WCR HONORS 3 BRIGHTON ASSOCIATES

The Rochester Chapter of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® honored their members today at the Annual Holiday and Awards Breakfast at Monroe Country Club. Six unique awards were presented and three associates from Nothnagle’s Brighton branch were among the winners.

Terry Wolak was honored with the “Rising Star” award. Terry is a Brighton native who has seen his sales career take off since joining Nothnagle almost two years ago. “We were delighted to have Terry join us in 2006. His dedication to each and every transaction puts his clients at ease every step of the way. He is sure to be an area top producer for years to come,” notes John Arquette, general manager at Nothnagle Realtors.

Eileen S. Perry received the “Humanitarian” award. Eileen, a former teacher and Brighton resident, joined Nothnagle in 1997. She is very active in the community and volunteered to head up this year’s team of Nothnagle agents in the annual Walk Against Breast Cancer. Eileen is a multi-million dollar producer and has an SRES (Seniors Residential Specialist) designation. Armand D’Alfonso, president of Nothnagle was impressed when she approached him about forming the team for this year’s walk. “Eileen wanted this year to be tenfold better than last year ¾ more walkers, more donations. She was the right person to lead the charge for this great cause.”

Marilyn Greenberg, a 27 year real estate professional was honored with the “Mentor of the Year” award. “Marilyn is known in the real estate community as an educated, dedicated and cooperative professional. The most important thing Marilyn shows newer agents is how to do things right. She’ll tell you there are no short cuts in business,” said Phil Nothnagle, chairman of Nothnagle.


The Rochester Chapter of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® has nearly 350 national and affiliate members and sponsors. As a whole WCR has 17,000 plus motivated professionals. The mission of WCR is to empower women to exercise their potential as entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

Nothnagle.com…Rochester’s Busiest Real Estate Office Address

Not too long ago buyers would wait in the real estate office lobby while their agent researched properties. Although this still happens occasionally, it is now a sign of the times that buyers can research properties before coming into the office.

The days of building the big office to attract buyers is a very antiquated concept. Buyers and sellers still want a comfortable place to meet, but when it comes to selling a home, sellers want an office that attracts buyers, and buyers want an office that makes it easy to find their dream home.

Imagine an office that has over 13,000 potential buyers walking through its doors everyday.

There’s one right here in Rochester, and it’s Nothnagle.com

At Nothnagle Realtors, we built our website just like an office. When you walk in, there’s an online receptionist for all your questions. We count how many buyers look at our sellers’ properties and give them activity reports. Our agents have tools that get buyer inquires to them in seconds.

The first place buyers turn to is today’s busiest real estate office…Nothnagle.com. List with the office that has over 13,000 buyers walking through its doors everyday!

If you’re thinking of selling your home, let Nothnagle Realtors get you noticed! Call any Nothnagle agent directly or call 899-MOVE today!

Nothnagle Joins Record Number of REALTORS® at NAR Conference

Rochester, NY 12/10/07 - Armand D'Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle REALTORS in Rochester, NY was among the more than 30,000 Realtors® - a record number - attending the REALTORS® Conference & Expo titled “No Limits,” held in Las Vegas, November 13-16. D'Alfonso was accompanied by John DeCarolis, CIO of Nothnagle REALTORS, Bob Maves, Senior Sales Manager, Ron Mazza, Senior Sales Manager and Director of Training, and Bob Malone and Louis Alaimo, Sales Managers of Nothnagle REALTORS.

Realtors® and other guests came to the National Association of Realtors® annual conference to stay abreast of the latest developments and trends in the real estate industry, networking with colleagues from across the United States and from more than 50 countries around the world.

NAR President Pat V. Combs urged Realtors® to help restore confidence in the real estate market by educating the public about the value of housing as a good long-term investment. “Housing continues to be a good long-term investment,” said Combs, “Real estate is alive and well and there are plenty of opportunities for consumers and Realtors® in the current market.”

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun pointed to an increase in jobs and the projected growth of the gross domestic product at 3.3 percent as evidence of positive economic fundamentals. Yun contrasted current low interest rates and high employment levels, and explained how present market conditions differed from those in previous market slowdowns. Yun also told attendees that home prices are holding up extremely well. “2007 is shaping up to be a good year with home prices at near record highs. Only two other years - 2005 and 2006 - were better, which also set records at the time,” he said.

Realtors® attended programs on the economy, public policy, equal opportunity and diversity, land use and property rights, the environment, international real estate and housing opportunities. Realtors® were also briefed on NAR’s advocacy efforts regarding several legislative and regulatory proposals that would further benefit homeowners. These included eliminating the tax on “phantom” income that affects individuals who have a loan forgiven or are forced to foreclose, modernizing the Federal Housing Administration’s mortgage-insurance program and addressing the impact of and solutions regarding rising homeowner and property insurance rates.

