Real Estate Solutions - Gene Mock, Aiken SC

Identifying a Credit Repair Scam

Gene Mock — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:15:57 GMT

Your credit score is a major factor when purchasing a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. In fact, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae won't even consider any applicant with a credit score below 620. Most people don't have excellent credit. That's why there is such a proliferation of credit repair companies out there. You've probably heard their spiel promising that they can get you top rate credit for a fee. Not all of these are reputable companies, though. You need to know how to identify a credit repair scam.

If the following promises or requirements are made by a credit repair agency, consider these red flags because they may be a credit repair scam:

Makes you pay up front. The Credit Repair Organizations Act mandates that credit repair agencies cannot receive any compensation until after they have completed all services promised to their client.
Promises you that they can remove ALL negative credit items whether they are accurate or not. This is illegal. Only information that has been mistakenly reported to the credit agencies can be removed. If it is a true negative credit item, there is nothing you can do about it. Only time and making responsible, positive steps in maintaining your credit will compensate for a negative credit history.
Suggests you dispute any and all negative information on your credit report, even if it's correct. Again, only wrongly reported items can be legally removed from your credit report.
Tells you not to contact Experian, TransUnion or Equifax yourself.
Won't advise you on what you can do for free yourself to improve your credit or let you know what your rights are as a consumer in regards to repairing your credit.
Suggests that you create a whole new credit history by applying for and then using an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to use in place of your Social Security number.

You will be held legally responsible for any fraud or illegal activity you participate in either directly or through an irreputable company. This includes filing false documents (saying something is wrong when it isn't), applying for an EIN under false pretenses and providing false information on a credit application through the mail, phone or internet. That's why it's important to identify a credit repair scam so you can avoid finding yourself in illegal hot water. It's smart to get your credit in order before you apply for a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, but you need to do it in a legal manner.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2012/02/02/identifying-a-credit-repair-scam/.

Play Good Comp/Bad Comp When Pricing a Home

Gene Mock — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:45:48 GMT

There are many factors to consider when selling your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. What is the best way to stage my home to make the most impact? What angle shows off this room best in photos? How will my home be marketed? Who do I hire as my real estate agent? These are but a few of the questions you may be asking yourself. When pricing your home to sell, though, it's time to play "good comp/bad comp".

You only get one chance to make a first impression. This includes your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home's sales price. Set it too low and you could be cheating yourself out of valuable profits. Set it too high and you run the risk of turning away potential buyers before they even set foot in your home. Studies show that a home that starts off with an asking price that is too high for the market ends up having to be reduced, often several times, before it actually gets sold. The home ends up on the market for months and tends to sell for less than if it had been priced competitively to begin with.

Real estate professionals use "comps" (comparable home sale prices) to help determine the best price point for your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home to maximize profits while minimizing its time on the market. A good comp is a home similar in size (square footage of home and lot, bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, etc) and amenities (pool, granite countertops, hardwood floors, etc). Don't use prices of homes that were sold more than 90 days ago because the market fluctuates and anything older than that can already be outdated. Since values can vary significantly from neighborhood to neighborhood as well as city to city, make sure that your real estate agent pulls comps from homes located as close to yours as possible, preferably within the same block, if possible.

Another good comp your agent can get you is a list of homes currently for sale in your area. See how much other Northern Virginia/South Carolina homeowners are asking for their properties. Find out how long these homes have been on the market and if they have been reduced at all in that amount of time. This can be valuable information.

Finally, one of the best "comps" you can get on your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home is from your real estate professional. They have been out there in the trenches day in and day out. They have an up close and personal knowledge of what's going on in the local real estate market. You would be smart to listen to their advice. Remember that they want to see that your home sale is a success almost as much as you do.

When pricing your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home to sell, play "good comp/bad comp". Using the prices of homes recently sold in your area, what homeowners are currently asking for their homes around you and what your real estate agent recommends you price your home at will help determine if you sell your home in the next few weeks or wait for months. Let me know when you're ready to get your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home on the market.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2012/01/26/play-good-compbad-comp-when-pricing-a-home/.

What to Do in a Power Outage

Gene Mock — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:46:52 GMT

Having your power go out is tough any time of the year. But, during the cold winter months, it can be especially harsh. This is a good time to follow the Boy Scout motto: Be Prepared. Here is what you need to do in case you experience a power outage in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home during the winter.

Create a home emergency kit. This kit should include at least a three day supply of water, food (canned and dry) and prescription medications for every member of the family, including baby and pet supplies, if needed. Additionally, flashlights, extra batteries and first aid supplies should be part of your kit. For a more detailed list of what is recommended, please visit FEMA's website. Keep a wrench handy in case you need to shut off the gas or water. Make sure everyone knows where the shutoffs are for these as well as where and how to turn off the electricity.

Look around. If you are the only Northern Virginia/South Carolina home in the dark, then a circuit breaker may be the culprit. However, if there are no lights on in the neighborhood, you need to contact your utility company to report an issue. They may already be aware of a problem in the area and can advise you on how long it will be out. Don't call 911 unless you see power lines down, especially if there are live wires jumping around, since this can be a major hazard.

