<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.artwoo.com/wp-content/themes/blognetwork/style.xsl" type="text/xsl" media="screen"?><!-- generator="ArtWoo/" ... the remainder of this comment is just a hack, that is padding so that Firefox and MS IE 7.0 will use the stylesheet as defined by the ArtWoo Generator.  You see, if you pad out this comment past 512 bytes, both Firefox and MS IE 7.0 will use the stylesheet designed by us so you will have the visual pleasure of the syndicated feed provided by us.  Otherwise, you are stuck looking at the default xml stylesheet provided by Microsoft and Firefox.  Now we're about of padding, so we can stop rambling. -->
<rss version="2.0" 
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/">

<channel>
	<title>fixer upper</title>
	<link>http://www.artwoo.com</link>
	<description>Returned search results for fixer upper</description>
	<copyright>Copyright 2008</copyright>
	<pubDate>Sun, 07 Sep 2008 11:51:25 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://www.artwoo.com/rss/fixer+upper</generator>

		<item>
				<title>The Benefits And Pitfalls Of A Fixer Upper Home</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-benefits-and-pitfalls-of-a-fixer-upper-home</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-benefits-and-pitfalls-of-a-fixer-upper-home#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 01 Mar 2007 20:27:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>fixer upper</category><category>thing to remember</category><category>saving money</category><category>pros and cons</category><category>totally committed</category><category>reason enough</category><category>purchase option</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-benefits-and-pitfalls-of-a-fixer-upper-home</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In this article I will outline some of the benefits and pitfalls of buying a fixer upper home.  With so many properties to choose from it is not always easy to decide on the one that will be best for you and your family.  To take this a step further, there are two types of homes that you could]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[In this article I will outline some of the benefits and pitfalls of buying a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a> home. <br /><br /> With so many properties to choose from it is not always easy to decide on the one that will be best for you and your family. <br /><br /> To take this a step further, there are two types of homes that you could consider buying. <br /><br /> You can either opt for a new home that is in good condition, or you can buy a fixer upper. <br /><br /> Both of these options have <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/pros+and+cons" rel="tag">pros and cons</a>, and it is up to you to decide which one is best. <br /><br /> The most important <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/thing+to+remember" rel="tag">thing to remember</a> is that you should not just into either <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/purchase+option" rel="tag">purchase option</a> unless you are 100 percent sure of yourself. <br /><br /> The biggest benefit of a fixer upper is that you will be able to get a great deal on the home. <br /><br /> When somebody is selling a fixer upper they never expect to get the full market value. They know that there is a lot of work to be done, and for this reason they are willing to cut you a good deal. <br /><br /> If you are interested in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/saving+money" rel="tag">saving money</a>, or do not have a lot to spend, a fixer upper may be something that you want to considering. Saving money is not <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/reason+enough" rel="tag">reason enough</a> to buy a fixer upper, but it is a good place to start. <br /><br /> One common mistake that a lot of people make is that they buy a fixer upper, but have no intentions on actually doing any work. This results in them living in a home that is in need of major repairs, but they do not actually want to help themselves in this capacity. <br /><br /> If you are not <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/totally+committed" rel="tag">totally committed</a> to putting work into a home than a fixer upper is not right for you. You will need to make this decision from the start. <br /><br /> Finally, when you buy a fixer upper you will be able to have full control over the repairs and renovations that you make to the home. <br /><br /> A lot of people like this because it allows them to give the home a look and feel that they are comfortable with. <br /><br /> A home that is designated a fixer upper may or may not be right for you. Some people actively seek a home like this, whereas others do not want to touch a fixer upper with a ten foot pole. The choice is yours. Be sure to make it a good one!  <bio>Download a free ebook that shows you how you can claim free land and property: <a href="http://www.freelandproperty.com" >http://www.freelandproperty.com</a> Download a free ebook that shows you how to make amazing profits from real estate: <a href="http://www.freelandproperty.com/realezine.htm" >http://www.freelandproperty.com/realezine.htm</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>What To Know When Buying A Fixer Upper Home</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-to-know-when-buying-a-fixer-upper-home</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-to-know-when-buying-a-fixer-upper-home#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2007 10:27:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>fixer upper</category><category>home repairs and improvements</category><category>home inspector</category><category>medical establishments</category><category>notch condition</category><category>gain maximum</category><category>shopping malls</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-to-know-when-buying-a-fixer-upper-home</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Fixer upper homes are those that are in need of repair. They make for good investment because buyers generally buy a fixer upper home at a much lower price. These properties gain good value once they are fixed up and sell at a significant profit. Although purchasing a fixer upper home is lucrative,]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">Fixer upper</a> homes are those that are in need of repair. They make for good investment because buyers generally buy a fixer upper home at a much lower price. These properties gain good value once they are fixed up and sell at a significant profit. Although purchasing a fixer upper home is lucrative, buyers need to consider many factors before going in for the fixer upper property of their own. <br /><br /> The following are the points you need to know when buying a fixer upper home. <br /><br /> Location. The location of the fixer upper home plays a major role in contributing to its future value. You should check if the home is located in a suitable neighborhood with a good environment. The buyer should also make sure that the fixer upper home chosen is closely located or has easy access to essential amenities such as <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/shopping+malls" rel="tag">shopping malls</a>, schools, colleges, transportation, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/medical+establishments" rel="tag">medical establishments</a> etc. With the location of the home you should be able to estimate if the proposed improvements for the home will increase its value to that of the other homes in the neighborhood. <br /><br /> Price. The price of the fixer upper home will directly influence the profits you make. To <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/gain+maximum" rel="tag">gain maximum</a> out of your purchase, you need to calculate the best buying price for the home. This can be done by calculating how much the home will sell for if it were in top-<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/notch+condition" rel="tag">notch condition</a>. Then you should deduct the costs of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/home+repairs+and+improvements" rel="tag">home repairs and improvements</a> from the sales price. Subtract a further 10 % to 15 % for unexpected expenses. The final amount should be the best price for purchasing your fixer upper home. <br /><br /> Call in a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/home+inspector" rel="tag">home inspector</a>. You can also get the fixer upper home inspected by a home inspector who will give you a report on the major components of the house such as its structure, exteriors, interiors, electrical system, heating system etc. Based on the report, get your home appraised by an agent. This will help you fix the purchase price of the home and give you a good idea of its sales price after renovation. <br /><br /> Be flexible and ready. Renovating a fixer upper home could be mind boggling and pretty tiring. You not only require ounces of patience but also a good deal of time. Be prepared for the renovation to stretch for a longer period than expected. <br /><br /> With good foresight and a flexible approach, your fixer upper home buying experience should prove to be a pleasant and profitable one.  <bio><a href="http://www.sandiegocondos.name" >http://www.sandiegocondos.name</a>, <a href="http://www.tierrasantahome.com" >http://www.tierrasantahome.com</a> and <a href="http://www.tierrasantarealestate.info" >http://www.tierrasantarealestate.info</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Is It Worth Buying A House That Need Renovating?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-it-worth-buying-a-house-that-need-renovating</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-it-worth-buying-a-house-that-need-renovating#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2007 22:27:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>time and money</category><category>fixer uppers</category><category>fixer upper</category><category>disappointed</category><category>dilapidated</category><category>new carpet</category><category>home instead</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/is-it-worth-buying-a-house-that-need-renovating</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many homebuyers have motivation for buying a fixer upper.  That is, a home that is not in the best of condition and so, is being sold at a low price. One of the reasons that many buyers purchase fixer uppers is because of the low price.  Other buyers see fixer uppers as an investment opportunity.]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Many homebuyers have motivation for buying a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a>. <br /><br /> That is, a home that is not in the best of condition and so, is being sold at a low price. One of the reasons that many buyers purchase <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+uppers" rel="tag">fixer uppers</a> is because of the low price. <br /><br /> Other buyers see fixer uppers as an investment opportunity. Since the home can be purchased at a low price, fixed up, and then resold, it presents an opportunity to make some money on the home. <br /><br /> If you are interested in purchasing a fixer upper it is important to realize a few facts about this type of housing. First, it can take a lot more work to fix up a home, than you might first realize. <br /><br /> Not only does fixing up a home require work, it also calls for <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/time+and+money" rel="tag">time and money</a> -- which many people do not have a lot of. People who attempt to fix up a home for the first time often find that they have underestimated the amount of time and money that it would take to do the work. Not only that, they also overestimate the value of the home after repairs have been made. <br /><br /> That doesn't mean that it's impossible to make a profit from fixing up a home. <br /><br /> Instead, you should have a realistic view of home much time and money it will take to fix the home and the value the home will have once the work has been complete. Lowering your expectations also lowers the likelihood that you will be <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/disappointed" rel="tag">disappointed</a> when the process is complete. <br /><br /> Are you thinking about living in the home while you fix it up? If so, it might be an eye opener for you, especially if you have never lived in a home in such a condition. <br /><br /> It might be difficult to live in a home and fix it up at the same time. Why? Because you have to worry about the everyday living expenses. Not only that, it can be easy to get caught up in making the home livable for yourself rather than make it saleable. <br /><br /> If you've never worked on a fixer upper before don't start with the most <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/dilapidated" rel="tag">dilapidated</a> home you can find. Instead start with a home that is structurally sound, but in need of some cosmetic changes, like <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/new+carpet" rel="tag">new carpet</a> or paint. You can do these kinds of repairs inexpensively either by yourself or by hiring someone else. <br /><br /> You can often find good fixer upper opportunities through properties that have been foreclosed. Often foreclosed properties can be purchased well below their market value. <br /><br /> A fixer upper that increases in value with some renovations can create a generous profit margin. <br /><br /> Before you purchase a fixer upper property you should have it professionally inspected. This will give you a good idea of what changes need to be made to the property. <br /><br /> Once you have a better idea of the exact investment you need to make, it will be easier to make a decision about the particular piece of property. As long as you have a realistic view of the work that it takes to improve the property and the value you will receive, you can make an educated decision about a fixer upper purchase.   <bio>Download 101 Free House Selling Secrets Here-with resale rights: <a href="http://www.freelandproperty.com/buysellhomes/buy.htm" >http://www.freelandproperty.com/buysellhomes/buy.htm</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Consider Homeowner's Insurance When Purchasing Real Estate</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/consider-homeowners-insurance-when-purchasing-real-estate</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/consider-homeowners-insurance-when-purchasing-real-estate#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Wed, 20 Sep 2006 16:27:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>ways to save money</category><category>saving money</category><category>purchase real estate</category><category>borrow money</category><category>youd like</category><category>homeowners insurance</category><category>fixer upper</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/consider-homeowners-insurance-when-purchasing-real-estate</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether it's a buyer's market or a seller's market, real estate is always a hot business. Sure, everyone likes a good deal, and many buyers choose to purchase a home when prices are low, but the fact is people always need places to live; that doesn't change just because property prices are high at]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Whether it's a buyer's market or a seller's market, real estate is always a hot business. Sure, everyone likes a good deal, and many buyers choose to purchase a home when prices are low, but the fact is people always need places to live; that doesn't change just because property prices are high at a particular time. <br /><br /> There are <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/ways+to+save+money" rel="tag">ways to save money</a> when shopping for real estate that go beyond just shopping during a buyer's market. Once you've figured your budget and have a general idea of what kind of home you'd like to buy, it's time to go house hunting. This is where <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/saving+money" rel="tag">saving money</a> comes into the picture. <br /><br /> In order to save money on real estate costs, many people opt to purchase "<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a>" real estate. A "fixer upper" is a home that needs a lot of work; maybe new floors, new windows, even a new roof. Buyers choose a "fixer upper" not only because the price is less than that of a home that's in move-in condition, but also because they see great potential in the home. <br /><br /> While it's true that buyers can save money by purchasing "fixer upper" real estate, they can also lose money in the long run. Aside from the costs of repairs during the "fixing up," homeowner's insurance tends to run much higher for people whose homes aren't in the best condition. Homeowner's insurance isn't usually mandatory, but if a buyer has to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/borrow+money" rel="tag">borrow money</a> from a bank in order to purchase the real estate, the bank may just require the buyer to purchase homeowner's insurance until the debt is paid off. <br /><br /> So, the next time you head out to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/purchase+real+estate" rel="tag">purchase real estate</a>, keep in mind that you may be required to purchase homeowner's insurance, as well. A "fixer upper" might sound good when you're making your offer, but it might not sound as good once you start looking for homeowner's insurance.   <bio><a href="http://www.myquoteguide.com/Car-Tips.shtml" >http://www.myquoteguide.com/Car-Tips.shtml</a> <a href="http://www.ezquoteguide.com/home/" >http://www.ezquoteguide.com/home/</a> <a href="http://www.ezquoteguide.com/car/" >http://www.ezquoteguide.com/car/</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Investing In 'Fixer-Upper' Houses</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/investing-in-fixer-upper-houses</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/investing-in-fixer-upper-houses#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 27 May 2007 08:19:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>fixer upper houses</category><category>buying a house</category><category>real estate investment</category><category>buying a property</category><category>substantial profits</category><category>property developers</category><category>real estate market</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/investing-in-fixer-upper-houses</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Thanks to the booming real estate market, right now is perhaps the best time ever for property speculators and developers to make substantial profits from investing in `fixer-upper' houses. By buying an older property that is in need of renovation, doing the work, and then selling it on at a much]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks to the booming <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+market" rel="tag">real estate market</a>, right now is perhaps the best time ever for property speculators and developers to make <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/substantial+profits" rel="tag">substantial profits</a> from investing in `fixer-upper' houses. By buying an older property that is in need of renovation, doing the work, and then selling it on at a much higher price, it is possible to make fantastic returns on a relatively small initial investment with little risk. <br /><br /> The key to making money from investing in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper+houses" rel="tag">fixer upper houses</a> is that you can make the purchase at a price much lower than the standard market rate for similar real estate, and then by carrying out the necessary work, make it into a much more desirable place to live, and sell it at a higher price. <br /><br /> When <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/buying+a+property" rel="tag">buying a property</a> that you will redevelop, make sure it is in a good neighborhood, as this will add to its resale value when you have finished the work. It is possible to maximize profits on the development by carrying out as much of the work as possible yourself, such as the decorating, although you should leave plumbing and electrical installation to the professionals if you are unsure about how to proceed. <br /><br /> The conventional wisdom amongst <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/property+developers" rel="tag">property developers</a> is to create an environment within a house that potential buyers can imagine making their own. When you choose colors for the walls, use neutral tones such as cream and magnolia paint that leave a blank canvas for the future owners. <br /><br /> Remember when investing in fixer upper houses to have the building fully assessed before you commit to it, there is nothing worse than <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/buying+a+house" rel="tag">buying a house</a> with the intention of making a few cosmetic touches to it before realizing that it actually needs significant building work, as this will completely obliterate any hopes you had of making a profit.   <bio>Mark Estates is a freelance writer who frequently writes for such sites as the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+investment" rel="tag">real estate investment</a> site <a href="http://sharkbaitsoftware.com" >http://sharkbaitsoftware.com</a> and the California Online Housing Market.  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>How To Find A Cheap Home</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-find-a-cheap-home</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-find-a-cheap-home#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Mon, 02 Oct 2006 20:27:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>highest quality</category><category>real estate classifieds</category><category>real estate agent</category><category>real estate agency</category><category>cheap homes</category><category>search online</category><category>search range</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-find-a-cheap-home</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are in the market for a new home you will probably want to save money; this is something that every buyer is interested in. And the good thing is that there are options out there that make this possible. Believe it or not, finding a cheap home can be done if you take your time and know where]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you are in the market for a new home you will probably want to save money; this is something that every buyer is interested in. And the good thing is that there are options out there that make this possible. Believe it or not, finding a cheap home can be done if you take your time and know where to look. From the start you should know that finding a quality cheap home is not the easiest thing to do. Remember, a cheap home is priced that way for a reason. But this does not mean that you should stray away from these properties. In fact, some people are drawn in by the potential that <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/cheap+homes" rel="tag">cheap homes</a> offer. <br /><br /> When buying a cheap home beware that you are not going to get the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/highest+quality" rel="tag">highest quality</a>. You will be buying for price, not for quality. So if you are going to buy a cheap home you need to come to grips early on with the fact that you will have to do some repairs before you can move in; there is nothing wrong with this as long as you are prepared before hand. <br /><br /> Finding a cheap home is just like any other property. If you know where to look and keep a wide <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/search+range" rel="tag">search range</a> you should not have any problem. Listed below are two of the easiest ways to find a cheap home in your area. <br /><br /> 1. If you are old fashioned, finding a cheap home in the newspaper is the best way to go. You will be able to search the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+classifieds" rel="tag">real estate classifieds</a> until you find something that best suits your needs. And if you live in a major metropolitan area your job will become much easier. The larger the newspaper, the better chance you have of finding several cheap homes. <br /><br /> 2. For people that are more technology oriented, finding a cheap home is a piece of cake online. There are two places to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/search+online" rel="tag">search online</a> for a cheap home. First off, you can go directly to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+agency" rel="tag">real estate agency</a> websites. They will have all of their homes available for search on their website. Also, searching a "catch all" site is also a good idea. These sites offer listings of homes from every <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+agent" rel="tag">real estate agent</a>. This may be the way to go if you have an open mind as to location and seller. <br /><br /> Buying a cheap home is not impossible. Did you ever think about buying an older home and then fixing it up? It is a great idea as long as you are okay with having to spend a bit of extra money on repairs. For some people this is a dream come true. Are you one of them? <br /><br /> Fixer uppers offer many advantages that building a home from scratch does not. Just a few of the advantages that fixer uppers offer are as follows: <br /><br /> 1. When you buy fixer uppers, you are going to be able to save yourself thousands of dollars. Fixer uppers are often times in bad condition because the past owner failed to keep it up in an appropriate manner. But just because a house is in bad shape does not mean that it cannot be restored. Instead of building a new home for $200,000, you can buy a cheap fixer upper home for $100,000 and then put $50,000 worth of repairs into it. This will give you a totally remodeled home, as well as an additional $50,000 in your pocket. <br /><br /> 2. Fixer uppers are easier to get started on. When you build a new home, you have to go through many different steps including design, hiring a contractor, and waiting for the home to be completed. By fixer uppers can be bought one day, and then moved into in no time at all. This means that you will not have to wait around months before you can get started. In other words, you can have your fixer upper completely renovated in the time that it would take your new home to be built. <br /><br /> 3. You can more easily negotiate the price on fixer uppers. When you build a home you are at the mercy of the contractor and how much they charge. But if you look into fixer uppers, you may be able to get a price that is greatly discounted off of the market value. <br /><br /> Fixer uppers are a great alternative to building a new home. Even though the majority of people would rather build new, it does not mean that you cannot benefit from buying a fixer upper. The three benefits listed above prove that fixer uppers offer a great value to anybody that is in the market for a new home.   <bio>Arild Myklebust runs a free Real Estate website. Visit now, to read more Tips and Articles. <a href="http://freetips.ws/realestate" >http://freetips.ws/realestate</a> For useful Free Tips on other topics, see the main page. <a href="http://freetips.ws" >http://freetips.ws</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Fixer Upper Dream Or Nightmare</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/fixer-upper-dream-or-nightmare</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/fixer-upper-dream-or-nightmare#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:50:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>stansfield</category><category>fixer upper</category><category>real estate investors</category><category>real estate business</category><category>real estate purchases</category><category>ins</category><category>fixer uppers</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/fixer-upper-dream-or-nightmare</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The fixer upper seems to be the fix-all for many real estate investors. Fixer uppers are the most sought after of real estate purchases, but they sometimes turn into a headache rather than an equity building vehicle.  "I've done well doing fixers,"said Matt Stansfield, who just completed his]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a> seems to be the fix-all for many <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+investors" rel="tag">real estate investors</a>. <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+uppers" rel="tag">Fixer uppers</a> are the most sought after of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+purchases" rel="tag">real estate purchases</a>, but they sometimes turn into a headache rather than an equity building vehicle. <br /><br /> "I've done well doing fixers,"said Matt <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/stansfield" rel="tag">Stansfield</a>, who just completed his nineteenth fixer. "But I haven't made money on all of them. Anybody who thinks they're going to make a fortune on fixers and doesn't have the know-how may be mistaken." <br /><br /> Stansfield has more than an average understanding of how the fixer-upper game is played. He's done more fixers than most people will ever challenge, and he's bought and sold homes from coast to coast in this wanbee game of fixers in California, Florida, Oregon and New York. <br /><br /> Stansfield has netted $1.34 million in the fixer upper market, which designates him as a fixer upper expert. "If you want to find the right property to make money on," he said, "you better get ready to look high and low for them for a long time. Most of the real deals out there get bought up quickly." <br /><br /> At 48 years of age and doing fixers for 18 years Stansfield is slowing down his hunt for the fixer upper. He worked for a large corporation right out of college, but as he says, "couldn't stand the grind or drudgery." The day to day odyssey of going to the office and keeping on the good side of his bosses wore on him and this self-professed independent man left the corporate world after just two years for good. <br /><br /> "I had to make my living my way," he says. "And now I suppose I can say I have." But learning the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/ins" rel="tag">ins</a> and outs of doing rehabs on homes in four states has taught Stansfield more about the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+business" rel="tag">real estate business</a> than he could imagine. <br /><br /> The fixer upper may be one way to making a fortune in real estate, but it isn't without its pitfalls. Stansfield lost nearly $18,000 on his first two fixers, which would have knocked many people out of the game, but then Stansfield decided he needed a game plan before tackling his third. "I just said we have to have a budget and stick to it." <br /><br /> The cosmetic fixer was his next avenue, and with just carpet, paint, kitchen counters and vinyl Stansfield found the right house to net a $28,000 profit. He was off and running. "It was like hitting the lottery after two losers," he said. "We only owned the house for three weeks and sold it. Everything worked like clock work." <br /><br /> Everything hasn't been the proverbial peaches and cream for Stansfield. He's fought for zoning changes, found himself on the outs with lenders, on the brink of foreclosure twice, learned about IRS redemption periods on homes he's purchased at auction and a merried of other aspects of real estate. He says it's been a battle at times, but he seems to have won at what he calls a game of sorts. <br /><br /> Partnering with hard working dependable contractors and good real estate agents have been key to his success. Stansfield has worked with the same contractor in most of his homes that have needed extensive repairs. <br /><br /> Finding good real estate agents in each area has been another matter. He's found agents who would both sell and list his real estate. "Working with real estate agents who just do one or the other never worked for me," he said. "So I decided long ago to work with agents who did both. It's worked for me, but everybody seems to have a different game plan when it comes to marketing property." <br /><br /> While Stansfield has found great success in the fixer upper market, Don Ryerson has experienced a deadening end to his dreams of a wealthy retirement in Greenwich, Connecticut. After 23 years doing fixers he purchased a home for slightly more than $2-million, which needed extensive work. As a suburb of New York City, Greenwich has one of the most expensive housing markets in the nation. <br /><br /> But it took Ryerson more than seven months to finish the needed repairs, including a partial foundation failure and it took another eight months to finally get the home sold for what amounted to a net loss of $310,000. <br /><br /> While he still has a little more than $400,000 Ryerson is hanging up thoughts of conquering another fixer upper. He'd done more than two dozen fixers over the years. "The real estate market was booming," he said. "Now things are changing with the interest rates going up so many times and I think it's time to get off this merry-go-round." <br /><br /> After a national real estate boom which has lasted more than five years in some places, real estate markets throughout many parts of the nation are changing. But there are some local real estate markets that are still very active, even some that are still hot.   <bio>Mike Colpitts is the publisher of Real Estate Add, an information driven website which provides real estate reports on local real estate markets in all 50 states. Visit <a href="http://www.RealEstateAdd.com">http://www.RealEstateAdd.com</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Why ls Location So Important For a Fixer Upper Home?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-ls-location-so-important-for-a-fixer-upper-home</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-ls-location-so-important-for-a-fixer-upper-home#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2008 08:22:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>resale value</category><category>personal preferences</category><category>beaten path</category><category>conveniences</category><category>highways</category><category>proximity</category><category>amenities</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-ls-location-so-important-for-a-fixer-upper-home</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you are looking to buy a home that is considered to be a fixer upper, there is one issue that should concern you more than anything else. That is, of course, the location of the fixer upper.No matter how spectacular the house appears after it is renovated and remodeled, if your home is not in]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[When you are looking to buy a home that is considered to be a fixer upper, there is one issue that should concern you more than anything else. That is, of course, the location of the fixer upper.<br><br>No matter how spectacular the house appears after it is renovated and remodeled, if your home is not in a good location then it will always sell for much below what it should because few people will want to live in that particular location.<br><br>Focus Your Options<br><br>When choosing a home, especially a fixer upper, narrow your choice down to a location in which the home can easily be resold, even if it is years later. You want something convenient for people to drive to, is safe to live, and near <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/conveniences" rel="tag">conveniences</a> that might interest typical potential buyers.<br><br>These types of homes are easier to resell, and will do so at a much higher price if they are located in what people perceive to be a great neighborhood.<br><br>Consider Your Individual Tastes<br><br>Depending whether you are fixing up the home strictly as an investment or you are planning to live there long term, take into account your own <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/personal+preferences" rel="tag">personal preferences</a> when selecting a location. If in fact you want to live outside a major city, you still will need to live close enough to go back and forth quickly without undo strain on your time and vehicle.<br><br>Look for Conveniences Close By<br><br>If you are strictly buying as an investment, as stated above it is important to have some <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/amenities" rel="tag">amenities</a>, businesses, and schools nearby for people who are looking for those types of conveniences. People generally prefer more developed cities, so this ought to be a factor if you are looking at your home for possible <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/resale+value" rel="tag">resale value</a>. Although you may not personally want to live downtown, you still need <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/proximity" rel="tag">proximity</a> to most preferences that are normally important to people.<br><br>These include proximity to major <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/highways" rel="tag">highways</a>. If you are so far off the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/beaten+path" rel="tag">beaten path</a> that people don't even want to venture out to see the house at all, then you are too far away for the home to have a realistic high resale value.<br><br>That being said, don't go to the other extreme and purchase in a location that is far too crowded. Privacy from neighbors and quiet streets are great selling points as well. People enjoy their privacy, even if they want it nearby to malls, schools, and hospitals.<br><br>Health Considerations<br><br>Lastly, look at the health concerns existing in certain neighborhoods. By no means should you buy a home that is close to health hazards such as chemical plants, power plants, or polluted areas. People more often than not will not buy near these types of risks regardless of how much you convince them they are safe.<br><br>Whether for resale or for your own purposes, the value of a fixer upper will only be as profitable as the neighborhood allows it to be. So be wise and buy in a great, already-established, and prominent neighborhood.<bio>For practical <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/government_home_loans.shtml">home selling and buying</a> information, please visit www.homes-sell-buy.com, a popular site providing valuable insights about great <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/sacramento_homes_for_sale.shtml"> home locations</a>, <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/va_home_mortgage_loan_rate.shtml">home loan rates</a>, and more that will be of value in your search for the perfect home community.