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5 Things To Consider When Choosing A Realtor To Sell Your Home

 

To follow is a re-post of an article one of may favorite associates and bloggers here, Cherimie Crane from Beaufort, South Carolinea!  I read this article she posted this morning and thought it had some excellent points and wanted to share this information with my readers.

There are so many things to consider when choosing an agent to sell your home.  I am a quality listing agent and I like to give personal attention to both my sellers and buyers!

Debra Kukulski Cary IL real estate and fox river

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.

It will be my pleasure!

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them.

My business keeps growing from your referrals.

My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

I look forward to the opportunity to earn your trust and business.

 

 

Via Cherimie Crane, Beaufort SC Real Estate (Old South Properties):

Realtors are professionals. We work extremely hard to remain knowledgeable, updated, and CALM in a market that has more twists and turns than the Stimulus Bill.

Just as in every profession, some work harder, or in a more politically correct world, differently.

If it is necessary for you to sell your home there are some very important points to consider when interviewing a Realtor.

1. How does he/she represent his/herself? If a Realtor comes to an interview (listing appointment) dressed as if they just rolled out of bed, how could they possibly advise you on putting your best foot forward?Courtesy of SIXWISE

 

2. Is the presentation well organized in a manner to reflect the current market in YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?

If the presentation is for another area, or worse, another house, simply say, NO THANK YOU.

One thing I always like to do is email my presentation the day before my listing appointment. This allows the seller to peruse it at their convenience and make notes of questions they may have.

 

 

3. Is the Realtor a LISTING AGENT or AN INVENTORY AGENT? This is extremely important. Don't be mislead by a high number of listings. In the current market it is actually quite simple to gain numerous listings. It is more difficult, however; to say no.

A Listing Agent- Someone who is going to focus on MARKETING YOUR HOME.  They will also market your community, a lifestyle, and the value found in your property. A Listing Agent will spend hours upon hours each week making certain your home is receiving personalized attention. He or She will speak to Realtors, neighbors, and anyone who will listen about the wonderful aspects of your property.

An Inventory Agent- Someone who will make certain you know they have TONS of listings. This type of agent is more of a quantity manager, NOT a quality listing agent.

Be very careful. Ask this agent how will they give YOUR home top priority if they have every third house in the neighborhood listed as well.  *if they have 5 people working for them, maybe this is possible*

4. Does the Realtor Listen?!?!?- Seems simple right? Make sure they take note of your concerns, your questions, your time line, your dogs personality, etc.... If the Realtor does all the talking, RECONSIDER.

5. Does the Realtor have advice for you on pricing? Does he/she have statistics to support the advice? If they tell you to price it however you feel.....RUN.

 Professional Realtors will sincerely appreciate your interview. The top agents will shine while answering each question. He or she will be honest, not always flattering. He or She will be interviewing YOU just as YOU are interviewing him/her.

If you need advice on selling your home. Call Cherimie Today!

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

NEW $8000. First Time Buyer's Tax Credit and Obama Foreclosure Plan!

Good morning:-)

Today we have some great news for all buyers, and especially first time buyers.  We now have a NEW $8000. First Time Buyer's Tax Credit!   You will find information and links below for the details on this exciting new incentive. 

The basics are that the new stimulus package gives an $8000. tax credit to first time buyers and applies to principal residences purchased between 01/01/09 and 12/01/09. 

The best thing about this tax credit over last year's 7500. first time buyer tax credit is that it does NOT have to be repaid. 

The $7500. credit was more of a no interest loan and this is an actual credit if you stay in your home at least three years.

Another very important point to note is that the definition of a first time buyer is someone who has not owned (or spouse has not owned)  a home in the past three years prior to the purchase.

The tax credit is for 10% of the homes purchase price, up to $8000. maximum.

Real Estate is ON SALE...which is GREAT news for ANY buyer! 

