Wines for the Holidays and to Celebrate a New Home!

Okay, so my brother Ryan Hamilton is the Wine and Bar Manager at Fleming's Steakhouse in Naples, FL. This week he was interviewed by the local news show "Fox 4 News Rising" to discuss wines for the holidays.

There are two clips... one on red wines, and one on white wines.

Since it's the Holiday Season, I figured I'd post these videos in case any of you are interested in wines. Wines are great when celebrating the Holidays, or when celebrating the purchase of a new home!

Clip 2: Red Wines


Clip 1: White Wines


Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

More on the Mortgage Rate Freeze.

Video with more info on the Mortgage Rate Freeze I just posted on earlier today. Please watch, and/or please read the 2nd post below on this page.

Video posted on YouTube by ueser PhilDeCarolis.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report

A website, www.CostvsValue.com, has released its 2007 report comparing remodeling cost versus the value gained by doing those specific remodels. (Click here to read the report for Columbus, OH) - OR - (click here to read the report for other areas around the country).

If you're thinking of investing in any remodelling projects in 2008, make sure you're doing something that will actually add value to your property. And if you have any questions, or if you would like a professional's opinion, feel free to contact me.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Mortgage Rate Freeze for Certain Subprime Mortgages

From the Associate Press and as posted in this article from www.BusinessWeek.com......

Congressional aides say the Bush administration has hammered out an agreement with industry to freeze interest rates for certain subprime mortgages for five years in an effort to combat a soaring tide of foreclosures.

These aides, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the details have not yet been released, said the five-year moratorium represented a compromise between desires by banking regulators for a longer time frame of as much as seven years and industry arguments that the freeze should only last one to two years. (Click here to continue reading...)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Video Tour of My Newest Listing

October Sales Stats Are In (Columbus Area)

The website www.ColumbusRealtors.com has just posted the sales statistics from the month of October. The article also stated:

The number of listings added to the market in October was down for the third month in a row, a strong indicator that the market is beginning to correct itself. The 3,578 homes listed last month is down 6.9 percent from one year ago. In addition, new listings in August and September were down 8.3 percent and 5.7 percent respectively according to the Columbus Board of REALTORS®.

Click here to read the full story.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Two New Albany Condo Listings You'll Love

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Brian Regan, Funniest Man Alive - Sorta' Deals With Real Estate

Okay, so this is Brian Regan, my favorite stand-up comedian. Here is a clip of him talking about moving and using UPS for his boxing needs.

It's not really about real estate, but since he is talking about moving I felt I could post it without anyone arguing.

Plus, I've been wanting to incorporate the genius of Brian Regan into my real estate career. So, here it is.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

(video from YouTube user ennuimarch)

PODS at Odds --- See, I can write clever titles.

If you don't know what PODS are, you've at least seen them around. PODS are Portable On-Site Deliverable Storage units. And a lot of people who are either moving or running out of home storage space rent these PODS to store their belongings. It's basically the same thing as renting a storage unit, but with PODS, you don't have to take your stuff to the storage unit. The storage unit comes to you, you then load it up, and then the PODS are taken away from your property and stored safely.

Well, as I just read in Westerville's November 1, 2007's issue of "This Week Community Newspapers", the Westerville Planning Commission has ammended the rules and restrictions on the use of PODS.

A portion of the article, written by Lin Rice, reads:

The code change would require residents to obtain a temporary use permit from the city in order to place a PODS unit on their property; the unit cannot be on the property for more than 14 days. It must also be placed on a paved surface, and the use of PODS for one site would be limited to no more than twice in a 12-month period.

Just an FYI for all you Westerville PODS people.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

No Maxtown Rd/Spring Rd Condos...

According to "This Week Community Newspapers" writer Lin Rice, there will be no condos built at the corner of Maxtown Rd and Spring Rd in Westerville. The lot is owned by M/I Homes.

In the article, Rice writes,

"The application, set for final development plan approval on Oct. 24, was withdrawn on Oct. 23..."

"The wooded lot on which the condominiums were slated for construction is currently surrounded by developed properties."

"To the immediate south of the parcel is Otterbein College's proposed equine science facility; to the east is the Mariner's Cove subdivision; to the west across Spring Road is the Millstone Creek subdivision; and across Maxtown Road to the north is a Genoa Township single-family residential area, according to Westerville city staff reports."

Well, this should make those surrounding subdivisions happy.

