Century 21 Dunaway & Hart

Casino Night

2012-01-23T11:01:00.001-06:00

This is special milestone for the Pete Hart Memorial Casino Night benefiting Easter Seals Arkansas. This year we are celebrating as we hold our 20th Annual Casino Night for Easter Seals! During this time, we have donated approximately $150,000 to Easter Seals Arkansas.

The event will be held Friday, February 10, 2011, at the Knights of Columbus Hall beginning at 7:00 p.m. with a Corporate Sponsor Reception from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door and can be purchased at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart by calling 501-327-2121 (must be 21 to enter). Included in the price of admission are food, drinks, and casino chips. “Earnings” from the Casino Tables can be used at the live auction following the event for fabulous prizes donated from local businesses.

Local businesses also support this event with Corporate Sponsorships including Platinum Tier, Gold Tier and Silver Tier Sponsorships are available for $600, $400, and $250 respectively.

Here are a few facts about our event and Easter Seals Arkansas:

In 2011, our Casino Night proceeds generated $8,050 given directly to Easter Seals Arkansas.
In 2011, 20,066 people in Arkansas were helped by Easter Seals Arkansas.
In 2011, 86 people from Faulkner County were helped by Easter Seals Arkansas.

10 served by Community Services and Outreac
3 served by Children's Rehabilitation Center (only 40 kids total at center since it's residential)
1 served by High Risk Infant Monitoring Program
1 in preschool 2 served by Outpatient Therapy 7 in Outreach 62 in TCC (Technology Curriculum Access Center) Training

In 2011, Easter Seals Arkansas spent 86% of their income on direct to client services and 4% for fundraising, and 10% on administrative costs which ranks among the top percentages for charities.

2012-01-06T09:42:00.000-06:00

Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. has started 2012 in a big way! Century 21 McKee & Associates will be joining our team. We are thrilled to have them in our office and look forward to great things in 2012.

2011-12-13T15:11:00.001-06:00

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!

To spread a little more of the holiday spirit around, here is the ever jolly owner of Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. Mitch Hart dressed up as Santa along with the Social Committee dressed up as elves at our annual Christmas Party.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!

2011-12-05T13:28:00.000-06:00

For many renters, the first step in buying a home is becoming educated about the process. If you’re like many people considering a home purchase, you’ve spent nights and weekends poring over your local real estate section. You’ve talked to friends and relatives about their experiences. Maybe you’ve even purchased a book or tow to help you become more familiar with real estate terminology and the various types of mortgages commonly used today.

Coming up with a down payment and finding a loan that meets your needs are the greatest hurdles faced by first-time homebuyers. So, you may even have leafed through stacks of brochures and flyers from lenders offering down payments that are far less than the 20 percent you’d always thought you’d need to save before you could buy. With so many excellent first-time buyer programs to choose from these days, you practically need to be an expert to sort through them all.

That’s why if you’re a first-time homebuyer seeking a low down payment loan, you’ll save time by selecting a professional real estate agent who is experienced in working with people just like you in the area where you plan to buy. An agent who frequently assists first-time buyers will know from experience which lenders in your area offer a low down payment program that will most closely match your needs.

A professional real estate agent can help you determine whether you are likely to qualify for these special programs, since participation in some may be limited to buyers under a certain income level or for the purchase of homes below a certain purchase price. Your agent also will be able to tell you whether there are other requirements you must fulfill in order to be considered. With some programs, for example, you must attend an educational seminar before you can be considered for one of these low down payment loans.

`It’s important that your agent become familiar with your current financial situation. Before you meet with your agent to discuss your financial situation and housing needs, you’ll want to collect some basic information to make the process easier. Be prepared to show recent paycheck stubs or pay vouchers to certify sources of income; a complete list of current credit card, auto and other consumer credit payments you make each month; and recent bank and savings statements. These documents will help you and your agent determine how much home you can afford. It’s also important that you disclose any prior credit problems or late payments. Your agent may be able to suggest ways to remedy any negative remarks on your credit report that could disqualify you from a low down payment loan program.

In addition, because some lenders will require that you have several months of house payments in the bank as a reserve, your agent may be able to suggest ways you can increase your savings in the weeks and months leading up to your home purchase. Don’t forget that some programs allow you to apply a cash gift from a family member to cover the required down payment and closing costs.

Your agent also may know a motivated seller who would be happy to assist you in accomplishing your home purchase by caring a second mortgage. A second mortgage is helpful because it reduces the amount of the first mortgage you need to obtain. In some cases, a second monthly payment and generally is required to protect the lender when a down payment is less than the standard 20 percent of the loan amount. Even if your seller isn’t willing to take a second mortgage to complete the sale, he or she may be willing to pay your closing costs, which will reduce the amount of cash you need to have on hand up-front.

With interest rates edging up, innovative mortgage financing programs that require a low down payment are even more important than ever to first-time buyers. A professional real estate agent can help you sift through the countless programs that are available and help find the one that’s mortgage can eliminate the need for private mortgage insurance, which is added to your right for you.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-212 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Trying To Sell A House? Do This First | Century 21 Blog

2011-09-13T13:45:00.002-05:00

Trying To Sell A House? Do This First Century 21 Blog

There are things most homeowners miss when preparing to sell a home. They are simple things. They are easy things. They are things our System members wish every homeowner did.

1. Paint the front door

You only have one chance to make a first impression (so the saying goes). With that in mind, ask your sellers to paint the front door so the first thing the potential buyer sees, the door, is in perfect condition. Victoria Jacobs, www.century21.ca/bjrothrealty

2. Actually clean your house

Hire professional cleaners to come and make the home sparkle from top to bottom. Encourage the sellers to spend some time decluttering counter tops (especially the kitchen and the bathrooms), cabinets, closets and storage areas to help the space appear larger. If you were selling a car, you would have it detailed and take your stuff out of it, do the same for your house! Brandi Nelson, www.c21sre.com

3. Get rid of people and animal smells

As potential buyers tour a home, they want to imagine themselves living there, not smell remnants of the wear and tear from the previous owners. Suggest to the sellers that they have the carpets shampooed to remove any dirt, pet odor and/or cigarette smoke. Gillian Weir-Fall, www.c21smokymountain.com

4. Wash the windows

Ensuring potential buyers have a beautiful, clear, unobstructed view out each and every windows is a must. Shiny, dust-free, streak-free windows make the decision to write an offer a crystal clear one. Johanna Daye, www.century21huntoon.com

5. Up the curb appeal

What do a potential buyers see when they approach the seller’s home? The exterior! Cut the lawn, trim the bushes, plant some nice smelling flowers, power wash the entrance walkway, and lay down some fresh stone or wood chips. If the home’s exterior needs a coat of paint, touch it up. Scott Faletti, www.c21pride.com

6. Say cheese! Take great photographs

The seller’s home should be showcased as a merchandised product. In order to sell in today’s highly competitive market, a home has to be shown at its best. Stellar photos allow you to capture greater interest online and through marketing materials. Angela Batchelor, www.sellingyournest.com

