ISSUE #1173

FEATURE REPORT

How To Reduce Crime In Your Neighborhood

While we don't like to talk about it - or even think about it - crime is on the increase in North America, and throughout the world. The number of burglars, muggers, auto thieves, robbers, purse snatchers, etc., is growing at an alarming rate.
Now you, as a resident, working with neighbors can help reduce the crime rate.

For the complete story, click here...

Also This Month...

11 Things You Must Know When Finding a Home

Once you've decided to buy a home, there's a number of issues that need to be considered. Because buying a home will be one of the biggest purchases you make in your life, learning the "11 Things You Must Know When Finding a Home" can make the process easier.

More...

Tips on Selecting a Contractor For Home Improvement

Home repairs can cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent complaints. Here is a list of things to consider when selecting a contractor.

More...

Quick Links

How To Reduce Crime In Your Neighborhood

11 Things You Must Know When Finding a Home

Tips on Selecting a Contractor For Home Improvement

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How To Reduce Crime In Your Neighborhood

While we don't like to talk about it - or even think about it - crime is on the increase in North America, and throughout the world. The number of burglars, muggers, auto thieves, robbers, purse snatchers, etc., is growing at an alarming rate. Now you, as a resident, working with neighbors can help reduce the crime rate.

How? By organizing and/or joining a neighborhood program in which you and your neighbors get together to learn how to protect yourselves, your family, your home and your property. Working together, you can get the criminals off your block and out of your area.

There's safety in numbers and power through working with a group. You'll get to know your neighbors better, and working with them you can reduce crime, develop a more united community, provide an avenue of communications between police and citizens, establish on-going crime prevention techniques in your neighborhood, and renew citizen interest in community activity.

"Citizens Safety Projects" are set up to help you do this. It is a joint effort between private citizens and local police. Such programs have been started all over. Maybe one already exists in your community.

These organizations don't require frequent meetings (once a month or so). They don't ask anyone to take personal risks to prevent crime. They leave the responsibility for catching criminals where it belongs - with the police. This is NOT a "vigilante" group.

These groups gather citizens together to learn crime prevention from local authorities. You cooperate with your neighbors to report suspicious activities in the neighborhood, to keep an eye on homes when the resident is away, and to keep everyone in the area mindful of the standard precautions for property and self that should always be taken. Criminals avoid neighborhoods where such groups exist.

Through cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, some of the things you will learn - and all free - are:

What to do in an emergency.

How to best identify a suspicious person.

How to identify a vehicle being used in a suspected criminal activity.

Signs to watch out for before entering a house or apartment that may be in the process of being burglarized.

What to do in case of injury.

What to do about suspicious people loitering on your street.

How to identify stolen merchandise.

How to recognize auto theft in progress.

How to protect your house or apartment.

How to recognize a burglary in progress.

How to protect yourself and family - and much more.

It's easy to get your group started. All you have to do is contact your neighbors and arrange a date, place and time for the first meeting. Hold the meetings at your home or that of a neighbor. Try to plan a time that is convenient to most of your neighbors - preferably in the evening.

Then call your local police department. They will be happy to give your group informal lectures, free literature - and in many instances, window stickers and ID cards. Remember, police officers can't be everywhere. Your cooperation with them is for the benefit of you, your family, your neighbors and your neighborhood.

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11 Things You Must Know When Finding a Home

In this report, we outline 11 Questions and Answers to help you make informed choices when purchasing a home.

1. What Should I Look For When Deciding On A Community?

Select a community that will allow you to best live your daily life. Many people choose communities based on schools. Do you want access to shopping and public transportation? Is access to local facilities like libraries and museums important to you? Or do you prefer the peace and quiet of a rural community? When you find places that you like, talk to people that live there. They know the most about the area and will be your future neighbors. More than anything, you want a neighborhood where you feel comfortable in.