(A portion of the above information was obtained from "This Week Community Newspapers" November 1, 2007)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

South Campus Gateway Area - Fashion Show on the Sidewalk!

Now this is a great way to market your product - host a show directly outside your store for the public.

Now, if only I could get houses to walk down the runway.

(video posted by YouTube user ColumbusUnderground)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

August Home Sale Stats are In...

Wow, with almost 19,800 homes on the market in Columbus, we have almost doubled the number of homes for sale at the same time 5 years ago.

And interest rates are still hovering around 40-year lows.

It really is a great time to be a home buyer!

(information and statistics above summarized and posted from www.ColumbusRealtors.com)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Now is a Great Time to Buy - Campaign

The Columbus Board of Realtors has joined the fight against the negative attention to the current real estate market. If you're a reader of this blog, you know that I believe the media makes the real estate market look worse and more volatile than it actually is.

So, the Columbus Board of Realtors has begun placing the following ads in "The Columbus Dispatch" in an attempt to help show buyers that NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY!

(click each image below to view each ad in full size .pdf format)

It's a Buyers Market... When are you going to Buy?

Words that describe the housing market: Less Risky. Stable. Dependable.

Housing. It's not as Bad as they Say.

Confused about the housing market? Not surprising.

Here's the scoop on the Central Ohio housing market.

Our housing market slow? Compared to what?!

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Columbus is America's 3rd Most Stable Housing Market

Forbes Magazine is running a current feature on America's most stable housing markets, and guess who is #3? Yes, it is none other than our very own Columbus, Ohio.

Click here to read the article.

This is great news for everyone here in Columbus.

And again, this just goes to show that everything you're hearing about how bad the market is right now, is the media basically scaring everyone to death. Yes, the market is really poor in Cali and Florida, but here in Columbus, we're only experiencing a slight slowdown for Sellers. Plus, it's a GREAT time to be a buyer; one of the best times in fact.

And if you read Forbes Magazine's feature, you'll see that Columbus is projected to have the 8th fastest sales rate in 2008! Woohoo!

This is the time to buy! So, contact me today if you're thinking about buying in the next year or two. You won't regret it.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com
dchamilton@kw.com

Another New Listing - 5999 Bentgate Lane - $279,900

www.5999Bentgate.com
5999 Bentgate Lane
Columbus, OH 43230
Columbus MLS # 2746693
Status: Active/For Sale

Property Features:
Free-Standing Condo
Great Community
3 bedrooms
2.5 bath
Florida Room
Finished Lower Level
Vaulted Ceilings
Gas Fireplace
Pool Table stays
Like-New Appliances
Nice kitchen
Master Suite
Walk-in closet
Attached master bath w/ his/her sinks
2-car garage
Community has an in-ground pool,
fitness center,
clubhouse,
miniature golf

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty

New Listing - 5788 Aristides Way New Albany, Ohio - $150,000

www.5788Aristides.com
5788 Aristides Way
New Albany, OH 43054
Columbus MLS # 2746770
Status: Active/For Sale

Property Features:
2 Bedrooms
2.5 Baths
Condo in New Albany Park
END UNIT
Finished Lower Level
Pond in back w/ fountain
Pond/Wetlands in front
Large side yard
Preserve on side
Gas fireplace
Large master suite
walk-in closet
attached master bath
vaulted ceilings
deck/patio
nice kitchen
1-car garage, attached

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty

Lifestyle Communities is on YouTube too.

Lifestyle Communities, one of Central Ohio's top builders, has it's own YouTube Channel just like me. To watch, go to www.YouTube.com/LifestyleCommunities.

And to watch my YouTube Channel, go to www.YouTube.com/HamiltonHomes

(video above posted by YouTube user LifestyleCommunities)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Paying Off Your Mortgage Faster

There is a good article on Inman News today, posted by Robert J. Bruss. His article is about bi-monthly mortgage payments versus the good ol' fashioned once-a-month payments. I'll copy and paste it here:

DEAR BOB: I have frequently heard if your mortgage calls for monthly payments, you can make a significant interest savings if you pay twice monthly. For example, my mortgage payment is due on the first day of each month. I would like to pay half of my monthly payment 15 days before the due date and the remainder on the due date. But my lender says the only way I can do this is through a third-party company, which will then charge me a sign-up fee of several hundred dollars plus a monthly fee. If I just pay the lender twice a month doesn't the lender have to accept my payments and credit my account when received and then calculate the interest based on my payments? --Arthur L.

