RealtorTraceyW's BLOG

A Special Message for First Time Home Buyers

Wed, 03 Jul 2013 06:31:20 -0700

Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

RealtorTraceyW 1Month American Dream Real Estate

Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:38:54 -0700

It has been 1 month since the Grand Opening of American Dream Real Estate. I did not want to let the day go by without trying to express how I feel. I still have trouble getting my words out. I am just so thankful. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

Grand Opening

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:13:34 -0700

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

Fri, 03 May 2013 02:57:21 -0700

Have you ever been so excited about something, that you could not put your feelings into words? Well that is where I am today. My raw expression is to ball up my hands, push them toward the ground, bend my knees, and just let out a primal scream of pure joy. Beyond, that I will attempt to open up and express myself today. Perhaps sharing "the story before the story" will help me to get my words out. I was born the 5th child of 6. I am still sometimes referred to as, "the one next to the baby". I am the product of the "Dream" that my parents had, not for themselves, but for their children. They were born and raised in the segregated city of Columbia, South Carolina. They experienced the "separate but equal education" of the South. When they were barely out of their teens and in the early stages of starting a family, they made a bold decision to pack up and leave everything they had known, good and bad, with the belief that their children would have an equal opportunity in life. Their journey lead them to Mount Clemens, Michigan. I was born and raised in Mount Clemens Michigan. Throughout my childhood I could feel the empowerment of the equal opportunities that I was exposed to (at the time I didn't understand what it was). I guess, in many ways this was the eutopia my parents were in search of when they moved so far away from home. I did not have a perfect child hood, but I had opportunities that my parents only dreamed of. I went to school with the freedom to be myself, and the opportunity to be accepted or rejected for myself. My parents always encouraged us to get an education. This was mainly the speech of my father. As for my mother, she would not let a day go by without speaking of the good news of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Between the two of them I was developed to believe that anything is possible. My "Dream", that I am living today is their legacy. It has been more than thirty years in the making. As a young child, they never spoke against the things that made me different (being the household bookkeeper or my interest in taxes at age 12). They did everything they could to set me on the path that would lead me to this moment. Their "yes you can" mentality, and their boldness in going after what they believed would be best for their children, planted so many seeds in my life. I will continue to water those seeds that they planted and live out the "American Dream". America is still the land of opportunity and I am so thankful for this one. I know that my Parents are looking down from Heaven. I want them to know how much I love them and appreciate their sacrifices. I will continue do my best in life. I will never accept failure as an option. I will never accept quitting as an option. I will never give up on the "American Dream". Thank you to my family and friends and everyone who has ever supported me. I am so humbled by this blessing. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

Happy New Year 2013

Sun, 30 Dec 2012 05:01:26 -0800

Happy New Year from Tracey R Wrisper~RealtorTraceyW New Year's Eve is fast approaching. This holiday is one of the most anticipated holidays each year. For so many it represents a new beginning and a fresh start. We resolve to do more, do better, or just do. Whatever your resolution is, I pray that you have a blessed and prosperous 2013. Happy New Year! Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012-Home Warranties Help U Save $

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 08:04:05 -0700

BLOG 2012 RealtorTraceyW Home Warranties Help U Save $ Can you afford not to have a Home Warranty? Take a look at the following information to see if a Home Warranty is a good choice for your home. Average Replacement Costs Plumbing $726 - $990 Heating $1,751 - $4075 Water Heater $456 - $520 Range $531 - $915 Air Conditioning $2,461 - $4,400 Refrigerator $691 - $975 A Home Warranty can help you keep your home in tip-top shape without the tip-top price tag. Repair and Replacement costs can be expensive and often come as a surprise to home owners. Home Warranties are available to Buyers and Sellers. They cover most major repair or replacement costs within the home for up to a year or more after the closing date. Sellers who list their homes with a Home Warranty typically sell their homes faster than sellers who do not. Educated buyers request a home warranty during the negotiation process. There are many coverage plans available. If you are interested in learning more about Home Warranties I would be glad to provide you with additional information. CALL NOW! I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WAITING FOR YOU! Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Do you want a RED HOT listing?

Sun, 12 Aug 2012 08:14:56 -0700

blog 2012 RealtorTraceyW Do You Want a red hot Listing? Which sign would you prefer in your yard? A sign that says, “for sale” or a sign that says, “sold”? I am sure that is a no brainer! Here are a few tips to help you have a red hot Listing Tip #1 Choose the right Agent! Tip #2 Follow your Agent's advice! It is just that simple. Starting the process by choosing the right Agent can make a world of difference. Agent selection is a critical ingredient to your success. After selecting the right Agent, it is also critical that you follow their advice. Trusting the advice of an expert can lead to getting your home sold! Here is a sample of tips and ideas for getting your home ready. Photos~Having attractive photos of your home is important to the marketing process. Buyers will request a showing of your home, based on what they see on the internet. Curb Appeal~The first thing that buyers will see is the exterior of your home. Mowing your lawn at least once a week, trimming the edges, and removing all debris, tools, and toys, will set the right tone. Access for Showings~Keeping your driveway, walkway, and front entrance clear will make buyers feel welcome. Keys to the front door~Sellers should provide keys to the front door of their home. This will give the best impression to buyers. Entering from the side or back door should be avoided. Do You Want a red hot Listing? Start by choosing tracey r wrisper residential real estate expert don't wait another minute. Call Now! 337-718-8055. i have an appointment waiting for you! Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Dump the Junk

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 01:09:18 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 Dump the Junk We are all guilty of this at least once our lives. We are all guilty of holding on to stuff we that don't use, don't need, or can't fit. When it comes to our worldly possessions we all have a hard time letting go. It is probably because of the hard-earned money we spent to buy them in the first place. Unfortunately, our collections do not go over well with potential home buyers. Here are some suggestions to help you Dump the Junk before putting your home on the market. Make it a team project. Don't try to tackle it all by yourself. Enlist the help of friends and family. Get your neighbors to pitch in. What the heck! Make it a community event. Have a garage sale for your town. Make it big! Super Size it. Do whatever it takes to Dump the Junk. The sorting process can cause many of us to have an full blown meltdown. I suggest breaking it up into categories. By focusing on one category at a time, you can help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. Pick one day to sort through all the shoes in your home, then another day to sort through clothing, then paperwork, next toys and so on. Be selective during the sorting process. Set a limit on what you keep. Set criteria and quotas for each category. Avoid the temptation to keep it all. Convert to a new format. Things that have taken up a ton of space in the past can be reduced to an updated version. Take music for example. You can convert those CD's to MP3 to eliminate racks and boxes from your living space. Finally, I would like to suggest making donations to charity and people in your community. This is a great way to remove items from your home. You could give furniture to a young couple that is just starting out. Find a single parent who could use a hand. Those school uniforms would make a great gift to someone who is trying to make ends meet. Want more suggestions? Do you need help preparing your home for the market? Call Now to get your FREE Market Analysis and in home consultation! Tracey R Wrisper, Residential Real Estate Expert, 337-718-8055. Request your appointment online @ www.RealtorTraceyW.com I have an appointment waiting for you! Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Advantages of Home Ownership