Moving to Conway? Let us Help Ease Your Transistion

2011-08-02T11:22:00.002-05:00

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-327-2121 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-327-2121 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 800-490-0021 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800-490-0021 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800-490-0021 end_of_the_skype_highlighting to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

July Television Show

2011-07-05T13:19:00.000-05:00

Check out the July installment of our Century 21 Dunaway & Hart Homes Television Show. To find an agent that can ahow you any of the homes in our show or any other house listed in Faulkner County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-327-2121 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-327-2121 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 800-490-0021 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800-490-0021 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800-490-0021 end_of_the_skype_highlighting to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

New Ad Campaign

2011-06-27T14:06:00.001-05:00

The Century 21 System's new ad campaign is a reflection of our ability to stay relevant in a changing Real Estate Landscape. We will continue to develop innovative ways to market your home to get it sold faster or to help you find your dream home with the least hassle possible.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-327-2121 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 800-490-0021 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800-490-0021 end_of_the_skype_highlighting to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Shopping For A Home On Your Phone | Century 21 Blog

2011-06-22T13:20:00.000-05:00

Shopping For A Home On Your Phone Century 21 Blog

ACCORDING TO SELLERS, SILENCE ISN'T ALWAYS 'GOLDEN'

2011-03-18T15:03:00.000-05:00

When trying to sell a home, silence isn't always golden especially when you're expecting your real estate agent to call. In fact, it's one of the leading complaints among sellers in the real estate market. Often times you find an agent who is more than willing to take on your listing, but once the relationship is made, the seller enjoys getting a call at least once a week.

"A seller should establish with the agent up front the expectation that regular communication will occur. Even if it's just to check-in, the seller will be more satisfied being kept 'in the loop'," said Mitch Hart, Principal Owner and Broker of Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc.

Keeping the communication lines open between the two parties assures the seller that the agent is keeping them apprised of any and all offers. In addition, agents often provide valuable tips on why prospective buyers weren't interested. Often times, an agent is privy to the buyer's dislikes of the property. For instance 'this room's too dark' or 'the kitchen has a funny smell.' This allows the agent to give the seller constructive feedback and offer important tips on how to make the home more attractive to future buyers.

If you're a seller and are not hearing from your broker, be sure to keep calling them until they get the message that you expect a regular update. If the broker doesn't return your calls, leave a message for your broker's office manager. The manager will see to it that your broker becomes more attentive to your listing.

Selling a home can be a lot of work and sometimes quite stressful. It is incumbent upon an agent to satisfy the seller's expectations of routine updates, this will ensure the possibility of future business not to mention a successful sale. Furthermore, as a seller you must demand the communication exchange between you and your agent. If both parties work in a cooperative effort, the selling experience will be more successful and enjoyable for both the agent and the seller involved.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Casino Night 2011

2011-02-02T12:48:00.001-06:00

For the past eighteen years, Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. has given back to the community which it serves. It all started when Pete Hart and a group of dedicated Real Estate agents decided to make a difference. They started the first of many Casino Nights and donated all the proceeds to Easter Seals Arkansas. This amazing group of driven individuals paved the way for us to continue there work and here we are almost two decades later doing just that.

So many times, we get so wrapped up in our daily routines that it is difficult to stop and reflect on helping others. Casino Night is our chance to do just that. Casino Night allows us give to people who we may not know but who are so incredibly deserving.

Easter Seals Arkansas is an exceptional organization whose mission is to provide services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities.

The 19th annual Pete Hart Memorial Casino Night will be held Friday February 11th at The Knights of Columbus Hall located across from the Conway Airport. General admission tickets are $15 dollars in advance and $20 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased from a Century 21 Dunaway & Hart agent or at our office located at 575 Harkrider Street, Conway, AR. You may call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 for more information.

Also, call our office, if you are interested in donating an in kind item to this worthwhile cause. We have everything donated so all monies raised can go directly to help children and adults with disabilities.

We hope to see you on February 11th!

Multi-Family Land Real Estate Auctions

2011-01-04T11:23:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, January 27, 2011 Century 21 Dunaway & Hart in conjunction with Jay Atkins Realtors/Auctioneer will be hosting two Multi-Family Land Real Estate Auctions.

The first auction will take place at 3531 Nutters Chapel Road in Conway, Arkansas at 2:00 p.m. at the property. Development potential is great with this 7.73 acre tract adjacent to a golf course community in southwest Conway. The close proximity to the eighteen hole Links at Nutters Chapel Golf Course and multi family community makes this property an ideal candidate for another multi family development .

Property is currently zoned A-1. 50 feet roadway easement extends across western edge of property. The property features 377 feet of road frontage on Nutters Chapel. It also has the added benefits of being mostly flat and mostly cleared. Conway Corp City water and Sewer is available on property making this property practically perfect in terms of immediate development potential. Property will be sold with reserve.

To get to 3531 Nutters Chapel Road, take Exit 129 and go west on Dave Ward Drive to Salem Road. Turn left on Salem to Nutters Chapel. Turn right on Nutters Chapel. Property is on left next to new golf course.

Terms and Conditions: Certified Funds, $10,000 non-refundable per tract, “as-is” by confirmation of seller. Closing within 30 Days. Sealed bids welcomed prior to sale.

Inspection: Anytime by appointment. Contact Mitch Hart at 626-2121 or Matt Mallett at 501-472-2121 for private tour. The auction will be held on property.

The second auction is at 3900 Donnell Ridge Road at 3:00 p.m. on the property site. Excellent development property with frontage on Donnell Ridge Road. Property is zoned MF-2 allowing 18 units per acre. Property is partially cleared has flat and view property.

Conway Corp City water is available on tracts 2 and 3. Sewer lift station is located 700 feet from southeast corner of tract 3. Current Conway Corporation plans include the creation of a new sewer treatment facility which would convert current forced sewer main extending across western edge of Tract 1 to a gravity flow main which could be tied onto.

New elementary school will be constructed near property beginning in the summer of 2011. Land has been purchased around the corner on Old Military Road for New Conway High School campus. Western Loop in the long term plan for the city of Conway will be east of Tract 3 and is scheduled to start summer of 2011. Property is less than a mile south from the Conway Marketplace Shopping Center anchored by a Super Wal-Mart.

Tract 1 will be sold as an absolute auction and contains 10 acres. Tract 2, with 10 acres and the 13.05 acre tract 3 will both be auctioned with reserves. Only Tract 1, Donnell Ridge selling absolute. Tract 1 may be sold as individual tract, or a combination of tracts.

To get to 3900 Donnell Ridge Road take Exit 129 and then take Dave Ward Drive West to McNutt. Turn left on McNutt and follow to Donnell Ridge. Property is on south side of Donnell Ridge near the intersection of Donnell & McNutt Road.

