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Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

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September Real Estate Update

September Real Estate Update

Three Sanity-Saving Tips For Moving-In Day

Three Sanity-Saving Tips For Moving-In Day

Using Gift Money For Down Payments

Using Gift Money For Down Payments

Focus On Functionality When Buying Your Home

Focus On Functionality When Buying Your Home

What Sellers Should Know About Pets and Showings

What Sellers Should Know About Pets and Showings

What Makes A Home a Good Buy?

What Makes A Home a Good Buy?

3 Home Improvement Projects That Last a Lifetime

3 Home Improvement Projects That Last a Lifetime

Secure Your Home With Cutting-Edge Technology While

Secure Your Home With Cutting-Edge Technology While

On a Budget

On a Budget

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Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

818-879-0800

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

www.aslanian-team.com

Rates Pushed Lower

Mortgage Rates
Source: Realty Times

n Freddie Mac's results of its

Primary Mortgage Market Survey the


30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged
3.84% for the week ending August 28,
2015.
A year ago at this time, the 30-year
FRM averaged 4.10%.
Events in China generated
eye-catching volatility in equity markets
worldwide over the past week. Amidst all
this confusion, the 30-year mortgage rate
dropped to 3.84 percent, the lowest mark

2 Common Mortgage
Deal Delays

last-minute

problem with financing can


quickly delay a closing on a
home sale. Here are two of the most
common financing problems that can
surface:
Failure to disclose key financial
information. One of the biggest reasons
for a financial issue. Buyers who are not
forthright about their financial
circumstances can face a delay. Lenders
will quickly find borrowers who are
behind on child support obligations or
real estate taxes, for example.
Running up credit as a mortgage
application is pending. Lenders will
recheck borrowers' credit right before the
closing date. If new debt obligations
suddenly appear, that can be a red flag
to a lender. Prior to making any large
purchases prior to closing, borrowers
should check with their lender.

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Signs Indicate No
Drop-Off for Home Sales

t appears existing

home sales won't drop off


at the end of the summer,
as sales contracts rose modestly in July,
U.S. averages as of August 28, 2015:
reflecting an overall upward trend for the
30 yr. fixed: 3.84%
past seven months, according to
15 yr. fixed: 3.06%
National Association of REALTORS
1 yr. adj:
2.62%
data.
The housing market has begun the
since May and the fifth consecutive week second half of 2015 on an upbeat note,
with a rate below 4 percent.
with NAR's Pending Home Sales Index a forward-looking indicator based on
Good Landscaping
contract signings - inching up 0.5 percent
in July to 110.9. It is now 7.4 percent
Draws in Buyers
above year-ago levels.
"Led by a solid gain in the Northeast,
contract activity in most of the country
held steady last month, which bodes well
n this fast moving real
for existing-sales to maintain their recent
elevated pace to close out the summer,"
estate market, curb appeal
says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence
is particularly important for
Yun. "While demand and sales continue
a home seller. Here are some tips for
to be stronger than earlier this year,
hiring a landscaper who will do a good
REALTORS have reported since the
job at a reasonable price.
spring that available listings in affordable
Review a portfolio. A neighbor's
price ranges remain elusive for some
recommendation is a good starting point, buyers trying to reach the market and are
but it is also worthwhile to examine other likely holding back sales from being more
jobs the landscaper has done and ask for robust."
references. Hiring someone who isn't
Housing inventory shortages likely will
reliable, doesn't finish the job or who
persist into the fall, which will also
uses unhealthy plants is a big mistake.
prompt existing-home prices to continue
Consider maintenance. Asking for a to rise, Yun notes. The national median
existing-home price will likely rise 6.3
low-maintenance design will ensure that
percent this year to $221,400, according
even if the home owner isn't able to
to NAR. Existing-home sales also are
spend hours on the task, the lawn will
expected to rise by 7.1 percent this year,
continue to look good.
totaling 5.29 million. That's still about 25
Know what good landscaping is
worth. It can't hurt to let a potential buyer percent below the 2005 peak of 7.08
million.
know what the value of the trees and
shrubs are.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

Three Sanity-Saving Tips For Moving-In Day


By PJ Wade

No matter how intensely you prepare for moving day, you


may still face problems if you overlook three sanity-defeating
challenges. Can you and your partner really think clearly when
swamped by distractions, exhaustion, and disorientation?
Adopt these 3 Crucial Sanity-Saving Tips for living happily
beyond moving day and you'll make settling into your new home
a great success:
#1: Anticipate Distraction and Prepare to Think Ahead:
Distraction is not a physical state, but a mental one. In a car,
you can have both hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, cell
etc off, and still be distracted while driving. The moving
experience represents a huge mental distraction, so that what
you say to new neighbors can get you off on the wrong foot in
spite of your best intentions. With your head packed full of
moving details and your brain in a state of exhaustion from
moving out of your last home and preparing to set up your new
home, you are not as in charge of your brain and your mouth as
usual.
Acknowledge you'll be distracted and be prepared. Just as
celebrities prepare responses for paparazzi, think about what
you want to say before the day arrives. If a wildfire of
neighborhood curiosity engulfs you, how will you respond
to:"What did you pay for the house?" or "Why did you have to
move?" When asked personal questions about family and your
occupation, a light-handed, but respectful response in "love to
tell you more later"-style may be a friendlier response than
disjointed descriptions or "not now please" rebuffs. Make
politeness your goal for the day even if neighbor behavior tests
your resolve.
#2 Fight Exhaustion and Prepare for Energy Plus: The
sustained physical and mental stress of moving out of the old
home and into the new one, even if you have lots of help, will
disrupt your routines. Fast-food and junk food may seem like an
easy fix, but your exhausted moving team (including you) needs
more substance to be continually refreshed and recharged
during the moving process. Expect this and stock up on
nutritional supplements, healthy quick foods, bottled water,
non-sugar drinks, and fruit, and encourage catnaps whenever
feasible. Avoid sugar, caffeine, and alcohol until after the last
box is safely inside and the moving truck leaves. Resolve to

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crash after everything is done not during a crisis.