Preemptive strike. Turn off and completely unplug all major appliances and electronics, including the TV and computer. This will help avoid the possibility of damage from a power surge once the power comes back on to your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. Food will stay safe for at least 4 hours in the fridge and 48 hours in the freezer if the doors remain closed, even when unplugged. Seal off any air leaks by placing rolled up blankets under your exterior doors and closing up the windows. Open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warmer air to flow through. Maintain a constant drip from your faucets to avoid bursting your water pipes.

Stay safe. Never use open flame, your oven or any heating device meant for outdoor use (such as your barbecue) to warm up the inside of your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. If you are using a portable generator, keep it outside, away from doors, windows or vents where carbon monoxide can find its way inside.

Huddle up. After you have layered on the clothing, get the family together in one room. Close all doors to any rooms you are not currently in. Your body heat will help keep your loved ones warm. Don't forget to add a hat and gloves to your ensemble. Most of your body heat escapes through the top of your head.

Create a signal. Keep at least one light switch in the "o"n position so you will know when power has been restored to your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home.

Winter in the Northern Virginia/South Carolina area can be really chilly. Knowing what to do in a power outage and being prepared beforehand can make it much easier on you and your loved ones when and if a disaster strikes.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia real estate blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2012/01/19/what-to-do-in-a-power-outage/.

The Three R's of Green Living

Gene Mock — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:48:23 GMT

There has been a lot of talk about "going green" over the last few years. With the population continuing to expand and valuable resources being used up, we need to take responsibility for how we treat our planet in order for our children and grandchildren to have something worthwhile in the future. You don't have to make major changes in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina lifestyle to make a major difference. Just remember the three R's of green living: reduce, recycle, reuse.

Reduce - It used to be difficult to find products that were packaged in biodegradable materials. However, many manufacturers are also advocating a greener way of life. Everything from laundry detergent to eggs can be found packaged in items that are easily recyclable, such as cardboard and paper. If you can only find the item you're looking for in plastic containers in Northern Virginia/South Carolina, make sure the plastic is the kind that can be recycled. Bring your own reusable shopping bags with you when you go to the grocery store or even the mall. This will help reduce plastic bag consumption. Since cloth bags are more sturdy then their plastic counterparts, you can fit more items in each bag as well.

Recycle - Most cities in Northern Virginia/South Carolina have adopted a recycling program of some sort that coincides with regular curbside pickup of household refuse. Many times, they will provide a separate trash can that you put all recyclables in: paper, cardboard, plastic, soda cans, etc. Contact your local trash company to find out what their policy is. If your city doesn't provide a program, you can separate your trash yourself. Set up a separate bin for paper products (including cardboard items), plastic items (milk jugs) and metal (such as soda cans and fruit/vegetable cans). Find your local recycling facility to take these bins when they fill up. There are many places that allow you to turn in your soda cans for money. So, you can get that $0.05/can that you are charged when you buy the product in the first place.

Reuse - Don't throw out something simply because you need to have the latest and greatest version. There's no reason to get rid of an item simply because you're trying to keep up with the Jonses. Old jelly jars, butter containers and milk jugs can be repurposed to separate and organize nuts, bolts and screws in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina garage, hold your leftovers or as a funnel to change your motor oil, respectively. You're only limited by your imagination.

A greener lifestyle doesn't mean making drastic changes. Just keep the three R's of green living in mind and you can make a big impact: reduce, recycle, reuse. Help keep Northern Virginia/South Carolina and the rest of the world beautiful for generations to come.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2012/01/12/the-three-rs-of-green-living/.

Buying a Foreclosure

Gene Mock — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:50:50 GMT

Are you considering purchasing a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home? Have you thought about buying a foreclosure property? Many people have. There are several foreclosures on the market right now (although the numbers appear to be dwindling). There's no guarantee that buying a foreclosure in Northern Virginia/South Carolina means you'll get a better bargain than going the traditional route, though. Here's a basic rundown on buying foreclosed properties.

The most common way to buy a Northern Virginia/South Carolina foreclosure is at auction. This can also be the riskiest. Typically, bidders aren't allowed inside the property before the auction begins. That leaves out the possibility of inspecting the interior condition of the home. There may be serious issues inside that can cost thousands of dollars but you won't know until you take ownership of the property. When you buy a home at a foreclosure auction, you literally get it "as is". Also, bidders don't usually have the opportunity to research the history of the property to make sure that there are no tax liens or other issues that would avoid a clear title.

You may be surprised to find out that most foreclosure auctions end up with no winning bid. Keep in mind that most foreclosed Northern Virginia/South Carolina homes up for auction are actually worth less than the amount required for a minimum bid. When this happens, the mortgage company takes the property back in its possession, may perform a few repairs (but not always) and will then sell it as an REO (Real Estate Owned) property. With an REO, a potential buyer has the opportunity to research the property's history as well as perform any inspections they wish to pay for on it before putting in an offer. Unlike traditional home sales, a bank may require you to use a specific escrow company, even if it's different than what you or your real estate agent have already decided to utilize. Also, banks aren't big on negotiating a "deal". They are usually selling their REOs to recoup their costs. So, giving them a lowball offer won't necessarily go over well. This is where an experienced, licensed real estate professional comes in handy.