Happy Home Buyer

Each day I review the new and changed listings on our MLS HOT SHEET in my area, and I am just AMAZED at what homes are listed for and selling for.  It just makes me shake my head that there are not more buyers taking advantage of this market.  And, by taking advantage, I do not mean taking advantage of other peoples misfortunes.  I have so many really nice clients that I work with, and more than one has expressed that they are not interested in foreclosures, distressed sales, REO, or short sales, because they felt badly profiting from another person's misfortune.  I can certainly understand and appreciate that viewpoint, but if you share this very compassionate concern, you really must know that one of the best things for this housing market and home values and prices is to move all of these homes OFF the market by selling them!  This WILL help stabilize the market, which not only helps the Real Estate market, but the overall economy we are now facing. 


Please see the links below to read all of the details of this new housing stimulus plan and how this may apply to your personal situation. There are inclusions, exclusions, exceptions, income limits, etc., of course. I would also strongly advise that you consult your tax professionals for the details.

 

From NAHB: $8000. Home Buyer Tax Credit at a Glance

And.....Frequently asked questions regarding the Home Buyer Tax Credit

And....The Laws Other Provisions

And...Do you qualify for the fist time buyers 8000. tax credit?

 

From THE WHITE HOUSE BLOG:  Help for Homeowners


From RISMEDIA:  Obama Unveils Plan to Stem Foreclosures

And......Will the Stimulus Benefit Homeowners and Buyers?

 

From H and R Block: Breaking News President Obama Signs $787 Billion Economic Plan, Most Sweeping Rescue Package In Decades.  So what is the 2009 stimulus plan and how might if affect me and my family?

AND......Economic Stimulus 2009: Frequently Asked Questions

2/23/09 Update from RISMEDIA:  Housing Plan Is Bold, But Will It Fix the Problem?

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need more help:-)

Debra Kukulski Crystal lake Real Estate

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.

It will be my pleasure! 

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them.

My business is over 87% referral and repeat clients and I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

 

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

Speechless Sunday-Just Clouds By Debra Kukulski

 

Just Clouds by Debra Kukulski Cary IL real estate

 

Photo taken by Debra Kukulski, ABR, RECS, GRI, EPRO, Realtor with RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest Cary-Crystal Lake IL, provides highly professional levels of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in McHenry, Lake, Kane or Cook Counties in Northern Illinois. Visit my www.FoxRiverProperties.com to search for homes for sale in Northern Illinois. "Just Clouds by DK" ©2009. Property of Debra Kukulski, All Rights Reserved. Photo may not be used or reproduced in any way without express written permission from Debra Kukulski.

 

 

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me. It will be my pleasure!

Debra Kukulski Cary IL real estate

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them. My business is over 87% referral and repeat clients and I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)


My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

Photo Friday-Where Do You Find a Palm Tree in Northern Illinois? Photo By Debra Kukulski

Where Do You Find a Palm Tree in Northern Illinois? Photo By Debra Kukulski

This photo just makes me think of summer!  

Let me know if you recognize where this was taken!

Where Do You Find a Palm Tree in Northern Illinois?  Photo By Debra Kukulski


 

 

Photo taken by Debra Kukulski, ABR, RECS, GRI, EPRO, Realtor with RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest Cary-Crystal Lake IL, provides highly professional levels of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in McHenry, Lake, Kane or Cook Counties in Northern Illinois. Visit my www.FoxRiverProperties.com to search for homes for sale in Northern Illinois. "Where Do You Find a Palm Tree in Northern Illinois?" , taken IL" ©2009. Property of Debra Kukulski, All Rights Reserved. Photo may not be used or reproduced in any way without express written permission from Debra Kukulski.

Debra Kukulski Algonquin IL real estate

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me. It will be my pleasure!

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them.

My business is over 87% referral and repeat clients and I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

February 2009 McHenry County Real Estate Market Report

February 2009 McHenry County Real Estate Market Report

 

It is a GREAT TIME TO BUY REAL ESTATE in McHenry County, Cook County and Lake Counties in Northern Illinois. There are fabulous homes for sale at great prices *especially for first time buyers, investors and move up buyers.* !

 

Debra Kukulski SELLS homes

Overall,What is happening so far, this year, in McHenry County this past month?

Single-family homes:

2594 single family homes are for sale in McHenry County with an average list price of $347,460 and an average market time of 271 days.