Terms and Conditions: Certified Funds, $10,000 non-refundable per tract, “as-is” by confirmation of seller. Closing within 30 Days. Sealed bids welcomed prior to sale.

Inspection: Anytime by appointment. Contact Mitch Hart at 626-2121 or Matt Mallett at 501-472-2121 for private tour. The auction will be held on property.

THE SMART WAY TO LOOK AT HOME IMPROVEMENTS

2010-12-03T08:52:00.001-06:00

What home improvements really pay off when the time comes to sell your house?

That’s an important question for any homeowner contemplating moving or remodeling. And the only possible answer is a somewhat complicated one.

That answer starts with the fact that really major improvements – room additions, total replacements of kitchens and baths, etc., -- rarely pay off fully in the near term. It ends with the fact that small and relatively inexpensive changes can pay off in a big way in making your home attractive to buyers if your decision is to move now.

It’s a simple fact, consistently confirmed across America over a very long period of time, that even the most appropriate major improvements are unlikely to return their full cost if a house is sold within two or three years.

Does that mean that major home improvements are always a bad idea? Absolutely not. It does mean, though, that if your present house falls seriously short of meeting your family’s needs you need to think twice – and think carefully – before deciding to undertake a major renovation. Viewed strictly in investment terms, major improvements rarely make as much sense as selling your present home and buying one that’s carefully selected to provide you with what you want.

Even if you have a special and strong attachment to the house you’re in and feel certain that you could be happy in it for a long time if only it had more bedrooms and baths, for example, there are a few basic rules that you ought to keep in mind.

Probably the most basic rule of all, in this regard, is the one that says you should never –unless you absolutely don’t care at all about eventual resale value – improve a house to the point where its desired sales price would be more than 20 percent higher than the most expensive of the other houses in the immediate neighborhood.

Try to raise the value of your house too high, that is, and surrounding properties will pull it down.

Here are some other rules worth remembering:

Never rearrange the interior of your house in a way that reduces the total number of bedrooms to less than three.

Never add a third bathroom to a two-bath house unless you don’t care about ever recouping your investment.

Swimming pools rarely return what you spend to install them. Ditto for sun rooms – and finished basements.

If you decide to do what’s usually the smart thing and move rather than improve, it’s often the smaller, relatively inexpensive improvements that turn out to be most worth doing.

The cost of replacing a discolored toilet bowl, making sure all the windows work or getting rid of dead trees and shrubs in trivial compared with adding a bathroom, but such things can have a big and very positive impact on prospective buyers. A good broker can help you decide which expenditures make sense and which don’t, and can save you a lot of money in the process.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN CLOSING COSTS ON A HOME PURCHASE

2010-11-04T13:31:00.000-05:00

Many are taking advantage of this year’s low mortgage rates to purchase a home. Pent up with excitement, many families, who have scrimped and saved for a down-payment, jump for joy when the mortgage lender finally approves their application. But, they should realize that there’s a whole new set of expenses that must be covered before actually closing on the sale.

New homeowners are often taken aback by up-front closing costs such as mortgage and title insurance, recording fees and loan points, which can run into the thousands of dollars. But there is no need to be afraid of these charges. With a little background on their purpose and shrewd financial foresight, closings can be a breeze.

A lender’s charge for processing the loan can be determined at the beginning of your buying process. Referred to as “points,” these charges are expressed as a percentage of the total loan. For instance, three points are equal to 3 percent of the borrowed amount. “Points” can also become a tool for negotiation with the lender and seller. In a buyer’s market, home sellers will often agree to pay mortgage fees in order to close a deal.

Title insurance can be a substantial expense. The policy covers any financial set-back caused by unforeseen defects in the purchased property and home. The one-time title fee, including search and examination, averages around $430 for a $100,000 home, but it’s recommended that you check with a local title insurance agent ahead of time to effectively determine what you’ll owe before closing.

Additional costs, such as recording, transfer and inspection fees, can also be predicated ahead of time by the buyer. Most often pest and survey inspections, although included in the official closing statement, are conducted and paid for long before the closing date. However, buyers should consider them as additional up-front costs.

Some closing costs, such as “points,” are fully tax deductible that tax year if you show proof of a separate lump sum payment. They are not deductible in a few cases when the loan is the result of re-financing rather than a home purchase. Application, appraisal, documentation and broker fees can not be deducted.

Be prepared to pay property taxes at closing. In some instances, buyers and sellers are asked to put money into an escrow account that will cover any past and future tax obligations. Be sure to check with an attorney or real estate agent before the closing to determine your property tax commitments.

Also, be prepared to pay any assessments if buying a condominium or into an association-governed property. Fees for credit reports, notary public seals and assumptions, which includes the processing of official documents, may also arise.

Knowing what total closing costs will be before starting your home search can help you better understand what price range is right for you. In the end, the process of closing on a mortgage will be easier than you think, leaving more time to plan for your new home.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

REMODELING YOUR HOME: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

2010-10-18T13:39:00.001-05:00

The classic way for homeowners to increase the value of their house is by remodeling existing rooms or adding on to its current plan. Some choose to build recreation rooms and studies while others add new appliances, fixtures and cabinets to enliven rooms and make their home more attractive to future buyers.

But, when should you decide to stop sinking money into a home and buy a bigger place? And how much rehab is too much when it comes time to recovering remodeling costs through a home sale.

For instance, if you’ve just spent $1,000 remodeling your living room and didn’t expand your small bathroom, the chances of increasing the number of interested buyers are slim.
With these concerns in mind, Century 21 sales associates offer a few tips for those struggling to add value to their home.

First, always protect the character of your home. Nothing sticks out more than a new addition that is in a completely different architectural style. Be consistent. Recognize your home’s character and stay within its framework.

The most financially rewarding areas to remodel are usually the kitchen and bath. Newly re-done cooking spaces and cabinets can attract more buyers and may command a slightly higher price for the home than a comparable one on the market. Simple repairs that are made to last will bring you the biggest returns upon sale.

Enlarged bathrooms are the most popular attraction for new home buyers, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Today, the most popular additions for younger buyers are sunken whirlpool baths and showers. But be sure to install modest, solid amenities. It’s easy to quickly over-spend on bathroom fixtures.

Buyers are, by convention, more interested in above-ground living space – not basements, yards and walkways. Swimming pools can be a poor investment if installed for the sole purpose of increasing a home’s value; it’s rare that a pool’s cost will be recovered in a home sale. It can also be a negative feature for potential buyers with very young children.

Replacing worn carpeting, tiles and wood floors can give your home an immediate advantage over similar properties in the area. Updating paint colors in all areas of your home can also prove beneficial.

However, it’s recommended that you use neutral colors, such as gray, beige and off-white when adding new floor and wall coverings. Fewer buyers will then turn away because of differing tastes.

Stay simple with your remodeling and look at your home as though you were the buyer. Chances are that if you find the upstairs bedroom could be brightened by a larger window, potential buyers will probably feel the same.

