Top 7 New Home Trends

BY : Joshua Ferris

New homes are the top tier when it comes to home buying because they afford you the option to customize your home to your liking with upgrades and you get to be the first owner of the home. As the real estate market continues on its path to recovery there are many home builders who are now reconsidering what to include in a new home's standard features list.

Many of these newly included standard features previously served as pricey options so new home buyers today are getting the latest in creature comforts without the heavy price tag. Check out seven of the latest new home trends and keep this list handy as you browse new homes to see what's included in the builder's standard features list.

Granite Countertops and Undermount Sinks in Kitchen and Baths - This premier touch surface of high end homes can be seen on the standard features list of townhouses and other moderately priced properties nowadays. A secondary benefit to granite countertop surfaces is the undermount sink which means you won't have any sink edges rising up past the countertop creating a very clean, modern look.

Living Room Evolution - Living rooms used to serve as the crucial gathering room but today's homeowners tend to gather in the kitchen instead. If builders are using a floorplan that includes a living room you can expect it to offer features unseen in living rooms of the past like ethernet wall ports and home theater system niches to hide home theater hardware.

Solid Wood Front Doors - The cold steel front door is more frequently being swapped out with the vastly more attractive solid wood door. Solid wood doors come in many styles ranging from intricate glass detailed doors to solid wood doors reminiscent of those seen in craftsman home design.

Hardwood Floors - During the middle and late 20th century it was all the rage to have carpeting throughout your home because it was a softer walking surface and kept the floors warmer than hardwood and tile during the winter. Now that radiant floor heating and the demand for low maintenance flooring have become more common it's expected that hardwood floors will replace carpeting in high traffic areas like foyers, hallways and family rooms.

Stone Exteriors and Accents - Vinyl siding is very low maintenance and styling options have grown in recent years. Even so, full stone exteriors or stone accented exteriors are hot because they give a more substantial curb appeal to a home and help break up the monotony of some home designs.

Solid Interior Doors - An increasingly popular trend in new home design are solid interior doors. Solid interior doors are different because they create a stronger sound barrier between rooms and are more durable.

Nine to Ten Foot First Floor Ceilings - Feeling cramped inside a home is the number one reason homeowners opt to move up into a larger home. One way builders are countering this concern is to raise ceiling height by one to two feet bringing the total floor to ceiling distance to nine or ten feet. This creates a vastly more open space and the cost to builders is minimal.

Utilizing this list of the seven latest new home trends, many of which can now be found standard in new homes, you will have the distinct advantage of buying the most house for the money and owning a home that will require few, if any, updates should you decide to sell in the future.

Appealing Property Taxes for Your Home

BY : Patrick oconnor

Property taxes are a substantial expense for Texas homeowners, averaging about $3,600 annually. To reduce this expense, property owners should annually review and consider appealing property taxes. While there is no guarantee that an appeal will be successful, a recent survey conducted by O'Connor & Associates indicates that 70% of property tax appeals are successful.

Since the mortgage company typically disperses payments, property taxes tend to be a stealth tax. Although the homeowner writes a check, including taxes and insurance monthly, the property tax component is not evident. The property tax component can become quite evident when the homeowner is asked to fund a deficit in the escrow account.

Although 70% of property tax appeals are successful, only 7% of homeowners appeal each year. Research indicates five primary reasons homeowners do not appeal:

The process seems overwhelming and they do not know how to appeal,

They do not think an appeal is likely to be successful,

They think their home's assessed value is below market value and there is no basis for appealing,

They do not understand they can appeal on unequal appraisal,

They are busy and do not want to set aside time, given the presumption that "you can't fight city hall".

Why appeal?

Consider an appeal for a $150,000 house where the property taxes are reduced by 5%. This would reduce the assessed value by $7,500 and the property taxes by $225, based on a 3% tax rate. Since the typical appeal hearing takes less than an hour, these are meaningful savings for the time involved. Regularly appealing your property taxes will minimize the value, so you are assessed for less than most of your neighbors. Most of the property tax appeals are resolved at the informal hearing, which is the first step in the process.

How to appeal

The first step to appealing annually is to send a written notice to the appraisal review board (ARB) for the county in which your home is located. Even if you have not received a notice of assessed value from the appraisal district, file a notice of appeal by May 31st for the following reasons:
The notice of assessed value can get lost in the mail, A notice of assessed value is not necessary unless your assessed value increases by more than $1,000, and

You should appeal annually

You can file a notice of appeal by utilizing the Comptroller's form available at www.cutmytaxes.com or by sending a letter to the ARB. The letter to the ARB simply needs to identify the property being appealed and the basis for your appeal. You should always appeal on both market value and unequal appraisal. Since the appraisal district staff is extremely busy during late May and early June, sending any data on the value of your property tax is probably a waste of time. At the same time you send your notice of appeal to the ARB, send a "House Bill 201" request to the chief appraiser at the appraisal district. The House Bill 201 request will provide you a volume of information at a modest price.

Reasons for obtaining House Bill 201 information

Since most homeowners are not familiar with House Bill 201, you may be wondering what it is and when it became available. House Bill 201 is the term used by property tax consultants and appraisal district staff to describe provision 41.461 of the Texas Property Tax Code. This section reads as follows:

"at least 14 days before hearing on a protest, the chief appraiser shall: … inform the property owner that the owner or the agent of the owner may inspect and may obtain a copy of the data, schedules, formulas, and all other information the chief appraiser plans to introduce at the hearing to establish any matter at issue."

The property tax code further provides the chief appraiser the right to charge up to $15 for each residence, and up to $25 for each commercial property owner for this information. However, there are limits on the cost per page an appraisal district can charge. Practically speaking, the maximum charge is $1 to $2 for a residence. In Harris County, most homeowners can print this information from the appraisal district's web site once an appeal has been filed using the "I file" system.

This section of the tax code was added in 1991, but many appraisal districts have attempted to ignore this section of the property tax code for years and some still do. After discussing this section of the Texas Property Tax Code on a radio show in 2005, several listeners called back a week or two later to report certain appraisal districts were claiming to be unaware of this section. When O'Connor & Associates sent House Bill 201 requests to appraisal districts in 2005, some called us and said "what do you mean you want our information, we plan to use your information at the hearing to prove our value." While these examples seem quaint and cute, it is surprising that 15 years after taxpayer friendly legislation has been passed, that appraisal districts are still ignoring property owners and tax consultants who ask for this information.

There are at least seven reasons to utilize House Bill 201 to obtain the information the appraisal district will use at the hearing:

It is an effective way to obtain information regarding both market value and unequal appraisal for your property tax appeal, You will receive the appraisal district's information regarding the size, condition and other qualitative and quantitative data for your house,

The information can be obtained for a nominal cost, It is helpful to know what information your adversary will be able to use at the hearing, Making the request limits what information the appraisal district can present at the hearing. If you do not request their information prior to the hearing, they can use any information available to them at the hearing. However, if you request the appraisal district information using a House Bill 201 request, they may only use information previously provided to you,

If they do not provide you information on market value or unequal appraisal in the House Bill 201 request, you win by default at the ARB hearing, and In many cases, the appraisal district House Bill 201 information clearly supports a lower value.

