October 12, 2011

Winter Baserva, Atlanta’s Real Estate Expert is the Only Agent to Be Featured On HGTV’s House Hunters Atlanta..Twice!

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , at 6:44 pm by winterbaserva

Winter Baserva, Atlanta’s Real Estate Expert is the Only Agent to Be Featured On HGTV’s House Hunters Atlanta…Twice!

Shooting my first episode on HGTV’s House Hunters in 2010, “Pampered Poochwas such an amazing experience. My clients Kelly & Brian had set out to find their perfect Brookhaven Home and we were able to capture all of the good, bad and ugly of the home buying experience. It truly bonded us along the way as well. Here is a little scene from my first episode, Pampered Pooch:

 

    

If you aren’t familiar with “House Hunters” the popular show, which has an average of five million viewers per episode, takes viewers behind the scenes of the emotional experience of finding and purchasing a new home.

My most recent episode: Engaged Couple Buys First Home in Atlanta aired on Sept. 25, 2011 and all I can say was it was a hilarious time filled with lots of funny moments…I think HGTV’s description says it all:

Tyler and Sherry are getting married in a few months and want to buy their first home in Atlanta, Georgia. But, with Sherry picking apart every cosmetic detail in the homes they see, and Tyler rating the quality of each room on a scale of 1 to 5, their realtor, Winter Baserva, is being put to the test. Can she find a place that meets their high standards?
http://www.hgtv.com/house-hunters/engaged-couple-searches-for-first-home-in-atlanta-ga/index.html

And, here is a sneak peak of the second episode

I felt so honored and humbled to be choosen to do another Atlanta episode. This officially makes me the only Atlanta Real Estate Agent to be featured on the show twice.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      

 

But, aside from the glitz and glamour of being on TV, there is actually A LOT more than meets the eye….

For one, Atlanta is receiving BIG International Media attention for the business Mecca that it is. Being home to some of the Nations TOP global corporations like Delta, Coca-Cola, Center for Disease Control and NCR to all of the growth projections for the city, its truly rewarding to see Atlanta being highlighted on the map.

In addition to Pietown Productions, lots of other production companies are bringing their business, just see how much Atlanta is on the MAP in terms of movie making and that is all helping to fuel our local enconomy.

But above all else, this popularity, the increasing number of home sales and the influx of business is hopefully helping home owners understand that the economy is picking up, things are NOT that bad and we will ALL get through this.

I can’t speak for other agents, but I can tell you that according to the National Association of Realtors your average agent sells 6 homes a year, and to date my team, Seasons Realty Group and I have sold over 60 homes. That is 10 times your average agent….How, you ask??

We’ll aside from working 28 hour days everyday, there are still people buying and selling homes and we provide them with the utmost service and advice to help them get into their home or get it sold quick ….So sellers be happy, things are turning around …buyers enjoy this wonderful opportunity you have at your hands, it won’t be here forever…..

If you don’t get a chance to watch the second episode, here are a few clips:

The episode will continue to air throughout the year, so check HGTV for the upcoming schedule. And, if you would like to start your own house hunt with me and possibly be on my next episode, please give me a call at 678-463-3173.

September 21, 2011

Tune in to HGTV’s House Hunters on 9/25/11 at 10PM EST local Realtor Intro. Viewers to ATL

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , at 6:18 pm by winterbaserva

TUNE IN TO HGTV’S HOUSE HUNTERS ON SEPTEMBER 25, 2011 AT 10:00 P.M. EST AND WATCH HOW LOCAL REALTOR® INTRODUCES VIEWERS TO ATLANTA 

PRESS RELEASE  

Winter Baserva

winter@seasonsrealtygroup.com  

678-463-3173

Solid Source Realty Contact
Brian Cowling

Director of Strategic Growth

bcowling@solidsource.net

770-757-2411 x.7998

 

For Immediate Release

TUNE IN TO HGTV’S HOUSE HUNTERS ON SEPTEMBER 25, 2011 AT 10:00 P.M. EST AND WATCH HOW LOCAL REALTOR® INTRODUCES VIEWERS TO ATLANTA


Realtor®, Winter Baserva is the ONLY Agent in Atlanta Featured on International Television Show HGTV’s House Hunters…Twice!!

ATLANTA, GA— September 20, 2011– A major California production company, Pietown Productions, with the assistance of Realtor® Winter Baserva is bringing BIG media attention to the Atlanta area. Winter Baserva, of Seasons Realty Group of Solid Source Realty, Inc. will be featured in her second episode of HGTV’s House Hunters on September 25, 2011 at 10:00 p.m. EST on the HGTV Network, Channel 59 in Atlanta.

