Sierra Gold Properties tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2008://1 2008-03-15T16:31:06Z Stake Your Claim in Gold Country Movable Type 3.35 El Dorado Hills SFR $163,500 tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2008://1.16 2008-03-15T16:13:49Z 2008-03-15T16:31:06Z
New Price $163,500 in El Dorado Hills$163,500
 

Mobile Home

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Unit
Interior: 1782 sqft

Location
1130 White Rock Road
# 118
El Dorado Hills, CA 95672

]]> ]]> Working with a REALTOR® - Buying a home tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2007://1.15 2007-07-07T20:19:24Z 2007-07-07T20:28:14Z Buying a home calls for your informed decision based in part on the knowledge, judgment and guidance of a real estate broker or agent -- particularly one who is a REALTOR®. Unlike many real estate agents who are simply licensed... Buying a home calls for your informed decision based in part on the knowledge, judgment and guidance of a real estate broker or agent -- particularly one who is a REALTOR®. Unlike many real estate agents who are simply licensed by their state to do business, REALTORS® have taken additional steps to become members of their local Board of REALTORS® and have agreed to act under and adhere to a Code of Ethics. This membership obligates them to be fair to all parties involved in this transaction, be it buyer, seller or cooperating agent. Be sure your real estate agent is a REALTOR®. REALTORS® do more...much more...Than you may think. A REALTOR® can help you determine how much home you can afford. Often a REALTOR® can suggest ways to accrue the down payment and explain alternative financing methods. A REALTOR®, in addition to knowing the local money market, also can tell you what personal and financial data to bring with you when you apply for a loan. A REALTOR® is already familiar with current real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, and may be aware of local zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy. A REALTOR® can usually research your housing needs in advance through a Multiple Listing Service -- even if you are relocating to another city. A REALTOR® can help familiarize you with the closing process. A REALTOR® shows you only those homes best suited to your needs -- size, style, features, location, accessibility to schools, transportation, shopping, and other personal preferences. A REALTOR® often can suggest simply, imaginative changes that could make a home more suitable for you and improve its utility and value. A REALTOR®, though generally acting as an agent for the property owner, is bound and obligated by the Code of Ethics to give fair treatment to all parties in the transaction. A REALTOR® is sensitive to the importance you place on this major commitment you are about to make. Count on this real estate professional to facilitate negotiation of an agreement satisfactory to both seller and buyer. If you see a home as one of your most important investments, the REALTOR® you work with could be one of your most valuable resources. As a home buyer, you can expect the commitment, integrity and expertise that you'll find in REALTORS®. It is the business of a REALTOR® to work with you by understanding your home buying needs and showing you properties that fit your lifestyle and budget. Selling your home alone - Read this first! tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2007://1.13 2007-07-07T20:07:10Z 2007-07-07T20:17:42Z The mega-hit movie "Home Alone" featured some hilarious traps for unsuspecting bad guys. Selling a home alone has just as many pitfalls for unprepared good guys - and there's nothing funny about them. That's why most of us use a... On average, studies have shown that you may net 2-3 percent more--after paying the commission--by using an aget. ]]> Yet experts say about 15 percent of potential sellers first try to save the agent's commission by doing a For Sale By Owner, commonly called a FSBO (pronounced fizzbow). Some succeed. The Jones, for example, have sold several homes on their own. But Mrs. Jones, who heads her own advertising agency, concedes that a lot of time and effort is involved long before they put their house up for sale. "We study the market before we buy, get a choice location, do the remodeling that will give us a return on our investment and strive to have the most attractive looking yard and home in the community," she says. They also analyze home sales methodically, set their price carefully, hire a lawyer who specializes in real estate and apply all the professional marketing and negotiating skills they've developed over the years. Could your FSBO be successful? Perhaps, but keep in mind that many of the 15 percent of would-be FSBO sellers invest time and money in the process, then turn to an agent when sales prospects dwindle. Moreover, agent-assisted sales typically put more money into a seller's pocket than a FSBO, according to studies cited by real estate specialists. How much more? On average, studies have shown that you may net 2-3 percent more--after paying the commission--by using an aget. Your REALTOR® earns that commission--and you do come out ahead. One big reason is the way shoppers approach FSBOs. Buyers are looking for a steal when they're going to a FSBO. They automatically deduct a sales commission before they start negotiating. The old saying is true: both sides cannot save the same fee. There are other major financial and even emotional factors to consider before selling your own home. For example, an agent can give you competitive pricing and marketing edges that would require time, money or both to achieve on your own. You can't just talk to the neighbors for real estate pricing information. They may say that the Smiths got a price they liked, but that doesn't mean they got their asking price. REALTORS® have updated, comprehensive data on actual sale prices of homes in your area. They'll also give your house a broader exposure to the entire market than you can, especially if they're part of the multiple listing service available only to those displaying the REALTOR® symbol. Statistics have shown that less than 5 percent of houses actually sell from an ad in the newspaper. And never forget you're competing against savvy pros, so you should offer at least some of the many services provided by agents: Be informed about the wide range of financing options buyers have. Be knowledgeable about details of your home (dimensions, building materials, average utility bills) and your neighborhood (schools, zoning, planning). Be sure your home is staged properly to showcase its benefits from curb to closets. Be available for showings day and night, seven days a week to reach the widest possible range of buyers. And, be very aware of your disclosure requirements so you don't have to pay unnecessary damages. Yet even all that isn't the hardest part, say agents. The toughest thing for most sellers on their own is not being able to screen prospective buyers. It usually starts as an annoyance over time-consuming tours by curious neighbors or financially unqualified visitors. It may include concerns about strangers parading through your home. It often escalates into anger as you hear unflattering comments about your house. And, ultimately, it can get downright ugly as negotiations become heated. "I've been in the business 25 years and I wouldn't sell my own home just for reason of emotion," says one local Tucson REALTOR®. "I feel you need an in-between person to do your negotiating. We all have sentimental values connected with our home that cloud our judgment." That's an opinion shared by most veteran real estate salespeople. They believe their expertise and efforts in pricing, marketing and negotiating are well worth their commission. Which brings up a simple question: if most pros won't sell their own homes alone, are you sure you really want to? Code of Ethics tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2007://1.1 2007-07-07T16:34:55Z 2007-07-07T16:41:03Z 2003 Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice The 2003 Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association of REALTORS® is provided below.... 2003 Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice

The 2003 Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association of REALTORS® is provided below.

]]> Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
of the National Association of REALTORS®

Effective January 1, 2003
 



Where the word REALTORS® is used in this Code and Preamble, it shall be deemed to include REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®s.

While the Code of Ethics establishes obligations that may be higher than those mandated by law, in any instance where the Code of Ethics and the law conflict, the obligations of the law must take precedence.

Preamble
Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization. REALTORS® should recognize that the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the widest distribution of land ownership. They require the creation of adequate housing, the building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the preservation of a healthful environment.

Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS® should dedicate themselves, and for which they should be diligent in preparing themselves. REALTORS®, therefore, are zealous to maintain and improve the standards of their calling and share with their fellow REALTORS® a common responsibility for its integrity and honor.

In recognition and appreciation of their obligations to clients, customers, the public, and each other, REALTORS® continuously strive to become and remain informed on issues affecting real estate and, as knowledgeable professionals, they willingly share the fruit of their experience and study with others. They identify and take steps, through enforcement of this Code of Ethics and by assisting appropriate regulatory bodies, to eliminate practices which may damage the public or which might discredit or bring dishonor to the real estate profession. REALTORS® having direct personal knowledge of conduct that may violate the Code of Ethics involving misappropriation of client or customer funds or property, willful discrimination, or fraud resulting in substantial economic harm, bring such matters to the attention of the appropriate Board or Association of REALTORS®. (Amended 1/00)

Realizing that cooperation with other real estate professionals promotes the best interests of those who utilize their services, REALTORS® urge exclusive representation of clients; do not attempt to gain any unfair advantage over their competitors; and they refrain from making unsolicited comments about other practitioners. In instances where their opinion is sought, or where REALTORS® believe that comment is necessary, their opinion is offered in an objective, professional manner, uninfluenced by any personal motivation or potential advantage or gain.

The term REALTOR® has come to connote competency, fairness, and high integrity resulting from adherence to a lofty ideal of moral conduct in business relations. No inducement of profit and no instruction from clients ever can justify departure from this ideal.

In the interpretation of this obligation, REALTORS® can take no safer guide than that which has been handed down through the centuries, embodied in the Golden Rule, "Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them."

Accepting this standard as their own, REALTORS® pledge to observe its spirit in all of their activities and to conduct their business in accordance with the tenets set forth below.


Duties to Clients and Customers


Article 1
When representing a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant, or other client as an agent, REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client. This obligation to the client is primary, but it does not relieve REALTORS® of their obligation to treat all parties honestly. When serving a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant or other party in a non-agency capacity, REALTORS® remain obligated to treat all parties honestly. (Amended 1/01)

  • Standard of Practice 1-1
      REALTORS®, when acting as principals in a real estate transaction, remain obligated by the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 1-2
      The duties the Code of Ethics imposes are applicable whether REALTORS® are acting as agents or in legally recognized non-agency capacities except that any duty imposed exclusively on agents by law or regulation shall not be imposed by this Code of Ethics on REALTORS® acting in non-agency capacities.

      As used in this Code of Ethics, "client" means the person(s) or entity(ies) with whom a REALTOR® or a REALTOR®'s firm has an agency or legally recognized non-agency relationship; "customer" means a party to a real estate transaction who receives information, services, or benefits but has no contractual relationship with the REALTOR® or the REALTOR®'s firm; "agent" means a real estate licensee (including brokers and sales ASSOCIATEs) acting in an agency relationship as defined by state law or regulation; and "broker" means a real estate licensee (including brokers and sales ASSOCIATEs) acting as an agent or in a legally recognized non-agency capacity. (Adopted 1/95, Amended 1/99)
  • Standard of Practice 1-3
      REALTORS®, in attempting to secure a listing, shall not deliberately mislead the owner as to market value.
  • Standard of Practice 1-4
      REALTORS®, when seeking to become a buyer/tenant representative, shall not mislead buyers or tenants as to savings or other benefits that might be realized through use of the REALTOR®'s services. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 1-5
      REALTORS® may represent the seller/landlord and buyer/tenant in the same transaction only after full disclosure to and with informed consent of both parties. (Adopted 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 1-6
      REALTORS® shall submit offers and counter-offers objectively and as quickly as possible. (Adopted 1/93, Amended 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 1-7
      When acting as listing brokers, REALTORS® shall continue to submit to the seller/landlord all offers and counter-offers until closing or execution of a lease unless the seller/landlord has waived this obligation in writing. REALTORS® shall not be obligated to continue to market the property after an offer has been accepted by the seller/landlord. REALTORS® shall recommend that sellers/landlords obtain the advice of legal counsel prior to acceptance of a subsequent offer except where the acceptance is contingent on the termination of the pre-existing purchase contract or lease. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 1-8
      REALTORS® acting as agents or brokers of buyers/tenants shall submit to buyers/tenants all offers and counter-offers until acceptance but have no obligation to continue to show properties to their clients after an offer has been accepted unless otherwise agreed in writing. REALTORS® acting as agents or brokers of buyers/ tenants shall recommend that buyers/tenants obtain the advice of legal counsel if there is a question as to whether a pre-existing contract has been terminated. (Adopted 1/93, Amended 1/99)
  • Standard of Practice 1-9
      The obligation of REALTORS® to preserve confidential information (as defined by state law) provided by their clients in the course of any agency relationship or non-agency relationship recognized by law continues after termination of agency relationships or any non-agency relationships recognized by law. REALTORS® shall not knowingly, during or following the termination of professional relationships with their clients:
      1. reveal confidential information of clients; or
      2. use confidential information of clients to the disadvantage of clients; or
      3. use confidential information of clients for the REALTOR®'s advantage or the advantage of third parties unless:
        1. clients consent after full disclosure; or
        2. REALTORS® are required by court order; or
        3. it is the intention of a client to commit a crime and the information is necessary to prevent the crime; or
        4. it is necessary to defend a REALTOR® or the REALTOR®'s employees or ASSOCIATEs against an accusation of wrongful conduct.

      Information concerning latent material defects is not considered confidential information under this Code of Ethics. (Adopted 1/93, Amended 1/01)
  • Standard of Practice 1-10
      REALTORS® shall, consistent with the terms and conditions of their real estate licensure and their property management agreement, competently manage the property of clients with due regard for the rights, safety and health of tenants and others lawfully on the premises. (Adopted 1/95, Amended 1/00)
  • Standard of Practice 1-11
      REALTORS® who are employed to maintain or manage a client's property shall exercise due diligence and make reasonable efforts to protect it against reasonably foreseeable contingencies and losses. (Adopted 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 1-12
      When entering into listing contracts, REALTORS® must advise sellers/landlords of:
      1. the REALTOR®'s company policies regarding cooperation and the amount(s) of any compensation that will be offered to subagents, buyer/tenant agents, and/or brokers acting in legally recognized non-agency capacities;
      2. the fact that buyer/tenant agents or brokers, even if compensated by listing brokers, or by sellers/landlords may represent the interests of buyers/tenants; and
      3. any potential for listing brokers to act as disclosed dual agents, e.g. buyer/tenant agents. (Adopted 1/93, Renumbered 1/98, Amended 1/03)
  • Standard of Practice 1-13
      When entering into buyer/tenant agreements, REALTORS® must advise potential clients of:
      1. the REALTOR®'s general company policies regarding cooperation and compensation; and
      2. any potential for the buyer/tenant representative to act as a disclosed dual agent, e.g. listing broker, subagent, landlord's agent, etc. (Adopted 1/93, Renumbered 1/98, Amended 1/99)
  • Standard of Practice 1-14
      Fees for preparing appraisals or other valuations shall not be contingent upon the amount of the appraisal or valuation. (Adopted 1/02)
  • Standard of Practice 1-15
      REALTORS®, in response to inquiries from buyers or cooperating brokers shall, with the sellers' approval, divulge the existence of offers on the property. (Adopted 1/03)
    Article 2
    REALTORS® shall avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation, or concealment of pertinent facts relating to the property or the transaction. REALTORS® shall not, however, be obligated to discover latent defects in the property, to advise on matters outside the scope of their real estate license, or to disclose facts which are confidential under the scope of agency or non-agency relationships as defined by state law. (Amended 1/00)

