Realtor Dale Warfel

Selling Strategies to Maximize Sale Price

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:07:20 GMT

Most homeowners are unfamiliar with the ebbs and flows of the real estate market. It is well worth educating oneself of the process and details before listing with an agent to sell your home. The agent becomes a key player in the exercise of getting the best price possible. It pays dividends to exercise caution when appointing an agent. Here are a few useful tips when placing your home on the market.

Ask for a detailed plan from title to escrow, so you have no surprises in store.
Request a comprehensive property report, listing suggestions for improvement, superficial changes and anything likely to enhance the selling price.
What are the alternatives to selling like leasing, renting etc.
Insist on prequalification of prospective buyers so you don’t waste time on unqualified prospects.
Ask for a detailed marketing plan that includes telemarketing, direct mail, advertising and any other method suited according to the location of your home.

Selling a San Jose Property

Dale Warfel is a realtor who deals specifically in buying and selling properties in San Jose. This real estate agent with excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills has nearly 13 years of experience, behind him. He is thoroughly versed in the State laws of California and the legalities of purchases and sales. His website at www.dalewarfel.com contains a wealth of useful information for a prospective property seller. Dale Warfel can be contacted on 408.624.6202

Buy energy efficient homes

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 11:38:07 GMT

The public have grown increasingly aware on environmental issues and most consumers are doing their bit by choosing eco friendly products that has a minimal impact on the environment. More and more people are opting for environmentally-friendly, green homes that are energy-efficient and use the minimal amount of scarce resources. Some areas of particular note are listed below:

Are the walls insulated? An insulated wall retains heat in winter and repels it in summer resulting in reduced energy bills.
Are the walls made of an approved environmentally-friendly material?
Is the flooring green-compliant and of a renewable resource?
Do the doors and windows leak? This is a major source of energy loss. Many homes are now being built with Energy-Star rated fitments.
How old is the furnace. Pre-1992 furnaces with a standing pilot are high energy and nearing the end of their efficient life.
Are water lines insulated for heat retention?
Does the landscaping provide trees and shrubs with foliage to block infrared solar radiation?

Dale will help find you an energy efficient home

Dale Warfel is an experienced realtor in the San Jose area who is aware of changing environmental concerns. He is intimately familiar with all the neighborhoods and is able to meet all the requirements of his clients, no matter how exacting. Do visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com to view his listings or specify your requirements on http://dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/Forms/ContactForm.aspx with particular reference to an energy-efficient preference.

Buy energy efficient homes

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 10:18:08 GMT

Are the walls insulated? An insulated wall retains heat in winter and repels it in summer resulting in reduced energy bills.
Are the walls made of an approved environmentally-friendly material?
Is the flooring green-compliant and of a renewable resource?
Do the doors and windows leak? This is a major source of energy loss. Many homes are now being built with Energy-Star rated fitments.
How old is the furnace. Pre-1992 furnaces with a standing pilot are high energy and nearing the end of their efficient life.
Are water lines insulated for heat retention?
Does the landscaping provide trees and shrubs with foliage to block infrared solar radiation?

Dale will help find you an energy efficient home

Short sale negotiation

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 06:22:47 GMT

A short sale is a sale of property when the borrower is in distressed circumstances because of the inability to keep up with mortgage repayments. A short sale is a last resort of a borrower to avoid a foreclosure. Though the lender loses money in a short sale, it is often a preferable alternative as the process is quick and cuts further losses and delays that are associated with the legalities of a foreclosure. Even if lenders have many short sales on their books, the procedure is often daunting for the buyer of the property.

Negotiations start at the ‘Loss Mitigation Department’ of the lender and entails offers and counter offers. A host of documents are involved, which require to be carefully scrutinized. The lender will also wish to see a written contract between the seller and proposed buyer to ensure that the seller stands to gain nothing from the deal.

Dale Warfel, Short Sale Professional

Dale Warfel is a real estate professional whose area is the neighborhoods of San Jose. He is a seasoned realtor who has been buying and selling San Jose homes for nearly 13 years. Dale Warfel is a Certified Short Sale Professional (CSP) and a skilled negotiator, experienced in the thrust and parry of short sale negotiations. Do visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com to know more about his activities. Dale Warfel can relieve you of the frustrations associated with a short sale purchase. He can be contacted at 408.624.6202.

Finding a top-notch realtor

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 03:43:39 GMT

When selling a home, the right real estate professional is absolutely essential. When selecting one, a homeowner should do a little research. A prospective agent should be able to tell the homeowner of his/her marketing strategy and the advertising towards a sale. This helps a homeowner decide whether the real estate agent is capable and able to communicate effectively and convincingly. The homeowner must judge dispassionately if the realtor will present and sell the less obvious assets of a property.

