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5 Things You Need to Know Before You Finance a New Home By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 18, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team If you plan to buy a home with financing, you may feel overwhelmed by everything you need to learn about the process. Here are five key points to get you started.

Understand the full cost of owning a home

There are four main categories of a homeowner’s monthly housing payment — principal, interest, taxes and insurance (P.I.T.I.). Principal and interest comprise your monthly mortgage payment. The principal pays down your loan balance monthly, and the interest pays your fee for borrowing the money. Use an amortization calculator to see the principal-versus-interest breakdown over time. Taxes refer to property taxes assessed by the county you live in, and average 1.2 percent of your home’s value each year. Homeowners insurance is required when you have a mortgage, and you pay it to an insurance company of your choosing. Insurance typically costs $700 to $1,200 per year for a single family home. In addition to P.I.T.I., if you live in a planned unit development (PUD) or condo, you’ll have homeowners association dues, which cover common area amenities, ongoing upkeep, and reserves for future maintenance. These monthly dues range from $100 to over $1,000. If you don’t live in a PUD or condo, you should construct your own savings plan for future maintenance.

Examine your credit history now

A strong credit report is critical for getting the best mortgages with the lowest rates. Lenders want reliable on-time payment history, as well as credit depth. Your report will be more appealing to lenders if you have a significant amount of credit. If you need to obtain more credit, note that your credit score can drop 5-15 points when you first open a new account, then will rise again when you’ve established good payment history, so it’s best to open new accounts a few months before applying for a mortgage. Federal law entitles you to a free credit report every year, but these reports only show account history, and don’t include scores. Get your credit score, and take steps to improve it, if necessary.

Match mortgage products to your budget and timeline

You can calculate how much you can afford to spend on a home with inputs you already know: income, monthly non-housing debt, and savings for down payment. Next, you need to think about how long you’re going to be in a particular home so you can target the right loan product. If your income isn’t going to grow over time, you will probably be in the home longer term, so you’ll want a loan with a payment that won’t change, like a 30-year fixed. Or maybe you expect your income to increase sharply within five years and you’re going to upgrade homes within that time, so you’ll want a five-year ARM, which has a much lower rate. If you don’t have a 20-percent down payment, you can buy with as little as 3 percent down using FHA, VA, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac low-down programs, but you’ll have mortgage insurance on top of your monthly P.I.T.I. Estimate your mortgage insurance with a mortgage calculator.

Get pre-approved in advance

If you do all your home financing research without getting pre-approved, you could be disappointed when it comes time to find a home. Home shopping is competitive, and most sellers require your offer to be submitted with a lender pre-approval letter to prove you’re all ready with your financing.

Know what lenders will require

When you’re ready to get pre-approved, remember that lenders will closely examine all aspects of your life. They’ll ask for full name, address, date of birth, social security number, and ages of children. They’ll also review your credit report, employment history, pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, divorce and any other legal settlements, and full financials for any businesses you own. A lender will give you a checklist outlining exactly what documents they need. Follow this checklist exactly. If they only ask for your last two pay stubs, don’t send three. If they only ask for federal tax returns, don’t send state. Also, be prepared to write short letters to explain past inquiries on your credit report, past addresses, and name changes. Now that you’ve got an overview, you can dive deeper into home financing topics, then find a lender in your area to partner with you through the process. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

3 Must-Have Organization Trends for Fall from Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 15, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Just in time for back-to-school, Zillow Digs announced the top three closet organization trends for fall 2015 — and the three biggest fads to ditch. The results were published today in the Zillow Digs Home Trend Forecast, a one-of-a-kind report based on a survey of leading interior designers and an analysis of the most popular photos on Zillow Digs. Looking to get organized this fall? Check out the season’s biggest closet trends below.

Top closet trends for 2015

Transparent storage materials. Transparent storage materials such as frosted doors and see-through drawers will gain popularity among homeowners and in big-box stores this year. “Closets, especially bedroom closets, are becoming more like clothing exhibitions to display purchases more as collections, making transparent materials key,” says Nina Magon, Zillow Digs designer and principal of Contour Interior Design.