74 homes have closed so far in 2009 with an average list price of $230,905 and an average sales price of $213,676 with an average market time of 208 days.  The successful sellers, with the help of thier Realtors have realized an average of 93% of their asking prices in the past month.

248 homes in McHenry County are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

 

So......some homes ARE selling!!

 

Now...Let's take a look by areas to narrow it down.

Cary / Oakwood Hills, IL:

11 homes in Cary are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

199 homes in Cary, IL are for sale with an average market time of 175 days.

2 homes in Cary have closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of $305,000 .

 

Crystal Lake / Lakewood / Priarie Grove, IL:

14 homes in the Crystal Lake areas are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

176 homes are for sale in Crystal Lake, Lakewood, Prairie Grove with an average market time of 159 days.

11 homes in Crystal Lake closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of $216,655.

 

McHenry / Johnsburg / Sunnyside / McCullum Lake / Holiday Hills / Ringwood / Lakemoor, IL (also including some areas of Bull Valley):

534 single family homes are for sale in McHenry, Johnsburg, Sunnyside, McCullum Lake, Holiday Hills, Ringwood and Lakemoor with an average list price of $339,938 and an average market time of 277 days.

17 homes have closed so far in 2009 in the McHenry areas with an average list price of $191,774 and an average sales price of $178,615 with an average market time of 62 days.

The successful sellers in McHenry, with the help of thier Realtors have realized an average of 93% of their asking prices in the past month.

37 homes in the McHenry areas are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

 

Algonquin, IL:

176 single family homes are for sale in Algonquin with an average list price of $350,587 and an average market time of 259 days. 

11 homes in Algonquin have closed so far in 2009 with an average list price of $222,364 and an average sales price of $216,655 with an average market time of 109 days. The successful sellers, with the help of thier Realtors have realized an average of 97% of their asking prices in the past month.

15 homes in Algonquin are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

 

Lake In The Hills, IL:

30 homes are under contract in Lake In The Hills either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

209 single family homes in Lake In The Hills are for sale with an average market time of 142 days.

9 homes in Lake In The Hills closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of $204,822 .

 

Fox River Grove, IL:

4 homes in Fox River Grove are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

41 single family homes are for sale in Fox River Grove with an average market time of 166 days.

2 homes have closed so far in 2009 in Fox River Grove with an average sales price of $271,950 .

 

Barrington, IL (McHenry County Areas of Barrington Only):

0 homes in Barrington (McHenry County) are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

41 homes are for sale in the Barrington areas of McHenry County with an average market time of 199 days.

1 home in the McHenry County areas of Barringon closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of  $400,000.

 

Huntley, IL:

25 homes in Huntley are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

224 single family homes are for sale in Huntley with an average market time of 186 days.

4 homes in Huntley closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of $241,350.

 

Island Lake, IL:

6 homes in Island Lake are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

49 homes are for sale in Island Lake with an average market time of 162 days.

0 homes have closed so far in 2009 in Island Lake.

 

Woodstock / Greenwood /  Bull Valley, IL  (including some areas of Bull Valley):

21 homes in Woodstock, Bull Valley and Greenwood are currently under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

276 single family homes are for sale in Woodstock, Bull Valley and Greenwood with an average market time of 169 days.

7 homes in Woodstock, Bull Valley and Greenwood have closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of  $251,900.

 

Wonder Lake, IL:

11 are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

158 single family homes are for sale in Wonder Lake with an average market time of 288 days.

7 homes in Wonder Lake have closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of  $175,986.

 

Marengo / Harmony, IL:

8 homes are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending' in Harmony and Marengo.

116 homes are for sale in Marengo and Harmony, IL with an average market time of 173 days.

3 homes have closed so far in Haermony and Marengo in 2009 with an average sales price of $111,667.

 

Alden / Harvard / Chemung / Lawrence, IL :

9 single family homes in Harvard, Alden, Chemung and Lawrence are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

102 homes are for sale in Harvard, Alden, Chemung and Lawrence with an average market time of 202 days.

1 home closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of $160,000.

 

Hebron, IL:

2 homes in Hebron are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

22 are for sale with an average market time of 297 days.