Realtors® are known for their commitment to building strong communities, and hundreds of them contributed their time and efforts to the greater Las Vegas community while attending the conference. Conference attendees rolled up their sleeves and lent a hand to Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas and the Children’s Service Guild, a Las Vegas-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children touched by the family court system.

NAR kicked off a yearlong centennial celebration at the conference, marking 100 years of bringing America home. A new book, The National Association of Realtors®: 100 Years in Celebration of the American Dream, which provides an historical account of the real estate industry over the past century and NAR’s involvement in shaping and transforming that industry, was made available for the first time, and a retrospective video premiered during the conference.

There were also 744 exhibitors at the conference - the largest number on record in a single NAR trade show - displaying the latest in real estate-related hardware, software and other state-of-the-art industry tools.

The National Association of Realtors®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Some Home Sellers Attract More Buyers

Real estate is an information business. Not too long ago agents had all the information, and buyers had to call to find out the address, price, directions and so much more. Can you imagine how much time that would take today?

Since the advent of the Internet buyers have access to the information they once never had.

Today agents must do just the opposite with the information. Get it everywhere they can before someone else does!

Where are the buyers looking? Everywhere they can.
Today, to attract the most buyers, the key is to get mass amounts of information distributed to potential buyers.

Today sellers shouldn’t be satisfied that their property information is just posted on a website.

Four Questions Every Seller Should Ask
Before They Agree to List Their Home.
1. How many potential buyers visit your website per day?

2. Can you show me a web visitors report for all your listings?

3. Do you have other types of websites that attract buyers?
• Video .TV website
• A mobile website
• Local newspaper sites
• iTunes
• Google

4. Do you have a strong print advertising plan, and what is it?

The market can be as good or as bad as your advertising plan. When choosing a company to sell your home, make sure their advertising plan is one that distributes mass information to the buyers - not one that waits for the buyers to come to their website.

Habitat for Humanity

Dawn Lambrix of our Pittsford office shares how she will start this holiday season: "Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I will be going to Coban, Guatemala to help build two homes for Habitat For Humanity. Tom, my "fiance of 19 years" will be joining me. We will dig foundations, raise walls, "butter up" blocks, tie rebar and who knows what else. We will be on the job from 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Not so tough... I work more than that selling real estate!

Tom and I felt that we have been so blessed that it was time to give back. I think seeing the smiles on the faces of the new home owners and their children will be an amazing thrill for us. When you are eating your turkey, think of me. I wonder what our Thanksgiving dinner will be!"

September Home Sales Up 11.5% at Nothnagle Realtors

The National Association of REALTORS® reported that existing home sales fell by 8% in September, the largest decline to show up in records dating back to 1999.

Locally owned and operated Nothnagle Realtors reported their September sales up 11.5%. Although home prices are relatively flat, more areas in Greater Rochester are showing general improvements since the fourth quarter of 2006. The overall momentum in our local housing market clearly suggests a stable local marketplace. Our overall listing inventory has also played a part in our market.

The overall inventory of listed properties is down 8.4% which can be both good and bad. Sellers appreciate the lack of competition, and the lower supply of homes will help the current inventory sell quicker. Some potential sellers are undecided thinking that the market is slow, but in reality it’s a good time to list your home.

Remember, Real Estate is Local
If you’re selling a home in Rochester, New York, talk to a local professional to get a clear understanding of the local real estate market.

Nothnagle agents are very knowledgeable and have a clear plan of what it takes to sell a home in any market.

Because real estate is a local business, Nothnagle Realtors has designed a marketing plan that generates leads so our agents produce results our sellers expect.

What is Our Winning Formula?
The Best Marketing Plan Available
+
More Qualified Buyers
= More Money, Fewer Problems and a Quicker Sale.

If you’re thinking of selling your home, let Nothnagle Realtors get you noticed! Call any Nothnagle agent directly or call 899-MOVE today!

Whether you are buying, selling or looking at real estate as a career, giving you more is what Nothnagle is all about.

Nothnagle Agent to be a Part of the 15th Anniversary WALT DISNEY WORLD® Marathon Weekend

Tim Peters, a Nothnagle agent from our Gates-Chili office, will be running in his second full marathon in Walt Disney World, Florida on January 13th, 2008.

The weekend benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, an organization dedicated to the fight against blood cancers.

For more information or to contribute, visit Tim's website here or call 585-261-1164.

Wine Tasting Gala and Auction - Nov. 9th

Elaine McGrady, a Nothnagle agent for over 25 years from our Webster office, is a member of the fundraising committee for Webster Comfort Care Home.

