Safe and Fun Halloween

As we prepare tonight for out halloween outings I hope we have a joyful, safe time. Today offered some safety tips for youngsters.

I think one of the keys as we leave our homes is to go into communities that we know well. Make sure teens and youth visit homes that are familiar.

Also, some reports say that most accidents are vehicle related. Keep in mind that many people will be out and about in both vehicle and on foot. Keep an eye out for those gobblins and ghouls.

Have a safe, fun holiday!

Las Vegas Buyer's Agent

A Las Vegas buyer's agent is a professional Las Vegas real estate agent or Realtor® who is experienced or specialized in helping buyers find a home. Their services include helping you determine what area of Las Vegas you want to live in, helping you find the right home, and aiding you in the closing process of that home.

A Las Vegas buyers agent should have a tight bond with a great Las Vegas lender because the financing of your new home is the key to ownership. Finding the right home is the fun part but getting it financed is the challenge. It is important to have an agent who will be able to find answers and who will stick with you during any obstacles that come up. You want buying to be as stress free as possible.

Bankruptcy or Home Foreclosure?

It seems many people are looking for ways to escape their housing situation due to their mortgage terms. Though I feel like I've posted some blogs lately focused on some of the negative aspects of the industry, people in desparate situations can often benefit from information just as someone who is less under the gun.

MSNBC posted an article addressing the question of whether or not to take on bankruptcy or foreclosure if the finances can't meet the needs. The response of the author was interesting.

The first point is to try to avoid either as much as possible. If you're in trouble contact your lender now. Don't wait until the foreclosure process has begun. If it has, contact them anyway. If you can see things are not looking good, address them honestly as soon as possible. There are options to help home owners get back on their feet.

Next, if you have to (and a good lawyer will be the best consultant), don't foreclose on the home. If you file for bankruptcy protection but don't lose the home, future lenders may consider that. If you walk away from the home and foreclosure occurs, lenders will weigh that out heavily in the future.

Finally, if your budget simply won't let you get back on your feet and you know you will have to walk away no matter what, be sure to tie up all loose ends as much as possible. You can start over and get your finances back under control.

The key thing is to understand your options. Contact a professional who can help you out. A good Realtor or Lawyer can help. In fact, lenders tend to be more negotiable when a good third party is involved.

Las Vegas HOAs Suffer When Foreclosures Are Abundant

The foreclosure market in Las Vegas has created some unexpected collateral damage. Home Owner's Associations are struggling with cash flow. Too many houses in some Las Vegas communities are sitting vacant so the HOAs are not able to function as they should. Some have had to host emergency meetings to address the issues.

There is a way HOA's can recuperate their funds. They should be placing liens upon the property and the managers should be working with the mortgage lenders to secure funds due. The RJ suggests:
"You may also contact the Nevada State's Business and Industry Administration. There are two departments -- Consumer Affairs Division (486-7355) and Financial Institutions Divisions (486-4120) -- that also can assist you. "

The situation will improve as the market correction ends. Buyers are anxious to make Las Vegas real estate purchases again and the homes will be filled. For now, HOAs need to be creative and use resources the city may provide. You can also contact an agent for information on additional resources.

PBR World Finals Are in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is hosting the 2007 PBR World Finals. The Mandalay Bay Events Center has an unusual appearance. Thousands of people in cowboy boots and hats are visiting the Strip to watch the PBR. We made a visit to the Shark Reef with the kids and noticed how every restaurant that served up a meet and potatoes menu was packed.

They've all come to see pro bull riders like Brian Canter, shoot for the 8-second mark. Rodeo clowns, bulls and broncs, cotton candy, and beer all invite the cowboys to the arena.

Red Socks Sweep in World Series

The Red Sox made their statement last night as they won game 4 sweeping the Rockies. An article I read days ago said that the game was pitched as "the best versus the hottest". The Sox have bested teams all throughout the playoffs. The Rockies were on an amazing streak. But, when it came down to it, consistent talent proved champion.