#3 Counteract Disorientation & Prepare for the Worst :
In even the most cohesive enclaves, there are undercurrents
of past grievances, real and imagined, so step carefully. You
will not know what sentiments were left behind by the previous
owners.

Many of the new introductions may not stick, so prepare to


re-greet. There's no way you'll remember who everyone is and
who all the kids belong to.

Don't expect to have time to search solutions on your


phone&emdash;if you can find it! If you're new to the area,
make a list of the phone number and address for the nearest
hardware store (with key cutting), grocery store, medical clinic,
pharmacy, bank/ATM, and gas station in case an emergency
run is required.

Neighbors usually only want to help, but they can be drains


on attention, energy, and good humor. Decide who is doing
what during the move, so one partner isn't trapped entertaining
neighbors while the other slaves in fuming silence.

If you have very private or expensive things that you don't


want the entire neighborhood to see, box or bag these
treasures them.

Decide which typical moving-in problems would be a big deal


for you and prepare for the worst, so you'll achieve the best
outcome possible.

Parking issues regarding the moving truck and helpers' cars


represent another prepare-ahead detail.

Engage your real estate professional to ensure you'll receive


the right keys and copies when you expect to. Also ask what
happens if there is a closing delay and the keys are not
available. Who will pay any costs of this delay including issues
with the moving truck?
You may be on top of all the hundreds of details involved in
moving your family, but a successful move hinges on preparing
to head off these three sanity-defeating problems
distractions, exhaustion, and disorientation before they
"move in" on moving day.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

Using Gift Money For Down Payments


By Blanche Evans

To take advantage of low interest rates while home prices


climb higher and higher, some homebuyers need help
accumulating enough money for a down-payment. To satisfy
secondary market loan package purchasers such as Fannie
Mae and Freddie Mac and insurers like the Federal Housing
Authority, lenders have strict rules about where down-payment
money originates.
Lenders prefer that borrowers supply their own
down-payment funds. It shows they have "skin in the game" and
that they are good with money and can meet their financial
goals. But thanks to the Great Recession and the slow road
back to recovery, many homebuyers are turning to their parents,
grandparents and other family or friends for help.
Research in 2015 from loanDepot LLC, found that more
parents are planning on helping their Millennial-age kids buy
homes. In the last five years, 13 percent of parents pitched in
with down payments, covering closing costs, or co-signing the
loan but lenders anticipate that fully 17 percent of parents will
help their kids.
Because gifts are a gray area, lenders are requiring more
documentation for down payment monies. For example, a
parent may provide a few thousand dollars to an adult child to
use as a down payment -- but is the money a gift or a loan?
Lenders may require borrowers and gift-givers to provide a
certified down-payment gift letter or to sign an affidavit.
Such affidavits must include:
The amount of the gift, accompanied by a corresponding

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Opportunity

cashier's check.
The name and address of the gift-giver and relationship the
gift-giver has to the homebuyer.
The purpose of the gift -- to be used only as a down payment
on the subject property, complete with the property's address.
A statement confirming that the gift is not a loan, and does
not need to be repaid.
Signatures of the borrower and the gift-giver.
Because lenders require a paper trail, allowing parents to
simply transfer money into the borrower's account to mix with
the borrower's funds is discouraged. First, a large deposit raises
the borrower's income and alters the bank statements, possibly
allowing a borrower to qualify for a home that in reality is too
expensive. And don't think underwriters won't find it. One of the
first things they do is examine your bank accounts.
If you want to get a conventional loan, Quicken Loans
advises the following:
If you put down 20% or more, it can all be from a gift.
If you put down less than 20%, part of the money can be a
gift; how much varies by loan type.
You can only use gift money on primary residences and
second homes.
For FHA and VA loans, all of your down payment can be gift
money. If your credit score is between 580 and 619, at least
3.5% of your down payment must be your own money. You can
only use gift money on primary residences. If you're planning to
use gift money as part or all of your down payment, ask your
lender how to meet the appropriate requirements.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

Focus On Functionality When


Buying Your Home
By Blanche Evans

You have to live somewhere. For most of us, the choice is


simply functional -- we all need food, clothing, and shelter, but
we also want our homes to function well for our needs and
preferences.

more affordably than renting.

You may want more room, privacy, and better access to


certain amenities, schools, family or work. You may want a
different lifestyle that your current neighborhood doesn't foster.
You may want the autonomy to choose and change the style of
your home so you can enjoy your surroundings with your own
dcor. You may want a home that allows you to expand your
interests, such as cooking in a larger kitchen, creating art in a
studio, or having a large back yard for gardening and
entertaining.

Functionality is about how the home itself can serve you.


Square footage can indicate if a home is large enough to have
the features you want, but you won't know until you go inside if
the floorplan, features and number of beds and baths suit your
wish list.

