At the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE) international conference in Las Vegas earlier this month, Nothnagle.com was honored for outstanding performance in web technology in the category of “Best Interactivity.” In addition to this award, the website came in as runner up in the additional categories for “Best Use of Video” and “Most Effective SEO Strategy.”
Nothnagle.com won “Best Interactivity” for the use of features that engage consumers, such as interactive maps, blogging and live chat.
In addition, Nothnagle.com earned the Website Quality Certification (WQC), presented by LeadingRE to member companies that have demonstrated excellence in website design, functionality and execution.
Every aspect of the site was reviewed to ensure exacting standards were met in eight key areas, ranging from design and content to human interactivity to search engine optimization. The WQC was introduced in 2009 to recognize and encourage superior websites among the 600 member firms of LeadingRE.
“A real estate company’s website plays an increasingly significant role with today’s consumers, who often go there first when considering buying or selling a home. It is thus critical to use this Internet medium to attract and engage consumers in a meaningful way,” said Pam O’Connor, President/CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.
“Nothnagle.com has become our busiest office and we are always looking for new and emerging technologies that will enhance the user experience. It is such an honor to have our efforts recognized at this level and by such a prestigious group of peers from LeadingRE,” stated Armand D’Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
MyNothnagle Delivers Listings to You as They Hit the Market
MyNothnagle allows you to register to receive new listings that meet your search criteria as they come on the market. Choose from 25 counties throughout upstate New York. Simply select the area(s) you are looking in, choose your preferences (i.e. number of bedrooms, baths, size, etc.), then just sit back and watch for new listings to be emailed to you.
Don't have an agent yet? That's OK. If you're just getting started and are not ready to talk with an agent yet, you can still register and then select an agent at a later date. Ready to find an agent? During registration, you can select from an alphebetized list of our entire roster of active agents. Already have a Nothnagle agent you are working with? You can select your agent who will then be notified of listings you are receiving through the service. Your agent will then follow up with you to determine whether or not you have any interest in going to see the property.
All Nothnagle listings provide you with multiple viewing options - photo gallery, guided tour, Nothnagle.TV and YouTube videos!
Don't have an agent yet? That's OK. If you're just getting started and are not ready to talk with an agent yet, you can still register and then select an agent at a later date. Ready to find an agent? During registration, you can select from an alphebetized list of our entire roster of active agents. Already have a Nothnagle agent you are working with? You can select your agent who will then be notified of listings you are receiving through the service. Your agent will then follow up with you to determine whether or not you have any interest in going to see the property.
All Nothnagle listings provide you with multiple viewing options - photo gallery, guided tour, Nothnagle.TV and YouTube videos!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Local Broker Merges with Nothnagle Realtors
James Alexander & Associates has merged with Nothnagle Realtors. Nothnagle CEO Armand D’Alfonso and Andrew Kachaylo, Broker/Owner of James Alexander & Associates issued a joint announcement today.
Andrew joins Nothnagle as Branch Manager of the Nothnagle Lakeville and Geneseo offices.
Andrew brings to Nothnagle over 20 years of management experience in the real estate and banking industries. He has extensive experience in sales development and operations management and is a past recipient of several awards for outstanding sales production. A graduate of the State University of New York at Canton , Andrew currently resides in Penfield, NY with his wife Kristin and their three children.
“We are excited to add Andrew as a member of the Nothnagle management team. His past experience and proven record of success will be of great benefit to the company, to our agents in the Lakeville and Geneseo branches and the customers that we serve,” said Armand D’Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors.
“The Nothnagle name has always been synonymous with innovation in real estate. Being a smaller broker, I realized the future lies in the systems, tools and technology that only Nothnagle provides. I am excited to be partnering with such a superior company, the leader and future of real estate in Rochester and beyond,” said Andrew Kachaylo.
Andrew joins Nothnagle as Branch Manager of the Nothnagle Lakeville and Geneseo offices.
Andrew brings to Nothnagle over 20 years of management experience in the real estate and banking industries. He has extensive experience in sales development and operations management and is a past recipient of several awards for outstanding sales production. A graduate of the State University of New York at Canton , Andrew currently resides in Penfield, NY with his wife Kristin and their three children.
