Selling your house is all about creating the right impression instantly. This first impression will overide any little faults found later down the line. The first impression has a remarkable affect on the brain of the buyer. It says to a buyer " I want to to live here!"
Property buyers will have already formed an impression before they step into your property. A well-kept garden, pathway and fence, plus a freshly painted front door are immediately appealing, whereas a scruffy outdoor space with a litter bin outside the front door may turn many prospective buyers away.
De-clutter - don't underestimate the appeal of a tidy property. Throw out the junk - use moving as a good excuse to get rid of old, unwanted and unused items. Clean - dust and clean the whole house thoroughly, from cobwebs on the ceiling to crumbs and stains on carpets and rugs. Remember to wash down paintwork and clean windows.
Natural Colours - research shows that, most buyers prefer natural, earthy colours to bright, bold shades. Although there is a wide range of paint colours available, magnolia is still the top-selling colour.
Add a bit of colour - to prevent rooms looking too bland, use strong colours for accent walls or cushions and accessories.
De-personalise - remove personal items, such as family photographs and children's drawings, which may distract potential buyers.It may sound harsh but it really helps sell property
Maintenance – Complete all minor repairs.
Major Jobs- If you don’t spend out on home improvements to complete major repairs it could have a disproportionate affect on the value of the property.
Lighting - the right lighting can improve the mood of a room. A room looks cosier with a few table lamps rather than bright general lighting.
Create a scent - it may be a bit of a clichй to bake bread or grind coffee beans just before the arrival of a potential buyer, but scent does plays an important role in creating the right impression.
Open windows - most buyers like the smell of a freshly cleaned and aired room. Open the windows every day to let fresh air into the house.
Avoid strong food odours - don't cook foods such as fish or curry before a viewing as the smell will linger.
Take pets out - ask friends or family to look after pets during viewings. Fresh flowers and fruit - flowers and a bowl of fruit will brighten up a room and provide a pleasant smell.
Define your rooms - a property will be more appealing if rooms have a specific purpose and this allows buyers to see the full potential of the property.
Seasons - the best time for selling property is spring and autumn; the market slows down during late summer and over Christmas/New Year. If a property is sold while the market is buoyant, it's much more likely to attract the asking price.
Preparing to meet buyers.
Making a useful list of costs - Put yourself in the buyer's position and think about what questions they are likely to ask then compile a useful list of costs associated with running your house. In the UK council tax bills vary from property to property so having the costs at hand is really useful for buyers. Utilities bills, insurance, maintenance costs may also be useful information. You can use the list as an aide during the viewing and as a helpful piece of information to give to your prospective buyer when they leave.
Keep your property description details - Keep copies to hand of your property description details. Some buyers may have forgotten to bring them along. Be prepared to answer questions relating to what is written on your property details. Know how old your boiler is, how long ago that flat roof was replaced. If you’ve had electrical or plumbing work its good to know what was done, but remember don’t stretch the truth this may return and bite you when you least expect it.
Know the positive and negatives- Every house has positive and negative points, know them and be ready to expand about them
Your attitude - Treat each person who views your property as a potential buyer. You may have to negotiate with them at a later stage. Your aim will be to create a good working relationship you will need to be friendly but not too friendly, a detached informative attitude is ideal. This also helps give your buyer the feeling that you are not desperate to sell your house. It’s a fine line so be careful you don’t appear disinterested. Avoid putting any pressure on the buyer by asking them too many questions at this early stage. Hard sells do not work with major purchases like a property and will only serve to put your buyers off. Take your time and try to feel relaxed. If you feel rushed and tense so will your buyer. Good time management is essential before you allow in potential buyers.
Now you are prepared to sell your home so will the buyer be prepared to buy your home
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Free MMORPG Aplenty!
Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games, or MMORPG, are quite the rave these days. There is something truly fascinating about immersing yourself in a world of mythical wonders and high fantasy. You could be the knight who would brave the darkest forests and the most perilous terrains to slay the dragon and lay claim to untold riches. Or you could be the mage who would become the most powerful sorcerer across the known world. Or perhaps the dark lord who will emerge from the shadows to rule the continents. With MMORPG, you could be anyone, and anything, you want to be. The limits are only bounded by your imagination.
The problem is, not many MMORPG programs come free. Often, you’d have to pay for the game, if not the monthly subscription, to avail of some playing hours you could spend in leveling up and beating the challenges that will presented before you. But this causes even more complications. A majority of MMORPG systems, you see, would require a lot of hours before you could achieve prominence in their virtual world. You will have to spend time – lots of it, in fact – before your peon can become a knight, or before your apprentice could become a full-fledged magic user.
And with MMORPG programs, time often comes at a cost – in dollars more than in sweat, blood and tears.
So a lot of devout gamers have searched far and wide for free MMORPG programs that are worth their commitment. But let’s face it, most of the MMORPG programs that don’t charge a fee… well… to put it bluntly, they suck. They’re either works of amateurs or commercial undertakings that were poorly made and failed to sell in the global market.
But… oh yes, there’s a but and a big one at that… there are some great, great MMORPG programs out there that you’ve probably never heard of before. These are the next big hits. These are the bestsellers of tomorrow.
Why are these MMORPG programs free? Most of the time, they are on open or closed beta periods. Beta periods are those times when the distributors are checking their MMORPG systems for bugs, glitches, balance issues, server limitations and the likes. Naturally, they’d need as many players as they could to look for these possible problem points. Additionally, distributors use beta periods to promote their MMORPG products. What better way to get them hooked than to offer the subscription for free, at least initially?
These free MMORPG programs can be classified into two groups: those which are developed by American publishers and those which are developed by South Korean publishers. Thanks to Starcraft, South Korea has become a major force in the MMORPG industry. They pump out free MMORPG programs left and right before they get into paid subscription mode, and most of them are award-winning games at that.
Let’s take a look at the free MMORPG programs offered by American developers first.
1. Dark Age of Camelot. Experience the Middle Ages post-King Arthur in an alternate reality where darkness has engulfed the land. Get a 14 day trial at www.darkageofcamelot.com.
2. EVE Online. If one world is too small for you, try an entire universe in this futuristic, space-spanning adventure. Get your 14 day trial at www.eve-online.com.
3. A Tale In The Desert II. Tired of the usual combat fare? How about civilization building? Try this game for 24 hours at www.atitd.com.
4. Everquest II. The sequel to the award-winning and genre-defining original, Everquest II invites you visit the beautiful but deadly world of Norrath once more. 7 day trial is available at www.trialoftheisle.com.
5. Star Wars Galaxies. A long time ago and a galaxy far away can be within your reach from the comforts of your own home. For the Republic or for the Empire, as a Stormtrooper or as a Jedi, wage you war for 7 days by registering at http://starwarsgalaxies.station.sony.com.
Then we have the South Korean free MMORPG programs that are slowly taking the world by storm. Here are the 5 games in this genre:
1. Ragnarok Online. Simple graphics, simple game play, addictive MMORPG. The end of the world has never been this fun. Play for 15 days at www.iro.ragnarokonline.com.
2. Flyff. Why walk when you can fly? Introducing the first free MMORPG where you could actually soar through the skies for your many, many adventures. It’s on beta too. Register at www.english.flyff.com .
3. Maple Story. Here’s a unique free MMORPG… a game that is presented as a side scroller. Don’t let such fool you, though. It’s still an RPG. And it’s still massively multiplayer! Still on beta. Register at www.mapleglobal.com .
4. MU Online. Remember Blizzard’s amazing Diablo series? This is a Diablo clone, from the game mechanics to the look, but with the multiplayer twist. It’s still a free MMORPG at www.muonline.com.
5. Gunz the Duel. Free MMORPG programs don’t have to be all about sword and sorcery. They could involve guns too. If you love Quake or Doom with the MMORPG twist, then this game is definitely for you! Get it free at www.gunzonline.com!
