Monday, May 31, 2010
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Love At First Sight. By Dan Polimino.
In today's real estate market, would one be foolish to buy the first home they saw? Maybe not! There is no hard and fast rule about how many homes you need to see before making an offer. You could see three homes, find the exact one you are looking for, turn to your Realtor and say, "I don't need to see anymore. Let's make an offer on this one." Somehow, over the last four to five years, we have gotten brainwashed into thinking that we need to see 40-90 homes before we can make an intelligent decision. That's just hog wash. Chances are, after you have seen 20+ homes, they all start to look alike and you can't remember which one had the main floor office versus the main floor master.
I have said it before and I'll say it again. There is no perfect house, and if you find one that meets 85% or greater of your needs, then you've done well. Spending month after month and weekend after weekend looking for a home that meets 100% of your criteria is an exercise in futility. Many times, buyers fail to see the potential of the homes that they are looking at because they are in such a hurry to see what's next on the list and what could be even better. I found that in life, sometimes we spend too much time looking for what's better.
You may have looked at 1 home, 10 homes, or 100 homes and I bet for the people out there that have looked at 100, they came back to buy one of the very first homes they ever saw in their search. Trust your instincts when you are shopping for a home. If it feels right, it probably is and more shopping will only delay your purchase of that home. There is no shame in buying the first, second, or third home you've seen. In fact, I often say to my buyers after we've seen a home and they've had a positive response, "Is there any reason to see more or should we talk about making an offer on that home?" Remember what I always say, "Realtors are the only people meant to look at homes for the rest of their lives."
Dan Polimino is a Realtor with Fuller Sotheby's International Realty. He can be reached at DPolimino@fullerproperties.com and www.coloradodreamhouse.com/denverpost
Friday, May 28, 2010
This week's home values for major cities in Colorado
If you have question about buying or selling home in Colorado feel free to contact me at 303-522-1161 or dpolimino@fullerproperties.com.
Zillow Home Value Index
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Does Your Realtor Provide With A Drip Campaign
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/index.php/news/ In this week's market update Dan Polimino tells us how anyone can get listings of homes sent right to their email inbox. It’s called an automatic email drip campaign and your local realtor should be able to provide it to you through their personal web site or the local MLS. To find out how you can receive emails of homes that you are looking for watch this week's market update with Dan Polimino from Fuller Sotheby's International Realty.
Does Your Realtor Provide With A Drip Campaign
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Striking Tuscan Style Ranch at Golden, Colorado
http://coloradodreamhouse.com/featured/property.php?id=9 This 4 bedroom, 6 bathroom, 7270 square foot mountain home enjoys breathtaking views in the Genesee park area. Perfectly echoing the surroundings, just the right touch of natural stonework and wood accent both the exterior and interior of this home. You will be more than impressed by the professionally decorated finishes throughout; the Sellers have spared no expense to make this a true show home.
Striking Tuscan Style Ranch at Golden, Colorado
Please Call Dan Polimino at 303-522-1161 or Gary Lohrman at 303-829-5900 for a private showing.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Bad News in Europe means low interest rates in the US
If you intend to stay in your home for less than a year it probably does not make sense to refinance. The old rule of thumb, that it does not pay to refinance unless you drop two percentage points, is worthless.
The correct way to analyze your mortgage is to compare the costs of refinancing against the pure interest rate savings. Eliminating mortgage insurance is an added bonus that should be included, if applicable. For example, if your pure interest rate savings and dropping the mortgage insurance saves $200 a month, and your total closing costs are $1,400, you would break even in seven months. Hard to find an investment in this day and age that will beat that!
Do not look solely at the change in the payment as that is deceptive. The reason is that you may be adding on to the life of loan. I have seen my clients refinance and the take the savings and apply that directly to principal. They have the flexibility of a lower payment, if needed, and the option of paying the mortgage off sooner and saving tens of thousands of dollars.
Remember that interest rates float down and spring up. You need to check sooner, rather than later, if you want to take advantage of this.
Next time: What is a zero cost loan?
Chip Allen
Crestline Mortgage Bankers
A Division of Universal Lending Corp
Direct: 303.947.2109
Fax: 303.987.0676
Loanchip@hotmail.com
Your Lender for Life!
Monday, May 24, 2010
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Tips for Home Inspection. By Dan Polimino.
1) Always hire a licensed inspector. At least you will be able to have some comfort knowing that they had to pass a core competency test on home inspection to conduct their trade. You can look for licensed professionals with the ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) badge or NAHI (the National Association of Home Inspectors) license.
2) Always ask upfront about costs and shop around. Find out what is included with a home inspection and what’s not. In Colorado, most companies charge an extra fee for a radon test. Some states don’t have an issue with radon so it’s not even a part of their services. Also, ask if their services and inspection carry any type of guarantee.
3) The average inspection for a home should take a couple of hours and even longer for large homes or older homes. Ask the technicians when you will get their report, and how it is delivered (fax, mail, email).
4) Always be present at the inspection. Most inspectors don’t want you to follow them around from room to room. Most prefer to do their job quickly and efficiently and then sit down with you at the end to discuss what they have found. That’s also the best time to break out your list of questions.