“We are excited to add Andrew as a member of the Nothnagle management team. His past experience and proven record of success will be of great benefit to the company, to our agents in the Lakeville and Geneseo branches and the customers that we serve,” said Armand D’Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors.
“The Nothnagle name has always been synonymous with innovation in real estate. Being a smaller broker, I realized the future lies in the systems, tools and technology that only Nothnagle provides. I am excited to be partnering with such a superior company, the leader and future of real estate in Rochester and beyond,” said Andrew Kachaylo.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Nothnagle Reports Sales Up, Gain in Market Share
Since the start of the Company’s fiscal year on October 1st, Nothnagle has seen a tremendous jump in sales and an increase in local market share.
Since the company’s fiscal year began on October 1, 2009, through February 28, 2010, Nothnagle Realtors is reporting an increase of 23% in closed business as compared to the same time period in the 2009 fiscal year. The top five performing branches for FY 2010 year-to-date are Hilton, with a 69% increase over FY 2009; Webster +54%; Greece +51%; Penfield +43%; and, Batavia +42%.
New written business, which is an indicator of future sales, is up 28% year to date.
In February 2010, listing volume market share jumped by an unprecedented 7.6% and sold volume market share increased by 6% over February 2009. Nothnagle continues to outpace its next closest competitor nearly 4 to 1 in annual sales volume.
“Housing continues to be a major factor in the strength of the local economy. With interest rates remaining at historic lows, coupled with the extended tax credit now available to both first-time and repeat buyers, the Rochester real estate market has been bustling with activity. More and more consumers are turning to a Nothnagle agent for all of their real estate needs. Nothnagle is proud to be Rochester’s hometown Realtor for over 60 years,” said Armand D’Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors.
Nothnagle Realtors urges buyers to take advantage of the tax credit. Buyers must be under contract by April 30, 2010, and close by June 30, 2010, to qualify. First-time buyers are defined as anyone who has not owned a home within the past three years. First-time buyers can qualify for 10% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of $8,000. Repeat buyers can qualify for 10% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of $6,500, if they owned a primary residence for at least five of the past eight years. The income limits have been raised to $125,000 for individuals; $225,000 for married couples.
Nothnagle.com features available properties for sale in the Rochester region and 25 counties throughout Upstate New York.
Since the company’s fiscal year began on October 1, 2009, through February 28, 2010, Nothnagle Realtors is reporting an increase of 23% in closed business as compared to the same time period in the 2009 fiscal year. The top five performing branches for FY 2010 year-to-date are Hilton, with a 69% increase over FY 2009; Webster +54%; Greece +51%; Penfield +43%; and, Batavia +42%.
New written business, which is an indicator of future sales, is up 28% year to date.
In February 2010, listing volume market share jumped by an unprecedented 7.6% and sold volume market share increased by 6% over February 2009. Nothnagle continues to outpace its next closest competitor nearly 4 to 1 in annual sales volume.
“Housing continues to be a major factor in the strength of the local economy. With interest rates remaining at historic lows, coupled with the extended tax credit now available to both first-time and repeat buyers, the Rochester real estate market has been bustling with activity. More and more consumers are turning to a Nothnagle agent for all of their real estate needs. Nothnagle is proud to be Rochester’s hometown Realtor for over 60 years,” said Armand D’Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors.
Nothnagle Realtors urges buyers to take advantage of the tax credit. Buyers must be under contract by April 30, 2010, and close by June 30, 2010, to qualify. First-time buyers are defined as anyone who has not owned a home within the past three years. First-time buyers can qualify for 10% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of $8,000. Repeat buyers can qualify for 10% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of $6,500, if they owned a primary residence for at least five of the past eight years. The income limits have been raised to $125,000 for individuals; $225,000 for married couples.
Nothnagle.com features available properties for sale in the Rochester region and 25 counties throughout Upstate New York.
Nothnagle.com - The Only Real Estate Site You Need!
Did you know that you can search throughout 25 counties in Upstate New York, right from Nothnagle.com? Choose from Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, Watertown, Oswego, Cortland, Olean, Niagara Falls, Corning, Elmira....and everything in between! Seach for waterfront properties throughout the entire Finger Lakes region, the Great Lakes or local waterways. Nothnagle.com makes it easy.
