I just found this on my old laptop, and found it both amusing and prophetic.
I'll let you decide how "on the money" I was!
"All Real Estate is an Investment.
People buy and sell Real Estate for any number of reasons. However, the deciding factor is always the financial commitment that property represents.
The nicest home in the world won’t sell if no one is willing to pay the asking price.
If the price is right, someone will buy the most run down of properties.
Why? Because that decision is based on the future perceived value of the property.
However, Real Estate Investment can be a risky venture without a strategy geared towards the current market conditions.
I specialize in helping people develop, and implement, wealth accumulation strategies based on Residential Real Estate properties in the Phoenix Arizona area.
The Phoenix Investment Property market is a dynamic one. Last year's strategy of “fix and flip” will not work in today’s market. Today the focus needs to be “buy and hold”.
Which means finding Renters for your Investment Property, and making it an Income Property.
Today’s market is perfectly suited for this strategy.
Let’s look at some facts:
During the housing boom in 2005, many people purchased properties at highly inflated prices. They financed these homes with risky, Adjustable Rate Mortgages, or Interest Only financing. There is nothing inherently wrong with either of those financing options, in some cases, they are the best option. However, they are both based on the premise that the market will continue to appreciate. It did not. The majority of these loans had two year caps that are now about to expire. Home owners are now looking at drastic monthly mortgage payment increases. Because of the drastic drop in home values, these owners cannot refinance to get out of their current mortgages. This is creating a situation where Properties are being sold in “Short Sales” at lowered prices to avoid foreclosure.
Anyone with good credit, and cash reserves, can take advantage of these circumstances to build an impressive real estate portfolio.
I specialize in finding these properties, and work with a team of financial experts to arrange the safest, most advantageous terms possible. XXXXXXXXXX (Former company) is also one of the largest property management firms in the West Valley.
Let me help you become wealthy."
Obviously, having written that 2 1/2 years ago, some things have changed. Everything I wrote in this piece still applies, but the window of opportunity has begun to close. Granted, it's closing very slowly, but according to a report by ASU's W.P. Carey School of Business, the market here bottomed out in May of this year. And since, we've seen reductions in the number of days a property is on the market, and a rise (small, admittedly) in home prices.
Also, I not only can help you find Income Properties, but I can do the management of them myself!
Interested in putting together a Real Estate Portfolio? Give me a call!
Erin Goldbach
Designated Broker
Vanguard Platinum Realty
602 524 0186
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Seller Carry Back: A good approach for you?
In this real estate market, and lending environment, the difficulty for some people isn't finding a home to buy, but getting the financing to buy.
People are coming up with some creative solutions, but one that has been around for many years is a little known, but very simple one: The Seller Carry Back (sometimes also referred to as "the seller holding the Note")
What is a Seller Carry Back? Simply this: The owner of a home, who owns the property free and clear, acts as the lender, and "lends" the buyer the money to buy the home.
Before I get into an explanation of what that means, let me clarify one thing. The Owners MUST own the home outright. It must be free of any mortgage. If it is not, then the situation becomes what is called "A Wrap", which is a more complex, though not undoable, situation.
The thing that confuses people the most about a Carry Back is the notion that the owner/seller is "lending" the buyer the money to buy the home. Obviously, no cash is actually transferred from the seller to the buyer.
The Title of the property is transferred from the Seller to the Buyer in exchange for a promissory note for the sales price of the home. The buyer agrees to make installment payments on the home at a specific interest rate, usually with a balloon payment due in a specific period of time. If you think about it, this is exactly what happens with a conventional loan, but the actual "loaned amount" is on paper only.
Why would a Seller want to do this? Why would a buyer??
The advantage for a Seller is the chance to make substantially more than just the sales price of the home. Imagine if you were a Seller, and you agreed to sell your home to a buyer on a Carry Back for the price of $120,000, at an interest rate of 6% in an amortized 30 year loan, with a balloon payment due at 5 years.
Sounds like gibberish, right? Its actually pretty simple. The Buyer is going to make you monthly payments, of principle and interest, at 6%, with the remaining principle balance due in 5 years.