  • Standard of Practice 2-1
      REALTORS® shall only be obligated to discover and disclose adverse factors reasonably apparent to someone with expertise in those areas required by their real estate licensing authority. Article 2 does not impose upon the REALTOR® the obligation of expertise in other professional or technical disciplines. (Amended 1/96)
  • Standard of Practice 2-2
      (Renumbered as Standard of Practice 1-12 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 2-3
      (Renumbered as Standard of Practice 1-13 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 2-4
      REALTORS® shall not be parties to the naming of a false consideration in any document, unless it be the naming of an obviously nominal consideration.
  • Standard of Practice 2-5
      Factors defined as "non-material" by law or regulation or which are expressly referenced in law or regulation as not being subject to disclosure are considered not "pertinent" for purposes of Article 2. (Adopted 1/93)
    Article 3
    REALTORS® shall cooperate with other brokers except when cooperation is not in the client's best interest. The obligation to cooperate does not include the obligation to share commissions, fees, or to otherwise compensate another broker. (Amended 1/95)

  • Standard of Practice 3-1
      REALTORS®, acting as exclusive agents or brokers of sellers/ landlords, establish the terms and conditions of offers to cooperate. Unless expressly indicated in offers to cooperate, cooperating brokers may not assume that the offer of cooperation includes an offer of compensation. Terms of compensation, if any, shall be ascertained by cooperating brokers before beginning efforts to accept the offer of cooperation. (Amended 1/99)
  • Standard of Practice 3-2
      REALTORS® shall, with respect to offers of compensation to another REALTOR®, timely communicate any change of compensation for cooperative services to the other REALTOR® prior to the time such REALTOR® produces an offer to purchase/lease the property.
      (Amended 1/94)
  • Standard of Practice 3-3
      Standard of Practice 3-2 does not preclude the listing broker and cooperating broker from entering into an agreement to change cooperative compensation. (Adopted 1/94)
  • Standard of Practice 3-4
      REALTORS®, acting as listing brokers, have an affirmative obligation to disclose the existence of dual or variable rate commission arrangements (i.e., listings where one amount of commission is payable if the listing broker's firm is the procuring cause of sale/lease and a different amount of commission is payable if the sale/lease results through the efforts of the seller/landlord or a cooperating broker). The listing broker shall, as soon as practical, disclose the existence of such arrangements to potential cooperating brokers and shall, in response to inquiries from cooperating brokers, disclose the differential that would result in a cooperative transaction or in a sale/lease that results through the efforts of the seller/landlord. If the cooperating broker is a buyer/tenant representative, the buyer/tenant representative must disclose such information to their client before the client makes an offer to purchase or lease. (Amended 1/02)
  • Standard of Practice 3-5
      It is the obligation of subagents to promptly disclose all pertinent facts to the principal's agent prior to as well as after a purchase or lease agreement is executed. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 3-6
      REALTORS® shall disclose the existence of an accepted offer to any broker seeking cooperation. (Adopted 5/86)
  • Standard of Practice 3-7
      When seeking information from another REALTOR® concerning property under a management or listing agreement, REALTORS® shall disclose their REALTOR® status and whether their interest is personal or on behalf of a client and, if on behalf of a client, their representational status. (Amended 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 3-8
      REALTORS® shall not misrepresent the availability of access to show or inspect a listed property. (Amended 11/87)
    Article 4
    REALTORS® shall not acquire an interest in or buy or present offers from themselves, any member of their immediate families, their firms or any member thereof, or any entities in which they have any ownership interest, any real property without making their true position known to the owner or the owner's agent or broker. In selling property they own, or in which they have any interest, REALTORS® shall reveal their ownership or interest in writing to the purchaser or the purchaser's representative. (Amended 1/00)

  • Standard of Practice 4-1
      For the protection of all parties, the disclosures required by Article 4 shall be in writing and provided by REALTORS® prior to the signing of any contract. (Adopted 2/86)
    Article 5
    REALTORS® shall not undertake to provide professional services concerning a property or its value where they have a present or contemplated interest unless such interest is specifically disclosed to all affected parties.

    Article 6
    REALTORS® shall not accept any commission, rebate, or profit on expenditures made for their client, without the client's knowledge and consent.

    When recommending real estate products or services (e.g., homeowner's insurance, warranty programs, mortgage financing, title insurance, etc.), REALTORS® shall disclose to the client or customer to whom the recommendation is made any financial benefits or fees, other than real estate referral fees, the REALTOR® or REALTOR®'s firm may receive as a direct result of such recommendation. (Amended 1/99)

  • Standard of Practice 6-1
      REALTORS® shall not recommend or suggest to a client or a customer the use of services of another organization or business entity in which they have a direct interest without disclosing such interest at the time of the recommendation or suggestion. (Amended 5/88)
    Article 7
    In a transaction, REALTORS® shall not accept compensation from more than one party, even if permitted by law, without disclosure to all parties and the informed consent of the REALTOR®'s client or clients. (Amended 1/93)

    Article 8
    REALTORS® shall keep in a special account in an appropriate financial institution, separated from their own funds, monies coming into their possession in trust for other persons, such as escrows, trust funds, clients' monies, and other like items.

    Article 9
    REALTORS®, for the protection of all parties, shall assure whenever possible that agreements shall be in writing, and shall be in clear and understandable language expressing the specific terms, conditions, obligations and commitments of the parties. A copy of each agreement shall be furnished to each party upon their signing or initialing. (Amended 1/95)

  • Standard of Practice 9-1
      For the protection of all parties, REALTORS® shall use reasonable care to ensure that documents pertaining to the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate are kept current through the use of written extensions or amendments. (Amended 1/93)

    Duties to the Public

    Article 10
    REALTORS® shall not deny equal professional services to any person for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. REALTORS® shall not be parties to any plan or agreement to discriminate against a person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. (Amended 1/90)

    REALTORS®, in their real estate employment practices, shall not discriminate against any person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. (Amended 1/00)

  • Standard of Practice 10-1
      REALTORS® shall not volunteer information regarding the racial, religious or ethnic composition of any neighborhood and shall not engage in any activity which may result in panic selling. REALTORS® shall not print, display or circulate any statement or advertisement with respect to the selling or renting of a property that indicates any preference, limitations or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. (Adopted 1/94)
  • Standard of Practice 10-2
      As used in Article 10 "real estate employment practices" relates to employees and independent contractors providing real-estate related services and the administrative and clerical staff directly supporting those individuals. (Adopted 1/00)
    Article 11
    The services which REALTORS® provide to their clients and customers shall conform to the standards of practice and competence which are reasonably expected in the specific real estate disciplines in which they engage; specifically, residential real estate brokerage, real property management, commercial and industrial real estate brokerage, real estate appraisal, real estate counseling, real estate syndication, real estate auction, and international real estate.