5) Finally, if you have more questions after you receive your report, don’t be afraid to contact your inspector for follow up. One cautionary note: everyone wants to know how much things are going to cost to repair. Some inspectors will give you that advice, but most are going to tell you to get a written estimate from a tradesman.
Dan Polimino is a Realtor with Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty. He can be reached at DPolimino@fullerproperties.com and http://ping.fm/rOk1O
Saturday, May 22, 2010
This week's home values for Broomfield, Colorado
If you have question about buying or selling home in Broomfield or any other city in Colorado feel free to contact me at 303-522-1161 or dpolimino@fullerproperties.com.
Zillow Home Value Index
Friday, May 21, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Smart Investment Luxury Home at Highlands Ranch
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/featured/property.php?id=1 This wonderful 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3800 square foot home rests just steps away from a quiet greenway path, and Redstone Elementary School. With new carpeting on the main floor, fresh paint throughout, new exterior paint and a finished basement, this home is ready immediately. Three bathrooms, a powder room, and a three-car garage make this space a joy to live in. The cul-de-sac location next to the green belt makes it private with plenty of space for the kids to play.
Smart Investment Luxury Home at Highlands Ranch
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Which Home Should I Buy? Weekly Real Estate Update for Denver
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/index.php/news/ In this week’s market update Dan Polimino tells us why it’s not a good idea to buy the highest priced, most improved home on the block if you think you might sell it one day. Dan details a buyers decision to buy the most expensive home in subdivision A or the least expensive home in subdivision B. If this is not going to be your last home Dan says buy the least expensive home in subdivision B. To find out why watch this week’s market update with Dan Polimino from Fuller Sothebys International Realty.
Which Home Should I Buy?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Is your condo FHA approved?
Implemented in February, the HRAP/DELRAP (HUD Review and Approval Process/ Direct Endorsement Lender Review and Approval Process) program sets out new guidelines for projects to be eligible for FHA financing. Among the requirements are:
* the HOA may not have 15 percent of the homeowners delinquent on HOA dues
* one investor or entity may not own more than 10 percent of the project
* at least 50% of the project must be owner occupied
* More requirements apply. Call 1- Chip Allen below for more information.
Chip Allen
Crestline Mortgage Bankers
A Division of Universal Lending Corp
Direct: 303.947.2109
Fax: 303.987.0676
Loanchip@hotmail.com
Your Lender for Life!
Monday, May 17, 2010
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5 Common Mistakes Buyers Make. By Dan Polimino.
So without further ado, let's get to the top five mistakes buyers make in the real estate transaction.
1) People Over Buy. Yes, this is the exact problem that got many Americans in trouble and started this housing crisis. Buying too much home for your income happens less these days because of the recession and crash, but it's still the number one problem in home buying. Remember, a good general rule is to add up all of your expenses including the new mortgage and it should not exceed 36% of your total monthly income.
2) Misplaced Trust. We all know someone in the real estate business. Chances are, you were connected with your real estate agent from a referral. Even if the referral came from a trusted source, don't be afraid to do your own research on the agent, mortgage lender, etc. Ask questions and conduct a good interview a maybe a background check.
3) Oral agreement. Get it in writing for everything and keep a file with all of the paperwork. Even when you are talking about things over the phone with an agent, ask them to send you an email detailing what you just talked about so you have a paper trail and documentation. He said, she said never turns out well for anyone.
4) Skipping the fine print. Read everything and read it again. I know it can be tedious and difficult language to follow, but if you don't understand it, hire a lawyer to look it over for you. The cost won't be much compared to being stuck with a bad deal on a home.
5) Betting on resale. Be careful about buying the nicest, most improved home on the block. Remember, the homes on the block are going to sell according to the market average for size and features. If you think that you are going to cash in when you go to sell the house because it's loaded, you might want to think again. Chances are, you may not get the cost of the improvements back when the time comes to sell.
Dan Polimino is a Realtor with Fuller Sotheby's International Realty. He can be reached at DPolimino@fullerproperties.com and http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/denverpost
Thursday, May 13, 2010
This week's home values for Arvada, Colorado
If you have question about buying or selling home in Arvada or any other city in Colorado feel free to contact me at 303-522-1161 or dpolimino@fullerproperties.com.
Zillow Home Value Index
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Luxury Custom Ranch at Sedalia, Colorado
http://coloradodreamhouse.com/featured/property.php?id=4 This amazing 12,000 square-foot, 5 bedroom, 7 bathroom home, a perfect blend of old-world charm and every modern convenience. Incorporating touches of wrought iron, hand-trowelled pool-finished walls, wood ceiling beams, extensive tile and stonework, and gallery floor plan lend an authentic Tuscan feel while remaining light and airy. The property abuts to a 400 acre dedicated open space and wildlife preserve allowing for breathtaking views that will always remain unspoiled.
Please Call Dan Polimino at 303-522-1161 or Gary Lohrman at 303-829-5900 for a private showing.
