by Suzanne on February 27, 2009
My dedication to my clients and their properties is extensive, comprehensive and complete - because it has to be. The real estate market moves fast, and I move with it.
Recently, I received a call for a listing that required a nearly instant meeting and a next-day spot in the newspaper. Because of my dedication to keeping the client list of Suzanne Lanzone & Daughters intimate, I was able to meet the needs of this client.
Similarly, when a buyer requests a showing, I understand that they need instant gratification. In fact, they can’t wait - and their schedule receives my total attention.
I do remember real estate before there were cell phones. Things actually moved a bit slower, because if you were at one showing, you couldn’t receive a call about the next one. Clients had to wait until you returned to your office. I know - can you imagine!
Of course, the reality of today is that I have a cell phone, and while I could turn it off and create a defined window of availability - I choose not to. I choose to leave my phone on from 7:00 in the morning to 10:00 at night. I am always available and pride myself on this top-level of service, reliability and, yes, dedication.
by Suzanne on January 3, 2009
The impulse is to say yes, buying a house during a recession is a great idea because a recession creates a buyer’s market where prices are very low. Add to that the possibility that the Fed is going to lower the interest rate for new mortgages to 4.5 and it seems like the smartest thing to do.
There are some things to consider:
- Do you have something to sell before you can buy a new house? As just mentioned, it’s a buyer’s market, so it’s very challenging to sell real estate right now - though it can be done (and it is being done!)
- Don’t be swayed by the low, low prices. Make sure that the house is really what you want and that you aren’t just hypnotized by the price tag.
- Similarly, make sure the house is in the neighborhood of choice. A great house is really only as great as its surrounding community.
- Always get a new property thoroughly checked by an inspector and make sure your realtor is well versed in the legalize surrounding your property. In other words, make sure the low price reflects the economy, not the property and its issues.
by Suzanne on December 23, 2008
I’ve talked to a lot of sellers recently who are worried about selling their home during this economic turndown (cough, cough), recession or whatever the news media is calling it today. Here are some tips to make sure your house sells:
- With nerves playing a big part on both sides, I recommend bringing in a tough house inspector before you put the house on the market as well. This way there will be no surprises that could send a promising buyer running.
- Then, take care of any repairs and maintenance before you put the house on the market. Buyers are likely able to handle the mortgage payment, but not interested in fixing anything up.
- Stay positive. Did you know that many businesses boom during recessions? Even during the Great Depression of the 1930’s, companies like Proctor & Gamble and Chevrolet saw increases in revenue because they maintained the attitude that nothing was wrong.
- Encourage your realtor to market and promote your property - insist on this even if s/he would like to keep costs down. The companies I mentioned above - P&G and Chevrolet had another major tactic in common - they both ramped up their marketing efforts despite the recession.
- Use a realtor with a solid reputation. Again, with instability in the market and for both the buyer and seller, find as much stability as possible. A real estate broker with a proven record and the esteem and respect of his/her community is the perfect steady hand.
by Suzanne on December 4, 2008
The Vineyard, it seems, is one of the last great secrets and not just during the summer when our population spirals up towards 75,000. Everyone knows this is the place to go for the warm season. But, our year round population of 15,000 is pretty special.
Contrary to popular belief (and sometimes I think these rumors are fueled by us islanders), the Island does not go to sleep in the winter. It’s just not true and I’ll tell you why: kids, families, schools. The Vineyard features seven incredible and diverse schools that serve as a focal point for each town and the community at large.
Case in point?
- The 4th grade plays that the renowned Vineyard Playhouse creates entire performances (writing, directing, set and costume design, lighting, sound, acting) in collaboration with every 4th grade class on the island each spring.
- The Elves Faire full of crafts, activities, a huge silent auction and great food organized by the Plum Hill Preschool during the winter holidays.
- The wildest, themed scarecrow contest held by the Charter School each fall.
I could go on and on…but I won’t!
What I will do is tell you that each of these amazing schools offers a very unique Vineyard experience - just like each town does. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be giving you my perspective on each school. A primer of sorts for those of you thinking about relocating…and wondering what it will be like for the whole family. Enjoy!
