent them: AGENT: 2 teams (Seller and Buyer) = Divided Loyalties

An agent that is performing dual agency representing both seller and buyer will have in my opinion a much harder time of getting their buyer the best deal because they will have to diligently make every effort to get the best deal for their seller. How can one possibly get the highest purchase price possible for their seller while at the same time getting the lowest purchase price for their buyer? This is not to say there wouldn't be a lack of effort by the dual agent, it's simply a matter of having their hands tied in certain areas of agency where they would normally have free reign to the maximum benefit of their client when representing one or the other. To get a better understanding of dual agency, read short article written by top producing real estate broker and respected real estate author Elizabeth Traub. Also Realtors® Bill and Liz Spear of Ohio recently wrote a great blog article from the listing agent's perspective encouraging buyers to have their own representation for many reasons already stated.

Choice A) Buyers representing themselves in a FSBO (For Sale By Owner): NO TEAM OR LOYALTY (1 person sport)

The FIRST obvious duty and loyalty of a "for sale by owner" seller is to him/her/themself as the seller. THIS NON-REPRESENTATION SCENARIO IS BY FAR THE WORSE POSITION FOR A BUYER IN MY OPINION. The buyer is giving the money, the seller is taking it. Who has the most to lose in that situation? Unless the buyer is a licensed professional or someone who has bought and sold enough times where they feel comfortable in their home buying experiences to represent themselves, there is no other experienced person or third party in place to see that the buyer's interests are taken into consideration in all areas and aspects of the deal.

Today's first time home buyer is lucky enough to have several choices, leaving it ultimately to be their decision. Choosing an agent whether the agent be the listing agent or a buyer's agent does not necessarily guarantee protection, but most certainly places the buyer in a better position to be protected, especially the buyer in chosen spot #1...again in my opinion.

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If you are a buyer and have decided to seek your own representation in a home buying purchase in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Downey, Carson, Lakewood or their surrounding areas, do not hesitate to contact us at 310-508-4354 and we'll be more than happy to negotiate a transaction solely on your behalf. Be sure to also visit us at our website First Time Home Buyer Real Estate!

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS WANTED IN 2012! Los Angeles, Long Beach, Downey and nearby cities!

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:48:52 -0500

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS WANTED IN 2012! Los Angeles, Long Beach, Downey and Nearby Cities!

Are you a first time home buyer looking to purchase your first home in 2012 using a first time home buyer program? This year is your lucky year!

As of right now, the holy trinity of home buying is still holding steady with lower home prices, low interest rates and low down payment incentives, positioning first time home buyers to truly benefit in a way that even their parents and grandparents would envy.

LOW HOME PRICES ~ LOW INTEREST RATES ~ LOW DOWN-PAYMENT

Contrary to media reports using the wide brush of national real estate numbers to preach doom and gloom in your local area, more home buyers are becoming home owners in Los Angeles county as thousands of homes were bought and sold last year in Los Angeles and it's surrounding cities according to CARETS MLS sold results data.

Total home sales 2011 (not including condos):

7000+ single family homes sold in Los Angeles (3700+ sold $300K and below)
2000+ homes sold in Long Beach (820+ sold $300K and below)
600+ homes sold in Downey (140+ sold $300K and below).

Because it's still early, the National Association of Realtors has yet to release numbers estimating how many homes sold were actually purchased from first time home buyers, but after facing many multiple offer situations last year for homes below the $400K mark (a range that is usually first time home buyer friendly), I reckon the numbers produced to prove quite strong!

Find out if you too can save money and become a homeowner in 2012 using one of the First time home buyer programs currently offered throughout Los Angeles County, including the cities of Long Beach, Downey, Carson as detailed at the First Time Home Buyer Real Estate website. You can also find out if you qualify for down-payment assistance. If you are ready to get started right away, be sure to request a mortgage pre-qualification application or call us today at 310-508-4354! Happy house hunting!

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APPLY NOW (no SS# required):

Pre-Qualification Mortgage Application

Down-Payment Assistance

Your Right To Privacy

____________________________________________

Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS BEWARE - Do Not Get Thrown Under The Bus!

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:47:29 -0500

I'm always glad to offer tips and insights to my first time home buyers. Here is an article posted to home buyers nationally by Realtor colleagues Bill and Liz Spear of Cincinnati who act primarily in the role of LISTING agents.

Unlike the agent described below, I will show you the homes personally.

I will negotiate on your behalf after extensively discussing with you our strategies on how to get you the most out of the deal.

- Andi Grant (Realtor with First Time Home Buyer Real Estate)

BELOW ARTICLE WRITTEN BY BILL AND LIZ SPEAR

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Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):

Is Your Buyer's Agent Throwing You Under The Bus??

