wendycarson—...remax platinum club—members have to have earned $250,000—$499,999 in gross...

Wendy Carson, Realtor Licensed in MN & WI GRI, CRS, ABR, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-PRO, MBC, GREEN, CLHMS 15451 Founders Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124

www.WendyCarson.com [email protected]

Cell: 651-341-6020

— Wendy Carson —

Putting that little ‘extra‘ in extraordinary service!

Wendy Carson, RE/MAX® ResultsGRI, CRS, ABR, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-PRO, MBC, GREEN, CLHMS

Licensed in MN and WI

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated


Cell: 651-341-6020

You’re In Good Hands By choosing me for your real estate needs, you are

picking an agent who……..

x� Has been serving clients’ real estate needs since 1998!

x� Is in the top 5% of all ReMax sales agents-North Central Region!

x� Obtains 90% of my business from past clients’ referrals!

x� Is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin!

x� Voted “Super Real Estate Agent since 2007”

By Mpls/St. Paul Magazine

Putting that little ‘extra’ in extraordinary service!

WENDY CARSON-Realtor RE/MAX ® Results

GRI, ABR, CRS, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-Pro, MBC, GREEN, CLHMS Top 5% ReMax North Central

Super Real Estate Agent Since 2007 Licensed in MN/WI

www.WendyCarson.com



I've been named as one of America's Best Real Estate Agents!

Wendy Carson of RE/MAX Results was named one of America’s Best Real Estate Agents as a part of REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents, the newly issued ranking report produced by REAL Trends and sponsored by Zillow Group. She is now a member of the “America’s Best Real Estate Agents,” and ranked number 92 in the state of Minnesota.

REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents ranks over 12,000 residential real estate professionals. These results are solely based on their excellence in real estate sales during calendar year 2015. All production numbers are independently verified by a third-party in order to ensure accuracy and report integrity. This group of highly successful real estate sales agents represents less than 1 percent of all real estate practitioners in the United States.

To qualify for inclusion, an individual agent must have closed at least 50 transaction sides or $20 million in sales volume in 2015. For real estate agent teams, the minimum is 75 transaction sides or $30 million in closed sales volume.


Cell: 651-341-6020


What do all these designations mean? Voted Super Real Estate Agent since 2007

by Twin Cities Business and Mpl. St. Paul Magazine!

How does a Realtor get on this list that includes only 3—5% of the licensed real estate agents in Minnesota? It is the consumers themselves who identify and evaluate agents. Tens of thousands of home buyers who have recently purchased a home for $250,000 or more are asked to name and evaluate agents with whom they have had direct and personal experience. Both positive and negative responses are accepted and weighted. In this way, the very origins of this list are client satisfaction, not volume or sales dollars. No real estate agent has paid to appear on the list. A panel of industry experts reviews each real estate agent on a preliminary list. Panelists are able to recommend other agents for inclusion and to removal. The list is based on what consumers need, namely these 9 items: customer service, integrity,

market knowledge, communication, negotiation, closing preparation, finding the right home, marketing a home, and overall satisfaction. Since only 3—5% of real estate agents make the list, it really contains only exemplary professionals!

Realtor—member of the National Association of Realtors, which is a professional organization that requires following a strict code of ethics. Graduate, Realtor Institute—in depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards and the sales process. Accredited Buyer‘s Representative—a unique understanding of home buyer‘s needs and how to best serve them, specialized information to stay on top of home buying issues and trends and exclusive resources. Certified Residential Specialist—has an over 30 year legacy of giving residential real estate professionals the tools they

need to be successful in any market through education, resources and connections. Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource—how to help sellers maneuver the complexities of short sales as well as help buyers pursue short sale and foreclosure opportunities in today‘s market.

Certified Distressed Property Expert—has a thorough understanding of complex issues in today‘s real estate industry and knowledge of foreclosure avoidance options available to homeowners.

Seniors Real Estate Specialist—how to ethically serve the real estate needs of the fastest growing market, clients age 50+.

E-PRO—teaches how to use cutting-edge technologies and digital initiatives to link up with today‘s savvy real estateconsumer.

GREEN—provide awareness and knowledge of green building principles applied in residences and communities and guide buyer-clients in purchasing green real estate.

CLHMS—assures affluent buyers and sellers that the agents who have earned it have the knowledge, experience, competence, and confidence they require. Members must have documented performance in the TOP 10% of their markets.

Remax Platinum Club—members have to have earned $250,000—$499,999 in gross commissions during the preceding calendar year.

Remax Hall of Fame—members that have earned $1,000,000 in commissions with Remax



Cell: 651-341-6020


Real Estate Seminars

Home seller and buyer educa on is the first step toward successfully selling or owning your own home and building equity in your future. I offer real estate seminars for various sellers and home buyers and focus on the posi ve and nega ve aspects of the market including market reviews, home selling and buying ps, the nuances of short sale and foreclosed proper es, and more. I offer my seminars at no cost to companies or groups of individuals and can tailor my presenta on to your specific real estate needs. I have done seminars for Hamline University, St. Paul; St. Kate‘s, St. Paul; Thomson Reuters, Eagan; Senior Living Facili es in the South Metro, as well as other smaller groups throughout the Twin Ci es and Western Wisconsin.

A few of the areas I typically cover are:

For sellers:

x� proper pricing of your home x� staging your home to sell x� who your lis ng compe on really is x� where the market is at today x� what selling factors you can/can‘t influence x� what current market sta s cs indicate x� what selling resources are available

For buyers:

x� the pre-approval process x� determining your buying criteria x� the effect of the market on your purchase x� finding the right house x� is a short sale or foreclosure right for you x� when should you buy a home and why x� the steps to a successful home buying process

If you are interested in having me conduct a seminar for your business or group, please contact me!

Each Office Individually Owned and Operated


Cell: 651-341-6020

Wendy Carson, Realtor Licensed in MN & WI GRI, CRS, ABR, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-PRO, MBC, GREEN, CHLMS 15451 Founders Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124

Wendy's Website has the answers to your ques ons

and the answers to the ques ons you didn't know you had!

www.WendyCarson.com

My website assists Home Buyers and Sellers...

Sellers: Free CMA, CMA informa on, ps to make your home more "saleable", Open House ps, insurance costs, average home prices, the closing process, tax laws, capital gains, 6 things to have on hand for the new owners, healthy household, pricing your home, moving ps, moving checklist, ques ons to ask when interviewing your realtor, realtor fees, showing your home, and much more useful informa on to review before you put your house on the market!

Buyers: Take the trauma out of buying a home, buying myths, average home prices, tax laws, arbitra on, things that will affect your loan, credit score, home inspec ons, closing costs, healthy household, qualify for a mortgage, answers to commonly asked ques ons when applying for a loan, figure your monthly house payment, ps for first me home buyers, and much more useful informa on when you decide to buy a home!

Parade of homes informa on

Curious about what a home Sold for? Find it here!

Find U lity Company Informa on

Find the Demographics on the city you choose

Safety? I provide links that will direct you to sites that will answer your

ques ons about any neighborhood

Reloca on ques ons are answered here




Cell: 651-341-6020

www.WendyCarson.com

My website will assist you every day!

Remodeling? Recommended Contractor list is available Need a Carpet cleaner? Handy man? It's all here! Arts and Community Informa on and Events

Looking for a golf course or golfing event? I have that informa on for you! Check Flight Status

Find the cheapest gas prices Prefer to Walk than drive? I provide a link that will provide nearby schools, churches,

restaurants etc. Find Tax informa on, License Bureaus, Government Grants!

Stock quotes School links are available for both private and public elementary,

junior and senior high schools, Universi es and Community Colleges Do you want the schedule for Spor ng Events? Concerts? Ballet? Zoo? Family

Events+++ That's here too! Check the weather

Ski Reports County Informa on Restaurant Guide Local Newspaper

Local TV and Radio Sta ons Locate Parks and Beaches Shopping Malls and Outlets

Fitness Center Search for a job, government jobs State and County Fair informa on

www.WendyCarson.com




Cell: 651-341-6020


Wendy Carson’s Client List Home Buying/Selling/Relocation

Malto-Meal Molly Moen Matt Engel

Michael Olson

State Farm Nikia Castro

Brianne and Mike Jones Paul Sherburne Aaron Isackson

3M Angie Bodnar Chad Mistele Bill Meyring

Deb and Brian Fronczak

Crown Shawn Jones

Delta Curtis Taylor

Michael Crownhart Paul and Natalie Espy

HormelPatty Riedl

Chris Spinner

Virginia Stephen

Anderson Windows Chris Janse Scott Parkin

EcoLabChris Benson Page



Cell: 651-341-6020


Wendy Carson’s Hamline University

Home Buying/Selling Referral List

1. Presiden Linda Hanson (I worked with Dan Loritz, Doug Anderson, and the University‘sboard of directors to purchase the home Linda lives in on Summit and personally assistLinda and her husband in purchasing investments and a personal property.)

2. Dan Loritz—VP (four personal transactions for family members)*

3. David Stern—VP (purchase own home)*

4. Doug Anderson—VP—do markets for homes that the University is contemplatingpurchasing

5. Fernando Delgado (Tamara Kraft) - Dean*

6. Candace Burns (Ralph) - Dean*

7. Gordon Nakagawa (Julie Williams) - Dean*

8. Jim Good (Robyn) - Football coach*

9. Nelson Whitmore (Kirsten) - Basketball coach*

10. Janelle Tieken—former woman‘s softball coach*

11. Christing Berg and Anthony Schroeder—Alumni office and IT Dept

12. Nancy Victorin-Vangrud (Bob) - Minister*

13. Yosef Morgan (Karen) - CIO*

14. Sheila Wright—Dean of Education*

15. Bob Beeman—Athletic Director*

16. Jon Lowery—Soccer Coach*

17. Emily McAdam-Alumni Relations*

* No longer with Hamline



Cell: 651-341-6020

Wendy Carson, Realtor Licensed in MN & WI GRI, CRS, ABR, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-PRO, MBC, GREEN 15451 Founders Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124

Thomson Reuters Past/Current Clients of:

Wendy Carson Past Clients

#*1. Dave Nelson – buy/sell #*2. Kelli Crane – both (twice) #*3. Sue Brown – buy/sell (twice *4. Kris Ebent – buy/sell*5. Yvette Landers – buy/sell *6. Pam Olson – buy