Sun, 08 Jul 2012 02:59:58 -0700

BLOG 2012 RealtorTraceyW Advantages of Home Ownership I have worked with countless First Time Buyers over the years. I am often asked about the advantages of owning a home versus renting. Paying a mortgage and other expenses associated with buying, does not always appear to be a good deal to someone who has never owned a home. Renting usually gives the impression that it is a low stress and carefree lifestyle. There are a lot of misconceptions about home ownership. There are actually many advantages. When you pay rent, the only thing you get in return is a place to live. Every dollar that you pay is an investment for your landlord. When you move out, you may get your security deposit returned to you, as a thank you for not damaging the property. As a homeowner, a portion of every payment is used to reduce the principal of the loan. The principal is the amount that you actually borrowed. Paying down the principal is how you increase the equity in your home. And don't forget about appreciation. This is the increase in value over time. Should you decide to sell your home, you may realize a significant return on your investment. That is exactly what your landlord is counting on. Another option would be to keep the home until the loan is paid-in-full. Living in a home that is paid for gives the owner a great sense of pride. As a landlord, it increases your profits. It helps to contribute to your financial freedom. Additionally, there are tax benefits available to qualified home owners. There are tax deductions for property taxes and mortagage interest that you may qualify to deduct. As a landlord, there are even more opportunities to reduce your tax liability. (For specific information on the financial and tax benefits of buying and investing compared to renting, contact your local financial or tax consultant). Personally, I feel the most important advantage to home ownership is that the home belongs to you. You can decorate it however you wish, entertain house guests, plant flowers and trees, rent it to others, it is all up to you. Home ownership is still the American Dream. Would you like to learn more about the advantages of home ownership? Are your ready to live the American Dream? Call now to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION! Tracey R Wrisper, Residential Real Estate Expert, 337-718-8055. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

Happy 4th of July!

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 03:16:25 -0700

BLOG 2012 - Take A Closer Look

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 05:31:16 -0700

BLOG 2012 RealtorTraceyW Take A Closer Look When I first saw this photo it made me laugh, but then I thought about the Home Buying Process. Many Buyers know exactly what they are looking for. Watching them probe through homes is similar to watching an episode of CSI. On the other hand, there are Buyers who have no idea where to begin. Here are a few helpful tips to consider while searching for your dream home. Evaluate the home's space inside and out to determine if there is enough room for daily living, storage, and bathroom usage. If you have to travel for your job, make a "test-drive" during different times of day, to see how it will impact your commute. Obtain information about the homes average monthly utility bills and other regular payments. Review the Property Discloser to see if there was prior damage to the home, and if repairs were made. Measure the rooms to see if you will have enough space for your furniture. Do you need help finding your Dream Home? Call Now! Tracey R Wrisper, Residential Real Estate Expert, 337-718-8055. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - SELLER BEWARE!

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 05:06:32 -0700

We have all heard the saying “Buyer Beware”, but what about “Seller Beware”. Sellers should be aware of one of the most common reasons that a sales contract falls apart. Home Repairs are a leading cause of contract "fall through". In the State of Louisiana, buyers have a right to a Home Inspection. During the Home Inspection deficiencies may be discovered. At that point, the buyer has a right to "back out" of the contract or request repairs. Sellers should not take home repairs lightly. The condition of your home plays a critical role in you getting to the closing table. When a contract falls through it can be quite a devastating blow. I strongly recommend that sellers make all repairs to their home prior to listing it for sale. This may help keep you from having a contract “fall through”. Do you need help preparing your home for sale? I can help! Schedule a walk through today. I will give your tips and ideas to help you get to the closing table. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Oh Yes I Did!

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 09:02:53 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 Oh Yes I Did! What an amazing year! It is hard believe that we are half way through 2012. I am so thankful to everyone who has supported me in my Real Estate Business. I am so grateful for the success that I am having so far this year. I could not have done it without the support of my family, friends, clients, and fellow agents. Here are a few highlights that I would like to share with all of you. Tracey R Wrisper achieved the prestigious Beyond Excellence Award for ranking in the top 5% of ERA agents in closed sales production in the nation. Beyond Excellence Award from ERA Franchise Recognized by Alix Kunkle of the Leesville Leader as a Community Blogger Thanks again everyone for your support! DO YOU NEED HELP BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOME? GET RESULTS! TRACEY R. WRISPER rESIDENTIAL rEAL eSTATE eXPERT I am the Agent for you! get results! Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Memorial Day

Sun, 27 May 2012 21:28:46 -0700

YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN! Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - The Little Things.

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:09:11 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 The Little Things Preparing your home for sale can seem like a big task, but truly, it is the little things that make the difference. Here is a list of little things that buyers are sure to notice or maybe they won’t (think about it). If you take care of the little things, you are very likely to get your home sold. Door Bell – Ensure that the door bell is present and operational. Door Knobs – If you have a loose knob or the key sticks, it is time for an upgrade. Odors – Air out your home daily. Try not to overdo it with sprays and candles. Pay special attention to pet and tobacco odors. Caulk – New caulk shows that you are detailed with your home maintenance. Fresh caulk around tubs, sinks, and showers brightens your bathroom. Don’t forget to “run a bead” in the kitchen as well. Nail Holes – Use your finger tips and spackle to fill nail holes. A dab of paint will finish the job. Paint – Painting is a quick and inexpensive way to update your home for sale. Fresh paint works wonders with Home Buyers. Neutral earthtones and bright white trim is the way to go. Cleaning – Make a plan to stay on top of your chores while your home is on the market. Get every member of your home to pitch in. Using a reward system can provide plenty of motivation. Lawn Care – Have your lawn manicured weekly while it is on the market. This normally reduces your marketing time. A well kept lawn will lead to showing appointments. Mailbox – Freshen up your mailbox. Make sure it is standing straight and tall with all parts intact. As a Seller it your goal to impress Buyers. Every showing has the potential to lead to the closing table. DO YOU NEED HELP PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE? I am here to help you get results! Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - What is a VA Loan?

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:54:12 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 What is a VA Loan? In 1944 Congress created the VA Loan Guaranty Program to help returning service members achieve the American Dream of homeownership. Since then, the Department of Veterans Affairs has helped more than 18 million service members purchase homes. Myths The VA will loan me the money to buy a house. Anyone in the military can get a VA Loan. Facts Active Military and Veterans have to meet certain requirements to qualify for a VA Loan. Those who qualify will be issued a Certificate of Eligibility. A Certificate of Eligibility certifies that the potential borrower has a VA entitlement and is eligible to participate in the program. An entitlement is the amount of money the VA will guarantee on a loan. http://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/factsheet.asp In addition to obtaining a VA Certificate of Eligibility, you must meet the Lender requirements to qualify for a VA Loan. This includes, but is not limited to, Income Verification, Employment Verification, and Credit Check. Of the nearly 25 million Veterans, less than 10% have taken advantage of this earned benefit. Don’t let your hard earned benefit go unclaimed. If you would like assistance obtaining a VA Loan contact me today. I am here to help you GET RESULTS~CALL NOW! Or visit the Virtual Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - The Overpriced Blues!

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:14:54 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 The Overpriced Blues! Is the frustration of selling your home making you cry like a two year old? You could be suffering from a case of “The Overpriced Blues”. Tacking on a thousand dollars here and a thousand dollars there can add up to a listing that is priced for much more than it is worth. Take a look at these signs and symptoms of an overpriced listing and see if you can come up with a diagnosis. No Showing Appointments Buyers spend many hours online comparing one home to another. Price is one of the quickest ways to narrow a search. You could miss out on potential qualified buyers by not appearing in the appropriate search results. Further down the line is the decision to “keep as a favorite”. This is only a mouse click away. If your listing is overpriced you simply will not make the cut. Your listing will get skipped time and time again. Getting Labeled When your listing is overpriced it is quickly labeled in the minds of buyers and agents. Your listing will be one to watch for a price reduction. It is not likely that you will get showings or offers if your home seems out of reach. Overpriced listings send the wrong message. Sell Your Neighbors Home When your listing is overpriced it helps sell homes that are priced lower. Buyers perceive these homes to offer “more bang for the buck”. If you overprice your home you may end up watching other homes come on the market and sell more quickly. The Big Question If your home sits on the market for a long period of time the big question will be, “what’s wrong with that house?” Even after a detailed explanation of its listing history, buyers twist their lips, shake their heads, and decide to “skip that one”. Stressful Negotiations If and when a buyer is brave enough to consider an overpriced listing, the process can be very stressful for all involved. Sellers have become desperate to sell, but stubborn about the price; buyers are still holding on to the “big question” and “waiting for the other shoe to drop”; and agents explain every detail repeatedly to make sure their client(s) understand(s) the process. The Big Cut It is very rare that an Agreement to Purchase is not contingent upon an Appraisal. If this contingency is in place, be prepared for a price reduction in order to complete the sale. This “reality check” is usually painful for Sellers. Keep in mind that the most a Buyer can borrow is the Appraised Value of the Property. If you do not reduce the price to the Appraised Value you could be back at square one. Do you want to know how much your home is worth? I can help. Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com Tracey R. Wrisper, Real Estate Expert, 337-718-8055 ERA, Sarver Real Estate, Inc. 337-239-2041 3090 Colony Blvd, Leesville, LA 71446 BLOGRealtorTraceyW.com Facebook.com/TopGunAgent www.RealtorTraceyW.com Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Real Estate Dictionary

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 09:37:43 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 REAL ESTATE DICTIONARY Agency - Agency means a relationship in which a real estate broker or a licensee represents a client by the client’s consent, whether expressed or implied, in an immovable property transaction. An agency relationship is formed when a real estate licensee works for you in your best interest and represents you. Agency relationships can be formed with buyers/sellers and lessors/lessees. Agent - One who acts or has the power to act for another. APR - Annual Percentage Rate is the relationship of the total finance charges associated with a loan. This must be disclosed to borrowers by lenders under the Truth-in-Lending Act. Appraisal – An estimate of the quantity, quality, or value of something. The process through which conclusions of property value are obtained; also refers to the report that sets forth the process of estimation and conclusion value. Appraiser – An independent person trained to provide an unbiased estimate of value. Appreciation – An increase in the worth or value of a property due to economic or related causes, which may prove to be either temporary or permanent. Closing Costs - Fees and expenses, over and above the price of the property that buyers and sellers normally incur to complete a real estate transaction. Costs incurred include loan origination fees, appraisal fees, title searches, title insurance, surveys, taxes, deed-recording fees and credit report charges. Also known as "settlement costs". Commission – Payment to a broker for services rendered, such as in the sale or purchase of real property; usually a percentage of the selling price of the property. Contingency – A provision in a contract that requires a certain act to be done or a certain event to occur before the contract becomes binding. Contract – A legally enforceable promise or set of promises that must be performed and for which, if a breach of the promise occurs, the law provides a remedy. A contract may be either unilateral, by which only one party is bound to act, or bilateral, by which all parties to the instrument are legally bound as prescribed. Conveyance – A term used to refer to any document that transfers title to real property. The term is also used in describing the act of transferring. Deed – A written instrument that, when executed and delivered, conveys title to or an interest in real estate. Equity – The interest or value that an owner has in property over and above any indebtedness. Ethics – The system of moral principles and rules that becomes standards for professional conduct. Fair Housing Act – The federal law that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, and national origin. FHA Loan – A loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration and made by an approved lender in accordance with the FHA’s regulations. Home Inspection – An inspection of a home to discover damage or defects. Homeowner’s Insurance Policy – A standardized package insurance policy that covers a residential real estate owner against financial loss from fire, theft, public liability, and other common risks. Interest – A charge by a lender for the use of money. Legal Description – A description of a specific parcel of real estate complete enough for an independent surveyor to locate and identify it. Loan – A loan is a type of debt. Market Value – The most probable price property would bring in open and competitive market under normal conditions. Mortgage – A conditional transfer or pledge of real estate as security for the payment of a debt. Also, the document creating a mortgage lien. Plat – A detailed map that illustrates the geographic boundaries of individual lots. Private Mortgage Insurance – Insurance provided by private carrier that protects a lender against a loss in the event of a foreclosure and deficiency. Protected Class – Any group of people designated as such by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in consideration of federal and state civil rights legislation. Currently includes ethnic minorities, women, religious groups, the handicapped, and others. Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) – The federal law that requires certain disclosures to consumers about mortgage loan settlements. The law also prohibits the payment or receipt of kickbacks and certain kinds of referral fees. Real Property – The interests, benefits, and rights inherent in real estate ownership. Regulation Z – Implements the Truth-in-Lending Act requiring credit institutions to inform borrowers of the true cost of obtaining credit. Sales Contract – A contract containing the complete terms of the agreement between buyer and seller for the sale of a particular parcel or parcels of real estate. Title Search – The examination of public records relating to real estate to determine the current state of ownership. VA Loan – A mortgage loan on approved property made to qualify veteran by an authorized lender guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs in order to limit the lender’s possible loss. Do you have questions about buying or selling real estate? I can help. Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