We're primarily listing agents, meaning the bulk of our work is done with Warren County home sellers. Sure we'll work with home buyers, but our focus is on attracting buyers for our sellers' homes. We'll market everywhere we can reasonably expect to find buyers for our homes. Cincinnati and Dayton MLS both of course, our blog, websites, Trulia, Zillow, Craigslist, flyers and mailings, all for the purpose of that one right buyer that matches that home.

Now if you're an area buyer, hopefully you've realized the importance of having your own, dedicated solely to you REALTOR®! An agent whose sole allegiance is to you and your best interests.

A great buyer's agent will work with you to find a mortgage expert to get you approved, help you search for candidate homes, and then take you through those homes until you find THE ONE that you write a contract on! They'll advise you on market trends, the negotiating process, the inspection process, and what it takes to get those keys in your hand.

Wait a sec you say? Your buyer's agent is telling you it's okay to go to the listing agents direct to ask to see all the homes you want to see, and then give them a call when YOU find the right home for THEM to write that offer on? Maybe they're even offering to rebate you some of their commission since they're not showing you homes? Or they're too busy to make it today but they say it's "okay" for the listing agent to show you the home?

Hear that loud BEEP BEEP BEEP sound?? That's the big ol' bus that is about to back up and flatten you! Because when you call to ask us to show you our listings, we're going to ask if you're working with an agent. Now if you aren't truthful and say "No", then of course we're going to show you our listing....and the fact of the matter is if YOUR AGENT calls us to make direct arrangements with us, most likely we'll honor your agent and show you our listing because our primary job is TO SELL THE LISTING!

Now ask yourself "Who do WE (Liz and Bill) work for?". What's the answer? "The SELLERS!". Period. That initial contact forward, our responsibility is to get YOU to pay the most possible, and for our sellers to make the least possible concessions to keep the deal together.

Don't mistake our friendliness for thinking we're working for you. We are not.

If we're friendly, [because we are] you're going to relax a bit. Hopefully, it puts you in a more receptive mindset for that seller's home. And oh yeah, it might also mean you let your guard down. We'll ask a few subtle questions that help us gauge whether you're a legitimate buyer, how much interest you have, maybe find out where you live, how many kids you have, why you're moving, etc. All seem innocent enough on the surface? Maybe, but those elements together may give us all the clues we need to know how hard our sellers can negotiate with you and your buyer's agent (you know that agent you said you DIDN'T have?). It's called LEVERAGE. A "buyer's" agent who advises or approves of THEIR buyer previewing homes with the LISTING agents is giving your leverage away!

For example, we find out you've only got four weeks left to get out of your home and you don't want to do temporary housing? THANK YOU VERY MUCH!! Woo hoo, jackpot for our sellers! They don't have to move too much off price....just enough to get you to sign the papers. Now it's a week later and you ask for inspection items. Take it or leave it....or maybe we'll advise our sellers to stand more firmly and only agree to fix minimal, simple, less expensive things just enough to keep you under contract just because we can!

So let's take the example out a bit further. Assume the list price of the home was $200,000 and your agent offered to give you 1/3 of their commission for not having them show you homes. So your agent is going to rebate you a couple of grand give or take a bit. Now with that information you provided us, how much extra do you think you paid for our listing? We're betting more than a couple of grand more than you "saved". Now add what you lost during the inspection phase. The hole just got deeper didn't it?

And the bad thing? You don't even realize that you and your buyer's agent cost YOU money. You may cuss us and our sellers out for negotiating so hard, but you know what? We're okay with that. WE WORK FOR THE SELLERS. Our seller's opinion is the one that counts to us.

This is another case of being cheap, being expensive. Hire a good buyer's agent. Have your agent take you to ALL homes if you want to make sure your confidential information stays confidential and your interests are the ones being served and PRESERVED.

The FIRST time you meet us as listing agents should be at the closing table!

Serving Warren County's residential real estate needs,
Liz and Bill aka BLiz

The Liz Spear Team
Elizabeth & William Spear
RE/MAX Elite: Ask for us by name if you visit the office!
Two locations: Lebanon & Mason, OH
Office direct: 513-248-3660 Liz direct: 513-265-3004
Bill direct: 513-520-5305 Fax: 866-302-8418

MailTo: Liz@LizSpear.com Our Website: Warren County Ohio Homes

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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First Time Home Buyers - Sweat Equity 101

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:18:38 -0500

First Time Home Buyers - Sweat Equity 101 Below Portland Realtor colleague Carla Muss Jacobs asks the question "What Ever Happened to Sweat Equity?" as some first time home buyers insist on the shiny and new when their budget states fixer-upper. There are programs such as the 203k offering help when it comes to making the ugly duckling a swan within months of the first time buyer's purchase.

IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY:

Via Carla Muss-Jacobs - Exclusive Buyers Agent Portland | Portland Real Estate | (503-810-7192 | BuyersAgentPortland.com):

What ever happened to sweat equity?

Many, and I mean MANY moons ago I bought my first home. I was 19, married and we used my (then) husband's VA benefits.

