Learn How to Transform your Home into a Stress-Free Getaway Using Feng Shui

11/14/2014 at 11:45 am  •  Posted in DIY, Dream Blue, Home Decor, Tips by Mike Purgatorio  •  0 Comments

As the grueling work week nears its end, and folks begin to trade in their ties and business suits, for sweatshirts and lounging-around-the-house pants, we wanted to share some insightful tips that will help transform your humble abode into a sanctuary for rest and relaxation.
Born in China, Feng Shui – which translates to wind-water – has been used for ages to promote health and wellness, by creating harmony between an individual and their surrounding environment. Over the past few decades, this philosophical system has gained momentum in the U.S., and not-so-surprisingly, the real estate market.
Fen Shui is perfect for that happy homeowner interested in making their house that much more comfortable for themselves and their guests – many times, without much of a financial investment.
Below are a few general guidelines that will help bring this ancient art form to life.

Outside

Don’t be afraid to dress a house with a variety of paint colors, and striking foliage that complement the architecture of the home. The front door is the portal from the outside world, to a homeowner’s personal domain. Entrances should be painted in colors that contrast with the rest of the house, to ultimately catch one’s eye and draw them towards the inside. Wind chimes and other pleasant sounding outdoor fixtures can breathe positive vibes and vitality into a property, as well.

Inside

Use warm and inviting rugs, accent tables and lighting, art, etc. to bring a room or space to life. Furniture should also be arranged facing toward entry ways, to ultimately create an atmosphere that embraces an individual and their energy. Lastly, survey the high traffic zones in your house, and if possible, strategically arrange furniture (or remove or relocate expendable pieces elsewhere), to ultimately ensure you or your guests can move freely and easily from room-to-room; open floor plans are key.

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Mike Purgatorio

Communications Specialist at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

 

On tips to Feng Shui your home, visit:  http://fengshui.about.com/od/fengshuihowtoquestions/ig/Feng-Shui-How---To-Hub/index.htm

5 Reasons to Explore a Career in Real Estate

06/30/2015 at 11:37 am  •  Posted in Dream Blue, Real Estate Agent, Tips by Mike Purgatorio  •  0 Comments

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In addition to water and food, shelter will always be a necessity in our lives, and that’s why a career in real estate continues to provide an infinite number of career opportunities to a wide array of professionals across the globe.
Realtors are regularly provided with a number of unique perks that differentiate this profession from the rest – through schedule flexibility, self-management and beyond.
That said, following are five reasons why real estate might be the right move for you:

• You are the man, you don’t work for him: a career in real estate opens up the possibility of managing your own business. As a Realtor, you can tailor every last nuance of your company to ultimately achieve YOUR definition of success. From the business plan and staffing to client management and marketing.
• It’s your time – use it the way you want: this isn’t your standard 9-5 gig, real estate professionals are granted the unique opportunity to build out a schedule that adheres to their personal lifestyle. This can ultimately create a work-life balance you can be proud of.
• The sky truly is the limit: There is no cap on the amount of earnings you can make as a real estate agent; depending on your goals, you can control the amount of money you bring in and the growth you experience as an independent business owner.
• Networking at its finest: Real estate allows you the ability to continuously work with a wide range of interesting and knowledgeable people on a daily basis – especially clients. This makes for some incredibly useful relationship building that you could strategically leverage within real estate and believe it or not, daily life.
• It’s not me, it’s we: Coldwell Banker commands a comprehensive network of experts that provide independent sales associates with the education, tools and resources necessary to not only kick off a career in real estate but continue to grow within the industry. Independent sales associates aren’t left for the wolves or thrown into the deep end. Coldwell Banker possesses the key players necessary to guide you every step of the way.

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Mike Purgatorio Communications Specialist at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

 

Facebook Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Professionals

11/25/2014 at 11:55 am  •  Posted in Dream Blue, Marketing, Online Marketing, Social Media, Technology, Tips by Alicia Eisenbise  •  0 Comments

Are you looking for ideas of what to post to your Facebook page? Look no further. Here are 10 ideas you can keep in your back pocket to spur a little creativity and always have something to post to your Facebook page.

