Sandy McAlpine - Lake Norman Blog

6125 McIlwaine Road, Huntersville NC 28078 - Abbington Woods $319,900

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:09:04 -0700

Sandy McAlpine | McAlpine Properties | (704) 746-7513

6125 McIlwaine Rd, Huntersville, NC

1.2 Acres in Huntersville

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $319,900

Year Built 2000 Sq Footage 3,058 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 3 Car garage Lot Size 1.2 acres HOA/Maint $38 per month

DESCRIPTION

One owner, custom-built, 1.2 Acre Private Lot,10 min. to Lake Norman public access & Birkdale Shops,Neutral Fresh Paint,New Carpet in most rooms, Irrigation,Storage Barn & Play-Set in private yard,Luxurious Master Bath,Screened-porch,2-story Great Room,XL Bedrooms,Extra Concrete on drive for parking,Office/Bedroom w/Full Bath down,HUGE Bonus w/walk-in closet,TONS of Attic storage,3-Car Garage! Posted: Sep 19, 2011, 9:46am PDT

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Sandy McAlpine, GRI, ABR, CDPE, SFR Broker,REALTOR Licensed in NC and SC
McAlpine Properties
(704) 746-7513
Lake Norman Homes
Copyright 2008-2012, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, by the Author - Sandy Aichner McAlpine

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

XO Wine Tasting & Ice Cream Demonstration with Liquid Nitrogen $15 in Cornelius

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:32:05 -0700

Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts

Meet fellow Lake Norman (LKN) Wine Enthusiasts near you! Come to a local Wine Meetup to taste new wines; learn about noses and legs; and discuss great vintages and estates. We may have some tasting sessions, an opening information session by a local sommelier, or just have a few glasses, some cheese, and talk! Everyone over 21 years of age is welcome, from new bouquet-sniffers to educated connoisseurs.

XO Wine Tasting & Chef's Ice Cream Demonstration! - Cornelius
Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at 7:00PM

XO Tapas Wine Bar in Cornelius proudly presents a Wine Tasting on Wed, Sept. 23rd, at 7pm
Members will receive 4 wine tastes for $15 that includes a Chef's Presentation of making a wild ice cream with Liquid Nitrogen!

It's a totally awesome presentation (I have seen it a couple times and I am still fascinated by it)

The price is ony $15 dollars for 4 wine tastes and includes a community cheese and fruit tray and the special treat is that the 4th wine taste will go with an ice cream taste!!

They usually have a big crowd when they do this presentation, so get your RSVP in early!

XO Tapas Wine Bar
19701 Bethel Church Road
Cornelius, NC 28031

See the full event details at http://www.meetup.com/lake-norman-wine-group/calendar/11110697/.

Check out what members are saying about Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts:

"This is a great group of people that share a lust for fine wines. I always look forward to an event because I know I will meet someone fun!" - Christine

"It is always a good time!" - Lonnie

"Fun people" - Cindy Bilbrough

"The Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts is a great group of friendly people. The meetups are fun. I am very glad that I joined. Its a wonderful way to make new friends." - LeeAnne Hughes

"It is great for wine drinkers and to socialize." - Lia Labriola

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I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Lake Norman $5 Wine Tasting at Dirty Martini in Cornelius

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:28:14 -0700

Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts

Dirty Martini Wine Tasting for $5 !
Wednesday, September 16, 2009 at 7:00PM

Check out this cool, NEW, Lake Norman lounge with excellent martinis, wine selections, and music!! We are sure to have a blast for a very nice LOW price. Network, meet singles, make friends, try new wines, and more! LIVE Music starts at 8pm.

DIRTY MARTINI, JARRID CABLE, AND EMPIRE DISTRIBUTORS PRESENTS**:

5 Wines tasted for only $5 with crackers and cheese!

In addition to that excellent offer, they are having 1/2 PRICE BOTTLES OF WINE AND BY THE GLASS FOR THE ENTIRE NIGHT!!!

WHEN? Wednesday Sept. 16th, 7-9pm

WHERE? Dirty Martini in Cornelius, NC at Kenton Place (near Galway Hooker Irish Pub and Bruester's Ice Cream) off Catawba Ave. Pay the bartender $5 for your tasting and you're all set!

**Jarrid Cable, Senior Executive at A4 Capital Management in Huntersville (Birkdale Area).
Empire distributors offers a great selection of wines to the local bars and restaurants.