The house WAS NOT in a really great area. It was not in the best condition. It didn't have everything I dreamed of.

But the house WAS NOT an apartment, It was not unlivable. It didn't have bad bones, or bad neighbors. I didn't lack anything. The roof was good, the siding was sound, the lot was nice.

When we bought the home we knew one thing: We would be putting in some SWEAT EQUITY!

Sweat Equity . . . buyers, at that time, were looking for places to move into where they could put in their time, energy and resources in order to get some sweat equity out of it. It was common and more to the point, buyers expected to update on their own -- little by little over time. At that time -- SWEAT EQUITY -- was valued.

In a triage method, we tackled the rooms that needed our TLC the most. We made them comfortable, then moved on. Sweat equity . . . we knew we were putting that in our home.

We worked on the yard and put in a cement pathway, flowerbeds, grass -- both in the front and back. We painted, we tiled, we yanked carpet and we refinished the hardwoods. We put nice trim around the windows, shutters on the outside, we painted, and painted and painted.

On the larger projects we would hire out. We bought materials and hired for labor only.

And let me tell you . . . we both worked 8 hours, full-time jobs. A 40-hour work week is JUST TIME SAME AS IT WAS THEN AS IT IS NOW! Nonetheless, we worked on our home and made it shine.

Why are Buyers in today marketplace forgetting about SWEAT EQUITY?!? They want everything perfect,move--in ready, turn key . . . but they don't seem to like those "perfect" price tags.

Flippers are turning a profit in my local market. They are the only ones that seem to want to put in any SWEAT EQUITY and I see the bumped up prices on their finished product. They are lovely, some of them.

I wish we had the HUD's FHA 203(k) rehab loan program back in the day. Oh how I wish . . .

Why aren't Buyers taking advantage of this?

HUD's FHA 203(k) rehab loan is the type of loan iGIVING BUYERS . . . SWEAT EQUITY

EBA Portland ~~ 100% BUYER REPRESENTATION ~~ 100% of the Time

EBA Portland, LLC is an Exclusive Buyer Agency serving the Metro Portland real estate market since 1999. If you’re a Buyer in the Metro Portland area (including: Beaverton, Tigard, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Downtown Portland,) and contemplating a purchase, talk with a Buyer’s Agent . . . better yet, talk to an Exclusive Buyers Agent. Exclusive Buyers Agents do not work for listing brokerages or Sellers. An EBA’s fiduciary duty is: 100% BUYER REPRESENTATION . . . 100% of the Time.
Carla Muss-Jacobs
503-810-7192
Carla@carlahomes.com
BuyersAgentPortland.com

All rights reserved ©

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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A REALTOR Speaks Out on the "Realtor Speak" Nonsense!

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:18:33 -0500

A REALTOR Speaks Out on the "Realtor Speak" Nonsense!

Kate Elim, a Realtor colleague in VA, penned a great response post to an inspector who wrote extremely disparaging remarks slamming real estate agents as he gave what I feel were VERY harmful misguided translations to buyers on what he deemed was "Realtor speak" when a Realtor (the buyer selected) offers a preferred vendor list or suggestions.

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WHAT HE SAID:

“Here’s a list of 3 inspectors”

Really means: All 3 have been carefully screened and none of them will find any problems with the home.

WHAT I MEAN IN "REALTOR SPEAK":

I TRUST THESE PEOPLE WITH MY OWN FAMILY AND FRIENDS BECAUSE I HAVE REFERRED THEM TO THOSE WHO I WANT THE ABSOLUTE BEST FOR. IF THEY ARE GOOD ENOUGH FOR THEM, THEY ARE DARN SURE GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU!

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WHAT HE SAID:

“We’ve been referring this inspector for years”
Really means: He is 65 years old, going blind, can’t climb a ladder and can’t fit into a crawlspace.

WHAT I MEAN IN "REALTOR SPEAK":

THIS INSPECTOR HAS DISCOVERED EXISTING ISSUES THAT WERE NOT DISCOVERED IN PREVIOUS HOME SALES IN MULTIPLE DEALS I'VE HAD - HE'S THAT GOOD AND I HOPE HE IS AROUND FOR AS LONG AS HE CAN CLIMB LADDERS AND CAN SEE! IF HE EVER GETS TO OLD TO CLIMB, WALK AND CRAWL, HOPEFULLY THEY WILL HAVE CREATED A SPECIAL HOVEROUND BY THEN THAT CAN HELP HIM TO!

HE GOES THE EXTRA MILE AND HAS EVEN REINSPECTED FOR BUYER WALK-THRU FOR FREE EVEN THOUGH HE COULD LIVE 16 - 25 MILES AWAY FROM SUBJECT PROPERTY, JUST TO MAKE SURE HOME REPAIRS THAT AREN'T VISIBLE TO YOU AND I HAVE BEEN REPAIRED! HE IS THAT COMMITTED!

