My New Blog

The Holidays are a Good Time to Sell...

Contrary to popular belief, buyers shop for homes all year round, including the holiday season. In fact, sellers who put their homes on the market during the holiday season (roughly between November and January) may have an advantage because there are fewer houses on the market so there's less competition. There are several other reasons to consider putting your home on the market during the holidays:

1. Many home buyers have extra time off during the holiday season so they have more time to look for their new home.

2. Because of the limited supply of homes for sale, sellers may be able to receive a higher purchase offer than expected.

3. Buyers looking for homes during the holidays are usually highly motivated to buy before the end of the year so they can get extra itemized income-tax deductions for mortgage loan fees, interest and pro-rated property taxes.

4. Festive lights and holiday decorations can help a home "show better."

5. Because January is traditionally the month for transfers, having a home on the market at the end of the year can capture the transferees who may not be able to wait until the Spring to buy a home.

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Additional Articles on Tacoma Real Estate:

Myths About Selling Your Tacoma Real Estate Home in a Slow Market

Tips for Selling Your Home in Winter

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Tacoma Real Estate LINKS:

Free Highest Price Analysis - Get your home's value (CMA)

Staging Your Home for Sale

Improvements That Pay

FREE Home Seller Resources

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Tips for a Green Remodel for Your Kitchen

Do you want to "go green" when remodeling your home's kitchen? If you are planning an eco-friendly remodel, here are some tips to help you:

Go Green:

• Consider hiring "green" professionals.
• Consider what to do with removed materials. Consider reusing materials if applicable to other projects, resell, or donate.
• Choose your "green" materials. Look for products certified by The Greenguard Environmental Institute (www.greenguard.com), the Forest Stewardship Council (www.fscus.org), or Cradle to Cradle ( www.mbdc.com/c2c/).
• Look for eco-friendly substitute materials:
• Linoleum instead of vinyl
• Low or no-VOC paints
• Bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood
• Choose Energy Star appliances.
• Use formaldehyde-free cabinetry or go for wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
• Install recycled-content glass countertops.
• Install a water filter as an alternative to buying bottled water.
• Utilize natural light with well-placed windows, skylights, and sun tunnels.
• Keep the refrigerator out of the sunlight and away from the oven.

*helpful sources: www.nalo.com, by Alayna Schroeder

Additional Resource for a Green Remodel:

The 7 Commandments of a Green Remodel for Your Tacoma Real Estate Home

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The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

New Years Resolutions - Five Steps Toward Improving Your Quality of Life!

Writing your New Years Resolution? Use these 5 steps to help improve your quality of life.

1. Set clearly defined goals and write them down:

Categorize your goals into your priorities. Good categories to consider are Spiritual, Family, Career, Finances, and Personal to include mental and physical.

2. Make every hour count:

Practice Time Management. Take stock of how much time you waste each day. Start by replacing at least one hour a day of wasted time with one or more productive activities that help you reach your key goals.

3. Tap into the power of masterminding:

There is power in numbers. Associate with people who are excelling in areas in which you would like to improve, such as health, finances, or spiritual awareness. Learn from them and grow personally.

4. Commit to personal growth:

Change your mental diet; take educational courses, start a new hobby, listen to audiotapes, read books, and create new associations.

5. Hold yourself accountable:

Share your goals with at least one person who knows you well and meet with them periodically to review your written goals and progress toward reaching them.

My very best wishes to you for the New Year!

The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Top Tips to Buy a Home in a Winter Market

Capitalize on buying a Tacoma Real Estate Home...

...or a home in Pierce, King, or Thurston County during the winter.

Home Buying Tips:

• Visit the home during the day.
• Visualize the yard in the summer. Ask questions about the plants.
• Know that there are less homes on the market during wintertime.
• This is a good time to observe the quality of water drainage and also look for other water issues.
• Ask for utility bills, or contact local utility company for the home's utility averages.
• Have a professional home inspection completed with Pest & Dry Rot included.
• Consult a Realtor®.
• Read the additional, valuable articles below.

Further advice is offered in the additional articles below. Educate yourself!

Top Tips to Sell Your Home in a Winter Market

Capitalize on selling your tacoma real estate home...

...or home in Pierce, King, or Thurston County during the winter.

Any season of the year can be a good time to sell. The buyers in winter are normally more motivated and have a schedule. That means less looky loos. Additionally, there is typically less competition on the market.

Home Selling Tips:

• Light a candle or use a "seasonal" potpourri to give that warm, at home feeling.
• Prune your trees, bushes, and dead flowers.
• Always leave the lights on for unexpected late afternoon showings.
• Always leave a front porch light on.
• Keep a swept, clean entrance.
• Keep the home at a comfortable temperature.
• It's a myth that your house looks better in the summer. Your home interior normally looks the best during the holiday season when tastefully decorated. Be careful not to clutter.
• An overpriced house will not sell, regardless of season.
• Trust your Realtor® who can watch the market and tour your competition.
• Review additional information by clicking the additional articles for home sellers.

Additional Articles for Home Sellers:

5 Good Reasons to Sell Your Home During the Holidays

6 Reasons to Stage Your Home Before Selling

Declutter Your Tacoma Real Estate Home

Myths About Selling Your Tacoma Real Estate Home in a Slow Market

Real Estate LINKS:

Free Highest Price Analysis - Get your home's value (CMA)

Staging Your Home for Sale

Improvements That Pay

FREE Home Seller Resources

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The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Practical Solutions for your Tacoma Real Estate Home

Tacoma Public Utilites and Tacoma Power offer the following FREE homeowner workshops:

• Make the most of your heating system

Thursday, January 15th •  7 - 8:30 p.m.

Whether you have a forced air system, baseboard heaters or forced are wall units, learn to make the most of your home's heating system and still be energy efficient.

• Year-round comfort with a heat pump

Saturday, Junuary 24th  •  10 - 11:30 a.m.

Learn how heat pumps can efficiently heat and cool your home, save you money and improve your home's air quality. Tacoma Power can provide rebates for heat pump systems going in a new or older home.

