Showing posts with label Real estate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Real estate. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

The Booming Commercial Sector of the Estate World

English: Commercial property in Carnotstr., Be...
English: Commercial property in Carnotstr., Berlin. Deutsch: Gewerbeimmobilie der DB Immobilien GmbH in der Carnotstraße 4-6, Berlin. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
We are all aware of the power that the estate world holds on the global economy. Spanning through the world are its creations of multiplexes, shopping malls that sweep through acres of land and buildings and offices that put the best of the natural wonders to shame. The estate world has bestowed upon man the right to create man made wonders from the ores of iron and steel.  It has shaped the way the world looks and how each piece of construction speaks out its own story. The estate market is also essentially responsible for the allocation of the growing populace on the planet, for the dispensing of the work population into new work areas and for the impressive grandeur that it has added to everyday living.

From our history we can study the way we have evolved in putting across homes and centres of refuge. The estate sector has changed the whole phenomenon of living by introducing new modes and lifestyles. It has made possible the infusion of luxury in everyday homing and has brought together the elements of comfort and class that seek to make a house something close to a site of art. It has fuelled the global economy by its boost and is solely responsible for the spread of industrialization to otherwise rural areas. It is also responsible for getting underdeveloped countries a strong economic backbone in the global financial scenario by being their star asset.

The current baby of the estate market is the branch of commercial property. In developing nations like India and China and other nations in Asia, industrialization is picking up speed. It is spreading its roots further in these places and they have come to be the biggest investment sites for residential and commercial property. The reason being, that some of the top industrial names want to set up their base in these nations since these places are the future of industrialization and capitalization marking them as the most lucrative sites for investment in property.   These nations are budding industrial spots where the power of urbanization is just starting to appear and this is where the future expansion of the estate sector lies.

Also, these developing countries boast of many multinational firms and businesses that require commercial space to set up and grow their trade. As a result there has been a rave of upcoming commercial property ranges in the major business capitals of these nations, some of the namely, Mumbai (office buildings in BKC, the town’s new industrial centre), Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc. These nations now cater to a work culture very different from the traditional 9 to 5 work hours one. These multinationals collaborate with local firms within the country to provide an international base for trade across the nation and thus enhances the overall growth of business within the country. These firms require work spaces that cater to the changing work culture and are a part of the growing industrial realm throughout the world. They are built with the top most of technology along with the floor space wide enough for the employees to roam about and think and to exchange ideas and thoughts.

Since it is now a collective work culture and no longer an individualistic one, the properties in construction are spaces that try and accommodate the changing demands of the industrial market. The estate world is constantly on the go to incorporate the changing trends and expressions of the human life that surrounds it and to produce and sell properties that cater to every taste and need.

Bio: Sumer Lobo is a real estate property dealer and he deals with commercial properties all around India and the Indian subcontinent. He wishes to expand his vision to the residential section of the property market as well. He thinks that the upcoming range of office buildings in BKC, Mumbai are the best sites for commercial property investment. Also he writes for http://www.thecapitalbkc.com/

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

6 Tips for First Time Home Buyers

You've finally decided to make one of life’s biggest decisions – buying your first home. No longer will you have to deal with stuffy landlords, exorbitant rent prices, or annoying neighbors—you will finally have a space you can call all your own. Now that you've made this very adult decision, you need to consider a few things before you make one of the biggest purchases you will make in your entire life. Before you buy, you need to ask yourself some serious questions. If you already own property and are looking into purchasing income property, you will also need to do your homework.

Tips for Homeowners 


1. Know Your Budget and Mortgage Basics 

It’s important to know what you can afford to spend before you seriously start looking to buy. It is also equally important to know how much mortgage you qualify for. Look for first time homeowners seminars in your area to get more information or speak to a representative at your bank.

2. Get a Real Estate Agent you Trust

Looking for your dream home on your own can get overwhelming. This is where real estate agents come in. They can help you figure out the logistics of a sale, will negotiate prices for you, and will do all the paper work. It’s important you have a good rapport with your agent and that they know what your needs and wants are. Remember, you are the one who will be living in this home, not them.

3. Make a Smart Offer

Your real estate agent can help you navigate this important step of the purchasing process. This is your time to name a price as well as your conditions for purchasing. More than likely the seller will counter-offer, putting the ball back in your court. Once you come to an agreement, you will go into escrow which means you have 30 days in order to inspect and purchase the property.

4. Get a Home Inspection

During the escrow period, it is your responsibility to get a home inspection. During this inspection a trained professional will check every inch of the property to make sure it’s safe and sound and ready for purchase. If they find any issues (mold or other deficiencies the seller did not mention), you can still retract your offer.

5. Read Before You Sign

Like all things in life, it is always crucial to read the fine print before you sign any agreement. It is also important to get everything in writing and avoid verbal agreements. Your banker and real estate agent can help walk you through any language or steps you are unsure of.

