These days many buyers value hardwood floors more than new carpeting. If you think your floors are good, discuss that with the agents too.
Term For Refinancing
Dear Ms. Lank: What is the term for refinancing through your current mortgage company? -- W.
Answer: I don't know of any particular term. There has always been a "streamline" procedure for refinancing an FHA or VA loan with simple paperwork and low cost, but that needn't be done through one's current lender.
These days the new stimulus guidelines are beginning to work, with refinances more readily available. One's present mortgage company is always the place to start looking for information.
People At The Door
Dear Edith: About one year ago, I purchased my first home and got a wonderful deal because it was a HUD foreclosure. I absolutely 100 percent own the home. However, yesterday I came home and to my surprise there were people with a key trying to get in.
They said they found my house online and a real estate agent has it listed. I have contacted both him and his broker and they will not inform me where their information came from. Needless to say I am upset and do not know what to do. I need advice. -- G.
Answer: Brokers are allowed to advertise houses that the government obtained through foreclosure of FHA mortgages, and certain agents have keys to HUD houses. That agent -- that company -- must have put the ad up before you bought the property, and failed to remove the information after the sale. They owe you an apology for their negligence and your distress.
You can lodge a complaint with the local Association of Realtors, which has a procedure for investigating members' actions. You could also complain to the state agency that administers licenses. And you could report the matter to the HUD office you've been dealing with.