1. Use great images or video.
2. Post useful information about your neighborhood and community events.
3. Wish your friends and clients happy birthday or anniversary. Stay in touch.
4. Welcome new homeowners with a photo and tag them.
5. Post ‘just sold’ photos.
6. Schedule Throwback Thursday or Friday Funnies posts each week.
7. Like our page and find content already created for you that is easy to share.
8. Ask questions.
9. Post valuable tips for home decor, moving, buying or selling.
10. Post before and after photos.

This blog was modified from our November Social Media Digest. Want to learn more about Facebook and the Like Gate Ban? Click here to download the November issue.

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Alicia Eisenbise

Social Media Strategist at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Alicia creates content and social media connections for our company pages, creates digital ads, educates groups about social media and technology, along with other projects. In her down time, Alicia enjoys hiking, biking and baking elaborate creations.

Home Decor Ideas that Won't Break the Bank

 01/07/2015 at 11:45 am  •  Posted in Dream Blue, Home Decor, How To, Selling a Home by Yuliya Ryvkina 

When it comes redesigning your home we all have big ideas, but not always big wallets to match. Sometimes it takes a bit of creativity and finesse to get the HGTV-approved look you’re going for, all while keeping an eye on your bank account.

Following are a few budget-friendly tips and tricks for your home decor.

Have fun with accessories

Fun with accessories | Source: Stacey Brandford

Give your living room a little low-budget oomph by updating the color scheme and patterns of your throw pillows and curtains. It’s a great simple step to change up the look and feel of your room. Add an area rug under the coffee table into the mix and you’re all set. Don’t be too concerned with everything being “matchy-matchy;” patterns, textures and colors are great for accents.

Non-traditional wall art

Non-traditional art | Source: Addicted2Decorating

Get adventurous with wall art. Though there are the “go-to” standards like paintings and photographs, oversized mirrors add to the room by making it appear larger. Placing the mirror on the wall opposite of a window will also fill it with more natural light. Alternative option to consider for non-traditional décor is decorative plates. They add an interesting and delicate touch to any living or dining room, kitchen and even the foyer.

Furniture DIY

Before and after | Source: Sarah Gordon Home

When splurging on new furniture isn’t an option, DIY projects can go a long way. Upholstering, or sewing a slip cover for your couch will give it a fresh new look. Another great money saving project is to revitalize your wooden pieces by staining, distressing, or painting them.

Grab a brush

Bold neutral | Source: Do’s blog

Painting doesn’t have to be a tedious all day task. Opt for painting an accent wall in your living room or bedroom to add some character. Choose a color that will vibe well with the rest of your décor. You can’t go wrong with a bold neutral or a complimentary color to your existing color scheme.

Rearrange

It’s all about perspective. Ask for a helping hand and re-arrange your existing furniture. It can make it look like you have completely new pieces without having spent a dime.

Yuliya Ryvkina

 01/07/2015 at 11:45 am  •  Posted in Dream Blue, Home Decor, How To, Selling a Home by Yuliya Ryvkina

Communication Coordinator at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Looking to Buy a Home but Don’t Have a Huge Budget? Consider a REO Property!

If you are someone seeking to buy a new home but you don’t have a huge budget, you should consider buying a REO property.  Buying a REO property has various perks and is a great way to make your home-buying dream come true without breaking the bank!

What is a REO property?

REO stands for Real Estate Owned property, also known as a bank-owned property. 

What does that mean?

A real estate owned, or bank-owned property, means that it is a property that has reverted to the mortgage lender after a failed attempt to sell it during a foreclosure auction. 

Still not sure what that means?

                                        

When consumers fail to pay the mortgage on their home, they may end up in default and can lose their house to foreclosure.  When foreclosure happens, the ownership of the property will revert to the lender who is the official title holder of the property.  The property gains the title of being real estate owned after all the legal stages of foreclosure are completed and the lender becomes the sole owner. 

What are the pros of buying a REO property?

• Get a Great Deal!

Because banks and other financial institutions are in the business of money, not real estate, they typically slash the asking price of a property when their books are laden with REO properties.  They do this to remain competitive against properties being sold by private sellers and to move the property quickly off the market.  Often, lenders will offer their properties at substantial discounts ranging from 25% to 30% off of the fair market value.  These below-market-prices are quite enticing to bargain-hungry consumers!

• Clean titles, paid taxes, and no liens!

Generally, REO properties come with clean titles, paid taxes, and no liens.  Lenders typically will expunge all second and third liens, as well as delinquent taxes, HOA, and mechanics’ liens.  It’s a much better feeling to buy a home with no outstanding taxes.  But, you should never just assume that this is the case and therefore, be sure to get a title check before making any purchase.