Don’t go overboard. Concentrate on improving two or three deficiencies in your home. More than likely, the time and money you spend adding quality to your home will be rewarded with greater profit at selling time.

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE PRICE OF YOUR HOME

2010-09-21T13:38:00.000-05:00

Why is it that some homes sit on the market for a year while others sell like hot cakes? Frustrated sellers will blame a bad market, while a good real estate professional will tell you that many times, a slow sale is often attributed to the listing price.

If a home is overpriced, buyers will stay away. But, if the price is competitive with similar homes in the area and “shows” better than the competition, it will have a better chance of being sold quickly.

The secret is perfecting a technique that’s as American as apple pie: comparative shopping.

Although comparing houses with different styles, square-footages and locations is challenging, real estate professionals still feel it’s one of the best methods to use when determining a home’s market value.

A responsible real estate agent will effectively evaluate a home’s worth through a process known as Comparative Marketing Analysis (CMA). Taking a look at assets, such as a swimming pool, bigger than normal living spaces, a fantastic view, adjacent city parks and other attractions, the agent will begin to compare your home with similar properties, called “comparables,” that have sold in the area within the last six months. Typically, the agent is able to recommend a realistic price range that will ensure you top dollar and a reasonably

However, factors such as the amount of time needed to sell your home can alter the agent’s price recommendation dramatically.

Typically, people should check with real estate offices in the community to determine the typical duration that listings are on the market. Sales associates will explain that the marketing “norms” vary with prices and properties. Based on this criteria, the agent feels confident that he or she will be able to sell it for a price that both you and the buyer will be happy with. However, if you’re under time constraints because of unexpected job changes or moving agreements you’ve made on another property, this will narrow your chances of selling the home for top dollar in the market.

Assuming you have sufficient time to market the home, here are a few small steps you and your agent can take to finding the right price for your property.

The best comparisons can be made with similar homes that have been sold within the last 45 days as opposed to the standard six months. Any longer and other factors, such as the economy, could cloud your view of how much your home is really worth.

Another good benchmark is to review the selling prices of homes that have just been sold and are pending closes. Most MLS services provide information on deals pending that most real estate agents should be able to shore with you.

A good rule of thumb before setting a price is to make 20 comparisons of comparable properties within a one-mile radius of your house. Once completed you can feel comfortable that the price you’ve picked is a good gauge of the home’s worth and won’t discourage qualified buyers.

Being open and honest about what you see as the home’s greatest strengths and biggest weaknesses will also help an agent get a better feel for how to best evaluate (or assess) and market your home. Think of your home as if you were the buyer. If your home is listed at the right price, you’re well on your way to a speedy and fruitful sale.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

UNDERSTANDING REAL ESTATE TERMINOLOGY

2010-09-07T10:39:00.000-05:00

Purchasing a home can be a complicated and confusing process, especially for first-time buyers. Throughout the process, first-time home buyers will encounter a variety of unfamiliar real state terms. There are several key terms associates with purchasing real estate that are helpful to learn.

For example, many buyers confuse the terms broker and salesperson. A broker is a properly licensed individual, or corporation, who serves as a special agent in the purchase and sale of real estate, a salesperson is an individual employed or associated by written agreement by the broker as an independent contractor. The salesperson facilitates the purchase or sale of real estate.

Once you decide to purchase, a salesperson will prepare a sales contract to present to the seller along with your earnest money deposit. The sales contract is the document through which the seller agrees to give possession and title of property to the buyer upon full payment of the purchase price and performance of agreed-upon conditions. The earnest money is a buyer’s partial payment, as a show of good faith, to make the contract binding. Often, the earnest money is held in an escrow account. Escrow is the process by which money is held by a disinterested party until the terms of the escrow instructions are fulfilled.

After the buyer and seller have signed the contract, the buyer must obtain a mortgage note by presenting the contract to a mortgage lender. The note is the buyer’s promise to pay the purchase price of the real estate in addition to a stated interest rate over a specified period of time. A mortgage lender places a lien on the property, or mortgage, and this secures the mortgage note.

The buyer pays interest money to the lender exchange for the use of money borrowed. Interest is usually referred to as APR or annual percentage rate. Interest is paid on the principle, the capital sum the buyer owes. Interest payments may be disguised in the form of points. Points are an up-front cost which may be paid by either the buyer or seller or both in conventional loans.

In general, there are two types of conventional loans that a buyer can obtain. A fixed rate loan has the same rate of interest for the life of the loan, usually 14 to 30 years. An adjustable rate loan or adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) provides a discounted initial rate, which changes after a set period of time. The rate can’t exceed the interest rate cap or ceiling allowed on such loans for any one adjustment period. Some ARMs have a lifetime cap on interest. The buyer makes the loan and interest payments to the lender through amortization, the systematic payment and retirement of debt over a set period of time.

Once the contract has been signed and a mortgage note obtained, the buyer and seller must legally close the real estate transaction. The closing is a meeting where the buyer, seller and their attorneys review, sign and exchange the final documents. At the closing, the buyer receives the appraisal report, an estimate of the property’s value with the appraiser’s signature, certification and sporting documents. The buyer also receives the title and the deed. The title shows evidence of the buyer’s ownership of the property while the deed legally transfers the title from the seller to the buyer. The final document the buyer receives at closing is a title insurance policy, insurance against the loss of the title if it’s found to be imperfect.

Buyers should plan on a least four to twelve weeks for a typical real estate transaction. The process is difficult and at times, intimidating. A general understanding of real estate terminology and chronology of the transaction, however, will help any real estate novice to confidently buy his or her first home.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

How to Spot a Good Buy

2010-09-01T14:30:00.001-05:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, particularly when it comes to buying a home. Features that attract one home-buyer may repel another.

However, the one feature of interest to every home-buyer is price. Getting the most home for your money is paramount. The real problem is figuring out whether that fixer-upper on one street is a better buy than the home in next-to-new condition two blocks away. That’s why knowing what to look for before you buy can save you time, energy and money down the line.

The first step is figuring out what kind of house you need. A good buy is only a good buy if it meets your current and future living requirements. Before shopping for a home, decide how much space you and your family require. How many bedrooms, bathrooms? Is a family room necessary? Do you need a layout that will accommodate a lot of entertaining? Do you prefer a spacious or compact work space in the kitchen? If you have small children, can the house easily be childproofed?

Evaluate the front and back yards. Is there enough space to accommodate your children? Do you want a park-like or garden setting? Do you enjoy yard work and gardening, or do you want a low-maintenance yard? Take into consideration the cost of extensive landscaping and upkeep.

Next, determine how much work is required to make the house you are considering livable. Make an honest assessment of your fix-it abilities. How much work are you willing to do or pay someone else to do? Do you have basic decorating, carpentry and plumbing skills? If you plan to learn as you go, make sure you have accurately determined what you are getting into. Ask an experienced friend, family member or your real estate agent for their opinion, and be sure to consider how much remodeling inconvenience the rest of the family can handle.

