Millennials are the future of our housing market. Now 32% of home buyers and 68% of new home buyers - wow!

Social Media in Ohio Real Estate Sales - Does Facebook, Twitter and Google+ Play a Role?

My team and I have made social media a key component in our real estate marketing strategy. You must have a multi-layered marketing strategy, but it must include social media in today's market place.

Lakefront, riverfront and island homes that we list are advertised on our Facebook page:

www.TheLakeErieLifestyle.com

as well as Twitter and Google+.  

For homes on the Westside of Cleveland we advertise on:  

www.TheWestsideLifestyle.com

Our listings and only our listings are marketed on these websites and we can be increasingly specific in our targeting.  If someone is interested in "The Lake Erie Islands" then we can target to those specific users.  These can be thousands of individuals who have an interested in a specific topic, region or any number of other categories.  It is far, far more effective then newspaper advertising which is increasingly a tool used to keep sellers happy.  

Home buyers are increasingly spending more and more time on social media apps and websites.  Buyers of real estate are where we all are - Facebook, Twitter and Google+.  List with us today and let us put your listing where the buyers are!

Ninety-two percent of buyers use the internet 

in some way in their home search process 

and 50 percent of buyers use a mobile website 

or application in their home search.

Contact me today!

Let my team go to work for you.

RealEstate@HiseyGroup.com

440-315-6000

The Howard Hanna Gold Advantage Program and How It Works. Save $ on YOUR Next Real Estate Transaction!

The Hanna Gold Advantage Program is designed to provide key real estate related rewards and services to employees of participating corporations. Specifically, this exclusive Howard Hanna program offers rewards ; credits on real estate, mortgage, title, insurance and retail services to employees who are moving locally or worldwide.

Are you eligible?   

CLICK HERE then click on your company if listed.  If it isn't listed then contact your Human Resources Department or Rep and suggest they contact us!

YOUR COMPANY IS LISTED!

Make sure you click "YES" and add LEE HISEY at the bottom of the form and click "SUBMIT" 

at the very bottom.

Employee Rewards

The Hanna Gold Advantage program offers an exclusive range of rewards, 

services and benefits to corporations and employees.

Cash Reward(s) when an employee either Purchases and/ or Sells a home.*

Complimentary consultation with a Howard Hanna Mortgage Services specialist will be 

provided during the process.

Cash discounts towards closing costs when obtaining a first mortgage or when refinancing through Howard Hanna Mortgage Services and Barristers Land Abstract Title or Barristers of Ohio company.

Retail Alliance Service Partners - Corporate rates on real estate related services such as moving, carpeting, storage, painting, window replacement, security systems, etc.

Comprehensive package of insurance products through Howard Hanna Insurance Services, including car, mortgage, life, property, etc.

Community, neighborhood and housing profiles, school & educational information, newcomer kits, etc.

Interested in the Hanna Gold Program?  

Contact the Hisey Group today at 440-315-6000 

or RealEstate@HiseyGroup.com.  

Select Lee Hisey as your agent, 

submit your form and contact me 

to start the process today.  

Personal service you can count on in 

North Central Ohio.  

Outside the area?  

Let me refer you to a Realtor you can trust.

Route 83 Corridor - Avon Lake, Avon and North Ridgeville - A Real Estate "Hot Spot"

You've probably heard about this "Hot Spot" in Ohio.  What makes it so exciting and what is driving the growth?  How are Real Estate prices being effected?  What are some of the key features in this region?  Should you consider buying or building in Avon Lake, Avon or North Ridgeville?

I grew up in Avon Lake, Ohio just off of route 83.  I walked to the Lake Erie waterfront park where Route 83 literally runs into Lake Erie.  It was an amazing place to grow up.  Today I live in Grafton Township on State Route 83.  What a change in my 53 years!  My team still works out of the Avon Lake office, so I drive through this three city area almost every day.  State Route 83 or Avon Belden Rd. runs through the center of one of the hottest real estate markets in Ohio.

