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IMMEDIATELY SEE HOME PRICES

IMMEDIATELY SEE HOME PRICES by Paige Marsh

Have you ever driven by a home with a For Sale sign staked into the ground and wondered how much the Sellers are asking for it? If you are a potential homebuyer then it is safe to say this scenario has presented itself to you more than once or twice. However help has arrived!

There is a new App available to homebuyers that will give you the information on any MLS listed property/home by just simply being physically in front of the property. The information is immediate and accurate as the app is tied directly to the MLS. This will save you frustration from having to look up the address online later hoping that the information is up-to-date and accurate. (which is not always the case)

The app can be downloaded to any smartphone and is functional as long as you have your GPS locator on. The app will coordinate your location with the homes listed on the MLS and be able to tell you pertinent information about the home you are standing right in front of.

If you are interested in getting this free app, just text “UTHOME328“ to 32323 and you are seconds away from beginning your own independent neighborhood search. If you have any questions about this please contact a member of The Bird Team – Paige Marsh 435-531-9061 or Scott Bird 435-590-7106. Happy house hunting!

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How do interest rates effect your purchase?

How do interest rates effect your purchase?

There are 5 financial components that every buyer should consider when purchasing a home: Purchase price, down payment, interest rates, taxes, insurance and home owners association (if applicable). Together these items produce a total payment. So how does the interest rate impact the total payment?

The interest rates can impact the payments considerably. Today, Interest Rates (IR) are close to 3.75% for a standard FHA loan. On a $150,000 purchase price with 5% down ($7,500), the principle and interest payment is $659.94. Six months ago, interest rates were 5.58% the same scenario, changing only the IR you payments are now paying $816.27, a $156.33 difference.

As the interest rates adjust, so can the type of home you purchase. As long as the prices remain the same, you may be able to find yourself in a larger, nicer home than you otherwise could have afforded. If the higher payment of $737.23 is within your budget, you could look at an increase now in your purchasing power. Instead of purchasing a $150,000 home, you can no consider an $185,000 home.

Home values will tend to incline as the inventory is low and if the interest rates remain low. For those homes priced under $130,000 there is a huge demand as inventory has dropped. There are only 42 active single family homes in the Cedar City and Enoch areas and 36 pending.

What loan program is right for you? There are many different types of loan programs out there. Depending on your credit score and debt to income (DTI) ratios, your lender can advise the best loan program that’s right for you. Popular programs include FHA, USDA (100% financing), Conventional, VA.

Is an adjustable rate good? Adjustable rates for the typical borrower is a bad idea. These programs typically start out with lower rates and then adjust to the rates at a future date. With rates extremely low right now, the best thing you can do as a borrower is lock that rate in and make sure it doesn’t change.

How low are our current rates? In 1980, interest rates reached an alarming 20%. Using the scenario above ($150,000 loan) with a 20% interest rate, your payments would reach $2,381. For the past 4-5 years, the rates have remained extremely low.

What does the term “point” mean? Often times, we hear things like, you can buy down your rate with discount points. As Bank of America has described, points are upfront fees paid at closing in exchange for a reduced interest rate. Read entire example by clicking here. A point is equal to 1% of your mortgage amount (or $1,000 for every $100,000). You’re essentially paying some interest up front in exchange for a lower interest rate over the life of your loan.

Should I hurry and buy a home to take advantage of the low interest rates? That’s a difficult question to answer. I would never suggest anyone get into a financial situation that he/she could not afford or if the timing is not right. Depending on a borrower’s situation in life (family, student, dependents, career, and goals) will greatly depend on the decision to buy or to rent. I personally support and agree with home “ownership”. I recommend talking to a Realtor who can help walk through your scenario with you and help you decide if purchasing a home now is the right decision.

When you look at your purchase, remember the strength you have with low interest rates. By working with a reputable lender and realtor you will receive the best advice for YOUR situation not theirs. In most cases, your interest rates should be locked for the term of the loan. Adjustable rates can be your worst enemy. Rates won’t stay this low forever so be cautious and smart as you proceed with your next purchase.

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How To Use Caulking to Winterize

Written by June Holder. Sometimes I have to do the winterizing of windows, doors, etc.; so I have found that the best way to do something is to just do it!  So here are some guidelines that have helped me.