....

LKN Dirty Martini
17036 Kenton Place Suite 104
Cornelius, NC 28031

See the full event details at http://www.meetup.com/lake-norman-wine-group/calendar/11324360/.

Check out what members are saying about Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts:

"This is a great group of people that share a lust for fine wines. I always look forward to an event because I know I will meet someone fun!" - Christine

"It is always a good time!" - Lonnie

"Fun people" - Cindy Bilbrough

"The Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts is a great group of friendly people. The meetups are fun. I am very glad that I joined. Its a wonderful way to make new friends." - LeeAnne Hughes

"It is great for wine drinkers and to socialize." - Lia Labriola

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Lake Norman Wine Tasting @ The Wine Loft Mooresville NC 1/23/09

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 22:26:40 -0800

Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts

DISCLAIMER: By being a memb...

Wine Tasting @ The Wine Loft Mooresville
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 7:00PM

A ton of people asked me for Lake Norman area wine tastings on FRIDAY nights, so here you go! Your wish is my command (blink blink)

Check out the NEW "Wine Loft - Wine Bar" in Mooresville, NC on January 23rd (Friday night) at 7pm. You can arrive a little early if you need to!

This upscale wine bar will blow your mind! The Wine Loft has a warm, comfortable atmosphere that will tantalize your senses! Read my review on my blog here: Wine Loft Review

Wine tasting will cost $10 and will consist of tastings from 4 bottles of wine.
You will pay the bartender when you arrive and receive your name tag.

Also served: Light appetizers and samples from the Wine Loft Menu

It's easy to find: I-77N to Exit 36. Go West. Take Right onto Perth Road. Take right into Harris Teeter shoppin...

The Wine Loft
Perth & River Hwy
Mooresville, NC 28117

See the full event details at http://www.meetup.com/lake-norman-wine-group/calendar/9381721/.

Check out what members are saying about Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts:

"I thought it was a very friendly/mostly casual/relaxed crowd." - john cattich

"You can make friends easily in this group. There are a lot of characters and funny people to keep it interesting!" - Sandy Aichner

"The ages and interests of folks was very diverse, which I liked. The place and people were very relaxing and welcoming which for a 'newby' was particulary nice." - Regina Bell

"I enjoy meeting new people. I have done some great networking, not to mention when you just need to chill out and get away from the norm." - Susan Valvo

"I think this is a great way to taste new wine, try new bars and also meet some great people." - John Costello

Sandy Aichner, GRI, ABR, Broker, REALTOR ~ RE/MAX Executive Realty (704) 746-7513

Lake Norman Real Estate Copyright 2008-2009 by the Author - Sandy Aichner. Call me at: 704.746.7513 for information on purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina or surrounding towns

. As a Relocation Broker, I can also Refer you a RE/MAX agent anywhere in the World! Feel free to visit one of my websites: MooresvilleHomeSearch.com, SandyIsYourAgent.com . Or stop by my blogs at: Active Rain; or Twitter.

Sandy's Facebook Profile
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Trulia Profile
Twitter profile
Flickr Photos by Sandy
Search Lake Norman & Charlotte Homes
Meet Sandy
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Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Lake Norman Wine Meetup @ Crave Restaurant 1/14/09

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 22:23:09 -0800

Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts

DISCLAIMER: By being a memb...

CRAVE Wine Tasting - Cornelius - And some FREE wine too!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 6:00PM

Let's meet up at Crave the Experience on January 14th at 6pm!! It's a relatively new restaurant in Cornelius as is located in the same building as McAllister's Deli on Exit 28.

The Wine Tasting will include 5 wines for $10.00! After the wine tasting, we will enjoy FREE WINE UNTIL THE BUDGET RUNS OUT! The FREE Wine is compliments of:

Jarrid D. Cable, Senior Executive
A4 Capital Management
O) 704-509-1141 x 110
www.a4capital.com

During the tasting enjoy a variety of complimentary appetizers, and feel free to stick around for dinner and sample other things from Crave's menu. Wednesdays are also open mic nite at Crave, so starting at 8:30pm we will be treated to tunes from local musicians. Do you play? Bring your guitar along and show us your stuff.

Learn more about Crave by visiting www.cravesomething.com

Crave the Experience
Food. Fun. Fame

19930 W. Catawba Ave, #130
Cornelius, NC 28031
(704) 892-7747

Any Questions? Call Sandy Aichner, (7...

