Volume 4, Number 2
February, 2007

Welcome to the February 2007 issue of “At Home with HouseHunt,” HouseHunt’s monthly consumer newsletter. Just because we’re in buyers’ market, it does not mean that you can’t sell your home quickly. Take a look at our piece this month that specifically deals with ways you can get the most out of selling your home in the current market. It used to be that the notion of robots in the home was left in the realm of science fiction. Not anymore, according to our feature on robots in the home, which also describes what the future may hold for your home. Many of you may be first-time homebuyers (who comprise nearly 40% of all buyers), and our story on tips for first-time buyers is not to be missed. For those with piggyback mortgages, be sure to read our in-depth article that looks into whether or not it’s time to look for refinancing. Believe it or not, many studies have shown that the inside of your home might actually be more polluted than the air outside, so please share our story on what can be done to make your home more “green” with your family and friends. Finally, we offer a special tip for those looking to do something special for Valentine’s Day!

The HouseHunt Team - Information you need for all your real estate needs

Seasonal Suggestion

Surprise your loved one or family this Valentine's Day with a festive home and a delightful meal. This holiday doesn't have to break the budget to be fun and romantic. more>>

Make Your Family Healthier - Go Green

Studies have shown that the interior of our homes is more polluted than the outside air, by several times! Lower your household's pollution levels and make your family healthier. more>>

How to Sell Fast in a Buyer's Market

A recent Realty Times article discussed several ways sellers can excel in the current tough market. The theme? Do what no one else does! more>>

The Futuristic Household

Robots are becoming increasingly common in American households. We'll give you an overview of the future household. more>>

Handy Advice for Buying Your First Home

According to a recent article from Kiplinger's, four in 10 buyers are purchasing a home for the first time. This means a lot of inexperienced buyers involved in real estate. If you are one of them, there are several tips that will make your first purchase easier. more>>

Is It Time to Get Rid of Your Piggyback Mortgage?

If you have a piggyback mortgage and are wondering whether now is the time for refinancing, we can help you determine the answer. more>>

Consumers Said Pictures Are Most Important When Searching
Internet for Real Estate Housing Data; Pricing Ranks Second

When searching Internet websites for real estate information, 46% of consumers said "pictures" of properties and locations are most important to them. Placing a distant second at 22% was "pricing," according to the results of a recent random e-mail survey conducted by HouseHunt, Inc. Then came "information about the local marketplace" at 15% and the advantage of "remaining anonymous" at 14%. Placing last in importance at only three percent was "community information," observed Michael Bearden, president and CEO of HouseHunt. "The survey results dramatically underscore the value of having quality photos of listings on websites, in print advertising, on marketing materials, and in presentations. The competition is simply too keen to miss potential buyers. The survey also shows that pricing information is extremely important, along with information about the local market. Being able to remain anonymous is somewhat surprising," Bearden continued. "There are always a small percentage of home buyers who wish to do their own research via the Internet before committing to working with an agent." For current real estate information in your own market area, simply go to: http://www.househunt.com and click on Real Estate Trends.