Let’s say you’ve just decided to list your home for sale. You know there’s a lot to plan, but when do you start preparing to move? In a word, NOW! Stay focused and don’t panic!

The main aspect guiding your planning will be whether you’re moving a long distance or just locally. Either way, begin hoarding boxes, packing tape, moving blankets, packing peanuts - and big black markers to indicate contents and locations on every single box.

In many cases, you’ll want to consider a professional mover, and your listing agent can make some excellent recommendations. However, be sure your choice is licensed and bonded, and that their employees have workman’s comp insurance. Always get an estimate in writing, from more than one company, and inquire about their equipment, training and experience. References should always be available upon request.

Well in advance of The Big Day, hold a moving sale to reduce the amount you have to pay for your move. Items that don’t sell can often be donated to charitable organizations, or taken to the landfill as a last resort.

When the moving day actually comes make sure you’ve brought enough cash for your travel, your medications and supplements, and your children’s favorite toys, games and entertainment. It could be a few days before you have access to your belongings, so plan ahead and be prepared!

Call me at locally at 363-5464 if you need information to assist you with your real estate decisions. For Long Distance, call me at 1-800-724-7149 or e-mail me, if you prefer, at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com. We will be happy to share our knowledge with you at no cost or obligation.

You know that REALTORS® help you to move. Did you know that they can also help you stay where you are? This has become quite an issue in light of the recent rise in loan defaults. REALTORS® provide critical information and a link between lenders and buyers.

Subprime loans, in and of themselves, are not bad. They provide financing for substantial numbers of people who cannot otherwise qualify under standard lending practices. However, buyers must be informed and realistic about what terms they can actually afford to accept.

No one - not banks, not REALTORS®, not homeowners - sees foreclosure as an acceptable option. It hurts everyone, including the communities where vacancies lead to declining prices. This is where a trusted local real estate professional can provide assistance.

REALTORS® are advocates for smart lending practices, and they stay in touch with local lenders. REALTORS® also work with state and local governments, as well as local non-profit organizations that can help homeowners facing trouble meeting their mortgage payments.

Perhaps most importantly, REALTORS® work closely with buyers to educate them about resources and options. This helps homeowners and prospective buyers keep their homes and build their equity. The key to it all is education and reason, and a strong desire to preserve the quality of our lives and our communities.

Call me at locally at 363-5464 if you need information to assist you with your real estate decisions. For Long Distance, call me at 1-800-724-7149 or e-mail me, if you prefer, at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com. We will be happy to share our knowledge with you at no cost or obligation.

How much home can you afford? How do you even begin to find the answer to that question? You’ve probably heard terms like “pre-approval” and “pre-qualification” tossed around, but do you understand the critical difference between those two? If your answer is “no,” then please read on to avoid major disappointment when you make your offer.

“Pre-qualification” is a fine place to start, but if you’re really serious about the time and money you’re going to invest in purchasing a home, you’ll really want to focus on “pre-approval.” Approval, and not just qualification, is secured when you complete and submit a loan application, along with the appropriate documentation and fees.

The lender will review your application and paperwork, and will notify you of just how much financing you can secure. Only then will you have the confidence to make your home choice and make your offer.

A pre-qualification, on the other hand, is more informal, and only an estimate of the funds for which you might qualify after applying for a loan. You might make an offer with pre-qualification in hand, but it’s no guarantee that your loan application will be accepted.

The seller’s REALTOR® will have educated the seller about this critical difference, so make them an offer they can’t refuse! Pre-approval puts you in the driver’s seat, so get ready to move!

If you need information to assist you with your real estate decisions, call me at 1-800-724-7149 or e-mail to donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com I will be happy to share our knowledge with you at no cost or obligation.

Don Kingsley, CRB, CRS, ABR
REALTOR®