Webster Comfort Care Home is a residence for the terminally ill of any age. The home is a place for these residents to spend their last days in the comfort of a home-like atmosphere. The home also has facilities for the residents' out-of-town families to stay at. The home is highly dependent on trained volunteers which are needed all the time and is supported and funded primarily by private donations and fundraising events.


The next fundraiser is:
Wine Tasting Gala and Auction
Nov. 9th at Webster Golf Course Country Club
~ Fun, Food and Friends ~
Advanced tickets are $35
Please call (585) 671-5180 x216 to volunteer or for tickets.

Thank you!

There’s No Place Like Home...Especially When Home is Rochester, New York

If you or anyone you know has ever left Rochester in search of bigger and brighter cities with better opportunities, it’s more than likely that once they’ve left here they can’t wait to be back. Or at least you didn’t realize what you had here until you lost it. Such is the case for Rosie Taravella who left upstate New York in the 1980s for Los Angeles to begin a career as an actress and writer. While Ms. Taravella enjoyed much success in her subsequent 25 years in L.A., she realized that she was missing out on a more accommodating lifestyle back here in Rochester. Here, in her own words, she tells us why this area is second to none in arts, culture, lifestyle, natural beauty and cost of living.

It was time to create an opportunity in a great city where homes are affordable, natural beauty abounds, cultural assets are plentiful and one can get anywhere in 15 minutes. Naturally, I chose Rochester.
I don’t feel like I sacrificed anything by moving back to Rochester. My 16-mile commute was taking an hour one-way, and the mortgage on my 650 square foot Pasadena bungalow was over $2,100 (excluding taxes). Ginny Hronek, a Nothnagle real estate agent helped me find a beautiful home in Perinton. My colonial split gives me three times the space I had in California at one-third the price. I love being just 15 minutes away from my downtown office, while enjoying a spacious country setting and the peace and quiet it offers me.
It is such a pleasure to be home. Rochester has more arts per capita than any other mid-sized city. We recently surpassed Nashville, Tennessee in generating some $198 million in economic activity from our arts organizations, as reported by the "Americans for the Arts" which surveyed 156 communities in 50 states and the District of Columbia.
I thought I would be leaving world class arts and culture behind in Los Angeles, but it’s here in Rochester. The only difference being that it’s more affordable and easier to get to.
Becoming the Executive Director to the Rochester/ High Falls International Film Festival is a great place for me to have landed because I get to sing the praises of Rochester to many of the tourists who come to the city to partake in the Festival activity. That includes filmmakers, several of who comment on how they’ve never been to the area before, and what a great place it would be for them to shoot a film, vacation or even live.

Best Agents. Best Website. And…Best Marketing.

The Art of Marketing Homes
Our state-of-the-art Marketing Department packages and presents our listings to their highest potential to attract the most interest.

Mission Statement
The Marketing Department is committed to the success of the agents we support. We strive to provide superior products that will enhance each agent’s image in the community and the properties represented in their portfolio. Working tirelessly towards this end, we dedicate ourselves to providing unparalleled marketing products in a timely fashion.

Inside Marketing
There are five talented graphic designers along with three support personnel in the Marketing Department at Nothnagle Realtors. Together they provide the highest quality marketing materials using office equipment purchased from and supported by local businesses which results in a quick turnaround time.

While your Nothnagle agent is focusing on your needs as a client, the Marketing Department is focusing on both the agent’s needs as well as the client’s needs. All of our products are produced right on site at our Corporate office, 1485 Monroe Avenue in Brighton. Promotional products can be browsed online for ordering by agents, and nearly every item we manufacture can be personalized. Our graphic designers can customize designs and logos, plus there is a wide array of ready-made products such as brochures, flyers and postcards to choose from. The Nothnagle Marketing Department is also responsible for concepts like Page 4!

Another Unique Service
Dan Nothnagle, Vice-President of Advertising and Marketing, indicates that one of the things he is most excited about is the innovation of MailNow. "This is a unique service in that it allows our agents to have personal mailing lists printed directly onto postcard orders, which are then printed, sorted and distributed directly to the post office. Most real estate firms can offer graphic design and color copies. The utilization of Variable Data printing is what sets Nothnagle Realtors apart."

Home Warranties

Designed to Provide Protection for Both the Seller and Buyer
Home warranties - now deemed home service agreements - protect you and your family against financial setbacks from costly repair or replacement due to normal wear and tear of covered appliances and major systems. A Gallup poll reveals that the majority of buyers and sellers rate home warranties as one of the most important considerations when buying or selling a home behind location, design and financing options.
Most basic coverage menus include plumbing, heating and air conditioning, electrical system, water heater and major appliances (range/oven/cooktop, dishwasher, refrigerator, garbage disposal, etc.). Home service agreements are available for single-family homes, condos/townhomes and multi-family units. Additional fees may apply for anything over a fourplex. Optional packages are usually available for the buyer (swimming pool/spa, enhanced HVAC, etc.)