Let's say that you find a 2400-square foot home for sale or
lease. You may be able to rent it for $1.25 per square foot, or
$3,000 per month, but you can buy the property for $1.65 per
Functionality begins with making a good decision, based on square foot or $400,000. When you finance the same property
your requirements and what you can afford. Whether you rent or over 30 years, your payment is closer to $1,900. Add in typical
buy, you decide which home to choose based on affordability,
property taxes and hazard insurance, and you're at about
availability and functionality.
$2,700 per month, making buying the home a better choice for
the long term.
Renting is a great option for the short term, when you're
building your savings and may have another move or two before
You trade the mobility of renting for the opportunity to build
settling down to a home of your own. The functions of renting
equity. When you own a home, it usually takes several years of
are independence, affordability, and mobility. As your life
ownership before you can build enough equity to cover your
matures, you may become more interested in homebuying
transaction costs, making owning a home a long-term
because your ideas of functionality may change.
investment.

As your preferences become more focused and as the


needs of your household change, you may find that owning a
home is more suitable for your lifestyle. But, affordability has to
be part of the function. In most areas, you can buy a home

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Opportunity

Choosing a home is really about how you want to use the


space you have. As the owner, you have the option to leave
things as they are or you can add or remove features as you
wish, to improve the functionality of your home.
Whether you rent or buy, choosing a home is about getting
the most benefit for your money. It should be a decision based
on how well the location, space, and design can serve your
needs and pocketbook.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

What Sellers Should Know


About Pets and Showings
By Blanche Evans
Buyers and their agents need to feel welcome to look at the
property at their leisure without danger or distractions. So while
you adore your sweet-tempered pit bull rescue, he could turn
territorial, barking and growling at potential homebuyers. And it
could cost you the opportunity to sell your home.
Think of buyers as guests and work to make them feel
comfortable as they consider your home for purchase. If you
have a protective dog or one that isn't well-trained, drop her off
at doggie day care when you know your home is going to be
shown. Or call a pet sitter on call who can take your pet for a
long walk while your home is being shown.
If you must leave the dog at home, don't expect real estate
professionals to handle your dog. They are not dog trainers and
should not be expected to risk a dog bite to show your home to
buyers. This is where crate-training can be a huge advantage.
At least your dog is secured and more inclined to relax while
your home is being shown.
What you should not do is leave your dog loose in the
backyard. Not only does the buyer not have access to part of
the property, but your dog could bark so much that the din
drives the buyer out of the house. Also, don't leave your dog at
the neighbor's. It's just as bad if the buyer believes a noisy dog
lives next door.
Housecats can also repel buyers. Most homes aren't

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Opportunity

designed with a convenient place for the litter box, so cat


owners do the best they can. Owners get used to the smells of
catboxes and fishy foods, which could be offensive to buyers
who don't have cats.
While buyers aren't afraid of being cat-attacked, cats can
still be startling -- they appear silently without warning and they
jump on furniture and counters. And if you've taught your cat to
jump on your shoulders, you can imagine what could happen to
an unsuspecting buyer.
Exotic pets can be showing-stoppers, too. Birds are
gorgeous, but a puffed-up screeching cockatoo can be
intimidating and dangerous. Imagine a buyer bringing small
children who can't resist sticking their fingers in the cage and
quickly get rewarded with a nasty bite from a very strong beak.
When you're selling a home, keep in mind that the first two
weeks on the market are crucial. That's the time you want your
home to be pristine and move-in ready.
You don't want any noise, smells or stains that could put
buyers off.
Sell your home faster and for more money by making your
home as inviting and accessible as possible, so that buyers
have no barriers to overcome. Accessibility to your home is just
as important as price, condition and location.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

What Makes A Home a Good Buy?


By Blanche Evans

There's no perfect home, but some homes are more ideal


for your household than others. When you look for your next
home, carefully consider these four criteria price, features,
location and condition. The closer you get to meeting all four
criteria, the better your chances are of making a good buy.
Price:
In any market, price has to come first. To determine what
you can comfortably afford, talk to your real estate professional.
He or she can recommend a lender who will prequalify you for a
purchase loan. When you know how much you can spend, it will
be easier to shop for homes within your price range. With luck,
one will stand out.

Location:
Some areas will always be more expensive to live in than
others. Neighborhoods that are well-kept tend to maintain
higher home values. Homes that are close to jobs, schools and
shopping centers tend to sell for more money than homes
without as much infrastructure.
What is the best home you can find in the area where you
want to live? If these homes are out of your range, you can
compromise -- buy a smaller home or a home that needs lots of
work in the best neighborhood you can afford.
Condition:

Condition refers to the state of repair. Does the home have


curb appeal? Is it updated and well-maintained, or does it need
The size of your household and your activities determine the extensive and expensive remodeling? Carefully consider any
features you want in your next home. The number of bedrooms, deferred maintenance, such as a roof that may need to be
baths and living areas are a matter of comfort and convenience. replaced in only a few years. Consider the design and
You may want an extra bedroom for guests or a second master functionality -- is the kitchen too small and would you be able to
afford to remodel it? Look closely at repairs, cleanliness and
suite for parents.
traffic flow.
If you work a lot at home, you'll want a private home office
The one advantage of buying a home that needs updates
or a computer nook. You may want a playroom for the kids, a
and repairs is that these homes cost less than updated homes
separate laundry area, and fenced yard and covered patio for
in the same neighborhood.
entertaining. An eat-in kitchen may be more important to you
than a formal dining room. You may want an outdoor kitchen or
Be prepared to compromise. Don't frustrate yourself or your
at least an entertainment area.
family looking for perfection. Sometimes the home of your
dreams doesn't have every feature on your checklist, or it may
Think about your daily life from morning to bedtime, and
be a little further away than your favorite neighborhood, but
how your next home can make these activities more pleasant.
you'll be happy if it has most of criteria you want at the price you
This should be your "must-have" list, and will help you look at
can afford.
homes more objectively.
Features:

