Tag: Mel Foster Company

MEL FOSTER CO. REALTORS NAMED TO REALTRENDS VERIFIED PREMIER LIST

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Lynsey Engels, president of Real Estate Brokerage at Mel Foster Co. is pleased to announce that several of its agents have been named to the RealTrends Verified + Tom Ferry The Thousand as America’s Best real estate agents that continue to innovate and deliver outcomes for their clients and businesses.  RealTrends Verified is the world’s first dual-verified, fully transparent, and search-engine optimized real estate sales performance platform that brings historical relevance and benchmarking to professionals and consumers .

REALTrends Verified honors America’s finest real estate agents from each state and the country.  22,000 U.S. real estate sales associates from every state are featured in RealTrends Verified.  Those ranked are among the top 1.5% of the 1.5 million real estate professionals in the United States. 

The Mel Foster Co. real estate agents were ranked in these categories:

  • Individual agent – Sales volume
  • Individual agent – Transaction sides (in each real estate transaction there are two sides that can be represented by a real estate agent; the buy side and the selling side)

Top Individuals By Sides in Iowa

Geri Doyle, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Geri Doyle, #2 by Sides in Iowa
Lucky Lang II, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Lucky Lang II, #45 by Sides in Iowa
Lisa Carstens REALTOR with Mel Foster Co.
Lisa Carstens, #63 by Sides in Iowa
Candy Reaves, REALTOR with Mel Foster Co.
Candy Reaves, #71 by Sides in Iowa
Jill Sorrell, REALTOR®
Jill Sorrell, #77 by Sides in Iowa

Top Individual By Volume in Iowa

Geri Doyle, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Geri Doyle, #1 by Volume in Iowa

Top Individuals By Sides In Illinois

Dee Shepherd, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Dee Shepherd #25 by Sides In Illinois
Debbie Wright, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Debbie Wright, #94 by Sides in Illinois

Top Agents in the United States by Sides

Geri Doyle, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Geri Doyle, #124 out of 4,271 Nationwide

Top Agents in the United States by Volume

Geri Doyle, REALTOR® with Mel Foster Co.
Geri Doyle, #623 out of 9,420 Nationwide

Ms. Engels commented, “With this year’s release of the 2024 RealTrends Verified list + Tom Ferry The Thousand premier list, we are incredibly proud to have seven of our agents be recognized with other elite real estate agents across the country and continue to be in awe of these agent’s dedication, hard work and commitment to serving clients throughout the region. Not only did Geri Doyle earn the top agent in 2023 for our company, but she is being nationally recognized in the Tom Ferry The Thousand as #124 out of 4,271 agents in sides and #623 out of 9,420 agents in volume! What an accomplishment!”

To qualify for inclusion, an individual agent must have closed 40 residential transaction sides or $16 million in closed sales volume in 2023. The rankings are compiled based on surveys from virtually every national branded network, many state and local associations of Realtors®, multiple listing services, all applicants from past years’ rankings, and the 900 largest brokerage firms in the United States.  The Thousand represents the top 500 agents in the country and provides a national ranking to honorees. Verification from an independent source is required from all submissions.  In addition, REALTrends senior staff reviews every submission for completeness and accuracy.

To see the complete list go to RealTrends.com.

7 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Spring Sale

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As the winter chill begins to wane, and signs of spring emerge in the Quad Cities and our surrounding areas, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to consider listing their properties. Selling a home involves strategic planning, and for those aiming to maximize their sales price, taking specific steps beforehand is crucial. Here are seven essential things you should do before listing your home for sale in the upcoming spring market:

Deep Clean and Declutter

A tidy and clutter-free home creates a positive first impression. Take the time to deep clean every room, decluttering spaces to make them appear more spacious and inviting. Consider organizing closets and storage areas to showcase the ample storage your home provides.

Curb Appeal Matters

Enhance your home’s curb appeal by investing in landscaping and outdoor maintenance. Spring is the perfect time to trim bushes, plant flowers, and ensure your lawn is lush and well-maintained. A welcoming exterior sets the stage for a positive viewing experience.

Fix Minor Repairs

Attend to any minor repairs or maintenance issues throughout your home. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and any other noticeable wear and tear. A well-maintained property assures potential buyers that your home has been cared for.

Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection

Hiring a home inspector before listing your property can identify potential issues that may arise during the buyer’s inspection. Addressing these concerns proactively can prevent them from becoming negotiation roadblocks later in the process.

