Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Ten Location Selecting Tips When Buying a House

Real Estate Information & Tips
Buying a home - Tips on selecting the ideal location
LOCATION - Is still the number one factor for real estate value
Ten Location Selecting Tips When Buying a House

1. Look for a home location that has only residential properties around it. Dream Home Cartoon

A mix of industrial units and residential properties is not an ideal location for a home.

People usually want peace and quiet in a residential area.

Having industrial units like factories etc results in higher traffic, pollution and noise and home buyers would consider this a negative point.

2. Look for a house that blends into the neighborhood. For instance, you don’t want to buy a monster size house that is surrounded by small houses around it.

Property value of one’s home will greatly be affected with other homes in their area. It costs money to maintain properties and you want to buy a home where people of somewhat the same economic standard live.

3. Many investors buy smaller homes and rent them out waiting for a price escalation to make a profit by selling the home.

Rental homes are quite often neglected by tenants. While the homes landlord continues to get his monthly rent the neighborhoods property values do suffer due to unmaintained lawns or shabby looking homes around them sticking out like a sore thumb to potential buyers.

You want to stay away from areas that have too many renters.

4. Having a milk store across the street is quite convenient, but may not be great when it comes to property values. Strip plazas invite shoppers as well as people who just hang around the stores. Not very desirable to many potential home buyers. It is better to walk a block for your milk than to buy a home right next to a store.

5. You will be surprised as to how many home buyers fail to notice those huge overhead power cable lines going over the back yards of homes. Drive around to check what is actually around the potential home you are thinking of buying. Look for schools, stores, banks and major highways.

Typically living across schools, stores, parks or close to highways is not very desirable as noise, parking and security could be major concerns.


6. Buying a home close to a hospital may be desirable to some, but keep in mind those ambulance sirens that will fill the air at odd hours of the day and night. (Continued on next column)

7. Corner homes usually sell for a premium; in most cases the house lot is bigger for corner homes. However while you end up with a bigger lot, many experienced home buyers stay away from corner homes as they are an easier target for theft. Security is a valid concern for home buyers.

8. When choosing a location for a home purchase, take note of any vacant land in the immediate neighborhood. Before buying check with the local municipal office what will be built on the vacant land. You don’t want any surprises after you have purchased a home. Many experienced buyers prefer established neighborhoods.

9. Check to see if you have an airport nearby and whether you’re potential home is on the flight path. Noise from planes taking off and landing can be quite annoying when you want to relax at home.House for Sale

10. There are many types of homes such as: detached, semi-detached, town houses and condominiums and high rise apartment buildings. If you are buying an detached home then select a location where the majority of the homes are detached homes. Having cheaper apartments or other types of homes next to your expensive detached home will probably lower your homes appeal to potential future buyers.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

How To: Choose An Apartment

So, you're looking for an apartment; it's essential that you choose well. Most landlords require that you sign a lease, and most leases are for an entire year, so you'd better make sure you are happy with where you live (unless that isn't where you spend most of your time).

let the hunt begin

There are always the classifieds and ads on the community bulletin boards at the grocery store. The best way to find a place is to drive around neighborhoods that are appealing to you, check out if any of the buildings have "For Rent" signs, and take down the numbers. Sometimes it's possible to view the apartments without an appointment, so this method is a big time-saver.

location, location, location...

Decide whether you'd like to live in the city or the suburbs. The advantage to living downtown is that you are in close proximity to everything: restaurants, movie theaters, shopping districts, and other entertainment. If you work in Manhattan and your place is on the Upper West Side, this would be another advantage. Ideally, the thought of sparing only a small amount of time traveling is also very appealing.

The disadvantage of living downtown is the cost, and depending on where the building you choose is located, it could prove to be very noisy.

If you think you might prefer the suburbs, then consider the travel time to get to work. Of course, this may not even be a factor to you, but some people consider their time to be extremely valuable. Rent tends to be cheaper in the burbs, which is a big plus, but if you don't own a car, you might find getting around to be a bit of a hassle, especially if you hate arranging your life around a bus schedule.

know what you want

Ask yourself the following questions:

1- How big do you want or need your apartment to be? Are you looking for a 3 1/2 or a 4 1/2? Do you want a bedroom and an office? Do you want a dining area separate from the kitchen? Do you want a funky balcony to raise your individually named pigeons? These are all things you have to consider before you even agree to visit an apartment; you don't want to waste your time, or the landlord's.

