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2007

DECEMBER 07

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Keeping In Touch  10/12/07

Sellers often get concerned if they are travelling overseas and not sure how to manage the sale of their property when they are away. I suggest you check to see if your chosen real estate office has comprehensive systems in place to communicate with you. It’s important that you can contact them, no matter where you are in the world, via the phone, email or an on line system that provides updates on your property. CENTURY 21 offices have a system in place called Seller Login, the 24 hour sales consultant. Seller Login details every step taken by the office in the marketing and selling of your property. It will allow you to monitor the progress of the sale of your property at any time and from any location in the world – the perfect solution for while you’re overseas.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Summer Showing Tips 3/12/07

It’s hot, sticky and there’s no doubting summer is well and truly here, and in contrast to what should be a very relaxing time, general trends suggest spring and summer are the most popular months to sell.

During this period homebuyers thoughts will naturally turn to patios, outdoor entertaining areas, landscaping, air conditioning and pools. Nothing will turn a buyer off more than entering a stuffy, hot house on a 30-degree day, which is why it’s important to make your home summer-friendly.

Once you’ve enticed them past the front door it’s imperative to keep the interior cool, welcoming and fresh. If you have air conditioning have it inspected before you put it on the market to make sure it’s in good working order. For days when you know potential buyers will be inspecting your home be sure to turn it on – you don’t want to kill them with a heat wave before they have a chance to make an offer!


Keep your windows clean, let loads of light in and if you are planning on painting select neutral light colours.

The key area of your property during summer is the backyard. Buyers will pay extra attention to the backyard, envisaging an area for the kids and a space to entertain. Australian’s love a good barbeque and a great looking functional backyard can go a long way in a sale.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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NOVEMBER 07

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Records – Keep Them!!!  26/11/07

When an agent lists a property for sale they ask the seller if they have a building certificate, a final inspection report or a survey record on their file. So often the answer is “I don’t know”. Often people forget or are not aware of what’s been approved and what hasn’t, let alone where the paperwork might be.

It used to be easy to make a five-minute call to Council and get immediate confirmation that the relevant documents actually existed. Then you could ask for copies if you needed them. Now this same request needs to be in writing with a cheque of $48.00 and because of postage can take over a week for the answer to come through. Unless you are prepared to go to Council and ask to view the documents over the counter, you will have to pay the fee.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Tips for a Stress Free Move 19/11/07

 It’s an exciting time for you, you’re about to move into your new home and begin the next phase in your family’s life. But before you get there you need to put your life’s contents in a box in preparation. The question is how do you do this without the stress?

‘The move’ stress can take over. – What do we take? What do we throw away? What do we consider keeping right up until the removalists are knocking at your door? A little careful planning and organisation and the move itself can be swift and simple and a lot of fun.

First clear the clutter, because this will save you paying to move stuff you will never use again.

Find a good removalist. Ask your friends, the butcher, or your hairdresser and then get a quote from the companies you’re interested in. Check to see what kind of insurance they offer as well.

Keep all important documents somewhere safe. Contact the electricity, telephone, gas, garbage, bank, voting, post office and insurance companies. Pack your boxes before the move, not on the day and label them. Don’t forget to keep final items you need for your last sleep.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Rental Property Shortage 14/11/2007

We have been monitoring the permanent rental situation in Canberra and Sydney where rental prices are soaring and there is a severe shortage of properties available. As yet the prices for permanent rental properties have not increased dramatically in our region however we are certainly finding there is a shortage of available properties to let. With the recent rate increase this may become worse. This is making it difficult for some quality tenants to find suitable accommodation when they need it.

We urge holiday home owners that if you have a property sitting empty for most of the year to consider renting it permanently. The rental income you receive could help pay for your rates, maintenance and a holiday.

If you have been thinking of putting your investment property on the permanent rental market, now is the time to do it whilst there is a shortage of available properties.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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OCTOBER 07

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Finding the right life balance 31/10/07 

In today’s Australia , the demands on your time and money can become stressful, and sometimes overwhelming! One way to deal with this is to look at whether your home might be part of the problem.  

