http://www.trulia.com/profile/edmundchoi/The latest answers submitted by Edmund Choi to questions asked on Trulia Voicesen-ushttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/Selling_family_house_next_to_ours_-387280Answer by Edmund Choi: A Realtor should act as your intermediary and advocate during the marketing and escrow phases. Like other transactions, all parties will eventually meet one another at some point during the transaction. If you were to introduce at or after settlement, it shouldn't hinder the sale or any future relationship.Fri, 25 May 2012 08:16:22 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Most_efficient_way_to_improve_my_Credit_Score_w-386415Answer by Edmund Choi: I'd recommend contacting Credit Blueprint (427 S Broad St , Philadelphia Pa Phone: 215-790-1099 Fax: 877-788-5969 Carl@creditblueprint.net). Ask for Carl S.Wed, 23 May 2012 09:11:11 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Who_pays_the_transfer_tax_in_PA_Buyer_or_se-384641Answer by Edmund Choi: Usually and customary practice for buyer and seller to split the aggregate transfer tax. Good hunting!Fri, 18 May 2012 20:26:41 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_am_looking_for_a_one_level_home_in_the_Philadelp-383813Answer by Edmund Choi: If you are considering the suburbs, are you seeking an older or newer ranch? 55+ community? Garage? Basement? 2 full bathrooms? Price range?Thu, 17 May 2012 08:43:10 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/Do_stop_signs_in_your_front_yard_devalue_your_prop-383942Answer by Edmund Choi: Betsy, If the road is highly trafficked and the stop sign acts as a deterrent to speeding, most people might welcome it. Oreland, as you know, already has stop signs peppered throughout the neighborhood. For the most part, it shouldn't impact your home value. There are obviously other factors that might -- deferred maintenance, outmoded kitchen and baths, etc. Wishing you success on your journey to your new home, Edmund Choi (RE/MAX ADVISORS).Thu, 17 May 2012 08:30:55 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Fico_Score_versus_Credit_score_-383683Answer by Edmund Choi: When lender pulls your credit for qualification purposes, 3 scores should be provided from the 3 major credit bureaus and the mid-score will be used. Good Hunting!Wed, 16 May 2012 12:03:53 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/Tenant_haven_t_pay_me_morgage_for_several_months_-383006Answer by Edmund Choi: RE/MAX ADVISORS 610.293.1616 Ask for Edmund Choi.Tue, 15 May 2012 04:14:38 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Curb_Appeal/Should_I_get_rid_of_a_metal_roof_in_a_very_high_en-380507Answer by Edmund Choi: Unfortunately, the answer is it depends. Villanova is a diverse collection of new and old homes. There is a buyer for every situation; based on my recent experiences with my buyers in Lower Merion, not everyone is looking for a 2-story colonial mansion. Is the roof structurally sound? Is your concern more about marketability?Tue, 8 May 2012 13:34:57 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/In_My_Neighborhood/hows_the_reliance_circle_area_releance_ct_pa_telf-376198Answer by Edmund Choi: Good value, especially if you can get one updated, even slightly. Sold one to a client and they are happy. Good Hunting!Sat, 28 Apr 2012 05:46:51 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Schools/I_m_pre_approval_looking_for_a_house_in_good_sc-375763Answer by Edmund Choi: Congratulations on your decision to buy a home, Kivi. To answer your question, it depends. I'm not an educator and can't honestly say which district would best serve your children's needs. Having said this, both are blue ribbon school districts and consistently rank well in best of list, both locally and nationally. Now for your home search, there are so many other questions that need answers, and a buyer consultation would be the best way to have this conversation. Let me know. Good Hunting! Edmund Choi RE/MAX ADVISORS 484.324.4731Fri, 27 Apr 2012 03:56:49 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/should_we_let_buyers_store_items_in_our_house_prio-374796Answer by Edmund Choi: What if the deal falls apart? Otherwise, there is a form for that outlining the risks and responsibilities to all parties.Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:53:21 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/When_should_we_start_looking_for_a_real_estate_age-374153Answer by Edmund Choi: Congratulations on your decision to move. At least you'll be able enjoy the house as you always envisioned for the next several months. To answer your question, now is probably the right time. Obviously, you'll have the opportunity to interview several agents to determine who you will align yourself with and will look out for your best interests. Furthermore, understanding the current market conditions as it relates to your property type and location will establish pricing and expectations. Finally, since you are finishing up the remodel, the meeting will provide you a professional's opinion on what needs to be completed in order to maximize your return and minimize the days on market. Hopefully I have answered your question and would look forward to the opportunity to be of assistance, as I will be marketing a couple of Pottstown homes within the next 30 days.Mon, 23 Apr 2012 03:34:33 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Property_QandA/There_isn_t_alot_of_information_about_this_propert-372862Answer by Edmund Choi: You are correct; there is very limited information that is being advertised at this time. However, more information can be obtained. Are you currently working with a buyer's agent to represent you on the purchase of your new home? If not, this scenario presents one aspect of the home search process where a buyer's agent will be of assistance. Good hunting!Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:18:46 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/I_want_to_buy_my_first_home_within_year_working_-372048Answer by Edmund Choi: Lisa, Congratulations on making your decision to buy a home. All data indicators suggest that it is an opportune time to buy one. Couple suggestions: 1) work closely with your mortgage lender to address the credit and down payment concerns that you have; you may be surprised at the solutions and the timeframes within which they can be addressed and 2) begin identifying agents that you may be inclined to work with. Information is your ally and a Realtor will provide critical insight into your decision making process in the interim so you can hit the ground running when you are ready. Good Hunting!Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:19:28 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/ARE_THERE_ANY_MODULAR_HOMES_FOR_SALE_IN_THE_WILLOW-370665Answer by Edmund Choi: However, depending on your budget, there are several properties available nearby with prices ranging from $65,000 to $300,000 plus.Fri, 13 Apr 2012 06:44:35 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/ARE_THERE_ANY_MODULAR_HOMES_FOR_SALE_IN_THE_WILLOW-370665Answer by Edmund Choi: Unfortunately, the only unit that was available is under contract and is expected to close on 5/1/12.Fri, 13 Apr 2012 06:42:06 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_bought_a_house_in_Willow_Grove_in_now_I_intend-366860Answer by Edmund Choi: There are no federal government rules and/or regulations that would dictate your ability to buy your current home and purchase a new one. However, there may be tax implications and there may be lending guidelines that will dictate your course of action, i.e. must sell current residence prior to settling on the new one. Good hunting!Sun, 1 Apr 2012 11:03:35 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Shopping_and_Local_Amenities/What_utilities_are_included_Stove_refrigera-366026Answer by Edmund Choi: Lucy, There is no property information attached. Please resubmit question.Thu, 29 Mar 2012 11:43:19 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Rental_Basics/Is_it_possible_to_rent_your_home_and_purchase_anot-365354Answer by Edmund Choi: The answer is maybe. With sufficient income, assets, and credit scores, you may be able to qualify for another purchase, irrespective of whether or not a lease is in place (but it certainly helps). Check with several lenders. Good Hunting!Tue, 27 Mar 2012 06:29:22 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Property_QandA/removed-364783Answer by Edmund Choi: Hi Lauri, As an REO agent, or one who lists bank-owned properties, the vast majority of bank-owned properties are marketed through real estate agents when they become available. During the interim from sheriff sale to active on the market, the property is being prepared for a smooth transaction. At the moment, there is no further information on Jefferson Ct, Trappe. Good hunting!Sun, 25 Mar 2012 09:22:05 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/Hey_out_there_in_Trulia_land_Have_you_too_noticed-364279Answer by Edmund Choi: Last 2 weeks, experienced 3 bidding wars on my listings. There is a definitely going to be a moment this spring when demand will outstrip supply.Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:57:45 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/Should_I_list_my_house_and_wait_for_the_right_pric-337528Answer by Edmund Choi: Dilemma. Do you need the equity from your current residence to purchase the multi-family? If not, do you have sufficient assets to meet reserve requirements? Will your asking price for your current residence be in the marketable range that neighboring comparable properties have traded within the last 6 months? Does the current condition of the property warrant a premium? Have you consulted with your CPA to discuss any tax ramifications? There are many additional variables to consider, but the answers will help you achieve the positive bargaining zone required to effect a successful transaction that fulfills your optimistic goals. Good Hunting!Thu, 1 Dec 2011 15:54:30 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/How_do_i_apply_for_an_FHA_loan_-337087Answer by Edmund Choi: Stop into any local banking institution. Good Hunting!Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:52:29 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/buy_or_rent_i_don_t_have_a_lot_to_put_down_w-336965Answer by Edmund Choi: The most popular product today for low downpayment homebuyers is the FHA, requiring a minimum 3.5% down. However, depending on your search area, 0% down USDA financing may be an option. If you were in the military services, 0% down VA financing may be another avenue. Also, the PHFA grants may be an opportunity if you are willing to take several classes and anticipate living in your home for several years. Finally, your Realtor can negotiate that a portion or all of your closing costs will be paid by the seller at closing. Mizzi, there are many ways to structure a deal, but take the time, see which options best meet your financial needs--don't let the financing dictate your home search too much (meaning, don't settle, just because your short on cash)--, and start saving today. Good Hunting!Mon, 28 Nov 2011 19:44:34 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Is_a_roof_problem_a_deal_breaker_when_purchasing_a-335793Answer by Edmund Choi: When negotiating repairs for major structural and mechanical components, it is difficult to assess the value of monetary credits (is it enough or too little?) without repair quotes. I'd suggest procuring a few bids to understand scope of work and average out costs. Good Hunting!Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:26:09 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_have_noticed_multiple_homes_increased_their_aski-332655Answer by Edmund Choi: The price increases may not be directly related to improvements, but rather a reflection of the current market trends. There has certainly been an increase in buyer activity recently due to the record low rates that are currently available for purchase financing. Also, in metro Philly, except for a few locales, pricing consolidation continues with a slight uptick in sold prices. However, the beauty contest is certainly dictating pricing; the updated, well-maintained, move-in condition property will have multiple offers and sell for, if not slightly more than, asking price, while the other available properties that do not have these benefits will certainly continue to experience pricing pressure to offset any potential buyers' post-settlement investments. Good Hunting!Sat, 5 Nov 2011 09:21:00 PDT