• 55+ Remodeling

Saturday, February 7th  •  10 -  11:30 a.m.

Age in place. Look at your home in a different way after we show you  how you can remodel to include safety upgrades and efficiency changes that will reduce your utility bills.

• Replacement windows - more than cosmetics

Thursday, February 19th  •  7 - 8:30 p.m.

New windows add not only beauty but value and efficiency to your home. Find out which materials and technologies matter and learn how to review bids and what to look for when choosing a window installation contractor.

• Living Green

Saturday, March 14th  •  10 - 11:30 a.m.

Learn how to be energy efficient and "go green" at home with the latest materials and technologies available in the Pacific Northwest.

• Weatherizing the early 1900's home

Thursday, March 19th  •  7 - 8:30 p.m.

Interested in weatherizing your older home and maintining its historical integrity? We can help you do both. You'll learn how to reduce your energy bills, add value and comfort to your home and keep that old style look you love.

• EnviroHouse Tour

Saturday, April 11th  •  3 sessions: 9:30, 10:30, 11:30 a.m.

View a model home showcasing environmentally friendly products and technologies, including solar. Located at City of Tacoma Landfill, 3510 S. Mullen St., Tacoma, WA. *Space is limited; registration is required.

• Appliance style, function and efficiency

Thursday, April 16th  •  7 - 8:30 p.m.

Before making your next appliance purchase, find out what's new in efficient clothes washers, refrigerators, water heating systems and dishwashers. Learn about the latest styles, functions and energy-saving features. (EnergyStar)

Unless noted otherwise, all workshops are conducted at the Tacoma Public Utilities Admin. Building, 3628 S. 38th St, Tacoma, WA. For directions or additional information, call 253-502-8377.

 *information provided by Tacoma Power

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Free Insulation for Tacoma Real Estate Home Owners

Prevent Costly Home Pipe Repairs in Cold Weather

Additional Information to Winterize Your Home

The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Weatherize your Tacoma Home

Do you Qualify for FREE Insulation and Duct Sealing?

Cut your home power bills by up to 25% when you weatherize your home. Weatherizing includes insulating your ceiling, floors and walls, sealing air ducts and replacing inefficient windows. Homeowners who meet income guidelines may be eligible for FREE insulation and duct sealing.

Call Tacoma Public Utilities at (253) 502-8363 to see if you qualify for a free home energy check.

Prevent Costly Home Pipe Repairs in Cold Weather

Additional Information to Winterize Your Home

The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Protect Your Homes Pipes During the Winter

Stay ahead of the cold weather and prevent pipes from freezing and bursting with these 6 easy steps.

1. Let water trickle from a faucet on an outside wall during the night.
2. Wrap pipes with UL-approved heat tape.
3. Allow heat to reach pipes beneath sinks near outer walls by opening cabinet doors.
4. Shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets and cover with insulated bib covers.
5. Set your home's thermostat to 55º F.
6. When away from home, ask someone to check to ensure your home's heat stays on.

Additional Information to Winterize Your Home

The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

The 9 Steps to Owning - Free Video or Report

Want to buy a home in the Tacoma Real Estate market...

Free access to valuable reports and video for home buyers, provided by www.TreySellsHouses.com.

Added Bonus:

As a bonus, I have included Brandon Cornett's related article, "No-Nonsense Guide to Home Buying - 12 Steps to Success." You will find that his steps immolate the steps in "The 9 Steps to Owning;" I feel you can never have enough information.

The Trey Affolter Team will make sure you have all the right information to make an informed decision when purchasing a home, guaranteed!

Enjoy Brandon's article.

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No-Nonsense Guide to Home Buying - 12 Steps to Success

by Brandon Cornett

In the last few years, the process of buying a home has been altered by the so-called mortgage crisis and the continued evolution of online real estate tools. So in this article, we will take a fresh and modern look at the process of buying a house. More specifically, I will outline the general process in twelve clear steps.

Credit scores have always been important for home buyers, but they are more in the wake of the mortgage meltdown of 2007 - 2008. According to industry experts, home buyers in 2006 needed a credit score of at least 620 to qualify for the best interest rates on a loan. Two years later, borrowers needed a score of 760 or higher to get the best rates. That's a much stricter requirement!

So your first step should be to review your financial situation. Order your credit reports from Experian, Equifax and TransUnion, and check them for errors. Order your credit score (different from your reports) to see how you stack up against the national average. If necessary, focus on improving your score by paying down credit card balances, making all future payments on time, etc.

2. Determine Your Budget

Don't make the mistake of letting a mortgage lender tell you what you can and cannot afford, in terms of a monthly mortgage payment. In reality, the only thing a lender can tell you is the amount you qualify for -- not the amount you can realistically afford. In other words, you should determine your home buying budget for yourself. There are a lot of free mortgage calculators online that can make this process easier for you.

3. Research and Choose a Type of Mortgage

Do you know the difference between a fixed-rate mortgage and an ARM loan? This is just one of the things you need to understand before applying for a mortgage loan. Because of increased competition in the lending industry, there are more types of home loans today than ten years ago. The key to success when choosing a mortgage is to consider your long-term plans and find a loan that matches those plans. To do this, you must learn the pros and cons of the primary loan types.

4. Get Pre-Approved for a Loan

Pre-approval is a process in which the mortgage lender reviews your financial and credit history to determine your "creditworthiness" ... an industry term that means: "How much of a risk is this person, and how much are we comfortable lending?" When you get pre-approved for a certain loan amount, there's a good chance that you'll receive final approval for that amount as well, when the time comes.

Having a pre-approval letter in hand also shows sellers that you are serious about (and capable of) purchasing their home. This can make a big difference in hotter real estate markets, where the seller may receive multiple offers from competing buyers.

5. Find a Real Estate Agent

If you are buying a home for the first time, or in a new city you're not familiar with, it's wise to hire a professional real estate agent. When you compare the amount of money you'll pay for a new home with the size of the agent's commission, you'll see that it's worthwhile to hire an agent. Choose an agent who specializes in helping buyers, as opposed to sellers.