The popular show, which has an average of five million viewers per episode, takes viewers behind the scenes of the emotional experience of finding and purchasing a new home. Shot over four days, the episode will be released to the public for the first time on September 25, 2011 and it should definitely get the interest of viewers by the description on the HGTV website:

Tyler and Sherry are getting married in a few months and want to buy their first home in Atlanta, Georgia. But, with Sherry picking apart every cosmetic detail in the homes they see, and Tyler rating the quality of each room on a scale of 1 to 5, their realtor, Winter Baserva, is being put to the test. Can she find a place that meets their high standards?
http://www.hgtv.com/house-hunters/engaged-couple-searches-for-first-home-in-atlanta-ga/index.html

“I was approached directly by the show in 2009 because of my out-of-the-box approach to buying and selling in today’s real estate market. My original episode, Pampered Pooch, featured me and my buyers ‘shopping’ in the Brookhaven area. Since its launch date in January 2010, it continues to run on HGTV,” said Winter Baserva, Realtor®, Seasons Realty Group of Solid Source Realty, Inc. “I’m honored and humbled to be the only real estate agent in Atlanta featured on the show TWO times, in addition to being less than handful of agents to ever be featured on the show two times.”

In a time where most agents are struggling for business, Baserva is defying the odds and has set ground-breaking records within her brokerage. “Winter’s commitment to provide exceptional service, coupled with genuine care for others, is felt by clients and co-workers during every transaction.  She consistently delivers service beyond client expectations and extraordinary success continues to follow her hard work.  Winter ranks in the top 1% of over 2700 Solid Source Agents in one of the most challenging real estate markets in real estate history.  Achievement of this magnitude is a direct reflection of her commitment, attention to details, focus and drive.  It is an honor to have her representing Solid Source Realty,” said Michele Velcheck, owner, Solid Source Realty.

She has also set records for her own personal production. “More millionaires were made during the Great Depression than any other era in U.S. History,” said Baserva. “I specialize in good deals and selling homes for top dollar. There are tremendous opportunities for both buyers and sellers in today’s market for those willing to find them.”

While buyers still have the upper hand, Baserva says her sellers are benefitting from today’s market as well. “My sellers are also seeing the benefits a down market can bring, especially if they are looking to upgrade, downgrade or purchase a second home.”

It’s this type of resourcefulness and mindset that has landed Baserva a spot on a national television show for the second time. For more information, please contact Winter Baserva at 678-463-3173, winter@seasonsrealtygroup.com

 

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As an expert in all aspects of real estate from buying and selling to investing and REO properties, Baserva builds her business based on honesty, respect, and trust by empowering her clients with the education and tools needed to make an informed decision.  Raised in Roswell, GA, and a graduate from Chattahoochee High School in Alpharetta, she moved back to Atlanta in 2007, after working for a residential brokerage and commercial developer in Florida.

Her career originally started out in communications, marketing and public relations. Baserva has previously held positions with the Miami Art Museum, Miami Children’s Museum, Grove Garden Luxury Residences, and others helping them grow their businesses through publicity management and strategic marketing campaigns. Her skills have received attention from highly-accredited publications such as Interior Design, Time Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Journal Constitution, and many others.  She is currently team leader of Seasons Realty Group of Solid Source Realty, Inc., a Mecca of extraordinary agents dedicated to Atlanta GOOD DEALS and superior performance.

She is active in many community organizations and donates to several community causes including Center for the Vision Impaired, Have a Heart Foundation and Smile Train, a company that gives children with clef lips a new chance at life and.

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Baserva graduated from The Florida State University with a bachelor of science in communications with an emphasis in public relations. She currently resides in Sandy Springs.

September 8, 2011

Warren T. Jackson School District FINALLY Offers AFFORDABLE LUXURY!!

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , at 7:48 pm by winterbaserva

Warren T. Jackson School District FINALLY Offers AFFORDABLE LUXURY!!

Declared one of the highest-rated schools in terms of curriculum and overall parent rating is the very famous Warren T. Jackson elementary school. Families from all over flock to find a piece of affordable real estate, so they can offer their kids the luxury of attending such a highly-rated school. And, those without kids, move to the area simply for the resale.

However, what most find are brick ranches with little closet space, and no yard or huge,  outdated homes for over the million dollar mark with tons of work to be put into them. Its not uncommon for the average home in this area to be built in the 1950s-1970s.  What’s even more astounding is that this area is so highly sought out, that its not uncommon to see raw land sell for $500,000…and that’s WITHOUT a home on it. Finding a newer construction, luxury home in a reasonable price is hard to come by ….UNTIL NOW….