So, what's the advantage?? Over the course of those 5 years, the Buyer is going to pay you almost $35,000 in interest, while they lower their principle to $112,000. That means, when they refinance the home to pay you the remaining balance, you didn't just make $120,000 off of the sale, you made $155,000 total!!!!!!!
That's Right!!! By carrying the loan, you made yourself an extra $35,000!!
So, what's the catch? What's the down side? The biggest downside is the buyer not paying, and then you have to foreclose on the property. And depending on the condition the buyers leave the home in, that may be a big risk. Another risk is that at the time the balloon payment is due, the buyers may not qualify for a mortgage, or the property may not appraise for the value.
These things to consider, and there are safeguards that can be put in place to avoid, or limit these risks.
Why would a buyer want to purchase a home through this means?
The real estate market over the last 2-3 years could be summed up by saying "Bad things happen to good people". Or, as a lawyer friend of mine likes to say, "Bad luck happens".
Many people who have lost their homes due to the market and the economy are people who in other conditions would be qualified buyers. They're people who need some time to get their feet back underneath them financially, and might not need too long to do so. These are the people who can be good candidates for a Carry Back.
The advantage to these buyers is that they get to buy a home when they can't qualify for a conventional loan, and enjoy all the benefits of home ownership while repairing their credit. People who have sold homes in short sales are primarily the people who fit in this category. A short sale does impact your credit, but for a shorter period of time than a foreclosure, typically less than two years. So, a carry back with a 3 or 5 year balloon would be an ideal means for them to get back into a home, while giving them a great shot at refinancing when they're able.
And there are other variables that can make this more attractive to the Seller. Currently, the minimum down payment required for an FHA loan is 3.5% of the sale price. On $120,000, that's $4,200. There's no reason that a Seller can't require a down payment on a Carry Back as well, so there's the possibility of an up-front lump sum payment, be it a 3, 5, or even 10% down payment. And many buyers would jump at the chance to purchase a home under those conditions!
Carry Backs are a very attractive option, under pretty specific conditions, but they have the possibility of bringing a Seller a handsome return for (in my opinion) a fairly low risk.
If you have any questions about Seller Carry Backs, as either a seller or buyer, don't hesitate to email, or call me!
Erin Goldbach
Designated Broker
Vanguard Platinum Realty
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Monday, October 5, 2009
Some simple rules for investing
Thinking about investing in the Phoenix market? Here are some simple suggestions:
Rule #1: Leave your ego at home, this is not about you. It’s about your money. What do I mean by that? Simply this, 99% of the properties on the market are bank owned right now. As an investor, you’ll be one of hundreds of people vying for these properties, and the banks don’t care what the name on the purchase contract is, as long as the numbers are what they want. If the numbers are right, you’ll get the property. That’s the only thing that matters. Your last name, how nice a person you are, how fair you think your offer was, these things do not matter.
Rule #2: Cash means nothing. Let me repeat that: CASH MEANS NOTHING.
There is no real advantage to sellers for them to accept a cash offer over a conventional loan offer. No one is walking around with suitcases of cash, and even if they were, the sellers (the banks) have procedures that don’t speed up for anything (banks have one speed: slow, and at their pleasure). So the myth that a cash offer can close more quickly is just that, a myth. And in an environment like what we have now, where a decent condition property is getting 6, 10, 14 offers in a few days, the idea that cash will give you advantage is ridiculous, especially when they’ve got more than one cash offer.
Rule #3: Ask yourself what you intend to do with the property once you’ve purchased it. Do your intentions match market conditions? There are two basic scenarios when you’re talking about investment property A) “fix and flip” , this is when you buy a distressed property, rehab it, and sell it for top dollar. B) “buy and hold” this is buying an undervalued property, possibly, though not necessarily needing rehab, putting tenants in it, and holding onto the property for multiple years until market value has increased.
Right now, the market we’re in is more conducive to “buy and hold”, although there is still opportunity for a “fix and flip” strategy. But which is more appropriate for your goals?
Rule #4: Keep your emotions out of it. People tend to get emotionally invested in the properties they buy, understandably so. Once you’ve put time and energy into purchasing the property, refurbishing it, and possibly owning it for a period of years, it is very easy to develop an emotional attachment to a property, rather than keeping the investment aspect in perspective. You’ll save yourself from a lot of potential heartache if you remember that these properties are investments, nothing more.
