In The Market or On The Market?

When trying to sell your home, you need to take the emotion out the process.  You have now entered a business deal and you need to listed to your trusted Business Partner, Your Realtor.  Take a look at this video, where do you think you fall?
In The Market or On The Market

The Market Gets Competitive for Home Buyers

If you are a buyer in today's real estate market, Listen Up!  Things are beginning to shift again.  More and more buyers are coming into the market to buy a home.  I don't think anyone knows why all the sudden, buyer's are ready to buy, however I have my opinion.  Interest rates are historically low and honestly they can't just stay this low forever.  Think about it, not too long ago everyone was smiling, houses values were sky rocketing, a lot of people thought they had this huge bank account to draw from.  Well, what goes up and up and up, sooner or later will explode. I know that sounds a bit cynical, but I am one of those people that look at the what if's.  For example; you are current renting and you are ready to buy your first home.  You are paying $1000 a month rent for this tiny 2 bedroom apartment.  With interest rates at the all time lows - ever - you could buy your own home for just about the same payment as your rent.  It's your (and the banks of course) and you can paint the walls whatever color you want.  You need shelter, so why not now and take advantage of the lowest interest rates ever, because they will go back up sooner or later.  Happy House Hunting!  Call me and I will sit down with you and create a plan that is perfect for you!

The Market Gets Competitive for Home Buyers

What Would You Say?

Two Sundays ago during morning service, Pastor Jack asked "When you stand before God and he asks you- "What Did You Do For Me"?  What would you say?

This really hit me and has been on my mind every day since that day.   I immediately started thinking about the things I have done, like saving clothes and giving them away to families that need them.  Does that count?  Helping on a Food Drive.  Does that count?  I helped collect toys for Toys for Tots.  Does that Count?
Surely, it means something, but is it enough?  We are raising our Granddaughter, but that is a Blessing to all of us, so I don't think that counts.  I have witnessed to others about what having Christ in my life has done for me.  I know that counts.

Some how, I just don't think it is enough.  I know that if I just still myself and listen, God will deliver the answer to me.

So What Would You Say?

Just Listed! Ranch Home On A Level Lot!

Just Listed!  Immaculate 3 Bedroom - 2 Bath Split Plan Ranch Home In Tellico Village.

As You Enter The Home You Immediately Are Aware Of The High Ceiling And The Open Feel That The Home Offers.  There Hardwood Floors In The Foyer, Hall, Dining Room, Kitchen And Breakfast Nook.
The Breakfast Nook Offers Views Of the Deck, Back Yard And The Woods. You Will Even Spot A Doe With Her Babies Traveling Through.

The Living Room Is A Very Nice Size With Cathedral Ceilings And Gas Log Fireplace. Your Dining room Is Adjacent But Separate From Your Living Room.

The Master Bedroom Is Large, Offers A Trey Ceiling, Crown Molding And A Separate Sitting Area.  You Can Also Access Your 12 x 26 Deck From Here As Well As The Living Room.
The enSuite Master Bath Offers Dual Vanities, Separate Shower, Whirlpool Tub, Water Closet (Fancy Word For Private Toilet) And Walk In Closets.

The Home Also Offers A Separate Laundry Room, Two guest Rooms And A Guest Hall Bath.
Situated On A Level Lot Surrounded By Woods And Within Walking Distance To Tellico Lake.
MLS 814530

I Am Ready To Help You Find Your New Home!

New Help on Short Sales

New Help on Short Sales

This is fantastic news.  Finally an agreement to help make the Short Sale process easier!

If you are need of help, please contact me.

Catrina Foster,
Keller Williams Realty
865-414-9901  direc

catrinafoster@gmail.com

Keller Williams Rated #1

Keller Williams Rated #1 By JD Power & Associates

According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction Study^SM released yesterday, Keller Williams Realty, Inc. ranks highest in customer satisfaction in both the homebuyer and home seller segments. Keller Williams Realty, Inc. achieved the highest scores in all measured factors across both segments, receiving the highest JDPower.com Power Circle Rating^SM among its competitors overall. 