I'D RATHER HEAR THINGS WRONG FROM HIM THAN FROM YOU THE BUYER LATER, SOMEONE WHO I HOPE WILL TRULY LOVE THEIR HOME AND CONTINUE TO SEE THE VALUE IN IT FOR MANY YEARS, RESULTING IN THEM ADDING ME TO THEIR PREFERRED RECOMMENDATION LIST. ANYONE WHO HAS EVER BEEN REFERRED BY SOMEONE INCLUDING THIS INSPECTOR WAS A PREFERRED REFERRAL TO ANYONE ELSE THAT PERSON KNEW HAS KNOWN OR EVER READ ABOUT.

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WHAT HE SAID:

“Here is our preferred vendors list, you can find an inspector on here”
Really means: Everyone on it has paid money to be on the list.

REBUTTAL RESPONSE:

THIS IS SUCH A BLATANTLY IRRESPONSIBLE STATEMENT AND MOST CERTAINLY NOT THE STANDARD OR NORM! ANYONE ON MY LIST IS THERE BECAUSE I TRUST THEM! I DO NOT BELIEVE IN ANYONE PAYING ME TO BE ONE OF MY PREFERRED CHOICES. NO ONE CONTROLS MY STRINGS, I AM NO ONE'S PUPPET. I HAVE NO RECIPROCAL BACKSCRATCHES OR OBLIGATIONS OWED TO ANYONE! *ALSO REFER TO FIRST ANSWER*

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WHAT HE SAID:

“This inspector can schedule an inspection on a day’s notice”
Really means: He is sleeping with the agent.

^---- WHAT TYPE OF PERSON THAT CALLS THEMSELVES A PROFESSIONAL WOULD WRITE THIS? Utterly irresponsible, slandeorus and simply unwise.

MY REBUTTAL RESPONSE "REALTOR SPEAK' NOT NEEDED: A HOME INSPECTOR CAN SCHEDULE 3 HOMES PER DAY DEPENDING ON THE SEASON AND HOW MANY HOURS OF SUNLIGHT THEY HAVE. Are you telling me every inspector has filled 3 inspection slots every day in this slower market and is so busy they don't have room to squeeze one in? Is the person who wrote that statement performing 8 hour long inspections so that he could only book one per day?

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Buyers come to experienced professionals for their expertise and their resources! EVERY buyer has a choice. They can go with whomever they choose. My only request is that the person they choose be experienced with the type of purchase they will most likely be engaged in, and has a track record for closing complicated deals as first timehome buyer and government programs notoriously are. I am most certainly going to also give them a list of my "preferred" lenders, and inspectors and detail the strengths of each. People who again I trust with my own family members and friends. I believe in giving buyers choices and throwing mine into the pot. Whoever they choose after that is...wait for it... is their CHOICE.

I SAY WHAT I MEAN AND I MEAN WHAT I SAY. NO NEED FOR THIRD PARTY TRANSLATIONS!

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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MOVE TO BELMONT HEIGHTS, LONG BEACH CA - Where Small Town Beach Living Awaits You!

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 02:57:35 -0400

BELMONT HEIGHTS, LONG BEACH CA - Where Small Town Beach Living Awaits You!

I LOVE Belmont Heights and you will too! Belmont Heights Long Beach CA gives you the best of every world!

This charming residential neighborhood offers you everything that a community should. A small town feel with friendly neighbors, tree-lined streets, affordable real estate that's a short walk to the beach and a 10 minute drive to downtown city life. How often do you get that combination? If you were to ask me where you could raise a family, retire, or do the "singles thing," surprisingly enough the answer would all be the same, Belmont Heights! You have it all here and it works beautifully!

You've been reading an ongoing theme in my blogs when it comes to many of the great southeast Long Beach neighborhoods and that is the friendliness of the residents here. Belmont Heights is no exception! Even the palm trees are waving hello to you as you enter the area! When driving down the streets you are sure to see smiling families bike riding, hear chimes in the background and feel an overall sense of tranquility. Here in Belmont Heights, the hustle and bustle of everyday life is exchanged for a deep sigh of contentment and laid-back friendly.

The small town touches come in when you unexpectedly stumble across a cute diner or ma and pa grocery store in the middle of a residential street.

No seriously, the name of the small town store smack dab in the heart of Belmont Heights is named "Ma n' Pa Grocery."

The Belmont Heights residents are fiercely protective of this endangered species and rightly so! Charming neighborhood general stores where you can buy fresh produce are hard to come by. If you are ever in the area, be sure to treat yourself to a delicious freshly made sandwich or homemade dinner.

I could go on and on when it comes to the charm that is Belmont Heights in Long Beach, CA. I have quite a few favorite neighborhoods in Long Beach and this ranks right at the top. But I'll let you judge for yourself.

If you would like to get more information about buying in the lovely neighborhood of Belmont Heights or for a free Home Value Quote, do not hesitate to call me at 310-508-4354 or visit www.AndiGrant.com.