Preparing for the hearing

When you receive the appraisal district House Bill 201 information, start by reviewing the appraisal district's description of your home and ask yourself these questions:

Is the year built accurate?

Are the qualities and amenities accurate?

If the appraisal district overstates either the quantity or quality of improvements to your property, this is an excellent means to reduce your property taxes both for the current year and subsequent years.

Filing a 2525c Appeal

If the appraisal district has overstated the size of your house by more than 5% to 10%, even if you did not file a property tax appeal in prior years, you should consider filing a 2525c appeal. This will allow you to reduce the assessed value of your property for the current year and for prior years.

Tips for Selling Your Home

BY : john mce

Whatever the housing market is doing, there are a number of tips that will always help your house appeal to potential buyers. These are ways to make your home appeal to the greatest number of potential buyers.

First impressions

Your house needs to look great from the very first impression; curb appeal is critical! Make the front of your house look as good as it can. Plant flowers, trim bushes, weed, pick up leaves, repaint your front door, clean or replace house numbers, park your old car somewhere else.

The front of your house is a good place to spend a little extra time and money. If it looks good, it may even attract passersby.

De-Clutter

Potential buyers need to imagine themselves living in your house. You need to show a blank canvas, in which they can picture their own belongings. Estate agents can tell you stories of potential buyers rejecting a house because they didn't like the DVD collection! Buying a home is an emotional decision; you want potential buyers to make an emotional connection with your home by being able to "see" themselves in it.

Put away everything you don't use on a daily basis. Pack up ornaments, photos and posters in kids' bedrooms. Large pieces of furniture should go into storage; this will make rooms feel much bigger. In the hallway, clear away coats and shoes. In the bathroom, hide all your toiletries. In the kitchen, clear the worktops of appliances, jars and tins and replace any ragged tea towels or grubby bins.

Watch out for over-stuffed wardrobes - yes, people do look in them to check the amount of storage space - so clear them out.

Clean, clean, clean

Your home must sparkle and smell clean! Getting professional cleaners in can be money well-spent. Have the carpets, curtains, sofa covers and oven cleaned. Make sure your windows are clean inside and out. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms, which need to be inviting and hygienic. Buy a new toilet seat and some fresh white towels. Clean grubby fingerprints from light switches and doors. Make mirrors sparkle. Add a strategically placed plant or two, or some fresh flowers.

Fix it

Go around the house room by room and make a checklist of all those little jobs which need doing. Fix dripping taps, repair peeling wallpaper, touch up paint chips. If you can't stretch to re-tiling in the bathroom, re-grouting should bring it up like new. A couple of new kitchen doors can really smarten up a tired-looking kitchen.

Leaving these little jobs undone will give the wrong message to potential buyers - that you haven't looked after your house.

Freshen Up

A fresh coat of neutral paint, new tiling or lino, and will transform rooms. Neutral colours may be a little boring to live with, but buyers really do find it easier to imagine themselves living a home where they can't object to your colour scheme; they find it easier to imagine brightening it up, than toning it down!

You can add some character back with a few bright accessories. A new shower curtain in the bathroom, some new cushions in the sitting room, some bright bedlinen on the beds - all these can add a little spark, without detracting from the feeling of light and space.

If you have too many different floor coverings, it can make any area seem smaller. If you can't stretch to replacing all your flooring, close the doors on the other rooms until showing each room in turn.

Pets

Leave pets with a neighbor, and thoroughly clean up any cat hair in particular, as many people are allergic to animal hair. Your beloved pooch may make viewers nervous, or leave a distinctive aroma which won't appeal to the buyers.

The best side

Most properties have good and bad points to them. Don't point out the bad side, or even comment on it. Remember, buyers will only buy what they perceive your house to be worth. If your house is presented at its best, then people will want to live there.

Buying Foreclosed Property

5 Great Tips that Will Help You Profit in the Current Financial Climate.
Lance Thorington

The current financial climate has lead to an increase in mortgage defaults which puts the foreclosed properties on the market, often at a price well below market value. This would seem an ideal time to get into property investment, but before you jump straight in, there are some important things you really need to know. We will discuss these in this article.

Tip 1: Buying a foreclosed property is little different to buying any property, at any time. You need to research things like the best areas to buy property, property values and predictions, what you can afford, what you intend to do with the property etc. If you are buying as an investment, find out about the rental market in different areas, expected rent return, demand for rental property. Complete all your research before you start looking at properties, keep your list of results with you and refer to them when you are considering individual properties.

Tip 2: Organize your finance before you start to look at any property so that you are qualified to buy when you find the ideal property. A pre-qualified buyer has greater bargaining power when offers are being negotiated. Look for a lender who is experienced with foreclosures and understands the special requirements for this type of sale. When you are properly pre-qualified, there is less stress with the buying process.

Tip 3: Understand the laws and the process with buying foreclosed property. You need to know how the property is being sold - by auction, private treaty, open market etc. Make contact with a real estate agent who specializes in foreclosed property sales and increase your advantage. Look out for Sale by Owner properties in which you negotiate directly with the seller.

Tip 4: Stick to your game plan. If you have decided you want a four bedroom, two bathroom, double garage home, don't even look at a three bedroom, one bathroom, single garage house. The reason you spent time on research was to pre-determine what you wanted to buy, so keep to your plan. If there comes a time when you realize that your original decisions might need reviewing, do this at the appropriate time and not at an auction! You need to be happy with your purchase after the sale has gone through and there is no need to rush the process - there will be many more properties for sale.

Tip 5: Searching, short-listing, viewing and negotiating is a process that is the same no matter what type of property you are buying, the only difference being that you will be targeting foreclosures. It can be a long or short process but it takes as long as it takes. Don't rush into buying the first property because it seems like a good deal. When you find the right property at the right price, negotiate a better deal. Consider taking over the current mortgage, if you are dealing directly with the bank - they will look favorably at this at may lower the price.

7 Reasons Why You Should Buy a Luxury Investment Property

Investment properties are typically looked at as either flips or rentals at the lower end of the financial spectrum. An investor will buy something relatively inexpensively, fix it up and then sell it if the market is right, or rent it out. However, the luxury rental market can be quite lucrative and is often overlooked by many investors. A luxury property can be worth its weight in gold if bought at the right price and in the right location. So, if you're contemplating investing in real estate, or expanding your existing real estate portfolio shouldn't you consider buying a luxury home or condominium?

Luxury holds different meanings for different buyers. It may translate into a home with its own stretch of beach. Or a top-of-the-line condo along the fairway of one of the best golf courses in the world. Perhaps your idea of luxury is a secluded retreat where you can get away from it all. Obviously, there is no set definition for luxury to each and every investor, but there is certainly a difference in terms of location, price and features.

In any given area, the luxury properties will be on the high end of the sales price range. In some small town in the middle of North America a luxury home with all the bells and whistles may cost $400,000. But head on over to the Wailea area on the island of Maui where condominiums are easily found in the million dollar range and luxury properties, especially single family homes, will be well above that million dollar mark.