Split or his-and-hers finishes. Split closets with contrasting finishes and color palates will become all the rage, especially in bedrooms. Expect to see a rise in warm white paint tones and metallic accents contrasted with dark wood or leather finishes for a clean, but personalized, look.

Spotlight lighting. Predicted to become the go-to closet lighting solution this year, directed lighting or spotlights are both functional and stylish. Spotlights also help create the boutique-like ambiance that so many homeowners are gravitating to in their closet spaces.

Three fads to replace

Behind-door storage. Hiding everything behind a small closed door is a thing of the past. Expect to see homeowners experimenting with large sliding doors and curtains, or even expanding closets into a larger space to better showcase and find their favorite items.

Basic setups. Homeowners will want to go beyond the “closet in a box” arrangement and add their own custom touches or creative flair to organization spaces. Designers anticipate wire racking mixed with woven baskets or custom wood finishes to grow in popularity this year.

Dark closets. Closets with minimal lighting or heavy doors that keep natural light out are quickly headed out of style. With the rise of transparent materials, homeowners will want an accessible closet where they can easily find belongings and enjoy how they’re displayed.

Need help getting organized this season? You’re in luck! Zillow Digs and The Container Store are teaming up to give one lucky winner a $5,000 shopping spree at The Container Store, as well as a consultation with a closet organizer. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Fashion-Inspired Home Decor for Fall By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 11, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team It’s that time of year again: Fashion magazines have released their fat, glossy September issues, and our eyes are glued to the latest trends and styles to grace the runway — and, soon, our closets. Find inspiration for your home design in this fall’s fashion magazines — the colors, patterns, textures, and overall aesthetic translate so well. Here are three favorite fall fashion looks that can easily go from runway to entry way.

Dark Diva

This fall, some of the must-see designers of New York Fashion Week went a little dark, with looks reminiscent of a grown-up Wednesday Addams. Particularly into this trend were Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and Thom Browne. Neither of the esteemed designers are new to couture, nor are they shy, making theirs the best shows to spot new and evolving trends. Uniform in style and often monochromatic, think of this trend as Dark Diva. A reinvention of the color black, Dark Diva showcases subtle restraint and precise execution in all design facets. If this style appeals to you, consider reflecting your closet in your home with modern steampunk lighting fixtures, animal-inspired side tables, and eerily beautiful portraits and paintings. Dark Diva can also serve as a foundation design for more lively colors in a few months when you decide to decorate for spring.

Seeing Seventies

Get ready for a blast from the past — 1970s style is back, and it’s better than ever. With cleverly composed ensembles by Burberry and Lanvin, this look will be on your fashion radar through the upcoming fall season. With layered bohemian prints and fabrics, beads, texture, and a “What? These old things?” mentality, Seeing Seventies is the modern era’s take on that undeniably classic decade. If you can’t quite part with braided hair and a velvet detailed poncho, then Seeing Seventies might appeal to you. Lots of plants (specifically cacti), mid-century inspired art, and teak side tables help create this look. Sprinkle in some funky glassware and a woven boho rug, and you’re all set for fall 2015.

Subtle Sophisticate

Count on Lanvin and The Row to showcase an irresistibly sweet silhouette. Ladylike and full of luster, the Subtle Sophisticate trend plays up fragility and bold cuts like high-necked tops and tiered skirt lengths. If you’re drooling at the thought of a powder pink pantsuit, you might be a Subtle Sophisticate. Your home decor fantasy probably involves a lovely loft with contemporary art displays, simple Scandinavian furniture offset by weighty sculptures and marble flooring, and plenty of powdery colors. Don’t be afraid to up the glam factor with metals like gold and silver, and add depth with heavily textured throw pillows and area rugs. After all, there is nothing more sophisticated than a well-balanced home. Fashion mavens are constantly on the lookout for trends to incorporate into all facets of their lives: clothes, accessories, shoes, and their homes. Feel free to mix and match these styles and blend them with your own personal twist. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

What to Do If Your Home Isn’t Selling By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 8, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team In a strong market, if a home is priced right and shows well, it should sell within the first six weeks. If it doesn’t, many sellers become frustrated, especially if their agent begins pushing for a price reduction. It’s a common rub: the seller thinks the agent just wants a quick sale, but the agent sincerely wants to help the seller get action. Agents understand that a listing loses momentum and excitement soon after being listed. Buyers will think of a home as stale, tired, or flawed if it sits on the market too long. Here are some ways to get more traction if your home is not generating offers.