6. Cover all Angles on Your Income Property

Income property is property that is bought with the intention of renting or leasing. It is a higher risk than owner occupied properties, but can be beneficial in helping you off-set the costs on your own home and bring in extra income. Before purchasing a residential or commercial income property you need to do your research. Know your rights as a landlord and see if the time and money put into the property will put you out ahead in the long run.



Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet, a personal finance website dedicated to helping homeowners find the best credit cards.


Sunday, January 27, 2013

Are Commercial Properties the Most Viable Option in the Property Market?

English: Moscow-city 2010,March
 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Every major city in every country of this world has been very acutely aware of the trade mark rise of the real estate business. From multinational IT sectors to top fashion houses the real estate has transformed the entire scenario. There is no looking back now. There is simply a tremendously uprising future for the estate world and for the whole business sector that forms its various branches. 

Somehow the whole global economic market has come to applaud the deep mark that the real estate business has carved on for itself on the global economy. Every pair of investor eyes are hooked up to the gleaming and overflowing progress rates of the estate biz which has commanded the attention of major developers and businessmen all around the world. 

From the very points of globalization and urbanization has stemmed a completely new working culture and a whole new work ethic associated with it. Every little ounce of the age old methods has been refurnished to posses the glaze of the modern era. From the workplace the roots of every business are spread through the networks of local and national economy. 

Somehow the work place has become the defining feature for the boom of an upcoming business or the glory of a well established one. There have been sites of work zones which reflect the varied aspects of the ever changing work culture. These sites are the representations of the growing state of the real estate biz. These properties mark the difference between the old and the new and a part of the present day work ethic zone.

The property market has been a boon not only to the economy but also to the infrastructure for industries. Be it economic mammoths like the United States or the world’s best city, London, they have gauged the fact that the work place is more than marble space with wooden furniture. It has become the space where ideas are born and business minded geniuses come together to lead new and exciting propositions and ventures of finance and business. 

It is a place that demands the exploration of business potential and the expansion of its limits to accomplish and include newer boundaries within its regions. The work space has come to be seen as the standpoint of any economic growth for any kind of business, be a newly started venture or an already accomplished one. They are also the manifestation of the power of the real estate’s current position. These work spaces somehow manage to combine the best of the world of industrialization that is chirped with technological utility. (For example, the upcoming arrays of commercial offices in Mumbai, in the growing business nation of India, depict just the very ideas aforementioned).

Investing in the property business of the world today somehow then, comes as one of the wisest choices available on the testing platter. While every leading business or brand wants worldwide success, its start point is always its workplace. Therefore, it doesn't come as a surprise when some of the leading businesses in the world decide to have work zones that match their current work ethics. 

These are instrumental in defining and shaping the future work culture globally. Commercial properties as major investments sites seem to be the most viable option in the property market. With industrialization and urbanization growing with each passing year, the real estate business is only on its way to perpetual expansion. What makes the business world stop in its tracks is the need for the most up to date infrastructural facilities which is the provisional advantage of having an ever growing estate business.

Bio: Dick is a free lancer writer of http://onebkc.com/


Things to Look for in an Investment Property

Residential area in Meerssen
Residential area in Meerssen (Photo credit: Peter Köves)
When it comes to investment in the real estate sector, you have two choices in front of you. You can either buy residential properties or commercial real estate. This is the first decision you need to make, as many aspects of the two types of investments vary from each other. While commercial real estate may earn better rentals and better profit margins, the real estate ventures are a lot more expensive as compared to residential properties in Mumbai or any other city around the world. Location and industry of the target market are imperative factors to get handsome returns for commercial spaces. 

On the other hand, residential properties have shown steady increase in value over the past few decades in most cities in our country and outside. While location is an important factor for housing spaces as well, it does not completely control the appreciation or demand of the property. Other factors such as neighborhood, infrastructure, amenities, structure and design of the complex, connectivity of the area, proximity to local commercial hubs, and so on, also matter a lot. 

While both sectors of the real estate industry are different, there are common threads running through them. Here are some of the things you must keep in mind before investing in any type of property. 

Regardless of whether you are looking at residential properties in Mumbai or commercial real estate options in the business hubs of the city, you must look at your venture as a long-term investment. You cannot buy a flat in the city and immediately put it for resale and expect a handsome profit. There are some investors who do this, but they add value to the home by furnishing it and styling it to appeal to a particular class of society. Ideally the real estate investments you make should double in value over the next seven to ten years. In cities like Nashik, Pune and Mumbai this is fairly common if the choice of location and developer is good. 