Most of the games we have discussed here, especially the South Korean ones, have been in open beta for more than a year now. Don’t let that mislead you, though. They are great games, perhaps even better than those you have to pay for. It’s just that they’re looking for US publishers. And while the US publishers have yet to discover these fantastic gems, make the most out of these free MMORPG programs as much as you could! They’re too good to remain free forever.
The problem is, not many MMORPG programs come free. Often, you’d have to pay for the game, if not the monthly subscription, to avail of some playing hours you could spend in leveling up and beating the challenges that will presented before you. But this causes even more complications. A majority of MMORPG systems, you see, would require a lot of hours before you could achieve prominence in their virtual world. You will have to spend time – lots of it, in fact – before your peon can become a knight, or before your apprentice could become a full-fledged magic user.
And with MMORPG programs, time often comes at a cost – in dollars more than in sweat, blood and tears.
So a lot of devout gamers have searched far and wide for free MMORPG programs that are worth their commitment. But let’s face it, most of the MMORPG programs that don’t charge a fee… well… to put it bluntly, they suck. They’re either works of amateurs or commercial undertakings that were poorly made and failed to sell in the global market.
But… oh yes, there’s a but and a big one at that… there are some great, great MMORPG programs out there that you’ve probably never heard of before. These are the next big hits. These are the bestsellers of tomorrow.
Why are these MMORPG programs free? Most of the time, they are on open or closed beta periods. Beta periods are those times when the distributors are checking their MMORPG systems for bugs, glitches, balance issues, server limitations and the likes. Naturally, they’d need as many players as they could to look for these possible problem points. Additionally, distributors use beta periods to promote their MMORPG products. What better way to get them hooked than to offer the subscription for free, at least initially?
These free MMORPG programs can be classified into two groups: those which are developed by American publishers and those which are developed by South Korean publishers. Thanks to Starcraft, South Korea has become a major force in the MMORPG industry. They pump out free MMORPG programs left and right before they get into paid subscription mode, and most of them are award-winning games at that.
Let’s take a look at the free MMORPG programs offered by American developers first.
1. Dark Age of Camelot. Experience the Middle Ages post-King Arthur in an alternate reality where darkness has engulfed the land. Get a 14 day trial at www.darkageofcamelot.com.
2. EVE Online. If one world is too small for you, try an entire universe in this futuristic, space-spanning adventure. Get your 14 day trial at www.eve-online.com.
3. A Tale In The Desert II. Tired of the usual combat fare? How about civilization building? Try this game for 24 hours at www.atitd.com.
4. Everquest II. The sequel to the award-winning and genre-defining original, Everquest II invites you visit the beautiful but deadly world of Norrath once more. 7 day trial is available at www.trialoftheisle.com.
5. Star Wars Galaxies. A long time ago and a galaxy far away can be within your reach from the comforts of your own home. For the Republic or for the Empire, as a Stormtrooper or as a Jedi, wage you war for 7 days by registering at http://starwarsgalaxies.station.sony.com.
Then we have the South Korean free MMORPG programs that are slowly taking the world by storm. Here are the 5 games in this genre:
1. Ragnarok Online. Simple graphics, simple game play, addictive MMORPG. The end of the world has never been this fun. Play for 15 days at www.iro.ragnarokonline.com.
2. Flyff. Why walk when you can fly? Introducing the first free MMORPG where you could actually soar through the skies for your many, many adventures. It’s on beta too. Register at www.english.flyff.com .
3. Maple Story. Here’s a unique free MMORPG… a game that is presented as a side scroller. Don’t let such fool you, though. It’s still an RPG. And it’s still massively multiplayer! Still on beta. Register at www.mapleglobal.com .
4. MU Online. Remember Blizzard’s amazing Diablo series? This is a Diablo clone, from the game mechanics to the look, but with the multiplayer twist. It’s still a free MMORPG at www.muonline.com.
5. Gunz the Duel. Free MMORPG programs don’t have to be all about sword and sorcery. They could involve guns too. If you love Quake or Doom with the MMORPG twist, then this game is definitely for you! Get it free at www.gunzonline.com!
Most of the games we have discussed here, especially the South Korean ones, have been in open beta for more than a year now. Don’t let that mislead you, though. They are great games, perhaps even better than those you have to pay for. It’s just that they’re looking for US publishers. And while the US publishers have yet to discover these fantastic gems, make the most out of these free MMORPG programs as much as you could! They’re too good to remain free forever.
Friday, March 18, 2011
9 Tips on Applying for a Second Mortgage
People usually apply for a second mortgage or home equity loan when they need money for debt consolidation, to pay large expenses or for home remodeling and home improvement. Second mortgages are generally categorized as fixed interest rate home equity installment loans (HELOANS) and adjustable mortgage rate home equity lines of credit (HELOCs). Which you choose depends on your needs, but the application and approval process is similar for both. These nine tips will help your loan process be as hitch-free as possible:
1. Compare options like mortgage refinancing and other loan options to determine if a second mortgage is the best choice.
2. Make sure you can tell lender what the purpose of the loan is. Your answer will help determine whether or not you are approved.
3. Check your credit report for errors and get your FICO scores (myfico.com/12) because lenders will review your FICO score to determine your loan rates. Check "How to Improve Your Credit Score" for more information on cleaning up your credit.
4. Compare several home equity loan options. Discuss the loan programs with your broker or lender and find the best loan for your situation. Getting a good interest rates isn't a bad idea either.
5. When applying for a loan, you will get a mortgage checklist from your lender containing the list of paperwork you need to close the loan, including:
• Copy of deed to property.
• Recent tax appraisal.
• Last two years' W-2's, tax returns and current pay stub, or two years' tax returns if self-employed. Be sure to include all schedules.
• Proof of income from alimony, child support, disability payments, lawsuit settlement, inheritance or other income source.
• Copies of your last 3-6 bank statements.
• List of all open credit accounts (account numbers, payment amounts, and balances).
• Your current mortgage statement.
• Homeowners insurance information (name, account number and phone number of agent).
6. Faxing documentation from the checklist will expedite the loan process more than mailing it.
7. Fill out your loan application thoroughly, or it may delay approval and loan closing.
8. Beware of bad loans. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that you may be signing into trouble if the lender encourages you to falsify your application to get the loan, urges you to borrow more than you need, pushes you into unrealistic payment terms, shows up at closing with a different loan product than you agreed to, asks you to sign blank forms, or denies you copies of documents you signed.
9. Has your mortgage application been rejected by a lender? Ask why it was rejected to find out what you need to do to secure mortgage loan approval in the future. Sometimes paying down some credit cards can increase your credit score just enough to qualify.
1. Compare options like mortgage refinancing and other loan options to determine if a second mortgage is the best choice.
2. Make sure you can tell lender what the purpose of the loan is. Your answer will help determine whether or not you are approved.
3. Check your credit report for errors and get your FICO scores (myfico.com/12) because lenders will review your FICO score to determine your loan rates. Check "How to Improve Your Credit Score" for more information on cleaning up your credit.
4. Compare several home equity loan options. Discuss the loan programs with your broker or lender and find the best loan for your situation. Getting a good interest rates isn't a bad idea either.
5. When applying for a loan, you will get a mortgage checklist from your lender containing the list of paperwork you need to close the loan, including:
• Copy of deed to property.
• Recent tax appraisal.
• Last two years' W-2's, tax returns and current pay stub, or two years' tax returns if self-employed. Be sure to include all schedules.
• Proof of income from alimony, child support, disability payments, lawsuit settlement, inheritance or other income source.
• Copies of your last 3-6 bank statements.
• List of all open credit accounts (account numbers, payment amounts, and balances).
• Your current mortgage statement.
• Homeowners insurance information (name, account number and phone number of agent).