Showcase Natural Light

Maximize the natural light in your home by opening curtains and blinds during showings. Bright, well-lit spaces create an inviting atmosphere and make rooms feel more spacious. Clean windows to ensure optimal light penetration.

Highlight Unique Features

Identify and showcase the unique features of your home. Whether it’s a stunning view, a recently renovated kitchen, or custom-built features, make sure potential buyers are aware of what sets your property apart from the rest.

Call For A Free Valuation Analysis

Before you officially list your home, it’s essential to understand its market value. We offer a free, no-obligation valuation analysis. This comprehensive assessment includes a detailed evaluation of your home’s worth and a personalized list of enhancements that can further increase its appeal and sales price.

Give us a call today, and let our agents work with you to ensure your home is primed for success in the competitive spring real estate market.

It’s Time To Sell

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There are plenty of reasons to list your home for sale now. If you can relate to the most common reasons why people list their home for sale, it’s time to contact a Mel Foster Co. agent to begin the process.

Change Is Good

The only constant in life is change. Are you ready for a good change? Is it time to relocate for a new career or to be closer to family? You may work more from home and need a dedicated office. Ready to cash in, buy an RV and travel the country for retirement? Are you prepared to mix it up, live abroad or move somewhere warmer? This shortlist is why it’s a perfect time to sell. Spring and summer are the best times to get your home on the market.

Size Matters

Sell your current home when the topic of space keeps coming up, like when you feel there’s not enough room because you’re expecting a baby and need a larger home for your growing family. When you need more areas for entertaining, more garages for your retirement toys or more rooms for visiting guests. Sometimes, it’s as simple as wanting a home with a better layout, like when you’re ready for an open concept living area or a bigger backyard because you finally have a dog. Find the right-sized home and sell yours now.

Experience On Your Side

It’s always the right time to sell when you have an experienced and dedicated Mel Foster Co. agent on your side. Sometimes plans change and selling your home to adjust to new circumstances becomes a reality. New time commitments may no longer allow the opportunity to complete the DIY home upgrades. Financial struggles with unforeseen medical bills may create a new reality. Our Mel Foster Co. team has the local connections and savvy qualifications to help you find potential buyers quickly. We’re ready to get started helping you sell your home, whatever your reasons are.

Find more tips for selling.

Home Design Trends 2024

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Need inspiration for home design ideas in 2024? Consider these popular trends as you make your redecorating plans.

Pretty As A Peach

The colors peach and apricot are in. Pantone Color Institute, globally recognized as a leading source of color expertise, declared “Peach Fuzz” the color of the year. Another trend forecasting agency, WGSN, selected “Apricot Crush” as its favorite. These softer versions of orange promote recharging and wellness, as colors “radiant with warmth and modern elegance.”

Paneled Walls

Paneled walls with a modern twist are back in style. And that doesn’t mean the 1970s versions covering every wall are back. The trend focuses on thin, natural wood slats and millwork used for accent walls in the bedroom, living room or kitchen to create a warm aesthetic.

Not Hip To Be Square

Homeowners are embracing furniture and décor with curvy lines that promote a welcoming space similar to the organic shapes in natural landscapes. Envision curved desks, sofas, tables and rounded barstools. Have fun with squiggly, wave-like accents in mirrors and art that infuse energy and charm into any space. 

Jewel Tones Are Back

Rediscover color with jewel tones, colors derived from gemstones like ruby, emerald, and sapphire. Incorporate richness into your décor with these tones as they tend to have a high level of color saturation and are, therefore, eye-catching and lively. Choose them as an accent or as the focal point for any room.

Romantic Ribbons

Romantic design is more than just Valentine’s Day hearts and flowers. Embrace ribbons, florals and lace to create a nostalgic feel in your favorite spaces at home. These delicate textures celebrate love and savoring life’s simple pleasures.

Find more tips for homeowners.

Home Buying and Financing

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First-time homebuyers often feel at a financial disadvantage when considering buying a home. Homeownership can seem daunting, whether it’s not having the money for a down payment, student loans and other monetary limitations or securing a reasonable interest rate on a mortgage. The good news is historical data regarding interest rates provides a favorable outlook for borrowers, and first-time buyers can take advantage of several benefits when buying a first home.