While location of the property is the defining factor for its profit potential, one needs to know what people mean by the ideal location. The property should be in close proximity to lifestyle amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and activity centers. In addition, they property needs to have ample connectivity options to commute to different parts of the city. The neighborhood and amenities matter, but they are not all that location is about. Imagine having a flat that has a beautiful balcony opening out to the slums. 

Also, the building itself should be worth the money. Land and location are not the only factors responsible for capital growth in real estate. If you invest in a building that is architecturally superior and has style and good design inside and out, you can bet that it will be in demand years from now. This is why smart investors don’t mind spending a bit more to buy flats constructed by the city’s leading developers. The investors know that the best and latest amenities will be provided, increasing the overall value of the apartment. 

When investing in homes there are always things we look for, and you need to do just that even when you are looking at properties to invest and gain profits through resale or rent. For example, would you live in a house that had a floor design where you had the master bedroom next to the kitchen, or the bedroom without an attached bath? Then why would you buy one even as investment, even if it is being sold at a great price. Buy properties that you feel people would want to buy or rent. 

Stacy T. Morgan is a freelance writer for the http://theaddress.co.in/ . She has been working for a real estate agency for some years now and enjoys writing about residential properties in Mumbai, upcoming commercial complexes, why should one invest in real estate, etc. In her free time, she likes to hang out with friends and try different restaurants around the city.


Friday, January 25, 2013

Tips for Investing in Real Estate

Polski: Punta Cana beach, Dominicana
Polski: Punta Cana beach, Dominicana (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
We all know that in times like these real estate investments can be the best bet for future gains. After all, how much money can you put up for equity or solid precious metals like gold and silver? If you have disposable income that you want to keep rolling, real estate is the sector you should be looking at. In case the real estate market in your resident country does not seem promising enough, there are foreign real estate investment options to explore. India can be a likely choice, considering the real estate sector is booming in most parts of the country. You can consider buying properties in Boisar or Pune, if you don’t have enough capital to buy a lavish apartment in Mumbai. India welcomes foreign investment and the investment laws here are pretty straightforward as compared to some Western countries. Another apt option may be the Dominican Republic. Places like Punta Cana in the country are making their mark on the investment map lately. 

Regardless of where you decide on investing your hard-earned cash, we can safely presume that you are either going to hold on to the property for some years after which you can put it on sale for a substantial profit margin, or instantly put it on the rental market to earn a parallel income. In both cases, the investment is not going to be used personally. This is where most investors make a mistake. They buy the property that they would want to stay in, rather than concentrating on a property that their target market requires. For example, if you have always lived in a house, that’s what you would gravitate towards investing in, forgetting that today the economical situation makes it hard for a majority of the population to buy big homes. Most buyers are looking for apartments or condos that offer security, maintenance and other perks without having to bear the expenses of everything single-handedly.

Studying the market is essential before any real estate investment. Decide on a target buyer market and take things further, as this will give you a clear idea about what neighborhoods to look at, the rough budget figure, etc. The kind of investment you are considering should be looked at as a business plan. You may want to plan out a three year or five year investment strategy. This will give you an idea about where to invest, your financial liabilities after investment, and the future profit prospects. Location is one of the key ingredients for a profitable real estate investment. For instance, if you are buying properties in Boisar, your target market is single families that work in the industries nearby or in Mumbai. This means that your priority should be to invest in 2 bedroom apartments that can be rented out. Also, these apartments should ideally be close to the train or bus stations for easy commute and better connectivity.

While in many cases simply letting some real estate agencies know that you are interested in renting the property out to individuals or families is enough, there are times when the investor needs to advertise to get the right tenants. In case you do not believe in having a middleman take away a percentage of your profit, placing advertisements in local newspapers may be a good available option. Most newspapers carry such ads for nominal charges, although we suggest employing a good real estate agency especially if you are a non-resident of the State. Many smart investors believe in furnishing the properties with basic necessities to ensure good rent. While this is not a compulsion, it may be a good strategy to adapt. 

Jeffery G. Thacker is a freelance writer for the http://www.mirchandanigroup.com/ . Being an American he often concentrates on blogs and articles about the real estate market in the US, however recently he has written quite a few informative pieces about properties in Boisar and other localities in India. Jeffery is a sportsman at heart and enjoys playing lawn tennis, billiards, soccer and baseball.


The ABCs of Property Buying

Property market
Property market (Photo credit: Alan Cleaver)
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to invest in your dream home and then about the whole process of making it from an unfurnished flat to a living space of your dreams? Ever calculated the hours of sweat that would go into making your apartment into a space that reflects who you are? Or have you probably wondered about the most basic questions as to what is the most basic step into entering the field of property buying? Or what are the steps that lead you to transform your mental image of the perfect house into concrete reality? These are the questions that probably are the most popular on online real estate sites and construction blogs. 

Firstly, to buy any good property, be it residential or commercial, it is fundamentally important that you span through every option available in your budget. The estate market has become so vast that it can cater to any kind of property whims and fancies that its customers harbor in their hearts. So you could choose from a luscious apartment, to a grand flooring duplex that could be the perfect medium to share those beautiful life time memories with your loved ones. If you are a simple bee that go for the ultra modern and chic homes that are made up of the warm feel of teak wood under the soles of your feet. If you are in the mood to splurge look at those wonders that are termed as indoor swimming pools, on a less grand scale, maybe a Jacuzzi might suffice.

Secondly, after deciding on the most ideal space according to your convenience, make sure you are surrounded by a locale that has the most basic features in it. These include hospitals, grocery marts, libraries, the police stations, subways or bus stops. Make sure that your surroundings are as favorable to you as the space that you have picked up to compose into the house of your dreams. It is very essential that all these basic amenities are now located in your area of residency since they form a very important part and parcel of your day-to-day living.

Some of the best leading real estate companies are now focusing on advancing the options available on the residential market. They want to make living a one of a kind experience and they want to do with style. Their clientele has become much more choosy and individualistic in their preferences, demanding for spaces that reflect their own perspectives of modern life. This group of consumers is the one that have transformed the living space from a mere four wall phenomena to a much more complex notion of luxury and style, also of personalized reflections of memories that are converted into state-of- the art pieces which are timeless in their creations.

Whatever you need to make that space your dream home, at every step there is too much that is offered as help. Sift through your options wisely. Make the most of whatever is laid before you as your eyes feast through the perfection combinations of interiors that will match that ideal mental image of a home. The property world is no longer a short walk down the lane, rather it has become one those long strolls into the woods that is made up of so much variety. Invest your capital very carefully and if you are indulgent, indulge in some of the best. Your dream home will occur every two years, so this once in a lifetime opportunity should not slip by without its festive commemoration.

Bio: Roy is a free lancer writer of http://www.thewadhwagroup.com/ and currently he is doing online research on the projects in Mumbai.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

10 Money-Conscious Things to Do Before Selling Your Home

The process of selling your home can be very difficult, and is made even harder by the current housing market. While you may not be in the best position to get the highest value for your home than in the past, you can still get a good price and a smooth sale completed by working through a checklist of things that you need to do before going to market; this can range from getting an accurate valuation of your home, through having a marketing plan in place, getting the right professionals to help you sell your property, and making repairs to rooms and the structure of a house. 

1 - Valuation


To get an accurate valuation, you’ll need to check what price other houses in your area have sold for recently - this can be checked with the Land Registry service. You can also look at what the resale value of the land around your property is, and what potential profit could be gained by a new buyer in a few years time. Estate agents can help you to reach these estimates; surveyors are, however, needed to provide a better estimate of your home’s value. 

2 - Having a Marketing Plan 


If selling with an estate agents, discuss with them how they are planning to market your property. Are they using traditional methods like marketing in their shop window or through local papers, or are they focusing on marketing online? Alternatively, you can opt to market your property by yourself online - this will save money, but may take longer than working with an estate agent that knows your local area. 

3 - Getting the Right Solicitors 


In order to sell your home quickly, you’ll need to get the right solicitor for your property - ask around and compare local solicitors. The best solicitors will be able to handle legal fees, draw up deeds, and pay off your mortgage with the proceeds from a sale. 

4 - De-Clutter 


To make your home appealing for visits, de-clutter as much as possible; go from room to room and be ruthless about what you’re getting rid of. Old mobile phones and electronics can be sold for scrap or resale, while bulk boxes of DVDs and books may be sold online for a small profit. 


5 - Make Essential Repairs 


It’s necessary for you to boost the value of your home by making essential repairs - check wiring, fix roof leaks, and clear out gutters. Similarly, replace loose or cracked flooring, and reseal areas of the bathroom that are showing significant wear and tear.
 

6 - Deep Cleaning 


In most cases, it’s worth investing in a professional cleaning company, who can do the tough jobs that you've been putting off; these jobs might include deep cleaning carpets, and removing tough mold and other damage. 

7 - Have a Moving Out Date 


While it’s important to not arrange to move out and be stuck with your property without a buyer, have some kind of deadline to work to for moving out. This date can change, but should be a motivational tool for the house selling process. 

8 - Fix up the Front of Your Home 


First impressions are important with properties, so make sure that you trim back front gardens, replace rotten wood, and repair any damage to walls or windows before you begin having visits; this shouldn't cost too much money, but can enhance your home’s value. 

9 - Compare the Market 


Keep a close eye on the state of the housing market, as well as what properties are selling in your local area; an estate agent can advise you on how to best approach the market, while maintaining a focus on how the market’s changing online can help you to work out the best selling time and marketing strategies. 