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Opportunity

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

3 Home Improvement Projects


That Last a Lifetime
By Realty Times Staff

Thinking of remodeling your home? Before you splurge on a


finished basement or a new kitchen, make sure you choose a
home improvement project that will add to your home's lifetime
value. Check out Remodeling Magazine's 2015 Cost vs. Value
report for projects with the highest ROI. Three home
improvement projects we like:
Get a New Roof
Although adding a new roof isnt as exciting as a major
kitchen remodel or a new deck, this improvement can
significantly improve the appearance of your home and, it
boasts a national average ROI of 71 percent, according to the
Remodeling Magazine report.
Champion Home Exteriors offers lifetime shingles with
advanced protection technology.

door can recoup 101 percent of the project's total cost when it
comes time to sell.
However, if you plan to spend a little more time in your
home and youre not looking to sell, you can enjoy the perks of
having a steel door. One example: Steel doors make your home
more energy-efficient, Energy.gov reports.
Most steel doors have a magnetic weatherstripping that
seals up nicely when the door is closed, which can help to keep
your energy use down.
A steel door is also easily customizable, so if you decide to
repaint your home a new color in the future, you can simply
paint the door to complement the new exterior color.
Install New Flooring

Wood flooring can last up to a century. Its classic and can


The special shingles are specially constructed with materials
fit a wide range of different styles and designs, from modern to
that cause less harm to the environment than traditional types,
historic homes. Keeping wood floors like new doesnt take
and the lifetime shingles offer superior protection to your home
much work, either. A little elbow grease and the right cleaning
as well.
solutions is all that it takes.
Plus, Champion Home Exteriors offers shingles in a variety
By taking extra precaution you can preserve the floors
of colors, from modern gray shades to light tan tones, to
integrity, too. Decorate with runners and rugs to and consider
perfectly complement your homes style and its color.
using soft felt covers on the legs of your furniture to keep them
from scratching the wood floor.
Change Out Your Front Door
The door is the focal point of your home. Its the first thing
that guests and visitors see when they come to your house.
Adding a new door to your home can significantly boost its curb
appeal, too; in fact, if youre planning to eventually sell your
home, the Remodeling Magazine report found that a steel front

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Opportunity

This addition can also increase the overall value of your


property. If youre looking to sell your home, buyers are
attracted to this improvement. If not, 50 years from now, you
can still be enjoying your wood floors.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

Secure Your Home With Cutting-Edge


Technology While On a Budget
By Realty Times Staff

A burglary occurs every 14.6 seconds and a property crime


every 3.5 seconds, according to the FBI. In addition, Safeguard
the World reports that homes without security systems are up to
300 percent more likely to be broken into. Fortunately home
security products and apps help deter burglars and stop them in
their tracks. While an expensive home security system helps
safeguard your home, there are other ways to stay safe without
breaking the bank. Check out some of the best home security
technology that can be controlled from your iPad no matter
where you are.

smartphone into a live video feed. This is ideal when you just
need to monitor your front door or specific room. The app alerts
you when motion is detected and also has convenient two-way
video and audio capabilities. You can talk directly to your kids
who just got home from school while you're still at work or even
verbally confront an intruder even though you're on the opposite
side of the world. A burglar who's taken by surprise when you
tell him or her to leave and you've called the police is likely to
flee and not come back.
August Smart Lock - http://august.com/

iSmart Alarm - https://www.ismartalarm.com


Check out iSmart Alarm for a robust home security system
with no contracts or monthly fees. Motions sensors, iCameras
and contact sensors alert you to activity in your home and
record what's going on. A smart switch controls your lights
remotely with a schedule of your choice, and it can be used to
turn appliances off and on while you're away. You also can mix
and match products or only order those that meet your home
security needs.
Hue - http://www2.meethue.com
Couple smart lighting with your home security system or
devices. Philips Hue is designed with style in mind if you want
to set a certain mood or even match the colors of a sunset right
from your favorite photograph. Hue also secures your home by
scheduling when lights go on and off and changing the colors
remotely. Set a lighting schedule for different rooms to
illuminate when you want and program them to come on
automatically the moment someone walks up to your door.
Potential intruders who see the unpredictable change in lighting
will think someones there and move onto the next house.
Presence - http://www.presencepro.com/
Download the free Presence home security app to turn your

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Send a virtual key to guests, contractors or your children


with the August Smart Lock. Especially useful for real estate
agents, August Smart Lock offers encrypted locking technology
that is scheduled to work when you need it. You can access a
log record to see who entered right from your iPhone or iPad.
And if your Wi-Fi goes down, the August Smart Lock still works
with the use of a back-up battery.
Goji - http://gojiaccess.com
Try Goji if you like the idea of the August smart lock but want
additional features. Goji sends out virtual keys and unlocks your
door whenever you program it to. Additionally, it sends picture
alerts of visitors to your door and logs it into the system. Set a
date and time for guests to access your home and use the
on-call help if anything happens to your smartphone. Instead of
getting locked out, Goji representatives can virtually unlock your
door and cancel access for your lost or stolen phone.
Regardless of what home security apps and products you
use to secure your home, dont forget to employ old-fashioned
techniques. Ask neighbors to keep flyers, newspapers and mail
from littering your driveway and signaling your absence. Refrain
from posting updates about going out of town on social media,
and check your windows and doors to ensure locks are working
properly.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

Your REALTOR

Copyright 2015 Realty Times


All Rights Reserved.