    REALTORS® shall not undertake to provide specialized professional services concerning a type of property or service that is outside their field of competence unless they engage the assistance of one who is competent on such types of property or service, or unless the facts are fully disclosed to the client. Any persons engaged to provide such assistance shall be so identified to the client and their contribution to the assignment should be set forth. (Amended 1/95)

  • Standard of Practice 11-1
      When REALTORS® prepare opinions of real property value or price, other than in pursuit of a listing or to assist a potential purchaser in formulating a purchase offer, such opinions shall include the following:
      1. identification of the subject property
      2. date prepared
      3. defined value or price
      4. limiting conditions, including statements of purpose(s) and intended user(s)
      5. any present or contemplated interest, including the possibility of representing the seller/landlord or buyers/tenants
      6. basis for the opinion, including applicable market data
      7. if the opinion is not an appraisal, a statement to that effect (Amended 1/01)
  • Standard of Practice 11-2
      The obligations of the Code of Ethics in respect of real estate disciplines other than appraisal shall be interpreted and applied in accordance with the standards of competence and practice which clients and the public reasonably require to protect their rights and interests considering the complexity of the transaction, the availability of expert assistance, and, where the REALTOR® is an agent or subagent, the obligations of a fiduciary. (Adopted 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 11-3
      When REALTORS® provide consultive services to clients which involve advice or counsel for a fee (not a commission), such advice shall be rendered in an objective manner and the fee shall not be contingent on the substance of the advice or counsel given. If brokerage or transaction services are to be provided in addition to consultive services, a separate compensation may be paid with prior agreement between the client and REALTOR®. (Adopted 1/96)
  • Standard of Practice 11-4
      The competency required by Article 11 relates to services contracted for between REALTORS® and their clients or customers; the duties expressly imposed by the Code of Ethics; and the duties imposed by law or regulation. (Adopted 1/02)
    Article 12
    REALTORS® shall be careful at all times to present a true picture in their advertising and representations to the public. REALTORS® shall also ensure that their professional status (e.g., broker, appraiser, property manager, etc.) or status as REALTORS® is clearly identifiable in any such advertising. (Amended 1/93)

  • Standard of Practice 12-1
      REALTORS® may use the term "free" and similar terms in their advertising and in other representations provided that all terms governing availability of the offered product or service are clearly disclosed at the same time. (Amended 1/97)
  • Standard of Practice 12-2
      REALTORS® may represent their services as "free" or without cost even if they expect to receive compensation from a source other than their client provided that the potential for the REALTOR® to obtain a benefit from a third party is clearly disclosed at the same time. (Amended 1/97)
  • Standard of Practice 12-3
      The offering of premiums, prizes, merchandise discounts or other inducements to list, sell, purchase, or lease is not, in itself, unethical even if receipt of the benefit is contingent on listing, selling, purchasing, or leasing through the REALTOR® making the offer. However, REALTORS® must exercise care and candor in any such advertising or other public or private representations so that any party interested in receiving or otherwise benefiting from the REALTOR®'s offer will have clear, thorough, advance understanding of all the terms and conditions of the offer. The offering of any inducements to do business is subject to the limitations and restrictions of state law and the ethical obligations established by any applicable Standard of Practice. (Amended 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 12-4
      REALTORS® shall not offer for sale/lease or advertise property without authority. When acting as listing brokers or as subagents, REALTORS® shall not quote a price different from that agreed upon with the seller/landlord. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 12-5
      REALTORS® shall not advertise nor permit any person employed by or affiliated with them to advertise listed property without disclosing the name of the firm. (Adopted 11/86)
  • Standard of Practice 12-6
      REALTORS®, when advertising unlisted real property for sale/lease in which they have an ownership interest, shall disclose their status as both owners/landlords and as REALTORS® or real estate licensees. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 12-7
      Only REALTORS® who participated in the transaction as the listing broker or cooperating broker (selling broker) may claim to have "sold" the property. Prior to closing, a cooperating broker may post a "sold" sign only with the consent of the listing broker. (Amended 1/96)
    Article 13
    REALTORS® shall not engage in activities that constitute the unauthorized practice of law and shall recommend that legal counsel be obtained when the interest of any party to the transaction requires it.

    Article 14
    If charged with unethical practice or asked to present evidence or to cooperate in any other way, in any professional standards proceeding or investigation, REALTORS® shall place all pertinent facts before the proper tribunals of the Member Board or affiliated institute, society, or council in which membership is held and shall take no action to disrupt or obstruct such processes. (Amended 1/99)

  • Standard of Practice 14-1
      REALTORS® shall not be subject to disciplinary proceedings in more than one Board of REALTORS® or affiliated institute, society or council in which they hold membership with respect to alleged violations of the Code of Ethics relating to the same transaction or event. (Amended 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 14-2
      REALTORS® shall not make any unauthorized disclosure or dissemination of the allegations, findings, or decision developed in connection with an ethics hearing or appeal or in connection with an arbitration hearing or procedural review. (Amended 1/92)
  • Standard of Practice 14-3
      REALTORS® shall not obstruct the Board's investigative or professional standards proceedings by instituting or threatening to institute actions for libel, slander or defamation against any party to a professional standards proceeding or their witnesses based on the filing of an arbitration request, an ethics complaint, or testimony given before any tribunal. (Adopted 11/87, Amended 1/99)
  • Standard of Practice 14-4
      REALTORS® shall not intentionally impede the Board's investigative or disciplinary proceedings by filing multiple ethics complaints based on the same event or transaction. (Adopted 11/88)

    Duties to REALTORS®

    Article 15
    REALTORS® shall not knowingly or recklessly make false or misleading statements about competitors, their businesses, or their business practices. (Amended 1/92)

  • Standard of Practice 15-1
      REALTORS® shall not knowingly or recklessly file false or unfounded ethics complaints. (Adopted 1/00)
    Article 16
    REALTORS® shall not engage in any practice or take any action inconsistent with the agency or other exclusive relationship recognized by law that other REALTORS® have with clients. (Amended 1/98)

  • Standard of Practice 16-1
      Article 16 is not intended to prohibit aggressive or innovative business practices which are otherwise ethical and does not prohibit disagreements with other REALTORS® involving commission, fees, compensation or other forms of payment or expenses.
      (Adopted 1/93, Amended 1/95)
  • Standard of Practice 16-2
      Article 16 does not preclude REALTORS® from making general announcements to prospective clients describing their services and the terms of their availability even though some recipients may have entered into agency agreements or other exclusive relationships with another REALTOR®. A general telephone canvass, general mailing or distribution addressed to all prospective clients in a given geographical area or in a given profession, business, club, or organization, or other classification or group is deemed "general" for purposes of this standard. (Amended 1/98)

      Article 16 is intended to recognize as unethical two basic types of solicitations:

      First, telephone or personal solicitations of property owners who have been identified by a real estate sign, multiple listing compilation, or other information service as having exclusively listed their property with another REALTOR®; and

      Second, mail or other forms of written solicitations of prospective clients whose properties are exclusively listed with another REALTOR® when such solicitations are not part of a general mailing but are directed specifically to property owners identified through compilations of current listings, "for sale" or "for rent" signs, or other sources of information required by Article 3 and Multiple Listing Service rules to be made available to other REALTORS® under offers of subagency or cooperation. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 16-3
      Article 16 does not preclude REALTORS® from contacting the client of another broker for the purpose of offering to provide, or entering into a contract to provide, a different type of real estate service unrelated to the type of service currently being provided (e.g., property management as opposed to brokerage). However, information received through a Multiple Listing Service or any other offer of cooperation may not be used to target clients of other REALTORS® to whom such offers to provide services may be made. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 16-4
      REALTORS® shall not solicit a listing which is currently listed exclusively with another broker. However, if the listing broker, when asked by the REALTOR®, refuses to disclose the expiration date and nature of such listing; i.e., an exclusive right to sell, an exclusive agency, open listing, or other form of contractual agreement between the listing broker and the client, the REALTOR® may contact the owner to secure such information and may discuss the terms upon which the REALTOR® might take a future listing or, alternatively, may take a listing to become effective upon expiration of any existing exclusive listing. (Amended 1/94)
  • Standard of Practice 16-5
      REALTORS® shall not solicit buyer/tenant agreements from buyers/tenants who are subject to exclusive buyer/tenant agreements. However, if asked by a REALTOR®, the broker refuses to disclose the expiration date of the exclusive buyer/tenant agreement, the REALTOR® may contact the buyer/tenant to secure such information and may discuss the terms upon which the REALTOR® might enter into a future buyer/tenant agreement or, alternatively, may enter into a buyer/tenant agreement to become effective upon the expiration of any existing exclusive buyer/tenant agreement. (Adopted 1/94, Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-6
      When REALTORS® are contacted by the client of another REALTOR® regarding the creation of an exclusive relationship to provide the same type of service, and REALTORS® have not directly or indirectly initiated such discussions, they may discuss the terms upon which they might enter into a future agreement or, alternatively, may enter into an agreement which becomes effective upon expiration of any existing exclusive agreement. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-7
      The fact that a client has retained a REALTOR® as an agent or in another exclusive relationship in one or more past transactions does not preclude other REALTORS® from seeking such former client's future business. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-8
      The fact that an exclusive agreement has been entered into with a REALTOR® shall not preclude or inhibit any other REALTOR® from entering into a similar agreement after the expiration of the prior agreement. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-9
      REALTORS®, prior to entering into an agency agreement or other exclusive relationship, have an affirmative obligation to make reasonable efforts to determine whether the client is subject to a current, valid exclusive agreement to provide the same type of real estate service. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-10
      REALTORS®, acting as agents of, or in another relationship with, buyers or tenants, shall disclose that relationship to the seller/landlord's agent or broker at first contact and shall provide written confirmation of that disclosure to the seller/landlord's agent or broker not later than execution of a purchase agreement or lease. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-11
      On unlisted property, REALTORS® acting as buyer/tenant agents or brokers shall disclose that relationship to the seller/landlord at first contact for that client and shall provide written confirmation of such disclosure to the seller/landlord not later than execution of any purchase or lease agreement.

      REALTORS® shall make any request for anticipated compensation from the seller/landlord at first contact. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-12
      REALTORS®, acting as agents or brokers of sellers/landlords or as subagents of listing brokers, shall disclose that relationship to buyers/tenants as soon as practicable and shall provide written confirmation of such disclosure to buyers/tenants not later than execution of any purchase or lease agreement. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-13
      All dealings concerning property exclusively listed, or with buyer/tenants who are subject to an exclusive agreement shall be carried on with the client's agent or broker, and not with the client, except with the consent of the client's agent or broker or except where such dealings are initiated by the client.

      Before providing substantive services (such as writing a purchase offer or presenting a CMA) to prospective purchasers, sellers, tenants or landlords ("prospects"), REALTORS® shall ask prospects whether they are a party to any exclusive representation agreement. REALTORS® shall not knowingly provide substantive services concerning a prospective transaction to prospects who are parties to exclusive representation agreements, except with the consent of the prospects' exclusive representatives or at the direction of prospects. (Adopted 1/93, Amended 1/03)
  • Standard of Practice 16-14
      REALTORS® are free to enter into contractual relationships or to negotiate with sellers/landlords, buyers/tenants or others who are not subject to an exclusive agreement but shall not knowingly obligate them to pay more than one commission except with their informed consent. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-15
      In cooperative transactions REALTORS® shall compensate cooperating REALTORS® (principal brokers) and shall not compensate nor offer to compensate, directly or indirectly, any of the sales licensees employed by or affiliated with other REALTORS® without the prior express knowledge and consent of the cooperating broker.
  • Standard of Practice 16-16
      REALTORS®, acting as subagents or buyer/tenant agents or brokers, shall not use the terms of an offer to purchase/lease to attempt to modify the listing broker's offer of compensation to subagents or buyer's agents or brokers nor make the submission of an executed offer to purchase/lease contingent on the listing broker's agreement to modify the offer of compensation. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-17
      REALTORS® acting as subagents or as buyer/tenant agents or brokers, shall not attempt to extend a listing broker's offer of cooperation and/or compensation to other brokers without the consent of the listing broker. (Amended 1/98)
  • Standard of Practice 16-18
      REALTORS® shall not use information obtained from listing brokers through offers to cooperate made through multiple listing services or through other offers of cooperation to refer listing brokers' clients to other brokers or to create buyer/tenant relationships with listing brokers' clients, unless such use is authorized by listing brokers. (Amended 1/02)
  • Standard of Practice 16-19
      Signs giving notice of property for sale, rent, lease, or exchange shall not be placed on property without consent of the seller/landlord. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 16-20
      REALTORS®, prior to or after terminating their relationship with their current firm, shall not induce clients of their current firm to cancel exclusive contractual agreements between the client and that firm. This does not preclude REALTORS® (principals) from establishing agreements with their ASSOCIATEd licensees governing assignability of exclusive agreements. (Adopted 1/98)
    Article 17
    In the event of contractual disputes or specific non-contractual disputes as defined in Standard of Practice 17-4 between REALTORS® (principals) ASSOCIATEd with different firms, arising out of their relationship as REALTORS®, the REALTORS® shall submit the dispute to arbitration in accordance with the regulations of their Board or Boards rather than litigate the matter.

    In the event clients of REALTORS® wish to arbitrate contractual disputes arising out of real estate transactions, REALTORS® shall arbitrate those disputes in accordance with the regulations of their Board, provided the clients agree to be bound by the decision.