• Vacant properties can mean easier home inspections

REO properties are usually vacant which is a huge benefit.  Investors can save a good amount of time, energy, and money because the eviction process has already been taken care of by the bank.  Since the homes are generally vacant, you should always request to inspect the home before a final closing on a deal.  REOs are usually distressed properties left behind by previous owners so home inspections are highly recommended.

• No homeowners means you deal directly with the bank

Vacant homes mean not having to deal with emotional homeowners, no personal and emotional ties to the home, to reluctant owners, no lawsuits, and more.  It’s just one less stressful aspect of buying a home that you wouldn't have to worry about.

• The potential for lesser down payments and lower interest rates

Lenders may be willing to waive some closing costs or possibly offer lower interest rates or a lesser down payment.  Don’t be afraid to ask!

• More room for negotiation

Just because the banks want to shorten their list of properties doesn’t always mean that the properties will always be a steal.  The nice thing is that banks are eager and motivated sellers and therefore, you should always consider submitting a lower offer.  When asking for a lesser price, you should undoubtedly substantiate the reduced price in writing and keep your case documented for your own good.  Providing photographs and cost estimates for repairs will help in supporting your lower offer amount.  You should also consider negotiating the home warranty, concessions, and other buyer benefits.

 

• Potentially better opportunities for financing

If you have good credit, many banks will often loan the full price of the foreclosed property or even more.  Only a 10% down payment will usually be required for a foreclosure that is intended to be used as a rental.  As for foreclosure investors, if they have a large amount of equity in another home, they may obtain a line of credit from the bank to purchase a foreclosure.  When that line of credit is converted to a mortgage, no down payment may be required.  Be sure to check with your bank for their full details. 

But, of Course there are Some Cons to Buying REO Too….

• Don’t expect much sprucing up to be done to a REO property.  In order to minimize their losses, banks have a tendency to invest very little when it comes to fixing up a property which is why they are sold in “as is” condition.
• Additional paperwork and strict underwriting procedures may be required in regards to the loan because banks want to avoid regaining ownership of the property for a second time.
• Obtaining disclosures in regards to the history or condition of a REO property is not a guarantee which can certainly pose as a challenge. 
• Due to the “as is” condition of many REO homes, the cost of repairs can definitely add up so be sure to buy wisely.  You don’t want to end up spending more on fixing up a property than what it’s worth.

Other Tips to Keep in Mind When Buying a REO Property

• Shop around!  Be sure to compare the asking price of the bank with the prices of other comparable homes in the area.  This is will help you gage what you should be spending on that property.
• Title checks are very important.  Do a thorough search of public records for any liens or outstanding taxes.   As mentioned earlier, many REO properties come with a clean slate when it comes to property taxes and liens but, it’s should never be expected.  You can perform a preliminary title check on sites like RealtyTrac and then hire a professional title company to run a full and insured title search before closing on a deal.  If any common liens are placed on a property due to unpaid loans borrowed against the property, taxes, or unpaid mechanics liens, you may have to pay off the liens on the foreclosure that you are attempting to purchase, although you are not the only who failed to pay the property taxes. 
• Always be smart about your money!
• If you’re seriously interested in buying a home, you should get pre-qualified for a loan.  Getting pre-approved by the lender that owns the property may help you stand out better as a good candidate for buying the property.
•  If you are a REO investor or just a home buyer that is considering a significantly damaged home, keep in mind that your financing options may be limited.  For example, VA loans can be more difficult to get if the property isn’t in move-in condition.  
• Do your homework before you make any offers.
• Be sure to add in the costs of any repairs and renovations in your offer price.
• Be prepared to be patient!  When placing an offer for a REO home, it can take weeks to get a response.  REO offers are typically reviewed by several individuals and companies which takes time.
• See a REO professional!
  

Why an Agent like Myself is Your Best Choice When Buying REO

I am a real estate agent that sells all types of home in different price ranges, conditions, and areas.  I know all that there is to know about selling privately-owned homes and I also specialize in REO and Short Sale properties.  I have gone through extensive training to get to where I am in the REO industry.  I have worked with countless REO professionals and agencies.  I have qualifications, certifications, and numerous memberships in the REO industry.  I can help you become well-informed on REO and non-REO properties and help you make the best decision possible for your home-buying needs.  Not all agents have the knowledge and experience that I have of both REO and privately-owned homes.  I have worked hard to be able to be the best agent possible for potential home buyers of all sorts of properties.