Real estate professionals must necessarily be conversant with the community, know the history of the area and the relevant features and advantages. He or she must be in a position to highlight the advantages in a persuasive and convincing manner. The agent must be able to assess the expected price with a reasonable degree of accuracy and what equivalent properties are asking or have been sold for.

Dale Warfel, Bay Area Realtor

Dale Warfel has been buying and selling real estate in the San Jose neighborhood for nearly 13 years now. He is fully conversant with the area in which he operates and is articulate and credible. To know more of his personal attributes, please click on www.dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/About/Default.aspx. This Bay Area realtor can be contacted on 408.624.6202. His website at www.dalewarfel.com contains a fund of useful information for a prospective home seller.

Types of Home Listings

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 05:34:16 GMT

There are various types of home listings that a potential home seller should know about, before deciding how best to go about selling their home.

The ‘Open Listing’ is used by owners selling their homes directly. The owner is still prepared to work with real estate agents who are permitted to bring prospective clients to view the home. If a sale transpires, the agent earns a commission. In such a case the agent will not put the home on his/her Multiple Listing Service.

A ‘One Time Show’ is for sale by owner (FSBO) used by real estate agents, and is comparable with an open listing. The seller signs the agreement with the buyer if a deal is reached, in which a commission is guaranteed to the agent.

An ‘Exclusive Agency Listing’ authorizes an agency to list and sell a home for a commission. This does not exclude the seller from finding his/her own buyer. This is not a very popular arrangement as there are a number of pitfalls which leaves the agent’s commission unprotected.

An ‘Exclusive Right to Sell’ authorizes an agent to sell exclusively and appoints him/her as a listing agent. The agent is at liberty to appoint sub-agents. In this arrangement even if the buyer sells the property directly, the agent is still liable to commission. This is by far the most popular and successful listing arrangement.

Dale Warfel – Reputed real estate agent

Dale Warfel is a real estate agent based in the California bay area who has earned a reputation for selling homes at the most favorable price. His website www.dalewarfel.com is a mine of information to prospective home sellers. Dale Warfel offers a free comparative market analysis of what a home is worth in the current market. For a full service in home sale, contact Dale Warfel at 408.624.6202.

Home staging

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:33:42 GMT

Home Staging is a little-known profession except to those in the trade. Simply put, home staging is the art of preparing a home for sale to make it look as attractive as possible and at times, to drive the price up. Professional home stagers are experienced in show casing a home to its best advantage. They work by editing and re-arranging furniture, eliminating clutter and assisting in enhancing curb appeal. At times, they might hire rented furnishings to achieve the desired ambience. Professional home stagers charge a fee that might be calculated on an hourly basis or for the whole assignment.

Fine homes for sale in San Jose

Dale Warfel is a long standing Bay Area realtor with vast experience in home sales. His website contains heaps of invaluable information for a potential home seller which may be accessed by clicking on www.dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/RealEstateTips/HomeSelling/Default.aspx . In this, he advises how to prepare a home for sale, what to expect and how best to list it. Dale Warfel offers a free analysis of what a home is worth in the current market environment. This serves as a guide to the asking price and what the bottom line should be. Dale Warfel lists fine homes in the finest San Jose neighborhoods like Blossom Valley, San Teresa, Willow Glen and Almaden Valley. If you intend selling your home, first check with Dale Warfel, who can be contacted on 408.624.6202. You would benefit by studying his website www.dalewarfel.com .

Golfing in San Jose

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:26:25 GMT

The Cinnibar Hills Golf Club has earned encomiums for being the best golf club in San Jose. According to the San Jose Magazine, it has been the best public golf course in the Silicon Valley for 7 consecutive years from 2002 through 2008. The Cinnibar Golf Club is just one of the numerous golf courses in the Bay Area, and one of the 2500 golf courses in California which makes the state the trendiest golfing location in the country. Many of its finest golf courses are in the Bay Area.

California has produced some of the best golfers on the planet. Legendary golfer Tiger Woods, slated to be the best golfer the world has ever seen was born in Cypress, Ca. Another of California’s greats is Phil Mickelson, born in 1970 in San Diego. Not to be left behind, amongst the ladies is Jane Park born in Beaumont, who plays the LPGA tour.

