Help us support Toys for Tots this Sunday!  Bring any new, unwrapped toys to one of our 7 Open Houses, Sunday December 7th from 1-3 PM at the following locations:

433 Poplar Church Rd, Camp Hil 

3 Jay Circle, Lemoyne

621 Ceejay Dr, Etters

759 Maple Shade Dr. Lewisberry

9 Thyme Ct., Mechanicsburg

658 William Way, Mechanicsburg

723 Olde Trail Rd, Hummelstown

If you cannot drop-off Toys during one of our Open Houses this Sunday - you can drop off you donation to Toys for Tots at our office located at 307 Market St., Lemoyne at any time during the week Monday - Friday from 9-5PM.

Scott Liebel (717-773-5067) will host an OPEN HOUSE at this property this Sunday, November 9th from 1-5PM.  Stop in and satisfy your courisoity about this unique 4 Bedroom contemporary home with 4696 Sq. Ft. secluded on private 5+ acre wooded lot. Features open design with custom eat-in kitchen. First floor master suite with a loft, Sun Room, Laundry & 2 walk-in closets. 

"The best deal investment you can make is to buy a primary residence that you're the owner-occupier of"

Great advice for today's prospective buyers from Billionaire John Paulson!  Among Paulson's explanations on the benefits of purchasing featured in this KCM Blog article, he explains:

"And you've locked in the cost over the next 30 years. And today the cost of owning is somewhat less than the cost of renting. And if you rent, the rent goes up every year. But if you buy a 30-year mortgage, the cost is fixed."

Contact a Lawyers Realty market expert (717-364-3000) to guide you through the home buying process and help you make your investment!

Check out Trulia's nationwide index:

If you are currently renting, check out Trulia's Rent vs. Buy calculator for your situation and contact a Lawyers Realty Real Estate Professional Today!  Stop paying your landlord's mortgage!

SUNDAY 9/7 from 1-3PM at 5234 Cobblestone Dr, Mechanicsburg - Enjoy the comfort of convenient & care-free living in this spacious 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath home located in a private wooded corner of Wesley Mews! Offering tree top views, generously sized living room & dining area w/ vaulted ceilings. Large Master BR w/ full bath & walk-in closet. 2nd BR also has walk-in closet. Screened-in porch & 1 car garage. New water heater & A/C). Inclu. Chair lift, Home Warranty PLUS 6 Months Assn. Dues paid!  REDUCED to $149,000.

Here are five of our reasons:

1. There Are Too Many People to Negotiate With

Here is a list of some of the people with whom you must be prepared to negotiate if you decide to FSBO.

• The buyer who wants the best deal possible
• The buyer's agent who solely represents the best interest of the buyer
• The buyer's attorney (in some parts of the country)
• The home inspection companies which work for the buyer and will almost always find some problems with the house
• The appraiser if there is a question of value
• Your bank in the case of a short sale

2. Exposure to Prospective Purchasers

Recent studies have shown that 92% of buyers search online for a home. That is in comparison to only 28% looking at print newspaper ads. Most real estate agents have an extensive internet strategy to promote the sale of your home. Do you?

3.  Actual Results also come from the Internet

Where do buyers find the home they actually purchased?

• 43% on the internet
• 9% from a yard sign
• 1% from newspapers

The days of selling your house by just putting up a sign and putting it in the paper are long gone. Having a strong internet strategy is crucial.

4. FSBOing has Become More and More Difficult

The paperwork involved in selling and buying a home has increased dramatically as industry disclosures and regulations have become mandatory. This is one of the reasons that the percentage of people FSBOing has dropped from 19% to 9% over the last 20+ years.

5. You Net More Money when Using an Agent

Many homeowners believe that they will save the real estate commission by selling on their own. Realize that the main reason buyers look at FSBOs is because they also believe they can save the real commission. The seller and buyer can't both save the same commission.