Need to expand your search beyond Upstate New York? We can help! Through our affiliation with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, we can connect you to over 10,000 communities across the United States and even around the globe. Nothnagle is the local representative of LeadingRE, the largest network of over 600 premier locally-branded firms producing almost $300 billion in annual home sales. LeadingRE brokerages represent one-third of the U.S. real estate market.
Looking for open houses? Luxury homes? New constrution? Commercial? HUD Homes? Nothnagle.com is your connection!
Nothnagle.com makes it easy to find your next home.
Need to expand your search beyond Upstate New York? We can help! Through our affiliation with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, we can connect you to over 10,000 communities across the United States and even around the globe. Nothnagle is the local representative of LeadingRE, the largest network of over 600 premier locally-branded firms producing almost $300 billion in annual home sales. LeadingRE brokerages represent one-third of the U.S. real estate market.
Looking for open houses? Luxury homes? New constrution? Commercial? HUD Homes? Nothnagle.com is your connection!
Nothnagle.com makes it easy to find your next home.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Nothnagle Leads the Industry in Delivering One Stop Shopping Option
Over 850 top real estate brokers, managers, relocation professionals, sponsors and guests from the U.S. and eight countries around the world recently gathered in Las Vegas at the 2010 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LeadingRE) conference. Participating brokerages represented one-third of the entire U.S. real estate market, with annual sales production of over $280 billion.
Among the featured speakers at the conference, Armand D'Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors, presented information on One Stop Shopping. Nothnagle Realtors is consistently recognized as an industry leader in many respects, from our innovative marketing strategies, our award-winning website and now for our Home Services offering, which provides customers with over 100 options and a Home Services Coordinator that is personally assigned to every client to coordinate the services - before, during and after the move.
How do our clients feel about this service? They love it! Recently a client who moved to Rochester from out of state emailed Armand about their experiences with Nothnagle Home Services:
A survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors in 2008 indicates that consumer interest in one stop shopping for real estate services is growing - 75% of survey respondents indicated they would consider a brokerage that offers a multitude of services to make their home buying and selling experience smoother and more convenient. Use of one stop shopping has increased by 45% since 2002, when the last survey of this type was conducted.
The annual LeadingRE Conference is an opportunity for industry leaders from around the globe to get together to share success stories and discuss a wide range of topics impacting the real estate industry. Especially in this market, it is critical for brokers to continue to innovative and provide consumers with expanded services. One Stop Shopping and Nothnagle's Home Services offering are just one more way our customers Get More!
Nothnagle Realtors is the local representative of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, the largest network of over 600 premier locally-branded firms producing almost $300 billion in annual home sales. LeadingRE provides a broad range of brokerage services to its affiliates, including lead generation, branding suppport, luxury marketing, Web exposure and technology systems and state of the art learning and credentialing.
Among the featured speakers at the conference, Armand D'Alfonso, President and CEO of Nothnagle Realtors, presented information on One Stop Shopping. Nothnagle Realtors is consistently recognized as an industry leader in many respects, from our innovative marketing strategies, our award-winning website and now for our Home Services offering, which provides customers with over 100 options and a Home Services Coordinator that is personally assigned to every client to coordinate the services - before, during and after the move.
How do our clients feel about this service? They love it! Recently a client who moved to Rochester from out of state emailed Armand about their experiences with Nothnagle Home Services:
"It is now eight months since I moved, and I am using Janet Beechey every time I need to have something done to my house. In addition to the electrician and plumber, I have found a house cleaning service, carpet & rug cleaners, a design expert and an incredible painter all through your service. Every one of them has been top notch. Janet Beechey always responds to my requests quickly, and always checks back to make sure that I have been satisfied with the work done. I wanted to make sure that you know just how valuable this service is for people moving into the community."
A survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors in 2008 indicates that consumer interest in one stop shopping for real estate services is growing - 75% of survey respondents indicated they would consider a brokerage that offers a multitude of services to make their home buying and selling experience smoother and more convenient. Use of one stop shopping has increased by 45% since 2002, when the last survey of this type was conducted.
The annual LeadingRE Conference is an opportunity for industry leaders from around the globe to get together to share success stories and discuss a wide range of topics impacting the real estate industry. Especially in this market, it is critical for brokers to continue to innovative and provide consumers with expanded services. One Stop Shopping and Nothnagle's Home Services offering are just one more way our customers Get More!
