Mortgage Rate Update

30yr fxd – 3.875% APR – 3.902%
20yr fxd – 3.750% APR - 3.791%
15yr fxd – 3.250% APR – 3.303%
10yr fxd – 3.125% APR – 3.176%
30 yr fxd FHA – 3.750% APR – 3.889%



Rates are based on a mortgage of $200,000, 80% LTV, no
points and a credit score of 740 or higher.



Charles E. Chapell
Vice President Mortgage
United Bank and Trust
2723 South State Street, Suite 210
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Office: 734-214-2728
Email: cchapell@ubat.com

Across the country or across the globe - we can help you move!

If you're moving elsewhere in Michigan, out of state or even to Europe, Edward Surovell Realtors can help. We're a member of LEADING REAL ESTATE COMPANIES OF THE WORLD, a highly respected network of 700 leading independent real estate firms in the United States and abroad. We'll refer you to one of our professional partners in your new neighborhood. Wherever you're headed, you'll have a trusted expert at your service, making your transition smooth and easy.

Moving With Your Pet

Moving to a new place can be very stressful for people, but it is even more traumatic for your pet. Pets live most of their lives inside your home and part of their comfort level rests in knowing their territory. Moving is especially hard for pets that do not venture outside often, such as indoor cats – this is because 100% of their reality is your home. By moving homes you literally alter their entire world.

There are easy steps you can take to make the whole process smoother for your pet, therefore making it much smoother for you! It is also helpful during the transition to really establish a routine with your pet. Then when their home changes, their routine can stay the same!

First you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian and if you are planning to move out of the area they service, definitely get a copy of all of your pet’s medical records. Your veterinarian is an excellent resource and may have additional information and advice for moving with your pet. If your pet is not micro chipped yet, you should discuss this option while you are there. A microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is an inserted under your pet’s skin. It contains your information and is a great back up in case your pet is lost without his collar. Don’t forget to buy new tags for your pet with your new information!

As you are planning to move and begin to go through the steps of packing and boxing up all of your belongings, keep your pet in mind! Create a space for them that contain their favorite belongings: bowls, bed and toys. Let your pet spend time in this undisrupted area while you are hustling around. Create a similar space in your new home so that your pet can stay out of the way of the movers. They will know the difference, but it will allow them a connection between the old and the new.

Going back to your pet’s routine – the very best thing you can do is maintain it so that they know what to expect throughout the day. Feed them the same type of food at the same times during the day. Take walks when you normally did before and let them out at the same times.

If you are moving far you will need to seek out new resources for your pets, including pet stores, a veterinary office and a new groomer. Your Realtor should act as a great resource for finding the best places in your new area. If you are moving in Michigan you can contact the Department of Agriculture for even more information on local ordinances regarding your pet and also tips on caring for your animal in our state.

Michigan
Dept. of Agriculture
Animal Division
(517) 373-1077



Allison Fishwick, Associate Broker
Edward Surovell Realtors
www.allisonsellsannarbor.com
allison@allisonmovesyou.com
(734) 834-4663

Tips for exterior home staging

You won’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Most home buyers make at least one “drive-by” before they schedule a showing. Before you put your home on the market and have it photographed, it is imperative that you stage the exterior. Curb appeal can pull in numerous home buyers, while the lack of curb appeal can reflect on a home seller’s lack of interest in keeping up the home. As a home seller, you are the key player in the marketing strategy.

You will need to start at the curb of your home and make a list of whatever stands out to you. For a more objective point of view, ask your Realtor for suggestions.

Do it yourself tips:

