Dayton Ohio Realtor, Christina Asad Edwards, Selling Houses Left and Right - Free-Press-Release.com

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Your Summer Home Garden

I have a black thumb, not a green thumb. Everything I plant in my home garden usually dies, so I can use all the tips I get! I thought I'd share the garden advice I received in the real estate office today from two fellow Realtors. Apparently, slugs and snails cannot tolerate caffeine. Spraying coffee on your home garden repels these pests. Use the coffee in moderation to avoid harming your plants though!



Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Featured Listings
Real Living Open Houses

Ohio and Tomatoes

You may have noticed the "no tomatoes here" signs at local restaurants. The reason - salmonella. Ohio already has 3 reported cases and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it ain't over. Nationally, there are 383 reported cases as of yesterday. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says it may be tricky to trace the source of the outbreak. Mexico and Florida could be the culprits, the FDA reports. The good news is cherry tomatoes are safe!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

What Sells A Home?

Everyone knows kitchens and baths sell homes, but is it also price? Marketing? Advertising, and what type? Social networking i.e. Active Rain? Utilizing technology such as text messaging? Branding? Open Houses? Listing in the MLS? The truth is, I don't know. But what if you chose a Realtor that DIDN'T do all those things?

What do you think sells a home?

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Which Social Networks Do You Belong To?

With 87% of homebuyers today finding their homes online, it is important to have an internet presence as a Realtor. I often meet home buyers and sellers online through social networking sites. Just to name a few, I belong to:

Blogster
MySpace
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
del.icio.us
Digg
Jaiku
Ma.gnolia
Pownce
Stumble Upon
Upcoming
Yelp
YouTube
Multiply
Trulia
Zillow

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

How Do You Handle Your Business Finances?

We don't have steady salaries as Realtors. In fact, our salaries are SO unsteady that we went from 3,000 Realtors in the Dayton, Ohio area to 2,500 Realtors this year. So how do you manage your business expenses?

Track your expenses. Keep a detailed log of everything you spend for a month or so to see where your money goes. Quickbooks is an excellent tool to help you keep track.



Anticipate your income and work backwards. If you want to make $50,000 this year based on what you think you need to live on, then figure out how many closings you need to achieve that income. Create a business plan!
Find creative ways to save money. I only put a full tank of gas in when it is priced $3.88 or under! I also try to group all my appointments in the same area on the same day.

Spend more to last longer. Especially when it comes to buying technology, the cheapest thing may not be the best in the long run. If you spend a little more and it lasts longer, it may save you money over the long term.
Take advantage of discounts. The National Association of REALTORs®, your state, and local board provide discounts of all things real estate related! Lowes even provides real estate professionals discounts at www.lowesrealtorbenefits.com



Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Rental Market EXPLOSION!

I've noticed in the Southwest Ohio area that there are a gazillon renters! I'm shocked because interest rates are so low right now, and it is a GREAT time to buy! What is the rental market like in your area? One of the 11 properties I have listed right now in Kettering, Ohio (a suburb of Dayton) is for sale OR lease. I've received 10 times more phone calls, text messages, and emails on that one property than any other listing. I heard the rental market was really good, but I didn't know it was that good! My husband and I own rentals and it can be a tough business if you don't have good tenants. I've also done some property management in assisting clients with tenants and I currently have a 4 unit building listed. So if you or someone you know needs assistance in purchasing a rental property or managing a rental property, then please contact me today!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

You Missed It?!?

The First Annual Art Affair was held at The Greene in Beavercreek on Saturday, June 14th and Sunday, June 15th. It featured over 50 local and nationwide exhibitors selling original and one of a kind fine art and fine crafts such as porcelain and stoneware pottery, silver, gold and beaded jewelry, watercolor art, furniture, sculptures, garden art, oil painting, photography, contemporary art, metal sculpture, chimes, raku pottery, woodturned vases and bowls, and original handbags and clothing.

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Mark Your Calendar!

Mark your calendar for June 14th from 9 am - 5pm because it is the Yellow Springs Street Fair. Over 200 booths will be selling fine arts & crafts, clothing, jewelry, fair trade items, unique gifts, massages and much more. Enjoy the international selection of cuisine from Vietnamese shish-kabob to Mexican empanadas to Thai wraps to hot dogs. There will also be entertainment including acrobats, fire eating, belly dancers, musicians, clowns, magicians and more . Live music will be performed all day, from noon until 6 p.m., on the front lawn of the Bryan Center on Dayton Street where you can enjoy a collection of microbrews at our Beer Garden. Best of all, the event is free!

Hope to see you there!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

The Housing Market on an Upswing?

I know, it's shocking, but true! One sign that the market is picking up is an increase in visitors per listing. I have personally seen a HUGE increase in potential buyers visiting my listings this year versus last year. Tracking new construction deals is another sign of market transistion. Builders are doing away with concessions, and this is a sign that the market is improving. The experts report that by the end of 2008 we will be in a seller's market. So sell while you can still turn around and buy another home at the historically low interest rates!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Best Area Restaurant

I recently posted this topic on Trulia voices (see link below). If you haven't joined Trulia voices yet, then I highly recommend it. Although it focuses on Real Estate FAQ's, there are all sorts of information on the website. I'm a happy contributor and reader!

I'm curious, what is the best restaurant in your area? In Dayton, I'd say Thai 9 - great sushi and thai dishes! For breakfast, Golden Nugget - they have great pancakes!

http://www.trulia.com/voices/Shopping_and_Local_Amenities/What_s_your_fav_restuarant_in_Dayton_Mine_is_Thai-21231--

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

What's Going On

Here's what's going on the Dayton, Ohio area this weekend -

Annual Youth Fishing Derby, Delco Park in Kettering - Saturday, June 14th at 9:30 am

Ages: 5-16 (parent or guardian signature required at registration) Bring your own bait and tackle or use what is provided by the Ohio Valley Bass Masters. There will be demonstrations and plenty of experienced anglers there to help you land the "big one." Trophies will be awarded. Lunch is also provided for participants and their parents. It's all FREE! Call 296-2486 for more information. This event is held rain or shine.



First Annual Art Affair, The Greene in Beavercreek - Saturday, June 14th 11am-8pm and Sunday, June 15th 11am-5pm

Featuring over 50 local and nationwide exhibitors selling original and one of a kind fine art and fine crafts such as porcelain and stoneware pottery, silver, gold and beaded jewelry, watercolor art, furniture, sculptures, garden art, oil painting, photography, contemporary art, metal sculpture, chimes, raku pottery, woodturned vases and bowls, and original handbags and clothing.

Enjoy!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

You're Invited...

You're Invited to the National City Ohio WineFest

at the Second Street Public Market in Downtown Dayton, Ohio

Friday, June 6th from 5p.m. - 10 p.m. and Saturday, June 7th from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Ohio wines by the sample, glass or bottle and souvenir wine glasses available
Craft demonstrations by regional artisans
Live Local Music
Market merchants selling local produce, meat, and breads
PT Cruiser Car Show

Hope to see you there!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

June Festival

This weekend in June everyone makes a trip to Troy for the Strawberry Festival! The festival is being held June 6th - 8th (6-10 p.m. June 6, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. June 7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 8). Arrive hungry! The festival boasts all kinds of food made with (you guessed it) strawberries! You can also enjoy the kids games, crafts, cruise-in, live music, and parade with Real Living Realty's float! Free festival parking is available from the shopping area just west of Exit 74 on Route 41.

Enjoy!

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082 fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

The economy is horrible! Home sales are way down!

The economy is horrible! Home sales are way down! Blah, blah, blah!

That is all the media reports anymore. The truth is, the economy and housing market are on upswings according to the experts. It is predicted that by the end of the year we will be in a seller's market. We have actually had slight appreciation in Montgomery County home values. Now is the BEST time to buy! Interest rates are low and there is a lot of inventory available. If you are thinking of selling, why wait until interest rates are high and there aren't many homes available? Be smart - get while the getting is good and BUY NOW! My husband and I are real estate investors, and now is the perfect time to invest if you haven't already. Whether you are buying in order to rent a property, or buying and flipping there are a lot of great deals out there. Take advantage of short sales! Happy house hunting!

If you aren't familiar with short sales, feel free to contact me at anytime.

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.Asad@RealLiving.com
http://www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Flooring is the Best Way to Update a Home

I live in Oakwood, Ohio surrounded by 50+ year old colonials and swiss chalets. Many of these 1950's era homes still sport the decor of yesterday, so the homes are priced relatively low making them a great deal for investors willing to put in some elbow work as designers!

In this investors opinion the best way to update a home is flooring (next to updating the kitchen). In older homes hardwood floors can usually be found under carpeting. By simply sanding and varnishing the hardwood flooring can be easily restored. Although it is not traditional, cork flooring is an eco-friendly option. Vinyl flooring is durable. My favorite flooring option is the newest trend - frize carpet. For those of you who don't know, frize carpet is a semi-shag carpet that is heavenly soft. The sellers at my listing located at 6420 Shirecliff Court in Centerville just updated their living room with frize carpet and we've received rave reviews!

What do you think is the best way to update a dated home?

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Interlocking Concrete Pavers

The concept of interlocking concrete pavers dates back to the Roman Empire. Interlocking concrete pavers are sections of compacted concrete that are used to pave paths, patios, driveways, sidewalks, and steps. They are about the size of a standard brick, but come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and textures and simulate bricks, tiles, cobblestones and granite blocks. Most concrete pavers measure 2-3/8 to 2-1/2 inches thick. The thickness of the paver affects its ability to carry and spread loads to neighboring units when set. The thicker the paver, the greater the load carrying capacity. By following these thickness guidelines, pavers should not bend or crack with regular use. Because of their uniformity, pavers fit together effortlessly and their installation is a frequent do-it-yourself project. The biggest benefit is that they can be easily removed and reinstalled. Concrete pavers are much more tough and solid than concrete blocks so you don’t have to worry about moisture absorption and damage from repetitive freeze/thaw cycles. Interlocking pavers are modular, meaning that they fit together in a variety of geometric patterns. Grass pavers have an open-grid shape for planting grass or other ground cover. Pavers help to make a durable and natural-looking walk, and the turf itself holds them in place.

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
www.teamedwards.info
mobile or text 937-205-4741 office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Go Green - Use a Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans are a great investment, and can even reduce your energy bill. For the best use, make sure the ceiling fan is correctly mounted. It is also important to install the right size ceiling fan for the room. Ceiling fan blades range from size 29" - 56". In large rooms, measuring approximately 15x15, a 52" - 56" ceiling fan should be used. In small rooms, measuring approximately 10x10, a 38" - 48" ceiling fan should be used. Another green tip - if there is a light fixture on your ceiling fan make sure to use an energy efficient light bulb!






Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.Asad@RealLiving.com
http://www.teamedwards.info/
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Best Perennial & Biennial Flowers

ALYSSUM, SAXATILE
AUBRETIA, ROCK CRESS
BALLOON FLOWER, CHINESE BELLFLOWER
BLUE FLAX
BUTTERFLY & HUMMINGBIRD MIX
CARNATION, DWARF FRAGRANCE MIX
COLUMBINE, (DWARF) BIEDERMEIER MIX
COLUMBINE, GIANT MIX
DELPHINIUM, BLUE BUTTERFLY DWARF
DELPHINIUM, PACIFIC GIANT MIX
ECHINACEA, PURPLE CONEFLOWER
ENGLISH DAISY
FOXGLOVE
GAILLARDIA, ARISTATA MIX
GLORIOSA DAISY, RUDBECKIA
GYPSOPHILA, PANICULATA (PERENNIAL)
HOLLYHOCK, CHATERS DOUBLE MIXTURE
HOLLYHOCK, INDIAN SPRING SINGLE MIX
IBERIS (PERENNIAL CANDYTUFT)
DWARF LUPINE, MINARETTE
LUPINE, RUSSELLS MIX
MONEY PLANT
PANSY, SWISS GIANT MIX
PANSY, WINTER PANSIES
PENSTEMON, RAINBOW MIX
PERENNIAL GARDEN MIXTURE
POPPY, ALPINE
POPPY, ICELAND GARTFORD GIANTS
ROCK GARDEN, LOW GROWING MIXTURE
SHADE GARDEN MIXTURE
SHASTA DAISY, ALASKA
SHASTA DAISY, LITTLE PRINCESS
SWEET WILLIAM, TALL SINGLE MIX
WALLFLOWER, ENGLISH

