Tag Archive for: Realty Network Group

Why Would I Need A Real Estate Appraiser?

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As a homeowner, why would I need the services of a real estate appraiser? And is one needed if I already have a business relationship with a REALTOR®? These are great questions, but before we dive in and answer them, let’s establish what we mean when we say “appraisal.”

For our purposes here, we’re not concerned with commercial real estate appraisals. These are a whole different animal and are sought after less than residential ones in our region. By appraisals, we’re referring to an accurate estimate of a home’s current/fair market value (emphasis added). We’ll break down the difference between this and how we understand a comparable market analysis, but it’s safe to say appraisals hold much more weight. Furthermore, an appraisal, which is required by a homebuyer’s lender, for instance, is completed by a licensed appraiser and not solely a real estate agent.

While some homeowners, who are looking to sell their home, might request from a REALTOR® what’s called a comparable market analysis (CMA), it’s critical to recognize the distinction between it and an appraisal. While agents might use methods of comparison similar to appraisers, they aren’t licensed appraisers with no motivation for the sale of the property. Generally speaking, CMAs are for agent purposes (listing a home for sale, data to support a buyer’s offer) and appraisals are for lending purposes. Read more about their differences here.

Regardless of the business relationship you have with a real estate professional, unless he/she has a license to appraise property in that state, his/her assessment on what a property is worth won’t hold water with the mortgage lender actually making the investment on the home on your behalf (whether you’re the homeowner or mortgagor). Not all appraisals involve banks though. “There are many reasons someone would hire an appraiser,” exclaims Maria Muchal Berta, Owner/Certified Real Estate Appraiser for Chiave Appraisal Group and Associate Broker with Realty Network Group. “One reason is if a buyer is using cash to purchase a property, meaning there are no banks involved in the transaction. It gives the buyer a piece of mind knowing they’re not overpaying for a property. Other common reasons for hiring an appraiser include divorces, settling estates, refinancing, applying for home equity loans, appealing tax assessments or they’re just curious about their home’s worth.”

We hope this elucidates why someone might need the services of a real estate appraiser. It’s a complicated market out there! Make sure you have the right people and tools at your fingertips. If you need further clarification regarding homebuying, look into this resource.

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Exceeding Your Expectations

Give a warm welcome to our newest real estate professional, Valerie Altier! She brings into our market a wealth of knowledge from the business and accounting fields. As a graduate of Penn State University, Valerie managed an accounting firm and also worked as the chief administrative officer at a local tech company. Her background in this field coupled with her passion for real estate, has our company, Realty Network Group, even more excited for connecting buyers and sellers in 2022.

Though this is the start of something new, Valerie has always found real estate interesting and has been involved in the ebb and flow of the industry through her husband’s investments, home construction and sales over the past twenty-five years. “We’re excited to welcome an agent who is both a true professional, who loves our region, as well as someone who’s dedicated to her family,” expressed Mark DeStefano, CEO of Realty Network Group.

Valerie enjoys spending time with family and friends. She loves to travel. Her work ethic, business skill sets and life experiences position her well for what she’ll encounter in real estate. “One thing I’m looking forward to the most in this business is its uniqueness,” proclaims Valerie. “Each client is one-of-a-kind. Every home is different. Each day is extraordinary.” Having lived in Northeastern Pennsylvania her entire life, Valerie can point her clients in the right direction, navigating them through various neighborhoods and school districts available to them. “Seeking out that feeling of comfort or home is paramount to buyers and it is important to me as well,” exclaimed Valerie. “I certainly discovered that feeling at Realty Network Group. It’s reputation, size and support were some of the things that attracted me to this firm.”

Are you looking to buy or sell? Valerie Altier will listen to your needs and help you achieve your objectives by discovering properties that may even surpass your expectations. Get started by calling Valerie today at 570-702-1104 or via valtier@realtynetwork.net.

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Frozen Wilderness: Explore The Area’s Best Ice Festival

Make sure to dress warm this year because the Festival of Ice 2022 will be a cold one. But we’re game, because nothing says “ice festival” like dripping sculptures! As of Friday morning, temperatures for this weekend’s festival in the Abingtons will hit highs of 28°, 13° and 24° F respectively, Friday (January 28th) through Sunday (January 30th).