DEAR ARTHUR: No. You've been hanging around with the wrong crowd. When you obtained your home loan, you agreed to pay monthly payments due on the first day of each month with a grace period of a few days. The lender does not have to accept any payments less than the full amount due each month.

The plan you describe is called a biweekly mortgage. A few lenders offer these mortgages, but they have not proven to be popular.

There are some third-party companies that, for a hefty fee, will deduct from your checking or savings account half of your regular principal and interest payment on the first day of each month and the other half on the 15th day of each month.

The result is the equivalent of making 13 monthly mortgage payments every 12 months, thus shortening your mortgage's life by about seven years and saving substantial interest.

However, you can do this yourself at no extra cost. Just divide your monthly mortgage principal and interest payment by 12 and add that amount to each regular mortgage payment.

For example, if your principal and interest payment is $1,200, dividing by 12 results in $100. By adding $100 extra principal payment each month (which the lender must accept), you accomplish the same interest savings as a biweekly mortgage.


Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
(614) 944-5936
dchamilton@kw.com
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Did You Know? Buyers Don't Pay To Use A Realtor

Watch Video #1: Buyers Don't Pay a Realtor. It's FREE!


Watch Video #2: What's Next Then?

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
(614) 944-5936
dchamilton@kw.com
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

"Perks" Make this One of the Best Times to Buy

Think the real estate market is down, and now is NOT a good time to buy a home? THINK AGAIN!!!

And we're seeing this here in Columbus, too. Sellers are offering to pay for closing costs, or a few months of the association fees if applicable, and even throwing in large flat screen TVs to sweeten the deal! This real estate market has not been burst - it's just a little slower than it has been the past 3 or 4 years. It's still a great time to buy.

Again, you know who to call if you have any questions or need anything. Me. Yes, me.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty

(video posted by conniedegroot - Fox News's "Neil Cavuto Show" Featuring Coldwell Banker Beverly Hills Real Estate Agent Connie De Groot. Aired August 28, 2007.)

What is up with this? Funny or no?

(video from sunnykidd2007)
Check out this new commercial for a company called ePerks. Is this funny or not? It's walking a pretty tight line, but I think it might be a little funny.

By the way, if you do need a new agent... you know who to call. Me. Yes, me.

Dan Hamilton

Introducing: CUBEDUDE

(video from vikingmm at YouTube)
Here is a video that sums up the affected real estate market in 58 seconds. Nice job Cubedude. Nice job.

Real Estate Movie - Comedy

Closing Escrow

I've never heard of this movie before today, but given my profession and my love for all things "funny," I may try to see this.

It looks like a lot of the cast from Comedy Central's "Reno 9-1-1."

If it's anything like the movie "Best in Show," we've got a winner here...

Dan Hamilton

Lenders Going Out Of Business

Well, it's starting to escalate here in Columbus too. Every day I hear of another subprime lender in Columbus who has "closed up shop."

If you're looking to buy, or thinking of buying a home, you need to make sure you're choosing the right lender. If this is you, contact me, and I will get you on the right path.

For what it's worth, it's still a great time to buy a home with the end of summer upon us.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
http://www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

OSU Football in 2007 (Video)

(video)
Okay, I know this has nothing to do with Real Estate, but hey... this is Columbus right? Go Bucks! Go Beanie!

West Nile Foreclosures

Foreclosures are bad for many reasons, but who would have thought about this....

New Listing - Could be as Affordable as Rent

For Sale
7036 Cavalcade Drive
New Albany, OH 43054
Columbus MLS # 2738777

CURRENT LIST PRICE: $94,500

Condo
New Albany Park
1 bedroom
1.5 baths
finished lower level
nice community
clubhouse
in-ground pool
24-hr fitness center
appliances stay
big kitchen
lots of living space
VERY AFFORDABLE

How My Black Lab is Like the Housing Market

VS.

You may think this sounds like a silly post, but it's true. My dog, Durden, is like the real estate market. Right now, he's shedding like a mad-man. (Do mad-men shed?)

What happens when the weather gets warmer? Dogs shed their winter coats. AND... many homeowners shed their homes by putting them up for sale.

The winter months are stereotypically the slower months in real estate. Why? Well, for one thing, sellers don't want to have to think about moving in the dead of winter when there's snow everywhere. They want to remain comfortable. Plus, they know buyers are thinking the same thing, so that means there will be less buyers for their home if they do decide to sell. And on top of that, during the winter months, the sky is gray, the ground is gray and white, and the trees are bare. There is no color. Color helps sell real estate.