Crave
19930 W Catawba Ave
Cornelius, NC 28031

See the full event details at http://www.meetup.com/lake-norman-wine-group/calendar/9475886/.

Check out what members are saying about Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts:

"I thought it was a very friendly/mostly casual/relaxed crowd." - john cattich

"You can make friends easily in this group. There are a lot of characters and funny people to keep it interesting!" - Sandy Aichner

"The ages and interests of folks was very diverse, which I liked. The place and people were very relaxing and welcoming which for a 'newby' was particulary nice." - Regina Bell

"I enjoy meeting new people. I have done some great networking, not to mention when you just need to chill out and get away from the norm." - Susan Valvo

"I think this is a great way to taste new wine, try new bars and also meet some great people." - John Costello

Sandy Aichner, GRI, ABR, Broker, REALTOR ~ RE/MAX Executive Realty (704) 746-7513

Sandy's Facebook Profile
LinkedIn Profile
Trulia Profile
Twitter profile
Flickr Photos by Sandy
Search Lake Norman & Charlotte Homes
Meet Sandy
Delicious Bookmarks

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Spring 2012 Lake Norman Tennis Ladder is Here!

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:55:36 -0700

Spring Tennis Ladder

Starts Monday, March 26th

Sign up today

Men’s and Women’s Singles $15 per player

3.0, 3.5 and 4.0

Mixed Doubles $25 per Team

3.0, 3.5 and 4.0

Note: We have a new webpage.

For more information and registration go to http://www.lakenormantennis.org/ and hover over Adults and then over Play Tennis where you can click Tennis Ladder and then click “New Players”. This will take you to the sportsmatch website where you will sign up for eligibility to be on the ladder. The ladder coordinator will then approve your ladder request and you will be able to sign up for any of the current ladders for which you are eligible.

The tennis ladder is designed to provide players of all ability levels an opportunity to participate in organized competitive tennis. Scores are based on a system where players get points for making challenges and for playing matches.

· Play as often as you like (or can). Perfect for people with busy schedules.

· Gift card prizes will be awarded to the winner of each division.

· Only $15 per person (singles)/$25 per team (assigned teams) for the 11 week season.

· At the end of the season there will be a playoff in each division to determine the winner.

If you have any questions, please email tennisladder@lakenormantennis.org

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I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Mistakes To Avoid When Selling Your Home.

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 07:27:47 -0700

Right on Herb! I totally agree with this message. A home is not worth what you need out of it and I am SORRY that it is not what you thought it was worth. Telling sellers every day that their home lost value is a frequent occurence in our jobs lately. The following post is an accurate explanation of that.

Via Herb Johnson Northern Kentucky Realtor, Remax (NKYRealty/ REMAX Affiliates):

The US real estate market peaked in 2006. Since 2007 prices have declined, yet many sellers are still in denial about the market value of their homes. Some sellers still struggle to accept the reality of today's real estate market, whether they bought at the peak or bought decades ago. Other homeowners will admitt that home prices have dropped over the last five years but emotionally can't accept that their home has lost any value. It can be hard for homeowners to distance themselves emotionally from their home when it comes to pricing it to sell. Yet this is exactly what sellers need to do so that they can make rational decisions about a list price that will actually result in the sale of their home.

The list price of a home should reflect similar listings that have sold in the same area that could be considered comparable. If a seller is emotionally wrapped up in their home, as many are, this exercise can be very frustrating to say the least. Many believe homes that have sold aren't as good as theirs yet in reality most are.

Now put yourself in the shoe's of todays home buyers. They know the reality of the market and their looking to make sure they're getting a good deal. A home in todays market needs to be listed at a price that will entice buyers because it represents a good value. Most buyers know that prices have declined and are trying to purchase a home before the market recovers. Sellers need to be wary of Realtors who tell you that your home will sell for a higher price just to get the listing yet then intoduce the truth over time to get you to reduce the price to market value. It is human nature to try for a higher price than the comparable sales indicate yet ignoring them will only lead to frustration and your home becoming stale on the market. Truth is if you really want to sell, you won't be happy if your home is on the market for months with little or no activity. Under that type of senerio, statistically speaking, you will end up selling your home for less much later.

Another mistake I run into frequently are sellers who want to list their home based on what they want or need to net from the sale. Understand this does nothing to motivate a buyers to pay more than the home is worth. Buyers pay market value and simply won't overpay in today's market.

The best approach to selling your home is to find out what buyers are looking for in your area and see how your home matches up to their expectations. Today's buyers are looking for a home that is well-located, in good condition and is priced right for current market conditions. If the home needs work done to compare with the competition, do it before selling or discount the price accordingly.

For results a seller needs to be realistic about the current market value of their home and what preparation it needs in order to sell successfully. A professional Realtor can help evaluate the current market value and suggest cost effective improvements to help you maximize your selling price while getting your home sold.

All The Best,

Herb Johnson

859-372-8019 Direct Line

Herb@HerbJohnson.com Email

www.HerbJohnson.com Website

Buyers and Sellers wanted. Referrals Appreciated!

4895 Houston Road

Florence, Kentucky 41042

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I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

If It's Just the Carpet That You Find Dated, Why Don't You Make An Offer?

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 07:22:47 -0700

Carol says it best! I get this comment a lot also "home needs too much work". What does that mean? Usually, the seller and I know that is the case and we price the home accordingly! No wonder we are getting a ton of showings. But does outdated carpet and/ or appliances warrant " too much work" in the feedback??

Via Al and Cal Realty Group Al Mussi Carol Ann Palmieri (RE/MAX Executive Realty):

If It's Just the Carpet That You Find Dated, Why Don't You Make An Offer?

Lately I've seen buyers looking at homes for a second peek.   "The second showing."     That generally means they like enough about the home and want to investigate further. But why aren't these second showings turning into offers?

There appears to be many a home that remains on the market even after a "second showing" because it needs "work".

The term work means something different to all of us.     I always thought of work to mean heavy cosmetics or a structural or mechanical kind of thing, but I am finding today that folks use the term work when a home needs a paint color change, a flooring change or maybe a fixture change. Essentially anything that appears dated usually equals the term work.

So that being said, and you love all other factors or most other factors of the home, why don't you make an offer taking the "work" into consideration?    In most cases, an agent and a Seller have already taken that into consideration when pricing a home, but maybe not.    Why?

We all have different decorating styles and tastes. What I find wonderful many may find way out!   A color that I find old and ugly many may find soothing and comforting!    That floral odor that many may find lovely, might make me want to hold my nose.

The thing that you find needs a change may not have appeared that way to the Seller or the listing agent.    Who knows, if presented correctly, they may agree with your argument!

My point.

If you find that carpet dated, or the lights ugly, why don't you make an offer taking that into consideration? I'm NOT advocating you be unrealistic. On the contrary.   If you are reasonable, you may just win the home, and be able to make the change that will suit your needs!

So, If It's Just the Carpet That You Find Dated, Why Don't You Make An Offer?

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

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I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

5 Things Appraiser's Look For When Analyzing A Purchase Agreement

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 13:09:37 -0700

Wonderful points brought up from Michael about what the appraisers are looking for in valueing your home under contract. Every appraiser is different and subjective, but this is a great list to remember when accepting an offer.

Via Michael S. Bolton-MN Appraiser (Michael S. Bolton,Inc.):

Every appraisal for a purchase that is done on the Fannie Mae 1004 form, the appraiser is required to analyze the purchase agreement. Some say that the only thing that appraiser's look for is the sales price so they know what number to hit (or some would say what number not to hit). While it is true that the sale price is probably one the main aspects considered when analyzing a purchase agreement, however, there are five other things that I look at, which obviously can vary from one appraiser to another.

Seller Concessions

This tends to be the one thing that most lenders are concerned with, and sometimes it can take some real detective work to figure out. Concessions can come in many forms:

Cash contribution towards the buyers closing costs/pre-paids.

The inclusion of personal property (certain appliances, lawn mower, snow blower, farm equipment, etc.).

The finishing off of unfinished areas within the house.

Builder incentives (upgraded features, loan incentives, appliance packages, finished bonus rooms).

The main objective is to figure out how the final sales price was derived. Seller concessions shouldn't be adjusted necessarily dollar for dollar within the appraisal, but more on how the market perceives the concession.

Subject To Repairs

Most lenders want houses to be appraised "as is," meaning their current state of condition. However, there are times when sellers have agreed to complete or fix certain things, which most lenders will want done prior to closing. Then the property will be appraised "subject to" whatever needs to be repaired or completed. Not to get to technical, but this is also known as a "hypothetical" condition.