2. How Can I Find Out About Local Schools?

You can get information about school systems by contacting the city or local school board or the local schools. Your real estate agent may also be knowledgeable about schools in the area.

3. How Can I Find Out About Community Resources?

Contact the local chamber of commerce for promotional literature or talk to your real estate agent about welcome kits, maps, and other information. You may also want to visit the local library. It can be an excellent source for information on local events and resources, and the librarians will probably be able to answer many of the questions you have.

4. How Can I Find Out How Much Homes Are Selling For In Certain Communities and Neighborhoods?

Your real estate agent can give you a ballpark figure by showing you comparable listings. If you are working with a REALTOR®, they may have access to comparable sales maintained on a database.

5. How Can I Find Information On The Property Tax Liability?

The total amount of the previous year's property taxes is usually included in the listing information. If it's not, ask the seller for a tax receipt or contact the local assessor's office. Tax rates can change from year to year, so these figures maybe approximate.

6. What Other Tax Issues Should I Take Into Consideration?

Keep in mind that your mortgage interest and real estate taxes will be deductible (USA residents). A qualified real estate professional can give you more details on other tax benefits and liabilities.

7. Is An Older Home A Better Value Than A New One?

There isn't a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods, offer more ambiance, and have lower property tax rates. People who buy older homes, however, shouldn't mind maintaining their home and making some repairs. Newer homes tend to use more modern architecture and systems, are usually easier to maintain, and may be more energy-efficient. People who buy new homes often don't want to worry initially about upkeep and repairs.

8. What Should I Look For When Walking Through A Home?

In addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists, consider the following:

Is there enough room for both the present and the future?

Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?

Is the house structurally sound?

Do the mechanical systems and appliances work?

Is the yard big enough?

Do you like the floor plan?

Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space? (Bring a tape measure to better answer these questions)

Does anything need to be repaired or replaced? Will the seller repair or replace the items?

Imagine the house in good weather and bad, and in each season. Will you be happy with it year 'round?

Take your time and think carefully about each house you see. Ask your real estate agent to point out the pros and cons of each home from a professional standpoint.

9. What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Homes?

Many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance (e.g., paint, roof, HVAC, appliances, carpet)? Also ask about the house and neighborhood, focusing on quality of life issues. Be sure the seller's or real estate agent's answers are clear and complete. Ask questions until you understand all of the information they've given. Making a list of questions ahead of time will help you organize your thoughts and arrange all of the information you receive.

10. How Can I Keep Track Of All The Homes I See?

If possible, take photographs of each house: the outside, the major rooms, the yard, and extra features that you like or ones you see as potential problems. And don't hesitate to return for a second look. You may also wish to find out if the home is available online. Photos of the property may already be up on a website for you to review.

11. How Many Homes Should I Consider Before Choosing One?

There isn't a set number of houses you should see before you decide. Visit as many as it takes to find the one you want. On average, homebuyers see 15 houses before choosing one. Just be sure to communicate often with your real estate agent about everything you're looking for. It will help avoid wasting your time.

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Tips on Selecting a Contractor For Home Improvement

Home repairs can cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent complaints. Here is a list of things to consider when selecting a contractor:

Get recommendations and references. Talk to friends, family and other people for whom the contractor has done similar work.

Get at least three written estimates from contractors who have come to your home to evaluate what needs to be done. Be sure the estimates are based on the same work so that you can make meaningful comparisons.

Make sure the contractor meets licensing and registration requirements with your local consumer agency. Some areas require licensees to pass tests for competency and scrutinize licensees for financial solvency. They may also have a fund to cover some financial losses that result from problems with licensed contractors.

Check to see if local laws limit the amount by which the final bill can exceed the estimate, unless you have approved the increase.

Check contractor complaint records with the Better Business Bureau or similar agency.

Get the names of suppliers and ask if the contractor makes timely payments.

Contact your local building inspection department to check for permit and inspection requirements. Be wary if the contractor asks you to get the permit. It could mean the firm is not licensed.