6. Faxing documentation from the checklist will expedite the loan process more than mailing it.
7. Fill out your loan application thoroughly, or it may delay approval and loan closing.
8. Beware of bad loans. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that you may be signing into trouble if the lender encourages you to falsify your application to get the loan, urges you to borrow more than you need, pushes you into unrealistic payment terms, shows up at closing with a different loan product than you agreed to, asks you to sign blank forms, or denies you copies of documents you signed.
9. Has your mortgage application been rejected by a lender? Ask why it was rejected to find out what you need to do to secure mortgage loan approval in the future. Sometimes paying down some credit cards can increase your credit score just enough to qualify.
3 Steps You Must Do If You Want To Pay Off Your Mortgage In 7 Years Or Less
3 Steps You Must Do If You Want To Pay Off Your Mortgage In 7 Years Or Less
A Guide To Home Mortgage Rates
Home mortgages are loans that are taken to buy a property, for which the property itself is used as collateral. Owning a home is a very big, and usually a one-time investment for many. With increasing real estate prices and decreasing interest rates on loans, many people are using the home mortgage loans to buy property.
Home mortgage rates are the rates of interest that are to be paid along with the capital for taking the mortgage loan. Home mortgage rates do not remain steady over a long period of time. A lower rate means lower monthly payments, leading to lower costs on the property. Depending on the kind of interest rate, there are two kinds of home mortgage loans: Fixed Rate Mortgages (FRMs) and Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs). FRMs are mortgages for which the rate of interest remains the same for the entire period of the loan. These can be for a period of 10, 15, 20 or even 30 years. Adjustable rate mortgages, on the other hand, have fluctuating rates of interest. This is ideal when there is likelihood of the rates to decrease. ARMs are preferred by people who plan for shorter periods. ARMs are offered at lower rates than FRMs to attract customers, but they also contain a certain level of risk. The fixed rate mortgages are a very predictable, safe option.
Mortgage rates fluctuate on the basis of an economic index. The mortgage bond market works according to a process called securitization. This securitization enables creation of more loans and greater mobility of funds by keeping the mortgage rates low and allowing more credit for ideal customers.
The best source for knowing about home mortgage loan rates is the Internet. Most home mortgage loan companies provide information through their websites also. These rates are updated daily. Their sites also have easy-to-use home mortgage calculators that give all information, including payments to be made each month and the tax advantages, with the single click of a button. Most of them also have financial advisors who would provide advice online, or over the phone. A professional mortgage lender would be able to provide accurate information about the mortgage loan rates as and when they are applicable.
Home mortgage rates are the rates of interest that are to be paid along with the capital for taking the mortgage loan. Home mortgage rates do not remain steady over a long period of time. A lower rate means lower monthly payments, leading to lower costs on the property. Depending on the kind of interest rate, there are two kinds of home mortgage loans: Fixed Rate Mortgages (FRMs) and Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs). FRMs are mortgages for which the rate of interest remains the same for the entire period of the loan. These can be for a period of 10, 15, 20 or even 30 years. Adjustable rate mortgages, on the other hand, have fluctuating rates of interest. This is ideal when there is likelihood of the rates to decrease. ARMs are preferred by people who plan for shorter periods. ARMs are offered at lower rates than FRMs to attract customers, but they also contain a certain level of risk. The fixed rate mortgages are a very predictable, safe option.
Mortgage rates fluctuate on the basis of an economic index. The mortgage bond market works according to a process called securitization. This securitization enables creation of more loans and greater mobility of funds by keeping the mortgage rates low and allowing more credit for ideal customers.
The best source for knowing about home mortgage loan rates is the Internet. Most home mortgage loan companies provide information through their websites also. These rates are updated daily. Their sites also have easy-to-use home mortgage calculators that give all information, including payments to be made each month and the tax advantages, with the single click of a button. Most of them also have financial advisors who would provide advice online, or over the phone. A professional mortgage lender would be able to provide accurate information about the mortgage loan rates as and when they are applicable.
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