Buyers prefer that both are clean and in move-in condition. They want to unpack their dishes and glassware as well as their toiletry bag and feel comfortable in their new home right away.

Many homeowners, however, don’t have the time, energy or financial resources for major kitchen and bathroom renovations. Perhaps during their time in the home, the seller focused on turning the basement into a media room or making necessary roof and siding repairs. When it’s time to sell, how can a cash-strapped seller appeal to buyers who want — even expect — an upgraded kitchen and bathroom?

Here are three affordable, quick, easy tips for sprucing up your kitchen and bath right before going on the market.

1. Paint the kitchen cabinets.

It would be too costly to go out and purchase new cabinets just before you sell.  But you and your real estate agent despise the old knotty pine or dark grain cabinets from 20 years ago. A quick fix is to paint them white. It will make the kitchen appear lighter, brighter and cleaner. A fresh coat of paint will give the appearance of new, which will appease many buyers. This can be done in one or two days’ time for just a few hundred dollars.

2. Put some new hardware on the kitchen cabinets.

After you’ve brightened up the kitchen with some new paint, throw on some brushed nickel cabinet door hardware. For example, some new hardware with the new white paint in the backdrop will make the kitchen pop. Buyers’ eyes may be drawn away from the older counter tops or appliances. And, given that the cabinets are at or just above eye level, the hardware may be the first thing they notice in the kitchen.  You can buy new hardware for just a few dollars and install them yourself

3. Re-grout or clean the bathroom tile and grout.

Bathrooms should be sanitary places and a new buyer wants to feel comfortable with their new bathroom. Nothing is more of a turn off than a bathroom where the grout is dirty or moldy or full of soap scum. At a minimum, spend an hour with a toothbrush and some bleach and scrub that grout. This is something you can do on your own in just a half a day.  This will make the bathroom pop, giving a new, clean feeling to this important room

There may be other, more important projects for which you’ve budgeted. In many cases, your real estate agent has suggested painting some of the rooms a more neutral color or spending some money on storage for excess furniture. Staging and home preparation are unique for every home. But, given the focus buyers always put on kitchens and bathrooms, these three tips should be seriously considered as you prepare to go on the market.”

Once all of these fixes have been completed and your home is on its way to being SOLD, reward yourself by heading on over to Magnolia Homes’ newest and highly sought after community of Village Park!  Incredible new homes await you featuring a multitude of customized floor plans and luxury amenities to fit your every need!  There is even a sparking swimming pool and nearby Johnson Park to quench your thirst for the great outdoors!  Visit our website today at www.YourMagnoliaHome.com to learn more before you arrive for your private tour!

*See more at http://www.zillow.com/blog/2012-02-17/top-3-quick-kitchen-bath-fixes-for-listing-a-home/

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1. Tips to sell your home quickly and purchase a new Magnolia Home!!
2. Home for the Holidays! – Be in your brand new Magnolia Home for Christmas & New Years!
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There are many of us that have goals, the questions is what do we do with them?  Statistics reveal that 25% of resolutions (in a hidden term, goals made at the 1^st of a new year) are broken in the first week and by the 8^th week, the rate increases to 80%. Furthermore, buying a home is known to be one of the largest investments a person will make in their lifetime yet many prospective home buyers are making an extraordinary mistake by not planning their purchase. Here are some steps to help you set your goals into action.

1. Your goals should be specific, detailed and clear.  It is critical to invest the time needed to put them in written form as there is a direct link between writing the goal, seeing it being written and keeping it visible in your everyday life – further ingraining them into your mind because after-all, we are what we think.
2.   In detailing your goals, compile a list of the things this goal will accomplish.  Goals are attached to our emotion, maintaining persistence will be fueled by remembering why it became a goal in the first place.
3. The goals you set must be measurable. An example of this is to set and post schedules for visiting new home communities in a particular time frame.
   (Recommendation: make appointments with the on-site representatives to ensure their undivided attention)
4.   Set deadlines and stick to them.  Remember that it is far easier to keep up than to catch up.  Set the measurement of time and post them to celebrate the milestones.
5.   Share your goals; focus can be regained by the investigation of progress amongst your family and peers.

In closing, we all have a goal that is at the core of our being. To many of us, this revolves around our lifestyle.  The single biggest contributor to our lifestyle is where we begin and end each day.  Make the investment in yourself to ensure that your core goal is met.  Our Magnolia Homes team knows how to handle the execution of your homeownership dreams.  There is no goal faster failed than one which is procrastinated.