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Fixers Can Be Headaches Or A Dream</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/fixers-can-be-headaches-or-a-dream</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/fixers-can-be-headaches-or-a-dream#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 21 Apr 2006 10:50:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>stansfield</category><category>fixer upper</category><category>real estate investors</category><category>real estate business</category><category>real estate purchases</category><category>ins</category><category>fixer uppers</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/fixers-can-be-headaches-or-a-dream</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The fixer upper seems to be the fix-all for many real estate investors. Fixer uppers are the most sought after of real estate purchases, but they sometimes turn into a headache rather than an equity building vehicle.  "I've done well doing fixers,"said Matt Stansfield, who just completed his]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a> seems to be the fix-all for many <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+investors" rel="tag">real estate investors</a>. <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+uppers" rel="tag">Fixer uppers</a> are the most sought after of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+purchases" rel="tag">real estate purchases</a>, but they sometimes turn into a headache rather than an equity building vehicle. <br /><br /> "I've done well doing fixers,"said Matt <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/stansfield" rel="tag">Stansfield</a>, who just completed his nineteenth fixer. "But I haven't made money on all of them. Anybody who thinks they're going to make a fortune on fixers and doesn't have the know-how may be mistaken." <br /><br /> Stansfield has more than an average understanding of how the fixer-upper game is played. He's done more fixers than most people will ever challenge, and he's bought and sold homes from coast to coast in this wanbee game of fixers in California, Florida, Oregon and New York. <br /><br /> Stansfield has netted $1.34 million in the fixer upper market, which designates him as a fixer upper expert. "If you want to find the right property to make money on," he said, "you better get ready to look high and low for them for a long time. Most of the real deals out there get bought up quickly." <br /><br /> At 48 years of age and doing fixers for 18 years Stansfield is slowing down his hunt for the fixer upper. He worked for a large corporation right out of college, but as he says, "couldn't stand the grind or drudgery." The day to day odyssey of going to the office and keeping on the good side of his bosses wore on him and this self-professed independent man left the corporate world after just two years for good. <br /><br /> "I had to make my living my way," he says. "And now I suppose I can say I have." But learning the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/ins" rel="tag">ins</a> and outs of doing rehabs on homes in four states has taught Stansfield more about the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+business" rel="tag">real estate business</a> than he could imagine. <br /><br /> The fixer upper may be one way to making a fortune in real estate, but it isn't without its pitfalls. Stansfield lost nearly $18,000 on his first two fixers, which would have knocked many people out of the game, but then Stansfield decided he needed a game plan before tackling his third. "I just said we have to have a budget and stick to it." <br /><br /> The cosmetic fixer was his next avenue, and with just carpet, paint, kitchen counters and vinyl Stansfield found the right house to net a $28,000 profit. He was off and running. "It was like hitting the lottery after two losers," he said. "We only owned the house for three weeks and sold it. Everything worked like clock work." <br /><br /> Everything hasn't been the proverbial peaches and cream for Stansfield. He's fought for zoning changes, found himself on the outs with lenders, on the brink of foreclosure twice, learned about IRS redemption periods on homes he's purchased at auction and a merried of other aspects of real estate. He says it's been a battle at times, but he seems to have won at what he calls a game of sorts. <br /><br /> Partnering with hard working dependable contractors and good real estate agents have been key to his success. Stansfield has worked with the same contractor in most of his homes that have needed extensive repairs. <br /><br /> Finding good real estate agents in each area has been another matter. He's found agents who would both sell and list his real estate. <br /><br /> While Stansfield has found great success in the fixer upper market, Don Ryerson has experienced a deadening end to his dreams of a wealthy retirement in Greenwich, Connecticut. After 23 years doing fixers he purchased a home for slightly more than $2-million, which needed extensive work. As a suburb of New York City, Greenwich has one of the most expensive housing markets in the nation. <br /><br /> But it took Ryerson more than seven months to finish the needed repairs, including a partial foundation failure and it took another eight months to finally get the home sold for what amounted to a net loss of $310,000. <br /><br /> While he still has a little more than $400,000 Ryerson is hanging up thoughts of conquering another fixer upper. He'd done more than two dozen fixers over the years. "The real estate market was booming," he said. "Now things are changing with the interest rates going up so many times and I think it's time to get off this merry-go-round." <br /><br /> After a national real estate boom which has lasted more than five years in some places, real estate markets throughout many parts of the nation are changing. But there are some local real estate markets that are still very active, even some that are still hot.   <bio>Mike Colpitts is the publisher of Real Estate Add, an information driven website which provides real estate reports on local real estate markets in all 50 states. Visit <a href="http://www.RealEstateAdd.com">http://www.RealEstateAdd.com</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Determining Whether a Fixer Upper Home is a Sound Investment</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/determining-whether-a-fixer-upper-home-is-a-sound-investment</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/determining-whether-a-fixer-upper-home-is-a-sound-investment#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jul 2008 05:08:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>nook and cranny</category><category>novice investor</category><category>accurate idea</category><category>leisurely drive</category><category>home options</category><category>uppers</category><category>taking the time</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/determining-whether-a-fixer-upper-home-is-a-sound-investment</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many factors you need to consider when deciding whether you have found a fixer upper home worthy of buying. From location to the purchase price, the list of considerations may seem overwhelming before concluding you have a profitable home on your hands.The first area of focus is the]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[There are many factors you need to consider when deciding whether you have found a fixer upper home worthy of buying. From location to the purchase price, the list of considerations may seem overwhelming before concluding you have a profitable home on your hands.<br><br>The first area of focus is the home's location. It doesn't matter what type of property you are investing in, if the location isn't right then you are simply not going to make any significant money on it.<br><br>Evaluate the neighborhood, where the house is situated on the street, and its proximity to appealing schools or large businesses. Many people initially filter <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/home+options" rel="tag">home options</a> based strictly on its location, and if yours isn't situated in a popular area, you will have difficulty selling that home.<br><br>When you find the house you want to fix up, determine exactly what you plan to do with it. Evaluate whether the house is actually a fixer upper at all.<br><br>For example, you may prefer to keep it to rent for a monthly income, or you may decide that you are going to "flip it," which means reselling it immediately after all the renovation. Each has its benefits. Flipping gives you an immediate return on your investment, while renting will provide you a profit over a longer period of time.<br><br>Check all homes within your budget, and take a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/leisurely+drive" rel="tag">leisurely drive</a> around the city looking for those that may not be advertised in the local newspaper. By talking with friends and networking a bit, you may also be able to locate fixer <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/uppers" rel="tag">uppers</a> that aren't even yet on the market for sale.<br><br>When you do find the home you think you may like to purchase, you will do yourself a huge favor by <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/taking+the+time" rel="tag">taking the time</a> and small expenses to have the house professionally inspected. The inspector should check every <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/nook+and+cranny" rel="tag">nook and cranny</a> of the house to let you know exactly what you need to do to fix it up for resale.<br><br>Many problems with a home may go completely unnoticed by a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/novice+investor" rel="tag">novice investor</a>, but a certified inspector can provide a much more <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/accurate+idea" rel="tag">accurate idea</a> of what you will actually have to spend. Along with the inspection, you need a reputable contractor to estimate the projected costs of the repairs. It is important to seek several estimates to determine an average cost and, of course, to help you save money.<br><br>Two of the other most important aspects of knowing whether a home should be a "contender" are the purchase price and the projection of a realistic reselling price. Most fixer uppers are available in a distressed condition, making them more affordable than newer, contemporary homes.<br><br>It is not at all unusual buy a fixer upper for at least 20% below market value. That is your profit potential! However you have to ensure you can sell it for a great price once the renovations are completed. Definitely do your best to negotiate a great price when you buy it so that when you do resell, you can do so at a desirable profit.<bio>For practical <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/government_home_loans.shtml">home selling and buying</a> information, please visit www.homes-sell-buy.com, a popular site providing valuable insights about great <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/sacramento_homes_for_sale.shtml"> home locations</a>, <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/va_home_mortgage_loan_rate.shtml">home loan rates</a>, and more that will be of value in your search for the perfect home community.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Buying Real Estate Investments:  Myths Exploded</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/buying-real-estate-investments-myths-exploded</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/buying-real-estate-investments-myths-exploded#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 08 Oct 2006 06:27:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>myth</category><category>interest rates</category><category>inflation</category><category>collapse</category><category>mortgage</category><category>oil prices</category><category>cash flow</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/buying-real-estate-investments-myths-exploded</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Myth 1: It Is Too Late To Invest. I'm Too Old To Wait For An Income.  