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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h1 style="text-align:center;">Real Estate Newsletter – August 2026

In This Issue:

Essential Tips for Buying in a Competitive Market
Learn how to prepare, move quickly, and make stronger decisions when homes are selling fast.
Read More »
Appraisal 101: How It Works and How to Prepare
Understand what appraisers look for and why the appraisal can affect the outcome of a sale.
Read More »
Going Green? What You Need to Know About Energy-Efficient Homes
See how energy efficiency can affect comfort, costs, resale value, and long-term ownership decisions.
Read More »

Essential Tips for Buying in a Competitive Market

Buying a home in a competitive market can feel stressful, especially when good properties attract multiple offers quickly. Buyers may feel pressured to move fast, stretch their budget, or make decisions before they feel fully ready. The key is not to panic. The strongest buyers prepare before the right property appears, understand what matters to sellers, and make offers that are both competitive and responsible. This report explains how buyers can improve their chances without making reckless decisions.

1. Get Fully Prepared Before You Start Touring

In a competitive market, preparation matters more than speed alone. Buyers should have mortgage pre-approval, proof of funds, a clear budget, and a realistic understanding of closing costs before viewing serious properties. If buyers wait until they find a home to organize financing, they may lose valuable time. A prepared buyer can act quickly without feeling rushed because the major financial questions have already been answered.

2. Know Your Maximum Number Before Emotions Take Over

Competition can make buyers feel like they need to keep increasing their offer. Before entering any bidding situation, buyers should decide their true maximum price. This number should reflect not only what the lender may approve, but what the buyer can comfortably afford after accounting for taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and lifestyle needs. Knowing the limit in advance helps prevent emotional overbidding and post-purchase regret.

3. Understand The Local Market Before Making An Offer

A strong offer is based on evidence, not guesswork. Buyers should review recent comparable sales, average days on market, list-to-sale price ratios, and current inventory. Some properties are priced low to attract multiple offers, while others may already be close to market value. Understanding the local pricing strategy helps buyers avoid both underbidding and overpaying.

4. Be Ready To Move Quickly, But Not Carelessly

Competitive markets reward buyers who can act decisively. However, acting quickly does not mean ignoring important details. Buyers should review property disclosures, ask questions, understand included items, and consider potential repair or maintenance concerns. A fast decision should still be an informed decision. Good preparation makes that possible.

5. Make Your Offer Clean And Clear

Sellers often prefer offers that are easy to understand and likely to close. A clean offer may include a strong deposit, clear timelines, flexible closing terms, and only necessary conditions. Buyers should not remove protections without understanding the risk, but they should avoid unnecessary complications that weaken the offer. The goal is to make the seller feel confident that the transaction will proceed smoothly.

6. Look For Terms That Matter Beyond Price

Price is important, but it is not always the only deciding factor. Some sellers may value a flexible closing date, a lease-back option, fewer delays, or confidence in the buyer's financing. A skilled agent can help determine what matters most to the seller. Matching the seller's needs can make an offer more attractive without requiring the buyer to simply pay more.

7. Avoid Chasing Every Property

Not every home is worth competing for. Buyers should be clear about their must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers. Chasing every property can lead to fatigue and poor decisions. In a competitive market, discipline is a major advantage. The right goal is not to win any home. The goal is to secure the right home at a price and with terms that still make sense.

8. Stay Patient After Losing An Offer

Losing an offer can be discouraging, especially after investing time and emotion. However, buyers should treat each attempt as market feedback. If offers are consistently too low, the search criteria may need adjustment. If properties are selling beyond the comfort zone, it may be time to consider different neighborhoods, property types, or timing. Staying patient helps buyers avoid making an expensive decision out of frustration.

Conclusion:
Buying in a competitive market requires preparation, discipline, and strategy. The strongest buyers are ready before the right property appears, understand market value, and know their financial limits. A competitive offer should be strong, but it should also be responsible. With the right plan, buyers can compete confidently without sacrificing their long-term financial stability.

Appraisal 101: How It Works and How to Prepare

An appraisal can play an important role in a real estate transaction, especially when financing is involved. Buyers and sellers often focus on the agreed sale price, but a lender may need an independent opinion of value before approving the final mortgage. If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, it can create stress, delays, or renegotiation. This report explains what appraisals are, how they work, and how buyers and sellers can prepare.

1. What An Appraisal Is

An appraisal is an opinion of a property's value prepared by a qualified appraiser. The appraiser reviews the property, compares it to recent sales, and considers market conditions. The purpose is not to confirm what the buyer wants to pay or what the seller hopes to receive. The purpose is to provide an independent estimate of value, often for the lender's risk assessment.

2. Why Lenders Care About Appraisals

When a buyer uses financing, the property often serves as security for the mortgage. The lender wants to know that the property is worth enough to support the loan amount. If the appraisal is lower than the purchase price, the lender may reduce the approved loan amount or request additional information. This can affect the buyer's ability to close unless the issue is resolved.

3. What Appraisers Look At

Appraisers consider location, lot size, property type, square footage, condition, age, updates, layout, features, and recent comparable sales. They also consider market trends and the desirability of the area. Appraisers are not simply looking at decor or personal style. They are evaluating market value based on evidence and property characteristics.