So, homeowners wait till the weather gets a little warmer. The trees start blooming. The grass gets greener. Homebuyers start popping up all over. And then, sellers start shedding their homes.

The housing market is just like a shedding dog.

Although, I don't think I ever get the housing market in my mouth. And I definitely don't need to vacuum the housing market every day.

Dan Hamilton

Price Reductions are Important

Price reductions are more than important... many times, they are a shortcut to a sold home. Now, that's important!

Why are they important?
1) Because your home needs to be priced at fair market value.
If your home is priced too high, it's going to take a long time to sell, and there's a good chance it will NEVER sell. Maybe you're already priced correctly. But if you are, and your property isn't selling, then you need to figure out what is the other reason your property isn't selling? And sometimes, that reason can be overlooked by buyers if your property is priced a little below fair market value.
2) Sometimes doing a "token" price reduction is a good idea, even if it's slight.
This is good because it shows buyers you are motivated to sell, and you are willing to work with buyers in terms of price (and maybe other areas as well). Plus, this gives your Realtor a reason to send out more marketing pieces and emails announcing the price reduction, and therefore, RE-announcing your property for sale.

So, if you're looking to sell your property, and it's been over 30 days with no sale, no offers, nothing - it's possibly time for a price reduction. Send me an email if you have any questions. dchamilton@kw.com

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Build a Home With Your Realtor

When you think of building a new home, you probably don't think of using a Realtor; you think of building your home by using a normal builder.

But who represents you in that process of building your new home? Who represents you if something goes wrong? Who represents you if you don't understand the contract details? Your answer would probably be: The Builder.

Well, you're right. But do you really want the builder to represent you? They're already representing their own best interests. The thing they care about the most is getting rid of their inventory, and many of them will do that by any means necessary. Even if it means "stretching" the truth or cutting corners.

A Realtor can represent you and take care of your best interests, and you don't pay him a dime. The builder will pay the real estate commission to the Realtor. And what's best, the price of the homes, according to builders, are fixed whether or not a Realtor is involved.

So, you can build a new home, be confident someone is looking out for your best interests (the Realtor), and you don't have to pay a penny more for the house than you would have without the Realtor.

If you're thinking of building a home or buying a new-build home, send me a message. I'd love to talk about your options with you and make sure you get the best deal possible, with the best representation.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

May Home Sales in Columbus

“Although May home sales were less than last year, the 3.4 percent drop was much less than the annual sales decreases seen in March and April of this year,” says Brad Bennett, President of the Columbus Board of REALTORS®. “We’re optimistic that this trend will continue and that the decline in sales we’ve seen over the last 11 months will level off this summer.”

Another positive sign was that there were significantly fewer homes added to the market in May as compared to the previous year.

“Although we have still have a high level of inventory, the less significant drop in sales brought the month’s supply of homes for sale down to 7.59 – the lowest level we’ve seen since July of last year,” comments Bennett.

The average price of a home in May was $175,212, down 1.2 percent from a year ago. However, the average price of a home sold for the first 5 months of 2007 is just 0.5 percent lower than the average price for the same period last year.
(From www.ColumbusRealtors.com)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

I Heart HGTV.com

Are you addicted to watching HGTV? Love "House Hunters"? Can't live without shows like "Design on a Dime"?

Then you need to visit the new HGTV.com. (Warning: prepare to never leave.)

This website is almost perfect. From real estate tips to remodeling tips... from tv schedules to actual videos and show clips right there on the site... this is the site for you if you have any interest in making your home more appealing than it is already.

Spend some time on HGTV.com. Read the articles, visit the links, watch the videos. There are so many things on that website that every Realtor wants home sellers and buyers to know. Check it out.

www.HGTV.com

Thanks,
Dan

New Listing! Video Tour!

1218 Lake Shore Drive C
Columbus OH 43204
MLS # 2727373
www.1218LakeShore.com

Property Features:
3 large bedrooms
2 full baths
Hidden Lake community
Gated community
Community pool
Great room
Covered deck overlooking nature
Privacy, secluded unit
1-car garage

Want to see more video listings?
Want more info on this or other properties?
Visit www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty

April Showers Bring Real Estate Flowers!

Click here to read the article.