10 - Have a Schedule 


Maintaining and updating a schedule will help you to avoid leaving vital repairs and legal issues to the last minute; have dates lined up for when you want viewings to start, and for when contracts absolutely have to be signed. 

Author Bio: Liam Ohm writes about how your home and your finances are so closely intertwined, from how a Wet Room can be a good financial move to choosing the right solicitors. Having a plan in place is also extremely important and should be the first thing you do when deciding to sell your home.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Your Business Needs to Have a Home

English: Reading International Business Park. ...
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Walk through the city everyday as you view a countless examples of architectural and artistic constructions. Rich, historic, heritage buildings have becomes sites of government business and offices. Mixing tradition and timeless beauty to house some of the country’s most important delegates and promote the most essential businesses, these heritage buildings and offices, two in one somehow stand in contrast to those high towers of steel that define multinational BPOs and media companies. These structures are witnesses to some of the more developed modes of the economy consisting of the growing and changing face of the capital industry. Humbly standing next to these will be composite structures of residency marking a blend of domesticity and industrialization that form most of the definition of global culture today. All these are nothing more than reflections of the infrastructural base created for a developing global economy. 

The real estate sector is the whiz of this century’s capitalist mode. It is that branch of the financial global tree which mixes technology with infrastructure. It is also one of the off shoots of a growing world where space and time are constantly being defined and redefined. From basic industrial land requirements to larger aspects like accommodating the growing work population, the real estate biz is under constant pressure to fulfill these ever growing demands. Arising out of the need to have the best business minds flourish, one of the biggest contributions of the real estate market has been that of expanding work zones and understanding the changing work cultures and their multitudes that coexist side by side.

The work culture has now become more aligned to the collective mode rather than an individualistic one. Initially in any company the hierarchies of employment focused more on the individual employee and his growth. But now the whole perspective has molded into focusing on the overall growth of the business itself thereby, continuing to make the employee a highlight in the company’s progress but at the same time dealing with the larger aspect of the company’s general boom. This then has redefined the work culture as one of co-working. Co-working demands the work space to be a site of constant exchange of thoughts and ideas which not only promote the business of that particular company further but also molds its employees to give in their ultimate output related to efficiency.

For such a work culture the real estate market has come up with the concept of a unified workspace, wherein technology couples in with utility and purposes, making the work experience a package of individual and collective business growth. High-tech, well defined offices are no longer only fragments of dreams. They are very coherent realities in our world today. The estate market has changed the fate of a work zone from being one of boredom and monotony to one of art and repertoire. (For example, the upcoming property of office buildings in BKC, Mumbai). It has been successful in enabling zones of perfect work harmony wherein all the aspects of business come in together to collaborate and emphasize economical and financial growth.

The estate world has molded the work experience of businesses to bring out the best of commercialization. It has linked various national economies to form a web of economic impetus to the global economy at large. It brings forth the very concept of merging individual elements to come forth together to compose a complete picture of the urbanized facet of the global industrial sector. Providing the very essential base of infrastructure to assimilate other varied aspects of business together, the real estate sector has been successful in creating a perfect atmosphere for the growth of business and capital globally.

Bio: Lionel resides in India and is a graphic designer and a part time writer of http://www.thecapitalbkc.com/ . He is intrigued by post modern art and literature and seeks to define his designs with abstract patterns. He is also a lover of animals and loves to cook pasta.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Identifying Value in Real Estate Property

Property market
Property market (Photo credit: Alan Cleaver)
It has been stated over and over that the key to real estate value lies in location. But this has misled many people into believing that there is really no other factor to consider when appraising the value of real estate property. There are a number of factors that must emerge when you consider the value of any real estate property. 

One of the chief factors that you must bear in mind is the age of the building. An older building can be a financial drain rather than an asset. Older buildings tend to require more laborious and expensive renovation projects and are more likely to fail inspections. These problems include faulty plumbing or plumbing systems that are now outdated and need to be replaced. The same goes for electrical wiring. Plumbing and electrical overhauls can be very expensive especially since they typically require that the walls be cut open to allow the contractor to access the pipes or wires.

But sometimes an older home can be a jewel. Older homes that are steeped in history can be potential money makers. Ensure that the claim to historical fame is legitimate before making a purchase however, because you want to ensure that when you invest in refurbishing the building you get your returns. These types of golden opportunities are far and few between however and you should count yourself lucky if you stumble upon this type of treasure.

Carefully look at the infrastructure that comes with the home. Look for things like alternate power supply solar water heaters and ornate decorations. Consider elements such as the stairs. The stair design adds flair and elegance to the inside of a building. But it also serves another purpose. It indicates how much time and energy has been put into the building. An attractive decoration goes a long way in enhancing the resale or rental value of the property.

Appraise also the land space surrounding the home. Is there a wide expanse of land? Or is the home close to others in the community? Ample land space leaves options such as a pool or expansive outdoor entertainment spaces on the table. Once there is space the potential to develop the property is limitless and simply depends on your vision and budget.