This year’s theme may not be as captivating as some of the previous festivals in recent years, including Ice Wars (Star Wars) or Icetendo, but you have to admit there’s something majestic about the wilderness, even when it’s cold. The 17th Annual Clarks Summit Festival of Ice [though it should be the 18th Annual, 2021’s festival was also the 17th for some reason], titled “Frozen Wilderness,” will have a fierce display of sculptures this weekend. No, there won’t be an Elsa, but you’ll find a wolf, a wolverine, a reindeer, birds, bears and so much more.

Check this out, there’s even an elk outside our business!

Frozen Wilderness

We hope you can stop by Realty Network Group and catch a glimpse of this beauty. There’s also so much to do in and around downtown Clarks Summit. Support small business and shop State Street! Enjoy a hot chocolate, walk around and take in all the sights of the “Frozen Wilderness” compliments of Sculpted Ice Works and Darlene Sarcevic Milas (whose paintings you’ll find on storefronts).

The festival begins on Friday with a parade at 6 PM on State Street. Also, be sure not to miss Fire & Ice at the Waverly Community House [1115 North Abington Road in Waverly] happening from 1-3 PM on Saturday, January 29th, with a live carving demo at 1:30 PM on the front lawn – a polar bear and penguins. We’re sponsoring that event as well so be sure not to miss it.

It should be a memorable weekend and thankfully a cold one too! We hope to see you there.

 

Mark your calendars: The winter celebrations continue next weekend. February 4th-6th is the Scranton Ice Festival.

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Best Practices For Downsizing Your Home When You Have A Pet

Downsizing your home is always a bit tricky. If you have a pet, it can become a hair more challenging. Luckily, with the right approach, you can downsize successfully. Here are some best practices that can help.

Plan For Your Home Showings

If you’re selling your current house, you’ll need to take some extra steps because you have a pet. Along with cleaning extra thoroughly to ensure there are no pet odors or errant fur, you’ll need to find a place for your pet to go during showings.

Leaving your pet roaming in your house during showings is never a good idea. It could put both your pet and visitors at risk. Plus, some prospective buyers might view your property as riskier, worrying about pet-related damage that could be present.

If you can’t keep your pet with you during showings, speak with family, friends or neighbors to see if they can help. Otherwise, consider a doggy daycare.

Pare Down Your Stuff Properly

As you downsize your stuff to prepare for a smaller property, don’t forget your pet’s needs. While taking a ratty pet bed or old toy with you might not seem necessary, bringing familiar, well-loved objects into the new house can make your pet more comfortable during the transition. So, make sure to keep a few older things that your pet adores. That way, they’ll be something familiar waiting for them in your new home.

Prepare For The Home Purchase

Before you start searching for a new home, you need to get your financial life in order. When you’re taking out a mortgage, the lender will examine your financial situation from several angles. Along with checking your income, credit score and financial assets, lenders will calculate your debt-to-income ratio to determine what you can afford.

You can check your own debt-to-income ratio by taking your monthly debt payment total and dividing that by your gross monthly income. Generally speaking, below 36 percent (0.36 for the calculation) is best. However, some lenders may go forward with a 43 percent, though that isn’t broadly the case.

Finding The Right New Home

Once it’s time to locate the right house for you and your pet, you want to be strategic. If you find a property that might meet your needs, take a moment to research animal-related regulations in that area. Some places have exotic animal and urban livestock restrictions. There can also be breed-specific legislation for dogs in some cities.

After determining that your pet is welcome in the city, examine the property with your pet’s needs in mind. Figure out if the property meets your cumulative requirements, as is, or if modifications might be necessary.

For example, you may need to add pet doors to allow your pet to freely enter and exit the house. Ramps might be a good addition if you have an aging or smaller pet and stairs could be a challenge. If a particular plant in the yard could harm your pet, you might need to remove it.

Another modification you might need to make is adding or replacing a fence. While this may seem like a simple undertaking, it’s actually incredibly cumbersome, especially if you’re working on it solo. As a result, connecting with local contractors in your area is usually a better bet.

Before you meet with a fencing contractor, discuss your needs and request quotes from several in your area. Read online reviews about Angi fencing professionals to learn more about the companies and make sure that they are licensed, bonded and insured and that they check for local utility lines before starting. On average, homeowners spend around $4,500 on a new fence (though the price does vary depending on materials, size and location). As a result, you want to make sure you get the best contractor for the job, ensuring it’s money well spent.

Downsizing and moving are difficult on their own, let alone when you have a pet involved. So, take some time to strategize the move, make sure your pet is well taken care of and be ready to embark on the next chapter of your life.