Nothnagle Realtors is the local representative of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, the largest network of over 600 premier locally-branded firms producing almost $300 billion in annual home sales. LeadingRE provides a broad range of brokerage services to its affiliates, including lead generation, branding suppport, luxury marketing, Web exposure and technology systems and state of the art learning and credentialing.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Profile of New York Buyers and Sellers Released
The 2009 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers New York Report provides insight into the demographics of New York's homebuyers and sellers. In July 2009, an 8-page survey was mailed to a random sample of 120,038 consumers who purchased a home between July 2008 and June 2009. Returned surveys were compiled and the following provides a brief summary of the findings.
Homebuyer Characteristics:
* 46% of NY homebuyers were first-time buyers (compared to 47% nationwide.)
* The typical first-time buyer was 31 years old; the typical repeat buyer 51.
* Median home price in NY was $146,000 (compared to $185,000 nationwide).
* 72% of buyers used the Internet during their search.
* Typical buyer searched for 12 weeks and viewed 10 homes.
Home Sellers:
* Sellers typically sold their homes for 95% of the listing price; 55% reported they reduced the asking price at least once.
* 87% reported their home was listed or advertised on the Internet.
* 90% of sellers used a real estate agent; 80% reported they would use that same agent again or recommend them to others.
* Only 8% of sellers said they sold their home without the assistance of an agent and more than one third of these sellers knew the buyer prior to the sale.
Homebuyer Characteristics:
* 46% of NY homebuyers were first-time buyers (compared to 47% nationwide.)
* The typical first-time buyer was 31 years old; the typical repeat buyer 51.
* Median home price in NY was $146,000 (compared to $185,000 nationwide).
* 72% of buyers used the Internet during their search.
* Typical buyer searched for 12 weeks and viewed 10 homes.
Home Sellers:
* Sellers typically sold their homes for 95% of the listing price; 55% reported they reduced the asking price at least once.
* 87% reported their home was listed or advertised on the Internet.
* 90% of sellers used a real estate agent; 80% reported they would use that same agent again or recommend them to others.
* Only 8% of sellers said they sold their home without the assistance of an agent and more than one third of these sellers knew the buyer prior to the sale.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors save lives every year and now in New York State, as of February 22, 2010, it is required that residences are equipped with a working alarm.
The law is named for 16-year-old Amanda Hansen of West Seneca, New York, who died on January 17, 2009, due to a carbon monoxide leak from a defective boiler while she was sleeping at a friend’s house. An estimated 2,100 people are killed each year from carbon monoixide poisoning and 10,000 people are injured, according to the NYS Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
Since carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, tastless gas, the best way to protect yourself is to install an alarm or detection system that will notify you if gas begins to build in your home.
Under the new law, homes built before January 1, 2008, are permitted to have battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms, while homes built after this date are required to have the alarms hard-wired into the building. Amanda’s law requires existing one- and two-family residences to have at least one carbon monoxide alarm installed on the lowest floor of the dwelling where a sleeping area is located. The alarm must be clearly audible in all sleeping areas. The law applies to condominiums, cooperatives and multi-family homes as well.
Everyone is susceptible, but the American Medical Association says that unborn and young children, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable and are at the highest risk for death or serious injury. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu and can include dizziness, fatigue, weakness, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, sleepiness and confusion.
For more information, the Office of Fire Prevention and Control has published this helpful brochure.
The law is named for 16-year-old Amanda Hansen of West Seneca, New York, who died on January 17, 2009, due to a carbon monoxide leak from a defective boiler while she was sleeping at a friend’s house. An estimated 2,100 people are killed each year from carbon monoixide poisoning and 10,000 people are injured, according to the NYS Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
Since carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, tastless gas, the best way to protect yourself is to install an alarm or detection system that will notify you if gas begins to build in your home.
Under the new law, homes built before January 1, 2008, are permitted to have battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms, while homes built after this date are required to have the alarms hard-wired into the building. Amanda’s law requires existing one- and two-family residences to have at least one carbon monoxide alarm installed on the lowest floor of the dwelling where a sleeping area is located. The alarm must be clearly audible in all sleeping areas. The law applies to condominiums, cooperatives and multi-family homes as well.