7. Christine Henderson – buy/sell *8. Syed Hassan – buy

9. Mike Scheller – buy *10. Becky Sowada – buy 11. Scott Brunner – sell 12. Steve Banken – buy/sell 13. Paula Gaedtke – buy/sell14. Kurt and Gail (Nelson) Gruebling – buy/sell (twice) 15. Tom Mueller – buy *16. Mark Gerlach – buy *17. Lewis Freeman – buy/sell *18. Gretchen Buxton – buy 19. Marty Junker – sell 20. Zain Diwan – buy/sell (twice) *21. Jennifer Smith – buy *22. Cindy Matalamaki – buy *23. Scott Parkin – buy/sell (twice) *24. Tammy Michelson – buy/sell*25. Doug Janey – sell #*26. Howard Hecht – buy and sell*27. Amanda Larson Segelstrom – buy*28. Paul Reamer – sell 29. Donavan and Melissa Schwartz – buy/sell 30. Bobby Moothedan – buy/sell (twice)31. Todd VanOtterloo – buy/sell 32. Mike and Sheila Gleiter – buy/sell # 33. Mohammed Rafiquizziman—buy 34. Curt Schmidt—buy/sell 35. Lanna Trinh—buy 36. Ken and Joan Franklin—buy/sell37. Mike and Jennifer Brunstad—buy/sell 38. Todd Billings—buy/sell 39. Ed Packer—buy/sell #*40. Chris and Tracey Smith—buy/sell41. Becky Hopke—buy/sell #*42. Brian Madison—buy/sell*43. Jill Mehrkens—buy*44. Doaa Sadek—buy45 Marco Santoyo—buy*46. Dale Holland—buy/sell #*47. George Toon—buy #*48. Al Servati—buy 49. Randy Micke—buy/sell 50. Mark Kalthoff—buy/sell

51. Mike and Erin Tyrell—buy/sell #52. Diane Carter—buy/sell53. Jeff and Eve Gehling—buy/sell 54. Steve Miller—buy/sell*55. Dave Boncyk—sell #56. Tom and Sandy Diskin—buy #57. Mindi and Jim Woodson—buy 58. Hassan Diwan—buy #*59. Robert Goodall—buy #*60. Rodrigo Villada—buy#61. Sean and Amy Carter—buy *62. Tom Holm—sell (twice) #63. David Ashton—buy #64. Gerardo Casahonda—buy#65. Eric Brown—buy #66. Jeff and Teresa Ginn—buy #*67. Mary Cay Carsello—sell *68. Deana Bendoraitis—sell 69. Matt and Lisa Wendt—buy/sell #70. Jason and Jennifer Parkman—buy 71. Mary Kesti—buy #72. Lisa and Mike Schwie—buy #73. Kim and Greg Wohlenberg—buy74. Tina and Joe Gehrts—buy #75. George Magliano-buy #76. Tom Moody-buy #77. Ronald VanHouwelingen—buy 78. Julie Greene—buy #79. Stacy Richards—buy 80. Joe Munger-buy 81. Ryan Dirksen—sell and buy #82. Jayanta Gupta—buy *83. Rob Burch– buy and sell 84. Justin McCluskey-buy85. Arun Vachher—buy#86. Brian Jenkins—buy87. Wade Dodds—buy88. Miriam Dawolo-buy89. Christine Nicholausen—sell 90. Saravanan Kesavarajan-buy91. Brian Lorentz—buy/sell92. Michael Lorentz-buy93. Shrinath Kurdekar-buy94. Jayandhan Rajasundaram—buy95. Muralidhara Raghavaiah-buy

Current Clients

Angie Mocol—buy/sell

“*” No longer with Thomson Reuters

“#” Relocation


#1 IN PER AGENT TRANSACTIONSWHEN ROUNDING OUT THE TOP 20

PER AGENT PRODUCTIVITYPER RISMEDIA’S 2016 POWER BROKER REPORT

RANKING BY PER AGENT

PRODUCTIVITYTOTAL

TRANS. RANK COMPANY STATETOTAL

TRANSACTIONS AGENTSPER AGENT

PRODUCTIVITY

1 10 MN 21,744 930 23.4

2 11 NC 21,595 1,515 14.3

3 4 PA 61,677 4,959 12.4

4 18 WA 16,172 1,336 12.1

5 13 TX 20,632 1,735 11.9

6 29 WA 13,069 1,101 11.9

7 6 TN 28,595 2,822 10.1

8 78 CA 6,500 702 9.3

9 2 MN 230,813 26,322 8.8

10 12 TX 21,083 2,426 8.7

11 20 IL 15,632 1,865 8.4

12 3 VA 82,259 11,133 7.4

13 1 NJ 342,300 47,000 7.3

14 52 NY 8,772 1,286 6.8

15 55 CA 8,397 1,286 6.5

16 50 CA 9,074 1,735 5.2

17 14 CT 19,653 3,982 4.9

18 5 CA 37,049 7,931 4.7

19 9 AZ 21,985 6,107 3.6

20 15

Allen Tate Companies

Howard Hanna Real Estate Services

John L. Scott Real Estate

Ebby Halliday Real Estate, Inc.

Coldwell Banker Bain|Seal

Crye-Leike REALTORS®

Pacific Union International

HomeServices of America, Inc.

Keller Williams Realty

@properties

Long & Foster Real Estate

NRT LLC

Houlihan Lawrence

Alain Pinel REALTORS®

First Team Real Estate

William Raveis Real Estate, Mortgage, and Insurance

Realty ONE Group

HomeSmart LLC

Douglas Elliman Real Estate, LLC NY 19,344 5,885 3.3

0

5

10

15

20

25

Pacific UnionInternational

Crye-LeikeREALTORS®

Coldwell Banker Bain Seal

Ebby HallidayReal Estate, Inc.

John L. Scott Real Estate

Howard HannaReal Estate Services

Allen Tate Companies

RISMedia’s Annual Power Broker Report & Survey is the residential real estate industry’s most comprehensive report on the top 500 most successful broekrages in the US. For more information visit: www.rismedia.com

Step 1: Choose an agent to assist you in the home buying process Tip: Make sure it is someone you like and trust.

Step 2: Meet with a mortgage loan officer and get pre-approved for a loan. Tip: Ask your Realtor to recommend a loan officer who has performed well for his or her previous clients.

Step 3: Specify your wants, needs and budget. Tip: It helps to focus your search on a few neighborhoods.

Step 4: View properties that meet your criteria. Tip: You‘ll probably want to see enough homes to feel comfortable in your marketplace (10-20 average).

Step 5: You found it! Tip: If you know it‘s right, be prepared to act fast.

Step 6: Make an initial offer to purchase. Tip: Trust your agent to prepare and present your offer to the seller in the best possible light.

Step 7: Negotiate terms. Tip: Counter-offers are common. Be prepared to be a little flexible on price, closing date, appliances or repairs.

Step 8: Consider a home inspection and warranty. Tip: Your Realtor will recommend a home inspector for your home inspection and possibly a warranty, both of which will protect you from unexpected expenses.

Step 9: Arrange for a professional home inspection. Tip: This is your best chance to carefully evaluate the property‘s systems and structure. An experienced, outside professional is worth every penny.

Step 10: Shortly before closing, do a final walk through of the house. Tip: Make sure that everything you thought was going to be done and included in the purchase agreement is done and remains on the property.

Step 11: Close on the property. Tip: Your closer, agent and loan officer will walk you through the process.

Step 12: Move in! Tip: Use a checklist to plan your move so you don‘t forget anything.

Wendy Carson, Realtor Licensed in MN & WI GRI, CRS, ABR, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-PRO, MBC, GREEN, CLRMS 15451 Founders Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124


Cell: 651-341-6020 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated



Cell: 651-341-6020

Viewing proper es One of the most exci ng aspects of buying a home is looking at different proper es in your price range and seeing houses in all sizes, condi ons and styles. It‘s the best real estate educa on of all.

How Many to See

How many homes should you plan to view before you make a decision?

That‘s up to you, and will depend on the neighborhood, the market, and your specific requirements. But this chart gives you an idea of what most people do. With all the homes on the market at any given me, the key is to focus your efforts on suitable proper es. Your

sales associate will help by elimina ng homes that don‘t meet your criteria—and tracking down those that

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

1-4 Homes 5-8 Homes 9-12 Homes 14+ Homes

Perc

enta

ge

Number of Homes Viewed Before Purchase

Before

x� Schedule all visits in advance with your Realtor. The seller typically needs at least 2 hours no ce, although 24 hours is preferred. Your Realtor will also need no ce too.

x� Plan to spend up to 10 minutes seeing each prop-‐erty. Allow for travel me.

x� Wear shoes that slip off easily.

x� Try not to bring your small children. They‘ll prob-‐ably become red and bored and, without them, you‘ll be be er able to focus on the task at hand.

During

x� Pay a en on to the home‘s curb appeal, floor plan and overall ameni es.

x� Take notes, ask ques ons and make comments that will help your Realtor understand your needs and what you like and don‘t like about the home.

x� Be considerate of the owners, who may or may not be present during the tour.

x� Relax and have fun!

What To Expect

Your sales associate is happy to show you any house that‘s on the market and meets your criteria. Once you‘re ready to view a property, here‘s what you can expect:




Cell: 651-341-6020

Wri ng your “offer”

Those weeks of searching are about to come to an end. With my exper se, you‘ve found the home you want. Now is the me for me to help you make an offer and to start nego a ons on your behalf with the seller.

Purchase agreement

The first step begins when you and I develop a purchase agreement or offer, as it is o en called. This is a legal agreement, which, if accepted by both you and the seller, binds the sale, and begins the closing process. Among other things, it includes:

x� The price you are willing to pay for the property.

x� The date of the closing and the date you will assume possession of the property.

x� Who is expected to pay any special assessments and property taxes.

x� The interest rate and type of financing package you have chosen.

x� A list of items to be included in the sale. In most cases, items that are permanently in-‐stalled are already considered part of the property. But if there is any doubt, list them in the agreement. You can also ask for items such as drapes and appliances

A er your offer has been accepted, it‘s wise to have the home inspected by a professional to find out its true condi on. That inspec on will help you know exactly what you are making an offer on. Offers are o en wri en “subject to home inspec on” which means that a buyer doesn‘t have to commit to actually purchasing the home un l the inspec on is complete and facts are documented and possibly nego ated.

Once both par es have signed the agreement, the transac on moves onto the closing. Now you are one step closer to your new home.




Cell: 651-341-6020

What is tle insurance?

You‘ve signed a purchase agreement and you‘re scheduled for closing on the home of your dreams. Who wants to think about something as obscure as title insurance? Actually, you‘d be foolish not to.

A title is the document that verifies your legal right to your new home. To make sure there are no past errors or legal entanglements that might affect your ownership rights, all properties are subjected to a title search before closing. Sometimes, however, a title problem will unexpectedly surface days or years later. If a problem does occur, you‘ll be glad to have the protection of title insurance. There are two kinds of title insurance: one that protects the lender (required) and one that protects you (optional). Don‘t underestimate the importance of this coverage

x� mandatory for buyers to purchase if they have a mortgage

x� protects the mortgage lender

x� covers title defects, easement problems, judgments or liens

x� remains in effect until the mortgage is paid off

Lender’s Policy

x� optional for buyer to purchase—but a small investment for peace of mind

x� protects you, the buyer, against title defects, easements, judgments or liens

x� pays for court costs and fees associated with claims, plus any other losses

x� covers you and your heirs forever—even after you sell the property

x� sudden appearance of unknown heirs

x� discovery of forgery, fraud and impersonation

x� evidence of altered deeds

x� discovery of unfiled or defective legal documents

Owner’s Policy

Poten al Threats to Your Title

Tip: O en the tle company will offer you a discount if you purchase both lender’s and owner’s policies at the same me.