Be sure to contact me for any of your home buying questions or inquiries.  I am here to help!

A Bit of Inspiration for First-Time Home Buyers

Deciding to purchase a home for the first time can come along with many fears, hesitations, and uncertainties. 

As a first-time home buyer, you may have a myriad of questions for yourself such as; Am I ready? Am I doing the right thing? What am I getting myself into? How will this benefit me? Do I have enough money for this? How will this affect me financially and emotionally? And many more…

Buying a home is a huge step in life and therefore, all of those questions are completely normal and acceptable.  If anything, it wouldn’t be normal to not have those types of questions and concerns!  When making such a huge step in life, you may have many concerns, hesitations, and doubts.  If you simply take some time to realize what brought you to this place in life, you will be reassured about your decisions.  Sometimes it just takes a little bit of  inspiration to help you take that leap!

All of those concerns and feelings that come along with deciding to buy a house are natural but, don't let them hinder you!

Think of all of the wonderful benefits of being a home-owner (see my other blog post for a full list of benefits) such as privacy, making an investment, starting a family, a place to call your own and to decorate as you'd like, and much more!

It's essential to fill your mind with positive thoughts when making such a big decision.  Don't let all of the small doubts prevent you from doing something that you know that you are capable of accomplishing.  Buying a home has countless positives and you are just as worthy as anyone else.  It's just up to you to be prepared, ask questions, accept guidance, and stay positive and motivated!

It’s up to you to take that leap and make the first step and it’s up to expert realtors like me to help guide you step by step along the entire process of buying your first home.  

Contact me to be your agent and to help guide you through this big decision and I promise to make your first-time home-buying process one to help inspire others with!

Why Southeastern Wisconsin is the Perfect Place to Live

Southeastern Wisconsin is the perfect place to live for multiple reasons which, makes me very excited as an agent to cover this region.  My Southeastern Wisconsin region includes the wonderful counties of: Milwaukee, Racine, Washington, Ozaukee, Jefferson, and Waukesha.  I love being able to help my buyers find their perfect home in Southeastern Wisconsin.  This region encompasses something for everybody, whether it is nature, great school systems, restaurants, businesses, agriculture, shopping, entertainment, adventure, and much more!

Milwaukee county has plenty to offer everyone.  It has a beautiful blend of neoclassical, Victorian, and art deco-inspired architecture throughout the city and an old vintage feel in places like the Third Ward.  Nestled along Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a stunning city filled with popular food spots such as Sobleman’s which, is known for its extravagant bloody marys and burgers, Harbor House which, has a gorgeous view from its patio, and Sanford which is owned by the James Beard Award-Winning Chef Sandy D’Amato.  There’s always something going on in Milwaukee, especially during the Spring and Summer times.  You simply cannot miss Summerfest, an 11-day event that Milwaukee dubs as the “World’s Largest Outdoor Music Festival” and is always loaded with the most popular musicians and bands.  Milwaukee is also known for its many cultural festivals like Festa! Italiana, Polish Fest, German Fest, and Mexican Fiesta.   The Wisconsin State Fair is located in Milwaukee and is such a fun place to indulge in tasty foods like deep-fried oreos, chocolate covered bacon, krispy kreme donut burgers, fried cheese curds, root beer flavored milk, and its famous cream puffs!  To work off those extra calories from such delicious foods, Milwaukee’s lakefront is the perfect place to do so.  The outdoor activities are endless in Milwaukee including: boating, paddle-boarding, canoeing, rollerblading, biking, hiking the Lakefront Trail, exploring the Milwaukee River Walk, ice-skating in the winter, swimming at Bradford Beach, kayaking down the river, golfing at one of Milwaukee’s 16 county parks, and much more. 