2- Do you want a newly renovated apartment? Perhaps this is not an issue for you, in any case, you want to look for a place that is well maintained.

judge the building by its cover


How can you tell whether it's the place for you before even stepping into the building? Here's how:

1- Look at the lawn; make sure the grass and shrubbery are well kept. Take note if there's any trash lying around (no, the neighbors aren't the trash). This says a lot about the general upkeep of the property.

2- How about the windows; are there any broken ones? Does the building have storm windows, or does it look like a cold, winter draft nightmare? If so, then heating may be costly.

3- Consider the general condition of the building. Is it in good shape?

take a look around

Okay, so you decide to see the apartment. Sometimes the tenant is still living there, so you must consider what the apartment will look like without their furniture and with yours instead, no matter how much you like their spaced-out lava lamps. Being able to picture yourself living there is a good sign.

Take note of any cracks in the walls, or whether a paint job is needed. If so, then ask the landlord if he will agree to paint and repair the walls. Do not get tricked into painting it yourself! Check out the closet and cupboard space; is there enough room for all your belongings?

Don't forget to look under the sink; make sure the plumbing is in order and that there are no bugs crawling around. Try the tap; make sure the water pressure is strong enough. Check out the bathtub and ask yourself, "Would I dare take a bath in there?"

If the current tenant is present, use this golden opportunity to get the skinny on what it's like to live there. Ask why they're leaving, if the neighbors are noisy, and if the janitor is quick to make repairs when things go wrong. You might want to do this in the absence of the landlord in order to get the whole truth.

interview the landlord

Now the important part; ask the landlord the following questions:

* How much is the rent?
* Are heating and hot water included in the rent?
* Are there any city taxes to pay?
* Are there any other extra fees?
* Is there any parking?
* Is there any building security, and what kind (cameras or guard)? If not, at least make sure that a key is required to enter the building, otherwise it's an open door for burglars, beggars or worse (some relatives!).


Don't forget your gut instinct as well. No matter how many good points there are to the apartment, don't let that overrule an uneasy feeling about a certain place.

Make your apartment hunt fun and it will motivate you to persevere in finding the best place for you. If you follow all the aforementioned tips, you'll be sure to find the most suitable available apartment for you, and then you can concentrate on the fun part: shopping for items like a big-screen TV, a Jacuzzi, and a killer leather sofa for your new home.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Condo Buying Tips

More and more people are buying condominium units lately. These properties are perfect alternatives to those who would like to have their own place. A Makati condo is a very popular choice for many young professionals and young couples. It provides a more affordable choice of real estate property in most business areas where lots are being sold at staggeringly high commercial prices.

Before you go out and join the condo craze, condo living is not ideal for everyone. There are many pros and cons to living in a busy, Makati condo unit. There are many things you should consider before looking for the perfect Makati condo. Below are just some tips to help you out.

* Location. This is a number one priority for many people in choosing the condo unit they will purchase. Most people who opted to buy a condo unit because they to go home to a place that is very near their work. Also, most condominium buildings are built to be accessible to many establishments like malls, schools, churches, business areas, and many more. Identify the area that you are interested in then start looking for condominium units that are newly built or being built within the area. However, make sure you also consider the immediate vicinity of a prospective condominium building. Is it a very noisy area? Is the traffic bad around the building? Are the streets safe to walk around even at night?
* Style. There are currently three major types of condominiums based on size: low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise. High-rise buildings can often be found amongst the high-rise buildings in business areas so they cost more than mid-rise and low-rise condominiums. Units in higher floors also offer a wonderful view of the surrounding area. Low-rise and mid-rise buildings, on the other hand, are less expensive and are often located near residential areas. They provide a great balance for those who like to live in a condo and yet maintain a semblance of a community that’s ideal for families.
* Developer. Most developers specialize in certain types of condominiums. Research on reputable developers of the type of condominium units you are interested in. You’d be able to save more if you buy condos in pre-selling stage but a huge faith on the developer is required. Make sure the developer of the condominium building is reliable and trustworthy.
* Unit. Decide on the type of unit you want. Are you interested in just a studio unit, a one-bedroom unit, or the largest available unit? If you have plans of reselling the unit, bigger units are often easier to sell.
* Neighbors. If you are buying a condo that’s ready for occupancy, check out your prospective neighbors. You’ll be living with just a wall away from your next-door neighbor so it’s a good idea to be sure you’ll be okay with them. Also, learn about the condominium association in the building and their rules and regulations. This way, you’ll be aware of anything you might not agree with.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

5 Tips For Choosing Condo Property Management

Every landlord who is looking out for an efficient and effective condo property management must be aware of certain key facts before entrusting the management of the condominium community to a professional company. There are certain vital qualities and important details to ensure before choosing a company to takeover the daily tasks associated with managing a condominium.

