Good news… all indications show that the real estate market will remain strong and steady. Let’s review the forecasts of some of our industry leaders.

Consumer confidence should continue to increase in 2004. Although the National Association of Realtors predicts an annual real estate growth of 3.5-4%, a bit off the average of 4.2%, other experts predict the annual growth at 4-5%.

Buyers will continue to get into the market before interest rates go even higher. The chief economist of a national escrow company predicts that interest rates may go up to 6.7%.

The November elections should keep mortgage rates in check for 2004. The interest rates would have to reach 8% before the real estate market slows, probably not in the cards for 2004. New housing construction is at a 20 year record high, further illustrating continued growth.

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Stacy, Marty, David, Jennifer & Tim

In preparing your house to sell, ask yourself over and over if your house looks like someone else's dream house. Houses in move-in condition tend to be inviting to buyers; houses that are in like-new condition typically sell fastest and generate the best price because they outshine the competition. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider as you look over your place when getting ready to sell:

Foyer
Make sure it is clean and not cluttered with furniture. Clean light fixtures and the floor until they sparkle. Add a nice touch with a small entrance table with fresh-cut flowers.

Family-Living-Great Room
Put away all collections (figurines, fragile items, etc.) and store all political and religious mementos as well as any business, sports and personal awards. Remove all crowded furniture; open the room up and show lots of space.

Dining Room
Take extra leaf out of the table and put a nice tablecloth on it. Place a nice arrangement in center of table.

Kitchen
Remove all refrigerator magnets and items, including children's pictures from school. Stow all small appliances under cabinets to free up counter space.

Bathrooms
Downplay ceramic tile color with white towels and scatter rugs. Replace rusted sinks or cover up spots with touch-up paint. Repair or replace defective exhaust fans.

Bedrooms
Remove bulky furniture and voila!, the room will appear larger.

Closets
Clean out closets to make them appear as if there is plenty of room to spare. Donate those things to your favorite charity that you'll have to discard anyway when you move. Organize shelves and straighten shoes. Be sure that sliding doors operate smoothly on their tracks and that knobs on drawers are secure.

With these things in mind, you should be ready to stage your home for showing. Please click for more infomation on our Seller Services

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