Rule #1: Leave your ego at home, this is not about you. It’s about your money. What do I mean by that? Simply this, 99% of the properties on the market are bank owned right now. As an investor, you’ll be one of hundreds of people vying for these properties, and the banks don’t care what the name on the purchase contract is, as long as the numbers are what they want. If the numbers are right, you’ll get the property. That’s the only thing that matters. Your last name, how nice a person you are, how fair you think your offer was, these things do not matter.
Rule #2: Cash means nothing. Let me repeat that: CASH MEANS NOTHING.
There is no real advantage to sellers for them to accept a cash offer over a conventional loan offer. No one is walking around with suitcases of cash, and even if they were, the sellers (the banks) have procedures that don’t speed up for anything (banks have one speed: slow, and at their pleasure). So the myth that a cash offer can close more quickly is just that, a myth. And in an environment like what we have now, where a decent condition property is getting 6, 10, 14 offers in a few days, the idea that cash will give you advantage is ridiculous, especially when they’ve got more than one cash offer.
Rule #3: Ask yourself what you intend to do with the property once you’ve purchased it. Do your intentions match market conditions? There are two basic scenarios when you’re talking about investment property A) “fix and flip” , this is when you buy a distressed property, rehab it, and sell it for top dollar. B) “buy and hold” this is buying an undervalued property, possibly, though not necessarily needing rehab, putting tenants in it, and holding onto the property for multiple years until market value has increased.
Right now, the market we’re in is more conducive to “buy and hold”, although there is still opportunity for a “fix and flip” strategy. But which is more appropriate for your goals?
Rule #4: Keep your emotions out of it. People tend to get emotionally invested in the properties they buy, understandably so. Once you’ve put time and energy into purchasing the property, refurbishing it, and possibly owning it for a period of years, it is very easy to develop an emotional attachment to a property, rather than keeping the investment aspect in perspective. You’ll save yourself from a lot of potential heartache if you remember that these properties are investments, nothing more.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Network Marketing!!
There are many strategies for drumming up business. Some are expensive, some are time intensive, some are pretty wacky, some work, some don't.
There is one, tried, true, cheap, effective PROVEN form of marketing that simply can't be beat!
That is NETWORK MARKETING.
What is NETWORK MARKETING? Simply getting people to tell other people how good your services or products are.
Think about it, when you need a plumber, or veterinarian, or mechanic, what's the FIRST thing you do?
You ask someone you know and trust who they use!
With NETWORK MARKETING, you build a group of people who work with you to build your business by getting you personal referrals. To put it another way, when the people you network with hear of someone who might need your products of services, they tell that person to call YOU!
And in return, you do the same for them!
It's THAT simple!!
And does it work? ABSOLUTELY!!!
I've been involved in a NETWORKING GROUP since I got my license six years ago. Without my NETWORKING GROUP, THE WEST VALLEY EXECUTIVES, I would not have survived in Real Estate this long.
In fact, in 2005 and 2006, HALF of my business came through the WEST VALLEY EXECUTIVES! Yes, you read that correctly, HALF!
And my group is just getting larger and stronger! We now have 25 members! Our meeting yesterday was dynamite!! Everyone in the room yesterday walked away with business!
The WEST VALLEY EXECUTIVES is THE primary tool in my plan to build my business! And with the continued growth we're seeing, I expect to get tons, and tons of business from The West Valley Executives!!
If you're a business owner in Phoenix, Peoria, or Glendale, and you'd like to increase your profits, come join us!!
We meet every Tuesday, at 7am, at the Marie Calendar's at 51st Ave and West Bell Road. (the food is really good too!)
Please bring $10 for breakfast, and at least 50 business cards!
Call me if you have questions!
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
Vanguard Platinum Realty
602 524 0186
Saturday, August 1, 2009
New Listing! Livin' in the Lap of Luxury!
I'm REALLY excited about this listing!! I just took it two days ago, and I'm amazed I don't have an offer yet!!!
Imagine how nice life would be if you could afford to live at a 5 Star Resort full time!!
Well, with this place, you're pretty close to realizing that dream!
Its a 1900sq/ft 3 bed 2.5 bath condo in the Fireside At Norterra Community, and it is Gorgeous! And the amenities that go along with it are fantastic!!
You've got a large kitchen/great room downstairs, with a den/library off the other side of the entryway. The kitchen is all tile and granite, with light colored 42 inch cabinets and built in microwave. There's a half bath downstairs, along with a laundry/storage room with utility sink. There's also a walk in pantry for the serious gourmand!
Upstairs is a split arrangement, with a small, built in desk just off the stairs.
The master suite is phenomenal! With a circular sitting area before you enter the main bedroom, it really is striking! The master bath has separate shower/garden tub, dual sinks and a walk in closet that could pass for a fourth bedroom!
There is a grass area right next to the unit with Playground equipment, and a walking trail just across from it.
At the Community center, which is covered by the HOA fees, you've got tennis courts, a 32ft rock climbing wall, and a full sized gym! with state of the art cardio and exercise machines, along with a free weight area.
There are two pools! A larger one with water park features! and the second set up as a lap pool with 4 lanes!
Best of All!! THIS IS NOT A SHORT SALE!! With a full price offer the seller can close in 30 days!!!
And all of that for $250,000!!! Amazing!!
The property is located on the east side of I-17, south of Care Free Highway, so freeway access and an easy commute are assured!!
If you'd like to see this incredible property, give me a call!
Erin Goldbach
Designated Broker
Vanguard Platinum Realty
602 524 0186
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Cut Health Care Costs!! Affordable Insurance for the Self Employed!
I just wanted to share something with everyone considering all the talk lately about "HealthCare Reform".
Like many of you, getting decent health care coverage for my son and myself was a major concern for me. And it was made even worse by the fact that I am self employed.
I had health insurance through Blue Cross for many years. It wasn't too bad when it was just me. But after my son was born, and I added him to my policy, things got expensive. $400 a month isn't bad, but, well, I sure wouldn't have minded spending less!!
A few months ago, I met a woman named Lisa Giannias with America's Business Benefit Association (ABBA). Lisa's company specializes in health care plans that are affordable for the average person.
I'm always extremely leery of anything that seems to qualify as "too good to be true", but I went over the plans that ABBA has, and when compared to Blue Cross, I couldn't believe the savings! The health care plan I got through Lisa is "apples to apples" comparable to Blue Cross' plan. Actually, in some ways, its better! AND I SAVED $150 A MONTH!!
That's right! The same coverage (yeah, the deductable is higher, but if I reach the deductable, they waive it) for LESS MONEY!!
And, by signing up with ABBA, America's Business Benefit Association, I get all kinds of crazy discounts on services and products. Lenscrafter, Budget Car Rental, Global Fitness, Hewlett Packard, UPS, Office Depot are just a few of the companies that offer me discount's for being a member of ABBA.
Heck, I would have been happy with just the health insurance savings!!!
So, if you'd like to save yourself some money on insurance, give Lisa a call!!
Lisa Giannias
480 818 1399
Or Visit her WEBSITE
Erin Goldbach
Designated Broker
Vanguard Platinum Realty
602 524 0186
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Property-O-The Day!!!
That's right Folks! I've got Another Amazing Property for you!!!
What did you expect?? I'm a Realtor!
This is an amazing two bedroom/two bath condo is located just minutes east of Old Town Scottsdale, and about 30 seconds west of the Loop 101!
And this place is incredible! Beautifully appointed with tile throughout, granite counter tops, and stainless
The unit has a split floor plan and dual master bedrooms! Both with full master baths, and walk in closets!
And not only is it beautiful, its quiet as well! The interior, as well as the exterior, walls are block construction. The main master bedroom has twin dual pane windows to truly block out any noise!
The other master bedroom has it's own entrance and patio. Not only does it have an entrance, it has a handicapped accessible ramp that leads to the parking lot, and your covered parking!
The complex is immaculately kept, with pool, spa, club house, excercise room, and communal gas grills!
This would make a fantastic winter retreat for cold weather dwellers. A convenient and trendy abode for those seeking Scottsdale's nightlife. Or a quiet, low maintanence refuge for the busy professional.
It also has fantastic cash flow potential for a real estate investor!
If you're interested in learning more, contact me!
Erin Goldbach
Designated Broker
Vanguard Platinum Realty
602 524 0186
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Someone is off their Meds!!! A great deal just got CRAZY good!!
Ok, the property in New River that I posted as "Property of the Day" in this blog has been reduced AGAIN!!
So, you've now got the chance to own a 4bedroom, 3bath, 2600sq/ft home on an acre+ horse property in New River, with tile throughout, granite in all the beds and baths, well............ Just look at the pictures!!
This Property is now listed at
$275,000!
Call me to set up a viewing of this Resort Style Property!!
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Broker/Owner
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Friday, July 24, 2009
A Hero with a Sense of Humor
I ran across this story today, and I thought I'd share it. From Foxnews.com
"WASHINGTON — Forty years later, Henry A. Moak, Jr., still loves his pound cake.
The Army colonel popped open an old military 'C' Ration can of pound cake from 1969 at his retirementceremony, and dug in.
Moak got the drab olive can as a Marine helicopter pilot off the Vietnamese coast in 1973. He vowed to hang on to it until the day he retired, storing it in a box with other mementos.
After a formal retirement ceremony, dozens of friends and relatives joined Moak in the 
"It smells good," Moak said as he put a handful in his mouth. He jokingly staggered back a few feet and loudly cleared his throat, while one person yelled out, "Eeww, gross!"
Moak pronounced the cake "good."
"It's even a little moist," he said, wiping his mouth. He dared anybody "gutsy" enough to join him, and retired Lt. Gen. Paul T. Mikolashek, who was the U.S. Army Europe commander when Moak served overseas, took an even bigger piece.
"Tastes just like it always did," Mikolashek mumbled with a mouthful of cake as Moak laughed and clapped.
Moak said he wasn't worried about getting sick from any bacteria that may have gotten into the old can, because it looked sealed. But the military discourages eating from old rations.
"Given the risks ... we do everything possible to ensure that overly aged rations are not consumed," said Lawrence Levine, a spokesman for the Defense Supply Center in Philadelphia.
Levine named the threats as mold and deadly botulism if the sealing on the food has been broken, which isn't always visible.
Moat says though he warned his children over the years not to touch his pound cake, he did let them eat some other rations when they were growing up in the 1980s, including canned spaghetti and crackers.
And how did those taste? "Fine. Well ... not like from our great restaurants."
Vietnam Veteran Keeps Vow, Eats 40-Year-Old Cake
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Recruiting! Looking for Motivated Agents!
Ok folks, Since Vanguard Platinum Realty officially opened its doors last month, and I've finally got the structure in place to grow, I'm looking for agents. Motivated agents.
Let me give you a idea of what I'm looking for. I'm looking for agents who are Professional Real Estate Agents, meaning people who consider Real Estate their main vocation. Nothing against the "weekend warrior" agents, but I want people who are as hungry to succeed as I am.
Real Estate is a serious business, and our actions as agents can seriously impact our clients lives. I want people who understand that, and want to rise to the challenge of serving their customers as best they can.
So, if you are a motivated agent, here's my limited time offer for the first 25 agents who sign with me.
A monthly fee to cover your E&O. For most agents, based on $40k/yr gross commission, that's going to be $65/month. You pay what I pay. If you're going to have higher premium, because you do higher volume, then the monthly fee will increase proportionately.
But, that's all you'll ever pay as a monthly fee, your share of the E&O.
Commission split will be 90/10. And that will never change for the first 25. Obviously, as the company grows, and we gain greater market share, the split will trend more in my favor, but if you're getting floor leads and sign calls off of my signs, then working for me will be worth more to NEW hires.
Ask yourself if you're happy working for your current broker, and if the answer isn't a strong "Yes", let's talk.
If you're interested in getting a real estate license, call me, I can arrange discounts on education at certain Real Estate Schools.
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
"OFFICIALLY" OFFICIAL!!! THE MARKET HAS BOTTOMED!
