Split Housing Market is currently observed in The East Bay. There is an existing trend of two different sectors of the markets in the area. One market sector is currently dominated by short sales and foreclosure which is priced under $500K. The other market, the sector where more traditional aspects tend to affect buying and selling, is priced above $500K. This set up is very common to many other areas in California.

You can expect that most buyers look for properties which can give them more value for their money. They may even grow frustrated with the fast phased market segment at present times. Investors on the other hand make sure their properties can yield efficient and profitable cash flow. The scenario always go down to buyers who expect to purchasing greater value of homes at lower cost and investors aiming of higher profit amidst lower market value  of the property.

Investors have the direct control in this situation of the real estate market. The first time home buyers with FHA and conventional loans with minimum down payment find it difficult to compete with the all cash investor. They need to make the best and highest offer first. In the East Bay, more than 50% of real estate transactions are multiple offers. This results in a large difference between the selling price and asking price. The selling price has relatively turned out to be higher than its asking price.

You can consider that a market segment is a normal market when it is priced between $500K and $900K. Most sellers expect prices to become stable in this particular market. In reality, most purchasers easily get exhausted with the situation since the evaluation process is not as favorable to them. Sellers are recommended to have their homes tagged in the bottom third of the existing price range to make their East Bay properties more marketable and appealing to the buyers.

Below are some of the significant factors that can affect the Fremont California Real Estate market in 2010.

1.     Continuous Increasing Rate in Foreclosures
A roaring rate of 52% of homes that closed escrow in 2008 was identified to be foreclosures. It was determined by a recent C.A.R. survey that 21% of home buyers have no in-depth understanding of the terms of their financial loans. These clauses are usually the most important things you should read before affixing your signature to any document, official or not. This is why you need to hire a professional realtor so you won’t run the risk of missing out the important clauses in the documents and to avoid unforeseen contract problems to occur. Look for professional and reputable real estate agents you can comfortably work with.

A huge number of first time home buyers await turn key foreclosures. Acquiring these kinds of properties requires simple and easy equity. This is the fact. You can even consider these kinds of properties to give you most for your money’s worth. Locate the most reputable realtor that specializes in foreclosures in Fremont and ask for recommended properties which have recently been foreclosed. The level East Bay foreclosures will continue to elevate through 2010. It would continuously flow throughout the year.

2.     Relative Increase in the Interest Rates by 2010
It is foreseen that interest rates will increase in 2010, as such is the normal trend of interest rates. The real estate sector is finding that interest rates and inflation rate are the biggest concerns they have to face in 2010. Not only is the increase in interest rate being foreseen, it is actually expected by everybody, no matter which business sector you belong. This is the typical trend of the economy in every country around the world. The Fed will discontinue the purchase of mortgages which are backed by securities in 2010. The mortgage interest rates will rise in the same year. Most people expect these to happen as early as March or April while others forecast that it won’t be the case until the 3rd quarter of the year. Whichever prediction may came to be, everyone agrees that the interest rates will mount in 2010.

It will take awhile for buyers to realize the end of the 5% interest rates in 2010. This situation in residential prices has already happened in 2007. You need to take action on your plan of purchasing unless you want to wait for another 5 to 10 years. The best thing to do when you are planning on buying or selling a real estate property is to work with a reputable and professional Fremont Realtor. This individual is the one who has expertise in real estate business and can fully explain to you the current situation of the market.

If you are planing to buy, you must act on it as soon as possible so you can still benefit of the 5% interest rate. On the other hand, sellers that are waiting until spring before putting their homes on sale need to change their business strategy. The increase in interest rates along with fewer buyers in the market can mean extended period for most home sellers to market their property.

3.     Amendments in FHA Rule
This is the most risky time for financial institutions like the FHA, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Increased foreclosure levels, the transforming economy and the extended recovery time are only some of the challenges they have to face. These financial agencies are continuing to change their financing rules and guidelines accordingly to cope with the actual status of the market where there is insufficient cash reserves and debt-to-equity ratio. It was found out that over 75% of first time home buyers were getting FHA loans. The succeeding year is foreseen by continually revising and modifying of FHA guidelines

4.     Failure of the Homebuyer Tax Credit
The extended tax credit of 2010 will be outshined by the expected rising interest rates. The one time tax incentive will be less thought off than the interest rate when purchasing a home in the approaching year. It is very important for homebuyers to urgently get serious with their strategies immediately with purchasing a home.