The Columbus real estate statistics for the month of April are out, and they are better than expected! Read the article from the link above and see how the market is doing compared to April of last year. Overall, we're down slightly, but things are definitely on the rise!

Hallelujah!

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

New Listing! Gorgeous New Albany Condo!

5804 Aristides Way
New Albany, OH 43054
www.5804Aristides.com

MLS# 2724603
Columbus MLS

Features:
Condo
2 bedrooms
2.5 baths
full finished lower level
1-car garage
built in 2003, like new
vaulted ceilings
huge kitchen
walk-in closet
large attached master bath
enormous master bedroom
back deck and patio
views of pond and fountain out back
view out front is of white fence and wetlands, so no one will build across from you

Website Redesign

My website, www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com, has received a facelift. Check out the main page and let me know what you think. I'm also in the process of redesigning all of the subpages, so keep checking back often!

Thanks.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

New Listing - Gahanna City, Westerville Schools

Welcome home to 4499 Hidden Ridge Court in Gahanna, OH 43230.

Proudly offered at $179,900!

Home features:
3 bedrooms
2.5 baths
2 story
Full finished lower level
ravine lot
3-tier deck in back
tree line and ravine views
great room
gas/woodburning fireplace
Westerville Schools
partial hardwood floors
bay window
eating area in kitchen
2 car garage
close to Easton

How to Sell Your Condo: Seminar

On Tuesday, May 1, I will be hosting a "How to Sell Your New Albany Park Condo: Seminar." Click the image above to watch the promotional video.

I will be adding video clips of the seminar at a later time in case you miss it and want some great info!

Thanks!
Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

MySpace.com/HamiltonHomes

okay, I've finally put some time into my MySpace page. Check it out, add a comment, and become my friend!

www.MySpace.com/HamiltonHomes

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Tax Season & Benefits of Homeownership

Okay, so it's the dreaded tax season. This is the time of year when companies like H&R Block thrive.

I was in a local H&R Block office recently and picked up a pamphlet on "homebuying basics: tax-smart steps to the home you deserve." And following, is a summary of what it says are the benefits of homeownership (advantages of owning versus renting).

1. You may qualify for tax breaks.
2. You're investing in yourself. By owning a home, rather than renting, you build equity in that home. That means you're making yourself more valuable.
3. You're protected from inflation. A mortgage payment is usually fixed (or may adjust for a few years and then cap), but rent can increase each year. And your landlord will adjust the rent each year for inflation.

What can you do with the equity in your home?

- Improve your credit score. Just having equity in your home will generally qualify you for better interest rates.
- Fund important expenses. After building enough equity in a home, you can take out a home equity loan to remodel, fund your child's education, consolidate other debts, or take a second honeymoon!
- Reap the benefits when you sell. The more equity you have in a home, the more money you'll have when the home sells.

For more information on any of this, or anything else you may have questions on, please contact me. I'd be honored to help you out.

Dan Hamilton
dchamilton@kw.com
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Price Reduction on my Listing

Price Reduced to $227,500
5431 Grand Ridge Drive Galena, OH 43021

Watch the online VIDEO Reel Tour of this property from your computer!



Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Columbus Area - Market Update

Click on the image below to see the markest snapshot in full size.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Sell Your Home with a Great Laundry Room!?

Providing the "wow factor" to every room possible will help sell your house. One room often overlooked though is the laundry room.

How to Make Over a Laundry Room

An attractive laundry room can make the difference between a house that sits on the market and one that sells, says Sid Davis, author of Home Makeovers that Sell (AMACOM, 2007).“It’s the wow factor that gets you full price for a home,” he says.

Here are some tips that Davis and interior designer Jackie Terrell say work:

- Paint the walls a bright color since laundry rooms often lack natural light.
- Consider popping in a window or installing a door to bring in more light.
- Add warmth to a cold laundry room floor with a large area rug. Install cabinets and useful built-ins such as an ironing board.
- Take advantage of the plumbing already available in the laundry room to add a half-bath — an inexpensive way to lift property value.

Source: Denver Post, Sheba R. Wheeler (03/22/07)

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

All the way, Buckeyes!

I'm still buzzing after last night's Sweet Sixteen game against Tennessee. If you're like me, by halftime you were probably thinking, "Oh man, we're getting killed. If we can at least only lose by 10 or 15, that would be somewhat respectable." But then... let's just say things turned around!