Everyone is susceptible, but the American Medical Association says that unborn and young children, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable and are at the highest risk for death or serious injury. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu and can include dizziness, fatigue, weakness, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, sleepiness and confusion.
For more information, the Office of Fire Prevention and Control has published this helpful brochure.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Nothnagle Agents Earn EBA Designation
Congratulations to several Nothnagle agents who recently earned the "Exclusive Buyer's Agent" (EBA) designation.
Years ago, real estate agents only represented sellers. Since the early 1990's, the trend of buyer's having their own exclusive representations has grown, especially in the upstate region where it has become very common place. One designations agents can earn through intensive course work is the EBA. Agents who have completed the course and earned the designation have had extensive training in the areas of:
1. Locating and evaluating property.
2. Negotiation strategies that get their buyers the best price and terms.
3. Lending and financing options.
4. Facilitating inspections, disclosures, contract compliance and the closing.
The following Nothnagle agents recently earned the EBA designation:
Cheri Boisvert
Betty Burruto
Cathy Chrisley
Deborah LaGraff
Michele Ladd
Sandy Maluta
Rita Mendelsohn
Ro Naomi
Janet Romano
Corey Wild
Monday, March 8, 2010
Purchasing Homeowners' Insurance
Homeowners' insurance is a necessity, something every property should have. If you have a mortgage, your lender will require coverage -- and if your home is mortgage-free than you should have coverage anyway to protect what is likely your most valuable asset.
Nothnagle Insurance Agency can make shopping for a policy easier, faster and more convenient...and may even result in a savings for you! The Nothnagle Insurance Agency has an experienced representative on-site ready to work for you. To receive your complimentary quote or review, simply call 785-5558.
Some questions to consider when speaking with the insurance rep:
• What type of coverage do they recommend for your needs?
• What is included -- and what is excluded?
• Are there discounts for safety measures in place in the home (e.g. security system; carbon monoxide and/or smoke detectors, etc.)
• Do you have a home-based business? If yes, you may require additional coverage specific to the type of business you operate. In this case, think in terms of clients dropping by, business equipment, inventory, etc.
• Do you have antiques and jewelry? What coverage are you getting? What coverage do you need?
• How much personal liability protection will the policy provide? What is the cost of additional coverage? What about an "umbrella" policy?
• If you have a loss, will coverage be for actual cash value or replacement cost? Have the insurance representative explain the difference.
• What is the policy deductible? (Generally lower deductibles mean higher premiums, higher deductibles result in lower premiums.)
• How will the policy be paid? If your lender maintains an escrow account, the insurance policy will be paid by the lender -- remember, the house is security for the lender's mortgage. If you pay for property taxes and insurance directly, you will pay the bill.
• Is your home an historic property? If yes, what special coverages are required?
• When a policy says it covers "personal property" what does that term mean? What does it include and exclude?
• How can you reduce policy costs? For instance, if you buy auto and home insurance from the same source will your combined expenses decline?
• What home improvements can you make that would result in lower premiums?
• How are claims handled if you have a loss? For your protection, it's a good idea to photograph or video your home and special possessions -- and then keep such photography in a safe deposit box.
Nothnagle Insurance Agency can make shopping for a policy easier, faster and more convenient...and may even result in a savings for you! The Nothnagle Insurance Agency has an experienced representative on-site ready to work for you. To receive your complimentary quote or review, simply call 785-5558.
Some questions to consider when speaking with the insurance rep:
• What type of coverage do they recommend for your needs?
• What is included -- and what is excluded?
• Are there discounts for safety measures in place in the home (e.g. security system; carbon monoxide and/or smoke detectors, etc.)
• Do you have a home-based business? If yes, you may require additional coverage specific to the type of business you operate. In this case, think in terms of clients dropping by, business equipment, inventory, etc.
• Do you have antiques and jewelry? What coverage are you getting? What coverage do you need?
• How much personal liability protection will the policy provide? What is the cost of additional coverage? What about an "umbrella" policy?
• If you have a loss, will coverage be for actual cash value or replacement cost? Have the insurance representative explain the difference.
• What is the policy deductible? (Generally lower deductibles mean higher premiums, higher deductibles result in lower premiums.)