1) Do you need to rent a power washer? The winter months can be brutal in Michigan. It’s important to look at siding, windows, shutters, your driveway, and overall exterior. A power washer can be a quick fix for the dirt and grime that has built up over the winter months. Buyers may be turned away by a dirty, un-kept exterior.
2) Birdfeeders: Be sure that birdfeeders are not neglected. If you have taken the time to set up a bird bath and birdfeeders in the front of your home, keep them clean. Bird baths should be cleaned out and birdfeeders should be full of bird seed.
3) Light Fixtures: Be sure that your light fixtures are clean; sweep away any cobwebs or debris that can leave them looking neglected. Upgrade any outdated light fixtures. There are a lot of attractive light fixtures for under $100.
4) Exterior Hardware: Shine up the exterior hardware, which includes door hardware and address numbers. A small touch up can go along way whether you decide to clean, paint/stain or even replace the hardware to give it a new look. When shopping for new hardware, select a look that will compliment the light fixtures.
5) Exterior Finish: The entrance of your door often takes the most abuse. It’s important to address any scuffmarks or flaking paint on the door trim that can make the house look unattractive. Remember, the value of your home can be reflected by some of the smallest details. A fresh coat of paint can quickly upgrade the exterior trim!
6) Potted Plants: Soften up the front porch area by adding greenery and potted plants. A simple touch of color can add not only beauty and depth to any front porch, but it can also differentiate your home during a competitive buyers market.
7) Mulch barren flower beds: Don’t let the winter months keep your flower beds looking neglected. A few bags of mulch can go a long way.
8) Mailbox: How old is your mailbox? Is it time to get a new one? Whether you purchase a new mailbox or you repaint it, be sure that it looks new and attractive to home buyers.
9) Clean out your gutters: If you did not clean out your gutters during your fall maintenance routine, then now is the time. Be sure that leaves and brush are removed and that your gutters are firmly attached.
10) Welcome Mat: Don’t forget to buy a new welcome mat for the front door. Throw out that dingy old doormat and purchase a neutral yet attractive doormat that invites guests inside your home.

If you're thinking of selling, you can find out what comparable homes are listing for in your neighborhood. Get a real-time snapshot of buyer activity within your zip code. Click here for your instant Market Analysis.

Mortgage Rate Update

30yr fxd – 3.875% APR – 3.902%
20yr fxd – 3.750% APR - 3.791%
15yr fxd – 3.125% APR – 3.203%
10yr fxd – 3.000% APR – 3.076%
30 yr fxd FHA – 3.750% APR – 3.889%



Rates are based on a mortgage of $200,000, 80% LTV, no points and a credit score of 740 or higher.



Charles E. Chapell
Vice President
MortgageUnited Bank and Trust
2723 South State Street, Suite 210
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Office: 734-214-2728
Email: cchapell@ubat.com

Sell Your Home FAST!

There may be quite a bit of doom and gloom in terms of the national housing market, but the local real estate market in Ann Arbor is looking more and more promising. Some homes are selling within days of hitting the market, and at close to what the seller has asked for in price. Here are a few tips for determined sellers who want to sell their home quickly.

1) Price: Did you know that the first 2 weeks are the most important period of marketing your home? National statistics indicate that the heaviest showing activity occurs during this period, as interest begins to drop after 2 weeks on the market. Hit the market with the best price in order to sell your home quickly! You will attract home buyers who are serious and ready to pounce on the best house that is listed at the best price!

2) Internet Exposure: Over 90% of all home buyers begin their home search online. In order to sell your home quickly, you must choose a company with exceptional internet exposure. When you list your home with Edward Surovell Realtors, your home will be a “Premium Listing” on Trulia.com. This ensures that your home rises to the top of Trulia’s search results! Also, your home will receive an optimized landing page, with a contact form that increases inquiries by 5X. Our Realtors also offer an Enhanced Listing Package on Realtor.com , that will keep your home elevated online. To learn more about the Edward Surovell Realtors Online Advantage, contact one of our Realtors today!

3) Condition: You will not have a second chance to make a first impression. Home buyers are previewing numerous homes every week, and yours must stand out as the very best home for the best price. Keep your house in ready-to-show condition. A little bit can go a long way, so keep up on curb appeal and freshen up exterior paint and light fixtures. Tidy up after pets and clear up the back yard with your pooper scooper if needed! PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE

4) Your Realtor: Be sure that you hire an experienced Realtor that has the energy and expertise to provide a top notch service. Watch out for part time Realtors that are slow to return calls and are not up to date on local market conditions. Selling your home is one of the biggest financial transactions that you will ever make. At Edward Surovell Realtors, our agents are full time professionals who offer only the highest level of service to their home sellers.

TOP 5 SELLER MISTAKES

What can a Buyer's Agent do for me?

What is a Buyer's Agent?

A Buyer's Agent is an individual who represents you throughout the home buying process and always has your best interests in mind.

What can a Buyer's Agent do for me?