When it comes to buying a foreclosure, expect the unexpected. There are several REO properties on the Northern Virginia/South Carolina real estate market that I would be happy to show you. Whether you purchase a home through a foreclosure/REO situation or via traditional means, there is no better sense of accomplishment than when you sign the papers and are handed the keys to your very own piece of the American dream. Feel free to contact me any time you are ready to buy or sell your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes real estate blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2012/01/05/buying-a-foreclosure/.

Home Inspections are Good for Buyers AND Sellers

Gene Mock — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:15:59 GMT

Many real estate experts believe that home inspections aren't just for Northern Virginia/South Carolina home buyers. Sellers can benefit from having a home inspection performed before they place their home on the market as well. But why are home inspections good for both buyers AND sellers? Let me explain.

Every home has the potential for problems, even newly constructed ones. Before you buy a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, you should always have a home inspection done. The inspection will give you some valuable insight into possible issues (big and small) that may cost you money down the road. This can help you when it comes time to negotiate the price. Let's say the seller is asking $210,000 for the home you're interested in. Upon first glance, it looks like the perfect deal. However, a home inspection reveals that the roofing is need of replacement within the next few months and the plumbing system is in desperate need of updating. This could cost you anywhere from $15,000-$25,000 dollars that will be coming out of your pocket. That means that the $210,000 asking price should actually be several thousand dollars less to compensate for it. These are issues that may not be visible on a regular walk-through of the property but can valuable information to have before closing a deal.

When you're selling your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, having an inspector come out to investigate your property can help point out what repairs are needed so that you get the most money possible for your home at sales time. Many buyers tend to overestimate how much it will cost to repair or replace an item by as much as twice the actual price. For example, if a buyer sees a water stain, they automatically believe that the whole system will need an overhaul, costing thousands of dollars or may turn them off buying the property entirely. In reality, it may be a simple leak that needs to be repaired with a bit of drywall to be replaced, costing a few hundred dollars instead. If you make the repair yourself, the buyer will never see that there was a problem to begin with and you can ask for what your home is truly worth.

A basic home inspection covers the plumbing, heating/cooling and electrical systems, a visual inspection of the roof, attic (including visible insulation), ceiling, walls, floors, basement and foundation. It is highly recommended that you are there when the inspector performs their inspection so that you can make sure all these areas are covered, have the "trouble spots" pointed out to you and ask any questions you may have. While a home inspector isn't legally required to inspect things such as mold and pest problems, a good inspector may still make recommendations as to whether they feel these areas may need further investigation if the possibility of harmful black mold or termites is visible.

Inspectors are also only legally required to inspect what they can see. This means that they don't have to move items to look behind them, such as bookshelves, pictures, etc. Sometimes, problems can be hidden even from a professional inspector. Again, a good home inspector will still do as much as they are able to in order to give you as thorough an inspection as possible on the Northern Virginia/South Carolina home in question.

Home inspections are good for buyers and sellers no matter how old or new the Northern Virginia/South Carolina home is. That is why real estate professionals recommend you spend the couple hundred dollars on an inspection before you buy OR sell a property. Let me know if you need any help finding a good home inspector. Please remember that this post is meant for information purposes only. I am not a professionally licensed home inspector.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes real estate blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/12/29/home-inspections-are-good-for-buyers-and-sellers/.

Make Gift Wrapping Easy

Gene Mock — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:02:20 GMT

Buying Christmas presents in Northern Virginia/South Carolina is the easy part. Wrapping them, on the other hand, can be quite a chore. Before you begin this part of the Christmas present tradition, here are a few tips for making the gift wrapping process easier.

Keep your all your holiday bows, ribbons, tape, tags, tissue paper, gift wrap, etc. in one place. This helps you stay organized as well as easily find what you need when you need it. You may want to consider purchasing a pair of scissors to keep with your supplies.

Hold all of your supplies in a good, sturdy container. Crafts stores like Michaels and Jo-Ann's Fabrics as well as Wal-Mart and Target sell long, rectangular containers that will hold wrapping paper tubes with ease. Other supplies will fit in there as well. They also easily store underneath your bed, keeping them in one place but out of the way.

Avoid wasting wrapping paper by measuring around the object you want to wrap first. Using a piece of string to wrap around the object can help you determine the amount of paper needed without pulling out the measuring tape.

If you're not a gift wrapping connoisseur, try a gift bag instead. They come in a wide variety of sizes to fit just about anything. For items that are too large for a gift bag, a little more creativity will be needed. Tableclohts, blankets, sheets and even decorative garbage bags will cover most large items. For things like bikes, go to your local appliance store and ask for a refrigerator, dishwasher or oven box. Then, all you have to do is open up one end of the box, place it over the top of the bike and put a bow on it. You're good to go.

Gift wrapping can sometimes be a daunting task. Following these tips will help make your gift wrapping easy. Happy holidays everyone!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes real estate blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/12/22/make-gift-wrapping-easy/.

Taking Care of Your Christmas Tree

Gene Mock — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:41:57 GMT

Many families in Northern Virginia/South Carolina will be celebrating this holiday season by setting up a Christmas tree. While it's fun to decorate and enjoy, these trees can also be a serious fire hazard when not properly cared for. Since fire departments report an increase in home fires during the holiday season due to Christmas trees, taking care of your Christmas tree is important. Here are a few tips on keeping your family safe while enjoying your Christmas tree.