When selling your home, keep in mind the following reasons to include a home warranty:
• Achieve a competitive marketing advantage over homes without a warranty/service agreement.
• Homes with a service agreement result in a quicker sale - up to 15% faster than homes without one - and typically sell closer to the asking price.
• Engaging a home service agreement during the listing period protects your equity investment, reducing your "out of pocket" cost on covered items for unexpected repairs.
Important information to be aware of when purchasing a home warranty:
• A home warranty is intended to provide reasonable and affordable repair cost for the mechanical breakdown of covered eligible equipment due to normal wear and tear.
• The warranty is not intended to replace responsibility for normal maintenance and minor repairs.
• A home warranty does not apply to a pre-existing, non-functioning unit or appliance (example: a non-functioning air conditioning unit).
• Most warranties are for limited service and do not cover everything or necessarily the entire cost of the repairs.
• Payment for the warranty is due at the closing of the property (where allowed by law - yes, for New York State).
• The majority of warranty companies offer annual renewals to the buyer one year from the closing date of the property.
• Most, if not all, warranty companies require prior approval before work is performed by any contractor.
• Normally there is a trade fee (service call fee) due to the contractor upon a visit to your home regarding a claim.

One may think a home warranty is not worth the expense because it does not cover everything. However, statistics show that one to two items will require service during the warranty period, and there is a higher confidence level for both sellers and buyers knowing that out of pocket expenses are reduced on covered items. The ease of use is also comforting with only one contact point available 24/7, in most cases, to register the service request and get the process rolling.

The Truth About Real Estate

Allyson Ryan, Nothnagle Realtors Page 4 Editor, sits down with Nancy Vesling, Associate Broker at Nothnagle Realtors’ Pittsford office:

AR: Nancy, first we would like to thank you for taking time out of your schedule to sit down with us and answer some questions about the current state of our real estate market.
NV: You’re welcome! I’m happy to help. Did you know that as a part of the Nothnagle Team, I’m part of 20% of the Monroe County real estate agents, and as a part of that team – we are involved in about 55% of all real estate transactions in Rochester?
AR: Wow! I know that being a part of a great company like Nothnagle has its advantages, and I see our presence all over the place, but that statistic is staggering!
NV: No kidding! The market is still hot right now. There are two to three times more homes for sale now than there were last year.
AR: Why is that? I’ve been noticing a lot of homes popping up for sale in my neighborhood this year, and they seem to go pretty quickly.
NV: Well that’s because homes that are in "move-in" or pristine condition sell quickly and at a great price in most areas of Greater Rochester.
AR: I have considered jumping on that bandwagon myself, but right now I’m not sure how great of a rate I could get on a new mortgage.
NV: Well the rates right now are great! Depending on the week, the mortgage loan rates have been fluctuating between 6.0% and 6.5% per week – which is excellent! However, it is important to note that banks are being more cautious, so those with a low credit score or 100% financing would be paying a higher rate.
AR: That’s good to know – my husband and I bought our home two and a half years
ago and since it’s a starter home, we figured we’ll be out in another two to three years. I hope prices don’t get too out of control by then!
NV: I wouldn’t worry. Our market continues to be strong and steady. In the April issue of Money Magazine, Rochester was listed in the top 100 areas with the best growth in 2007-2008, with a prediction of 3.7% growth. There wasn’t a "bubble burst" so home prices have not changed all that much. We don’t have the real highs or lows.
AR: You mentioned before that there are more homes for sale now than there were last year. Can you tell me more about that?
NV: In April 2006 our Pittsford office listed 30 homes for sale – this year we listed 91!
AR: Well the numbers certainly speak for themselves Nancy! Do you have any advice for our readers and future clients?
NV: If you’re selling your home, spending a little money up front gains you more money at the time of sale. It’s important (and always my goal) to make your home shine above the others. Using a home stager and taking advantage of my list of home improvement people from handymen to painters will always help you along the road of selling a home.
AR: That’s great information – you work as a Buyer’s Agent as well right?
NV: Yes, as a relocation specialist and Rochester native I am committed to all of my clients and follow their sale from contract to closing.
AR: Nancy, I understand this coming January will mark your 15th year with Nothnagle Realtors, and we wanted to convey our sincere appreciation for your commitment to the company and the residents of the Greater Rochester area. Thank you for your time today.
NV: It’s been my pleasure!