• How will the policy be paid? If your lender maintains an escrow account, the insurance policy will be paid by the lender -- remember, the house is security for the lender's mortgage. If you pay for property taxes and insurance directly, you will pay the bill.
• Is your home an historic property? If yes, what special coverages are required?
• When a policy says it covers "personal property" what does that term mean? What does it include and exclude?
• How can you reduce policy costs? For instance, if you buy auto and home insurance from the same source will your combined expenses decline?
• What home improvements can you make that would result in lower premiums?
• How are claims handled if you have a loss? For your protection, it's a good idea to photograph or video your home and special possessions -- and then keep such photography in a safe deposit box.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Benefits of Using a Buyer's Agent
As a buyer, you are entitled to use your own agent to help you during your home search and to help you with negotiations. A good, knowledgeable buyer's agent will often be a tremendous asset to you in your search - whether you are a first-time buyer and new to the process or a veteran buyer looking for a new home.
First, your buyer's agent will give you advice on cities/towns, particular neighborhoods, and council you on many other things to consider while conducting your home search, such as the benefits of a condominium vs. a single family, the actual cost of buying/owning multi-families, and ideas on increasing equity in your home and resale factors.
Your buyer's agent will also be able to make good referrals to additional real estate-related professionals, such as insurance agents, home inspectors, mortgage professionals, moving companies and other professionals/services you may need.
Once you find a property, your buyer's agent will do a market analysis, often referred to as a Comparable Market Analysis (or CMA), and will discuss with you his/her professional opinion as to market value based on similar sold properties, the current local real estate market trends, inventory, and other factors. Lastly, the most crucial service a buyer agent can provide is as a skilled negotiator. An agent highly skilled at negotiating could assist you in purchasing the home that best meets your wants and needs for the best price.
Best of all? Most of the time your buyer's agent will be paid from the commission offered by the seller, yet they still owe their full fiduciary duties to you, their client.
Nothnagle agents are trained to know market conditions and are skilled negotiators, offering superior services to buyers. Nothnagle also offers a number of tools to help you in your home search, from a comprehensive database of listings throughout 25 counties in upstate New York (as well as connections to national and global listings), to video tours on YouTube and Nothnagle.TV, to "MyNothnagle" which allows you to register to be notified of new listings meeting your criteria as they hit the market.
First, your buyer's agent will give you advice on cities/towns, particular neighborhoods, and council you on many other things to consider while conducting your home search, such as the benefits of a condominium vs. a single family, the actual cost of buying/owning multi-families, and ideas on increasing equity in your home and resale factors.
Your buyer's agent will also be able to make good referrals to additional real estate-related professionals, such as insurance agents, home inspectors, mortgage professionals, moving companies and other professionals/services you may need.
Once you find a property, your buyer's agent will do a market analysis, often referred to as a Comparable Market Analysis (or CMA), and will discuss with you his/her professional opinion as to market value based on similar sold properties, the current local real estate market trends, inventory, and other factors. Lastly, the most crucial service a buyer agent can provide is as a skilled negotiator. An agent highly skilled at negotiating could assist you in purchasing the home that best meets your wants and needs for the best price.
Best of all? Most of the time your buyer's agent will be paid from the commission offered by the seller, yet they still owe their full fiduciary duties to you, their client.
Nothnagle agents are trained to know market conditions and are skilled negotiators, offering superior services to buyers. Nothnagle also offers a number of tools to help you in your home search, from a comprehensive database of listings throughout 25 counties in upstate New York (as well as connections to national and global listings), to video tours on YouTube and Nothnagle.TV, to "MyNothnagle" which allows you to register to be notified of new listings meeting your criteria as they hit the market.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report 2009-2010
Remodeling Magazine's 22nd annual "Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report" has been released for 2009-2010. The study measures the relationship between remodeling project costs and resale value. The report evaluates the 33 most popular projects from a national perspective and also by region. New York State falls in the "middle atlantic region".
Projects with the greatest return both nationally and within our region include replacing the front door; replacing the exterior siding; window replacement; and, kitchen remodel. Other projects with a higher return also include converting an attic to a bedroom and adding a deck. Projects that have a lower return include home office remodel and bathroom additions/remodels.