Disclosure Statements

This is a great place to look to see if there are any major problems with the house, assuming that the seller is being truthful (trust but verify). Some of the most salient things I look for are:

Age of the roof, have there been any repairs.

If the property has a private septic system: how old is the system, when was the last time it was pumped, does it meet code.

Are all of the mechanical's in working order.

Are there any encroachments or easements that have been identified.

If the property has a private well there's usually some type of map indicating its location, this helps to verify that the well and septic meet the proper distance requirements set by the lender.

Has there been any insurance claims against the property, and if so was the money used to fix the damage.

Special Assessments

Most purchase agreements address if there are any pending or levied assessments, which the appraiser may not be aware of due to them not being of public record yet (not recorded on the counties tax website). Many times the title work hasn't been completed by the time the appraiser has inspected the home, or the homeowners were just notified of pending assessments, thus relying on the information within the purchase agreement can become critical.

Code Compliance And/Or Home Inspection Reports

I just did an appraisal for a purchase of an REO property, and the last two pages of the purchase agreement the code compliance report had been attached from the city. Both pages indicated that the property FAILED the inspection! This would need to be addressed within the appraisal report.

There are also issues within the inspection report that were addressed in the purchase agreement, and thus these would also need to be addressed within the appraisal report. There have been times that the underwriter has asked the appraiser to analyze ALL of the issues within an inspector's report, not just those within the purchase agreement.

It's important to remember that the appraiser is the eyes and ears for the lender, they want to know what they're lending against. Most people don't realize the level of research and verification of data that goes into an appraisal, and analyzing the purchase agreement/contract is one of those important factors that can't be overlooked-what's in the purchase agreement counts regarding the appraisal.

If you are a real estate professional, mortgage consultant or real estate attorney please subscribe to my blog to get news and updates on residental appraisals, estate planning and tax changes:

If you have any questions, or Minnesota real estate appraisal needs (divorce, bankruptcy, tax appeal, or estate planning) please contact Michael at 612.599-2581, or use the form on the contact page.

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I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

You Have Been Misinformed about a Realtor's Commission.

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:36:51 -0700

Sherry wrote this fantastic post that I thought I would share about how agents earn their dommission monies! So next time, think hard about how much some agents work and the "behind the scenes" stuff we pay for!

Via Sherry Scales, REALTOR - Austin TX Real Estate (HomeNet Realty):

You Have Been Misinformed about a Realtor's Commission.

Real Estate agents get a bad rap. Everyone thinks we are the only professional that works on commission. Sellers try to sell homes themselves just so they don’t have to pay a commission.  But unless you happen to be riding down that street and see that home, chances are it will take a long time to sell... if at all!  And does that homeowner have all the information together to complete a sale?  No, many will forget that they belong to an HOA, and special work is required to switch ownership. The buyer is out a lot of money later to straighten that out.  Is the buyer sure they aren’t going to have a lien on that home from the previous owner?   For sale by owners also have a habit of under-pricing or over-pricing a home. They aren't going to have you get an inspection. If you are not working with an agent and buy a home from a for sale by owner...I say you get what you deserve. And I have yet to hear of anyone not running into $urpri$e$ when they have done that.

Travel Agents, Car Salesman, wholesale, any kind of sales rep works on commission.  In fact in your own home a commission was paid to the Cabinet salesman, Floor covering salesman, Appliance salesman, Heating and air-conditioning reps, siding and/or brick companies, window companies, and many more depending on the upgrades your home has. Your Insurance Agent is working on commission. Paper salesman, every kind of advertising rep, yellow pages to TV ads to any kind of pen or other give-a-ways a business uses.  The list goes on.  If you are in Sales…you are working on a commission.

So why does everyone choose the real estate agent to pick on?  We are helping you with the biggest purchase you will probably make in your lifetime.  If we list your home, we usually take photos with our own camera or hire it done at our expense. We run flyers (paper and ink cost us money) and spend time getting your listing on the world wide web for the most exposure we can get for you. This is at no pay by the hour.   We keep in contact with agents that show your home for feedback. We answer phone calls from agents and buyers regarding your property all hours of the day. We have purchased the sign and lockbox we use on your property with our own money.  For the buyers, we are showing you homes in our car, with no one making our car payment or paying our gas or insurance, or replacing our tires from the wear and tear we put on them.  We don’t get paid by the hour. We spend hours looking for properties to show, getting the showing instructions worked out, to spend more time getting contracts together and keeping all the paperwork in order when you find a home to purchase.   We travel to title companies or lawyers offices and sometimes back and forth to get signatures.  We run comps to make sure you are getting the best price for your home, whether you are buying or selling. This is time consuming work. We attend home inspections with you and sometimes for you. This again is time consuming work.  And if we don’t sell your home, or find you a home to purchase…we make nothing…zilch, zero, nada…but we are still out gas expense and other expenses.

I pay for a website every month, just so you can go look at houses in our MLS free of charge.

We have spent time and money to attend classes to earn our license. We pay yearly fees and have to spend money on additional educational classes to keep our license whether we sell a home or not.   Some of us have elected to spend the money to earn designations so we can be better educated in certain fields.  You would probably be surprised at how much we spend a year just on the basics.

You think we are the only group of professionals to work on commission? And you think I don’t do anything to earn a commission?  I think you better rethink the situation. Your are paying for my knowledge and expertise in real estate and everything it involves.

Call me when you are ready to sell your home or purchase a home.  I will work hard for you. I have to! It’s the only way I get paid.

Sherry Scales    Austin Real Estate Specialist

HomeNet Realty, REALTOR, ABR, GRI

512-925-8928

Contact me or Find your home here

Serving Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Bee Caves, Dripping Springs

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I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Breeze Through the Mortgage Process By Following These Suggestions -

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:38:47 -0700

What a great list of things NOT to do after you apply for a mortgage loan on the purchase of your home. Banks are looking for any reason to deny loans these days and some of these are big red flags. So don't go putting that new refrigerator on your credit card before the closing.

Via Kathy Sheehan (MiLEND, Inc.):

Earlier this year I wrote a post about the do's and don'ts during the mortgage process. Little did I know that a mere 90 days later I would be talking about this again. Keep in mind that while your application and documentation are being reviewed and any slight change can result in a denial. Before you do ANYTHING, discuss the potential impact with your loan professional.

I thought it would be worth stating again my list of do's and don'ts. Just for clarification, I have added a couple more. Regardless of the financing program, here is my list of do’s and don’ts to help eliminate hurdles as you go through the process.

1. DO NOT apply for any new credit

2. DO NOT change jobs

3. DO NOT make cash deposits into your checking account

4. DO NOT transfer funds from one account to another

5. DO NOT make any large purchases, such as furniture or appliances

6. DO NOT significantly increase the balances on credit cards

7. DO NOT schedule movers until your file is CLEAR TO CLOSE.

8. DO NOT make travel arrangements until your file is CLEAR TO CLOSE

9. DO NOT reduce or raise any credit limits on credit cards.

Here is the list of do’s

1. Communicate an change of employment or income to your loan officer immediately

2. Communicate clearly any pertinent dates, such as move out from apartments, etc.

3. Respond quickly to any requests made during the process for clarification or additional documentation

If a situation comes up, it is best to discuss it with your licensed mortgage professional before you take action!

Buying a Georgia Home in 2012 - Let's Talk Assets

Buying a Georgia Home in 2012 - Let's Talk Rent

Buying a Georgia Home in 2012 - Step One - Where Are You Spending Your Money

Buying a Georgia Home in 2012?

Kathleen Sheehan
Sr. Loan Officer, MiLEND, Inc.
Office: 770-220-7208

Cell: 770-634-4021
Fax: 770-220-7209
ksheehan@milend.com
NMLS #206275
Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #25839

Apply Today!

MiLEND, Inc.
1155 Perimeter Center West
Suite 600
Atlanta, GA 30338
NMLS #148769

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

895 E. Monbo Road, Statesville, NC 28677 - Custom Home 1.2 acres with Pool

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:40:22 -0800

Sandy McAlpine | McAlpine Properties | (704) 746-7513

895 E Monbo Rd, Statesville, NC

Custom Home on 1.20 acres with Pool!