Avon Lake is a lakefront community with a wide selection of homes.  With home options from million dollar waterfronts to homes under $100,000 there is something for everyone.  And check out the schools!  The Shoreway (Lake Rd) runs along the northern side of town and is a beautiful drive into Cleveland, but you can also catch the highway off of Lear Rd and Route 83 just outside the city in Avon.  The pool, city parks, playgrounds, biking and walking options and Lorain County Metropark are fantastic!  There is a great boat ramp and parking area.

Avon is growing at an amazing speed.  There are beautiful older neighborhoods as well as some magnificent newer homes.  From a baseball stadium where the Lake Erie Crushers play to a new pool and Avon Commons shopping area Avon has it all!  A new Cleveland Clinic facility and many new restaurants as well as a Lorain County Metropark add to the amazing lifestyle Avon residents enjoy.  Two highway exits are within the city limits.

North Ridgeville still has many rural areas at it's southern end, but many new homes on the northern side of town.  There is quick access to State Route 10/480 just off of Route 83 and Route 10/480 and the turnpike off of Lorain Rd.  North Ridgeville has a new LCCC extension, great parks, and a growing business community.  North Ridgeville has many affordable real estate options and don't forget the annual Corn Festival!

Is this a great place to buy a home in these areas?  YES!

Contact my team today to schedule your home tour.  Would you like additional information?  Contact me regarding the purchase or sale of a "Route 83 Corridor" home at 440-315-6000 or RealEstate@HiseyGroup.com.

Join us on Facebook at:  www.TheWestsideLifestyle.com

A Real Estate Agent Living and Working on Lake Erie

I spent most of my childhood years living in an old lakefront in beautiful Avon Lake, Ohio.  We swam all summer, fished spring and fall and fell asleep to the sounds of waves lapping against the shoreline.

Cabin in Canada

I was lucky enough to have a grandfather who spent the warm months in a cottage on the north shore of Manitoulin Island in Canada.  We'd spend days catching frogs, swimming in the freezing North Channel (can't imagine doing that now), snorkeling and hiking the woods.

As an adult I have the privileged of spending many of my working hours along Northern Central Ohio's islands, rivers and shores.  Beautiful coastal communities like Vermilion, Huron and Port Clinton as well as island communities like Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, Middle Bass Island and Kelleys Island have become my new stomping grounds.  I love it all!

My team doesn't only sell in waterfront communities, but they do hold a special place in my heart.

If you've been dreaming about owning a waterfront home contact/text me today at 440-315-6000 or leehisey@howardhanna.com.  My team and I would be honored to help make your dream a realty.

Lee Hisey, Realtor and Team Coordinator

The Hisey Group w/ Howard Hanna

On Twitter:  www.OhioIslandsAndShores.com

On Facebook at:  www.TheLakeErieLifestyle.com

"Serving Cleveland to the Lake Erie Islands"
Quality Trusted Service for Over 55 Years

Lake Erie Waterfront Condominiums - Lakefront Living in Ohio!

Have you every wondered what it would be like to live on the shores of Lake Erie all year long? What about a weekend retreat? Lakefront homes may be outside of your price range, or maybe you just don't want the maintenance involved.  A condominium may be the perfect fit for your weekend or permanent residence.

Grand Harbour Condominiums, Vermilion, Ohio

When considering condominium living along Ohio's islands, rivers and shores there are certain factors you should consider.