September 2015

May all your Summer dreams come true"

Steven Aslanian

Equal Housing
Opportunity

818-879-0800

www.aslanian-team.com

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September Real Estate Update


Rates Pushed Lower

Mortgage Rates
Source: Realty Times

n Freddie Mac's results of its

Primary Mortgage Market Survey the


30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged
3.84% for the week ending August 28,
2015.
A year ago at this time, the 30-year
FRM averaged 4.10%.
Events in China generated
eye-catching volatility in equity markets
worldwide over the past week. Amidst all
this confusion, the 30-year mortgage rate
dropped to 3.84 percent, the lowest mark

2 Common Mortgage
Deal Delays

last-minute

problem with financing can


quickly delay a closing on a
home sale. Here are two of the most
common financing problems that can
surface:
Failure to disclose key financial
information. One of the biggest reasons
for a financial issue. Buyers who are not
forthright about their financial
circumstances can face a delay. Lenders
will quickly find borrowers who are
behind on child support obligations or
real estate taxes, for example.
Running up credit as a mortgage
application is pending. Lenders will
recheck borrowers' credit right before the
closing date. If new debt obligations
suddenly appear, that can be a red flag
to a lender. Prior to making any large
purchases prior to closing, borrowers
should check with their lender.

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Signs Indicate No
Drop-Off for Home Sales

t appears existing

home sales won't drop off


at the end of the summer,
as sales contracts rose modestly in July,
U.S. averages as of August 28, 2015:
reflecting an overall upward trend for the
30 yr. fixed: 3.84%
past seven months, according to
15 yr. fixed: 3.06%
National Association of REALTORS
1 yr. adj:
2.62%
data.
The housing market has begun the
since May and the fifth consecutive week second half of 2015 on an upbeat note,
with a rate below 4 percent.
with NAR's Pending Home Sales Index a forward-looking indicator based on
Good Landscaping
contract signings - inching up 0.5 percent
in July to 110.9. It is now 7.4 percent
Draws in Buyers
above year-ago levels.
"Led by a solid gain in the Northeast,
contract activity in most of the country
held steady last month, which bodes well
n this fast moving real
for existing-sales to maintain their recent
elevated pace to close out the summer,"
estate market, curb appeal
says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence
is particularly important for
Yun. "While demand and sales continue
a home seller. Here are some tips for
to be stronger than earlier this year,
hiring a landscaper who will do a good
REALTORS have reported since the
job at a reasonable price.
spring that available listings in affordable
Review a portfolio. A neighbor's
price ranges remain elusive for some
recommendation is a good starting point, buyers trying to reach the market and are
but it is also worthwhile to examine other likely holding back sales from being more
jobs the landscaper has done and ask for robust."
references. Hiring someone who isn't
Housing inventory shortages likely will
reliable, doesn't finish the job or who
persist into the fall, which will also
uses unhealthy plants is a big mistake.
prompt existing-home prices to continue
Consider maintenance. Asking for a to rise, Yun notes. The national median
existing-home price will likely rise 6.3
low-maintenance design will ensure that
percent this year to $221,400, according
even if the home owner isn't able to
to NAR. Existing-home sales also are
spend hours on the task, the lawn will
expected to rise by 7.1 percent this year,
continue to look good.
totaling 5.29 million. That's still about 25
Know what good landscaping is
worth. It can't hurt to let a potential buyer percent below the 2005 peak of 7.08
million.
know what the value of the trees and
shrubs are.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

Three Sanity-Saving Tips


For Moving-In Day
By PJ Wade

No matter how intensely you prepare for moving day, you


may still face problems if you overlook three sanity-defeating
challenges. Can you and your partner really think clearly when
swamped by distractions, exhaustion, and disorientation?
Adopt these 3 Crucial Sanity-Saving Tips for living happily
beyond moving day and you'll make settling into your new home
a great success:
#1: Anticipate Distraction and Prepare to Think Ahead:
Distraction is not a physical state, but a mental one. In a car,
you can have both hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, cell
etc off, and still be distracted while driving. The moving
experience represents a huge mental distraction, so that what
you say to new neighbors can get you off on the wrong foot in
spite of your best intentions. With your head packed full of
moving details and your brain in a state of exhaustion from
moving out of your last home and preparing to set up your new
home, you are not as in charge of your brain and your mouth as
usual.
Acknowledge you'll be distracted and be prepared. Just as
celebrities prepare responses for paparazzi, think about what
you want to say before the day arrives. If a wildfire of
neighborhood curiosity engulfs you, how will you respond
to:"What did you pay for the house?" or "Why did you have to
move?" When asked personal questions about family and your
occupation, a light-handed, but respectful response in "love to
tell you more later"-style may be a friendlier response than
disjointed descriptions or "not now please" rebuffs. Make
politeness your goal for the day even if neighbor behavior tests
your resolve.
#2 Fight Exhaustion and Prepare for Energy Plus: The
sustained physical and mental stress of moving out of the old
home and into the new one, even if you have lots of help, will
disrupt your routines. Fast-food and junk food may seem like an
easy fix, but your exhausted moving team (including you) needs
more substance to be continually refreshed and recharged
during the moving process. Expect this and stock up on
nutritional supplements, healthy quick foods, bottled water,
non-sugar drinks, and fruit, and encourage catnaps whenever
feasible. Avoid sugar, caffeine, and alcohol until after the last
box is safely inside and the moving truck leaves. Resolve to

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crash after everything is done not during a crisis.