Click On The Link Below For More Details:

http://www.kw.com/kw/pressrelease.html?pressReleaseId=381

New Listings From Knoxville to Sweetwater

I have recently listed several homes in our surrounding areas.  All price points can be found.

Listing located at 6455 Riverview Golf, Loudon TN  is "Simply Stunning" home located on 5 acres. The Stone and Log Home offers approximately 5600 square foot home offers 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, in-ground pool with salt water system.  The decks surround the home with several covered areas.  As soon as you enter this home you feel warm and cozy!  Brokers Open House on Wednesday - August 22nd from 4:30 to 6:30pm

Listing located at 10717 Pinedale Drive, Knoxville, TN is Stunning!  The interior of this home is ALL NEW!
Truly a Must See!  New hardwood floors, new carpet, new hardware, new interior doors, new windows and screens, new base boards, new kitchen, new stainless steel appliances, new vanities, built-ins, brick fireplace, covered screened patio with outdoor fireplace.  You have just got to see this home.  Open House - Sunday - August 19th from 1:30 to 3:30.  Stop by!

Listing located at 206 Kinzalow, Sweetwater, TN is perfect for anyone looking for a cute home under $120,000!  This home is truly "Move-In" ready!  The home is 4 bedrooms, with Bonus Room and Sun Room! 3.5 Baths and Large Yard.  Call me to schedule a showing!

Listing located at 7716 Cody Lane, Halls, TN is great for anyone!!  This home is priced under appraised value! This basement ranch home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths on the mail level of the home with Living Room - Dining Room Combination!
The lower level offers a Den area, 2 additional rooms that can be used as additional bedrooms or office.  There is also a full bath in the lower level.

Listing located at 4113 Legends Way, Maryville, TN  is a home that offers amazing views.  This all brick home offers 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 baths, updated kitchen.  Updated Appliances including Washer and Drying Stay!  With just a few updates this home can be spectacular!

Listing located at 207 Old Ridge Road, Kingston, TN  is "Fantastic"!  If you are looking for acreage and a water view - look no further.  This custom built - custom designed home is just the ticket!  Check it out!  Motivated Seller!

Listing located at 203 Checotah Place, Loudon, TN is a Low Maintenance Townhome with Main Level Living.  This home is immaculate.  Located in the Tellico Village Community loaded with Amenities.

Don't see what you are looking for?  I can locate the right home to fit your needs!  Call me directly at 865-414-9901 or visit my website.

Home Sizes Make an Unexpected Turn

Home Sizes Make an Unexpected Turn

Knoxville's Newest Restaurant - Cassy's

Jim Cornett, an experienced Restauranteur is the founder of Cazzy’s Corner Grill.  An Oak Ridge native and a Knoxville resident, Cornett developed Cazzy’s to fill a niche and a new standard in Knoxville for casual American Dining.

Cazzy’s starts with all the classic’s that you love.  Fantastic deli sandwiches, burgers and of course wings. They also offer high quality fresh seafood, steak and chops.  They also step it up to offer signature dishes like the Pastrami Burger, Cajun-encrusted Sirloin and their own Sloppy Sandwich, “The Cazzy Joe”. They offer a daily fresh catch, Hog Wings and a selection of 8 fantastic entrée salads.

Stop in and try Cazzy’s Corner Grill. 

  I would love to hear what you think!

Cazzy’s Corner Grill is located at:

Northshore Towne Center- 2099 Thunderhead Road 

 Knoxville-TN  37922

June 2012 Housing Trends Report

Housing Trends eNewsletter- Catrina Foster

5 tips for staging your home | Inman News

5 tips for staging your home | Inman News

Low Maintenance Living In A Golf & Lake Community

WOW!  Enjoy this Low Maintenance Basement Ranch Townhome Located In The Lake And Golf Community Of Tellico Village.  Living On The Main Level Of This Home!  This Home Offers A Large Kitchen With Breakfast Bar, Center Island And All Updated Appliances.  The Living Room And Dining Room Combination Has Vaulted Ceilings And Opens To a Beautiful Deck That Has Been Updated And Stained.  The Lower Level Offers 2 Guest Bedrooms, Full Bath, Den And Storage.  Want More Room?  Finish Off The Storage Room For A Media Or Exercise Room.  2 Car Attached Garage! The New Roof And Updated HVAC System.
This Home Is Being Offered At $179,900.  

Looking For A Lifestyle? Golf, Boating & More!

Variety Of Homes For Sale

Just Click My Card To View Homes For Sale.

WOW! 207 Old Ridge Road, Kingston, TN 37763 for $1,100,000

Just listed: 207 Old Ridge Road, Kingston, TN 37763 for $1,100,000

Home Inspections Are Not Appraisals

A property appraisal is a document that provides an
estimate of a property's market value. Lenders require
appraisals on properties prior to loan approval to ensure
that the mortgage loan amount is not more than the value
of the property. Appraisals are for lenders; home inspections
are for buyers.
The Federal Housing Authority (FHA), which is part of the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD), requires lenders to obtain appraisals of properties
securing FHA-insured loans. FHA requires appraisals for
three reasons:
The Importance of an Appraisal
Sales Comparison Market Approach
Cost Approach
Income Capitalization Approach
Home Inspections Are Not Appraisals
1) To estimate the market value of the property.
2) To make sure that the property meets FHA minimum
property requirements/standards (health and safety).
3) To make sure that the property is marketable.
The FHA appraisal process will note property deficiencies
that are readily observable and found not in compliance
with HUD's minimum property requirements/standards.
These deficiencies may not be the same as those items
noted in a home inspection report.

Looking to Sell your home?  Interested in what your home is worth?
Call me to schedule a no obligation consultation.  I am happy to help.

Just Sold - Gallaher Station

I Just Sold this adorable home in one of my favorite neighborhoods. As my clients were moving in, the neighbors were stopping by to welcome them and offering their help! I know that my clients will love this neighborhood!
If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home, please call me! I would love to help.

Best Bet Home Improvements

Knoxville is #8!

Knoxville currently has the best employment outlook in the nation, with 25% of employers in the area saying they expect to add jobs this spring, according to staffing firm ManpowerGroup.   To read the full story, just click on the link below 

                     http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2012/real_estate/1204/gallery.US-Cities/8.html

It's Spring!!

It's officially Spring! Our East Tennessee weather is warm and beautiful! It's a perfect time to get out there and view homes if you are in the market to buy or the perfect time to list! Whatever your real estate needs may be please call me at 865-414-9901 or visit my website at www.catrinafoster.com! I can't wait to make your dreams a reality!!

207 Old Ridge Road, Kingston, TN 37763, USA - Lake Front Custom Built With Acreage! - real estate listing

207 Old Ridge Road, Kingston, TN 37763, USA - Lake Front Custom Built With Acreage! - real estate listing

Spring Forward!!

It's already that time of year! My how time flies! Although we lose an hour we gain the extra day light hours each evening which can only mean one thing.....Summer is just around the corner! I know many of you may be enjoying spring break now or within the next couple of weeks. Please keep me in mind if your plans include a home search! I'm here to help! Visit my website at www.catrinafoster.com or call me at 865-414-9901. I look forward to helping you find your dream home!!

Just Another Manic Moday!

It is already Monday once again! We begin another week and this time we end it in the month of March! Can you believe it? Where has the time gone already! Spring Break is just around the corner! What a PERFECT time to look for your dream house! Spring brings many new listings to the market. Call me today at 865-414-9901 or visit my web site www.catrinafoster.com to begin (or refresh) your home search! I can't wait to help make your dreams a reality!

What will the weather be today??

Ahhhh good ol' East Tennessee!! Let's see....snow on Monday, wind on Tuesday, Thunderstorms on Wednesday, and sunny and 70 degrees by Thursday! Gotta love the variety! It's hard to believe that February is almost behind us already! While we should be having cold weather and possibly snow this time of year I will take all of the warm weather that mother nature wants to give us! Spring is right around the corner!! Spring is the perfect time for a home search!! Call me today at 865-414-9901 to view your favorite properties!

Open House!!

Tour this Beautiful Home in the Gated Community of Plantation Springs!

When: Sunday, February 19th from 2pm to 4pm.

You will be Delighted! Master bedroom on main level! Vaulted ceilings in living room, Trey ceiling in dinig room, bright kitchen, screened porch w/Built-Ins, all house steam humidifier, bonus room roughed in waiting for drywall and flooring and a new roof! Secure Gated Community-2 pools-tennis courts-walking trails and more! Bring an Offer!

Call me today for more information! 865-414-9901

http://www.catrinafoster.com/listing/mlsid/281/propertyid/774163/

The Real Estate Market in Your Area

Check out the data on this page....it is consolidated from multiple sources and includes current listings, recent sales, for you in your area. Simply click on the link and put in your zip code. Whether you're a buyer or seller, the knowledge you gain will help put you in control of your real estate transactions. Call or email anytime to discuss how this information can benefit you!

http://www.catrinafoster.com/mimarket/zip/37772/

Happy Valentine's Day!

I hope that everyone has a blessed day with the ones they love today! Remember that this holiday isn't just for couples, but all of our dear family, friends, and loved ones in our lives!

If you or anyone you know is in the market to buy a home please keep me in mind and visit my website at http://www.catrinafoster.com/ anytime to search properties!!

Have a "lovely" day!

School Zones and Statistics

When looking for a home have you often thought, "what school zone is it in and how does that school rank?" If you are curious give the following link a try! Simply type in your zip code and BAM! There's your answer! Once you find a home in the zone you prefer call me for a tour of your favorite listing at 865-414-9901!

http://www.catrinafoster.com/mischool/zip/37803/

Ever wonder what it would be like to live in a golf community? Visit this link to find out 5 things you neeed to know about buying on a golf course...

http://www.catrinafoster.com/miarticles/zip/37849/

After you know the facts and finish day dreaming, give me a call at

865-414-9901 for a tour of your favorite property!

I can make your dreams a reality!

Featured Property of the Week!

219 Daleyuhski Lane

Loudon, TN 37774

Basement Ranch home located on a cul-de-sac in the center of Tellico Village. Main level offers 3 Bedroom, 2 full baths, living/dining room combination. Kitchen offers a pass through to dining area.  Laundry Room is also on main level.  Lower Level finished with hardwood floors, bedroom, and bath.  Lower level also offers ample storage.  Call me for your tour today at 865-414-9901!

Super Bowl Weekend!

Ahhhh Super Bowl Sunday!  The perfect excuse to get together with family and friends and eat! Oh I mean watch football, right?  Before the big game Sunday evening you have plenty of time this weekend for house hunting!  Call me at 865-414-9901 to set up a personal tour of your favorite properties!  I look forward to hearing from you!  Hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Did he see his shadow?

By now you probably already know that the groundhog saw his shadow.  We all know what that means.....6 more weeks of winter!  Normally we would complain, but after a beautiful day like today in the mid 60's I will take that for six more weeks, won't you?

Sellers are motivated!!  It's a great time to buy!  An abundance of housing inventory means that buyers have the upper hand.

Contact me today  at 865-414-9901 if you or anyone you know is interested in finding a great deal in today's market!

Feature Property of the Week!

302 N. Rolling Ridges Lane

Vonore, Tn. 37885

Welcome home to The Meadows!  You will be impressed with this two-story traditional home now available for Sale or Lease Purchase. This home offers a large kitchen with Breakfast Area, Dining Room, Living Room, Office/Den and Powder Room on main level. Upstairs offers three nice size bedrooms, two full baths, laundry, mirrored closet doors, and walk in closets.  And with summer just around the corner you will love the in-ground pool!  New Dimensional Roof and New Safety Pool Cover in 2011.  Call me today for your personal tour or to inquire about other listings at 865-414-9901.  

Spring Cleaning (in Winter)

Want a way to beat the winter blues?  Take advantage of this warmer spring like weather we have been having and get a jump start on your spring cleaning!  You can always tackle the windows, baseboards, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and more!!  Why wait?  Start now so that when spring does actually come soon you can get out and enjoy the beautiful outdoors!!  I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

Call me today for any of your real estate needs at 865-414-9901!

Low Mortgage Rates

The current low mortgage interest rates won't last forever!  Did you know that a 1% increase in interest rates would mean a 10% increase in a monthly payment?  

 If you or anyone you know is interested in taking advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime for buying in real estate, I can help! 

