Category Archives for "Real Estate Tips"
May 9, 2018
- in Blog , Nancy Braun , Real Estate Tips by Nancy Braun
Downsizing Tips from Nancy Braun on Charlotte Today
In the latest episode of Charlotte Today, Nancy Braun shares some downsizing tips on what to do when you’re thinking of downsizing.
It’s a common situation. As people get older and their children move out, their housing needs also change. It’s no surprise that many empty-nesters and baby boomers are deciding to downsize.
Selling a house to downsize has its own unique set of challenges. That’s why Nancy shares tips for seniors downsizing and recommends decluttering and staging the home before putting it on the market. Over the years, people tend to accumulate so much stuff that when the time comes to sell the home, it can be daunting to manage everything.
Nancy gives free senior advice and talks about how she helps her clients in these situations by connecting them with different services to help them figure out what to do with their extra stuff.
She also discusses the different options available to moving seniors who want to sell their home but are hesitant because they haven't bought a new home. Nancy gives assurance that there are many creative solutions to seemingly insurmountable situations. Nancy also highlights the benefits that downsizing can bring like having the freedom and flexibility to do the things you always have wanted to do.
Looking for an experienced real estate team to help you determine what your home is worth? Nancy Braun and her team at Showcase Realty know what it takes to get top dollar for your current home and negotiate the best deal on a new one. If you’re ready to downsize, call them today at (704) 997-3794.
Downsizing Tips from Nancy Braun
Coleen: It's a stage of life that some of us dread and others look forward to: becoming an empty nester and one of the first things to consider is whether to downsize your home.
Eugene: Well this morning we welcome Nancy Braun with Showcase Realty to the show. Hello how are you doing today.
Nancy: Great, Good morning.
Eugene: Good.
Coleen: This is something a lot of our viewers are facing you know when the kids are leaving the house they're going off to college or getting jobs that kind of thing. It might be time to consider downsizing.
Nancy: Actually people downsize quite a few times. They don't necessarily do it once, it's kind of in stages. So they might have bought the house with the children in mind and then they wanted to be in a certain school district or they wanted a big yard or they wanted a pool. And now the house might not fit their needs for their current situation.
Eugene: You know you said the very first thing you do is consider putting your house on the market.
Nancy: Yes. So it's declutter and get your homes in a staged condition. So you know we just live in our homes. We have pets and we have lots of stuff and especially when you're downsizing you’re accumulating a lot of stuff.
Eugene: So much junk.
Nancy: That's right. That's right. So that's one of the biggest challenges people kind of freeze and say “Well I have too much stuff what am I going to do with it?”
Coleen: And I think it's a daunting task for most people when they think “We've lived here for 20 years you want me to you know we have all this stuff” How do we manage that Nancy? I mean is it selling pieces of furniture? Is it donating?
Nancy: It's all above. It's all above. So there are, we can connect our clients with different services and help them figure out you know the three piles. Am I going to donate? Am I going to sell? Or am I going to keep? Or am I going to trash out? So we can do it and it's just one room at a time. And we work through that because people they don't want to necessarily move with their boxes that they moved with before that they never opened 10 years before.
Eugene: And what do you tell people who want to sell a home but they don't want to sell too quick because they don't know if they have another place to move to? That's a big fear among people.
Nancy: That is a big fear. So there are some financial situations where they might not have the cash to be able to buy. And it's a seller's market in this area. So there are some options they can do a home equity line and pull some money out of their home or they could even pull from their IRA. They have a 60 day grace period without the tax burden on them. And there's some other things that they can talk to their accountant about. And as far as pulling money out but I'm in a situation right now where I have a client that is buying a smaller home they're downsizing and the seller is downsizing another time and they're working it out together so one is getting access before they even close. So people work with each other. So it's not insurmountable. We can figure out a way to get from one step to the other without necessarily selling their house before they move into the other house.
Coleen: Yes don't let that be a deterrent.
Nancy: Right. I have a lot of creative options.
Coleen: I know she's a smart cookie. Yeah I know you do and your team works to make that happen. And when people are downsizing there are a lot of options to those adult active communities. Maybe it's a townhouse, townhome maybe it's a condo.
Nancy: Right. So their life has changed and they might want to be able to travel and not worry about keeping up with the landscaping and maintaining the home and being able to leave the home for a month and go on a cruise or a lot of my clients want to be in an amenities neighborhood so they can make friends. They might have bought a home with a huge lawn and they don't really know their neighbors and instead they want to be closer together so they can meet other people and have social activities and maybe go to the community pool and go do events and parties with their neighbors. So their life and their needs and their social world has changed and downsizing is a great opportunity rather being strangled by this big enormous house.
Coleen: Yes it makes so much sense if you're looking to downsize and want to buy or sell your home. Call Nancy at Showcase Realty. The number is 704-488-3109. Again 704-488-3109. You can also visit experthomehelp.com. Again the Web site is experthomehelp.com. And that's where you'll receive a free copy of Nancy's book. It's The Ultimate No Holds Barred Guide to Selling and Buying a Home in the Carolinas. So go there to receive a free copy of Nancy Braun's book. Thank you so much you're excellent at what you do.
Nancy: Thank you so much.
December 12, 2017
- in Best Real Estate Agent in Charlotte NC , Blog , Charlotte Homes for Sale , Charlotte NC Downtown Real Estate , Charlotte NC Investment Properties , Charlotte Neighborhood , Charlotte North Carolina Homes for Sale , Real Estate , Real Estate News , Real Estate Tips , Showcase Realty , Top Real Estate Agent in Charlotte NC by Nancy Braun
The Best Ever Show Podcast: Answering Your Clients Questions Before They Ask Them with Nancy Braun
Are you a real estate agent? Or are you a brokerage owner overseeing all the different types of revenue streams coming in? How do you identify where to put your focus to help to increase the overall profitability of your company?
“Communication – that is critical!” – Nancy Braun, Charlotte Real Estate Broker and Owner of Showcase Realty & Showcase Property Management
In an episode of The Best Ever Show hosted by Joe Fairless, listen as Nancy Braun discusses how to answer a client’s question before they even ask them.
“Our sellers are much more educated and internet-savvy today than they were ten years ago. They go online and they wanna see that their property is marketed everywhere and they can find it online very easily. They’re checking on it, and we have an incredible team of marketing specialists that make sure that the property is plasted everywhere on the internet and has very strong SEO,” Braun said.
What is strategic marketing and how do you work with an investor?
If you’re a real estate agent and want to learn more, listen to the podcast by clicking here: http://joefairless.com/podcast/jf1182-answering-your-clients-questions-before-they-ask-them-with-nancy-braun/
If you have any questions, you can call Nancy Braun at (704) 997-3794!
October 8, 2017
Home Partners of America Part 2 Advanced Training
Friday, October 20, 2017 at 11:15AM-1:30PM | To RSVP go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-partners-of-america-part-2-advanced-training-tickets-34904313742
LEARN THE BEST MARKETING STRATEGIES FROM HOME PARTNERS MOST SUCCESSFUL AGENTS NATIONWIDE!
Showcase Realty is offering a free lunch learning event with Home Partners of America.
Advanced Presentation: This course is based on the best marketing strategies of Home Partners most successful agents nationwide. Subjects include:
- Utilizing Home Partners in listing presentations
- Using listings to market Home Partners
- Working with loan and relocation officers
- Partnering with property management firms
- Other proven strategies for generating strong leads
The event is scheduled for Friday, October 20, 2017 at 11:15 AM to 1:30 PM at Showcase Realty’s office, located at 1430 S. Mint Street in Historic South End. Seating is limited.
To RSVP, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-partners-of-america-part-2-advanced-training-tickets-34904313742
September 15, 2017
What Home Features Do Buyers Want?
Know the home features to work on
Today’s home buyer looks for specific features when searching for a Charlotte NC home for sale, and is willing to pay top dollar if he or she finds a home that meets most of the desired features on his or her list.
If you’re a seller, knowing what these features are will put you in a better position to know what to plan for when renovating or upgrading your home. If you’re a buyer, knowing the features other buyers look for will help you edit your wish list and know what other things to check in a home other than what you want.
What are the top 10 features home buyers want?
1. Open concept homes. One of the most popular features desired by modern home buyers, an open floorplan amplifies space, allows for shared experiences, and fosters togetherness. Even modest-sized homes seem more spacious with an open floorplan concept. It’s also convenient and great for entertainment.
2. Modern kitchen. Did you know that when buyers tour a home for sale, the first thing many of them check is the kitchen? Considered the heart of the home, the kitchen’s appearance often has an impact on the buyer. Most buyers lose interest if the kitchen is not appealing. They expect a modern kitchen with granite, marble or quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of cabinets for storage.
3. Updated bathroom. This is a must for every buyer. They want the comfort and convenience an updated bathroom brings. Many buyers prefer a separate walk-in shower from the tub, new plumbing fixtures, updates light fixtures and modern looking tiles.
4. Hardwood floors. For many buyers, having hardwood floors is appealing and desirable. Not only are hardwood floors more durable, they are also easier to maintain than carpet floors. Most importantly, they enhance the aesthetics of the home and lend a more classic and timeless touch.
5. Laundry room. Many people disregard the importance of a laundry room — which is a mistake. A large percentage of buyers want a separate room where they can do the laundry. Many even want a space for sorting and ironing clothes.
6. Energy efficient windows and appliances. Modern home buyers seek homes with energy efficient features and appliances. These features can lower a home’s heating, cooling and lighting expenses. The significant savings it yields are highly attractive to home buyers.
7. Outdoor living spaces. This feature allows you to extend your living space while maximizing the view of the outdoors. There was a time when outdoor spaces were limited to grilling hot dogs. Now outdoor spaces have plush chairs for relaxation. Bring your home for sale’s outdoor space to life by installing modern light fixtures, an outdoor fireplace, and an outdoor fan. You can even add a big screen TV. Many people now prefer to entertain more often in their outdoor living spaces than in their living rooms!
8. Garage storage space. This feature is something all buyers want to have. They want a space for their cars, plus a place where they can put in other stuff which they want to keep but not in the house. Having a garage storage space in your home for sale in Charlotte NC allows the home to remain clutter free.
9. A wireless security system. This feature keeps the home secure. No matter what age you are, you want safety. This feature is a must. Many home technologies allow you to control different features with one touch on your phone, which is attractive to homebuyers.
10. Neutral decor. When you want your home to sell fast, this feature is important. It saves time and money for the buyers to redo the interior color of the home.
Call me, Nancy Braun, at (704) 997-3794. As the top real estate agent in Charlotte NC, I can help you know which home features to work for your home to sell fast.
September 12, 2017
Free HUD Agent Workshop for Charlotte NC Real Estate Agents
Join us for a free HUD training workshop to:
- Learn from Charlotte HUD specialists
- Everything involved in HUD transactions from contract to close
- Learn how to navigate hudhomestore.com
- Master the selling process to maximize your results
- Know how to complete a HUD contract
- Discover changes in bidding periods and appraisal values
- And much more!
- More info on our Facebook page!
Our sponsor, Brent King Law, will be here to provide their services, refreshments, coffee, and juice!
Join us on September 26 TUESDAY from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at the Showcase Realty office at:
1430 S Mint Street
Charlotte, NC 28203
Don’t forget to RSVP by clicking this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-hud-agent-workshop-tickets-37733844946
If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 704-997-3794!
August 12, 2017
Charlotte NC Real Estate Agent Career at Showcase Realty LLC
Sell more homes and make more money by doing only the parts of the job that you like.
What’s it like being a Charlotte NC real estate agent at Showcase Realty?
WATCH:
Looking for a new real estate office to work at? Work with #ShowcaseRealty today! Make at Least $25,000* more over the next 12 months or I’ll pay you the Difference.
*Conditions Apply
Call us at 704-997-3794 or send me an email at Nancy@ShowcaseRealty.net today!
August 2, 2017
What Are the Top Home Pricing Strategies?
There are four known strategies that sellers utilize to price their homes. Never assume that a higher asking price will automatically mean a higher selling price.Often, this equation works in contrary, especially if you’re not paying attention to what the market is telling you.Now that you have picked your agent, one of his or her functions would be to help you find out the best strategy to use in pricing your property and make it work.
- Overpriced or sometimes called High Price Tactics – They are not in your best interest. There are some listings that add 10 – 20% over their true market value and these homes end up sitting on the market the longest and are sometimes unsold.
- Somewhat Overpriced – These homes will also sit on the market for a long time untouched, even if they are only 5-10% overpriced.
- Below Market Value Price – Some sellers require a rapid sale. They will attract multiple offers and sell fast, usually in just a few days. Be careful that the agent suggesting this method is making this recommendation with your best interest in mind.
- Priced Correctly – Smart sellers, like you, recognize that real estate is part of the capitalistic system of supply and demand. You have thoroughly priced your home and completed an analysis of other sales on the market.
These competitively priced homes often sell within a reasonable timeframe and sell very close to the asking price. Remember that if this is priced correctly, it should sell for 97% to 99% of asking price.
How to negotiate price when selling a house
One of the most challenging parts of real estate happens during the negotiation process. There are times that the buyer is too persistent and the seller gives up too easily or vice versa.The great news is the market has gotten better than it has been in years, but it’s still best to be fortified with negotiation skills when trying to sell your home.Let’s take a look at this video from TIME:You may be the kind who never questions the offer from buyers and that would be unfair. If that sounds like you, you can use these tips on how to polish your negotiation skills, whether you’re buying or selling real estate.
- Pay attention to your first offers – Never disregard even the low offers. It may even be your best one. The best offers usually come at the time when you first list your home. It would be a mistake not to listen to these offers, regardless of what they are.
- Try your best not to be emotional – Don’t disregard the fact that your home is not just a structure. It may be your family’s entire history but it’s best to stay level headed throughout the negotiation process. Be rational. Use business skills to learn as you can about the buyer. The more information you know about your buyer’s financial statements, the better you will be at negotiating.
- Do not mention deadlines – If you’re behind on the mortgage, in the middle of a divorce or moving across the country, don’t highlight this to your buyer. This gives them unnecessary leverage. By keeping this information under wraps, you can avoid losing control of the situation.
- Silence can be good – Author Olivia Fox Cabane said, “I’ve often heard professional negotiators tell me that they could accurately predict the outcome of negotiations fairly early on using one simple clue: whoever has less endurance for silence loses.”
A certain amount of silence shows respect for your potential buyer. Silence teaches discipline but there are moments that this may mean rudeness so just be careful.Get in touch with Nancy Braun at 704-997-3794 for a free home valuation. Up next, let’s be more playful and find out the best staging paint colors nowadays and how to stage a home when you are still living in the house? More on these topics in the next chapter.Read: How To Sell My Home Fast in Charlotte – A Comprehensive Guide
July 19, 2017
How to Find the Right REALTOR? for Your House
For suggestions, you may call 704-997-3794 for topics you would like us to include in these series of topics.
This comprehensive guide is a continuation of our main title, how to sell your home fast in Charlotte.
What sells more houses: empathy or eloquence?
You may know everything about selling your house fast in Charlotte but one value that resonates is being able to speak to your buyers in their own language.
As sellers, empathy is highly important.
It is empathy that will lead you to know how you can transform your house into something that will make your buyers swoon for finally finding the home they are looking for.
What’s ahead?
You previously read about a few techniques on how to prepare your house before you put it up for sale.
In the succeeding chapters, we will go into details on each major point discussed. Our focus will be finding the right REALTOR?. Someone who can help you sell your house fast.
The main reason why I came up with this comprehensive guide project is to give you a booklet of the best steps to prepare you for selling your property.
This way, you do not need to spend all your valuable time researching it. This will be your quick reference to help you jumpstart one of the most important decisions in your life.
Let’s take a look at this good video on wise and quick tips on how to choose the right REALTOR? for your home.
Diary of a Real Estate Rookie!
Author Alison Rogers wrote an exciting book about 10 questions that will assist you in identifying the best agent. Here are helpful tips from her book that you can use if you have not chosen your agent yet.
- How much experience do you have?
- How will you market it?
- How has your business changed in the last five years?
- Tell me how your last two deals surprised you?
- What’s your specialty?
- How many people are you selling homes for right now and what are you doing for them?
- What do you expect of me?
- What advice would you have for me if I get an offer from a buyer who wants to use an FHA loan?
- What’s your fee?
- Can I talk to one of your previous clients?
REALTOR? to the rescue
Real estate agents can earn professional designations granted by trade organizations. If the agent is called a REALTORS? that means she’s a member of National Association of REALTORS?. By hiring one, you are guaranteed that this is an agent who formally pledges to support the code of ethics.
Choose an agent who can help you with your home valuation, tell you what your home is worth and why.
It’s essential to have an agent that will support your choices but is also willing to tell it like it is. The right agent will test your ideas and perception of an inflated market value and will assist you in setting realistic expectations.
Read How To Sell My Home Fast in Charlotte – A Comprehensive Guide
June 7, 2017
Home Partners of America Part 2 Advanced Training
Friday, June 23, 2017 at 10AM-1PM | To RSVP go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-partners-of-america-part-2-advanced-training-tickets-34904313742
LEARN THE BEST MARKETING STRATEGIES FROM HOME PARTNERS MOST SUCCESSFUL AGENTS NATIONWIDE!
Showcase Realty is offering a free lunch learning event with Home Partners of America.
Advanced Presentation: This course is based on the best marketing strategies of Home Partners most successful agents nationwide. Subjects include:
- Utilizing Home Partners in listing presentations
- Using listings to market Home Partners
- Working with loan and relocation officers
- Partnering with property management firms
- Other proven strategies for generating strong leads
The event is scheduled for Friday, June 23, 2017 at 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Showcase Realty’s office, located at 1430 S. Mint Street in Historic South End. Seating is limited.
To RSVP, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-partners-of-america-part-2-advanced-training-tickets-34904313742
March 28, 2017
- in Blog , Home Selling , HUD Home , Nancy Braun , Real Estate Tips , Showcase Realty , Workshop by Nancy Braun
HUD Training Workshop for Charlotte NC Real Estate Agents
Attention Real Estate Agents!
Are you interested in learning more about HUD homes in today’s market?
We are hosting a FREE HUD training workshop on Tuesday March 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at 1430 S Mint Street, Suite 106, Charlotte, NC 28203.
What can Charlotte NC real estate agents get from a Free HUD Agent Workshop?
- Learn from Charlotte HUD specialists
- Everything involved in HUD transactions – from contract to close
- Learn how to navigate www.hudhomestore.com
- Master the selling process to maximize the results
- Know how to complete an HUD contract
- Discover changes in bidding periods and appraisal values
- And much more!
Our sponsor, Summit Funding, will be here to provide financial information and refreshments!
Contact us for more information 704-997-3794!