Cell: 651-341-6020

From “for sale” to “sold”, my full service and support

con nue through to the last detail... Before Closing

x� Delivers contract copies to all par es

x� Collects and forwards earnest money

x� Coordinates inspec ons

x� Follow up on all offer con ngencies

x� Assembles and forwards closing file

x� Conducts final walk-through

x� A ends closing

x� Locates tle evidence

x� Orders payoff statement for exis ng mortgage and liens

x� Reviews tle commitment for errors and problems

x� Works with seller to resolve any tle problems

x� Coordinates closing date and no fies all par es

x� Prepares closing documents and se lement statement

x� Sends copies of appropriate documents to all par es

x� Orders abstract update, assessment search and plat drawing

x� Conducts tle search

x� Extends abstract

x� Prepares tle commitment and forwards to all par es

x� Conducts final tract search

Sales Associate Closing Service Title Service

(with associate assistant)

x� Obtains a pre-approved mortgage (strongly recommended), pro-‐vides bank statements, W-2’s, and pay stubs to lender

x� Sa sfies home inspec on and con ngencies

x� Obtains hazard insurance

x� Obtains cer fied funds for closing

x� Arranges transfer of u li es

x� Conducts walk-through inspec on of property with sales associate

A pre-approved mortgage is recommended.

x� Discusses financing op ons with buyer

x� Completes load applica on and collects suppor ng documenta on

x� Verifies funds available for closing

x� Approves file through automated underwri ng in most cases

x� Orders appraisal and work tle

x� Sends closing documents to tle company for closing

x� Sa sfies con ngencies

x� Resolves any tle problems

x� Pays outstanding bills

x� Cancels u li es

x� Brings key to closing

Buyer Seller Mortgage Lender




Cell: 651-341-6020

From “for sale” to “sold”, my full service and support

con nue through to the last detail... At Closing

x� Balance and explains financial figures

x� Collected funds

x� Explains mortgage documents

x� Explains sellers’ documents

x� Dispenses funds

x� Transfers tle

x� Verifies occupancy as stated in contract

Closing Service

x� Records mortgage sa sfac on

x� Records tle documents with county

x� Issues final tle insurance policy

x� Receives closing documents; prepares file for loan servicing and possible sale

x� Sets up loan and issues monthly billing statements

x� Pulls random files for quality control audit and reverifica on of documenta on

Mortgage Lender Title Service

A er Closing




Cell: 651-341-6020

Closing on your new home

You‘re finally in the home stretch. Closing—also known as se lement or escrow—is the last step, the official transfer of the property from the seller to you. Once it‘s completed, you‘ll be the proud owner of your new home. In the mean me, here‘s what you need to know to prepare for your closing. If you have addi onal ques ons, your agent or the professionals at the Title Company will be happy to assist you.

x� A cer fied check (payable to yourself or tle company) for the amount specified in your most recent Good Faith Es mate received from your loan officer or lender

x� Your personal checkbook to cover any extra charges, if necessary

x� Your new homeowner‘s insurance binder, with proof of one year‘s payment

x� A photo ID

x� A list of your addresses for the past 10 years

What to Bring

Contrary to stories you may have heard, the typical closing proceeds without complica ons and only lasts an hour or so. It usually takes place at the office of the Buyer’s tle company. Primarily, you‘ll sign numerous papers and documents, all of which will be explained to you along the way. You‘ll finalize your mortgage, pay what‘s due and get the keys to your new home!

What to Expect

Your Good Faith Es mate outlines the various expenses you‘ll incur at the closing. Basically, you‘ll need a cer fied or cashier‘s check that covers:

a) the balance of your down payment (subtract the earnest moneyyou paid when your offer was accepted on the home)

b) fees for other services including loan origina on fees, tax andinsurance escrows, recording fees, transfer taxes and possiblyyour owner‘s tle policy

At the closing, you will receive a formal Se lement Statement that details and documents the actual charges.

What You’ll Pay

Tip: Be sure to obtain your cer fied check at

least two days before

your closing.




Cell: 651-341-6020

Home-buying Myths

Myths about Mortgages

I had some debt when I was young and I ruined my credit. I‘ll never get a mortgage.

You don‘t know what your credit history shows un l you look. And if you do have blemishes from the past—even a bankruptcy—many lenders will overlook problems if the past two years show good credit prac ce on your part.

I heard you need to put 25% down to buy a house. But my friend says that you can get a

mortgage with no down payment at all!

Both scenarios are uncommon. Although there are a variety of financing programs available, most require you to put at least 5-10% down, but rarely would you need 25%.

myth

reality

Myth about Agents

If I have several agents looking for homes on my behalf, I‘ll find a house more quickly.

Like most rela onships, this one thrives on communica on, loyalty and trust. By working exclusively with one agent you will improve both the process and the results.

If I want an agent to represent me as a buyer, I‘ll have to pay them myself.

Buyer representa on means that the sales associate you select works with your best in-‐terests in mind. In most cases, however, they receive a por on of the commission paid by the seller

myth

reality

Myths about Buying

I should find a new home first before I sell the one I now own.

If you find a buyer for your home first, you‘ll have more nego a ng power in both the sale of your current home and the purchase of a new one.

I just made an offer on a house I love. But so did several other people. I‘m worried that

someone else will outbid me and get it.

Different sellers are mo vated by different things. In addi on to price, a seller will look at the other terms of the offer—con ngencies, closing date, required repairs. Many mes a “clean“ offer from a pre-approved buyer will be more a rac ve, even if the

price is

myth

reality




Cell: 651-341-6020

Your Mortgage Tutorial (Crucial Information You Need to Know About the Loan Process)

How Do I Know What Amount is Needed at Closing?

1) You will use the number from your most recent “Good Faith Estimate” for planning purposes.

2) The is no exact number is not known until your “HUD-1 Settlement Statement” is completed by the title closer. This typically happens 1-3days prior to your scheduled closing.

3) Please keep in mind that the “Good Faith Estimate” is exactly that, an estimate. Our numbers may vary due to the fact that there are manythird party fees that we, and the lender, are estimating.

4) If your cashier’s check is too high, the closer will issue you a check for the balance, at the time of closing.

5) If your cashier’s check is too low, you can write a personal check for up to $500 (although check with the title company first to be sure).

6) Be sure to bring your checkbook with you to the closing.

What About Homeowner’s Insurance?

1) You must decide on an insurance agent and pay for the first year of your Homeowner‘s/Hazard Insurance coverage up front. Your policy mustcover at least the loan amount or have replacement coverage. NOTE: You do not have to pay a one year up front insurance premium if yourproperty is a Townhome or Condominium and the insurance is included in the association fees, however you are required to have an HO-6policy for the interior and contents.

2) We need your annual premium numbers in writing from the agent before we can get your file ready to close. Have your insurance agent faxor email a copy of your binder and paid receipt to your lender and closing agent as soon as possible.

3) Your insurance agent will need your loan number and a “Loss Payee Clause” - contact your lender for this information.

4) You will bring the original binder and paid receipt to closing.

How Do I Lock My Interest Rate?

1) You are responsible to call your loan officer to check interest rates and lock in!

2) Your loan officer is your contact for interest rates.

3) To lock in on an interest rate, your signature may be needed on a lock agreement. This can be done in person, via fax or email.

4) New rates are received daily Monday thru Friday. You can lock in your rate during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

5) Rates are subject to change at any time if market conditions dictate, until you lock on your interest rate.

6) Please feel free to call and check on the interest rates as often as you like.

7) Please remember—When you “lock in” on an interest rate, it’s much like buying stock. Whether rates go up or down from here, you receivethe rate you originally locked in. Make sure you are certain of your lock decision.




Cell: 651-341-6020

What Types of Loans are There?

FHA Loans

FHA loans are not just for first time buyers, they are available to all who qualify. FHA loans are insured by the government (HUD) against default. If an FHA loan goes into default the lender can collect from the government for loan losses. The buyer pays for this protection in the form of an MIP (mortgage insurance premium) which is paid to HUD. (Currently the cost of this is 1.75% of the loan amount paid up front and financed on top of the loan amount and monthly premiums calculated at 1.35% of the loan amount divided by 12.)

As of August 2012 the monthly mortgage insurance will continue for the duration of the FHA term (30 years or 15 years) or until the home is sold or refinanced into a conventional mortgage product. It will NOT fall off under current FHA Mortgages. Even if a borrower puts down 20% or more on a FHA mortgage, the MI will be there for the life of the loan.

FHA loans have a small down payment requirement of only 3.5%. This amount can be from your own savings or can be from a secured loan from an asset like a 401K or paid off auto, it can also come from a relative as a gift. The closing costs on the loan can be paid by the buyer or the seller if negotiated in the purchase agreement.

FHA loans may be assumable for a future resale. If interest rates were to go up, this could give you an added advantage by offering a low rate assumable loan for the buyer to take over provided they meet the equity and standard underwriting qualifications/guidelines.

FHA loans have more flexibility in qualifying ratios. FHA loans allow for lower credit FICO (min 600 score needed) borrowers to obtain financing without much in the way of pricing adjustments. Other past credit issues have more flex on FHA loans.

Conventional Loans

Conventional loans are loans that are not government insured. If you have a down payment of 20% of the sales price or more, you do not have to pay any added insurance which makes for a lower monthly payment. For buyers with less than 20% down there is the option of going with PMI (private mortgage insurance) which insures the lender in case of default.

PMI has several options on conventional loans. It can be paid one time as a lump sum payment by the buyer or seller of the home. It can be paid monthly by the buyer, or it can be paid by the lender who would charge a higher interest rate to offset the cost.

Conventional mortgages can have a maximum of 3% - 6% seller paid contributions depending on the down payment if negotiated in the purchase agreement. FHA/VA mortgages are the only mortgages where up to 6% is all allowed.

If the monthly option is taken, the payments continue until the loan hits 75% of the original loan to value. You are not allowed to drop the PMI in the first two years, but the option exists to have a new appraisal introduced to prove the value of the home has gone up. Some investors will allow this in years two through five but generally all will allow this after year five of the loan.

Conventional loans have tougher credit requirements and less flexible ratios. The required FICO scores for this type of loan is a minimum of a 620 score. If a score is lower than 680, depending on the reason, a larger down payment may be required to offset the risk. Lenders “prime” score for conventional is 740 or higher. Lenders will have an “adjuster” which is like a penalty for conventional mortgages when FICO is as follows: 720-739, 700-719 and 680-699. The adjust will increase the rate and fee scenario as the credit score decreases.

Conventional loans have a due on sale clause in the loan papers and are generally not assumable for future resale buyers.




Cell: 651-341-6020

VA Loans

VA loans are loans that are given to qualified veterans and surviving spouses of service related deaths. They are allowed with Zero down and seller can pay all of the closing costs. The VA does charge a funding fee of upwards to 3% of the loan which is financed on top of the loan amount. Veterans who receive disability payments generally are exempt from this fee.

Bond Money

Bond Money loans are available in some areas for first time home buyers who need help with no interest loans for down payment funds. These programs can be pretty restrictive with income limits and not available for all locations. A recapture tax provision in bond mortgages can be a major negative for those buyers whose incomes increase after purchase and wish to sell within the first ten years of the loan program with a possible tax of 6.25% of the loan amount.

RD Loans

RD loans (rural development) are available with zero down payments for rural markets outside the metro market in Minnesota and in Wisconsin. There is also a guarantee fee changed on these loans which is paid both up from and monthly.

Who Schedules My Closing?

1) On a new purchase, the REALTOR (not lender) handling the transaction contacts the buyers and sellers and schedule the closing with thetitle company.

2) On a refinance, the loan officer or title company will schedule your closing with you.

What Should I Do or Not Do During the Loan Process?

1) DO NOT make large purchases which may increase your present debt (I.E. automobiles, major appliances, furniture, etc.).

2) Some items of your loan may be re-verified just prior to closing (I.E. jobs, account balances, credit, etc.). If a change is unavoidable, pleasenotify us immediately.

3) Make sure all of your bills are paid on time during the loan process! Your credit may be updated just prior to closing and your approval maybe affected if new credit issues appear.

4) If you are a new construction customer, please make sure that you keep us updated with regard to any and all change orders. Whenadditional items are added to your new home, we need copies of change orders and a final price with an addendum signed by you and thebuilder at least two weeks prior to closing. We must send the appraiser back to the home to increase the value and inspect the finalproduct.




Cell: 651-341-6020

What About Gifted Funds From a Relative?

1) Please work with your lender to follow the appropriate process. Deposit gift funds into your accounts after you have discussed this with yourlender..

2) A gift letter must be completed by the applicants and the gift donor. Your lender has this form.

3) The gift will be verified prior to closing. The donor’s name will show as remitter and it will be made payable to you. You will endorse and de-posit to your bank account.

4) We may need a copy of the gift donor’s bank statement.

Why Does the Title Company Request a Cashier’s Check Payable to Myself for Closing? Wire Transfers?

This protects you from having a check that you cannot cash in the unlikely event that you do not close. Some title companies are now requiring that the funds be wired to the closing—check with your title company as to which they prefer before the closing.

What Happens to My Loan After the Application?

An entire team, including your loan officer, a processing staff, appraiser, underwriter, mortgage closer, title closer and many people from the title company will be working on your file

The Mortgage Steps

Application:

Fax or email the application and needed documents to your loan officer/lender. Sign and mail back disclosures, as required.

Underwriting:

Your loan will receive an approval, suspension or denial. The loan officer will contact you with any items that are requested by the underwriter.

Processing:

The title work and appraisal is ordered once there is a purchase agreement. After the appraisal is received and all conditions are met, the processor sends your loan back to underwriting for final approval.

Final Underwriting Approval:

Underwriting reviews all the initially requested conditions and the appraisal. The underwriter may need to request some final conditions.

Processing:

Gathers all final conditions from you and prepares file for closing. Don’t be alarmed if you are called prior to closing with questions or a request for an item needed.

Mortgage Closer:

Prepares closing instructions and documents for the title closer.

Title Closer:

Prepares your final “Settlement Statement” of all costs and conducts the closing. The mortgage closer will also know the status of your file.



Cell: 651-341-6020


A short sale is a sale of real estate in which the sale proceeds fall short of the balance owed on the property‘s loan. It o en occurs when a borrower cannot pay the mortgage loan on their property, but the lender decides that selling the property at a moderate loss is be er than pressing the borrower. Both par es consent to the short sale process, because it allows them to avoid foreclosure, which involves he y fees for the bank and poorer credit report outcomes for the borrowers. This agreement, however, does not necessarily release the borrower from the obliga on to pay the remaining balance of the loan known as the deficiency.

A foreclosure is a situa on in which a mortgage lender takes possession of the property because the borrower has not made payments on interest or principal for a certain period of me. Once the lender takes over the property, it usually sells at a discounted price so as to recover the amount lost on the mortgage loan. Foreclosure results in a loss for the lender and is obviously quite detrimental to the borrower; as a result, it is the last resort.



Cell: 651-341-6020


Advantages & Disadvantages of short sale,

foreclosure and regular sale properties

Short Sale Advantages: 1. Should be a good price2. The seller is s ll involved in the transactoin which means, in most cases, they are s ll in the home andhopefully maintaining it3. Seller is mo vated to find a buyer

Disadvantages:1. You must be a non-con ngent buyer2. It can take 3-6 months to get an answer from the bank—can you wait that long?3. The bank may respond with acceptance, however a counter, and even being completely rejected can anddoes happen4. Both the seller and the bank are involved5. You have to know where the seller is at in the short sale process, me may be running out to purchase theproperty as a short sale6. You may not get updates from the lis ng agent and will wonder what is going on7. You may be buying in AS-IS condi on8. Once the bank accepts, they want to close within 30-45 days—you must be prepared to act quickly oncewe receive approval9. The closing may not occur on the agreed upon date. The lender won‘t allow you to close late withoutpaying a penalty, but they can close late without penalty.10. Property may need to be dewinterized for inspec on, appraisal and again a er closing.11. Appliances you see may or may not be what you get and may or may not be in working order by closing.12. You may only get one key at closing (you would want to change the locks at your expense a er closing).You may not get garage door openers, paint, le or carpet as you would if you were buying a seller ownedproperty.

Foreclosure

Advantages: 1. A good price

Disadvantages:

1. You must be a non-con ngent buyer2. Many proper es do not qualify for FHA loans3. Home is bought in AS-IS condi on, bank likely won‘t make repairs4. Bank won‘t provide a disclosure statement on the home‘s condi on5. Are you buying as an investor?



Cell: 651-341-6020

6. Home is usually winterized and may need to be dewinterized for inspec on, appraisal and again a erclosing.

7. When you make an offer, you are only dealing with the lis ng agent for the bank. Response me could be1- 7 days or more. They may try to create mul ple offer situa ons.