Location, price and condition are key

You can’t change your home’s location, but you do have some control over the other two important buyer considerations. If the home is still sitting on the market after a few months, and especially if it has had no showings or offers, you need to look at the price and the condition. You have two big choices to make if you are ready to sell. The first is to take the home off the market and make some changes, such as staging, de-cluttering, and altering the look of the kitchens and bathrooms. If you are getting specific feedback about one part of the home, change it. A few months off the market will ensure that, when it comes back on, there will be a new set of buyers taking a look at your fresh listing. If you are unwilling to make the needed changes to the home, the other option is to reduce the price. I recently visited with sellers who built a brand new beautiful home with excellent finishes and fixtures. But after four months, they only had two showings, and in a market where homes were selling with multiple offers within weeks. The issue was the location. It was the absolute best home on a very tough block, and the setting was not private. In this case, the sellers had no choice. There was no moving or improving the house. The only option was to drop the price. The sellers opted to take the home off the market and rent it because they were not ready to sell at the recommended price.

Make sure you and your agent are on the same page

If you and your agent don’t see eye-to-eye on the pricing or sales strategy prior to listing, it might be time to find another agent. You want an agent who has your back and who is on the same page as you. Without that synergy, you could be in for unnecessary conflict six weeks in. Discuss your intentions with your agent upfront, and listen to her feedback. A price reduction or low offer shouldn’t come as a surprise. But if the home isn’t selling, and the seller wants to see action, a good listing agent will ask for offers, follow up with interested parties, and let them know that the seller wants to sell. Reducing the listed price may not be necessary if there’s a buyer who understands that the seller will entertain an offer below the asking price. You may have to see firsthand how the market works. If you list your home at a lower price than you’re comfortable with, you may be sorry if you get offers right away. But if you price it higher and don’t get any response after some time, then you will see the market speak for itself. I’d much rather have seller clients in the latter situation than the former. Every scenario is different, and it’s so important to work with an agent who is in synch with your strategy and can help you adapt to your market. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Add Old World Elegance With Mediterranean Home Accents By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

September 3, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team The Mediterranean coast has always inspired travel envy, and it inspires decor envy, too. The natural combination of sea shores and exotic landscapes has a way of captivating the senses. Whether or not you’ve traveled to Spain, Greece, Italy or Morocco, you can bring that Mediterranean flair to your home with these 10 accessories and design motifs.

Natural wood accents

Any natural wood elements, particularly exposed beams and wood floors, are key components of Mediterranean homes. Smaller rustic natural pieces such as driftwood add to the feeling of being just off the water, where the salt breeze texturizes the wood. For a more portable addition, look for wood mirrors, sculptures, hooks and decorative boxes.

Terra-cotta pots and plants

Outdoor living is a key part of the Mediterranean lifestyle, and one you can easily emulate with plenty of plants, both indoors and outdoors. Hang them and place them on the floor in large terra-cotta pots. Citrus trees add a particularly lovely component from the region — and will provide you with fresh lemons, limes and oranges to add to a pitcher of sangria, too.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron accessories — especially lamps, screens and wall hangings — will bring a slightly Moroccan flair. These are also reminiscent of the very common balconies and doors in the area’s open-concept homes.

Bright tile and mosaics

A key element of Mediterranean style is brightly colored tile and mosaics. Wall hangings, backsplashes, mirrors, frames and pottery made of brightly colored tile or a mosaic are a sure sign of the coast. A row of mosaic frames mingled with wood frames on a bookshelf is a perfect addition.

