Author: Mel Foster Co.

Mel Foster Co. Website Recognized for Excellence

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Mel Foster CoMel Foster Co. has been awarded the Website Quality Certification (WQC) from Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, a global community of more than 550 high quality independent real estate firms in over 60 countries. The certification was presented in recognition of excellence in website design, content and functionality.

Mel Foster Co.’s website, http://www.melfosterco.com , received high marks in a variety of critical areas relating to website performance, including usability, design, content, interactivity, customer service and mobile responsiveness. The evaluation was conducted by Virtual Results, LLC, a real estate internet and social marketing firm selected by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® to review the websites of participating members.

The specific measurements for the WQC are updated each year to reflect the most current online marketing strategies, as well as evolving consumer preferences. Companies must be re-certified every two years to maintain the certification.

“The 140 companies that earned the WQC this year have created websites that engage consumers with thoughtful design, rich local content and up-to-date information on homes in the local market and around the world. We are pleased to recognize them for giving consumers a superior online experience and supporting that with exceptional customer support,” said Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® President/CEO Pam O’Connor.

“We are honored to receive the WQC award again this year and we strive to keep to the highest standards for our website users.  We are always working to enhance our home buyers’ and sellers’ experiences,” said Lynsey Engels, President, Real Estate Brokerage of Mel Foster Co.

As a member of LeadingRE, Mel Foster Co. provides a quality real estate experience, global marketing reach and access to top real estate professionals in any market.  For more information about Mel Foster Co., please visit www.melfosterco.com.

Sell your Home Now or in the Spring?

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Sell now or later?
Sell now or later?

Many homeowners feel it’s a good idea to wait until the spring to sell their home. But once the busy holidays are over, it might be time to get your house ready to sell before competition heats up in the spring. Here are four appealing reasons you should consider listing soon.

  1. Serious Buyers are Available

Homes are sold 365 days a year. People move into the area, expand their families or decide to downsize at all times of the year. There are always homebuyers looking for their dream home. And it might just be your listing.

  1. Less Competition

There are typically more listings in the spring, so list your home in the winter to stand out in the crowd. By avoiding the tougher competition in the spring, your home is more likely to be visited by prospective buyers during showings, giving you more exposure than you’d receive in the spring.

  1. Mortgage Rates are Still Low

If you’re interested in buying and selling property, you probably keep a close eye on mortgage rates. And noticed the recent uptick. Even with the recent increase, mortgage rates are still very low.

  1. A Faster Transaction

Finally, the time required to close on a home will most likely be shorter in the winter. Inspectors have fewer appointments, attorneys have less work to do and mortgage lenders have fewer loans to process. You’ll most likely be able to have meetings on your schedule instead of theirs and get to closing faster. One of the most frustrating things as a seller is not getting answers or having to extend closing another 15 or 30 days. Winter gives you more control over the closing date and may save you from making an additional mortgage payment.

Looking for an agent to list your home this winter? Click here to find an agent or office near you.

 

Be Organized this Year.

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Are you Organized?
Are you Organized?

If your resolution this year is to get organized, avoid these common mistakes. You’ll be more efficient and less stressed by maintaining order in your home.

Mistake #1 Confusing Neat with Organized

Having piles neatly lined up on the counter unfortunately doesn’t mean you are organized. If your flat surfaces seem to constantly be filling with clutter, designate a spot in your home for each item. Soon you’ll start to notice the piles will appear less frequently.

Mistake #2 Using the Fridge as a Message Center

It may seem like the central hub of your house, but everyone goes to the fridge for food not information. Homes need a place where everyone goes for messages. Instead of cluttering your fridge with notes, messages and reminders, create a bulletin board where everyone knows they can find any updates they need.

Mistake #3 Too Many Storage Bins

Having too much storage is actually an issue, especially if you aren’t using it efficiently. You may be replacing your clutter with larger and boxier clutter by adding so much storage. Instead, consider reorganizing the storage you currently have. If you can take the storage bins you have and organize them in a closet or cabinet, you’ll be able to utilize all of your storage effectively.

MARPLE INSTALLED AS VICE-PRESIDENT

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Don Marple, REALTOR®
Don Marple, REALTOR®

Lynsey Engels, President, Real Estate Brokerage at Mel Foster Co. Inc. is pleased to announce that Don Marple of their Davenport Kimberly Road office was installed as the Region 8 Vice-President for the National Association of REALTORS® for 2017.  His duties include representing Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Nebraska for NAR.  Don plans to continue working as a REALTOR® and serving his clients in the Quad City Area.