Visit one of our model homes TODAY!

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The focus of the US real-estate market recently has been the number of foreclosures and the opportunities to purchase “cheaper” housing. While the number of current foreclosure and short sale closings are high historically, Brian Wesbury, a chief economist at First Trust Advisors, states that “if Americans don’t start focusing on building new homes, the market will have a much bigger problem on its hands.”   This is exciting to new home builders.  Another exciting factor to consider when keeping “Echo Boomers” in mind, is their purchasing state of mind. It has been said often and by countless sources that the “Echo Boomers” generation prefers the latest and greatest, delivered quickly, and exactly how they want it.  The reality is, according to the estimated growth figures, land development will become necessary and the prime home sites and builders (like Magnolia Homes) who have sustained during the nation’s economic difficulties will be positioned to provide homes that meet the criteria listed above with quality, service and customization yet the home sites will eventually become limited.

This being said, there is no better time than now to get ahead of the curve.  It is advantageous to select the home of your dreams while it is available and enjoy the future protection and enjoyment of your family while exercising the ability to buy proactively.  In a short time period, chances are you will not have the availability of home sites, attractive home prices and extremely low mortgage rates.  Remember the old adage, “while you’re sleeping on it, someone else is sleeping in it.”

The next question is, what Magnolia Homes Community is right for you?  With 25 years of excellence, we are positioned and experienced in helping you find exactly what you have been dreaming of – with that extra touch!

-Fearless Homebuyer, MSN Economist, Forbes (were all sources of my information compiled into one blog)

Please let me know what you think. This is a 1^st for me.  J

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Look no further than Magnolia Homes’ Village Park of Collierville community!  Village Park presents a lifestyle opportunity few others can offer.

Village Park is an incredible community and features outstanding schools, a fantastic Collierville location, a builder with an impeccable 25 year reputation, and a solid investment for the future.  Interest rates are unbelievably low and prices will continue to rise in Village Park, so it is very wise to consider investing in the near future if you know you will be purchasing a new home in the coming months.

Due to its highly desirable location, Village Park epitomizes the safe and active lifestyle Collierville is known for.  This community is one that showcases the utmost quality with all homes being built on family-sized home sites by Magnolia Homes in a French Creole architectural style.  The neighborhood features a community pool, walking trails, and is within walking distance of one of Collierville’s most popular parks – Johnson Park!  Top-rated schools including Crosswinds Elementary and Collierville High School are also a short stroll away

Homes range in size from 2800 – over 4500 square feet and are priced at an unbelievable $350,000 – over $500,000!!!  Luxury amenities abound, quality is always included, and energy efficiency is at the top of the list!  It is no wonder these Magnolia Homes are being purchased faster than they can be built!!

Why not stop in today and find exactly what you have been waiting and hoping for in Village Park of Collierville?  Exquisite furnished model open daily and appointments available.

Visit www.YourMagnoliaHome.com now to view home tours, floor plans, and community features!

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Most buyers have a current home to sell before beginning their search for their brand new home!!  Here are some tips for getting your home SOLD for the highest possible price!

1. Price your home aggressively! 
   Setting the right price for your home is the most important decision you will make when you decide to sell.  Go too high and you risk turning off every buyer in the market, go too low and you leave money on the table.  Spend a day looking at your competitors’ homes!  You will then see the world through your potential buyers’ eyes.
2. Hire an aggressive listing agent!
   Not all listing agents are created equal.  Take the time to research the market, talk to friends, neighbors, and colleagues about who they recommend, and interview multiple agents before making a hiring decision.  Make sure your agent gives you a true picture about values in your marketplace!
3.  Stage the home & use curb appeal
   Buyers won’t pull the trigger unless they become emotionally involved in your home.  To help build a stronger first impression, start from the outside first by improving curb appeal.  Remove weeds, plant fresh flowers, and spruce up exterior paint if needed!
4.  Offer incentives
   A buyer who has narrowed their search down to two or three top choices may need a little push to motivate them to take action.  To encourage buyers, many sellers offer incentives such as buying the interest rate down or paying for closing costs!
5.   Get pre-inspections

Many sellers do pre-inspections of the home to provide buyers with a clear whole home inspection or pest and dry rot inspection.  It is often easier and cheaper to do needed repairs in advance than trying to negotiate them later on!

-Trulia

Once all of this hard work is done (and it will pay off!) head on over to Village Park and secure your brand new dream Magnolia Home in the most ideal location in Collierville built by one of the highest quality builders in the Mid-South!  You have earned it!!

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“If you are thinking about buying a home, one of the first things you should do is go to a lender to get pre-approved. This will determine how much money you can borrow on a mortgage. This will also help you filter your home search by sale price, which will narrow your choices within your financing range.

So how does a lender evaluate — called underwriting — and determine how much you can borrow? It involves the three C’s: Credit, capacity and collateral!

Credit or FICO Score

The first item a lender will review is your credit profile, also known as your credit score or FICO score. This can range from 350 – 850. This is where all the decisions you’ve made in the past regarding will be reflected, such as:

• How much debt you have outstanding
• How much debt you have outstanding as a percentage of open credit accounts
• How much debt you have in the different types of credit accounts (credit cards, car loans, school loans, etc.)
• How well you’ve paid your bills over the years

Lenders used to allow much lower credit scores for borrowing purposes, but they’ve gone up the past few years. You need, in general, at least a 640 FICO score to borrow on a loan. The optimal score is 740-760 or above. The lower your score, the higher your interest rate and points on your mortgage loan.

Capacity or Income

If you pass the FICO score test and the lender says you are creditworthy, the next item you will be evaluated for is your “capacity.” Capacity means that based on the lender’s allowed maximum percentage debt to your gross income, less all of your other debt payments, how much do you have available for a housing payment? It also has to be stable income, such as $65,000 per year for two years in a row.

Per the chart, you can generally have your total mortgage payment, less other debt payments, be up to about 35% to 40% of your gross income. In the chart the bank took 35% of this borrower’s $6,000 gross monthly income and subtracted out other debt payments to get a maximum allowed housing payment of $1,750. And that $1,750 equates to about a $225,000 house with a $200,000 mortgage (this means you will need to put down a downpayment of $25,000 to buy the $225,000 house) per the bottom of the chart.

Collateral or the Property

If you’ve got the credit, and the capacity, you only need one more piece and that’s the collateral. This is the easiest part. You will pay the bank and they will order an independent appraiser to determine a market value of the property. And the lender will lend you up to a certain percentage of that value (or purchase price whichever is lower) like 80% loan to value (LTV) or maybe 90% LTV or maybe up to 96.5% LTV. This depends on the bank and the loan program in which you qualify. So even if your income qualifies you for a higher loan amount, the MOST any one bank will lend you on any particular property is up to their maximum allowed loan to value percentage on that property.

That’s it! If you’ve got credit, and capacity, go out and find the collateral!”

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[SOURCES: Freddie Mac; Information, Inc.]

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Homebuyers have an advantage in the current housing market, and there are plenty of newly built homes still for sale in many parts of the country.

Buying a home is one of the largest investments most people make, so it’s important to know as much as possible on how to get the most bang for the buck. In addition to reduced home values and a large inventory of homes on the market, the current tax incentives make it very affordable to buy a new home.

Why Buy a New Home Instead of an Existing One?

When compared with existing homes, newly built homes have a lot to offer. Most of those reasons are obvious, such as the fact that it’s clean, freshly painted and without need of repairs because everything is new. According to housing experts at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), purchasing a newly constructed home offers buyers added value beyond the structure’s age.

New Homes are designed for Today’s Lifestyles

Today’s floor plans are designed to make living easier for homeowners. Builders aren’t out there constructing homes designed just to be attractive. They’re designing them to fit lifestyles, and at the same time incorporating as many of the bells and whistles that homeowners want. In addition to open floor plans and more spaces designed for gathering, new homes also include areas specifically designed to meet a homeowner’s individual needs. In recent years, there has been more emphasis placed on home offices in new floor plans in order to satisfy the growing number of people who work from home. Rooms built for exercising are also popular, with many such areas designed for that particular purpose. Children’s playrooms and study nooks are also factored into many new floor plans. Whether a workout includes a treadmill, a game of tag or a computer, today’s new homes can be equipped with the spaces homeowners want and need.

Energy Efficient New Homes Save Homeowners Money

Homeowners are researching ways to incorporate energy efficient products and building techniques into their homes. With energy efficient building products and techniques, buyers can recoup the costs of investing in an energy efficient home through savings on their utility bills. Today’s builders are taking their cue from buyers and are incorporating those products into bids and spec houses. Homes built prior to the increased awareness and advances in energy efficient technologies don’t offer those savings.