Be sure your contractor has the required personal liability, property damage and worker's compensation insurance for his/her workers and subcontractors. Also check with your insurance company to find out if you are covered for any injury or damage that might occur.

Insist on a complete written contract. Know exactly what work will be done, the quality of materials that will be used, warranties, timetables, the names of any subcontractors, the total price of the job, and the schedule of payments.

Try to limit your down payment. Local law may specify that only a certain percentage of the total cost may be made as a down payment.

Understand your payment options. Compare the cost of getting your own loan versus contractor financing.

Don't make final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you are satisfied with the work and know that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid. Local lien laws may allow unpaid subcontractors and/or unpaid suppliers to attach your home.

Pay by credit card when you can. This may allow you the right to withhold payment to the credit card company until problems are corrected.

Be especially cautious if the contractor:

comes door-to-door or seeks you out;
just happens to have material left over from a recent job;
tells you your job will be a "demonstration";
offers you discounts for finding other customers;
quotes a price that's out of line with other estimates;
pressures you for an immediate decision;
offers exceptionally long guarantees;
can only be reached by leaving messages with an answering service;
drives an unmarked van or has out-of-area plates on his/her vehicles; or
asks you to pay for the entire job up front.

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In This Issue:

How To Find a Neighborhood You'll Love And Can Afford - Finding the right home means more than the right layout or finishes, it means finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
The Ultimate Homebuyers Checklist - Buying a home involves many moving parts, and missing even one can cost time, money, or the deal itself.
How To Choose The Agent Who Will Actually Sell Your Home - Not all real estate agents are created equal. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between a fast, profitable sale-and a stressful, drawn-out experience.

How To Find a Neighborhood You'll Love And Can Afford

Summary

Finding the right home means more than the right layout or finishes, it means finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget. This report guides buyers through the process of evaluating areas, comparing priorities, and balancing dreams with dollars. Learn how to research like a pro and avoid common location regrets.

You've probably heard the phrase "location, location, location" and for good reason. The neighborhood you choose shapes your lifestyle, commute, sense of safety, and future property value. So how do you find the perfect fit, especially when affordability is a factor?

Here's how to narrow it down and make a smart move.

1. Start with Your Lifestyle Priorities

Ask yourself:

Do I want a quiet suburb or urban energy?
Is walkability important?
How long of a commute is acceptable?
Do I want parks, trails, or dog-friendly areas?
What matters most: restaurants, schools, transit, or views?

Listing your non-negotiables will guide your search.

2. Know Your Budget (and Be Honest About It)

Work with a lender to get pre-approved and understand your true price range. Remember to include:

Property taxes
HOA fees (if applicable)
Insurance premiums (especially in flood or high-risk areas)
Commuting or transit costs

Use this number to rule out areas before falling in love with homes that aren't feasible.

3. Define Your "Goldilocks Zone"

Find the overlap between affordability, commute, and lifestyle. Use online maps and radius search tools to draw zones where you can realistically live, and live well.

4. Research Like a Local

Use tools like:

Google Street View and satellite maps
Walk Score and crime maps
Local Facebook groups and Reddit threads
Municipal websites for zoning, development, and community programs

Drive through neighborhoods at different times of day to get a feel for noise, traffic, and activity levels.

5. Consider Future Growth

Look for signs of an up-and-coming area:

New businesses or transit lines
City investment in infrastructure
Young families or creatives moving in

These areas can offer long-term upside, but may require patience or tolerance for change.

6. Think About Resale

Even if it's your "forever home," plans change. Choose a neighborhood that will appeal to future buyers too. Areas near good schools, transit, and employment centers tend to hold value.

7. Work With a Local Agent

A good real estate agent can suggest hidden gem neighborhoods, point out value opportunities, and guide you toward areas that match your personality and goals.