Golf Lovers can invest in a residential property

The Bay Area is a haven for golf aficionados. Contact Dale Warfel, a real estate agent who knows of homes and properties near some of the areas finest golf courses. Dale Warfel has been a San Jose realtor since 1997 and knows every golf course in his beat. Dale can be contacted at 408.624.6202 for a quick response. His website at www.dalewarfel.com features a few of the current listings. Talk to Dale Warfel for homes for sale in Willow Glen, Almaden Valley, Cambrian Park, Midtown, Monte Sereno, Campbell, Rose Garden, Los Gatos and Morgan Hill.

Christmas is a good time to buy a home

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:26:48 GMT

This Christmas might be the best time to buy a home for a number of reasons. It’s a time when not too many buyers are in the market, which means that the demand is low. Owners of properties, homes and condos who have listed their homes for sale are generally more motivated towards the end of the year. This makes them amenable to price negotiations and an early closure. Statistically, homes are at an all-time low during the Christmas season.

Perhaps the over-riding consideration is that the first-time homebuyer’s credit is in force till May 1, 2010. There is no guarantee it will be available next Christmas. However homebuyers must remember this credit applies only to homes used as a taxpayer's principal residence.

Target homes for sale in San Jose

Dale Warfel an experienced realtor in the San Jose area, recommends a Christmas purchase. The key is to check out in advance what homes are listed and close in on a quick deal on the slump season, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. Talk to Dale Warfel to take advantage of the seasonal low in home prices. His technical knowledge combined with excellent negotiation skills makes him the right real estate agent for a home in the Bay Area. Check out his listings at www.dalewarfel.com for homes in Campbell, Coyote, Los Gatos, Palo Alto, Monte Sereno, Midtown, Willow Glen and Almaden Valley.

Federal tax incentives for upgradation of homes

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:54:05 GMT

With today’s increasing energy costs, it makes sense to live in an energy efficient home. If you are contemplating a shift to the San Jose area and the home of your choice is not energy-efficient, there is no need to rule it out.

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, federal tax incentives are available for upgrades to existing homes. Such incentives have been increased to $1500 based on 30% of the improvement cost. These cover heating and air-conditioning upgrades and building envelope improvements including window insulation. 30% credits are available without any ceiling for on-site renewable products like solar hot-water, solar photovoltaic systems, geothermal heat pumps and small wind-powered systems.

The additional expenditure in upgradation of a home is worth it, in terms of savings in utility bills. Upgradation to energy-efficient standards is generally focused on improved performance and efficiency of lighting, heating, cooling, water usage and appliances. A professional energy auditor could conduct a study and furnish a report with suggestions and possible cost savings.

Get a realtor to help you find an energy efficient home

Dale Warfel is a realtor who has been working in the Bay Area for nearly 13 years. He is aware of the shift towards environmentally-friendly, energy-efficient homes and the benefits in such an investment. Dale Warfel will recommend a reliable energy audit company to study a home in San Jose or a neighborhood of your preference and evaluate the savings against increased cost of upgradation. Talk to him at 408.624.6202 or visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com. Above all, if he shows you a home you like and its not energy-efficient, don’t let that deter you.

The U.S. Economy and Real Estate

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 05:28:19 GMT

According to Bloomberg.com, The U.S. economy grew in the third quarter for the first time in more than a year, propelled by stimulus-driven gains in consumer spending and home building. It touched 3.5% from July through September after shrinking the previous four quarters. Household purchases climbed 3.4%, the most in more than two years. While all this augurs well for the future, pessimists predict a slump in the 4^th quarter predicting negative growth of a ‘W’ recession. Nonetheless the rate of job losses fell for the first time in months, which is promising. Job losses being a lagging indicator are a positive sign that there may in fact be a genuine recovery.

Residential construction jumped at a 23 percent annual rate last quarter, the first gain in almost four years and the biggest since 1986. The rebound added 0.5 percentage point to growth. Homebuilding rebounded as sales climbed, propelled in part by an $8,000 tax credit for first-time buyers which has since been extended and Federal purchases of mortgage-backed securities that helped lower borrowing costs.

Real Estate in San Jose

Dale Warfel, a licensed realtor in the San Jose area has for the last few weeks, been advocating investment in real estate, prior to a U turn in prices. Dale Warfel has at his finger tips, the prevailing real-estate statistics in the Bay Area. Do email him at Dale@DaleWarfel.com for a market update on homes in Willow Glen, Almaden Valley and Santa Teresa or any other location in the vast territory he covers. Meanwhile click on his website www.dalewarfel.com for a cross-section of homes for sale in his portfolio.

Is buying a home a sensible investment?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:04:58 GMT

This is a difficult question to answer in the present depressed economic scenario. In normal times when the economy is on an even keel, the thumb-rule in real estate is that a homeowner can reasonably expect an appreciation of five percent per year on the value of the property. Of course other factors will determine this appreciation, like the neighborhood, the amenities and facilities surrounding it. Now this does not sound an attractive return when compared with an investment in treasury bonds, the safest investment of all. For that matter, in normal times an investment in stocks can fetch far more attractive returns. But as mentioned before, these are uncertain times when investment in stocks may not be the most intelligent decision.

Take a practical example in a house investment. Suppose a homeowner invests $400,000 in a house with a 20% down payment of $80,000, which is the homeowner’s capital investment and the balance on mortgage. At a conservative annual appreciation of 5% at the end of the first year, the house would have appreciated by $20,000. This amounts to a 25% return on the initial investment of $80,000, a handsome return-on-investment by any standard.

No doubt mortgage repayments and property taxes are involved. But the interest on mortgage and property taxes are both tax deductible. Added to that is the current tax incentive of $8,000 for first time homeowners. Effectively, the government in its largesse is subsidizing your purchase of a home.

Invest in the California bay area

Dale Warfel is an experienced real estate agent who has worked in the Bay area, California for nearly thirteen years now. He is thoroughly conversant with the economics of a house investment in any district of the territory he covers. Dale Warfel knows the rates of appreciation of every neighborhood and can work out a viable proposal. Do visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com which has a questionnaire under ‘Contact Me’. Dale Warfel will be happy to answer any queries you might have. He can be reached on 408.624.6202.

If you’re selling: Showcase Your Home

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 03:52:22 GMT

When you’ve thought about selling your home and made your decision, you put your home on the market. Prospective buyers need to know what a great home you have. An ‘open house’ is the best way of getting your message across. If your home is in the San Jose area, Dale Warfel a real estate agent backed by a wealth of experience, would be the best person to point you in the right direction. He will advise you on how to present your home for showing. There are a number of little bits and pieces involved in a home-showing ‘open-house’ like publicity, signs etc. Dale and his team will take care of all that.

Dale Warfel will take care of business

As the homeowner, the best way you can contribute to the exercise is by being absent while your home is being viewed. Dale Warfel is skilled and adept at highlighting the finer points and subtly deflecting any deficiencies. If there are any downbeat observations, he plays them down with constructive suggestions. Each person has different likes and dislikes; and tastes seldom run on parallel lines. No homeowner would like to hear negative comments. An open house with the seller being absent makes Dale’s task easier.

Do contact Dale Warfel by visiting his website at www.dalewarfel.com. He has a special page for prospective sellers at

www.dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/Forms/ContactForm.aspx.

Dale Warfel has been selling homes across the length and breadth of the San Jose area for over a decade now. He is abreast of the pluses and minuses of each district and the constantly changing market prices in the current uncertain economy. Nonetheless Dale Warfel has established himself as an adroit realtor and skilled negotiator who fetches his client the best prevailing price.

What should a real estate agent know?

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 05:52:58 GMT

Real estate agents live in the belief that the more they know, the better they are able to negotiate on a client’s behalf. But this is not always the case. Real estate agents could be in three possible positions:

Single-agency which means they represent the buyer exclusively. Nonetheless it is incumbent on the seller to pay commission to both brokers and sub-agents i.e. the broker/agent who has listed the property and the broker/agent representing the buyer.
Sub-agency where the agent represents the seller exclusively and collects commission from the seller.
Dual-agency where the broker/agent represents both buyer and seller. This generally arises when two agents represent the buyer and seller separately in a transaction but work for the same broker. Such a situation is open to conflict of interest. The law however restricts the dual agent from divulging any information to either buyer or seller that has been given in confidence. This relates specifically to price ceilings and counter offers made by other clients.

Some states protect the clients – buyers or sellers – by requiring the agent to disclose his/her status before entering into negotiations. Such a situation will determine the degree of trust the client can repose in the agent.

A buyer can also appoint his own exclusive agent, the commission for which the buyer bears. But in such a condition the exclusive agent can be privy to more information than otherwise.

A realtor who represents you

Dale Warfel is a realtor who operates in the San Jose area and has represented buyers and sellers with transactions in prestigious neighborhoods like Almaden Valley, Rose Garden, Willow Glen and Santa Teresa. Dale Warfel is known for his negotiating skills and thorough knowledge of applicable California laws. Do visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com for current listings.

Some Dos and Don’ts for home buyers

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 11:14:36 GMT

The prevailing recession has turned the real estate industry into a buyer’s market. The market is flooded with an enormous choice of listed homes, many at prices well below what they are actually worth. Despite this, a first time home buyer should exercise caution and avoid all possible pitfalls. The following are some useful suggestions to keep in mind:

Ensure you have pre-approval for a home mortgage which should be given to you in writing. There’s nothing more dispiriting than a last-minute credit problem that requires resolving.