OSU 85 Tennessee 84

And I know this isn't a post about real estate, but the great city of Columbus loves its Buckeyes!

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Cool Real Estate Website

I stumbled upon a really nice real estate website in Canada - for Canada. Check it out.

But if you're interested in finding Columbus and Ohio real estate information, visit www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com, because you won't find it on this Canadian site.

See the site here.

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Trouble Paying Your Mortgage? What to do.

Okay, we all know about some of the biggest real estate trends of recent history: 1st floor master bedrooms, outside living areas (in California), energy efficient appliances and devices, etc. But one of the most recent and most popular things happening around the country is.... FORECLOSURES? Oh no!

Yep, and it just isn't in California and Florida. Columbus is one of the nation's leading foreclosure areas. Sad but true. And what's worse; experts say it's going to get much worse before it gets any better.

So, if you're having trouble paying your mortgage payments, what should you do?

Well, there's a couple things you should consider first. (CNN.com)
1) Is your housing stress the result of a short-term problem that could reverse itself soon, such as a layoff or an illness that triggered unwieldy health-care costs? Or does the strain result from a more fundamental problem, such as overoptimism about the real estate market or miscalculation of what you could afford based on your income? The answer will dictate your best strategy (see below).

2)If it's a temporary crunch, the solution may be as simple as rethinking your spending. Some common items to cut: health-club memberships, vacations and gift-giving largesse. Got a tax refund this year? Try reducing your withholding so you'll take home more money in your paycheck each month.

3) When the problem isn't temporary and you've already trimmed your budget thinner than a slice of prosciutto, you may need to consider more drastic moves. Call your lender immediately and ask about a temporary reduced payment schedule, known as forbearance. "The last thing a lender wants is to foreclose; they run the risk of losing money," says Erica Sandberg, a spokeswoman for the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of San Francisco. Keep in mind that your lender isn't obliged to give you a break. But you have a good shot if you can prove financial need and have a plan to get back on track. And you'll avoid a ding on your credit score.

4) Move on. If you've exhausted all options, it may be time to think about just selling your home and cutting ties. Sometimes this means you lose money. But if you've owned your home for a while, you may still be able to make a profit. Think about it, that would be great; you'd have money in your pocket and you'd be out from under the stress of your debt.

So, if I can offer any advice, if you start having trouble making your mortgage payments, and you're getting a little nervous, CALL ME OR CALL YOUR LENDER! I don't say "Call Me" so I can sell your house. I can give you advice geared towards your specific situation. But, calling your lender would be the best thing for you. They don't want you to foreclose. They'll give you different options to help you out, hopefully.

And furthermore, facing this struggle is nothing to be embarrassed about. Fix it. Don't ignore it and let it get worse because you're pride is getting in the way. This is fixable situation. You just have to do something about it.

If you're in this situation, call your lender, or contact me:

Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
(614) 944-5936
dchamilton@kw.com
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

Open House Sunday 3/18/07 2-4pm

I'm holding an Open House at 5431 Grand Ridge Drive Galena, OH 43021 this Sunday at the time above. Visit www.5431GrandRidge.com for an online video tour of this property.

I hope to see you there!!!

New Listing

5431 Grand Ridge Drive
Galena, OH 43021

Features:
3 bedrooms
2.5 bath
2-car attached garage
Subdivision: The Retreat at Grand Oak
Property Type: Condo
Style: 2 story
1,953 sq. ft.
hardwood floors
cherry woodwork
stainless steel appliances
berber carpet
loft
dual vanity
skylights
screened porch
den
1st floor master
walk-in closet
great room
partial basement - easy to finish!

Words that Sell

Brad Inman, founder of Inman News (a top real estate news source) talks to Fox News about how words can help or hurt a house sell. He also talks about other selling and buying topics at the end.

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - Afterthoughts and Video

So, last night's episode of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" was an emotional ride. But in the end, I was left with a feeling of pride, not only because of my connection to this man for being from Columbus, but also because of my connection to this man for being a fellow American. For anyone who watched this episode, you know what I mean. For those of you who missed it, here are the 3 videos that make up the last 18 or 19 minutes of the show. Enjoy. NOTE: You may need some tissues close at hand. :)







And here is a behind-the-scenes clip provided by The Pulse and Columbus Alive.



Dan Hamilton
Keller Williams Greater Columbus Realty
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" in Columbus!!!!

This Sunday night, ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" will focus on the Thomas family from Central Ohio.

