Now is the perfect time to purchase your first home!
Interest rates remain historically low and property selection is excellent. By taking just a few basic steps you will be soon standing at the door of your first home. But before you get to that point there are a few things we should discuss.
First home buyers are some of my absolute favorite clients! I think it has to do with their energy level and how I become a part of that energy. It seems first homes are the most memorable – there is a lot of emotion and energy that moves in along with that couch and kitchen table.
There are a couple of steps first-time home buyers can take that will greatly simplify the process of purchasing their first home. Preparing for your first home purchase starts well ahead of moving your stuff - or picking out paint and decorating schemes.
Probably one of the most important considerations is how the home will be purchased. Rich uncles can come in very handy at this point but if you do not have the luxury of a 'rich uncle' now may be a good time to consider the various financing options that are available to first-time buyers.
There are a number of great programs available to new home buyers but before you do anything else, I recommend you take a moment to talk with a REALTOR® - and I would whole-heartedly encourage that individual be affiliated with the CRS (Council of Residential Specialists) for added assurance of receiving the utmost in guidance.
A CRS designee must complete specialized, residential real estate focused, training PLUS have verifiable sales and listing volumes to be eligible for this designation. CRS designees provide better service because they want to – they are driven to. Their personal goals to provide best-practice services become the basis for the demonstrated sales performance. The bottom line is first-time home buyers can have assurance their CRS affiliated REALTOR® will provide them with the best service possible!
The value of this initial guidance is immeasurable and will do more to ensure a successful, smooth transaction than any other step in the process. In fact, once you are connected with a CRS affiliate, everything - including the search for financing - will become much easier.
Please note this as well: It is important to consider shopping for financing much in the same way as buying a pair of sneakers. You may need to shop around to find the best 'fit'. (This particular analogy has real meaning for me because I have webbed toes and a ‘bad fit’ means pain down the path. OK, that was probably too much personal information . . .)
In any event, your CRS-affiliated REALTOR® can offer the necessary guidance regarding locating qualified and capable lenders that offer programs especially designed for that perfect ‘first-step’ home buyer ‘fit’!
Have fun - and stay safe!
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
www.MNFirstHomeBuyer.com
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
The Splendor of Land Ownership!
Minnesota offers a rich year-round heritage for people longing to spend time outdoors. Our land, our woods, and our lakes create the backdrop for countless memories of family gatherings and ventures. Be it ice fishing on one of our countless ‘No-Name' lakes or traveling trails - by foot or sled or hoof or ATV - Minnesota offers a bounty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
Much of this heritage began with the family farms of yesterday. Those farms became - and still remain - the primary gathering points for some of our best upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting, deer hunting, and fishing. It would be difficult for me to imagine an existence devoid of these memories.
Speaking from personal experience, the most-cherished of all my memories of outdoor excursion and adventure have taken place on my family's home farm. A property we have been so privileged to have resided on and managed for over 100 years and five generations. This, in a nutshell, illustrates the allure of property ownership. It is the preservation of history and a link to both past and future generations.
If you are seriously considering the dream of owning your personal duck pass or deer woods or ‘Lake No-Name', there are countless opportunities available. And now, with the bonus of low interest rates, we have not just countless opportunities - but perfect opportunities - to turn those dreams into reality.
Real estate has historically been a great investment for three reasons. First, there is a limited supply (no more is being made). Second, we are seeing an ever-increasing demand as Baby Boomers seek to enter a major chapter in their lives: Retirement in Minnesota's Lake Country. And, third, it is an investment you can walk on, you can point to it on a map, and you can build all your dreams and memories on it. Try doing that on a day-by-day basis with a money market account!
Take care - and stay safe,
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Much of this heritage began with the family farms of yesterday. Those farms became - and still remain - the primary gathering points for some of our best upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting, deer hunting, and fishing. It would be difficult for me to imagine an existence devoid of these memories.