0 closed so far in 2009 with an average closed price of n/a.

 

Richmond, IL:

2 homes in Richmond are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

44 single family homes in Historic Richmond are for sale with an average market time of 228 days.

0 homes in Richmond have closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of n/a.

 

Solon Mills / Spring Grove, IL:

8 homes in Solon Mills and Spring Grove are under contract either 'contingent' or 'pending'.

106 homes are for sale in Spring Grove and Solon MIlls with an average market time of 154 days.

1 home in Spring Grove/Solon Mills has closed so far in 2009 with an average sales price of $155,400 .

 

Overall, even though we are seeing some positive changes in our market, we are still experiencing a Buyer's Market Market in Fox River Grove and the in most areas of McHenry County and in most of the surrounding areas of Northern Illinois.

Real estate is on sale in McHenry County, IL!

 

Real Estate Homes for sale Debra Kukulski


Rates are great, too!

(Yes, they are still giving loans!)

We are having a "HUGE sale" on our large inventory of VERY well priced HOMES! ;-)

 

Debra Kukulski Cary IL Real Estate

 

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me. It will be my pleasure! By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them. My business keeps growing from your referrals. My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

Debra Kukulski's February 2009 Cyber Tips!


 
   
 
Debra Kukulski RECS, GRI, ABR, e-PRO
RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest

February 2009




Trick 1

HOW FAST IS YOUR INTERNET CONNECTION?

You sign up for a wiz bang internet connection and sometimes suspect that your internet provider is skimping on speed. If that's you, then here‘s an easy way to quickly tell how fast your connection really is.

There are a bunch of places on the web that will test this for you, but using this neat place doesn't require you to install any software and has an attractive easy to understand "dashboard" layout.

Just go here and click "Start Speedtest". In a flash they analyze your broadband internet access by measuring your download and upload speeds - plus some more exotic measurements.

Now you have an easy way to tell if those rascals are holding back on the throttle.

Click Here for This Cyber Trick

We are always pleased to be of service to our Cyber Friends and to provide you with these monthly CyberTips. As members of the Real Estate CyberSpace Society we are always current on ways to expand our normal high standards of service with the very latest Internet and other CyberSpace strategies and tools. Click Here for hundreds of Cyber Tricks and Great Places in back issues.

Trick 1

THE AWESOME WEB SITE HIGHLIGHTER

How often have you wanted to easily send a friend or associate a copy of a web page and highlight the important parts so it's easy to make your point? These folks make it easy with this neat one trick pony.

You simply visit their highlighter page, enter a web page address and use their simple highlighting tool to select the text you want to emphasize. Once done they give you a small link to the highlighted page that you can send along with your comments.

This tool is quick, easy, effective --- and on the house!

Click Here for This Cyber Trick

Copyright © 2009 All Rights Reserved

Trick 1

RECS Radio

Resources

GET THE SCOOP ON OFFSHORE PHARMACIES

Has the cost of meds got you down? Well here's a great place run by an independent American consumer research group that provides free ratings and price comparisons for more than 40 online pharmacies based mainly in the United States and Canada.

These folks rate the online pharmacies on a scale of 1 to 5. They show whether a pharmacy is licensed, requires a prescription, provides its address and phone number and offers personal privacy and payment security. They compare prices for over 1,000 drugs at these pharmacies and give you details on shipping fees and delivery times.

The prices for identical drugs vary widely offering you a chance to evaluate the pharmacies and often save significantly. Great place for saving a bunch of shekels!

Click Here for This Great Place

Trick 1

THE TRANSLATOR TO BEAT ALL TRANSLATORS!

In this shrinking world it's becoming more important to be able to easily communicate with those who speak a different language. That's where this great place comes in.

Nothing fancy about this translator with its "Google-esque" style. But, even though it's in Beta, it works like a charm. Here you can enter text and easily look at translations into any one or all of 27 languages.

This great translation place works quickly, easily and, best of all, is on the house.