A stout payroll and great team building has made the Sox a powerhouse. Their strategy was well played and they came out shining.
"They beat us with small ball. They beat us with the long ball," Colorado's LaTroy Hawkins said after the Red Sox had finished blowing a hole in his team's 21-1 bubble with a howitzer. "They beat us every which way you could imagine, brother. I'm not going to sit here and say what Eric Byrnes said about us, that we outplayed 'em, because it ain't true. They got us. They got us good."

America's Most Expensive Homes

What does it take these days to make the news when you buy a huge mansion? Yahoo listed some of the most expensive homes in the country. It takes between $125 million and $165 million to top the list these days.

Beverly Hills CA, Aspen CO, among others are hot spots for the rich and famous. Limited supply of mansions drives the prices up considerably.
"Try to find eight or 10 acres in the middle of the Hollywood Hills," says Mauricio Umansky, a broker at Hilton & Hyland. "God's not making any more land. [Trophy properties] are a true micro-economy with much less supply than demand."
Beach front property in Florida drives a considerable price. Many people want to brand themselves with their trophy property so they'll buy in high end New York communities or other ritzy neighborhoods.

Las Vegas Housing Market to Spring Back to Life

The SalesTraq Crystal Ball event provided some great information to Las Vegas real estate agents and others involved in the industry. The market will remain a buyers market for some time to come.
Homeowners can expect a sustained slide in property values at least into early 2008, and perhaps into 2009, the 500 or so attendees at SalesTraq's Crystal Ball seminar learned.
Larry Murphy, president of the organization, suggested that prices may continue to slide slightly.
"Give it 12 months to 18 months," Murphy said.
Sellers should hold on to their home unless they must move. If they must, it is important to price the home correctly. Buyers are urged to make their move. Great deals are to be had and thousands of people are expected to move into the valley over the next couple of years because of the need to fill jobs created by huge business projects.

Las Vegas MLS

The Las Vegas MLS Search Tool is very helpful to buyers, sellers, and Realtors alike. It is FREE to you and easy to use. It is provided by Darren Hildreth, Realtor® and the Hildreth Barnhill real estate team and powered directly by the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors® (GLVAR). The GLVAR is responsible for the backend tool used by active Realtors® in the valley to manage Realtor® listings. The view you have access to has the most complete and current Las Vegas listing view available to the public on the internet by the GLVAR

While it is very helpful, this MLS tool is only intended to help you get started. The GLVAR does not make available to the public all of the data necessary to purchase a particular property (that is also true of realtor.com or any of the many web sites that receive their data from GLVAR). We hope you will use this tool to get an idea of what is available. If you find a property you like or would like to advance to the next level in the home purchase adventure we will be glad to represent you in your investigations as well as negotiations and the work through the details of the escrow process.

A couple of things will help you during your search:
  • Have Fun! - You are looking to purchase a home to live in or invest with or both. Enjoy the fabulous opportunity!
  • Be Specific - Enter search criteria that will give you a narrow group of homes to look through. If the search is too broad you may spend all of your time looking for a home that doesn't fit your needs.
  • Understand Your Financing - You are going to be qualified by a lender at some point. It helps to know what you are qualified for. Let us get you in contact with some great lenders.
  • Ask for Help - Don't be afraid to give us a call to help you. We are not going to obligate you to use us though we would like the opportunity so show you the value we have to offer.

A Las Vegas Home to Fit Your Needs

This adventure begins by finding a Las Vegas home in a preferred area near desired amenities. A lot of the work can be done ahead of time if a home buyer will take time to find out what they want and need before ever seeing houses. They should ask themselves some questions:
  • How large should the house be?
  • How many bedrooms do I require? prefer?
  • How many bathrooms do I require? prefer?
  • What other rooms do I need? prefer?
  • What is my budget?
  • Do I want a pool? pool nearby?
  • Do I prefer other exercise or entertainment nearby?
  • Do I need to be near a school?
  • Do I need to be near work?
  • Do I care if I have to deal with traffic?
  • Do I care if there is an HOA?
  • etc.
Buyers should determine what they need and what they want and it will save them a great deal of time later on. Next, they need to build a relationship with a great agent. An agent will know how to find houses that fit the criteria so buyers don't have to roam around town visiting dozens of houses to find one that works.