Speaking from personal experience, the most-cherished of all my memories of outdoor excursion and adventure have taken place on my family's home farm. A property we have been so privileged to have resided on and managed for over 100 years and five generations. This, in a nutshell, illustrates the allure of property ownership. It is the preservation of history and a link to both past and future generations.
If you are seriously considering the dream of owning your personal duck pass or deer woods or ‘Lake No-Name', there are countless opportunities available. And now, with the bonus of low interest rates, we have not just countless opportunities - but perfect opportunities - to turn those dreams into reality.
Real estate has historically been a great investment for three reasons. First, there is a limited supply (no more is being made). Second, we are seeing an ever-increasing demand as Baby Boomers seek to enter a major chapter in their lives: Retirement in Minnesota's Lake Country. And, third, it is an investment you can walk on, you can point to it on a map, and you can build all your dreams and memories on it. Try doing that on a day-by-day basis with a money market account!
Take care - and stay safe,
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
He was Tough, but Never Hardened
I had intended to provide a brief overview of the CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designation today but, instead, will postpone that bit of information for another day.
I paid a visit to the Minnesota Veteran's Home located in Fergus Falls yesterday and had the opportunity to share some time with a resident. Until that moment he was unknown to me, but our conversation managed to awaken a flood of memories related to many dear friends now since departed. Without exception, the passing of each has made my life both richer with the lessons they shared . . . and less full in the profound absence of their physical presence.
Each friendship has been a journey laden with joy as immense as sorrow's depth. These men and women understood not just the concept of allegiance, but the cost. Through it all, I believe their strengths have shared a common thread. As difficult as times were - with hardships I can't even fathom - these great humans were never hardened in their hearts. In fact, that alone - their tenacious grasp on human kindness and patience, an unwavering hope for greater good - is likely what allowed them to survive these gravest of moments in our Nation's recent history.
And with the passing of each - as we pay final tribute - the same question taunts my confidence: Could we ever be as strong as these? (I pray that we should never find out.)
Not long ago I was driving through town and noticed an elderly gentlemen waiting to cross the street. I slowed to a stop so that he could cross and when I did, I recognized him - a WWII Veteran and close friend of the family. I had not seen him in some time but had heard he was engaged in yet another trying battle - a battle with dementia. As I watched him pass before me, I saw in his stride the pride he held for our Nation. Here walked a man of Honor. My throat tightened with each step he took. His journey - his life - had become an endless confrontation with forces that first sought to debilitate governments with the same callous ravage as he was now facing in his own mind.
And then, just as he stood directly in front of my paused vehicle, in a moment that will never escape my memory, he turned towards me. He was no longer able to recognize who I was, but it did not matter. From the depths of his being, he straightened his worn frame, stood at attention, and saluted. There was no point in trying to fight the tears that ran down my cheeks. He would remain unwaivering and steadfast - to God and Country - until his final step.
He turned and proceeded to the other side of the street to continue his, by all appearances, carefree journey - distracted by little, or nothing at all.
So, what does this story have to do with real estate? Absolutely nothing . . . and absolutely everything. The story is all about service to others. For each of us - you and I - in all we do, regardless of what we do, we should do our very best in service to those around us.
Today, Veteran's Day is nearly half-way around the calendar. I would hope we should not wait so long to take a moment to thank a Veteran - or 'future' Veteran - for their service to our Nation and also, through a handshake or a pat on the back, we might feel the immeasurable strength of those tough hearts that were never hardened. May God continue to bless America with hearts such as these.
Jon
I paid a visit to the Minnesota Veteran's Home located in Fergus Falls yesterday and had the opportunity to share some time with a resident. Until that moment he was unknown to me, but our conversation managed to awaken a flood of memories related to many dear friends now since departed. Without exception, the passing of each has made my life both richer with the lessons they shared . . . and less full in the profound absence of their physical presence.
