Why do agents brag about the number of listings???

I always wonder why agents brag about the number of listings they have. While being able to list houses is an admirable quality, being able to sell them is better. When interviewing an agent to sell your house, find out how many houses they have successfully closed in the last year. Ask about the ratio of price received to price asked. (In other words, how close to asking price did the seller receive?) Find out how familiar the agent is about the various financing options out there. Will you be required to pay some of the buyer's costs? (The answer is probably!) Make sure the agent gives you statistics regarding the movement in the market where you live. Can she articulate the probable scenario that will unfold? Does she offer staging, pictures, and video on the internet? And, last, but most importantly, does he roll over when you ask about reducing commisssion? If the agent can't explain to you his value proposition, go to someone else. Do you want an agent who will roll on your negotiations??

Spring is Here.........The Perfect Storm

....and all thoughts turn to buying that perfect home! That is right. Did you know that in times of trouble, there are always opportunities? While some sellers are taking it hard on the chin, this is the perfect time to buy that house that you have always dreamed about. With many more listings than there are buyers, the selection in the lower price ranges is outstanding.

If you have not owned a house in the last three years, you are eligible for an $8000 tax credit courtesy of the federal government. If you can't use all of that credit because you don't owe that much tax, you can get a check back for the difference. Wow!

If you own a house now and have decent equity, you can buy a house that better fits your needs. Whether it is larger or smaller, in a better neighborhood or closer to work or school, there is a wide selection at outstanding value. Priced and staged correctly, houses are selling in a timely fashion in most price ranges. An expert opinion by a seasoned real estate professional will give you the information you need to get the best price in this market.

Please don't wait too long. The $8000 is good only for those buyers who close on their house by December 1st of this year. The bargains on houses won't last forever, either!

Maine Home Sales 2008

MREIS PRESS RELEASE - HOME SALES IN 2008: Single-family existing home sales in Maine fell 15.8% in December 2008 and 20.9% for all of 2008. According to MREIS, 9,502 homes sold last year, compared to 12,014 in 2007. The median sales price decreased 12.63% in December and was down 7.22% for all of 2008. The median sales price indicates that half of the homes were sold for more and half sold for less. The statewide median sales price in Maine was $99,990 in 1998. The statewide median sales price is $180,000 for 2008 - showing considerable long-term strength. Nationally, sales of single-family existing homes dipped 1.4% in December 2008. According to NAR nationwide sales for all of 2008 dropped 11.9%. In the Northeast, home sales decreased by 14.3%. The complete press release is posted at http://mainerealtors.com.