Are You Prepared for a Disaster?

As we watch residents of CA communities flee destructive fires among memories of recent catastrophic events it is important to ask ourselves if we are prepared for strenuous events. Do we have our homes prepared? Do we have evacuation and reunion strategies?

Here are a few items to keep in mind in preparation:
  1. Make copies of important documents
  2. Get insurance in order
  3. Buy a fireproof safe
  4. Prepare an emergency kit
  5. Come up with a family plan

As the Boy Scouts recite in their moto, "Be Prepared"

Be sure to have a plan and the resources you need to execute it at any given time.

Las Vegas Real Estate

Las Vegas real estate is some of the finest property in the country. The Las Vegas real estate market has grown tremendously in recent years. It has been considered a "hot spot" for real estate in the United States. It has been one of the leading markets for real estate appreciation throughout the country. The recent national downturn has affected the valley like it has many other parts of the country. However, there is a considerable number of homes selling and the ones that are priced correctly are still selling quickly. The problem many sellers are having is that sellers still believe the market is as strong as it was. The key is to price the home correctly.

Many Las Vegas communities within the Las Vegas Valley have seen amazing gains in property values. Homeowners and investors alike have made a great deal of money by simply owning a home. Many owners have seen 50-200% return on their investments since 2001.

One of the biggest challenges of selling a Las Vegas home or piece of land is knowing what to do to prepare it for sale so you can get the maximum dollar the market will pay, in the shortest amount of time, and with the least amount of inconvenience. Las Vegas home sellers have enjoyed rapid sale times in the past. Even in a slow market Las Vegas homes sell faster than in many other parts of the country. Find a Realtor to guide you in the process.

Where Are the Foreclosure Deals?

We've all heard of all the foreclosures across the nation. What we may not have heard of is where to find the best deals as investors. According to Yahoo there are some communities better than others for getting the best margins.

States with largest discounts

  • Alabama
  • Pennsylvania
  • Indiana
  • Ohio
  • Missouri
States with smallest discounts
  • Hawaii
  • Washington
  • Virginia
  • Massachusetts
  • California

The time is right for many who are looking to invest. Buy against the grain and await the change upward.

Nevada to Aid in California Fires

Nevada is among the states stepping up to help out with the California fires. Intense winds have made it extremely difficult to maintain fires treatening California homes. Several states have offered to help by sending man power and other resources.

The biggest threat is that the winds continue to shift and much of the terrain is dry. Several communities are in the direction of the blaze. It will be important to dedicate the necessary resources to contain the fires.

Countrywide Leaving ARM Loans at Lower Rates

Countrywide is stepping up and taking an even larger roll in the mortgage scene. They plan to announce today that they will be restructuring many of the troublesome loans in their portfolio. Many of those defaulting will receive letters stating that the interest rate, which has converted to a variable rate, will be changed back to the previous rate so that families aren't stretched too thin.

Some $2.2 billion in loans will be affected by the end of the year across 10,000 loans. As a company they feel the need to step up and aid a struggling industry.

Deals to Be Had in Las Vegas Mountain's Edge

On Saturday serveral of our clients toured a dozen or so communities in the Mountain's Edge master plan and surrounding areas. They saw homes of multiple new home builders and enjoyed the amount of house they can get for the price they'll pay. They found a brand new home larger than 2000 sqft for $250,000. There are great incentives out there as well.

New home builders have a need to move these new homes. And, the properties are moving. They are priced well and they buyers are taking advantage. Great deals are out there. Look for them and you'll find them.