#3 Counteract Disorientation & Prepare for the Worst :
In even the most cohesive enclaves, there are undercurrents
of past grievances, real and imagined, so step carefully. You
will not know what sentiments were left behind by the previous
owners.

Many of the new introductions may not stick, so prepare to


re-greet. There's no way you'll remember who everyone is and
who all the kids belong to.

Don't expect to have time to search solutions on your


phone&emdash;if you can find it! If you're new to the area,
make a list of the phone number and address for the nearest
hardware store (with key cutting), grocery store, medical clinic,
pharmacy, bank/ATM, and gas station in case an emergency
run is required.

Neighbors usually only want to help, but they can be drains


on attention, energy, and good humor. Decide who is doing
what during the move, so one partner isn't trapped entertaining
neighbors while the other slaves in fuming silence.

If you have very private or expensive things that you don't


want the entire neighborhood to see, box or bag these
treasures them.

Decide which typical moving-in problems would be a big deal


for you and prepare for the worst, so you'll achieve the best
outcome possible.

Parking issues regarding the moving truck and helpers' cars


represent another prepare-ahead detail.

Engage your real estate professional to ensure you'll receive


the right keys and copies when you expect to. Also ask what
happens if there is a closing delay and the keys are not
available. Who will pay any costs of this delay including issues
with the moving truck?
You may be on top of all the hundreds of details involved in
moving your family, but a successful move hinges on preparing
to head off these three sanity-defeating problems
distractions, exhaustion, and disorientation before they
"move in" on moving day.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

Using Gift Money


For Down Payments
By Blanche Evans

To take advantage of low interest rates while home prices


climb higher and higher, some homebuyers need help
accumulating enough money for a down-payment. To satisfy
secondary market loan package purchasers such as Fannie
Mae and Freddie Mac and insurers like the Federal Housing
Authority, lenders have strict rules about where down-payment
money originates.
Lenders prefer that borrowers supply their own
down-payment funds. It shows they have "skin in the game" and
that they are good with money and can meet their financial
goals. But thanks to the Great Recession and the slow road
back to recovery, many homebuyers are turning to their parents,
grandparents and other family or friends for help.
Research in 2015 from loanDepot LLC, found that more
parents are planning on helping their Millennial-age kids buy
homes. In the last five years, 13 percent of parents pitched in
with down payments, covering closing costs, or co-signing the
loan but lenders anticipate that fully 17 percent of parents will
help their kids.
Because gifts are a gray area, lenders are requiring more
documentation for down payment monies. For example, a
parent may provide a few thousand dollars to an adult child to
use as a down payment -- but is the money a gift or a loan?
Lenders may require borrowers and gift-givers to provide a
certified down-payment gift letter or to sign an affidavit.
Such affidavits must include:
The amount of the gift, accompanied by a corresponding

Equal Housing
Opportunity

cashier's check.
The name and address of the gift-giver and relationship the
gift-giver has to the homebuyer.
The purpose of the gift -- to be used only as a down payment
on the subject property, complete with the property's address.
A statement confirming that the gift is not a loan, and does
not need to be repaid.
Signatures of the borrower and the gift-giver.
Because lenders require a paper trail, allowing parents to
simply transfer money into the borrower's account to mix with
the borrower's funds is discouraged. First, a large deposit raises
the borrower's income and alters the bank statements, possibly
allowing a borrower to qualify for a home that in reality is too
expensive. And don't think underwriters won't find it. One of the
first things they do is examine your bank accounts.
If you want to get a conventional loan, Quicken Loans
advises the following:
If you put down 20% or more, it can all be from a gift.
If you put down less than 20%, part of the money can be a
gift; how much varies by loan type.
You can only use gift money on primary residences and
second homes.
For FHA and VA loans, all of your down payment can be gift
money. If your credit score is between 580 and 619, at least
3.5% of your down payment must be your own money. You can
only use gift money on primary residences. If you're planning to
use gift money as part or all of your down payment, ask your
lender how to meet the appropriate requirements.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

Focus On Functionality When


Buying Your Home
By Blanche Evans

You have to live somewhere. For most of us, the choice is


simply functional -- we all need food, clothing, and shelter, but
we also want our homes to function well for our needs and
preferences.

more affordably than renting.

You may want more room, privacy, and better access to


certain amenities, schools, family or work. You may want a
different lifestyle that your current neighborhood doesn't foster.
You may want the autonomy to choose and change the style of
your home so you can enjoy your surroundings with your own
dcor. You may want a home that allows you to expand your
interests, such as cooking in a larger kitchen, creating art in a
studio, or having a large back yard for gardening and
entertaining.

Functionality is about how the home itself can serve you.


Square footage can indicate if a home is large enough to have
the features you want, but you won't know until you go inside if
the floorplan, features and number of beds and baths suit your
wish list.

Let's say that you find a 2400-square foot home for sale or
lease. You may be able to rent it for $1.25 per square foot, or
$3,000 per month, but you can buy the property for $1.65 per
Functionality begins with making a good decision, based on square foot or $400,000. When you finance the same property
your requirements and what you can afford. Whether you rent or over 30 years, your payment is closer to $1,900. Add in typical
buy, you decide which home to choose based on affordability,
property taxes and hazard insurance, and you're at about
availability and functionality.
$2,700 per month, making buying the home a better choice for
the long term.
Renting is a great option for the short term, when you're
building your savings and may have another move or two before
You trade the mobility of renting for the opportunity to build
settling down to a home of your own. The functions of renting
equity. When you own a home, it usually takes several years of
are independence, affordability, and mobility. As your life
ownership before you can build enough equity to cover your
matures, you may become more interested in homebuying
transaction costs, making owning a home a long-term
because your ideas of functionality may change.
investment.

As your preferences become more focused and as the


needs of your household change, you may find that owning a
home is more suitable for your lifestyle. But, affordability has to
be part of the function. In most areas, you can buy a home

Equal Housing
Opportunity

Choosing a home is really about how you want to use the


space you have. As the owner, you have the option to leave
things as they are or you can add or remove features as you
wish, to improve the functionality of your home.
Whether you rent or buy, choosing a home is about getting
the most benefit for your money. It should be a decision based
on how well the location, space, and design can serve your
needs and pocketbook.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

What Sellers Should Know


About Pets and Showings
By Blanche Evans

Buyers and their agents need to feel welcome to look at the


property at their leisure without danger or distractions. So while
you adore your sweet-tempered pit bull rescue, he could turn
territorial, barking and growling at potential homebuyers. And it
could cost you the opportunity to sell your home.
Think of buyers as guests and work to make them feel
comfortable as they consider your home for purchase. If you
have a protective dog or one that isn't well-trained, drop her off
at doggie day care when you know your home is going to be
shown. Or call a pet sitter on call who can take your pet for a
long walk while your home is being shown.
If you must leave the dog at home, don't expect real estate
professionals to handle your dog. They are not dog trainers and
should not be expected to risk a dog bite to show your home to
buyers. This is where crate-training can be a huge advantage.
At least your dog is secured and more inclined to relax while
your home is being shown.
What you should not do is leave your dog loose in the
backyard. Not only does the buyer not have access to part of
the property, but your dog could bark so much that the din
drives the buyer out of the house. Also, don't leave your dog at
the neighbor's. It's just as bad if the buyer believes a noisy dog
lives next door.
Housecats can also repel buyers. Most homes aren't

Equal Housing
Opportunity

designed with a convenient place for the litter box, so cat


owners do the best they can. Owners get used to the smells of
catboxes and fishy foods, which could be offensive to buyers
who don't have cats.
While buyers aren't afraid of being cat-attacked, cats can
still be startling -- they appear silently without warning and they
jump on furniture and counters. And if you've taught your cat to
jump on your shoulders, you can imagine what could happen to
an unsuspecting buyer.
Exotic pets can be showing-stoppers, too. Birds are
gorgeous, but a puffed-up screeching cockatoo can be
intimidating and dangerous. Imagine a buyer bringing small
children who can't resist sticking their fingers in the cage and
quickly get rewarded with a nasty bite from a very strong beak.
When you're selling a home, keep in mind that the first two
weeks on the market are crucial. That's the time you want your
home to be pristine and move-in ready.
You don't want any noise, smells or stains that could put
buyers off.
Sell your home faster and for more money by making your
home as inviting and accessible as possible, so that buyers
have no barriers to overcome. Accessibility to your home is just
as important as price, condition and location.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

What Makes A Home a Good Buy?


By Blanche Evans

There's no perfect home, but some homes are more ideal


for your household than others. When you look for your next
home, carefully consider these four criteria price, features,
location and condition. The closer you get to meeting all four
criteria, the better your chances are of making a good buy.
Price:
In any market, price has to come first. To determine what
you can comfortably afford, talk to your real estate professional.
He or she can recommend a lender who will prequalify you for a
purchase loan. When you know how much you can spend, it will
be easier to shop for homes within your price range. With luck,
one will stand out.

Location:
Some areas will always be more expensive to live in than
others. Neighborhoods that are well-kept tend to maintain
higher home values. Homes that are close to jobs, schools and
shopping centers tend to sell for more money than homes
without as much infrastructure.
What is the best home you can find in the area where you
want to live? If these homes are out of your range, you can
compromise -- buy a smaller home or a home that needs lots of
work in the best neighborhood you can afford.
Condition:

Condition refers to the state of repair. Does the home have


curb appeal? Is it updated and well-maintained, or does it need
The size of your household and your activities determine the extensive and expensive remodeling? Carefully consider any
features you want in your next home. The number of bedrooms, deferred maintenance, such as a roof that may need to be
baths and living areas are a matter of comfort and convenience. replaced in only a few years. Consider the design and
You may want an extra bedroom for guests or a second master functionality -- is the kitchen too small and would you be able to
afford to remodel it? Look closely at repairs, cleanliness and
suite for parents.
traffic flow.
If you work a lot at home, you'll want a private home office
The one advantage of buying a home that needs updates
or a computer nook. You may want a playroom for the kids, a
and repairs is that these homes cost less than updated homes
separate laundry area, and fenced yard and covered patio for
in the same neighborhood.
entertaining. An eat-in kitchen may be more important to you
than a formal dining room. You may want an outdoor kitchen or
Be prepared to compromise. Don't frustrate yourself or your
at least an entertainment area.
family looking for perfection. Sometimes the home of your
dreams doesn't have every feature on your checklist, or it may
Think about your daily life from morning to bedtime, and
be a little further away than your favorite neighborhood, but
how your next home can make these activities more pleasant.
you'll be happy if it has most of criteria you want at the price you
This should be your "must-have" list, and will help you look at
can afford.
homes more objectively.
Features:

