Dee & Tom Miller

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

With temperatures in the 60's, the last couple days, Spring Fever has really hit me.  Yesterday, I spent most of the day organizing my office.  I can actually see my floor now.  I'm not kidding.  The owner of our company looked in my door and said " Gee, Dee you need a couple more garbage cans!"  I told him, "It can be clean and organized when I'm not busy, but if it's a mess, be happy, it means I'm busy selling real estate!!!"

I really do love what I do.  With the housing market and economy across the nation feeling a crunch, I am optimistic that things will be on an uphill trend this year. Our market here in Iowa City is really pretty good. The local lenders have plenty of money to lend and buyers are getting approved. In fact, I would say, we need more listings!!  Not all my buyers are finding what they want!  Price and condition, important!! The buyers have busy lives and do not want to have to move in and paint, change the carpets, and update.  Unless they are strictly looking for fixer-uppers.  For you homeowners who would really like to move to a bigger home or different neighborhood or move for whatever reason, the time is right!  Your buying power will be great with the interest rates as low as they are and the supply of homes still on the market.  Yes, you may get a little less for your home than in previous years but on the buying end, you'll be in great shape.

First-time buyers, what a great advantage you have for you now with the stimulus package!  If you need more information on the guidelines, please call us today at 319-631-1979 or deermx@mchsi.com

All in all, spring is in the air and it's a great time to buy or sell a home!!! 

Dee, Real Estate Professional, Re/Max Real Estate Centre

 

Don't Wait To List Your Home!

Every year as soon as the new year rolls around, we get the same old question- When should we list our home?  Is it too early.?  Should we wait til the weather is better? 

Here's what I think:  You can successfully list and sell your home anytime of the year.  Price. Location. Condition.

It depends somewhat on your urgency to move.  If you have another home scoped out, you may need to get yours sold first.  Not just need to but want to.  No one wants to get stuck having to pay on 2 mortgages.  It's always better to get on the market ahead of your competition.   There are buyers out there who need to buy now and if yours is the only one that fits their needs you might just have a sale.  The mortgage rates are great now.  You never know when they will go back up.  There are still great first time buyer incentives and yes people are still getting money for home purchases. And, let's face it, the market could get worse instead of better. 

The sooner you contact us and let us look at your home, the better you'll be prepared for the time to list.  There are many little things you can do to spruce up your home which are not expensive.  Some you can do yourselves and if not, we have a list of great people you can hire.

Commission is always negotiable.  It doesn't matter if you have a starter condo or a luxery home.  We'll prepare a marketing plan designed to get your home sold.

Please contact us at at 319-631-1979 or deermx@mchsi.com. The sooner the better! We are ready to "work together for you"!

Dee and Tom Miller

 

Owners Want An Offer On This Wonderful Acreage Close To Town!

There are some great values in homes for sale and this is one of those!  Multi-Level home featuring an attached 2 car garage, 3 bedrooms, lower-level  family room with fireplace, new hardwood floors in kitchen and dining located on a 1/2 acre lot with many trees. The present owners lived there for over 30 years and find they no longer can care for it.  It is in great shape and ready to welcome a new owner!

You will experience the peace and quiet of country living yet be minutes from town.  How about a warm cozy fire on those chilly Iowa winter evenings or roasting marshmallows in your firepit in the backyard?  And the property taxes are lower because you live in the county and your water bill is $50.00 for the entire year since you have a community well.

This is a great home for an empty nester or a young family starting out.  Call Dee or Tom Miller at 319-631-1979 for a private showing at 5065 American Legion Rd, Iowa City priced at $177,000. Was $192,000!!!

Price Reduced on 5065 American Legion Rd SE in Eastside

Eastside, Iowa City  -  Announcing a price reduction on 5065 American Legion Rd SE, a 1,756 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm 3-level split. Now $177,000 - Try assessed value!.

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All I Really Want To Do Is Be A REALTOR!!!

I have been a licensed Realtor since 1992.  Do I love the job?  Some days!  Do I hate the job?  Some days!  Do I really want to do anything else?  NO!!!!! 

I am a people person.  Just what does that mean?  To me it means I like people!!  I like helping people.  I like helping them with one of the most serious and expensive purchases in their lives.  I have gained a lot of experience in my field and feel I am pretty darn good at what I do.

What does it take to be a Realtor?

1. Knowledge.  Of the market, home values, community, sales and buying procedures, forms, laws.

2. Patience.  Buying or selling a home takes time.  It takes trial and error. This is not something you can do quickly.  I have clients who I have worked with for years before they finally made that big purchase.  The media makes it sound so gloomy and threatening.  It isn't. Not if you have a Realtor to work with.  A good Realtor who can walk you through the whole experience and hold your hand through the rough spots.

3. Tough Skin. You have to be able to accept disappointment. People are human and they want what they want when they want it.  They want what is best for them. They don't always think about the other person's feelings.  Not everyone is loyal or understands what it means to be loyal.  People can hurt you and they don't even realize it.  Realtors don't get paid for all the work they do. Quite honestly, not for most of it. We only get paid when we go to a closing or someone buys or sells a home who has been represented by us personally.

4.  Care and Understanding.  If I didn't care about the people I work with, my job would be a lot less stressful.  It's not my problem if they can't get a loan.  Or if their basement leaks.  Or if they lose their job.  Or they are getting a divorce and have to sell.  Or if their kids don't want to move and leave their friends.  But I still care.  I still worry and fret over making sure that I have  done everything possible and crossed all my t's and dotted all the i's.  I don't have an 8-5 job.  My job is constantly on my mind.  I am on call 24/7. And that's OK.

                                  

502 Fairchild St in Northside is Sold!

Northside, Iowa City  -  The 2 story at 502 Fairchild St has been sold. For full price in 2 days!!!  Multiple offers.  If you have a home like this, call us today!!!  Dee and Tom Miller 319-631-1979.

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Price Reduced on 4413 Berkeley in Eastside

Eastside, Iowa City  -  Announcing a price reduction on 4413 Berkeley, a 1,150 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm multiplex "2nd Floor". Now MLS® $123,900 - LOWEST PRICE IN COMPLEX!!.

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2008 Is Going To Be Great!!!

Despite all the snow and ice, this is starting out to be a great year in Real Estate!  The buyers are buying and the sellers are pricing their homes competitively and making them show ready.  Are there bargains out there?  Yes.  However, in Iowa City it is really hard to find a DEAL!!!!  Our market is not as depressed as the media would have you believe.  There are some folks who paid too much or took out 0% down loans and are having to relocate.  They are unfortunately having to price their homes without the 4-7% equity per year we had been used to. And for some of them they are going to closing having to actually write a check instead of receiving a proceeds check!! I really feel for them and we have tried to soften the blow by a reduction in commission for past clients or helping with an inspection fee or other closing cost.

Most people start out the year with New Year's resolutions.  Many do not follow through.  I'll share a few of ours for 2008.

1.  Be positive!!!  2.Dream more!!!  3. Make it happen!!!  4. Upgrade and really learn how to use all the technology available to us.  5. Make every transaction as smooth as possible.  6. Go to happy closings where everyone wins!!  7. Give better customer service.  8. Get more referrals.

On my personal list , I have included: 

1. Be a better Mom, Gramma, wife, friend and Realtor.  2.  Be a better person in general.  3.  Have faith and practice it.  4. Get healthy(of course that includes the proverbial lose weight and exercise)!  Which I have been forced to do because of a disk I herniated late last year and a bronchial infection that kept me down for almost 3 weeks.  Not a very good way to lose weight, but it got me started!

If you have a real estate need or concern, please contact us.  We'd love to help you.  Let us make your 2008 great!

