Friday, January 31, 2014

50 Judith St. Waggaman, LA $109,000

50 Judith St.
Waggaman, LA
$109,000
Looking for your first home? This one has so much to offer! Spacious kitchen, present-day cabinetry & counters. Energy-efficient windows, newer roof, a/c, wind storm doors, alarm system, updated bathroom and nickel finished faucet.  Home is located in a "X" flood zone. Why rent when you can own your own home!!!

View more information about this home


50 Judith St.
Waggaman, LA
$109,000

The homeowner was originally drawn to this house because it is located in a “no flood” zone.
In her time there, the home owner has added a new air conditioning unit, ceiling fans, remodeled a bathroom, and added sensor lights.  
Outside improvements include a storage shed, above-ground pool, and a swing set.
The homeowner spent a lot time in the back yard and pool.  
In the kitchen, a new garbage disposal and nickel finish faucet.

Other improvements include energy-efficient windows, new floors in all the bedrooms, wind-resistant storm doors, an alarm system, new vinyl siding, and a new roof.

The things that will be missed the most are the pool, and all the memories shared with family and neighbors.
She also enjoyed grilling and the local park and library.


Thomas Jefferson Park lighting the historic oak trees.


Picnic shelter at Thomas Jefferson Park.


She will miss her community of friendly, helpful, all-around awesome neighbors, walking around the park, and of course, Gumbo Fest.

Waggaman Development Group Facebook page

View more information about this home


Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com







Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.



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Thursday, January 30, 2014

3 Sanity-Preserving Tips for Home Staging With Kids

 Staging your Metairie home for showings will always be a time-eater. The word itself is indicative: “staging” means transforming your busy household into a theatrical set. In addition to thoroughly cleaning every nook and cranny, it usually means spending on paint and a variety of minor supplies to tweak the production. Then comes the actual visits by potential home buyers, sometimes interrupting your schedule (sometimes with very little notice).
If you have kids, keeping the staging in pristine condition must clear an extra hurdle. When the kids spill food on the floor (or leave toys underfoot for potential home buyers to trip over), selling your home can turn into a hand-wringing ordeal. It needn’t be. Here are a few sanity-preserving pointers:
Designate one room for the kids
While it may be impossible to totally prevent kids from being messy, we can keep the youthful chaos quarantined to one room. Designate the place in the house that will be the “kid’s area” so that the cleanup in advance of a showing becomes more manageable.
Keep the show towels separate from the real towels
A successful Metairie staging routine pays special attention to focal points in the kitchen and bathrooms. Both should come as close as possible to a model home’s—which makes it crucial to keep a separate set of unused towels and floor mats to switch in whenever the home is going to be viewed. (There should be no secrets within a family, except maybe for this one: make sure the kids don’t know where you hide the show towels!)
Clear the “stage”
There are many items we keep handy that aren’t essential for day-to-day living. Whether it is unnecessary pieces of furniture or extra boxes full of toys for the children, these things combine to contribute to a sense of cluttered spaces. Stashing as much clutter as possible in a temporary storage unit will make your staging cleanup jobs much easier. It will also contribute to the clean uncluttered appearance home buyers find appealing.

Thinking of selling your home in Metairie this winter?  I have a marketing plan for this season’s market ready to go – call me today!

 Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com






Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.

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Monday, January 27, 2014

First-Time Buyers Should Check Credit Scores Early

It can take years for New Orleans first-time buyers to save up for their first home’s down payment, but even after that hurdle has been cleared, it can take even more time to secure a mortgage -- if they have neglected the other part of the equation… Their credit rating.
Before first-time buyers in New Orleans will be able to move forward with that initial home purchase, they need to ensure that their credit score does not raise the kind of questions that sometimes derails an otherwise well-qualified home loan applicant. This has always been true, but may become even more likely as lending limitations grow increasingly strict.  
But it’s the occasional recording error or misstatement that is most easily preventable. Ironically, those often affect perfectly well-qualified buyers—precisely because they have no reason to suspect that a problem could crop up.
The upshot: New Orleans first time buyers should start reviewing their credit history one year to six months before they intend to buy a home. Since the credit agencies provide upon request free copies of every individual’s report once each year, the only hassle is having to check the details line-by-line (a single reporting error can have a big impact on an overall score). And since it’s not unusual to take 90 days or more to cure a disputed entry, the earlier a first-time buyer begins the process, the better. Individuals can file a dispute online with the credit bureaus, or can hire a credit repair company to assist with disputes. In all cases, claims should be documented and correct information provided immediately.   
Once a New Orleans first-time buyer is certain that his or her reports are accurate, is it time to relax? Hardly. It’s important to continue to monitor those scores to ensure against accidental surprises. Especially recently, after wholesale credit card thefts sowed confusion and disruption throughout the system, it’s probably wise to assume nothing. Several online services offer credit monitoring (and it’s possible that your bank might provide free monitoring).