One of the first things that visitors notice about a home is its size and this element has a serious impact on the value of the property. A smaller house will leave you with the potential to do less. If you are planning on hosting large gatherings at home or having a big family, this home won’t give you the right bang for your buck. On the other hand if you find a fairly sized home you may be able to creatively use a section to make money. Depending on the neighborhood rules you may be able to manage and run a home business from one room or a large garage. Note also that a large garage may be a luxury that eludes you with a more expensive and smaller home, though it may be located in a prime real estate spot.

So yes, the location plays a significant role in the price of a home and its value. But don’t be fooled into thinking that it is the only factor worth considering. There are many other factors that help to determine what benefits the property will have for you and your family and chief among those factors should be the value that the house has for you when you consider your needs or your family’s needs. So essentially, the true value of the house goes beyond the cash required to make the purchase.

Karl has been using his background knowledge as a real estate investor to inform millions across the globe about wise real estate investment choices. He enjoys spending time outdoors and engaging in meaningful conversation.


Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Pros and Cons of Using the Internet to Sell or Rent Your Property


Anybody who is looking to sell or rent a real estate property, wants to sell it quickly, and that too at good price, but a layman might not even be aware of exactly what’s the good price for his/her property, let alone managing to get that price. This is why majority of people goes for real estate agents for buying, selling, or renting their properties.

A real estate agent or broker can assess your property and give you an idea of the right price according to neighboring communities and the overall situation of the real estate market. They can also help you with marketing, home staging, and closing a deal, except that they will charge a hefty fee or commission for their services, precisely the reason why many people prefer to avail one of those online property portals or classified websites for finding a buyer or tenant for their homes or offices.
But just like any other option, selling or renting a property via internet, without getting any help from a real estate agent might save you some bucks, but it has its fair share of disadvantages as well. So, while I am all for making the most of Internet, you must have an idea of the downsides, so that you can do something to deal with these shortcomings. 

Let’s have a look at some pros and cons …

Advantages:                                                         

        I.            
          1. Save on the Commission Fee:
As earlier suggested, real estate agents will be charging hefty amounts for their services. If all you are looking for a buyer or tenant for your property, which is located in a big city, you can easily catch the attention of many interested parties by simply putting an ad on property portals or classified ads, and that too for free. You can also upload some pictures and floor plan, and you will be getting calls from interested buyers or people looking for rental property, in next to no time.

      II.      2. More Control:
Using Internet to sell or rent your property means that you will be free to make your own decisions. Not that dealing with a real estate agent will bound you to listen to their advice, still some of them might talk you into a deal that you will regret later on. Remember that they will be looking to get the deal done ASAP because that is when they will be getting the commission, and sometimes your might miss a good prospect in hurriedness.

    III.       3.Clash of Interest:
If your real estate agent has many properties on hand, and they are expecting bigger commissions from other properties, they will be keener to sell or rent those properties sooner than yours, while making you wait. Turning towards the Internet and doing it yourself means that you can make a wholehearted effort and attract the potential buyers without wasting any time.

    IV.     4. Learning:
Property portals are not just used for selling or renting properties, they can help you in more than one ways. For example, you can compare property prices in your neighborhood and decide the right price, you can also get some handy tips from their knowledgebase, or you can initiate discussion or post queries at their communities.

Disadvantages:

        I.           
         1. Time Consuming:
Remember that not only you will have to take all calls from interested parties (including some at odd timings), asking all sorts of questions and making weird offers. That is quite time consuming, as well as annoying, not to forget that even if you have uploaded pictures of your property, many people will be interested in visiting the home, so you will have to take out time and arrange a visit for many interested buyers or tenants.

      II.     2. Negotiation:
Real estate agents are usually quite good at persuading and price negotiations. That’s part of their job and something that they are doing day in and day out. You might not be as good as a professional agent or broker at communicating or convincing when it comes to persuading buyers or renters to go for the property.

    III.      3. Documentation
All real estate transactions, doesn't matter if it is renting out a property or selling it; need to have some well documented agreements. A real estate agent will be able to help you with the legalities and nitty-gritty of a transaction; you’ll have to be extra careful and vigilant while handling it yourself.

Farah is a contributing writer for a London loft conversion company, that specialize in planning and carrying out high quality loft conversions in London, Hertfordshire, and Essex.



Monday, December 10, 2012

Utilize The Service Of A Florida Business Broker for Smart Investments


Many business domains in the world perform added value based functionalities for bettering the national economy. Businesses in Florida are ripe sources of investment and retailing, aiding in encompassing a diverse array of trade. Professionally qualified agents associate between the buyer and seller, and vice versa to attain maximum benefit reaping investments. The linking agent cooperating between the procurer and vendor is a specialist in this arena of business transactions. It is the fundamental law of UN-proclaimed basics to deploy a skilled intermediary for facilitating a transparent agreement between business parties.