Interest Rates Over Time

Interest rates go up and down over time. Data collected over time indicates that interest rates today are about the same as 20 years ago. And rates are less than half what they were 40 years ago. How does knowing this help? Buyers shouldn’t feel stuck with today’s interest rate for the life of a mortgage. Rates will change, and buyers can make changes then, too. 

Refinancing Options

Since interest rates fluctuate regularly, buyers can consider refinancing when the time is right. Buyers can swap the higher mortgage rate for something more favorable if interest rates go down. This may mean a monthly payment stays the same, but the years left on the mortgage could be dramatically reduced. 

First-Time Buyer Benefits

There are a variety of government and state-funded programs that can help pave the way for first-time buyers. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the following qualify as first-time home buyers:

  • A person who has not owned their principal residence for at least three years
  • A single parent who previously co-owned a home while married
  • A homemaker who once owned with a spouse but no longer receives financial support from that spouse
  • A person who has only owned a residence not affixed to a permanent foundation, such as a mobile or trailer home

Several programs make homeownership more affordable for eligible buyers by including lower interest mortgage rates or lower down payment requirements.

  • First-time homebuyer programs for students – Available if you recently graduated from college.
  • Energy-efficient mortgages (EEM) – This type of mortgage allows you to tack the cost of energy-efficient upgrades (think new insulation, a more efficient HVAC system or double-pane windows) onto your primary loan without requiring a larger down payment.
  • First-time homebuyer programs by state – Each state operates a housing finance authority (HFA) that encourages homeownership, among other responsibilities. 
  • Habitat For Humanity – If your annual income is 60 percent or less of the median income in your area, you might qualify for Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program. Along with not exceeding the income threshold, you’ll need to contribute sweat equity​​ to help build the home or a home for another applicant to qualify.

Find more tips for buyers.

First-Time Home Buyers

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As interest rates are starting to come down, it’s a great time to be looking to purchase your first home. Consider these top ten reasons why being a first-time home buyer is great.

Build Equity

Building equity means investing in something you own rather than paying money each month on rent without owning the property. When you make monthly mortgage payments on the property you own, you own more and more each month. In the future when you sell your first home, you’ll have money left over after paying off the mortgage that can be used as a down payment for your next home. Your money works for you when you pay a mortgage rather than rent.

More Privacy

A home is more private than renting an apartment and sharing a bedroom wall with a neighbor you don’t know

Find A Smaller Starter Home

Begin small. A home with less square footage usually means a smaller mortgage and smaller utility bills. When it’s time to sell that first home, you can use the money you get from the sale to buy a larger or higher-priced home,

Establish Credit

Getting a mortgage loan at a young age can help you establish a solid credit history, which means a good credit score and ample financial opportunities down the road.

A First Home Is Not A Forever Home

According to the United States Census Bureau, the average person will move as many as 11.7 times. So don’t stress to find the perfect home the first time around. Look for a home that is best for now.

Remodel As You Go

Make your house a home. Freshen the landscape to add curb appeal. Swap out the windows for more energy-efficient versions. Add a deck to expand your outdoor living space. Projects like these will increase property value while personalizing your home.

The Yard

Imagine the possibilities. Space for the dog to run. Your own vegetable or flower garden. Naps outside in the hammock. Room for a firepit. A spot for the family snowman.

Tax Incentives

Homeownership has several potential tax benefits that might lower your tax burden and increase your annual refund.

Feeling Of Achievement

Homeownership is an accomplishment that is worth the time and energy required to plan and succeed.

You Can Refinance Later

Interest rates are constantly changing. If interest rates go down in the future, you can swap your higher rate for something more favorable. Sometimes, you can keep your monthly payment the same but dramatically reduce the years left on your mortgage. Don’t feel stuck with today’s interest rate for the next 30 years.

Find more tips for buyers.

Mel Foster Co. Agent Receives REALTOR® Honor

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Lynsey Engels, President, Real Estate Brokerage at Mel Foster Co. Inc. is pleased to announce that Leanna Trees of their Bettendorf office was recognized by the Quad City Area REALTORS® during their Annual Holiday Party and Installation of Officers held on December 1st.  Congratulations to Leanna for receiving the Rookie of the Year Award, which is designed to bring credit and recognition to an individual during their first two years as a REALTOR® member and who takes an active role in the Quad City Area REALTORS®.