Understanding Seller Concessions

A Conversation with Christine Nothnagle, President of Nothnagle Home Securities Corp., and Brian Donovan, Associate Broker at Nothnagle Realtors

Christine: One of the biggest challenges buyers encounter when purchasing a home is having enough savings for the down payment, closing costs and upfront escrows. Today, many purchase offers are written with the seller contributing some of their equity over to the buyer at the closing to help them meet cash requirements for closing.
This is referred to as seller concessions. Commonly, you may find purchase offers written with the seller contributing from 3% to 6% of the purchase price towards the buyer’s closing costs. The allowable percentage of contributions depends on what type of financing the buyer has selected. Each mortgage program has its own requirements.
Many sellers today understand that it is very common practice to accept a purchase offer with seller concessions. A high percentage of purchase offers are written with seller contributions. When reviewing the seller’s options, your real estate agent will address your final proceeds upon closing.

Brian: The benefit that the buyer reaps from the seller concessions is a home that may not be otherwise possible at that point and time. Also, if the seller contributes to the sales process, it will create a bigger buyer demand for their home. When demand rises and supply remains the same, the result is a higher price!
The seller is not interested in the sale price as much as the net dollar proceeds they will receive from that sales transaction. The seller con-cessions become an additional dollar investment by the seller to achieve the market’s highest and best price for the seller’s benefit.
The result is a win - win for both buyer and seller. The buyer’s dream of the home has been achieved, and the seller’s goal for a timely sale has been reached.

The Differences Between a Condominium and a Townhouse

Under condominium ownership each owner holds a title to the living space of the common elements (interior walls, floors and ceilings). Each owner receives an individual tax bill and may mortgage the unit. Expenses for operating the building are collected by the association, most often on a monthly basis. These are called Condominium Association fees which cover general repairs and maintenance to the common areas of the complex (the foundation, exterior walls and roof). In some cases any common areas and amenities such as swimming pools, clubhouses, tennis courts, play areas, along with heat and hot water are included.
In New York State, a condominium property is customarily administered by an association of unit owners or a board of managers that are elected by the unit owners. The board may manage the property on its own or engage a professional property manager. Owners pay monthly charges for maintenance purposes.

Is a Condominium for You?
• Do you want absolutely nothing to do with exterior maintenance and repairs?
• Do you like the idea of amenities, but not the idea of having to pay for them on your own?
• Do you like the feeling of security with numerous and close by neighbors?
Townhouse occupants own the land directly beneath their unit and the living unit including the roof and basement. Occasionally a small lawn or patio is individually owned as well. The term townhouse, as it refers to shared housing, describes a type of ownership rather than an architectural style. Although the organization is similar to condominiums, townhouses often take on the term of "attached row houses." Most often townhouse owners also pay a monthly fee to the Homeowners’ Association which covers common area maintenance and may cover exterior maintenance, master insurance, etc.

Is a Townhouse for You?
• Do you like the idea of your "space" but not having to deal with most exterior maintenance?
• Is a small backyard or deck just about all the yard you need?
• Does the idea of having neighbors close by not really bother you --- you just don’t want them above and below as well as next to you?

It’s important that you investigate an association when you buy a condominium or townhouse. Both associations are required to file a declaration of covenants, conditions and restrictions. The declaration is referred to as the bylaws, and it is recommended that you request a copy to review in which it discloses precisely how the association is to be structured, its duties and responsibilities and what restrictions are placed on all owners as to acceptable modifications and improvements to their individual units.

HOME Rochester

If you’re dreaming of owning your own home but can’t seem to get the money to save for the large down payment and closing costs associated with home buying, you may qualify for the Rochester Housing Development Fund Corporation’s HOME Rochester program. As long as you are a first time homebuyer, you have a job, good credit and you can currently pay over $500 a month in rent, then HOME Rochester can help individuals like yourself and families with moderate incomes become homeowners.
The properties in the HOME program are all single family homes within the City of Rochester that have been rehabilitated from vacant houses into beautiful, fully functional homes that meet or exceed city and state property codes. Each comes with a Certificate of Occupancy and a lead paint clearance, along with one-year warranties on major mechanical systems that were replaced during the renovations. Groups such as not-for-profit developers, local banks and the City of Rochester all work together with the Rochester Housing Development Fund Corporation to renovate HOME Rochester houses and make owning one possible for qualified buyers.
Homebuyers that meet the qualifications for the HOME Rochester program must be able to contribute a minimum of $1,500 towards the purchase and also qualify for a conventional, fixed rate mortgage. For income qualified HOME Rochester homebuyers, there are grants that can be applied for by the purchaser to assist in up to $6,000 in closing costs and/or interest reduction subsidies. HOME Rochester homebuyers must also occupy their new home between 3 to 15 years.

