CLOSED: 64 Conway Clove in Chesterfield

It will be an exciting weekend for my Buyers, S and A...

... as they will be MOVING! Yippee! 64 Conway Cove closed escrow this weekend, as my Buyers sink their roots in St. Louis after a move across the state.  A warm thank you and congratulations to this wonderful family on their fresh start in a new city and a very special THANK you to the D family for their kind referral!  The best part of my job is the lovely people that I get to spend my time with and this transaction was no different. 

If you are in St. Louis and contemplating a move, the market is still strong and moving with plentiful inventory and falling prices.  It is a GREAT time to be a Buyer!  Let's connect...

Under contract: 6404 Cates Ave #3E in the UCity Loop

My client contracted the coolest University City condo this afternoon, in the heart of The Loop!  Gorgeous open space with a huge private deck and the location of a lifetime... this unit has EVERYTHING.  Congrats, CONGRATS to my Buyers on an exciting new move!  

It closes escrow in April.  Learn more HERE.

Staging Advice: Pay attention to your exterior living spaces!

Sellers- don't ignore the outside living space of your home as we charge full-speed-ahead into the swift Spring market! A few strategically placed items not only catch a Buyer's eye, but beckons them to pull up a chair and stay for awhile.

Warm and inviting spaces like this SELL houses, friends. What a difference!

Buyer Tip: Basic 2014 Loan Document Requirements for Home Buyers

 

The Spring real estate market has finally arrived, and Buyers who have been on the sidelines all winter long are beginning to act fast!

While presenting a contract to a Seller only requires a basic loan preapproval, a lender requires extensive documentation from a Buyer to actually process a new home loan upon contract acceptance.  Want to get ahead of the game?  Begin to compile these documents at the beginning of your house hunt! 

As inventory is currently at a historic low in St. Louis, often times a Buyer has to write a contract on the very same day it is listed or it is gone within hours!  This process doesn't leave Buyers with a lot of time to think or act.  Beginning to compile the documents required for verification of employment and income prior to writing a contract will save you a lot of time and headache.  You will be thankful that you did so after you find "the one", when focus is needed on important inspections and move-day details.

 
Below is a basic overview of the documents required of a 2014 Buyer per Andy House of PHH Mortgage (formerly Coldwell Banker Mortgage).  Depending on the complexity of the transaction, additional documents could be required.

Last 2 years W-2’s: 
If using college education as an alternative, a copy of the diploma and official transcript is necessary.
 
Last 2 months bank statements: 
All pages are required-  if the statement says 1 of 5, all 5 pages in required.
 
Last 2 months/quarterly investment account statement: 
Same as above.
 
If paid income by Social Security:  
Must provide the most recent award letter and proof of 2 months of income received on the bank statements.
 
If paid a pension or retirement:
Must provide a copy of the pension award letter and must have 3 years of continuation of the pension in order to count it.
 
 If self-employed:  
Must provide the last 2 years of tax returns.  All pages and schedules are required and must be signed and dated. 

 

A new client recommendation on LinkedIn...

Waking up to this new client recommendation on my LinkedIn profile totally made my day!

Thank you for the kind words, Terrence. The journey with you and Jen from house and wedding to babies has been incredibly fun for me!  I truly appreciate your trust and confidence in allowing me to play such an integral part in your big purchase.

From the bottom of my heart- thank you, thank you!

Buyer Beware: The Seller's Agent is not working for YOU

 

Buyer Beware: The Seller's Agent is not working for YOU & does NOT have your best interest at heart! There are 5 simple reasons that a Buyer should hire a Realtor. Most important- our service is 100% FREE to you, paid by the Seller!! 

A Buyer's Agent, I, will work hand-in-hand with you.  I will simplify the process, advise and negotiate the VERY best deal possible, and ensure you a solid and profitable investment.   Hire me, all on the Seller's dime! =)

Read all 5 reasons why EVERY Buyer should hire their own representation- awesome, SOUND advice from Yahoo Real Estate
http://voices.yahoo.com/five-simple-reasons-buyers-realtor-12297039.html

Under contract: 12777 San Clemente in Bridgeton

One peek at the beautifully remodeled kitchen...

... and my Buyers knew it was "the one".

 

 

Decoding the First-time Homebuyer

I adore working with 1st time Home Buyers.  I always have! 

Their enthusiasm for the process is contagious and they are typically my best clients as far as follow-through, diligent contract compliance, and following my advice.  There is something special about walking a client through the process for their very 1st time.  It never ceases to amaze me how PRO they are by close day.  Extremely graitifying work!

US News and World Report released an interesting article called Decoding the First-Time Homebuyer with some of the 2013 obstacles facing this group and interesting statistics including that 1st time Buyers represent a WHOPPING 40% of today's buyer pool. 

Here are some other interesting stats...

Full article can be found here: http://www.usnews.com/news/blogs/home-front/2013/04/26/decoding-the-first-time-homebuyer

Tip for Sellers: Make Your House Smell WONDERFUL!

The key to a successful listing in a super competitive market is to capture a Buyer's emotions by selling a home, not just a house.  Nothing says "homey" like the smell of fresh baked cookies, but who has the time when you are rushing out the door for a last minute showing of your property?!

Um, no one. 

HuffPost Home posted a GREAT tip today, similar to one that I posted not long ago, that I thought would be fabulous for Sellers...

Clean Your Oven With Vanilla

So It Always Smells Good

via Huffington Post Home

Like most people, we’re reminded of some of our favorite memories by a distinct smell. Whether it was our grandmother’s cooking in the kitchen or mom’s perfume in the bathroom, when we walk into a home we always appreciate a great scent. If you’re looking for an easy way to fill your abode with a wonderful aroma all you have to do is clean your oven with one special ingredient.

Simply wash down the appliance as normal. Yum Universe found a great DIY natural oven cleaner that involves soap, baking soda and white vinegar. Then, take a cloth and pour a few drops of vanilla extract onto it and rub down the machine. When the oven is turned on, the whole house will smell like delicious cookies.

While you might be thinking it’ll get expensive using the extract every time you clean, we suggest trying this trick when you’re having company or if you’re trying to sell your house.

Holiday check-in...

My poor blog has been the unfortunate victim of SERIOUS holiday neglect.  I apologize, friends.  

It goes without saying that holiday frenzy and my annual 4th quarter preparation for the upcoming 2013 business year is in full swing at Casa de Nenonen.  Add in a large dose of international travel for Steve, 3 active Buyers, and the boys' busy lives... it makes for a wonderfully "active" Nenonen November. ;) Regardless, I truly apologize for my post inconsistency!

Did everyone have a lovely holiday?  All was swell here in our house!  We kicked off the week with the 26th Annual Boyscout of America Scouting for Foods event.... 

This 1 day food drive, that happens to be the largest in the country, is a busy day for families of Scouts in the St. Louis Metropolitan area.  Regardless of the economy, St. Louis was super generous this year resulting in well over 2 million items that will stock over 500 local food pantries.  Scouting For Foods is an event that we are always proud to partake in as a family as it directly touches and enriches the lives of locals who need it the most at a crucial time of year.  Bravo to the Area Council!

Per the actual holiday, ours was intimate and casual this year- the perfect day.  A peek...

Yes, you can all take comfort in the fact that the family Realtor totally DOMINATED St. Louisopoly, thank you very much! ;)

The following AM, I signed us up for the annual Town & Country Turkey Trot 5K at one of our favorite local spots... 

2012 has most definitely been a year of wellness for both me and Steve.  Between the 2 of us, we have recommitted to our health, working out 5-7 days/week and cleaning up our diets quite a bit.  The icing on the cake, despite feeling great?  Collectively we have lost over the equivalent of the weight of this guy since June...

(as shocking as that is to think about) 

Anyhoo, unfortunately thanks to a serious sports injury that I have been battling (and strict doctor's orders), I was forced to cheer my guys on my the sidelines ala....

 

*sigh*.

It is what it is. 

 

Regardless, they ROCKED!  Steve finished his first 5K, no problem in under 30 minutes, and the boys persevered...

All in all, a busy yet great week. 

One can't help but be a tad sentimental and sappy this time of year, but truly, I have so much to be thankful for.  2012 has been a wonderful year for me, both personally and professionally.  I have given a lot, and in return, have received a lot.

As another set of Buyers draws to a close in this coming week, I find myself reflecting on my personal life journey.  I currently work with the most adorable couple, soon expecting their first baby and purchasing their very first home together.  There is nothing like picking the future bedroom for a baby you carry in womb.  It truly is a heartfelt, emotional purchase.  Their excitement and anticipation has been so fun to witness and experience, mostly because I have been there, done that- long ago. 

As Reed and Parker round the corner of another school year and we prepare one for High School (eek!) and the other for Middle School (ack!), I find myself wondering where the time went?!  To watch them evolve and grow has been exciting yet painful. 

The bittersweet journey of parenthood.

I can't help but look at this young couple with warmth in my heart of the incredible journey that they have before them.  In addition,  I feel blessed to be part of finding the perfect house to act as the stage for THEIR story together.

Most of us rush through daily life, business as usual.  It is when you pause and reflect time-to-time, however, that you absorb how magical it has been...

A new recommendation on LinkedIn...

I just received this thoughtful recommendation on my LinkedIn page and wanted to share...

Jill is not only a dear personal friend, but has been a WONDERFUL client, as well!  I have had  the amazing opportunity to not only be super close to one of her children- a close friend of my older son's... but sell her two older children homes over the past year!

Both Bryan (and Daenna) and Jennifer (and Terrence) found special ones, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to help guide them through their big moves.

Thank you for the kind words, Jill! I can't tell you how much it means... =)

CLOSED: 14308 Conway Meadows, #108 in Chesterfield

Congrats to my client, Phyllis, on this fantastic 2,300+ sq ft Fannie Mae-owned West County condo with 2 huge storage areas and TWO underground parking spaces!  

More information about the property can be found HERE.

Closed: #12 Lake Park in St. Peters

While we had a few bumps in the road with this deal, we overcame the obstacles and brought it to a super smooth close!

HUGE congratulations to my client, Brian!! In addition, a thank you to Andy House of Coldwell Banker Mortgage for saving the day and assisting us towards the end of the deal with unexpected financing issues.  Team Lake Park pulled it together and Brian walks away with an amazing house.

Thanks again guys.  =)

Learn more about the property HERE.  Contact Andy HERE with any lending/refi questions.

Summer fun is underway...

I apologize for my recent lack of posts, though summer fun (and frenzy) is in full swing here in Casa de Nenonen: Boy Scout camp, travel,  and fun in the water... oh my!

Per business, I work with amazing clients right now and despite some bumps in the road... we are smooth sailing:  Mckelvey Garden closes this week and has been a dream deal from front to back: accommodating clients on both end and a great agent on the other side!  740 Jares Court went back on the market though sold again immediately and closes NEXT week.    Hurray!   Per Pinetree Lake, we have successfully made it through the inspection contingency and firm up financing now.   Hope to be through all of the contingencies over the next week.  Last but not least: Sturbridge has had its fair share of activity, though the right Buyer has not come along yet. Honestly, I am flabbergasted that it hasn't yet sold.  It is an impeccable property, priced low for the comps, with an incredible amount of updates in this price range.  I hope that July is the month for this listing!

I currently work with 3 additional active Buyers (with 3 possible listings in the wings)  though this HEAT has really slowed down area activity.   The record high temps...

... are not only uncomfortable, but extremely dangerous.  Frankly, when we see extreme weather in St. Louis - a pause in real estate activity is inevitable.  Buyers take to the internet full force, though shy away from physical visits during these waves.  Trust me, I understand!  In lieu of our usual trips to the Muny, baseball games, the Botanical Gardens, and 6 Flags...my family has fully embraced the cool and comfort of movies, Sky Zone, and the roller rink until this heat breaks.

Hopefully the Midwest finds relief soon.

I realize that I just rambled though I wanted to peek my head in, say hello, and apologize for my recent lack in posts.  Simply, I have immersed myself in summer and am enjoying it to its fullest as only 6 short weeks from now... it is back to school/the grind.

Stay cool friends... =)

Just listed: 11840 Mckelvey Garden Dr- Maryland Heights in Parkway North School District

#11840 Mckelvey Garden Drive is tidy, meticulous, and boasts a fabulous Central Corridor location in the reputable Parkway North School District. This spacious 3 bedroom/2.5 bath split foyer features tasteful interior décor, numerous updates, a picture-perfect backyard ideal for entertaining/family fun, and over 1700 sqft of living space! 

Amenities include an open living room/dining room combo, an eat-in kitchen with sizable pantry and stainless steel appliances, 3 spacious main floor bedrooms including a Master Suite with a beautifully updated bath (07), a cozy family room with a wood-burning fireplace, a laundry room w/ built-in shelving, and an oversized two car garage w/ mega built-in storage.

This property sits on a beautifully landscaped pie-shaped lot in the very popular Meadowpark Subdivision. In addition to the deck, the backyard boasts a lower concrete patio and well-planned perennial landscaping.

Complete with fresh paint (11), new fence (09), new carpet (09), newer doors and windows (08/11), a freshly stained deck and more… this home is the complete package and is move-in ready. Offered for $179,900.  

Open this Sunday from 2-4pm.

For more info, click HERE for the full listing or visit www.MoveWithCarrie.com  

Closed: 432 South Holmes in Kirkwood

Beautiful property.  Wonderful couple.

My clients, Chris and Keri, will be enjoying the evening on their Kirkwood-perfect screened in porch this evening! 

Congratulations guys... =)

Under contract: 432 South Holmes in Kirkwood

You must click HERE to see how much space this beautifully updated Kirkwood property packs!  My Buyers are scheduled to close in mid-March =).  Congrats K and C!

Before and After: Louisiana Kitchen

I mentioned this closing last week.  I love a good renovation makeover, and the Louisiana property is FULL of them.  My wonderful clients, Steve and Erin, have granted me permission to share photos of their new abode as they move in and get settled. 

A sneak peek...

KITCHEN BEFORE:

KITCHEN AFTER:

Closed last week: #2701 Louisiana

A HUGE follow-up post is coming on this sale, as massive renovation was done to this 100 year old Tower Grove East beauty to transform it into my clients' dream home.  Once my fabulous clients, Steve and Erin, get settled... before and after pics to come!  Congrats guys...

Closed yesterday: #14308 Conway Meadows Ct

Deal alert:  My client negotiated this uber spacious Chesterfield condo, boasting a desirable Conway Road location, 70K below the Seller's 2007 purchase price!  In fact, we closed yesterday only 6k more than the original 1984 builder price.

I have said it before and I will say it again- this is the market to buy!  What you may lose on your selling price, you will MORE than make up on your purchase price. 

Congrats Patsy! SO excited for you... =)