Leanna serves on the QCAR Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and the Professionalism Committee.  She will also join the Board of Directors serving as a 2-year Director starting next month.  In addition to being a member of the Quad City Area REALTORS®, she is also a member of the Iowa Association of REALTOR® and the National Association of REALTORS®. 

Engels expresses, “Leanna’s dedication over the last 18 months has been commendable, making her truly worthy of this recognition.  We are delighted to have her as a valuable member of the Mel Foster Co. team and cannot wait to see her real estate career explode.  This award demonstrates that Mel Foster Co. is not only an excellent starting point in real estate but also an ideal place for long-term career growth.”

Selling Your Home

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It’s always a good idea to have a thorough list of what you can do to get your home ready to sell. Get prepared so you’re organized and can make the most of your free time now.

Find An Agent Right For You

Meet with a few different Mel Foster Co. agents to start. Grab a cup of coffee and do short interviews until you find an agent you click with. The agent will help ensure your home is priced right for sale and can promote your home through a variety of online marketing tools. They will guide you through the necessary paperwork and represent you during the negotiations for finalizing an accepted offer.

Navigate through the variety of Fake Patek watches to find the one that matches your taste and financial comfort.

Plan To Do The Work

Before you list your house, make sure it’s in the condition buyers expect. Investing some time and money before listing is a wise investment. Spend your energy on completing tasks like these to get the home ready:

  • Consider a pre-listing inspection to focus your to-do list
  • Have professional photos taken to use online
  • Do a deep clean, especially in the garage and main living areas
  • Hire someone to fix the leaky sink or uneven door if you can’t do it yourself
  • Apply a fresh coat of paint on walls in high-traffic areas

It’s All In The Presentation

First impressions matter when selling a home. The first few seconds of viewing a home set the tone for buyers. And since you get only one chance to make a first impression, make the most of your time boosting curb appeal. Tidy up your landscaping by trimming shrubbery and adding another layer of fresh mulch. Ensure your front walkway is clear of debris and peppered with seasonal accents or flowers so it’s welcoming. Take the time to clean the windows and replace the lightbulbs on your outdoor lighting so things sparkle and look fresh.

Find more tips for sellers.

Set The Stage For Top Dollar Returns

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Set up your home for sales success. Staging your home can help buyers visualize how space can be used with furniture and make the house more attractive to potential buyers. Try these five staging tips when preparing to sell.

Eliminate Clutter

No one likes clutter, especially when looking at a home. The disorder could turn potential buyers away as they see the home as messy and in need of more storage. Instead, get rid of unnecessary items in storage areas, cabinets, on shelving, and table decorations. Depersonalize the area so buyers can visualize their belongings in the home.

Rethink Furniture Placement

When staging your home, the furniture placement makes a difference. Enable space for potential buyers to easily move throughout the home’s rooms and configure the furniture to make the area seem bigger and the most functional. Removing unnecessary furniture that makes the space seem more cluttered (as mentioned above) can allow for different furniture reconfigurations.

Add Funcational Office Space

Dedicated office space has become a necessity for many home buyers. Having an office space set up can help buyers visualize the use of the office space and check off a box on their must-have list. Or create an area in a guest bedroom or a corner of a room to stage an office.

Show Off Storage

Having ample storage is one thing that many home buyers search for when looking at a house for sale. People want space to store all their items, so showing how various areas can be utilized for maximum storage potential throughout the home is key. However, ensure these storage spaces are organized to appeal more to the buyers.

More Lighting

Great lighting is vital to making a home look warm and welcoming. When staging a house, ensure that the natural light from the outside can flow into the inside spaces. In every room of the home, a variety of lighting options should be turned on, such as lamps and overhead lights, to make the rooms as bright and inviting for buyers.

Find more selling tips.

What Buyers Want In A Home

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Most buyers looking for a home seek specific features. The following summary is what buyers want, and this may help prioritize your home improvements to attract those buyers.

Structural Features

  • Separate laundry room on the first floor
  • Open floor plan between the kitchen and dining room 
  • Patio space for outdoor entertaining
  • Walk in kitchen pantry
  • A front porch or covered outdoor space

Accent Preferences

  • Exterior lighting
  • Ceiling fans
  • Hardwood or tile in main living areas
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Smart home technology

Energy Elements

  • Energy-efficient windows
  • Programmable thermostats
  • Proper insulation

Contact a Mel Foster Co. agent if you’re ready to sell.


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