Marine Sgt. Jason Thomas had just returned from Iraq when he learned of the tragic events of 9/11. He grabbed his Marine uniform and headed for Ground Zero in a desperate attempt to find survivors. After searching through the rubble for days, Jason and a fellow Marine found the last two survivors; their heroic tale is told in the movie, "World Trade Center." (http://extreme.realliving.com/)

Don't miss this episode, Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 7pm on ABC.

And if you would like more information, or make a donation to help pay off the remainder of the Thomas' mortgage, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Dan Hamilton
dchamilton@kw.com
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com
(614) 944-5936

I Have a Bone to Pick with CNN

Okay, today, I'm mad at CNN. No, not because I'm a huge Fox News supporter. No, not because I don't like Barack Obama. No, not because of Wolf Blitzer's beard. I'm upset because of an article I read last night on their Real Estate page.

Here's the title:

Is your realtor on your side?
Make sure your agent gets you the best house at the best price.
By Stephen Gandel, Money Magazine senior writer

Okay, so it was written by a guy at Money Magazine. Well, then, let me be mad at them too.

"Why?" you ask. "Dan, calm down," you say. Yes, the title sounds innocent enough. This article has a good premise or good intentions, but it does not deliver the way it should.

The intent of the article is to make homebuyers aware that they need to be careful when dealing with Realtors. Yes, that's true. Just as in every profession, there are some excellent Realtors, while at the same time, there seem to be quite a few who are just in it for the money. Good thing Cuba Gooding, JR's "Jerry McGuire" character isn't your Realtor. "Show me the money!"

The article discusses how since this is a tougher market than in the past for sellers, that sellers are now offering incentives to buyer's agents. For example, there are a lot of listings on the market today that haven't sold in over 6 months. Those listing agents may now be offering buyer's agents an extra $500 for a contract. The incentive may even be greater than $500. It may be $1000. It may be a gift card to the Olive Garden. Who knows. Whatever the case, the article is trying to make buyers aware of this. That's good. Thanks CNN and Money Magazine. You're looking out for homebuyer's best interests.

But if you have a good, and above all else, ethical Realtor working on your behalf when buying a house, that Realtor should disclose the incentive to you. An ethical Realtor should ALWAYS disclose everything to the buyer, and ALWAYS put the needs of the homebuyer first.

The reason I'm so upset by this article is because of what came at the conclusion. One of the solutions for homebuyers to consider is "GO IT ALONE."

Wait! What?!?!?!

Why would a buyer buy a house without the help of a Realtor? If a buyer suspects their Realtor is in it for the money or is sacrificing their needs, GET A NEW REALTOR. But please, don't "go it alone."

As a buyer, it's free to use a Realtor. A Realtor will negotiate for you. A Realtor will know of many more properties for sale. A Realtor has access to a lot more information on those properties than a buyer. A Realtor is trained and licensed in contracts and the law. DON'T EVER "GO IT ALONE!"

That may be Money Magazine's solution, but unless you know real estate law like the back of your hand, please use a Realtor.

I don't care if you don't use me as your Realtor. I know there's billions of people in this world. Many of them will move, but let's say 99.9% of them won't use me. That's fine. Just please use a Realtor. Any Realtor. Someone you trust. It's in your best interest.

And that's what I am looking out for.... YOUR BEST INTERESTS.

But evidently Money Magazine thinks your best interest is not only to "go it alone," but also "be alone" when you run the risk of making a mistake in the contract or miss out on the perfect house and settle for a less desired one.

Dan Hamilton

Stay on Top of Your Credit Scores, Buyers!

This is to all the homebuyers out there, so that basically means everyone.

Whether you're thinking about buying a home or not, it is of the utmost importance to watch your credit report and make sure everything is correct. This will help you in numerous ways, especially when it comes time to buy a house, or even just a new car or get approved for a credit card.

Within the past couple years, free credit reports have been made available to everyone, once a year. There should be no reason to not take advantage of this free service.

Even if you think you're credit score is good, it's still worth it to check. I mean, it's free!

I just had a new client come to me, thinking his credit score was excellent. When the lender ran it to pre-approve him, it was actually a lot lower than he thought. And right now, we're in the middle of trying to figure out if there are any errors on the credit score, or if my client just lost track of a couple things.

This is not uncommon. I guarantee this happens a lot more than you might think. And if you stay on top of your credit score/report each year, the chances of this happening is so much less.