Whether you’re buying or selling a home, work with the experienced real estate professionals at Realty Network Group.

 

[This content is compliments of Furever Friend. Image for this post – Unsplash]

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Time, Patience & Magic

Theresa DeMario Plisko becomes the newest addition to join Realty Network Group. As someone who has more or less lived her whole life in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Theresa knows the communities and markets well within this region. Though she excels in areas such as Moosic, Taylor and Old Forge, she looks forward to assisting homebuyers and sellers throughout the Greater Scranton area as well.

Over the past five years, Theresa has grown into her role as a successful REALTOR®. Prior to that she worked with her husband’s construction company for over twenty-five years. Through this experience, she understands how to coach sellers to effectively list and buyers on what to look for when searching for a home. “The reward in this business comes when my clients discover what they’re looking for,” exclaims Theresa. “The timetable varies from person to person, but the important thing I like them to remember is we’ll achieve our goals if we take it one step at time.” To her buyers, she reviews the pros and cons of homes presently on the market. To her sellers, she’ll have candid conversations about pricing, staging, among other things, even if it’s not what they want to hear.

Theresa’s approach to real estate over the years has defined her together with how she cares about her clients and their investments. She has many other strengths, including an understanding of market trends, effectively pricing a home, curb appeal, home construction, home staging and design. “I sought out a company with a strong reputation, who is respected among my peers,” underscored Theresa. “This was one of the reasons I became part of Realty Network Group. They’re a smaller company, which has similar camaraderie to the real estate business I first worked with, The Agency Real Estate Group.”

Real estate is the perfect match for agents like Theresa, who truly enjoy pairing buyers with properties that make sense for them and their families. Buying a home is a huge investment and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home, choose a real estate professional who is easy to work with and who has the expertise to deliver the results you’re seeking. Contact Theresa DeMario Plisko today at 570-851-8511 or via email at theresaplisko@gmail.com.

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Forward-Thinking: The Key To Real Estate

Realty Network Group’s newest REALTOR®, Lisa Armetta, looks forward to the demands of today’s real estate market. Lisa has lived in Northeastern Pennsylvania her whole life. She understands the region, the culture, but most especially its inhabitants. “Our community is loaded with hidden treasures, including its people,” attests Lisa. “Locals need an advocate who will act (when need be) and guide them through the real estate search, transaction and beyond.”

With over thirty years experience in all facets of the restaurant and bar industry, Lisa understands firsthand how to treat clients well. Repeat business has always been extremely important to her! When customers come back, time and time again, it says something about your business: your product and your personal brand. Leaning upon her achievements in managing thriving area businesses, her focus now has shifted. Running a successful real estate business is her goal.

It’s important to work with professionals who understand how daunting the purchase of a home or business can be — it’s a large investment, to say the least. Lisa recognizes how vital it is for those involved to be comfortable with their purchase. Her wish is for her clients to not only see the property for what it is, but also be able to experience it for what it could be, its potential, a reflection of them.

“I chose Realty Network Group because it’s a small business, who’s very involved in our community,” asserts Lisa. “They have a wonderful reputation for supporting their agents and their clients. I’ve spent most of my career building small businesses, where people are family. I desired a company who was inline with that philosophy. My hope is to help prospective buyers find the right property to build their ‘family,’ even if it’s a business one, and help sellers find the right buyer.”

Being involved in real estate over the years, Lisa has a good understanding of potential setbacks for buyers and sellers. Forward-thinking is essential in this business. When Lisa sees opportunity for her and her clients, she acts. She’s an achiever, who will work tirelessly for her clients’ needs. She’s ready for the challenges that lie ahead in this market as well as the next one.

Seeking the services of a professional, but you’re hesitant because of a prior bad experience? If you’re thinking about making a move in 2021, call Lisa Armetta today at 570-840-1793 or via email at larmetta@realtynetwork.net.

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The Same Principles Apply

Realty Network Group’s newest REALTOR® is a native of the Scranton area and currently resides in Eynon. “I understand that where you live and who you represent are most important,” describes Michael Turlip. “These values have been instrumental in my life and continue to guide my endeavors.” Mike Turlip graduated from the University of Scranton in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. From there he served in the U.S. Army for four years as a Military Policeman. In January of 2002, he was deployed to Afghanistan following the events that occurred on September 11, 2001. Upon returning, he completed an overseas tour in Europe, serving as a member of NATO at the Supreme Allied Headquarters in Belgium. His experience in the military has instilled in him what it means to sacrifice and serve others. In 2005, he was accepted to the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Hershey, Pennsylvania. For the past sixteen years, Mike has continued to serve the public as a Pennsylvania State Trooper.

“My experience in public service has embodied the principles that we as Americans should strive for every opportunity we can,” emphasizes Mike. “I’m thankful for my experience and wish to utilize this drive, which has developed from my military background, in order to be successful. My success will translate to success for my clients and that’s my priority.” Mike understands how central buyers and sellers are to real estate in 2021. He grasps the connection between homeowners, investors and tenants far greater than most real estate professionals who are beginning to grow their business.

Mike has always had an affinity for real estate. Eight years ago, he purchased his first investment property. “I think real estate has always offered me a challenge that intrigues me,” asserts Mike. Whether it’s buying a fixer-upper and transforming it back to a neighborhood treasure or investing in rental properties that provide affordable, well-maintained housing to those in the community, the growth of his portfolio has meant more to him than sheer assets. Investing in our community is foremost, and coupled with his passion to serve others. As a real estate professional, Mike fully intends to provide his clients with knowledgeable service, based on his experience, while taking into consideration their real estate goals.

For the past two decades, Mike has served in some of the most prestigious organizations in the country. The principles conveyed through them, led him to Realty Network Group. This company takes pride in serving its clients well and adheres to the highest standards in the real estate community. Loyalty and service to those we represent coincide with his values as a veteran and a State Trooper. He looks forward to applying these same principles to assist and meet all of his clients’ real estate needs.

If you’re seeking the services of a real estate professional who is dedicated to finding your forever home or selling your current one, contact Michael Turlip today directly at 570-290-4421 or via email at mturlip@realtynetwork.net.

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Honoring Our Heroes

This weekend marks the 17th Annual Festival of Ice in Clarks Summit and the first ever during a pandemic. There are many “firsts” over the past eleven months in addition to new ways of working toward a solution, given certain restrictions. We’d be remiss if we didn’t take a moment to thank those in our community who’ve made a difference in the Abingtons and the Greater Scranton area. Of course, our clients and our agents have been difference-makers in 2020, our company had a tremendous year in large part due to them. With that being said, our real heroes – those who don’t often get the credit they deserve – are police officers, nurses, firefighters, doctors, other emergency medical personnel, cashiers, clerks, truck drivers, postal employees, daycare employees and other key members of our community who sacrifice for us daily.

As we thank and remember them, we invite you to celebrate winter this year at the Clarks Summit Festival of Ice: Hometown Heroes as we honor those on the frontline who make a difference. The festival, taking place February 12-14, 2021, is giving a “frozen salute” to our heroes on ice. The safest fun this year is “outdoor fun” and it should be an ideal weekend for it – not too cold nor too hot! So we hope to see you there.

This year’s festival will feature more than 50 ice sculptures, including one sponsored by Realty Network Group and Thirteen Olives (located at 222 Northern Boulevard; in the same plaza at PA Wine & Spirits). Hometown Heroes will also include eight live ice carvings performed by Sculpted Ice Works of Lakeville. Those live carvings will take place at the following locations:

Friday, February 12th:

  • 11:40 AM: Met Life (1028 Morgan Highway)
  •   2:00 PM: Noteology (312 South State Street)
  •   4:00 PM: The Ice House Wedding Barn (500 block of State Street)
  •   2:00 PM: Pocono Axe Works (Downtown Clocktower)

Saturday, February 13th:

  • 12:00 PM: City Market and Cafe (200 North State Street)
  •   2:00 PM: The Waverly Community House (1115 North Abington Road)
  •   4:00 PM: Met Life (Downtown Clocktower)
  •   6:00 PM: State Street Grill (114 South State Street)

We also need to give a big shout out to the Abington Business & Professionals Association who pulled this all together this year. Without them as well as the sponsors for this year’s event, there wouldn’t be a festival in 2021. Remember, admission to the festival is free, so don’t miss a great opportunity to enjoy winter (spring is right around the corner – we think?!).

Our hero: Letter Carrier (Postal Service)

As the postal service’s motto states, “We deliver through rain and sleet and snow and hail…” However, no one could have predicted what the postal workers had to face with a global pandemic. They have adapted and persevered, despite so many obstacles along the way. The U.S. Postal Service implemented strategies recommended by the CDC and kept on, even when COVID caused their workforce to be much smaller and the daily contact with others made their jobs risky. They never considered a mail shutdown and were out there every day making sure that people stay connected and businesses had all deliveries to stay open.