    The obligation to participate in arbitration contemplated by this Article includes the obligation of REALTORS® (principals) to cause their firms to arbitrate and be bound by any award. (Amended 1/01)

  • Standard of Practice 17-1
      The filing of litigation and refusal to withdraw from it by REALTORS® in an arbitrable matter constitutes a refusal to arbitrate. (Adopted 2/86)
  • Standard of Practice 17-2
      Article 17 does not require REALTORS® to arbitrate in those circumstances when all parties to the dispute advise the Board in writing that they choose not to arbitrate before the Board. (Amended 1/93)
  • Standard of Practice 17-3
      REALTORS®, when acting solely as principals in a real estate transaction, are not obligated to arbitrate disputes with other REALTORS® absent a specific written agreement to the contrary. (Adopted 1/96)
  • Standard of Practice 17-4
      Specific non-contractual disputes that are subject to arbitration pursuant to Article 17 are:

      1. Where a listing broker has compensated a cooperating broker and another cooperating broker subsequently claims to be the procuring cause of the sale or lease. In such cases the complainant may name the first cooperating broker as respondent and arbitration may proceed without the listing broker being named as a respondent. Alternatively, if the complaint is brought against the listing broker, the listing broker may name the first cooperating broker as a third-party respondent. In either instance the decision of the hearing panel as to procuring cause shall be conclusive with respect to all current or subsequent claims of the parties for compensation arising out of the underlying cooperative transaction. (Adopted 1/97)

      2. Where a buyer or tenant representative is compensated by the seller or landlord, and not by the listing broker, and the listing broker, as a result, reduces the commission owed by the seller or landlord and, subsequent to such actions, another cooperating broker claims to be the procuring cause of sale or lease. In such cases the complainant may name the first cooperating broker as respondent and arbitration may proceed without the listing broker being named as a respondent. Alternatively, if the complaint is brought against the listing broker, the listing broker may name the first cooperating broker as a third-party respondent. In either instance the decision of the hearing panel as to procuring cause shall be conclusive with respect to all current or subsequent claims of the parties for compensation arising out of the underlying cooperative transaction. (Adopted 1/97)

      3. Where a buyer or tenant representative is compensated by the buyer or tenant and, as a result, the listing broker reduces the commission owed by the seller or landlord and, subsequent to such actions, another cooperating broker claims to be the procuring cause of sale or lease. In such cases the complainant may name the first cooperating broker as respondent and arbitration may proceed without the listing broker being named as a respondent. Alternatively, if the complaint is brought against the listing broker, the listing broker may name the first cooperating broker as a third-party respondent. In either instance the decision of the hearing panel as to procuring cause shall be conclusive with respect to all current or subsequent claims of the parties for compensation arising out of the underlying cooperative transaction. (Adopted 1/97)

      4. Where two or more listing brokers claim entitlement to compensation pursuant to open listings with a seller or landlord who agrees to participate in arbitration (or who requests arbitration) and who agrees to be bound by the decision. In cases where one of the listing brokers has been compensated by the seller or landlord, the other listing broker, as complainant, may name the first listing broker as respondent and arbitration may proceed between the brokers. (Adopted 1/97)

    The Code of Ethics was adopted in 1913. Amended at the Annual Convention in 1924, 1928, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1955, 1956, 1961, 1962, 1974, 1982, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002.

    Explanatory Notes
    The reader should be aware of the following policies which have been approved by the Board of Directors of the National Association:

    In filing a charge of an alleged violation of the Code of Ethics by a REALTOR®, the charge must read as an alleged violation of one or more Articles of the Code. Standards of Practice may be cited in support of the charge.

    The Standards of Practice serve to clarify the ethical obligations imposed by the various Articles and supplement, and do not substitute for, the Case Interpretations in Interpretations of the Code of Ethics.

    Modifications to existing Standards of Practice and additional new Standards of Practice are approved from time to time. Readers are cautioned to ensure that the most recent publications are utilized.

    COPYRIGHT© 2003 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
    REALTOR® - A registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

    The National Association of REALTORS®, 430 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611   Telephone: 1-800-874-6500

]]> Contact tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2007://1.2 2007-07-01T16:50:43Z 2007-07-07T16:54:10Z Contact me with any questions or suggestion at (530) 295-1236 or email me mailto:remaxgold@gmail.com... (530) 295-1236 or email me mailto:remaxgold@gmail.com]]> Contact me with any questions or suggestion at (530) 295-1236 or email me mailto:remaxgold@gmail.com