Nothnagle Realtors has agents on both the east and west sides of the city who are involved in the HOME Rochester program. For more information, contact any of the agents below to find out if you or someone you know can be part of the Rochester Housing Development Fund Corporation’s HOME Rochester program.
• Mel Diamond, Pittsford: 389-4048
• Nate Ellison, Webster: 671-5180 x329
• Octavio Garcia, Greece: 368-7154
• Pat Kulaga, Greece: 368-7119
• Linda Wilson, Brighton: 461-6320
• Rob Reimer, Management Contact
- Greece: 368-7167

Enjoy Low-Cost Living: Consider Buying a Two-Family Home

Sometimes the ideal start for a person, or a couple’s first home is a two-family, or multi-family home. When you think about it, the same advantages exist for a two-family as they do for a single family home. Interest, taxes and improvements are all tax deductible.
Sometimes the buyer can qualify for a higher priced home based on projected rent plus their own income, and the deductions can be even more significant. Now that alone is an advantage, but when you consider that the tenant is more than making up the difference in monthly overhead, the rewards are even greater. In many cases the homeowner can virtually live "rent free" while the tenant is in effect paying the mortgage and taxes. This is not a bad deal when you consider that the appreciation of the property and the amortization of the mortgage is building equity on a monthly basis.
In the interim, the homeowner can save at a fairly rapid rate for their next purchase which may very well be a single family home if they wish to raise a family or perhaps another two or three family home.
Being a successful landlord is dependent upon being able to effectively handle tenants. Having the tenant right next door makes it easier for you to keep on top of things.
Because of the ability to save during multi-family home ownership, it may be possible to purchase the next home without selling this one. Once there is a tenant in each of the units, the property could produce a positive cash flow, and the amortization of the loan and the appreciation of the property would continue.
At Nothnagle Realtors, our well-trained salespeople take pride in helping buyers make good decisions in their real estate purchases. What works for one may not work for another. Our job is to explain different strategies, so the buyer can make an informed decision about what they want to accomplish and go forward with confidence.
Before striking out on your own, it is good advice to sit down with a Nothnagle agent who will properly set forth the options available so you can make an informed decision.

Innovative tools, technology and the top producing real estate professionals in the area are what set us apart. If you’re looking to buy or sell property, consider the advantages of using the Best Agents and the Best Technology by hiring a Nothnagle real estate agent. Each can give you up-to-date market information on pricing, financing and terms and conditions of competing properties. These are key factors in getting your home SOLD for the best price quickly with the least inconvenience. Call any Nothnagle agent or 899-MOVE today! You can also go to Nothnagle.com and our newest site - Nothnagle.tv!

Introducing...Nothnagle.TV! The First Local, Web-Based, Video-On-Demand Channel for Real Estate in the United States

Nothnagle REALTORS, Rochester’s Full Service REALTOR, today announced the launch of their newest innovation, Nothnagle.TV. Nothnagle.TV is a web-based video-on-demand network that showcases every property listed by Nothnagle REALTORS.

In recent years, Internet video services have become a mainstream phenomenon in the United States. Content from dozens of TV networks and major film studios is now routinely offered online. Nothnagle.TV capitalizes on this trend by taking content that is in demand by real estate consumers and making it available on demand via the Internet.

Armand D’Alfonso, Chief Executive Officer of Nothnagle REALTORS, commented, “We are pleased to be the first real estate brokerage in the nation to enable our agents and sellers to leverage this innovative new media format to increase exposure for all of their listings on the Internet, around the clock – and on-demand. We think of Nothnagle.TV as a full blown, locally produced, interactive TV channel delivered free of charge over the web to anyone with an Internet connection.”

Nothnagle REALTORS has successfully used the power of both television and the Internet for years to market properties. Nothnagle's “Sunday Showcase of Homes” television program (which airs Sunday mornings at 10:30 AM on WROC, Channel 8) is consistently the top rated program in its time period, and Nothnagle.com (the company’s website) is consistently one of the area’s most trafficked real estate websites.

According to D’Alfonso, “Nothnagle.TV takes the best aspects of television and the Internet and marries them together, offering viewers a unique, TV-like experience enhanced with choice, control and flexibility. Nothnagle.TV is an unparalleled interactive experience that local real estate consumers will love.”

To watch Nothnagle.TV, simply go to http://www.nothnagle.tv on the web. Programs are conveniently organized by county and area. Nothnagle.TV programs are also being posted to Google Video to gain additional exposure. From Google Video, Nothnagle.TV programs may be downloaded for viewing offline on a home computer (Windows or Mac), video iPod or Sony PSP. Programs can be emailed to a friend or posted to a blog. Nothnagle has even created a podcast for iTunes. Consumers can subscribe for free and synchronize town videos to their iPods to watch them on the go.

Nothnagle Realtors and Ryan Homes Announce New Partnership

On May 21, 2007 the area’s largest real estate firm, Nothnagle Realtors and the largest new home builder Ryan Homes, began a strategic partnership. Clients of both companies will now enjoy a more seamless transition in the selling of their current home and the building of their new home.