From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, I’m here to help my clients every step of the way. Call me today! (504)297-2619

(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
www.TerezSellsNolaProperties.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com





Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100

Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.

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Sunday, January 26, 2014

Local Trends - Metairie, LA 70003

There are currently 156 active listings for single family homes and condos in Metairie (70003). Only 7.7% of those are distressed listings (short sales and forclosures). The average number of days on the market is 66. The median, or average, listing price is $159,830.
Understand the difference between "listing prices" (what sellers are asking for) and "sold prices" (what buyers are willing to pay).

By comparing these price trends, you'll have a good idea of where the market is heading. The median listing and sold property prices are calculated based on the market activity each month.



The number of active listings in Metairie (70003) increased by 6.4%from the previous month.

The median number of days active properties have been listed is 66. This is significantly shorter than the national average.

The number of sales in September dropped by 83.3% from the previous month.

The percentage of unoccupied properties is very low in Metairie (70003). It is 11.32% below the national average.




Median household income in 70003 is $54,813 with 657 households earning between $35,000 to$40,000 annually.



18.28% of the people have completed a bachelors degree as their highest education level.



Overall crime risks in Metairie (70003) are less than half of the national average.

QUOTE:
"We are currently experiencing an inventory shortage in the Metairie area. There are more buyers seeking to move to the area than there are available homes for sale. That's why I have been encouraging those who are thinking about selling that now is definitely the time!"
-says Terez Harris, Lead Agent at Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group.


(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com



Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.

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Tuesday, January 21, 2014

3 Tips to Speed New Orleans Home Prospecting

If you plan to be looking for a new home in New Orleans anytime this winter, before long you will find yourself having to pare down your list of ‘eligibles’—the properties that you ask your New Orleans real estate agent to include on your gotta-see-this-one list.
The better job you do in whittling down that list, the more efficient your tour of properties will be. That’s not just a time-saver, either: the fact is, you’ll be more sharp-eyed and energetic when visiting prospective homes if you don’t waste time and energy on those that you could have eliminated beforehand. Some earmarks: 
1.      Houses that have been on the market for a long time
Area homes that have been on the market for more than 90 days probably have something about them that’s made them less appealing to buyers. If I am your New Orleans agent, I will research to find out what the sticking point has been. It could be a factor that doesn’t bother you; if so, you might be in line for a true bargain!
 2. Houses hiding deferred expenses
When you come up with a budget for your new New Orleans home, it’s easy to overlook deferred expenses that might bust that budget—especially if the property is otherwise appealing. Keep your eyes open and red flag areas that seem to indicate unusually deferred maintenance. And be ready to ask your inspector for a professional opinion.  

3. Homes with impaired resale potential

Although you won’t be selling your New Orleans new home any time soon, sophisticated buyers will usually try to put themselves in the mindset of a typical future buyer. That’s because they know that sometimes unique, idiosyncratic features that they themselves value can sometimes present obstacles to the average homebuyer. We never know what direction life can take; we may have to consider moving again sooner than expected—and if so, you’ll be happy that you tilted toward a new home with superior mass appeal.

If you’re about to go house hunting this winter, you can count my help as your experienced New Orleans agent. I’m ready to get to work for you!    

Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com






Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.

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Thursday, January 16, 2014

No Mystery: Deconstructing a Metairie Real Estate Listing Price


There is less guesswork than you might think about establishing an on-target Metairie real estate listing price. There is really very little mystery:
Comps and CMAs
When you hear your Realtor™ refer to ‘the comps,’ you probably think of them as the printouts of the Metairie real estate listings which are comparable to your own property. More comprehensively, a CMA, or Comparative Market Analysis, also includes a broad look at pending and completed sales, as well as withdrawn listings. That analysis will also include and account for differentiating factors, such as upgrades you have made to the home, location, and other features that make your home unique.
Market Conditions
Market conditions will also play a strong role in developing a real estate listing price that’s likely to attract serious buyers. If conditions indicate a seller’s market, it means that there aren’t many homes available for sale. Contrarily, if it is a buyer’s market, recent trends show that numerous homes are available for sale, but buyers are in short supply. Other factors can come into play. If an area has become economically depressed, for instance, pricing a home on the higher end of the standard is more likely to result in a higher DOM (days on market).
Appraisals
Getting an appraisal is helpful in nailing down an acceptable real estate listing price. The extra expense provides a highly educated estimate for what today’s market will bear (and also valuable preparation for you are likely to hear when you enter into serious negotiations). It’s also important to remember that the bank’s loan approval will hinge on whether or not the selling price is in excess of the appraised value of the home.
One of the major benefits of working with a Metairie Realtor™ when developing the real estate listing price for your home is the degree of expertise we bring to the process of setting an advantageous listing price. My own years of experience and knowledge of the Metairie market is invaluable when it comes to setting a fair price that spurs buyers to act quickly.  Looking to sell?  Call me today!   504-297-2619
                                                         


(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
TerezHarris@kw.com

                               
8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.
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Monday, January 13, 2014

Townhouse-Style Condo FOR SALE in River Ridge, LA

2816 Steamship Circle
River Ridge, LA
$155,000
Townhouse style condo. Convenient location in River Ridge. Close to Hickory & Citrus. Totally updated downstairs with granite in kitchen and newer cabinets. Fireplace in den with separate dinning area. Private patio. Why pay rent when you can own your own home? Come see for yourself!

View more information


Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com






Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.
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3554 Somerset Dr. FOR SALE in New Orleans, LA

3554 Somerset Dr.
New Orleans, LA 70131
$149,000
Looking for a solid home with plenty of room? Take a look at this one! Roomy kitchen with great cabinet space. 2 bedrooms upstairs, including master with custom built vanity, hardwood floors, and full bath. 2 additional bedrooms downstairs with full bath. Has spacious living room which flows nicely to dinette area, off side of kitchen. Double insulated windows for energy efficiency. Covered patio, Generous backyard with outside storage.

View more information about this home



The owners originally fell in love with this 4 bedroom, 2 bath home for its size and location. They loved the big back yard and the citrus trees that have provided them with many years of fun and fresh fruit.


They came to love spending time on the back patio and hanging out in their living room.
Since buying the house, the owners made quite a few improvements including new sewer and drain pipes under the house. 


They installed copper water piping throughout the house. They changed the sliding glass doors to new French doors leading to the back patio. Also on the list of improvements are new double insulated windows in every room, a new water 
heater, and a new air conditioning/heating unit. 


The owners say some of the things they will miss the most are those citrus trees, the quiet neighborhood, good people, easy access to stores, and their old walking route. 

View more information about this home

Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com






Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. Licensed in the state of Louisiana. 

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4 Bedroom 2 Bath Home FOR SALE in Waggaman, LA

Looking for your first home? This one has so much to offer! Spacious kitchen, present-day cabinetry & counters. Energy-efficient windows, newer roof, a/c, wind storm doors, alarm system, updated bathroom and nickel finished faucet. Have fun in your backyard for gatherings with a solid above ground pool! Home is located in a "X" flood zone. Why rent when you can own your own home!!!

View more information about this home


50 Judith St.
Waggaman, LA
$109,900

The homeowner was originally drawn to this house because it is located in a “no flood” zone.
In her time there, the home owner has added a new air conditioning unit, ceiling fans, remodeled a bathroom, and added sensor lights.  
Outside improvements include a storage shed, above-ground pool, and a swing set.
The homeowner spent a lot time in the back yard and pool.  
In the kitchen, a new garbage disposal and nickel finish faucet.

Other improvements include energy-efficient windows, new floors in all the bedrooms, wind-resistant storm doors, an alarm system, new vinyl siding, and a new roof.

The things that will be missed the most are the pool, and all the memories shared with family and neighbors.
She also enjoyed grilling and the local park and library.


Thomas Jefferson Park lighting the historic oak trees.


Picnic shelter at Thomas Jefferson Park.


She will miss her community of friendly, helpful, all-around awesome neighbors, walking around the park, and of course, Gumbo Fest.

Waggaman Development Group Facebook page

View more information about this home


Terez Harris NOLA Real Estate Group
(504)297-2619
www.TerezHarris.com
Harris.Terez@gmail.com







Keller Williams Realty New Orleans 8601 Leake Ave. New Orleans, LA 70118 504-862-0100
Each office independently owned and operated. All brokers licensed in the state of Louisiana.




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