Seller Information – Page 2 – Steve + Heather Ostrom

What should you do with your pets at an open house?

3 Comments / Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

“We’re hosting an open house, what do we do with the pets?”

Great question, and something we’re often asked and it’s a stressful one often for the homeowner. Not only do you have the upkeep of the home for showings to buyers, the property showing schedule, but you may also have a confused pet in the home.

Often we’re asked, “What should we do with our dog … or our cat during the open house?” There’s no simple solution, and will depend on your pet. Ultimately you’re trying to sell your space, at a top dollar, so advice might come to you, with the intent to maximize your time on market, both in your pocket book and time on market. Animals can be, understandably a sensitive issue – whether in moving them around, showings, or the “marks and barks” they can leave behind in the home.

Hold your breath, you may not like this next comment … I know, this is going to sting … not every buyer likes dogs and/or cats (or at least wants to see their evidence, yard bombs, nose smudges, or pet toys). So do you want to limit your audience to a specific group of folks? This sounds extreme, but from a market perspective, you really want to know your audience and not limit your audience.

So check out this awesome post on Coldwell Banker, and you might even notice SOMEONE got quoted on the national CB website. Not mentioning any names. 😉

See all of the “Expert Advice on Hosting an Open House with Dogs,” by clicking here
Avoid making an open house “fur paux” with these expert tips

If you have any questions about what to do with your pet at an open house, please let us know. We love fur babies and we want to make it as least stressful as possible for you and them.

“Coldwell Banker has teamed up with Adopt-a-Pet.com, North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website, to help 20,000 adoptable dogs find a loving home this year.” So in this theme, you’ll be seeing a ton of great information and tips for home owners with dogs, cats (and more).

Learn more about the Coldwell Banker and Adopt-A-Pet Campaign here

Property Questions or Showings?
916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com
REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

See more informative posts at:
www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Steve Ostrom, Primary Listing Agent + REALTOR – 916-308-2446
RosevilleAndRocklin@gmail.com – CBPlacerRealEstate@gmail.com
Coldwell Banker – Roseville, CA – CALBRE# 01899313 + 01899313
2200 Douglas Blvd B-200, Roseville, CA 95661

Learn more about listing your home with us!

The Importance of Great Photos for Seller Marketing

3 Comments / Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

So you’re starting to research selling your home. Where do you start?
There’s so much to consider when hiring a listing agent.

Typically, one of the first questions we’re asked is, “What is your past and recent work experience?” A great question, and that way you know the listing agent is well-versed, current to real estate changes and knows what’s going on in the market, and qualified for selling your home.

So what’s the action often forgotten by sellers, before they hire a listing agent …

We believe it’s “photo interviewing” their listing agent. What’s a “photo interview?” We define it as a seller requesting to see the listing agent’s current or recently sold listings “online,” and seeing how their photos look and are displayed. How was the lighting, quality, cropping, and visual interest of the photos? Were there enough photos, and how was their quality?

It breaks our heart to see awful photos or even NO photos online, of homes that we know are gorgeous (regardless of price range). So we want to empower sellers to ask the right questions. And more importantly with bad or no photos, you’re risking frustrating or turning-off buyers. Do you want to risk this?

Listen in on our interview with one of our photographers, Trevor Jobson, with Trevor Glenn Photography.

Our mixture of excellence in sales, paired with quality marketing and graphic design background, equals success and a happy experience for our sellers.

Photos sell your home during the day and at night – when buyers are searching online. Do you want to take the risk of not maximizing your audience that might be interested in your home by not having amazing photos?

Great Seller Marketing - Roseville and Rocklin Photos — Click the Photos Above to View Trevor’s Photos for Steve Ostrom

View Trevor’s Samples for Listing Agent Steve Ostrom

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Steve Ostrom is an experienced listing agent, with an excellent selling record both in time on market, sold price, and also in his negotiation skills. Heather Ostrom is an experienced and successful graphic designer and REALTOR. She’s spoken on numerous real estate tech panels on her marketing approach and experience.

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Need to Sell Your Current Home before Buying the Next: Contingent Sales

See More of Trevor’s Real Estate Photography and Design

Property Questions or Showings?
916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com
REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

See more informative posts at:
www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Steve ostrom listing agent Trevor Glenn Photography — Steve and Trevor love what they do – thank you for the opportunity to work with you

Helpful Tips for Researching your new Neighborhood and Home

6 Comments / First-Time Home Buyers, Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

So maybe you’re getting ready to start researching the internet for your dream home. Perhaps you’re a first-time home buyer, it won’t be your “forever” home, but you know what you need to do, to get there … or maybe you’re a move-up buyer, looking to purchase a larger space (where you might have to list your home, to buy the next one) … or simply you just want a home in a new location (whether for need or relocation).

So not too long ago, I thought Steve O and I did a pretty awesome video on what buyers should look for when researching their next neighborhood at it was featured on the international Coldwell Banker website.

