Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tax credit fuels skyrocketing Dallas-area preowned home sales: Tax credit fuels skyrocketing Dallas-area preown.. http://bit.ly/57CwVX
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Tax credit fuels Dallas market. North Texas housing market came roaring back in November. Read more at http://tinyurl.com/y9kskc8
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Expanded Version of Tax Credit Will Allow More Homebuyers to Qualify
Expanded Version of Tax Credit Will Allow More Homebuyers to Qualify
RISMEDIA, November 9, 2009—President Obama recently signed an expanded version of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit that was set to expire on November 30. “The new version of the tax credit has the potential to stimulate the housing market even more than the old version due to the fact that more people will qualify under the new rules,” said Gibran Nicholas, Chairman of the CMPS Institute, an organization that certifies mortgage bankers and brokers. “Although the tax credit remains at $8,000 for homebuyers that have not owned a primary residence in the last three years, it has been expanded to include a $6,500 tax credit for homebuyers that have lived in their current primary residence for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight years. Under the old rules, move-up homebuyers did not qualify.” Consider these three examples:
Example 1:
Jane purchased a home in 2002, lived there for 5 years as her primary home, moved out in 2007, and turned that home into a rental property. If Jane decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she lived in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
Example 2:
Harry purchased a home in 2004, and lived there for the past 5 years as his primary home. If Harry decides to buy a new primary residence today, he would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that he lived in the same residence as his primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
Example 3:
Nicole purchased a home in 2006, and lived there for the past 3 years as her primary home. If Nicole decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would not qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she did not live in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
The tax credit applies to homes purchased for less than $800,000 before May 1, 2010. “If you sign a binding contract to purchase a home before May 1st, you would need to close on the transaction before July 1, 2010,” Nicholas said. “It works kind of like a gift certificate that can be redeemed for cash. You simply file a form with the IRS right after you buy your home, and the IRS will send you a check for the full amount of your credit.”
The income limitation for single tax payers went up from $75,000 under the old rules to $125,000 under the new rules. For married tax payers, the income limitation went up from $150,000 to $225,000. “This means that more people will qualify for the credit – especially in parts of the country with higher costs of living,” Nicholas said. “This should help stimulate parts of the housing market that may not have been impacted by the old version of the credit.”
There are many creative ways of structuring your home purchase transaction in ways that maximize the benefits of the credit. Here are a few examples:
-The credit applies to 1-4 unit homes as long as you live in one of the units as your primary residence – you could live in one unit and rent out the others
-If two unmarried individuals buy a home, and only one of the individuals qualifies for the credit based on their income or past home ownership status, the individual who qualifies for the credit can claim the full credit. (Note: In the case of married couples, both spouses must qualify for the credit).
-The credit applies even if you have co-signers on your mortgage loan
For more information, visit www.CMPSInstitute.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-11-08/expanded-version-of-tax-credit-will-allow-more-homebuyers-to-qualify/#ixzz0WTkr6IKw
RISMEDIA, November 9, 2009—President Obama recently signed an expanded version of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit that was set to expire on November 30. “The new version of the tax credit has the potential to stimulate the housing market even more than the old version due to the fact that more people will qualify under the new rules,” said Gibran Nicholas, Chairman of the CMPS Institute, an organization that certifies mortgage bankers and brokers. “Although the tax credit remains at $8,000 for homebuyers that have not owned a primary residence in the last three years, it has been expanded to include a $6,500 tax credit for homebuyers that have lived in their current primary residence for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight years. Under the old rules, move-up homebuyers did not qualify.” Consider these three examples:
Example 1:
Jane purchased a home in 2002, lived there for 5 years as her primary home, moved out in 2007, and turned that home into a rental property. If Jane decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she lived in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
Example 2:
Harry purchased a home in 2004, and lived there for the past 5 years as his primary home. If Harry decides to buy a new primary residence today, he would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that he lived in the same residence as his primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
Example 3:
Nicole purchased a home in 2006, and lived there for the past 3 years as her primary home. If Nicole decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would not qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she did not live in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
The tax credit applies to homes purchased for less than $800,000 before May 1, 2010. “If you sign a binding contract to purchase a home before May 1st, you would need to close on the transaction before July 1, 2010,” Nicholas said. “It works kind of like a gift certificate that can be redeemed for cash. You simply file a form with the IRS right after you buy your home, and the IRS will send you a check for the full amount of your credit.”