Don has been a licensed Realtor® in Iowa for 40 years, and has worked at Mel Foster Co. in Davenport since 1995. He has been an active member of the IAR since 1980, serving on numerous committees, including past chair of the annual convention, and member of the education, consumers affairs, technology and member services committees. He served as IAR president in 2013, president-elect in 2011 and treasurer in 2010. He received the IAR President’s Special Recognition Award in 1995 and 2014 Iowa Realtor of the Year.  He has also been a member of the Realtor® Foundation of Iowa Board of Directors.

He is presently serving on the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) – Public Housing and MLS Policy Committees. Don also served as a commissioner on the State of Iowa Real Estate Commission from 2004-2007.

Don has also served in various leadership roles on his local board, the Quad Cities Area Realtors® Association, including 2002 president, secretary/treasurer, and as a member of several committees. He received Realtor® of the Year Award in 1998 and the Bert Frahm Award for Outstanding Dedication and Service to the Real Estate Industry and to the Community in 1995. He has earned several of real estate’s highest designations, including Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI), and Certified Residential Specialist (CRS).

Don is very active in his community. He is currently a commissioner on the Scott County Condemnation Board. He has also served as past president for the Donahue Sportsman Club and was a founding member of the North Scott Soccer Club. He has been a Junior Achievement volunteer in the North Scott School District for the past 20 years, as well as a long-time volunteer with the Cub Scouts and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Don is the husband to Laurie and father to two sons, Dustin Marple & GySgt. Nathan Marple and has two grandsons.

Winter Home Improvements Lead to Lower Utility Costs.

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Ideas to lower your utility costs.
Ideas to lower your utility costs.

Save money on your utilities by tackling these smaller improvements this winter.

  1. Appliances

January is a great month to buy appliances. Retailers are trying to move last year’s inventory before new models are introduced. For every energy-efficient appliance you add to your home, you’ll save anywhere from $50-$100 annually. Time your purchases right for deep discounts and save money on your utility bill. In addition to the cost savings, you’ll have reliable appliances you can depend on for many years.

  1. Insulation

Make sure your insulation is in top shape, especially in the basement, attic and garage. Studies have found insulation purchases have over 100 percent price recuperation if you decide to sell your home. Not only will it add value to your home in the long run, your energy bills will be lowered almost immediately.

  1. Landscaping

Winter months are the perfect time to start planning your outdoor designs. According to the Chicago Botanic Garden, in winter there is less chance of transmitting diseases from one plant to another or attracting insects to fresh pruning wounds. By planning your spring planting now, you’ll get a jump on your spring chores. By the summer, your pruned trees or new plantings will be shading your yard and padding your pocket in the form of lower utility costs.

Fun in the Snow.

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Fun in the Snow!

Bundle up and make the most of the snow by racing down some of the area’s best sledding hills.

Bettendorf

Veterans Memorial Park

 

Davenport

Lindsay Park

Fejervary Park

Duck Creek Park

Garfield Park

Truman Elementary

 

 

Clinton

Eagle Point

 

Rock Island

Lincoln Park

 

Moline

Prospect Park

 

Milan

Camden Park

 

Silvis

Schadt Park

 

Hampton

Illiniwek Forest Preserve

 

Geneseo

Richmond Hills

 

Kewanee

Baker Park

Rather ski or snowboard? Head to Snowstar in Andalusia where you can also go tubing.

 

 

 

 

 

Prepare for Dangerous Winter Road Conditions.

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Prepare for Winter Weather
Are you prepared for winter weather?

Traveling during the winter can be dangerous, especially during severe storms. Sometimes travel is unavoidable, so follow these tips to make sure you stay safe on the roads this holiday season.

  1. Prepare Before a Storm Hits

Preparation is essential to having a reliable and safe car during the winter months. Have a mechanic check your battery, brakes, fluid levels and heating systems. Be certain your car is in the best possible shape. If you are stranded, make sure to only run the heat for about 10 minutes at a time as snow can sometimes block exhaust systems.

If you are going to travel, notify someone of your estimated travel time and route. This will provide you with a safety net if you end up stuck in a storm. Someone will know you’re not at your intended destination, and will be able to contact authorities for help if you can’t.

  1. Create an Emergency Kit

It’s a great idea to have an emergency kit in your car at all times. Blankets, food, water, first aid kits, road flares, shovels, towrope, booster cables and sand for additional traction are all extremely useful, especially during longer trips. Make sure you don’t eat snow, as it will lower your body temperature. If it’s your only source of water, try to melt it first.

If you’re planning on a cross-country drive, make sure you have the required items to charge your cell phone. If you’re stuck somewhere the best thing you can do is to call 911, and remain in your vehicle while you wait for help to arrive.

  1. Get The Right Insurance Coverage

Consider including towing or car rental to get back on the road faster after an accident or mechanical issue. Finding the right plan is easy, especially since Mel Foster Insurance offers a free auto quote. Visit our website to find an insurance agent today!

Establishing a Rental Property.