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $339,000

Year Built 2006 Sq Footage 3,057 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 2 Lot Size 1.20 acres HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Fantastic Location in the country with privacy and just a few min. from I-77, Lake Norman, & State Park. Low Maintenance Home on 1.20 acres with In-ground Pool, Large Owner's Suite on Main level. Huge fenced yard. Solid Hardwood flooring, high ceilings,tiled shower,granite counters,kitchen with island, Sunroom, stainless appliances, rocking chair front porch, 2 car garage. NO HOA!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Central heat - Fireplace - High/Vaulted ceiling - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Tile floor - Living room - Bonus/Rec room - Dining room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Stainless steel appliances - Laundry area - inside - Yard - Swimming pool

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- In-ground Swimming Pool - Granite Counters - SS appliances - Country living location! - Close to I-77, State Park, Lowe's HQ - 1.20 Acre property with Fenced yard - Large Bedrooms

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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Contact info:

Sandy McAlpine

McAlpine Properties

224284

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 8, 2012, 1:31pm PST

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

609 Margaret Drive, Statesville, NC 28677 - Gorgeous Ranch home in Country Club Estates

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:41:37 -0800

Sandy McAlpine | McAlpine Properties | (704) 746-7513

609 Margaret Dr, Statesville, NC

Ranch in Fantastic Location!

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $139,900

Year Built 2004 Sq Footage 1,811 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors 1 Parking 2 Car garage Lot Size .46 acres HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Ranch home on almost 1/2 acre double lot in Fantastic neighborhood, within minutes of I-77. 3/4ths fenced back yard, 2 car garage, split ranch style home w/ Wood burning fireplace! Formal Dining Room, newer carpet and paint. Large driveway for lots of parking. Seller is offering a 1 year home warranty. Home is less than 1 mile from HIstoric downtown Statesville! Low maintenance vinyl siding.NO HOA

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Fireplace - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Living room - Dining room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Laundry area - inside - Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- NO HOA Dues! - Large Double Lot - 3/4ths fenced yard - 2 car garage - Open floor plan - Built in 2004

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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Contact info:

Sandy McAlpine

McAlpine Properties

224284

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 5, 2012, 3:30pm PST

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

13000 Artisan Hill Drive, Huntersville NC 28078 - Centennial

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 05:43:15 -0800

Sandy McAlpine | McAlpine Properties | (704) 746-7513

13000 Artisan Hill Dr, Huntersville, NC

Short Sale

5BR/4BA Single Family House

offered at $300,000

Year Built 2008 Sq Footage 3,620 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 2 Car garage Lot Size .21 acres HOA/Maint $50 per month

DESCRIPTION

Short Sale!Bigger home than you can buy new construction for same money! 5 Bedroom, 4 Bath, Craftsman style home w/ Master suite & another bedroom on Main Level! SS appliances,pl. blinds, Screened-in porch, Alum. fenced yard, full irrigation,Energy Star certified, 42" maple cabinets,butler pantry, formals,2 story GR,Granite counters,Built-ins, storage,hardwoods, ceramic tile, carpet, XL patio.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Fireplace - High/Vaulted ceiling - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Tile floor - Family room - Living room - Bonus/Rec room - Dining room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Stainless steel appliances - Attic - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse - Swimming pool(s) - Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Short Sale - Priced better per SF than new construction - Built-ins, blinds, and more upgrades - Screened-in Porch - Sodded & Irrigated Yard - Tons of storage - Master and Bedroom 2 on Main

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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Contact info:

Sandy McAlpine

McAlpine Properties

224284

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 1, 2012, 3:38am PST

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Rebarcamp Charlotte coming March 9, 2012 to Mingle School of Real Estate

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 05:48:48 -0800

4th Annual REbarCamp Charlotte - aka #REBCCLT
"The Real Estate UN-conference" FREE!!!!

Friday, March 9th at the Charlotte Regional REALTOR Association and the

Mingle School of Real Estate
1201 Greenwood Cliff, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28204
Time: 8:00AM-4:00PM

TO RSVP & FOR MORE INFO:
http://rebarcamp.com/charlotte/

Networking Pre-Party Thursday, March 8th - 7PM - ??? starting off at Blackfinn's at the EpiCentre
YPN sponsored Post-Party immediately after REbarCamp CLT, March 9th - 4:30 PM at PISCES

DOOR PRIZES !!!
2 tickets to REtech South in Atlanta on April 12-13th
FREE SwiftSite and 4 months of hosting from DAKNO Marketing

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

SEARCH LAKE NORMAN FORECLOSURES

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!