Dave Gordon

Alfred,

I work with Prudential GA Realty and we manage over 1000 properties in the metro area. So if the properties are residential we would be happy to send you the information on our program.

Thanks and have a great day.

Dave G.
678-637-6914 - Mon Jul 14 2008, 08:20

Nadia,

Simple answer - No. If a title policy is purchased for the Buyer, they usually purchase it.

Dave G. - Wed May 14 2008, 15:23

Shakti,

It is not always true that the price a buyer is willing to pay, i.e., market value, is going to be higher than an appraisal nor is it always true that an asking price is going to be higher than an appraisal. An appraisal is not normally requested or performed until after a contract is signed and a mortgage is requested. They are customarily requested by the lender. Thus a selling price is normally set prior to an appraisal.

An appraisal is an "educated and technical" price evaluation by a trained and licensed appraiser, whereas, most selling prices are determined by a CMA (comparative market analysis) performed by a Realtor and a meeting of the minds between that Realtor and the seller. So, even though the processes are similar, the "appraisial" is considered by lenders to be more accurate, thorough, and a better representation of the true value of a property. It will govern the lending amount.

I am an Accredited Buyer's Representative and do not write contracts without an appraisal contingency. It is for your protection because if that contingency is not present and the home you are purchasing is appraised at less than the agreed price (and you are past your due diligence period), you will be required the provide the difference out of your funds. If you did not have the additional funds and voided the contract at a minimum you would lose your earnest money and if the seller chose they could sue for performance.

Bottom line - never assume the asking price will be the same as the appraised price and always include an apprasial contingency in your contracts. - Fri Apr 18 2008, 14:58

Christi,

I agree with you that Georgia is a "GREAT" state and after living in over 15 states and 2 locations overseas, I would not live anywhere else!

As for your question, Bob is correct. The MLS service is the culprit. This is due to all of those in todays world that look for small miscues so that can file a lawsuit. But, if you or a buyer do want to know the square footage of a property, it can almost always be found on line at the County's Tax Accessor's web site. Some newer properties may not have the complete information, but the majority will of existing homes will. You can access the information using the address, owner's name, parcel number, etc. Another method would be to go to the county office and search the records there. The folks that work in these offices are always very helpful.

I would caution you that as a seller, I would not quote square footage to a buyer. Also, initial buying prices and motgage amounts are listed in tax records and providing this information to buyers may give them an advantage in the negotiation process. If a buyer wants "all" of the particulars, let them or their agent gather that. You should be concerned with staging, curb appeal, comparables and pricing, accurate property disclosures, etc.

Have a great "Georgia" day and if you need any additional information, let me know.

Dave G. - Thu Apr 17 2008, 09:27

Jim,

I would agree with what Judy said and add that "shine" is important. When you walk into a house with a client it needs to be bright and uncluttered. I might even say sparse. The shine is the floors, the counter tops, the appliances, the bathroom, etc. If you have wood floors - polish them to a high gloss and remove the area rugs; if you have tile, do the same. Polish all of your appliances, countertops, bathtubs, sinks, wood cabinets, etc. There are several products out there that can "rejuvenate" worn wood, tile, laminated counters, etc. If you have carpet - get it cleaned; if you have cloth covered sofas and chairs and they are older - clean them. Paint the walls a neutral color. Eliminate all odors. Paint or steam clean the garage floor. No hint of mildew, pets, cigerettes (I quit smoking so long ago I have even forgotten how to spell it), etc.
Curb appeal can not be overstated. It is the first impression when you drive up that will set the tone for the viewing. It is as important as that first look when the front door is opened. Clear out the flower beds, pressure wash the driveway and sidewalks (porches and decks also), and add next straw or bark chips. Again, bright and clean!
It may be more of a case of expenses, but the greater expense may be your time in lieu of your money.
It simply comes down to accentuating the positives and minimizing the detractors. Does the house stand out from the competition? Walk outside and look; walk in the front door , look, and think about what you see. How does it make you feel? Make it shine and it will make you fell great! - Wed Apr 9 2008, 06:34