Romantic touches

A few romantic touches, such as sheer curtains to let in a nice ocean breeze and soft blankets nearby to fend off the chill, will make your Mediterranean-style home really come alive. Keep the blankets in a big woven basket near the couch, and add a bunch of lavender to the basket for a calming scent and touch of France.

Candles and mirrors

Similarly, candles and mirrors add romantic touches that evoke the spirit of a warm Mediterranean night. Mirrors reflect the warm candlelight and make your abode glow with the aura of a sunset over the sea. Try a large mirrored plate with white pillars on the center of the coffee table, or embellished votives lining a mantle.

Texture, texture, texture

Textured walls and building materials are a trademark of the building style in most Mediterranean countries. If you’re up for texturizing your walls, a sand or sky tone of tan or blue will suit the style nicely. If not, add texture with pillows, rugs, and even ornate room dividers. Rugs in particular are a great way to add texture: mix and match woven seagrass with Oriental rugs to capture the essence of the entire region.

Add cushions

The bold furniture of the style can vary by country, but heavy, low pieces are always appropriate when topped with cushions, which are an easy update for existing furniture. For a more Greek style, sleek solid-color cushions are ideal. For more Italian flair, try neutral striped cushions and more bare wood furniture. Of course, floor cushions are a great addition, too.

Ropes, columns, statues, Greek key and scrolls

Details inspired by the history of these nations — such as ropes, columns, the classic Greek key design, and scrolls on rugs, plaster, wall hangings, decorative vases and more — will bring the sense of a unique antique find. Try braided drink coasters or columns as plant stands. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

First-Time Home Buyer’s Guide to Making an Offer By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

August 31, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team After months, maybe even years, of looking at homes online, going to open houses and stalking listing data, the time has come. You’ve fallen for a home, and you’re ready to make your first offer. It can be scary, but it’s exciting at the same time. Here are some pointers to keep in mind as you throw your home-buying hat in the ring for the first time.

Have confidence in your search experience

Keep in mind that when it comes to making an offer, there is no single right answer and no “exact” price or terms for a home you covet. As a savvy buyer, you’ve got the market knowledge and experience it takes to analyze the deal. Believe in yourself. Take what you’ve learned, partner with a great agent, and trust your judgment. Think about the homes you’ve toured and open houses you’ve attended, and you will naturally start to see where your home of choice fits in the context of the market.

Learn all you can before deciding on your offer

If you are ready to pull the trigger, first find out what the story is with the listing. In order to come up with the best offer, you’ll need to know how long the home has been on the market, if there are other offers on the table currently, and if there’s a specific day the sellers will review the offers. You can uncover a lot by learning about the seller. Find out why they’re selling and what their motivations are. Pull all that information together and then mesh it with comparable homes’ sales data.

Reviewing comps is crucial

Your agent should send you the last six months of recent sales data to review and compare. These “comps” tell about the most recent market and what current buyers/sellers have agreed on for a sale price. Look at the pending sales first and see if your agent can uncover some information about those transactions. You want to ask about the number of offers they received or a ballpark selling price. The pending sales represent the most up-to-date market statistics. Ask your agent what his opinion of the home’s value is and start to mull over this information.

Give your lender a heads up

Your lender should be on speed dial at this point. Let her know you plan to make an offer on the home. Not only will you need apre-approval letter with your offer, but you will want an update on mortgage rates and products, since these change daily. From the time you applied for pre-approval until now, there could have been a massive shift in rates or a new product that could benefit you. For all you know, you can afford more, or that bonus you received last month could mean a higher down payment and qualifying for a better product.

Discuss terms

In addition to price, you will need to decide on terms. How long will you take for your inspections? Do you want to close quickly or take a longer time? Will you need an appraisal and loan contingency? How long should that be? The terms of your offer can make or break your deal. If the seller wants a quick close, and you can do it, give it to them. If you are competing with a cash offer, make your loan terms foolproof. Marry all of the data from above and take your best shot.