Existing Home Sales Rise In February

Sales of existing homes increased in February and remain within a fairly stable range, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Existing-home sales – including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops – rose 2.9 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate (1) of 5.03 million units in February from a pace of 4.89 million in January, but remain 23.8 percent below the 6.60 million-unit level in February 2007. The sales pace has been in a fairly narrow range since last September.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the gain is encouraging…“The improvement is another sign that the market is stabilizing,” he said. “Buyers taking advantage of higher loan limits for both FHA and conventional mortgages will unleash some pent-up demand.”

http://www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2008/existing_home_sales_rise_in_february.html


Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.Asad@RealLiving.com
http://www.teamedwards.info/
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Spring Into Action!

It's official: Spring has arrived. With warmer weather on the horizon, now's the time to spruce up your home for faster sale or simply add value, without spending a bundle. Inexpensive touches like fresh paint, new throw pillows or front-entrance planters filled with colorful flowers can give your home that extra edge.

• Spring into cleaning – Use a little elbow grease to
  make your floors, windows, appliances and light
  fixtures sparkle. Potential buyers feel more comfortable
  when viewing a clean house.
• Minimize clutter – “Less is more” when it comes
  to staging your home for sale. Put anything in storage
  that takes away from a room’s overall impact.
• Organize closets – A well-organized closet will appear
  roomier, which is what buyers want. There are
  a number of affordable closet shelving and storage
  systems that you can install yourself.
• Paint works wonders – Fresh paint can be the
  least expensive way to transform a room. Neutral
  colors work best because a buyer can move in
  now and choose their custom colors later.
• Make a great first impression – Pretend that
  you’re entering your home for the first time. If there
  are cobwebs or peeling paint on your front door,
  that first impression will be negative. Make needed
  repairs and replace an overly-worn welcome mat
  with a new one.
• Add color with containers – Add container plantings
  to your front entrance for a welcoming focal
  point. The following plants are perfect for spring:
  ivy, sweet alyssum, geranium, snapdragon, salvia,
  liriope, and dianthus.
• Fresh cut flowers – Fresh flowers bring the outdoors
  inside, adding color and aroma. If your home
  is painted in neutral tones, choose brightly colored
  flowers. If your home is already full of color, opt for
  lighter hues, such as white or yellow.
• Spring touches – Lighten up your decorating
  with throws and toss pillows that say “Spring”.
  Pack away those heavier quilts and winter accent
  pieces.
• Hot color trends – This Spring, soothing mint and
  bright foliage are two striking variations of this
  season’s signature color: green. Other tones also
  incorporate a hint of green, including light, airy
  blues and deeper gray teals. Honey-hued yellows
  and subtle shaded purples, along with bright white
  round out the season’s palette.

Source: https://www.lowesrealtorbenefits.com/newsletter/2007/march.htm

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
http://www.teamedwards.info/
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

HOW TO SAVE ENERGY THIS WINTER

Almost $2000 is spent in the average American home each year on energy! Here are some tips to lower your energy bill today:

-Use weatherstripping on doors
-Caulk windows
-Change the furnace air filter
-Lower the thermostat when you are asleep or away
-Use ENERGY STAR light bulbs
-Turn off your computer and electric devices when not in use

For more home tips check out www.teamedwards.info

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation

Should I Sell My Home in the Winter?

When is the best time to sell my home? The rumor that homes don't sell in the winter is a myth. The winter months are a great time to sell your home because you have less "lookie-loos". Only serious buyers brave the cold and snow to look at homes. Another benefit of selling in the winter is less competition on the market. For more information see the article "Time of Year Effects" at http://www.realliving.com/christina.asadedwards/TimeofYearEffects.asp

You can find many other articles also at http://www.teamedwards.info/

Christina Asad Edwards, REALTOR
2006 & 2007 Sales Masters Top Agent
Christina.AsadEdwards@RealLiving.com
mobile or text 937-205-4741
office 937-573-0082
fax 937-433-3561
Real Living Realty - #1 in OHIO!
Realty, Mortgage, Title, Relocation