It’s not always about the data that everyone can find. It’s also the workings of the neighborhood at different times of day, knowing what’s important to you in your daily life and how quickly you can access those items when you need to or in regards to your schedule.

So check out our blog post, and we hope you enjoy, and I guarantee you’ll take some useful information from our video (and as usual, moderately entertained, while being educated). “Expert Tips for Finding the Perfect Neighborhood to Buy In … by Steve and Heather Ostrom“

http://blog.coldwellbanker.com/expert-tips-finding-perfect-neighborhood-buy-2/

**Update: We’re back at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage on Douglas Blvd in Roseville, CA**

Source: Coldwell Banker Blog

More Helpful Buyer Tips:

If you’re looking to research utility information for Roseville or Rocklin, or the greater Placer County area – definitely check out our “good info” tab above. It’s awesome and houses much of what buyers are looking for when trying to track down school boundaries, utilities, and area information. https://rosevilleandrocklin.com/cityinfo/

Great Tips here: If You Need to Sell Your Current Home before Buying the Next – Click Here

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

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See more informative posts at: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Steve Ostrom, Primary Listing Agent + REALTOR – 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Coldwell Banker – Roseville, CA – CALBRE# 01344154 + 01899313 2200 Douglas Blvd B-200, Roseville, CA 95661

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Buying a Home after a Short Sale or Foreclosure

3 Comments / Lenders, Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

So maybe you had a short sale a few years back … or perhaps experienced a foreclosure, but time has passed and you’re ready to be a home owner again (or not). Nothing wrong with being a home owner or renter, it’s whatever you’re comfortable with, but we are seeing a surge of requests from folks that are ready to buy again, who have experienced a home loss or sold their home by short sale in the past. So we want to help you know what your options are … there are many folks in your position.

The Question: “So When Can I Buy Again, After my Short Sale or Foreclosure?”

We sat down with Dara Delgado, Senior Loan Officer and she provided some invaluable insight to buying after a short sale or foreclosure. Steve and Dara discuss what you should be looking out for, how to prepare yourself, and what the timelines are right now for when you can buy after a short sale or foreclosure. We also touch on checking your credit report to verify items have cleared.

To talk to Dara Delgado about your specific situation, whether about buying after a short sale or foreclosure, and/or to simply buy your next home or refinance … or to simply ask questions, post below or give her a call at (916) 224-3327 – www.DarasLoans.com (Pronounced DaaaRRR-ruh – so don’t panic on the pronouncing of her name, we have your back, we’re cool like that …)

Watch Dara’s Video on “Upside Down, Buy Moving Up”

** Before making any big decision regarding purchasing, executing a short sale, or allowing your home to foreclosure – always make sure to consult your tax person and/or attorney and research what is the best option for your specific situation. **

Dara Delgado, Sr. Loan Officer
NMLS# 249825
Direct: 916-224-3327
Fax: 866-488-8512 dara@darasloans.com
Visit Dara’s Website

Dara Delgado Senior Loan Officer Sacramento

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

See more informative posts at: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Equal Housing Opportunity

Need to Sell before Buying? Understanding a Contingent Purchase

1 Comment / Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

So you’ve been tossing around the idea of buying a bigger home … maybe you have outgrown your home, and now you have a bit of equity in the home … or perhaps now that you have some equity in the home, you want to downsize in preparation for the future. Or you’re ready to shift from a two-story to a single-story home … Whatever the reason, we’re seeing many “contingent sale” purchases amongst our buyers. This is not to be confused with “dual agency,” as this is two separate transactions … read up more on dual agency here

To explain better, you’re a current home owner that wants to buy another home, BUT in order to buy that other home, you must first sell your current home. Below in our video, we review the Contingency of Purchase form … because this form covers so much, we’re breaking this into a two-part series. We hope you enjoy and please feel free to ask us any questions.

If you’re needing help and entertaining this idea of buying and selling your home. We’ll be happy to help you with a detailed plan specific to you and your home, and situation. Give us a call at 916-308-2446 or shoot us an email (pew, pew) Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com

More Helpful Tips:

If you’re looking to research Utility or City information for Roseville or Rocklin, or the greater Placer County area – definitely check out our “good info” tab above.

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

See more informative posts at: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Equal Housing Opportunity

Dual Agency + Contingent Sale: Knowing the Difference

4 Comments / Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

What we’re familiar with in our industry, and what our clients are familiar with, are often two separate items … and there’s a lot of confusion with knowing the difference between a “contingent sale” and “dual agency.” We have had more contingent sales this year (and still to this day), more than we have had in our entire career. And apologies for my horrible imitation of Flavor Flav. My first video take was SO good and funny, but sadly, content won over best imitation. But back to topic …

So what cued this topic – this conversation:

Phone call: “Hi Heather, I have this friend that wants to sell their home, and buy a bigger one, but I know it’s probably not okay for you to work on a contingent sale.” Me: “Wait, what? Why do you say that …” After a few more questions, I asked … “Do you mean ‘dual agency?'” Friend: “Oh yeah, that’s it … dual agency. Sorry about that …” 🙂

After the third time of having one of our friends being confused on what the two are, I thought it was a blog post that was in order to be “vlogged.” (video blogged).

So here we are … if you’re considering moving up to a bigger home, you have equity in your home and you want to test the waters … give us a call. You might be surprised what your options are … there’s no doubt to be stress with timing of sales. Anyone that says otherwise, is blowing smoke in your face. BUT having stated, that you really do want to work with the same person for your listing, and purchase of your home. The less “cooks” in the kitchen, the less opportunity for confusion. All of course, within reason, and what works best for your interests. It’s all about good communication, trust, and coordination between all parties. The more we work like a team, the better chance for a smooth transition from one home to the next.

Watch the video and see our tips for what the difference is in contingent sales, and also the tricks to improving your “contingent” purchase experience!

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

See more informative posts at: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Equal Housing Opportunity

Remodel or Move Up?

3 Comments / First-Time Home Buyers, Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos / By Heather Ostrom

Have you been debating if you’re going to move up to the “apartment in the sky George Jefferson” or are you going to make your home the place you always dreamed to live in?

Hard questions for many of us to answer. Do you go out and find the perfect home or do you create your “nest” to reflect your perfect world? Well, what I would suggest starting with making lists of the pros and cons of what’s the best route for your situation.

Do you love your current home and neighborhood?
Have you been looking for an opportunity to change school districts or move to another neighborhood? Maybe a cul-de-sac location is your dream situation, or perhaps more land to stretch on or maybe a lower-maintenance yard?
Will you be “over-building” for your neighborhood (with a remodel)?
Will you be selling in the near future due to needs of a downsize or more space? Important to ask if you’re trying to get return on your upgrade or remodel.
Draw up the costs of that pool you have been dreaming of, or that must-have upgrade you have always wanted (example kitchen, or master bedroom, etc). Get quotes for your upgrades. Concrete items for your budget.
Are you in a two-story and you’re starting to think of the future and a one-level home, or need that first floor full bedroom and bath? Are monthly bills fitting into your future budget?
Do you know the values of your neighborhood and current value of your home model (no, not your Zestimate)? We can help you here. Just let us know.
Your ‘target’ neighborhood – do you know what the going prices are going for, with what size of home you might need that will fit your budget? (including Mello Roos / taxes, utility group fees, etc)
Have you spoken to your lender or a listing agent to start putting some numbers and options to those “move-up” dreams? There’s no harm here, why not? Here’s a list of local lenders we have worked with before and enjoyed.

Life is not always perfect and not all of us have the means for change, or desire. Why not see what the options are for your improved life quality and daily life function in your home. In many cases, with this market, if you’re unhappy with the area you’re in, it might make sense to move-up into your “perfect home.”

For folks where expensive and costly remodels may NOT make sense and are NOT the solution. Example, a “move-up” buyer or maybe someone that might need to downsize in the near future. Get a second opinion on your choices for upgrades, particularly if you do have intention to sell soon. You might want to modify upgrades and remodels that are appealing to a larger group of folks, and perhaps not drain the life savings into a kitchen remodel if you might be moving (and hopefully find that perfect kitchen in another home).

Are you the Lexus amongst the lot of “Tow Maters?”

Are you at the top of the food chain with or without these upgrades already? Do your homework on your competition and be aware of pricing of that competition in the neighborhood and know how appraisals can affect buyers on your home. When it comes to selling time, you might find yourself frustrated that you didn’t consult an appraiser before making costly upgrades … and talk to a REALTOR, so you know what the values are in your neighborhood, tailored to your home.

One thing not addressed in the video by Steve O, are the folks that ARE perfect candidates for a remodel or home upgrade. Particularly if you love the area you are located. I know, some folks don’t mind the money invested if it means for their quality of life, enjoyment and for those that qualify for those comments – do it! If you’re blessed to live in your “FOREVER” home and do NOT want to move – and you are the perfect candidate for a remodel. What are you waiting for? Start requesting some quotes from a few licensed contractors and create the space you deserve. (and don’t forget to check with your state board with contractor licensing and bonding for remodeling, if applicable)

This video was created by Ryan Lundquist – Lundquist Appraisal Company. See a few of Ryan’s spectacular posts on “what NOT to do to your home” …

We’re here for your needs and what’s right for you, BUT if you’re NOT in the place you want to be, and you do have the means to move-up – you SHOULD check out your options out there.

Don’t let “what-ifs” keep you from research, and give us a call today – let us know if we can help you put your dream home on the radar. 916-308-2446

“Should You Stay or Should You Go Now?” 🙂

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

See more informative posts at: www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Learn more about listing your home with us!