Maggie Robinson

I really believe that the open house is alive and well, no offense to the other commentors....You can't overexpose a home by having it open every sunday, but well-placed open houses (connected to TV show, or price reduction, or change in condition) really work. And my personal experience has been great regarding an open house attendee actually purchasing my client's home! - Tue Jul 29 2008, 21:47

I know everyone has already fully explored this question, but honestly, more than one open house per month OVEREXPOSES your home. Check and see what homes in YOUR EXACT price range are for sale, at what price and take a look at the photos on the internet. If a buyer can find a "better" home (granite vs. laminate, hardwood vs. carpet, finished basement with kitchen vs. unfinished) within 15K, your home may just need to be repositioned with price. Make sure all internet sites are used, as over 80% of buyers START their search online. Thanks, and best of luck - Thu Jun 26 2008, 09:00

Hi Joshua,
FHA is for everyone these days, not just first time homebuyers. Make sure your realtor(R) can recommend a good mortgage broker familiar with FHA. In this scenario you can put as little as 3% down and sometimes even less. Your age is irrelevant, and having stability at your job, and good credit mean you can get a mortgage probably anywhere, its just that conventional lenders usually require minimum of 10% down in this market. Best of luck to you! Go buy a home! It's a great time for buyers AND sellers! and give me a call if you need a referral to a great realtor. thanks! Maggie - Thu Jun 5 2008, 09:20

My experience with REO/foreclosures suggests that if the bank/owner has engaged a listing agent, it is specifically because they want a mediator in between themselves and the offers. Also, the contract is already signed (the agreement to have the agent represent the property sale for the bank) so the listing agent will be part of this particular deal. In the future, if you see a home that's on a foreclosure web site or showing a tax or other lien sale is approaching (sheriff's sale) , and isn't yet listed with a broker, then you can go directly to the owner which may or may not be a bank. However, if you have retained a buyer's agent you will need to arrange to pay your agent if you want their expertise.

And, re: timely manner: all offers are to be presented ASAP to the seller. The problem is getting them to respond to YOU in a timely manner.... Next time, have your agent put a time limit on the contract (ex: "this offer is good for 48 hours"). Although, with a bank, it often can take 72 hours for an answer.....so give it enough time. And ASK YOUR AGENT for help and education on this process so you feel relaxed and in control of the situation. Thanks, and best of luck to you in your purchase! - Thu May 29 2008, 19:51

I couldn't agree more. Susan's answer below is right on target. - Thu May 29 2008, 16:16

Love Trulia! Call me anytime to help you find a home! I've been mainly in the West and South suburbs. (Broadview Hts, North Royalton, Parma, Indpendence, Middleburg Hts, Brookpark) but I grew up in Fairview (West) and lived in Lakewood for many years(North on the lake). Have fun shopping! - Thu May 29 2008, 16:21