New Homes Contribute to Sense of Community

Newly constructed homes also offer some not-so-obvious perks. In many cases, homeowners are not just looking for a new house; they’re looking for an opportunity to be part of a community. According to Rocky Pusateri, of Elite Homes in Louisville, Ken., buying a home in a new subdivision offers homeowners a unique chance to be on the ground floor of building a community. “When you buy a newly-built home, chances are you’re not the only ‘new kid on the block.’ When people move into a subdivision at the same time, there are often lasting friendships that are formed as well,” he said.

Many new residential communities include pools, walking trails, tennis and basketball courts and additional opportunities for interaction among neighbors. Local developers have thoughtfully designed home sites that take into account popular amenities that encourage people to come together. In some cases, block parties, community socials or neighborhood associations provide opportunities to get to know neighbors.

Today’s Homes are Designed for Entertaining

Today’s newly built homes are designed for entertaining, with many layouts featuring more open spaces rooms that allow parties to flow better than in previously built homes. Entertaining is a key factor in modern home designs, including kitchens that allow hosts to interact with guests as well as additional amenities such as wine coolers, wet bars and butler’s pantries that make entertaining more convenient. Many new homes also incorporate outdoor living areas and downstairs entertainment venues. In addition, most new homes are wired for entertaining, with more outlets and electrical options. Sophisticated lighting can be positioned where it is needed most, adding to the advantages of new construction.

The advantages of buying a new home over an existing one vary from price, design, comfort to lifestyle. For many homeowners, buying a new home indicates a certain milestone in their lives. There’s nothing quite like preparing the very first meal in a new kitchen, on new countertops and in a new oven. Aside from the obvious reasons, many factors contribute to why buying new makes sense, especially in today’s housing market. Currently, there is a diverse selection of new homes on the market that have been built with the amenities and floor plans that could make daily living easier and more enjoyable. Energy-efficient products and techniques included in new homes, along with tax incentives, make buying a new home a smart investment. For more information on the benefits and financial values of a purchasing a new home, visit nahb.com. –suite101.com

*Magnolia Home’s communities in Fayette County – Twin Lakes of Piperton & Saunders Creek of Rossville are no exception! They offer incredible, quality new homes in some of the best areas available. Amenities abound and a strong sense of community can be found here. Magnolia Homes has had decades of experience in creating refined communities that will be treasured by families for a lifetime. Make one of these two spectacular communities your new home today!! No available homes remain in Twin Lakes and THREE HOMES in Saunders Creek also sold recently! Building your custom dream home or securing one of our gorgeous available homes is only a phone call away! Also, ONLY THREE HOMES REMAIN in Saunders Creek of Rossville!!!! New floor plans on the way! Stay tuned or call for your private appointment today. Visit www.yourmagnoliahome.com today!!!

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Numbers released by the National Association of Home Builders on Thursday indicate that home affordability has hit a 20-year high. The release agrees with a recent Department of Housing and Urban Development assessment that found that affordability is at a 41-year peak.

In the fourth quarter of 2011, 75.9 percent of homes sold were affordable to families who earn the national median income of $64,200; that’s according to the Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index.”

You heard it!  Do not miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to take advantage of the incredible values, low interest rates, and highly sought after Magnolia Homes available TODAY in Village Park of Collierville beginning at only $350,000!  Phase 1 has been filling up at an unbelievable pace and sales are brisk!  Come by and see for yourself this ideal location and picturesque community brought to you by one of the Mid-South’s highest quality builders, Magnolia Homes!!!

View more at:  http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/02/17/home-affordability-at-record-high-builders-report-says/

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Tobogganing
If you’re lucky to have snow this year, there’s more to it than just building snowmans and making snow angels.  Tobogganing is fun, exciting and all you need is a sled of some sort or even just a big piece of cardboard to go down the hills.  However, do look out for trees and avoid roads as the speeds can be quite fast!  If you have small children, going to a trail is best to travel with a well-equipped all-terrain or jogging stroller.

Collecting arts and craft pieces
Spend a weekend with the kids finding items from nature that would make great craft projects.  Leaves are beautiful this time of year to place on your dining table as a center piece.  Rocks are also a good choice if you want to decorate them by putting them in large vases as a showcase of memories.

Don’t forget fido
If you have a family dog, it makes going outdoors even more fun with all the squirrel chasing and ball fetching.  Since your family pet has to get the exercise anyways, why not use that time as a family outing?  Getting your kids used to the outdoors early will help set them up for an athletic life, that will help give them a healthy life physically and mentally throughout their lives.  The best things in life are indeed free, with nature being the best example.

About the author:  Joanna is a freelance writer that reviews baby products for Strollerlife.com.

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