Boy! If people would just listen to me, the world would be a much better place!! (or maybe not! LOL!)
But in this case, it looks like I was right. I've been telling people that we're at the bottom of the market for about a month now, and Arizona State University's W.P. Carey School of Business agrees with me!
"
ASU study: Phoenix-area home prices “at or close to bottom”
Phoenix-area home prices are “at or close to a market bottom,” according to a new
The Arizona State University-Repeat Sales Index (ASU-RSI) measures changes in average Phoenix-area home prices from year to year. The latest report confirms home prices are falling at a slower and slower pace.
“April is the first month with a slower annual rate of decline, and the progressively smaller declines over the next two months are pretty good evidence that the worst of the price drops are in the past,” says Karl Guntermann, the Fred E. Taylor Professor of Real Estate at the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, who calculates the ASU-RSI with research associate Adam Nowak. “While the housing market is still quite volatile, it may turn out that the low point in terms of price occurred in May, almost three years after prices peaked in the Valley.”
The current slide in home prices is the longest in Valley history at 26 months. This is the first month that Gilbert has been included in the city breakdown of the report. Gilbert and
The ASU-RSI is based on repeat sales, the most reliable way to estimate price changes in the housing market. Repeat sales compare the prices of a single house against itself at different points in time, instead of comparing different homes with different quality factors.
The ASU-RSI is produced through the Center for Real Estate Theory and Practice at the W. P. Carey School of Business. The current report and archived reports are available at the Division of Real Estate – Repeat Sales Reports. Further ASU-RSI analysis is available at http://knowledge.wpcarey.asu.edu."
You can read the full report here
What I've been seeing in the last two months is a lot of competition for "move in ready" homes. And when I say competition, I mean multiple (8 in one case) offers on a home that was ready for immediate occupancy.
The homes that are currently drawing the most attention are Bank Owned Properties. "Why?" you ask? Simply put, you get an answer out of a bank once they've foreclosed on a home that you don't get if you're trying to get Short Sale approval.
It makes a degree of sense. Once a Bank forecloses on a home, they're responsible for it entirely. They pay the taxes, insurance, and other recurring expenses instead of the home owner. They also have to worry about the property being vandalized, which is usually not a concern for an owner occupied home.
Plus, having homes on their books makes the bank look bad financially.
As a result, they want those properties off their books as quickly as they can get an offer and buyers will get an answer in a matter of days, instead of the months you can spend waiting for a short sale approval.
Short sale properties that are move in ready are getting more attention as the number of Bank-owneds dwindles, while "trash-out" short sales are just sitting.
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Monday, July 20, 2009
Property of the Day!! UPDATE!!!
A great deal just got BETTER!!
The property I featured a few days ago, the 2600sq/ft 4bed/3bath horse property on 1+acres of usable land, the one with the three car garage, and tile and granite throughout....Yeah, That one!!
Well, the price has been reduced!!!
That's right!
The price has been LOWERED!
$299,990!!
2600sq/ft, built in 2004, on an acre, with horse privileges, for under $300k!!
Ladies and Gentlemen, It just doesn't get any better than that!
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Silver Lining! Property Taxes!
Let's face it, the economy has really hit Arizona hard. In the Phoenix area, roughly one third of the economy is (was?) based on the Residential Home market. The continued construction of new homes is what has driven the economy here in Phoenix for 40 years. And it all came to a screeching halt two years ago.
(on a side note: I have seen some Developers starting dirt work, the process of putting in streets, leveling pads, putting in utilities, in some places. This has mainly been In-Fill, the process of building on smaller parcels closer in to the city center. Regardless, it's a good sign.)
And, as EVERYONE knows, existing home prices have tanked. If you're trying to sell a home, you're painfully aware of this (call me if you are, you need my help).
BUT! There is an upside! If you are staying in your home, Your Property Taxes have GONE DOWN!!!
The taxes on my home dropped 57%! True, that does mean the value has dropped, but since I don't plan on moving any time soon, that's ok.
Now, if your taxes did drop, but not as much as you think they should have, there is an appeals process.
