Cape Coral Florida's Real Estate Guide

Serving Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Estero



Search Cape Coral FL Homes

OPEN HOUSE 12-3pm Saturday 3-13-2010

 

                                                                       

                                                                           3708 SW 1st Place Cape Coral Fl 33914

                                                                                                                                                                                  

  JUST REDUCED... SELLER MOTIVATED!    NOT A SHORT SALE NOR A FORECLOSURE.    Stunning 2 story Gulf Access pool w/ spa home. Only 1 bridge! 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath with loft. Extra storage space. Granite counters and cherry cabinets in the kitchen. Wrought Iron stair rail leading to the second floor that includes a wetbar with wine refrigerator,loft, 1/2 bath and a balcony overlooking the pool and canal. All bedrooms are downstairs.Master bath includes his and her vanaties and a walk around shower with dual shower heads.Glass block windows and a large soaking tub. No wasted space here, home even has a office internet alcove. Brick paver lanai and driveway with side loading garage. Every room in the home including the lanai is wired with stereo. Pool is heated and both pool and spa can be controlled from within the home or out on the lanai. The yard is beautifully landscaped and has a pond,and fence that extends to the water. Bring our pickest buyer,they will be all smiles for sure!

  Call Vickie L. Townes for more details 239-671-3300

 



http://www.bestcapecoralrealty.com/00527E
Posted on March 09, 2010 11:05:21 by Vickie.TOWNES - View Profile
digg me Reddit newsvine del.icio.us Technorati Stumble Upon Toolbar
Vickie.TOWNES Email 2 feedbacks »
 

About Fannie Mae Homes

About Fannie Mae Homes

Why does Fannie Mae have properties for sale?

Fannie Mae works with all of its partners to help homeowners prevent and avoid foreclosure; however, sometimes it is unavoidable. When foreclosures occur on mortgages in which Fannie Mae is the investor, our goal is to sell properties in a timely manner in order to minimize the impact on the community.

What kinds of properties are available in the Fannie Mae HomePath database?

Fannie Mae's HomePath database includes only properties that are owned by Fannie Mae. There is a wide selection of homes, including single-family homes, condominiums, and town houses-located in a variety of neighborhoods. The number, types and the sales prices of the homes that are offered for sale may vary substantially. Many of these homes are relatively new; however, older homes are offered in some areas. Some homes may require repairs.

How is buying a home owned or managed by Fannie Mae different from other home purchases?

Usually, when you buy a home, you deal with a seller who lives in the home. Fannie Mae has acquired these properties through foreclosure, deed in lieu of foreclosure, or forfeiture.

When buying a Fannie Mae-owned home, you should know the condition of the property, as explained in more detail below, the cost of any needed repairs, and the steps in the loan qualification and closing process before you enter into a purchase and sales agreement.

Has Fannie Mae fixed everything in the house?

Fannie Mae may make some repairs to properties to increase their marketability; however, the buyer should be aware that other repairs may be needed. Fannie Mae sells each property "as is," which means that the buyer accepts the property "as is." Fannie Mae is not responsible for fixing any problems after settlement.

Even if the house has fresh paint, brand new carpet, new appliances, perhaps even a new roof or siding, it doesn't mean everything in the house is new, or even works.

Fannie Mae does not warrant or guarantee any work that may have been done on the property, whether as part of its efforts to sell the home or pursuant to conditions in the purchase contract. Where a home warranty is available, you may wish to buy it at your own expense.

You should also consider hiring a qualified professional to inspect the property, whether it has been repaired or not. Hiring a home inspector is a recommended practice, no matter what type of home you buy.

What can you tell me about this house?

If Fannie Mae knows of any hazards on properties we own or market, we disclose this information through our real estate listing agents. However, we may not have been informed by the previous owner of all hazards. We encourage you to have the property inspected by a professional before you buy.

What type of sales contract does Fannie Mae use?

Fannie Mae uses a state-specific real estate purchase contract and a real estate purchase addendum for our properties. If there is anything in the document you don't understand or aren't comfortable with, you may want to contact a real estate attorney, the real estate sales professional who has listed the property, or any real estate professional of your choice to review these documents with you.

Do I have to use Fannie Mae's selected title, settlement, or escrow companies?

No. You may designate the title, settlement, or escrow company of your choice, subject to the terms of the contract.

Will Fannie Mae accept an offer contingent on the sale of my house?

No, Fannie Mae will not accept offers contingent on the sale of your current home. Other types of contingencies will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Why does Fannie Mae require a lender's prequalification statement before negotiating a home purchase offer?

Fannie Mae wants to be sure that prospective buyers will be able to complete the sales transaction, including obtaining financing when needed. Prequalification allows you to see how much house you can afford and the mortgage amount you may be able to qualify for before you make an offer on a home. It also helps you focus on homes in an affordable price range.

