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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/what-are-my-other-housing-costs-outside-of-the-loan.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/what-are-my-other-housing-costs-outside-of-the-loan.html</link>
            <author>david@naplesguru.com (David De La Noval)</author>
            <title>What are my other housing costs outside of the loan?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Owning a home is a big financial step. It’s an investment that many people strive to accomplish at some point in their lives as they settle down with a good job and want to start building a family. Homeownership is expensive and there are many hidden costs that you might not be aware of, however. A mortgage loan is a big chunk of the costs of a home but the cost is still significantly more than what you were previously paying when you were renting. These extras can add up quickly and can cause you to end up having to foreclose on your beloved home.


You are going to need insurance before you even get a mortgage. Insurance premiums vary greatly depending on where you live, the size of the home, type and age of the home as well. Older homes cost more to insure because of all of the repairs and damage that can be quite significant. If you live somewhere that has frequent natural disasters, you will also be paying more. Shop around for the lowest premium you can find, but make sure it covers everything that you need.               


Property taxes are another expense that all homeowners have to pay. These are based on the value of your home, so the more expensive the home is the more you will have to pay in taxes. State property taxes and sometimes county or city property taxes also have to be paid for as well. 


Utilities can add up in a home. An entire home is going to be bigger than anything you were renting in most likely, so expect utilities to cost you more. You will also have to pay all of your utilities, whereas when renting some places will cover a part of the utility bill.               


Appliances, furnishing, and other major house necessities are expensive. When you buy a home, many of the major appliances will come with it, but the seller can also take some appliances with them. You will have to buy beds, couches, chairs, electronics, and many other things to make your home feel comfortable and livable.               


If you are considering buying a new home you have to take into consideration all of the costs that align with buying a home. Although it might sound affordable and that your budget fits, having money saved up for emergency situations and repairs is going to help you feel better about owning in the long run.


About the Author 


Cherry Hills Village Real Estate Agent Sandy Weigand is pleased to bring you this article on other housing costs outside of your loan. Sandy Weigand has been working with both Cherry Hills and Greenwood Village Real Estate for nearly 30 years. If you are interested, check out her website today. 
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            <pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2013 16:05:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/benefits-of-buying-low-rates-homes-in-naples-florida.html</guid>
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            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>Benefits Of Buying - Low Rates on Homes In Naples Florida</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The mortgage interest rates for buying homes are currently on its historic lows. This is a good sign and time for people who want to own a property or house to start searching. One of the good places to start searching is in Naples, Florida. The location of the homes in Naples is one of the best residential areas available. Grab the opportunity and take the advantage of buying homes while they are at the best mortgage rate and low home prices. It is a good buy and is surely a good investment of your money. Take the chance to buy low rate properties for investments and double your money in the future.


Advantages Of Low Home Rates




Low Fixed Rates




Acquiring a low interest and fix rate property is a safe option. By doing so, one can avoid high interest that may occur when interest rates starts to increase in the future.




Lower Monthly Mortgage Payments




Getting a new home can be very expensive. A lower rate payment every month can give you a lot of savings. You can use these savings for other projects, repairs and other home-related expenditures. It is always better to have some extra cash because you will never know when you will need to do some repairs or modifications in your property.




Low Rates Means Low Home Price




Cutting the percentage of mortgage or interest rate by one or two percent that you pay monthly will greatly affect the amount of the overall interest or mortgage payment. You can use the mortgage calculator to estimate the total cost of the various interest rate payments.


Benefits Of Lower Priced Homes Due To Lower Mortgage/Interest Rates




Lower price of homes means you can do a bigger down payment. This will enable you to avoid the private mortgage insurance or PMI. Opting for a down payment lower than 20% of the mortgage, the buyers are required to avail of the PMI amounting to ½ or 1 percent of the total cost of the amount of the loan.


Low appraised properties or a low property value means lower taxes. The appraised value of the house is not frequently updated so buying the house when the prices are really good is a great idea.


Another benefit is that you will avoid the risk of having to owe more on the mortgage than the actual price of the property.




