A recent survey from the National Association of REALTORS has identified the specific features that are most important to buyers who are planning to purchase a home in 2008. Some of these may surprise you, depending upon your needs and family situation!

Number one on the list - central air conditioning. This feature ranked most important to older buyers in the South and Midwest. Second on the list is 2 or more garage bays. Most buyers are willing to pay more for homes with 2 + garages. Master Bedrooms with walk-in closets ranks third, and scored even higher with older buyers. High tech capabilites in a home ranked number 4. The availability of cable, high speed internet, and access to better technology is becomming more essential due to a growing number of people working from their homes. Homes that are energy efficient ranks fifth, and it is more important to repeat buyers than first time home buyers.

The study also shows that repeat buyers are torn between the home's features and its general location / neighborhood. Most buyers, however, place greater importance on being closer to work than they do the quality of schools and the location of shopping and parks, according to the survey results.

Remember, these findings are the result of a national survey, and do not necessarily reflect the order of importance in the 5 north Atlanta counties where The Komar Team lists, markets, and sells residential properties.

Happy Holidays, and Best Wishes in finding your new home in 2008!

Cindy Komar
Associate Broker, ABR
Life Multi-Million Dollar Producer
Keller Williams Realty

Is there really such a thing? No matter what the situation, unforseen obstacles can stand in the way, and even hinder a closing from occuring on time. To better ensure a smooth closing, stay in touch with your real estate agent, and be responsive to your agent's requests.

If you're a buyer, your agent representing you will communiate with your lender, closing attorney, inspector, and the seller's agent - from the point of binding contract to the closing. An experienced agent should be able to overcome obstacles as they arise.

Remember, it's not uncommon to have some glitches leading to closing, especially since there are over 100 steps in the process. Many are clerical in nature. Others simply involve timing and deadlines not being met. When issues do arise, remember to stay calm, work with your agent, and take them one step at a time. Most issues will be resolved to your satisfaction.

Congratulations! You have just closed and purchased your new home!

Casey Fauscett
Buyer's Agent
The Komar Team