Click Here for This Great Place

Debra Kukulski
Email: deb@debrakukulski.com
Phone: 847-516-6760
Fax: 847-639-6666
Web: www.debrakukulski.com
 

debra kukulski

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me. It will be my pleasure! By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them. My business is over 87% referral and repeat clients and I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

Debra Kukulski's February 2009 Real Estate Update

Your REALTOR:

Debra Kukulski
February 2009
Real
"The highest compliment a client can give me is to trust me with a referral, this is how I build my business!"
If you have a friend or family member looking to buy or sell a home please pass their name and number along to me and I will give them the same great service I give to all of my clients! I can also help
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Copyright © 2009 Realty Times
All Rights Reserved.





Real Estate Outlook:
What's in Store for 2009?


  What will the new year bring for housing and real estate? It's easy to look at all the negative economic news in the headlines and say - there's no sign that 2009 is going to be any better than 2008.
      But here's a different perspective to consider from one of the country's veteran financial analysts -- Richard Bove of Ladenburg Thalmann, an investment banking company.
      In a research report issued late in December, Bove said he sees a positive dynamic taking shape in the current cycle. The government has intervened aggressively in the markets to push

Mortgage Rates
U.S. averages as of January 29, 2009:

30 yr. fixed:   5.10%
15 yr. fixed:   4.80%
1 yr. adj:        4.90%
<!-- <B>30 yr. jumbo:  6.98%</B>-->



View current rates





interest rates down -- most notably in the home mortgage sector.
      Though it takes awhile for low-cost money to begin having its effect, Bove said he expects "housing prices to stabilize and/or rise (in 2009) after a
CONTINUED >>>



Thinking of Making a Move?

Let me help you to be successful in the current market....





Buy Now And Beat
The Spring Rush


     Down market. Up market. It doesn't matter. Spring showers typically bring spring buyers.
      But if you wait for the seasonal thaw you'll join what could be a throng of market savvy buyers who have already scoped the lay of the land and are elbowing for position.
      In many communities, an over-supply of homes for sale with reduced prices, foreclosures, auction sales and sellers shopping for short sale buyers, all make it an opportune time not to procrastinate.
      "We are seeing a confluence of events that contributes to the increase in the number of closed sales," said Quincy Virgilio, president of the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors in San Jose, CA.
      "Interest rates are at a record low and the affordability index nears a 5-year high. For first-time buyers, rents are skyrocketing and that's an added incentive to buy a home now," added Virgilio. CONTINUED >>>




Is A Mortgage Modification
For You?


     Home loan modifications are designed to save homeownership, but they've also created a new mortgage maze pitted with "buyer bewares."
      Both government-sanctioned counseling agencies and local community service agencies concede they have been swamped recently by demand for loan modifications.
      The demand stems from a proliferation of federal, state and local level foreclosure relief and bailout efforts from both government and the private lending industry.
      Mortgage modifications have been around for years, but those recent relief efforts have raised the profile of the mortgage workouts as an alternative to foreclosures, short sales, auctions, and bankruptcy.
      The demand has opened the floodgates of loan modification services now offered by real estate agents, mortgage brokers, attorneys, government agencies, lenders, and other professionals.
      No matter where they start, homeowners seeking mortgage modifications are at the mercy of lenders. The workouts are often voluntary and, completed on a case-by-case basis, they frequently come without standardized CONTINUED >>>



Thinking of Selling? Contact me!

If you are thinking of selling, please contact me for a professional opinion on the current market value of your home and to learn about my very successful marketing plan for sellers WORKS in this market! I understand the value of the internet in selling a home and the keys to getting top dollar in today's buyer's market.




How Can Debra Kukulski Help You?
     If you are seeking a top, experienced professional who will listen, coach and help you work through your transaction so that you can relax and enjoy the fun and rewarding part of buying/selling, call Debra directly at 847-516-6760 or visit her excellent website for real estate, area, community, and school information. You can also search over 120,000 listings from her website: http://www.TheresNoPLaceLikeYourPlace.com.
     Ask her about her exclusive 'Sellers Marketing Plan' which includes extensive internet exposure for your home, or her 'Preferred Buyers Program', where you will recieve daily notifications of new listings from ALL of the offices that match YOUR criteria and a private, password protected, interactive web site that is updated daily for you AND has all of the details and pictures! (Trust me, you will LOVE this!)
     