Call me today 865-414-9901 or you can also search listings directly from my web site at www.catrinafoster.com!

How to Improve Curb Appeal

Home Selling Advice to Help You Attract Potential Buyers

A large percentage of home buyers decide whether or not to look inside a house or take it seriously based on its curb appeal—the view they see when they drive by or arrive for a showing. You can help make sure they want to come inside your house by spending some time working on the its exterior appearance.

It's difficult to look at our own house in the same way that potential home buyers do, because when we become accustomed to the way something looks and functions, we can't see its faults. Decide right now to stop thinking of the property as a home. It's a house—a commodity you want to sell for the highest dollar possible.

Next time you come home take a look from your driveway at your landscaping, driveway, and exterior of your your home.  What improvements need to be made?  Need a landscaper?  Does your driveway need pressure washing?  Call me today at 865-414-9901 for a list of reliable contacts that can help you to get your home ready to sell!!

Ready to Sell Checklist

When selling your home, it's important to know which repairs and home improvement projects will increase the value of your home and help you get the most interest from homebuyers. Use this checklist to get your house ready for the market.

Carpet & Flooring Improvements:

• If you have pets hire a professional to deodorize carpets
• If needed, replace any worn carpet
• If needed, steam clean carpet thoroughly
• If needed, install new neutral-colored carpet with a thick padding so prospective buyers feel comfortable as they walk on your floors
• If your home has hardwood floors with room-size rugs, get the hardwood into its best condition with fresh non-slip floor polish or other coating to make it shine
• Mop and vacuum floors

Clean & De-Clutter:

• Appliances should be cleaned - inside and out
• Clean all curtains, drapes and blinds
• Clean the entryway carefully; it creates the buyers first interior impression of your home
• Empty trash cans, recycling bins and ash trays
• Ensure all doors, cabinets and drawers can open completely without any blockage
• Exterminate any insect problems
• Get rid of odors (pet, food)
• Have a garage sale before the home is listed
• If needed, remove clutter by renting off-site storage space
• Keep bookshelves, entertainment units organized neatly
• Keep clothing hung neatly, shoes organized
• Keep shower curtains fresh and free from mildew
• Keep stairways and corridors clear
• Make bathrooms sparkle; sinks, toilets and tubs should be immaculate
• Mop and sweep all floors
• Organize closets
• Remove appliances from kitchen counters to give a look of spaciousness

Yard Improvements:

• Add colorful plants or flowers near front door and porch area
• Consider re-painting or re-staining a deck if the wood is worn out
• Repair damaged, rusty or bent fence; paint or stain if necessary
• Keep trash area clean and organized
• Keep walks, steps and driveway obstacle-free
• Mow, trim, fertilize and water lawn
• Power wash deck
• Prune trees and bushes
• Rake fallen leaves
• Remove weeds and dead or dying plants or flowers
• Replace welcome mat at the doorway
• Re-sod bare spots on lawn
When you are ready to list.....CALL ME at 865-414-9901 or visit my website at www.catrinafoster.com!

Featured Property of the Week!

8664 Belle Mina Way

Knoxville, Tn. 37923

You will be delighted with this beautiful home in Plantation Springs! Master bedroom on main level, vaulted ceilings in living room, trey ceiling in dining room, and a bright kitchen. Additional features include screened Porch w/Built-Ins, all house steam humidifier, bonus room roughed in waiting for drywall and flooring, Secure Gated Community-2 pools-tennis courts-walking trails, new roof, and more!  Bring an offer!  To view this and other properties please call me at 865-414-9901 or visit my website www.catrinafoster.com. 

Welcome!

Good afternoon! It's a pleasure to have you visiting my blog! By now we are well into the new year. Ahhhhh yes......time for those pesky New Year Resolutions! We all have them, but do we stick to them? I have a list of them myself, but I am choosing to call them "goals." I have set personal goals for the new year as well as business goals. One of those goals is to maintain my blog on a consistent basis. I hope you will join me often as I go through my daily journey in real estate. If you have a real estate need please call or email me anytime and visit my website as well at http://www.catrinafoster.com/. I look forward to making your real estate dreams come true!