Selling • June 11, 2023

Selling Your Home? Don’t Forget to Check These Tasks off Your To-Do List

by Tim Mahon

Getting ready to sell your home can feel like a whirlwind. There’s so many things to do, and while you’re likely to check all the major tasks off your to-do list — like cleaning and getting your listing photos taken — there are some smaller tasks that might fall through the cracks.

But those small to-do’s can actually make a big difference in your home sale, so it’s important not to forget them.

So what, exactly, are those to-do’s? A recent article from realtor.com outlined some of the key tasks you don’t want to forget when selling your home, including:

Account for improvements and issues. If you’ve made any improvements to your home (like installing a new drain system) or had to fix any issues (like dealing with a flooded basement), make sure to list them all out. When you sell your home, it’s important to disclose those things to the buyer; not only will the improvements make them feel better about their home purchase, but disclosing the issues — and how you fixed them — can help you avoid potential lawsuits after the sale.
Make sure the doorbell rings. If you don’t use your doorbell regularly, do a quick check and make sure it’s functional and that it actually rings when someone uses it. Most buyers (or at least their agents) will press the doorbell before just walking into the house, and if it’s not working, it could make them think that other things in the house won’t work either. (Not the best first impression!)
Clarify what items are not included. Technically, anything that is bolted to the walls or ceiling is included in the home purchase, unless the contract states otherwise. As such, you want to be crystal clear from the get-go about what’s not included in your listing; otherwise, a potential buyer might fall in love with your custom chandelier, and might walk away from the deal when they find out you’re taking your light fixture with you to your new home.

Oh, and don’t forget to hire the team at CENTURY 21 Keim Realtors! Anywhere in Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Delaware, you can contact us at 610-969-7200 or email c21keim@gmail.com

Humor • Selling • June 11, 2023

6 Creative Ways to Let Your Favorite Realtor Know You’d Like to Work With Them

by Tim Mahon

There’s nothing a real estate agent loves more than hearing from a friend, family member, or past client who’s calling to say they want to buy or sell a house. It doesn’t matter if you text them, call them, or send an email, it’s going to make their day.

But why not take it up a notch, and make their entire career, by letting them know in a truly unique fashion the next time you want to list or buy a house?!

Here are 6 creative ways to let your favorite agent know you’re ready to buy or sell, in a way that they’ll never forget:

1) Play a guessing game

Rather than just coming right out and saying you want them to buy or sell a house, ask them to guess which agent you’re choosing to work with instead! Hearing that someone they know is using another agent is a deep-seated fear many agents have. So it’ll be a riot as you watch them have a minor panic attack and start guessing the names of other agents! But the relief and joy they’ll feel when they guess their own name (or you finally tell them) will be priceless, and oh so memorable.

2) Steal the reveal

Gender reveal parties have become all the rage. Why not modify the concept and throw a party where you’re going to pop a balloon and use the agent whose card is inside the balloon. But only put your agent’s card in every single balloon…

Invite your favorite agent to the big reveal party, and have other guests pose as real estate agents as well. Your agent will be both excited, and nervous that their fate will be decided by which balloon you pop. But it’ll be worth seeing the utter relief and joy on their face when their card flies out!

3) Bring back the boombox

Nothing says “you’re the one for me” more than holding a boombox over your head outside someone’s window like Lloyd Dobler did in Say Anything! Just head over to your agent’s home at the break of dawn and start blaring the music. When they open the window and ask you what the hell you’re doing, tell them you want to buy or sell a house and they’re the only agent you’d ever work with. They’ll fall in love with you (platonically of course) all over again. Their neighbors…not so much.

4) Flower power

It’s not unheard of for an agent to get flowers delivered to them in the office for one reason or another. But in the history of agentkind, there’s probably never been one single agent who received a bouquet of flowers with a card to let them know someone wants to buy or sell a house.