This Custom Built Entertainers Estate is NOW priced with a $276,000.00 reduction (no that was not a typo).

The palatial elegance masterminded on this CUSTOM-BUILT, STUNNING 4-sided brick beauty provides a place of indulgence and TOTAL comfort in this extraordinary home, perfectly situated in the Heart of Atlanta.

Built in 2004, this one-of-a-kind, COMMISSIONED home proves every modern convenience, yet still captures its authentic old-world European, Colonial Willamsburg-like charm at a FRACTION of what you might expect to pay.

This gem boasts so many well-appointed features; it’s hard to cover them all. What I can say for sure is that this home is NOT the home for you if…..

*You DON’T need an abundance of space.
*You want to be located “OTP
*You ONLY entertain two times a year.
*You want a “FIXER UPPER”.
*You DON’T want to impress your friends and family.
*You’re NOT looking for a GREAT value!
*You just DON’T enjoy the finer things in life.

This resort-like home provides a luxury living experience with every possible convenience one can imagine….From the LAVISH Master on Main Suite with Dual-Side Fireplace and Sitting Room to the GORGEOUS Chef’s Kitchen imagined only in DREAMS, to the TWO Home Theatres and the MIND-BLOWING BASEMENT all the way down to the TOP NOTCHconstruction details like R-30 Insulation, no detail has been left untouched.

Other Special Features Include:

CHEF’S Kitchen with MASSIVE Juparana Persa GRANITE Island & prep sink PERFECT for Entertaining!   

Top-of-the-Line Stainless Steel Appliances with Dual Ovens & Retractable Vent Hood!

SPACIOUS Keeping Room with Recessed Lighting that Opens to Breakfast Nook~Entertainer’s Dream!

Wrought Iron Spiral Staircase Extends Throughout Two-Story Foyer & Great Room~So Beautiful!

Custom-Built Butler’s Bar in Great Room!

LAVISH Master-on-Main Suite w/ Trey Ceilings and PRIVATE Sitting Area that Extends to the Deck!         

Spa-Like Master Bath Retreat with Dual, White Spring Beveled Granite Vanities!!

Double-Sided Fireplace in Master Oasis that Overlooks the WHIRLPOOL Tub and Master Suite!!

MASSIVE Walk-in Master Closet Suited for a KING!!! The Other Closets Are BIG Too!!

Whole-House Main Floor Surround Sound that will BLOW Your Mind!

TWO Home Theatres: Main Level and Basement Level with Paneled Acoustics!!!

Got In-Home Gym Wired for the ULTIMATE Work Out Experience?? We Do!

MIND-BLOWING Basement Renovation: GREAT Room w/HIGH Ceilings, GYM, In-Law Suite, Theatre & More!

Terrace Level & Main Level Access to Your LOW MAINTENANCE, FENCED and PRIVATE Outdoor Oasis!

Custom Camera System to Monitor Back Yard Festivities~There isn’t ANYTHING We Haven’t Thought of!!!!

99% of ALL Closets are ELFA CUSTOM DESIGN~WOW!!!

With R-30 & R-19 Insulation Throughout this Custom Home, You Hear ABSOLUTELY No Noise!!!

Not 2, Not 3, BUT 4-ZONE Heating & Air Systems, so Pick & Choose Your Zone!!!

Large Secondary Bedrooms w/ Walk-in Closets & GRANITE On Every Stitch of this HOME!!!

EXTENSIVE Millwork & Trim Details Throughout the Home!

PRESTIGIOUS Buckhead Location, TOP-NOTCH Schools and OH SO LOW PRICE for SO MUCH HOME!!!

Perfectly Situated with Easy Access to Hwys, Chastain Park & EVERYTHING Atlanta!!!

King Features: Real Copper Gutters, Plantation Shutters, 3 Fireplaces, 4 Types of Granite & More!

LOW, LOW, LOW Water Bills = One BIG Benefit!!!
The ability to merge the SMART HOME new construction details, while capturing the authenticity of EVERYTHING Buckhead, has come to fruition in this GORGEOUS RMK Construction Design. This one will absolutely BLOW YOUR MIND!!

For more information or to schedule your own private tour, visit www.SeasonsRealtyGroup.com or call Winter Baserva at 678.463.3173!

June 16, 2011

Roswell Homes For Sale ~ Some of Atlanta’s BEST Real Estate…But Why???

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , at 9:28 pm by winterbaserva

Roswell Homes For Sale ~ Some of Atlanta’s BEST Real Estate…But Why???

What is it about homes in Roswell, GA that make them so special? For one, Roswell is perfectly situated off of GA-400 about 7 miles north of Sandy Springs making it a very convenient and highly-desired location.

Furthermore, you can get a WHOLE lot of house  for the dollar too. And, with school out and buyers on the prowl, its easy to see why Roswell is one of the area’s HOTTEST real estate markets…But, Why???

The reason so many flock to this area is its plethora of Roswell Parks and Recreation such as Roswell Park, and the Chattahoochee Nature Center, Roswell Restaurants like Sugo, and Aqua Blue, STELLAR schools, and QUALITY CONSTRUCTION  for less than what you would expect to pay.

I may be a little biased because I was raised in Roswell off of Holcomb Bridge Rd. in Martin’s Landing. When I was a kid, I loved having all my friends in my neighborhood. I went to Mountain Park Elementary when I used to live in Brookfield West and then went to Holcomb Bridge Middle followed by Chattahoochee High School. To say I know and love the area is an understatement, but its not what I know, its what BUYERS WANT…and Boy, do they want to be here!!!

And, with options like this one, its easy to see why:

This LAVISHLY-DESIGNED pottery barn perfect home boasts the ULTIMATE in UPGRADED finishes, all in a highly-sought out area known for its top-rated schools and access to some of Roswell’s BEST recreation!

Perfectly situated near all the major highways, this TWO-STORY LIVING Room home overlooking the upgraded kitchen it hard to find sub $300k!!!

From the NEW WALL-TO-WALL Carpet, and the OVERSIZED Master with Trey Ceilings to the FRESH designer paint and the LEVEL backyard, you are sure to experience the LIFE, all for a fraction of what you might expect to pay.

Pride of ownership is an understatement!!

 Other Special Features Include:

TWO-STORY GREAT Room that KNOCKS Your Socks Off!

Upgraded Countertops and Bright & Cherry Kitchen with ISLAND!!

Adorable Breakfast Nook PLUS a Formal Dining Room, Oh Yeah!!

Cozy Fireside Family Room that Takes Your Breath Away!!!

Make a Play Room, Office or Formal Living Room out of the BONUS Space!!

Oversized Master Suite w/Room For Sitting Area~

His & Hers MASSIVE Closets, Store All Your Clothes Here!!

Jacuzzi Tub in Master Bath Retreat that Boasts Dual Vanities!!

LEVEL Backyard with MATURE Landscaping!!!

HUGE 2-Car Garage, So Drive on In!!!

Large Secondary Bedrooms!!!

BRAND NEW CARPET, BRAND NEW PAINT, THE WORKS!!!

Perfectly Situated Near Hwys, Shopping & Entertainment!!!!

Friendly Neighbors and Amazing Community Feel!!!

TOP-RATED Schools in TOWN!!!

 But, don’t take my word for it, call Winter Baserva today at 678-463-3173 to set up your own private showing.

In conclusion its easy to see based on Roswell’s location, schools,shopping, restaurants and social atmosphere, but the one thing that makes Roswell above and beyond other areas is its great people who make this community one of the BEST in Atlanta!!!

May 20, 2011

NAR says Buyers are Passing on ‘fixer-uppers’ in favor of ‘move-in ready’!

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , at 4:31 pm by winterbaserva

NAR Says Buyers are Passing on ‘Fixer-Uppers’ in favor of ‘Move-in Ready’

I recently came across an article written by the National Association of Realtors reporting that most buyers today are bypassing Fixer-Uppers in favor of houses that are move-in ready. They further state that according to recent surveys ‘87% of first time buyers say they desire a move-in ready home.’

“This is absolutely the story of this market. It seems buyers will pay a premium, engage in a bidding war, and even overpay just to avoid buying a ‘project’ house,” says Beth Freed of Terrie O’Connor REALTORS in Ridgewood, NJ.

According to the NAR’s latest findings, homes that have been spruced up before being put on the market will sell quicker. For the seller this doesn’t mean they will be needing to take out a second mortgage to do major repairs or costly renovations, it simply means they need to put a fresh face on their home before putting up that ‘for sale’ sign in the front yard.

Here is a list of recommendations for homeowners getting ready to put their house on the market:

DO NOT SHOW A HOME BEFORE IT IS READY- ONLY ONE CHANCE FOR A FIRST IMPRESSION
DO UNDERSTAND THAT ‘LIVING IN’ AND ‘SELLING’ A HOME ARE DIFFERENT
DO NOT ALLOW ODORS TO KILL THE ‘SELL’ OF THE HOUSE
PAINT THE EXTERIOR, AND/OR ANY INTERIOR ROOMS THAT NEED IT
MAKE SURE THE ‘CURB APPEAL’ IS THERE- DOOR CLEAN & PAINTED, MAILBOX CLEAN, SHRUBS AND BUSHES TRIMMED, GARDEN AND YARD CLEAN
REMOVE ALL PERSONAL PICTURES, ETC FROM TABLES, REFRIGERATOR, AND BOOKSHELVES
DECLUTTER!
And finally, with buyers looking for move-in ready homes, it is a good idea for sellers to get their homes inspected before they put it on the market so that any major maintenance issues, leaky roofs, electrical or safety issues are discovered and taken care of BEFORE the house goes on the market.

March 30, 2011

New luxury apartment building in the works for Buckhead..

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , at 8:25 pm by winterbaserva

It appears the confidence level is increasing with investors as the latest trek into the luxury apartment market is gearing up for a new project in the Buckhead area, a magnet for Gen Y workers. Preserve Properties, LLC has the site located at 92 West Paces Ferry Rd. under contract with plans to develop a new 8 story luxury Buckhead apartment building. The multi-family development will stand adjacent to the two year old St. Regis Atlanta hotel and residence.

“We’re certainly not talking about developing a new apartment building by the end of the year,” Preserve Properties developer Draper said. “We’re only getting the property into [zoning] compliance.”

The developers are hoping to expand on the special public interest zoning district, known as SPI-9, that will encourage ‘walkability’ in Buckhead, helping to transform the traffic jammed streets, and aging strip malls into a more connected and friendly Urbanscape.

“I think this kind of project is exactly what we want to see,” said Denise Starling, executive director of the Buckhead Area Transportation Management Association, or BATMA.

According to Starling, a new mid-rise apartment building would complement plans for a new ‘international district’ that would include foreign consulates, office building, and a mix of residences all linked by expanding sidewalks and dotted with streetside shops and cafes.

March 17, 2011

TOP 7 FORECLOSURE MYTHS for ATLANTA HOME BUYERS & THEIR TRUTHS REVEALED

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , at 3:23 pm by winterbaserva

 TOP 7 FORECLOSURE MYTHS for ATLANTA HOME BUYERS & THEIR TRUTHS REVEALED

I am often faced with the same questions and “myths” from home buyers in regards to Atlanta foreclosures. Its quite interesting how far these myths have spread over time and how inaccurate some of them are……I’m going to debunk a few of the common myths that seem to be circulating among consumers.

Myth #1: Foreclosed properties are always in bad neighborhoods.

THE TRUTH: In the current economic climate, every community and every part of town can contain foreclosed properties, with abodes ranging from modest town homes to extravagant vacation escapes appearing on the market. The economy has hit ALL areas and the result is a bunch of Atlanta Foreclosures and Atlanta Short Sales.

Myth #2: Foreclosed properties are usually in poor condition.

THE TRUTH: Though this isn’t always the case, there can be significant maintenance and structural issues hiding behind an attractive and seemingly well-tended façade. Most foreclosed homes show significant cosmetic work (dingy carpets, poor paint, lack of appliances, etc), but the more costly items will tend to be in your roofs, structure/foundation and mechanical systems.

Do your research and use a Atlanta Realtor before purchasing any foreclosed property. They will be able to connect you to the right contractors for proper estimates and be able to establish how much deferred maintenance will affect your bottom line!

Myth #3: A foreclosure sale takes advantage of the owners.

THE TRUTH: At the point of foreclosure, the owner has already defaulted on their loan. Its too late to take advantage of the owners, the property now belongs to the bank who is now the new owner. Had you purchased the property as a short sale (one of the hardest and most misunderstood items in real estate right now), you STILL would have been helping the owner get to a lesser degree of default and in the end helping them.

Don’t feel bad for the owner. While the situation is not ideal and it shouldn’t be wished on anyone. With the proper adjustments and credit repair, people who have gone into foreclosure can buy another home again in about 3-7 years depending on their situation.

Myth #4:Financial irresponsibility is always the source of foreclosure.

THE TRUTH: All it takes is the loss of a job, an unexpected health issue, or other life emergency to put a previously solid financial picture in jeopardy, and coverage of such major expenses as mortgage payments can easily be impacted. There may be some people taking advantage of the time, but that is not the case for everyone. Each Atlanta Foreclosed home has is own unique individual situation.

Myth #5: Foreclosure guarantees bargain pricing.

THE TRUTH: Banks sometimes have up to 15-20 offers on them just because they are labeled the Scarlett Letter “f”. Just because it says foreclosure, looks like a foreclosure doesn’t mean its priced like a foreclosure.

Before falling completely in love with what looks like a can’t-miss deal, be sure you know the property’s true market value so you’re not paying for more house than you’re getting. I have found that in today’s market, Mr. and Mrs. Seller tend to have the ABILITY to budge on their pricing versus the banks whose asset manager has a reserve they HAVE to meet and 15 offers on the table that they get to pick from.

Myth #6: A lower price equals higher equity.

THE TRUTH: This is one equation that won’t pan out if a property involves unpaid taxes, mechanics’ liens or an expensive string of repairs, all of which subtract from the equity and add to the cost. In any foreclosure purchase, BE SURE to get owners title insurance. This will protect you from any encumbrances on title prior to you owning the property. Its a one-time fee that could end up saving you a fortune.

Myth #7: AS-IS Means I have to buy it no matter what.

THE TRUTH: As is means, the property is sold “AS IS” with no repairs made by the seller. HOWEVER, this does NOT mean you are not entitled to an inspection. If you find something on the inspection report that scares the dickens out of you,  the seller will NOT make any repairs, but you are still entitled to back out of the contract during your due diligence window and/or inspection period without penalty. Making sure you have a qualified Atlanta realtor that knows the “ins and outs” of foreclosures is KEY to your success in this purchase.

While this is just a small sampling of some of the common Atlanta Buyer foreclosure myths, there are many others to be weary of…

For MANY other tips, tricks and tactics to WIN in today’s Atlanta Real Estate Market, call me at 678-463-3173 or visit www.SeasonsRealtyGroup.com!

March 9, 2011

219+/- Atlanta Homes MUST BE SOLD!!! The REDC (Real Estate Disposition Corporation) HOME AUCTION COMES TO ATLANTA MARCH 19, 2011!

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , at 7:48 pm by winterbaserva

219+/- Atlanta Homes MUST BE SOLD!!! The REDC (Real Estate Disposition Corporation) HOME AUCTION COMES TO ATLANTA MARCH 19, 2011!!!

Auction in Atlanta is coming back on Saturday March 19th.

Many will flock to this event in the hopes that they will strike it rich with their “deal of a lifetime“!! As an owner of FOUR properties bought at the REDC auction, can I please give you one, tiny, little piece of advice??? Go, BUT DON’T EXPECT TO FIND YOUR DEAL OF A LIFETIME!! If you haven’t already done so, YOU MUST read my blog about the 10 Biggest Mistakes Buyers Make in Today’s Market, of which Mistake Number 7 is trying to find your bargain at an auction.

Don’t get me wrong, I got a fairly decent price on the four properties I bought at the REDC Home Auction. But, by the time you add the auction fees, lender fees, closing costs, repairs (of which all of my homes needed between $10,000-30,000 worth of work), I realized that if I just would have been better off buying the home down the street directly from Mr. & Mrs. Seller……and FOR LESS. Of course, this was early off in my investing portfolio and just a little mistake I made that I have the privilege of sharing with you, so you don’t make the same mistake. I see it too many times; people getting caught up in the labels of “auctions, foreclosures and short sales” and miss unbelievable buying opportunities that are staring us in the face.

 Now you HAVE to read my blog about auctions…….

 Here are a Few Other Recommendations if you Plan to Buy at an Auction:

  • Do Your DUE DILIGENCE-no inspection contingencies here, you get what you get and sometimes that can be substantial. Do your research BEFORE you bid.
  • DON’T let your emotions take control-decide your highest and best bid BEFORE you go and don’t go over it under ANY circumstances. 
  • Practice PATIENCE throughout the entire process-from the winning bid, to the paper work to closing, you will need patience. Imagine how busy the closing attorney’s are with the amount of Atlanta homes being sold.
  • Don’t be surprised about the disorganization-these events move fast and they are not always well orchestrated.
  • Keep Your Eye on the Prize and WAIT-if the auction property you want ends up going to another bidder, WAIT, 40% of the homes come back around and you can get it on the second go round and maybe for LESS!!!
  • Despite everything if you still want to buy at an auction, GET A QUALIFIED REALTOR to represent you. It’s great to have a non-biased, non-emotional third party representative there to help you with the bidding, interpret the price point, explain the risks, as well as walk you through the process and paperwork. Your job is JUST starting once you leave the auction. There is a mountain of items that have to be handled and an agents fee is paid for by the auction house, so this service is completely FREE to you!

One thing is certain DEALS OF A LIFETIME are out there…..lots of them… And, if you REALLY want a good deal, call me and let me show you how to offer in on the property NO ONE’S offering on, instead of putting you in a room with hundreds of other buyers all going after the same one.

If you are looking for a Nationally-Recognized, top producing real estate agent that understands the Atlanta home auction process, then CALL ME immediately. I’ll be happy to represent you FREE.