8. Watch for Red Flags

High vacancy or foreclosure rates
Excessive graffiti or neglected properties
Loud noise zones (highways, airports, train tracks)
Lack of local services or grocery access

9. Balance Head and Heart

Sometimes the perfect area is just out of reach financially. Consider:

Compromising on home size, not location
Buying a fixer in a better area
Expanding your search radius slightly

The right neighborhood makes daily life better and is worth some creative thinking.

A great house in the wrong neighborhood won't feel like home. By aligning your lifestyle, commute, and budget with the right area, you'll set yourself up for long-term happiness and financial confidence. Don't just chase square footage, choose a location that truly fits.

The Ultimate Homebuyers Checklist

Summary

Buying a home involves many moving parts, and missing even one can cost time, money, or the deal itself. This report delivers a comprehensive, easy-to-follow checklist covering everything from financial prep and viewings to closing day. Whether you're buying your first property or your fifth, you'll appreciate the structure and clarity this guide provides. Stay organized and informed through every step of the journey.

Buying a home is one of the most exciting and life-changing experiences you'll ever have, but the process can be complex. That's where a detailed homebuyer's checklist comes in. A checklist isn't just a convenience; it's a roadmap that keeps you organized, focused, and informed at every step of the journey. This guide outlines the full homebuying process with actionable steps and expert tips to help you navigate with confidence.

Step 1: Financial Preparation

Before even browsing online listings, take a hard look at your financial picture. Check your credit score, calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and determine how much you can afford to borrow. Speak to a lender to get pre-approved, which will both set your budget and increase your credibility when submitting offers. Be sure to account for all upfront costs including your down payment, closing costs (typically 2â5% of the home's price), moving expenses, and an emergency fund.

Step 2: Define Your Needs vs. Wants

Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Must-haves might include the number of bedrooms, a specific school district, or a minimum square footage. Nice-to-haves could be a finished basement, large backyard, or walk-in closets. Prioritizing your list helps you stay focused when touring properties and makes trade-offs easier when inventory is limited.

Step 3: Research Neighborhoods

Spend time understanding local neighborhoods that align with your lifestyle and budget. Visit at different times of day, check crime rates, research school ratings, evaluate commute times, and look for future development plans that might affect the area. Understanding the neighborhood's trajectory helps you make an informed investment, not just a lifestyle choice.

Step 4: Choose the Right Real Estate Agent

A good real estate agent is more than a door opener; they're your advocate, negotiator, and guide through the paperwork. Interview multiple agents and look for someone who specializes in your target market, has good reviews, and communicates well. Don't hesitate to ask for recent sales data or client references.

Step 5: Begin Your Home Search

Once your finances and team are in place, start looking at listings. Your agent can create a customized search to match your criteria, but use online tools too for added context. Tour homes with a critical eye, look beyond staging and paint. Take notes, ask about roof age, HVAC systems, plumbing, and neighborhood features. Don't be afraid to revisit a property more than once.

Step 6: Evaluate Properties and Compare

After seeing several homes, compare them based on your checklist. Use a scoring system for each must-have and nice-to-have, and review photos or notes from your visits. Be objective, don't let emotional attachment cloud your judgment. Narrow down your top choices and revisit anything that still excites you.

Step 7: Make an Offer

When you're ready, work with your agent to craft a competitive but fair offer based on comparable sales. Decide in advance what contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal) you'll include and what your walk-away price is. The stronger your offer package, including pre-approval and a personal letter, the more likely the seller will respond favorably.

Step 8: Complete the Home Inspection

Once your offer is accepted, schedule a professional home inspection. Use a licensed, well-reviewed inspector and plan to attend the inspection if possible. Ask questions and take note of any recommended repairs or red flags. This is your chance to renegotiate or walk away if major issues arise.

Step 9: Finalize the Mortgage and Appraisal

Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home's value supports your loan. During this time, avoid opening new credit lines, changing jobs, or making large purchases, anything that could affect your loan approval. Stay responsive to your lender and provide requested documents quickly.

Step 10: Review Closing Documents

Before closing, you'll receive a Closing Disclosure outlining your loan terms, monthly payments, and closing costs. Review it carefully and ask questions. You'll also do a final walk-through to ensure the home's condition hasn't changed and that any agreed-upon repairs were completed.

Step 11: Closing Day

On closing day, bring your government ID, any remaining down payment funds (typically wired), and review all documents carefully. Once signed, you'll receive the keys to your new home! Celebrate, but also keep all documents in a safe place for future reference.

Bonus: After You Move In

The checklist doesn't stop after closing. Notify utility companies, update your address with important institutions, and rekey the locks. Meet your neighbors, review your maintenance schedule, and set aside savings for home improvements. A well-planned post-move checklist helps you settle in smoothly and start enjoying your investment.

The homebuying process is filled with steps, deadlines, and details, but having a master checklist turns chaos into clarity. Whether you're just getting started or already visiting homes, this step-by-step guide keeps you grounded, informed, and in control. With careful planning, the right team, and this comprehensive checklist, you'll move confidently from dream to reality.

How To Choose The Agent Who Will Actually Sell Your Home

Summary

Not all real estate agents are created equal. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between a fast, profitable sale-and a stressful, drawn-out experience. This guide helps sellers evaluate potential agents based on results, strategy, communication, and trust. Learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make an informed decision that puts your home in the best hands possible.

Selling a home is one of the most important financial decisions you'll ever make. And yet, many sellers choose an agent without doing any homework. They go with a friend of a friend, or someone who "seems nice." But your agent's expertise, marketing skills, and commitment can directly affect your bottom line-and your peace of mind. Here's how to choose wisely.

Why the Right Agent Matters

A great agent knows how to price your home right from the start.
They understand your local market-down to the neighborhood level.
They know how to stage and market your home for maximum impact.
They respond quickly to buyer inquiries and navigate negotiations smoothly.
They manage the process from listing to close-minimizing your stress.

What Sellers Are Typically Required to Disclose

Proven Track Record
Ask how many homes they've sold in the past 12 months-and what the average days on market and list-to-sale price ratio was. Look for someone with consistent performance, not just a license.
Local Market Expertise
An agent who knows your area can better position your home, answer buyer questions, and price your property accurately. Ask what other listings they've handled nearby.
Strong Marketing Plan
Your agent should provide a clear, customized marketing strategy. This may include professional photography, staging, online and offline advertising, social media promotion, and open houses.
Communication Style
You want someone who's proactive, responsive, and available. Ask how often they'll check in, what updates you'll receive, and how quickly they return calls and messages.
Support Team or Solo Agent
Agents with a team may offer additional support, while solo agents may provide more personal attention. Ask who will handle showings, paperwork, and buyer interactions.
Network and Negotiation Skills
Your agent should have relationships with local agents, lenders, and inspectors. More importantly, they must be skilled negotiators who can get you the best price while protecting your interests.
Tech-Savvy and Data-Driven
In today's market, your agent should be comfortable with digital marketing, social media, virtual tours, and data analytics. Ask what platforms and tools they use to market homes effectively.

Red Flags to Avoid

Agents who overpromise on price without comps to support it
Poor online presence or lack of professional photos in past listings
No clear marketing plan or listing timeline
Limited availability or poor communication
High pressure to sign right away

How to Interview an Agent

Don't be afraid to "interview" at least 2â3 agents. Ask:

What's your strategy to get my home sold quickly and for top dollar?
How many listings are you managing right now?
What happens if my home doesn't sell in 30/60/90 days?
Can I speak to some of your past clients?

Also, request a sample marketing plan and a listing presentation. You'll learn a lot from how they respond and how prepared they are.

Choosing the right agent isn't about personality-it's about performance. You need someone who treats your sale like a business transaction and brings the expertise to back it up. Do your research, ask tough questions, and choose someone who will go to bat for your success. The right agent will be your greatest ally in a competitive market.