Renters Beware

The news recently reported an ongoing scam for renters. People advertise a home for rent, collect rent, and pretend to service the lessee. However, they don't own the home or even know the home owner. They scam unknowing renters into paying and, in some cases, they remove their belongings.

In many cases landlords require a background check as well as a credit check. It is wise to check into a landlord as well. Log on to the Clark County website to verify home ownership. Be sure to doublecheck before moving in or paying anything.

Las Vegas Bowl Already Sold Out

Maybe it was last year's sell out performance of BYU over the Oregon Ducks (can you tell I'm a BYU fan?). Or, maybe the Las Vegas bowl is just that cool. It is some 2 months before the bowl and supposedly it is already sold out. People love to come to town to take advantage of the many great things to do. Catch a game, eat at fine restaurants, hit the casino floors, visit family, etc.

More and more events are scheduling here. And many of them are selling out consistently. It is truly the entertainment capital of the world.

It'll be interesting to see who the top ranked WMC team is. They'll play the 4th or 5th team from the PAC-10 in the packed Sam Boyd Stadium.

HildrethHome.com Reaches Another Major Benchmark

Our Las Vegas real estate web site has seen great success over the past year. It has climbed to the top of the search engines for some of our most coveted keywords. How do we do it? What has been the key to the success? We blog on ActiveRain.

ActiveRain is a real estate professional web site. We spend a half an hour there per day. We write about all sorts of things pertaining to the real estate industry. We frequently link back to relevant, related pages on our site and that has seemed to help tremendously.

October has been our best month ever, even in a slower market and the slow season of the year. ActiveRain is a real estate professionals community. It has certainly been worth our effort to spend time there.

Startup Company Wins TBAN Startup of the Year

SkyWire Media of Las Vegas is a startup technology company. Today Shawn Harris, CEO, accepted the award for "Outstanding Technology Startup of the Year."

The company offers solutions in mobile marketing. They are able to alert customers of promotions, updates, etc. via SMS text messaging on their cell phones.

They also offer a purposed cell phone for the LDS church. They have received approval from the church to distribute content from their websites and other church affiliates.

Congradulations SkyWire!

8 Week Moving Schedule and Check List

Often, moving is an emotional process. It can be exciting, overwhelming, and eventful. It helps to have a checklist lined out weeks or months before the move is made to cut back on the amount of stress and anxiety of remembering everything. It is good to get started early on once you know you are relocating.

This moving list (click the link) was compiled from several other lists out there. You may add to it or remove items. The goal is to break the work up early on and bite off a piece at a time.

It doesn't hurt to contact a moving company or other professionals to learn tips and tricks for protecting belongings and people during the move. Solicit the help you can get.

Office Lease Space in Las Vegas at All Time High

According to the RJ, a newer office building at the Hughes Center is currently renting for around $3.85 a foot. It is nearing the $4 per foot mark which hasn't been seen yet in Las Vegas.

Commercial Las Vegas real estate is hot right now. Rents are up. Developers are busy. And, investors are making a killing.

The Hughes Center is just an example of premium real estate in the valley. The development, now owned by Morgan Stanley, was purchased for some $6.5 billion.

Average rental spaces are now going for $2.36 per foot. Vacancy is running at 12.4 percent.

Forbes Ranks Las Vegas as a Strong Potential for a Great Real Estate Deal

Las Vegas has had a fairly volitile market in the recent couple of years. Forbes has listed the market as a strong potential for a large swing in the near future.

The amazing growth in Las Vegas real estate of a few years ago spurred a market correction. Oddly enough, the market is likely to over correct. Those in place for the return correction will reap the benefits of a waiting buyer's population. 2008 and 2009 are likely to require many newcomers because of the intense need for people to fill jobs for some of the huge developments.
Don't let an awesome opportunity pass you by.

BYU vs UNLV - BYU Wins

I have to admit I normally cheer for UNLV. However, when BYU comes to town I bleed blue. My alma mater still draws my cries.