Equal Housing
Opportunity

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

3 Home Improvement Projects


That Last a Lifetime
By Realty Times Staff

Thinking of remodeling your home? Before you splurge on a


finished basement or a new kitchen, make sure you choose a
home improvement project that will add to your home's lifetime
value. Check out Remodeling Magazine's 2015 Cost vs. Value
report for projects with the highest ROI. Three home
improvement projects we like:
Get a New Roof
Although adding a new roof isnt as exciting as a major
kitchen remodel or a new deck, this improvement can
significantly improve the appearance of your home and, it
boasts a national average ROI of 71 percent, according to the
Remodeling Magazine report.
Champion Home Exteriors offers lifetime shingles with
advanced protection technology.

door can recoup 101 percent of the project's total cost when it
comes time to sell.
However, if you plan to spend a little more time in your
home and youre not looking to sell, you can enjoy the perks of
having a steel door. One example: Steel doors make your home
more energy-efficient, Energy.gov reports.
Most steel doors have a magnetic weatherstripping that
seals up nicely when the door is closed, which can help to keep
your energy use down.
A steel door is also easily customizable, so if you decide to
repaint your home a new color in the future, you can simply
paint the door to complement the new exterior color.
Install New Flooring

Wood flooring can last up to a century. Its classic and can


The special shingles are specially constructed with materials
fit
a
wide range of different styles and designs, from modern to
that cause less harm to the environment than traditional types,
historic homes. Keeping wood floors like new doesnt take
and the lifetime shingles offer superior protection to your home
much work, either. A little elbow grease and the right cleaning
as well.
solutions is all that it takes.
Plus, Champion Home Exteriors offers shingles in a variety
By taking extra precaution you can preserve the floors
of colors, from modern gray shades to light tan tones, to
integrity, too. Decorate with runners and rugs to and consider
perfectly complement your homes style and its color.
using soft felt covers on the legs of your furniture to keep them
from scratching the wood floor.
Change Out Your Front Door
The door is the focal point of your home. Its the first thing
that guests and visitors see when they come to your house.
Adding a new door to your home can significantly boost its curb
appeal, too; in fact, if youre planning to eventually sell your
home, the Remodeling Magazine report found that a steel front

Equal Housing
Opportunity

This addition can also increase the overall value of your


property. If youre looking to sell your home, buyers are
attracted to this improvement. If not, 50 years from now, you
can still be enjoying your wood floors.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

Secure Your Home With Cutting-Edge


Technology While On a Budget
By Realty Times Staff

A burglary occurs every 14.6 seconds and a property crime


every 3.5 seconds, according to the FBI. In addition, Safeguard
the World reports that homes without security systems are up to
300 percent more likely to be broken into. Fortunately home
security products and apps help deter burglars and stop them in
their tracks. While an expensive home security system helps
safeguard your home, there are other ways to stay safe without
breaking the bank. Check out some of the best home security
technology that can be controlled from your iPad no matter
where you are.

smartphone into a live video feed. This is ideal when you just
need to monitor your front door or specific room. The app alerts
you when motion is detected and also has convenient two-way
video and audio capabilities. You can talk directly to your kids
who just got home from school while you're still at work or even
verbally confront an intruder even though you're on the opposite
side of the world. A burglar who's taken by surprise when you
tell him or her to leave and you've called the police is likely to
flee and not come back.
August Smart Lock - http://august.com/

iSmart Alarm - https://www.ismartalarm.com


Check out iSmart Alarm for a robust home security system
with no contracts or monthly fees. Motions sensors, iCameras
and contact sensors alert you to activity in your home and
record what's going on. A smart switch controls your lights
remotely with a schedule of your choice, and it can be used to
turn appliances off and on while you're away. You also can mix
and match products or only order those that meet your home
security needs.
Hue - http://www2.meethue.com
Couple smart lighting with your home security system or
devices. Philips Hue is designed with style in mind if you want
to set a certain mood or even match the colors of a sunset right
from your favorite photograph. Hue also secures your home by
scheduling when lights go on and off and changing the colors
remotely. Set a lighting schedule for different rooms to
illuminate when you want and program them to come on
automatically the moment someone walks up to your door.
Potential intruders who see the unpredictable change in lighting
will think someones there and move onto the next house.
Presence - http://www.presencepro.com/
Download the free Presence home security app to turn your

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Send a virtual key to guests, contractors or your children


with the August Smart Lock. Especially useful for real estate
agents, August Smart Lock offers encrypted locking technology
that is scheduled to work when you need it. You can access a
log record to see who entered right from your iPhone or iPad.
And if your Wi-Fi goes down, the August Smart Lock still works
with the use of a back-up battery.
Goji - http://gojiaccess.com
Try Goji if you like the idea of the August smart lock but want
additional features. Goji sends out virtual keys and unlocks your
door whenever you program it to. Additionally, it sends picture
alerts of visitors to your door and logs it into the system. Set a
date and time for guests to access your home and use the
on-call help if anything happens to your smartphone. Instead of
getting locked out, Goji representatives can virtually unlock your
door and cancel access for your lost or stolen phone.
Regardless of what home security apps and products you
use to secure your home, dont forget to employ old-fashioned
techniques. Ask neighbors to keep flyers, newspapers and mail
from littering your driveway and signaling your absence. Refrain
from posting updates about going out of town on social media,
and check your windows and doors to ensure locks are working
properly.

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

Equal Housing
Opportunity

Steven Aslanian

RE/MAX Olson & Associates

818-879-0800
info@aslanian-team.com
http://www.aslanian-team.com

818-879-0800
30699 Russell Ranch Rd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362

September 2015 Real Estate Update


Copyright 2015 Realty Times. All Rights Reserved.

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