The income limitation for single tax payers went up from $75,000 under the old rules to $125,000 under the new rules. For married tax payers, the income limitation went up from $150,000 to $225,000. “This means that more people will qualify for the credit – especially in parts of the country with higher costs of living,” Nicholas said. “This should help stimulate parts of the housing market that may not have been impacted by the old version of the credit.”
There are many creative ways of structuring your home purchase transaction in ways that maximize the benefits of the credit. Here are a few examples:
-The credit applies to 1-4 unit homes as long as you live in one of the units as your primary residence – you could live in one unit and rent out the others
-If two unmarried individuals buy a home, and only one of the individuals qualifies for the credit based on their income or past home ownership status, the individual who qualifies for the credit can claim the full credit. (Note: In the case of married couples, both spouses must qualify for the credit).
-The credit applies even if you have co-signers on your mortgage loan
For more information, visit www.CMPSInstitute.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-11-08/expanded-version-of-tax-credit-will-allow-more-homebuyers-to-qualify/#ixzz0WTkr6IKw
Friday, November 6, 2009
TAX CREDIT HAS BEEN EXTENDED
TAX CREDIT HAS BEEN EXTENDED
The $8000 tax credit for first time homebuyer's has been extended. The program was expanded to include a $6500 tax credit on the purchase of a new home to apply to people who have owned a home for at least five years.
Income restrictions will be relaxed, meaning more people could take advantage of the program.
The bill would extend it to apply to home purchases under contract before May 1, 2010
Great news! Watch for more details.
Give us a call for all of your Real Estate needs.You can reach us directly at 817-337-5169 or on the web at www.soldteam.net
Texas Sold Team Realty, LLC
CRS, e-Pro, ABR, Luxury Real Estate Expert
Information provided by Pam Taylor with WR Starkey Mortgage
The $8000 tax credit for first time homebuyer's has been extended. The program was expanded to include a $6500 tax credit on the purchase of a new home to apply to people who have owned a home for at least five years.
Income restrictions will be relaxed, meaning more people could take advantage of the program.
The bill would extend it to apply to home purchases under contract before May 1, 2010
Great news! Watch for more details.
Give us a call for all of your Real Estate needs.You can reach us directly at 817-337-5169 or on the web at www.soldteam.net
Texas Sold Team Realty, LLC
CRS, e-Pro, ABR, Luxury Real Estate Expert
Information provided by Pam Taylor with WR Starkey Mortgage
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Existing-Home Sales Ease Following 4 Monthly Gains
Existing-Home Sales Ease Following 4 Monthly Gains
RISMEDIA, September 28, 2009—Existing-home sales in August 2009 gave back some of their strong gain in July but remain above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Existing-home sales- including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops- declined 2.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 million units in August from a pace of 5.24 million in July, but remain 3.4% above the 4.93 million-unit level in August 2008. In the previous four months, sales had risen a total of 15.2%.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the tax credit is working. “Home sales retrenched from a very strong improvement in July but continue to be much higher than before the stimulus. The first-time buyer tax credit is having the intended impact of bringing buyers into the market, allowing them to take advantage of very favorable affordability conditions,” he said. “Some of the give-back in closed sales appears to result from rising numbers of contracts entering the system, with some fallouts and a backlog contributing to a longer closing process, but the decline demonstrates we can’t take a housing rebound for granted.”
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to 5.19% in August from 5.22% in July; the rate was 6.48% in August 2008.
An NAR practitioner survey shows first-time buyers purchased 30% of homes in August, and that distressed homes accounted for 31% of transactions; both were unchanged from July. “The recent trend shows broad improvement in most of the country, but with an expected rise in foreclosures over the next 12 months we need to maintain a healthy level of ready buyers to absorb the inventory. An extension of the tax credit is critical to preserve incentives for financially qualified buyers to enter the market,” Yun said.
He added that many buyers had been on the sidelines during the past few years, waiting for signs of stabilization. “Now that the market is showing some momentum, we have an opportunity to achieve a more rapid and broader stabilization in home prices. Extending and expanding the tax credit also would help to keep other families from becoming upside down in their mortgages or risk foreclosure,” Yun said.
“When home prices show sustained gains, credit will become more widely available to other sectors because Wall Street will be able to price risks confidently. Stable home values will also allow more families to purchase consumer products and provide a strong boost for the broader economy.”
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, said time is running very short for the existing tax credit. “Because it’s generally taking 60 days to close on a home after a contract is offered, buyers have little time to act to complete a purchase by the November 30 deadline,” he said. “There’s no guarantee what Congress might do, so there’s really no time to waste. Since Realtors® have unparalleled knowledge of local markets, they can also advise first-time buyers on any additional state or local programs that might be able to offer them financial assistance, and help them close on a home before the tax credit expires.”
Total housing inventory at the end of August fell 10.8% to 3.62 million existing homes available for sale, which represents an 8.5-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 9.3-month supply in July. Unsold inventory totals are 16.4% lower than a year ago. The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $177,700 in August, down 12.5% from August 2008. Distressed properties continue to downwardly distort the median price because they generally sell for 15 to 20% less than traditional homes. Single-family home sales fell 2.% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.48 million in August from a level of 4.61 million in July, but are 2.55 higher than the 4.37 million-unit pace in August 2008. The median existing single-family home price was $177,500 in August, down 12.1% from a year ago. Existing condominium and co-op sales slipped 1.6% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 620,000 units in August from a spike of 630,000 in July, but are 10.1% higher than the 563,000-unit level a year ago. The median existing condo price was $179,300 in August, which is 15.7% below August 2008.
Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast declined 2.2% to an annual pace of 910,000 in August, but are 5.8% above August 2008. The median price in the Northeast was $241,100, which is 10.5% below a year ago. Existing-home sales in the Midwest fell 6.6% in August to a level of 1.14 million but are unchanged from a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $149,900, down 10.4% from August 2008. In the South, existing-home sales were down 3.1% to an annual pace of 1.89 million in August but are 1.6% above August 2008. The median price in the South was $157,400, which is 11.0% below a year ago. Existing-home sales in the West declined 2.7% to an annual rate of 1.16 million in August but are 7.4% higher than a year ago. The median price in the West was $220,500, down 12.2% from August 2008.
For more information, visit www.realtor.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-09-27/existing-home-sales-ease-following-4-monthly-gains/#ixzz0SVdAMpNc
RISMEDIA, September 28, 2009—Existing-home sales in August 2009 gave back some of their strong gain in July but remain above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Existing-home sales- including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops- declined 2.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 million units in August from a pace of 5.24 million in July, but remain 3.4% above the 4.93 million-unit level in August 2008. In the previous four months, sales had risen a total of 15.2%.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the tax credit is working. “Home sales retrenched from a very strong improvement in July but continue to be much higher than before the stimulus. The first-time buyer tax credit is having the intended impact of bringing buyers into the market, allowing them to take advantage of very favorable affordability conditions,” he said. “Some of the give-back in closed sales appears to result from rising numbers of contracts entering the system, with some fallouts and a backlog contributing to a longer closing process, but the decline demonstrates we can’t take a housing rebound for granted.”
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to 5.19% in August from 5.22% in July; the rate was 6.48% in August 2008.
An NAR practitioner survey shows first-time buyers purchased 30% of homes in August, and that distressed homes accounted for 31% of transactions; both were unchanged from July. “The recent trend shows broad improvement in most of the country, but with an expected rise in foreclosures over the next 12 months we need to maintain a healthy level of ready buyers to absorb the inventory. An extension of the tax credit is critical to preserve incentives for financially qualified buyers to enter the market,” Yun said.
He added that many buyers had been on the sidelines during the past few years, waiting for signs of stabilization. “Now that the market is showing some momentum, we have an opportunity to achieve a more rapid and broader stabilization in home prices. Extending and expanding the tax credit also would help to keep other families from becoming upside down in their mortgages or risk foreclosure,” Yun said.
“When home prices show sustained gains, credit will become more widely available to other sectors because Wall Street will be able to price risks confidently. Stable home values will also allow more families to purchase consumer products and provide a strong boost for the broader economy.”