Studies have shown that the typical house sold by the homeowner sells for $184,000 while the typical house sold by an agent sells for $230,000.   This doesn't mean that an agent can get $46,000 more for your home as studies have shown that people are more likely to FSBO in markets with lower price points. However, it does show that selling on your own might not make sense.

Bottom Line

Before you decide to take on the challenges of selling your house on your own, sit with a real estate professional in your marketplace and see what they have to offer.

Contact a Lawyers Realty Agent today!

1.) Housing is typically the one leveraged investment available.

"Few households are interested in borrowing money to buy stocks and bonds and few lenders are willing to lend them the money. As a result, homeownership allows households to amplify any appreciation on the value of their homes by a leverage factor. Even a hefty 20 percent down payment results in a leverage factor of five so that every percentage point rise in the value of the home is a 5 percent return on their equity. With many buyers putting 10 percent or less down, their leverage factor is 10 or more."

2.) You're paying for housing whether you own or rent. 

"Homeowners pay debt service to pay down their own principal while households that rent pay down the principal of a landlord."

3.) Owning is usually a form of "forced savings".

"Since many people have trouble saving and have to make a housing payment one way or the other, owning a home can overcome people's tendency to defer savings to another day."

4.) There are substantial tax benefits to owning.

"Homeowners are able to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from income...On top of all this, capital gains up to $250,000 are excluded from income for single filers and up to $500,000 for married couples if they sell their homes for a gain."

5.) Owning is a hedge against inflation.

"Housing costs and rents have tended over most time periods to go up at or higher than the rate of inflation, making owning an attractive proposition."

If you are considering purchasing a home, contact a Lawyers Realty Agent today to learn about the home buying process and representation that protects your interests.  717-364-3000

JUST LISTED by Megan Duffie Flor, Realtor Lawyers Realty, LLC 212 Willow Ave, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania! Featuring 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, impressive hardwood floors, living room fire place with gas insert & a generous master suite with newly renovated full bath w/ double vanity & two closets. Enjoy quaint Willow Park neighborhood views from the enclosed front porch with terracotta tile floor. For more information visit:http://mflor.lawyersrealtypa.com/10254755

Come and explore this modern 4,696 Sq. Ft. home nestled in a 5+ acre wooded lot in Upper Allen Township, Mechanicsburg School District. Many elements in this open concept design are perfectly suited for entertaining or just quiet relaxation. Offered at $750,000. OPEN HOUSE, May 18 from 1-3PM, Hosted by Scott Liebel 717-773-5067

Lawyers Realty's Jamie Carson just sold this home in the Hampden Heights, Mechanicsburg!  1115 Dry Powder Ct, Mechanicsburg - 4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, 2 Half Bath, 2,464 Square Foot home.  If you are interested in learning more about this sale or others in your neighborhood please contact us today 717-364-3000. Spring is in full swing and it is a great time to sell!

Lawyers Realty OPEN HOUSE Weekend - Sunday, April 21

2 Citadel Dr., Camp Hill: 1-3PM - John Andrews (717) 574-7928

215 Brendan Mews, Mount Wolf: 1-4PM - Jamie Kim Carson (717) 884-1649

1297 Kelton Rd., Camp Hill: 1-4PM - Elizabeth Statler (717) 802-1517 

Lawyers Realty and Megan Duffie Flor received feedback from recent clients: Ben and Robyn Huffnagle.  They had the following to report on their feelings about the overall experience in working with Megan:

"Megan was amazing throughout our entire home purchasing process.  She was very quick with replies, honest, and very professional.  She will be recommended to friends who start the home purchasing process. Thank you Megan!"

These buyers also had something to say about Lawyers Realty's attorney involvement in the Real Estate transaction:

"Knowing that we were doing everything properly was a huge relief". 

Congratulations Ben and Robyn on your new home and thank you for the great review!

As a seller you are going to incur the cost of preparing a deed to transfer your property to the new owners.  At Lawyers Realty, this comes at no extra cost.  In a typical real estate transaction a fee of about $150-$200 would appear on the settlement sheet as a charge to you for preparing the deed. 

