I’m writing because our area had an alarming up-tick in foreclosures in the last 30 days. We all know someone who is struggling to make their mortgage payments. Those of us who bought a home over the past few years, had no idea about the kind of economic upheaval that was going to follow. I […]

Forget Macy’s and Crate & Barrel. Set up your bridal registry at the bank and use the funds for the FHA down payment on a home. This could be perfect for people getting married who already have their household items and really need help getting into a home. FHA has had this little known program […]

I don’t care how expected it is, the death of a spouse leaves the surviving spouse reeling and with a thousand questions. It’s good to know that the IRS has given special consideration regarding the sale of their jointly-owned principal residence after the death of a spouse. If the surviving spouse does not remarry prior […]

People are staying longer in their homes according to the National Association of Realtors and the U.S. Census. Over time, even a modest appreciation could result in a significant gain and homeowners should have a strategy to minimize possible taxes. Maintenance on a principal residence is not deductible but improvements can add to the basis […]

FHA loans that originated with lower interest rates have great advantages for buyers and sellers. Interest rate won’t change for qualified buyer Lower interest rate means lower payments Lower closing costs than originating a new mortgage Easier to qualify for an assumption than a new loan Lower interest rate loans amortize faster than higher ones […]

With the exception of a mortgage payment, the largest homeowner expense is utilities; and energy is the major component. There are lots of contributing factors such as air leaks, insulation, heating and cooling equipment, water heaters and lighting. It’s estimated that 75% of the electricity to power home electronics is consumed when the products are […]

What’s keeping you from taking advantage of the low prices and mortgage rates available today? Concerned that you may need to sell in a few years and won’t be able to get your equity out of your home? Suppose a buyer purchases a home and finds out that they need to move in two years. […]

“The significant problems you face today cannot be solved at the same level of thinking you were at when you created them.” Albert Einstein   The housing market has definitely caused significant problems for some people but is also providing some amazing opportunities for others. Agents aren’t like retailers who wake up one day realizing […]

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and toxic. It’s called the “silent killer” in homes because some victims are not even aware that the deadly condition exists. Homeowners must be concerned about unmaintained furnaces, water heaters and appliances that can produce the deadly gas. Other sources could include leaking chimneys, unvented kerosene or gas space heaters […]

If you had a 3.5% mortgage on your current home and were buying another home, transferring your low interest rate mortgage would be ideal. Unfortunately, lenders don’t allow that. When buying a home today, it would be smart to think about selling it in the future. To have a good home with unique features makes […]

There are homeowners that would like to have a larger/nicer home but are patiently waiting for the market to improve. A frequently heard objection is that they can’t sell their home for what it is currently worth. Buying up in a down market is actually advantageous because while you might get less for the home […]

Another great video with helpful information on how to find the right real estate agent.

Every week I receive at least 5 or 6 calls from people who have been house hunting on the Internet and have a list of properties they want to see in person.  Their enthusiasm is so permeating that I wish it were something that could be bottled and sold like fine perfume.  Then as a […]

11. By selling now, you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the spring, when many more houses are on the market for less money! This will allow you to sell high and buy low! 10. You can sell now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or […]

Real estate transactions can be tricky. The widespread myth that selling real estate is easy has lured many home sellers into making expensive mistakes by trying (and failing) to sell their own home. Many people assume that all you need is a sales contract, a classified ad and a “For Sale” sign. But even the […]

This question comes up constantly – “Is the media correct when predicting the real estate market?” I believe the answer is NO. Someone once told me that the media predicted 5 of the last 3 depressions… in other words, negativity & controversy sells, so that’s what the media will promote. They make everyone so nervous […]

Their are three main reasons why a home doesn’t sell; PRICE, MARKETING and CONDITION.  When interviewing for a new agent find out what kind of marketing plan they offer and what they focus the majority of their marketing efforts on (print ads, internet, mailings, etc).  Remember the majority of buyers, over 90% according to the National […]