Fact: It is never too late. The focus should be on positive cash flow and not on the mortgage pay off date. It is easy to own several rental properties that will pay you enough to not only pay the mortgage, but also give you a]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/myth" rel="tag">Myth</a> 1: It Is Too Late To Invest. I'm Too Old To Wait For An Income. <br /><br /> Fact: It is never too late. The focus should be on positive <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/cash+flow" rel="tag">cash flow</a> and not on the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/mortgage" rel="tag">mortgage</a> pay off date. It is easy to own several rental properties that will pay you enough to not only pay the mortgage, but also give you a nice income. <br /><br /> Myth 2: I Can't Afford To Buy Property Now. I'll Wait Until My House Is Paid For, Then I'll Look Into It. <br /><br /> Fact: Your house has equity in it already. You can use that equity as a down payment on an investment property and realize a positive cash flow from the rent. <br /><br /> Myth 3: The Real Estate Bubble Will Burst And I'll Be Left Holding An Empty Balloon. <br /><br /> Fact: It is possible that <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/interest+rates" rel="tag">interest rates</a> will rise causing fair market values to lower, but that isn't likely. The economy has been very stable. Rent rates have been predictably low in most markets. As markets correct themselves there will be some areas that rent <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/inflation" rel="tag">inflation</a> will occur and can only mean more money in your pocket. The key is finding the right location for investing. <br /><br /> Myth 4: Interest Rates Must Rise And Keep Rising. <br /><br /> Fact: The Federal Reserve Board has been doing an excellent job in keeping inflation at so low an incline it is almost flat. Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the recent spike in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/oil+prices" rel="tag">oil prices</a> have caused a slight increase in rates, but the tide turned in the oil prices and inflation seems to be checked. Without going into complicated economics, the Federal Reserve has been keeping inflation clipped by tiny hikes in interest rates. The job market and labor force has maintained balance, therefore the slight increases are actually good for the economy and for investment security. Consumers are utilizing equity loans for their spending and huge spikes in interest rates would basically <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/collapse" rel="tag">collapse</a> the growing economy. <br /><br /> Myth 5: I Don't Have Any Extra Cash So A $0 Down Payment Loan Is The Best Route To Start My Real Estate Investment Career. <br /><br /> Fact: If you don't use any of your own money, your mortgage will be higher. $0 down means 100% of the loan equals 100% of the value. That kind of ratio means a negative cash flow. While negative cash flow is not a huge problem for someone who has available cash, negative cash flow for someone who lives from paycheck to paycheck is financial suicide. <br /><br /> Myth 6: A Fixer-Upper Is A Cheap Way To Riches. <br /><br /> Fact: A fixer-upper can put money in your pocket but there are so many pitfalls that you need to be very careful. Buying well below market value for a house that needs a new roof will only be profitable if you just put the new roof on. Thinking that you need to not only fix the roof but put in another $20,000 of refurbishing to make it perfect is not good strategy. The more money you pour into a fixer-upper, the less profit you'll realize when you sell it. Buying a fixer-upper, making it perfect all for under market value, then renting it is a better way to make money on that type of project.   <bio>Investment Property Coach Alex Anderson Connects Real Estate Investors With High-Quality Investment Properties. Get A Free Copy Of, "The Investor's Guide To Renting" at: <a href="http://www.GreatInvestmentProperty.com" >http://www.GreatInvestmentProperty.com</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Real Estate Location - Finding the Perfect Fixer Upper Spot</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/real-estate-location-finding-the-perfect-fixer-upper-spot</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/real-estate-location-finding-the-perfect-fixer-upper-spot#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2008 22:09:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>teacher ratios</category><category>graduation rates</category><category>close proximity</category><category>median prices</category><category>road location</category><category>specific school</category><category>buying a property</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/real-estate-location-finding-the-perfect-fixer-upper-spot</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The business of flipping homes or buying a property at low cost and renovating it is about more than your skill as a handyman or designer. It's all about location. Remember, most home buyers choose their house based on location, so the actually geography of the property is critical for a successful]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The business of flipping homes or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/buying+a+property" rel="tag">buying a property</a> at low cost and renovating it is about more than your skill as a handyman or designer. It's all about location. Remember, most home buyers choose their house based on location, so the actually geography of the property is critical for a successful sale down the road.<br><br>Location drives home values, which is why the biggest decision of your fixer upper venture should be where to buy. If you want to learn how to find the perfect fixer upper or reno-home location, keep reading for some tips and tricks directly from the pros.<br><br>1. Check the School Districts<br><br>Many parents buy their homes based on the quality of the school district, proximity to a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/specific+school" rel="tag">specific school</a> with a good reputation and with their children in mind. The attractiveness of the neighborhood itself might not even be one of the best in the general area, but if the school system is good, concerned parents are drawn.<br><br>Consequently, a good school district with low student-to-<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/teacher+ratios" rel="tag">teacher ratios</a>, high-ranking scores and strong <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/graduation+rates" rel="tag">graduation rates</a> is going to help drive up the value of the home.<br><br>2. Go Micro Local<br><br>Buying in a supposedly "ideal" neighborhood can go all downhill if you pick the wrong street. Choosing a fixer upper or reno-home means checking the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/median+prices" rel="tag">median prices</a> for the neighborhood, and also the block and street.<br><br>A simple records check can tell you what price comparable homes next door and across the street sold for at the time of their last sales. While your search should encompass the entire region, a good house hunter goes micro local.<br><br>If there is another house in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/close+proximity" rel="tag">close proximity</a> to the one you are evaluating and it's structure and land size is similar, those are the best to compare against.<br><br>3. Transportation is Key<br><br>When buying an investment home, look for a house that's close to public transit and highways, but not too close. While most home buyers prefer a house that provides easy access to their commuter highway, they don't their house want to face it or listen to the noise of traffic throughout the day and night.<br><br>With many home buyers turning away from cars, an ideal location is also one that's close to public transit options. For example, the city of Seattle is building a light rail transit system. Savvy home seekers snatched up properties close to the proposed stops and stations and have since seen an exponential growth in their investment's value.<br><br>4. Read the Newspaper<br><br>If you're considering the purchase of a home outside your current area, subscribe to the local newspaper. Not only will you get a handle on crime rates, you'll also start to learn about desirable neighborhoods, shopping districts and even planning proposals. The news surrounding a district often provides subtle clues about the desirability of that area.<br><br>5. Call the Planning Office<br><br>Selecting the perfect location won't do you any good if the city is planning to allow a rock quarry to set up shop across the street. Investigate future plans for existing undeveloped property and whether those will accommodate your lifestyle and preferences.<br><br>Remember, buying a fixer upper home for location isn't just about the present, but also planning for the future of your investment.<bio>For insightful information on great home locations, see http://www.homepropertytips.com, a popular site assisting in your search for the ideal home, including <a href="http://www.homepropertytips.com/adelanto-new-homes.shtml">Adelanto new homes</a>, <a href="http://www.homepropertytips.com/retirement-new-homes.shtml"> retirement new homes</a>, <a href="http://www.homepropertytips.com/residential-properties-in-dubai.shtml">residential properties in Dubai</a>, West Palm Beach condos and many more!</bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>The Makings Of A Good Real Estate Deal</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-makings-of-a-good-real-estate-deal</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-makings-of-a-good-real-estate-deal#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 12 Oct 2006 00:27:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>purchasing real estate</category><category>purchase real estate</category><category>good real estate</category><category>real estate property</category><category>educate yourself</category><category>fixer upper</category><category>fixer uppers</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-makings-of-a-good-real-estate-deal</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you're looking to purchase real estate to rent for investment purposes, but aren't sure how to identify a good real estate deal, there are a few things you need to educate yourself on before you make your purchase.  A good real estate deal can be based on these components: price vs. value, the]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you're looking to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/purchase+real+estate" rel="tag">purchase real estate</a> to rent for investment purposes, but aren't sure how to identify a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/good+real+estate" rel="tag">good real estate</a> deal, there are a few things you need to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/educate+yourself" rel="tag">educate yourself</a> on before you make your purchase. <br /><br /> A good real estate deal can be based on these components: price vs. value, the potential profit, and potential appreciation of the property. <br /><br /> Price vs. Value <br /><br /> When looking for a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/real+estate+property" rel="tag">real estate property</a> to invest in, you need to take into consideration the sale price and the current or potential value of the property. If you're looking to purchase a condominium or home to rent out, look for <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a>s. Since you won't be moving into the home or condo immediately, you have time to make the necessary repairs. You have more leverage to negotiate a lower price on a fixer upper. Since repairs do need to be made, you can make the claim that the cost to make the resident inhabitable makes the current selling price unrealistic. But don't just run out and purchase the first rundown home you find. You need to have it inspected to make sure there is no structural or serious damage to the home. You don't want to purchase a fixer upper and later find out the property needs hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs. <br /><br /> Profit <br /><br /> The reason you're <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/purchasing+real+estate" rel="tag">purchasing real estate</a> is to make a profit. So, before you purchase a property, you need to look at market factors. As a rental property, renters will be your primary form of income. But if the current rental market is down, you'll have a tough time finding a tenant who is willing to pay a monthly rental fee that covers the mortgage and net you a monthly profit. If you're purchasing a property to rent, make sure the property is in an area that has a consistent rental market. Properties near colleges, for example, are a great buy. That's because not all college students live on campus. Many rent property around the college to cut down on their commute and because it's cheaper than on-campus living. <br /><br /> Appreciation <br /><br /> Even if you find a fixer upper for a great price, you need to be mindful of the area. The reason you got the property at a great price could be because the area is starting to depreciate. Property value fluctuates over the years and is affected by many factors. If a once affluent area is now burdened with landslides, high crime, or lack of employment opportunities, the property value of that area can depreciate. Even if you can purchase real estate at a rock bottom deal in a depreciating area, doesn't mean you should. If the property value of a specific area is depreciating, so will the rental price on rentable property, thus lowering your potential profit on the property. <br /><br /> Other Things to Consider <br /><br /> One thing you need to think about when investing in real estate is how you're going to manage the property. Even if you find a great real estate deal, do you have the resources to manage the tenant and deal with upkeep on the property? Are you going to manage it yourself or outsource it to a property management company? When repairs need to be made, who is going to make them? These are questions you need to ask yourself before you purchase real estate. You don't want to get in over your head and end up spending all your profits on property upkeep. <br /><br /> Great real estate deals are out there. You just need to know what to look for and what to keep in mind when you're search for investment real estate. A great piece of property can net you significant profit; but if you purchase unwisely, your investment property could end up being a money pit.   <bio>Brad Stroh is currently co-CEO of Freedom Financial Network and <a href="http://www.Bills.com" >http://www.Bills.com</a>. If you would like more of Brad's <a href="http://www.Bills.com/sitemap/" >http://www.Bills.com/sitemap/</a>, please visit the Bills.com information on <a href="http://www.Bills.com/mortgage/" >http://www.Bills.com/mortgage/</a>. </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Why We Gladly Lost $20,000 Flipping A Utah Fixer Upper House</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-we-gladly-lost-20000-flipping-a-utah-fixer-upper-house</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-we-gladly-lost-20000-flipping-a-utah-fixer-upper-house#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 29 Oct 2006 08:27:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>slate tile</category><category>st george utah</category><category>mobile homes</category><category>money</category><category>foreclosed home</category><category>jumble</category><category>santa fe style</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-we-gladly-lost-20000-flipping-a-utah-fixer-upper-house</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Flush with cash from two recently sold fixer uppers, my partners and I buy an expensive fixer home hoping to flip it for big bucks. All we got was a lesson in what not to do and a large tax deduction for 2006. This article explains how we, the investors, got flipped...  In August of 2005, my real]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Flush with cash from two recently sold fixer uppers, my partners and I buy an expensive fixer home hoping to flip it for big bucks. All we got was a lesson in what not to do and a large tax deduction for 2006. This article explains how we, the investors, got flipped... <br /><br /> In August of 2005, my real estate business partners and I were flush with cash. We had just made $45,000 from having just fixed up and then sold 2 <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/mobile+homes" rel="tag">mobile homes</a> in St. George, Utah. The excitement of making so much <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/money" rel="tag">money</a> so quickly had gone to our heads. We thought we were invincible. We were about to learn the truth. <br /><br /> After the mobile homes had sold my partners and I began looking for another fixer upper that we could flip. I wanted to move up into flipping expensive houses, thinking that we could make more money that way. <br /><br /> I was aware of a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/foreclosed+home" rel="tag">foreclosed home</a> for sale in Santa Clara. Santa Clara is a small town, just outside of St. George. <br /><br /> The bank had had the home had been for sale for about two years with no takers. It was a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/santa+fe+style" rel="tag">Santa Fe style</a>, luxury home built in 2002. The home was 3000 sq. ft., had amazing views, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/slate+tile" rel="tag">slate tile</a> throughout, a three car garage, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and tons of upgrades throughout. <br /><br /> The home was unfinished and had never been lived in. It was clear that the builder had run out of money before he could finish the home and sell it. The kitchen was unfinished. The tile was cracked here and there from settling. The closets were totally unfinished. The yard was a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/jumble" rel="tag">jumble</a> of weeds, mud and boulder sized rocks. <br /><br /> At the time that we looked at the home, St. George was coming to the end of an amazing run up in home prices, about a 1% increase in home values every week for months. My partners and I were aware that the market would slow down sometime in the future, but what we didn't know when we bought the home, was that the market slow down had already started. <br /><br /> Well, we made an accepted, full price offer on the Santa Clara home ($395,000). We made a full price offer because there was another buyer that was negotiating with the bank to purchase the home at the same time we were. We felt we could make money on the home and we wanted to make sure that we were the buyers the bank chose to buy the home. <br /><br /> We ended up buying the home for $395,000. We also financed our closing costs, bringing our mortgage loan amount to $400,000. <br /><br /> After the purchase, we invested $15,000 into fixing up the yard, about $4,000 into finishing the closets and another $6,000 in various other fix up / finishing costs. <br /><br /> We put the home back up for sale, almost immediately upon buying it, for $525,000. We truly thought it would sell quickly for this amount when we were done fixing it up. The home was for sale the entire time we were working on it. <br /><br /> After the repairs were done, the home sat on the market for months. The St. George real estate market had ground to a halt during the time we were working on the home. We ended up having to make about $9,000 in mortgage payments while we anxiously waited for the home to sell. <br /><br /> In March of 2006, seven months after the purchase, we were beginning to panicking because we weren't certain we could make anymore mortgage payments. We didn't want to lose the home and our investment, but the mortgage payments were eating us alive by this point. <br /><br /> We were forced to gradually lower our asking price until finally we had our asking price at $430,000. In March we breathed a sigh of relief as the home finally went under contract at this price. <br /><br /> We sold the home in April 2006. Our costs to sell were about $16,000 including the $12,000 commission that was paid to the buyer's agent. <br /><br /> Here's what the final tally on the fixer upper Santa Clara home was: <br /><br /> What we sold the home for...........$430,000  Fix up costs........................-$25,000  Mortgage payments....................-$9,000  Commission paid.....................-$12,000  Closing Costs........................-$4,000  What we paid for the home..........-$400,000  -----------------------------------------------  Total loss..........................($20,000) <br /><br /> We felt very lucky to have been able to sell an expensive home when our local real estate market was so bad. There are a lot of investors that bought at the top of the market who haven't been so lucky; people who are stuck with homes that they can no longer afford. These investors are wondering if their homes will sell before they lose them to the bank. <br /><br /> Strangely enough we are actually looking for another home to fix up. We are going to stick with mobile homes or condos and just rent them out. The lesson that we learned is that the less expensive the fixer upper home is, the less risk there is to the investor.   <bio>This content is provided by <a href="http://www.stgeorgerealestate.info/" >http://www.stgeorgerealestate.info/</a> and may be used or republished only in its entirety with all links included. To read more investing articles click <a href="http://www.stgeorgerealestate.info/RealEstateInvestingInformation.html" >http://www.stgeorgerealestate.info/RealEstateInvestingInformation.html</a> or <a href="http://www.stgeorgerealestate.info" >http://www.stgeorgerealestate.info</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Financial Advantages Of Renting A Fixer Upper Home</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/financial-advantages-of-renting-a-fixer-upper-home</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/financial-advantages-of-renting-a-fixer-upper-home#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sat, 08 Dec 2007 11:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>typical home loan</category><category>profitable options</category><category>renovation work</category><category>remodeling a home</category><category>additional properties</category><category>market changes</category><category>fixer upper</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/financial-advantages-of-renting-a-fixer-upper-home</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Depending on your goals and comfort level with the current housing market, buying a home that is marketed as a fixer upper will afford you several potentially profitable options. You can hold onto your purchase for a while and try to resell it for a higher price in a good resell environment, or]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Depending on your goals and comfort level with the current housing market, buying a home that is marketed as a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a> will afford you several potentially <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/profitable+options" rel="tag">profitable options</a>. You can hold onto your purchase for a while and try to resell it for a higher price in a good resell environment, or you can "flip" the house, which means very quickly after your purchase you sell it again either after first fixing it up yourself or paying others fix it up for you. Then again, you have a third option of indefinitely renting out the house after you have completed the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/renovation+work" rel="tag">renovation work</a>. Using your newly remodeled home as a rental can become an excellent investment and a great way to realize profits each month while the house builds equity. <br /><br /> Even if the home itself doesn't appreciate well due to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/market+changes" rel="tag">market changes</a>, the money you make each month will most likely be greater than what you pay for its mortgage. This is especially true if you are able to make use of other people's money as a form of investment, such as an interested bank or investment group. This is called "leverage," and leverage can serve as an important form of capitalization when starting a business of buying and fixing up homes for rental profit. <br /><br /> By tapping into a lender for a home loan or special financing, you will be paying them a certain fixed amount each month just as you would on a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/typical+home+loan" rel="tag">typical home loan</a>. However, if you remodel the home and then rent it out afterward, you will likely earn more each month than what you are paying for the loan itself. Consequently, you can pocket the extra funds earned from the monthly rent and turn your investment into a profit, even if a modest one. Later, you may also have the opportunity to refinance your loan at a lower interest rate, enabling you to invest in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/additional+properties" rel="tag">additional properties</a> or other less expensive alternatives. If you are successful at both <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/remodeling+a+home" rel="tag">remodeling a home</a> effectively and renting it out quickly, you stand to earn a meaningful profit. <br /><br /> The primary disadvantage to this approach occurs if you buy too many homes at one time without ensuring you have secured long term tenants. If one or more of your rental units is not occupied for any significant period of time, you may run into the financial problem of owing too much to lenders while bringing in too little to cover the costs. However, as long as your rental units are fully occupied with qualified and dependable tenants, you can continue making a profit while you identify additional homes you can purchase, renovate and rent. <br /><br /> As a side note, to ensure your profits are high, you absolutely must choose a great location for the purchase of your fixer upper home in the first place. Search in a neighborhood that is up and coming, as well as generally regarded as safe. This will keep your rental prices high and comparable to others in and near the neighborhood. You will also attract more qualified tenants who should be capable of reliably paying the rent each month.   <bio>For practical home selling and buying information, please visit <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com" >http://www.homes-sell-buy.com</a>, a popular site providing valuable insights about great home communities and home related information, such as with VA home mortgage loans - <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/va_home_mortgage_loan_rate.shtml" >http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/va_home_mortgage_loan_rate.shtml</a>.  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>If You Love Beautiful Old Homes You'll Love Dallas Homes</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/if-you-love-beautiful-old-homes-youll-love-dallas-homes</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/if-you-love-beautiful-old-homes-youll-love-dallas-homes#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:43:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>dallas neighborhoods</category><category>home restoration</category><category>large families</category><category>new construction</category><category>new homes</category><category>architects</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/if-you-love-beautiful-old-homes-youll-love-dallas-homes</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are one of the type of person that wants to live in a restored classic home you'll find some beautiful old classic homes in the many Dallas homes that are for sale right now. There are fixer upper homes that are great if you love to do home restoration yourself or you can buy a fully]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you are one of the type of person that wants to live in a restored classic home you'll find some beautiful old classic homes in the many Dallas homes that are for sale right now. There are fixer upper homes that are great if you love to do <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/home+restoration" rel="tag">home restoration</a> yourself or you can buy a fully restored classic southern home in one of the great historical <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/dallas+neighborhoods" rel="tag">Dallas neighborhoods</a>. <br><br>There is no shortage of historical Dallas homes that are on the market and there are historical Dallas homes available in many price ranges so it won't be too hard for you to find several historical Dallas homes to choose from. There are a lot of advantages to living in historical Dallas homes. <br><br>If you have a family you'll love the size of most of the hold Dallas homes which are quite large. Families with several children most often buy a mid priced historical Dallas home if they want to have enough room for each child to have his or her own bedroom. Many of the newer Dallas homes that are on the market just don't have the space or the charm and character of the older Dallas homes. <br><br>Plus, if you have a family you'll appreciate that most of the older Dallas homes are in very family friendly neighborhoods where houses come attached to large yards and there are plenty of parks and activities for kids nearby. If you're looking for a new home that's a bit higher end there are plenty of Dallas homes that fit that bill too. There are some very expensive Dallas homes that were designed by some of the best <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/architects" rel="tag">architects</a> in the world that are for sale in the best Dallas neighborhoods. <br><br>No matter what your price range is there are plenty of historical Dallas homes to choose from. If you are handy with tools you can find a fixer upper home for very cheap and turn it into a show stopping home in no time. With so many beautiful old Dallas homes on the market it's hard to believe anyone would want a home that was all <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/new+construction" rel="tag">new construction</a> but there are plenty of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/new+homes" rel="tag">new homes</a> available too if you want a more modern home that is brand new. <br><br>If you work for Frito Lay or one of the other large companies that have headquarters in the Dallas area then you will probably be looking for Dallas homes that are close to work but don't worry, the average commute time in Dallas is only 20 minutes so no matter where you live in the city you'll never be that from work. <br><br> One of the advantages of buying a Dallas home is that you will have access to everything that makes a big city great like fine restaurants, great shopping, and great old historical homes and neighborhoods but unlike some other big cities you won't have to spend 45 minutes each way commuting to your job. Come and check out the great historical Dallas homes that are waiting for you.<bio>This article is brought to you courtesy of Jordan Hashem who is a leading expert in the <a href="http://www.realtorsblvd.com/">Dallas Real Estate</a> and <a href="http://www.realtorsblvd.com/dallas_relocation/">Dallas Relocation</a> Markets.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Building A Fixer Upper Home Business</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-a-fixer-upper-home-business</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-a-fixer-upper-home-business#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 30 Nov 2007 05:15:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>realistic time frame</category><category>maximum profit</category><category>decreased sales</category><category>fixer upper</category><category>limited resources</category><category>resell</category><category>renovations</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-a-fixer-upper-home-business</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Building a business focused specifically on fixing up homes to make a profit can be done fairly easily if you understand the right core steps. Not only is it an interesting business, but such a venture can be quite profitable as well. When you know how to locate and purchase the right types of]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Building a business focused specifically on fixing up homes to make a profit can be done fairly easily if you understand the right core steps. Not only is it an interesting business, but such a venture can be quite profitable as well. When you know how to locate and purchase the right types of homes for a relatively low cost - and without using much of your own money - you are well on your way to building a business that can reap significant rewards as an owner.<br /><br /><br /><br /> Before you start your business, there are a few basics with which you need to become familiar. These include learning what a "<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a>" is in the first place. It's a real estate term that means a home is in distress in some way. Consequently, the buyer needs to renovate or fix it up to maximize the profit when the intent is to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/resell" rel="tag">resell</a>. Once you buy the home - usually at a reduced cost because of some degree of deterioration - you will have a limited amount of time to fix it up for <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/maximum+profit" rel="tag">maximum profit</a>. <br /><br /> Your first objective should be to set a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/realistic+time+frame" rel="tag">realistic time frame</a> to fix up the home. If when beginning you buy more than one home at the same time and think you will fix them up in only a month or so, you will be deluding yourself concerning what the complexity and wisdom required to most efficiently utilize your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/limited+resources" rel="tag">limited resources</a>. A profit is possible if you aren't spending a huge amount of money on monthly mortgages.<br /><br /><br /><br /> Often, homes take much more time to repair than you may naturally think, so by starting with a realistic time frame in mind, you have an advantage. This preparation includes setting a capable goal for the amount of earnings you may realize during your first year in business. If you over-buy in your first year, you will likely find yourself with much more debt than anticipated. Such an oversight can lead to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/decreased+sales" rel="tag">decreased sales</a> because you no longer have the funds to continue ongoing <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/renovations" rel="tag">renovations</a>. By starting slowly, you can build up your profits before attempting to tackle more homes that you may not be able to afford.<br /><br /><br /><br /> A large percentage of this business includes learning which homes you should sell immediately upon renovating, as well as which houses you should hang onto for an extended period of time. If you buy a home that you can easily determine will earn a large profit by renting it out, then consider doing so. When owning rental properties, you may be able to earn even more money because the monthly income you realize from rentals is hopefully sufficient to cover your monthly loan installments and allow for the building of equity in the property over time.  That way, you retain the profit you make over the loan amount either to invest in other properties or simply tuck away for later use.<br /><br /><br /><br /> Building a fixer upper business certainly comes with inherent risks. This investment entails the exchange of a great deal of money. Making an assumption that purchased property can be sold again at a higher price also is a significant risk. The real estate market changes, and you could reach a point where your selling options are limited, possibly resulting in an expensive financial burden for many months before you locate a buyer. For some investors, the risk might simply be too great. However if you are comfortable with the risks and have some experience in picking out the "right" homes, you could find yourself in a very profitable venture.   <bio>For practical home selling and buying information, please visit <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com" >http://www.homes-sell-buy.com</a>, a popular site providing valuable insights about great home communities and home related information, such as with VA home mortgage loans - <a href="http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/va_home_mortgage_loan_rate.shtml" >http://www.homes-sell-buy.com/va_home_mortgage_loan_rate.shtml</a>.  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Things To Avoid When You Buy A House</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/things-to-avoid-when-you-buy-a-house</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/things-to-avoid-when-you-buy-a-house#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 11 Mar 2007 06:27:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>buying a home</category><category>one mistake</category><category>fixer uppers</category><category>home buying process</category><category>tons of money</category><category>housing industry</category><category>fixer upper</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/things-to-avoid-when-you-buy-a-house</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Although buying a home is supposed to be fun, there are many things that you will want to avoid if you expect to be a total success in this area.  The good thing is that the more you know about the housing industry the better off you will be.  