Dear visitor,

Please fill out this short form  with your  full name, email and  include a contact phone number if you wish.  Submit and enjoy my listings !and any other listings in the MLS. Don't hesitate to ask any questions, just include the property address in your guestbook note. I will reply as soon as I can.

Thank you,

Elena Martinovici

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS:

 List of Needs & Wants: Make 2 lists. The first should include items you must have (i.e., the number of bedrooms you need, is parking important, what about outdoor space, etc.). The second list is your wish list, things you would like to have (views, a second or third bathroom, quick accessibility to shopping or public transportation) but that aren't absolutely necessary. Realistically for most buyers, you probably won't get everything on your wish list (even buyers in the one to four million dollar range can't seem to get everything they want) but it will keep you on track for what you are looking for.

· Representation by a Professional: Your State laws afford you representation. Hire your own real estate agent, one who is working for you, the buyer. The listing agent advertising the property or at the open house works for the Seller.

· Focus & Organization: In a convenient location, keep handy the items that will assist you in maximizing your home search efforts.

Such items may include:

1. One or more detailed maps with your areas of interest highlighted.

2. A file of the properties that your agent has shown to you, along with ads you've cut out from the newspaper.

3. Paper and pen, for taking notes as you search. Make notes on the property statement after viewing each home so you won't forget the impressions it made.

4. Take pictures of a home you especially like. It will refresh your memory later, after viewing alot of homes. Word of caution: never take shots without the permission of the listing agent or seller.

5. Leave your children and pets at home when touring property and attending open houses. Children need care and attention and can be a distraction for you. As for pets, you may unwittingly bring a pet into the home of someone with severe allergies. Be considerate when touring through another person's home. Always ask if it is okay to open closets.

6. Location: Look at a potential property as if you are the seller. Would a prospective buyer find it attractive based on location, crime rate, proximity to positive features (shopping, parks, schools, freeway access) and negative features (commercial properties, busy street, source of noise)?

7. Many properties are staged to act attract your interest. Look beyond the sellers possesions or staging.
· Visualize the house empty & with your decor: Are the rooms laid out to fit your needs? Is there enough light? Could your decor or cosmetic changes make it a place you could be comfortable in?
· Be Objective: Even though most people think with their hearts when purchasing a home, stop and think with your head. Does this home really meet your needs? There are many houses on the market, so don't make a hurried decision that you may regret later.
· Be Thorough: A few extra dollars and hours well spent now may save you big expenses in the long run. 

Once you have made an offer on a property deal is accepted by the seller do your due diligence. Buyer's and seller's agents have expertise in marketing, negotiating and counseling you on your needs, neighborhoods, styles and trends. They are not contractors, inspectors, engineers or attorneys. Hire people with expertise in areas where you require more information. Contractors can do general inspections.

Roofers know your roofs. Engineers know foundations. Geologists know soils. Lawyers know contracts and documents. Contact city offiicials (records department, , building department) to verify information given to you. Speak with neighbors. If buying a condominium always contact the association's management company and an official of the home owner's