Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Can You See the Savings?

LED 200.jpgIf you’ve considered changing your light bulbs to energy-saving LED bulbs but decided not to make the investment because the prices were too high, you might want to investigate again.  The prices have come down considerably.

An initial investment now will generate immediate returns through energy costs and because they last longer, you won’t need to replace them for years.

The life of LED bulbs is projected to be from 35,000 to 50,000 hours compared to an incandescent bulb at 750 to 2,000 hours.  For normal home use, a LED bulb could last more than 20 years.

80-90% of the energy used by fluorescent and incandescent bulbs is wasted by the heat generated.  In contrast, cool LED bulbs converts 80% of the electrical energy to light energy.

• The color of LED lights is bright white, more like daylight, instead of the warm yellow of incandescent or the greenish tint of fluorescent bulbs.

• LEDs light up instantly instead of building to their intensity like some of the fluorescent bulbs.

• LEDs are more durable because they don’t have filaments or thin-glass bulbs like incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.

Shop around to find the best price on LEDs. If the LED only lasted 20,000 hours, you might have to purchase 20 incandescent bulbs during that same period of time.  Using the chart below, you can see that the LED uses about 10% of the wattage without compromising on the brightness.

Watt comparison.png

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

The Perfect Last Minute Gift

seasons greetings.pngIt’s part of holiday tradition to celebrate with family and friends and to share gifts with our loved ones.  There’s no measuring how much is spent on the combined effort and money to find the perfect gift.
The challenge is to identify the right gift in the right color and size; something they really want and need; and something that won’t break the budget.
“Eight Gifts That Do Not Cost a Cent” are suggestions that have been offered on numerous Internet sites attributed to an anonymous writer.  They may be just what you need to find the perfect gift.
• THE GIFT OF LISTENING...but you must really listen. No interrupting; no daydreaming; no planning your response; just listening.

• THE GIFT OF AFFECTION...be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds.  Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.

• THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER...clip cartoons and share articles and funny stories.  Your gift will say “I love to laugh with you."

• THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE...it can be a simple "thanks for the help" note or a full letter.  A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime and may even change a life.

• THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT...a simple and sincere, "you look great in red" or "you did a super job" or "that was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day.

• THE GIFT OF A FAVOR... go out of your way every day to do something kind.

• THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE...there are times when a person wants nothing more than to be left alone.  Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

• THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION...the easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone.  It’s really not that hard to say, Hello or Thank You.

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Keller Williams Atlanta Partners and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.SoldbyNat.com Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

Monday, December 23, 2013

Happy Holidays!

I have a very special holiday message for YOU!

Click the link: A Special Message for YOU!



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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Keller Williams Atlanta Partners and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.SoldbyNat.com Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Up to $500 for Doing Home "Work"

energy home.pngThe energy-efficient home upgrades tax credit is scheduled to expire on December 31st this year.  If you need to make improvements to your home, this could be an incentive to do it before the end of the year.  If you have already made qualifying improvements without realizing the tax credit is available, it may seem like a holiday gift you weren't expecting.

The equipment must be installed to qualify for the credit which can put you under a time crunch.  Heating and cooling systems, insulation, windows, doors, skylights, water heaters and home weatherization may qualify.

The Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit has been available for purchases since January 1, 2011.  The tax credit is 10% of up to $5,000 of qualifying improvements which would make a maximum of $500 tax credit.

The cumulative maximum amount of tax credit that can be claimed by a taxpayer in the different years this law has been in effect is $500.  If it has been claimed in previous years, the taxpayer is not eligible for this credit for additional new purchases.

For more information, see energy.gov or talk to your tax professional.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Smart Home Sellers in Lawrenceville, GA

I couldn't be more happier for my clients! They closed on the sale of their "starter home" on Thursday and then closed on the purchase of their "dream home" on Monday! 

People have been surprised how quickly it all happened and  how everything lined up so they could move from one home to the other. I honestly have to give them a ton of credit because they were extremely smart and savvy sellers! 


Listed - October 21st
1st Offer Received - October 22nd (Multiple offers were received, so the sellers opted to accept offers for one week before making a decision.)
Under Contract - October 31st (Winning offer was over $15,000 above the asking price.)
Closed - December 5th 

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So how did they go from Listed to Under Contract in only 10 days? Here are 6 Tips for Selling Your Home!

1) They were motivated.
  They had a goal in mind, put a plan in place, and acted on it. 
 
2) They listened to and implemented their agent's advice.
  Real estate professionals are trained, have required continuing education, and work in the real estate business every day. The services they provide are valuable and can save you a lot of headache. Don't go it alone!
 
3) They understood the market and priced the home correctly.  
  To often, sellers get caught up in what they owe on their home or what they want to make from of the sale.  Remember, agents and sellers do not determine price. Buyers do! It all depends on what buyers are willing to pay.
 
4) They had very flexible showing hours and only required a couple of hours notice.
  They were willing to pack up their two small children and leave the house to create the perfect ambiance for the potential buyers. Being to restrictive makes it difficult for agents to show a property.
 
5) They moved quickly to get their home in showing-ready condition (aka Home Staging). 

Some things they did:
-Had a dog sitter keep their 2 dogs. 
  This can be very distracting. Especially if a potential buyer is allergic or afraid of pets.
-Decluttered and put the extra items in storage.  
  Removing unnecessary and unneeded items show a homes true size and potential buyers can flow through the space more easily.
-Removed personal and/or distracting items.
  You want potential buyers to focus on your home and it's characteristics. Not your personal pictures, trophies, and memorabilia. I do this for a living and I can't tell you how many times I've found myself distracted, so just imagine how it is for a buyer.
-They made minor repairs.
  Potential buyers will overestimate the cost of any repairs, so just take care of them prior to listing.
-They replaced the deteriorating wood on the front steps.
-They manicured the yard which included pulling large bushes.
  Home Staging starts from the moment potential buyers pull up. Make sure the exterior is as impressive as the inside.
-They had their appliances and major systems serviced.
  Better to do it now rather than waiting for any issues to show up on the home inspection report.
-They prepared a list of all the upgrades they did.
  This shows the potential buyer why your home is better than the competition and worth every penny! 

6) Lastly, they trusted the process! 
  By spending a couple of hundred dollars upfront to get their home ready, by being flexible despite the inconvenience of having to keep their home in pristine condition, and being ready to leave the house for a showing, they sold their home quickly and for more than they imagined!

For more information on Home Staging, click HERE

If you need to SELL your home, contact me for a no obligation consultation at (404) 857-2508!

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Atlanta and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.NatashaKnowsATLHomes.com Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Winter Maintenance

home maintenance 250.jpgWith a 2,000+ mile long winter storm affecting much of the country, there are plenty of home owners who wish they were better prepared.  Even when you live in warm climates, some of these things are important to check periodically.

Preparing for the change of seasons can make your home more comfortable and protect your investment.  Regular maintenance extends the various components of a home and can generate savings in operating costs while avoiding expensive replacements.

  • Weather strips around doors and windows should be checked for possible air leaks.
  • Caulking around windows and doors should seal out moisture and air leaks.
  • HVAC should be inspected and serviced by a professional annually.
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested regularly.
  • Ductwork and supply lines from water heaters should be insulated.
  • Fireplace chimneys should be cleaned regularly and fireplaces should be inspected for cracks in mortar and to see if the damper closes properly.
  • Gutters should be free of leaves and debris to prevent rainwater build-up.
  • Tree branches touching or hanging over your roof should be trimmed.

Please contact us if you need a service provider recommendation.

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Motivated Sellers, Better Prices and Less Competition

winter house 250.jpgThe Winter Home Buyer Report conducted in the second week of November by REALTOR.com® revealed the sentiments of current home buyers expecting to buy a house during the winter months.  It appears that there is pent-up demand with buyers who were unable to purchase a home recently.

Most cited as an impediment to purchase was the challenge of low inventory.  Strong demand coupled with short supply explains why home prices have been increasing.

"This summer and spring home buying season was particularly challenging for buyers, especially first-time home buyers trying to compete with all-cash offers and bidding wars because of reduced inventory.  In fact, a quarter of the winter home buyers revealed they are in the market now because they were unable to find a home during this last home buying season," said Alison Schwartz, vice president of corporate communications at REALTOR.com®.  "While buyers are still experiencing challenges with inventory and approximately one in five buyers plan to put down all cash, there are advantages to looking for a home in the winter. Motivated sellers, better prices and less competition between buyers are some of the top reasons winter home buyers are interested in purchasing a home during the colder months of the year."

Some interesting statistics taken from the report are:

Biggest challenges when searching for a home during winter:

34 percent shared that there is not enough inventory on the market
• 29 percent believe that winter weather makes house hunting unpleasant
 

Traditionally, the industry has found that the fourth quarter of the year has a lower sales volume and is generally attributed to distractions from the holidays and not wanting to make a move during consistently inclement weather.  Even in areas that are not affected by extreme winter weather, there seems to be a mindset about moving in the winter.