Be sure to read my other blogs on Belmont Heights and the surrounding areas of Bluff Heights, Naples and California Heights.

____________________________________________

Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Long Beach Home Sales Report - November 2011

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:27:41 -0500

Long Beach Market Report - Long Beach Home Sales Report - November 2011

The Long Beach Real Estate Market is still looking very good in terms of the number of Long Beach Single Family Homes sold for early winter. Only 19 less homes sold than the previous month as people started to settle into their fall schedules, which is not typical as most people during the holidays are less inclined to be uprooted for showings or to move. So although Long Beach will generally see a activity drop-off, it looks like many first-time home buyers and repeat home buyers are taking advantage of the Long Beach Market slowdown in these holiday months by submitting offers to Long Beach home sellers who are eager to jumpstart the new year with the hope of a pending sale and escrow.

645 ACTIVE (Long Beach Homes Currently for Sale) Hang in there!

465 PENDING (Long Beach Homes with Accepted offers or currently in Escrow) You're almost at the finish line!

163 SOLDS (Long Beach Homes Sold as of the end of November 2011) CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LUCKY BUYERS AND SELLERS! There were also 18 more homes sold this November 2011 than in November 2010*

LONG BEACH HOMES SALES REPORT

LONG BEACH MARKET REPORT AND TREND FALL AND WINTER 2011

*All Sales Data courtesy of CARETS MLS. Long Beach Market Report originally posted at FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealestate.com

HOME BUYERS: Search LONG BEACH HOMES today!

HOME SELLERS: FREE CMA - HOME MARKET VALUATION to get your home priced right!

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Long Beach Homes with Curb Appeal!

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:22:04 -0400

Long Beach Homes with Great Curb Appeal!

As I walk through the various Long Beach neighborhoods, I'm oftentimes filled with a great sense of pleasure when I see Long Beach Homes featuring great curb appeal! In some ways I feel like it's the homeowner expressing a bit of their personality while at the same time sharing a form of art with the rest of the community.

Long Beach homes with great curb appeal are the homes in which the homeowner appears to have taken into consideration their home's overall exterior and curbside appearance. This type of homeowner understands it's the home's way of smiling to the outside world! Their home says, "welcome" to a visitor, passerby, neighbor or potential home buyer.

There's nothing that subliminally kills the warm fuzzy curb appeal message than that of an unkempt home! Faded peeling paint, a cluttered yard or dead vegetation or weeds that appear to have choked any remnants of life are prime examples of this. I often tell sellers when it comes to home selling, "Home is where the beating heart is!" If the home looks like it's already died or dying a slow death due to neglect, a homebuyer that is starting a new and exciting chapter in their lives will most likely give the fresher, livelier looking homes first notice and viewing.

Long Beach Homes with great curb appeal usually have clean walkways, fresh exterior paint colors, landscaping that is complimentary to the house and depending on the season, blooming flora that expresses life and vibrancy!

< What are the chances the homeowners of this charming Long Beach home featuring great curb appeal would be willing to swap or sell to me later when I'm ready to open the Bed & Breakfast that is on my "Things To Do List?"

I briefly spoke with the proud homeowner of this beautifully landscaped Spanish style home. Pride of ownership was not only coming through his smile and conversation, but through all of the exterior of his home as well. From the plant and flower selections to the winding tile walkway leading to a welcoming ornate gate.

The curb appeal of a home is a great shared experience for all who look upon it!

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If Long Beach sounds like a great fit for you or if you are looking to upgrade or downsize, do not hesitate to call me at 310-508-4354!

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

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Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Villa Riviera Condos for Sale - 800 E. Ocean Blvd. - Long Beach Condos

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:00:47 -0500

VILLA RIVIERA CONDOS FOR SALE, 800 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA

Villa Riviera, a historic bluffront landmark and condo residence located in sunny Long Beach, CA is currently one of the most coveted buildings to live in all of Long Beach! As of 3/03/11, there are only 4 units* active for sale in this 134 unit building. Only 4 units! Why? This building, the amenities and it's location are nothing short of spectacular!

The Villa Riviera in Long Beach, embodies a sort of vintage swank that appeals to the masses. The Villa Riviera is centrally located between the hip Belmont Shore, the lively buzz of downtown Long Beach and within toe-dipping steps of the beach. What a fantastic place to live! If you would like to know more about living at the Villa Riviera in Long Beach, CA do not hesitate to call 310-508-4354.

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IF HOMES HAVE BEEN SOLD, FEEL FREE TO START A NEW HOME SEARCH FOR VILLA RIVIERA CONDOS

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800 E Ocean Blvd 302, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802 Price: $279,000 Short Sale Now! One Lender - Sophistication plus in the Historic Villa Riviera a special unit that o ... View Details View Photo Gallery (3) Save Property MLS#: P758293 MLS: CARETS Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Square Ft.: 869 - Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Coast Alliance

800 E Ocean Blvd 903, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802 Price: $359,900 Perched on top of the bluff at the corner of Ocean Blvd & Shoreline Drive is the Historic Villa Rivi ... View Details View Photo Gallery (20) Save Property MLS#: P770692 MLS: CARETS Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Square Ft.: 843 - Listing courtesy of Prudential California Realty

800 E Ocean Blvd 1209, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802 Price: $375,000 This Is It! Live at the Beach in this \'Castle In The Sky\'. This 2 bedroom 2 bath corner unit on th ... View Details View Photo Gallery (10) Save Property MLS#: P767190 MLS: CARETS Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Square Ft.: 1170 - Listing courtesy of CENTURY 21 Action!

800 E Ocean Blvd 403, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802 Price: $385,000 Historic Villa Riviera Best One Bedroom View of Ocean in the building! Upgraded and restored! Mast ... View Details View Photo Gallery (18) Save Property MLS#: P766091 MLS: CARETS Bedrooms: 1 Bathroom: 1 Square Ft.: 845 - Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Coast Alliance

*The information being provided by SoCalMLS® and/or CARETS® is for the consumer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumer may be interested in purchasing. Any information relating to property referenced on this web site comes from the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) program of the SoCalMLS® and/or CARETS® MLS. This web site may reference real estate listing(s) held by a brokerage firm other than the broker and/or agent who owns the web site. Any information relating to a property, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals. Data updated Thursday, March 3rd, 2011.

Villa Riviera Blog Photos courtesy of Creative Commons, Listing photos courtesy of CARETS MLS and IDX Broker.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0 Generic License.

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Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Long Beach Ocean Blvd Condos for Sale - Long Beach Condos

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:35:17 -0500

Long Beach Ocean Blvd Condos for Sale

As of 12/05/11 Long Beach is currently offering 69 Ocean Blvd condos for sale ranging in price from $124,000 (perfect for first time home buyers) to just over a million dollars for those looking for luxury condo living. If you are looking for cozy, swanky, oceanfront, city skyline, Queen Mary views, it's all available! Here are just a few Ocean Condos for Sale in Long Beach as of 12/05/11:

NOTE: If any of the condos have been sold since the date of this article, feel free to start a new Ocean Blvd Condo Search

2105 E. Ocean Blvd. 4, Long Beach CALIFORNIA 90803

Price: $124,900

Historic Bluff Park unit located in a Mid Century Modern Building is in move-in condition. This is a ... View Details View Photo Gallery (13) MLS# P801374

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 1

Bathrooms: 1

Square Ft.: 680

Listing courtesy of Star Real Estate / Seacliff

388 E. Ocean Blvd. 702, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802

Price: $240,000

HAFA Approval from the first lender at $240,000! Please submit offers at or above list price. There ...View Details View Photo Gallery (10) MLS# S619375

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 1

Bathrooms: 1

Square Ft.: 600

Listing courtesy of Doma Properties, Inc

1400 E Ocean Blvd 1104, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802

Price: $789,000

A must see \'Meridian\' beach front paradise home!Best price for a on the sand home in all of Long B ...View Details View Photo Gallery (26) MLS# P791640

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Square Ft.: 1363

Listing courtesy of ReMax College Park Realty

4265 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90803

Price: $795,000

Incredible Ocean View condo located in prestigious Belmont Shore. Ocean Views from all floors. No ex ... View Details View Photo Gallery (21) MLS# P782279

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 3

Square Ft.: 2000

Listing courtesy of Century 21 Beachside

850 E Ocean Blvd 1507, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90802

Price: $985,000

Come home every day to your Castle in the sky!This is one of the most amazing Penthouse residences t ...View Details View Photo Gallery (25)

MLS# P777532; MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 3 and Partial Baths: 1

Square Ft.: 1988

Listing courtesy of ReMax College Park Realty

TO SEE ALL OCEAN BLVD CONDOS FOR SALE IN LONG BEACH

TO SEE ALL LONG BEACH CONDOS FOR SALE

The information being provided by CARETS® is for the consumer’s personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumer may be interested in purchasing. Any information relating to property referenced on this web site comes from the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) program of the CARETS® MLS. This web site may reference real estate listing(s) held by a brokerage firm other than the broker and/or agent who owns the web site. Any information relating to a property, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals. The data contained herein is copyrighted by SoCalMLS® and/or CARETS® and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Any unauthorized dissemination of this information is in violation of copyright laws and is strictly prohibited. Property information Copyright © 2011 CARETS® MLS. All Rights Reserved. Certain information contained herein is derived from information which is the licensed property of, and copyrighted by CARETS® MLS. ® Copyright © 2011 CARETS®. All Rights Reserved. Data updated Monday, December 5th, 2011

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

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Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Belmont Heights Long Beach Condos for Sale $300K and above

