Diane Donnelly's (ddonnelly) Blog

I wasn't aware that an inground pool was restricted when using a USDA loan.  This type of loan is fantastic for the low to no cash buyer! Thanks so much for the post George! USDA/Rural Mortgage Program, has a couple of really odd guidelines.  For example even though USDA/Rural is really the old F...

Price your home to create a FRENZY! Years ago, it wasn’t uncommon to hear about a bidding war on a house that was put on the market in the morning and had 10 offers before the seller got home from work. Although it isn’t as common in this market, it does happen.  In fact, I had a bidding war on a...

  Silence is golden when selling your house. God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason.  When we are selling a house, we must talk less, and listen more. Negotiating is an art and to succeed, you must not only hear what is said, you must listen with the intent to understand and then create...

Do you think 2010 is Going to be a great year in real estate? Whether you said yes or no, you are correct.  You see, your results are in direct proportion to your belief systems.  If you think real estate is going to be great this year, your actions align themselves with activities that defend yo...

It is such an interesting question that I get from buyers, sellers and other realtors as well.  The answer is not as elaborate or glittery as I would like it to sound. Quite Simply, I work hard to solve problems.  We all have needs.   Sellers need to sell their home because they have a growing fa...

Educate your Sellers, do not sell them.  At least for selling a home in the Annapolis, MD area. I had two back to back listing appointments with sellers who were in no rush to move.  As we were reviewing the local market stats, I asked why they were considering a move and what their timeframe was...

We have all heard of first time home buyer's seminars but we never hear of first time home seller's seminars.  How come? They are as new at selling a home as the first time home buyer is to buying a home. So, we at the Donnelly Group are devising a program for first time home seller's to give you...

I have had the opportunity to have dinner with client's a few times this week! Twice I found myself at Boatyard Bar and Grill! The atmosphere - completely casual.  Annapolitan attire in full force - dock-sides, khaki shorts, mariner's belt, etc. Food - Delicious! Do not leave this restaurant with...

What do people have to do to get a loan anymore? I am the listing agent on a house where the buyers are putting 130,000 down (40%), back ratio is 40%, credit is very good - and they were denied. The large, National Bank that denied them said they did not like that they were getting the gift money...

Interest rates are still hovering in the low 5's or upper 4's even! The supply of homes is healthy.  Buyers have their choice of homes and can negotiate a stronger offer because of the buyer's market.  Last but not least, the government is giving a first time home buyer up to $8,000 to buy a home...