 BUT, don’t wait!! I will need to make sure that you are registered properly!

 The REDC (Real Estate Disposition Corporation) HOME AUCTION

When: Saturday Mar. 19, 2011
Where: Georgia International Convention Center – Exhibit Hall D  2000 Convention Center Concourse, College Park, GA 30337
Time: Registration Starts Promptly at  8:00 a.m. Auction starts promptly at 9:30 a.m.
What to bring: Last 2 yrs W-2 , $2,500 Cashier’s Check ($5,000 for each subsequent) , Checkbook for balance of 5% Earnest Money Deposit (15% for each subsequent)
Properties open for inspection from 11AM to 4PM on 3/5/11, 3/12/11 & 3/13/11.  Please check individual property for specific open house information.

P.S. Did you know you can buy properties “auction-style” ONLINE from auction houses that are not as popular and have many less people bidding on them??? I can help you with that as well!

March 2, 2011

THE TOP 7 FORECLOSURE MYTHS for ATLANTA HOME OWNERS & THEIR TRUTHS REVEALED….

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , at 7:55 pm by winterbaserva

THE TOP 7 FORECLOSURE MYTHS for ATLANTA HOME OWNERS & THEIR TRUTHS REVEALED….

I come across some of the same questions and “myths” from home owners over and over about Atlanta foreclosures. Its quite interesting how far these myths have spread over time and how inaccurate some of them are……I’m going to debunk a few of the common myths that seem to be circulating among consumers…

Myth #1: The bank really wants your home back.

THE TRUTH: Believe me, the LAST thing the bank wants is your home back. It’s important to understand that the banks are not brokers, property managers, or agents, and they do NOT want that business. It’s not your home they want, BUT THE MONEY LENT FOR ITS PURCHASE that they want to recover. Foreclosure is a time-consuming, last-resort process for banks, and most will do everything possible to work things out with a homeowner in order to avoid it.

Myth #2: Filing for bankruptcy stops a foreclosure.

THE TRUTH: This one stumps everyone. First, you have to look into the different types of bankruptcy and what you will find is that they vary as much as the color of socks in a sock drawer. While many think they can “cheat” the system this way, bankruptcy creates only a temporary delay in the foreclosure process, so using it as a strategy for stopping it altogether will ultimately fail.

Myth #3: The Atlanta Home Owner is NOT Responsible for Paying the Bank’s Legal Fees.

THE TRUTH: SURPRISE……as an Atlanta Home Owner in default, you actually are responsible for ALL THEIR LEGAL FEES. All of the details are in your mortgage agreement, so take a close look at the fine print…I think the revelations might ASTOUND you.

Myth #4: Even if I pull together the money I owe after the foreclosure process has begun, it’s too late to stop it.

THE TRUTH: : It’s NEVER to late to work out options. I have had some Atlanta foreclosures stopped the DAY it was supposed to be foreclosed on. Banks and lenders do not want borrowers to lose their homes and they REALLY don’t want another asset on their books. They consider the foreclosure option to be the ABSOLUTE last resort.

The truth is that lenders can expect MOST of the time to lose money in the foreclosure process. Even if foreclosure proceedings have begun, it’s not too late to be considered for a loan modification, short sale or other foreclosure alternative. Borrowers should contact a REALTOR®  to find out what their options are as soon as they know their mortgage is becoming a difficult thing for them to pay. The best way to avoid a foreclosure is to put yourself in contact with the people who can help you along the process. YOU DON’T HAVE TO GO AT IT ALONE.

 MYTH #5: The bank will take all my stuff along with the house.

THE TRUTH: All personal property is yours to take; however, fixtures, floor coverings, appliances and anything else permanently attached to the house must stay.

MYTH #6: My involvement with the property is over once the bank takes it back.

THE TRUTH: After Atlanta foreclosure, if the bank sells the home for less than you owed on the mortgage, you’ll still be responsible for the difference, or “deficiency.” What’s more, they can collect interest on that amount. A deed in lieu of foreclosure or chapter 7 bankruptcy may clear you of owing a deficiency, so consult a bankruptcy attorney if you have questions about your status and options.

AND, ONE OF THE MOST COMMON FINAL MYTHS IS…..

 Myth #7: If you’re foreclosed on, you will not be able to get another mortgage.

THE TRUTH:  Will a foreclosure hurt your credit…YES and it’s true that it may take a several years to qualify for a mortgage after a foreclosure, but it can be done with some effort and planning. If the default was caused by extenuating circumstances, such as a job loss or serious illness, then Freddie Mac guidelines state that the borrower must re-establish an acceptable credit reputation for at least the most recent 36 months before applying for a new mortgage.

