Movers or Do it Yourself?

Buying or selling a home usually means one thing: time to pull out boxes and start packing.

For some, packing for a move is a great opportunity to look through the memories and treasures they have gathered throughout the year. For the rest of us, it is a stressful task that we would just as soon get over as soon as possible. Finding boxes, wrapping breakables correctly, and then carting everything to your new home can be stressful, especially if you’re already busy with work and family responsibilities.

The alternative, of course, is to hire a moving company to pack and move for you. Although this is the more expensive option, it can save a lot of time, which is why most people choose to hire a moving company. However, they can be expensive, and it is sometimes easier to move on your own.

So, should you hire a professional, or do it yourself? It depends on a few factors:

1. How Much Stuff Do You Have to Move?

If you are moving from a small apartment into your first home, and you don’t have a lot to move, it’s probably going to be easier to pack on your own, and then ask some friends to help you. If your family is moving, including children and all of their things, it is probably better to hire a mover, unless you have a lot of extra time and patience. This is especially true if you have a lot of heavy, bulk, or difficult to move items, such as furniture.

2. How Far Are You Moving?

Are you just going across town, or are you going across the country? A short move, even if you do have a lot of stuff, can probably be done with the help of family and friends, if you don’t mind making a lot of trips. However, if you are moving a long distance, even more than 30 miles away, it is probably smarter to hire a moving company, or at least rent a moving truck. Being able to move everything in one load will be much easier, and won’t take as much gas.

3. How Much Time Do You Have?

If your time is at a premium, consider hiring a moving company. Professional movers can do the job with very little input from you while you continue on with your busy day. While you will need to be home while the movers do their initial estimate and while they are packing, you won’t be spending the weeks leading up to the move trying to do all of the packing yourself.

4. How Comfortable Are You With Someone Packing and Moving Your Belongings?

The chance of something getting broken by a mover is small, but it is still a possibility and one that should be considered. Even if you hire someone to do the packing and moving for you, you should still take the time to package any irreplaceable belongings yourself, and drive them to the new home in your own vehicle. Many moving companies ask you to pack any jewelry, antiques, or other valuable items yourself, to avoid something being broken accidently.

You should also consider how comfortable you are with someone going through all of your belongings as they pack. Some people are comfortable with this, but many aren’t. Instead of hiring movers to pack everything, pack all of your personal items, such as clothing, yourself, and let the movers handle things like dishes, books, and bedding.

5. How Much Help Can You Get?

If you live in a town surrounded by family and friends that can help out during a move, you may not need to hire a mover. This is especially true if you have friends with pick-up trucks. Spending a day moving as a team may even be fun. However, for those who do not have anyone nearby that can help, hiring a moving company might be the only way to move.

Hiring a moving company is a great idea, if you can afford it and can use the extra help. But don’t discount the benefits of moving yourself, especially if you can get help for free. Renting a moving truck might be all that you need to get everything moved.

Have you hired movers in the past? Were they worth the expense?

Greenwich Real Estate News - Afraid to Buy? Don’t Be!

Despite tax incentives, first time home buyer assistance, and low interest rates, it’s easy to understand why you might be afraid to buy a home right now. The market is still fairly unstable, and house values are still falling in some areas.

Buying a home is always risky, but it’s a risk that very commonly pays off. Real estate works in cycles—some years, the prices are up, during others the prices are down. It can be hard, not to mention frustrating, to try guessing what the next year or two will be like. Remember that buying a home is a long term investment. There might be a short term loss, but housing prices will go back up, and the home you buy this year will probably be worth more than you paid for it a few years from now.

Still, there are several fears that many first time, and second and third time, homebuyers face when considering purchasing a home, and they are all very valid. Let’s take a look at some of the most common fears, and see why you don’t really have to worry.

Fear 1: I might lose my job.