Dee Miller  319-631-1979  deermx@mchsi.com

Ranch For Sale in Tiffin

• 1,538 sq. ft., 3 bath, 3 bdrm ranch - MLS® $272,000

Tiffin, Johnson County  -  Emaculate Ranch Style home. Open living Space includes a Great Room with gas fireplace, dining room and kitchen w/raised Breakfast Bar. Master Suite has lighted trey ceiling and private bath and 1st Floor Laundry Room. Screened porch and deck. LL workout area Family room, play area, and office, 4th bedroom. This home has room to roam and a 3 car garage.

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"MORE DATES TO BE ADDED"

Note that this information is outdated.

2008 MAKE A ROCK 'N' ROLL YEAR

When/Where: Jan-Dec

What life and death mean to me.

Life

 Life is the opposite of death. Well, most of the time!  Some people live their lives like they are already dead. Do you know some of these people?  I do.  They wine, complain, choose to do nothing, go nowhere, are generally disinterested in everything! How sad!!!

I, on the other hand, love living!  Even on my bad-mood days!  What makes me happy?  My husband, most of the time! I love his smile, the way he looks at me when I do something goofy, the way he looks at his grandchildren with love and pride.  The way he looks when he's playing his drums and getting into the music! Being with my kids!  All of us together for family times. Watching my grandkids! I love it when they smile and laugh. My sisters! Spending time with them, remembering family events. My friends! Helping people!  Maybe it's because I almost died when I was 24 years old.  I got a second chance at life and learned to see the good in all people and things. I'm not saying, I love serial killers or child molesters or war or killing. I just see life differently and try to dwell on what makes me happy. I get angry and yell and cuss with the best of them! Only, I have chosen to forgive and forget. Life is too short!

Death

My Mom's sister passed on last week. The only sibling surviving is my uncle who was the baby of the family, how appropriate that he will be the last one to join the others.  The funeral was on Tuesday and I'm still sad.  She was buried close to my Mom and Dad, her parent's, my brother, who died at 13, and my other set of grandparents.  This time, I didn't cry at the cemetary. Even though I was sad, I knew that she had gone to a happier place for her. I knew she was laughing. I knew she was being a thorn in my Dad's side!  I can just hear him, "Oh boy, here comes Edith!"  I talked to my Mom. I asked her to watch over me and help me be a better person.  I said hello to my Dad and told him to behave!

As I sat in the funeral home I thought how sad it was that my aunt had been such a generous person and touched so many lives and she chose to have a very private funeral with just immediate family. Not me! I want everyone I knew to be there. To celebrate my life and remember me and my smile and laughter!  I don't want my family to dwell on sorrow!  I want them to remember how much I loved all of them and how happy they made my life!

I'll take life over death any day!

Dee

2 Story For Sale in Iowa City

Great Family Home!!!

• 2,017 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story - MLS® $219,900 - Priced To Sell!!!!

Iowa City, Johnson County  -  Well maintained home in move-in condition. Large rooms. 4 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths including a full master bath. Some finish in LL. Office/den could be 5th bedroom. Gorgeous yard with beautiful landscaping. The backyard is fenced with many trees and perennials. A hummingbird haven! Located on a quiet side in a well established neighborhood close to schools and shopping. Close to bus-line, also. Easy access to major highways and interstate. Possession is negotiable. A great home to decorate for the Holidays and enjoy with your family and friends!!! Call for a showing today!

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Just Listed! Great Family Home in Wonderful Iowa City Neighborhood!

This well maintained home needs a new family to love and take care of it!!! It is walking distance to schools and shopping and on the city bus line. All of the 4 bedrooms are good sized and the master has a full master bath attached.  The main floor has a living room with woodburnig fireplace to enjoy on those chilly fall and winter evenings! An added bonus is a first floor family room off the dining area. A screened porch overlooks the beautifully landscaped fenced backyard.  Lots of birds and hummingbirds to enjoy!  The lower level is partially finished and has lots of storage.  Call Dee or Tom Miller at Re/Max Real Estate Centre, 319-631-1979 for a showing.  Don't miss this wonderful home! Priced to sell at $219,900!

Many Iowa City Employers Expecting Hiring Increases!

According to an employment outlook survey, the Iowa City job market is expected to be one of the strongest in the nation.  Compared to the national average of 27%, 53% of Iowa City companies that were interviewed planned to hire new employees. 

Reports also show the Corridor employment outlook to be good.

So if you're contemplating a move to this area, it looks like the chances of finding employment are good!

Good schools, low crime, friendly people, large housing inventory and a good job market, we have it all!

Call us if you're thinking of relocating, we'll send you a welcome packet and help you with your real estate needs!

Dee Miller 

My View of the Market in Iowa City Iowa

 If you are a buyer, it's GREAT!!!  Did you hear what I said?  It's a GREAT market!!! The interest rates are very good.  Yes, they have gone up a little however they are still very good.  And the inventory is strong!  So what are you waiting for?  Most of the people who are getting in trouble are the ones who got into a sub-prime loan. Meaning they probably did a 100%+ loan, (nothing down) with an adjustable rate that they really didn't understand.  Most of the money for sub-prime loans is gone. That is why those companies are folding.  People who had low credit scores and nothing to put down were passed through and now they are in trouble and quite frankly, they can't pay the mortgages.  Get qualified, better yet, pre-approved, with a local lender, yes, a local lender!. There are plenty.  I'd be happy to give you referrals.  You will be working with a real person face to face who can examine your qualifications and honestly tell you what you can qualify for, then start meeting real estate agents and choose one to work with and buy a home!  It doesn't have to be your dream home.  For now, a condo may work.  Build some equity, believe me, you will and then in a few years you'll have money to put down on something else that is more like your dream home!

I could go on and on but the best thing to do is talk with a REALTOR. I'd love to help you! Sit down with them. Go over the whole buying process before you actually start looking.  If the agent you talk to, doesn't want to do this, RUN!  We have found that an informed buyer who has at least a little knowledge of the process, will have a much easier home buying experience.  Check out our testimonials from buyers.  The REALTOR you decide to work with should listen to you, really listen, so they understand your needs.  If you don't feel comfortable with them, find someone else. I'd love to help you! Contact me at deermx@mchsi.com  0r 319-631-1979.  What do you have to lose?  I'm low pressure and will only show you what you want and can afford!

Now, for you sellers or people thinking about selling.  Why are you selling?  Do you have to relocate?  Need a bigger home?  Need to downsize?  Whatever your real estate need, let me help you!  The most important thing to remember about our seller's market today, is if you need to sell, you better have your home priced right!!!  Buyers today are very savvy!  Most of the qualified ones that are really looking to buy are working with agents.  They will not pay more for your home than market value. Unless they have cash and for some reason they don't care if they overpay!  That does happen. But, not very often!!!  Condition is also important.  And of course, location.  You'd be surprised how just a little elbow grease, some de-cluttering and a fresh coat of paint will sell your home! Speaking of paint, I'm not talking about contractor white!  Don't be afraid of a little color!  It warms your home and says "wecome"!  Especially coming into the fall and winter!  These are all things that we will help you with.  We want your home to sell!  If it doesn't, guess what? We don't get paid! And we've invested alot of time and expense. We love getting to know you, however, it is important that we earn a living!

Everyone's home and situation is different.  You need an agent who is experienced in marketing homes and getting them sold!  An agent, or 2 with us who listen and again understands your needs!  We'd love to sit down with you and help you with a marketing plan.  Maybe this time of year isn't the best for you.  If you can wait, we might suggest the spring market. Again, it depends on your time frame and circumstances.

Whether you are buying or selling, we can help you rach your real estate goal.  Don't believe everything you read in the paper or hear on the news about the doom and gloom market.  It depends on where you live and your situation! 

Dee Miller