Essentials of the Target Audience

When conducting business deals that involve investing in an established enterprise or obtaining the ultimate sales value for selling an organization, the highest payee or bidder rules the roost. It is crucial to evaluate the economics of the Florida region before commencing on an ideal investment strategy. There are several businesses on sale in the area which incorporate adequate reasons for the purchaser to involve in the property deal. Nuances of localization play an important role in characterizing business sentiments, including personally related deals in the offing.
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  • Employ a broker in Florida for less stressful handling of business associations.
  • Detail an intermediary agent to act as a bridge between the investor and the local business community.
  • Involve a negotiator to analyses Florida’s business environment taking into account purchase or sales.

The need to realize the mindset of the regional audience is imperative for establishing the neighborhood scenario. The state of mind of the local populace aids in developing an understanding about the business practices, adding to gathered data on profit-making established ventures.

Credentials of Business Brokers

The existence of the broker species solves numerous present and unprecedented business problems. These agents are the trustworthy personalities who clear the way for successful money-making ventures. The superficial knowledge for investing in Florida businesses is not enough for undertaking such a yeoman task. The essential know-how is a forte of brokers, where the storage of information is a necessity, proceeding the job. There are various rules and regulations to be considered before spending in a local business acquisition.
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  • Understanding the aim of the buyer’s interest in a particular area of dealing. 
  • Facilitating other norms like procuring business licenses, investment permits and other paraphernalia associated with the setup. 
  • Evaluating the records and earlier profits of the business under scrutiny. 
  • Retrieving statistics based on the existing business facts when needed.

Safe Investments with Florida Brokers

Leading experts in the field of business provisions, including purchase and sales, understand the requirement for excellence in trade management. Brokers form an integral part of this understanding and are the business technicians, supplementing improved deals and partnerships. The representatives provide the necessary professional help by arranging needed documents for easy negotiations. Comprehend the necessities of Florida before embarking on an investment arrangement.
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  • Analyze the market scene including the population statistics and prospective ventures. 
  • Pick and choose an established business brand for a gainful situation. 
  • Do not start before accumulating the necessary documents.


Setting up a business with analyzed business opportunities is an easy job for a Florida business broker. Think and invest in the services of a conciliator to achieve best investment outcomes in Florida. Fly high with the investment opportunity taking wings.


Author's Box:

This is a guest post by Bharat, who is one of the leading business broker, investor, researcher, author and educator. He has impressive knowledge about the investment and retailing. He has many successful stories on Florida business broker for smart investments.


Friday, December 7, 2012

Does Your House Need a Professional Stager to Sell?

 You love your home and your decor is just perfect. So, why is your real estate agent telling you that you need to hire a professional stager? Do not be insulted. See this as an opportunity to launch your home into the welcoming arms of a buyer. Who needs a stager? Some people need these professionals more than others.


It's Been Sitting and Sitting

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As you follow the real estate news and information available online, you know something is wrong when your home is not moving. If your home has sat on the market without selling for six months or longer, now is the time to consider staging. It can help to paint the picture for potential buyers of what the home could be and how it would suit their needs. If you need a new tactic to get people back into the home to see what it has to offer, staging can help. It may help you to avoid a price reduction initially, too.


The Guy Next Door Is New

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Another common problem home sellers have is selling their older home, which is sitting in a newer neighborhood. If your neighbors have newer homes, potential buyers may see your property as the least desirable in the neighborhood. Even if you know that is not the case, you may have to show potential buyers what this property can really do for their bottom line. Staging can help to convince them that buying your home means they are getting a well-loved, cared for and excellent investment. Even better, it will be clear that your property can rank just as high as the other guy's.

It's an Empty, Blank Slate

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Perhaps you have already moved on, but you cannot truly move on until you sell this property. The problem is, your home's vacant, empty, and without so much as a kitchen table in it. This could be a reason why it is not selling as fast as you like. People cannot see how the home will look much less work for their needs. With some well-placed furniture on the other hand, you will have a stellar looking property that people can see themselves living in for years to come. Empty rooms may not be as welcoming.


It is a Cluttered Mess

clip_image004Let's face it. Sometimes we have too many dust collectors to keep a home organized. Perhaps you have a picture of each of your children from each school year and activity covering every inch of wall space. On the other hand, you may have so much stuffed in closets that if anyone dares open the door, they risk things falling on them. When you realize that you have too much, call a stager. The stager can help you to pack up what is not needed so buyers can see the real bonuses of the house.

Do you need a professional stager? If you are unsure, ask your real estate agent for some guidance. Do not be afraid to commit to the hiring of one. After all, they could end up helping you to make your move easier, not to mention sooner.