Sherilyn Lum-Alarcon

OFFICE
651 Main Street,
Placerville CA 95667

MAP IT

Cell: 530.306.7921
Office: 530.295.1236
FAX: 530.295.5808

]]> Selling your home - Its time to clean house! tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2006://1.14 2006-07-07T20:11:57Z 2007-07-07T20:13:16Z What can you do to boost your profits dramatically when you sell your home? Most real estate salespeople will answer with one word: clean. Don't be offended. No one's saying your house is dirty, but it does need to be... What can you do to boost your profits dramatically when you sell your home? Most real estate salespeople will answer with one word: clean. Don't be offended. No one's saying your house is dirty, but it does need to be showcased to its greatest advantage if you want to get the best possible price for it. REALTORS® call this "staging" your home for sale. It involves time and effort and may cost you from a few dollars up to a few thousand, but the payoff will be there. How much can a little elbow grease and attention to detail actually be worth? A house in tip-top shape priced at $100,000 will get its asking price or close to it, while you might have to take up to 10 percent less - $10,000 - for one without the finishing touches. A real estate professional can advise you on specific ways to present your home. Keep in mind that their recommendations aren't meant as criticisms. Rather, your home is competing against dozens of new and existing houses. So enhancing your home's market value may involve one or more of these factors: Curb appeal. You have just one chance to make a good first impression and this is it. Does your house need painting? Is the driveway free of stains? Are the lawn and shrubbery manicured? Do the screens need to be replaced? Buyers believe the condition of a home's exterior speaks volumes about the interior. Be sure your house makes a good impression. Front door. A freshly painted door, new or polished kickplate and a pot of flowers are warm and inviting. Stains, scratches, dents and cobwebs create an entirely different mood. Odors. The number on complaint of buyers in touring homes for sale is bad odors. Every house has a distinctive smell that its owner gets used to. But pungent odors - pets, tobacco, food - can turn a buyer off. A deep cleaning and deodorizing may be essential. Consider hiring a service if you don't want to do it yourself. Lighting and general appearance. As the song goes "let the sunshine in." Even if you prefer a dark house, most buyers react positively to a light, airy home. Besides, it makes your rooms seem more spacious. Open up the curtains and blinds, make sure the windows sparkle, wipe the baseboards, remove fingerprints from the doors and dust blinds and light fixtures. Carpeting and painting. Sellers often concede that carpeting should be replaced or rooms painted but decide instead to subtract the cost of these improvements from the sales price. The problem is that buyers inflate the cost of these improvements. Buyers begin making mental deductions from the moment they arrive. If something will cost $2,000, they may mentally figure $5,000, or if it's $100 they may think $1,000. In many cases they just don't want to bother. Seller are usually better off having the work done before putting their house on the market. Colors. Bold, vivid colors may suit your style, but neutral tones will appeal to the widest range of shoppers. A new coat of paint will earn you far more than it costs, including labor. Furnishings and keepsakes. If your rooms look crowded and your closets filled, your REALTOR® may suggest that you rearrange or even temporarily store furniture and hold a garage sale before showing. You may also want to protect your collectibles by packing them away. The goal is to highlight your house, not your possessions. Kitchens and bathrooms. Kitchens and baths sell houses and a thorough cleaning of those rooms is critical. But don't forget the extra touches. You might put some place settings around the kitchen table, dab a little vanilla on a light bulb with a cotton ball for a nice pleasant scent, organize the cabinets, put out fresh towels and decorative soaps. Clutter. Whenever you leave your home, the beds should be made, the sinks empty, the clothes hung up. That's not all. Newspapers, magazines, books, trophies, mementos and even large clusters of photos can all be costly distractions if they become the one thing a prospect remembers about your house. In this case, less is more. Perhaps you're thinking that all this staging will strip the personality from your home. Well, experts do find that depersonalized homes sell faster and at a better price than those left as is. Just think of the new, furnished model home down the road - that's your competition. Some real estate pros suggest that you compare selling a house to looking at a used car. The dealer keeps it in spotless condition, with no reminders of the previous owner, so shoppers can picture the car as theirs. That's just the reaction you want when you clean to clean-up on your real estate investment. Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Steps to Buying tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2006://1.12 2006-07-07T20:05:53Z 2007-07-07T20:07:05Z Before rushing into homeownership, prospective buyers must make sure they are ready to take on the added responsibilities of maintenance. Though owning offers the benefits of tax deductions and equity, it is more costly and time-consuming than renting.... Before rushing into homeownership, prospective buyers must make sure they are ready to take on the added responsibilities of maintenance. Though owning offers the benefits of tax deductions and equity, it is more costly and time-consuming than renting. Once they make the decision to buy, borrowers-to-be should figure out how much they can spend on a home by taking account of their other debts and getting prequalified by a mortgage lender. The prequalification process enables buyers to define their price range and facilitates negotiations with sellers. Given the difficulties of obtaining homeowner's insurance, buyers also would be wise to purchase a renter's policy from an insurer that also offers homeowner's coverage. Once they are finished house hunting and ready to move into their new home, the transition from a renter's policy to a homeowner's policy may be less burdensome. The buyers need to determine the type of home they wish to purchase and where they want to live. In addition, they need to choose a real estate agent based on personal interviews and referrals from family and friends. 20 Tips for Selling Your Home tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2003://1.11 2003-11-07T18:20:01Z 2007-07-07T17:22:47Z As a homeowner, you can play an important part in the timely sale of your property. When you take the following steps, you’ll help your RE/MAX Sales Associate sell your home faster, at the best possible price. The easiest and... As a homeowner, you can play an important part in the timely sale of your property. When you take the following steps, you’ll help your RE/MAX Sales Associate sell your home faster, at the best possible price.

The easiest and most reliable way to improve the appeal of your home is to enlist a quality home service professional. The right professional can help you get everything in order - from repainting the kitchen to providing a thorough cleaning - so you can stay focused on more important things.

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  • Make the Most of that First Impression
    A well-manicured lawn, neatly trimmed shrubs and a clutter-free porch welcome prospects. So does a freshly painted – or at least freshly scrubbed – front door. If it’s autumn, rake the leaves. If it’s winter, shovel the walkways. The fewer obstacles between prospects and the true appeal of your home, the better.

  • Invest a Few Hours for Future Dividends
    Here’s your chance to clean up in real estate. Clean up the living room, the bathroom, the kitchen. If your woodwork is scuffed or the paint is fading, consider some minor redecoration. Fresh wallpaper adds charm and value to your property. If you’re worried about time, hire professional cleaners or painters to get your house ready. Remember, prospects would rather see how great your home really looks than hear how great it could look "with a little work."

  • Check Faucets and Bulbs
    Dripping water rattles the nerves, discolors sinks, and suggests faulty or worn-out plumbing. Burned out bulbs or faulty wiring leave prospects in the dark. Don’t let little problems detract from what’s right with your home.

  • Don’t Shut Out a Sale
    If cabinets or closet doors stick in your home, you can be sure they will also stick in a prospect’s mind. Don’t try to explain away sticky situations when you can easily plane them away. A little effort on your part can smooth the way toward a closing.

  • Think Safety
    Homeowners learn to live with all kinds of self-set booby traps: roller skates on the stairs, festooned extension cords, slippery throw rugs and low hanging overhead lights. Make your residence as non-perilous as possible for uninitiated visitors.

  • Make Room for Space
    Remember, potential buyers are looking for more than just comfortable living space. They’re looking for storage space, too. Make sure your attic and basement are clean and free of unnecessary items.

  • Consider Your Closets
    The better organized a closet, the larger it appears. Now’s the time to box up those unwanted clothes and donate them to charity.

  • Make Your Bathroom Sparkle
    Bathrooms sell homes, so let them shine. Check and repair damaged or unsightly caulking in the tubs and showers. For added allure, display your best towels, mats, and shower curtains.

  • Create Dream Bedrooms
    Wake up prospects to the cozy comforts of your bedrooms. For a spacious look, get rid of excess furniture. Colorful bedspreads and fresh curtains are a must.

  • Open up in the Daytime
    Let the sun shine in! Pull back your curtains and drapes so prospects can see how bright and cheery your home is.

  • Lighten up at Night
    Turn on the excitement by turning on all your lights - both inside and outside - when showing your home in the evening. Lights add color and warmth, and make prospects feel welcome.

  • Avoid Crowd Scenes
    Potential buyers often feel like intruders when they enter a home filled with people. Rather than giving your house the attention it deserves, they're likely to hurry through. Keep the company present to a minimum.

  • Watch Your Pets
    Dogs and cats are great companions, but not when you're showing your home. Pets have a talent for getting underfoot. So do everybody a favor: Keep Kitty and Spot outside, or at least out of the way.

  • Think Volume
    Rock-and-roll will never die. But it might kill a real estate transaction. When it's time to show your home, it's time to turn down the stereo or TV.

  • Relax
    Be friendly, but don't try to force conversation. Prospects want to view your home with a minimum of distraction.

  • Don't Apologize
    No matter how humble your abode, never apologize for its shortcomings. If a prospect volunteers a derogatory comment about your home's appearance, let your experienced RE/MAX Associate handle the situation.

  • Keep a Low Profile
    Nobody knows your home as well as you do. But RE/MAX Sales Associates know buyers - what they need and what they want. Your RE/MAX Associate will have an easier time articulating the virtues of your home if you stay in the background.

