Friday, June 30, 2006

Interest Rate Hiked

The Federal Reserve raised a key interest rate yesterday by a quarter percentage point to 5.25%, and signaled that further rate increases would depend on the outlook for inflation and growth.

The increase probably won't have much effect on mortgage rates. What will be effected is existing adjustable rate mortgages and home equity lines of credit which are directly tied to the federal funds rate.

If you think it is time to review the debt structure on your home, contact me or visit my website. I can introduce you to experienced, knowledgeable, well-qualified loan officers.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Buying A Home

Knowledge is power, but where do you go to educate yourself about the home buying process? By reading my book, How To Make Your Realtor Get You The Best Deal. You will learn money saving tips from choosing an agent, to inspecting a home, to negotiating the best deal. You will learn from the Pros!

You can purchase my book on Amazon.com for $17.95, or I am offering a Free copy to the first 25 people to contact me with a request. Give me a call, 425-308-3669 or send me an email, karen@KarensVillas.com.

Then, be sure to contact me with any questions you have or for assistance with your Washington real estate.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Small Kitchens Aren't Always a Bad Thing

Buyers who immediately disregard homes with small kitchens may be severely limiting their options. After all, small kitchens don’t have to be cramped; they can be comfortable and efficient. Here are some tips for making the most of the space from Tampa, Fla., interior designer Jay Tenuta, owner of La Bella Interiors.

1. Buy a 24-inch deep refrigerator instead of the standard 30-inch one.

2. Add glass-fronted door to cabinets. They create the image of greater space. If that's too expensive, open shelving is another alternative that will give an open, airy look.

3. A fold-out table provides a breakfast nook, then disappears when it isn’t needed.

4. Don't use the tops of your cabinets for decorative display when you can use them for storage. Affordable baskets and boxes are a perfect option.

5. Create an island on casters that wheels out of sight when it’s not needed.

Surf the Web for space-saving ideas. For example, Ikea.com provides kitchen planning ideas, storage containers, and furniture made specifically for small spaces.

Source: St. Petersburg Times, Elizabeth Bettendorf (05/26/2006)
______________________________________________
Thinking of buying or selling a Washington home? Visit my website to view all local real estate listings and to learn the value of your home.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Theft Proof Your House

School is out! And this means family vacations. When preparing to leave home on vacation, we all put much time and effort into what we are taking with us, but not much thought to what we are leaving behind...our home.

Vacation time is prime time for burglars. Most communities experience a 10-18% increase in burglaries during the summer months. So, you will want to do everything you can to protect what is yours while you are not at home.

It surprised me to learn that most burglaries occur during daylight hours. CNN.com has 5 commom sense tips to make it hard for thefts to get into your home. Follow these tips and be safe!
_______________________________
Thinking of buying or selling a home? Visit my website to view all Snohomish and King County real estate listings and to get a Free home valuation.

Thursday, June 08, 2006

Who Needs A Survey?

A property survey is a map of a property showing where structures, easements and boundaries are located. To most buyers, being required by the mortgage company to have an updated survey for closing just seems like a waste of money. And, who wants to spend more money than absolutely necessary?

But, a survey is like insurance. The chances of you ever really needing it are slim, but if you ever do need it, you will be glad you have it. CNNMoney.com has a great article about folks who wished they had a survey. Be sure to take a look.
________________________________________

Thinking of buying or selling a home? Visit my website. Here you can look at all homes listed for sale in Snohomish or King County and get a Price Valuation.

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

What Is A Contingency Contract?

Sandra Nickel, Realtor in Montgomery, AL, has an excellent post on contingency contracts. What are they and should you as a seller accept one. It is short, sweet and informative.

Please contact me with any questions you have about contingency contracts or real estate in Snohomish or King County.

Friday, June 02, 2006

Painting Tips

Tis the season for do-it-yourself projects. The to-do- list at my house is a mile long and I am always looking for a way to make the job I am tackling easier. Sam Miller, an excellent Realtor in Mount Vernon, OH has a post with interior painting tips. If painting is on your list of projects, take a look.
_________________________________________
If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, visit my website. Here you can view all local real estate listings.