Indications are that it may be advantageous for sellers to put their home on the market now rather than wait until after the first of the year.

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Thanksgiving is Always in Season

Thanksgiving250.jpgMost school children would probably say that Thanksgiving dates back to the Pilgrims at Plymouth as early as 1621. By the late 1660’s, it had become traditional to hold a harvest festival in New England.

President George Washington declared the first nation-wide thanksgiving in 1789 “as a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favours of Almighty God.”

One hundred fifty years ago during the Civil War, in October, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the first national day of Thanksgiving.

William Seward, Lincoln’s secretary of state, drafted the proclamation: “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God…they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.”

Even though the country was in the middle of the costly Civil War, the people of America started an enduring tradition to give thanks. In 1941, Congress determined that Thanksgiving will be celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November.

 

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Refinance to Remove a Person

refinance 250.jpgMost people are familiar with the various reasons a homeowner refinances their home which generally result in two major benefits: saving interest and building equity. 

There is however another reason to refinance which may not be as common which is to remove a person from the loan. In the case of a divorce, when one party wants to keep the home and the other party wants their equity out of the home, it is possible for the remaining party to refinance the home. If the equity is sufficient to justify it and the remaining owner can qualify for the new loan, the refinance can provide the proceeds to buy out the other spouse.

Refinancing to remove a person from the loan could also involve a situation where two or more heirs jointly own a property and have differing opinions on when to sell. The same situation could apply to a rental property with multiple owners and the refinance would provide a way to buy out a partner.

Sometimes, it’s not about taking cash out of the home to buy out the other party. If a person’s name is on the mortgage, they’re responsible if it goes to default. One party may be willing to deed the home to the other party but it doesn’t necessarily relieve them of the liability of the mortgage they originated.

Many times, once a person has made their mind to move on, they’ll take the fastest and easiest way out. Removing a person from the deed or a mortgage is a reason to consider obtaining legal advice to protect your interests. Refinance Analysis calculator.

Reasons to Refinance

1. Lower the rate
2. Shorten the term
3. Take cash out of the equity
4. Combine loans
5. Remove a person from a loan

Friday, November 15, 2013

The Skinny on Real Estate during the Holidays

 Check out this great advice from a trusted source... 




Want this handout emailed to you? 
Click here to email me your request or leave a comment.

Do you need to BUY or SELL?
Call me at (404) 857-2508 to see how I'll get it done!
 Not local? No problem! 

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Atlanta and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.NatashaKnowsATLHomes.com Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Who's Paying Your Mortgage?

who is paying your mortgageAs a homeowner, you obviously pay for your mortgage but as an investor, your tenant does.  Equity build-up is a significant benefit of mortgaged rental property.  As the investor collects rent and pays expenses, the principal amount of the loan is reduced which increases the equity in the property.  Over time, the tenant pays for the property to the benefit of the investor.

Equity build-up occurs with normal amortization as the loan is paid down.  It can be accelerated by making additional contributions to the principal each month along with the normal payment.  Some investors consider this a good use of the cash flows because interest rates on savings accounts and certificates of deposits are much lower than their mortgage rate.

In the example below, is a hypothetical rental with a purchase price of $125,000 with 80% loan-to-value mortgage at 4.5% for 30 years compared to a 3.5% for 15 years.  The acquisition costs were estimated at $3,000, the monthly rent is estimated at $1,250 and $4,800 for operating expenses. 

11-11-2013 7-42-16 AM.png

Notice that both properties have a positive cash flow before tax.  The cash on cash return is the revenue less expenses including debt service divided by the initial investment to acquire the property.  The 15 year mortgage will obviously have a smaller cash flow and lower cash on cash but the equity build-up is significantly higher.

If the goal of the investor is to pay off the property to provide the highest possible cash flow at a later date, a shorter term mortgage with a lower interest rate will help them achieve that.  A simple definition of an investment is to put away today so you’ll have more tomorrow.  Sacrificing cash flow now, during an investor’s earning years, is a reasonable expectation to provide more cash flow in the future when it might be needed more.

Contact me if you’d like to explore rental property opportunities.

Friday, November 1, 2013

7 Hardcore Tips for Finding a Rental Home


 If you are looking to rent a home, this info will help YOU tremendously!