With the Best Agents and Best Website around, Nothnagle Realtors is already Rochester’s choice in real estate. Ryan Homes has recognized the Best and has made Nothnagle Realtors their #1 referral company in real estate. To ease their clients move to their newly built Ryan home easier, Nothnagle Realtors implements state-of-the-art marketing systems and advertising methods.

In addition Nothnagle is offering a unique program called the Nothnagle Equity Advance Program which will offer immediate financing to the Ryan Homes buyer client that uses equity of the home for sale, prior to its sale to aid in the new home’s construction.

“We are very excited about this new partnership”, says John Arquette, General Manager of Nothnagle Realtors. “The synergy we can provide customers of new Ryan Homes will be unparalleled in the industry”. Building on that synergy is a little known coincidence. Both company’s were founded in 1948, Nothnagle Realtors here in Rochester NY and Ryan Homes in Pittsburgh PA.

How a Great Website Can Generate More Qualified Buyers to Your Open House

A common misconception is that open houses have been more beneficial to realtors than homeowners. Of course that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t hold an open house if you are trying to sell your home; the key is to make it work for you. By holding them at various times of the day and week makes it easier for busy people to come in for a viewing. Saturdays and Sundays are customary and convenient days to schedule open houses because most people have at least one weekend day off from work.

Another purpose to hold an open house, besides selling your home at that particular moment, is to get people talking about it. Friends and relatives of people who already live or work in your neighborhood will often buy a good percentage of homes there. Good agents know this and will use the open house opportunity to seek out potential buyers that may not be at the open house.
Statistically, 2%-5% of homes will actually sell from an open house, which realistically means opens houses could increase the salability of your home up to 5%!

Online House Hunting Opens Homes 24/7

"There’s no doubt about it, the web is changing real estate," says Phil Nothnagle, Chairman of Nothnagle Realtors. Nothnagle.com, which has over 13,000 visitors per day, gives people the tools to view homes inside and out and map their routes all at their own pace. Phil goes on to say, "Some people don’t want to spend a day in the car like they did in years past. More of the browsing is now done online first which means more qualified buyers at open houses."
While some may say open houses will inconvenience the sellers because they will have to show their house more often, it’s worthwhile because these parties are more serious buyers and they’ve done their research.

As we move into the 21st century, agents will become more competitive by using such technologies as well-designed websites, digital cameras, video home tours and online chat services. An agent should use all resources available to him/her in order to market the listing; one never knows where the buyer will come from for that particular property. For now, open houses are the cornerstone of the real human element of selling real estate in this computer age.

LOOK FOR NOTHNAGLE’S
OPEN HOUSE EXTRAVAGANZA
ON JUNE 24, 2007!

The Benefit of a Mobile Website

Today, instant information is available at your fingertips - right now you're reading about the real estate industry on a blog!

For many people, we remember a time when computers were a rare feature within daily life. Now they are so prevalent that access to the Internet and computer-type features are available on most cell phones. To keep up with the demand of instant information at your fingertips - wherever you are - many companies now offer "mobile" versions of their websites, designed specifically to fit cell phones or PDAs. You can get weather, stocks, sports and news updates right into the palm of your hand. For people on the go, this type of access to information is essential.

Real estate is a fast-paced, on-the-go industry. The technology available to today’s agents and their clients has outpaced yesterday’s technology rapidly. Nothnagle Realtors has consistently led the way in innovating technology trends to make the industry more efficient and user-friendly for both agents and their clients. Specifically designed to fit your hand-held device, Mobile.Nothnagle.com brings the convenience of house hunting right into the palm of your hand.
By accessing Mobile.Nothnagle.com, users can enter the street address of a property and, once connected, be able to see the entire property specifications. This great feature provided by Nothnagle Realtors not only gives you information on price, square footage and taxes, but you can also see the inside of the property if photos are available! This gives an edge to the general consumer like never before.

Now, the next time you see a property that strikes your interest you don’t have to scrounge for a piece of paper to scribble the address, or memorize it to look it up once you get home. Just pick up your cell phone, access the Internet feature and enter the home’s address at Mobile.Nothnagle.com!

The Importance of Real Estate Agents

Experience
You don’t need to know everything about buying and selling real estate if you hire a real estate professional who does. We’re all looking for more precious time in our lives, and hiring a real estate agent gives us that time.

Agents Are Screeners
They filter through the lookers and bring you the serious buyers who are ready, willing and able.

Market Condition Information
Real estate agents can inform you and sometimes predict market conditions, which will help you make better decisions during the selling or buying process.

Negotiation Skills
Unlike most buyers and sellers, good real estate agents can remove themselves from the emotional aspects of the transaction.