This is one of the biggest fears of potential homebuyers, and, in today’s economy, it is certainly valid. One of the best ways to alleviate this worry is to have a rainy-day fund in place before buying a home. Have enough money set aside to cover at least three month’s of mortgage payments while you look for a new position. And, while this is not a guarantee, and certainly no reason to be lax about payments, most lenders will not start foreclosure proceedings until you are two or three months behind. For those who are currently renting, this means that staying in a home after a job loss will be easier than staying in an apartment.

Fear 2: I won’t be able to afford my mortgage payments.

The easiest way to avoid this problem is to not buy a home that you can’t afford. Consider the amount of your payments, after taxes, interest, and any other applicable fees are added in. This amount should not equal more than 1/3 of your total monthly income. If you can get that amount down to ¼ of your take home income, that’s even better.

When you start looking for a mortgage, keep this number in mind. If you bring home $4000 a month, try to keep your mortgage payments around $1000, or less. Don’t take accept a mortgage with monthly payments over this amount. Also, make sure you have that rainy day fund saved, outside of what you used for a down payment. Having a cushion for tough times will make you feel more secure.

Fear 3: I’ll lose money.

This, unfortunately, is a risk common to any type of investment. The home you buy today for $150,000 might have sold for less three months from now, or may now be worth less after you’ve bought it. Unfortunately, it is hard to know when real estate values have hit bottom until after it has passed. If you wait too long to buy a home, you could very easily end up losing even more money, by paying considerably more for the home you by a year or two from now.

Buying a home is a long term investment. Even a short term dip in value doesn’t mean much, unless you are planning on selling. The market has dips and rises, but the overall trend is that home values do, eventually, go up. The average price for a new home in 1980 was $72,400. Today, that same home would cost $274,330. There are not many investments that go up $200,000 in value over 30 years.

There are definitely things to worry about when buying a home, but don’t let those worries automatically stop you from buying. Learn a little bit more about those fears, and see how you can alleviate them. Interest rates just hit a record low, averaging right around 5%. In the central NY area, some lenders are offering even lower rates. There will probably not be a better time to buy within the next 20 years.

So, what are you waiting for?

Greenwich Real Estate News - Short Sales: What You Need to Know

Short sale was a fairly unknown term, unless you were part of the real estate industry, until just recently. Although they are not a new concept, they weren’t as talked about as regular home sales or foreclosures. Of all the ways to buy a home, they are often the most misunderstood and confusing, but they can be one of the best ways to save money on buying a home.

A short sale is the purchasing of a home that is at risk for foreclosure for usually less than the home is worth. The current homeowner makes no money from the sale, but does get to escape with less damage to their credit score. It’s a complicated process because, unlike most home sales, the bank currently holding the mortgage has the ultimate say in whether or not a short sale can go through.

Here’s how it works. A current home owner is having difficulties keeping up with their payments, or maybe their home is worth considerably less than they are paying for it. At this point, they contact the bank and ask about the possibility of a short sale. If the bank gives the okay, the owner begins filling out the paperwork and then contacts a real estate agent to get the process started.

In a short sale, the bank accepts less than is actually owed on the home in order to avoid a costly foreclosure. A foreclosure can cost a bank thousands of dollars, not counting the time and effort that goes into it. To avoid this, many banks are willing to at least talk to a home owner about the possibility of a short sale. This is an excellent opportunity for buyers, allowing them to purchase a home for less than it is worth, in most cases.

There is a catch, however. Short sales are notoriously difficult to get accepted. The banks don’t want to lose any money on a home, and may stop a short sale if they feel that the amount offered is too low. Short sales also fail because of incorrectly filed paperwork and other small mistakes. It is important to know what to expect before you enter into a short sale, as either a buyer or seller. A buyer has to be dedicated to the home, and willing to work to get it. They must also be patient; a short sale can take months to go through, as opposed to a few weeks for a traditional home purchase.

New government incentives, offering banks stimulus money for each short sale they accept, have made banks more willing to accept a short sale. One of the best ways to successfully buy, or sell, a home through a short sale is to do some research and understand how the process works. Here are a couple sites to get you started:

A Field Guide to Short Sales

How to Handle Real Estate Short Sales

Would you consider buying through a short sale?