Getting the deed ready is a detailed process.  It includes checking the accuracy of the legal description, plotting boundaries, as well as the determining the chain of title and if there any encumbrances (easements, liens etc.).  In Pennsylvania most deeds are "Special Warranty" Deeds that insure the owner for good clear title (right to ownership) back to the date of purchase.   Deeds that are "General Warranty" cover the entire chain of title going back through time – these are rare as title companies typically do not want to insure them.

Lawyers Realty also does a title search for the Seller's property as soon as it is listed to avoid any surprises that otherwise would have come up closer to settlement.  If you are thinking about selling your home, talk to one of our real estate professionals today about how the Lawyers Realty difference can save you in time, money and peace of mind!

JUST LISTED by Elizabeth Statler, 2621 Lincoln Street is a wonderful Camp Hill Home with all the style and charm expected! Features include 3 Spacious Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, Living Room with Gas Fireplace, Formal Dining, Large Eat-In Kitchen, Beautiful Hardwood floors throughout.  This home is Move-In Ready with a Partially finished Lower Level and 2nd Gas Fireplace! Cute yard with pond and Private Hot Tub. Walk to all the amenities Camp Hill has to offer, Library, Schools, Parks and more!  Priced at $225,000.  Take a closer look at: http://bit.ly/LincnSt

What does this mean if I'm selling my home?  Exposure on the internet is key, including appearance in pictures and virtual tours (attracting buyers to look at your home in person).  Lawyers Realty is exceptionally positioned for the internet age buyer - our website features our listings as well as those across Central Pennsylvania.  Our mobile site will also allow buyers to find the information they need where they need it.

Contact a Lawyers Realty Agent today to talk about the importance of the internet in buying or selling your home (717) 364-3000.    

John Andrews, just sold 43 Sunfire Ave. in Camp Hill's Floribunda Development in 15 Days!  Contact John (717) 574-7928 to find out how to sell your home with a TEAM on your side!

Congratulations to Megan Duffie Flor, REALTOR, on another rave review from one of her clients in regards to a recent settlement.  

 "Once again Megan, with Mark's review, came through getting our old unique farmhouse sold in a weak market. Very professional, honest & straight forward which is refreshing." Ron & Georgia B.

 Lawyers Realty is proud to have Realtors such as Megan as part of our Team.  We are also proud of the many other wonderful comments we have received from past clients.  Check out what they have to say about our Realtors along with having Attorney Representation.  Testimonials

Would you like to be in this chair?

Well, did you know that the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has a program for that?  The FHA 203k Rehab Loan allows for the cost of renovations to be included in your mortgage.  By considering this program, many more houses may open up to you as possible choices. 

The 203k Rehab Loans allows for a variety of repairs to the home.  It can be used for such things as painting; minor repairs; updating kitchens, bathrooms or flooring; plumbing and electrical work; among others. A validated contractor will be required to provide estimates on the renovations as well as complete the work within 6 months.  

The FHA 203k Loan is a great option to help improve a potential home, but the process may take longer than other loans so be prepared to be patient.  By working with a REALTOR®, you will be guided throughout the process which would include putting you in contact with the right mortgage professional who knows the ins and outs of the FHA 203k Program and can qualify you. 

When you are ready to buy, choose the Lawyers Realty Team – a REALTOR plus a Real Estate Attorney at no additional cost.  It is Added Value & Protection for buyers. (717) 364-300 or visit LawyersRealtyPA.com.

 To the buyers and sellers we have worked with this year and in the past, the REALTORS, Office Administration & Attorneys at Lawyers Realty thank you. And to those of you that have entrusted us enough to have referred your family and friends, thank you.

It doesn't have to be a holiday for us to be thankful, but Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the gratitude for our bounty and for the relationships that we treasure.

 We greatly appreciate the opportunity to have been the real estate company to represent you in the purchase and/or sale of your homes.  The same homes where families and friends will gather this Thanksgiving to reflect and give thanks for their blessings.

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." John F. Kennedy

What are you grateful for?