Of course, it's exciting to purchase a luxury home as an investment property. Doesn't everyone want to add high end homes to their real estate portfolio? But there are more explanations why buying a luxury investment property is a smart move, other than just the "feel good" aspect. Here are seven reasons why a luxury real estate purchase can work in your favor:

1 - Right now is the perfect time for an investor to buy! Real estate is a cyclical industry. Prices go up and prices go down. The market gets hot and properties are selling left and right. And then the market cools. That's just the nature of real estate. And currently, prices are extremely favorable to buyers. Not only are prices reasonable, but many sellers are very motivated and are pricing their homes to sell!

2 - Luxury real estate is a great long-term investment...it does not depreciate to the extent that other markets may. Yes, the market is favorable to buyers at this moment, but over the long run, you won't see the ugly drop in your investment. Meaning, you won't see your property depreciate by 50% or worse. Luxury properties tend to hold their value fairly well.

3 - Luxury properties are flexible! You can purchase it as your upscale getaway and then turn around and rent it out to travelers by the week or by the month. You can even rent it out annually until you plan to retire to your luxury property paradise. But the flexibility is there. Many investors are able to make it work financially buy renting luxury property out on short-term agreements with travelers or locals and then still take advantage of the property themselves.

4 - Luxury rentals are typically treated better by tenants. The reality of renting a property out is that people may not treat the property as you would. However, when you are renting out higher end properties you attract those who will care for the property.

5 - You can see a higher rate of return on a luxury investment property because you can rent it out at a higher rate. A property in a coveted location can demand a higher monthly payment from tenants.

6 - Luxury property is typically quite secure and can bring with it peace of mind. Gated homes or gated communities are the norm for luxury real estate. Depending on the community, there may even be a dedicated security force. Increased security is a great bonus in terms of protecting your investment and keeping you and your tenants comfortable, knowing that extra level of security is in place.

7 - If you own a business or network with other business executives, a luxury rental makes a great reward for business well done, or as a getaway for a business retreat. It can also be used as a perk for exceptional clients.

Imagine everything you could do with a luxury real estate investment! A wonderful place you can call your second home, in a paradise of your choosing. A relaxing getaway and a lifelong investment rolled into one!

by : Volker Weiss

Questions About 1031 Exchange Properties

Who here has questions about 1031 exchange properties? Unless you have done a few of these exchanges I am sure everyone probably has quite a few questions so let us take a moment and talk about what is necessary when exchanging properties. Most importantly we want to make sure that we are protected from paying taxes while doing our 1031.

For those of you that are new to 1031 exchanges in general there are several terms that are used to mean the same thing such as starker exchange or like kind exchange. Essentially what you are trying to do is take a business asset, usually a property, and sell or exchange it for a new property. With a like kind exchange you are able to do defer taxes that you would pay on any of the profit from the sale. This will allow you to roll over that profit into the new property or asset and save a lot of money on your taxes.

It is very important that you understand that all properties exchanged in a 1031 must be business properties. This means your money cannot be rolled over into a new personal residence for yourself. It must have been a commercial property or a rental property that is sold and a new commercial or rental real estate investment is made. If you were to use the money from the starker exchange to buy a personal property then you will be liable for the taxes you were trying to avoid by doing this tax-free exchange.

When looking for 1031 exchange properties, it is important to understand the timeframe that you have to work with. For instance, when engaging in a 1031 exchange you must identify the replacement property within the first 45 days following the sale of your previous property. It does not mean that you need to a buy business property within 45 days but must at least identify a possible property within that timeframe.

This can be very confusing for many people, but the property that you have identified as a replacement property in your 1031 exchange does not need to be the same asset that you eventually by. It is very possible to identify a few different properties as likely candidates for the purchase so you can complete the exchange as long as you follow through and complete the entire process with a new real estate investment.

It is important that your final real estate investment for the 1031 exchange property is complete within 180 days of the sale of your original real estate asset.

As you can see a 1031 exchange can be somewhat complicated so it is important that you research as much as possible to make sure you get the right information as well as work with qualified agents that could help steer you through the process. When deciding on your 1031 exchange properties the most vital thing is to make sure that the new property is owned within the proper time frames.

by : James Steele

St. Louis Real Estate Auctioneer, Rick Bauer AARE, of Father Time™Auctions Designated Accredited Auctioneer of Real Estate by NAA

Father Time™ Auctions, Real Estate and Appraisal Services, www.fathertime.com today announced that Auctioneer, Rick Bauer AARE received his designation as Accredited Auctioneer Real Estate (AARE) from the National Auctioneers Association’s Education Institute. The AARE program provided an educational platform for Bauer AARE to receive expert training in evaluating property, preparing important financial documents, and preparing the property for auction in the Real Estate Market available today.

St. Louis, MO, May 29, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Father Time™ Auctions, regionally services St. Louis, Missouri and Southwestern Illinois, is a full service auction company specializing in real estate auctions, estate auctions, business liquidations and salvage is proud to announce that Rick Bauer, AARE has earned the Accredited Auctioneer Real Estate (AARE) designation by the National Auctioneers Association.

There are less than 400 people who hold and have earned the Accredited Auctioneer of Real Estate (AARE) designation offered by the National Auctioneers Association, which is the only organization with the credibility to offer auctioneering designations.

The AARE program provided Rick Bauer AARE with the expert knowledge necessary to effectively market residential, agricultural, commercial, and industrial real estate in today’s economy. The AARE designation requires completion of three courses and the completion of a case study.

St. Louis Real Estate Auctioneer, Paul Roesch, AARE, and partner at Father Time™ Auctions applauded Bauer AARE for his achievement.

“The economy and the real estate market going forward will continue to be more challenging than ever. The requirement for expert training in gathering business intelligence, effecting solid marketing strategies and sales techniques are critical to our success in helping our clients achieve their financial goals. Education, information and execution are key elements to successful transactions today. The AARE program brings these essential elements to real estate clients of Father Time™ Auctions. This adds to Mr. Bauer's already impressive real estate knowledge” said Roesch AARE. Bauer has over thirty years of real estate experience along with a Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI) designation.

Bauer said “participating in this educational program assures Father Time™ Auction’s clients that we have up to date industry knowledge. It provides our firm a platform for networking with progressive Real Estate Auction Professionals from around the country. This gives us incredible market knowledge, advantage and perspective to play forward with our clients.”

Father Time™ Auctions Services www.fathertime.com is a leading full service professional Auction, Appraisal, Marketing and Sales Liquidation Service: Home, Business, Real Estate-Home-Commercial-Farm-Land and Online Auctions. Father Time™ Auctions territory includes the St. Louis, Missouri and Southwestern Illinois region of the United States.

25 Luxury Condos Go Up for Auction at The Beacon in Jersey City, NJ

Historic Opportunities For Buyers As 12 Homes Will Be Sold Absolute Regardless Of Price

JERSEY CITY, N.J., -- Metrovest Equities announced today that Sheldon Good & Co. Auctions N.E., LLC will auction off 25 one- and two-bedroom luxury condominiums at the landmark Beacon residential development in Jersey City, NJ as part of a proactive approach to closing out the community's first phase of 315 homes which is approximately 80% sold and occupied.

The aggressive move will also allow the Manhattan-based developer to accelerate the opening of The Beacon's second phase of half- and full-floor live/work lofts situated in the 17-story Mercury building where construction is progressing rapidly.