Approach an experienced real estate agent who has been recommended. Nonetheless check out his references and website. Meet him/her first and satisfy yourself that he/she understands your requirement and meets your needs. If you’re planning to buy a home in the San Jose neighborhood, Dale Warfel is an experienced realtor who knows the area intimately.

Before making an offer, get a comparative market analysis. This is where Dale Warfel with his vast experience can be of help. Dale Warfel will give you a fair estimate with the justification to support his calculation.

Be dispassionate when making a selection. Every home has some disadvantage but never compromise by accepting one with a serious defect.

Ensure you have appropriate contingency clauses built into your preliminary agreement and that the seller consents to a professional inspection.

Get the right advice on buying and selling

Dale Warfel will give you all the professional guidance as a potential home buyer. Do contact him at 408.624.6202 for a quick response. Meanwhile visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com for useful advice to buyers and see some market listings.

Property Value Assessment

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 05:59:33 GMT

Assessing the correct price for a property is the first step towards concluding a transaction for both buyer and seller. Some of the variables that go toward property price determination are as follows.

One of the prime considerations is the neighborhood. The prices at which comparable properties have been bought and sold in the recent past are a useful yardstick. A neighborhood which is conveniently located and where the streets and houses are well maintained, commands premium prices.
Schools in the area are another factor. A neighborhood with good, easily accessible schools, adds to the value.
Facilities such as shopping and leisure activities are important. Suitably located shopping centers and facilities for recreation and entertainment are a big plus point.
In this day of high crime, the crime rate of a locality plays a big role. A high crime rate is a deterrent which has a negative impact on property price in a neighborhood.
City planning or zoning which projects the future plans of the neighborhood has an important bearing. If better amenities are on the drawing board for the near future, then this reflects on enhanced property value.
The economic situation is a large determinant. In the current bleeding economy for example, property prices are depressed. However when the economy recovers it will reflect in rising property value.

Overall, it is difficult to put a price on a property without the necessary expertise. This is where the services of a good, experienced realtor become invaluable. Dale Warfel is a real estate agent in the San Jose area. He has been in the business long enough to have the answers to all the foregoing variables. Whether you are buying or selling, Dale Warfel will give you a free assessment of the price of a San Jose property.

Do visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com. It contains invaluable information for buyers and sellers. Dale Warfel can be contacted at 408.583.3681.

Market Conditions dictate Your Offer Price

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:11:05 GMT

Today’s depressed economic environment makes the real estate picture a ‘buyers market’. Many properties are put up for sale and may remain on the market for an extended period of time. Offers are sporadic and well below expectations. In some situations when the price of the property is commensurate with the market, a counter-offer is made that is well below a fair price. A property may remain unsold for a period that would force the owner to rethink the asking price. If the seller is determined and constrained to sell, even a low offer becomes a starting point to open negotiations.

Conversely when the economy is flourishing the real estate market becomes a ‘sellers market’. At this time a seller can start with a slightly inflated asking price as the basis of negotiation. The response is generally results in multiple offers. Sometimes when a buyer is determined, homes are known to be sold, above the asking price. Often a deal is struck within days of the property being listed.

Buying a home – an optimistic move

The recent global economic depression appears to have played itself out with an optimistic outlook for the months ahead. The present transition phase is the best time to consider a property investment. If you are thinking of buying a home in the San Jose area, either as an investment or as a residence, then Dale Warfel an experienced realtor will be of immeasurable assistance. Dale Warfel has been dealing in real estate in the Bay Area for over decade now and is fully conversant with property prices in all environments. He is a real estate agent who stands by his client till every last detail is complete. Do visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com to know more of the current list of San Jose properties.

‘Go West Young Man’

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:08:28 GMT

‘Go West young man, and grow up with the country’ were the stirring words penned in 1851 in an editorial for the ‘Terre Haute Express’. The exhortation served as a mantra to many an immigrant who blazed a trail west to the Pacific and made California the state it is today. It was one of the most exciting times in American history, a landmark phenomenon with opportunity and adventure for many young men of that time.

Head west to California

California was the state that attracted settlers like a magnet right from the days of the Gold Rush of 1848. They came in droves, not merely from America, but as far away as Australia, Europe and South America to make San Francisco a boomtown from a dusty little settlement. The trend continues but yesterday’s goldfields are today’s thriving hubs of technology, agriculture and entertainment.