  1. Finding the correct products best for the job will save you time and money.  For outside winterizing, use silicon-based caulk making sure it is paintable.  Make sure you ask the store workers which kind would work best for different projects, and be sure to include the caulk gun.
  2.  Upon reading the label, you will see that using silicone to the fullest potential needs to be applied above 45 degrees.  Allowing it to dry completely before the temperature drops is best and while the weather is dry.
  3. Removing old caulk by scraping off all of the dirt with a scraper/screw driver/or putty knife and washing and drying the surface will ensure a better stick for the new caulk. 
  4. Make sure the surface is repaired of any rotten wood or breaks before proceeding.  Often it takes more time to prepare and prep the area to be caulked than it does to do the caulking.
  5. By following the instructions on the caulking tube, you will be able to insert it into the caulking gun in preparation to begin the job.   By cutting the tip of the tube in an angle of ¼” back, allows for a small bead of caulk to be controlled easier.  Ensure you do a continuous bead of caulk , making sure it is thick enough to fill the gap needed.  Use a cloth or rubber glove to go along the bead slightly pushing to make a groove and making sure you cover all that is needed.  Sometimes the caulk may not hit the edge just right, so using your finger to guide the caulk helps.  You may need to back off the trigger of the caulk gun a bit to keep the caulk from pushing out after you are done.

 Good Luck!!  It isn’t that hard, as you get started and work with it a little more, you will see how to make it look the way you want.

 

 

 

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Update On Improvements in Brian Head

Written by Tamara Semick. As fall has approached us, this is an update of the improvements in Brian Head. The town has added the new addition of the pond, which will serve ice fishing, ice-skating for this upcoming winter. We have also welcomed Red Canyon Yoga to Brian Head, a great addition, offering yoga in this beautiful setting. As I write this they are receiving their first of the year snow fall. Brian Head changed ownership last winter, and are definitely, in my opinion, bringing great things to the resort! The marketing team is successfully reaching an audience we are excited to have. They have appropriated $3.5 million dollars into remodeling both resort buildings, adding 3 new parks, a new tubing hill to the main lifts with a magic carpet ride, and are preparing for the new flow trail for next summer. With all the new additions this is a great market still to purchase real estate, at still record low prices. Condos are as low as $25k, and breathtaking cabins, facing the slopes in a valley of views for $260k. Great options to invest with a good ROI for vacation rental properties. You can buy a year around get-a-way, and maximize your investment with offsetting expenses by placing it on the rental pool. Nice way for you to enjoy your property, yet still capture a return. Brian Head is a boutique resort offering all seasons. Brian Head is family friendly resort, low cost lift tickets & activities, & not the crowds & lines. As the leaves are changing, so are the great things coming to Brian Head. Southern Utah Vacation rentals offers great deals on vacation rentals if you are planning to come & stay. Visit www.come2brianhead.com to see our vacation rentals & specials. Let us show you all the beauty you can find in this gem of a resort.

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Five Reasons your home is not ….. SOLD!

Written by Laura Wise.

1.     Price.  Buyers will not overpay for homes, even in this market.  If your home is priced too high, it will just help sell the competing homes in the neighborhood by making them look like a good deal.

2.     Showing Condition.  Once you decide to put your home on the market, you must think of it like a product.  Don’t you pay more when you go to a store like Dillard’s that is attractive and organized?  Your home should look as close to a model home as possible.  Buyers can’t see past your personal clutter and will not pay top dollar for a home that “needs work”.  Odors are another big no-no, examples – pet, smoke, garbage, diapers or any other unusual smell.

3.     Buyers Can’t Find Your Home.  Your home should be syndicated on all the popular internet real estate sites with lots of professional photos.  Buyers will move on to the next virtual home if they don’t like how your home looks in photos.

4.     Buyers Can’t See Your Home.  I was trying to show a property and the listing agent said “No showings on Mondays”, or sorry not today – My client was only in town for one day and bought something else.  People need to be able to see your home before falling in love and buying it.

5.     Your home has been on the market too long.  Just like clothes that don’t sell and go into the bargain bin, a home that has been on the market too long will make buyers think there is “something wrong with it”.   If your home hasn’t sold in 4 months, see items 1-4 above.

 

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Time To Evaluate Your Heating And Cooling Expenses

Written by Laura Wise. As we approach the end of the summer season, now is a good time to review and evaluate all that you’ve spent over the past few months to keep your home cool. Recognizing that energy leaks can lead to higher bills and can affect your home and your wallet in any extreme temperature, hot or cold. Now is the time to consider home-energy efficiency improvements you might be able to take advantage of before the winter weather sets in.

Utility Expenses – Have you spent more this year than last evaluate your usage.  Here are some of the things you can do to improve energy efficiency:

An easy first task is to seal any gaps that might be found around your windows or doors, as well as in your attic or basement. Replacing the caulking or using rubber insulation around entryways can be a messy yet fairly simple task, and spray foam insulation is a quick and easy way to plug larger gaps that might appear around the foundation of your home.

Repair Duct Leaks – The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that roughly one-fifth of the air that is transferred throughout your home via forced-air systems is lost through leaks in ductwork. Duct sealant is available at most home improvement stores and can be an easy fix to repairing these leaks.

Install Thermostat Control – Programmable thermostats allow for more controlled costs on heating and cooling bills. You can program them to at home hours. If conservatively programmed, these devices can contribute anywhere from 5-15% savings in costs per year.

Replace Old Windows & Doors – Installing higher-efficiency windows and doors in your home can lead to less energy waste for years to come. While certainly a higher cost than other improvements, replacing old windows and hollow metal doors is one of the best investments you can make to your house. If this type of project seems outside of your budget range, consider applying for energy financing as a way to supplement the cost, and you may find the ability to make other, significant energy efficiency improvements as well.

Any of these improvements that can be made done the DIY-way contribute to reducing home-related expenditures. Additionally, any number of home energy efficiency improvements should be considered as investments to the overall value of your home — particularly those greater in cost.

If all else fails turn down the thermostat, put some sweats on and snuggle

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Are you Ready, Willing and Able to get a great deal?

Written by Laura Wise. “The housing market has bottomed. It’s not too late to get involved. I still think buying a home is the best investment any individual can make. Affordability is still at an all-time high.”—John Paulson (Billionaire who made his fortune by predicting the real estate meltdown in 2007.)

If you are looking to pick up an investment property or looking to get a great deal on a new home, these are proven tips to win.  The most important concept to remember is that there is a lot of competition for good deals and proper preparation is essential. Skipping any of these steps will decrease your chances of getting the best possible deal.

You must be ready, willing and able to buy.

1.     Ready means that you have cash in hand or you have been through underwriting at a reputable financial institution.  You must have either written proof of funds if you intend to pay cash or a written preapproval letter from your lender.

2.     Willing means you are committed to finding a property and purchasing it.  You are willing to spend time touring properties to educate yourself on the market.  You are willing to sign a buyer-broker agreement with an agent who will work on your behalf (more on this later).  Today’s market is not the market of three years ago.  See quote from John Paulson above.  We already hit bottom.  There are more buyers than sellers of good deals.

3.     Able means that you have the finances, commitment and desire to buy a property.  You are not afraid to write an offer sight unseen because you have developed a trusting relationship with your buyer’s agent.

Here is an example of how being ready, willing and able works in the real world.  I receive at least one call/week from someone who says that they are in no hurry, but if I find a great deal on a property, I should call them.  Imagine you are me.  I see a listing that I know is a great deal.  Am I going to call the person from the internet or the buyer who I know is ready, willing and able?   In today’s market, some of the best deals do not even make it to the Multiple Listing Service.  Agents find out about them through other agents.  If you want to find the best property for the best price, you can begin your search on the internet, but then find an agent you trust and make sure you are ready, willing and able to buy.

Remember I am here to serve my clients.  Thanks so much Laura Wise 435-327-1333.

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Retirees WELCOME!

Written by Paige Marsh.

Ahhhhhh, the golden years. What are you going to do ? Where are you going to spend them? If these are questions that plague you, I have some information you may find interesting.

Utah is a terrific location to move to if you are considering relocating for retirement. “The cost of living is just 3.8% higher than the national average and the median home costs a little more than average, at $216,000, according to Sperling’s Best Places. What’s more, Utah’s unemployment rate, 7.6%, is significantly lower than the rest of the nation, so many retirees may have an easier time landing a “retirement job” to offset the costs.” (Hill, 2012. “Retire Here, Not There: Utah”, SmartMoney.com)

Homes in Cedar City cost significantly less than homes in the bigger towns such as St. George and Salt Lake City. Congestion is not an issue. A heavy traffic scenario consists of being stopped at one of the dozen stoplights in town with more than 6 cars. Cedar City gives you a small town city feel but offers many of the conveniences you find in larger towns such as large grocery stores, movie theaters, and independent department stores like Christensen’s and Bealls. (Although – and you may want to sit down for this – you have to drive to St. George to find the Costco.)

Cedar City is nicknamed “Festival City” because of the number of Festivals held here each year, including the Shakespearean Festival, Neil Simon Festival, July Jamboree, GrooveFest, and Children’s Cavalcade Christmas Festival to just scratch the surface. Cedar City also hosts the Utah Summer Games which turns the little town into a mini Olympic festival each June with hundreds of competitive events being held throughout the area.

Cedar City is also nestled up against the Cedar mountains which offer a vast array of activities for the active outdoorsman including hiking, biking, fishing, skiing and snowboarding, camping, photography, rock climbing, rock scrambling, four-wheel driving, and sight-seeing just to name a few.

