Negotiate your way into your dream home.

Whether you are buying your first home or looking to downsize after retirement, negotiation skills are crucial in getting what you want. Here are some tips for homebuyers trying to negotiate with sellers.

1. It is always advisable for buyers to get preapproved, not just prequalified. Pre-approved buyers have an edge over potential buyers who have only prequalified for a loan. Preapproval means the buyer has attained a conditional commitment in writing for an exact loan amount from a lender. This saves time and a quick closing may be appealing to a seller.
2. Do your homework before you make an offer. Confer with your qualified real estate agent to decide how much a property is worth. After researching comparables, crime statistics, local schools and considering the length of time the property has been on the market-make an educated and realistic offer. If you come to negotiations with facts to back up your offer, the seller may be more willing to meet your price.
3. Find out the seller's motivation. Do your due diligence when it comes to finding out as much as you can about why the home is for sale. If a property is vacant, perhaps the owners are anxious to unload the property. It is important the sellers see a human face on the other end of the sale. This may work in your favor, though be careful not to over share with the sellers, exposing your motivation or finances.

As always, make sure to consult and/or visit our local REALTOR pros at either one of our office to assist you in the home busying process. We are always here to assist.

Move In Ready

This lovely home is in move-in-condition and shows pride of ownership! 

The living room is very spacious with a fireplace and a Formal dining room for entertaining. Light and Bright kitchen offers oak cabinets, tile counters and a breakfast bar which opens to family room with a beautiful brick fireplace. Very large master bedroom has 2 closets,ceiling fan, recess lighting, master bath, and sliding glass doors to the back yard. Incredible backyard with over 12,000 square feet, patio area, fruit trees, grape vines and completely fenced. The 2 car detached garage has an attached bonus room with a 3/4 bath. 

Don't miss this home!!!

Represented by Karen Straley. Call us today with your questions. 626-358-1858.

One of a Kind

Not since the late 1960's has an opportunity to purchase a majestic estate like this has been available in Monrovia. 

On a large parcel of beautiful grounds the house boasts over 6499 square feet of Spanish style beauty designed by architect John Byers. The front door is located on the vast welcoming front porch. The entry way will marvel you as you consider the many details in the construction and hand hewn wood. The grand front stair way has a breathtaking ceiling , walk ways and balconies that leads to the properties many bedrooms and master suite with dressing rooms. 

The formal dining room with original wood floors and ceiling,and doors , breakfast room and incredible living room and library also with original wood floors and incomparable ceilings. the kitchen is large with a separate room, and butlers pantry. large laundry room. 

The estate grounds are full of opportunities, a serene and private courtyard surrounded by lushness and a fountain in a pond. A large swimming pool with a 3 room cabana and bathroom. located at the northwestern section of the property. These are just a few of the great amenities, charms histories and opportunities this special place offers. We invite you tour an example of fine living from a different time.

Price and further details are available upon request (626-358-1858). Listed by Deirdre Duke of CENTURY 21 Adams & Barnes

Photos by Hugo Torres

Photos by Hugo Torres

Photos by Hugo Torres

Photos by Hugo Torres

Photos by Hugo Torres

Photos by Hugo Torres

The Pros/Cons of condo living

Condo living can have its perks. However, when contemplating the purchase of a condo instead of a house, it's important to weigh both the pros and cons. Here are some factors to consider.

Cons:

• Close quarters. If privacy is important to you, maybe condo living isn't for you. Neighbors are often right across the hall or on the other side of a wall. Unlike a single-family dwelling that may offer trees and a perimeter fence for privacy, expect to share space with others.
• Association fees. A monthly fee, independent of your mortgage, goes towards the upkeep of the property. When considering a purchase, it is crucial to factor these fees into your overall budget.
• Resale value. When it comes time to move, if there are a lot of units available in your building, expect fierce competition.
• Rules and regulations. Unlike a home, condo owners are subject to rules and regulations, and suffer financial or legal consequences for violations. Frequently there are restrictions on renovations, noise and even the size of pets that are permitted.

Pros:

• Repairs. Any maintenance or repairs in your building are not your responsibility. Don't worry about the torn shingles, leaking roof or broken furnace, your association fees will cover it.
• Security. Many condos offer extra security, such as a doorman and gated entries. Also, with so many neighbors, help is never far away.
• Added perks. Some complexes offer amenities that are out of reach to many homeowners, such as a clubhouse, fitness center or a community pool.

Financial mistakes to avoid for first time homebuyer.

The home buying process can be overwhelming and navigating through the financial pitfalls can be an arduous endeavor. Here are some financial tips to remember when buying your first home.

1. Improve you credit score. Review your credit score before applying for pre-approval. Pay down your debts and don't make any large purchases that will drastically alter your score.
2. Get pre-approved. Pre-approval usually means the lender is ready to make you a mortgage loan after thorough research into your finances. Pre-approval gives you an accurate idea of what properties are in your price range, and could give you a competitive edge in negotiations.
3. Set a realistic down payment. Don't put all of your savings into your down payment. Although a down payment of more than 20% of the overall cost of the property may save you from paying mortgage insurance, you may want to think twice about leaving yourself without a cushion.
4. Think big picture. Consider a long-term budget and factor in all additional expenses of homeownership. Taxes, utilities, home insurance, maintenance, and even pricey repairs should be part of your budgeting.
5. Consider re-sale value. Even though future resale is the last thing on your mind when buying your property, it is a practicality to consider. A home that appeals to the majority of buyers, in an ideal location with a reputable school system may be a wise investment.
6. Consult with a financial profession and mortgage consultant for more guidance.

A list every seller needs.

Whether the property you are selling is an investment property, a vacation home or primary residence, the goal is to get the best price in the shortest amount of time. Though there are numerous variables that determine a successful sale, these tips may assist you when selling your property.

• Hire the right real estate professional. The role of a real estate agent is crucial in the marketing and selling of your home. Ask trusted friends and neighbors about their positive selling experience. Consult C21AB.net or visit our offices and professionals in your the San Gabriel Valley.
• Hire your own home inspector BEFORE you put your home on the market. Don't wait for potential buyers to find problems with your home. Find out if any major repairs are necessary and fix them or adjust the price accordingly.
• Price it right. Work with your real estate professional to set a realistic price point on your property.
• Clean until it shines. Never underestimate a clean house. When potential buyers enter your home it should be free of fingerprints, pet hair, spills, odors and stains.
• Eliminate any clutter. Excess furniture, tools and toys should be removed and placed in another location or storage unit.If it squeaks, fix it. Anything that can detract from your property should be repaired. This may include a squeaky step, broken screen, shaky railing, even cracks in the sidewalk.
• Repaint and renew. Paint costs very little, but often makes a big impact. Put a fresh coat of neutral paint in your interior to give your home a fresh look.

To learn more tips or to speak with a friendly CENTURY 21 Adams & Barnes sales associate about the value of your home in the current market please contact our offices at 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621.

July's Market Update

Welcome to your monthly "Market Update". Let's take a look at residential Real-Estate activity in Zip Code 91016 during the month of July.

The number of active listings was down 34% from one year earlier and down 2% from the previous month.

As you can see, the median listing price for the month... was just under $550K.

Compared to last year, the average number of days units spent on the market before being sold was down 32%. This lower number of days may signal a positive trend in the local inventory-turnover rate.

Meanwhile, The median sale price was over $550-thousand dollars.

Overall, The number of units sold decreased 14% year-over-year and Increased 28% month-over-month

Thanks for visiting us, we hope you use this information to make smart, informed decisions in your upcoming real-estate transactions. Feel free to contact us for more information or further assistance.

http://www.century21.com/real-estate-information/91016-monrovia-ca/LZ91016

MAKE YOUR HOUSE LOOK BIGGER TO POTENTIAL BUYERS

No matter what the square footage is of your home, there is always potential to make it appear larger and more appealing to potential buyers. An offer can depend on whether your property is interpreted as a cozy bungalow or cramped old cottage. The difference between these two descriptions often depends on staging and utilizing the space effectively. Here are some tips on how to make the most of a small space.

• Crisp and clean. First and foremost, your home should be clean and free of any fingerprints, scuffmarks and dust. Dirt and grime can detract from even the most spacious of rooms. 
• Let in the light. Natural light is a major selling point. Open curtains and blinds to illuminate every room and make sure those windows are streak-free. Eliminate clutter. Clutter on countertops can make a space feel cramped. Even if you ordinarily store the blender, knife set and toaster oven on the kitchen counter, store these items away when potential buyers are viewing the property. The same goes for bathroom counters. 
• Invest in built-ins. Built in shelves, bookcases and wall units provide both a showcase and storage without seeming clunky. Built-ins often add interest to a small space with architectural detail.
• Think neutral. Bold paint color can make a room seem smaller, consider white or neutral tones to enlarge the space.
• Minimize for maximum results. An oversized couch or extra wing chair can overwhelm a room. Don't cramp an averaged-sized room with unnecessary furniture.

To learn more tips or to speak with a friendly CENTURY 21 Adams & Barnes Sales Association about the value of your home in the current market please contact our offices at 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621.

Perk up your porch for less.

The first image one has of a home is the entryway. Guests should be greeted with an inviting space. Here are some inexpensive ideas to brighten up your porch to make it enticing for prospective buyers.

• Color. If you don't want to invest in a new front door, simply paint the one you have. Color is an instant way to add a new element to your facade. If you like the natural look of your wooden front door, consider re-staining it to look like new. Also, hardware, such as knobs and doorknockers can be easily swapped out and upgraded for a new look.

• Lights. Lighting is a great way to add interest and safety to the entrance of your home. If the expense of an electrician to install outdoor lights is out of the question, consider adding lanterns or flameless candles on either side of the door or steps. This will light the entry and create an inviting space.

• Plants. Consider adding potted plants to the front porch. Choose plants or flowers according to the season, consider colorful tulips in the spring or mums in the fall.

• Digits. The options for house numbers are seemingly boundless. Every size, material and style is available and prices range from inexpensive to astronomical. Select numbers that fit your budget and design. The numbers can go on the home itself or between the steps. However, they should be visible from the front of the home.

• Welcome. The entrance should be well lit and safe. A welcome mat or small outdoor rug may prevent slips, in addition to catching any dirt before entering the home.

Cómo ser ecológico y ahorrar ecológicamente en su nuevo hogar.

Una casa es una gran adquisición y todos los nuevos propietarios saben que cada dólar cuenta. Aquí hay algunas ideas simples que ayudan a proteger al medio ambiente y a su bolsillo.

Compre un cabezal de ducha de alta eficiencia. Esto reduce el consumo de agua y los costos de energía.

¿Desea renovar sus electrodomésticos? Considere electrodomésticos que ahorren energía, que tengan el logo “Energy Star”. Según el sitio de Energy Star, los electrodomésticos calificados como “Energy Star” usan entre un 10 % y 50 % menos de energía y agua que los modelos estándares. Recuerde preguntar por descuentos, especialmente si compra varios electrodomésticos al mismo tiempo.

Use el programa correcto. Configure su termostato para que se adecue a los horarios de su hogar. Baje la temperatura durante el día cuando no haya nadie en casa y de noche cuando los ocupantes estén durmiendo. Además, intente mantener una temperatura moderada, en vez de encender la calefacción o el aire acondicionado para cambiar drásticamente la temperatura.

Utilice ventiladores en vez del aire acondicionado. Considere usar ventiladores para hacer circular el aire de verano en vez de optar por el aire acondicionado que es más costoso y menos respetuoso del medio ambiente.

Aísle y cierre las brechas. Las brechas o grietas escondidas dentro del hogar conllevan una pérdida abundante de calor durante el invierno y de aire acondicionado en los meses de verano. Selle cualquier fuga en todas las ventanas y puertas, en el ático y alrededor de las chimeneas. Es posible que sea necesaria la instalación de un aislamiento correcto o la sustitución del techo.

Sustituya las luces con luces LED o lámparas fluorescentes compactas. El costo es mayor inicialmente, pero las luces usan menos energía y duran más.

Si tiene preguntas por favor llamenos al 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621. Estamos aqui para alludarlos.

Spring Safety Checks

Spring is an ideal time to review your home for safety. Here are some suggested precautions that may help keep your family safe.

• Ten-year expiration. While you are going from room to room to update your clocks, check all the smoke detectors. Detectors should be located on every level of your home and be no more than ten years old. Replace all batteries and test each unit.
• Five-year expiration. Check all CO detectors. The US Product Consumer Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends replacing any units that are more than 5 years old. Sensors lose effectiveness after 5 years. Again, replace the batteries and test each unit.
• Check the gauges on any fire extinguishers in your house or vehicle to make sure it is still functional. Replace if the inspection tag is expired or missing, the locking pin is damaged or missing, or if the handle or nozzle is broken or cracked.
• Be prepared. Daylight saving-time is an ideal opportunity to update your emergency kit. Dispose and replace any outdated food, batteries, or medicine. Make sure your kit has enough food and water for three days.
• On the go. Check your car-emergency kit. In addition to jumper cables and flashlights, consider some cold weather gear and water.
• Spring is the perfect time to go over an emergency plan with your family. Designate a safe meeting place and evacuation routes in the event of a fire.

If you desire more information about this topic or any of our others on our blog, please contact our team or Real Estate professionals at 626-358-

1858 or 626-963-7621.

Reasons for hiring a Real Estate agent.

Whether you are buying or selling a property, hiring a competent agent to assist you often makes the process smoother and less stressful. Here are

some great reasons to hire a sales professional.

• Paperwork. Agents complete the paperwork necessary to complete a real estate transaction. This saves you time, and their education and experience may help you avoid costly mistakes.
• Price. Whether you are a buyer or a seller, commercial or residential, a real estate agent can provide you with tools to guide you to a realistic price to buyer or sell a property.
• Advertising. Your agent has access to the local MLS and will upload pictures, video and information to advertise your property.
• Buffers. Agents act as your advocate or buffer, depending on the situation. Your agent filters calls and schedules showings.
• Negotiation. Unlike their clients, agents are not emotionally invested in the sale and can often navigate the transaction with skill. They are professionals who are trained to represent you and keep information confidential from competing interests.
• Closers. Qualified agents can assist in any questions that come up after the conclusion of the sale.

Our team of professionals is trained with these specific client needs in mind.  To speak with anyone from our team or for questions regarding the current San Gabriel Valley Real Estate market please contact our offices at 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621.

Why your house may not be selling.

There may be several reasons your house isn't selling. Here are three common causes a property may be languishing on the market.

1. Price. Remember, your property is only worth as much as someone is willing to pay for it. No one wants to lose money on a property, but keep in mind the economic climate and if you need to sell, be prepared to price your home competitively. Your listing agent should have provided you with a list of comparables in the area to equip you with the knowledge to price your home realistically.
2. Condition. Your home should be immaculate when potential buyers view it. The importance of a positive first impression cannot be stressed enough. Windows should be clean, floors polished or vacuumed and all clutter should be out of sight. A fresh coat of paint, minor repairs and well-lit entryways go a long way. Neutralize your space with soft color, so it appeals to the masses, instead of a small group. If necessary, consult a professional stager to get your house in shape.
3. Location. The one thing you can't change about your property is its location. This is another instance when your savvy real estate professional should discuss sales options with you. Stress the positives of the location, perhaps it is located near mass transit or the area is starting to turn around. Instead of selling your home in a neighborhood that is not ideal, consider renting it until the area improves.

Consult our Monrovia or Glendora offices today to connect with a professional to assist with your housing needs.

Keep your home safe while you're away on vacation.

Ways to protect your home and its contents while you're away range from simple to high tech. Here are some ideas to secure your home when you're on vacation.

• Consider a house sitter. It may be an added expense, but having a trusted person stay at your home is a great defense against burglars.
  
• Don't advertise you're away. Don't leave an outgoing voicemail stating you're out of town. Also, refrain from listing vacation dates on social media, such as Twitter and Facebook.
  
• Invest in an alarm system.
  
• Put all lights on timers, so it appears someone is home. A lighted home is a deterrent for break-ins.
  
• Have the post office hold your mail and put your newspaper delivery on hold. An overstuffed mailbox and unopened newspapers on the lawn are a signal you are not at home.
  
• Leave all doors and windows locked. When possible, utilize dead bolts and secure sliding glass doors by placing a rod in the door groove.
  
• Alert police and a trusted neighbor to be on the lookout for any suspicious activity.
  
• Remove any spare keys that are hidden outside the house. Instead, give a key to a trusted neighbor or family member to regularly check the house.
  

Have a great time on your travels and come back to a safe home. Remember that our team is always here to help. For questions please contact our offices at 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621.

View of Catalina Island

How to get the most return on your remodel investment. What upgrades are worth it.

Remodeling Magazine and the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) recently released their report comparing remodeling cost vs. value. The results vary depending on multiple factors including: region, quality of work, value of homes in your neighborhood, and when you plan to sell your home in relation to the completion of the project.

According to the overall findings, to boost the value of your home, start by upgrading the exterior. Replace your front door with a steel or fiberglass entry door to add curb appeal and value. Give your home a facelift and dramatically improve your facade by upgrading your existing siding. New garage doors will enhance your home aesthetically and functionally. The report also mentions that new windows save owners in energy costs and often add to resale value. When possible, the addition of a wood deck to outdoor living space is definitely a sought after amenity by potential buyers.

As for interior remodels, convert unused space into living areas. Finish the basement or convert the attic to a bedroom. Also, minor kitchen updates such as counter, cabinet, floor and sink upgrades are always big selling points.

To learn more from our trained team of professionals who could give you even more intelligent ideas on how to make the most of your remodeling budget.Give us a call today at 626-358-1858 or 626-962-7621.

Seven ways to build up your credit score to be eligible for the best interest rates.

Credit score requirements for loans are higher than they have been in the past, so a good credit score is more crucial than ever. In today's economy most lenders are looking for credit scores of 720 or higher to secure a low mortgage rate. Here are seven ways to build up your credit score so you can enjoy the best interest rates available. 

• Request your credit reports and assess the situation. Credit bureaus (www.experian.com, www.transusion.com, www.equifax.com) are required to provide you with a free credit report every year. Nationwide consumer reporting companies get their information from different sources, the data in your report from one company may not reflect the same data in your reports from the other two companies, so request all three. 
• Check to verify all of the information is correct. If there are any errors, contact the bureaus immediately. 
• Your payment history accounts for 35% of your score, so make sure payments are on time every month. 
• The amount owed is 30% of your score. A good rule is to use less than 10% of your credit available on each individual card. 
• The length of your credit history accounts for 15%, so maintain your accounts instead of closing them. You are not penalized for available credit. 
• New credit is 10% of your score and every time you apply for credit an inquiry is added to your report, which drops your score. 
• Types of credit used accounts for 10%. Installment loans like vehicle and personal loans demonstrate you can manage various long and short-term credits.

It is always advisable to speak with a knowledgeable lending representative. Let one of our agents refer you to someone who can best help guide you with your questions. Call us today.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Joann goes long! Did you catch the CENTURY 21 commercial at this year's Superbowl?

Key areas to focus on when viewing a home.

The necessity of a home inspection cannot be stressed enough. Even in new homes, an inspection is essential to protect the buyer and make them aware of any issues with the home. After the inspection the buyer has the opportunity to negotiate with the seller and reach an agreement to either repair the property or to lower the sales price to compensate the buyer for the cost of the repairs. Alternatively, the seller can decide to sell the home as-is, in which case he or she is declining to make repairs or lower the sales price, and the buyer must decide whether or not to buy the home at the original agreed-upon sales price.

 Essentially, the inspection evaluates and discloses the condition of the structure to the buyers. Three major areas to pay particular attention to in your inspection report are the property's foundation, plumbing and attic. 

• Solid foundation. Significant cracks, shifting or sinking of the foundation are serious and often quite costly to repair. Consider hiring a structural engineer to perform a second inspection if you have serious concerns about the inspector or condition of the foundation.
• It's all in the pipes. Leaks, even previous leaks that have been fixed can be problematic. Inspectors will look for signs of mold, mildew or fungus that are the result of water damage.
• Hit the roof. An attic will alert the inspector to rodent damage, previous fire damage, inadequate insulation, leaks, and water damage or structure faults.

If there is a specific concern, hiring a professional who specializes in that area may be beneficial. Also, be aware that there may be a conflict of interest if the home inspector also offer to perform repairs. Remember that our team of Sales Associates are always here to answer questions and help you. Contact us today at 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621.

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New Listing (For Lease)

Family-Friendly 4-Bedroom house freshly renovated on a quiet cul-de-sac, convenient to Glendora schools, shopping, recreation, transportation. Mountain Views. Large master-suite includes new ceiling fan, attached bathroom and dressing area with double closets. New Carpeting and tile throughout. Kitchen, Dining and Living Room open to large brick patio in private fully-fenced backyard with an additional raised wood deck surrounded by mature shade trees. Perfect for warm weather entertaining. All landscaping has automatic irrigation. New Central A/C and Heat. New Double-Pane energy–efficient windows throughout. New Roof. All interiors freshly repainted. 400-square foot fully carpeted bonus room with laundry area features separate remote-control A/C, new ceiling fan and lots of extra storage. Large driveway accommodates up to 5 cars, with additional parking behind side gate. 200 square foot Shed on side yard provides even more storage. Don’t think twice. This SUPER CLEAN Turn-Key home will rent quickly.

801 Inverness in Glendora

Welcome Martin Alon and Le Hua

This week, we welcome our two newest members of the CENTURY 21 Adams & Barnes sales team.

Mr. Martin Alon and Mrs. Le Hua have just both signed on to our brokerage after successfully graduating from our Real Estate school program.

We are very excited to have these two talents on our team and we are looking forward to their future successes with us.

Le Hua

Martin Alon

Important questions to ask your home inspector.

When purchasing a home, home inspections often put the buyer's mind at ease and may allow for renegotiation. An inspection also gives buyers an opportunity to opt out of the sale if major problems are discovered. Here are some important questions that buyers should ask their home inspector.

• Are you a member in good standing of a professional inspectors organization, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI)? (Some states require a license).Inspectors (NIBI)? (Some states require a license).
• What is your specialty? If the inspector only has training in one area and has no other expertise, the inspection may not be comprehensive. 
• Do you have references? 
• How long have you been in business and how many inspections have you performed? 
• What advanced technology do you use? (i.e.-infrared camera, ultrasound machine)What exactly does the inspection cover? (i.e.-plumbing, heat, electric, structure, alarms, sewer, foundation)
• Can we accompany you on the inspection?
• Do you carry all necessary insurance, including professional liability, general liability, and errors and omissions insurance?
• Does the report include estimates of repair costs
• Do you offer a written guarantee on the inspection?What type of report will I receive, and when will I receive it?

If there is a specific area of concern, hiring a professional who specializes in that area may beneficial. Also, be aware that there may be a conflict of interest if the home inspector also offers to perform repairs.

Family checklist to survive a power outage.

You never know when you may lose power in your neighborhood or region. Though these events are often unpredictable, you and your family can be prepared. See the list below for suggestions on what to have on hand for the next power outage.

1. Every household should have a first aid kit and every member of your home should know where it is.
2. Store enough fresh bottled water for each person to have one gallon of drinking water per day for three days.
3. Store canned goods and non-perishable items that can feed your family for a minimum of three days. Don't forget a manual can opener.
4. Flashlights and an ample surplus of batteries should also be stored.
5. A battery-powered or crank radio may be essential for information.
6. Store an extra refill of any necessary medication inside the first aid kit.
7. Matches or a lighter may be helpful if you need to start a fire.
8. Mylar blankets don't take up much room but are literally lifesavers.
9. Battery-operated smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be utilized after the power goes out.
10. Extra cash, important phone numbers and documents should also be stored in a safe and accessible place.

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New Listings - For More Information about these homes please contact our offices at 626-358-1858 or 626-963-7621. 

131 El Nido Avenue, Monrovia - Available for Sale at $918,800

653 E Gardenia Drive, Azusa - Available for Sale at $449,888