5231 S Lucky Clover Ln Murray, UT 84123

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/SS85SP

Beautiful home nestled in a quiet neighborhood! Rare, HUGE lot- over 1/3 acre! Lush landscaping with mature trees, upgraded tile flooring in kitchen, skylight in main bathroom, deck, hot tub, too many extraordinary features to list! Many benefits of living in Murray City, including utilities, school district, recreation facilities, freeway access and more! Come see this amazing home today!

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 2,860

Price: $339,900

For more information about this property, please contact Justin Hutchins at 801-362-0382 or justinhutchins@gmail.com. You can also text 3160883 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.utahcountylistings.com

MLS ID: 1336431

Fall Newsletter

Let's start things off the right way with a "Dad Joke":

What time did the man go to the dentist? Tooth hurt-y (I know, sorry)!

Thanks to everyone who made this an incredible summer for me and my family! I love what I do and appreciate your friendship and loyalty. As the season changes, I wanted to take this opportunity to update everyone on a couple of things in the real estate world.

New Closing Procedures

On October 3^rd, 2015, new lending laws will change the way mortgages are obtained. Be sure to ask me what those changes are and how they will affect the home purchase process.

Fall Housing Market

Think that home buyers retreat during the autumn months? Think again. Fall is an excellent time of year to have your property on the market. Here are five reasons why:

1. Inventory is low and the buyers are serious.

2. Fall holidays allow for seasonal decor and scents, creating a homey feel for potential buyers. Pumpkins and mums on the front porch and hot apple cider simmering on the stove provide a warm welcome.

3. Color-turning leaves provide natural curb appeal and fall foliage can make your house look picture perfect. Just make sure to rake the leaves when they fall and keep your walkway clear!

4. Temperatures have cooled, bringing weather that is much better suited for home shopping. Autumn days get shorter though, so you'll want to brighten up your home with warm lighting.

5. With the New Year approaching, it is the perfect opportunity for a potential homebuyer to start a new chapter. Your house may be the ideal setting for this story!

Next to spring, fall is the busiest season for home buying and selling. Autumn offers certain benefits to home buyers, including year-end tax breaks, pleasant weather conditions for moving and a wide selection of homes for sale.

Fall Home-Buying Tips

Given the home-buying competition and the short, pre-holiday timetable in autumn, you may be tempted to place a bid that is out of your price range, for fear of losing the home.

Before you make an offer, know what kind of house you need and what you can realistically afford, and stick to your budget.

You will want to prequalify for a loan so that you’ll be ready to act when you find the home you want.

And as always, whatever season you buy in, buy at the best time for you and your family, and hold out for the right house- there are always more homes to see and to choose from.

I am happy to help you or someone you know buy or sell your home in any season! With more than 45 years of experience in Team Teasdale Realty, we are well equipped and ready to serve your real estate needs. Call me today at 801.362.0382.

Negotiations and the "Us vs. Them" Mentality

In my experience in Real Estate, it seems that as soon as a Buyer and Seller enter negotiations, it is often followed immediately by feelings of ultra-competitiveness and conflict. Rarely does a transaction occur where there is a supremely cooperative effort to accomplish a common goal.

I can't help but notice parallels from my time as a competitive athlete and coach. I am reminded of counsel from Dieter F. Uchtdorf as he addressed a group of Christian men. He began by asking the question, "How is it that normally kind and compassionate human beings can be so intolerant and filled with hatred toward an opposing team and its fans?" He continued, "I have watched sports fans vilify and demonize their rivals. They look for any flaw and magnify it. They justify their hatred with broad generalizations and apply them to everyone associated with the other team. When ill fortune afflicts their rival, they rejoice."

Recently, I had some clients that got caught up in this very mentality. Anything the other party did or said was construed as hurtful, callous, spiteful even. Any offer or request to be considered was taken as a direct, personal attack on my clients. A great divide had developed that hindered negotiations and progress. It was "Us" (the good guys) versus "Them" (the bad guys). Feelings of ill-will and resentment were abundant, and regrettably, I must admit I was caught up in it too. In discussions between myself and the other agent, it became apparent that there was no love loss between the two of us as well. I couldn't wait to find some way to "stick it to the other guys."

I pondered the situation as I sat awake in bed one night. What had happened? Why was it still happening? None of us on my side of the transaction knew the other party. I had never dealt with the other agent before. Why was the perception of them so jaded- and vice versa?

The next morning, it came to me. We are all working to accomplish the same thing. The Sellers want to sell, the Buyers want to buy. Sure, we each have our best interests in mind on either side of the deal. We each have the fiduciary obligations to our clients as Realtors®. But, do we have to despise each other? Does is need to be this difficult? We don't. It doesn't.

It all comes down to a matter of perspective. I think Stephen Covey explained this well in his book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. In Habit 4: Think Win-Win, he states, "Think Win-Win isn't about being nice, nor is it a quick-fix technique. It is a character-based code for human interaction and collaboration.

