Five Towns Real Estate Blog

Do unto others as you would like others to do unto you.

The golden rule, and words I try to live by.

Simple statement right? But if I could only chose one statement to run my life by this would be it.

I live by this in my personal life as well as in Real Estate. I strive to be the type of agent that I would use to buy or sell a house.

It's not rocket science, its mainly common sense.

•  I answer the phone when it rings , if I can't answer it I return all calls as soon as possible. I don't want you to have to “hunt me down”.

•  I respond to all emails promptly . No excuses anymore with the blackberrys, iphones and all the other smart phones now available.

•  I am available by text messaging . Great way to handle quick communications.

•  I will work around your schedule. I will show you homes or meet to discuss you home when it is convenient for you, not me.

•  I will not force a house or neighborhood on you . However, If a house is right for you, if you feel it, then I will try to nudge you a little. I hate when I hear agents say “What do you mean you don't like that house, it's perfect for you.”

•  I will tell you when I see the potential in a house at a great price . Just because it is something you might not pick up on.

•  I will keep you abreast of the market with Listingbook . Giving you full access to what is available to see. Then I will show you all the homes you want to see, not just the ones I think are right for you, or the ones with the highest commission

•  I will hold your hand as much as is needed, and answer all questions every step of the way. If I don't know the answer I will find someone who does. Our relationship will not be over once you sign the contract.

•  I will be a resource to you, not just a home shower. I will give you full information on all available monies and tax credits.

•  I will help you to find the right home for you and your family. Bottom line. However long it may take.

To me it's common sense, but I am amazed every time I hear a buyer say “So and So never returned my calls”. “Was never able to show me the house” etc.

I worked with good and bad agents back when I was buying my home. I want to be one of the good ones for my customers and clients.

Just my 2 cents for today.

If you are a First Time Homebuyer in Nassau County here are 3 ways that you can combine to save up to $ 44,000 on your home purchase. Each has it's own eligibility requirements and deadlines.

$ 8000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

•·         Must not have owned a home for 3 years.

•·         There are income phase-outs

•·         Must be CLOSED by November 30 th .

•·         Can be used towards points - can help lower interest rate and monthly payment.

•·         Tax CREDIT not Tax DEDUCTION. Worth 3x as much as a tax deduction.

First Time Home Buyer Mortgage Credit Certificates

•·         Announced by Governor Patterson last week

•·         Must not have owned a home for 3 years

•·         Tax CREDIT off Federal income tax YEARLY not just once

•·         There are income and price limits

•·         There is a limited amount of money available. Only enough for the first 300 -500 qualified loans (estimated).

•·         Must be from a SONYMA approved lender.

Nassau County Grant - Home Downpayment Assistance Program

•·         First Time Home Buyers Only

•·         Applications MUST be submitted by December 9 th .

•·         House price limit of $ 410,000

•·         Have 45 days after the grant approval to go into contract.

•·         $ 25,000 towards down payment and closing costs.

•·         3% or purchase price must be in your own funds

For more details and information give us a call and we will direct you to the people who can answer all of your questions.