Unless you are ready and able to tackle a major remodel, look for a house or condominium that needs only cosmetic improvements. These include painting, wallpapering and replacing items like flooring, window treatments, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, light fixtures, cabinet and interior door hardware and appliances. Remember that even these simple changes can be costly if you have to make many of them.

Beware of improvements that seem easy enough at first glance buy may turn into major headaches and require a lot of money once you’ve moved in. Remodeled kitchens and bathrooms, changes to the floor plan, room additions and redesigned landscaping are examples of seemingly minor changes that can easily eat away the money you thought you saved by selecting a so-called “bargain priced” home. Of course, you may be perfectly willing to spend whatever money is needed to customize the house to match your tastes and needs.

Make sure major systems in the house are in good working condition. The furnace, air-conditioning and plumbing should be up to date, since repairs can be costly. Your agent can arrange to have a professional inspector determine whether the electrical wiring and any room additions are to code. Local utilities often offer free or low-cost inspections to tell you if the house is energy-efficient.

Look for a house with universally popular selling points. If you’re impressed, the next buyer down the line is bound to be, too. For example, a roomy, modern east-to-clean kitchen is the best selling point a home can have. A house with only one bathroom is less desirable than a house with two or more. Many buyers expect at least three bedrooms, with a master bedroom that offers a feeling of privacy. Lots of storage space and closets, especially walk-in closets, will be a real selling point. Family rooms or “great rooms” also are desirable. On closer examination, a house that looks like a bargain may lack some of these key features.

Don’t forget the old adage: location, location, location. Unless you’re looking for a fixer-upper, the house should be in a condition that is comparable to other homes in the neighborhood. Avoid buying the biggest or fanciest home on the block. Consider the amount of traffic or noise. Homes located in a quiet area away from a busy street will command a higher price. Make sure the schools in your district have a reputation for quality education and safety. Nearby supermarkets, gas stations, restaurants and theaters also will make a location more desirable.

Good community facilities also add appeal; pools, athletic fields, community centers, libraries and hospitals all add to a neighborhood’s value and desirability. Transportation needs also should be considered. Is local public transit available? How long are typical commutes to places of current and potential employment? Are there several alternate route? How close is a major airport? All of these can affect a home’s pricing.

Consider the cost of living in a home. It’s important to consider not only purchase price but the monthly cost of living in a home. Estimate your utility and maintenance costs. For example, will the house need to be painted on a regular basis and will you need to spend money maintaining a swimming pool? Ask your agent about the property tax rate and whether increases are anticipated. Will you have to pay special assessments for a homeowner’s association? Consider the point in the life cycle of major household systems, such as the furnace, air conditioning, roof and kitchen appliances.

You can find a bargain! Your first step should be to seek out a knowledgeable real estate agent with experience in the market areas where you wish to purchase a home. Your agent can help you locate those properties that truly are “bargains” and help find the home that most closely matches your desires and needs.

To find an agent that can help you in your journey, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

2010-08-16T10:37:00.000-05:00

We at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. donated $6,162 to Easter Seals Arkansas in Little Rock as a result of the successful 18th Annual Pete Hart Memorial Casino Night held at on February 12, 2010.

"It is a pleasure to donate our time and resources to raise funds for our local Easter Seals chapter. Fundraising events such as our 18th Annual Pete Hart Memorial Casino Night provides our sales associates the opportunity to give back to the local community while raising awareness of this worthy cause," said Mitch Hart, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. "It is a great feeling to know that our contributions go directly toward helping people with disabilities in our community achieve greater independence."

The entire CENTURY 21 System has been affiliated with Easter Seals since 1979 and has raised more than $100 million to help children and adults with disabilities lead fuller, more independent lives. CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. has hosted this event for almost two decades and is proud to have donated well over $100,000 to Easter Seals Arkansas.

Easter Seals is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, physical and mental disabilities, and other special needs. For more than 85 years, we have been offering help and hope to children and adults living with disabilities, and to the families who love them. Through therapy, training, education and support services, Easter Seals assists with the creation of life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities.

How to Give your Home a Facelift: The Sellers' Guide to a Quick Sell

2010-08-09T08:59:00.000-05:00

One of the great challenges to selling a home can be showing all of its space, decor and natural light potential. For example, every home has crowded closets and dead space. Sellers should be aware that areas such as these are easy to spruce-up with a little elbow grease and old-fashioned innovation.

Begin by evaluating your closet/storage space, determine which areas can cut-down in clutter. Go through old clothes, shoes, etc., and get rid of anything that will not be used and in turn create more space. Consider organizing shelves and other areas to make better use of your storage space, including your garage and basement. Also, try to throw out or give away any old furniture that is no longer of use. All of the discarded items can be given to Good Will, Salvation Army or even sold at a yard sale.

"Although most sellers keep their homes clean and well-decorated, it can be difficult to convince a buyer of a home's potential when clutter is noticeable. As brokers, it's our responsibility to offer any tips that will expedite the sale and make the experience more enjoyable for the seller," said Mitch Hart, Owner and Principal Broker of CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc.

Once you've eliminated the unwanted items and furniture, begin the 'renovation' process. For non-storage spaces that could use a little more decor, consider adding a small bookshelf complemented with a cozy reading chair. Always be sure you're filtering as much light into your property as possible. Open or replace curtains. For example, light from a window overlooking the backyard offers a room more color, a great view and the illusion of more space.

Always maximize the potential of existing decor; wash old curtains, re-stain old wood casings, anything that refreshes and emphasizes all the potential of the space and decor of the home.

Prospective buyers are often more drawn to homes with features that they don't have, those with clutter-free closets, open sunny rooms, and cozy little corners. To ensure you've realized all of the above characteristics the last step should be to bring in a friend and observe their reaction. Make sure it's an honest friend, who will offer suggestions as well as notice the improvements. Seeing your own home through someone else's eyes is a great way to make a home optimally attractive and more sellable to prospective buyers.

Be diligent in your efforts and be sure the renovations improve the aesthetic appeal of the home. All the hard work will be worth the reward of a successful sale.

To learn more about what to do before listing your home, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Moving On: Powerful Tips for Selling Your Home

2010-08-02T10:18:00.001-05:00

Maybe you're moving to a larger home to accommodate a growing family, relocating for a new career opportunity, or purchasing a townhouse for retirement. Whatever the reason for the move, you'll need to take the necessary steps to sell your home for the best possible price, within a reasonable amount of time. Where do you begin?
If you're like most people, you'll start by seeking assistance from a professional. A local real estate sales associate, who knows your neighborhood, can help you determine a fair market price. The sales associate should also recommend the extent to which you should make repairs or improvements to your house.
In order to select a real estate professional who's right for you, ask family, friends and neighbors for referrals. Attend open houses and interview several sales associates to find out how professional or experienced they may be. Get a written outline of how they plan to market your property and the services they will offer you.
Once you've identified a qualified professional, the rest is chemistry. Is the sales associate someone with whom you would like to work closely? Do you feel comfortable with the sales associate as your partner, working with you to give you advice and acting as your representative? Does he or she practice a consultative selling approach, focusing on the long-term client relationship and on the importance of exceeding client needs and expectations or is he or she caught up in the proverbial 'hard sell?'