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More Articles


January Round Up: Rates Hold Steady

Clutter-Free Helps Sell Homes

Good Time To Buy A Vacation Home

Repairs That Help Sell Your Home



Debra Kukulski, ABR,GRI,RECS,e-PRO
E-mail: deb@debrakukulski.com
Web: http://www.debrakukulski.com/
Direct: 847-516-6760

debra kukulski

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me. It will be my pleasure! By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them. My business is over 87% referral and repeat clients and I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

Speechless Sunday Photo-Nature's Valentine by Deb Kukulski

Speechless Sunday-Natures Valentine by Debra Kukulski

Photo taken by Debra Kukulski, ABR, RECS, GRI, EPRO, Realtor with RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest Cary-Crystal Lake IL, provides highly professional levels of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in McHenry, Lake, Kane or Cook Counties in Northern Illinois. Visit my www.TheresNoPlaceLikeYourPlace.com to search for homes for sale in Northern Illinois. "Nature's Valentine, taken in Fox Lake, IL" ©2009 Debra Kukulski, All Rights Reserved. Photo may not be used or reproduced in any way without express written permission from Debra Kukulski.

 

debra kukulski

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me. It will be my pleasure! By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and take great care of them. My business is over 87% referral and repeat clients and I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

My Direct Number at the Office is 847.516.6760

 

 

To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.

 

Home Staging Advice Made Simple - Step 1 - How To DeClutter

 

I thought this excellent article on decluttering from one of my favorite home staging bloggers, Sharon Tara, was such great advice I wanted to share it with my readers:-)

I hope you enjoy it and find it helpful!

Debra Kukulski Cary IL Real Estate

Debra Kukulski     RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest

Email: deb@debrakukulski.com

Phone: 847-516-6760

Fax: 847-639-6666

Web: TheresNoPlaceLikeYourPlace.com

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of personal service and success in the current market, please call or email me with their name and daytime phone number and I will be sure to follow up and take great care of them. Thanks to you and your referrals, my business keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals!

 

 

Via Sharon Tara New Hampshire Home Stager (Sharon Tara Transformations):

If you're looking for advice on how to prepare your house for sale, you don't have to look very long.  Home staging advice is on HGTV and all over the Internet.  There certainly isn't a shortage of information on the subject.

  The problem is that generalized terms like "update" and "depersonalize"to do list aren't specific enough.  

And of course...

No checklist for preparing a home for sale would be complete without including the term "declutter."  It has to be the most frequently used term in real estate preparation today. 

 Knowing you need to declutter is only helpful if you know how to declutter.

Uncertainty can leave you feeling overwhelmed with the task ahead. 

The problem, as I see it:  your definition, your agent's definition, and my definition of "declutter" are probably all the same: to remove excess and disorder.  However, what each of us deems as clutter, how each of us would actually approach the task of decluttering, and what the end results would be, is another story.  

Unless you are a professional home stager, or clean freak, your approach will most likely result in frustration and avoidance, neither of which is going to get the laundry and toys out of the dining room and the hockey trophies out of the living room.

head 

I know what you are thinking...

 

How does she know I have laundry in the dining room?

 

 

Psychic powers...a secret Home Stager ability.   But that's a subject for another post.

The subject of this post is to help you understand exactly how to declutter.   

The best approach for dealing with clutter is to deal with it in small doses, one room at at time.  The most influential rooms (to buyers) are the kitchen and master bedroom.  Let's start with the kitchen...

kitchenkitchen

 1.  Closets, cabinets and drawers.  Remove anything you do not use on a regular basis.  Items removed go into one of three piles: trash, donate, pack.  Everything remaining in cabinets should be arranged in an organized fashion; cans together, boxes together, etc.  (Pack up the holiday stemware, extra coffee mugs, and 2/3 of that Tupperware) Your objective - clean, organized, and spacious. 

 2.  Appliances.  Clean inside and outside of all appliances.  Replace damaged or worn stove burners. Clear off top of refrigerator and remove all magnets, notes, and photos.  