A Buyer's Agent can:

• Help you determine your specific needs and educate you about the home buying process


• Search for properties that suit your needs and show you those properties, even if they are listed by another company


• Point out strengths and weaknesses of properties


• Help you find qualified inspectors, mortgage lenders and other resources


• Provide a market analysis that will help you determine fair market value


• Assist you through the negotiation process


• Help you write a sales agreement when you are ready to make an offer


• Schedule appointments to provide access to the property for appraisers and inspectors


• Monitor the post-contract, pre-closing process, to assure that all necessary documentation is completed and available for closing


• Attend the closing and help with any issues that may arise

For over two decades, Edward Surovell Realtors has excelled in meeting and exceeding customer expectations. Satisfied returning customers and referrals have made us one of the largest real estate companies in southeast Michigan. Founded in 1982, Surovell quickly became a leader in Ann Arbor Real Estate. Since then, we’ve expanded and now have offices in Adrian, Ann Arbor, Carleton, Chelsea, Jackson, Manchester, Manitou Beach, Monroe, Northville and Tecumseh. We've worked hard at building a reputation for fairness, sound business ethics and first-rate service for buyers and sellers. If you are thinking of buying or selling, give us a call. We have 175 agents waiting to serve you.

Mortgage Rate Update

30yr fxd – 3.875% APR – 3.902%
20yr fxd – 3.750% APR - 3.791%
15yr fxd – 3.125% APR – 3.203%
10yr fxd – 3.000% APR – 3.076%
30 yr fxd FHA – 3.750% APR – 3.889%



Rates are based on a mortgage of $200,000, 80% LTV, no points and a credit score of 740 or higher.



Charles E. Chapell
Vice President Mortgage
United Bank and Trust
2723 South State Street, Suite 210
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Office: 734-214-2728
Email: cchapell@ubat.com

The Community Farm of Ann Arbor – Do you CSA?

CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture and did you know there is a place right here in our neck of the woods where you can participate? Found at 1525 S. Fletcher Rd. in Ann Arbor is The Community Farm of Ann Arbor. What is CSA?

“Here are the basics: a farmer offers a certain number of "shares" to the public. Typically the share consists of a box of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share (aka a "membership" or a "subscription") and in return receive a box (bag, basket) of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.” (Taken from localharvest.org)


In their 23rd year (find them at http://www.communityfarmofaa.org/) they remain committed to their mission statement:

"The purpose of the Community Farm of Ann Arbor shall be to support a farm that grows a variety of farm products to be shared by members, using biodynamic farming methods. Biodynamic agricluture was inspired by a series of lectures given by Rudolf Steiner in 1924. A further purpose shall be to demonstrate to the community at large the advantages of socially and environmentally responsible agriculture, and to serve as a living model of a community-supported enterprise."

We hear a lot these days about “environmentally responsible agriculture” and to think that for the past 23 years (way before it was trendy to be “green”) the Community Farm of Ann Arbor has been farming using biodynamic methods.

It may seem odd to purchase all of your fruits and vegetables in one lump sum, AND on a wish and a prayer – by participating in a CSA and purchasing a share of the farm’s yield up front you don’t know exactly what you are getting. However, the Community Farm of Ann Arbor details as best as they can what to expect on their website. In 2011 you were expected to take home as your “share” over 40 different types of produce from beets, carrots and cauliflower all of the way to wildflowers, garlic, leeks and rutabaga! You also may have the opportunity to pick your own crops including parsley, green beans, tomatoes and black raspberries.

In addition to the benefit of purchasing nutritiously rich produce from a sustainable farm – the Community Farm of Ann Arbor goes above and beyond to include its members and their families in all aspects of farming. They offer an annual Easter Egg Hunt, Weed & Sings and Plant Studies.

I have heard a lot of people say that they won’t use a FULL share of all this produce. Right on their website they encourage you to split a share with someone – that way you can also split pick-ups and share recipes developing a great give-and-take for what is in season.

Www.localharvest.org has an entire tab donated to CSA – check it out for all you need to know. At the end of the day this is a personal choice that is more about contributing to the greater good of not only your body, but your community and your family’s health. By purchasing your produce this way you are supporting something much greater and bigger than yourself. Isn’t that what life is all about? Let me know what you think – Allison@allisonmovesyou.com!

Allison Fishwick, Associate Broker

Edward Surovell Realtors

allison@allisonmovesyou.com

(734) 834-4663