The game on Saturday was quite entertaining. The two teams stayed close until half time but afterwards the BYU running game halted the Rebels. The Cougars won 24-14 at the sell-out crowd of Sam Boyd Stadium.

BYU moves to 4-2, 3-0 in the conference while UNLV moves to 2-5, 1-2.

The cougs had 27 more plays than UNLV and dominated the momentum and the time. Had it not been for multiple turnovers BYU would have made a stronger statement. Regardless of the outcome, these two teams always put on quite a show.

"CSI" in Las Vegas, For Reals

I must admit to being a bit of a CSI junky. I enjoy the Las Vegas version the most. As it turns out they will be filming a driving scene on Tuesday early in the morning. Supposedly, according to the RJ, there won't be any cast on had but in episode 7 of this season they will be airing the shoot as part of the script.

The shoot will be on location at the Strip around 2am. Other footage will be shot from an aerial view. Oddly enough, most of the other footage is shot in CA. There is talk about a mini-Hollywood setting up shop in Las Vegas at some point...we shall see...

Las Vegas Homes for a Family of Six: Check Out Aliante

Home buyers with above average sized families often find it challenging to locate a home to purchase with enough space while remaining economical. The Aliante community has homes large enough and inexpensive enough, by Las Vegas standards, to get a family started.

Aliante is well known for quality homes and well designed communities. Some neighborhoods even offer homes built for the considerably sized family. It is fairly close to the Air Force Base so many families will check it out when locating their property.

Real Estate Agency in Las Vegas

Buyers and sellers of Las Vegas real estate seek out representation for the same reasons someone expected in trial seeks out a lawyer. They seek expertise and aid in finding a home, preparing a home, marketing a home correctly, and putting together the appropriate paperwork. There are many aspects to a real estate transaction. In fact, most people who are professional investors will use agents because of the complexities that can arise as well as the fact that they don't want to have countless hours tied up in the sale.

Las Vegas buyers and sellers should search out an agent who is a Realtor®. Realtors® are held to a higher standard than just anyone with a license. There are agents who will hang their license with a referral, non-MLS broker to receive money when they refer someone to a new home builder or another agent. However, these agents usually work on a part time basis and will likely have very few tools to aid them. You will want a full time Realtor® working for a professional full service company.

Beware of discount brokers and agents. You usually get what you pay for. If you want very little done in the marketing of your home as well as professional advice then feel free to use a discounter. We advise you to hire a full-service real estate agent who is worth what he/she earns.

Home Improvement: Kitchen Fix-ups

Kitchen enhancements and updates can make a home feel very modern. IVillage has some ideas to help renovate a cookery. They suggested the following in their latest post:
  1. Refinish your cabinets
  2. Freshen up your walls
  3. Add moulding
  4. Replace countertops
  5. Decorate windows with color
  6. Get creative with knobs and handles
  7. Change the cabinet fronts
  8. Update appliances
  9. New Flooring
  10. Add Accents

Updating a kitchen can also be a way to improve the value of a home. If the right enhancements are made a buyer will pay more than what you put into kitchen improvements.

Sullivan Square and Tower II

Sullivan Square begins to sell property in its second tower. It is a large mixed-use community in the southwest of Las Vegas.



The response has been considerable according to their sales offices. Prices begin in the low $300,000 and home sizes range from 641 to nearly 1,900 squarefeet. The first release pricing is not expected to last long.

"The sleek and minimal elements and warm color palate provide a clean canvas for residents to create a distinctive look in their home. From 16th century French to 1920s Bauhaus, any design is suitable for these residences," Robert Olson said.

Upon completion the community will consist of 1,300 residences.

Towns Seek Smoking Ban in Condos and Townhomes

Recent bans on smoking in some California towns as well as Nevada towns (Las Vegas included) suggest people and legislaters are seeking to improve health situations. Some are requiring eateries and other public places to react if someone lights up. Even some communities with common areas are seeking the benefits of cleaner air.