Remember, there will be other houses

Rarely does a buyer score the first house they offer on. And it’s not the end of the world if you don’t. There will be other homes for sale. People change jobs, get divorced, move closer to family, have children or pass away. All of these things can result in a home sale or purchase. Have faith that another home will come along in the future. There’s no rush, and you should never buy real estate overnight. Have fun, and learn from each offer you make. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

How to Diplomatically Handle Disputes With Neighbors from Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

August 27, 2015 Joe Szabo

from Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Much like neighborly quarrels, adversarial property laws have been around for ages. Accordingly, ancient lawmakers devised notions — such as deeds, boundary lines, and parcel numbers — to ensure owners and neighbors alike were apprised of property limits. However, conflict between neighbors remains common, often prompting contentious lawsuits, unrelenting litigation, and serious tension at annual block parties.

Preventing property disputes with neighbors

Avoiding disputes altogether is one of the easiest ways to avoid a nasty legal battle. A common scenario in disputes between neighbors involves one of nature’s most majestic beauties: trees. It may sound too simple to be true, but many lawsuits have ensued when a tree — which may have started out as a wee sapling — evolves into a problematic and potentially dangerous behemoth straddling the boundary line. In this scenario, neighbors are encouraged to negotiate ownership in writing at the first sign the tree might become a problem. One of the quickest ways to escalate a conflict is to try and trim a tree back to the property line, which can cause unnecessary damage. If the boundary line — and resulting tree ownership — is unclear, ordering a new survey of the property might be the best way to avoid problems before they start.

Water under the bridge

Another natural disaster waiting to happen involves ownership (i.e., the maintenance and upkeep) of water sources that straddle or create property lines. In these cases, working with a riparian rights attorney might be the best bet for reaching a solution, as water disputes can be extremely impactful, particularly if the water source is used for livestock or consumption. For most people, however, disputes over fences and boundary lines are most common. These conflicts can easily be prevented with a little communication or help from a local surveyor. Assuming there are no interceding issues with the local homeowners’ association, a property owner can erect a fence on his property as he sees fit. However, a property owner is generally advised against making an educated guess about legal boundary lines, as a slight misjudgment may end up requiring the fence to be relocated at his expense. Hire a surveyor to conclusively determine the exact boundary line, and always leave a reasonable buffer zone between the fence and that line.

Managing a dispute

Not every legal dispute is contentious in nature, and some disputes may be necessary to effect the proper legal transfer of property. Imagine, for example, a parcel of land that has been passed down from one generation to the next for hundreds of years. Families often use quitclaim deeds to quickly pass on land and, as a result, may not bother with a survey or metes and bounds description for decades on end. When it comes time to transfer this property to an outside buyer, he or she will likely insist on a survey, which may reveal that certain tracts actually belong to one side or the other, creating an instant dispute. In this situation, hiring an experienced property lawyer might be prudent, as it may be possible to negotiate a new boundary line without court intervention. If a legal dispute with a neighbor is unavoidable, be sure to rely on knowledgeable experts familiar with state and local property laws. Although it may seem pricey and unnecessary at the outset, working with a consultant familiar with tree law (yes, these exist!) or a riparian rights expert could help save valuable property rights in the future.

Property disputes gone wild

Think your neighborhood is too dignified for unseemly lawsuits and tree consultants? Think again. Historically, boundary line, nuisance, and property disputes have comprised a sizable portion of local courts’ equity dockets. Some of these disputes have reached epic proportions:

In Port Angeles, WA, a neighbor who was disgruntled over the height of an adjacent fence decided to level it with a bulldozer. After apparently failing to review the owner’s manual, however, the neighbor ended up damaging four homes and cutting power to 1,000 local residents, resulting in a Class B felony.
In Orange County, CA, a long-standing rivalry between neighbors resulted in a heated encounter over fireworks, which one neighbor deemed the last straw. When he tromped over to complain, the other neighbor fatally shot him through the screen door, a crime which landed him in jail for life.
In another dispute-related fatality, a North Carolina man cemented over a drainage ditch, resulting in significant overflow into the neighbor’s property. The neighbor, enraged, confronted the man and ultimately shot him over the dispute.

As you can see, even seemingly benign disputes with adjacent landowners can lead to disastrous conclusions. Take heed, and prepare to prevent conflict before it starts. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

How to Stage a Home Everyone Will Want for Their Own By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

August 24, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team First impressions mean everything — especially when it comes to viewing a potential home. As visual beings, a cluttered space or a jarring wall color can be enough to make us turn around and walk out the door. Successfully staged spaces provide two effects: they give a home an aesthetic appeal, and offer buyers an opportunity to dream themselves into the space. If there’s one thing professional stagers know about designing spaces that appeal to buyers, it’s the art of selecting great decor pieces while utilizing space. The goal is making the most positive impact. Here are five helpful staging tips a professional interior designer used to turn a listing into a sold home in no time.

Know your audience

Staging is less about your personal style, and all about the buyer or renter you’re trying to attract. You must always know your audience in order to create a successful staging design. Discuss this matter with the broker, and research the neighborhood to understand the demographic that will be looking to purchase or rent your home.

Pack up the photos first

You want the potential buyer or renter to be able to envision themselves living in the space, but that’s a bit difficult when someone else’s family photos line the walls. Put all family photos away in a safe place to allow room for visitors to imagine themselves in the space.

Don’t be afraid of trends

While it’s true that some trends have a short lifespan, in staging the risk may be worth it. The timeline for renting or selling is typically short enough for design trends to thrive while a home is on the market. So, if you’re itching to try out all the Mediterranean Santorini blue accents popping up lately, go for it. Trendy designs and colors will give the home a current, fresh look.

A little color goes a long way

The goal in staging is to enhance a space, not distract from it. Usually a safe bet is to create a neutral space that any person, regardless of their taste, can appreciate. Bold colors and daring decor could be loved by some and loathed by others. For instance, walking into an overwhelming yellow bedroom can make potential buyers forget all about those beautiful marble counters in your kitchen. The last thing you want is for buyers to remember your staged space as “the one with that tacky yellow room.” That said, you shouldn’t be afraid of color. A trendy color applied in a tasteful way could leave buyers referring to the home as “the one with the gorgeous teal wall.”

Show how livable the space is

The most important reason for staging is to show the full potential of how a space can be used. You should try to bring in as many functional pieces as possible while not overcrowding the space. Steer clear of oversized or bulky furniture. Details like this make a space feel cluttered and dysfunctional. Opt for full size beds with two night stands, armless side chairs, lifted case goods and round, pedestal-base tables. Sometimes it’s a good idea to complete the picture. Even if you think a dining table crowds the space, at least show a two-seat dining set, as it’s more important to show that it could work than leave it out entirely. The final thing to keep in mind is that staging doesn’t have to break the bank. Be creative and consider DIY options when you’re designing your space. In most cases, just keep these tips in mind and remember: Less is more. A few simple changes and you’ll be on your way to a space that other people are eager to live in. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

Simple as Black and White: Stark Contrast Design By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

August 21, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Black and white is a pairing as old as time. These sharply contrasting shades add the perfect amount of chic to any room, whether used as a focal point or an accessory. Here are some classic ways to incorporate this winning combination in every room of your home.

Geometric giant

Wallpaper is a great way to reinvent a room, and an even better way to show off your interior design skills. Today’s trendy patterns combine black, white and geometric.

Sharp angles and lines are the perfect solution for a space in need of a face-lift. Accessorize your newly graphic room with glossy finishes and metallic trinkets for a contemporary look.

Pillows and blankets and linens — oh my!

Scared of commitment? Try on this stark style by adding throw pillows and comfy accents to a black or white outfitted bed for an instant style boost. Mix large patterned pillows with solid-colored lumbar sizes to create contrast.

Pile on textured throws in black and white (or both) for a voluminous take on the classic combo. Round out the look with pieces of abstract art in shades of gray and a bedside lamp or two in your favorite metallic tone.

Back to black

We’ve all seen white walls, but what about black accent walls? Though it is a little intimidating at first, a black wall adds just the right amount of contemporary contrast when you’re not sure how to go about painting your room.

Whether you like semi-gloss or super matte, a black accent wall is great for rooms with lots of natural light and plush furniture for some added edginess. Hang statement artwork on the wall or layer on interesting sconces for an eclectic twist.

Black and white and clean all over

For a classically styled black and white room, start with the kitchen. Because black and white is so crisp and clean, it’s the perfect spot to test out this smooth style. Alternate the colors between different areas of the kitchen — a black range, white cabinetry, black countertop, white backsplash—and you’ll find that you didn’t even notice you had only used two colors.

The alternating shades add depth and dimension throughout the space without adding too much color. Keep it clean with chrome or gold-toned faucets and hardware, and add freshness with colored glass accessories.

Sweet serenity

While the bathroom is often one of the last places to get any attention for its decor, it might be the first place you want to try the black and white trend. Black and white alternating tiles add texture and dimension to an accent wall.

Mix cool, dark cabinetry with shimmering light fixtures for extra glamour. Keep the rest of the room simple and serene by adding an unfussy floral arrangement and plush linens, and you’ll find that the bathroom might just be your favorite room in the house.

It doesn’t matter if your style is cool and contemporary or totally traditional, combining black and white paint, accents, and furniture is an easy to way to boost any room in your home, while adding sleek simplicity. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

4 Tips for Selling a Home Far Away By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

August 18, 2015 Joe Szabo

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Just a few years ago, at the height of the real estate crisis, if homeowners were transferred for work or moved for personal reasons and couldn’t afford to sell their homes, they often opted to become “accidental” landlords. Not experienced real estate investors, they became such as a result of the market. Now that the economy has picked up, many of these landlords are finally selling their investments. If you know that you’ll be selling a home remotely, don’t wait until the last minute. It’s hard enough to sell a home, and being far away makes it even more difficult to prep the home, deal with tenants and make sure that you have the best agent for the job. Here are some tips for making your sale a success.

Make sure you’ve lived in the home for at least two of the past five years

The federal government allows homeowners to sell their home without paying taxes on the first $250,000 in gain for single people, or $500,000 for married folks. The catch is that the home has to have been your primary residence for at least two of the past five years. Many people don’t realize this requirement, nor do they plan for it, and they end up with a taxable gain. Still others don’t account for timing and end up selling “under the gun” to make the deadline. To benefit from this amazing tax break, the sale has to close within the appropriate window. Know this and plan ahead. Otherwise, the home will be taxed as an investment property.

Get a good agent on board early

The smartest remote sellers have a solid agent with their feet on the street. A good agent provides a local resource for their clients. They can field late night calls from owners with leaky faucets, or intervene with tenant issues. If you don’t know a good local agent, try to identify one before you move away, or on a visit back to the old home. Solidify the relationship well before you plan to sell, and do it in person, because that agent’s time can be invaluable. Once the time comes to sell, it could be as easy as picking up the phone and asking the agent to execute the listing.

Stay on top of the home’s market

Put together a search of your property and stay on top of what’s selling in the area. Follow similar-sized homes that go for sale and keep an eye on their listings. A smart homeowner will keep a search open at all times, in addition to staying in touch with their real estate agent. Just one or two comparable sales, at the right price, could motivate you to take action.

Take care of your tenants

Nobody wants to be displaced. Moving is incredibly disrupting. If you’ve been renting your home and are likely to sell to someone who will want to live there, as opposed to inheriting your tenant, then give your tenant some notice of your intention to sell. A smart homeowner will tell the tenant upfront of their long-term plan and write language into the rental agreement stating that the tenant needs to cooperate for showings at the end of the lease. If you have a good relationship with your tenant, drop their rent while the home is for sale, in return for their cooperation. It will go a long way towards a solid relationship. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

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