• Drive Time:  Will you need to commute from work on a regular basis?  How close are the highways?  Airports? 
• Example: My wife and I can leave on the last ferry Friday evening and enjoy the weekend in our lakefront island condo.  Sunday evening we catch the last ferry off the island and are able to be at work Monday morning.  
• Weekend or Primary Residence:  You probably have very different needs based on which type of residence you are searching for.  You need less storage space, interior garage space is less important and more steps may be less of an issue if you are only using it on an occasional basis.
• Dock/Marina: If you are a boater or think you may be in the future then proximity to marinas or the availability of a dock within the development may be important. You need an agent that knows the area.
• Association Fees/Recreational Fees:  What are they and what do they cover?  How much they are and what they cover will play a direct role in what may buyers can afford.
• Rental Options:  Do you want or need to rent out the unit to help cover expenses?  Many buildings do not allow renting the unit or only allow an annual lease.
• Utilities:  Are any of the utility expenses covered by the association dues?  What is covered and what are the averages of any remaining utilities.  What is available?  Internet, cable, satellite?

At the time I'm writing this there are 139 Lake Erie waterfront condominiums listed in NEOHREX, Ohio's largest multiple listing service, and 109 in the smaller Firelands MLS. Some of these are duplicates, but that still leaves a wide variety of buildings, locations, and prices.  

Contact me today!  Let me team start you on the path to waterfront condominium living.  

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator

The Hisey Group, llc with Howard Hanna 

440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@HowardHanna.com

You Stumbled on that PERFECT Avon Lake Colonial? Lake Erie Island Home? How Do You Finance It??

We can't all be cash buyers, and at today's interest rates you may want to take out a loan because you can make more on your assets in some type of investment product.  What do you need to get a loan?

Most loan officers want you to start with the basics.  Here is a list of what you should take to the initial meeting:

• A fully executed Purchase Agreement, including all of the addenda (supporting paperwork).
• Application fee for the appraisal and credit report.
• Your most recent 30-day pay stub(s) showing year-to-date earnings.
• All pages of your most recent 401k, IRA and/or retirement statements.
• Past two year's W-2 forms and federal tax returns.
• Prior two month's statements for savings, checking and investment accounts (all pages).
• Your photo I.D. and social security card.

Note:  If you are proactive you should get pre-approved before you even start looking and the above items will allow you to get pre-approved for a mortgage so you have a good estimate of what you can afford.  Getting pre-approved should be FREE!

You may be required to bring in additional information.  Make sure you have these items available - just in case.  

• The previous years cancelled checks for mortgage or rent payments.  
• Documentation of all outstanding loans, lines of credit, credit cards or any other outstanding debt.
• Documentation of other income sources that you would like to have considered in repayment of your loan.
• When applicable full copies of the following:
• Divorce Decree
• Bankruptcy Petition & Discharge
• A 12 Month Printout of Child Support

Thank You to our in-house mortgage officer Rob Hixenbaugh for the information.  You can contact Rob for your free pre-approval at 440-487-7266 or robhixenbaugh@howardhanna.com.

Ready to start your search?  Call me today, Lee Hisey, at 440-315-6000 or leehisey@howardhanna.comleehisey@howardhanna.com.  Let my team go to work for you!

Very Affordable Vacation Home Options! Distressed Lake Erie Waterfront Island Condos Coming Back to Life!

The former St. Hazards Condominium development on Middle Bass Island, Ohio is getting a fresh start with the owners making improvements throughout the complex.  No longer associated with an adjacent development the name is being changed to "Middle Bass Lakeshore Condominiums" and there is a new energy!

Where else in Ohio can you find Lake Erie island lakeshore condominiums starting at UNDER $100,000?  On an island with regular passenger and vehicle ferry service spring, summer and fall, and passenger service all season to Put-in-Bay! 

 

THIS IS THE TIME TO BUY!

The previous owners have taken the hit and lost much of their initial investment.  Their loss can be your gain.  Purchase now at these amazingly low prices and start enjoying the Lake Erie island lifestyle this year.

I feel so strongly about the current prices that I'm personally purchasing a unit for my wife and I.  Join us in becoming a part of the new life at this lakeshore condominium community.

Some Key Features:

Pets are permitted.

You can rent short term - help make your payments.

EVERY unit is on the lakeshore!

There IS an elevator.

Middle Bass Island, Ohio boasts:

Regular seasonal passenger and vehicle ferry service.