Tip 1 - Choose A Company Specialized In Condo Management

Although there are plenty of condo communities that choose to be self managed, it is not an option that is easy to implement. Managing a condo is a huge task that may seem overwhelming to the chosen board member or manager especially if they lack the experience. Now, a condo property management will be well experienced in dealing with all the issues that may arise during the management process. So, while trying to choose a condo management company, it is best to go with one that is specialized in handling all requirements of a condo community.

Tip 2 - Understand The Services Being Offered

When a condo management company offers details regarding the services they provide, make sure that the services fit in with the needs and requirements of the condo community under consideration. If a condo manager is able to delegate almost all the major responsibilities to the management company, the company providing condo property management is definitely an established and reliable one. On the contrary, if the company does not take up the most vital management activities, it is highly recommended that the condo manager turn to other options.

Ideally, the management company must be willing to implement the specifications laid down by the condo manager and to follow the rules and goals outlined for them.

Tip 3 - Ensure The Reputation Of The Management Company

Before employing the services of a condo management company, try to learn more about its history. It is best to begin with a research of their past clients. If the company has a good history of quality services and if their past clients are only too happy to recommend the company, it is a fairly good indicator of the reputation and professionalism of the company.

Tip 4 - Do Not Hesitate To Request Special Consideration.

While choosing a condo management company, most condo managers prefer a team that can offer exclusive services for the condo in question that is to work only for the particular condo at any given time. A small condo community may not have the luxury of making such a request for exclusive treatment from well established agencies offering condo property management . However, larger communities can afford to demand such exclusive services. In the meanwhile, it is also important to note if the management company entertains such requests and is willing to cooperate.

Tip 5 – Trust The Company And Avoid Unnecessary Interference

Once a reliable condo management company has been chosen, it is important to trust the company. After all, the company will obviously have a team of skilled professionals, combined years of experience in condo management and a through knowledge of common issues. In case an issue arises in the condo and the manager of unsure how to react, the agency for condo property management will usually suggest a solution. If this solution seems reasonable, it is best that the manager trusts the company and agrees to this solution. It is also equally important not to interfere or involve too much in the management process. That is what the management team is there for.

Monday, July 20, 2009

West Ottawa - a Best Place to Select Apartment For Rent

Major shopping centers

If you live in an apartment for rent in Westboro or Nepean, you will be pleased to know that these districts are full of activity shopping street with many opportunities. In addition to the many small independent shops (including several outdoor sports shops), there are many huge shopping centers in the area, including Bayshore Shopping Center. A three-level mall with more than 150 shops and services, it is preferably located along the highway 417th you can also visit Carling Wood Shopping Center, more than 125 shops and services with ample of free parking.

Other Ottawa West malls include Lincoln Fields Shopping Center (includes a Wal-Mart and a Loeb), Pine Crest Shopping Center (with the famous IKEA hoard with a view of the Queensway), College plaza (a popular destination for Algonquin College students and people with rental holiday near Baseline and Woodroffe) and Westgate Shopping Center (featuring a extremely valuable 24-hour Shoppers Drug Mart).

Museums and art centers

For those who live in an apartment Nepean to look for and study a little bit more about the history of their society, the Nepean Museum (16 Rowley Avenue), where several antiques (including some over 100 years old), is the ideal afternoon weekend.

For the outdoor sports fan, head of the Canadian Ski Museum (200-1960 Scott Street). Founded in 1971, it is the biggest public album of mementos skiing in Canada, housing more than 6000 photos and ski equipment from more than 150 years.

Theater-lovers will want to trip the Center Pointe Theatre (101 Center Pointe Drive). The 1,000-seat theater is home to several outstanding local groups, including Orpheus Musical Theatre Society, society and Savoy Les Petits Ballets.

Schools

A vital Properties West Ottawa apartment is ideal for students Algonquin College, as our Maples Apartments are only a few minutes walk from the school and our Green Bank, Wellington Park and Carling homes, you can speedily on the campus by bus. And for those with young families, West Ottawa also has about 20 public main schools, 9 Catholic elementary schools, 5 public high schools and 2 Catholic high schools.

Other attractions

If physical action is your thing, and you're looking for an apartment to rent in Nepean, you can not go wrong by one day on the Nepean Sports Plex (1701 Woodroffe Avenue). This huge deal includes the lot you want to enjoy a game of baseball, hockey, football, basketball, curling, soccer, squash, lawn bowling and much more! The Sports Plex also offers a wealth of superb programs for children and seniors.

Along the Ottawa River is the gorgeous beach Westboro, which is the city of Ottawa and became a place of public swimming since the early 1920s.

Britannia Park is a heaven for picnicker, with many tables dotted on the grass and trees a bunch to offer gloomy on hot sunny days. There are two play structures and swings for children to have fun, and it is a great place for swimming or surfing, as there is a rescue swimmer in service from mid-June to Labor Day. Also in the park is the Ron Kolbus Lakeside Center, a banquet hall and society Center can lodge up to 300 people for special occasions.

The Ottawa River Parkway is a partial access parking services from Carling Avenue to the Portage Bridge near downtown Ottawa. Packed with scenic lookout points, the Parkway is maintained by the National Capital Commission (NCC) and is balanced by more than 20 km cycling paths, making it possible to drive all the way from downtown to Kanata. On Sundays through the summer months, the Parkway is closed to all vehicle traffic for the Alcatel Sunday Bikedays - the preferred day of the week for pedestrians and cyclists alike.

Houston Apartment Search Tips

Austin apartments come in many shapes and sizes. You can usually find a Austin apartment with a very low total move-in cost. Total move-in cost includes the application fee, deposit, and first months rent. Before focusing on the move-in costs, review whether the total move-in-cost is the most important issue in selecting a Austin apartment.

Is Move-In Cost Most Important

Other factors to consider when selecting a Austin apartment are location, monthly rental rate, unit type, unit size, unit amenities and property amenities. Consider the location of work, family, friends and leisure when thinking about the location for your Austin apartment. Consider leasing a plain apartment in a nice area instead of a nice apartment in a less desirable area. You should also consider the condition of the property, maintenance standards, limited access gates and whether they have a regular courtesy patrol.

Weigh the Issues

You will be considering at least some of these factors when selecting a Austin apartment. If it is critical to obtain the lowest possible total move-in cost, then give strong consideration to this factor. However, in many cases you'll get a better "deal" by focusing on the entire package instead of focusing primarily on the move-in cost.

Select an Online Austin Apartment Search Service

Select an online apartment search service for Austin apartments. It should provide information on all Austin-area apartments. Some online apartment search services only offer information on 10 to 15% of the Austin apartments. These apartment search services are only showing information regarding properties which pay them to advertise or which pay them a locator fee. It is understandable that they only show information for properties which pay them. Select a Austin apartment search service which displays information on all Austin apartments. Make sure the service you select has information on all available properties. It you review the options for all Austin apartments, instead of just for 10 to 15% of the properties, you have a much better chance of getting a low cost move-in for a Austin apartment. The apartment search service should also allow you to search by location, rent, unit type, unit size, unit amenities and property amenities. Also, try to avoid the sites which require you to give your phone number and e-mail address. (Unless you enjoy being bombarded by phone calls and e-mails.) Finally, select an apartment search service which offers a $100 move-in rebate.

Initial Search and Phone Interview (of them)

Start with a broad search focused initially on location. Gradually narrow the search to focus perhaps five to 20 Austin apartment projects. Develop a list of questions regarding the criteria which are most important to you. If the move-in cost is most important, you'll want to ask about the application fee, deposit and first month's rent. Call the projects you identify. Interview all of them by phone before visiting any of the apartments. You should be able to complete each phone call in three to five minutes. Focus on interviewing the leasing staff instead of having them interview you during the phone call. Review the information you have compiled and select 2 or 3 Austin apartments which best fit your criteria.

Visit 2 or 3 Apartments

Visit the properties. Drive around the perimeter and through the apartments before visiting the office. If the property is below your minimal standards, drive on without stopping at the office. Ask to see both the model unit and the unit you would be leasing. If you like surprisesFree Articles, there is no reason to ask to see the unit you will be occupying. Many Austin apartment residents have been unpleasantly surprised when they see "their" unit. They are amazed that it looks different than the model unit. Expect the model unit to be immaculate with wonderful furniture. Avoid surprises by seeing "your" unit! Ask the leasing agent if they have a "look and lease" special. This is a special where if you look at the unit and lease on the same day or next day you get a better rate or lower move-in cost. Find another way to ask if they can reduce the move-in costs. Can they waive the application fee? Can they reduce the deposit? Can they reduce the first months rent?

Make a Decision

Make a decision regarding which property best fits your criteria. Negotiate and sign the lease. You should read the lease. It is a legal document. It was written by an attorney for the benefit of the apartment complex. Do a "walk-through" before you accept the unit. Note any defects and ask the management to correct them. Also discuss what you must do to have your deposit returned.