Greenwich Real Estate News - Four Steps to Making a House a Home

Congratulations, you’ve just bought a home! As you look around your newly acquired investment, you are first struck with a sense of pride, wonder, and excitement. As that feeling fades, a new one might take its place. You might notice that some of the walls have been painted a less than complimentary color, or that the carpeting has stains. Maybe the house just doesn’t feel like a home, your home.

That’s okay. It’s even perfectly normal. And, it’s a feeling that is easy to fix.

Before you do anything, start with a deep cleaning. Scrub the windows, walls and floors. Remove any window covers, and get a fresh look at your home. A fresh clean can make the home feel like it is yours—you’ve now put some work into it. That will allow you to really take ownership of the home.

Next, look at the walls. Are you happy with the colors, or would you like something different? Looking online for color ideas, or going to the local paint store for some paint swatches can inspire you to make changes. Consider the colors of any furniture, curtains, or other home items you already have. Find a color, or set of colors, that works well with the things you are bringing in to your new home. Just remember that it is easier to paint before you move everything in, if that is a possibility.

Flooring can be more expensive and more labor-intensive to change, but it can be worth it to get your home the way you want it. Before considering any changes, however, see if there are cheaper improvements you can make. Maybe the carpet only needs the care of a professional cleaning service, or perhaps the hardwood floor in the dining room needs to be sanded down and refinished. If you do decide to redo the flooring in your new home, be sure to consider how easy to care for the new flooring is. Picking something that looks nice, but will require a lot of extra work to keep it new, might not be right for everyone.

Now, it is finally time to move in your furniture. Set everything up, get settled, and take a look around. It is probably starting to feel like home now, right? Don’t hesitate to pick up accent pieces, new lighting, or other bits of décor to put your own personal style into your home. This is your place, and it should feel like you.

Even if you are still looking at homes to buy, keep these steps in mind. A house can change drastically with just a new coat of paint. It is easy to see a home for what it is, right now, when you are first viewing it. But I encourage you to take a closer look, and see a home for what it could be, with just a little work.

Greenwich Real Estate News - Three Questions Buyers Ask, and How to Answer Them

Chances are, you will have an opportunity to have a conversation with potential buyers interested in your home. And when you are talking to them, there are several questions that have a good chance of coming up. Knowing what they are ahead of time, and knowing how to answer them, can save you from an awkward moment later on, while you scramble for the best answer to give.

Why are you selling?

To them, the home you are selling may be the home of their dreams. They can’t imagine why you would want to leave. You want to answer honestly, but not scare anyone off. Maybe you need more (or less) space, or the yard requires too much upkeep. This is not the time to bring up the crazy neighbors, the window that leaks in a storm, or that woodchucks dig holes in the back yard. Keep your answer light and positive.

Are there any neighborhood changes planned?

Buyers want to know that the neighborhood they think they are buying is the same neighborhood they’re actually going to get. If you know that there are construction projects planned, or if there will be a new commercial site or residence going in nearby, let buyers know. But don’t miss the chance to play up any positive features in the neighborhood, like the new park, recently improved sidewalks, or vicinity to quality schools and shopping areas.

How much did you pay for the home?

This question has a few different parts. For one, buyers want to get a sense of how much you paid originally, and how long ago you paid it. This gives buyers a chance to see how much the home has appreciated over the years. It also gives buyers a sense of whether or not you might budge a bit on the price. If you bought the home five years ago, for $20,000 less than you are asking for now, they might have a little wiggle room in the price.

Buyers may also ask you, or your agent, about how much you still owe on the home, or if there is a second mortgage. Like many smart shoppers, these buyers are looking to see how low they might be able to get you to go on the price during negotiations.

Answering these questions is a little trickier than someone asking why you are selling. You could be forthcoming, and just answer the questions, but don’t give out too much information. How much you originally paid is a matter of public record, so the buyer (or their agent) could find out all on their own. Another option is to say you bought the home as a fixer-upper, and have put extensive work into the home, thus justifying your asking price.