Modern airstrip.

Regular seasonal passenger ferry service to Put-in-Bay.
An amazing state park marina.
A improving and developing state park area.
Lots of friendly people & a small town environment.

Contact us today for additional information 

on this buying opportunity. 

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator * 440-315-6000 * LeeHisey@HowardHanna.com

 www.HiseyGroup.com

Considering Selling?  
Contact the listing & sales leaders on MBI!

Amazing Affordability - Lake Erie Island Waterfront Condominiums, Middle Bass Island, Ohio

Middle Bass Lakeshore Condominiums

Have you ever imagined living a small town island lifestyle?  If your answer is yes you probably didn't ever imagine being able to work a normal 40 hour week while spend your weekends in a Lake Erie Island waterfront condominium!

After going through several difficult years this building is coming back to life!  Formerly known as St. Hazards Condominiums the condos are getting spruced up, and the owners are in control.  These condos are at rock bottom prices.  The current owners have taken the hit and new owners are getting amazing prices!

Yes - short term renting is permitted.  Help meet your expenses by operating a rental business while you aren't personally enjoying your unit.

Every unit is a lakeshore unit, and there is an elevator.  Pets are permitted!

The Middle Bass Lakeshore Condomiums are located adjacent to the beautiful Middle Bass Island State Park Marina.  The state park is being improved every year,  and the MBI Yacht Club is located on the property.

There is regular passenger and ferry service to the island on Miller Ferry as well as regular passenger service on the Middle Bass Ferry to the village of Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island all season.  Enjoy the fun, shopping and entertainment at Put-in-Bay and then return to the slower pace of life on Middle Bass Island.

Contact us today at 440-315-6000 or RealEstate@HiseyGroup.com for details.
The Hisey Group with Howard Hanna

Are you considering a vacation home purchase? A carefully thought out second home purchase can be a life enriching move.

Are you considering purchasing a second home?  People purchase vacation homes for a variety of reasons.  Investments, a vacation getaway, or a place to enjoy and begin to pay-off now for eventual retirement.  

#1 What type of home are you considering?

Condo or cottage?  Rental property or personal use only?  Is this an investment or are you not concerned with income?  Is there an association?  What are the advantages and restrictions?

#2 Does a second home make financial sense?

Owning a second home comes with all of the related responsibilities and expenses.  Factor in association dues, maintenance, utilities, taxes, insurance and time.  Is flood insurance a factor?  If you are looking for rental income to help make your payments - are rentals permitted?  How long is the season?  What is the demand?

#3 Location, Location, Location

Where are you dreaming about owning a home?  Do you need an area that allows rentals?  Are treated water and sewage a priority for you or can you be in an area where well water and private sewage treatment systems are necessary?  How do you get to the property?  What type of transportation hurdles are you willing to live with?

#4 Additional Factors?

Are things like schools, medical care, or access by road priorities?  What about being near family, entertainment or larger shopping facilities?  Make sure you will be comfortable with whatever your decision is from every perspective.

#5 Financing?

Second home financing can be more challenging to obtain.  How do you intend to purchase your vacation home?

#6 Being a Landlord - Are you ready?

If you are going to be renting your home to help pay-off a mortgage or cover expenses are you prepared for all of the aspects of being a landlord?  How will you find renters?  What local and association requirements, permits and fees are involved?  Will you utilize a rental company or handle leases, reservations, repairs and cleaning on your own?  Owning a rental can create legal liabilities - how will you protect yourself and your personal assets.

Are you considering purchasing a vacation home 

along Ohio's North Coast?

Contact us today - The Hisey Group with Howard Hanna
Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, 440-315-6000 
or LeeHisey@HowardHanna.com
www.OhiosVacationLand.com

Huron, Vermilion, Marblehead, Port Clinton, Catawba Island, Middle Bass Island, South Bass Island and Put-in-Bay, North Bass Island, Rattlesnake Island, Kelleys Island & Adjacent Communities

So I Live in Northern Ohio - How Do I Buy A Home?

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments you can make.  Most people purchasing a home for the first time have a rough idea, but often they are confused about certain details or just don't know where to begin. Some buyers feel they don't have adequate credit.  Other buyers feel they don't have adequate income and still others are unsure what type of down-payment they need.  

Purchasing a home is a big step.  One of the biggest decisions in your life. Our purpose is to guide you through the process and help you over any bumps that may be in your path along the way. 

1. Down-payment and Finances – Unless you are a cash buyer you will need to have a source of income.  It must be stable.  You will also need cash for a down-payment.  If it is a cash purchase there are certain requirements related to the source of the cash.  There are some excellent first time home buyer programs that may dramatically reduce the cash required to purchase a home at the time of this posting.  Contact us to get you in touch with our mortgage broker for a free analysis of your situation.
2. What is Your Credit Score? – Our financing specialist will review your debt, credit score and credit limit FREE OF CHARGE!  Do you have a credit history?  Not having any credit can actually be detrimental to purchasing a home.  Having established credit is important to show a lender a history of responsible credit use.  Depending on the lender and program you can purchase a home with a credit score in the 600's.  Contact us to get a free analysis.
3. Special Programs – You need to find someone to lend you money.  Are you looking at rural homes?  Are you a firefighter, teacher, police officer?  Are you a doctor?  First time home buyer?  These and other programs are available for you!  New programs are being created on a regular basis.
4. Obtaining Pre-approval - You need to know how much home you can afford BEFORE you start to seriously look for a home.  On a regular basis clients will start looking in the $300,000 plus range and after finding their dream home they discover they can only afford $250k.  You can still find a beautiful home, but what a disappointment.  Pre-approval is FREE!  You may also be able to comfortably afford a home that is larger or in better condition than you had thought you could purchase.  Let's arrange a meeting with our lender!
5. Find a Real Estate Agent – Working with a real estate agent you can trust is very important.  You need an agent that can help you evaluate all of the information that is out there.  The most effective method of searching for a home is to have someone pre-screen homes for you.  Then tour homes that meet your criteria.  Arrange several days to view multiple homes so that you can compare the pros and cons of each property.  You need someone to negotiate your purchase and complete all of the paperwork.  Your agent should help with arranging inspections, finding a lender, working with the title company, writing the Purchase Agreement and all other related paperwork.  Let us tie up those loose ends so they don't come back to bite you.  

Are you ready to start the process?  It's never too early to get an initial evaluation of your finances and credit.  This creates a baseline for you to work from.  You can also have us set-up your initial search directly from the Multiple listing service in your area.  We are members of two MLS covering all of Northern Ohio.  Start with a general search and then gradually narrow the criteria until you are viewing property that matches your "Dream" list of "Needs and Wants".

Contact me today for an initial consultation.  My team can help you achieve your dreams!

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator

The Hisey Group with Howard Hanna440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@HowardHanna.comwww.HiseyGroup.com 

Vacation Home Purchase in Your Future? Investment Property? Check out what other Buyers are doing! 2015 Buyers Survey

Considering purchasing or selling a second home?  The new survey has result that may interest you!

2015 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey 2015-04-01

Spring is in the air along Ohio's Lake Erie Islands, Rivers and Shores

The ice is melting and temperatures are gradually rising.  Ice fishing season closes but ferries are set to again open.

Ohio's Lake Erie Islands

The housing market is also heating up and telephone calls are already increasing.  Buyers are looking for available housing in all of our key market areas to include Vermilion and Huron out to Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay.

Village of Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, Ohio

Contact The Hisey Group today at 440-315-6000 or RealEstate@HiseyGroup.com to receive your free market analysis.  Own an Ohio waterfront home?  Ask for our free Waterfront Marketing Guide explaining how we sell waterfront homes in North Central Ohio.