Q. Is it really hard to get a loan right now?
A. It’s not as hard as you might think from listening to the media. There are lots of great programs available, and even more options for first-time home buyers. Some offer 97.5-100% loans. A great lender–like my lending partner Jean Hedges–can help you determine what you can afford and talk you through today’s credit requirements.
Q. Who is eligible to claim the $6,500 tax credit?
A. Qualified move-up or repeat home buyers purchasing any kind of home are eligible to claim this credit. A “move-up” home buyer (or “long-time resident”) is a person who has owned and resided in the same home for at least five consecutive years of the eight years prior to the purchase date. “Repeat” home buyers do not have to purchase a home that is more expensive than their previous home to qualify for the tax credit.
Q. How is the amount of the tax credit determined?
A. The tax credit is equal to 10% of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $6,500. Purchases of homes priced above $800,000 are not eligible for the tax credit.
Q. How do you cover the entire Triangle area?
A. I can–and I’ve sold and listed homes from Durham to Clayton, as well as right here in Raleigh, of course. I also network with specialists throughout the area who can assist me with your transaction if necessary.
I always felt like I was Louise’s most important client. She did an excellent job pulling out the most important items to address with the seller and got me much more than I could have hoped for.
–Judy Waerness
Q. Should I be worried that you’re not affiliated with a major real estate brokerage?
A. Not to worry. I got my real estate training at HPW School of Real Estate and spent over four years with RE/MAX United learning the business. My experience with a big brokerage firm, as well as my network through the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, gives me a broad base of experience. Now I have the ability to focus my time and resources on what is useful to my clients.
Q. When you represent me as a seller, where will my property be advertised?
A. In all the same places you’d expect of any experienced and reputable real estate brokerage… like the Multiple Listing Service, Realtor.com, and 18 other prominent websites–plus print advertisements in newspapers and magazines. And probably in some places you’d never thought of before, including social networking sites and Craigslist, to name just a few.
Q. How do I know that you know what you’re doing?
A. I pride myself on being a professional, which is one reason that, in addition to my real estate certifications, I also attend educational meetings and conferences to keep myself as upated as possible. And I commit to you that if I don’t know the answer to your question, I’ll use my network to find it for you.
Q. Can you help me find a house that has a perfect yard for dogs?
A. I’m so glad you asked! I have a lot of experience with this, being a dog owner myself. I’ve even written a brochure on the subject. Let’s chat about our dogs while we look for your perfect dog yard!