As a seller, you should have ready answers lined up for these and other questions about your home and neighborhood. Be prepared with what you are willing to share, and what you want to keep to yourself.

Greenwich Real Estate News - Greenwich home sales up in November

Greenwich home sales market has improved over the past few months and real estate sellers hope that the improvemt will continues into next year.

For November there were 33 single-family home sales, up from 11 in November last year.

The average home price was still down about 8 percent, to $2.5 million from $2.8 million in 2008.

Major sales, included the sale of clothing designer Tommy Hilfiger's estate for $20 million.

This sale skewed the average home price number higher.

The median home price was down 21 percent, to $1.5 million from $1.9 million last year.

Buyers, sellers and agents are still waiting to find out where the bottom is for prices.

Greenwich Real Estate News - 75 Greenwich Avenue Retail Property Sets Record - Sephora Building Fetches $8M

Merof LLC just completed a $8 million sale of 75 Greenwich Ave. to 75 Greenwich Avenue Associates LLC.

This is a record for Greenwich Avenue on a cost-per-foot basis -- $1,428 per square foot.,"

The previous record of $1,238 per square foot for three buildings at 98 Greenwich Ave., which sold for $23.5 million in October 2005.

Excitement is returning to Greenwich Avenue.

Greenwich Avenue remains a popular and sophisticated shopping destination.

Sephora, an upscale cosmetics retailer that occupies 75 Greenwich Ave. is in the middle of a long-term lease for the 5,600-square-foot building.

22 Elm Place Co. LLC, owner of 356 Greenwich Ave., recently signed Apple.

Investors see Greenwich Avenue as a place with steady growth and little risk.

The average retail per-square-foot rent for the avenue is slightly less than $100. The majority of newly signed rents are now in excess of $100 per square foot.

Greenwich Avenue and Greenwich in general are safe bets.

Inquiries to the Greenwich Real Estate Office, Country Estates And Manors regarding Greenwich properties have been increasing.

Several Greenwich Avenue properties are owned by Europeans. Greenwich is internationally known. European investors get the advantage of a weak dollar.

The sale of 75 Greenwich Ave. is the only ownership conveyance on the Avenue this year, but the price is an indication that interest Greenwich commercial real estate properties.

There's great value in owning Greenwich real estate

Greenwich Real Estate News - Gift Ideas for New Homeowners

‘Tis the season for last minute shopping trips. If you’re buying for a new homeowner, you might be stuck between trying to find something unique and classy or something practical. You want something useful, but not something everyone else is already getting them.

There are a lot of options. Here are my top choices, based on the new owner.

A gourmet
Any cook knows that you can just never have too many kitchen gadgets, quality baking pans or new appliances. Unfortunately, there’s a good chance that the recipient already has an electric beater, measuring cup set and a blender. You need something different.

Consider a multi-tasking Panini press. Cuisinart offers a model with adjustable hinges, to allow for even the thickest sandwich. It also opens up, giving you a griddle or grill, depending on which of the contact plates you have in place. It’s perfect for everything from frying up eggs and bacon for breakfast to cooking up grilled chicken for supper. There isn’t a whole lot that this small appliance can’t cook up.

The Do-it-Yourselfer
Look, he already has a tool kit, and probably most of the power tools he could ever need, so unless you know specifically what he (or she) is looking for, you need to think just a little outside the box. There is a better alternative to a gift card from Home Depot. Actually, there are two.
A ladder. It sounds basic, but remember, the recipient has probably been living in an apartment for a while, and there just isn’t much of a need for ladders when you’re not responsible for outside maintenance. An extension ladder will allow them to reach even the highest sections of their roof, useful for cleaning out gutters, checking on shingles, or washing the upper windows.
The second option is to look at a subscription to a magazine or two. There are a variety of options out there, from Woodshop News and Popular Woodworking to Smart Homeowner and This Old House Magazine. There is also Do it Yourself Magazine. P

The Fashionista
The Fashionista is all about accessories. She has her own style, and she loves playing with new ideas. Unfortunately, unless you are very aware of what that style is, you’re going to be in the dark for finding the perfect gift idea.