What is My Home Worth?
Agents control many things in a transaction, pricing is NOT one of them. What they are in control of is their marketing plan. Another part of their job description is to provide you with a marketing plan that creates demand for your home.

Keep the Transaction Together
Sometimes getting a contract on a home is the easy part. Keeping the deal together is the hard part. Most problems that occur happen later in the transaction, sometime between the initial sales agreement and closing. A real estate agent is the best person to objectively help you resolve these issues and move the transaction to closing.

These are just a few things to consider when hiring a real estate professional.
It’s no wonder less than 15% of all home sellers even try to take on the task of selling their own home. The majority of home sellers take on the task with an ally: a real estate agent.

Time to "Move Up"?

Whether your family is growing, you’re earning more money than you were five years ago, or you just want a larger house, you might be considering selling your house and "moving up." There are many things you should do as you consider whether the time to move up is now, including the following key points:

• Make Sure You Feel Good About Your New Home
• Ask a Real Estate Professional for a Market Analysis
• Get Pre-approved for a Loan
• Be Specific About Your Needs and Decide With Logic, Not Just Emotion
• Consider the Neighborhood, as Well as the Individual House

Did you know...

The year-to-date figures for number of houses sold in the City of Rochester increased 106.7%.

*Statistic derived from GRAR-GENRIS.

The Importance of a Compartive Market Analysis

A Comparative Market Analysis, or CMA, is a valuable service for home sellers but can also be beneficial to home buyers. It is an evaluation of a home’s value based on available local market data including:

• How much homes similar to yours have sold for recently
• Pending sales that are similar to yours
• How long these homes were on the market before they sold
• How fast you can expect to sell your home
• What your "competition" would be should you decide to put your home on the market right away
• A recommended asking price

Reasons to Know Your Home’s Market Value

Your home’s market value is an important factor in a long list of financial decisions. Many of these decisions include:

• Selling your home
• Refinancing your mortgage
• Borrowing against your equity
• Estimating your annual property tax bill
• Buying homeowner’s insurance
• Calculating the expected return on remodeling costs
• Managing your other investments
• Estate planning

Figuring out how much your home is worth by remembering how much you paid for it months or years ago is not relevant to the home’s current market value. The best person qualified to prepare your CMA is a licensed real estate agent in your area.

The market data provided in different CMA's should not vary by much since all real estate agents have access to the same market information. The suggested price on your CMA should not be the determining factor when choosing which agent will sell your home for more money. What will make a difference is the agent’s marketing plan for your home.

Keep in mind these questions when selecting a real estate agent

• What are they willing to do for you?
• Will they use every possible marketing tool available to generate the most qualified buyers possible?

Our Winning Formula
The best marketing plan available
+

The most qualified buyers who
create more purchase offers
=
More money, fewer problems,
and a quicker sale!

If you’re thinking of selling your home, let Nothnagle Realtors get you noticed! Call any Nothnagle agent direct or call 899-MOVE today!

Why Live in Rochester?

According to 2006 Money Magazine reports, the average commute is 16.9 minutes - 3.9 minutes less than the national average!

Assessed Value Vs. Fair Market Value

Assessed Value
This is the dollar value placed on a parcel of property by the Assessor’s Office. It is computed by analyzing thousands of individual sale transactions, thousands of inspections and a thorough study of neighborhoods in your town. It is the Assessor’s estimate of market value. This information is used by taxing authorities to determine taxable value only.
Assessed value is NOT always an indication of market value. Remember, the "estimated Fair Market Value" is an estimate and is only approximate.

Estimated Fair Market Value
Fair Market Value is the value of a home in TODAY’S market. This is the current price a willing and able buyer will pay for a home which could change at any time.
A Comparative Market Analysis or CMA is the best and most accurate way of determining market value. Using this approach, the market value of a home is based upon recent sales (preferably in the current year) of at least three similar neighboring homes.
In theory both values would be identical. But in reality they seldom are because the real estate market is constantly changing and assessed values are typically updated every two years. A real estate agent is the best qualified to help you determine Fair Market Value.
One very important task involved in selling your home is determining the sale price correctly! There is nothing more exciting for a seller than to have multiple offers on their property. And by having multiple offers you can actually end up selling for more than your original asking price when bidders fight for your home.

To find out how much your home is worth call any Nothnagle agent or call 899-MOVE today.

Welcome!

Welcome to the new Nothnagle Realtors blog site; we're glad you're here! You will find information about buying and selling homes, plus insight into the Greater Rochester market and the most up to date trends. Feel free to post comments or ask questions.

A Message from the Chairman of the Board
It has been our distinct pleasure to serve the real estate needs of the Rochester area for almost 60 years. We are honored to share our insights and experiences with you because without you Nothnagle Realtors wouldn’t be the most trusted name in local real estate.
~Philip Nothnagle