The brokerage firm that your agent is associated with is also important. Research the firm's success rate and commitment to quality service. Does it survey existing clients in order to ensure customer satisfaction? What are the results of those surveys? How in tune are they with consumer needs? Do they offer guidance with mortgages or any discounts for other home related or moving services?
Determining your home's fair market value is one of the most important decisions you'll make during the home-selling/buying process. Your sales associate can help you set a fair price based on local market conditions. For instance, she or he will provide sale prices and other statistics of homes similar to yours that have recently been sold. Prospective buyers will be comparing your home to others on the market. Therefore, setting a comprehensive price can determine if your property will or will not sell.

For the first offer made, it's rare that the prospective buyer matches the asking price. If the offer is reasonably close to the asking price, carefully consider the offer before you consider turning it down. Curiously, it's the first offer that can often be the best offer. If the first offer is unacceptable to you, it may in your best interest to have your sales associate respond with a counter offer. Whenever considering an offer, ask yourself if you would purchase the property for the amount being offered. Always be willing to negotiate, especially if the prospective buyer is pre-qualified for a mortgage.

Once you decide what terms are acceptable, let your sales associate negotiate with the prospective buyer to work out the best agreement for you. You'll need to be patient while the buyer arranges financing and as the real estate company compiles and prepares pertinent data.

Careful planning and sound advice from a real estate professional can make selling your home a very satisfying experience.

To obtain more information about listing your home, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in your neighborhood, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Finding a Capable Agent to Meet your Real Estate Needs

2010-07-26T10:43:00.000-05:00

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, selling your current home or relocating to a different part of the country, the support of a qualified, knowledgeable real estate agent can alleviate many of your concerns and ensure a smooth transaction. A professional agent can market your present residence, help you locate the home of your dreams and assist in making your transfer to an unfamiliar area easier.

To find a trained sales associate or broker, you may need to look no further than your own neighborhood or home town. If a well-established brokerage is involved in many listings and sale, this is a god sign. Speak with some of the agent’s past customers about the quality and integrity of service and performance. Successful real estate agents rely heavily on customer referrals and will therefore strive to provide the very best in customer service and satisfaction.

Set up appointments to “interview” agents and brokers much like an employer world interview a prospective employee. Inquire about their training, marketing programs and specific service policies. Also determine how many years of experience they have, the number of listings they have had, and the number of homes they have sold within the past few years. More importantly, find out how well they know the area. Ask for references, and check them out.

Your goal is to determine just how knowledgeable the agents are. Question them on financing, closing costs and/or local market conditions, depending on whether you’re a prospective home buyer or seller, to determine their expertise. If they know their stuff, they should be able to answer your questions effortlessly.

If you’re selling your home, learn what they will do if you decide to list with them. How do they plan to market your home? Will they provide you with a market analysis to help you determine the most effective listing price for your property? Will they supply regular progress reports and assist with negotiations once you’ve received offers?

If you are relocating to a different part of the country, is your agent connected with a national relocation service that will not only expose your present property to incoming transferees, but assist with your search for a new house?

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Ask for a written guarantee that everything promised will be delivered. The CENTURY 21® organization, for example, backs its listings with the CENTURY 21 Seller Service Pledge. This 11-point written commitment covers everything from furnishing the seller with a marketing plan to monitoring pre-settlement activities throughout the closing process. It also gives the seller the right to terminate the listing if the pledge is not fulfilled.

A qualified real estate agent should be able to answer all your questions and provide you with qualify service that is courteous and responsible. Finding the right person may take time and patience, buy when purchasing or selling a home, the selection of a dependable agent should be tops on your list.

A Few Easy Ways to Take the Headache out of Moving

2010-07-19T09:22:00.000-05:00

Moving from one house to another is always a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here are some simple tips on how to get it done with minimal stress and strain.

• Look at all the alternatives: hiring a moving company, for example, versus renting a truck and doing it yourself. Whichever alternative makes most sense for you, get bids from more than one vendor.

• A few days before the moving company is scheduled to arrive or you’re supposed to pick up your rental truck, call to confirm that everything is on track to happen when it’s supposed to .

• Prepare your change of address cards in advance and send them out as soon as it’s appropriate to do so. The post office, utilities, companies and people you do business with, city hall, friends, relatives – all should be notified of your move.

• Get an early start on packing by concentrating on seldom-used items first. Each box should have its contents and the room those contents belong in written on it clearly.

• Take a hard look at things you seldom or never use and throw away as many of them as you can. The more you throw away, the less you’ll have to move. Every item you throw away is one less item to clutter up you new home.

• Use your extra towels and linens to protect breakables. When your supply of these things is exhausted, crumpled newspaper makes an excellent substitute. Write “Fragile” on all appropriate boxes.

• Put your valuables (such as jewelry) and important documents (birth certificates, car titles, etc.) aside in some safe place where they won’t be misplaced.

• When the house is empty, go back for a thorough final inspection. Check closets, crawl spaces, basement, attic, out-of-the-way nooks and crannies of all kinds. Have a second person make the same inspection separately.

• Clean your new home thoroughly before moving in. It’s infinitely easier that way.

• Decide in advance where you want the heavy furniture. Changing your mind after the movers have departed is no fun – especially for your back!

• Locate all fuses, circuit breakers, and water/gas and electrical valves. Record the meter readings and check the smoke detectors.

• List the phone numbers of the local police and fire stations, doctors, nearby hospitals, etc. Put a copy of your list near each phone.

Above all, plan, plan, plan and plan some more. Make a schedule you can live with, and then stick to it. Preparation and forethought will help you to keep everything under control and finish the move with your sanity and your nervous system intact.

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

The Path Home

2010-04-21T11:56:00.001-05:00

Check out this video presentation to find out how working with our CENTURY 21 office can help meet your goals to buy or sell a home:

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To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Times is running out for the Homebuyer Tax Credit

2010-04-09T15:02:00.000-05:00

First-time home buyers and move-up buyers have another great reason to get on the path to purchasing a new home! The benefit to first-time homebuyers is a tax credit up to $8,000 and for move-up buyers a tax credit up to $6,500. But this opportunity ends in April.

Until April 30, 2010, homebuyers that have a signed binding contract to purchase a home may be eligible for the tax credit. The transaction must close no more than 60 days after April 30, 2010.

First-time homebuyers may receive a credit of 10 percent of the purchase price, up to the $8,000 tax credit amount. If you have never owned a home before or have not owned a principal residence in the last three years, you are considered a first-time homebuyer.

For home-owners, a tax credit of $6,500 is available for homeowners who have lived in their current residence for at least five of the past eight years. Homebuyers can also receive a 10 percent credit up to $6,500 when they contract to purchase a home between now and April 30, 2010, provided they close no more than 60 days after this deadline.