Two Ways to Find a Rental Home

1) If you are finding a rental home on your own, call the agent listing the property directly (aka Listing Agent) to schedule a showing, to apply, etc.

2) If you are finding a rental home by working with an agent, ONLY WORK WITH THAT ONE AGENT.

DO NOT "work with" multiple agents (having them show you several properties) because only 1 of those agents will get paid! This is a HUGE frustration for agents and the reason many do not work with renters. Don't believe me??? Check out this post! Why Don’t Real Estate Agents call me back about a Rental?


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Helpful Tips for Renters
1) Know what you want.
A rental should be relatively easy to find. If you are searching for months or have seen tons of homes, you should re-evaluate your criteria, motives for moving, and finances.

2) Be ready to apply.
Rentals go quickly, act fast.

3) Be realistic about what you can get for your price range. 
Good school districts and large homes come at a higher price.

4) Don't be too picky.  
This normally has something to do with #3. If you are not finding what you want, look into buying or building a home.  

5) In a multiple application scenario, offer more rent and/or security deposit. 
You have to stand out from the other applicants.  



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Want a Real Estate Agent to Help You Find a Rental Home?  Keep this in mind!
 
The reality is AGENTS DO NOT MAKE MUCH MONEY ON RENTALS and if they worked with primarily rentals, it would be hard for them to stay in business and feed their families for long.   Honestly, it can take as much time and effort as it takes to work with someone buying a home and the compensation is very little (in some cases not enough to cover gas). 

Now that you know this, if you do find an agent willing to work with you, do your part to make the process a positive experience for the both of you!


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Additional Tips When Working With an Agent

6) Do as much of the ground work yourself. 
Drive by the neighborhood and scope out the neighborhood and house to make sure it is a serious contender. Then contact your agent to set up a showing. This will save a lot of time & energy.

7) Be upfront, open, and honest.  
Keep your agent in the loop and disclose anything that may affect your ability to be approved for a rental. I have known agents to work with renters for months and show them tons of homes only to find out the renter couldn't get approved because of something they didn't disclose.

Bonus!

8) Prepare a letter explaining any credit issues or special considerations to accompany your application.  
Address potentials negatives upfront. You may not get another chance to do so.


I hope this was helpful. Good luck! 

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Natasha Bazile is a Realtor and Home Stager. She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.SoldbyNat.com  Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube






Wednesday, October 30, 2013

5 bed / 3 bath in Lawrenceville, GA


Home Sweet Home! 

Well maintained home with fenced yard, antiqued & sealed concrete patio, and deck. Great for kids, pets, and entertaining! 

Upgrades include: new HVAC, wood blinds, custom window screens (UV & heat blocking), sprinkler system, laminate floors w/ 20 year warranty, ceiling fans. 

A must see! Priced to sell, not a short sale or foreclosure. 1 year AHS Home Warranty available.




If you are considering SELLING your home, now is the time to GET OFF THE FENCE! Give me a call at (404) 857-2508!
  
 In Georgia, I service Monroe, Loganville, Grayson, Snellville, Lilburn, Lithonia, Lawrenceville, Duluth, Dacula, and Stone Mountain. 

Outside of these areas? No problem! I can still help!

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Atlanta and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.NatashaKnowsATLHomes.com Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube


Homeowner's Feedback about their SALE - Loganville, GA


Just received these kind words from a seller I had the pleasure of working with (her home went under contract in 15 days; closed in a month). While I didn't get to physically meet her because she now resides in Iowa, she was a joy to work with! 

Hi Natasha!

I hope this email finds you enjoying your day! If I had ten thousand tongues I could not thank you enough for your patience and outstanding professionalism. I appreciate the fact that you always made time for me, and were always willing to answer my many questions. If given any future opportunities, I will recommend you to friends and family members in need of assistance. Too, I received the card you sent today, and I would like to thank you for making a donation in my name. May the kindness you have shown me be returned to you in blessings too numerous for you to count!

Thanks again and may you always be prosperous in all that you do!
-Sherri




If you are planning to SELL your home, give me a call at (404) 857-2508!
  
 In Georgia, I service Monroe, Loganville, Grayson, Snellville, Lilburn, Lithonia, Lawrenceville, Duluth, Dacula, and Stone Mountain. 

Outside of these areas? No problem! I can still help!

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Natasha Liburd Bazile is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Atlanta and the Lead Home Stager with Heart of Decor in Georgia (virtual services available). She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
www.NatashaKnowsATLHomes.com Email - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube