SHOULD I BUY AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY?

Thought I would share an interesting story. Back in the early 1970's my husband and I had worked hard to accumulate some savings. We were trying to decide whether to purchase a new car (which sounded like great fun!) or an investment property. Although the investment property seemed riskier, more work, and obviously not as much fun, we took the plunge. Wow! was that the right choice! We were very worried at the time about investing our hard earned money in the real estate market. Would it go up or would it go down? I encourage you to think about this. There is only so much space for people to live and it does not seem that the population is shrinking these days. I don't think today is much different than thirty years ago. Real Estate Investment is obviously the wisest choice. Now go out and buy that investment property! Let me know if I can help.

Janis Calkins
California Oaks Real Estate
805 218-7016
www.JanisCalkins.com

Setting the Stage for a Successful Sale

What's the best way to help your home make a great first impression on would-be buyers? Real estate experts agree that "staging" your home to show it in the most favorable light is well worth your time and effort. Beyond the pre-sale cleaning and organizing you would expect to do, successful staging includes strategically arranging objects and furniture, adding decorative touches and more. Here are a few tips to help buyers make an immediate emotional connection with your home:

• Add a pot of fresh blooming flowers to the entryway (yellow is a very welcoming color)
• Open blinds to show off nice views; a vase on the window sill plays down less attractive views
• Add throw pillows, a soft lap blanket, candles and a candy dish for a cozy living room
• Use a soft bedspread, quilt, pillows and a throw rug to turn a bedroom into a relaxing retreat
• Set your dining room table with dishes, placemats and wine glasses to help the buyer experience your home's hospitality
• More Light, no dark corners or hallways.

Whether you do the staging yourself or have your home done by a professional, homes that are staged often sell 75% faster and for 3%-6% higher than the asking price!

LOTS of Buyers, Only 138 Homes

If you would like one of many reasons why homes continue to stay at these high prices, it's basic supply vs. demand. There are simply not enough homes for sale to accommodate the amount of buyers ready to purchase. As of this posting, for the entire City of Ventura, there are only 138 listings. This includes condos and houses in any price range. That's really not many at all!! However, there are a lot of buyers. So, if you are a buyer, work closely with your real estate agent on being available to look at properties as they come up and be ready make an offer. If you are seller, be sure to price your home right and have your real estate agent go over each offer thoroughly so you can make an informed choice. Good luck and happy house-hunting!!

Ryan Kerzner
REALTOR
http://www.RealtorRyan.net
Ventura CA Homes and Condos for Sale