The first step is choosing the right tree. Fire department officials recommend that you don't keep a cut Christmas tree in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home for more than two weeks. When choosing your tree, touch the needles and bend the branches to make sure they are pliable. If they break easily, the tree is too dry. Also, pick up the tree by the trunk and tap it on the ground. If lots of needles fall on the ground, that is a good indicator that the tree may be too dry.

Before you leave the Christmas tree lot, ask the attendants to cut 1-2" off the bottom of the tree. If you cut your tree yourself, make sure to cut that amount off before placing it in your tree holder. This allows for better water absorption. Keeping your tree hydrated is a key factor in preventing a fire.

Check the water reservoir every day to make sure there is plenty of water. According to experts, it's a myth that there is anything you can add to the water (aspirin, water, etc) to make the tree last longer. A cut tree begins to die from the time it is severed from its roots. That's why the fire department recommends keeping a decorated cut Christmas tree in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina for no more than two weeks.

Keep your tree three feet from any heat source, including the fireplace, heating vents, portable heaters and lit candles. Never decorate your tree with lit candles. Only use lights that have been approved by an independent lab for indoor use. Make sure there are no breaks or frayed wires along the light string. Never combine more than three strings of lights on one strand. This can overload the circuit. Also, don't overload the electrical outlets. This can short out the outlet and create a possible fire hazard.

Christmas trees burn too hot for a traditional fireplace or wood burning stove. So, never cut up your Christmas tree and use it for firewood in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. Instead, contact your local garbage disposal company to ask about their Christmas tree disposal policies.

Keep you and your family safe while enjoying the holidays. Taking care of your Christmas tree will help prevent a fire in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. Have a very Merry Christmas!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/12/15/christmas-tree-care-and-safety/.

Update Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank

Gene Mock — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 20:22:31 GMT

Kitchens remain a huge selling point for most Northern Virginia/South Carolina homes today. Maintaining and updating your kitchen should be one of your top priorities when it comes time to sell it. That doesn't necessarily mean spending thousands of dollars completely overhauling your kitchen, though. Not many homeowners have that kind of money to spend. You can update your kitchen without breaking the bank by adhering to the following simple guidelines.

A Little Elbow Grease - I can't stress enough how important it is to clean your Northern Virginia/South Carolina kitchen. I'm not talking about the surface stuff that most people do every day. I mean moving the refrigerator, lifting the top off the stove to get to the crumbs underneath, cleaning the baseboards and scrubbing your range's hood (where grease spatters). Wipe down the backsplash, walls, cabinets and front of your appliances so that they are positively gleaming.

Add/Change Hardware - You can completely change the look of a Northern Virginia/South Carolina kitchen by adding or changing out the knobs and pulls on the cabinets and drawers. Save even more money by buying them in bulk at your local home improvement center.

A Horse of a Different Color - Freshen up the room with a nice coat of paint. Using lighter colors will help brighten up the kitchen as well. At only around $15-$20 per gallon, this can be done in a weekend for very little money. Add molding to your cabinets before you paint for an interesting accent piece.

Try One or Two Higher End Updates - Replace the old faucet with a high end model. Add a customized hood over the stove. Replace old appliances with newer, more energy efficient models. Change/add a backsplash to just your oven area. This looks great and makes for easy clean up of cooking messes. Spending extra money in a couple of strategic places allows you to save money in others while still making your Northern Virginia/South Carolina kitchen look very chic to potential buyers.

When it comes time to sell your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, your kitchen can make or break a deal. But, you don't have to break the bank to update your kitchen. A few simple, inexpensive changes can turn your tried-and-true kitchen into a true showpiece. Let me know when you're ready to sell your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia real estate blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/12/08/update-your-kitchen-without-breaking-the-bank/.

Selling Your Home During the Holidays

Gene Mock — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 20:50:21 GMT

You're already busy with work, kids and errands. At this time of year, add shopping, decorating and entertaining to that list and you get even busier. Now, you need to sell your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home on top of it. Feel overwhelmed yet? Some sellers think they should wait until after the hustle and bustle of the season winds down. However, that could be a big mistake. Here are some of the reasons why selling your home during the holidays can actually be a good idea.

While the amount of traffic to view your Northern Virginia/South Carolina appears to be less, the potential buyers looking are more likely to be serious than other times of the year. Believe it or not, negotiating a deal during the holiday season tends to be less stressful as well. Buyers who need to relocate due to a job or other obligation are under a time crunch to find a home no matter what time of the year it is. And, if they have children, they are really motivated to negotiate a deal before the school year starts back after winter break.

Oftentimes, buyer traffic increases during the holidays. That's because you've got the power of the MLS on your side. Other agents have clients who are also looking for a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home during this time of year. You might even find that your home is seen by more potential buyers now than if you waited until the typically busy season of spring and summer. And, remember, these are highly motivated buyers, too. So, the potential for a successful sale is that much better.

During the holidays, homeowners tend to make their Northern Virginia/South Carolina homes shine with festive decorations and beautiful trimmings. When does your home ever look this great? Just get the family together every morning for a quick five minute run through to make sure any messes are picked up and you're good to go.

Even with the increased likelihood of a serious buyer during this time of the year, selling your home during the holidays can still feel extremely exhaustive. Keep in mind, however, that this is why you hire a REALTOR®. They are the ones that make sure your Northern Virginia/South Carolina is seen, set up open houses, meet and greet visitors, do the advertising and perform any other legwork that must be done. That way, you can go about your usual day-to-day routine. Let me know when you want to put your house on the market. There's no time like the present!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/12/01/selling-your-home-during-the-holidays/.