5.     Failure of Loan Modifications
The professionals who do loan modifications expect that roughly 80% of loan modifications will fail. But try to think these over. What might possibly encourage banks and the Federal Government to push through the loan modifications even if such is expected to fail? Is it possible that they are squeezing out all they can get from the homeowners? The U.S. Treasury has reported that 25% of loan modifications made by the Federal government programs are in trouble. This had happened in spite of the expected 40% reduction in mortgage payments after the loan modification was employed. This aspect of the real estate scenario is still shady. No matter what the reason why these things happen, it is recommended that homeowners have to work with their attorney, real estate professional and CPA to determine the right things to do.

Are you looking to do a short sale? I have had a 100% success rate with my short sales. Are you a For Sale By Owner? I can show you ways of selling through Help-U-Sell to save thousands of dollars and sell your home quickly for a low set fee.

If you would like to get a list of homes for sale in Fremont California or foreclosures in the East Bay, please call Meena Gujral at 510-279-9580 or go to:

Fremont homes

To see my other Real Estate Blogs click:

Mission San Jose Fremont Blog

Castro Valley Homes Blog

If you are thinking about buying a new home, don’t miss an opportunity to save money. Everyone likes to compare the best value on products or services, and will take advantage of specials or discounts in order to save money. What about buying a new home from a builder?

How do you save money when buying a new home? Home builders may offer what is called a broker co-op, which is a sales commission offered to a real estate agent as an incentive to show clients their new homes. The sales commission may range from 3% to 4% of the sales price.

Many real estate agents are now offering to share their commission with their home buyer clients. Before making an offer to buy a new home, a buyer can make an agreement with an agent to represent them, in exchange for a share of the commission paid by the home builder.

The amount of money a buyer can save depends on the share of the commission, which is negotiable with the agent, and the sales price of the home. For example, buying a new home with a sales price of $300,000, with a 2% share, would save the buyer $6,000.

The buyer can receive a check at the close of escrow, or the money may be applied to the down payment or closing costs, providing there are no restrictions from the mortgage lender, or state laws that regulate real estate transactions.

 Most new home builders don?t usually advertise a broker co-op offering, so the buyer, or the buyer?s agent would have to ask. The home builder may have a requirement for the buyer’s agent to be with them when visiting the office, or signing paperwork for buying a new home, so be sure to clarify the rules. A little time spent could mean a lot saved.

For a list of Fremont Homes for sale, Real Estate listings, California Real Estate go to http://www.helpusellachievers.com or contact Meena Gujral at 510-279-9580.

Homes Sold by Meena in Fremont 

Homes sold by Meena in Castro Valley, California

To see all my virtual tours click:

Meena’s Virtual Tours

When considering to purchase homes for sale, we generally think first of single-family homes. There are many advantages, however, to condominiums that single-family homes for sale cannot give you.

According to the National Association of Realtors, condominiums are most popular for first-time homes for sale buyers, especially single women. Next, come retirees and empty nesters, who do not wish to have all the physical upkeep required by single-family homes for sale. Thus, condominiums make up an increasing share of the output of the top homebuilders across the nation, even with the decrease in homes for sale since the bubble deflated.

In addition to new condominiums being built, many apartment buildings, hotels office buildings, and even warehouses that have been vacant or partially filled are being converted into condominiums. These condominium homes for sale take less than a year to convert, with upgrades to the exterior and common areas. They add amenities to the interior; and in some, they add a pool, spa, gym and/or clubhouse to attract the upscale homes for sale buyers.

The best deals in condominium homes for sale are those in the process of being converted or built. You usually can purchase during construction/renovation at a 10-15 percent discount. Look carefully at the purchase contract, however, if the condominium is being converted from an apartment building. Ensure you will not be required to allow current renters to stay for a specified length of time.

A condominium homes for sale has many benefits. Like a single-family home, they appreciate in value and have the same tax advantages. Unlike a single-family homes for sale, your homeowner association and maintenance fees covers all major upkeep costs of common areas, landscaping and so on. Sometimes, several other amenities and benefits are covered, as well.

Converted Condominiums

Before buying a homes for sale in a converted building, find out how old the building is and what updates they made during the conversion. Older buildings generally have more frequent and higher cost repairs. Ask if the homeowners association has enough money in reserve to cover major costs, such as roof replacement. If not, will the owners have to meet the costs. How old are the appliances, especially the furnace, hot water heater, and air conditioning? If the appliances are not new, consider purchasing maintenance and repair contracts to save large expenses later.

Established Condominiums

Before buying a homes for sale in an established condominium complex, ask to see all available documents, including minutes of the association for the past few years. Ensure your potential homes for sale will not see a major increase in maintenance or association fees, taxes, and so on. Also, look for any noticeable disputes that residents have had with the association. You do not want to purchase a condo that will give you a lot of headaches. As with converted buildings, consider purchasing maintenance and repair contracts If the appliances are not new.

Buying Any Condominium

Always check the contract and association rules for the following:

? What is the consequence of late payment of association or maintenance fees? Possible actions are lien against your condominium, foreclosure, and court action.

? What are the restrictions? Do they restrict age of residents; pets; who and how many people may live in your homes for sale; no renting or subleasing; number of guests at one time in your unit, home business; and so on?

? Make sure you understand the definitions of the restrictions (such as, what constitutes excessive noise).

? What are the consequences of the different restrictions?

? How and when can you access the pool, spa, gym or clubhouse?

? Does the association have to approve all buyers? Do they conduct a criminal background check before approval? A condominium can offer you more safety than a single-family homes for sale in that the association can ensure its residents do not have criminal backgrounds.

Once you purchase your condominium homes for sale, insure the inside against liability and damage. Consider the extra cost for flood (if even a remote possibility exists ? think Hurricane Katrina) and wind insurance (especially for units above ground level).

For help with finding Fremont Homes, please call Meena Gujral if you need more information at 510-279-9580 or go to my website at http://www.helpusellachievers.com

Here is my quick answer:

At Help U Sell we have all listings that are in the MLS and other listings that the sellers are selling for a flat fee where they do not want to pay the buyer’s agent’s fees, therefore they elect not to put it in the MLS. So if you want to have access to the most listings, you can go to my website at: http://www.helpusellachievers.com

If you would like to see all my virtual tours on my listings in the East Bay, California please go to Meena’s Virtual Tours.

You can also go to my website at http://www.helpusellachievers.com and sign up there to receive automatic e-mails when a new listing comes on the market matching your criteria.

Meena Gujral             

meena.gujral@comcast.net

Help-U-Sell Achievers Realty

40083 Mission Blvd, Fremont Ca 94539

510-279-9580

One of the biggest reasons that homes for sale by the owner often do not sell very quickly is due to the vendor not knowing how to advertise the property effectively. FSBO does not have to be intimidating and the following tips will prevent you having to fork out costly real estate agent fees when selling your home yourself.
The key to selling your house quickly is by using effective advertising such as that offered by several real estate web sites in the U.S. Some sites allow FSBO home listings to be posted free, so check what is available in your area. When placing your ad, include several flattering pictures of your home and keep your advertising copy short and simple. Make sure that you stress attractive characteristics, employing words and phrases that are appealing to prospective purchasers. Terms like Newly Remodelled, Close to All Amenities or Priced below Market are good for starters.
Another important tool in your marketing arsenal are lawn signs. If you also attach some form of container with information sheets to the sign, any prospective purchasers will have instant access to your contact info.
Before you put your house on the market, it must be immaculate inside and out. Homebuyers are attracted to clean, spacious and appealing homes. Remove all clutter and clean your home thoroughly, including the carpeting and windows. Do not underestimate the power of curb appeal. Trim the trees, plant colorful flowers and make sure your lawn is neat. Another instant turn off for potential buyers is to be overpowered by a not so sweet smelling house odor as soon as they set foot inside your front door. If you have pets, you need to make sure that the air is not permeated with that all too familiar doggy smell. Although it is better to get rid of the smell at source instead of attempting to disguise it, some essential oils put in discrete locations around the house can make the world of difference. Since you probably do not notice the odor yourself, invite a friend or neighbor over to give you an honest second opinion.
The actual asking price is another key factor in the ability to sell your home rapidly. Over pricing when selling a house is the biggest reason why many homes for sale by the owner do not move. A good guide to being able to price your home properly is to check local realty listings to work out the average going rate for similar properties in your area. As a general guideline, if you pitch your selling price at about ten percent higher than the actual going rate, you will likely receive offers, and hopefully a sale, very close to the true market value of the house.
One service that you should not do without is that of an attorney who is knowledgeable in the intricacies of home dealing. A survey by a professional home inspector should also be carried out, to find any problems that you may not be aware of.
Selling a home yourself can be time consuming, but the financial rewards are tremendous. Presentation together with proper pricing and effective advertising should see your property being sold in no time at all. Educating yourself about the nuances of the real estate market in your area will make you as effective as any realtor but without the costly fees.

At Help-U-Sell Achievers Realty we can sell your home for a flat fee therefore saving you thousands of dollars in commission. We take care of all internet marketing (too many websites to name here), virtual tours, negotiating for best price and terms, taking care of all paperwork, helping with disclosures, coordinating escrow, inspections and closing. meena is a licensed Real Estate Agents and Realtor selling homes in the Bay Area for 23 years.

To see all my virtual tours click:

Meena’s Virtual Tours

Homes Sold by Meena in Fremont 

Please call Meena Gujral if you need more information at 510-279-9580 or go to my website at http://www.helpusellachievers.com

Exit the Traffic Jams – Buy a Condo

Condos are a great buy, holding their price in a downwards market – and sometimes even increasing their value!

Why would it be that in many distressed realty areas, condos are holding their price? Is it the glut of baby boomers moving into the easier ‘condo’ lifestyle? Is it because they can often be less expensive than houses for first time buyers? Could it be because single householders (who are more likely to choose condos) have now out-numbered married ones? Is it because condos are built slap in the middle of town?

Whatever the reason, condo prices have remained unchanged in nearly sixty key USA metros and they have even shown a price increase in thirty-three metros. A closer look at the figures for the nation could point to the answer.

For instance, Chicago is one of the metros where sales of townhouses and condos were mostly equal or higher than in the previous year. Chicago is a very condo-dense city which could indicate that many buyers probably wish to avoid all the traffic jams and live right where they work. The immediacy of condo life is very appealing to city lovers and the career-minded.

The south-western coast of USA boasts the highest priced condos in the nation. In the San Francisco, Oakland, Fremont area you could pay the median figure of $600,000 for a condo. This is fairly high when you consider that the median price for a condo in North Carolina is $116,000.

The second highest median condo price is in the Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Ana area and this is quoted as $363,000. This market is closely followed by the San Diego, Carlsbad, San Marcos area where the median price for a condo is $327,000.

These areas could all fall under the ‘West’ resort bracket, a sought after location, where all prices are high against the national average.

The rules for buying a condo are the same as ever: location, location, location. However, prospective condo buyers would be well advised to pay attention to the other type of rule pertinent to condo ownership – that of the HOA.

HOA stands for Home Owners Association and it is imperative to read through their rule book before you buy. You will have to live by these rules, so you will need to ensure that they fit your lifestyle. You will also need to ensure that any conditions that you particularly want when buying the condo will not be jeopardized by the HOA rules.

For instance, if you are planning to rent your suite out for half the year, or even half a week – make sure this is allowed. In order to keep the community feeling of the condo society, some HOA’s do not like transience.

Permanency builds neighborliness and it also means that the condo occupier is more likely to adhere to the rules. If you are just stopping there for one week, you may well crank up the stereo while you are sunning on the balcony. Rental options may be disallowed in order to better enhance the lifestyle of all the permanent residents.

Another point to watch is this: if you are a do-it-yourselfer, many condos have rules about only using certain contractors to carry out repair problems and/or decorate. Certain other rules are involved in condo living; for instance, night-time noise may be regulated after, say, 11pm.

If the rules of the HOA fit your wishes and your lifestyle, then it will seem as if the conditions are non-existent. However, if part of the deal of purchasing your condo involves augmenting your financial status by renting it, you will need to ensure that this is acceptable.

Please call Meena Gujral if you need more information at 510-279-9580 or go to my website at http://www.helpusellachievers.com

Curb appeal starts from the street so make sure the street in front of your house is free of debris and the landscape looks healthy and well maintained. Neatly trimmed shrubs are essential. Sweep the sidewalk if needed and remove weeds between the cracks. A freshly painted fence gives a home a fresh and crisp look.

Like the sidewalk, the walkway should be clean and free of weeds. If sections are cracked consider having them repaired. If the driveway is stained or worn looking, consider resealing it with a good quality sealant.

A fresh coat of paint can go a long way in adding appeal and value to your property. If you cannot paint the entire house, consider the shutters and the front of the house.

There will be a series of staging tips coming up on my blog so please log on in a few days to get more information. If you are looking to sell your home anywhere in the East Bay and need more ideas, call Meena at 510-279-9580 and I would be happy to share more ideas with you.

Meena Gujral

Help-U-Sell Achievers Realty

510-279-9580

925-425-9491

http://www.helpusellachievers.com