The tax credit does not have to be repaid provided you live in the new home for a minimum of three years. Military families are exempt from this stipulation.

To look at homes in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc today. To look at homes, check out home listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private showing today.

2009 Fundraising Activity Earns Century 21 Dunaway & Hart Recognition among Top Easter Seals Contributors in CENTURY 21® System’s Desert West Region

2010-03-22T14:08:00.001-05:00

CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. announced today that CENTURY 21 Real Estate LLC recently recognized it as second among CENTURY 21 System’s top Easter Seals fundraiser in the Desert West region for 2009. The Desert West Region is comprised of: Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Arkansas. In 2009, CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart donated $5,860 to Easter Seals Arkansas in Little Rock.
"CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart is proud of its affiliation with Easter Seals and takes great pride in helping so many deserving people with disabilities gain greater independence," said Mitch Hart, broker/owner, CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart.

In addition to receiving a personalized trophy during the annual regional year-end awards banquet, Century 21 Real Estate LLC recognized CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart before its peers at the CENTURY 21 International Convention 2009.

The CENTURY 21 System has been affiliated with Easter Seals since 1979 and raised more than $100 million to help children and adults with disabilities lead fuller, more independent lives. Easter Seals is a non-profit, community-based, health agency dedicated to helping people with disabilities attain greater independence. Today, millions of Easter Seals clients lead improved lives because of the high quality programs for children, vocational training and employment, and physical medicine and rehabilitation services offered by local Easter Seals organizations.

CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart offers full-service real estate capabilities, specializing in Residential, Commercial and property sales in Faulkner County and the surrounding area.

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

CENTURY 21 System Recognizes Century 21 Dunaway & Hart Real Estate Agents

2010-03-22T14:04:00.000-05:00

CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. announced that Century 21 Real Estate LLC recently recognized several agents with awards for real estate production.
Michelle Nabholz and Glenda J. Hoyt were both awarded with the 2009 Sapphire Award which recognizes agents with a minimum sales production of $60,000 or at least 20 closed transaction sides within a calendar year.

Judy Orozco and Kathy Nickles were both awarded with the 2009 Topaz Award which recognizes agents with a minimum sales production of $36,000 or at least 15 closed transaction sides within a calendar year.
“All four of these ladies approach everything they do with passion, and professionalism and they have truly become a fixture within the Faulkner County community that they serve and within the local real estate community,” said Mitch Hart, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Dunaway and Hart, Inc. “CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart could not be more proud of Michelle, Glenda, Judy and Kathy.”

“It is a great honor to be recognized by the CENTURY 21 System,” said Orozco.

“The unwavering support of my family and my colleagues at CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart undoubtedly helped to make receiving this award possible,” Hoyt commented.

“Doing what you love makes even the most challenging days enjoyable,” said Nabholz.

"It is truly an honor to be recognized among such talented and dedicated group of real estate sales professionals" Nickles commented.

CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart is a full-service brokerage located at 575 Harkrider, Conway and specializes in Residential, Commercial and property sales in Faulkner County and the surrounding area.

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Impressive Sales Earn Paul Nahlen Emerald Award

2010-03-22T13:53:00.002-05:00

CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. is pleased to announce that Century 21 Real Estate LLC recently recognized Paul Nahlen, sales associate with the office, as one of the System’s top-producers nationwide when it honored him with the coveted emerald level CENTURY 21 Masters Award.

Emerald level status is awarded to an agent who has met minimum sales production of $143,000 or 40 closed transaction sides within a calendar year. A gold-plated lapel pin with emerald accent is awarded to the agent during the Awards Ceremony, in addition to a trophy and a personal invitation to attend a CENTURY 21 Top Agent Retreat.

"Paul places his real estate wisdom and passion for life into his everyday business, helping to make clients more comfortable with the real estate transaction as they make what may be the most significant purchase of their lives," said Mitch Hart, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart.

"Paul is a valued and trusted real estate resource for the Faulkner County community and a major contributor to the overall success of CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart and the CENTURY 21 System as a whole."

"It is truly an honor to receive the Masters Award and be recognized among such talented and dedicated group of real estate sales professionals," said Nahlen.

CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart is a full-service brokerage located at 575 Harkrider, Conway and specializes in Residential, Commercial and property sales in Faulkner County and the surrounding area.

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

How to buy a Foreclosed Home

2010-02-01T10:57:00.000-06:00

Today's article comes to us from Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc.'s Relocation and REO Director, Sherry Atkinson.

There are as many self-help books, videos, web-pages, and experts on buying Bank-owned homes as there are bank-owned homes. So, how does a buyer actually buy one of these homes?

Step one should be contacting your local real estate agent. A large majority of Bank Owned or REO properties are listed by local agents. The bank will ask a real estate broker to list these homes at market value and market these homes to the public.

A common myth is that a buyer can make a low offer and walk away with these Bank Owned Properties. In realty, the Bank is like any other Seller. They want the highest and best price for their home. An informed buyer will inspect the foreclosed property to determine the condition of the home and ask their agent to obtain comparable sales to determine the market value.

The majority of these banks require a buyer to have financing in place before making an offer to purchase. A pre-approval letter from the lender is almost always required. In fact, some Banks require that a potential Buyer get a second pre-approval letter from their own bank. The Bank will not require that the Buyer use their bank to finance but they will require a letter to ascertain that the potential buyer has met all the criteria that they require to finance a home.

Also, be prepared to present earnest money. These banks will look at the amount of earnest money or escrow funds that a buyer is willing to put up. This shows good faith to the Seller and that a buyer actually has some liquid money for closing. A good rule of thumb is $500 for properties less than $25000 and 1% of sales price for properties above $25,000.

Most banks will counter with their own addenda. Be sure to have an attorney review anything that you do not understand before signing. Your real estate agent is there to negotiate the contract but they cannot give you legal advice.

And finally, be patient. Be prepared to wait anywhere from 2 days to 1 week or longer for responses. All banks are different and all have different systems in place for responding to offers. Most banks have to go through several corporate approvals before a contract is signed.

To buy homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. Affordability and Mortgage Calculators can be found at our website so you can determine your price range. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Conway is named one of the Fastest Growing Cities in Arkansas

2010-01-11T14:45:00.000-06:00

The Gadberry Group recently released a report naming the fastest growing cities in Arkansas for 2009. Maumelle, Bryant and Conway respectively were the top three cities in the state.

In the past decade, Conway has seen exponential growth topping 30% and has also earned the desingation as one of the most educated cities in the state with over 36% of residents earning a Bachelor's degree or higher according to City-Data.com.

The Arkansas Democrat Gazette quoted Larry Martin, a principal with the Gadberry Group, "For years, Conway was known as a bedroom community to Little Rock but that no longer is the case. Conway landed one of the largest economic development projects in the state in 2008, Hewlett-Packard's $28 million customerservice and technology center, which will employ 1,200 by 2012."