6. Narrow Your Search

The neighborhood you choose is nearly as important as the house itself, because both have a direct bearing on your quality of life -- not to mention the future resale value. For these reasons and more, it's always best to live in a city for a while before buying a home, even if it means renting an apartment for a while. That way, you can discover which areas you like best before committing to an area.

7. Begin House Hunting

This is where you and your agent visit properties in order to find one that matches your needs. Here are some helpful tips. Take a digital camera with you to get pictures of each home. This will help you recall the details later on. Bring a notepad as well, and for the same reason. While you're at it, you might want to bring a friend along for an unbiased opinion of each property -- you know, that outspoken friend who calls it like it is.

8. Evaluate the Asking Price

It's referred to as the "asking price" for a good reason. Just because a property is listed at $250,000 doesn't necessarily mean it's worth that amount. This is another area where it helps to have a real estate agent. Most agents are expert at validating sale prices against recent sales in the area, and that's the best way to find out if the price is realistic or inflated.

9. Make an Offer

Once you've determined that the price is fair and reasonable, you are ready to make an offer on the property. Always make the offer contingent upon the home inspection (see next item). That way, if the inspector uncovers an issue that you consider a deal breaker, you have a way out of the contract. Ask your agent about contingencies.

10. Get a Home Inspection

Most inspections only cost a few hundred dollars. That's a small price to pay for the peace of mind you get in return. A home inspector will review the structural and mechanical aspects of the house, including (but not limited to) the roof, foundation, electrical, and heating / cooling system.

11. Attend the Closing / Settlement Process

So, you've made it through all of the inspections and the process is still on track. Great! The next step will be the closing / settlement process (it goes by different names in different parts of the country). Actually, you can prepare for this process early on by putting extra money aside. This is when the title to the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. You'll also be signing a lot of paperwork and paying any other fees that are due.

12. Tie Up Loose Ends

After your move, you'll have a few more things on your task list. Transfer your utilities if you haven't done so already. Complete a change-of-address form with the post office. Get a safe deposit box for your home insurance policy and other important documents. Set up a mortgage payment schedule or an online auto-pay system. And give yourself a pat on the back ... you're now a homeowner!

* Copyright 2008, Brandon Cornett.

About the Author: Brandon Cornett publishes a number of educational websites for consumers. He is the creator of this real estate information website as well as the Home Buying Institute.

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The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

VA Loans - Purchase a Home With No Money Down

• Former or current member of the US Armed Services?

• A surviving Spouse of eligible persons?

• Stationed at Fort Lewis Army Post, McChord AFB, or another of Washington's Military Bases? 

If you are looking to purchase a home with no money down, you're in luck if you qualify. VA Home Loans are a benefit and offer competitive interest rates to other home loans.

The VA Home Loan was designed to provide housing and assistance for veterans and their families, and help fulfill the dream of home ownership for millions of veterans.

Learn more about the VA Home Loan

Pierce County Washington Holiday Recycling

Holiday Recycling:

• Christmas Tree Recycling
• Recycling wrapping paper
• Reducing waste during the holidays

Please select your city/town from the list below:   Anderson Island Gig Harbor/Purdy Ruston Bonney Lake Graham South Prairie Buckley Key Peninsula Spanaway Carbonado Lakewood Steilacoom DuPont Milton Sumner Eatonville Orting Tacoma Edgewood Parkland University Place Fife Puyallup Wilkeson Fircrest Roy

Waste Free Holiday Tips: www.wastefreegifts.com Catalog of Waste Free Gifts Tips for creative gift wrapping with minimal waste Other holiday waste reduction tips! Visit www.wastefreegifts.com

* Information provided by Pierce County.

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

House Key Veterans Program

Down Payment Assistance in Washington State for Persons with Disabilities

Assistance to buy a home in the Tacoma Real Estate market...

The City of Lakewood Washington, offers down payment assistance to home buyers.

Down Payment Assistance Loans

Up to $7,000 in a 0% interest loan is available to qualified applicants, to be used for down payment and closing costs in buying a home.

For more information & details, visit...

 City of Lakewood Down Payment Assistance Loans 

• $7,500 Tax Credit for Homebuyers     (Expires June 30, 2009)

• Washington State's HOUSE KEY Home Ownership Program

• HomeChoice | Assistance for Persons with Disabilities

• House Key Veterans Program

• USDA Rural Development Home Ownership Program

• City of Tacoma Down Payment Assistance Program

• Pierce County Housing Programs Down Payment Assistance Loan

• City of Lakewood Down Payment Assistance Loans 

Call The Trey Affolter Team @ 253-222-6000 to learn more and to take advantage of the Down Payment Assitance Programs!

 The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Down Payment Assistance...buy with ZERO Down.

Pierce County Housing Programs Down Payment Assistance Loan offers down payment assistance for home buyers in Pierce County Washington.

The Down Payment Assistance Loan program makes funding available to assist lower income residents purchase an affordable home in Pierce County. The First-Time Homebuyers Program is another type of homeownership program available through Housing Programs.

The program provides a loan up to 6% of the sales price for down payment or loan closing costs on a home.

For more details on the Pierce County Down Payment Assistance Program, visit here.

• $7,500 Tax Credit for Homebuyers     (Expires June 30, 2009)

• Washington State's HOUSE KEY Home Ownership Program

• HomeChoice | Assistance for Persons with Disabilities

• House Key Veterans Program

• USDA Rural Development Home Ownership Program

• City of Tacoma Down Payment Assistance Program

• Pierce County Housing Programs Down Payment Assistance Loan

• City of Lakewood Down Payment Assistance Loans 

Call The Trey Affolter Team @ 253-222-6000 to learn more and to take advantage of the Down Payment Assitance Programs!

 The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Buy a Home with Zero Down

Down Payment Assistance Programs are available for buyers of Pierce County Real Estate...

...and homes in Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties.

USDA Rural Development Home Ownership Program:

Under the terms of the program, an individual or family may borrow up to 100% of the appraised value of the home, which eliminates the need for a down payment. Since a common barrier to owning a home for many people is the lack of funds to make a down payment, the availability of the loan guarantees from HCFP makes the reality of owning a home available to a much larger percentage of Americans. 

For more details on the USDA Rural Development Home Ownership Program for Washington State home buyers visit here.

Current Home Buyer Down Payment Assistance Programs:

• $7,500 Tax Credit for Homebuyers     (Expires June 30, 2009)

• Washington State's HOUSE KEY Home Ownership Program

• HomeChoice | Assistance for Persons with Disabilities

• House Key Veterans Program

• USDA Rural Development Home Ownership Program

• City of Tacoma Down Payment Assistance Program

• Pierce County Housing Programs Down Payment Assistance Loan

• City of Lakewood Down Payment Assistance Loans 

Call The Trey Affolter Team @ 253-222-6000

to learn more and to take advantage of the Down Payment Assitance Programs!

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

House Key Home Ownership Programs in Washington St.

Possible ZERO Down Programs with fair interest rates.

Washington State Housing Finance Commission Homeownership Programs help low- and moderate-income first time homebuyers purchase their first home. The program also offers assistance for Persons with Disabilities and Veterans.

Click here for more detailed information on the House Key State Bond Program

Current Home Buyer Down Payment Assistance Programs:

• $7,500 Tax Credit for Homebuyers     (Expires June 30, 2009)

• Washington State's HOUSE KEY Home Ownership Program

• HomeChoice | Assistance for Persons with Disabilities

• House Key Veterans Program

• USDA Rural Development Home Ownership Program

• City of Tacoma Down Payment Assistance Program

• Pierce County Housing Programs Down Payment Assistance Loan

• City of Lakewood Down Payment Assistance Loans 

Call The Trey Affolter Team @ 253-222-6000

to learn more and to take advantage of the Down Payment Assitance Programs!

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Staging Your House for Sale

One of the first things you should do before putting your house on the market is prepare your house for sale. You will want to show your house off in its best light to maximize your earning potential. Tour your house with the eye of a buyer - what works, what doesn't work.

Read the following article on staging your home then click on the links below the article for additional professional home selling advice.

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6 Reasons to Stage Your Home Before Selling

by Brandon Cornett

Why should I bother staging my home? What do I get back for all the time and effort I put in? This is one of the most common home staging questions among sellers, especially those who are selling in a seller's market.

In a buyer's market, you will need every advantage you can get in order to sell your home for a decent sale price, so it's extra important to stage your home effectively. But even in a seller's market staging can help you achieve a quick sale for the maximum sale price.

So no matter what kind of real estate market you are in, it's always wise to stage your home for the market.

Here are some of the primary benefits you will get out of it:

Home Staging Benefits

• Forces you to organize and de-clutter. Clearing away shelves, closets and cabinets is a big part of the home staging process. It also helps with moving, because you'll have to pack things away at some point anyway. So when you stage your home, you will also get a head start on packing to move.
• Forces you to think like a buyer. When you set out to stage your home for the market, you will be looking at the home as if you were a buyer. Adopting this perspective early on will help you in many ways when preparing your home for the market.
• Increases likelihood of a sale. When selling your home, you must do everything within your power to increase your chances of selling -- and I mean everything. Professional home staging techniques can give you an extra edge in selling the home quickly.
• Reduces the home's time on market. When you put in the extra effort to stage your home effectively, you will move closer to a quick sale. Anyone who has sold a home before can attest to the fact that the least time the home is on the market, the better. This is especially important if you will be paying two mortgages until the home sells (as is the case when you buy a new home before selling the old one).
• Helps justify the asking price. If you are in a seller's market and you price your home correctly, you probably won't have to haggle over the asking price. But in a market that leans toward the buyer, you need everything in your favor to justify the asking price. Proper home staging can help you justify the asking price by positioning the home more favorably in the buyer's mind.
• Staging can be fun! It may sound like all work and no play at first. Granted, you will certainly be putting some elbow grease into the process. But staging a home can be a creative process as well, and many people find they enjoy it once they've begun.

With so many benefits to staging a home, the question isn't why should you stage your home. The question is why wouldn't you?

* Copyright 2008, Brandon Cornett.

About the Author: Brandon Cornett publishes a number of educational websites for consumers. He is the creator of this real estate information website as well as the Home Buying Institute. 

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LINKS & Resources:

Myths About Selling Your Tacoma Real Estate Home in a Slow Market

Free Highest Price Analysis - Get your home's value (CMA)

Staging Your Home for Sale

Staging Your Home for Sale Video

De-clutter Your Tacoma Real Estate Home

Improvements That Pay

FREE Home Seller Resources

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

King County Washington Real Estate

Below are updated Real Estate Sales Statistics for the King County, WA real estate market through November 2008.

Detailed Sales Statistics for King County real estate, Washington Residential Houses & Condos.

Sales Statistics for KING County WA

Single Family Residence
Time Period	Number of Sales	Median Sale Price
Nov 2008	715	$383,250
Nov 2007	1,433	$430,000
Oct 2008	1,348	$392,250
Oct 2007	1,811	$439,000
Sep 2008	1,493	$400,000
Sep 2007	1,748	$442,500
2008 YTD	14,261	$422,500
2007	26,264	$449,950

Condominium
Time Period	Number of Sales	Median Sale Price
Nov 2008	253	$277,500
Nov 2007	819	$310,000
Oct 2008	431	$285,650
Oct 2007	708	$289,450
Sep 2008	522	$282,000
Sep 2007	841	$290,000
2008 YTD	5,603	$289,500
2007	11,319	$294,000

(Stats provided by Realist, NWMLS)  

For more current & local market information call The Trey Affolter Team.

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Search King County Homes for Sale

Search King County Foreclosures

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 Find out what your home is worth...

For a FREE Highest Price Analysis (CMA), call THE TREY AFFOLTER TEAM 

today @ 253-222-6000.

_____________________________________________________________ 

FREE Seller Resources

Tips to Sell Your Home

Get the Highest Price Selling Your Home

Tips to Stage Your Home to Sell

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Pierce County Washington Real Estate

Below are updated Real Estate Sales Statistics for the Pierce County, WA real estate market through November 2008.

Detailed Sales Statistics for Pierce County real estate, Washington Residential Houses & Condos.

Sales Statistics for PIERCE County WA

Single Family Residence
Time Period	Number of Sales	Median Sale Price
Nov 2008	580	$224,000
Nov 2007	651	$259,000
Oct 2008	653	$252,000
Oct 2007	836	$270,000
Sep 2008	822	$244,725
Sep 2007	796	$269,976
2008 YTD	8,025	$246,977
2007	12,505	$276,500

Condominium
Time Period	Number of Sales	Median Sale Price
Nov 2008	54	$194,475
Nov 2007	63	$213,000
Oct 2008	85	$185,000
Oct 2007	119	$203,250
Sep 2008	71	$199,900
Sep 2007	109	$219,500
2008 YTD	758	$200,000
2007	1,489	$224,000

(Stats provided by Realist, NWMLS)  

For more current & local market information call The Trey Affolter Team.

______________________________________________________________

Search Pierce County Homes for Sale

Search Pierce County Foreclosures

_____________________________________________________________ 

 Find out what your home is worth...

For a FREE Highest Price Analysis (CMA), call THE TREY AFFOLTER TEAM 

today @ 253-222-6000.

_____________________________________________________________ 

FREE Seller Resources

Tips to Sell Your Home

Get the Highest Price Selling Your Home

Tips to Stage Your Home to Sell

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions Tacoma Real Estate and surrounding cities in Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

When should You take advantage of the Tacoma Real Estate market...

...or Real Estate market in Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties?

In an article by Ron Lieber of Your Money, "It May Be Time to Think About Buying a House," he offers evidence that this may be an opportunity of a lifetime for homebuyers.

Ron Lieber writes, “Five or 10 years from now, when the financial crisis has ended and housing prices are up smartly once more, we will look in the rearview mirror and realize that we missed a golden age for first-time home buyers.”

Read the full article here...

 http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/06/business/yourmoney/06money.html

By Ron Lieber, Your Money, posted on nytimes.com. December 6, 2008

Further advice is offered in the additional articles below. Educate yourself!

Want to Know When to Buy a Home?

In the following article posted on MSN Money, offered by SmartMoney, evidence is given that this just may the best opportunity in years to buy a Tacoma Real Estate home...

...or a home in Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties.

Enjoy this article and additional related reading below.

____________________________________________

Time to refinance -- or buy a home?

Between holiday shopping and decorating the house this weekend, carve out some time to review your mortgage or rethink your home-buying plans -- this just might be the perfect time to make a major move.

Mortgage rates are already hovering around 5.5%, the lowest levels since 2005, and recent reports suggest they could fall by an additional percentage point in upcoming weeks.

This article was reported and written for SmartMoney by Kelli B. Grant.

Click here to read the full article

____________________________________________

Additional articles about Tacoma Real Estate to educate yourself. Enjoy!

Washington Real Estate on Sale...Just Got Cheaper!

 Is The Real Estate Market Tide Turning?

Home Buyer $7500 Tax Credit

What are your waiting for? It's Time to Invest in Tacoma Real Estate

CLICK HERE TO SEE FREE HOMEBUYER'S RESOURCES

Order you copy of "Now's The Time To Buy...Top 10 Reasons Why," Today!

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Save on your Energy Bills for your Tacoma Real Estate Home...

...or home in Pierce, King, or Thurston Counties.

Here are some tips on how to save offered by the U.S Department of Energy:

• Replace incandescent lighting with Energy Star bulbs.
• Find drafty windows, doors and baseboards and seal them with caulk.
• Unplug coffee makers, DVD players, phone chargers, video games and other unused appliances. They act as energy vampires - sucking up electricity, even when powered off.
• If you're replacing a fridge that's more than 10 years old, consider choosing a new Energy Star model.
• Choose flat-screen computer monitors, which are sleek savers.
• Consider purchasing an LCD TV, which uses about half the energy of its plasma counterpart.

Source: U.S Department of Energy

_________________________________

Additional Tacoma Real Estate Article

The 7 Commandments of a Green Remodel for Your Tacoma Real Estate Home

_________________________________

---------RESOURCES----------

Improvements That Pay

Staging Your House

Getting The Highest Price for Your Home

Winterize Your Home

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Vacation-proof your Tacoma Real Estate home...

...or home in Pierce, King, or Thurston Counties.

Before heading out on vacation, go through this checklist to help keep your Tacoma home safe and secure.

• Request the Post Office to put a hold on your mail.
• Stop newspaper delivery while away.
• Set automatic timers for your lights to mimic your normal patterns.
• Let your security service provider and/or the local police know your home will be empty.
• Adjust the thermostat -  in the winter, no lower than 55; in the summer, no higher than 85.
• Unplug sensitive appliances such as computers, televisions and microwaves.
• Turn off the water supply to toilets and your washing machine.

Source: Institute for Business and Home Safety.

Additional Featured Article:

Avoid Holiday Theft at Home & When Shopping

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The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Declutter your Tacoma Real Estate home...

...or home in Pierce, King, or Thurston Counties.

__________________________

Additional Articles on Tacoma Real Estate:

Myths About Selling Your Tacoma Real Estate Home in a Slow Market

Tips for Selling Your Home in Winter

 __________________________

Tacoma Real Estate LINKS:

Free Highest Price Analysis - Get your home's value (CMA)

Staging Your Home for Sale

Improvements That Pay

FREE Home Seller Resources

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Low-Income Home Buying Programs Explained

Buy a Home with Zero Down

There are great programs available for Tacoma Real Estate Home Buyers and surrounding areas of Pierce Couny, King County, and Thurston County.

Added Bonus Information: Below Brandon's article, collect more fantastic information on home buying, including the $7,500 Tax Credit.

Contact The Trey Affolter Team for Zero Down Program Details

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"Low-Income Home Buying Programs Explained"  -by Brandon Cornett

What are low-income home buying programs, and how do they help home buyers?

I get this question a lot, especially from first-time home buyers. So here's an overview of low-income home buying programs, how they work, and where you can learn more.

Generally speaking, a low-income home buying program is any program that's designed to help home buyers who may not otherwise qualify for a mortgage loan.

Normally, when you talk about such programs, you're talking about a loan that gets some form of government backing. In other words, the government backs or guarantees a loan on behalf of the home buyer who is applying for the loan. This is the essence of how most low-income home buying programs work.

When the government backs a loan for a slightly unqualified borrower, mortgage lenders will be more inclined to loan money to that borrower. The lender is comfortable doing this, because in the event that the borrower defaults on the loan, the government has agreed to back it, so the lender would still be paid.

Fannie Mae
Fannie Mae is a shortened version of Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA). Congress created this organization in 1938. According to their website, Fannie Mae "provides financial products and services that make it possible for low-, moderate-, and middle-income families to buy homes of their own."

Learn more at www.FannieMae.com

Freddie Mac
Freddie Mac is a shortened version of Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation. Congress chartered this organization in 1970. Freddie Mac supports the secondary mortgage market by purchasing residential mortgage loans and reselling them to investors (mostly on Wall Street). This increases the availability and affordability of home loans for low- and middle-income Americans.

Learn more at www.FreddieMac.com

As a home buyer, you wouldn't normally deal directly with an organization like Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, but they do have a role in the low-income home buying process.

Federal Housing Authority
The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) also supports low-income home buying in the U.S. This organization was created as part of The National Housing Act of 1934. The FHA insures mortgages, which helps low-income home buyers qualify for mortgage loans they might not otherwise qualify for.

Learn more at www.FHA.gov

Rural Housing Authority
The Rural Housing Authority (RHA) can assist low-income home buyers in certain situations. The RHA is part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Unlike the organizations listed above, the RHA actually makes direct loans to home buyers. They also guarantee loans for home buyers in rural areas.

Learn more at www.rurdev.usda.gov/rhs

Veteran's Administration Home Loans
The Veteran's Administration (VA) helps home buyers by guaranteeing loans made by mortgage lenders. The VA does not actually make direct loans. The VA home loan program is reserved for U.S. military veterans and their spouses. To apply to this program, one must first obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA. The home buyer would then present this certificate to their mortgage lender.

Learn more at www.homeloans.va.gov

State-Sponsored Programs
In addition to the federal programs listed above, there are many programs unique to certain states. For instance, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority "makes low interest mortgage loans available through [their] network of experienced lenders." Most other states have similar programs, in one form or another.

State programs are too numerous to list on this page. To learn more about them, searching online for home buying programs in your state.

* Copyright 2008, Brandon Cornett. You may republish this article if you retain the citation notes and hyperlink below.

Citation Note: This article was created by Brandon Cornett, publisher of the Home Buying Institute network of real estate websites. You can learn more or contact the author by visiting his mortgage refinance blog at http://www.mortgage-refinance-advice.com/blog/

_____________________________

Bonus Information:

Go get your $7,500 15-year interest free loan from the government!

Top 10 Reasons to Buy Tacoma Real Estate Now...FREE Report

Home Buyers CAN find Loans - The Right News!

_____________________________

Contact The Trey Affolter Team to take advantage of ZERO DOWN Home Buying Programs in Tacoma and the surrounding cities within Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties.

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

90# on your telephone - READ CAREFULLY

Hi there. I wanted to share an email from a colleague addressing potential scammers trying to tap into your phone line to make long distance calls at your expense.

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90# on your telephone
 
I dialed '0', to check this out, asked the operator,  who confirmed that this was correct
so please pass it on . . . (l also checked out Snopes.com. This is true, and also applies to cell phones!)
 
PASS ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW
 
I received a telephone call last evening from an individual identifying himself as an AT&T Service Technician

(could also be Telus) who was conducting a test on the telephone lines. He stated that to complete the test I should touch nine(9), zero(0), the pound sign (#), and then hang up. Luckily, I was suspicious and refused.
 
Upon contacting the telephone company, I was informed that by pushing 90#, you give the requesting in dividual full access to your telephone line, which enables them to place long distance calls billed to your home phone number.
 
I was further informed that this scam has been originating from many local jails/prisons   DO NOT press 90# for ANYONE.
 
The GTE Security Department requested that I share this information with EVERYONE I KNOW.
 
After checking with Verizon they also said it was true, so do not dial 90# for anyone !!!!! PLEASE HIT THAT FORWARD BUTTON AND PASS THIS ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW!!!

____________________________________________________

Protect yourself and others you care for...pass this along.

After a few comments on my other blog, I would add:

I guess I would encourage everyone to verify if you have further concerns, but the best practice would be just to avoid. My colleague verified with GTE and with Verizon. Both acknowledged this was accurate. Better safe than sorry.

Happy Holidays to All.

The Trey Affolter Team

Although we'd like to believe the holidays bring out peace on earth and good will towards men (as the Christmas carol goes), the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day tend to be a prime season for criminals. During this busy time of year, you can take some easy precautions to prevent becoming a victim of theft. Consider the following safety tips:

When holiday shopping:

• Don't park in unlit areas at night.
• Put your shopping bags in your trunk. Don't try to cover items on your seats with a blanket. Better yet, take your packages straight home after a shopping spree and then go back out.
• Don't carry large amounts of cash with you, or else, keep it in your front pocket not in your purse or wallet.
• Be extra careful when carrying a purse - they are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas. If you must carry one, make sure it has a strap that can go over the shoulder and be held under the arm, making them more difficult for purse snatchers to grab.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Beware of strangers approaching you. This is the time of year when thieves may try various methods to distract you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

At home:

• When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
• Leave a light on when you leave your home at night or put your lights (including Christmas lights) on an automatic timer.
• Make sure your holiday gifts are not visible through the windows and doors of your home.
• Never say you are away from home on the outgoing message on you answering machine or voice mail. Simply say you are unable to get answer the phone at the time.

During the holidays, many people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. Protecting yourself and your home from potential crime is the easiest way to ensure a safe and happy holiday season.

Happy Holidays from The Trey Affolter Team.

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Top 10 Reasons to Buy NOW!

Emailed directly to you for FREE!

Now is the time to buy Tacoma Real Estate...

...Or in any of the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate!

Now may be the best time in the past 20 years to buy or invest in Tacoma Real Estate. Tacoma Real Estate and Pierce County house sales in many areas have stabilized, mortgage interest rates are down, inventory has declined over the last 2 months, and housing affordability has improved.  

Additional articles about Tacoma Real Estate to educate yourself. Enjoy!

Washington Real Estate on Sale...Just Got Cheaper!

How to Buy a Home with Low Down Payment

Home Buyers Can Find Home Loans...The Right News!

 Is The Real Estate Market Tide Turning?

Home Buyer $7500 Tax Credit

----------------------------------------------

Search for Homes for Sale 

> Pierce County Washington Real Estate <

Search Pierce County Homes for Sale

Search Pierce County Foreclosures

 > Thurston County Washington Real Estate <

Search Thurston County Homes for Sale

Search Thurston County Foreclosures

 > King County Washington Real Estate <

Search King County Homes for Sale

Search King County Foreclosures

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Avoiding Foreclosure - Two Options for Homeowners

Tacoma Real Estate Homeowners need to know they have options to foreclosure. In Brandon Cornett's article below, he writes of two options homeowners can use to avoid foreclosure. For additional tips to avoid foreclosure and to understand the mortgage short sale option if you are a Tacoma Real Estate Homeowner or within surrounding cities of Pierce County, visit TreySellsHouses.com.

Enjoy the following article by Brandon Cornett

I guess it takes numbers like that do really drive home what's happening in this country. I knew foreclosures were way up as a result of the subprime mortgage crisis that started last year, but that 57% increase still shocks me.

So lately I've been publishing a series of articles to help homeowners avoid home foreclosure altogether. In this article, I'll explain the two paths a homeowner can take based on his or her financial situation: (1) the "get back on track" option and (2) the "sell the home quickly" option.

Essentially, these two options classify homeowners into one of two camps:

1. Those having temporary financial problems who could still keep the house.
2. Those having long-term problems who can no longer afford the home, period.

Getting Back On Track to Keep the Home

In the first camp, we have those homeowners who have had only temporary financial problems, and expect to get caught up on their mortgage payments. These people can work with their lenders to come up with repayment or reinstatement plans in order to avoid foreclosure while keeping the home.

Generally speaking, you have two options to get caught up on your missed mortgage payments. You can pay back the missed payments as a lump sum (reinstatement), or you can spread that amount over future mortgage payments (repayment plan). These are the two most common options when the homeowner's financial problems are only temporary.

Selling the Home to Avoid Foreclosure

In the second camp are those homeowners whose financial problems are more long-term in nature. In other words, these homeowners simply cannot afford their homes anymore. These folks can avoid home foreclosure by selling the home, possibly through the real estate short sale technique we covered last week.

This is where the real estate short sale comes into the picture. A short sale is a technique through which the homeowner sells the home for less than the amount owed to the lender, in order to sell the home quickly.

With this technique for avoiding home foreclosure, speed is of the essence. That's why mortgage lender often allow homeowners to pursue a short sale in the first place ... to sell the home quickly and to get the non-performing loan off their books. This is the closest thing to a "win-win" scenario the lender and homeowner will find when foreclosure is imminent.

Obviously there is a lot more to learn about the two primary paths outlined above, and the multiple options that each path presents. My point with this article is simply to help you realize that you do have options when trying to avoid a property foreclosure, and knowing what those options are is the first step to success!

* Copyright 2008, Brandon Cornett. You may republish this article if you retain the citation notes and hyperlink below.

Citation Note: This article was created by Brandon Cornett, publisher of the Home Buying Institute network of real estate websites. You can learn more or contact the author by visiting his mortgage refinance blog at http://www.mortgage-refinance-advice.com/blog/

Home Moving Made Easy - Top Tips for an Easier Relocation

by Brandon Cornett

Homeowners in the United States sell their homes and move, on everage, every five to seven years. That's a lot of moving, and it can be a stressful time for anyone. But by preparing for your next move, you can greatly reduce the stress involved and simplify the entire process.

Here are some tips on how to do that:

1. Get the Right Materials

Some moving companies will come and pack up your belongings, if you pay for that service. But if you'll be doing your own packing, you will need to obtain the following supplies:

• Boxes *
• Packing tape
• Black markers for labeling
• Scissors
• Newspaper or newsprint for cushioning
• Moving blankets (for high-value furniture items, mirrors, etc.)
• A pocketknife (they always come in "handy")
• Some plastic storage bins (Rubbermaid, Sterilite, etc.)

* You may be able to get some boxes from your local supermarket, if you go in and ask the manager on duty. This works 90% of the time. You can also buy boxes (include specialty items like wardrobe boxes) from your nearest U-haul rental place.

2. Get Rid of Items You Aren't Taking

A garage sale is one of the best things you can do before moving. It's a way to purge your home of unwanted items you don't plan to move with you. You can also donate unwanted items to your local Goodwill drop-off. The sooner you do this step, the easier your packing will be.

3. Label Boxes Appropriately

Many people think they can remember which items are in which boxes after they reach their move destination. But this rarely works. On the outside, a box is a box. So you should label each box with its contents, being as specific and thorough as possible. It's also a good idea to put the room in big letters at the top (kitchen, master bedroom, etc.). That way, you or your movers will know where to put things on move-in day.

4. Back Up Computer Files

Before shutting down and packing up your computer, it's a good idea to back up your files. In the unfortunate event that your computer was damaged during transit, you would at least have all of your important files.

Make back-ups of computer files and determine how you will move this delicate equipment.

5. Make Use of Luggage Items

Don't just throw those suitcases in your car empty. Pack them with as many clothes as you possibly can. The same goes for duffel bags and other luggage items you might have. It will save space and reduce the number of trips when loading and unloading.

6. Segment Your Most Needed Items

Make a list of things you'll need during your move -- clothes, toiletries, medications, pet foods, etc. Pack these items separately into an "Open First" box (if you're only moving locally). If you're moving long distance, keep these items with you (as opposed to putting them onto the moving truck).

7. Choose a Reputable Mover

When researching moving companies, ask friends or family if they can refer a mover they have used. Check to see if the mover is a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Ask the moving company if they have any complaints filed against them, or just check their BBB record online.

8. Conduct a Room-by-Room Check

Before your final departure from the home you've leaving, give each room a final once-over for forgotten items. This is especially important for out-of-the-way areas like basements, tool sheds, attics, etc.

9. Unpack in Room-by-Room Fashion

Before you begin unpacking in your new home, be sure to move all of the boxes to their destination rooms (kitchen, master bedroom, etc.). You did label those boxes, right? Properly positioning boxes prior to unpacking will reduce confusion as well as clutter.

* Copyright 2008, Brandon Cornett. You may republish this article if you retain the citation notes and hyperlink below.

Citation Note: This article was created by Brandon Cornett, publisher of the Home Buying Institute network of real estate websites. You can learn more or contact the author by visiting his mortgage refinance blog at http://www.mortgage-refinance-advice.com/blog/

If you've been thinking of remodeling all or part of your Tacoma real estate home, you might want to consider a green remodel. Green building means that you use certain materials and practices that are better for the environment and for your health. By following a few guidelines, you can easily complete an eco-friendly remodeling project.

1. Recycle. Whenever possible, choose materials for your Tacoma real estate home made from recycled products. This cuts down on the amount of waste piling up in our landfills.
2. Use local materials. Local materials don't have as far to travel, so transporting them costs less and uses less fuel. They are also more durable since they are already adapted to your climate.
3. Think sustainable. Products made from bamboo and cork are better for the environment because they can be easily replaced. Bamboo can grow as much as 1 meter each day.
4. Save as much energy as possible. Install energy efficient windows and add insulation throughout your home. Seal cracks around doors and windows. Purchase new, energy efficient appliances. Not only will you help the environment, you'll also save money on your electric bill.
5. Always consider indoor air quality. Choose products with little or no volatile organic compounds. Use green cleaning products inside your home to reduce indoor air pollution.
6. Find ways to cut back on water use. Devices like high efficiency washing machines and dual-flush or low-flow toilets use less water than their traditional counterparts. Use xeriscaping for your yard. If you have the budget, consider installing a rainwater harvesting system.
7. Think before you throw away. Before you throw away anything, from appliances to building materials, make sure no one else can use it. Place an ad on Freecycle or Craigslist. You may be surprised by what other people need.

I can help you find green Tacoma real estate homes to meet your needs. Call me today at 253-222-6000 or email me at treyaffolter@kw.com.

LINKS:

1. Choosing energy efficient appliances. - http://www.aceee.org/consumerguide/
2. Dual-flush toilets. - http://www.caromausa.com/toilets
3. Xeriscaping - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xeriscaping

---------RESOURCES----------

Improvements That Pay

Staging Your House

Getting The Highest Price for Your Home

Winterize Your Home

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Trying to sell your Tacoma real estate home in a slow market is definitely frustrating. You may find that it takes longer to sell and you cannot get as much money as you could during a booming market. However, you can't believe all the hype about a sluggish real estate market. Do your research and separate the facts from the fiction.

1. You won't get a decent price. Your Tacoma real estate home will sell for whatever a buyer is willing to spend on it. A comparative market analysis shows you what other buyers spent on real estate like yours. Of course, if you bought your real estate when values were up, you may have to take a loss. However, most people can get a fair price and even make a profit in a slow market.
2. Your real estate will stay on the market too long. While it's true that real estate tends to take longer to sell during a slow market, it's not impossible to sell them. People do still buy real estate in slower markets. If your real estate is priced right and prepared for sale, you can still sell it within a reasonable amount of time.
3. Buyers only want foreclosures and short sales. The truth is that buyers want good deals, and this can be in the form of money or time. The price of a foreclosure or short sale may certainly be attractive, but they can take a considerable amount of time to close while the banks negotiate their terms. Paying slightly more for a traditional sale is sometimes well worth the time they can save.

Selling your Tacoma real estate home in a slow market isn't easy, but it can be done. Using my proven marketing plan, I can help you sell your real estate whether it's a slow market or a booming market. Call me today at 253-222-6000 or email me at treyaffolter@kw.com.

LINKS:

Free Highest Price Analysis - Get your home's value (CMA)

Staging Your Home for Sale

Improvements That Pay

FREE Home Seller Resources

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

The Real Estate SALE...

With homes in Tacoma and the surrounding cities of Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties at discount prices, the sale just got better today with lower interest rates.

In today's "Daily Rate Lock Advisory," offered by Mortgage Commentary 2008 of Mortgage Xsites, the author writes "Monday's bond market has opened strong...The bond market is currently up 30/32, which will likely improve this morning's mortgage rates by approximately .500 of a discount point."

The affect on today's home mortgage interest rates are as follows:

Washington Mortgage Rates

 12/01/2008

Loan Type	Today	+/-
30 Yr Fixed	5.25%
15 Yr Fixed	5.20%
5/1 ARM	5.35%
30 Yr Fixed Jumbo	7.11%
5/1 ARM Jumbo	5.39%

* Rates may contain points

* (Verify with your Loan Consultant)

Consult a Local Realtor to take advantage of today's HOT Real Estate Market! 

___________________________

Additional Helpful Articles

Still Benefits to Owning a Home

Go get Your $7,500 15 Year Interest Free Loan from the Government!

Home Buyers CAN find Loans - The Right News!

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate. 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com