The changes or drop in the values of rates of interest or mortgage will surely affect a lot of people especially when deciding to purchase a home in Naples, Florida. The lower the rates are, the greater the number of people who are willing to acquire the homes. It also increased the buying capacity of individuals who are on a tight budget. So if there is news of a drop in the percentage of the rates, expect a greater number of people searching to buy new homes and properties. Especially in places with great residential communities like Naples, Florida.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 18 Sep 2012 16:57:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/how-to-find-a-good-realtor.html</guid>
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            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>How to Find a Good Realtor</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
When you select a real estate agent, you want to choose an area specialist.  Check out the different local realtors, and choose ones that specializes in the area you are interested in or the area you are selling your home.  If you are the buyer, it is crucial to have a realtor of your own that works for you.  The seller’s agent has their best interest at heart. You might ask family and friends for recommendations.  Once you have a few in mind, set up interviews to better help in your decision making.  You definitely want an agent that is knowledgeable with a good sales history and one that you feel comfortable with. 


Choose an agent that works with home in the price range you are looking.  If you choose an agent that handles a lot of high end properties and you are looking for a home below $200K you’ll likely find that they are most committed to their high end clients with high end commissions!


Choose an agent that works with your time schedule.  If you aren’t able to get away from the office during the day, then it is going to be crucial to find an agent that works with you after hours. 


You will also want to choose a real estate agent that offers multiple services.  While this may be your first buying or selling experience, it is nice to find an agent that handles both buying and selling, as they can become your lifelong agent and serve your future needs, as well as, refer you to other professionals.


You’ll also want an agent that is good in negotiations.  Chances are there will be counter offers and you definitely want an agent that has the skill to negotiate. 


It is also important that- if you are selling your home, you choose an agent that advertises and advertises and advertises!  This doesn’t mean just the MSL listings, it means on the net, in the classifieds, around the neighborhood and all places that will benefit the seller.  The more resources the agent has, the better position both the seller and buyer are in. 


Lastly, trust your gut.  Finding an agent that you are comfortable with and who you trust is crucial, as well as, being satisfied with their qualifications.


About the Author: Mike Pannell with Nu Home Source Realty – Fort Worth is one of the premier real estate companies in the Dallas Fort Worth Area. We offer professional end-to-end real estate services in the areas of Pre-Existing Homes, Brand New Homes, Lease-Rental homes, Credit Repair and all other associated real estate services.
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            <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jun 2012 16:19:14 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/nine-tax-forms-that-will-help-you-get-the-most-from-real-estate-tax-breaks.html</guid>
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            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>Nine Tax Forms that Will Help you Get the Most From Real Estate Tax Breaks</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 

Nine Tax Forms that Will Help you Get the Most From Real Estate Tax Breaks


Tax season is stressful enough but if you own real estate or several real estate properties, the season can be even worse. In addition to being concerned about receiving the tax breaks that you know are owed to you there are also tax breaks that you may not be aware of. Before driving to your local tax professional or scheduling a consultation meeting, it may be best to go ahead and have tax forms ready to ensure you receive the best possible tax outcome. Here are nine tax forms that will help you get the most from real estate tax breaks you may have coming to you.


Property taxes are the easiest and most common forms related to real estate tax breaks. In some counties, cities and states there are special tax breaks for owning multiple properties. Rural properties and business properties may also receive a special tax break. In order to receive all the tax breaks and possibly connect to new real estate tax forms you must first fill out the property tax forms. Home office expenses will fall under some of the related property tax forms. Any utilities or expenses of the home office can help to get you the maximum tax break.


You may have some properties that have mortgages. In this case, there are tax breaks for certain portions of mortgage payments. In order to be eligible for the breaks you will need to fill out the Mortgage Interest Statement forms for those properties. A Mortgage Credit Certificate is also vital for any homes or real estate that have mortgages currently outstanding.


A huge real estate tax break that is currently available is the Cancellation of Debt Statement form. If you have recently undergone a foreclosure this is a form you do not want to be without.


With foreclosures there are also pending moves. Moving Expense forms are available for moving expenses, receipts and related expenses. If you had to move from one property to another, this form is vital to receive the related tax breaks. The HUD-1 form is one of the few ways to get the maximum amount of tax breaks on your real estate property that was sold during the past year. You would receive a statement at the time of the sale. If you need this form, a replacement request can be put in with your local tax office. During the sale of the property, you may have dealt with certain upgrades or maintenance. Contractor forms, requests and related expense receipts for these upgrades and maintenance have their own form that should be filled out for maximum real estate benefit.


The final tax form is related to any rental properties that you may own. There are separate forms that must be filled out for each rental property. In order to receive the proper amount of tax breaks for this real estate you will need to fill out forms for each property.


About the Author: Crystal Tost is a residential real estate professional that works exclusively in Calgary Real Estate. CalgaryListings is your complete resource for local information and Calgary Homes for Sale.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 29 May 2012 12:51:50 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/from-thrift-store-to-center-piece.html</guid>
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            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>From Thrift Store to Center Piece</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
From hosting an elegant dinner party to a down-home get-together, you likely want to have some sort of centerpiece that reflects the occasion. Centerpieces are fun, beautiful ways to coordinate your table and pull all the pieces together. The really good ones get talked about and eyed enviously – and they don't have to be expensive, either.


Scour the Thrift Store


Go to your local thrift store and have a good look around at their housewares and antiques section – look for candelabras, soap dishes, candy dishes, baskets (wooden, wire, etc.), novelty mugs, wine glasses – anything that you could put together as a single piece.


Select a few Pieces that Work Together


Choose one or two pieces that could go together as a centerpiece – such as a large candy dish and two wine glasses, or a basket and little trinkets. You can also buy a stand-alone piece and polish it up when you get home, or you can glue two items together to make one outstanding piece.


Get Creative


Once you have your selections, you may need to stop by a craft or hardware store to pick up supplies to put them all together to create a finished product. Model glue or super glue, spray paint, and other crafty supplies can help transform a thrift store piece into a dazzling centerpiece. For example, the wine glasses and candy dish may not match, so pick up some silver spray paint, glitter, and glue. Glue the glasses stem-down to the bottom of the candy dish. Let it dry, then spray paint it a gleaming silver, and add glitter. Once it's dry, you'll have a bright holiday centerpiece.


Baskets &amp; Service Centerpieces


If you can find a number of differently sized baskets, there's no need to have a single centerpiece – you can use the whole middle of the table, running down its length, as your centerpiece. Take several baskets of differing sizes, polish them up with wood oil or glaze (or spray paint a metal basket), dress them with cloth napkins that match your theme, and use them as bread baskets.


Themes


When browsing at the thrift store to make your selections, think about what the theme of your dinner will be – is it a holiday party, birthday, or other special occasion? Is it a “just because” get-together? What colors will be on your table? Do you want the centerpiece to blend in, or contrast in an eye-catching way? Answer these questions ahead of time to help you pick the right pieces for your centerpiece.


Centerpieces don't have to be expensive to be beautiful and make a statement. They can be fun, elegant, or seasonally themed and still be affordable.




About The Author: Kevin Hughes is a BoiseIdahorealestate agent servicing buyers and sellers in Idaho. If you’re looking for a great home in Idaho, you can visit Kevin’s website where you can search great cities likeBoise,Meridian,Nampa, andEagle.


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            <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:50:19 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/buying-your-first-investment-property.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/buying-your-first-investment-property.html</link>
            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>Buying Your First Investment Property</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Buying your first investment property can be a very exciting time in your life. After all, you are getting ready to take a huge step toward solidifying your financial future. Of course, no matter whether looking for Nasvhille real estate or a new home in Naples, if you choose poorly, an investment property may not providing you with the type of residual income you were hoping for. Therefore, as you prepare to purchase your first investment property, be sure to keep these five simple tips in mind.


Tip #1: Save Up for a Down Payment


Most lenders require a down payment of at least 25-30 percent of the cost of the cost when purchasing non-owner occupied property. Therefore, you should be sure to save up the necessary funds before you even start looking.


Tip #2: Know the Cost of Ownership


When purchasing real estate, it is important to keep in mind that there are more costs involved than simply paying the mortgage. Other expenses will include insurance, property taxes and routine maintenance. You will also need to make repairs as necessary and there will be times when your property is vacant and not bringing in any income. By calculating these costs, you will be better able to determine if purchasing an investment property is truly right for you.


Tip #3: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Landlord


In addition to exploring the costs involved with owning an investment property, you should also take the time to learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a landlord. Not only will you need to run credit checks and contact past landlords when screening potential tenants, but you will also be responsible for handling any maintenance issues that develop. Furthermore, if you run into problems with a tenant, you will need to be well-versed in how to handle these problems as well as how to complete the eviction process if necessary.