Luxury Custom Ranch at Sedalia, Colorado
Please Call Dan Polimino at 303-522-1161 or Gary Lohrman at 303-829-5900 for a private showing.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
A Builders Success Story in Dacono Colorado
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/index.php/news/ In this weeks’ market update Fuller Sothebys International Realty agent Dan Polimino talks about a builder able to survive the real estate crash and is now turning his business around in Dacono, Colorado. Find out what happened in Eagle Meadow Estates, what they are building today and how it all is a great success story.
A Builders Success Story in Dacono Colorado
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/index.php/news/ In this weeks’ market update Fuller Sothebys International Realty agent Dan Polimino talks about a builder able to survive the real estate crash and is now turning his business around in
Monday, May 10, 2010
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The World Is On Sale. By Dan Polimino.
The presenter was trying to get people interested in a new resort and at the beginning of his speech, he stated the following, “The world is on sale and if you are not negotiating homes, cars, hotels, air travel, and just about any other goods and services, you are missing the boat.”
I thought about that statement long and hard. “The world is on sale.” I think for the most part, he is correct that the world has been on sale for the last 18 months. I think real estate buyers have taken the greatest advantage of it. I myself have negotiated hard for cars, trips, and products over the last year and most merchants were willing to bargain. Every once in a while, I would run up against a merchant, chain, business, or individual that seemed to be oblivious to the fact that we were in a recession and they were unwilling to negotiate.
The question now is, “How long will the world continue to be on sale?” My answer is I don’t think much longer. Maybe 12 to 18 months, but that may even be too long if we continue to have sustained recovery. If jobs come around sooner than expected, then the sale will be coming to an end soon. As car companies get healthy, there will be less and less incentives and fewer negotiations. In real estate, we are already seeing a healthy sellers’ market in the 300K and below price range. Eventually, that demand for homes will reach the mid-level market and we’ll see an end of the huge discount sales there as well.
The point of the story is this: Yes, the world has been on sale for 12 -18 months, but it looks as though it’s coming to end. If you have not taken advantage of the red tag sales in real estate, your time may be running out.
Dan Polimino is a Realtor with Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty. He can be reached at DPolimino@fullerproperties.com and www.coloradodreamhouse.com/denverpost
Thursday, May 6, 2010
This week's home values for Westminster Colorado
If you have question about buying or selling home in Westminster or any other city in Colorado feel free to contact me at 303-522-1161 or dpolimino@fullerproperties.com.
Zillow Home Value Index
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
5 Viking Drive in Cherry Hills Village, Colorado
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/featured/property.php?id=13 Amid beautifully landscaped grounds and canopy trees, this stunning stone residence radiates Old World elegance and charm. Elegantly designed and spacious rooms, wide-planked walnut floors, a large gourmet kitchen, and a 2-story family room with a stone fireplace are just some of the architectural elements designed to create an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication. Among the plethora of amenities are a Cherrywood study, a sumptuous master suite, 3 additional bedrooms, 6 baths and an enormous exercise room. In addition, a sensational children’s retreat offers a special spot for family enjoyment. The covered terrace with a cozy fireplace, and a large lawn area for evening gatherings, complete the package. Truly a distinctive offering in a desirable location, this elegant home is timeless in design and detail.
5 Viking Drive in Cherry Hills Village, Colorado
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
The Tax Credit Is Over, Now What?
http://www.coloradodreamhouse.com/index.php/news/ The Federal Tax credit is over, but it’s still a great time to buy a home. In this week’s market update Fuller Sothebys International Realty agent Dan Polimino talks about the three reasons you can and should buy a home in this market. Dan says only a small percentage of people actually took advantage of the tax credit and rest were going to a buy a home anyway. To hear more listen to this week’s market update for Denver, Colorado with Fuller Sothebys agent Dan Polimino.
The Tax Credit Is Over, Now What?
Monday, May 3, 2010
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Indecision. By Dan Polimino.
1) The obvious answer is the economy. People are still not convinced that we are out of the woods or they are worried that the economy may have a relapse.
2) Jobs are a big inhibiting force from people making decisions. No one blames anyone for failing to make a major or even a minor purchase because of job uncertainty. It just underscores how important it is to get people working again.
3) Afraid of not getting the best deal. This fear has hit an all-time high in 2010. People are absolutely petrified that they have overpaid for an item, goods, or service. They shop, check, and analyze the internet backwards and forwards. They are so afraid they’ll miss something better at a cheaper price that it paralyzes them from making a decision and moving forward. And yes, this includes homes.
4) I bet that not too many people have thought about the fact that the internet is actually stopping people from making a decision. The reason is simple. The internet has actually given us too much choice. Before the internet, we did not have access let alone instant access to merchants all over the US and the world. We bought goods and services from people in our own backyard and we were limited on our choices. The fact is, today we have way too many choices; it confuses people and actually contributes to a lack of a decision.
In conclusion, I am sure that reasons number one and number two will resolve the majority of indecision going on in the marketplace. As for reasons number three and number four, I am afraid that they are here to stay. As a result, we’ll continue to be a society forever held hostage to the concept of “the best deal” and we may still not be able to make a decision.
Dan Polimino is a Realtor with Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty. He can be reached at DPolimino@fullerproperties.com and www.coloradodreamhouse.com/denverpost