Milwaukee is a city rich in art and culture.  Check out its many museums and shows such as the famous Milwaukee Art Museum, Broadway shows, the Grohmann Museum, and the Harley Davidson Museum.  There are countless things for families with children to do such as the Betty Brynn Children’s Museum, the Children’s Theatre, Discovery World, and more.  Sports lovers are always fulfilled with the amount of sporting events throughout Milwaukee.  Learn the art of tailgating and experience an exciting Brewers baseball game at Miller Park, Bucks or Admirals game at the Bradley Center, or follow our successful Golden Eagles and UW- Milwaukee Panthers university teams.  Don’t forget your green and gold when you cheer on the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field in the city of Green Bay which is only 119 miles north of Milwaukee.  A large part of Milwaukee’s economy relies on education and business.  Milwaukee is home to many outstanding schools including Marquette University, UW-Milwaukee, and the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, as well as numerous other top-notch schools throughout.  Milwaukee is also home to several top hospitals like the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, the Medical College of Wisconsin, the Ronald McDonald House, and Wheaton Franciscan St. Joseph’s Hospital.   You can’t live in Milwaukee and not enjoy its delicious beers.  Go on a brewery tour, learn about the history of beer, or hang out in a local pub and sip on some craft beers. Speaking of beer, Milwaukee’s nightlife is beyond promising.  Enjoy a night out while bar hopping on Brady Street or dress up in your favorite dress and sip a martini in the swanky Pfister Hotel lounge.  Milwaukee has a lively nightlife and a supportive LGBT community, so there’s fun for all! Feeling lucky?  Stop by Potowatomi Casino and gamble away!  If you want a weekend getaway, just drive two hours south to Chicago or head up north to Wisconsin Dells for some fun in the sun.  If you feel like going further away, Milwaukee’s Mitchell International Airport is convenient for all of your travel plans.  To learn more about visiting and living in Milwaukee visit http://www.visitmilwaukee.org/

 

If you want to live near Milwaukee but not in it, there are many surrounding counties with a lot to offer of their own.  Waukesha county offers a perfect blend of urban, suburban and rural living and is only minutes away from downtown Milwaukee.  Waukesha was ranked 50^th on Money Magazine’s 2010 list of “100 Best Places to Live” (mymove.com).  Waukesha’s northern section is called “Lake Country” and is the perfect place for outdoor adventures.  Kettle Moriane State Forest is great for hiking, biking, camping, and horseback riding. To learn more about visiting and living in Waukesha county visit http://www.visitwaukeshacounty.com/

On the west shore of Lake Michigan lays Racine county.  Racine is speckled with interesting buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and now has a new beautiful harbor that attracts numerous tourists every year.  Learn more about visiting and living in Racine county by visiting http://realracine.com/

Washington county is known for its manufacturing industries and due to its convenient location along US Highway 45 and US Highway 41, Washington county is an ideal location for trade, business, and retail.  Thanks to glacial carving, the beautiful landscape is one for the eye to see.  Visit the historical landmark of Holy Hill and experience the lively community of families, businesses, and industry.  Washington county is home to UW- Washington County and Moraine Park Technical College.  “Washington County places its faith in the community and assists in whatever way possible to nurture, develop, and dream for the future” states its county clerk Brenda Jaszewski.  To learn more about visiting and living in Washington county, visit http://www.co.washington.wi.us/

Like Milwaukee county, Ozaukee county has something to offer to everyone.  Ozaukee county is only a 15 minute drive north of downtown Milwaukee and is on the way to Green Bay, Door County, and other destinations in Northern Wisconsin.  You can enjoy everything from camping, museums, and art fairs, to golf courses, wineries, and fishing and charter clubs in Ozaukee county.  There are also several beautiful parks and animal conservations throughout the county to explore, appreciate, and support.  Ozaukee is home to many great senior centers and assisted living facilities. Learn more about living in Ozaukee county by visiting http://www.co.ozaukee.wi.us/

Jefferson county is located midway between Milwaukee and Madison and has fascinating topography.  Jefferson county is located in the glaciated portion of Wisconsin and its Rock River basin is diversified in landforms including drumlins, end moraines, kettle moraines, lakes, and eskers.  Agriculture is a vital contributor to the county’s economy.    If you love the country side, nature, agriculture, smaller towns, and tranquility, you would enjoy living in Jefferson county.  Learn more about visiting and living in Jefferson county by visiting http://enjoyjeffersoncounty.com/

If you’re thinking about moving to or within Wisconsin, consider Southeastern Wisconsin because of its many remarkable counties that are filled with a little bit of everything.  If you have any questions about moving or if you are interested in moving, be sure to contact me.  I am an expert in my region and I am here to help with your home buying and selling process!