The best thing about Cedar City is the town’s temperatures which is something I looked forward to when I moved here from Las Vegas. I was a self-proclaimed “desert rat” and loved everything hot. Then I grew up. It’s amazing how the sun feels different when you are older. I now absolutely love being in a town where you have four seasons, and when you have months when you can just open your windows and doors to cool off your home instead of kicking in the A/C.  I like being in an area where you can actually grow a garden in the soils and not have it burn up from the heat. I love being able to have snow in the winter, but not experience that bleak, grey “inversion” phenomenon that the SLC valley has. Cedar City stays bright and sunny even during the winter months. We can have a near blizzard storm on Tuesday, then wake up Wednesday to a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds, where the ground looks like an endless blanket of shimmering diamonds from the white snow.

I have been lucky enough to spend my pre-golden years in Cedar City and have loved every minute of it. If someone can’t find something they are interested in in Cedar City, that person just possibly may not have any interests at all. I myself cannot find enough time to do everything offered that I want to be a part of. You can truly live a beautiful life in this cute little town.

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What to Consider Before Buying an Investment Property ….

Written by Laura Wise.  The housing market is rebounding and interest rates are still low, meaning an investment property might make a lot of sense for you. Before you move forward with purchasing an investment property, take note of these considerations.

Rental Property
Are you investing for the rental income or speculating on the rate of inflation. Always analyze the cap rates, or income vs expense, or a quick reference is income divided by the value, if it is not at least 7% (much better than any saving institution pays on a savings account) keep looking.

I can help …..

I own rentals. I manage rental properties for my clients out of town. I will find you one that makes sense.

Time Shares
Not my first choice in investment, they are not usually thought of as an investment, re-sale can be difficult, you can lose money if you are buying with resale inflation in mind.  However, they are a great money saver for those yearly vacations. Especially if you buy second hand, similar to a foreclosure. 

Real Estate Development
Development deals come with a high price tag and a lot of risk. While the return can also be high, for the average investor, the risk doesn’t outweigh the potential reward.

Foreign Real Estate
Before buying property in another country, make sure you are aware of the differences in their real estate laws and protections. Also take into consideration the country’s economic and political stability.

Associated Costs
If you purchase an investment property, the mortgage will not be your only expense. Remember necessary insurance, differences in tax treatment of investment property vs. primary residence, upkeep and — if you plan to visit your property — travel costs.  So talk to your accountant.

Once you’ve thought through the considerations above, an investment property may still be a good financial move for you. Interest rates are low, and while home prices are rising, they are still relatively low, call me I will help you find, and analyze the return.

I look forward to talking with you.

 

What Our Customers Are Saying

Great experience with Kelsea Burton

Kelsea helped us buy and sell our homes this summer. It was our first time selling so we had a million questions about the process and she answered them all with patience. Answered calls every time and always kept us updated. We got great deals on...

whitney bladen
Kelsea went above and beyond

Kelsea Burton went above and beyond to help us not only sell our home but also find our dream home! She handled any and all bumps in the road (that come with the process) with ease and because of that it was smooth sailing! (Or smooth selling! ;))...

Kylie Burton
Amazing Realtor

Kelsea is wonderful to work with. I would highly recommend her. She is sweet and knowledgeable and there when I need her.

Michelle Harrington
Thank you Shelby

Attn. Shelby Smith,

First, my son, Jim, and I wish to express our sincere gratitude for your counsel and information regarding inquiry of properties of the Cedar City area. We appreciated the personal friendliness and helpfulness of our vis...

james melching
Realtor Extraordinaire!!

We recently sold our home with the help of Marilyn Teed. She made the process very easy for us. She went above and beyond anything we expected from a realtor. As we were busy getting settled in our new place, she took care of many incidental thing...

Rick and Dianne Hadlock
Knowledgeable, Reliable, Trustworthy

Kelly Adams is an amazing Real Estate Agent. He is professional, trustworthy, patient, and extremely knowledgeable about housing options in the area. We were moving across country and he worked tirelessly with us. We ultimately felt very comfortab...

Sarah Brock
Excellent Experience!

We bought our home with Jason Spencer and had an excellent experience! Jason was very helpful through the entire process! He was always available which was very helpful as we were moving from out of state. We would definitely recommend Jason and S...

Travis and Keli Allen
Kelly Adams

Kelly did a great job helping us purchase some real estate!
He was prompt with good follow through for our
questions and concerns.

Eric Muller
Steve Barnes answered all our questions

Steve Barnes was extremely instrumental in us finding and buying our home! We were moving across the country and only had a few days to find our forever home. Before we came out to look at homes Steve answered all our questions and would hunt down...

Sarah Black
Honest and hard-working

Kelly Adams has been an amazing realtor! He is honest and hard-working. I know he had several other clients while he was selling our house, but it felt like we were his only client. He was very attentive. He respected our privacy and gave plenty o...

Tyree Jensen

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