Archive for the ‘Real estate agents’ Category

Getting Cheaper Auto Insurance

Saturday, March 20th, 2010

If you are to own a car, purchasing auto insurance is already an indispensable part of the deal. Road risks are too high and too plenty so having insurance coverage is a wise decision to promote safety. There are different kinds of insurance premiums to choose from. However, no matter what type, they will all be costly in a way.

Ways to avail cheaper auto insurance

1. Be truthful ¨C Many people mistakenly believe that they can cheat their way to getting cheap automobile insurance. They lie on the data sheet to avail of promos and other special privileges. If you think you have outsmarted an insurance provider by doing so, then you are wrong. If you supply wrong or missing information, you may even end up losing that entire car insurance coverage or policy.

2. Keep your driving record as clean as possible ¨C Speeding tickets, accidents and other road violations will cause an increase in the car insurance rates that you pay for. Drivers who show that they keep a clean driving record will have better chances at purchasing the said coverage at a better and more affordable price.

3. Understand your insurance policies before ever signing up to one ¨C Know when you deserve special discounts and privileges. It is possible to use special areas like living in a rural area, owning a low-maintenance car, a clean driving record and other supporting factors to get cheaper auto insurance quotes.

Take time to read the fine or small print characters in the contract before you sign it. You may be agreeing on certain policies that work against you so better be sure that you understand the terms and conditions of your insurance contract fully before affixing that signature that makes it final and official.

4. Compare rates of different insurance providers ¨C Canvass the rates offered by the different providers before joining one. It is possible to find amazing discounts by being diligent in this and looking for a deal that fits you.

The Disclosure Debate

Sunday, February 28th, 2010


As real estate agents, it’s our duty to disclose any and all features of a home that may affect its value in the eyes of the buyer. This naturally includes telling buyers about material flaws like water damage or deteriorating roof shingles, but full disclosure can also include non-material elements like violent or illegal acts that have taken place on the property. While a home’s sordid past may not affect it structurally, its perceived value could be reduced due to the stigma it’s acquired.

Laws vary state by state regarding what types of incorporeal blemishes must be disclosed to the buyer.

In states where a death isn’t on the list of mandatory disclosures, the real estate agent is faced with a moral quandary. If he tells the buyer about the event, she may back out of the sale or demand a price reduction. Neither scenario will leave you with a happy seller.

If you decide not to tell the buyer about the death, she could end up suing you for misrepresentation, in addition to dragging your reputation through the mud. Word of mouth carries a great deal of weight in our industry, so it’s important to be honest and responsible with both parties of the transaction.

There’s also your conscience to think about. As agents, while our main priority is our clients, we also owe it to the buyers to be forthcoming about the history of the home, and to provide them with enough facts so they’ll be able to make an informed decision.

A large number of agents make it their rule to not disclose immaterial flaws unless asked directly about them. This can be a risky decision, particularly if the home was formerly used for something illegal like a meth lab. In a case like this, the home may be nearly new and in great condition, but the buyer’s safety could be at risk if for instance, a drug addict comes to the house looking for a hit. Particularly if the buyer has children, the house’s past could have a huge impact on their decision to buy the home.

A death in a home can be a particularly tricky situation for an agent to deal with. Death from old age or from a non-contagious illness seems to have less of a stigma attached to it, but the situation can still spook some buyers. If the death was a suicide or a murder, buyers may have a much more difficult time shaking off their unease.

Many people believe that dark energy can remain in a home after a violent death, and they fear that it may harm them somehow. There’s also the idea that a haunting can occur if a person dies prematurely, and very few buyers want to live with an angry ghost.

If you tell buyers about a grisly event that’s taken place on the property, they may very well back out of the sale. This isn’t good for you or your client, but you’ll be able to sleep well at night, knowing that you were honest. If the buyer decides to buy the home despite the violent event, then they’re doing so with all the facts in hand. You won’t be responsible for any buyer’s remorse, and you won’t be putting yourself at risk for charges of misrepresentation.

Estate Agents in Slovenia – Tips on Choosing the Best

Thursday, February 11th, 2010


Forecast growth by a respected UK investment TV show, is anticipating growth of up around 280% in the next 10 years and interest in property investment in Slovenia is at an all time high. Of course you will need an Estate Agent in Slovenia to help you with your property investment and this article will give you tips on choosing the best Slovenia estate agents.

There are many Slovenian Estate agents to choose from and here we will look at choosing one to help you get your dream property.

Here are your general guidelines for choosing an estate agent in Slovenia.

1. Cut Out Middlemen

There are lots of “middlemen” selling property in Slovenia, however most are not regulated. For your security you should only deal with a licensed estate agent that is based locally and governed by local laws. This means their business conduct is regulated by a strict code of rules, which are designed for your protection.

2. Find an Agent That Knows Slovenia

Many middlemen are simply interested in selling their own properties – these may not be the most suitable ones for you. You need to find an estate agent that knows the areas they sell in. Check how long they have been in business and that they have a good knowledge of the area you are buying in and get some references if possible.

3. You’re Aims

Are you buying property for sale in Slovenia for capital gains, rental income, or a mixture of the two? Always match your specific aims with a location that can deliver what you require and find an agent that will understand and match these needs. This is really common sense – but many investors simply buy without thinking about the above and it costs them later on In conclusion, make sure you do your homework and that means a visit to get a feel for the area and property you are investing in.

4. The Buying Process and Finance

For buying property in Slovenia will only take around a month to complete the contracts and the salient points to consider are outlined below. Once you have found your property you will be required to pay a 10% deposit which if the seller decides not to proceed will be returned to you – but doubled, under Slovenian law. If on the other hand, you decide to back out, the seller will keep the 10% deposit. Mortgages are now available to foreign nationals.

For example, Volksbank offer 70% mortgages, secured on your investment property in Slovenia not on your primary residences elsewhere. When you want too buy, you will need to produce your passport; your estate agent will then apply for a tax number for you as well as an EMSO number, both of which are required to complete a property transaction.

You should use a local Lawyer to check all paperwork, ownership details and contracts, who is familiar with Slovenian law. When sending your final payment check your banks for favorable rates – or seek out a specialist foreign exchange company. Make sure you shop around, there are big variations in currency exchange rates offered and these can make a significant difference to your purchase price.

You should also open a bank account locally – this will enable you to pay all your local costs easily and promptly. Bank accounts are easy to set up and can be done on the same day and require only a passport as proof of ID.

5. Management Of The Property

You can also get Slovenian estate agents to offer property management services.

This will include everything from finding tenants for your house to making sure the house is ready for guests and also make sure wherever you buy your Slovenia property it is safe, secure and maintained

Finally

Buying property in Slovenia can be a lucrative investment destination and if you choose the right Slovenian estate agent, you can maximize your growth potential.

Your estate agent can help you get the right property which fits your investment aims, budget and thereby maximize your long term growth potential.

Choosing the right estate agent is essential when buying property in Slovenia so make sure you do your homework!