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:26:49 -0500

Belmont Heights Long Beach Condos for Sale $300K and above

Who is the person who buys a condo for sale in Belmont Heights? Is it the single person or couple who's tired of renting and has decided to get their feet wet at this "home ownership" thing without having all of the major upkeep responsibilities that a Belmont Single family Home would have? Or maybe it's the empty-nester who has finally decided to deconstruct the mini-shrines their grown kid's bedrooms represent. Or then there's the current homeowner who has "been there, done that" with the suburbia thing and is now looking forward to being closer to the action. Buying a condo for sale in Belmont Heights can pretty much cover all of the aforementioned. Belmont Heights has condos that are either nestled in tranquil residential areas, within a few minutes walk to the beach, or close to the action of nightclubs, bars and fine restaurants. If you fit into one of the above categories, below for your review is a list of condos for sale in Belmont Heights as of December 5, 2011. Be sure the check out the map and the walkable scores of each. Great condos, great locations and great prices for the amenities! Feel free to call me at 310-508-4354 if you have any questions or if I can be of any further assistance to you.

[Belmont Heights Condos for $300k and under]

3600 E 4th St 107, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90814

Price: $329,900

In a word...WOW! This incredibly spacious Belmont Heights beauty feels just like a single family hom ...View Details View Photo Gallery (30) MLS# P804145

MLS: CARETS

2 Bedroom

2 Bath

Square Ft.: 1360

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Coastal Properties

2101 E 2nd St 305, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90803

Price: $359,000

Great Bluff Park location situated in the \'Chateau Lisa\' located just a couple of blocks from the ...View Details View Photo Gallery (19) MLS# P783073

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2

Square Ft.: 1060

Listing courtesy of Realty Brokerage & Investments

3601 E Ocean Blvd 2b, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90803

Price: $395,000

HUGE 1200 SQ FT ONE BEDROOM BLUFF PARK CONDO in Belmont Heights. FACING OCEAN Blvd at 36TH Place. U ...View Details View Photo Gallery (3)

MLS# P800633

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 1

Bathrooms: 1

Square Ft.: 1195

Listing courtesy of Re/Max R. E. Specialists.

3707 E Livingston Dr 405, Long Beach, CALIFORNIA 90803

Price: $419,000

This Belmont Heights residence has been tastefully remodeled with a modern design sensibility and fe ..View Details View Photo Gallery (19) MLS# P788242

MLS: CARETS

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2

Square Ft.: 1100

Listing courtesy of Re/Max R. E. Specialists

**IF CONDO HOMES HAVE ALREADY BEEN SOLD SINCE DATE OF THIS ARTICLE, START A NEW BELMONT HEIGHTS CONDO SEARCH HERE

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The information being provided by SoCalMLS, CRISNet Regional MLS and/or CARETS is for the consumer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumer may be interested in purchasing. Any information relating to real estate for sale referenced on this web site comes from the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) program of the SoCalMLS, CRISNet Regional MLS and/or CARETS. This web site may reference real estate listing(s) held by a brokerage firm other than the broker and/or agent who owns this web site.

The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals." The data contained herein is copyrighted by SoCalMLS, CRISNet Regional MLS and/or CARETS and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Any unauthorized dissemination of this information is in violation of copyright laws and is strictly prohibited.

Copyright © 2010 SoCalMLS®, CRISNet Regional MLS®, CARETS®" All Displays of Licensed Content shall include: "Property Information © 2010" SoCalMLS Inc. All rights reserved. Certain information contained herein is derived from information which is the licensed property of, and copyrighted by, SoCalMLS Inc.

Data updated Monday, December, 5th, 2011. Data services provided by IDX Broker

____________________________________________

Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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Seller confronted me on how I did my job!

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:25:44 -0500

Seller confronted me on how I did my job!

As soon as I saw him pull up to my Buyer Walk-thru, I knew there was going to be trouble!

REWIND TO A COUPLE OF WEEKS BEFORE:

I started working with a great first-time home buyer investor who wisely decided to purchase a Los Angeles duplex to live in one and rent the other for her first-time home buying purchase. After having narrowed down the choices, we decided on a remodeled duplex that was an investor flip producing enough rent from one of the occupied units, to nearly pay what would be her entire mortgage with taxes and insurance per month. Perfect!