(If you don’t think they like flowers, consider a singing telegram instead…)

5) We’ve been trying to reach you about your car’s warranty…

Between robocallers, scammers, and plain old telemarketers trying to sell them leads and products, agents spend a good amount of their day fielding unwanted phone calls. The problem is, while many people just ignore those calls and let it go to voicemail, an agent has to answer it in case it’s potential business. Sadly, it never is.

But that’s why you posing as a telemarketer is pure gold!!! Block your number and call pretending you’re calling about their car’s warranty…

Nope! Wait! Better yet, say you’re from Zillow and ask if they could use more business. That’s their go-to line when they try to sell agents client leads. Right before they hang up on you, tell them it’s you and you actually want to buy or sell a house. They may need some clarification and assurance that you truly aren’t a Zillow rep, but once they know for sure that it’s you, they’ll think this was a hilarious approach.

6) It’s gonna be a Goodyear!

If you have cash to burn and really want to go over the top (literally and figuratively), hire a blimp to fly over their office with a scrolling message that you want to work with them to buy or sell a house! This needs no further explanation. Blimp + message = memorable. Everyone loves a blimp.

But of course a simple text, call, or email to let your favorite agent know you want their help to buy or sell a house is always welcome! It doesn’t matter how you tell them, it’ll make their day, and your business ultimately helps make their career!

Commercial Real Estate • Invest in Real Estate • Real Estate News • June 11, 2023

The Most Important Factors in Real Estate Investment Trends

by Tim Mahon

Real estate investment is a dynamic field influenced by various factors that shape the trends and opportunities available to investors. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions and capitalizing on profitable investment opportunities. In this article, we will explore some of the most important factors driving real estate investment trends.

Economic Conditions: Economic conditions play a significant role in real estate investment trends. Factors such as GDP growth, employment rates, inflation, and interest rates can greatly impact the demand for and profitability of real estate investments. During periods of economic growth, real estate investments tend to thrive as demand for housing and commercial spaces increases. Conversely, economic downturns can present opportunities for value investing and acquiring properties at lower prices.
Demographics and Population Growth: Demographic trends, including population growth, age distribution, and migration patterns, have a profound impact on real estate investment. Changes in demographics can drive shifts in demand for different types of properties, such as residential housing, senior living facilities, or mixed-use developments. Investors who understand and anticipate demographic changes can position themselves to meet evolving market demands.
Location and Market Fundamentals: The location of a property and its surrounding market fundamentals are vital factors in real estate investment trends. Factors such as proximity to amenities, schools, transportation hubs, and job centers influence the desirability and long-term value of a property. Additionally, investors should analyze the supply and demand dynamics of the local market, vacancy rates, rental yields, and projected growth potential. A thorough understanding of the market fundamentals is crucial for identifying suitable investment opportunities.
Technological Advancements: Technological advancements are increasingly shaping real estate investment trends. The emergence of smart home technology, blockchain applications, virtual reality tours, and property management software has transformed the industry. Investors who embrace technology can gain a competitive edge, streamline operations, and enhance the overall investment experience.
Environmental and Sustainability Factors: Environmental consciousness and sustainability are becoming integral considerations in real estate investment. Growing concerns about climate change, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly practices have influenced investor preferences and government regulations. Properties with green certifications, sustainable design, and energy-efficient features are gaining popularity among investors and tenants alike.
Regulatory and Tax Policies: Regulatory and tax policies can significantly impact real estate investment trends. Changes in zoning regulations, rent control laws, or tax incentives can affect the profitability and feasibility of investments. Staying informed about local, state, and national regulations is crucial for understanding the potential risks and opportunities in the real estate market.

Conclusion: Real estate investment trends are influenced by a multitude of factors that shape the opportunities available to investors. Economic conditions, demographics, location, technology, sustainability, and regulatory policies all play crucial roles. Investors who stay informed, analyze these factors diligently, and adapt to evolving trends can position themselves for success in the dynamic world of real estate investment. By recognizing and leveraging these important factors, investors can make informed decisions, maximize returns, and build a resilient and profitable real estate portfolio.

Before you make any investment decisions in Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Delaware, consider contacting a Commercial Investment Specialist at CENTURY 21 Keim Commercial. You can call us at 610-969-7200, email c21keim@gmail.com or visit us online at www.Century21KeimCommercial.com

Commercial Real Estate • Invest in Real Estate • June 11, 2023

10 Steps to Investing in the Lehigh Valley

by Tim Mahon

The Lehigh Valley is a metropolitan area of approximately 845,000 located approximately 90 minutes west of Manhattan and less than an hour north of Philadelphia.

Investing in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania real estate presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking long-term growth and stability. The region’s strategic location, strong economy, and diverse real estate market make it an attractive choice. Lehigh Valley benefits from its proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia, offering a prime location for businesses and residents alike. The area’s robust economy is driven by a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics, ensuring a steady demand for real estate. Moreover, Lehigh Valley’s real estate market provides a variety of options, from residential properties to commercial and industrial spaces, allowing investors to diversify their portfolio. The region’s consistently low unemployment rate and increasing population further indicate a positive outlook for real estate investments, with a stable rental market and potential for appreciation. Overall, Lehigh Valley Pennsylvania offers a promising landscape for investors seeking profitable opportunities in the real estate market.

The 10 Steps to Investing in Commercial Investment Real Estate in the Lehigh Valley:

Step 1: Define your Investment Goals:

Your investment success begins with clearly defining your investment objectives. Determine your expected investment budget, your return expectations, and your investment horizon.

Understand whether your goal is cash flow from rental income or capital appreciation, as this will shape your investment strategy.

And determine which asset class best suits your investment goals, whether that is multi-family, retail, office, warehouse, hospitality or another specialized asset.

Step 2: Research the Market:

Researching the real estate market before making an investment purchase is crucial for investors looking to make informed and successf

ul decisions. Understanding the market trends, dynamics, and factors that influence property values is essential for mitigating risks and maximizing returns.

Thorough research enables investors to identify emerging or undervalued markets, assess supply and demand dynamics, and evaluate the potential for capital appreciation or rental income. Additionally, studying market data and historical trends helps investors make educated projections about future market conditions, enabling them to make strategic investment choices.

Conducting due diligence on property location, local amenities, infrastructure developments, and zoning regulations is equally important to assess the long-term viability and profitability of an investment. By researching the real estate market thoroughly, investors can make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and position themselves for success in a dynamic and competitive industry.

Step 3: Seek Professional Guidance:

Selecting and hiring the right professionals can be the difference between a successful real estate investment and a potential disaster. Seek out legal advice, financial advice and construction consultants from experienced advisors. And engage a real estate professional, like the Commercial Investment Experts at CENTURY 21 Keim Commercial, to help navigate the complex transaction. Work with a real estate professional who possesses in-depth knowledge of the local market to help you to make informed real estate investment decisions.

Step 4: Identify Suitable Properties:

Identifying suitable real estate investment properties requires a systematic approach and careful analysis. Narrow your options based on how you define your investment goals and criteria, considering factors such as location preferences, property type, budget, and expected returns.

Conducting thorough market research is essential to identify areas with potential for growth, high demand, and positive economic indicators. It’s crucial to assess property-specific factors such as condition, age, and potential for renovations or improvements. Analyzing rental potential and market trends is also important for investors interested in income-generating properties. Additionally, evaluating the neighborhood’s amenities, proximity to schools, transportation, and other essential facilities helps determine the property’s desirability and long-term value.

Step 5: Evaluate Financial Feasibility:

Evaluate the financial feasibility of each potential investment, analyzing financial feasibility through cash flow analysis and return on investment calculations. Your CENTURY 21 Keim Commercial specialist can help build a Pro Forma of investments and run a sensitivity analysis to identify potential risks. Consider the maintenance costs an

d renovation costs as part of your analysis.

Step 6: Arrange Financing:

Unlike residential lending, commercial and investment lending practices vary from lender to lender. Compare lenders, loan terms, interest rates and eligibility criteria and explore your financing options.

Be certain to account for both the required down payment and the closing costs necessary to purchase the property.

Step 7: Legal and Documentation Procedures:

Commercial Investment sales often begin with a Letter of Intent prepared by an attorney or by a real estate professional. Once the major terms are ironed out, a formal Agreement of Sale can be prepared.

As part of the Agreement, an investor should carefully weigh what due diligence will be required to protect the investor from hidden defects or misleading financial statements. Engage legal professionals to safeguard your interests.

Step 8: Negotiate and Finalize the Deal:

Negotiate with the property seller to arrive at a mutually acceptable price and terms. Ensure all terms and conditions are clearly documented and that you understand the agreement’s implications.

Step 9: Post-Contract Due Diligence:

A due diligence period is generally part of most commercial investment contracts. During this period, an investor will have any property inspections completed including building inspection, wood destroying insects, water tests, sewer or septic tests, and others.

During that same period, investors should carefully conduct legal and financial due diligence, obtaining Estoppel certificates from tenants to determine if the tenants are paying what the owner has in their documentation and if there are any contract promises with any tenants that may affect the property or the bottom line.

Legal due diligence includes verifying the zoning uses and that all permits and licenses are in place, and that the property boundaries are as expected.

Step 10: Manage and Monitor the Investment:

Once the property is in your possession, actively manage and monitor your investment. Regularly assess market conditions, tenant satisfaction, and property maintenance. Consider partnering with professional property management firms, like CENTURY 21 Keim’s Property Management Division to handle day-to-day operations, tenant management, and maintenance tasks.

Conclusion:

Investing in real estate can be highly rewarding for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, real estate has historically shown the potential for long-term appreciation, allowing investors to build wealth over time. Properties have the potential to increase in value, generating substantial returns when sold in a favorable market. Additionally, real estate investments can generate passive income through rental properties. Rental income provides a steady stream of cash flow, which can be used to cover mortgage payments, expenses, and even provide additional income.

Moreover, real estate investments offer a tangible asset that provides a sense of security and stability. Unlike other investment options, real estate offers physical ownership and control, allowing investors to make improvements, increase property value, and have a sense of pride in their investment. Lastly, real estate investments can provide tax advantages through deductions, depreciation, and capital gains treatment, which can further enhance the financial benefits.

Overall, investing in real estate offers the potential for long-term appreciation, passive income, asset diversification, and various tax advantages, making it a rewarding choice for investors.

Home Improvement • Selling • April 22, 2023

Small Improvements that have a BIG Impact

by Tim Mahon

When it comes to selling a home, small improvements can have a big impact on its value. Whether you’re selling your home in the near future or just want to improve its condition, there are a few simple touches you can make to help it stand out to potential buyers.

Freshen up the walls: Repainting the walls can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of a property. Opt for neutral colors that will appeal to a wide range of buyers. If the walls are in good condition, painting an accent wall can also add a pop of color and depth to the space.
Update fixtures: Old, dated fixtures can make a house feel tired and uninviting. Swapping out old light fixtures, faucets, and cabinet hardware with modern options can give the space a polished, upgraded look.
Improve curb appeal: The exterior of a home is the first thing potential buyers see, so it’s important to make a good impression. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged, add fresh mulch to flower beds, and consider adding a few potted plants to the front porch for a welcoming touch.
Clean and declutter: A home that is clean and clutter-free will appear more spacious and appealing to buyers. Clear out any unnecessary belongings and deep clean the entire house to showcase its potential.
Enhance natural light: Natural light can make a space feel larger and more open. Remove heavy drapes and replace them with light-colored, sheer curtains to allow as much light in as possible. Keeping windows sparkling clean can also help maximize natural light.
Upgrade appliances: If your home has older appliances, consider upgrading them to more energy-efficient, modern models. Not only can this improve the look of your kitchen or laundry room, but it can also save the buyer money in the long run. By making a few simple improvements, you can increase the value of your home and appeal to a wider range of potential buyers.

Remember, small touches can make a big difference – and may be the deciding factor for a buyer when choosing between two similar properties.

For more advice, call Century 21 Keim at 800-648-4421 or visit us online at www.C21Keim.com

Buying • Selling • April 22, 2023

Why Homes Sell in the Spring

by Tim Mahon

The Spring Homebuying Market: Why Home Sellers Sell

Spring is often considered the prime time for home sellers to put their properties on the market. But why do they choose this particular season? There are several reasons why homeowners opt for spring, ranging from ideal weather conditions to an advantageous market.

One of the biggest reasons for selling a house in the spring is the weather. With longer days and warmer temperatures, properties look more attractive, and buyers are more inclined to explore new listings. Springtime weather means flowers and plants are in bloom, making homes look more beautiful in photos and more appealing to potential buyers. Additionally, mild weather makes it easier to conduct open houses and showcase the exterior of the property.

The timing of the academic calendar year can also impact a seller’s decision to list their home in the spring or summer. Families often look to purchase their new homes in the spring or summer months as they plan to move before the start of the new school year. This provides sellers with a larger group of potential buyers looking to find the perfect home before the school year begins.

Another factor that affects sellers is the overall state of the market. Spring often brings healthy competition, as people start to look for new homes and the market becomes more active.

Additionally, tax refunds can bring extra financial incentives for buyers, providing a boost in purchasing power and a great opportunity for sellers to receive multiple offers. Selling a home in the spring also presents a chance to capitalize on low supply and high demand. Inventory tends to be higher during the summer months, giving prospective buyers more options. Therefore, selling early in the season when inventory is lower can translate to a quicker sale and a better price.

Overall, there are numerous reasons why spring is the ideal time for home sellers to list their properties. From the temperate weather and tax refunds to market activity and low inventory, there are ample opportunities for sellers to make a quick and profitable sale.

If you’re thinking of selling and would like a free market analysis, please contact us at 800-648-4421.

Uncategorized • April 13, 2022

New Technology Promises to Revolutionize Construction

by Tim Mahon

There’s no question that technology is making an impact on the construction industry – even though construction is an industry that’s been historically slow to embrace innovation. The reluctance to change and evolve is due to fragmentation in the industry. With so many small firms specializing in different aspects of the construction process, it’s a challenge to adopt seamless processes and adapt to new technologies.

But recent advances that increase the efficiency, flexibility and adaptability of many emerging construction technologies are making them more cost-effective for firms to adopt. Just a few of the new technologies in use today include modular construction (using free-standing, integrated modules that are manufactured off-site and then transported to a site for installation), geospatial technologies (used to visualize, measure and analyze Earth’s features) and wearable technologies (such as head-mounted displays).

There’s more on the horizon. Some emerging technologies in the construction industry include mass timber (an engineered wood product), construction robotics (using robots to build) and autonomous construction vehicles (equipment operated by a computer).

To read a NAIOP report about new construction technologies, click here.

Commercial Real Estate • April 13, 2022

Converting Hotels to Housing

by Tim Mahon

Converting Hotels to Housing

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has released new research on the conversion of hotels and motels into housing. While the study was spurred by a 37% drop in hotel occupancy rates driven by the pandemic, the findings have broader implications. Hotel conversions provide a means to simultaneously create renewed profitability and help address the national housing shortage.

Commercial members surveyed

A survey was sent to 75,000 commercial members of the NAR between February and March of 2021. 168 reported being engaged in the sale, leasing, development, property management or appraisal of converted hotels/motels between 2018 and 2020. Of the reported conversions:

79% were for housing.
12% were for homeless shelters, either temporary or permanent.
6% were for healthcare or quarantine facilities.
3% were for retail, industrial, ranch land or other development.

Success stories

The report ends with five case studies detailing acquisition, zoning, renovations and expected final property values. For those interested in engaging in hotel/motel conversions, they’ll find an excellent road map in this report.

By the way

If you’re interested in shopping for hotels or any commercial real estate, please visit us at www.Century21KeimCommercial.com

Buying • April 13, 2022

Home Inspections – What to Expect Next

by Tim Mahon

Home Inspection

So you made an offer, it was accepted, and now your next task is to have the home inspected prior to closing. Oftentimes, agents make your offer contingent on a clean home inspection.

This contingency allows you to renegotiate the price you paid for the home, ask the sellers to cover repairs, or even, in some cases, walk away. Your agent can advise you on the best course of action once the report is filed.

How to Choose an Inspector

Your agent will most likely have a short list of inspectors that they have worked with in the past that they can recommend to you. HGTV recommends that you consider the following 5 areas when choosing the right home inspector for you:

Qualifications – find out what’s included in your inspection and if the age or location of your home may warrant specific certifications or specialties.
Sample Reports – ask for a sample inspection report so you can review how thoroughly they will be inspecting your dream home. The more detailed the report, the better in most cases.
References – do your homework – ask for phone numbers and names of past clients who you can call to ask about their experiences.
Memberships – Not all inspectors belong to a national or state association of home inspectors, and membership in one of these groups should not be the only way to evaluate your choice. Membership in one of these organizations often means that continued training and education are provided.
Errors & Omission Insurance – Find out what the liability of the inspector or inspection company is once the inspection is over. The inspector is only human after all, and it is possible that they might miss something they should have seen.

Ask your inspector if it’s okay for you to tag along during the inspection, that way they can point out anything that should be addressed or fixed.

Don’t be surprised to see your inspector climbing on the roof or crawling around in the attic and on the floors. The job of the inspector is to protect your investment and find any issues with the home, including but not limited to: the roof, plumbing, electrical components, appliances, heating & air conditioning systems, ventilation, windows, the fireplace and chimney, the foundation, and so much more!

Bottom Line

They say ‘ignorance is bliss,’ but not when investing your hard-earned money into a home of your own. Work with a professional who you can trust to give you the most information possible about your new home so that you can make the most educated decision about your purchase.

Home Improvement • April 13, 2022

How to Decorate for Outdoor Entertaining

by Tim Mahon

Even though you don’t have a sprawling backyard, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy entertaining outdoors. Make the most of your petite patio and turn it into a pocket-sized paradise. Here are our tips for how to decorate small spaces for outdoor entertaining.

● Arrange furniture the right way: The best way to maximize space is to arrange your furniture around the perimeter of the deck or patio. Think twice before placing a table in the center, and instead give your guests plenty of room to stand or move around.

● Add extra seating with large pillows: Get a few extra spots for guests to sit without taking up too much space by throwing in some large floor pillows. They add an extra element of coziness, plus they’re easy to add or subtract.

● Use color wisely: Color can make all the difference when decorating, especially in such a small space. Keep things fresh and airy by sticking to a monochromatic palette in whites or grays. Or add a bit of fun by using colorful accents in eye-catching patterns.

● Be strategic when choosing furniture: Save space by investing in two-for-one pieces of furniture, such as nesting tables, storage ottomans and benches (which can also be used for seating), and folding tables and chairs.

● Bring on the plants: There may be plenty of foliage outside already, but use it strategically in your entertaining area. Plants are a simple way to liven things up and make your modest space feel like an exotic retreat.

● Hang up lights: Strings of bistro lights can instantly open up a small space. Plus, that warm glow will give things a cozier vibe.

Get ready for a summer full of outdoor entertaining! Decorate for Outdoor Entertaining

Selling Your Home? Don’t Forget to Check These Tasks off Your To-Do List

6 Creative Ways to Let Your Favorite Realtor Know You’d Like to Work With Them

1) Play a guessing game

2) Steal the reveal

3) Bring back the boombox

4) Flower power

5) We’ve been trying to reach you about your car’s warranty…

6) It’s gonna be a Goodyear!

The Most Important Factors in Real Estate Investment Trends

10 Steps to Investing in the Lehigh Valley

Small Improvements that have a BIG Impact

Why Homes Sell in the Spring

New Technology Promises to Revolutionize Construction

Converting Hotels to Housing

Home Inspections – What to Expect Next

How to Decorate for Outdoor Entertaining

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