Las Vegas recently set restrictions on smoking in places where food is served. There are fines and other consequences for not abiding by the laws.

Belmont CA is taking a similar approach banning smoking in many public or common spaces. They only face enforcement if their neighbors complain.

Las Vegas: Party Town or Family Town

The fabulous city of Las Vegas has a unique history, culture, and life style. Most people throughout the world view Las Vegas as "The Strip". The nightlife, gaming industry, amazing performances, and other aspects of down town have set an image of excitement, fun, glamour, and party. However, The Strip and down town are only one aspect of the city.

Over the past couple of decades the Las Vegas and its surrounding areas has grown into a powerful job market. As in most communities when jobs are plentiful a demand for housing is established as people move in from other areas with less employment strength. As a result, a huge residential ring has developed around the heart of the city. Thousands of houses, hundreds of schools, parks, commons facilities, etc. have sprung up to support the influx of people.

Many who do business here enjoy the Las Vegas nightlife and participate in the many activities. However, families and individuals who move to the valley only to make a living, raise a family, and/or enjoy the climate can focus on those activities without being pulled into the glitz of the city. The Strip turns into a billboard to them and they go about their own business.

Las Vegas Listing Agents

A Las Vegas listing agent is a professional Las Vegas real estate agent or Realtor® who is experienced or specialized in helping sellers market a home. Their services include helping you determine the real market value of your home, helping you market the home, and aiding you in the closing process of that home.

A Las Vegas listing agent should have a strong marketing plan. You will want as many potential buyers to view your home as possible. He should be networked well and have a strong technology background because so much marketing is done on the internet and via email these days.

Kid Friendly Homes

Those with children understand the importance of child-proofing a home. At the same time people want a cool place to live that hasn't had everything sanitized, referring to style and comfort. Today (found on MSNBC) gave a few tips on making a kid friendly home.
  1. Look for Functionality
  2. Don't be afraid of color
  3. Use durable textured fabrics to upholster furniture
  4. Choose materials that age well
  5. Create a catch-all space

There is certainly a transition for most people when a new child becomes part of the family. Small objects are elevated, corners are padded, and stairs are restricted. However, they are a blessing and the changes provide great excuses to redesign and redecorate.

Las Vegas Buyers Agents

A Las Vegas buyer's agent is a professional Las Vegas real estate agent or Realtor® who is experienced or specialized in helping buyers find a home. Their services include helping you determine what area of Las Vegas you want to live in, helping you find the right home, and aiding you in the closing process of that home.

A Las Vegas buyers agent should have a tight bond with a great Las Vegas lender because the financing of your new home is the key to ownership. Finding the right home is the fun part but getting it financed is the challenge. It is important to have an agent who will be able to find answers and who will stick with you during any obstacles that come up. You want buying to be as stress free as possible.

Las Vegas Real Estate Statistics (2007 September Month End)

Summary: Median prices of homes sold drops. Listing numbers flatten due to seasonal factors. Number of homes sold down.

Las Vegas Listings: (view chart)
The rate of additional net listings has decreased considerably due to the fall selling season. Fewer sellers are ambitious to sell in the fall and winter months.

Las Vegas Market Strength: (view chart)
Compared to other national averages and normal sales the Las Vegas market remains steady. Prices have dropped but the average days on market for home competitively priced remains good. The key to selling today is pricing a home correctly.

Las Vegas Resale Homes Sold: (view chart)
The number of homes sold has decreased. Fewer buyers look to purchase in the fall months as we exit the summer selling season. Frankly, buyers who purchase in the next few months will see great values and will be rewarded in future months.

Las Vegas Median Prices: (view chart)
Median prices dropped some. They're holding steady at between $265k - 275k.

Las Vegas Real Estate Market Watch Conclusion: (view chart)
The selling season has come to an end. Homes will sell. The motivated will get out and savvy buyers will reap the benefits.