Fireplace Safety and Care

Gene Mock — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 20:39:32 GMT

Fireplaces are beautiful, provide wonderful ambiance and warmth and can be deadly if not properly taken care of. Now that the weather is getting chillier, more and more Northern Virginia/South Carolina residents are using their fireplaces to help stave off the cold. Since heating fires are responsible for over a third of the residential fires every year in rural areas, I thought it would be a smart idea to share some fireplace safety and care tips so that you can enjoy your fireplace without worry.

According to the US Fire Administration, you should have a professional chimney sweep inspect and clean your chimney or wood stove at least once a year. The buildup of creosote (that ugly black soot-like substance) can create a fire hazard in your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home since it is extremely flammable. If you use your fireplace a lot during the winter months, you may need to have it cleaned more than once during the season.

Holiday decorations look great around the fireplace. However, steer clear of placing flammable objects near the hearth, where random embers may land. Keep glass doors cleaned and open when burning the fire so that oxygen can help burn the wood completely and help prevent the buildup of creosote. Glass doors should be cleaned with warm soapy water rather than harsh chemicals. Use a metal mesh screen to help keep the crackle of a roaring fire contained in the fireplace. Always make sure the flue is open while using your fireplace.

When you aren't using the fireplace, keep the glass doors closed. This allows any toxic fumes to travel up the chimney and outside rather than into your home. It also prevents cold air from leaking into your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. Make sure your fire is completely out before leaving it unattended. Dispose of fresh ash and debris in a metal container that is kept away from flammable objects.

Seasoned, dry hardwoods like ash, oak, birch and maple are best when building a fire. Moist soft woods, like pine, fir, cedar and spruce, tend to build up creosote at a much quicker pace. As the water inside the wood heats up, it pops, creating the "crackle" that is fun to listen to but can be a fire hazard as well. While roaring fires can warm cold toes, keep your home fires small to produce less smoke. Never burn your trash in your fireplace and never leave the fire unattended.

With energy costs on the rise, many homeowners turn to their fireplaces and wood-burning stoves as a source of heat. Follow these fireplace safety and care tips to keep toasty during the chilly Northern Virginia/South Carolina weather as well as ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. Have a Happy Thanksgiving, too!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/11/23/fireplace-safety-and-care/.

Holiday Travel Tips

Gene Mock — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:25:02 GMT

Spending time with family during the holidays is a tradition many people engage in at this time of year. Whether you live in Northern Virginia, South Carolina or anywhere else, that may mean that you have to travel to get there. In fact, AAA recently announced that they estimated approximately 42.5 million people will be traveling the highways and byways during the holiday season. Here are a few holiday travel tips to help you stay safe and sane when traveling to see your friends and family.

By Air

Put a set of clothing for each person in each set of luggage instead of all in one, including at least one carry-on. That way, if a piece of luggage gets lost, everyone in your group still has clothing to wear.
Limit bags to 50 lbs or less to avoid extra fees.
Each passenger is allowed one carry-on luggage and one personal item (such as a purse or briefcase). Put your money, valuables, prescription medication, passport, ID, etc. in your carry-on luggage to avoid losing it at check-in.
Call ahead or visit your airport's online website to see what you are and are not allowed to carry through security and in what types of containers. You don't want to have to leave your expensive shampoos or other toiletries with airport security.
Drink plenty of water. Air passengers tend to get dehydrated much more quickly than on the ground.

By Car

Plot your course ahead of time. This includes not only the route you're taking but checking weather conditions (if necessary).
Travel during daylight hours if possible. It's harder and usually more expensive to find help if something goes wrong during the evening hours.
Keep your cell phone charged and ready to use. Remember, though, that many states across the country have adopted the "hands-free" policy for cell phone use. You could be ticketed if you use your cell phone while driving. Distracted drivers (including those using cell phones) are one of the leading causes of accidents.
Service your vehicle before you leave. Make sure you service it in plenty of time to perform repairs if necessary. Also, make sure you know where your spare tire is and that it is properly inflated. Have the mechanic top off fluids and check your tire pressure.
Create a "breakdown kit" which includes: a thermal blanket, drinking water, water to cool off the engine, flares/reflectors, a HELP sign, a flashlight (make sure the batteries work before you leave) and duct tape. Other things you may want to add to your kit are: jumper cables, a tire gauge, work gloves, basic screwdrivers, a pair of pliers, an Allen wrench, rope, a bungee cord, towels, a roll of toilet paper, plastic bags, a small tire inflator, an empty 1-gallon gas can and a disposable rain coat.
Always carry a basic first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. The first aid kit should include bandaids, antiseptic ointment, gauze, tape, splints and scissors.

In General

When packing, start at least a day early. You are less likely to forget something if you don't have to rush.
Make a list of what you need to take so you don't forget anything.
Pack light. Wherever your destination takes you will most likely have laundry facilities. So, packing the entire closet isn't necessary. A few key pieces that you can mix and match will decrease suitcase fatigue. This will also decrease your extra bag fees when traveling by air.