 3.  Countertops.  Start by clearing everything off counters.  Wash windows, counters and cabinets.  Adding cabinet hardware or replacing old hardware will add perceived value.  To add color and depth, strategically place a few accent pieces, such as a large platter, cookbooks, or assorted oils on counters.

 4.  Sink Area.  Clean sink, faucet and drains.  Keep paper towels, soap and sponges under sink.  Never leave rack or dishes in sink. 

 5.  Personal Items.  Use a basket or box to keep keys, mail, bills, address book, and other personal items off counter and out of view.

countertopkitchen counterboxes

Now that you have successfully prepared your kitchen, it's on to the Master Bedroom:

closetMaster Bedroom

The master bedroom should give an impression of calm sophistication. 

1.  Remove all toys, stuffed animals, pet items, hobby/craft items.   Ideally, TV should be removed.

2.  Organize closets,  repeating procedure used for kitchen.  Remove anything you are not using regularly and sort into trash, donate, or pack.

3.  Remove personal items (jewelry, lotions, paperwork, medications) from nightstands and dresser.

4.  Remove all family photos and religious items.  

5.  Remove excercise equipment and computer/desk.  The master bedroom should not double as gym or home office. 

 Next stop...Master Bath

bathbath

 The key to the master bath is achieving a spa-like atmosphere.  The bathroom is a very personal room and buyers don't want to be reminded that other people use it.  Purchase new towels and soaps and accessories for your new home and use them now to help you sell this home.

1.  Start with closet, cabinets and drawers.  You should be getting pretty good at this step by now.  Towels should be stacked neatly, paper products arranged orderly, and all personal hygiene products should be stored in a storage container out of view.

2.  Remove everything from tub surround and vanity.  Never leave your toothbrushes and other personal items in view.  Keep them in a plastic tote that you pull out to use each day and then return to hiding.

3.  Clean tub, toilet, sink, faucets, vanity and mirror until they shine. 

4.  Add color and texture using rolled towels by tub and rolled face cloths by sink.  For color, add a pair of candles, silk florals, and baskets or glass jars full of bath salts or soaps.

bath itemstowelssoaps

In case you are doubting that all this work is necessary, it is important for you to understand that there is a psychology involved.  The more organized and neat the closets and cabinets are, the more of a "clean, anal, martha stewart" you are perceived as by buyers.  This in turn means the house has been well maintained.  This is perceived as value and justifys asking price.

Work smart, one small area at a time.  No matter how much stuff you have to deal with, it all has to be dealt with eventually for you to move, so do it now and be ahead of the game. 

If you really want to have the best possible results, (you knew I couldn't get through this post without saying it) hire a professional home stager to come in for the finishing touches.  If you want to avoid the work all together, you could hire a stager to do it all.  Unlike you, who does not enjoy organizing, stagers thrive on it.  It's not just our business, it's our passion!

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To Search Homes For Sale, Please Contact Me Directly Or Feel Free To Search On My Website!

 

Search Waterfront and Fox River Front Homes For Sale Here

 

 
 

It is an EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY NOW, especially for first time buyers, second home buyers, investors and move up buyers.

REAL ESTATE IN IL IS ON SALE! :-)

 

I hope you find this information useful.  I am only a phone call or email away of you need real estate help:-)

Debra Kukulski Real Estate Consultant

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email me.  It will be my pleasure!  

By the way, if you know of someone that could benefit from my high level of service, please call or email

me with their name and daytime phone number and I will make sure to follow up and

take great care of them. 

The majority of my business is referral and repeat clients.  I am so grateful it keeps growing from your loyalty and referrals:-)

I appreciate YOU and your referrals!

 

 

I can be reached at my direct number at the office: 847.516.6760.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Information deemed accurate and reliable but not guaranteed. Source MRED MLS.Disclaimer: Information herein may come from various sources, some of which may not be reliable and may change without any notice. Debra Kukulski does not guarantee or is any way responsible for the accuracy of the information in this blog and information provided is without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Information on this blog represents the opinions and ideas of the author; comments by others may not express the views of the author.  All photos and content may not be duplicated without express written consent of author.
Copyright © 2010 By Debra Kukulski, all rights reserved.