Most of us learn to base our self-worth on comparisons and competition. We think about succeeding in terms of someone else failing--that is, if I win, you lose; or if you win, I lose. Life becomes a zero-sum game. There is only so much pie to go around, and if you get a big piece, there is less for me; it's not fair, and I'm going to make sure you don't get anymore. We all play the game, but how much fun is it really?

Win-win sees life as a cooperative arena, not a competitive one. Win-win is a frame of mind and heart that constantly seeks mutual benefit in all human interactions. Win-win means agreements or solutions are mutually beneficial and satisfying. We both get to eat the pie, and it tastes pretty darn good!

A person or organization that approaches conflicts with a win-win attitude possesses three vital character traits:

1. Integrity: sticking with your true feelings, values, and commitments
2. Maturity: expressing your ideas and feelings with courage and consideration for the ideas and feelings of others
3. Abundance Mentality: believing there is plenty for everyone

Many people think in terms of either/or: either you're nice or you're tough. Win-win requires that you be both. It is a balancing act between courage and consideration. To go for win-win, you not only have to be empathic, but you also have to be confident. You not only have to be considerate and sensitive, you also have to be brave. To do that--to achieve that balance between courage and consideration--is the essence of real maturity and is fundamental to win-win."(emphasis added)

There is always an opportunity to produce a win-win situation in any transaction. It is important to remember both sides and keep that perspective- not to weaken your stance as a negotiator, but to maintain the integrity of the deal and your relationships with all involved. After all, as Realtors®, we live by a higher code of ethics. We can get our Buyers the home they want, and we can get our Sellers the price they need, we may just need to eat a little humble pie from time to time- there's plenty of that to go around!

If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a home, please call me. I'm happy to help!

Sources: 

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/pride-and-the-priesthood?lang=eng

https://www.stephencovey.com/7habits/7habits-habit4.php

Think a "Lowball" Offer Will Get Your Home in a Hot Market? Think Again...

Summer is here, and that's not the only thing that's hot! The housing market here in Utah County shows that sales are up 17 percent (YTD), and home prices are also up at a 17.5 percent increase from just last month. The Utah County Association of Realtors reported, however, that listings are down 27 percent. These numbers indicate that the market is strong, but more inventory would also be a good thing.

When you find yourself in a hot market, you want to be careful as a buyer not to insult a home seller. So, what initial offer would be insulting to a home seller? 10% less than asking? 5% less? A full priced offer with 3% of buyer's closing costs paid by the seller?

As a REALTOR®, I have seen my share of sellers who were insulted by a buyer’s offer. There are times when anything less than a full priced offer is insulting... but should a buyer be afraid to request a few thousand dollars toward closing costs? Will the seller balk and accept the next offer in line?

To be honest, a lot of it depends on the price and location within Utah County.  In some neighborhoods, it could be insulting to offer less than full price- especially if it is a home priced under $200,000. There are an abundance of first time buyers out there looking for affordable, move-in ready homes, and a well prepared and priced property can get an offer (or 2, 3 or more) in a matter of days. There are also many neighborhoods and communities in my this with a very small number of homes for sale.

Buyers often get advice from friends and relatives to never pay full price because "sellers always negotiate." In reality, many sellers will not negotiate significantly, and a "lowball" offer could put the buyers’ dream home purchase in jeopardy.

Here's how to come up with an acceptable starting point: 

• Have your REALTOR® do a market analysis. 

When representing a buyer, I look up the recent comparable homes sold in the neighborhood before the offer discussion begins. In a low inventory market, a seller that lists at market value could still be in a multiple offer situation due to demand. If the home is properly priced and in a high-demand area, anything that is not close to full price could mean that the seller will wait for another offer. By looking at the neighborhood comparables, my buyers better understand what offer will be considered reasonable.

• Consider the original list price.

If a seller started off too high and adjusted the price of the home, it could be priced right now. If a market analysis shows the current price of the home is fair, offering 5-10% less could be considered insulting. When a buyer has found the house and fallen in love with it, it might make sense to make an offer closer to the asking price rather than haggle and risk losing it.

• What if the home is overpriced?

If the market analysis shows that home to be significantly overpriced and the offer will be more than 10% less than the current asking price, it may be helpful to have your REALTOR® provide the comparables to the seller and his/her agent. Sometimes when the offer is accompanied by documentation to back up the offer, the seller is less offended - a good REALTOR® will be careful not to overlook good comps to justify the offer. This strategy can be worse if not providing any documentation.

• Consider plans to remodel and update. 

Some buyers think sending a long list of planned updates complete with associated estimates is a good strategy to negotiate a price reduction - but beware! If the updates are necessary due to age or wear, make note of the fact, but slamming a well maintained and updated home to justify a low offer is insulting and makes continued negotiations difficult if not impossible.

• Avoid considering the price paid for the home.

I have come across a few buyers who research tax records to determine the price the seller paid for the property. They assume if someone purchased a home at a very low price, they have a ton of equity. This can be true, but it's not always the case. Some sellers have taken the equity out of their home for improvements or for other reasons - and if sellers do have equity, they usually don't intend to give it away. Keep the negotiations focused on the fair market value of the home.


Right now, sellers are excitedly anticipating a non-contingent, pre-approved home buyer willing write an offer for their home. In most cases, they understand the market and have worked hard to prepare their properties to entice a written purchase agreement (or several). Buyers must think through their offers and contemplate their negotiations carefully. Discussions can go south very quickly between buyer and seller when the initial offer is not on point.

   
In any case, this is a great time to buy or sell a home! Confidence is up, interest rates are still down. Many lenders can advise on programs that don't even require the past staple of 20 percent down! If you or anyone you know is need of a true real estate professional, please don't hesitate to contact me! I look forward to working with you!

Sources: Utah County Association of Realtors®, Teri Eckholm, Zurple

Utah County Market Update- June 2015

According to the most recent numbers provided by the Utah County Association of Realtors®, year-to-date sales are up 19 percent compared to 2014, while listings are down a full 24 percent.

Translation: the market is great!

With interest rates still at some of the lowest we have seen in years, many buyers are taking advantage and finding great deals. A lower interest rate may actually save you more money in the long run than a discounted purchase price!

On the flip side, if you are even considering listing your home- NOW is the time! Inventory is considered to be somewhat low which can mean less time on the market and more money in your pocket!

Contact me immediately for a FREE analysis on your home's current market value! 801-362-0382 or justinhutchins@gmail.com.

Whether you are looking to sell your current home, or take advantage of great financing rates and buy your next home, let me help simplify the process for you! I'm looking forward to working with you!

-Justin Hutchins, Your Realtor® for Life!

947 S 250 W Salem, UT 84653

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/65QEC2

This beautiful home in Salem has it all! Rare half acre lot! Spacious floor plan with fully finished walkout basement and fitness room! Lots of storage space, parking and room to entertain. Rural living at its finest, still with easy access to schools, highway and shopping.

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 3.00

Square feet: 3,540

Price: $354,900

For more information about this property, please contact Justin Hutchins at 801-362-0382 or justinhutchins@gmail.com. You can also text 2824022 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.utahcountylistings.com

MLS ID: 1306176

1579 W 110 N Pleasant Grove, UT 84062

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/UQ7TVZ

Exquisite home available in the highly sought-after Pemberley subdivision! This home offers soaring vaulted ceilings, magnificent upgrades throughout, offering plush carpet, one of the most pristine homes on the market! Clubhouse features luxury at its finest- pool, gym, theater and spacious entertainment facilities.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,320

Price: $167,900

For more information about this property, please contact Justin Hutchins at 801-362-0382 or justinhutchins@gmail.com. You can also text 2808012 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.utahcountylistings.com

MLS ID: 1303198

Buyers: Understand How Sellers Price Their Homes

Understanding how sellers price their homes can empower you, as a buyer, in the negotiation process as you team up with your Realtor.

How Much Should I Offer?

Clients often ask, “How much under the listing price should we offer?”

The best way to understand market value is through comparative research.  Professional real estate consultants review and study at least 40 to 60 listings, visit 10 to 20, and inspect 5 to10 properties to develop a sense of relative worth for properties in a given area.

Additionally, a professional appraisal factors into determining the fair market value of the home.  An appraisal protects you because Lenders want to make sure that you don't overpay for a home.  If the home value does not meet the sale price in the eyes of the appraiser, they’ll let you know.  At that time, the Realtor can renegotiate the sale price or void the agreement and refund your earnest money deposit.

There are four basic factors that influence how sellers price their homes:

1.  Sellers Get Poor Advice

Some real estate agents inflate the value of the seller’s home in an effort to obtain the listing.  There’s a natural tendency on the part of sellers to list with the real estate agent who gives them the promise of the highest selling price.

When homes are overpriced, they 

• Stay on the market longer
• May not sell

2.    Sellers Set an Unrealistic Price for Emotional Reasons

These sellers believe their home is worth every penny of their asking price for personal reasons.  Sometimes they lose their objectivity and focus on features that seem more valuable to them (rather than to the buyer).  For example, the suede wall-covering in the master bedroom may not appeal to potential buyers.

 Additionally, some sellers, anticipating reticence to buy, feel it’s a good idea to leave a little “negotiating” room in the asking price.

3.  Sellers Price their Home at Fair Market Value

These sellers carefully and realistically study other homes for sale, and may consult with a real estate professional.  They price their home competitively, and it usually sells quickly at (or very near) the asking price.

4.  Sellers are Motivated to Sell

When sellers want a fast sale, they price their home below fair market value.  These homes usually sell right away, at or above the listed price.  There are usually competing offers.

I will help you determine the fair market price for any home.  My job is to ensure that you have the tools and information you need to make an informed decision.  I will help you every step of the way.

(Courtesy of By Referral Only)