Prepare For Homeownership

10 Ways to Prepare for Homeownership
1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.
2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list.
3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you'd like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.
4. Start saving. Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don't forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs - including taxes, attorney's fee, and transfer fees - average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price.
5. Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report to make sure it is accurate and to correct any errors immediately. A credit report provides a history of your credit, bad debts, and any late payments.
6. Determine your mortgage qualifications. How large of mortgage do you qualify for? Also, explore different loan options - such as 30-year or 15-year fixed mortgages or ARMs - and decide what's best for you.
7. Get preapproved. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan. You might need W-2 forms, copies of at least one pay stub, account numbers, and copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements.
8. Weigh other sources of help with a down payment. Do you qualify for any special mortgage or down payment assistance programs? Check with your state and local government on down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers. Or, if you have an IRA account, you can use the money you've saved to buy your fist home without paying a penalty for early withdrawal.
9. Calculate the costs of homeownership. This should include property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and association fees, if applicable.
10. Contact a REALTOR®. Find an experienced REALTOR® who can help guide you through the process.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Pricing Tips

Tips for Pricing Your Home

•· Consider comparables. What have other homes in your neighborhood sold for recently? How do they compare to yours in terms of size, upkeep, and amenities?
•· Consider competition. How many other houses are for sale in your area? Are you competing against new homes?
•· Consider your contingencies. Do you have special concerns that would affect the price you'll receive? For example, do you want to be able to move in four months?
•· Get an appraisal. For a few hundred dollars, a qualified appraiser can give you an estimate of your home's value. Be sure to ask for a market-value appraisal. To locate appraisers in your area, contact The Appraisal Institute (www.appraisalinstitute.org) or ask your REALTOR® for some recommendations.
•· Ask a lender. Since most buyers will need a mortgage, it's important that a home's sale price be in line with a lender's estimate of its value.
•· Be accurate. Studies show that homes priced more than 3 percent over the correct price take longer to sell.
•· Know what you'll take. It's critical to know what price you'll accept before beginning a negotiation with a buyer.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Teriyaki Marinade

Teriyaki Marinade




INGREDIENTS: 3/4 cup prepared teriyaki sauce 2 tablespoons dry sherry 1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger



DIRECTIONS: In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients and mix well. Marinate meat for at least 6 to 8 hours, or overnight, in a resealable plastic bag. Turn occasionally. *Use on pork, beef or chicken

Now that things are really cooking, let me know if you have a real estate related question or problem. Reply to this message or call me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net


Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup canola oil 2 cups sugar 2-1/2 cups flour 2 eggs 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla 4 cups chopped and peeled tart cooking apples 1 cup chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine oil and sugar. Beat in eggs. Sift together dry ingredients and add to the egg mixture. Mix in the chopped apples and bake in a 13x9-inch pan for 55 minutes. Cool then ice with the cream cheese frosting. CREAM CHEESE FROSTING: Have all ingredients at room temperature. 1 pound confectioner's sugar 8 ounces cream cheese 1/2 cup butter 2 tsp vanilla 1 cup pecans, chopped DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl beat sugar, cream cheese and butter until whipped and smooth. Add vanilla and stir in pecans.

Have a real estate related question or problem? Reply to this message or call me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Sticky Chicken

Sticky Chicken




INGREDIENTS: 3 Tbsp. honey 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 1 tsp. finely minced gingerroot 1 4-lb whole roasting chicken 3 minced garlic cloves 1 whole orange, sliced 2 Tbsp. cornstarch 3 Tbsp. orange juice



DIRECTIONS: Rinse chicken and drain well. Pat the chicken with paper towels to dry. Place garlic and orange slices inside chicken. Spray a 4-6 quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray and place chicken inside. Combine honey, soy sauce and gingerroot in small bowl and pour over chicken. Cover crockpot. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. The chicken should be fork tender and thoroughly cooked. Remove chicken from crockpot and cover with foil to keep warm. Mix cornstarch and orange juice in small saucepan and add the juices left in the crockpot. Mix well and cook over medium high heat until the sauce boils and thickens, stirring frequently. Serve chicken with sauce. YIELD: 6 servings

Have a real estate related question or problem? Reply to this message or call me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Spinach Dip

Spinach Dip
INGREDIENTS: 1 (9 to 11-ounce) package, frozen spinach 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese 1/2 cup plain yogurt 1 clove garlic, minced 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS: Cook spinach according to package directions. Drain thoroughly. Place all ingredients in blender and process until smooth. Chill several hours before serving with vegetables or chips. For a milder dip, mix in a little cottage cheese before serving. Yield: 1 2/3 cups.