The auction will be conducted by Sheldon Good & Company Auctions Northeast, LLC, America's leading real estate auction marketing firm, on June 27, 2009 at the Hyatt Jersey City, located just minutes from The Beacon. Registration begins at 11:00 a.m. with the auction commencing at 12:00 noon. Twelve of the homes will be sold "Absolute" regardless of price. Suggested opening bids will range from $150,000 to $250,000 for architecturally-distinctive residences that were originally priced from $380,000 to $700,000 -- representing historic opportunities for interested buyers.

"With approximately 80% of The Beacon's first phase not only sold but closed, it's fair to say that we've enjoyed a level of success very few residential developments can claim in today's marketplace," states George Filopoulos, President of Metrovest Equities, which has already completed the first two buildings and 45,000 square feet of amenity space at the award-winning art deco landmark and is well underway on a third building. The Beacon will ultimately comprise ten buildings containing 1,200 luxury residences and 80,000 square feet of retail space.

"As the developer, I take great pride in seeing our ambitious vision of creating the region's most unique, architecturally-significant, amenity-laden and value-driven condominium community come to fruition. Our goal was to create a dynamic neighborhood setting teeming with resident interaction, and to the nearly 500 people currently living there, The Beacon is just that. With our next phase of homes, The Mercury Lofts at The Beacon, nearly ready to be unveiled, we decided to utilize an accelerated marketing program to sell the remaining available residences in the first phase. This is not a distress sale, but a sophisticated approach to reinforcing value for prospective buyers through competitive bidding that will capitalize on the tremendous success The Beacon has enjoyed to date. The auction will cut months off of our current marketing program, resulting in considerable savings that will be passed on to the buying public through discounted pricing."

Sitting high atop the Palisades Ridge near Jersey City's vibrant downtown district, The Beacon represents a $350 million conversion that is currently the largest residential restoration project in the country and the largest in the history of New Jersey. The historic grandeur of the buildings' dramatic interior spaces has been immaculately restored by refurbishing and preserving the original chandeliers, marble and terracotta flooring, brass elevator door surrounds and windows. The addition of modern amenities and services has helped foster an exclusive resort lifestyle within an historic Art Deco landmark complemented by dramatic views of the New York City skyline and surrounding cityscape.

"The Beacon is unquestionably one of the most exciting residential projects ever to be developed along the Gold Coast of New Jersey," said Lawrence Samberg, managing Director of Sheldon Good & Company."

"Because it offers such a wide diversity of amenities, The Beacon affords residents not just a sumptuous home, but a luxurious lifestyle in a restored old-world ambiance that reflects the historic grandeur of yesteryear," noted Mr. Jeffrey L. Hubbard, Executive Managing Director of Sheldon Good & Company Auctions.

The Beacon's initial phase of uniquely-designed studios, one- and two-bedroom homes -- including the residences to be offered at auction -- are located in the Rialto and Capitol buildings which are situated adjacent to each other and are joined by a dramatic two-story lobby with a 24-hour doorman and Club Aqua, the development's exclusive 45,000 square-foot amenity center. Club Aqua features an indoor pool, an Aqua Grotto lounge with hot tubs, his/her saunas and steam, social sauna and treatment rooms; a yoga studio, fitness center, juice bar, screening room and a children's playroom. There's also a restored Art Deco theater/event space with catering kitchen, a rooftop sundeck, poker room, a reading gallery and a magnificent billiards hall.

Residents also enjoy private concierge service, valet parking and convenient shuttle service to PATH trains and ferries to Manhattan, while The Beacon Express, an onsite market offering prepared foods, fine cheeses, mouthwatering desserts and assorted conveniences, recently opened its doors.

The Beacon's loft-like condominium residences feature an abundance of upscale finishes and appointments, and many of the homes offer sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, the harbor and beyond. The spectacular residences are distinguished by outstanding detailing and finishes and soaring ten-to-twelve-foot-high ceilings. Spacious kitchens feature Pietra Cardosa stone countertops, glass backsplashes, full-height pantries and stainless steel appliances, while bathrooms boast elegant marble and premium finishes and fixtures. All homes offer a Bosch washer and dryer and are pre-wired for multi-phone lines, high-speed internet and digital TV.

http://news.prnewswire.com/

Thinking of Green Real Estate Concepts

By Lance Winslow
There is a lot of alternative energy hype these days, but you have to be careful with solar installation sales people. Often, they make claims that you will have the unit, installation and equipment all paid off within 5-10-years with all the money you save on energy, the ROI or return on your investment.

the company's salesman takes an overly optimistic approach to such promises to get you to buy, you may find yourself underwhelmed with the results and later determine that you didn't save any money after all.

Not long ago this exact issue occurred and the homeowner being a lawyer asked for the ROI in writing. He lived in a very sunny city with only 6-9 rain days a year on average, so he accepted the salesman on his word, but got it in writing just in case, because he'd heard of problems that other consumers had encountered.

Turns out that in 2.5 years of the 10 year so-called ROI, he had not saved more than 10% on his energy bill. Worried that the company wouldn't be around in 7 and a half years, he took them to court for the entire cost of the unit.

He offered to allow them to remove it or leave it there, but wanted his money back, as he had been lied too. The solar company had all sorts of excuses such as cloudy weather, house facing the wrong direction, and even energy cost increases of 3%.

The judge was hearing none of this nonsense and awarded the gentleman full re-imbursement. The solar company could take the unit away or sell the unit for 15% of the original cost and walk away.

The homeowner had agreed that 15% was fair because a home buyer might like a solar system on the house and figured that he could raise the price of the house that small amount and recover that cost at a later date, which is more than fair considering he was lied to, and whether they meant to or not is irrelevant, the point is beware of these ROI claims during the initial purchase of your solar alternative energy system.

Green Homes and Alternative Energy Issues

By Lance Winslow
Modern technology has certainly served us well in our homes. Today we have natural gas lines, electricity, air conditioning, microwaves, hot water, hot running water, refrigeration, and all the modern amenities. But we also use a lot of energy. Now engineers are working on high tech appliances that are ultra-super efficient. It is truly amazing the quality of life we can live for such low costs.

Still, I've always thought that the ancient cultures who dug tunnels underground and allowed wind blowing into one end of the tunnel with outlets into the living area for air-cooling were wise, and that was a form of air-conditioning and it didn't take any energy once the tunnels for ventilation were created. No it wasn't perfect, but it worked. Even the American Indians built Kivas to stay cool in the hot summers and many of them had devised various rudimentary forms of air cooling vent systems.

Now we are looking at ways to create green homes using alternative energy technologies and it seems that distributive energy makes sense doesn't it. We need to be both efficient and wise when it comes to our power needs, at least this is what the expert believe, and I suppose both you and I concur completely.

Solar water obviously makes sense, as even if you can get the water to outside ambient temperature or close, you've saved a huge amount of energy heating it from the underground temps where the pipes are of 55-degrees, and heating water one degree takes a good amount of energy if you use any volume at all. Anytime we can devise simple systems and tricks of physics to help us with our technology we are miles ahead. So, we need both ancient and modern technology to live well and maintain our quality of life, please consider that.