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, said time is running very short for the existing tax credit. “Because it’s generally taking 60 days to close on a home after a contract is offered, buyers have little time to act to complete a purchase by the November 30 deadline,” he said. “There’s no guarantee what Congress might do, so there’s really no time to waste. Since Realtors® have unparalleled knowledge of local markets, they can also advise first-time buyers on any additional state or local programs that might be able to offer them financial assistance, and help them close on a home before the tax credit expires.”
Total housing inventory at the end of August fell 10.8% to 3.62 million existing homes available for sale, which represents an 8.5-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 9.3-month supply in July. Unsold inventory totals are 16.4% lower than a year ago. The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $177,700 in August, down 12.5% from August 2008. Distressed properties continue to downwardly distort the median price because they generally sell for 15 to 20% less than traditional homes. Single-family home sales fell 2.% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.48 million in August from a level of 4.61 million in July, but are 2.55 higher than the 4.37 million-unit pace in August 2008. The median existing single-family home price was $177,500 in August, down 12.1% from a year ago. Existing condominium and co-op sales slipped 1.6% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 620,000 units in August from a spike of 630,000 in July, but are 10.1% higher than the 563,000-unit level a year ago. The median existing condo price was $179,300 in August, which is 15.7% below August 2008.
Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast declined 2.2% to an annual pace of 910,000 in August, but are 5.8% above August 2008. The median price in the Northeast was $241,100, which is 10.5% below a year ago. Existing-home sales in the Midwest fell 6.6% in August to a level of 1.14 million but are unchanged from a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $149,900, down 10.4% from August 2008. In the South, existing-home sales were down 3.1% to an annual pace of 1.89 million in August but are 1.6% above August 2008. The median price in the South was $157,400, which is 11.0% below a year ago. Existing-home sales in the West declined 2.7% to an annual rate of 1.16 million in August but are 7.4% higher than a year ago. The median price in the West was $220,500, down 12.2% from August 2008.
For more information, visit www.realtor.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-09-27/existing-home-sales-ease-following-4-monthly-gains/#ixzz0SVdAMpNc
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
First-Time Buyers Race to Beat the Clock, Qualify for $8,000 Federal Tax Credit
First-Time Buyers Race to Beat the Clock, Qualify for $8,000 Federal Tax Credit
RISMEDIA, September 15, 2009—First-time home buyers have just 12 weeks to find and close on a home to qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit before the November 30th deadline. Those just beginning the process will have to beat the average time it takes to buy a home, a challenge smart buyers can meet even though it’s taking longer today to close most transactions.
Two significant challenges first-time buyers face today include the potential for a lengthy process related to search and closing if not managed carefully at every step, and intensified competition. On average, first-time buyers search 12 weeks to find a home, while closing can take up to 60 days, depending on individual circumstances and local regulations. Additionally, the tax credit has proved to be extremely popular this year, since taking advantage of the first-time homebuyer’s Federal tax credit and relevant state incentives is the most important reason motivating 10.8% of buyers today. In fact, approximately 1.14 million buyers have already filed for the credit. Many more are expected to file for the credit when income taxes are due April 2010.
Still, while time is short and competition high, historically high affordability is a major factor driving first-time home buyers today, a growing group accounting for one third of all purchases in July 2009. The National Association of Realtors’ affordability index in July 2009 was 36.0 percentage points higher than July 2008. Under these conditions the typical median-income family can allocate 15.8% of their gross income to mortgage payments, well below the traditional allowance of 25%. Interest rates, which play a major factor in affordability, remain low, at 5.22% in July for a 30-year fixed rate loan.
Realtor.com President Errol Samuelson explains, “The national median home today costs approximately 174,100. By moving quickly to find and close on a home by November 30, first-time buyers qualifying for the $8,000 tax credit can actually purchase this same home for only $166,100, an almost four and a half percent discount off of the price of a typical new home. Because affordability this year is at its highest level in 28 years, and the market offers an incredible selection of homes within reach of most first-time buyers, we expect their numbers to grow as they pursue today’s once in a generation opportunity to become homeowners.”
Samuelson suggests that by combining effective use of technology and the greater access to information it delivers with expert advice from local Realtors, today’s first-time home buyers can beat the clock and use the $8,000 Federal tax credit along with any available state-level credits to purchase a home under the November 30 deadline. “By moving quickly, being prepared to make decisions in the face of increased competition, and taking the learnings from others to reduce time without cutting corners, first-time home buyers starting today can close on time and qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit,” added Samuelson. “To help this important group trying to enter today’s market, Realtor.com offers tips and expert advice that can help expedite the search, negotiation, finance and closing processes so they can beat the clock.”
Tips for the first time home buyer starting their search today:
-Searching – Search While You Sleep – Since 87% of all buyers start online, you probably will too. On Realtor.com it’s easy to sign up for email alerts and create personal portfolios for homes of interest. Soon you’ll be searching while you sleep, at the office or even while you’re at an open house. You’ll be the first to know if a home you want comes up for sale or receives a price reduction.
-Negotiating - Freshness counts. You don’t have time to look at unavailable homes. Stale data on prices, time on market, features, or property values puts you at a disadvantage when negotiating.
-Appraisals - Appraisals can be a problem today; make sure the lender can deliver the appraisal on time. Your loan will not be approved if it doesn’t appraise for the agreed price, so don’t delay. If the property doesn’t appraise for the bid price, ask for a desk appraisal; you’ll receive a second look.
-Finance - Don’t let the financing process slow you down; 35% of first-time buyers find the mortgage application and approval process more difficult than what they expected. Start saving pay stubs and bank statements now. Collect your tax returns; anything proving your income qualifies you for the home you want.
-Closing - Get your insurance company and the home owner association, if applicable, to forward a cost estimate to the escrow company early. This will make it easier for them to more accurately estimate your closing costs, which in many states must be paid in cash at closing.
For more information, visit www.realtor.com.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-09-14/first-time-buyers-race-to-beat-the-clock-qualify-for-8000-federal-tax-credit/#ixzz0RIOBnCDt
RISMEDIA, September 15, 2009—First-time home buyers have just 12 weeks to find and close on a home to qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit before the November 30th deadline. Those just beginning the process will have to beat the average time it takes to buy a home, a challenge smart buyers can meet even though it’s taking longer today to close most transactions.
Two significant challenges first-time buyers face today include the potential for a lengthy process related to search and closing if not managed carefully at every step, and intensified competition. On average, first-time buyers search 12 weeks to find a home, while closing can take up to 60 days, depending on individual circumstances and local regulations. Additionally, the tax credit has proved to be extremely popular this year, since taking advantage of the first-time homebuyer’s Federal tax credit and relevant state incentives is the most important reason motivating 10.8% of buyers today. In fact, approximately 1.14 million buyers have already filed for the credit. Many more are expected to file for the credit when income taxes are due April 2010.
Still, while time is short and competition high, historically high affordability is a major factor driving first-time home buyers today, a growing group accounting for one third of all purchases in July 2009. The National Association of Realtors’ affordability index in July 2009 was 36.0 percentage points higher than July 2008. Under these conditions the typical median-income family can allocate 15.8% of their gross income to mortgage payments, well below the traditional allowance of 25%. Interest rates, which play a major factor in affordability, remain low, at 5.22% in July for a 30-year fixed rate loan.
Realtor.com President Errol Samuelson explains, “The national median home today costs approximately 174,100. By moving quickly to find and close on a home by November 30, first-time buyers qualifying for the $8,000 tax credit can actually purchase this same home for only $166,100, an almost four and a half percent discount off of the price of a typical new home. Because affordability this year is at its highest level in 28 years, and the market offers an incredible selection of homes within reach of most first-time buyers, we expect their numbers to grow as they pursue today’s once in a generation opportunity to become homeowners.”
Samuelson suggests that by combining effective use of technology and the greater access to information it delivers with expert advice from local Realtors, today’s first-time home buyers can beat the clock and use the $8,000 Federal tax credit along with any available state-level credits to purchase a home under the November 30 deadline. “By moving quickly, being prepared to make decisions in the face of increased competition, and taking the learnings from others to reduce time without cutting corners, first-time home buyers starting today can close on time and qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit,” added Samuelson. “To help this important group trying to enter today’s market, Realtor.com offers tips and expert advice that can help expedite the search, negotiation, finance and closing processes so they can beat the clock.”
Tips for the first time home buyer starting their search today:
-Searching – Search While You Sleep – Since 87% of all buyers start online, you probably will too. On Realtor.com it’s easy to sign up for email alerts and create personal portfolios for homes of interest. Soon you’ll be searching while you sleep, at the office or even while you’re at an open house. You’ll be the first to know if a home you want comes up for sale or receives a price reduction.
