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You can find great local West Hartford, Connecticut real estate information on Localism.com Jim Aspell is a proud member of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network, a free online community to help real estate professionals grow their business.

It's Still Location Location Location

As we head into the Spring Real Estate market (yep it is almost March) it is important to keep some important tips in mind when listing your home for sale. This post by a Minnesota real estate agent offers tips that work well for those of us on this coast as well.

Foreclosure filings on the rise

Findlaw is reporting today that in 2007, foreclosure filings rose by 75% over previous years. This is a grim statistic that I have not seen since the late 80's. If you find yourself in such a situation there are a few options available to you and I would be happy to sit down with you and go over them. Be it a short sale, a refinance or a bankruptcy, your response to an imminent foreclosure can go a long ways towards improving your life down the road. Please do not be afraid to call me. I am associated with a strong network of professionals that I can turn to the hep you through your given situation. I truly believe lawyers are here to help people and will be happy to talk to you.

A Man's Home is .... Losing Value?

As the Winter drones on, our colleagues at Findlaw are reporting that new home sales continue to drag.

This news, together with all the other water cooler gossip going on would lead you to believe this may be the end of the world as we know it. Fear Not! Sure, things have slowed down, but by and large I have not seen any wholesale drop in the Connecticut real estate market. Interest rates are very competitive and seller's are motivated. It's a good time to "back up the truck" as Peter Lynch is fond of of saying.

My point is this: it's all how you look at it. If you are selling, you may not make a killing, but your home will sell. Eventually.

If you are buying, smile, get a great rate, and call me so we can get your closing scheduled.

A Word About Real Estate Transactions

Recently, a $700,000 settlement was disclosed concerning an alleged kick back scheme between a prominent Farmington law firm, a realtor and a mortgage company.

As a consumer, the take away message for you, is that your closing is a commodity like so many other things, and it behooves you to pay attention to what you are being charged and to compare fees and costs of various attorneys. My particular office charges a flat fee of $600 to buy a home, $500 to refinance, and $450 to handle a sale. In most instances, I am also issuing a title insurance policy which is required by virtually all mortgage banking institutions. I receive a commission on that premium as do all attorneys. Any additional charges would be clearly explained to you by me personally at the time they are incurred. I am available by phone to answer any questions about costs you may incur in your next real estate transaction. I would love to speak with you.