Selling Your Home Without a Broker

When considering the sale of your home privately, it is important to understand the process. Many sellers are put off by the prospect of selling their home privately because they feel as though it might be too complicated and they lack the skills and resources to handle it effectively.

This is simply not the case; however. Selling your home without a broker does not have to be complicated. Understanding the requirements of the process will help you to achieve a favorable outcome; however, your ability to market and present your home to prospective buyers is truly the key to a successful sale. In order to realize that successful outcome, the following steps are typically observed:

1. A value must be obtained for the home in order to set a sales price that is reasonable.

2. The home must be placed on the market for sale and marketed and advertised.

3. A real estate purchase and sale agreement, real estate disclosure forms and lead hazard for must be prepared for presentation to the buyer. Depending on your local area, other documents and forms may be required as well.

4. After an offer has been made and accepted on the home, a deposit or down payment is typically paid to the seller by the buyer.

5. The buyer then begins the process of obtaining financing in order to fund the purchase price. In some circumstances, the buyer may be required to obtain a title search and/or survey. This may be required by the lender. The buyer and/or the lender may also require the purchase of a title insurance policy for the property.

6. A deed is prepared by the seller and it is then signed, witnessed and notarized in order for the property to be transferred to the buyer.

7. The closing takes place. During this meeting the buyer and/or the lender provides the remainder of the purchase price to the seller. The seller then pays off any liens and mortgages on the property and the deed is provided to the buyer. The buyer then files the deed with the appropriate recording office in the parish or county in which the property is located in order for the property to be transferred to the buyer's name.

When planning the sale of your home it is generally a good idea to speak with an attorney who specializes in real estate transactions as soon as you decide to sell. Selling your home involves making sure you abide by a number of regulations and laws and you will want to make sure you do not unintentionally violate any of these laws.

By Bill Hansen

The Most Magnificent Technique to Sell Property Instantly!

Since 2008 the British property market has been hammered by a combination of unique economic factors that has seen property prices plummet, mortgage products vanish and consumer confidence fade as the media circus make predictions and counter predictions of when the property slump may or may not end! But what does this mean for people like you and me who are trying to sell? What about if you need to sell due to repossession, divorce, or financial difficulty?

You see, there are ways though unconventional, to beat the crunch and guarantee the sale of your property whenever you decide.

The first and most difficult concept to understand is the price to sell at! This is always a sticking point for most. I have literally seen people who go bankrupt, miss that once in a lifetime opportunity, allow themselves to be repossessed by the greedy banks and even fall ill over the thought of not getting the price they imagined they would get for their property!

The easiest way to quantify the price you should sell at is by first understanding that your property is not the home that you have loved and taken care off it is not a family member 'that deserves better' you must dehumanise it and make it a commodity. It is a commodity that will provide you with a means to an end whether that is a long-term, short-term or even immediate end.

I will explain. When I invest in the stock market I have no emotional attachment to the stocks I buy. I simply assess the speed of which I can sell (get out) to achieve my goals and balance this with the reasons I have for my decision.

You see the amount you make doesn't really matter it's the goals you are trying to achieve that do! If you simply look at your decisions from a monetary angle and the "coulda, woulda shoulda's" you would never achieve your immediate goals.

Now in regards to property these goals could be anything from; avoiding repossession so your family can remain living in their home. Clearing mounting Debt that is causing you constant stress an affecting your well being or liquidating assets to stop the heartache of drawn out dealings with a spouse. Or possibly simply owning that dream property that has just come on the market at a fantastic price!

Once you have understood this concept of using your property to achieve your immediate goals all that is left to do is sell and if you have access to the expert techniques used by professional property investors of how to find buyers who can guarantee to buy your property no matter where is or what the condition and more importantly, no matter what's happening in the market, you can achieve your goals of selling your property whenever you decide within days!

You see in the last 6 months in the so called property slump when, if you believe the media, no property is being bought I have sold over 30 individual properties from my own portfolio with absolutely no hassle and no stress to people who can buy! I sell to people who guarantee to complete allowing me to reinvest my cash elsewhere or simply move on with my life with ease.

Did I mention that I also Pay Absolutely No Fees which are normally associated with selling property. That means I pay for No Home Improvement Packs, No Estate Agent fees and absolutely No Legal Fees, and it normally takes just 1 phone call or a few click of my mouse...It's that simple!

By Andy Swinton

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take listing from :http://www.realtor.com/

Questions About Online Bidding and Online Only Auctions

* How do I register to bid on an Online Auction?

You must first create a profile and receive your user name and password. It is FREE and only takes a few minutes. Next find the property you wish to bid on and click the "Bid Now" button. Complete the simple registration and accept the terms of the sale. You will receive a bidding approval within 24 hours.

* Why do I need to register with a credit card if registration is free?

A credit card is required to register for bidding to ensure you are of legal age to purchase real estate and confirm identity. No charges will be billed to your credit card although some banks will hold the $1 credit in a pending account for up to 30 days. Please see your bank for details. The name on your credit card must match the profile information you provided during registration. An email will be sent to you to confirm you are approved to bid or if additional information is required. Debit cards are not recommended. The verification process debits your account $1 per registration for deposit, but immediately reverses/voids the transaction. Most banks withhold these funds for up to 30 days before returning the funds your account. Williams & Williams does not hold these funds and can not be responsible for your bank's security policies. Please see your bank for details.

* Is my information safe?

Yes. All personal information is strictly confidential, and will not be disclosed to any third party without your consent. It is kept secure and in confidence per our privacy policy.

* Will my registration for an auction automatically put me on an email list?

You must check the box to receive auction alerts from Williams & Williams. You can check any of the following options for how you would like to receive auction alerts: email, postcard or text. Upon completion of your profile information, you will receive a confirmation email with your user name and password.

* Can I view an Online Auction without registering?

Yes. Simply click on the "View this Auction" button on the property details page and it will take you directly to the bidding screen. From this page, you can both view the property and current bids as well as register to place your own bid.

* Is there a charge for using the Online Only Auction service?

There is no charge to register for an auction.

Each high bidder (buyer) must make a 5% non-refundable deposit per property (minimum $2,500) at the conclusion of the auction. Electronic wire funds, credit card, check by phone and cashier’s checks are the only forms of payment accepted. Once the seller approves the sale, the deposit will be credited to the contract.

The balance of the purchase price and all closing costs are due within 30 days. Closing costs generally total about $1,500 and include title exam, title policy, closing fee, filing costs and any other fees noted.

If indicated, a Buyer’s Premium of 5% ($1,500 minimum) shall be added to the high bid to total the purchase price. In the event a Buyer’s Premium is not charged on this property, an Auction Services fee of $1,500 shall apply.

Deposits will not be forwarded to any title company, or other party, for closing until Williams & Williams' bank has received cleared funds for the deposit.

NOTICE: If you are bidding on an On-Location or Studio Auction, deposits and service fees may be different.

* How many auctions can I bid on at one time?

There is no limit to the number of auctions that can be bid on at the same time, although you must register and be approved for each auction individually. Once registered you will continue to use the same user name and password for all auctions for which you have successfully registered.

* Can I (still) register for online bidding on the day the auction closes?