Following these holiday travel tips will help ease the stress that traveling creates. Stay safe and Happy Holidays, everybody!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/11/17/holiday-travel-tips/.

Holiday Moving Tips

Gene Mock — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:35:15 GMT

Moving can be a stressful time no matter what time of the year it is. But moving during the holidays can add to your stress levels, especially if you have kids. You can't always time the purchase of a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. You may have a job change, a sick family member that you need to move near or it may simply be that the purchase of your Northern Virginia/South Carolina took longer than you expected and now it's the holidays. Here are some helping holiday moving tips to make your move go smoother when you have children.

Kids pick up on a parent's frame of mind and adopt it for their own. So, the best thing to do first is to take a positive attitude about the move. Don't lament missing out on family functions or how hard this move will be during this time of year. Instead focus on how great the new Northern Virginia/South Carolina home is going to be, the new friends your kids will make and all the fun things you guys will be able to do once you're settled in.

Encourage good behavior by giving little rewards where you can. A bump in allowance, choosing something fun for their new room or maybe even letting them choose a place for the family to go to dinner are all ways to help kids keep a positive attitude about the move.

Since the older kids can be tougher to convince, you may need to do a little research of the new area for types of entertainment, youth groups, community sports or other things that appeal to your child's interests. If they have something to look forward to that interests them, it will help them stay in a positive frame of mind.

With all the changes happening right now, it is more important than ever to keep the family traditions alive. If caroling is your thing, make sure to go door to door in your new Northern Virginia/South Carolina neighborhood. Does your family love stringing popcorn and decorating the tree? You might have to do it twice this year (once at the old place and once at the new), depending on when you move. Your family traditions may need to be modified a little bit to fit your situation this year, but don't neglect them altogether. Kids need the security of knowing that, while the scenery may change, their basic schedule remains the same.

Finally, talk to your kids. Make sure they know that you are always willing to listen to anything they have to say. Acknowledge their concerns as valid and focus on the positive things coming from this big change.

I hope these holiday moving tips will help both you and your family during this sometimes stressful time. Congratulations on your new Northern Virginia/South Carolina home and have a happy holiday season!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/11/10/holiday-moving-tips/.

Winter Yard Care Tips

Gene Mock — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:52:23 GMT

Just because Old Man Winter is knocking on the door, you don't have to neglect your yard. In fact, taking care of necessary repairs and maintenance now will mean that your Northern Virginia/South Carolina home is in perfect condition when the spring blossoms. Here are a few winter yard care tips for you:

Make Repairs - While it may soon be too chilly to actually use your Northern Virginia/South Carolina deck, that doesn't mean you should neglect its care until the spring thaw. The cold winter weather can do serious damage to woodwork that is already seeing its share of wear and tear. If you see any warped areas or loose/cracked planks, replace them now.
Scrub-a-Dub - A good power wash will get rid of the dirt and grime built up over the past few months. Add a protective sealant to keep the integrity of the deck intact. Just make sure to remove any loose nails and splintered wood first.
Trim it Up - Before the winter weather kicks in, trim back low hanging limbs from trees, prune the rose bushes and clean up the hedges. Winter ice and snow can make tree limbs extremely heavy, causing them to break which, in turn, can necessitate costly repairs to your home. Preventative maintenance is key.
Get Creative - Winter yards in Northern Virginia/South Carolina don't have to be boring. Get creative with potted seasonal plants. Add a potted vegetable garden for fresh veggies and herbs during the winter months. Use colorfully painted containers to add some zing to the landscape. Add sparkling lights to the patio for a fun nighttime atmosphere. Entice nature by hanging bird feeders.

Taking a few simple steps with these winter yard care tips will help protect your Northern Virginia/South Carolina yard during the cold winter months and emerge ready to go in spring. As a homeowner, you should always be mindful of protecting your investment. This is especially true if you plan on selling your home in the next few months.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/11/03/winter-yard-care-tips/.

What to Expect When Leasing With Option to Buy

Gene Mock — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:30:34 GMT

When the real estate market is slow, buyers and sellers can both get creative. One way to adjust to a tougher real estate market is to lease a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home with the option of buying it. This way, the lessee/buyer has more of an investment in the property while the lessor/seller's costs are covered so they can move on to another property. What can you expect when leasing with the option to buy?

First, let me explain what exactly a "lease-option" is. This happens when the tenant of a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home enters into a legal, binding agreement with the owner of the property to lease it for a certain period of time. At the end of the agreed upon time, the tenant will have the option to buy the property. This allows the tenant/buyer to live on the property while saving up for a downpayment and/or securing financing to eventually purchase the home they inhabit. For the landlord/seller, not only are their mortgage and tax costs covered with the rent from the current tenant, but they also typically can expect to have a tenant who will take better care in the property since it is expected to eventually be the tenant's property anyway.

A "lease-option" agreement comes with three distinct although interactive parts: the lease agreement, the option to purchase the Northern Virginia/South Carolina home and the actual sales agreement. These can be handled via three separate legal documents that include references to each other or one large, much more complicated one. Which one will be used is for the buyer, the seller and their representatives to determine.

The lease portion of a "lease-option" is pretty standard stuff. Each party agrees to a monthly rental amount for a specified period of time. This typically includes lease items such as a security deposit and late fees. This will cover the legal rights of both the tenant and the homeowner for the period of the lease.

The option period takes place after the official lease period has ended but before the actual sale of the Northern Virginia/South Carolina. It may be as long as the lease period (ie, 1 year lease with 1 year option to follow) or longer (1 year lease with 2 year option to purchase). The option agreement will spell out how long of a period of time the tenant has to decide whether they want to actually buy the property, how much will be paid for the option (typically a fee added onto the monthly rental amount), how the option will be exercised (usually a written notice of some sort) and what happens if the tenant does not decide to buy the home. If the tenant decides not to buy the property, the option fees paid are normally not refunded.

The purchase agreement allows both parties to come to an agreed upon price as well as terms on the Northern Virginia/South Carolina home in question. A specific amount may not have to be referenced in the agreement, however. Both parties may instead decide that the price will be determined by the consumer price index or another real estate valuation method in place at the time of purchase.

Before entering into a "lease-option", find out what to expect when leasing with the option to buy. Speak to your lawyer or financial advisers. Feel free to ask any questions you have and don't sign any documents until you are completely sure you understand them. A "lease-option" is a binding legal document that shouldn't be entered into lightly. An informed consumer is a happy consumer.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/10/27/what-to-expect-when-leasing-with-option-to-buy/.

REOs in Northern Virginia/South Carolina

Gene Mock — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 19:48:15 GMT

One of the unfortunate by-products of a down economy is the rise in foreclosures. With the rise in Virginia/South Carolina foreclosures, there is also a rise in REOs in Northern Virginia/South Carolina (real estate owned properties). While a foreclosure may sound similar to an REO, they are actually two different animals. It is important to know the difference.

FORECLOSURES
In a foreclosure, the homeowner has defaulted on their Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, which is then taken back by the bank, forcing the homeowner to forfeit all claims to it. The bank then turns around and puts it up for auction. At a foreclosure auction, the minimum bid includes the foreclosure costs, any attorney fees involved and, of course, the balance of the loan left by the previous owner. The winning bid in a foreclosure must be at least the minimum required by the bank. Winning bidders must have a cashiers check in hand for the full amount of the bid. They receive the property in an "as is" condition, which includes any structural issues, liens against the property and anyone that may be living on the property at that time (as can be the case with rental properties). If no one bids the minimum amount, the home will not be sold. Because many homes that are forced into foreclosure are worth less than what is owed on them, many foreclosure auctions end up without sales.

REOs
When a Northern Virginia/South Carolina property has not been sold at a foreclosure auction, it reverts back to the bank/mortgage lender and becomes an REO (real estate owned). This shouldn't be looked upon as unfavorable by someone looking to purchase a property, though. It doesn't necessarily mean that there is anything wrong with it. Usually, it just means that the previous homeowner couldn't keep up with their monthly mortgage obligations. Since mortgage companies are in the business to finance real estate, not own it, they are more likely to work with a prospective buyer on price and terms in an REO. Typically, a mortgage company will take care of any current tenants or liens to make it easier to sell. They also allow potential buyers or their appraisers to inspect the property before any deal is made.

There are benefits to buying a home whether it is via a foreclosure or REO. REOs in Northern Virginia/South Carolina make great investments for first time homebuyers, growing families and retirees alike. If you're interested in purchasing an REO in the Northern Virginia/South Carolina area, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/10/20/reos-in-northern-virginiasouth-carolina/.

Avoid Being a Victim of Mortgage Fraud

Gene Mock — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:36:26 GMT

The US Treasury's Financial Crimes Network announced recently that they have seen in increase in filings of suspicious mortgage fraud activity. A Mortgage Loan Fraud Suspicious Activity Report (MLF SAR) is filed by a mortgage loan company when they find suspicious activity, such as misrepresented income, debts/assets, wrong social security numbers used, debt elimination scams, identity theft and more on loan application reviews. More than 80% MLF SARs were from loans originating before 2008. Avoid being a victim of mortgage fraud when buying a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home by following these simple rules:

Do Your Homework - The old adage of "if it's too good to be true, it probably is" still rings true. Don't crack under high pressure sales tactics. Thoroughly investigate debt elimination companies as well as mortgage companies before you hand your information over to them. Also, check out the history of a property to see how often it has been sold in the past few years. This can be done with a title report. Find out what other Northern Virginia/South Carolina homes have sold for in the area recently in order to know that the price you are paying is appropriate. Your real estate agent can help you with this. Shop around for a lender to compare prices and options.

Be Truthful - You don't want to borrow money you can't repay. That will just get you into more trouble. If someone tells you that you need to lie about how much money you make, where your downpayment is coming from, how long you've been employed or anything else on a loan application for a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home in order to be approved, walk away. Obviously, this is not the loan or company for you.

Be Smart - You would never hand over a blank check to a complete stranger, would you? Don't ever allow someone to talk you into leaving blanks on an application or to sign something you don't thoroughly understand. If they won't answer any questions you have or if you still have questions, take these to your trusted financial adviser or other trusted source of financial information to find the answers you need. You will be held liable for whatever you sign your name to, whether you understood it or not. So, take the time to go through all documents before you sign them and hand them over.

Be Knowledgeable - Attend seminars, workshops and classes on home buying to become a more informed buyer. Pull your credit report first to check for errors. Anything you can do to learn about buying a home before going through the loan process will help make your experience go much more smoothly and without a lot of stress.

Avoid being a victim of mortgage fraud by following these simple steps. When you're interested in buying a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, just let me know.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/10/13/avoid-being-a-victim-of-mortgage-fraud/.

Leesburg VA Makes List of America's Best Small Towns

Gene Mock — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 20:02:48 GMT

CNNMoney.com has confirmed what people who live here already know when they named Leesburg VA one of America's Best Small Towns. To determine rankings, CNNMoney.com looked at everything from job opportunities available, quality of education, economy, entertainment, recreation, safety and even the weather. Leesburg ranked #4 on the list.

Since it sits near the Virginia/Maryland border, Leesburg is a natural fit for government employment. But, careers in technology, defense contracting and consulting rank high as well. Even though it's situated within commuting distance of much larger cities, Leesburg offers a beautiful small-town atmosphere that allows its residents to escape from the hustble and bustle of the work week. With a population of just 42,600, an unemployment rate of 4.1% and very affordable median home price of $279,250, it's easy to see why Leesburg was chosen as one of America's Best Small Towns.

Of the top 10 homes on CNNMoney.com's list, Leesburg ranked highest in median family income ($128,595) and highest in job growth over the last year (47.16%). Almost one-quarter of Leesburg residents work outside of the area. The city streets are extremely safe and entertainment is plentiful, with over 1100 restaurants and 24 libraries located within a 15 mile radius of the city and 24 museums within a 30 mile radius. The weather reaches an average high of 87 degrees in July, with the coldest month being January (average 20 degrees).

It's nice that CNNMoney.com has realized what the rest of us who live in the area know, Leesburg is one of the best places small towns to live in America. Contact me know to see what the fuss is all about. One visit and I know you'll be hooked!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/10/06/leesburg-va-makes-list-of-americas-best-small-towns/.

Washington DC Offers Top Potential for Growth

Gene Mock — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:51:06 GMT

Washington DC offers top potential for growth. According to Kiplinger's Personal Finance, Washington DC ranks third behind Austin, TX and Seattle, WA as one of the Top 10 Cities With the Potential for Growth. Kiplinger's is one of the top personal finance and business magazines in the country.

Kiplinger's created their list based on interviews with community leaders as well as local business people and residents all across the country. They also took into consideration the amount of teachers, scientists and writers working in the city, the accessibility of public transportation throughout the community and how affordable living in the city was. The understanding that creative forces go hand in hand with local economic vitality, especially when it is shared with other members of the community, makes it easy to see why Washington DC was sitting right in the top three for the nation.

Even though it is the political capital of our country, Washington DC was recognized for its booming economy, multiple job prospects, fantastic local neighborhoods and abundance of entertainment available. When you add in that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has held steady at a historically low 4.09% (as of September 22, 2011), home prices remain incredibly affordable and there is an abundance of inventory to choose from, buying a Washington DC home has never seemed more ideal than now. Contact me to find out why Washington DC offers top potential for growth and how you can be a part of it!

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Northern Virginia Homes blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/09/29/washington-dc-offers-top-potential-for-growth/.

Points to Ponder for First-Time Homebuyers

Gene Mock — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 18:40:46 GMT

Congratulations on your decision to purchase a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home! You've made a huge step in realizing part of the American dream. Since this is such a significant financial decision, it can create a bit of nervousness in buyers, especially those who are buying property for the first time. But, you don't have to let it stress you out completely. Here are a few points to ponder for first-time homebuyers:

Historically Low Interest Rates - The interest rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage loan remains between 4-5%. When you look at interest rates from 10 years ago (around 9-9.5%), the current rates are about half. The less interest you have to pay on a loan, the lower your payment is, making it even more affordable to own a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home.
Home Prices are Great - Since the boom of a few years ago, prices for a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home has fallen considerably. That means that there are some fantastic deals out there just ripe for the picking. When you add the inventory on hand from foreclosures and short sales, the possibilities are endless.
Downpayment Requirements - Many mortgage lenders are requiring a 20% downpayment for a home. That means, for a home listed at $110,000, you will need $22,000 as a downpayment. The upside of this is that, with a 20% downpayment, you won't have to pay for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). Money for your downpayment can come from your savings account, money borrowed from relatives (a small portion of borrowed money is allowed), retirement funds and government programs. However, with a good credit rating, you may qualify for a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home for a much lower downpayment. Talk to your real estate professional about which programs you may qualify for.
Putting Down Roots - Buying a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home is a sound investment if you plan on staying in one area for an extended period of time. As you pay down your loan, your equity in that property goes up. Equity is the difference between what you owe and what your home is worth. The same can't be said when you are renting a home. Studies also show that homeowners tend to take better care of their property than renters and children raised in homes owned by their parents show a lower rate of drug abuse and teenage pregnancies than those whose parents rent and move around a lot.

If you are considering buying a Northern Virginia/South Carolina home, these are just a few points to ponder for first-time homebuyers. Hire a trusted real estate professional to help guide you through the home buying process. They can answer all your questions and let you know what to expect. Feel free to contact me anytime to get you started on the path to owning your first home.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina and Washington DC real estate specialist

Originally posted on my Word Press blog here: http://northernvirginiahomes.net/2011/09/22/points-to-ponder-for-first-time-homebuyers/.