Tip #4: Choose a Good Location


Everyone knows that the first rule in purchasing real estate is location, location, location. The same holds true when purchasing investment property. A good rule of thumb is to purchase property in the best location you can afford. Not only will this help guarantee a sound return on your investment, but it will also help you attract the best tenants possible if you plan to rent out the property.


Tip #5: Be Realistic About Renovations


A great way to score a good deal on an investment property is to choose one that needs a little bit of work. At the same time, you don’t want to get yourself into a situation where you will have to spend thousands of dollars to get the property up to speed. Furthermore, unless you are a skilled worker with experience in the area of home renovations, you should hire someone to do the work rather than trying to do it yourself.


About The Author - Josh Anderson specializes in Nashville area real estate, including  12 South homes for sale, as Realtor for Nasvhille Keller Williams.
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            <pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:50:49 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/non-realty-items-it-can-get-tricky.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.goldengateestates.com/blog/non-realty-items-it-can-get-tricky.html</link>
            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>Non-Realty Items; It Can Get Tricky</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Once upon a time in a real estate transaction, things became very ugly over a dining room chandelier. The sellers had meant for it to be excluded, but it wasn’t listed as such. The buyers loved the chandelier, thought it was perfect in the dining room, and threatened to not buy the house without the chandelier.


“The chandelier issue” became very stressful for all parties involved as eventually the closing was delayed and it seemed as if the transaction was really not going to close because of this disagreement. The seller contended that it was a family heirloom and very sentimental. T


he buyer contended that if it was so special, why wasn’t a sign hanging from it, or why was it not noted in the MLS listing? Eventually the transaction closed with the sellers taking the chandelier and offering a credit in lieu for the purchase of a new one, but this all could have been avoided with a few simple steps.


When selling a home, it is a good idea to take a walk through the house and look at each and every fixture, thinking carefully about what you will want to take with you and what will stay. The best idea is to swap out the special light fixtures, curtains, etc. with a passable substitute prior to listing the home.


 That way there is no confusion as to what stays and what does not. As in the introductory story, these disagreements can escalate quickly, and with all the emotions involved in a home sale or purchase, avoiding the whole thing is definitely best.


The general rule of thumb is that anything attached to the structure or the ground stays. It has been said that if you could turn the house upside down and shake it, all the things that wouldn’t fall out stay with the home. One area that gets a bit murky is appliances. The stove and dishwasher generally stay, but the refrigerator, washer, and dryer go with the seller unless agreed to and specifically written into the contract.


From the buyer’s perspective, as you fall in love with a home, it is easy for all the existing items to feel just right they way they are currently. In fact, some buyers even write their contract and ask for several personal items of the sellers to be included in the sale.


That is fine, and it is possible they will even be willing to part with their stuff, but remember two things. First, do not take anything for granted. Be specific about the non-realty items you want to include. Second, these items are usually not free. The cost can easily be worked into the deal, but writing a low ball offer and then asking for 10 items will get the negotiation off to a bad start from the beginning.


On the flip side, in some sales, the house is listed as ‘fully furnished’, or ‘all furnishing stay’. This is particularly common with properties located in vacation or second home areas. What can happen there is the same but in reverse. If you are selling a property like this, you need to be very specific about which items you plan to take. Once during a transaction like this, the home was listed as fully furnished, but later the seller came back with an entire sheet of exclusions. Upon the final walkthrough, the buyers found that in this sellers case, fully furnished actually only meant, ‘We’ll leave the beds.’

As you can see, this is an issue that comes up a lot in real estate transactions. Whether you are a buyer or a seller, it is very important to be very specific about your wishes and they are in writing. About The Author: Kimberley Kelly is a Palm Springs Realtor who helps buyers and sellers buy or sell La Quinta CA homes. If you're in the market in Southern, California be sure to check out her real estate in Palm Desert website for listings options. ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 20 Nov 2011 14:33:02 -0500</pubDate>
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            <author>info@naplesguru.com (Tim Ryan)</author>
            <title>Sample Post</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ This is a sample post added to ensure the blogging system is working. This is just a test. ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2011 13:05:00 -0400</pubDate>
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