Valerie Osterhoudt's Blog

My name is Valerie Osterhoudt, and I am a realtor for Johnson Real Estate, in Cromwell, CT.  It came to my attention in the last week that many renters that wish to buy a home next year, 2011 are looking to save their money in order to do so.  This makes sense, if you can save *at least* $20,000 over and above what you are currently paying for rent.

If you are paying, modestly $1,000 for rent each month.. this would mean you would have to save an additional $1,000 to match your rent and save it for a down payment. That is $2,000 a month you would need to come up with.. mortgages are less than this in some cases.  Now with the $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers and $6,500 for present owners to move.. You are looking at $20,000 dollars.  The bad news is the $8,000 tax credit won't be there for you in 2011. 

Why not speak with a mortgage consultant and see if it is possible to purchase this coming year of 2010.  Take the  $1,000 you are now paying in rent and put it into your pocket...not someone elses  did you know that you can take the interest on your mortgage off your taxes?   YOU WILL BE GETTING A $8,000 TAX CREDIT FROM THE GOVERNMENT.  It doesn't get any better than this.  Not sure who to speak with, I'll be able to help you with this.

What is holding you back in just checking into this to see if it will work for you.  Last week, two renters are now qualified to buy a home... why not you too?  If you live in the Middlesex County of Connecticut in and around the area of Cromwell, CT, I'll be glad to assist you in moving in ther right direction to see if this is a possiblity for you, with no strings attached. You can contact me Valerie Osterhoudt at 860.883.8889 or email me at valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

We are moving into a new year.. isn't it time we do so on a right foot?

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright © 2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... *** ATTENTION RENTERS... CAN YOU SAVE AT LEAST $20,000 IN ONE YEAR IN ORDER TO BUY A HOME?***

This morning I woke up and wandered into the kitchen for some coffee... My sons came down the stairs and wished me a Merry Christmas.  We put all the lights on in the house, and the ones outside too, to let everyone know that it is Christmas.  There is still some snow outside from the recent snowfall (no where near a storm as predicted), but we kept the curtains closed to keep the warmth of the day instead.  Plus the lights show up better this way.

Both boys were excited and couldn't wait to open their gifts.. my oldest, Kyle, said to me that he wanted to say a prayer and thank everyone who is overseas and in the military.  He mentioned the same thing last year at this time.  He is so sensitive to things around him, and others in the world.

He felt that if they weren't doing their job, we wouldn't be able to celebrate.  He wanted them to know he thought of them today, and wanted to say "THANK YOU".. He then continued and said "Thank you God, for having my Aunt Stacy back for Christmas this year again, and that she is not overseas."  He missed her when she was in Iraq, and he knows that there are other families that have brothers, sisters, mom, and dad's overseas and that they must be feeling sad not to have them home". 

This brought a tear to my eye.  It seems that as a parent, you never quiet know what sticks with your children when you try to teach them something, and I'm proud to know that in this case this has.

So, at this moment, I too, want to take a moment and thank all the troops and their families for their dedication and support.  MERRY CHRISTMAS...  you all deserve it the most.  Please return safely.

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright © 2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... *** A TIME TO REMEMBER AND BE THANKFUL...even from the young at heart***

At this point being 5:00pm on December 24th, I'm not sure if many ActiveRain members will be online.  Once I post this.. I'm off to spend time with my family and friends for the remainder of the day.

This year has been one of many ups and downs.. but when it comes to Christmas, I wish all of you a very happy and safe Christmas.  Put real estate aside for the day, and spend it with your family.  Take pictures have fun, eat well... you can never recoup tomorrow and the memories.  You can always pick up real estate on Saturday, it will be there waiting for you.  Family and friends won't.. enjoy.  I wish you all the best.

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright © 2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... *** MERRY CHRISTMAS.... TO ALL.. AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT***

Like all of us this time of year, we are so busy, and going in so many different directions.  For me with two boys, and their schedules thrown into the mix.. it is down right CRAZY!!

This month was my annual physical exam, and I also needed to get some blood work done.  Hey, when you reach a certain age, everything starts to fail... LOL.

While I was giving blood, my cell phone rang.  I thoroughly apologized.  The hospital states all over that cell phones are not permitted.  I explained to the nurse that my job is that of a real estate agent.  When I walked in the door, I was on the phone and had thought I had shut it off... obviously not.. and again apologized.  To continue, I mentioned that it has been really busy lately, and I must have forgotten to turn off my phone when I walked in.  She looked at me and nodded.... then smiled. 

She asked me a few questions, I told her about the $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers...and the next thing I knew she told me that she and her husband were going to start looking for a new home in January and she wanted my business card.  They hated the idea of looking for a realtor, but liked what I had to say.  She said she would be in touch... she likes how passionate I am about my job.  Who knew I was being interviewed while giving blood.

Before I left, she gave me a quick overview of what she and her husband are looking for in a home. 

What a way to end.... and start of the new year.  You just never know when the next client will come your way.

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright ©2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... ***NEVER KNOW WHERE A *NEW* CLIENT WILL COME FROM***

LOOK OUT CROMWELL CT...

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN THIS WEEKEND

Tomorrow, Saturday, December 12th Santa will be coming to Cromwell CT.  All children be on the look out.. santa will be coming down your street bringing/tossing candy (probably) canes to all children out and about.  He will be covering the WHOLE town...EVERY road/street.  How is he doing this?  He is going with the help of the fire department.  He will be on a fire truck with the siren going.  So have your coats and hats on.. and cheer him on as he comes by.

I'm not sure when he will be on your street/road, but I'm sure if you parents contact the fire department they *might* be able to give them an idea as to when.

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright © 2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... *** SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO CROMWELL CT....***

SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP

WOODSIDE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

CROMWELL, CT

This was such a great hit last year, that it is being held again.  I received calls on and off for the last few months looking for more information on this event.

Most of us like shopping initially, but then.. the running around for that one gift that you just can't find for that someone special can drive you nuts.  Now you have the opportunity to get it all done in one day... at one location.  How terrific is that?

This Friday, December 4th from 4:30pm to 9:00pm (or until you drop).. LOL.  You will be able to shop for all your holiday gifts under ONE roof at Woodside Intermediate School, in Cromwell, CT.  There will be over 60 vendors, so you will have a lot to choose from.  Here are some of the items and/or vendors that will be there.

Jewelry, Handbags, Pet Accessories, Home Goods, Pampered Chef, Toys, Spa, Books, Art, Domestics, Sports, Cosmetics, and SO MUCH MORE.

Last year there were cookies and goodies to try.  I came away with a recipe for truffles that was to die for.

Don't like shopping, but like raffles... there will be those there too.

Thinking this will be too much, you will need a *coffee/refreshment* break?  That has been covered too... these will be served as well for the weary shopper, so you can get back to all the vendors.

Spend an evening shopping with friends (unless you are looking for a gift for them), and have fun and get everything accomplished in one night, in one location..  It doesn't get better than this.

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright © 2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... *** HOLIDAY SHOPPING ALL IN ONE LOCATION.. SHOP UNTIL YOU DROP***

Recently I worked with a client that was looking to buy a condo.  He knew pretty much what he was looking for and when it came to locating his *new home* it didn't take long at all. This was a refreshing change. Everything was going smoothly even with the seller's side. 

Where the problem lied was with the paralegal at his attorney's office. 

She just did NOT know what she was doing, and it was causing my our client undo stress.  He works a job that needs his undivided attention, and did NOT need to be bothered by little matters, or ones that did NOT need to be directed to him to him in the first place.  For instance, the master policy for the condo complex was needed.  This makes sense, but the paralegal wanted my our client to get it.  It was assumed that it was in the condo docs (resale package), I explained how to acquire it, and that if anything else was needed to direct to myself and not to bother my our client.  When I took the burden off my client, he was greatly relieved. 

I believe the whole process of purchasing or selling a home should go smoothly for our clients.. they have enough on their minds to take care of.

From then on every thing went well..even the closing went smoothly.  The only thing left was getting him his copy of the closing documents.  Not living near the attorney's office, and with the attorney preferring NOT to mail them, I volunteered and picked them up, then drove them to my our client.

Much to my surprise, he had a gift bag waiting for me..... I thought I would share with you what was inside......

Inside ***was*** yes they are gone now.... 12 huge strawberries covered in chocolate.

The note read:  Valerie this is the least I could do for you for going above and beyond for me and making my condo buying experience a wonderful one...... Ken

FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION ON REAL ESTATE... CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENT 

Info about the author:

Valerie Osterhoudt is a Cromwell Connecticut Residential Realtor who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Middlesex County of CT, which includes Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Berlin, Middletown, Wethersfield, Newington, as well as all other surrounding areas.  Please visit me at www.CTrealtorMLS.com for all your relocation and/or local needs.  

For real estate.. all you need to know, is VALERIEO  

If you're thinking about buying a home in Cromwell CT area, there are plenty of great buys in today's market.  There is no better time than now to take advantage of these homes while interest rates remain at an all time low.  For more information on Cromwell CT real estate's homes and/or condos please visit Johnson Real Estate to access the newest listings.

 Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - 860.883.8889 cell - valerierealtor@sbcglobal.net

 Copyright ©2009 - By Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR - All rights reserved...... ***LIFE IS A BOX OF CHOCOLATES.. BUT FOR REALTORS IT IS A BOX OF CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES***