New Listing - 250 Belnette Drive Lewisville NC

Offered By Roby Robertson and Carolina Living Real Estate

 Update - UNDER CONTRACT IN ONE DAY! 11/26/2023

CONVENIENTLY located near Lewisville Town Square. Charming, 2 bedroom 2 full baths. Ranch home with unfinished basement where potential is limitless. Brand new Roof. LARGE back deck and side screened porch to come home and relax. Come see this one located right in the heart of Lewisville. List Price - $210,000 Bedrooms 2 Full Baths 2 Unfinished basement Side screened porch (seen above)

Wanna know what makes Winston-Salem a great place to live?

If you do not follow/read Hello Winston Salem. You should.

Courtesy of Good News For Winston Salem, below is an article you may enjoy. 

We have numbers to prove the Twin City is one of the best cities to live in America. 

With Winston-Salem constantly growing and undertaking multiple high-profile developments this year, we figured it was time to talk about what the Twin City is known for. 

Livability has ranked Winston-Salem among the top 25 best places to live in the Southeast. 

The Twin City is recognized for its quality of higher education — including top-ranking HBCU Winston-Salem State University, Wake Forest University, Salem College and UNC School of the Arts. 

Housing affordability + living cost The median household income in Forsyth County is $56,830 according to the most recent data available from the US Census Bureau — that’s compared to $62,317 for residents in Winston-Salem. 

When it comes to the cost of living, the median gross rent for the city is $880 compared to $1,163 nationwide. 

Still not convinced? The average home price of $260,000 is 37% below the national median and the cost of living is 6% below national average, according to Redfin. 

 Here are some other accolades the Twin City is known for: 

• No. 3 most diverse suburb in North Carolina 
• No. 13 best large cities to start a business 
• No. 17 best places to retire in America Overall, Winston-Salem ranks highest for housing, environment, and transportation.

To Find out more, real this newsletter.   You will be glad you did!

5 Things You Should Not Put in Your Dishwasher

Information courtesy of a great Company.  Maids.com

Washing dishes is a real pain, which is why automatic dishwashers are one of the most helpful kitchen appliances. If you read our blog, you know your dishwasher can clean much more than dishes, pots, and pans. From sanitizing baby toys to cleaning light fixtures, a dishwasher gets the job done and may leave you asking, “What is not dishwasher safe?” But have you ever thought about what not to put in a dishwasher? Unfortunately, your favorite multi-tasking kitchen appliance can only do so much, so we’ve compiled a list of things to definitely put on the “hand-wash only” list in your home below.

What Shouldn't You Put In the Dishwasher?

1. Acrylic Or Plastic Dishes

Plastic, acrylic, and melamine dishware typically have bright colors and unique patterns that bring a festive touch to any meal. This popular dishware is lightweight and highly durable but, unfortunately, often not dishwasher safe. The hot water, drying temperatures, and dishwasher detergent can be too harsh for plastic dishes. After repeated washes in the dishwasher, many melamine and acrylic dishes can crack, fade, and even break. While many plastic insulated tumblers are labeled dishwasher safe, it's best to wash these items by hand. The high temperatures and abrasive detergent in your dishwasher can cause plastic tumblers to crack and fade. If they are washed in the dishwasher too often, the heat can cause the thermal seal to fail, making the tumbler useless. Plastic dishes, glasses, or utensils should be at the top of your list of what not to put in a dishwasher.

2. Knives And Other Sharp-Edged Tools

Knives are often in the mix when people ask what can and can't go in the dishwasher. Let's set the record straight —kitchen knives and other sharp-edged tools should never be washed in your dishwasher. Dishwasher detergent can dull the cutting edge, leading to the need for more frequent sharpening—and a shorter life for your cutlery. The heat of the drying and washing cycles can cause knife handles to loosen or crack. To keep your cutlery sharp and long-lasting, wash it by hand. Hot, soapy water will usually get the job done, but use caution handling the sharp blades. Rinse the knives with warm water after washing and hand dry them with a microfiber cloth to prevent lint. Once dry, store your cutlery properly. If you choose to wash some of your cheaper knives through the dishwasher, load them properly to prevent accidents.

3. Cast Iron, Carbon Steel, And Nonstick Cookware

The proper way to keep food from sticking and the iron from rusting is to season cast iron cookware with oil each time you wash it. The oil seeps into the iron, creating a protective coating against corrosion and an ideal cooking surface. When you wash a cast iron pot in the dishwasher, the detergent and hot water strip away the oil. To keep your cast iron cookware at its best, wash by hand with hot, soapy water, rinse, and dry. Carbon steel pots and pans give you many of the benefits of cast iron and stainless steel, but they aren't dishwasher safe. Like cast iron, carbon steel should be seasoned for optimal performance and longevity and it can be cleaned with soap and water. If you have stuck-on food, you can boil water in the pot to loosen it and use coarse salt to scrub away the rest. Most nonstick cookware is labeled dishwasher safe, but you can get better performance and longer life for your nonstick pans by hand washing them. Even high-end cookware with a nonstick surface can take a beating from the high temperatures and detergents. The harsh conditions in your dishwasher could cause nonstick coatings to scratch or chip, and that's often the beginning of the end.

4. Delicate Glassware And Fine China

Fine china and crystal are beautiful and elegant, but they are fragile and absolutely not dishwasher safe! Harsh detergents and hot water can wreak havoc on delicate dishes and serve ware, and all that turbulence can cause chips and breakage. Even hardy lead crystal can become cloudy and etched if washed in a dishwasher. To protect china or porcelain heirlooms or your favorite crystal wine glasses, handwashing is the way to go.

5. Wooden Spoons, Bowls, And Cutting Boards

The high temperatures and detergents in your dishwasher will strip the natural oils from wooden utensils, dishes, and cutting boards. The natural oils in these items provide moisture, and without them, wooden items will crack and even fall apart. The resulting cracks can also create the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow. If you want to keep your wooden cutting boards and utensils food-safe and performing their best, always hand wash them. Warm water and dish soap are usually enough to clean wooden dishes and other items but don't let the things soak, or the wood could swell and warp. To disinfect your wooden utensils, scrub the wood with lemon juice and baking soda, then wash and dry.

Save on Maintenance by Caring and Cleaning Your Dishwasher

If you've been washing some of these items in your dishwasher for years, it's not too late to change your ways to spare your dishes (and appliance) any further damage! You can still keep your finest dishes and best kitchen utensils clean, and you'll help them look, last, and perform their best. Regularly cleaning your dishwasher and following the manufacturer's best practices should give you years of service. Not only will a well-maintained dishwasher churn out clean dishes day after day, but it can also help you with other household cleaning. And if your dishwasher features a sanitizing setting, it makes for a pretty handy disinfecting tool.

Carolina Living Real Estate - All about Stellar Property Management Service

Winston Salem FULL SERVICE Property Management at the Guaranteed Lowest Rates

"We strive to provide courteous, professional and available service throughout the Charlotte and Winston Salem areas. We take pride in managing your most important asset(s).  Unlike some other companies, we do not manage hundreds of properties.  We feel that this hinders our ability to provide the best customer service possible.  We manage very carefully our list of available properties so we can focus on getting YOURS rented." 

 At Carolina Living Real Estate, our services are intended to provide you peace of mind and to protect the value of your real estate investments. We value our relationships with our owners and our tenants, and we are here to make the rental experience a better one for everyone. 

 Full-Service Property Management: What Does that Mean? Our expert services include, but are not limited to: 

• Marketing and advertising your property for fast tenant placement. 

• Thorough tenant screening. 

• Move-in inspections that document the condition of your home. 

• Rent collection and disbursement that’s fast, efficient, and reliable. 

• Preventative and emergency maintenance that’s professional, thorough, and affordable. 

• Regular visits and inspections to ensure the tenants are taking care of your home and following the terms of your lease. Beyond the Day-to-Day: How We Really Serve You Exceptional Customer Service 

– We provide personalized services. Real people answer the phones, and our staff has the time and resources to really communicate with our owners and tenants. You won’t find this at larger companies. 

We are here to accommodate you, and we’ll adjust to your preferred method of communication. No Hidden Fees – We don’t charge any start up fees! We’ll take the time to talk about the services we provide and the fees we charge, and you’ll see those reflected in our management contract. A property management company needs to be transparent about the expenses associated with rental property and how it’s managed. We’re straightforward and open about what you’ll pay. 

 Tenant Guarantee – You don’t need to worry about evictions, and if it becomes necessary to remove a tenant from your property, we’ll handle the whole process. We’re good at finding high quality tenants who pay rent on time and take care of your property. While screening, we review credit history, verify employment and income, check criminal records, and talk to current and former landlords. 

 Local Expertise - We keep up-to-date with landlord and tenant laws so you don’t have to. We understand fair housing and manage tenant complaints. As experts in the local real estate market as well as the local rental market, we’ll help you find the right property, market to the right tenants, and make the right upgrades and repairs to ensure you attract and retain outstanding tenants. 

 We are professional property managers, and we use our experience to help you succeed as a landlord and increase the value of your largest investment.

Roby Robertson Proud To Add Certified Negotiator To His Service Offerings.

 

If you would like for me to go over some of the techniques, please visit www.RobyRobertson.com and ask for assistance of call me on my cell phone.   

Trying To Live Life Like Jimmy Buffett

 Jimmy Buffett.

I have been saddened recently by the death of Jimmy Buffett.    I grew up with him, well kind of.  Some might argue, I have some growing still to do!    However, as we get older and lose those that inspired us or entertained us, it brings mortality into focus. 

An acquaintance of mine wrote these words from his interview with him:

JB: You know, I didn’t try and create all of this. It just happened while I was having a good time. I wanted to have a good time, so I wrote about what I know. Life is hard, and I wanted to create a place where it wasn’t

From Dave Matthews.  

Whether planned or coincidence, every time I ran into Jimmy it was like seeing an old friend. He was brilliant and a genuinely good and generous man

If you read all the tributes to Jimmy Buffett, you have a roadmap for a life well lived.   I realize he had wealth beyond what most have.   However, he had these qualities before he ‘made it’.  He just lived a life of giving and fun.  

I try to live my life with a smile on my face.   Whether I am helping my real estate customers, playing golf with friends or just spending time with family,  I try to make others smile and not stress about whatever we are involved in.    

Jimmy’s passing has been a reminder that I sometimes have to work harder at ever present smiles. However, I will continue to work at being generous, smiling a lot and just treating others like Jimmy Buffet!   #RIP JB

A Personal Story to Tell

 Ever Been Stung?

I have a doozy of story.  I will try to be brief.    My family was visiting friends in Miami when I was somewhere in the 3rd grade range.   A bunch of kids decided to go fishing in one of the numerous ponds around the area.  

While fishing a 'Florida' thunderstorm came up.   There was one of the cranes around the pond.  The kind with the big arm and shovel at the end.  The thing goes around on those track things like a tank.   We ran to it and shoved our fishing poles between those tracks and the guard over them.

Well, it had to be me but when I put my pole there, I knocked down a large nest of what we think was wasps!!  

Once that happened, I ran crying with my friends.   I was stung all over my face, neck etc.  

It just so happens we are leaving that day, so my mom shoved me and my sisters in the car to start home.  Still crying, I think I was making my mom mad at me.   She did not know the extent of my stings, I guess.

Anyway, we just started out and, last I remember, one of my sisters told my mom something was wrong.  Evidently, she immediately went to emergency room.    

I had slipped into a coma from a bad reaction and the doctor told my mom, 'The next 24 hours are critical to him making it.'    

About 36 hours later, I woke up.   All I can say is thank God for the doctor that new how to handle that situation and also for not making it my time.

There is a lot more that went on the next few years in the way of testing and getting shots to build up an immunity.   I won't bore with all those details!  It was not fun...

As you can imagine, even all these years later, I am not too keen on any flying insects.

BE THANKFUL FOR EVERY DAY!

Winston Salem | New Listings as of August 2nd in Triad Area

 New Listings are picking up.  In the chart below you can see July was the most active so far in 2023 and August is off to a hot start.  There are still buyers looking in spite of the interest rates!  Information comes from our MLS.

Month Number of New Listings Jan 34 Feb 58 Mar 146 Apr 198 May 242 Jun 508 Jul 906 Aug 102 Are you Thinking of selling? Ready to get started? Contact me and we'll review your options. Thinking of selling your home?   There are buyers out there.  Visit Free Property Valuation (robyrobertson.com) to get a FREE property evaluation.

Winston Salem | Will The 3% Loan Rate Ever Return?

 I received this information from a Lender my clients have used.   She is with Prosperity Mortgage.  Give her a call.   

Tammy Rivard

Relocation Sales Manager
NMLS # 561867
Office: 952-967-2599

Tammy.Rivard@PHMLoans.com

If you've decided to postpone buying a home because of the current interest rates, it's possible that you could wait longer than you'd planned.

If you're waiting for the rates we saw in 2021 (which sank to under 3%, according to Freddie Mac), you may never buy. Here's why.

Almost every economist has predicted that the 3% mortgage rate will probably never return. This is because the mega-low rates were triggered by a unique, unforeseen set of circumstances that began with a global pandemic in 2020. Thankfully, pandemics are rare.

While some forecasters predict that rates will decline over the next 12 months, they don't see rates dropping below 5% any time soon. One MLS chief economist described the feelings of many would-be home buyers:

"People are still working through their five stages of grief on this mortgage rate stuff. And I think you have to reach the stage of acceptance ... rates aren't going to come down to where we were back during 2020 and 2021."

One takeaway from these forecasts: Sure, mortgage rates might drop a little, but this may only end in frustration — especially if you're stuck in a property that isn't right for you. Perhaps it's time to accept the current rate atmosphere, buy that next home, and enjoy the truly unique rewards of home ownership.

Ready to get started? Contact me and we'll review your options.

Thinking of selling your home?   There are buyers out there.  Visit Free Property Valuation (robyrobertson.com) to get a FREE property evaluation.

New Listing For Sale in Winston Salem- Roby Robertson

 

Want to see my latest listing?

Wonderful Winston Salem Home For Sale near Sherwood Forest!   Just click the link:  3557 Milhaven Rd.

Thinking and selling and want a range of your home's value?   Visit Roby Robertson

Winston Salem | Putting a Value on Service to Others

Personal Philosophy

There is a quote that I love and try to live by:  “It’s easy to make a buck.  It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.” – Tom Brokaw

I have been in the business of educating and serving others throughout my business career.     Before starting my career in Real Estate, I was a consultant in the business of IT (computer software).  I spent a lot of time on the road helping companies and their staff learn new technologies.   I did this from the standpoint of teaching classes as well as working 1 on 1.   I found this to be very rewarding as I could tell when the lightbulb went off and found you could actually teach an old dog new tricks.   It was fun until the travel got too much.

I approached my new career in the same way.   I try to keep my knowledge up to date and guide all my Real Estate clients the same way I guided people in my prior career.

Some believe Real Estate is easy.   I can tell you from having 2 careers serving others, there is nothing easy about Real Estate.  Transactions can have bumps at every step from contract to close.   I pride myself in being the problem solver and giving my clients the best service possible.

As I live by the quote above, contrary to how some think about Brokers, this has never been about how much money I make.  This is about getting my clients the best transaction possible and having someone thank me for my service.

Thinking about selling and want a Free Analysis: Visit Free Property Valuation (robyrobertson.com)

I Do Not Need An Experienced Real Estate Broker in Winston Salem?

 

I don't really need an experienced Realtor. I can just hire a friend?

Would you hire a law student to represent you in monetary litigation or hire an experienced lawyer that is an expert in the field?

I have a client that told me they had a friend that just got their license and they wanted to give them a chance to sell their home.   Have you heard this before?   

In this case, things fell apart when the inexperienced agent was verbally negotiating on his behalf.  Both parties seemingly had a deal worked out and the buyers went out of town for a long weekend. No due diligence was collected because a promise was made by the buyer's agent.  In the seller's mind his home was sold and he was moving forward with his plans.   His agent was telling people it was sold and interested buyers moved on.   Low and behold, buyers came back and changed their minds.   Numerous opportunities were lost as well as valuable time.   

An inexperienced agent keeps the facts below in mind at all times and is diligent throughout the transaction.   

Negotiations leading to a contract can be fast-paced, to the extent that brokers find themselves communicating offers and counter-offers, as well as acceptances, orally. An example of such a situation occurs when an oral counter-offer is communicated to the buyers, who orally agree to the new terms. The acceptance is orally relayed to the sellers, who now mistakenly think they have a valid contract.

The Statute of Frauds requires that all contracts for the sale of land or for lease agreements exceeding three years be in writing and signed by the parties to be enforceable. In order for a valid contract to exist, all negotiated terms must be in writing and signed by the parties. Any changes must also be in writing and initialed by the parties.

A broker can best keep his or her clients informed of all communications material to negotiations between the parties by ensuring that offers, counter-offers, and acceptances are in writing and contain all necessary signatures. Oral agreements for the sale of real property are not binding.

Thinking of selling and want a FREE Home evaluation?    Visit: Free Property Valuation (robyrobertson.com)

Winston Salem | 4 Tips for Boosting Your Home’s Curb Appeal

 

Great tips from Roby Robertson 

Courteous: 
NC Association of Realtors!

An old saying has it that “your first impression is your last impression.” In no arena is this quip more accurate than in the real estate market. Visitors would be wary of entering a sketchy house, and potential buyers would be reluctant to even come after seeing photos of an ugly home. Whether you are selling your residence or simply want to have the most attractive house on the block, these tips for boosting your home’s curb appeal are sure to improve both your property’s look and value.

Tip 1: Keep it clean!

So much attention is generally given to cleaning a house’s interior that homeowners often forget that its exterior is seen by more people and carries just as much weight. A trim and proper yard, for example, does wonders to make your home more approachable. Mow the lawn, remove overbearing weeds, and prevent the accumulation of unseemly lawn items. The house itself should also be effectively maintained. To make worn, aged houses look brand new again, consider pressure washing the exterior to remove decades of accumulated dirt and mold.

Tip 2: Vibrant Colors

In addition to general cleanliness, houses with curb appeal need appealing color schemes. Houses with drab and dull colors give off a sterile and even gloomy atmosphere. In contrast, those with lush and vibrant color schemes radiate warmth and life. It helps to update your paint job if the color has faded or is simply unattractive. A fresh coat of paint is not the only way to brighten your home’s color palette. Gardens, plants, and trees add a burst of natural color to your home and a rich look sure to captivate guests and potential buyers.

Tip 3: Seasonal Decorations

A well-maintained, colorful residence has a lot going for it, but keeping it up to date with the season provides curb appeal by adding timeliness and personality. During the summer months of June and July, displaying an American flag is an appropriate way to celebrate Memorial Day and Independence Day and give your home a patriotic edge. In the fall, pumpkins and leaves provide a dash of autumnal festivity. The winter months, abundant with holidays, enjoy tons of possibilities—from Christmas lights, to snowmen, and wreaths. The springtime is sure to make your yard’s floral decorations stand out, so be sure to keep them beautiful.

Tip 4: Don’t forget the seemingly-innocuous factors

Though they are often overlooked, the seemingly minor elements of a home’s exterior can greatly improve your home’s curb appeal. For example, almost no owner thinks very much about their house numbers. But personalized house numbers can add character or distinction to your home. Other more under-the-radar factors which can bolster a house’s curb appeal are driveways and garage doors. Ensure that your driveway is well-maintained by removing grass growing in cracks and repairing damaged portions of concrete. Garage doors take up a lot of your property’s space and have a commanding presence, so keeping them classy through routine paint jobs and cleaning off grime can greatly enhance your house’s image.

 

Improving your home’s curb appeal improves both the financial value of your property as well as its visual appeal. Though these tips are by no means exhaustive, they will serve as great starting points for you as you work to make your house the standout of the neighborhood!

Looking for A Great Neighborhood | Sherwood Forest

Looking for Your Dream Home or an Agent to Market Your Neighborhood?

Meet Roby!

I believe in finding families the perfect home for their families and also marketing neighborhoods when I list homes! 

I can promise my best all the time!    Just contact me with zero obligation to discuss your next steps.

 

 

See How Much Your Winston Salem Area Home Would Sell For Today

Homeowners in Winston Salem

Learning what your home is really worth as the market changes is the first step in deciding to sell. 

Take the first step with no strings attached as Roby Robertson offers you a free comprehensive report about your property: 

See How Much Your Home Would Sell For Today Body: 

Homeowners in Winston Salem. Because our local real estate market has shifted, I just put together a short offer for you to receive a home valuation from me personally. 

The benefits: 

1. Get a free home value estimate virtually 

2. Get clarity on your financial situation in this new economy 

3. See what's possible for you and your family if you decide to sell your home 

Take the quiz right now in 30 seconds or less: Roby Robertson Offer

Reviews From Clients of Your Winston Salem Area Broker

 I am proud of the fact, I treat every client as if they were family.  Below, I'd like to share some of the reviews I have gotten recently.  All of them are 5 Star reviews:

Contact me so I can show you!

Great Agent

Roby did a fantastic job of coaching us thru the Home Selling process.

He always kept us informed of market conditions, as well as feedback from prospective buyers.

We would definitely recommend Roby Robertson for anyone's buying, selling or renting needs.

Verified by RateMyAgent

A Realtor Who Is Knowledgeable & Cares

Working with Roby on the sale of my house was a fantastic experience. Everything ran smoothly, and as finicky as I am about having superior customer service, Roby was always available and immediately responsive when I had questions or needed anything. I am grateful for his expertise end guidance along the process, and it’s always an added bonus to work with a genuinely good person. Highly recommend.

Verified by RateMyAgent

Our favorite Agent

Roby is awesome and knowledgeable about the market.

Roby is awesome! He helped us get into our dream home during this crazy housing market!

Verified by RateMyAgent

Roby Robertson

Roby has been a fantastic partner throughout our search. I worked with him over the course of many months and he was always attentive, responsive, knowledgeable, and patient.  Our search was clearly important to Roby and that gave me a lot of confidence as an out of state buyer.  We would use Roby exclusively for any additional real estate transactions in the area.

Verified by RateMyAgent

Exceptional service

Roby managed an invest property of ours for approximately 10 years. His service and professionalism were second to none.  Roby kept me Informed whenever a situation would arise and had connections for any and every repair needed.  Over the years, such trust was earned, I gave Roby the "green light" to move forward with whatever was needed.  His repair connections were as reasonable as any I could have found, minus the leg work.  Last year we decided to sale the property.  Of course, Roby was my listing agent.  Flawless execution on his part.  

Ethical and trustworthy are two words to describe  Roby.

You can't go wrong with Roby.

Verified by RateMyAgent

Winston Salem Area| To Sell Or Not Sell Your Home In The Current Market

 

Do You Find Yourself Asking This Question?

It can be very confusing when you look at the news, Zillow Zestimate ( egads!) or listen to friends.  I understand.

Hey, it’s Roby  Robertson! 

If you’re looking to sell your home and move to a new place in the coming months, I’ve just opened up slots in my calendar for free consultations so I can help you prepare for what’s to come. 

Some things I will discuss with you at no obligation:

1.  What is the price range your home would sell for?

2.  What are the real numbers with homes that have sold in this range.   We can determine if buyers are really out there.

3. Are there lender incentives that can assist buyers with purchasing a home with interest rates where they are.  

4. What does your home need to be ready for market?

Click - Property valuation: to set up your time to speak with me. 

If someone here in Winston Salem wanted to buy your home, would you consider selling it? 

The benefits: 

1. Get a free home value estimate 

2. Get clarity on your financial situation in this new economy 

3. See what's possible for you and your family if you decide to sell your home.

This is not just a sales pitch.   You truly have no further obligation. 

Winston Salem| What is a Material Fact when selling Your Home?

Helpful Information from Your Winston Salem Realtor!

A material fact is ANY fact that could affect a reasonable person’s decision to buy, sell, or lease.

What are the four categories of material facts? 

The four categories of material facts are: 

• facts about the property itself;

• facts that relate directly to the property; 

• facts directly affecting the principal’s ability to complete the transaction; and 

• facts that are known to be of special importance to a party

One of the confusing things about this category are items that relate to the property but not directly a part of the property!

Facts that relate directly to the property 

This category includes factors that are external to or outside of the property that affect the use, desirability, or value such as: 

• a pending zoning change, • existence of restrictive covenants, 

• plans to widen a street, or 

 • plans to build a shopping center adjacent to a property. 

How can zoning affect a property? 

Zoning classifications will ultimately affect how a property can be used by a client/customer. For instance, zoning classifications affect whether or not a property is considered residential, mixed use, or commercial, etc. Therefore, brokers must analyze the zoning classification of a property to determine whether or not the property can be used for the intended purpose for which it is purchased. For example, if a client/customer purchases a lot with the intent to construct a home, the broker would need to ensure that the lot is zoned for residential purposes. 

How does the existence of restrictive covenants affect a property? 

The existence or nonexistence of restrictive covenants is a material fact. However, the specific restrictions within the covenants become material facts when they are of special importance to a party. For example, if restrictive covenants exist for a property, the covenants may prohibit a property from having certain animals, an in-ground swimming pool, and/or the parking of commercial vehicles in the neighborhood. 

If these covenants do exist, they may affect how desirable the property is to future buyers. Therefore, brokers must disclose the existence of restrictive covenants, advise consumers on where to obtain a copy, and recommend consumers seek legal advice regarding the applicability of the covenants. It is not the broker’s responsibility to interpret the covenants.  

Thinking of Selling Your Home?   Visit www.RobyRobertson.com

Disclosure when selling Your Home! Winston Salem

The NC Real Estate Commission analyzed all of the disciplinary cases published in the eBulletin for 2020-2021, to determine the most common violations under License Law and Commission rules. Although the Commission does not have formal categories for cases, some cases fall into more than one category which results in brokers having multiple rule violations 47% of all violations were related to disclosure of material facts. These can result in disciplinary action and/or civil litigation for both agents and clients! Below is from a recent discussion in continuing education 

“See No Evil, Say No Evil” (see note at end) Jake, A broker with A+ Realty, meets with Peter, a property owner, to provide a listing presentation. During the meeting, Peter says that he recently had a home inspection that indicated water leakage in the basement walls and crawl space, but that he has ordered no further inspections to verify the issue or determine repair needs. Jake tours the property and observes no moisture or standing water. Peter decides to list the property with Jake. On the Residential Property and Owners’ Association Disclosure Statement, RPOADS, Peter selects “No Representation” to all of the questions. Throughout the listing period, there is no visible evidence of moisture or water, so Jake does not mention Peter’s inspection report to any of the prospective buyers. 

 1. Did Jake fulfill his duties as a broker? YES/NO Answer: No. 2. Why or Why not? The answer is NO! 

 a) Although Jake did not personally observe any moisture or standing water, he still had an obligation to disclose the water leakage in the basement walls and crawl space.

 b) Because Jake has an obligation to disclose whether he personally saw any water or not. 

 c) Because the owner, Peter, already checked “No Representation” on the RPOADS.  

d) Because Peter’s completion of the RPOADS relieved Jake of any additional disclosure obligations< 

 Note: In my past experience, it was felt that an issue already repaired does not have to be disclosed. However, we learned that it is best to disclose this. Some sellers will not want to disclose as they feel it will hinder the sale. However, we believe it shows good faith and also protects listing agents (me) and my clients from any future litigation. It is up to the buyer's agent to protect his/her client by getting the repair inspected. I sure would!

Thinking of selling?   Visit. www.RobyRobertson.com

Roby Robertson, Your Realtor and Friend

I have been a Realtor and Property Manager for 20 plus years now and I feel I have been pretty successful.   Heck, making it that long in this business has been interesting and a challenge.

I  like what I do and have the intention of retiring because of that enjoyment.     However, even at my age and years in the business, I struggle with marketing decision making and growth. 

A lot of real estate is about marketing and it is so easy to throw good advertising money at bad advertising.   I have always thought about my chick flick favorite movie ‘The Notebook’ when Ryan Gosling says to Allie in a forceful way ‘WHAT DO YOU WANT’  and how I can use that in marketing.

When someone becomes a customer, I feel I can always give them what they want and do a great job for them.   With all the competition, I struggle to get that message across without sounding salesy like everyone else.   I also often wonder if it is a beauty contest since we all put our pictures on everything.   I sincerely hope not because I feel like I lose every time  up against the glamor shots and the young guns.

I will just say this.   I work hard for my clients and look out for them.   Don’t know how else to put it. 

        

Did You Know? The Government is making adjustments to loan costs in an effort to help people buy homes.

 If you're looking to buy a home this spring or summer, the Federal Housing Finance Agency is making a change to Loan Level Price Adjustments starting May 1.

LLPA's are those upfront fees when you buy a house that varies based on things like your credit score and your down payment. The changes will apply to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae loans.

If you have a high credit score, your costs are going to increase by as much as 0.75% if you apply for a loan. And if you have a lower credit score, your fees will decrease by as much as 2%. Financial experts say if you have a high credit score, you’ll still pay less than if you have a low one.

But the penalty for having a lower credit score will be smaller than it was.

Why is this happening? The government is trying to make home-buying more affordable for more people. Here’s more information on how the fees could affect you from Fannie Mae.

If you are thinking of selling your home, please visit www.robyrobertson.com and check out the document ‘Selling with Roby’

Also, if you are buying or selling a home, check out this app Nester.