That process starts with the County Assessor's Office. This is a link to the Maricopa County Assessor . Once there, Click on "Forms", and then look for "Property Value Appeals". That page is going to have links to all the forms you need. Most people will need the "Online Residential Appeal Form", but there are forms for commercial and agricultural land as well.
At this time, the link is disabled because the Appeal deadline is April 21.
But the one other thing you're going to need is some kind of proof to back up your claim.
You've got a couple options there. You can hire an Appraiser, someone licensed by the state to prepare opinions on home values. There are many reputable Appraisers out there. Their fees usually run between $250-400 for a full Appraisal. For that fee you will get a comprehensive break down of your homes value, which will include a physical inspection, evaluation of comparable properties, and other variables.
OR, you can contact me, and I'll do what is called "pulling Comps" for you. Pulling Comps is what agents do to get an idea of what the value of a home should be. It's the same process that Appraisers use. We look at what properties that match yours have sold for in your neighborhood, and based on those sales, determine what your property is worth at the time. You might also hear these referred to as a Broker Opinion, and its just that, a statement of opinion by a Real Estate Broker. I do not charge for these for residential home owners.
Keep in mind, with either an Appraisal, or Broker Opinion, they are just that, opinions based on CURRENT market conditions. It is possible, but unlikely, that something could happen the next day that might change that value. So, in a sense, Appraisals and Broker Opinions have "expiration dates".
However, if you do need to Appeal your Tax Valuation, you'll need some kind of documentation from a Real Estate Professional.
You can use this same process if you feel that the Assessor raised your Valuation above what your home is worth.
While you can do this Appeal on your own, it would probably be a good idea to consult a Tax, or Real Estate Attorney to get some more precise guidance on how to proceed. I can help you with a referral if you have trouble finding an Attorney.
So when that Property Valuation shows up next February (not all that far away) and you don't like what you see, give me a call!
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Saturday, July 18, 2009
KING OF THE DEALS!!!
Hey, If you're a penny-pincher like me (ok, I'm a cheapskate! LOL!), be sure to check out my buddy Jeff's blog, "The Kind of Deals"
I don't know how he does it, but Jeff comes up with some of the best deals on consumer items that I've ever seen!
Between coupons, rebate offers, and special offers that Jeff finds, you can really cut your monthly bill on groceries, entertainment, and other things!
Take a look!
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Investor's Deal of the Day!!!
One of the things I specialize in is helping investors find, buy, and rent or sell investment properties.
This is not as easy as it sounds.
Why? Because you need an agent who can not only look at what price you'll pay for the investment property, but what kind of return you'll get. That's the critical part. If you're an investor, you want a decent return on your money. And while you might be able to find a really good priced investment property, is it going to be one you can make money on?
That's a tough question, whether you're doing a fix and flip, or planning on holding onto it and turning it into a rental. Projecting how well a property will rent can be especially tricky. Fortunately, after 4 years of working heavily with property management, I've developed a very keen sense of what will rent, and how quickly.
So I'd like to present you with two crazy good deals on investment properties.
The first is 8015 W Roma, in Phoenix. Its a 1592 sq/ft 4 bedroom, 2 bath home. It's block construction means that it's going to be structurally sound for a long time (it was built in 1976).
It's got tile in the main areas, but carpet in the bedrooms.
It's listed at (you might want to sit down) $29,900!! Thats right TWENTY NINE THOUSAND!
This is an investor's dream! It's in fair condition, so spend maybe $5000 on paint, carpet, and repairs, and put it back on the market for $55,000. That's a quick $20,000 profit!!
Or, just sit on it, put some renters in it at $750-$850/month, and have a positive cash flow of $400+ per month!
The Second Investment Property of the Day is 6562 W. Orange. This one is a 1529 sq/ft 3bed/2bath with two car garage. Again, block construction, so the house is going to be standing for a long time. And again, this one is basically move in ready! Carpet, paint, minor repairs. This one is listed at $37,125, and would be a perfect "fix and flip" or rental!!
Either of these homes would be a fantastic start to a Real Estate Portfolio, or addition to an existing one!
If you have questions about these properties, or about real estate investing, Give me a call!
602 524 0186
or email!
Erin@eringoldbach.com
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Friday, July 17, 2009
Property of the Day!!
Seriously, this is one of the Best properties I've seen in a long time!!
Imagine a 2600 square foot home, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, on an acre plus lot that's completely fenced with an 8" cement block (stuccoed and painted) wall. With horse privileges, in the foot hills outside of Tonto National Forest.
It's your own Private Resort!
This home is truly gorgeous! The owner spared no expense when building it in 2004. There's 18" Travertine tile in all the main areas. The kitchen and all the baths have granite countertops. The master bath has a separate tub and shower. And not just any tub, a Jacuzzi tub! Dual sinks and a built in vanity as well!
The home has a three car garage, with built in cabinets, and epoxy coated floor, for you guys who like to turn wrenches!
Built on a split floor plan, the home has a huge Great Room, but also Formal Dining. The Great Room has built a built in entertainment center, and is wired for surround sound.
The fourth bedroom is set up as guest quarters, and is currently being used as an office. It has a separate entrance, and its own bath.
This property is located in New River, just off Circle Mountain Road. So, it's far enough out to truly qualify as a "country estate", but still accessible enough for you to enjoy the City Lifestyle!
It's listed on the MLS (#4197639) for $340,000. That might sound like a lot, but for what you're getting, it is a smoking deal!!! This house appraised for almost $700,000 two years ago!!
Email me with any questions you might have at Erin@eringoldbach.com
Or call! 602 524 0186
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Welcome to Vanguard Platinum Realty's blog!
Who are we? And what do we do?
Vanguard Platinum was founded by Erin Goldbach (that's me), and I'm the Designated Broker. I've been a realtor here in the Phoenix area for 6 years. I've spent that time truly honing my skills and studying the market. To put it bluntly, I'm the guy you want on your side. A lot of realtors are in the business part time, and treat it like a hobby. I take it very seriously. And I should! After all, we're talking about the biggest investment most people are ever going to make! That's serious business, and I want my clients to know that they've got a professional in their corner who really knows what he's doing.
My philosophy is this: I succeed only when YOU achieve YOUR goals! Whether you're a first time buyer looking for a starter home (and believe me, now is the time!) or an investor looking for someone to help you build and manage a portfolio, I want to be the guy who helps you reach your goal!
And this is an amazing time to be either a first time home buyer, or an investor.
Why? Simple: Home prices are down! WAY down!!
And for First Time Home Buyers, you get an $8,000 Federal Tax Credit! And that can be used at the time of purchase, to cover your down payment and closing costs!
Translation: You can buy a home with NO MONEY DOWN!
The market is equally as good for investors! Anyone with some cash, or who's willing to put some "sweat equity" into a property, can really take advantage of the market!
And the market today can work for investors as either a "fix and flip" or "hold and rent".
What does that mean? With the current property prices, its not hard to find distressed properties, that can be bought for as low as $20,000. These properties usually need some work, but are generally structurally sound, and when fixed up with $10-20,000 worth of remodeling, can then be resold for $20,000 profit, or more! I'm working with an investor now who picked up a home in the area of 43rd Ave and Northern for $110k. He's spending $20k to rehab it, and I'm going to start marketing the home at $170,000. I expect to get multiple offers, and the final sale price to be around $180,000, if not higher. That's a $40-50,000 Profit!!
But a investor could also buy a property for $80-100,000, with an Investor Rate Mortgage, and be looking at a monthly mortgage payment of about $550, with taxes and insurance. That same property, once cleaned up, will rent for $800-$1,000 a month. So, once I've found you a tenant (did I mention I do Property Management? LOL!), you're looking at $200-$400/month positive cash flow! And the value of that property is only going to go up as the market recovers from the slump we've been in!
Now, you might think that all I'm interested in is the money side of Real Estate. But really, what I enjoy is doing my job well, and making sure my client is happy. I'm as excited by the prospect of helping a young couple find that home they're going to start building a life together in, as I am when I find an investor a property that he can really sink his teeth into and make a living on!
Like I said, My success is measured by how many of your dreams I help you achieve!
Vanguard Platinum Realty
Erin Goldbach
Owner/Broker
602 524 0186
Erin@ErinGoldbach.com
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