1519 Letchworth Rd, Camp Hill - Charming 3 Bedroom Colonial style home situated in Highland Park, close to everything! Decorated in neutral tones, this home features a Spacious Living Room, Formal Dining Room, 1.5 Baths, Large Family Room with vaulted ceiling, 1st floor Laundry, 1 car Garage, Fenced yard with Fireplace and huge patio for gracious and private outdoor living. Find out more: http://bit.ly/LetchWr

2828 Russell Rd, Camp Hill - Lovingly cared for quintessential Camp Hill Borough ranch with 3 Bedrooms and 2 Baths. Enjoy the oversized living room with fireplace which overlooks the beautifully landscaped private yard. Formal dining room and large eat-in kitchen with breakfast nook makes this house a find in the borough. Economical gas heat and central air complete the package. Dont miss this rare opportunity: http://bit.ly/RusslRd 

The County states that "Land Partnerships is a countywide strategy designed to improve and enhance the quality of life in Cumberland County through: farmland preservation, natural resource protection and parks, trails and greenways."

This comprehensive effort by the Planning Department set out to develop new recommendations for the next 5 years.  Their study also includes a Citizen Survey which is open and available until November 30, 2012. 

A resident of Hershey, Patti knows the community and surrounding area well.  Her passion for home design as well as her community makes Patti the one to call for your real estate needs in the Hershey/Hummelstown area.  

We welcome Patti to Lawyers Realty and look forward to working with her.  

Patti Spirk, REALTOR® can be reached at 717-364-1597 or visit her website at  pspirk.lawyersrealtypa.com.

Potential Seller's thought process: "We will wait until spring to put our house on the market when buyers are buying and the flowers are blooming."

REALTOR'S thought process:  "Why wait for spring?  Buyers don't suddenly stop buying October thru March. There are buyers that are transferring due to their job; buyers who are renting and their lease is up; and buyers that have been searching for that just right home and it may be your home that they have been waiting for."    

 So if you are one of the fewer sellers who happens to have their home on the market, priced right and in showing condition, then chances are greater that your house may receive a contract at this time of the year.

It is as simple as Supply and Demand.  Supply will be lower, but there will still be a demand. And besides, don't homes feel so much cozier and welcoming in the fall and throughout the Holidays? 

If you are thinking about listing your home, call a Lawyers Realty REALTOR to put a TEAM on your side (717) 364-3000. www.lawyersrealtypa.com

We've all heard about the tough times the industry is having on a nationwide scale.  The truth is there are plenty of opportunities to succeed in real estate, especially in more stable markets such as Central Pennsylvania.  Consider this, US News World Report cited Real Estate Agent as Among Best Business Jobs.

If you're goal-orientated, self-motivated, confident and willing and able to stay on top of the changing technology and marketing trends, real estate may be the perfect field for you. It's ideal for someone looking for opportunities with endless income potential and to have a flexible schedule as you are your own boss to a large degree.  Since your compensation is based on your achievements and results, it is up to you where you want to go.

If this what you're looking for?

What is required to become a real estate agent?  In Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years of age, complete 60-hours of pre-licensing courses at a certified school (in person or online) and pass the real estate exam consisting of state and national portions.   

After receiving your salesperson's license, you may want to interview with various brokers to decide which real estate company will best fit your needs.  Other career opportunities related to real estate include property management, commercial REALTOR®, broker and appraiser.

The real estate profession can be extremely lucrative to anyone who has drive, motivation and ambition. If this sounds like you, contact Lawyer Realty today to see how we can help you get your real estate career underway.

Have you ever considered a career in real estate? What kinds of benefits would you personally enjoy?

OPEN HOUSES SUNDAY AUGUST 19th 1PM-3PM

503 LEEWARD LANE

Enola, PA

Hosted by Kyle Miller

5109 KYLOCK ROAD

Mechanicsburg, PA

Hosted by John Andrews

117 WYNDHAM WAY

Harrisburg, PA

Hosted by Mary Sill 

What is one of the primary factors that go into a lender's decision of whether or not to grant a loan? Credit scores.  It has been estimated that nearly 75% of all mortgage loan decisions are made with the applicant's credit score in mind. 