8. The condi on of the property may not be good (more than likely will need a lot of work).

9. Appliances may be gone or not working by closing.

10. The bank wants you to close 30–45 days a er acceptance, you must be prepared to move quickly a erapproval is received.11. The closing may not occur on the agreed upon date. The lender won‘t allow you to close late withoutpaying a penalty, but they can close late without penalty.12. You may have to pay for inspec on, dewinteriza on, rewinteriza on, appraisal, reappraisal before youhave commi ed to the home purchase.13. You may only get one key at closing (you would want to change the locks at your expense a er closing).You may not get garage door openers, paint, le or carpet as you would if you were buying a seller ownedproperty.

14. Banks don‘t have to disclose property condi ons.

Regular Sale

Advantages:

1. Can close within 30-60 days2. Can nego ate offers within 24-48 hours3. The property is usually in be er condi on than some short sales and most foreclosures4. Comes with a warranty5. You know the history of the property because of the seller‘s disclosure statement

Disadvantages:

1. Usually priced higher than short sale or foreclosure proper es (10-20%)



Wendy Carson, Realtor Licensed in MN & WI GRI, CRS, ABR, CDPE, SFR, SRES, E-PRO, MBC, GREEN 15451 Founders Lane Apple Valley, MN 55124


Cell: 651-341-6020

Traveling Around the Metro Area

Travel mileage is generated from Map Quest and is es mated. Traveling around the metro area may take more or less me when you take in account delays due to traffic during peak mes (rush hours), accidents, road construc on or poor weather condi ons. Given these data limita ons, the mileage should only be considered as a general indicator for figuring your travel me.

Wendy’s Reloca on Services

Albertville 30.5 39.8 Minnetonka 14.9 22.7 Apple Valley 21.3 18.9 Mounds View 12.5 14.8

Arden Hills 9.5 12.1 New Brighton 11.8 14.8

Big Lake 42.1 49.6 New Market 33.3 33.9

Blaine 17.6 21 New Prague 46.8 46.8

Bloomington 11.7 17.8 North Branch 46 42.7

Brooklyn Park 11.6 20.8 North Oaks 16.6 12

Burnsville 17.3 19.4 Northfield 44.6 45.2

Chanhassen 23.1 29.2 Oakdale 15.2 6.9

Coon Rapids 12 21.2 Orono 19.6 27.4

Cottage Grove 23.3 15 Plymouth 13.8 21.6

Dellwood 20.5 15.4 Prior Lake 26.6 30.9

Eagan 18.3 12.5 Rogers 24.8 34.1

Eden Prairie 18.7 24.8 Rosemount 25.3 22

Edina 10.2 18.1 Roseville 7.8 5.4

Elko 32.7 33.3 Savage 18.9 25

Farmington 30.6 30.4 Shakopee 26.2 32.2

Hastings 31 22.8 Shoreview 13 11.7

Inver Grove Heights 18.6 10.4 St. Louis Park 6.9 14.8

Lakeville 26.2 26.8 St. Michael 31 40.3

Maple Grove 18 25.9 Stillwater 24.9 21

Maple Plain 21 28.8 Vadnais Heights 14.5 9.2

Maplewood 15.2 6.9 Wayzata 13.1 20.9

Medina 20.7 28.5 White Bear Lake 18 12.9

Mendota Heights 14.8 6.8 Woodbury 18.7 10.5

TO FROM TO FROM

CITY MINNEAPOLIS ST. PAUL CITY MINNEAPOLIS ST. PAUL

Hammond, WI 45 36.8 Richmond, WI 45 35.7 Hudson, WI 27.4 19.1 River Falls, WI 38 29.7 Prescott, WI 32 22.8 Somerset, WI 35.5 34.5

Wisconsin Commutes



Cell: 651-341-6020


Have you clicked on my Facebook page?

It is free, it is simple and it is informa ve! Stay up to date on real estate news, lis ngs,

open houses and more. Go to:

www.Facebook.com/WendyCarsonYourRealtor

and click



Cell: 651-341-6020


Have you ever been driving down the road, seen a home for sale and wondered how much the seller was asking?

How many bedrooms and bathrooms? I wonder what it looks like inside? To sa sfy this curiosity, you may have turned to one of the many mobile Apps that are currently available. Using mapping technology, many with GPS, you can locate where you are and make a guess that the dot on the map is the home for which you want to find the informa on. Wouldn’t it be easier, though, to simply press a bu on, look through your mobile device’s camera and all of the desired informa on would simply pop up on the screen without you having to enter criteria or search through a map?

As you might have guessed…we have that technology. The RE/MAX® Results App gives you all of the bells and whistles offered by the leading real estate Apps, including mapping, GPS, criteria searches and all the tools that make our App the best in the industry. But we didn’t stop there. We developed a technology called ResultsRadar that allows you to simply point your mobile device at an ac ve lis ng and get all of the per nent data that you need. It delivers you all of the MLS informa on, including photos, descrip on, room dimensions, taxes, etc.

If you know anything about RE/MAX Results, you know that we would not be happy stopping at just making the world’s most advanced and user friendly real estate App. You see, for the data available on our APP we don’t just pull from MLS like every other company does. We pull directly from Results.net. In this way, you not only get all of the data from MLS but you also get all of the improved lis ng informa on (up to 50 high resolu on images; enhanced descrip ons; integra on into social media, tex ng and emails, etc.)

Download it now and give it a try, you will wonder why you did not have it sooner!

Simply text WENDY to 651-433-6400then POINT, SHOOT, READ!

Get My FREE Results Radar App!


My First Home The Learning Channel (TLC) May, 2014

5 Day Flip HGTV February 25th, 2016

wendycarson—...remax platinum club—members have to have earned $250,000—$499,999 in gross...

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