FIRST OFFER IS USUALLY THE HIGHEST

Realtors know from experience that the old saying has proven true time and again,"The first offer is usually the highest offer". We can't tell you how many times clients have said they should have listened to us. When that offer comes in, especially in today's market, know the likelihood of getting a higher one is small. Of course there are bottom fishers, but we know when an offer makes sense to seriously consider,especially after opining with our clients that they might be listing their homes substantially over market value. We generate pricing advice from hard data on what has sold the last three months, just like appraisers. Listing too high will only generate offers that are too low.

LIST NOW TO ATTRACT BUYERS SEEKING TAX CREDIT

The government tax credit for home buyers expires on April 30. First time buyers receive an $8,000 credit and current qualifying homeowners buying another property receive $6,500. The credit is given on home purchases up to $800,000. All projections I've read cite a slow-down in what is now a well-paced market after the credit expires. List with The Cherry Group now to capitalize on today's positive market environment.

TODAY'S HOT-BUTTONS FOR BUYERS

In a recent survey of home buyer preferences, there are 10 “must” features in new homes:
1. Large kitchens, with an island. If you’re going to spend design dollars, spend them where people want them—spend them in the kitchen.
3. Energy-efficient appliances, high-efficiency insulation and high window efficiency. Among the “green” features touted in homes, these are the ones buyers value most. While large windows had been a major draw, energy concerns are giving customers pause on those. The use of recycled or synthetic materials is only borderline desirable.
4. Home office/study. People would much rather have this space rather than, say, a formal dining room. The dining room has become tradable. And the home theater may also be headed for the scrap heap.
5. Main-floor master suite. This is a must feature for empty-nesters and certain other buyers, and appears to be getting more popular in general. That could help explain why demand for upstairs laundries is declining after several years of popularity gains.
6. Outdoor living room. The popularity of outdoor spaces continues to grow. The idea of an outdoor room is even more popular than an outdoor cooking area, meaning people are willing to spend more time outside.
7. Master suite soaker tubs. Whirlpools are still desirable for many home buyers, but they clearly went down a notch in the latest survey. Oversize showers with seating areas are also moving up in popularity.
8. Stone and brick exteriors. Stucco and vinyl don’t make the cut.
9. Community landscaping, with walking paths and playgrounds. Forget about golf courses, swimming pools and clubhouses. Buyers in large planned developments prefer hiking among lush greenery.
10. Two-car garages. A given at all levels; three-car garages, in which the third bay is more often than not used for additional storage and not automobiles, is desirable in the move-up and custom categories.

"WAIT-N-SEE" BUYERS ARE LOSING OUT

We're seeing surprised and saddened buyers missing out on their dreams because they waited too long, thinking our market has more price adjustment ahead. We have calls on two of our pending listings where buyers are incredulous their dream homes are under contract. On one luxury home we have a back-up contract for more than the accepted offer. The time to list or buy is right now.

THE CHERRY GROUP CONTINUES AS #1

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate announces that The Cherry Group is again the Number 1 Realtors for Coconut Grove sales in its Coconut Grove Office. Named among its TOP 100 REALTORS IN FLORIDA, The Cherry Group has enjoyed a flourishing Real Estate practice for almost 20 years. Having virtually sold out our entire inventory, we're seeking new listings for the new year. Please call us for a confidential meeting to discuss the particulars in marketing and quickly selling your home at the highest price.

GARY HECHT SAYS, "THANKS" TO THE GROVE

As my four year term winds down as a Grove Councilman, I 'd like to thank so many of you for your help and encouragement. I attended hundreds of meetings, especially as Chairman following Commissioner Sarnoff. Many were in your community centers, churches and homes. Thank you for the hospitality and for spurring me on through your activism. The power of many voices coming together as one is a cannon in our democratic arsenal. Thanks again.

CHERRY GROUP GOES PENDING WITH BUYER AT GROVENOR

The Cherry Group is still on a roll..........the market is warming up, though it's been hot for us for the last two years. Our Buyers made an offer on a fabulous 1,756 square foot unit at the Grovenor listed at $1,090,000 and it was accepted. Due to close in four weeks.