This green paper is known as The Consumer Notice, and it must be presented by any licensed PA Real Estate Professional before they can have any discussion on your needs and motivations for seeking real estate services.  It is NOT A CONTRACT, but an affirmation that you, the consumer, have been advised of your rights.   

The Consumer Notice serves as notice of your rights and business relationships that exist in a real estate transaction.

• Seller Agent: the licensee works only for the seller/landlord
• Buyer Agent: the licensee works only for buyer/tenant
• Dual Agent:  the licensee works for both seller/landlord or buyer/tenant
• Designated Agent: the broker may designate one or more licensees from the agency to represent the consumer. This occurs, for example, when your real estate agent and the other party's real estate agent work for the same company or office.
• Transaction licensee: Licensee performs real estate services without having any relationship to the consumer.

By signing The Consumer Notice, you and the agent have NOT entered into a binding contract, but simply acknowledged you received information pertaining to your rights in representation in a real estate transaction. For example, if you're a buyer attending an open house, the agent hosting the open house may identify themselves as the seller's agent and their duty is to their client – the seller.

This agent has a fiduciary relationship with the seller and you should to be careful what information you disclose to that agent in what may seem like casual conversation. If you end up pursuing a purchase of that home, you may be sorry you disclosed certain information. This is where you have the right to know that you may want to consider a Buyer's Agent to represent your interests. 

The next time a Consumer Notice is presented to you, read it carefully and afterwards don't be afraid to sign, it is there for your protection.  

A copy of the Pennsylvania "Consumer Notice" is available at any real estate brokerage office or from any licensee. To obtain a copy of the "Consumer Notice" or to gain more information about agency relationships in Pennsylvania, feel free to contact us at 717-364-3000.

For further information about real estate laws and consumer education in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS.

Just Listed - 1000 Mountaindale Dr.  An amazing German four square stone farm house circa 1854 on 3.58 acres! This home features original wide plank hardwood floors, newer family room addition and master suite. Three Fireplaces, two staircases, full front porch, two covered side porches, four car garage, fully renovated kitchen with cherry cabinets, sub-zero refrigerator and fireplace.  The finished third floor adds 638 square feet of living space. This is a must see!  View Interior Photographs & Take a Virtual Tour 

5109 Kylock Rd. - $275,000
Hosted by Mary Sill 514-9400

This 2,407 sq. ft. brick ranch home situated on a .46 acre lot in Upper Allen Twp., Mechanicsburg School District features 3 Bedrooms and 2.5 baths.  The kitchen has been updated with granite countertops including a desk and eat-in area.  Vaulted sunroom features a fireplace and wet bar with slider to the rear yard.  The 2 car garage offers plenty of room for additional storage.  Location is convenient to Rt.15 & PA Turnpike

503 Leeward Ln. - $800,000 
Hosted by John Andrews (717) 574-7928

E. Pennsboro Twp. 4 bedroom, 3 bath custom on 1.05 acres with panoramic views of the Susquehanna River Valley!  Home offers a casual sophistication with fabulous great room & dining area, hardwood floors, inviting family room with stone fireplace, spacious master retreat, LL w/ media room & concrete countertop wet bar.  The maintenance-free deck offers the area's best place for outdoor dining.

741 S. 82nd Street, Hbg. - $162,900 
Hosted by Chris Black 576-9385 

Convenience of location! Ease of travel right off of Rt. 322 between Hershey & Harrisburg only minutes to Hershey Medical Center, I-81, PA Turnpike, airport & West Shore areas.  This 2 Story townhouse has a full basement and offers two master bedrooms each with a full bath.  An open floor plan kitchen with breakfast island comes with a full GE appliance package.   Learn more about affordable carefree living. $162,900. 

