Thursday, September 17, 2009

Top FAQ's for Buying, Selling, and Renting

1. Q: Help! What can I do to rent out my home quickly?

A: When trying to rent out your home the best thing to do is first, allow a real estate agency to handle your showings. Why? Because you’ll know those prospective clients that come to see your home are really interested versus individuals flipping through the average newspaper ads that are “just looking around” to get a feel of what’s available. Next, remember less is more; try and move out as much furniture as possible; steam clean or replace the carpet, if any; and a fresh coat of white or cool platinum paint will brighten all the rooms. Nothing rents quicker than an empty place that looks roomy and spotless.

2. Q: How Can I Negotiate My Closing Costs?

A: Review your pre-settlement sheet that will contain all of your good faith estimates; there is always room for negotiation. Discount points can be negotiated, Pre-paid items may be reviewed for discrepancies like how many months in advance are you paying for real estate taxes, HOA fees, etc. Try to get your settlement date as close to the end of the month as possible. Each day you actually are living in the home you’re paying an agreed upon prorated price until your mortgage payment begins. Move in your new home Aug. 15th and you’ll pay 16 days, prorated for living in the home from the 15th until the 31st.

3. Q: Is there any strategy to delay the closing on my home? I’m suppose to close on the 5th of the month but I would like to save money and close towards the end of the month.

A: First, take a look at your contract and see if there is any statement about the settlement date. If the seller has stated any dates or clauses about when you go to settlement and you’ve signed that contract then you have no recourse, unless you can find something wrong. Is everything in the home complete? Exterior and Interior? You can also have an inspector with you during the walk-thru to see if there are any issues with the home that might delay your settlement date. Take your contract with you and note any issues you find that the seller is responsible for; Are styles, types and dimensions correct? Landscaping in order? If the seller has forgotten anything you must let them know and hope it is enough to delay closing, otherwise you’re obligated by that contract to proceed. Everyone wants to save money when purchasing a home but the time to think about this is during the initial contract phrase, not during those crucial days before your settlement. Have more questions about real estate? Feel free to call us for all of your real estate questions and needs.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

PV Estates Elegant French Dining


LA RIVE GAUCHE
This Restaurant is an elegant French dining in a warm romantic atmosphere on the Palos Verdes Peninsula that has been running since many years ago. Also, With an extensive wine list and full bar your bound to have a wonderful time. They have been Spectator Grand Award winners since 1984. Get the taste and feeling of an international dining experience here in South Bay.

Lunch- 11a.m.-4 p.m.
Thurs- Sat- Dinner 4-10p.m.

LOCATION:
320 Tejon Place
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
(310) 378-0267
www.chowbaby/com/LaRiveGauche/