Full Las Vegas market report found: http://www.hildrethhome.com/lasvegasrealestatemarketwatch/

Some Real Estate Pros Changing Careers

The recent future and oncoming months of market correction have forced many, especially those jumping on the bandwagon, to consider career changes to keep the lights on. An MSNBC report focused on the lending industry. Those with a small clientelle and those who don't market agressively are seeking out other options to cover the monthly nut.

The upside is that the skills acquired as a lender or real estate agent are useful in other industries. Many are using what they have learned to fit the needs of employers in other industries. For many, it is better to make the move sooner than later to avoid depleting any savings they may still have cutting their losses.

For those who remain active in the real estate industry, the road hasn't smoothed out. However, with a cut competition the end of the correction will prove rewarding.

Verticle Real Estate - Including Farms

The Manhattanization of Las Vegas has brought to light the value of land. As the Las Vegas valley projects the depletion of land in the valley proper, more projections for upward building are evident. Residential and office space will likely become much more popular and necessary in the future.

Well, how about food production? There have been discussions and designs for verticle farming. Self sustaining crop buildings will make use of technology to capture sun, reuse water, and regulate crop cycles for optimal growth. Today, the price of establishing a facility of this nature may be too great. However, the designs are getting better and we're not too far off.

What to Expect in a Las Vegas Home

Modern Las Vegas homes tend to share a common trend in style and building materials. Where older homes had aluminum siding and composite shingles newer homes tend to sport stucco and tile roofs. One thing they all tend to have in common is that they are built by quality home builders. Houses are well designed and constructed to code as dictated by local authorities. Learn more about what to expect when purchasing a Las Vegas property.

Buying a Las Vegas Home

If you are qualified, buying a Las Vegas home can be a very rewarding adventure. The key is to determine what you need and then get qualified with a lender. Next, is to find a house that fits your needs and purchase it under the best terms possible. Last is to turn that house into a home of comfort. The process all begins by working with the right real estate agent. Contact a qualified agent today to get started and follow their advice and tips.

Title Companies

A Title Company is a third party who is disinterested in any part of a transaction other than its completion. It collects and disburses funds in a real estate transaction in accordance with the written agreement for the sale (Offer & Acceptance) between a buyer and a seller. The Title Company receives the Offer & Acceptance signed by the seller and buyer. The earnest money from the buyer is received at that time and escrow is then officially opened. The earnest money is deposited and an escrow number is assigned to the file.

Las Vegas Community Links

Las Vegas is a great city. There are many resources to residents of the valley. Whether you are setting up a business, advertising, or looking for some professional service city, county, and state services are abundant.

The internet provides a great deal of information for newcomers and those who live here. For many of these resources go to: Las Vegas Community Links. You'll find information for utilities, moving, crime, maps, etc.

10 Tips for Feng Shui

Feng Shui is a popular concept in Las Vegas. Here are 10 tips to keep in mind:
  1. Reflecting Disharmony
    Remove or cover large mirrors in the bedroom if you don’t sleep well.
  2. Room with a View
    Place your bed to give you the widest view of the room. Your bed shouldn’t be in direct line with the door. Paint the bedroom walls in a color scheme that is both pleasant and inviting.
  3. Calming Sounds
    Hang wind chimes outside your front door to create a soothing environment for occupants and guests.
  4. Writing on the Wall
    Try to avoid having completely bare walls. Group together non-personal pictures or hang up interesting art pieces in a diagonal or staggered pattern.
  5. Go with the Flow
    Place a blue or black doormat at your front door to encourage good things to flow in like water.
  6. The Color of Love
    Include the romance colors–white, pink and red–in your room. But don’t overdose with a red wall because too much red can trigger anger.
  7. Plants for Energy
    Healthy plants generate positive energy. Avoid dried flowers because they have no energy left.
  8. Look Overhead
    Move beds, couches and desks from under any overhead beams to keep energy flowing.
  9. Less is More
    When arranging furniture, less is better. Too much clutter can restrict the potential of a great room.
  10. Create Positive Impressions
    Keep counters clean, closets organized and clutter concealed in order to project an organized and stress-free environment for you and your guests.

