Many buyers ask me how long a short sale takes to close. In 2011 the good news is that the process seems to be more organized and moving along. I attended a webinar by Bank of America. They have improved the communication and introduced new programs that seem to make the process easier. Now there is a "collaborative" short sale in which the homeowner and listing agent can determine ahead of the listing what the pre-approved short sale price will be. Then we have confidence before it hits the market that the deal will close.
I have also found that banks recently are negotiating a bit on the offer price. But there does seem to be some resolution and not a file sitting at the bottom of the file. This year will bring more short sales, but I have discovered this month that these transactions are easier to deal with than some unrealistic sellers who are not able or willing to come down to a realistic sales price.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Friday, January 14, 2011
Sold! 6609 N. Crawford, Lincolnwood
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Did you know you can finance a foreclosure and rehab it all in one loan?
It's true! There's a product that is easy to use called a 203K. It's actually an FHA loan, with 2 options. For projects that need less work you can do a streamlined version for up to $30,000 worth of renovations. If you have a more extensive project, you can go up to the loan limit on the FHA. Either loan allows you to buy a property that needs work and appraise out at the fixed up price. Now you don't have to be afraid of homes that are needing some TLC. Let me show you the process. Call me!
Monday, January 10, 2011
"Curb appeal remains king!"
The National Association of Realtors every year publishes a report of what home projects reap the most value at sale time. Click on this link for the short article about how to get the most from your renovation dollar. Caroline
Home Owners Recoup More with Exterior Replacement Projects
Home Owners Recoup More with Exterior Replacement Projects
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Sold! 60 N. Dryden $307,000 by Caroline
Congratulations Leah on your new home! Beautiful new construction in downtown Arlington Heights at Arlington Crossings. The model homes are now up if you know of someone who wants to walk to the train. I would be happy to show you. Call me!
Hockey!
If you are considering a move to Northbrook from elsewhere, you should know that Northbrook is a hockey town. There is a new summer hockey camp just announced being held at Sports Center with the instructor Rich Blakey, development hockey director of the Northbrook Hockey League. Players can do a 4 week camp or weekly. My 9 year old son Benji is new to hockey and I can't wait to tell him about this new camp option. This time last year he was just learning to skate and now he's a Blue Hawk.
If you want more information you can call the Sports Center (847) 291-2993. I am always looking for people to share hockey stories...
If you want more information you can call the Sports Center (847) 291-2993. I am always looking for people to share hockey stories...
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Can you name this street?
| Historian's Corner: Can You Name This Street? | |
 The homes in this photo are still standing today. This photo (circa 1928) is the 1000-1100 block of Shermer Road, just east of Waukegan Road on the north side. For more historical information about Northbrook, visit www.northbrookhistory.org | |
Monday, January 3, 2011
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Assessments are now out
If you haven't received your property assessment, it should have arrived in the mail. The deadline to appeal your assessment is January 31, 2011. Your assessed value determines your property tax bill. If you feel your value seems out of line with your neighborhood, you can appeal. Once the bill comes out, it's too late.
I can help you with comparable solds in your neighborhood, if you wish to make an appeal.
I can help you with comparable solds in your neighborhood, if you wish to make an appeal.
Happy New Year!
To my friends, family, colleagues, clients:
I wish you a good times, peace, and a prosperous 2011!
Warm regards, Caroline
I wish you a good times, peace, and a prosperous 2011!
Warm regards, Caroline