The San Jose area is where many people choose to buy their homes. San Jose boasts some incredible neighborhoods, each with a charm of its own. Homes, with excellent surrounding facilities, are available to suit all budgets. Dale Warfel a long established realtor has been finding people homes in such flourishing neighborhoods like Blossom Valley, Willow Glen, Downtown San Jose and the Almaden Valley. As a local real estate agent, he is familiar with schools, colleges, hospitals, shopping facilities, transportation and all other aspects that a prospective homeowner would like to know about. Because Dale Warfel knows the area like the back of his hand, house hunting becomes that much easier.

Do contact Dale Warfel at 408.583.3681 or email him at Dale@DaleWarfel.com for a quick response. Meanwhile do peruse his website at dalewarfel.com to know what’s available in the list of San Jose homes.

Is the recession over?

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 02:14:24 GMT

The global recession took its toll on the economy of the United States, as hard as it did in most parts of the world, or perhaps much harder. Pink slips flurried like confetti, heralding the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs. Consumers stopped spending. Mortgage payments could not be met. Many homes were up for sale with no takers. Some homes were even abandoned. Like all other industries, real estate was badly hit. Prices touched rock bottom. It was almost a rerun of the Great Depression.

Judging by recent trends in many countries it would appear that the recession is climbing out of the valley. The upswing is yet to catch up in the US, but it will inevitably. Company executives wear hesitant smiles as they cautiously look to rehire. When that begins consumers will start spending again … cautiously at first, but spend they will. The economy, like a sleeping giant, will wake up again. And with it, so will real estate prices.

Now is the time to invest in a new home

If you had plans to invest in a home but had shelved the idea, now is the time to rethink that decision. Dale Warfel is a licensed realtor who covers the San Jose area. Dale has some wonderful properties in the Santa Clara County communities of San Jose, Willow Glen, Almaden Valley, Blossom Valley, Morgan Hill, Gilroy, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Campbell, Cambrian, Cupertino, and Palo Alto, listed on his website. You can view these at www.dalewarfel.com then give him a call at (408) 624-6202. Make a quick decision before real estate prices hit recovery mode.

Real estate properties in California

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:49:45 GMT

Many people are making investments in property, especially in the San Jose area. The prevailing economic downturn and consequent plummeting of real-estate prices has come as a bonanza to such investors and also to many home buyers. But currently the depression appears to have bottomed out, which is a good time to buy real estate properties in California. If the financial soothsayers are right, then escalation in property prices is on the horizon.

There are many criteria to consider when making a property investment if the real estate venture is to be a success. After deciding on the amount available, the buyer must actively search for a property within the price range. This is where the skills of an experienced real estate professional become indispensable.

Why hire a real estate agent?

If the intention is investment in rental property, a realtor can point to areas that are popular with renters where tenants are easily found. Alternatively if profit is the objective then the realtor will identify properties in areas with a good resale value. A good real estate agent takes the researching out of the equation.

Dale Warfel is a licensed realtor who has been working in the San Jose area for over a decade. He understands the needs of his client and identifies properties with a fair and reasonable asking price, free of legal issues. Dale could be emailed at dale@dalewarfel.com, or you might like to visit his website at www.dalewarfel.com

Buy your home before the recession lifts

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:01:20 GMT

Economy wizards predict the end of the recession. All indicators lead to a resurgence in the economy. As always, the real estate industry was one of the first to be affected. With an upswing in the economy, real estate prices which had touched a new low will slowly start to revive … then gain momentum. So if you have plans of buying a home, now is the time to shift gear.

Buying a home is an enormous decision entailing a number of legalities and a long-term financial commitment. Prospective home owners who will spend the good part of their lives in their new home cannot afford to make a mistake. They have to be certain of the area they have selected. Some examples: check out the facilities like schools, department stores, hospitals and churches; how accessible is the neighborhood? Satisfy yourself on these counts before making a decision.

Dale Warfel can help

Dale Warfel is an experienced real estate agent who has been working in the San Jose area. He knows the district intimately, having bought and sold real estate properties in Silicon Valley since 1997. Dale knows what’s right for his clients and takes them through the neighborhood facilities. He is on top of prevailing market prices and can assess the correct price of a property. Dale is a licensed realtor who guides his clients in all aspects of purchasing a home, right from mortgage stage, through the maze of legal formalities, till transfer of possession documentation. Check out some of the properties he has on offer on his website www.dalewarfel.com.