Join Megan Duffie Flor on May 19 for an event to fight Breast Cancer in Central Pennsylvania:

"Brews for Boobies"
Brewhouse Grille in Camp Hill
2050 State Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011
May 19 6:00PM – 10:00PM

According to Megan, there will be a Buffet, live music by Funktion and Ten Tigers as well as a 50/50 Raffle.  For a $25 donation at registration, guests will receive:

Brews for Boobies T-shirt
Appetizer Buffet and Two Beverage Tickets
Imagine a World Without Breast Cancer bracelet

T-shirts will only be available as supplies last, which is why it would be a good idea to register early with Megan at mflor@lawyersrealtypa.com. Registration is available at the door.

Navigating the "Minefield" of Real Estate, an Interview with Mark Duffie.  Mark, Broker and Lawyer for Lawyers Realty, took a few moments to talk about his experience as a real estate attorney and the complicated challenges that can arise in buying or selling real estate.

What is it that appeals to you about the law, especially as it pertains to real estate?

With respect to the practice of law in general, the sense of problem solving and assisting others with legal matters is what drives me.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

The sense of accomplishment is rewarding especially when it is done on someone's behalf.  In the real estate field, you become a facilitator of transactions.  The structuring of the deal and the documentation often make or break the deal.

What do you like the most about working with the law and real estate?

Real estate really provides an opportunity for attorneys to become very creative to meet the demands of the client.  The challenges involved with every transaction are unique as are the solutions.   The closing on a complicated well-structured deal is what we real estate attorneys work for.  That is what makes real estate law so rewarding.

What are some of the legal "pickles" buyers and sellers get into by not having a lawyer involved in the real estate transaction?

Legal pickles.  That is an open can of worms.  Most real estate agents and clients are not educated on fundamental contractual principles including breach and remedies.

Buyers and sellers enter into agreements often times not knowing the implications given the circumstances.   When the transaction warrants, standard agreements need to be amended.  That is often times when the "pickles" occur. 

When a buyer acquires property, they do not just acquire bricks and sticks.  They acquire a bundle of legal rights of which they must become aware.  They need to be educated on restrictions, easements, clean and green as well as other acquired rights. 

The problems arise when these agreements are improperly drafted and these rights are not reviewed or improperly reviewed.   Specifically, I have seen sellers try to sell a property that was already subject to an option or buyers attempting to buy a property under a fictitious name.

If you had to describe the real estate transaction in one word or one phrase, what would that word or phrase be?

Minefield!

Mark C. Duffie is an attorney and Broker for Lawyers Realty, LLC.  Mark focuses the majority of his legal practice in both residential and commercial real estate transactions. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Akron.  He also currently serves on the Board of Directors of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce and the Mechanicsburg Area High School Alumni Association.  Mark lives in Lewisberry with his wife and two children.

This weekend is Nationwide Open House.  Come out and visit the three Homes that we are adding to the 31,000+ Open Houses across the country this weekend!   

 503 Leeward Lane, Enola - Gina McNally (4/29 1-3PM)

Stunning views from this East Pennsboro Township custom home on 1.05 acres.  The 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath property offers a sophisticated style and open floor plan perfect for entertaining.  Contact Gina at 717-645-2508

1938 Limestone Drive, Hummelstown - Mary Sill (4/29 1-3PM)

Located in Deer Run, Hummelstown this "Brookstone Model" is filled with upgrades.  The Kitchen features ceramic flooring, Corian counters in neutral tones & a large pantry. The spacious living quarters offers two master bedrooms each featuring walk-in closets & full baths with double sinks .  Contact Mary Sill 717-514-9400

741 S. 82nd Street, Harrisburg - Chris Black (4/28 and 4/29 1-4PM)

Are you looking for affordable carefree living?  "The Clover" at The Woodlands outside of Harrisburg is a must see spacious 2-story home.  It offers a full basement, 2 master bedrooms each with its own bath, a large open kitchen with breakfast island & full GE appliance package. This Unit is ready for immediate occupancy. $5k seller help!  Contact Chris Black 717-576-9385

Below: Dick Stewart, President of Lawyer's Realty gave a brief interview about the company: