REAL ESTATE 101

Some loan rates can look great in an advertisement but don't offer the whole story as to what you might ACTUALLY pay for the loan.

Points, PMI (private mortgage insurance), penalties, down payments and closing costs are also factors you need to consider.

When buying or selling a home, or refinancing a loan, understanding the contractual fine print and clauses can be overwhelming.  Know that I am here to help answer any questions you have. I have the experience and expertise to make sure you not only know your loans, but you also can sort out the options that make the most sense for you and your family.  Call me today to lean more!

TAKE FIVE - Five Handy Household Tips from your Neighborhood specialist

  1. Stains in Plastic Storage Containers: Use a baking soda past (baking soda and water) and rub into the stain.  You can then rinse the vinegar (optional and wash normally.  Another method is to place container outside on a nice sunny day and the sun actually bleaches the stain out.  To avoid stains in the first place, spray container with cooking spray before putting things in it that stain i.e. spaghetti sauce.
  2. Stickers, Decals, and Glue: To remove them from furniture, glass, plastic, etc. saturate with vegetable oil and rub off.
  3. Stuck-On Food in Pots, Pans, and Crockpots: Fill the pan with water and place a fabric softener sheet in the water.  Allow the pan to soak overnight. The food will wipe right out!
  4. Stovetops: To prevent grease and grime from sticking to your stove top, making it easy to clean, rub it down with car wax on occasion.
  5. Tarnished Silverware: Line a cake pan with aluminum foil.  Fill with water and add 1 Tablespoon of baking soda per 2 cups of water.  Heat to 150 degrees. Lay silverware in pan, touching aluminum foil. Watch the stains disappear!

Environmental Reminders

  • Do not bury or spread used motor oil on the ground as it will prevent anything from growing in that location for many years and may contaminate nearby water sources. To dispose of it, take it to your community recycling center.  By law, communities must have such a center, which may be located at an auto service or repair station, or at any station that sells or changes oil.  Diesel fuel, brake and transmission lubricants, lamp oil, and kerosene can also be brought to the recycling center.
  • Whenever you apply pesticides, adhere strictly to the direction on the package.  Do not spray when temperatures are over 85 degrees Fahrenheit or when it is windy.

Open House - Sunday July 20th 1-3 This Sunday you will find me at 431 Hillside in Des Moines.  This is the first time I've held this home open.  This little home has been well maintained and is ready to move into.  It has 3 BR's, a large kitchen and dining area, hardwood floors, convenient laundry area, newer windows, and lots of storage space. It's located in a friendly south side neighborhood where the street is divided with a large island median. It really is a great home for only $67,900.  If you or someone you know might be interested in this home and would like more information, please contact me today.  Virginia Gruver 515/577-2412 or Virginia@RealEstateConcepts.net.

Directions - Follow Indianola Ave to Hillside, turn east to property.