Have a real estate related question or problem? Reply to this message or call me today!
Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Chicken Fried Steak & Gravy

Chicken-Fried Steak and Gravy

INGREDIENTS: 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 or 5 (4-ounce) cube steaks 38 Saltine crackers (1 sleeve), crushed 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 2 teaspoons salt, divided 1-1/2 teaspoons black pepper, divided 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper 4-3/4 cups milk, divided 2 large eggs 2 to 3 cups peanut oil Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

DIRECTIONS: Salt (lightly) and pepper steaks on both sides. Combine cracker crumbs, 1 cup flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and red pepper. Whisk together 3/4 cup milk and eggs. Dredge steaks in cracker crumb mixture; dip in milk mixture, and dredge in cracker mixture again. Heat oil in a heavy 12-inch skillet; heat to 360°. (Do not use a nonstick skillet.) Fry steaks 10 minutes. Turn and fry 4 to 5 more minutes or until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack on a jellyroll pan. Keep steaks warm in a 225° oven. Drain hot oil, reserving cooked bits and 1 tablespoon drippings in skillet. Whisk together remaining 1/4 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 4 cups milk. Pour mixture into reserved drippings in skillet; cook over medium-high heat, whisking constantly, until thickened. Serve gravy with steaks. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired. Yield: 4 servings.

Have a real estate related question or problem? Reply to this message or call me today!
 
Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
770-595-1541

Banana Bread

Banana Bread


INGREDIENTS: 1 stick unsalted butter at room temperature 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 1/2 cup bread flour or unbleached all-purpose 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup mashed very ripe bananas 1/2 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan. With an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, beating well. Sift the dry ingredients together and combine with the butter mixture. Blend well. Add the bananas, sour cream, and vanilla. Stir well. Stir in the nuts an pour into the prepared pan. Bake 1 hour, or longer, until a toothpick comes out clean. Turn out onto a rack to cool. Brush with melted butter.

Have a real estate related question or problem? Reply to this message or call me today!
 
Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
770-595-1541 (cell)
770-922-7777 X316 (office)
dallasc@remax.net
http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti with Spinach and Tomatoes




INGREDIENTS: 1 pound Italian sausages, casings removed 1 medium onion, chopped 3 large garlic cloves, chopped 1 28-ounce can diced, peeled tomatoes 1/4 cup purchased (or homemade) pesto sauce 10 ounces ziti or penne pasta (about 3 cups), freshly cooked 8 cups ready-to-use spinach leaves (about 2/3 of 10-ounce package) 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese



DIRECTIONS: Heat heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add sausage, onion and garlic. Sauté until sausage is cooked through, breaking up meat with back of spoon, about 10 minutes. Add tomatoes with juices to pan. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Stir in pesto. Season sauce with salt and pepper (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to simmer before continuing). Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly oil a 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish. Combine pasta, spinach, mozzarella and 1/3 cup parmesan cheese in large bowl. Stir in hot tomato sauce. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese. Bake until sauce bubbles and cheeses melt, 30 to 45 minutes.

Have a real estate related question or problem? Reply to this message or call me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Cheap Paint

Despite the various ways in which homeowners can enhance their home's value, perhaps none has the same impact as a brand new coat of paint. Although it's not an easy task by any stretch of the imagination, it makes sense when you consider that a few $20 cans of paint can result in adding hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your property value.

As your real estate professional, I can help you with any and all or your real estate needs! Call or email me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Moisture

No matter what kind of home you own, excessive condensation and moisture can cause serious problems. Mold, wood rot and other dangerous moisture can be cured by either improving the ventilation within your home or insulating the property more consistently. However you address the problem, the worst thing you could do is ignore the issues and let it spread throughout the home's infrastructure.

If you've noticed signs of excess moisture in your home or you simply have questions about homes in general, call or email me. As your real estate professional, it's my job to make sure you have all the necessary tools to keep your home in the best possible condition!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Lamp Shades

Unlike doing major alterations to your property, changing the lighting in your home doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, I often recommend starting with lampshades that will alter the lighting style of your home. Since lamps are often a focal point in any room, changing the shades can dramatically change your home's appearance.

As your real estate professional, I can help you with any home improvement questions you may have. Call or email me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Simple Savings

There are many little things you can do to help keep your energy costs down.

•Make sure the registers and vents for your heating and cooling system aren't obstructed by furniture or other objects.
•Clean or replace the air filter in your heating/cooling system regularly (monthly in most cases) to help it run efficiently.
•Install a programmable thermostat to automatically coordinate indoor climates with daily and weekend patterns.
•Keep the lint trap and vent hose on your clothes dryer clean. Wash clothes in cold water when possible, and do laundry in large loads.
•Do full loads when using the dishwasher.
•Use dimmers, timers and motion detectors on indoor and outdoor lighting.
•Dress in layers when it's cool and throw an extra blanket on the bed so you can turn the thermostat down a few more degrees. When it's cool, set your thermostat at the lowest setting that still feels comfortable. Each degree above 68 degrees adds about 5 percent to your heating bill.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Let there be light

No matter how much time and effort you spend on making your home the best it can be, it will all be in vain if you don't provide the perfect lighting scheme to showcase your efforts. Alternative lighting such as track lights or even colored lighting can accentuate the overall style and feel of your property.

You've worked hard for your home; shouldn't you give yourself a little time in the spotlight? Call or email me and I can show you how!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541

Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Going Tankless

New advances in home heating appliances are giving homeowners new alternatives in keeping their heating expenses in check. One such innovation is the tankless water heater, which utilizes a heat-on-demand feature that helps lower energy bills. With both gas and electric models available in a variety of sizes, this heater may be the perfect choice for your home.
If you would like to discuss any of your homeowner needs, feel free to call or email me. I want to make your home work for you!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

R you insulated?

Insulation is an important factor in keeping your heating and cooling costs down. The higer the R value of insulation, the greater its resistance to heat flow. The higher its resistance to heat flow, the greater its ability to keep heat inside your home in the winter and keep it outside in the summer.

The insulation in your home should meet or exceed these values: walls R-13, floors - R-19 and ceilings R-30. Your ductwork should have a minimum R-6 insulation (2.5 inch duct wrap), and all joints and seams in the ductwork should be tightly sealed.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

More Buyers

As a real estate professional, I'm in the business of making dreams come true for all my clients, regardless of current market conditions. That's why I'm in contact with buyers and sellers in the area who may still be looking for the match for their needs.

If you know anyone who could benefit from my expertise, have them call or email me. I welcome the opportunity to work with them.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Property Taxes

Of all the charges assessed to homeowners, perhaps none is more frustrating than their property tax. Since property taxes are based on the county assessor's estimate of your home's value, oftentimes this calculated value is considerably different from the true market value of your home.
Why not protect your investment? By keeping you informed of the real estate market, I can help you better manage your home. Call or email me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Frigid Adjustments

Adjust the refrigerator control to a warmer setting. If going on an extended trip, consider emptying the fridge and turning it off. If you turn off your fridge, remember to leae the door open to prevent mildew. You should also check your refrigerator and freezer door seals to be sure they're in good shape.

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Free Heat

During the winter, take advantage of free heat from the sun by opening shades and drapes on sunny days. Keep curtains and shades closed at night or on cloudy days to help reduce the amount of heat that escapes through windows.

If you would like to discuss other ways in which I can help you with real estate, call or email me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

With such diverse choices available to consumers in the home appliance market, it's no surprise that many buyers opt to go with the more familiar brand names without considering other factors. When shopping for a new appliance for your home, make sure and look for the Energy Star label. Certified by the Department of Energy as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Star appliances are recognized for their high energy efficiency and end up costing less to own the longer you have them.

I want to help you get the most of your home, inside and out. Call or email me and let me make you a happier homeowner!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Solar Energy

Tired of paying an outrageously high energy bill every month? Then you should consider looking into replacing your conventional energy sources with solar energy. Whether it's heating your home or keeping your swimming pool at a comfortable temperature, you may be able to use solar energy for a number of specific applications that the local power company doesn't want you to know about.

Feel free to pass on this information to any of your friends or family, and call or email me with any other questions or concerns you may have!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Security

When assessing the vulnerabilities in your home security, you first need to assume the mindset of a would-be trespasser. What features make your home attractive to trespassers? Do you have unruly brush or trees obstructing your home from the street? Are there structures that invite trespassers to climb over your gates or fences? Are your doors and windows adequately bolted when locked?

By identifying and addressing security risks in your home, you take an important step in preventing any would-be criminals from targeting your property. If you would like to discuss other ways in which I can help you with real estate, call or email me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Electric Induction Cooktops

Installing new cooking surfaces in the kitchen is an excellent opportunity to rein in your energy expenses, all while still maintaining the overall design of the house. Utilizing principles similar to microwave ovens, electric cooking surfaces provide the same temperature control as gas along with the safety that most conventional cooking surfaces lack. They can be found at most home improvement and appliance stores.

Are you interested in making the most out of your home? If so, call or email me and let's make your home work for you!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Spreading The Word

I've recently learned that many of my colleagues have clients who have yet to find their next home. I also know others who are still trying to sell their clients' properties. What that means is I can help both buyers and sellers find the right match for their needs.
As your real estate professional, I want to help you make sound decisions. Call or email me today!

Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Dining Rooms

A recent survey in a leading homes & garden magazine found that the dining room is the least-used room in the modern American home. Because the dining room is typically used only for special occasions and formal gatherings, it may be wise to consider remodeling the room into an expanded kitchen or living space. Not only will this make your home more comfortable, but it also may boost your property value as well.

If you're thinking about remodeling your home or perhaps moving into another home entirely, please call or email me and I can help you get started!
Dallas Chambers
RE/MAX Agents Realty
Office: 770-922-7777 X316
Cell: 770-595-1541
Web: http://dallaschambers.agentsrealty.com/
E-Mail: dallasc@remax.net

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.