Yes. We do recommend you register at least three days prior to the sale. Please refer to the terms and conditions of each auction for specific details of that auction.

* Must I register for each Online Only Auction if I want to bid?

Yes. Each auction will have its own set of terms and conditions that you will need to read, understand and accept prior to bidding. Once registered you will continue to use the same user name and password for all auctions for which you have successfully registered.

* How do I bid online for a Studio Auction?

Once you have been approved to bid in the auction, a Java Applet will automatically be installed on to your computer. You can then click on the Bid Now Button to go to the bidder screen. When the lot number (#) you are interested in starts you can click on the Bid Button in the middle of the screen. It will show you the amount you are bidding when you click on the button. When you are the high bidder it will say you are the "high bidder" and it will not let you bid against yourself. The bar above the bid button will let you know when the bidding is about to end and when the property has sold. If you are the high bidder you will be contacted to start the closing process following the end of the auction, but less than 24 hours.

* I will not be able to attend the Studio Auction in person or online. Can I still place a bid on a property?

Yes, you can place an absentee bid. You must first register as an approved online bidder. Log in and select the property in which you are interested. Place your bid in the MAXIMUM absentee/proxy box, click the "Bid" button and confirm your bid by hitting the "Submit" button. You will receive an e-mail confirming your absentee bid. When the auction starts, the system will automatically raise your bid by the current increment and only if you have been outbid by another bidder. It will not allow you to bid against yourself and will not exceed your maximum bid. You will be contacted within 24 hours of the auction if you are the high bidder.

* I have registered, now what? How will I get access to the bidding page?

You will receive a confirmation email shortly after you register and an email reminder one day prior to the sale. These will give you a link, which will take you directly to the auction. You may also click on the "Bid Now" button on the property page the day of the auction.

* How do I bid in the Online Only Auction?

You have the choice of entering the minimum next bid or a proxy (maximum) bid into the “Your Bid” box. You can submit the bid by clicking on “Place My Bid.” The minimum next bid can be calculated by adding the predetermined bid increment to the current bid. A “proxy bid” is the maximum amount you are willing to pay for the property and should at least equal the minimum next bid amount. You may enter a proxy bid of any dollar amount (example $25,501). After placing a proxy bid we will automatically increase your bid to the next bid increment to ensure that you remain the high bidder. The system will only increase your bid if you have been outbid by another bidder, and will stop when you have reached your maximum (proxy) bid amount or have been recognized as the winning bidder at the end of the auction.

* What is an overtime period for the end time of the Online Only Auction?

If a bid is placed within two (2) minutes of the close of bidding, then another two (2) minute period commences from the time of the last bid until no bids are placed within the next two (2) minutes. The last bid shall be made final.

* What are the bid increments for an Online Only Auction?

The bid increments for Online Only Auctions are set as follows: Bids increase at $500 on amounts up to $15,000. Bids increase at $1,000 on amounts up to $30,000. Bids increase at $1,500 on amounts up to $50,000. Bids increase at $2,000 on amounts up to $100,000. Bids increase at $2,500 on amounts up to $250,000. Bids increase at $5,000 on amounts up to $500,000.

* What happens if I lose my Internet connection while I'm bidding for an Online Only property?

Once you click the Place My Bid button the electronic proxy will automatically increase your bid at predetermined increments to maintain the high bid. You can refresh/reconnect your computer and return to the bid page to see if you are the high bidder.

* Can I cancel my bid?

No. By bidding you are representing to Williams & Williams and the seller that you have read and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions for this sale. If you do not agree with any of the terms and conditions DO NOT BID as you will be bound by those terms and conditions.

* Can I have another person place a bid for me?

For security reasons, your legal representative and/or your agent are the only persons allowed to place bids on your behalf. If a representative is bidding on your behalf s/he must have an original Power of Attorney (POA) or Attorney in Fact in place at the time of the auction. The Power of Attorney (POA) must be returned with the contract.

* How did someone place a bid outside of the next bid increment?

This will happen when someone places a proxy bid. You can place a proxy bid of any amount greater than the next bid increment.

Example – someone else has the current high bid price of $15,000. You place a proxy bid of $16,123. The bidding system will automatically put you in at $15,500 (next bid increment). A competing bidder later comes along and places a bid of $16,000 (next bid increment). Once this happens, the system will automatically put you in at your proxy/max bid of $16,123. Even though the proxy bid ($16,123) is not a full increment ($500) higher than the previous bid ($16,000), the proxy bid was placed before the competing bid was placed and thus will be honored.

* How do I know if my bid was accepted by the auctioneer?

We recommend you start bidding as soon as the auction begins. The bid page will show the high bidder with each new bid. Refresh your bid page often to see the latest bids and remaining time.

* Why did I not win the item although it sold for my maximum bid?

This will happen if another bidder places the same bid but earlier in the auction. Additionally, the sale will be controlled by the auctioneer. The auctioneer reserves the right to regulate bidding and accept or reject any or all bids. Any and all decisions of the auctioneer regarding the order and conduct of the auction shall be the final and absolute without liability to any party.

* What happens if I am the high bidder for an Online Auction?

Within 48 hours (two business days) immediately following the close of the auction, a representative from the Buyer/Agent Relations Group will contact the winning bidder (buyer) by electronic mail, telephone or facsimile to provide documents for execution. All purchase documents will be provided to the buyer and buyer will be required to sign and return all purchase documents to auctioneer via overnight delivery. Buyer shall have two (2) business days following the receipt of contract to return all completed documents or shall be subject to paying a liquidated damages amount equal to the down payment.


http://www.williamsauction.com

Real Estate Auctions Questions

* What is the difference between On-Lawn, In-Studio and Online Only?

They are simply venue differences, scheduled for the convenience of both sellers and bidders. Please be aware that some properties selling online may be simultaneously sold live on the lawn or live in the studio auction venues.

* Can I inspect a property before the auction?

Yes, please visit the property detail page of the website for specific dates, times and directions.

* Do you have more information available on the property?

No. All the information we are provided or have available is published on our website, and then finally in the sale day notes you’ll receive at the auction. Institutional and fiduciary sellers (courts, government agencies, banks and trustees) as well as Williams & Williams have typically not occupied the properties being sold so have very little information to provide. Properties are sold "As Is – Where Is" and should be fully inspected prior to bidding.

* What is a Buyer’s Premium?

On most properties, Williams & Williams charges a 5% fee (minimum $1,500 for On-line Only Auction, $2,500 for all others) known as a Buyer’s Premium. This fee is added to the winning bid (also known as the “hammer price”) and is payable as part of the total purchase price of the property.

Example: If the winning bid is $100,000, then the Buyer’s premium is $5,000 ($100,000 x 5% = $5,000). The Buyer’s Premium is then added to the winning bid to calculate the total purchase price ($100,000 + $5,000 = total purchase price of $105,000).

The Buyer’s Premium is used to compensate the Brokers and/or Auctioneer and to cover the costs of sale from pre-auction through closing. It is a standard practice utilized by most auction firms.

Please review the property specific page or the Sale Day Notes to determine if a property has a Buyer’s Premium (or an Auction Service Fee).