Appraisal Fraud

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:52:55 GMT

I recently met a prospective home buyer who was in a somewhat intriguing situation if it wasn’t so unfortunate. She was the process of buying a condo in Milpitas, Santa Clara County, Ca. and found to her shock and surprise, that the appraisal report was completely erroneous. Not only was the data wrong, but even the pictures of the home were incorrect. By strange coincidence however, the only accurate detail was the value of the condo which matched the sale price almost to a dollar. She contacted the builder/lender who apologized profusely and assured her the report was under correction. When nothing happened she called the appraiser who stated emphatically that he had received no such request for correction. Now she’s being strong-armed by the loan processors into signing an appraisal report delivery waiver form. She asked my advice.

‘Put it behind you and go to a reputed realtor’

That was the advice I gave her along with Dale Warfel’s telephone number. Dale Warfel, a California licensed realtor, has been in the real estate business for over 12 years and knows San Jose properties like the street on which he lives. Dale’s website at www.dalewarfel.com is a mine of useful information, including the tricky little legal bits. Dale has a feel for what his clients want and makes sure his recommendations are clear and above board. What’s more he stands shoulder to shoulder with his client till delivery of documents.

My home buyer took my advice and filled in the form on Dale’s webpage http://dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/RealEstateTips/HomeBuying/Default.aspx. She is now happily closing in on another condo, in the same area.

Pricing a home for sale

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 03:28:09 GMT

People sell homes for several reasons. When a decision is made, the property has to be priced. Pricing a home is a science by itself in which several factors play a role. An owner must know the prevailing prices in the neighborhood and make appropriate adjustments. The condition of the property is a major factor. A prospective buyer would like to know how much money has to be spent on any repairs or maintenance.

Overpricing a property has detrimental effects. Often this results in no takers, till the listing expires. The homeowner is forced to reduce the price by which time the property is gaining something of a reputation. Ultimately the owner might be forced to approach an agent – and there are many – who specialize in revaluating expired listings, often well below what they are worth.

Why Dale Warfel?

Dale Warfel is a licensed realtor who has been working in the San Jose area for over 12 years. He knows the territory intimately and the property trends in every neighborhood of every county. Sensitive to a seller’s mixed emotions, Dale is an agent who works to get his client the best possible price. What’s more, he gives you a market analysis of your home at no charge and without obligation. Just fill out the details on http://dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/About/Default.aspx . If you have a home for sale in the Bay Area, give Dale a call at 408 624-6202 or email him at Dale@DaleWarfel.com .

Dale Warfel Earns REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER™ Certification

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:49:02 GMT

Dale Warfel has successfully completed the REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER™ certification to join an elite group of real estate professionals who have earned the prestigious certification offered through the National Institute of Webographers, LLC (www.webographers.com).

Dale has successfully completed 12 short courses which include: Online Business Strategy, Agent Websites, Single-property Websites, Lead Generation and Management, Virtual Tours, CMA and AVM technology, Neighborhood Search, Online Transaction Management, Electronic Forms, Virtual Assistants, Mobile Technologies and Blogs. Read more...

Professional News:

I just got back from a 2-day short sale training class in Rancho Cucamonga, where I completed studies for and earned the Pre-Foreclosure Specialist Certification (PSC). As the practice of listing and selling short sales is evolving rapidly, ongoing training is required to ensure that I will always offer the highest level of service and care to my clients. Topics included setting seller expectations, evaluating the probability of short sale success, working with loss mitigation, short sale ramifications, effective short sale negotiating strategies, short sale best practices, and more.

If you have a friend, co-worker, or family member that purchased their house in 2005 or 2006 with little or no money down, it is possible that they may be at risk of foreclosure. I would be happy to talk with them and discuss alternatives to foreclosure. Please call or e-mail me with their name and best number to reach them. I'll be sure to take great care of them.

Do You Need A Referral?

If you are needing a referral for a qualified service provider, chances are that I have someone in my database that can help. From a printer to a sign maker, from a landscape contractor to a hair stylist, I have an excellent list of resources. E-mail me at Dale@DaleWarfel.com and let me know how I can assist you.

Looking for a Home? (or What’s Happening in My Neighborhood?)

Are you looking for a private, secure place to search for real estate? Would you like to know what's happening in your neighborhood? My MLS Advisor Service provides up to date information on listing activity in your area or in any Bay Area region you choose. Search for active listings, properties in escrow, price reductions, and much more. Take a test drive!
Go to: www.DaleWarfel.com and click on MLS Search.

PENDING SALE!
Beautiful Santa Clara Home near Rivermark
4660 Wilcox Avenue, Santa Clara
3 Bedrooms / 2.5 Bathrooms / Approx. 1,473 Sq. Ft.

This beautiful 2 story home features gorgeous tile floors downstairs, an open kitchen with light wood cabinets, granite counters, and plenty of storage, attached 2 car garage, and is close to Cisco, Mission College, Rivermark and more. The low maintenance back yard is perfect for busy professionals who just want a place to relax after a long day at work.

Go to http://dalewarfel.com/ for more details.
This home is listed at $525,000.

PENDING SALE!
4 Years New Penthouse Condo in Rivermark (Santa Clara)
3901 Lick Mill Blvd., Unit 443
1 Bedrooms / 1 Bathrooms / Approx. 908 Sq. Ft.

Gorgeous Penthouse Unit with soaring Cathedral Ceilings in Living Room. This spacious 1 bed/1 bath unit is like new. The sellers added a double door entry to the dining room, so it could also be used as an private office or 2nd bedroom. Enjoy the living room fireplace, functional kitchen with a gas range, granite counters and stainless appliances, west facing deck, and panoramic views! This beautiful home is located in the Miraval community, which offers many amenities including a pool and spa, workout room, theater, and more! Priced to sell, this unit won't last.

Go to http://dalewarfel.com/ for more details.
This home is listed at $330,000.

SOLD!
Tri-Plex 2 Blocks from SJSU
112 N 9th Street, San Jose
- 1 ea - 2 Bed/1 Bath unit
- 2 ea - 1 Bed/1 Bath units
Approx. 1,700 Sq. Ft.

Who says lightning doesn't strike three times! This wonderful, fully occupied triplex provides good cash flow and the potential to have positive cash flow with a reasonable down payment. This property features individual 1 car garages (deep enough to park two small cars in tandem!) for each unit. The kitchen in the two bedroom unit was remodeled with new cabinets and counters last year, and the roof is only 3 years old.

Go to http://dalewarfel.com/ for more details.
This property sold for $380,000.

Thank You:

Thank you to Michael C. and Paul H. for your referrals.

Market Update

The median price for single-family, re-sale homes rose 8.1% in July compared to June, and it is now at its highest level since last September. Year-over-year, the median price was off 15.6% The average price gained 3.7%, month-over-month. It has risen eight months in a row. Year-over-year, the average price was off 18%.

Home sales increased, year-over-year, by 25% in July. This is the thirteenth month in a row homes sales have been up compared to the year before. Year-to-date, home sales are up 25.3%.

Inventory continued falling in July, and it is now off 57.8% year-over-year. Pending sales, which is a leading indicator, was up 30.2% compared to last July.

The sales price to list price ratio for homes rose 0.22 of a point to 97.83%.

Condo sales rose 4.8% from June, and were up 16.9% year-over-year.

The median price for condos fell 4.4% from June, and it was off 29.3% compared to last July. The average price fell 3.9%, month-over-month, and was down 26.2% compared to July 2008.

Condo inventory was down 59.1% year-over-year, while pending sales were up 42.9%.

The sales price to list price ratio for condos rose .62% to 98.53%.

For your requirements in buying or selling properties in San Jose, especially in the communities of Almaden Valley and Willow Glen, contact me via email at: Dale@DaleWarfel.com.

Legal aspects of foreclosed properties in California

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:41:23 GMT

In the current economic depression, many foreclosed properties are up for sale. While this unfortunate scenario has caused considerable heartbreak, it has been a boon to many prospective home buyers who are fortunate enough to be able to make a purchase in the current scenario. Additionally, it is also an opportunity to those wishing to make a property investment in California. Banks and other lenders often find it advantageous to cut their losses by selling a foreclosed property at heavily discounted prices to recover their investment.

California is a title theory state where a loan is secured by a mortgage or deed of trust until the underlying loan is paid in full. California is a consumer friendly state where the rules governing foreclosures are often complex. A non-judicial foreclosure, which does not involve court action, is normally the primary method adopted. Usually in California it takes a minimum of 120 days to effect an uncontested non-judicial foreclosure.

Foreclosure purchases in the San Jose Area

To purchase a foreclosed property either as a future home or investment it is advisable to retain the services of a reliable and dynamic realtor who knows the territory and the complex foreclosed property legalities. Dale Warfel is a licensed realtor who has been working in the Bay Area for over a decade. He constantly updates himself with the increasing list of foreclosed properties and is conversant with the legal process. Dale can advise his clients of the property’s condition and has a realistic price to offer when bidding at a sight-unseen auction. You can reference Dale’s free multiple listing service for updated details of bank-owned homes for sale in San Jose, distressed properties and foreclosed homes. Further details are available on his webpage http://dalewarfel.com/Nav.aspx/Page=/PageManager/Default.aspx/PageID%3d2120216 or you can email him at dale@dalewarfel.com .