The Log Cabin sat down with Mayor Tab Townsell after the report was released. The Mayor said “We’re trying to grow into the city we wish to become and not just grow out of the city we were in love with. In other words to build smart, to build fine parks, build better roads and bike trails and continue to grow in our police and fire safety forces. They keep our city safe, and that is what is going to dictate whether or not we are a good place to live as we grow. Now Conway is an independent area. "People now are going from Little Rock to Conway to work.”

Brad Lacy, President and CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce also weigned in on Conway's standing with The Log Cabin. “Conway has felt like an island in the storm. We have been so fortunate to maintain growth in this climate. I think it’s due to our diverse and fundamentally sound local economy.”

To look at homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. today. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Casino Night Time!

2010-01-08T15:32:00.002-06:00

For the past seventeen years, Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. has chosen to give back to the community which it serves. It all started when Pete Hart and a group of dedicated Real Estate agents decided to make a difference. They started the first of many Casino Nights and donated all the proceeds to Easter Seals Arkansas. This amazing group of driven individuals paved the way for us to continue there work and here we are almost two decades later doing just that.

So many times, we get so wrapped up in our daily routines that it is difficult to stop and reflect on helping others. Casino Night is our chance to do just that. I especially love that Casino Night is nestled between Christmas and Valentine's Day: two holidays that create the perfect opportunities to give to our families and friends. Casino Night lets us give to people who we may not know but who are so incredibly deserving.

Easter Seals Arkansas is an exceptional organization whose mission is to provide services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. The success of their mission can be seen through the children’s’ faces in the collage I have created below.

The 18th annual Pete Hart Memorial Casino Night will be held Friday February 12th at The Knights of Columbus Hall located across from the Conway Airport. General admission tickets are $15 dollars in advance and $20 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased from a Century 21 Dunaway & Hart agent or at our office located at 575 Harkrider Street, Conway, AR. You may call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 for more information.

Also, call our office, if you are interested in donating an in kind item to this worthwhile cause. We have everything donated so all monies raised can go directly to help children and adults with disabilities.

Limited Corporate Sponsorships are available and the breakdown of sponsorship levels can be in the following flyer:

Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway MSA Named by Forbes among America's Best Bang-For-The-Buck Cities

2009-12-08T14:08:00.001-06:00

Forbes has named the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) including Little Rock, North Little Rock and Conway, Arkansas near the top of their America's Best Bang-For-The-Buck Cities in America. The Little Rock, North Little Rock and Conway MSA ranked in second place out of the 100 largest Metropolitan Statistical Areas in the country. Forbes analyzed a variety of factors including: foreclosures as a percentage of housing units; vacancies; unemployment rates; a three-year job growth forecast; a three-year home price forecast; housing affordability; median real estate taxes; and median travel time to work.

Specifically, the relatively stable housing market was listed as a key component among the top contenders. Conway's housing market has fared well throughout this recession and now is a great time to buy with the extension and expansion of the Homebuyer's Tax Credit and historically low interest rates.

To look at homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc today. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Home Sales Increase Over 10% in October

2009-11-24T10:48:00.003-06:00

According to the National Association of Realtors, existing home sales in the US spiked 10.1% in October, 2009 over September, 2009 sales. The October home sales Homes sales are at their highest levels since February, 2007.

The National Association of Realtors is attributing the large gain in home sales to the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit which was originally set to expire on November 30. With the tax credit extension and expansion in place, homebuyers have until April 20, 2010 to write a contract on a new home. Historically low mortgage rates are also partly responsible for the gain in home sales across the country.

To look at homes for sale in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc today. To look at homes for sale in central Arkansas, check out all the property listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private home or land showing with one of our award winning Real Estate agents today.

Homebuyer Tax Credit Passed by Congress

2009-11-09T10:58:00.001-06:00

According to the National Association of Realtors, the Homebuyer tax credit has not only been renewed, but extended as well. As of last Thursday, November 5, Congress has passed the legislation and it is expected to be signed into law by President Obama.

The current Homebuyer Tax Credit enacted in February 2009 and set to expire on November 30, 2009, allowed a tax credit of $8,000 for married couples ($4,000 for married filing separate) making less than $150,000 with a phase out plan for those making above the income limits. The limit for a single person is $75,000. The new legislation extends the credit through April 30, 2010 and also increases the income limits to $225,000 for married couples and $125,000 for single people with a phase out above those limits. Under the legislation, a first time homebuyer "may not have had an interest in a principal residence for three years prior to purchase." A principal interest can extend beyond a home to include condos, manufactured homes and even an RV if it was a principal residence.

There is also great news in this legislation for existing home owners! There is a $6,500 tax credit available for married couples ($3,250 for married filing separate) making less than $225,000. The limit for a single person is $125,000 with a phase out above those limits. In order to qualify for the current homeowner tax credit, the homeowner "Must have used the home sold as a principal residence consecutively for five of the previous eight years." A binding contract must be written on a property before April 30, 2010 and the homebuyer will have until July 1, 2010 to close the transaction. The tax credit will be claimed on tax return and will not be a part of the closing process.

To look at homes in Conway, Arkansas or in Faulkner County, Conway County or Perry County, contact a Real Estate Agent at Century 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc today. To look at homes, check out home listings in central Arkansas, watch our television show, or read our Central Arkansas Homes Magazine. You may also call our office at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021 to set up a private showing today.

Factors That May Affect Your Property Values

2009-11-03T13:38:00.001-06:00

1. Location, Location, Location - Location is perhaps the single biggest indicator of worth of property, whether it is land or a home.
2. Availability and Current Location of Utilities - Utilities including water, sewer, electric, telephone and natural gas all help determine the value of land. This is only a determining if you have land. However, in a house the type of utilities available can affect you home value. For example, Conway Corp, offered within the City of Conway has traditionally offered competitive utility rates when compared to surrounding areas.
3. Zoning - Zoning is an important indicator of value assuming the property is within the city limits.
4. Floodplain/Floodway Issues - If the property is in the floodplain or floodway your property value may decrease dramatically.
5. Neighborhood - The area surrounding the property is an important factor when determining property worth.
6. Topography - Flat land is usually more valuable than rocky or hilly terrain. Lowland wetlands are less valuable.
7. Waterfront - Being waterfront can add significant value to property whether it is a home or land.
8. Access - Accessing the property is vital in determining property worth, as well as the quality, type, and traffic count of roadway.
9. View - A scenic view makes property more valuable.
10. Mineral Rights - Mineral rights have the potential to provide long term income to the property owner. Whether or not you own the mineral rights to your property can significantly affect your land value.
These are all general guidelines and not intended to replace a comparative market analysis or appraisal of property.
If you would like a Comparative Market Analysis on your house or land, call one of our award winning real estate agents at CENTURY 21 Dunaway & Hart, Inc. at 501-327-2121 or 800-490-0021.