For older people whose children have ‘left the nest’ it could be time to think about down-sizing. Who wants to spend all their time on dealing with the never-ending lists of repairs, cleaning and gardening? Deciding to sell and moving to a smaller, easy-to-look-after home means you get more time to enjoy life’s pleasures, to ‘sniff the roses’, and do all those things that you have always wanted to do.  

Owning a holiday house that you rarely use can also take a lot of time and effort. Think about renting it out some of the time, so you get a return and the agent ensures it is well-maintained.

My underlying message is think how best to find the right balance in your life, set your goals, and work towards reaching them!

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Time To Sell 24/10/07

Spring is a good time to prepare your home for sale. In the lead up to summer months gardens are blossoming, the sun is shining and properties are looking their best. With the population expanding dramatically in this area during the Christmas holidays the number of potential buyers grows significantly. If you take the time now to prepare your home and offer it for sale you could reap the benefits. I always say to my sellers that putting their property on the market at this time means they have a good chance of selling it by Christmas.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Common Goal 17/10/07

Make sure when you sign an agency agreement your goal is the same as your agent’s. It is vital that you have confidence and trust in your agent. You know they have your best interests at heart if they continue to work hard to achieve your mutual goal - to get the highest amount the market will pay. An experienced agent can give you an indication of what your home may sell for. But it is not your agent, or you, that will determine the final selling price. It is the market that sets the price. Working with your agent to reach your common goal takes patience, understanding and respect. Look for these qualities in an agent when deciding who to choose to sell your property

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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360 Degree Virtual Tour 10/10/07

Today’s technology savvy buyers want to be able to inspect your property from the privacy of their home the moment it hits the market. 360 Degree Virtual Tours enable prospective buyers to get a feel of the property as if they were actually there. They are more than just a slide show – they are like watching a movie except you are able to control it with the mouse and get a 360 Degree perspective of the property. If you are thinking of signing up with an agent go to their internet site and look at their virtual tours. Make sure you are getting the quality that you expect. At CENTURY 21 Franzen we are proud to be able to provide our sellers with the latest real estate marketing technology including our high quality 360 Degree Virtual Tours.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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SEPTEMBER 07

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Nasty Surprises! 12/09/2007  

Nothing will kill a sale quicker than a buyer’s inspector finding a major problem during the inspection process. Even if your reach agreement with the buyer on who will pay how much for the repair work – or if you agree to pay all – the fact that the buyer has to wait for the repairs could put a damper on their plans, and even trigger them to break the deal, especially if there are plenty of other comparable houses on the market.

In ACT it is the sellers, responsibility to obtain a Building Inspection prior to putting their house on the market. Not so in NSW. However having said that we suggest that if you are putting your home on the market consider having a sellers inspection by a building inspector. This way you will know if there are problems and be able to fix them or price your home accordingly. Disclosing them to the buyer prior to their inspection will take away any nasty surprises and help your sale go smoothly.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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On The Level!! 8/09/2007

Nearly every retired buyer wants a home that is level and has an easy care garden. The house and garden does not need to be big unless the retired buyer is expecting lots of visitors. This is normally the younger retired buyer and they usually want a larger home and a yard that is big enough to take the retired toys such as boats and caravans. The older retired buyer usually wants a smaller type home with two or three bedrooms and if possible a second bathroom for the odd visitor. The most common price range requested is under the $300,000 for the two bedrooms, mid $300,000s to high $300,000s  for the three bedrooms and around the $400,000 to mid b$400,000’s for the larger 4 bedroom level home. If your home fits this picture and you are thinking of selling please contact us. At Century 21 Franzen we have a shortage of this type of home due to our recent sales and we would love to sell your home for you.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Is it better to buy or sell first? 1/09/2007

Financially it is the safer option to sell first then buy. Selling first means you know how much you are getting for your current property and how much you can spend on the new one. To find another home in a short time frame can be difficult. If you can’t find a home that suits your needs you may need interim accommodation or may have to store your furniture. And there is always the problem of what if you just can’t find the right home? It may take a lot longer than what you expected. However a lot of people do manage to sell, then buy and have a simultaneous settlement. 

Buying first if it is financially possible allows you to move straight from one home to another. If finances aren’t a concern then buying first and then selling, is the less stressful option.