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Steps to Establish Rental Property
Steps to Establish Rental Property

Make your rental property stand out and maximize your profits with the help of Mel Foster Co. and its relocation specialists. Buy a condo in downtown Chicago, a beachfront bungalow in Florida or a home on the golf course in Arizona for your enjoyment, and to generate additional income for you. These tips can help you successfully rent out your property.

  1. Partner with Local Businesses.

To get the most out of your rental property, partner up with local attractions and businesses. If your rental comes with a 10% off coupon at a nearby ski resort, restaurant or theatre, it makes your listing stand out above the others. Local businesses will appreciate the advertising and business, and you’ll enjoy the increased interest in your rental.

  1. Reduce the Minimum Stay Requirement.

Renters will often be looking for a weekend getaway, especially during the off-season. During the busiest parts of the year, having a seven-day minimum isn’t an issue for potential renters, but you’ll notice a significant drop in interest during less busy parts of the year when week long rentals are more rare. Having someone renting for a brief period of time is much better than not renting at all.

  1. Keep the Listing Updated.

If you want to entice potential renters, update your listing about once a month. You should list upcoming shows or events that are easily accessible from your property. If someone is coming to town specifically for an event, they’ll immediately know your rental is the best option.

  1. Work with a Local Real Estate Agent.

It’s much easier to work with an agent in your current area before investing in a property in an unfamiliar area. Mel Foster’s relocation specialists can help you determine cost of living expenses, state tax rates and connect you with an agent in the area you’re interested in.

Click here for more information on how to get started finding the perfect rental property.

Holiday Safety Tips For Your Home,

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Holiday Safety Tips
Holiday Safety Tips

The holidays are a time for relaxing with family and friends. Make sure your home is safe this holiday season by keeping an eye out for common hazards.

Holiday Lighting

Be sure to take caution when it comes to decorative lighting. Carefully inspect cords, bulbs and connections for all your lighting. If anything is damaged, repair or replace it immediately.

Extension cords are the source of many fires, so be sure they aren’t damaged. Plugging multiple extension cords into each other increases the risk of a fire starting.

Don’t overload an outlet with too many plugs. This can cause an electrical overload and cause a fire. Outlet fires cause nearly $1.5 billion in damage annually. Stay safe by using separate outlets to evenly distribute the lighting throughout the house.

Christmas Trees

Choose a fresh tree that has been recently cut. Fresh trees are more resistant to ignition. Continue watering the tree daily to prevent it from drying out.

Make sure any lighting you use on the tree is designed for indoor use. Again, be sure the lighting isn’t damaged in any way.

Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source. This includes fireplaces, candles and heating vents.

General Maintenance

Test your smoke alarms monthly and be sure to replace the batteries immediately if they are unresponsive. Make sure to have a smoke alarm in every sleeping area and on every level of your house.

Clean any clutter around the house. Don’t store combustible materials near outlets, heating vents or furnaces.

Replace heating and cooling filters as needed and be sure to have yearly cleaning and maintenance done on your heating and cooling systems.

Downsizing For Your Retirement.

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Thinking of Retiring?
Thinking of Retiring?

Downsizing before or during retirement is a smart decision for seniors. It means less upkeep and maintenance with a potentially less expensive monthly payment. Make downsizing easy by following these tips from Mel Foster Co.

  1. Work with a Realtor®

Working with an experienced Realtor® is the best decision you can make when looking to downsize. The seller pays the commission so you have nothing to lose by utilizing professional resources. A Realtor® can help you determine financial qualification, size needed and available listings. Condo purchasing contracts also are very different from other types of residence. Even with out of town listings, Mel Foster Co. has relocation specialists to help you find your new home anywhere in the world.

  1. Determine what Property you Need

You should communicate with your real estate agent to let them know exactly what you’re expecting from your new home. Are you looking for a high-rise, a cozy one story house or a small home with a spacious garden? Have an idea of your needs before you talk with your real estate agent so they can find you a property to exceed expectations.

  1. Find Sufficient Storage Options

The smaller space is a huge plus for many retirees. It means less upkeep and maintenance, but also less storage. If you have furniture, photo albums or decorations, you may want to consider renting a storage locker. They’re inexpensive and can be climate controlled so you don’t need to worry about damage to your more fragile items. Talk with your real estate agent to see if there are any storage options near the properties you’re considering.

  1. Consider a Rental

If you’re concerned about a long-term commitment, consider renting. It’s a great way to see if you enjoy the location in a new area. You can decide later with your real estate agent if you want to find a more permanent home. It’s often more cost efficient to rent, and most maintenance is taken care of by the landlord. It can help you determine what size home you need, and the lifestyle changes that come with downsizing.

Find an agent with local or national experience to find a home where you can comfortably downsize.


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