Each friendship has been a journey laden with joy as immense as sorrow's depth. These men and women understood not just the concept of allegiance, but the cost. Through it all, I believe their strengths have shared a common thread. As difficult as times were - with hardships I can't even fathom - these great humans were never hardened in their hearts. In fact, that alone - their tenacious grasp on human kindness and patience, an unwavering hope for greater good - is likely what allowed them to survive these gravest of moments in our Nation's recent history.
And with the passing of each - as we pay final tribute - the same question taunts my confidence: Could we ever be as strong as these? (I pray that we should never find out.)
Not long ago I was driving through town and noticed an elderly gentlemen waiting to cross the street. I slowed to a stop so that he could cross and when I did, I recognized him - a WWII Veteran and close friend of the family. I had not seen him in some time but had heard he was engaged in yet another trying battle - a battle with dementia. As I watched him pass before me, I saw in his stride the pride he held for our Nation. Here walked a man of Honor. My throat tightened with each step he took. His journey - his life - had become an endless confrontation with forces that first sought to debilitate governments with the same callous ravage as he was now facing in his own mind.
And then, just as he stood directly in front of my paused vehicle, in a moment that will never escape my memory, he turned towards me. He was no longer able to recognize who I was, but it did not matter. From the depths of his being, he straightened his worn frame, stood at attention, and saluted. There was no point in trying to fight the tears that ran down my cheeks. He would remain unwaivering and steadfast - to God and Country - until his final step.
He turned and proceeded to the other side of the street to continue his, by all appearances, carefree journey - distracted by little, or nothing at all.
So, what does this story have to do with real estate? Absolutely nothing . . . and absolutely everything. The story is all about service to others. For each of us - you and I - in all we do, regardless of what we do, we should do our very best in service to those around us.
Today, Veteran's Day is nearly half-way around the calendar. I would hope we should not wait so long to take a moment to thank a Veteran - or 'future' Veteran - for their service to our Nation and also, through a handshake or a pat on the back, we might feel the immeasurable strength of those tough hearts that were never hardened. May God continue to bless America with hearts such as these.
Jon
Monday, March 24, 2008
Buying or Selling a Property? Pay Attention!
I was hoping to walk away with some inspirational material today after a visit with our Miniature Donkeys, Amber Rose and Benjamin. Well, I certainly did walk away with some ‘material’ but, being located on the bottom of my overshoe, it did little to inspire me.
In a near-vain effort to ‘walk off’ my new-found ‘inspiration’ I paced about near our barn in one of the few remaining drifts of snow. In that moment of dreadful futility, Amber and Ben’s message dawned on me: PAY ATTENTION!
I looked back over my shoulder to see Ben’s cheesy grin as he mused on my struggle. I thanked him for the guidance and he replied with a snort of approval while trotting back into the barn.
Indeed, it is very important to pay attention – especially when buying or selling property.
For sellers, it is absolutely vital that thought be given to the most effective marketing efforts available. Today, that means using the services of a professional agent – one that understands how to effectively market property with the goal of maximizing seller proceeds. This will likely require an understanding of broad-brush marketing techniques utilizing the latest technologies as well as an eye for the fine points of property presentation – or ‘staging’. Staging is basically a seller’s stepping back to identify and best remedy property conditions they may have grown accustomed to in their day-to-day living that might interfere with a buyer’s ability to see a seller’s home as their home.
Obviously a buyer needs to pay attention as well to find a property that best meets the buyer’s needs. Similarly, a service professional – spelled ‘REALTOR®’ - can provide equal value to a buyer. A house does not become a home unless it meets the needs of the owners. People occupy houses but they live in homes. By paying attention, a REALTOR® can hear what is most important to a buyer and help identify properties that meet the rational needs and thereby empower the buyer to make the emotional connection.
In summary, buying and selling in the real estate market should be a pleasant experience. To ensure your next transaction does not leave you feeling like you ‘stepped in something’, pay attention and hire a REALTOR®.
My next post will review a designation held by fewer than 4% of REALTORS® and how that designation adds exceptional value for both buyers and sellers. The designation is offered by the Council of Residential Specialists, the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®. Stay tuned to the REAL Blog For Real People!