March 1, 2011

MAJOR CALIFORNIA PRODUCTION COMPANY COMES TO ATLANTA TO FILM LOCAL REALTOR IN UPCOMING EPISODE OF HGTV’S ‘HOUSE HUNTERS’

Posted in Uncategorized tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , at 5:08 pm by winterbaserva

MAJOR CALIFORNIA PRODUCTION COMPANY COMES TO ATLANTA TO FILM LOCAL REALTOR IN UPCOMING EPISODE OF HGTV’S ‘HOUSE HUNTERS


PRESS RELEASE

Media Contact:

Brian Cowling

Director of Strategic Growth

bcowling@solidsource.net

770-757-2411

  Agent Contact

Winter Baserva, Realtor®

winter@seasonsrealtygroup.com

678-463-3173

For Immediate Release

MAJOR CALIFORNIA PRODUCTION COMPANY COMES TO ATLANTA TO FILM LOCAL REALTOR IN UPCOMING EPISODE OF HGTV’S HOUSE HUNTERS
March 5-8, 2011

Realtor®, Winter Baserva, Defies Odds in a Down Market &
The Networks Are Paying Attention!

ATLANTA, GA-February 28, 2011 – A major California production company will be in Atlanta March 5-8, to film local real estate agent and wave maker, Winter Baserva, of Seasons Realty Group team of Solid Source Realty, Inc. in her second episode on HGTV’s House Hunters. The popular show, which has an average of five million viewers per episode, takes viewers behind the scenes of the emotional experience of finding and purchasing a new home. Shot over four days, the episode will be release approximately 6-8 months following shooting.

“I was approached directly by the show in 2009 because of my out-of-the-box approach to buying and selling in today’s real estate market. My original episode, Pampered Pooch, featured me and my buyers “shopping” in the Brookhaven area. Since its launch date in January 2010, it continues to run on HGTV,” said Winter Baserva, Realtor®, Seasons Realty Group of Solid Source Realty, Inc. “I’m honored and humbled to be the only real estate agent in Atlanta featured on the show TWO times, in addition to being less than a handful of agents EVER featured on the show two times.”

In a time where most agents are struggling for business, Baserva is defying the odds and has set ground-breaking records within her brokerage. “Winter’s commitment to provide exceptional service, coupled with genuine care for others, is felt by clients and co-workers during every transaction.  She consistently delivers service beyond client expectations and extraordinary success continues to follow her hard work.  Winter ranks in the top 1% of over 2700 Solid Source Agents in one of the most challenging real estate markets in real estate history.  Achievement of this magnitude is a direct reflection of her commitment, attention to details, focus and drive.  It is an honor to have her representing Solid Source Realty,” said Michele Velcheck, owner, Solid Source Realty.

She has also set records for her own personal production. “More millionaires were made during the Great Depression than any other era in U.S. History,” said Baserva. “I specialize in good deals and selling homes for top dollar. There are tremendous opportunities for both buyers and sellers in today’s market for those willing to find them.”

While buyers still have the upper hand, Baserva says her sellers are benefitting from today’s market as well. “My sellers are also seeing the benefits a down market can bring, especially if they are looking to upgrade, downgrade or purchase a second home.”

“I’m so excited about where the real estate market is heading. Unfortunately, we don’t get to see enough ‘good news’ about the housing market and I can say that I’m thrilled that I am able to be a part of how Atlanta is getting positive exposure for being the wonderful, amazing, resourceful, business Mecca that it truly is,” concludes Baserva.

It’s this type of resourcefulness and mindset that has landed Baserva a spot on a national television show for her second time. For more information, please contact Winter Baserva at 678-463-3173, winter@seasonsrealtygroup.com 

                                                   

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As an expert in all aspects of real estate from buying and selling to investing and REO properties, Baserva builds her business based on honesty, respect, and trust by empowering her clients with the education and tools needed to make an informed decision.  Raised in Roswell, GA, and a graduate from Chattahoochee High School in Alpharetta, she moved back to Atlanta in 2007, after working for a residential brokerage and commercial developer in Florida.

Her career originally started out in communications, marketing and public relations. Baserva has previously held positions with the Miami Art Museum, Miami Children’s Museum, Grove Garden Luxury Residences, and others helping them grow their businesses through publicity management and strategic marketing campaigns. Her skills have received attention from highly-accredited publications such as Interior Design, Time Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Journal Constitution, and many others. 

She is active in many community organizations and donates to several community causes including Center for Visually Impaired, and Smile Train, a company that gives children with clef lips a new chance at life, and Have a Heart. 

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Baserva graduated from The Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations. She currently resides in Sandy Springs.

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