DEAL BREAKDOWN:

PRE-CONTRACT - Based upon my discovery of false MLS advertising of what were actual classified bedrooms along with my revised CMA based on the new info, I suggested we drop the price considerably lower than asking when buyer insisted on pursuing it based on location, condition and the rents collected from occupied unit still being at market rents for permitted bedrooms. After a predictable counter, we got what we wanted. MY FIRST TIME BUYER HAPPY - seller not so much.
POST-OFFER - At first home inspection, the seller just happened to show up and was friendly and CHATTY. Among many other nuggets he let slip, he told us that whatever we found, to let him know and he would take care of and fix. I secretly thought "Yipee" while cringing for the listing agent. BUYER'S AGENT HAPPY - Listing agent not so much (had he known)! Surprisingly, during this same conversation I found out that he the seller was also licensed. Something else that was omitted on MLS.
The home inspector found a few things, the termite guy found quite a few others and with an add'l $3000 needed in repairs (mostly termite) the seller ultimately agreed. MY FIRST TIME BUYER HAPPY - Seller not so much.
Appraisal came in a couple of thousand dollars LESS the already lowered offered price. MY FIRST TIME BUYER HAPPY - Seller not so much. We immediately submitted an addendum lowering price.
Seller and listing agent challenged third-party appraisal and submitted their own comps which after reviewing and seeing their number of permitted bedrooms, I didn't believe would work in their favor. Appraiser apparently agreed, stood firm and didn't budge on appraised value. MY FIRST TIME BUYER HAPPY - Seller not so much.
Instead of the regular walk-thru, I advised my buyer to have home inspector perform a walk-thru/re-inspect for $100 because there simply were areas we wouldn't be able to inspect and sometime investors take shortcuts. THANK GOD!! The only things repaired were those that were clearly visible to a novice! We immediately asked for seller to perform and honor the seller signed buyer repair requests! All agreed repairs were later to be completed. FIRST TIME BUYER HAPPY - Seller not so much.

FAST-FORWARD TO PRESENT WALK-THRU: Seller came in and approached me with a MUCH firmer handshake than our first meeting. Instead of it making me want to wince, it made me want to laugh - men. It didn't take long for him to start in on me. In a lucky turn of events, the buyer was going to be late, therefore avoiding the brunt of the potentially deal threatening confrontation. The seller fussed about the tenant estoppel having to be signed by tenant (which apparently he never had to with his other properties sold), the cost of repairs, the appraisal and about 2-3 other things he felt we fleeced him on.

MY RESPONSE: Mr. (seller's name), you clearly aren't happy with how things turned out and I don't blame you, as an investor I'm sure it's tough when you have to take a loss. HOWEVER, I performed for my buyer as I would for any client and that is with their best interest in mind. With that said, please explain to me with everything you mentioned how I failed my buyer who is after all MY client?

He looked taken aback. He couldn't answer and then shrugged as if to say, "You got me." He shook my hand and told me I was right and did what I was suppose to do for my client. So instead of wanting to turn me upside down and shake money out of me like bullies do in the cartoons, I had the distinct feeling there was a hint of respect in that second friendlier handshake.

If you are a first-time homebuyer Los Angeles, Long Beach, Downey, Carson looking for strong buyer representation when buying your home, condo or income property using first-time home buyer incentives, do not hesitate to call me at 310-508-4354 or visit FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

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OK corral photo courtesy of bbcworldservice and empty pocket photo courtesy of danielmoyle both for Creative Commons for use on Flickr.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic License.

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Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

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Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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30 YEARS OF BUYER'S REMORSE? First Time Home Buyers and the Stimulus Tax Credit

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:07:18 -0500

For anyone representing first-time home buyers in the Southern California areas in the price range of $500K and under, you know we are facing an unbelievable multiple offer situation that has gone beyond the rational lines of thinking for most. One Southern California home in an average area was reported to have received over 125 multiple offers two weeks ago! Whoever "won" that home, more than likely got a closing gift in the form of 30 years of buyer's remorse to boot. How much over asking did they have to bid up to "win" this average home, in an average area with an average school system?

A possible $8000 First-time home buyer tax credit reward is a drop in the bucket compared to the $40-60,000 sales price increases we are experiencing since the $8000 tax credit stimulus rush. This same increase when calculated with interest over a 30-year mortgage term is going to end up costing the buyers thousands upon thousands of dollars over their stimulus reward. Apprasials may ultimately drop under the highest-and-best-offer accepted, but most are still coming in well beyond asking price as recent sold numbers come in from the first round of multiple offer homes that have now closed.

This situation begs the question, "Has this $8000 first-time home buyer stimulus hurt our first-time homebuyers more than helped?" In regards to the economy, is it creating another economic bubble again that will burst after the April escrow deadline? Will we have unrealistic sellers once again flippantly replying to our price adjustment talks, "Well Zillow says...?" Can you sincerely counsel your buyers to possibly risk losing the possible $8000 tax credit by waiting until after the stimulus frenzy to save in the long run, when you cannot guarantee prices will necessarily drop again to significant levels afterwards?

Sure the $8000 first-time home buyers tax credit has been great for sellers and our office sales again, but has this truly been a benefit and gain for the first-time home buyers to whom it was supposedly intended?

____________________________________________

Affordable Homes, Affordable Payments, Quality Living

www.FirstTimeHomeBuyerRealEstate.com

Prudential 24 Hour Real Estate Direct: (310) 508-4354 ~ Alternative (562) 726-ANDI ~ Fax (562) 861-0285 Email: andi@andigrant.com DRE # 01728424

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