First, think about what she already has displayed. That will give you a starting point. Then, try to find something neutral that will fit her style. A vase or a decorative bowl is a great start. You could also consider a set of picture frames, small statues, or some artistic holiday decorations.

The Homebody
This person wants nothing more than to curl up in the comfort of his or her new home. When you’re looking for gifts, think anything warm and snuggly. A soft throw, a new sheet set, or a set of candles or other home fragrance product will be the perfect gift.

The Outdoors Enthusiast
There’s something about having your own yard. For someone who loves to spend time outdoors, home ownership means having a place to call your own outside of the four walls of your apartment. A volleyball set, an outdoor table and chairs set, horseshoes, or even a grill would be a sure hit. Give them the perfect excuse to play outside this coming summer.

The Gardener
Owning your own home means being able to plant where ever you’d like, and for many gardening enthusiasts, their first home is the first chance they’ve had to really get into growing their own garden. A nice set of gardening hand tools is a great gift idea, combined with a pair of gardening gloves. Books filled with gardening tips or a gift card to a local gardening store are also popular choices. If you can go in with family and friends, or if you feel like spending a little extra, a rototiller is something almost every serious gardener has on his or her wish list.

The Host or Hostess
For your friend who loves to throw the best parties, or who really enjoys inviting friends and family over for dinner, you should be looking for the perfect host or hostess gift. A small wine cooler keeps wine at the perfect serving temperature. A serving set is also a good choice; allow them to serve their guests in style.

Greenwich Real Estate News: 9 Upcoming Open Houses This Weekend

19 Knoll St, Riverside, CT

* House For Sale: $1,525,000

* 4 Beds
* 3.5 Baths

* Sun. 1-3pm

46 Orchard Pl, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $1,795,000

* 4 Beds
* 3.0 Baths
* 3,182 sqft

* Sun. 1-3pm

40 Cambridge Dr, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $799,000

* 3 Beds
* 2.5 Baths
* 2,020 sqft

* Sun. 12-4pm

105 Hamilton Ave, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $1,250,000

* 3 Beds
* 3.5 Baths
* 2,600 sqft

* Sun. 1-3pm

416 Davis Ave, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $6,295,000

* 5 Beds
* 5.5 Baths
* 7,927 sqft

* Sun. 2-4pm

31 Ridge St, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $1,999,500

* 3 Beds
* 2.5 Baths
* 2,232 sqft

* Sun. 1-3pm

240 Riverside Ave, Riverside, CT

* House For Sale: $3,485,000

* 4 Beds
* 4.5 Baths

* Sun. 12-2pm

63 Burning Tree Rd, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $2,850,000

* 6 Beds
* 6.5 Baths
* 5,472 sqft

* Sun. 2-4pm

29 Hope Farm Rd, Greenwich, CT

* House For Sale: $2,595,000

* 5 Beds
* 4.5 Baths
* 4,261 sqft

* Sun. 2-4pm

Greenwich Real Estate News: Fire At Old Greenwich Gables

Condo fire in Old Greenwich

Danbury News Times

A firefighter wades through pools of water on the scene of a structure fire at the Old Greenwich Gables condominium complex at 51 Forest Avenue late Tuesday ...

UPDATE:

Old Greenwich residents remain homeless after condo fire
Greenwich Time

Fire marshal: Construction started Old Greenwich condo blaze
Danbury News Times

Old Greenwich condo fire burns into the night, displaces residents Greenwich Time

UPDATE #2

Residents struggle in aftermath of Old Greenwich condo fire

Greenwich Time

... watched fire officials inspect the damage from a vicious fire Tuesday night at the Old Greenwich Gables complex that left several families homeless. ...