4. Why Comparable Sales Matter

Comparable sales, often called comps, are one of the most important parts of the appraisal process. Appraisers review similar properties that have recently sold nearby. If the subject property is larger, more updated, or in a better location than the comps, adjustments may be made. If it is less desirable or needs work, that may also affect value. Strong comparable sales support a strong appraisal.

5. How Sellers Can Prepare

Sellers can prepare by making the home accessible, clean, and well maintained. They should provide a list of major updates, repairs, permits, upgrades, and improvements. Receipts, renovation details, and maintenance records can help the appraiser understand what has been done. Sellers should not exaggerate, but they should make sure important improvements are easy to identify.

6. How Buyers Can Prepare

Buyers should understand that an appraisal is not guaranteed to match the purchase price. This is especially important in competitive markets where buyers may offer above list price. Buyers should speak with their lender about what happens if the appraisal is low. They should also understand whether they have enough funds to cover a gap if required and whether their offer includes protections related to financing.

7. What Happens If The Appraisal Is Low

A low appraisal does not automatically end the transaction, but it creates a problem that must be solved. The buyer may bring more cash, the seller may reduce the price, the parties may renegotiate, or additional comparable sales may be reviewed. In some cases, a second appraisal may be requested. The available options depend on the agreement, lender requirements, and the willingness of both parties to work toward a solution.

8. Why Pricing Correctly Matters

For sellers, realistic pricing helps reduce appraisal risk. A property priced far above market value may attract attention but can create problems when financing is involved. A strong pricing strategy uses recent sales, current competition, property condition, and buyer demand. The goal is not only to attract offers, but to support a transaction that can close.

Conclusion:
An appraisal is an important checkpoint in many real estate transactions. It protects lenders, informs buyers, and can influence whether a sale moves forward smoothly. Sellers can prepare by documenting improvements and pricing realistically. Buyers can prepare by understanding lender requirements and planning for possible value gaps. The best transactions are supported by strong pricing, clear evidence, and realistic expectations.

Going Green? What You Need to Know About Energy-Efficient Homes

Energy-efficient homes are becoming more important to buyers, sellers, and homeowners. Rising utility costs, environmental awareness, and comfort concerns all contribute to growing interest in greener properties. However, not every upgrade provides the same value, and not every energy-efficient feature is easy to evaluate at first glance. This report explains what buyers and sellers should know about energy-efficient homes, how improvements can affect ownership costs, and which features may matter most.

1. Understand What Energy Efficiency Really Means

An energy-efficient home uses less energy to provide the same or better comfort. This can involve insulation, windows, heating and cooling systems, appliances, lighting, ventilation, water heating, and smart controls. A truly efficient home is not defined by one feature. It is the result of several systems working together to reduce waste and improve performance.

2. Look Beyond The Marketing Language

Terms like "green," "eco-friendly," and "energy-saving" can sound impressive, but buyers should look for details. What upgrades were completed? When were they done? Were permits required? Are there receipts, warranties, or energy reports? Clear documentation is more valuable than vague claims. Sellers should be prepared to show evidence of improvements rather than relying only on general descriptions.

3. Insulation And Air Sealing Matter

Some of the most valuable energy improvements are not always visible. Proper insulation and air sealing can reduce heat loss, improve comfort, and lower energy bills. Drafty homes can feel uncomfortable even with newer heating or cooling systems. Buyers should pay attention to attic insulation, basement insulation, window seals, door weatherstripping, and signs of drafts or uneven temperatures.

4. Heating And Cooling Systems Affect Long-Term Costs

Heating and cooling often represent a major share of household energy use. Efficient furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, boilers, and ventilation systems can reduce monthly costs and improve comfort. However, age, maintenance, sizing, and installation quality matter. A high-efficiency system that has been poorly maintained may not perform as expected. Buyers should review service records where available.

5. Windows And Doors Can Help, But Cost Matters

Newer windows and doors can improve comfort, reduce drafts, and enhance appearance. However, replacement can be expensive. Buyers should evaluate both condition and performance. Sellers should understand that window upgrades may help marketability, but they may not always return every dollar spent. The best improvements are usually those that solve obvious comfort or efficiency problems.

6. Appliances And Lighting Are Easy Wins

Energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, smart thermostats, and water-saving fixtures are easier upgrades that can appeal to buyers. These improvements may not transform the property's value on their own, but they contribute to a modern and well-maintained impression. For sellers, small efficiency upgrades can support the overall presentation of the home.

7. Consider Solar And Renewable Features Carefully

Solar panels and renewable energy systems can be attractive, but buyers need to understand ownership, contracts, warranties, maintenance, and transfer requirements. A system that is owned outright may be different from one that is leased or financed. Buyers should review all documentation before assuming the feature adds value. Sellers should have the paperwork ready before listing.

8. Energy Efficiency Can Support Resale Value

Many buyers appreciate lower operating costs and improved comfort. Energy-efficient features can make a home stand out, especially when supported by documentation. However, value depends on the market, the quality of the improvements, and buyer awareness. A home that is efficient, comfortable, well maintained, and easy to understand is more likely to appeal to practical buyers.

Conclusion:
Energy-efficient homes can offer lower costs, better comfort, and stronger long-term appeal. Buyers should look past marketing language and evaluate the actual systems, documentation, and performance of the property. Sellers should highlight genuine improvements clearly and provide supporting records. Going green is not just about one upgrade. It is about creating a home that performs better, costs less to operate, and feels better to live in.