A loan prequalification doesn't mean your loan is approved. You must apply for a loan separately, after you are prequalified and your purchase offer is accepted.

Does Fannie Mae provide special financing?

Special financing is available on many properties through HomePath® Mortgage and HomePath® Renovation Mortgage. Click here for more information.

Can I buy a house directly from Fannie Mae without going through a real estate sales professional?

No. Fannie Mae depends on the expertise of local real estate sales professionals and accepts offers only through our real estate listing agents. You may work with any real estate sales professional to submit an offer to the real estate agent who has listed the property.

What happens if Fannie Mae gets more than one offer?

All interested parties may be asked to submit their best offer in writing though the listing agent no later than a specified date and time. Fannie Mae may accept or provide a counteroffer that we determine to be in our best interest. Fannie Mae is not obligated to accept any offer submitted.

Fannie Mae ©1998-2010 Fannie Mae



http://www.bestcapecoralrealty.com/00527D
Posted on March 09, 2010 10:08:28 by Vickie.TOWNES - View Profile
digg me Reddit newsvine del.icio.us Technorati Stumble Upon Toolbar
Vickie.TOWNES Email Send feedback »
 

Home Sellers: Offer a Home Warranty to Help Sell Your Home

Home Sellers: Offer a Home Warranty to Help Sell Your Home

 By Jeanette Joy Fisher

 

Seller's Warranty

Now that the real estate market is cooling somewhat, you'll more likely to find your competitive home sellers offering a seller's warranty. But what exactly is a seller's warranty, and how can it help?

In short, a seller's warranty provides added assurance that any repairs to major appliances, plumbing, and other home systems will be covered by the seller within a specified time period after the home is purchased, excluding a typical deductible of $50-60. Seller's warranties are always offered by builders of new homes, but they're becoming increasingly popular as sales tools for older homes, as well. For the seller, the cost is about $300-400, but it can be well worthwhile, especially if it means a quicker sale of their home.

There are some real estate companies that offer seller's warranties at no cost to their sellers during the home's listing period, such as Home Warranty of America, but the most agencies require their sellers to pay for the warranty if it's something they'd like to offer potential buyers--with the cost often built into the sales price.

Home Buyer's Warranty

A similar home warranty can be purchased by buyers, as well. The typical $300-400 cost is similar to what a seller would pay for similar coverage, and a buyer's warranty covers the same things as a seller's warranty. The main difference is that a buyer's warranty typically begins on the date of closing and continues for a one-year period after that. Another difference: the buyer's warranty can be renewed annually.

Besides Home Warranty of America, there are a number of other companies that offer home warranties for sellers and buyers. Those companies include: 2-10 Warranty, American Millennium (which offers a policy to specifically cover hidden structural or pest damage to a home), and Home Warranty Plans, but you'll probably find others if you do an Internet search or check with your local real estate broker.

As is the case with any consumer product or service, it's always wise to do some research before you decide whether a seller's or buyer's warranty is something you want to consider. Then, if you've decided that such a warranty is worthwhile in your particular situation, make sure to compare the various programs to see which ones are available in your area, what they specifically cover, their overall cost, the amount of their deductible, anything that might be excluded from the program, and any other variables before you commit. Remember, you can offer the warranty, but if you consider an offer less than full price, you can ask the buyers to provide their own warranty.

Providing this service adds to your home's overall appeal to home shoppers. A home warranty gives your home buyers the peace of mind they seek.



http://www.bestcapecoralrealty.com/005276
Posted on March 08, 2010 11:01:44 by Vickie.TOWNES - View Profile
digg me Reddit newsvine del.icio.us Technorati Stumble Upon Toolbar
Vickie.TOWNES Email 1 feedback »
 

How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

How to Choose a Real Estate Listing Agent

The time has come to sell your house and you need to choose a real estate listing agent to handle the listing. There are lots of agents out there and you want to make sure that you choose the best possible agent who will always be honest with you, will work hard to find you a buyer, and will look out for your best interests. All real estate agents are not created equal! Follow these tips and choose a great listing agent.

Instructions

1) Chances are that you know someone who is a real estate agents...do not use your this person just because you know them! If you are serious about selling your house, make sure that you hire the best agent and not choose someone simply because you know them

2) Start by looking at listings in your area. If you go to google and type in "your city MLS" chances are that you'll be able to search the entire Multiple Listing Service. As you look at houses on the market, see what agents seem to have listings similar to yours. What houses stand out to you as you look and what agents are listing them? If you feel they are doing a good job marketing other homes, you may want to put them on your list of agents to talk to.

3) Ask friends and family who have used a listing agent for recommendations and about their experience with their listing agent.

4) Once you've narrowed your list down to a handful of agents that you'd like to talk to, it's time to start making calls. Set up interviews with each agent. Tell them that you'd like to get a comparable market analysis on your home as well as a listing presentation.

5) As you meet with the agents, pay close attention to what type of marketing they will do for your home. Any agent can place your home in magazines - which is important, but look for agents that have innovative and different marketing techniques. You also want an agent who will hold open houses. Find out from the agent about his/her past sales. You want an agent who is getting as close to 100% of the listing price on homes that he's listed and sold as possible. This tell you two things: First, he's encouraging homeowners to list at the right price and second, he's negotiating good deals for his clients.

6) Find out how much experience your potential agent has. You probably don't want someone brand new, but you may not want an agent that has 50 other listings either.

7) Ask your agent about his/her certifications and education. A good designation for agents today is e-pro since so much marketing is now done on the internet. If you are selling a "green" home you may want to look for an eco-broker, this is an agent that has specialized knowledge in eco friendly homes. Certifications and education also show you how serious an agent is about their profession.

8) Do not be tempted to hire the agent that gives you the highest listing price for your home. If one agent tells you he can sell your house for much more than all the others you talk to, chances are that he either doesn't really understand market conditions or he's not being honest with you.

9)An agent may tell you things that you don't want to hear about your home or what you may want to consider doing for a successful sale may be the right agents, as long as he does to tactfully. This shows honesty and that is extremely important. You want an agent who is willing to be honest with you no matter what.

10) See how well respected your agent is in the community and if possible, with other agents. Unfortunately, there are agents who will not go out of their way to show the homes of agents who they don't like or who have a poor reputation. You want to have an agent who is well-respected among his peers and spends time networking with them.

11) Choose an agent who knows your area. Just because an agent sells lots of houses across town doesn't mean that he'll be successful selling your house! You want an agent who has an understanding of your specific location.

12) Choose an agent who you feel comfortable working with. This person will be helping you negotiate the sale of what may be your most valuable asset and you want someone who you feel comfortable talking to and can be open with

By: KathyMcBain

 

 



http://www.bestcapecoralrealty.com/005269
Posted on March 07, 2010 08:22:13 by Vickie.TOWNES - View Profile
digg me Reddit newsvine del.icio.us Technorati Stumble Upon Toolbar
Vickie.TOWNES Email 1 feedback »
 

Mortgage rates fall below 5 percent again

 

Mortgage Rate Trend Index

Don't expect additional rate drops over the near term: No industry expert polled by Bankrate.com foresees a decline. While 43% predict an increase, the majority (57%) expects no significant change.

McLEAN, Va. - March 5, 2010 - Mortgages rates have dipped below 5 percent again, four weeks before a government program that is helping keep rates low is scheduled to run out.

The average rate on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 4.97 percent this week, down from 5.05 percent a week earlier, mortgage finance company Freddie Mac said Thursday.

Rates dropped to a record low of 4.71 percent in December and have hovered around 5 percent since, kept down by a Federal Reserve campaign to spur homebuying by lowering how much it costs to get a home loan.

The central bank's $1.25 trillion program to buy up mortgage securities is set to expire March 31. But the Fed has held the door open to extending the program if the economy weakens.

Some analysts argue that rates could rise once the Fed's program ends, hurting both the recovery in housing and the overall economy. Government officials are optimistic that the Fed will be able to end its program without a major disruption.

In a research note Wednesday, Goldman Sachs analyst Sven Jari Stehn said mortgage rates should only show a modest increase once the program ends, though "uncertainty remains significant."

Also Thursday, data showed pending sales of existing homes dropped 7.6 percent in January from December as stormy weather kept prospective East Coast buyers at home and sales tumbled in the West. The report from the National Association of Realtors was the lowest reading since last April and a disappointment to economists, who had expected the metric to rise.

The index has declined for two out of the past three months because home shoppers feel less rushed after a deadline for a homebuyer tax credit was extended from Nov. 30 to April 30.

Freddie Mac collects mortgage rates on Monday through Wednesday of each week from lenders around the country. Rates often fluctuate significantly, even within a given day, often in line with long-term Treasury bonds.

This week, the average rate on a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage was 4.33 percent, down from 4.4 percent last week, according to Freddie Mac.

Rates on five-year, adjustable-rate mortgages averaged 4.11 percent, down from 4.16 percent a week earlier. Rates on one-year, adjustable-rate mortgages rose to 4.27 percent from 4.15 percent.

The rates do not include add-on fees known as points. One point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount.

The nationwide fee for loans in Freddie Mac's survey averaged 0.7 of a point for 30-year and 15-year loans and 0.6 of a point for five-year and one-year loans.

AP LogoCopyright © 2010 The Associated Press.



http://www.bestcapecoralrealty.com/00525F
Posted on March 05, 2010 18:05:07 by Vickie.TOWNES - View Profile
digg me Reddit newsvine del.icio.us Technorati Stumble Upon Toolbar
Vickie.TOWNES Email Send feedback »