In a near-vain effort to ‘walk off’ my new-found ‘inspiration’ I paced about near our barn in one of the few remaining drifts of snow. In that moment of dreadful futility, Amber and Ben’s message dawned on me: PAY ATTENTION!
I looked back over my shoulder to see Ben’s cheesy grin as he mused on my struggle. I thanked him for the guidance and he replied with a snort of approval while trotting back into the barn.
Indeed, it is very important to pay attention – especially when buying or selling property.
For sellers, it is absolutely vital that thought be given to the most effective marketing efforts available. Today, that means using the services of a professional agent – one that understands how to effectively market property with the goal of maximizing seller proceeds. This will likely require an understanding of broad-brush marketing techniques utilizing the latest technologies as well as an eye for the fine points of property presentation – or ‘staging’. Staging is basically a seller’s stepping back to identify and best remedy property conditions they may have grown accustomed to in their day-to-day living that might interfere with a buyer’s ability to see a seller’s home as their home.
Obviously a buyer needs to pay attention as well to find a property that best meets the buyer’s needs. Similarly, a service professional – spelled ‘REALTOR®’ - can provide equal value to a buyer. A house does not become a home unless it meets the needs of the owners. People occupy houses but they live in homes. By paying attention, a REALTOR® can hear what is most important to a buyer and help identify properties that meet the rational needs and thereby empower the buyer to make the emotional connection.
In summary, buying and selling in the real estate market should be a pleasant experience. To ensure your next transaction does not leave you feeling like you ‘stepped in something’, pay attention and hire a REALTOR®.
My next post will review a designation held by fewer than 4% of REALTORS® and how that designation adds exceptional value for both buyers and sellers. The designation is offered by the Council of Residential Specialists, the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®. Stay tuned to the REAL Blog For Real People!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Will Mortgage Rates Drop Any Lower?
Greetings! I have had opportunity to visit with several of our area lenders over the last couple of days and I would like to take a moment to summarize some of the things I have both read and heard. What I have been told - and supported with what I have reviewed - is that interest rates continue to fluctuate almost daily but are probably at the bottom of the range right now and are remaining very attractive with 15-year money at 4.75 and 30-year money settling around 5.5. The opinion of many people - based on my conversations and readings - is that rates are not likely to drop much beyond their present levels - if at all - and it might be a good time to consider locking in if that is in keeping with your plans. As always, your mileage may vary.
That reminds me, I was speaking with a lawyer-friend of mine the other day and he suggested I include a disclaimer with anything I might state in this blog that could be construed as 'advice'.
Here it is:
FINAL DISCLAIMER on the contents of My REAL Blog
The statements expressed herein do not reflect the thoughts or opinions of either myself, my company, my friends, or my donkeys: don't quote me on that; don't quote me on anything; this disclaimer is subject to change without notice; text is slightly enlarged to show detail; resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is unintentional and coincidental; dry clean only; do not bend, fold, or mutilate; anchovies or jalapenos added to this disclaimer upon request; your mileage may vary; no substitutions are allowed; for a limited time only while supplies last; offer void where prohibited; this disclaimer is provided "as is" without any warranties expressed or implied; Do not remove this tag under penalty of law; Confined Space - Do Not Enter; user assumes full liabilities; not liable for damages due to use or misuse; equal opportunity disclaimer; no shoes, no shirt, no blogging; caveat emptor; read at your own risk; this disclaimer may contain material some readers find objectionable; parental advisory: explicit lyrics; keep away from pets and small children; limit one-per-family please; no money down; no purchase necessary; ask us about our non-guns-trade-in plan; you need not be present to win; some assembly required; batteries not included; action figures sold separately; this disclaimer was packed full, contents may have settled during transmitting; sanitized and sealed for your protection; do not read if safety seal is broken; do not read while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment; safety reading goggles may be required during use; call before you use this disclaimer; use only with proper ventilation; for external use only; if a swelling, redness, rash, or irritation develops, discontinue reading; do not place near a flammable or magnetic source; keep away from open flames; avoid inhaling fumes or contact with nasal membranes; disclaimer contents under pressure, may explode if incinerated (joke – really); smoking this disclaimer may be hazardous to your health; the best safeguard, second only to abstinence, is the use of this disclaimer; text is made from 100% recycled electrons and magnetic particles; no electrons were injured in preparing this disclaimer; no animals were used to test this disclaimer; no salt, MSG, preservatives, artificial colour or flavour added; if ingested, do not induce vomiting, if symptoms persist, consult a medicinal blogger; possible penalties for early withdrawal; one size fits all; this disclaimer is valid only at participating blog sites; slightly higher north of Brisbane; allow four to six weeks for delivery; if defects are found, do not try to fix them yourself, but return to an authorized disclaimer writer; please remain seated until the disclaimer has come to a complete stop; reading in the mirror may be more complicated than it appears; this disclaimer does not cover hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and other Acts of God, sonic boom vibrations, electromagnetic radiation from nuclear blasts, unauthorized repair, improper installation, misuse, typos, misspelled words, missing or altered signatures, and incidents owing to computer or disk failure, accidental file deletions, or milk coming out of your nose due to laughing while drinking; other restrictions may apply; in the event a disclaimer should be found necessary for this disclaimer, this disclaimer shall serve as the official disclaimer disclaiming anything that may necessitate a disclaimer thereby disclaiming any claimable act and declaring as disclaimable any allegation stemming from claims made by the original or any subsequent author of this disclaimer.
I think that should about cover it. Until next time - stay safe.
Jon
http://www.fergusfallsproperties.com/
http://www.searchfergusfalls.com/
That reminds me, I was speaking with a lawyer-friend of mine the other day and he suggested I include a disclaimer with anything I might state in this blog that could be construed as 'advice'.
Here it is:
FINAL DISCLAIMER on the contents of My REAL Blog
The statements expressed herein do not reflect the thoughts or opinions of either myself, my company, my friends, or my donkeys: don't quote me on that; don't quote me on anything; this disclaimer is subject to change without notice; text is slightly enlarged to show detail; resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is unintentional and coincidental; dry clean only; do not bend, fold, or mutilate; anchovies or jalapenos added to this disclaimer upon request; your mileage may vary; no substitutions are allowed; for a limited time only while supplies last; offer void where prohibited; this disclaimer is provided "as is" without any warranties expressed or implied; Do not remove this tag under penalty of law; Confined Space - Do Not Enter; user assumes full liabilities; not liable for damages due to use or misuse; equal opportunity disclaimer; no shoes, no shirt, no blogging; caveat emptor; read at your own risk; this disclaimer may contain material some readers find objectionable; parental advisory: explicit lyrics; keep away from pets and small children; limit one-per-family please; no money down; no purchase necessary; ask us about our non-guns-trade-in plan; you need not be present to win; some assembly required; batteries not included; action figures sold separately; this disclaimer was packed full, contents may have settled during transmitting; sanitized and sealed for your protection; do not read if safety seal is broken; do not read while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment; safety reading goggles may be required during use; call before you use this disclaimer; use only with proper ventilation; for external use only; if a swelling, redness, rash, or irritation develops, discontinue reading; do not place near a flammable or magnetic source; keep away from open flames; avoid inhaling fumes or contact with nasal membranes; disclaimer contents under pressure, may explode if incinerated (joke – really); smoking this disclaimer may be hazardous to your health; the best safeguard, second only to abstinence, is the use of this disclaimer; text is made from 100% recycled electrons and magnetic particles; no electrons were injured in preparing this disclaimer; no animals were used to test this disclaimer; no salt, MSG, preservatives, artificial colour or flavour added; if ingested, do not induce vomiting, if symptoms persist, consult a medicinal blogger; possible penalties for early withdrawal; one size fits all; this disclaimer is valid only at participating blog sites; slightly higher north of Brisbane; allow four to six weeks for delivery; if defects are found, do not try to fix them yourself, but return to an authorized disclaimer writer; please remain seated until the disclaimer has come to a complete stop; reading in the mirror may be more complicated than it appears; this disclaimer does not cover hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and other Acts of God, sonic boom vibrations, electromagnetic radiation from nuclear blasts, unauthorized repair, improper installation, misuse, typos, misspelled words, missing or altered signatures, and incidents owing to computer or disk failure, accidental file deletions, or milk coming out of your nose due to laughing while drinking; other restrictions may apply; in the event a disclaimer should be found necessary for this disclaimer, this disclaimer shall serve as the official disclaimer disclaiming anything that may necessitate a disclaimer thereby disclaiming any claimable act and declaring as disclaimable any allegation stemming from claims made by the original or any subsequent author of this disclaimer.
I think that should about cover it. Until next time - stay safe.
Jon
http://www.fergusfallsproperties.com/
http://www.searchfergusfalls.com/
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Are We There Yet?
As kids, do you remember asking this question when on a trip, ‘Are we there yet?’ I’m actually hearing a good number of adults asking this same question today – but they are referring to the current real estate ‘road trip’. Are we there yet? Have we hit the ‘bottom’ in the real estate market?
It is a good question – and a fair question. The challenge in answering the question is the ‘bottom’ is a relative point. It is relative to the pre-existing downturn and also to the identifiable, and sustained, uptick. To put it another way, it is only possible to identify the bottom in hindsight. I’ve had people recently share with me that we will hit the ‘bottom’ in June of 2008. The truth of the matter is we won’t know for certain if the bottom occurs in June until November – or even later.
As I had shared in an earlier post, I believe the region of West Central Minnesota was largely insulated from the brunt of the national downturn in the housing market. We were fortunate. There are probably a number of reasons for this but here are three that seem to make sense to me. First, a significant component of our local economy is based on agriculture and farming and this segment had a good year. Second, our property values are attractive in comparison to other areas of the country. Third, the ‘Baby Boomers’ are coming. They are very interested in our area lakes and communities as they plan and prepare for their retirement dreams. Without a doubt, the counties of Otter Tail and Douglas are on their radar!
There has been some very encouraging news in recent days that would suggest the local housing market is making positive movement. Recent statistics on foreclosures in Otter Tail County are suggesting an improvement over the last two years. Otter Tail county reported three fewer foreclosures in 2007 than were reported in 2006. This is great news!
In addition, interest rates remain historically low. This, in combination with a very favorable inventory and selection of properties currently on the market, and with new offerings arriving daily, is generating excitement amongst buyers. In fact, the last couple of weeks have shown increased buyer activity and interest.
So, are we there yet? I think we are very close, but here is the point that begs consideration: If we are just in front of the ‘bottom’, or just beyond it, the market will basically be priced at the same level. However, now may still be the best time to make the purchase because now there is both certainty in interest rates and the established pricing levels as many currently listed properties have been priced to reflect little market appreciation. Rest assured, current inventory holds a number of very, very attractive values.
As future properties are priced in a market of greater confidence, sellers may be more likely to reflect a measure of sustainable market appreciation in their pricing. As for interest rates, only time will tell. The latest information I have from one of our local lenders is mortgage rates have been on a mini-rollercoaster – but remaining in a very favorable range.
There you have it - perhaps some of the best free advice out there. As always, your actual mileage may vary. I hope you stop again to review the latest posts on My REAL Blog – REAL Information for REAL People!
Jon Drews
Website: http://www.searchfergusfalls.com/
Website: http://www.fergusfallsproperties.com/
BLOG: My REAL Blog
It is a good question – and a fair question. The challenge in answering the question is the ‘bottom’ is a relative point. It is relative to the pre-existing downturn and also to the identifiable, and sustained, uptick. To put it another way, it is only possible to identify the bottom in hindsight. I’ve had people recently share with me that we will hit the ‘bottom’ in June of 2008. The truth of the matter is we won’t know for certain if the bottom occurs in June until November – or even later.
As I had shared in an earlier post, I believe the region of West Central Minnesota was largely insulated from the brunt of the national downturn in the housing market. We were fortunate. There are probably a number of reasons for this but here are three that seem to make sense to me. First, a significant component of our local economy is based on agriculture and farming and this segment had a good year. Second, our property values are attractive in comparison to other areas of the country. Third, the ‘Baby Boomers’ are coming. They are very interested in our area lakes and communities as they plan and prepare for their retirement dreams. Without a doubt, the counties of Otter Tail and Douglas are on their radar!
There has been some very encouraging news in recent days that would suggest the local housing market is making positive movement. Recent statistics on foreclosures in Otter Tail County are suggesting an improvement over the last two years. Otter Tail county reported three fewer foreclosures in 2007 than were reported in 2006. This is great news!
In addition, interest rates remain historically low. This, in combination with a very favorable inventory and selection of properties currently on the market, and with new offerings arriving daily, is generating excitement amongst buyers. In fact, the last couple of weeks have shown increased buyer activity and interest.
So, are we there yet? I think we are very close, but here is the point that begs consideration: If we are just in front of the ‘bottom’, or just beyond it, the market will basically be priced at the same level. However, now may still be the best time to make the purchase because now there is both certainty in interest rates and the established pricing levels as many currently listed properties have been priced to reflect little market appreciation. Rest assured, current inventory holds a number of very, very attractive values.
As future properties are priced in a market of greater confidence, sellers may be more likely to reflect a measure of sustainable market appreciation in their pricing. As for interest rates, only time will tell. The latest information I have from one of our local lenders is mortgage rates have been on a mini-rollercoaster – but remaining in a very favorable range.
There you have it - perhaps some of the best free advice out there. As always, your actual mileage may vary. I hope you stop again to review the latest posts on My REAL Blog – REAL Information for REAL People!
Jon Drews
Website: http://www.searchfergusfalls.com/
Website: http://www.fergusfallsproperties.com/
BLOG: My REAL Blog
Monday, March 17, 2008
Has Anyone Seen My Shillelagh?
Welcome back! I think it is time to have a little fun. Today is St. Patrick’s Day and I’m Irish. If that were not reason enough, we have been hitting the books pretty hard in the last few posts. It is time to take a break and talk about fun stuff. With that said, let’s get a proper start to the day:
Top o' ye mornin' ter ya! Dust aff yisser shillelagh, be wearin’ somethin' green, an' dance ter a 'appy Oirish jig for a bit. Jist mind de wee people are aboyt an' 'ill be up ter mischief. That is why yer 'av de shillelagh 'andy in case any shud git close enoof dat yer might git a craic at dem wee buggers! Dare nigh, oi fale better already!
Well now, I hope you enjoyed that as much as I did . . . . .
I was out driving one of my favorite routes this last weekend - traveling up Highway 78 from Ashby and then across Highway 38 over to Highway 5 leading to Clitherall. It was mid-afternoon and the blue skies made for a spectacular backdrop as I traveled this especially hilly blend of fields and woods. The air temp was still a little cool – probably in the teens but the warmth of the sun was so great it caused bare-dirt fields to steam heavily.
Traveling north on Highway 5 I spotted six or seven Whitetail Deer comfortably grazing in an alfalfa field. They were probably a little more than a half-mile distant and were enjoying the exposed alfalfa that had – until this last week – been buried under a deep blanket of snow.
Later in the afternoon I went for a walk with Nikita, my Golden Retriever, just east of Fergus Falls. We were on a tract of land purchased by the Fergus Falls Fish & Game Club. The property includes benches along the way for a rest – if needed – and also has a very fine shelter located in the parking area. As we walked across the native prairie grass geese flew low overhead – trumpeting the arrival of our dear, old friend – SPRING!
Nikita and I just took it all in. I stopped for a moment to watch the continuous succession of small goose flocks passing overhead in waves. Then I turned slightly to better view the setting sun melt into a fiery display of red and golden hews. I thought to myself, ‘What a wonderful world.’ This is West Central Minnesota. A place where Canadian Geese and Trumpeter Swans gather on the open water of the Otter Tail River, a land glittered with literally 1,000’s of lakes, and a land where friendships grow strong. It is the place I am so privileged to call ‘home’.
Well, that is about all I have for now. I hope you enjoyed this read a bit more than the last post on 'Dual Agency' but, all things have their time and place on my REAL blog. Today it is snowing again. Spring feels a bit more distant. I need to remember it is only March and, as she is so prone to, Mother Nature is about her own form of Minnesota 'March Madness.'
In closing:
'May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be ever at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
And the rain fall softly on your fields
And until we meet again, May God hold
you in the hollow of his hand.'
- Traditional Irish Blessing
Thanks for stopping by.
Jon
P.S. - Would you like to be notified of future postings? It is as simple as subscribing to my blog. A link is at the very bottom of this thread and it is FREE!
Web: http://www.searchfergusfalls.com/
Web: http://www.fergusfallsproperties.com/
Blog: http://www.fergusfalls-realestate.com/
Top o' ye mornin' ter ya! Dust aff yisser shillelagh, be wearin’ somethin' green, an' dance ter a 'appy Oirish jig for a bit. Jist mind de wee people are aboyt an' 'ill be up ter mischief. That is why yer 'av de shillelagh 'andy in case any shud git close enoof dat yer might git a craic at dem wee buggers! Dare nigh, oi fale better already!
Well now, I hope you enjoyed that as much as I did . . . . .
I was out driving one of my favorite routes this last weekend - traveling up Highway 78 from Ashby and then across Highway 38 over to Highway 5 leading to Clitherall. It was mid-afternoon and the blue skies made for a spectacular backdrop as I traveled this especially hilly blend of fields and woods. The air temp was still a little cool – probably in the teens but the warmth of the sun was so great it caused bare-dirt fields to steam heavily.
Traveling north on Highway 5 I spotted six or seven Whitetail Deer comfortably grazing in an alfalfa field. They were probably a little more than a half-mile distant and were enjoying the exposed alfalfa that had – until this last week – been buried under a deep blanket of snow.
Later in the afternoon I went for a walk with Nikita, my Golden Retriever, just east of Fergus Falls. We were on a tract of land purchased by the Fergus Falls Fish & Game Club. The property includes benches along the way for a rest – if needed – and also has a very fine shelter located in the parking area. As we walked across the native prairie grass geese flew low overhead – trumpeting the arrival of our dear, old friend – SPRING!
Nikita and I just took it all in. I stopped for a moment to watch the continuous succession of small goose flocks passing overhead in waves. Then I turned slightly to better view the setting sun melt into a fiery display of red and golden hews. I thought to myself, ‘What a wonderful world.’ This is West Central Minnesota. A place where Canadian Geese and Trumpeter Swans gather on the open water of the Otter Tail River, a land glittered with literally 1,000’s of lakes, and a land where friendships grow strong. It is the place I am so privileged to call ‘home’.
Well, that is about all I have for now. I hope you enjoyed this read a bit more than the last post on 'Dual Agency' but, all things have their time and place on my REAL blog. Today it is snowing again. Spring feels a bit more distant. I need to remember it is only March and, as she is so prone to, Mother Nature is about her own form of Minnesota 'March Madness.'
In closing:
'May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be ever at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
And the rain fall softly on your fields
And until we meet again, May God hold
you in the hollow of his hand.'
- Traditional Irish Blessing
Thanks for stopping by.
Jon
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Web: http://www.searchfergusfalls.com/
Web: http://www.fergusfallsproperties.com/
Blog: http://www.fergusfalls-realestate.com/
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