With so much information available you should never]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Although <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/buying+a+home" rel="tag">buying a home</a> is supposed to be fun, there are many things that you will want to avoid if you expect to be a total success in this area. <br /><br /> The good thing is that the more you know about the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/housing+industry" rel="tag">housing industry</a> the better off you will be. <br /><br /> With so much information available you should never have a hard time finding the details that can help you succeed. <br /><br /> You will want to become very familiar early on with the problems that you will want to avoid when buying a home. <br /><br /> Believe it or not there are many common mistakes that people make time and time again during the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/home+buying+process" rel="tag">home buying process</a>. <br /><br /> You should do everything you can to avoid these so that you do not find yourself in a bad position. <br /><br /> The number <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/one+mistake" rel="tag">one mistake</a> to avoid when buying a home is getting in over your head as far as finances are concerned. <br /><br /> So many people make the mistake of buying more home than they can afford, and in the end this ends up coming back to haunt them. <br /><br /> The best way to avoid this common problem is to set a budget for yourself before you ever start your search for a new home. <br /><br /> If you do this you will never have any problems staying with your financial means. <br /><br /> Another common mistake is buying a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+upper" rel="tag">fixer upper</a> that you have no intentions working on. <br /><br /> These types of homes often times look like great deals because you can save <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/tons+of+money" rel="tag">tons of money</a>, and afford more than you ever thought possible. <br /><br /> But if you do not intend to actually fix the home up you are going to be living somewhere that is run down. <br /><br /> This is not to say that you should avoid <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fixer+uppers" rel="tag">fixer uppers</a>, but you should only buy one if you really think that you will want to get your hands dirty. <br /><br /> These can be great buys, but only if you have the time and skill to put work into fixing what is broke. <br /><br /> The best way to avoid mistakes when buying a home is to simply plan out the entire process before you get started. <br /><br /> When you know what direction you are moving in you will have a much easier time getting what you have been dreaming of. Why make new home buying mistakes when you do not have to?  <bio>Download a free ebook that shows you how you can claim free land and property: <a href="http://www.freelandproperty.com" >http://www.freelandproperty.com</a> Download a free ebook that shows you how to make amazing profits from real estate: <a href="http://www.freelandproperty.com/realezine.htm" >http://www.freelandproperty.com/realezine.htm</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>Registry Fix Updates - Is Your Computer Up-To-Date?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/registry-fix-updates-is-your-computer-up-to-date</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/registry-fix-updates-is-your-computer-up-to-date#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2008 20:15:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>personal configurations</category><category>registry fixer</category><category>cleaner software</category><category>registry settings</category><category>malicious software</category><category>registry cleaner</category><category>preinstalled</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/registry-fix-updates-is-your-computer-up-to-date</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It is important to get registry fix updates if you are running a registry fixer and cleaner software. You cannot take for granted the importance of your registry system. This is your computer's database - where all information about your hardware, software and personal configurations are kept.]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[It is important to get registry fix updates if you are running a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/registry+fixer" rel="tag">registry fixer</a> and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/cleaner+software" rel="tag">cleaner software</a>. You cannot take for granted the importance of your registry system. This is your computer's database - where all information about your hardware, software and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/personal+configurations" rel="tag">personal configurations</a> are kept. Getting registry fix updates is equivalent to arming your computer against possible attacks from malicious online entities.<br><br>The computer's registry system is one of the first areas altered by viruses or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/malicious+software" rel="tag">malicious software</a>. The keys and values listed in the registry system of your computer is essential to the functioning of all aspects of your computer - from hardware to software, even on how you configure your browser and folders to act when clicked it. All the details and personalization of your computer is in the registry system. Hence, it is very important to make sure that your registry fix updates are current. Viruses and malicious software are released daily and wreak havoc on a wide network of computers. <br><br>If you have found a registry fixer and cleaner that you can trust, always make sure that your version is current by downloading its registry fix updates. The registry fixer and cleaner works like an antivirus, which needs to constantly update its database of viruses and their fixes in order to function effectively. With registry fix updates, you will be downloading possible registry key additions and alterations by malicious software. This equips your installed software in detecting and blocking illegitimate changes to your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/registry+settings" rel="tag">registry settings</a>. <br><br>Else, if you still do not have a good <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/registry+cleaner" rel="tag">registry cleaner</a> and fixer, consider using Microsoft's <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/preinstalled" rel="tag">preinstalled</a> Registry Editor. This software won't require you to download any updates. Changes you make on your registry settings will be manual, as guided by several online sources. <br><br>However, if you are not comfortable with the idea of manually updating your system, you might just want to opt for known registry cleaner and fixer software. With this type of software, registry fixes are done automatically, at a click of a button. These registry fixers also provide additional safeguards that protect your registry system from unauthorized alterations. Check online sources first for reviews about your third party registry cleaner and fixer. Often, many people give their two cents about new (and old) products. You need to make sure that the software you will opt for is not malicious software that will worsen your registry problems. <br><br>There are several sources of registry cleaner and fixer software, as well as registry fix updates. You can go directly to the software provider website. New software downloads are often available right on the front page. Updates would usually be located in their download page. Just search for your software version and check for registry fix updates. These downloads are usually automatically installed and activated in your computer. <br><br>Several third party download site also offer download options, like the reputable <a href="http://download.com" title="http://download.com" target="_blank">http://download.com</a>. These download sites are relatively safe sources as they supposedly check all links that come from their sites. Mirror links are checked to make sure you don't end up downloading viruses and trojans.<bio>Do you know how to use <a href="http://www.Registry-Cleaners-Exposed.com"> Registry Fix Updates</a> quickly and easily? If you haven't then your computer is running at least 100% slower than it should be. Visit <a href="http://www.Registry-Cleaners-Exposed.com"> www.Registry-Cleaners-Exposed.com</a> to clean your windows registry for FREE today!</bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
		<item>
				<title>California Home Mortgage Lenders Offer Zero-downpayment Loans</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/california-home-mortgage-lenders-offer-zero-downpayment-loans</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/california-home-mortgage-lenders-offer-zero-downpayment-loans#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>home mortgage lenders</category><category>bad credit loans</category><category>california home</category><category>zero downpayment</category><category>national association of realtors</category><category>easier than ever</category><category>credit score</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/california-home-mortgage-lenders-offer-zero-downpayment-loans</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ If there is one thing California home mortgage lenders can tell you, it is this: it is now easier than ever to buy a house.  The biggest deterrent to home ownership has always been the downpayment. Until recently, it is standard practice for California home mortgage lenders to require a]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ If there is one thing California <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/home+mortgage+lenders" rel="tag">home mortgage lenders</a> can tell you, it is this: it is now <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/easier+than+ever" rel="tag">easier than ever</a> to buy a house. <br /><br /> The biggest deterrent to home ownership has always been the downpayment. Until recently, it is standard practice for <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/california+home" rel="tag">California home</a> mortgage lenders to require a downpayment equivalent to 20 percent of the purchase price. Few people have this much cash, and because of this, few people are able to avail of loans. According to the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/national+association+of+realtors" rel="tag">National Association of Realtors</a>, however, it is now possible to own a home with zero-downpayment. Mortgages like these are not granted by fly-by-night operators who take on 'no documentation' or 'bad credit' loans in exchange for abnormally high interest rates, but by duly licensed California home mortgage lenders. All you need to avail of these zero-down programs is decent credit rating. <br /><br /> What are these programs that require no downpayment? <br /><br /> 100% Financing  If you have a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/credit+score" rel="tag">credit score</a> of above 580, many California home mortgage lenders will offer you 100 percent financing. Under this financing, you are granted two loans. The first loan comes with low interest and covers 80 percent of the cost. The second comes with higher interest and covers the remaining 20 percent of the price. <br /><br /> On the other hand, should your credit score be 620 or higher, some California home mortgage lenders might let you qualify for loans that cover 103, 104, or 107 percent of the selling price. The percentage in excess of 100 percent will go towards payment of closing costs. <br /><br /> Fixer-upper Loans  Check with your state's Department of Housing and Community Development to find out what their policies are towards fixer-upper loans. A fixer-upper loan is typically granted to people who choose properties that meet two conditions: first, they require major renovations; second, they are located in neighborhoods targeted for community revitalization. <br /><br /> Seller Assistance  Many sellers are in a rush to sell their homes, and you can use this to your advantage. Sellers who are unable to find buyers for their properties will go through extra lengths to help you purchase them. The wisest thing to do, in this case, is set up a lease purchase agreement. How does this work? You sign a contract agreeing to buy the house at a set price after a year or two. While still unable to pay for the purchase price in full, however, you live in the house and pay rent. The seller will deduct the rent you pay from the purchase price. <br /><br /> Servicemen Loans  If you are a veteran or are presently in the military, its easy for you to avail of a no-downpayment loan through the Department of Veteran Affairs. You may check out the department's list of authorized California home mortgage lenders online. <br /><br /> Government Assistance  The government has plenty of grants given to homeowners to reduce the home ownership gap. Though these grants are not widely known, they are easily available to mortgage applicants with low incomes, particularly those belonging to minorities. Visit the website of the Department of Housing and Urban Development for a list of the different home ownership assistance provided by non-profit groups, as well as state and local governments. <br /><br /> These zero-downpayment programs have flung the doors to home ownership wide open. Today, people with good credit scores but little cash have fewer obstacles to hurdle in getting decent housing. You could be one of them, too.   <bio>Want to learn more about california home mortgage lenders ( <a href="http://www.whataboutloans.com/mortgage/home-mortgage-lenders.html" >http://www.whataboutloans.com/mortgage/home-mortgage-lenders.html</a> )? Visit our site today and get access to various home loan lender ( <a href="http://www.whataboutloans.com/home-loan/home-loan-lenders.html" >http://www.whataboutloans.com/home-loan/home-loan-lenders.html</a> ) rates to find the best mortgage quote ( <a href="http://www.whataboutloans.com" >http://www.whataboutloans.com</a> ).  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