* What is an Auction Service Fee?

On some properties where no Buyer’s Premium is charged, Williams & Williams applies an Auction Service Fee (minimum $1,500 for On-line Only Auction, $3,000 for all others). The Auction Service Fee is not part of the total purchase price and is payable at closing.

The Auction Service Fee is used to compensate the Brokers and/or Auctioneer and to cover the costs of sale from pre-auction through closing.

Please review the property specific page or the Sale Day Notes to determine if a property has an Auction Service Fee (or a Buyer’s Premium).

* Why do some properties have a Buyer’s Premium and some have an Auction Service Fee?

Williams & Williams provides institutional property sellers different methods of marketing properties. As a result, some properties have a Buyer’s Premium, while others have an Auction Service Fee.

* Do I get a good title?

Yes. Properties are transferred by deed prepared by seller (i.e. Special, Bargain and Sale, Quit Claim, U.S. Marshal’s, Trustee’s, etc.) with insurable title as determined by the title/closing company indicated on the contracts, which also prepares and issues a customary owner's title insurance policy. Current year’s property taxes are pro-rated through day of closing as customary.

* If there is a mobile home on the property do I get a separate title for it?

No. Usually, any mobile home or manufactured housing has already been affixed to land and is considered part of the real property. If it has not, however, it will then be conveyed by a hold harmless agreement or quit claim bill of sale. If a separate certificate of title HAS been found or obtained, it will be noted in the disclosure for the property on the website or in the sale day notes.

* Can I use my own title company?

Yes. The terms of sale which are pre-stipulated will still govern, however, specifically including that the insurable title as prepared and offered by the indicated title/closing company shall be the standard agreed to and accepted by the parties for conveyance and that buyer shall pay all costs already incurred and required by that company.

* Is this an absolute auction?

No. All sales are subject to court or seller approvals that require that the non-revocable offers be delivered to them for execution.

* Is there a reserve price?

No. The properties are liquidated to the highest bidder subject to approval of the sale and execution of the offers.

* Can I pay in full day of sale?

Yes. If a Quick Close option is available (see property information or listen day of sale). Buyers can save all title closing costs (usually over $1,500) by paying the purchase price plus services fee and/or any other non-title fees noted in full on day of sale.

* Can I bid for someone else (i.e. friend or family member)?

Yes. If you will be bidding on behalf of your client you must have an original Power of Attorney (POA) or Attorney in Fact with you at the time of the auction. If you will be bidding online on behalf of your client, then the Power of Attorney (POA) must be returned with the contract.

* Can I assign the contract?

No. You may not assign the contract.

* Can I use bank financing?

Yes. However, there are no contingencies (i.e. financing, appraisal or inspection) to these sales, so you should be pre-qualified by a lender as to the amount you can afford to spend for a property being sold for cash “As Is - Where Is.”

* Do I need to use a Real Estate Agent?

An auction provides a clean, time definite, exchange between the parties and traditionally allows the buyer to minimize the number of intermediaries separating him/her from the Seller. Although as the auctioneer Williams & Williams represents the Seller, we have the responsibility to treat all parties fairly and in accordance with real estate law. That being said, if a buyer feels more comfortable having representation at an auction, s/he is welcome to have an agent register the buyer as a client, attend the auction, and assume the role of a buyer’s agent.

* I'm a real estate agent. Can I earn a fee?

Yes, you can represent any third party as long as you qualify and register per the terms of cooperation and policies published on the website and have proof that you submitted same at least 24 hours prior to the auction. There are no exceptions to this policy.

* Can I buy a property after auction?

No. Practically all high bidders close on time, so opportunities to buy a property after an auction are very rare. A high bidder who defaults forfeits their down payment and is additionally liable for all costs and damages incurred to re-sell the property.

* Will I know on site if my bid was accepted?

No. You will receive confirmation that your bid was accepted from the W&W Buyer/Agent Relations Group – usually within 14 days of the auction date.

* What is "true value?"

Traditionally speaking, there are many ways to determine property value. There is what the seller is asking. There is the value the agent places on comparable properties in the neighborhood. There is the appraiser’s opinion of what a property is worth. At Williams & Williams, the true value of real estate is what a buyer will pay now, in an open and competitive auction environment. There’s a reason so many of the world’s assets are sold via auction. From stocks and bonds, to art and autos, to those forgotten treasures in Grandma’s attic, auctions effectively establish true market value at the most informed and competitive prices available.

* What does it mean when properties are sold "Buyer’s Choice?"

If more than one property is being sold from a sale site the properties may be sold buyer’s choice. This means the “#” of the property does not indicate the order in which it will be sold. Instead, when the auctioneer concludes the bidding, the high bidder (whoever bids the most) will choose which property they’ve bought. They may choose any of the properties in the group and they may also choose more than one. The purchase price bid is per a single property. For example, if the high bid is $50,000 and the high bidder chooses two properties, they pay $100,000 total. After the high bidder makes their choice(s), the auctioneer will open and start the bidding again. The second high bidder does not get to choose; only the high/winning bidder gets to choose and buy. The process is repeated until all properties for that group have been sold. This is done to accommodate bidders who have second and third choices and/or are investors and want more than one property (rather than selling the properties in an arbitrary order, not selected by the buyers).

* A Studio Auction property shows only the sale date ... no time. How do I know when to show up?

Studio Auction properties are lotted and grouped in approximately one (1) hour increments. The property detail page will indicate the time range in which each property will sell. It is recommended that you be present at the studio at least one hour before the anticipated selling hour for your property.

* What is a high bidder acknowledgement form?

After a high bidder has been declared by the auctioneer, they will be asked to sign a high bidder acknowledgement form which will state which property they purchased and what their high bid was. The high bidder and the high bidder acknowledgement form will then be taken to the closing area to fill out the contract.

* What will my charges be if I am the high bidder for an On-Location or In-Studio Auction?

There is no charge to register for an auction. Each high bidder (buyer) must make a 5% ($2,500 minimum) non-refundable deposit per property at the conclusion of the auction. Electronic wire funds, cash, credit card, check by phone and cashier’s checks are the only forms of payment accepted. Once the seller approves the sale, the deposit will be credited to the contract. The balance of the purchase price and all closing costs are due at closing. Closing costs generally total about $1,500 and include title exam, title policy, closing fee, filing costs and any other fees noted. A 5% Buyer’s Premium or an auction service fee of $3,000 is also due for the local services provided pre-auction through the closing. Deposits will not be forwarded to any title company, or other party, for closing until Williams & Williams bank has received cleared funds for the deposit.

* Is the down payment deposited?

Yes. All down payment funds are deposited in less than 24 hours of the auction, so you should transfer funds into your checking account prior to the sale (if a sale is not approved, down payment is immediately returned).

SOURCE FROM : http://www.williamsauction.com

What's all the fuss over New Homes about?

The list of benefits of buying a new home is endless. But if you are still not convinced why a New Home could be your next dream home, then read on…

1. Enjoy your new home immediately

* When you buy a new home, you can move in as soon as it is finished.
* There's no need to spend money or time redecorating and repairing your new home. Some new build house developers even give you the option of designing your new home before it's built so it's decorated exactly to your taste.

2. Relax, it's a new home

* New build house developers who are registered with the National House Building Council provide a 10 year warranty. Some New Homes developers offer similar guarantees from other providers.
* You can also avoid the often lengthy process of waiting for detailed surveys to be completed on your new home as your guarantee covers any unforeseen problems.
* Most new homes have advanced security features as standard, including circuit breakers, fire and smoke alarms.

3. New homes - efficiency without trying

* The average new home is up to four times more energy efficient than a traditional second hand home. New homes have excellent insulation and the latest energy saving devices. This means new homes have lower running costs compared to traditional homes meaning new homes are a more eco-friendly way of living.
* New homes are designed to minimise waste and to work in balance with the environment. Most of today's new homes developers strive to create a sense of community within the development by adding parks, play areas, and other features for the benefit of the residents.

4. Location, Location, Location

* Most new homes are conveniently built close to shops, public transport and other amenities.
* When choosing a site, new homes developers give careful consideration to access points and the surrounding area.
* No need to feel like 'the newcomers' to the neighbourhood - when you buy a new home, everyone's in the same position as you.

5. New Home, Minimum stress

* There are no upward chains to consider when buying a new build house, so the whole process is much less stressful and quicker. Some new homes developers even offer part exchange deals to save even more time.

6. Contemporary living for all

* Whether you're a first time buyer, retired or a growing family looking for a larger space, new house builders create new homes for everyone. Most new homes developments have a variety of options for homebuyers including apartments and more traditional homes.
* New homes are designed to meet the needs of modern day living - space in a new home is used efficiently & effectively.

from http://www.rightmove.co.uk/

10 Common Traits Of Real Estate Billionaires

1. Go commercial. Billionaires who make their fortunes in real estate don’t do it in residential. They are moguls with an empire of owned and operated office buildings, shopping centers, apartment complexes, and luxury hotels. That strategy works particularly well for “America’s richest landlord,” 73-year-old Newport Beach Resident Donald Bren, the wealthiest man in American real estate. This self-made millionaire, with a net worth of $4.3 billion, made much of his money as chairman of The Irvine Company, a privately held real estate investment company known for creating balanced, sustainable, quality communities like the 93,000-acre Irvine Ranch in Orange County. Finished plots sell for more than $1 million an acre. The ranch also has 400 office buildings, 35 shopping centers, 80 apartment complexes and 2 luxury hotels. Bren is 6th wealthiest real estate billionaire and the 122nd richest man in the world. He is also one of real estate’s great philanthropists.

2. Do more than invest. Making big money in real estate goes beyond buying property and waiting for it to appreciate in value. It’s all about improvements. John Sobrato of Sobrato Development Companies calls Atherton, home, but he made his fortune in Silicon Valley – for more than 40 years, Sobrato’s SDC has developed real estate in Silicon Valley - specializing in facilities for high tech and R&D companies. Another self-made man, he began in 1953 with one of the first “tilt-up” buildings in Santa Clara County. Sobrato, who owns and manages the buildings it constructs and maintains single tenant occupancy, boasts a portfolio of $1.5 billion. His assets include land throughout Silicon Valley, San Jose, Fremont, Newark and Santa Clara and he has developed in excess of 7,000 rental units.

3. Be able to see the property for what it could be. Just because you buy a shopping complex doesn’t mean that’s the highest and best use of the property. Know the local zoning codes and be open to the possibilities…Los Angelino Ed Roski did just that. Roski is the founder of Majestic Realty, the largest commercial builder in Los Angeles, boasting an office, retail and industrial portfolio totaling more than 55 million square feet. The USC grad with a net worth of $1.1 billion saw the highest and best use of the formerly blighted area near the convention center and built the Staples Center with Philip Anschutz. Roski is also a minority owner of the Lakers and the Kings. Headquartered in City of Industry, Majestic Realty also has offices in Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and Las Vegas – where they have a 400-acre business park and 3 million square feet of casinos.

4. Be tenacious and relentless. Billionaires don’t let obstacles or pitfalls keep them from achieving their goals. Newport Beach billionaire George Argyros is the grandson of Greek immigrants. Argyros began by running a Palm Springs grocery. He graduated to buying and selling corner lots at busy intersections for gas stations. Turned to apartments in 1968. Today, as part of Arnel & Affiliates, Argyros manages apartments and commercial properties in southern California. He has a net worth of $1.2 billion.

5. Have a thick skin. People can be resentful and jealous of successful people. Don’t let criticism of your work deter you from your goals. Consider Red Emmerson – the second wealthiest real estate titan in California. Emmerson is the largest private forestland holder in North America - assets include 1.52 million acres in Northern California, timberland stretching more than 350 miles from Mount Shasta to Yosemite National Park. For the last 20 years, while other logging companies retrenched or relocated, Emmerson, and his company - Sierra Pacific Industries - quietly grew into the second-largest private landowner in the United States. Needless to say, Sierra Pacific is a darling of environmental groups.

6. Have superior information. If you do more research than your competitors, you’ll have an advantage in any transaction. Self-made billionaire Carl Berg was a loan processor before investing in Silicon Valley commercial real estate with John Sobrato in the 1960s. He struck out on own, forming Mission West Properties, a real estate investment trust (REIT) in Silicon Valley. Berg owns a controlling stake in the REIT, which focuses on single-tenant research and development and office properties in Silicon Valley. Mission West now owns and manages more than 100 properties, major tenants include Microsoft and Apple Computer. Currently, the Atherton-based businessman boasts a portfolio of $1.2 billion.

7. Don’t accept the cards you’re dealt. Forbes notes that while one-third of the world’s 46 billionaires who make their money in real estate inherited and then grew their fortunes, two-thirds are self-made. Stockton-based A.G. Spanos Companies are known for building, managing, and selling multi-family housing units; constructing master-planned communities, and developing land. Although California based, they have expanded to build more than 100,000 apartments in 18 states since 1960. A.G. Spanos Companies have also developed top-class office space in San Joaquin County. Alex Spanos, owner of the NFL’s San Diego Chargers, operates the company with his sons Dean (president and CEO) and Michael Spanos (EVP). Spanos, whose net worth is $1.1 billion has pledged $200 million to San Diego for a new stadium for their football team.

8. Live in California. Of the 21 U.S. billionaires who made their fortune in real estate, more than one-third live in Atherton, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Palo Alto, or Stockton.

9. Get, and stay, married. Of the 43 real estate billionaires whose marital status is known, according to Forbes, 37 are married, while only three are divorced and three are widowed.

10. Go back to school. Of the 26 real estate billionaires whose educational attainments are known, 20 have a college degree or higher. Five made it on high school diplomas, and one is a high-school dropout. John Arrillaga is a big donor to alma mater Stanford University. Arrillaga and Richard Peery are two of 2 of Silicon Valley’s biggest commercial landlords. In the 1960s, they converted farmland into pricey office space. Peery and Arrillaga are lifelong business partners who avoid debt, and the media. Each has net worth of $1 billion.”

Karen Hanover is a Certified Commercial Real Estate Advisor and commercial real estate broker. She founded the Commercial Investment Education Institute for both beginning and seasoned investors. Take a FREE Online Course at http://www.cieinst.com