If you want your free credit report, let me know. I'd love to help you out.

The link to get your free credit report is right here, www.annualcreditreport.com. If you want your credit score, you can request that when you request your free report. You will have to pay a fee for your score.

Dan Hamilton

New Videos!

Okay, so I have been getting a lot of traffic to my website from people like you who are interested in buying homes. These visitors are leaving me their names and email addresses in return for a free search of the Columbus MLS.

So, there we are. My website visitors are searching the Columbus MLS for free, trying to find their new home on their own. And I have a name and email address, but no real good way to follow up with these visitors. In the past, I've just sent follow up emails, mentioning my interest in working with them as a buyer's representative. In my emails, I also mention my Red Carpet House Hunters Program (if you don't know what this is yet, these videos will be really good for you).

But my response rate is extremely low. And I think mainly this is because my follow ups are in the form of a text email. I thought to myself, "Could these people be much more interested in learning about my services if I made them a video?"

So, here they are! Drumroll, please!

This is the first video, sent to everyone who searches the MLS from my website:


And this is the follow up video, explaining the Red Carpet House Hunters Program:


So, there you have it. Tell me what you think! Please!

And if you're interested in buying or selling a house, please contact me right away. Now is a great time to buy a house!

Thanks,
Dan Hamilton

2007 Resolutions for Real Estate

Home Improvement & Real Estate Resolutions:

Home Improvement 64%
Buying a Home 9%
Selling a Home 9%
Moving 6%
Other 12%

These are the real estate related predictions from myGoals.com, describing what types of resolutions people are expected to make during the 2007 New Year's season.

These statistics show that some people are already thinking about buying/selling their home, while the majority of people are thinking of doing home improvements. I assume they're thinking of making these home improvements to increase the value of their home, meaning they will probably be selling sometime within the next year. They're just not thinking about that step yet.

What are your real estate related goals for 2007?

1. Stop Renting.
If you're still renting, STOP! You can own your own home for the same amount you're probably paying in rent. Stop paying your landlord, and start paying yourself (with equity in your own home).

2. Buy a House.
This goes along with #1 on my list. Now is one of the best times to ever buy a home in the history of real estate. Interest rates are still good. The housing market is inundated with properties for sale, so you basically have your choice. And sellers have had their homes on the market for so long in some areas, that they're becoming desperate and willing to take offers that should make buyers smile from ear to ear.

3. Sell Your Home.
If you read #2 on my list, it might not make a whole lot of sense to sell your home right now, but (yes, there's a "but") it's a different situation for everyone. Some homes are selling for more than fair market value. Some homeowners have no other choice but to sell. Some homeowners are house flippers, and they're just trying to make a few bucks, even though they may not get full fair market value. Whatever the case, if you're thinking about selling your house now, DO IT. There's no reason to wait. If you're waiting for the market to go back to where it was a few years ago, that's fine. But think about this: If you sell your house in 18 months from now, how much are you paying out in mortgage payments. If you sell now, and can get about the same amount you'll get next year, it makes sense to sell now. And then when you sell, you can benefit from #2 above.

4. Home Improvements
Ahhh, yes. Home improvements can do wonders for making your home outshine the rest. But before you do anything, you must think about what improvements are beneficial and which are just a waste of money.
a. Paint - A fresh coat of paint goes a long way. It shows people you care about your house and take care of it. Use neutral colors, such as a light tan. You can't lose there.
b. Kitchen - The kitchen sells houses. If you have an old kitchen, buyers are going to be turned off. But if your kitchen sparkles and exudes "new-ness," buyers will be very interested in your home when you go to sell it, even if the rest of the house still looks old (except for item "c" below).
c. Bathrooms - Just as a new (or new-looking) kitchen will do wonders for your home's value, so will the bathrooms. Update the paint and floors if necessary. Update the little things and make it shine. If you can do it, and don't already have it, get a double vanity (2 sinks).
d. De-clutter - This is another huge thing to work on, and this should be worked on at all times of the year. If you don't use something, why do you have it? Sure, we all need some things for decoration, but why do you still have too many things on the floors of closets, under beds, too much on the kitchen counter, and in the garage? Your garage is for cars, people; not a second basement.

Do these things and you're all set.

Here's to 2007! May it be a great year for all of us! May all of our real estate goals and dreams come true.

Dan Hamilton
dchamilton@kw.com
www.HamiltonHomesGroup.com