 

Take the Clarks Summit Festival of Ice quiz and you could win a prize!

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Selling Beyond Home

Alice Manley is the newest agent to join forces with Realty Network Group. She infuses thirty years of sales expertise with an interest and passion for matching up buyers and sellers. Connecting both parties in a real estate transaction is more than a science. There’s an art to marketing homes or leading buyers in pursuit of theirs. Alice’s vast experience in media and hospitality are added advantages for her and her clients.

Alice will be a valuable asset to the firm as she brings a strong work ethic and a motivation to succeed into the field. She has a desire to work hard for her clients understanding that sometimes you don’t get a second chance to sell for the best price, terms and conditions as trends change. She’s also committed to homebuyers as they begin what will be a remarkable journey toward homeownership! She’s driven to succeed, realizing her successes will be victories for her clients too. Another strength for Alice is her problem-solving abilities. She has an uncanny sense for stopping issues in their tracks and moving toward a resolution that’s acceptable to everyone involved, especially her buyers/sellers.

“If it doesn’t feel right, we’ll search until it does,” expresses Alice. Her words to buyers never ring truer than they do now in a seller’s market. “Your ‘forever home’ wraps you in comfort like an old blanket, gives you refuge during difficult days and is always waiting for you after a long journey. Everyone deserves this and I look forward to bringing this experience to others.”

Alice has lived her entire life in Northeastern Pennsylvania. She loves all the area has to offer, including its seasons, natural landscapes and close-knit communities. She hopes those moving into the region or growing into it can have these experiences as well. “It’s an exciting time in real estate in NEPA,” underscores Alice. “I chose Realty Network Group because of a working relationship I had with one of its owners. It was knowing this person that attracted me to the company. I was certain of the value, integrity and respect I would find there. Furthermore, they train each new REALTOR®, like myself, which was incredibly important to me.”

Are you seeking the services of a real estate professional who’s extremely motivated and will work hard for your interests? Contact Alice Manley now at 570-954-3701 or via email at amanley@realtynetwork.net.

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Every Step Of The Way

Realty Network Group welcomes a new addition to its network of real estate professionals. Her name is Sarah Farrell and her unique skill set offers promise to future clients of the firm. As a native of Northeastern Pennsylvania and a current resident of the Abingtons, Sarah is very familiar with the areas in and around Lackawanna and Luzerne counties. She looks forward to connecting buyers and sellers in a variety of ways as she begins her real estate career.

Her skill set includes, but is not limited to, over twelve years experience in marketing, sales and management for industries pertaining to resorts and travel. She has a background in creative design, which will inevitably enhance her sellers’ ability to showcase their homes, especially when staging. Furthermore, she has a natural ability to connect with consumers while keeping the lines of communications open – a vital part of real estate – ask any successful, veteran REALTOR®.

“I love many aspects of real estate,” emphasizes Sarah. “I’ve always been intrigued by the market, looking at the trends in addition to discovering a home’s special character. That is, how it’s differentiated from the rest. And while HGTV is always ‘background music’ in my home, finding out what makes specific neighborhoods in our region tick is an essential trademark to suitably marketing properties.” Sarah has her sights set on a long and prosperous career in this industry. She’s passionate about getting her feet wet, helping her clients find their forever home or getting top dollar for her sellers.

“I look forward to expanding Realty Network Group’s footprint in NEPA,” underscores Sarah. “They’re an established, up-and-coming company, who offers a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to agents in the field. It felt like an instant fit for me. I love the camaraderie, which exists there. From what I’ve witnessed and heard, there’s a culture of support and encouragement within the company. I’m very happy to be part of this organization.”

The company will continue to grow with agents like Sarah, professionals who understand how cumbersome the real estate process can be at times. Going through this process herself, she knows how imperative being there for her clients is – being present every step of the way. She has a great work ethic and believes integrity and honesty are two of the most important traits a REALTOR® should possess. She also currently serves on a variety of boards in our community including Meeting Planners International, Middle PA Chapter (Vice-President of Education), Northeast Chapter of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association and American Cancer Society, Northeast Chapter (advisory committee).

If you’re seeking the services of a real estate professional who will work hard for you and your goals, contact Sarah Farrell today directly at 570-417-6932 or via email at sfarrell@realtynetwork.net.

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