  • Don't Turn Your Home into a Second-Hand Store
    When prospects come to view your home, don't distract them with offers to sell those furnishings you no longer need. You may lose the biggest sale of all.
  • Defer to Experience
    When prospects want to talk price, terms, or other real estate matters, let them speak to an expert - your RE/MAX Sales Associate.

  • Help Your Agent
    Your RE/MAX Associate will have an easier time selling your home if showings are scheduled through his or her office. You'll appreciate the results!
    • ]]>     You've Paid Off Your Home ... Or Have You? tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2003://1.10 2003-11-07T18:18:24Z 2007-07-07T17:19:45Z Some homeowners mistakenly assume that once they make the final payment on a mortgage that the debt automatically is wiped off the books. To the contrary, the mortgage borrowers must take specific action to clear the title on the lien.... Some homeowners mistakenly assume that once they make the final payment on a mortgage that the debt automatically is wiped off the books. To the contrary, the mortgage borrowers must take specific action to clear the title on the lien.

    ]]>
    "The Importance of Recording the Satisfaction of a Mortgage," Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (10/12/03) P. H-6; Karvel, George.

    ]]>     Know the Logical Steps of Buying tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2007://1.9 2003-11-07T18:17:02Z 2007-07-07T17:23:29Z Before rushing into homeownership, prospective buyers must make sure they are ready to take on the added responsibilities of maintenance. Though owning offers the benefits of tax deductions and equity, it is more costly and time-consuming than renting.... Before rushing into homeownership, prospective buyers must make sure they are ready to take on the added responsibilities of maintenance. Though owning offers the benefits of tax deductions and equity, it is more costly and time-consuming than renting.

    ]]>
    Given the difficulties of obtaining homeowner's insurance, buyers also would be wise to purchase a renter's policy from an insurer that also offers homeowner's coverage. Once they are finished house hunting and ready to move into their new home, the transition from a renter's policy to a homeowner's policy may be less burdensome.

    The buyers need to determine the type of home they wish to purchase and where they want to live. In addition, they need to choose a real estate agent based on personal interviews and referrals from family and friends.

    "How Do I Prepare for Home Purchase?" Inman News Features Online (10/13/03); Hymer, Dian.

    ]]>     Is Your Home Aging Gracefully? tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2003://1.8 2003-11-07T18:15:23Z 2007-07-07T17:16:36Z Most people say they hope to spend their retirement years right where they are, living out a full and independent existence in their own homes. Most of their dwellings, however, are not equipped to meet the needs of aging seniors.... Most people say they hope to spend their retirement years right where they are, living out a full and independent existence in their own homes. Most of their dwellings, however, are not equipped to meet the needs of aging seniors.

    ]]>
    Widening doorways and halls, for example, will accommodate a wheelchair that may be needed later in life. Other recommended changes include installing kitchen appliances at such a level to avoid bending too low or reaching too high; and also replacing standard doorknobs, cabinet handles, and faucets with easy-to-grip and easy-to-turn models designed specifically for older people.

    Finally, even if homeowners do not feel ready to add such features as benches and grab bars in the bathtub, they still can take steps that will make adding these accessories later a snap. These steps can include reinforcing the walls now as opposed to later.

    "Home Redesigns for Retirement Years," CBSMarketWatch.com (10/15/03); Loeb, Marshall, January, Brendan.

    ]]>     Great Deals Abound in Noisy Neighborhoods tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2003://1.7 2003-11-07T18:14:19Z 2007-07-07T17:15:09Z Homes located on busy streets or near train tracks often sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars less than those in quieter neighborhoods. Innovative noise-reduction techniques allow buyers to take advantage of these price discounts.... Homes located on busy streets or near train tracks often sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars less than those in quieter neighborhoods.
    Innovative noise-reduction techniques allow buyers to take advantage of these price discounts.

    ]]>
    Others incorporate U-shaped designs to close in the backyard and install intercoms to play music throughout the home.

    Another strategy is to build the master bedroom as far as possible from the source of the noise.

    "Keeping a Lid on It," San Francisco Chronicle (10/12/03) P. G1; Ginsburg, Marsha.

    ]]>     Rising Rates Don't Rule Out Second Home tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2003://1.6 2003-11-07T18:10:02Z 2007-07-07T17:12:36Z Despite the recent jump in interest rates, second-home buyers can still afford a purchase using creative financing. An "80-10-10" mortgage, for example, allows them to make a 10-percent down payment, finance 80 percent of the property value, and obtain a... Despite the recent jump in interest rates, second-home buyers can still afford a purchase using creative financing. An "80-10-10" mortgage, for example, allows them to make a 10-percent down payment, finance 80 percent of the property value, and obtain a second loan for the remaining 10 percent.

    ]]>
    The loan also makes sense for buyers who need to close the deal before they sell their current residence because it eliminates the need for costly bridge loans needed to help them pay two mortgages for a certain period of time.

    "Affording a Second Home When Rates Rise," Inman News Features Online (10/15/03); Kelly, Tom.

    ]]>     All Buyers Need Title Insurance tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2007://1.5 2003-11-07T18:07:36Z 2007-07-07T17:08:50Z Getting an owner's title insurance policy is important for all homebuyers, even if the residence is newly constructed. In fact, it is especially important for new-home buyers because they have risks not associated with previously owned properties.... Getting an owner's title insurance policy is important for all homebuyers, even if the residence is newly constructed. In fact, it is especially important for new-home buyers because they have risks not associated with previously owned properties.

    ]]>
    Moreover, the owner's policy will protect the buyer in the event that the builder failed to pay all of the contractors and suppliers - who could file mechanics' liens against the new home in an attempt to get compensation.

    "Title Insurance on a Brand-New House," Los Angeles Times Online (10/12/03); Bruss, Robert J.

    ]]>     Hesitant Buyers Often Lose Out tag:www.sierragoldproperties.com,2003://1.4 2003-11-07T18:03:18Z 2007-07-07T17:04:45Z Housing experts say many would-be first-time buyers hold off making a purchase until it is too late and prices have soared out of their reach. Many delay homeownership because they worry that property prices are too high, but they fail... Housing experts say many would-be first-time buyers hold off making a purchase until it is too late and prices have soared out of their reach. Many delay homeownership because they worry that property prices are too high, but they fail to realize that prices rarely decline.

    ]]>
    Moreover, they tend to spend money on unnecessary ATM fees, cell phones, and cable TV services rather than save money for a down payment.

    Some barriers are psychological, such as a fear of the responsibilities that accompany homeownership or an unwillingness to leave their community or expand the search beyond their dream home.

    However, experts believe homeownership is possible for such buyers if they avoid major purchases, research the buying process to become better informed, look at lower-priced homes in nearby communities and then move to their desired neighborhood once they have accumulated equity, make timely bill payments, and eliminate unnecessary expenses.

    One final suggestion would be to put whatever money is received from tax returns toward a down payment.

    "Dwelling on Excuses," New York Newsday (10/17/03) P. C8; Catalano, Joe.

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