Which is better really does depend on each person’s individual financial and accommodation needs.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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AUGUST 07 

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Changes Happening!! 21/08/2007

After being very successful in Property Management, Melissa Franzen is moving across to our expanding Property Sales Department. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge from being a Property Manager that will be of great assistance in her role as a Sales Consultant. As a past Property Manager I know first hand how valuable it is to have a background in Property Management when in sales. Our Property Management Department is being joined by Kathryn Hall an experienced Property Manager from the Southern Highlands . Kathryn is enjoying her full time sea change to our lovely area. We welcome Kathryn on board as part of our team and wish both girls the best in their career moves.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Getting the price right 15/08/2007

What is the right selling price? It is the price which will enable your property to sell within one to three months. In a normal real estate market and with comprehensive marketing if it doesn’t sell within that time frame you need to look at your price. Set your price to allow just a bit of room for negotiation. Try to see your property from a buyer’s point of view. Buyers do their home work before committing themselves to actually purchasing. They look at the recent comparable sales in the area so there is no point in being higher than what the evidence indicates. If your price is too high your home will not be considered by buyers. Get your agent to regularly show you what has sold in your area. This way you will be kept informed and able to adjust if necessary.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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JULY 07

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What You Can't See! 31/07/2007

Buyers compare properties for sale before making a decision. Improvements that aren’t obvious may not only add dollars to the price of your home, but also determine a buyer’s choice in favour of your property.

Invisible improvements can include things like insulation, sound-proofing, plumbing and electrical work etc. Agents will use this information when describing the features of the house.  Buyers often use this kind of information to help them confirm the soundness of their choice.

Most agents will prompt vendors to tell them about the improvements they have made over the years, but it is a good idea to have a list ready for the agent’s very first visit, in case you forget something. It also helps the agent to accurately appraise the value of the property in the first place.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Express Sale  25/07/2007

We have this month implemented a new property sales strategy to speed up the sale of properties and to give them a competitive edge amongst a crowded market.

In a tight market it’s important to stand out from the crowd. CENTURY 21 Australia developed a sales strategy, Express Sale, which uses the method of selling without a price for the first three weeks of marketing the property.

Al l interested buyers are qualified and then they are offered the opportunity to attend an open home, or an appointment is made for an inspection. Once they have inspected the property, the agent obtains feedback from the buyer including what the property is worth to them.

This method of sale has been proven in attracting more buyers. It seems that by taking away the advertised asking price of the seller, it makes the buyer decide how much the property is worth to them.

It also enables seller’s to obtain feedback from potential buyers earlier and asking prices can be decided and adjusted to meet the market faster, resulting in a sale made sooner at the best possible price.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Winter Selling 18/07/2007

Thinking of selling, but worried that because it’s winter your home won’t sell? It’s all about how you present your home during the cooler months that allow for a potential buyer to visualise themselves in your home. Make sure your home is warm and inviting. During the cooler months buyers judge a home by its warmth. Before your open for inspection turn your heater on to heat up the house turning it off just before you leave. If you have a fire place in your home, make it the focal point of your lounge room. Leave it burning during open for inspections. Maintain your garden – keep your grass neat and the lawn free from leaves and debris. Add some colour with plants such as Camellias, Jonquils or Kangaroo Paw. During winter it is especially important to demonstrate your homes natural lighting abilities. Make sure all blinds and curtains are open to let the light in. Emphasize the winter positives, such as your home facing north. There is nothing nicer than seeing the sun streaming in on a brisk winters day. Of course, it goes without saying, clean your house from bottom to top, including the outside gutters and walls. Ironically your home looks its best as you are about to leave it.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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What Is Included In Your Sale ?  11/07/2007

When deciding to sell your property you will be required to inform your agent what is to be included or excluded the sale. Usually your agent will inform your solicitor or conveyancer of these items to be marked on your contract when this is prepared. These inclusions and exclusions are documented on the front page of your sale contract. All fixtures, that is, items that are fixed to the property, are included in a sale of the property unless specifically excluded. Twelve of the most common items which may be regarded as fixtures are as follows: Blinds, Light fittings, Curtains, Pool Equipment, Insect Screens, Clothes Line, Stove, Fixed Floor Coverings, Built In Robes, Range Hood, Dishwasher, External TV Antenna. Where a fixture is excluded from the sale such as a favourite light fitting, this should be clearly marked as an exclusion to avoid any dispute. Generally it is a good idea to remove any exclusions prior to the property being advertised. This way there can’t be any confusion.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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JUNE 07

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Your Very Important Kitchen  29/06/2007

When potential purchasers inspect properties one of the most instrumental rooms that can determine the future sale is the kitchen.

Kitchens can often be described as the centre of the home.

The need to maintain the kitchen in a way that is appealing, comfortable and practical is ever present and one that will ultimately add value to the overall price of the property.

The financial benefit in renovating an old kitchen is substantial. There are very inexpensive ways in which to modernise and more importantly neutralise your kitchen, which will provide you with a strong selling point.

The easiest and most inexpensive way in which to change a room dynamic is via paint. Stick to neutral colours for the benefit of the future owners who may want to add their own style once they move in. Consider re-facing existing cupboards and re-placing bench tops. Look for the cheaper alternatives that will save you money.

Talk to the kitchen people – get their advice. Yes your kitchen is very important but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a huge amount on it to get it ready to attract purchasers.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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What is land tax? 25/06/2007

Land tax is a tax levied on the owners of land in NSW as at midnight on 31 December of each year. In general, your principal place of residence (your home) or land used for primary production (a farm) is exempt from land tax.The land tax rate for 2007 is 1.7 per cent (plus $100) on the combined value of all taxable land in excess of the threshold. The land tax 2007 threshold is $352,000.Annual valuations for land tax are made by the Valuer-General as at 1 July preceding each land tax year. These values should not be confused with those made every three years (approximately) for local government rating purposes. If you are not sure if you are liable for land tax consult the Office Of State Revenue or contact your accountant.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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The Buying Process 15/06/2007

The process involved in searching for your first property to buy, or buying a property after not being in the market for some time, is somewhat daunting to say the least! Having an agent who is happy to take the time to walk you through each step and address your queries is half the battle won when it comes to buying a home. CENTURY 21 Franzen place a great deal of emphasis on ensuring buyers are comfortable with the experience and fully aware of the options available to them. 

Simple handy tips such as taking notes on inspections and obtaining advice from a good solicitor to cover any legal jargon that you don’t understand and all the legal implications of singing a contract will assist when it finally comes to making a purchase on a home.

We also encourage buyers to obtain independent building and pest inspections. On your first inspection of the property it’s a good idea to give the property a general once over yourself. Not all houses are going to be in excellent condition. But it is important to understand the extent of any structural faults, infestations, etc. before you commit to the purchase.

A better understanding of the sale process will help ensure a good purchase.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Tom Franzen
BBA
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‘K.I.S.S. – not quite so simple anymore!” 09/06/2007

The K.I.S.S. – Keep It Simple Stupid – used to be a standard recipe for success in selling Real Estate, but not anymore.

Life is becoming increasingly complicated.

For sellers the decisions are endless – how to choose the best agent, auction or private treaty marketing, open the property for inspection or by appointment only, what type of advertising, and the list goes on.

As with any service, sellers need to weigh up the price they are paying against the level of service they receive.

One of the best ways of choosing a Real Estate Agent is to talk to family and friends.

Ask them who they bought or sold their property through and if they were impressed with the service – were they happy with the final price and feel their needs were understood.

You should not be afraid to ask your agent if he or she has any recent testimonials from satisfied customers who are prepared to substantiate any claims of commitment to service.

Appoint an agent who you trust, who you are happy to have in your house and who combined with a professional reputation has a commitment to personal service.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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MAY 07

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Shopping for a new home 30/05/2007

A lot of homebuyers go about the process of shopping for a new home backwards. They spend so much time going to open houses, looking at Real Estate ads, searching the net and asking real estate agents questions. Many of them even find their perfect home and make an offer to purchase it subject to finance. Then the shopping spree continues, this time for a loan. For some it’s frustrating because they can’t get a loan because they don’t have the assets or income to back them up.  The smart buyer of today shops for the loan first and knows exactly how much they can afford. The golden rule is to know how much you can borrow before you take a serious look.  A seller feels much more comfortable negotiating with a buyer who has the money ready to go. My advice is if you are thinking about purchasing get a loan commitment first, then find your dream home. It can save a lot of disappointment and heartache.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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What is a conjunction agreement? 23/05/2007

Where an agent allows or invites another agent to assist in the sale of a property the other agent is known as the conjunction agent and will share a proportion of the selling fee with the listing agent. Only one fee will be payable by the seller.  A conjunction agreement is an agreement between agents. A person acting in a conjunction must be another agent which precludes totally the use of “spotters fees” in NSW. All negotiations relating to the sale must be conducted by the listing agent. A conjunction agreement can only be made between the licensees-in-charge of each agency. Salespersons cannot enter into a conjunction agreement on their own behalf.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer

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Open House Impressions 16/05/2007

If your home is being opened for inspection there are a few things you can do to present your home to its optimum:

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Setting the Price 9/05/2007

Setting a price for your property is one of the hardest decisions, both emotionally and financially, that you must make. At Century 21 Franzen we can give you all the relevant market information you need to make an educated decision. The secret to getting the most money and the quickest sale is to price your property correctly from day one. Some of the factors you must consider include how much other similar properties have sold for recently and what competition you face from other homes currently for sale. Factors like the original purchase price of a property, the replacement cost, or your own personal attachment, do not necessarily set the market value. The price you get for your property will always be determined by what someone else is willing to pay for it and how good a negotiator your agent is. That is why it is important to have a well skilled experienced negotiator as your real estate agent.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Customised Service  3/05/2007

At CENTURY 21 Franzen we are proud of the levels of service that we provide our clients. According to the internet site Allhomes.com.au, on the 24th April 2007, CENTURY 21 Franzen sold 100% of all of the homes in Lilli Pilli in the last four weeks, and 50% of all of the homes sold in Malua Bay and Tomakin in the last four weeks. In fact, the CENTURY 21 network sells more homes than any other agency in the world. However, at CENTURY 21 Franzen we know that Real Estate is much more than just the houses that we sell, it is about the people who are selling them. Our family run team strives itself on customer service and listening to our clients. This shows in the comments we receive back from our clients about our high levels of customised service. So when you are thinking of selling your property CENTURY 21 Franzen would be more than happy to help.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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APRIL 07

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Dog Friendly Update 26/04/07

Two years ago we introduced “dog friendly” holiday homes after hearing that 64 per cent of Australian house holds have a pet. Our holiday homes are high-quality homes that are suitable for dogs. They must have fenced yards, tiled floors, and suitable furniture with easy to clean throw-rugs. Our house owners supply items for the dogs such as bedding and bowls. Now two years down the track we can look back and say not only is this niche market becoming more popular with our owners who have dogs themselves, but most importantly they have proved to be very successful. We find they are booked not only during the whole of the high season, but also throughout the year. We now have holiday tenants who visit not just once a year, but instead are coming on a very regular basis purely because they can bring their four-legged companion with them.   

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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“Help – My Property Is Not Selling and My Agent Isn’t Talking” 18/04/07  

If your property has been on the market for some time and has not sold question why” In today’s market some properties can stay for sale for some time before they sell. My advice is ‘to listen’ to what potential buyers are saying. If you are getting low offers, or none at all, then the market is telling you to adjust your price. An experienced and professional real estate agent plays a key role in advising you on pricing. The answer may be removing the price all together and offer your property for sale by way of auction. It may be to adjust the price to where the market will come in and purchase. It may be a matter of being patient and waiting until a purchaser will buy at your price. Whatever the answer is your agent should be communicating with you. If your agent isn’t communicating with you then this may be the time to seek one that does.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Buyer’s eyes like order and open space 11/04/07

If you are considering selling see your home through buyer’s eyes. Be ruthless: send anything you haven’t used away and neaten what remains. Dismantle collections (plates, ornaments, brick a’brac): while some people will admire them, others will feel claustrophobic. Store excess furniture and rearrange it if need be to create maximum feeling of space. During inspections allow for people to clearly walk through each room. Clear the street in front of your house, organise tools, coil hoses neatly and trim plants and shrubs.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Going, going, going to Auction 04/04/07

One of the questions most commonly asked is: “Is our property suitable for auction?” The reality is that any property, regardless of size, type, location, age whatever, is suitable. You can choose :The time of sale, Advertising, Private Inspection, Open for inspection times, Contract on your terms and no cooling off period and it allows you to plan your sale.

It gives you 3 opportunities to sell: 1) By accepting an offer prior to auction, 2) Selling on auction day 3)Selling in the weeks that follow based on activity generated during the campaign.

Auction stands you out from the crowd with an intensive marketing campaign.

Talk to an auctioneer about the benefits of auctioning your property.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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MARCH 07

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Buying at Auction Part 3 - Have a Plan 28th March 2007

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Buying At Auction Part 2 – Bring in the experts 21st March 2007

I am an Accredited Auctioneer and have been auctioning since 1994 so if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Buying At Auction – Do Your Homework 14th March 2007

I am an Accredited Auctioneer and have been auctioning since 1994 so if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Offering a helping hand 7th March 2007

It never ceases to amaze me how helpful people are in our community. Countless times, out of the blue, people have offered me a helping hand when I’m anxious about something or at times of sadness. Yes, real estate agents have feelings too! I am not just talking about help from friends. Sometimes it can be a buyer or a seller, or even a total stranger, who takes the time to support and help me.

When this happens it reminds me to do the same for others, whenever I can. Being a real estate agent is more than about merely selling property. Our job can touch the core of people’s lives, their emotions, and their aspirations. People sell properties for all sorts of reasons. The reality is these can sometimes relate to illness, death in the family, divorce, losing a job, not being able to meet mortgage payments, and so on. At times like these, it is all-important to understand what people are going through, to respect their feelings and to maintain confidentiality.  

With 20 years’ experience in real estate, I hope my help for others has made positive differences to their lives. Certainly, help from so many people has made a difference to mine.  

If you are thinking of selling or buying, talk to a Real Estate Agent who listens to you, understands your situation, treats you with respect, and helps you to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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FEBRUARY 07

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What’s happening in our rental market? 28/02/07

Over the past few months high rents and the huge demand for rentals is driving people away from the capital cities. In our area, we are experiencing an increase in the number of families who want to rent at the coast because they simply cannot afford to rent in the Sydney or Canberra competitive markets. This is one of the reasons we no longer have an oversupply of residential homes for rent. 

Another reason is that the boom days are gone when many people bought investment properties in an effort to get rich quick. These properties provided a big part of the ‘pool’ of rental properties. However, in recent times many boom buyers have not been able to hold onto their investments and have had to sell up. Instead of investors it is now more usual for ‘sea changers’, who want to live in the area permanently, to snap up properties for sale.  

While we aren’t seeing the crazy queues for rentals like they have in Sydney , it is not uncommon on the coast to have several tenants applying for the one quality home.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Disclosing the relevant facts 21/02/07

When a professional and experienced agent lists your property for sale they should ask you if you have disclosed to them all the ‘relevant facts’. In signing an agency agreement, you acknowledge that you have not provided information that is, or is likely to be, misleading or deceptive.

In practice disclosure means that you should tell your agent things like whether you have had a room added, a new deck put on, or changed the structure of your property without council approval. Some improvements and additions do not need approval, but it is wise to check with the council before you go ahead with any changes.  

You are taking a big risk if you don’t disclose all the relevant facts. If a buyer finds out that something is not approved - and they usually do - they may decide to pull out of the sale. Worse still, if a buyer goes through with the purchase and later discovers that you have not disclosed the relevant facts, they may take action against you for misrepresentation. My strong advice is to check with your solicitor or agent if you are not sure what your obligations are in relation to disclosure.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Agents are not all the same  14/02/07

When you have listened to three or four agents give you a presentation on why they are better than all the rest when it comes to selling your home, it is easy to believe they are all the same. We are certainly different to a number of agents First, we are a small, locally based, family office and you can be sure you will always speak to the same experienced agents and not get shunted around from person to person. Second, we are very proud to say we care more. That’s why we have two agents at our Open for Inspections. Having two agents means your property is better protected, and interested buyers get our individual and confidential attention. Third, we are the only agents in the area to provide free 360-degree Virtural Tours on the Internet for all our sellers who want one.  Finally, we have the most up to date contact management system. This means that, as the seller, you can always find out what is happening with your property. Importantly, the system also ensures we are in constant contact with potential buyers.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Life is just too short!!    7/02/07

So often I hear people say they will wait to sell their homes when the market picks up. Meanwhile they can barely manage the stairs without causing themselves an injury and their garden is growing out of control around them. Even keeping the house clean has become impossible because it’s just too big. Let alone doing any of the maintenance jobs that are desperately needed. And forget about the family helping – they only come down to enjoy the beach! But the market isn’t buoyant anymore and you have to have enough money to buy somewhere else. Sound familiar? If this sounds like the situation you are in just remember if you sell on a down market you can usually buy on a down market as well, so the price evens out. Same as selling on a high market, it will cost more to buy elsewhere. So don’t leave it too long – life is just too short.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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JANUARY 07

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Puppy Proof Your Asset 31/01/07

For most people the family home is their most valuable asset. The majority of home owners take pride in keeping their property well maintained and in good condition. Getting a new puppy can really throw your routine out. However with a little commonsense and planning your home can be puppy proofed. To begin with it’s a good idea to restrict your puppy to one area of the home, be it inside or on the deck. If he can see you and you can see him he is less likely to cause damage. There are commercially made puppy dividers which will fence off any shaped area. Close doors, drawers, or storage areas where your puppy could get into trouble. He thinks its o.k. to chew anything so have plenty of toys on hand to keep him happy. Remove any household items such as plants, rugs, electrical cords that may be a temptation to him. And most importantly, if he is outside his fenced area – watch him! If you follow these guidelines for a few months until he grows up a little your home should remain protected, safe and secure.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Not selling – what about renting? 24/01/07

As a result of the market being slow some sellers are now considering renting out their homes. It’s a great option and we have seen this happen more frequently over the last year than it has for a long time. However be careful – there can be pit falls! It is better to leave your property off the market whilst it is tenanted if you can. However if finances are such that you need to sell as well as rent at the same time just remember tenants have a right to peaceful enjoyment their rental home. This is very hard to achieve if it is for sale. When a home is tenanted and on the market at the same time you need the full co-operation of the tenant and for the agent and tenant to have a very good relationship. Choose an agent who understands tenants’ rights and obligations and preferably choose the same agent who is managing your home to sell it. If you are not happy with your managing agent then choose another agent. One who can both manage and sell. It will make the process flow more easily and smoothly. Hopefully the next person who purchases your home will be an investor who will be pleased to keep the tenant. That way everyone will be kept happy! If you wish to discuss this further just give Melissa Franzen a call on 0428 7122 88.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Do you own the property? 17/01/07

Sometimes I am asked to give an estimate of the selling price of a property by people who are not the owners of that property. As an experienced, professional agent I will always ask the question “Do you own the property”. If the answer is no it is usually a relative, such as a son or daughter, who will be requiring the information. They will usually give an appropriate reason for talking on behalf of their relative. However whatever the reason I ask for the authority to be in writing or to be able to speak to the actual owner. Not all families are loving and caring and it is not beyond some people to step beyond their authority in seeking information they have no right to get. So if you are acting on behalf of another person have the necessary authority ready.  

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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Prepare To Sell 10/01/07

If you are considering putting your home on the market stand back and criticize it, look at it through buyers eyes. It’s ironic that at the time you are leaving your house forever, it has to look the best it ever has. Achieving this takes seriously hard work. Get every member of the household involved in a major spruce-up project. It will make your home more saleable.  It is a highly competitive market where there are a number of properties on the market that may be similar to yours. If you can make yours present better than the rest it will be worth it. Yours may even sell faster than your competition.

Until next time…………….God Bless
Carlene Franzen
Licensed Agent/Auctioneer
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If you have any questions regarding Real Estate you would like answered contact us at franzen@century21.com.au or phone (02) 4471 2283. 

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