While looking at your potential return on resale is important, there are other factors to take into consideration when looking at remodeling projects. For example, if you work out of your house the importance of working out of a comfortable home office may outweigh what your return may be down the road. If you plan to live in your home for several more years, adding on an extra bathroom to accomodate your changing needs may be a very worthwile investment.
While it is true that buyers are more likely to gravitate to homes that are in the best condition for that price range, if you're planning on selling you should consult with your agent before spending money on home remodeling projects. Sometimes it's not worth spending the money on projects that won't pay back; sometimes buyers may want to make the updates themselves.
Projects with the greatest return both nationally and within our region include replacing the front door; replacing the exterior siding; window replacement; and, kitchen remodel. Other projects with a higher return also include converting an attic to a bedroom and adding a deck. Projects that have a lower return include home office remodel and bathroom additions/remodels.
While looking at your potential return on resale is important, there are other factors to take into consideration when looking at remodeling projects. For example, if you work out of your house the importance of working out of a comfortable home office may outweigh what your return may be down the road. If you plan to live in your home for several more years, adding on an extra bathroom to accomodate your changing needs may be a very worthwile investment.
While it is true that buyers are more likely to gravitate to homes that are in the best condition for that price range, if you're planning on selling you should consult with your agent before spending money on home remodeling projects. Sometimes it's not worth spending the money on projects that won't pay back; sometimes buyers may want to make the updates themselves.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Preparing Your Home For Sale
Getting ready to put your house on the market? Your agent can provide you with helpful tips to help you prepare and maximize your home's showings. As you prepare for your first prospective buyer to come through, now is the time to make your home shine and sparkle! First impressions are very important.
Step #1: A thorough cleaning is in order! In need of help? Our Home Services division can connect you with the professionals you need to get the job done. Our partners offer a wide range of services as you prepare your home for sale.
Where to begin....
First, you need to dissasociate yourself from your home. Look at it through the eyes of a buyer.
#1. De-personalize your home. You want buyers to come in and picture themselves living there...not you!
#2. De-clutter. This is so important. Now is the time to throw away the stuff you've been saving that has no purpose anymore....or if it is still in good condition, there are many places that will accept your donations. Kitchen counters need to be clear. Closets need to be neatly organized. The junk drawer needs to be cleaned out.
#3. If you have too much stuff, rent a storage unit! You need to create light, open spaces in your home.
#4. Make minor general repairs around the house. Fix the leaky faucet, change lightbulbs, touch up paint, etc.
#5. Make the house sparkle inside and out. A clean porch/walkway and a freshly painted front door can make a huge difference in a buyer's first impression of your home. Inside the house, clean baseboards, windows, polish furniture, dust everything (including light fixtures and ceiling fans) and yes....even the dreaded task of cleaning the oven!
In the end, spending a day or two (or three) cleaning and organizing will give you huge rewards in the end. Buyers like to see a well-maintained home. Combined with proper pricing, you should see results very quickly.
Step #1: A thorough cleaning is in order! In need of help? Our Home Services division can connect you with the professionals you need to get the job done. Our partners offer a wide range of services as you prepare your home for sale.
Where to begin....
First, you need to dissasociate yourself from your home. Look at it through the eyes of a buyer.
#1. De-personalize your home. You want buyers to come in and picture themselves living there...not you!
#2. De-clutter. This is so important. Now is the time to throw away the stuff you've been saving that has no purpose anymore....or if it is still in good condition, there are many places that will accept your donations. Kitchen counters need to be clear. Closets need to be neatly organized. The junk drawer needs to be cleaned out.
#3. If you have too much stuff, rent a storage unit! You need to create light, open spaces in your home.
#4. Make minor general repairs around the house. Fix the leaky faucet, change lightbulbs, touch up paint, etc.
#5. Make the house sparkle inside and out. A clean porch/walkway and a freshly painted front door can make a huge difference in a buyer's first impression of your home. Inside the house, clean baseboards, windows, polish furniture, dust everything (including light fixtures and ceiling fans) and yes....even the dreaded task of cleaning the oven!
In the end, spending a day or two (or three) cleaning and organizing will give you huge rewards in the end. Buyers like to see a well-maintained home. Combined with proper pricing, you should see results very quickly.
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