Shows to See in Las Vegas

Las Vegas visitors and residents have many opportunities to explore great entertainment options. Granted that tickets aren't always cheap, the shows are usually amazing and the venues exciting. There are some Strip fixtures like Celine Dion and the Cirque Du Soleil shows and then new acts that seem to rotate in and out of town.

The venues, including Bellagio, MGM Grand, and Caesar's Palace, offer up great rooms and hospitality. They also provide easy access to many other forms of entertainment.

Here are some recommended shows to see: http://www.buyselltix.com/lasVegas/

Getting Around in Las Vegas

Most cities have their sticky points during rush hour. Some places are in permanent rush hour. Las Vegas has a very predictable driving schedule. There are several main thoroughways throughout the valley (see map). The spaghetti bowl tends to be the biggest mess. That's where the I-15 meets the I-95. There is currently construction in the area and that makes the situation worse. Also, where the I-215 and I-15 meet up are a little tight during certain times of the day.

Wayne Brady Tears It Up in Las Vegas

Wayne Brady is using his celebrity status to drive a successful show in Las Vegas. People love his "Making It Up" improv show. He will be here in Vegas until early summer and maybe longer. He has made many stops here for occasional shows and draws a large crowd. Now that he has a more long-term show he has become a temporary fixture. He adds a great talent to the entertainment scene as he performs at the Venitian.

C2 Lofts Report Robust Sales

Las Vegas community C2 Lofts recently opened its new design center and models. Reportedly, there is considerable interest in the loft style properties. The units are professionally decorated and comprise the live, work, play concept.
"Pre-grand-opening sales activity at C2 Lofts was already impressive, but our official grand opening took us right over the top," Crook said. "People are really responding to these spacious, flexible and meticulously detailed models, as well as the prime Summerlin location. These are the first true lofts to be introduced in Las Vegas and the response from the public, as well as the real estate community, has been outstanding."
The Las Vegas properties are priced in the mid-$300,000s to more than $1 million, more than a dozen one-, two- and three-story designs are available, ranging from 900 to 3,300 square feet.

Troubles Selling a Las Vegas Home?

Many Las Vegas homes are just sitting and sellers are wondering why. Ask some questions that will help you get the best market value for your home.

Is Your Las Vegas Home Priced Correctly?
The Las Vegas market will determine how much your house will sell for. In the end it will sell for what a buyer will pay for it. Your emotion and what you think your home is worth don't necessarily equate to the actual selling price. You can't "give your home away" if no one is willing to take it. A good agent will sell the house for as much as he can because the sale directly affects his pocketbook. In the same token, if the house doesn't sell it affects his pocketbook. An agent has the same motivation to sell the home and to sell it for the max price possible. What is your agent doing to show you the evidence of what the home is worth? Work with your agent to set a realistic price. They should remain objective as they compare homes in the area to yours. They will understand the current market for the area and help you adjust the terms based on whether it is a buyer's or seller's market.

Is Their Marketing Plan Effective?
Review your agent's plan and make sure it is well executed. They should have an aggressive program to expose the home to as many qualified people as possible. Where does the marketing money go? How is it used to produce potential purchasers?

Is Your Agent Accountable to You?
What happens if your Las Vegas agent can't get the job done. Do they have a way for you to "fire" them if they can't get the job done? Be sure your agent communicates with you regularly so you know how the home sale is going. They should provide feedback to you and remain accountable.

New Home Builder Financing Not Always the Best Option

Often it makes sense to finance a new home through the builder of that home. Builders (specifically those in Las Vegas) may offer incentives and claim great rates. However, buyers may end up paying for their decision over time. Some times, lenders associated with builders will charge higher rates because they have a buyer somewhat locked in to get the incentives they expect.

It's important to shop around. Make sure you at least understand your position with several lenders so you can negotiate. A good agent will be involved as well in the negotiation of the loan.