What Happens at Closing

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 05:43:35 -0700

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 WHAT HAPPENS AT CLOSING Closing is the final step in the Home Buying Process. Up to this point the home still belongs to the Seller. The purpose of the Closing is to transfer ownership from the Seller to you. Who Attends Closing Closing is normally attended by the Buyer, Seller, Agents, Attorney, or Title Company. In some cases there may be a Power of Attorney representing the Buyer or Seller. Documents Signed At Closing HUD-1 Settlement Statement – The Settlement Statement is a breakdown of all costs associated with the sale of the property. It details the fees that are paid by the Buyer and Seller. Buyer Fees: Appraisal, Taxes, Insurance, Credit Report, Title Search, Title Insurance, Processing Fees, etc. Seller Fees: Real Estate Commission, Taxes, Termite Inspection, Septic Inspection, Mortgage Payoff, etc. Deed – This document transfers ownership from the Seller to the Buyer. After Closing it is submitted to the Clerk of the Court to be filed as a public record. Mortgage Document – If the property is financed the Buyer will sign for their mortgage. A mortgage is a loan from a financial institution. At closing the Buyer agrees to repay the loan. The mortgage specifies the number of payments and when they are due. Keys and Instruction Manuals Sellers will give all keys to the home and instruction manuals to the Buyer. It is recommended that Buyers have locks change immediately, especially in cases where the home was previously used as a rental property. Enjoy Your New Home The Closing Appointment takes about an hour to complete. After signing all those documents it is time to enjoy your New Home. Are you ready to buy a home? Let me help you get to the closing table. Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - READY, WILLING, AND ABLE

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 03:55:20 -0800

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 Ready, Willing, and, Able You may be ready and willing to buy a home, but the real question is, “are you able?”. Meeting with a Lender will help you find the answer. Here are three things Lenders want to know before they give you a prequalification letter. Do you have a job? What is your credit score? Who do you owe? Employment Verification Employment Verification is a critical component in the lending process. Lenders need proof of employment. Typically lenders are looking to see if you have at least two years of stable employment. There are some exceptions, such as, job transfers. Credit Check Your Credit Report tells Lenders about your credit history. They want to know how many creditors you have. Lenders want to know if you pay your bills on time. Your credit score is a good indicator of this. Debt to Income Ratio Lenders want to know if you are living within your means. Your credit report will also help them to determine your Debt to Income Ratio (DTI). This is a comparison of your income and debts. If you exceed the percentage of debts vs. income that is acceptable to the Lender your loan could be denied. Free Credit Report Want to get a head start now. You can get a free copy of your Credit Report online @ www.freecreditreport.com or www.annualcreditreport.com. Report mistakes promptly. It could take week or months for corrections to take effect. Meeting with a Lender Meeting with a Lender is the best way to find out if you are able to purchase a home. Having a prequalification letter shows Sellers that you are serious when you schedule a showing of their home. Once you find a home you like, you can feel confident to make an offer. Are you ready and willing to buy a home? Do you need help finding a Lender with great rates and good customer service? I am here to help. Get Results! Call Now! Or make an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Two Different Animals

Sat, 25 Feb 2012 10:28:06 -0800

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 TWO DIFFERENT ANIMALS Home Inspections and Appraisals are not the same! They are two different animals. No matter how many homes I sell, I always need to make sure Buyers understand the destinction between Home Inspections and Appraisals. Myth: You can save money by skipping the Home Inspection because the Appraisal does the same thing. Fact: You could spend more money by skipping a Home Inspection. You could be facing expensive repairs that were not discovered during the Home Buying Process. Home Inspectors are hired by the Buyer to take an in-depth, unbiased look at their potential new home. They evaluate the physical condition of the home. They check the structure, construction, and mechanical systems. They identify items that need to be repaired or replaced. The home inspection is a general inspection. In some cases it is necessary to hire Roofers, Electricians, Plummers, etc, to take a closer look. Additional Inspections may include the following: Wood Destroying Insect Report Septic System Inspection Radon Gas Testing Mold Inspection Appraisals are conducted for lenders. The objective of an appraisal is to estimate the market value of a home, make sure the home meets minimum standards required by the lender, and to make sure the home is marketable. In some cases an Appraiser will require repairs prior to closing, but don't let this be a substitute for a Home Inspection. Buyers should exercise due diligence when purchasing a home. Buyers should ensure the home they are purchasing is satisfactory in every respect. As a Buyer you have the right and responsibility to examine the home prior to purchase. Make sure to complete your Home Inspection in the time frame that is written in your Purchase Agreement. Never waive your right to a Home Inspection. Do you need an Agent to help you navigate the Home Buying Process? I am here to help. Get Results! Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

BLOG 2012 - Just Do It! (15 Minutes a Day)

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:46:51 -0800

RealtorTraceyW BLOG 2012 Just Do It! (15 Minutes a Day) Let’s face it. The majority of us are not "fans" of household chores. We come up with every excuse in the book not to do them. I work too much My life is so hectic My kids won’t listen I don’t have time By the time I get home I’m too tired I don’t want to spend my weekend cleaning the house It is so hard to keep it clean I don't like doing chores For Sellers, excuses are out of the question. Chores must be done. Sellers must ensure that their homes are clean and ready to show at all times. This simple tip works. It makes a real difference. Buyers are always impressed with a fresh and clean home. Just Do It! (15 Minutes a Day) Take 15 minutes out of your day to complete household chores: fold a basket of laundry; vacuum your bedroom; clean a bathroom; Sweep and mop the floors; or load the dishwasher. Don’t be the only one. Get the entire family involved. Make a game out of it by setting a timer and assigning everyone an area in the home to clean. Just Do It! You may stop at 15 minutes or it may be just the beginning of a complete scrub down. Are you planning on selling your home? Need advice on how to get it ready for Buyers? I can help! Are you ready to get started? Get Results! Call Now! Or request an appointment in the Appointment Center on my website www.RealtorTraceyW.com. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

Top 100 Already

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:50:11 -0800

Top 100 Already I am just floored. I am in the Top 100 for Louisiana already. I love Active Rain. There is so much to learn. It is great having so much support. Top 50 here I come. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

I'm Having a Ball

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:48:59 -0800

I’m Having a Ball I just wanted to share my joy with you today. I am new to Active Rain. I published my first post on New Year’s Day. Here I am six weeks later, and I am having a ball. I have met so many great professionals. Everyone has been very supportive. I have been given tons of great tips and ideas on how to improve my BLOG. Writing is actually a great outlet for me. It has given me so many unexpected benefits. It has given me a new confidence about my abilities as an Agent. It has provided me with much needed down time. It has also given me another connection with my 8 year old daughter. She loves to help me edit my posts. She is a little “computer wiz” already. I am so excited about how blogging is going to change my business. I have already noticed a dramatic increase in productivity. I am so "pumped up" about my business. I look forward to sharing my good news with you in the future. I hope that everyone has a fabulous year in the Rain. Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home

What A Tangled Web We Weave

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 11:07:50 -0800

What A Tangled Web We Weave Building your SEO/Search Engine Optimization with Active Rain is a winning strategy. Building your SEO is like building a spider web. Utilizing key terms and phrases for your BLOG titles and within your BLOG Posts, will help give you the boost you need to be found on Search Engines. Creating hyperlinks that direct traffic to your websites and fanpages will help increase your number of followers and subscribers. The small network that you create will have a hugh impact on your name/face recognition and your bottom line. All the best to you in 2012. Happy Weaving! Homes for sale in Leesville, LA Homes for sale in DeRidder, LA Homes for sale in Anacoco, LA Homes for sale in Rosepine, LA Homes for sale near Fort Polk, LA Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog by Email Subscribe to RealtorTraceyW's Blog Tracey R Wrisper RealtorTraceyW.com 337-718-8055 View My Listings Find Your Dream Home