Images Via Flickr by fragileheart, Via Flickr by livinginacity, Via Flickr by dorsia, Via Flickr by puuikibeach


Thursday, December 6, 2012

Property Investment in Today’s Economy

clip_image002Planning: In today’s ever changing economy, property investment has become an important topic of interest with people wondering what to buy, when to buy and so on. A lot of questions like these surround property investment. Consumers should make sure that they are making the right decisions in on all elements of buying a property. With real estate prices poised to trend up and interest rates at all-time lows, can you REALLY afford NOT to invest in to new build real estate? 

Safe and secured investments 


When buying a property, you should first ensure that the property that is going to be bought is loan free and not over-priced if it is second hand. Also keeping in mind the surrounding area, you should understand what kind of increase of property rates can be expected which will give the owner high yields in the future. For example, if you live in Perth, Australia, try looking for house and land packages in Perth to get an idea about property rates. However, the best investment you can make is in new construction property which delivers on consumer demands. 


Where to buy


The buyer should make a complete examination of all the factors related to it. The government issues Municipal Bonds to pay for highways, building of schools and other project which seem to be a good and safe investment. Additionally, is the property being built in sustainable communities and neighbourhoods? There is no point of building a neighbourhood which, in a few years, will be nothing more than a commuter village or town and have no real ‘soul’. 

Money in hand


In order to buy a property, you have to first decide how much money to invest and what kind of return you're looking for. Real estate is an excellent investment and hedge against future inflation. History has shown us that real estate, no matter how battered the market is, always rebounds to new highs compared to the past. You only have to look at some of the richest people on the planet; not one of them rejects a property portfolio. In fact, a large element of their investing portfolio is real estate. 

Property is for living in


By and large for most of us a property investment will invariably mean buying a house or apartment to live in. in addition, a property is also an element of most people’s retirement nest egg, therefore the investment has to be right, as too does the area in which you choose to live.

Real estate construction companies have to deliver ever better products to increasingly demanding consumers. Low maintenance property, energy efficient property and aesthetic designs are all demands being made by consumers. But where do you start looking for the companies which stand out and deliver on consumer demand?

You can start by looking for house and land packages in your neighborhood. For example, if you live in Perth you should search for house and land packages in Perth to see what kind of deals are being offered, and how to make the most of the money you have to invest.

Ali Asjad is a writer and blogger. He is also an active real estate investor with reasonable portfolio. He researches subjects such as house and land packages in Perth as an element of his work.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Maximizing Renovation Bucks: Where to Invest




Are you getting ready to sell your home? You probably already know that this could be a long and arduous experience. You know that there are a few “problem” areas within your home. So how do you go about determining the best areas to renovate that will result in the highest return?

Rely On Professionals and Software


Real estate professionals can certainly help point you in the right direction. Most agents are very knowledgeable about your area and its homes. In addition, there are applications such as FreedomSoft real estate software that can also provide many helpful tips.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the information by top-selling agents; along with some real estate investment software that will let you get top dollar for your house.

Get The Facts About Your House and Neighborhood


First, you do need to understand that certain areas will offer a high return on your investment, while others just will not. In addition, you’ll want to research your home’s location and the area’s price point.

Additional points that you’ll need to examine are the neighborhood and the city in which your home is located.

Kitchens and Bathrooms


Typical buyers in today’s market want to see kitchens and bathrooms that are updated and remodeled. Kitchens are perhaps any home’s focal point. Therefore, presenting an updated and well-appointed kitchen can become a top-selling feature. 



Remodeling dollars spent in the kitchen area will definitely result in a major return for your investment dollars. Bathrooms follow kitchens as a close second in the “to be remodeled” area, and they are also a great return on your remodeling dollars. 

Statistics provided by professionals have shown that up to 80 percent of your investment may be recouped when your home is sold. That’s a pretty good turn around for your dollar.

Offices, Windows and Decks


If you upgrade or remodel office space, windows, and/or decks, you can see as much as a 70 percent return on your investment. Additionally, these types of investments add a significant boost to your home’s appeal, at a relatively low cost. 


Also, keep in mind that dressing areas and workout areas do not significantly add to a home’s value, so perhaps you may consider turning that workout area into a well-appointed home office.

Use Quality Materials for Your Update


While it may seem expensive, use the highest quality materials you can for your update or renovations. Stone counters and hardwood flooring are great investments—just make sure they are the best you can afford. 

This will let you see a higher return on your investment. This philosophy also applies to other finishes such as molding and cabinets, as well as lighting.

With just a little research, you certainly get a significant return on your remodeling or renovation dollar.

Photos via Flickr by Marcia Todd, Lauren Wellicome, New Ispiration Home Design, edenpictures, Granite Charlotte Countertops




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