-Negotiating - Freshness counts. You don’t have time to look at unavailable homes. Stale data on prices, time on market, features, or property values puts you at a disadvantage when negotiating.
-Appraisals - Appraisals can be a problem today; make sure the lender can deliver the appraisal on time. Your loan will not be approved if it doesn’t appraise for the agreed price, so don’t delay. If the property doesn’t appraise for the bid price, ask for a desk appraisal; you’ll receive a second look.
-Finance - Don’t let the financing process slow you down; 35% of first-time buyers find the mortgage application and approval process more difficult than what they expected. Start saving pay stubs and bank statements now. Collect your tax returns; anything proving your income qualifies you for the home you want.
-Closing - Get your insurance company and the home owner association, if applicable, to forward a cost estimate to the escrow company early. This will make it easier for them to more accurately estimate your closing costs, which in many states must be paid in cash at closing.
For more information, visit www.realtor.com.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-09-14/first-time-buyers-race-to-beat-the-clock-qualify-for-8000-federal-tax-credit/#ixzz0RIOBnCDt
Friday, September 4, 2009
Happy Labor Day
Labor Day is more than just an extra day off from work or simply the last fling of summer. It's a much-deserved rest in recognition of the hard work and daily disciplines that fuel our businesses and drive our economy.
We hope you enjoy this time relaxing with friends and loved ones.
You deserve it.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Only 90 days left ot use the $8,000 Tax Credit!
Did you know it can take up to 30 days to close a home using the $8,000 Tax Credit? You have even less than 90 days to use it before the end of November!
Contact us today to get your first home before November! We can help!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
National Dog Day - August 26th
This summer, take some time to recognize the important canine in your life. Founded by pet expert and author Colleen Paige, National Dog Day on August 26th serves as a day to acknowledge those dogs that selflessly devote each day to save lives, keep us safe and be our loyal companions. Although many Americans maintain a deep love and affection for animals, the American Humane Association reports that at least 3.7 million healthy dogs and cats are euthanized in the U.S. each year, rather than adopted or reclaimed by their owners.
National Dog Day serves as an opportunity to make the public aware of the large number of dogs that need to be rescued each year. This August 26th, recognize the value and impact your dog has on your life by making a vow to love and protect the unfortunate canines who are abandoned and left without loving homes in the U.S. each year.
Check out more info at http://www.nationaldogday.com/about.html
Friday, August 21, 2009
What Would You Do With $8,000?
What Would You Do With $8,000?
What if the government decided today that, instead of bailing out Wall Street, it was going to give every American $8,000? What would you do with the money?
For most Americans, paying off credit card debt would be a great way to use the free money. According to a Nilson Report released in April 2009, the average credit card debt per household in the US was $8,329 at the end of 2008. That money from the government would almost wipe out your debt completely. Imagine being completely debt free.
Healthcare is a big topic these days. According to the most current Census Bureau statistics, some 45.7 million Americans do not have health insurance. So, many Americans might choose to use their $8,000 to enroll their family in a healthcare program through their employer. The federal government tracks the average spending on health insurance for people with job-based coverage, and the most recent figures (from 2005!) indicate that the average individual's premiums were $3,991, while families spent an average of $10,728. Your $8,000 would go a long way in insuring your family.
Some Americans might choose to start a small business. Experts estimate that start-up costs for many new business ventures are between $10,000 - $15,000. With $8,000, a large portion of your initial investment would be covered.
If you really think about it, there are so many things you could do with $8,000. You could open a 529 college savings plan. You could add your 8 grand to the government's $4,500 Cash for Clunkers plan and buy a new car. You could take your family on an amazing once-in-a-lifetime vacation. You could open an IRA and save for retirement...
But what's the point in dreaming. The government's not giving away $8,000, right?
Wrong.
Right now, through November 30th of this year only, the government is giving qualifying first-time home buyers up to $8,000 for purchasing a home (or up to 10% of the purchase price). This is free money that you do not have to pay back. And here's the best part: if you qualify, you can get your money from the IRS this year, even if you've already filed your 2008 taxes.
There are, of course, limitations and other qualifying factors, but they are all pretty reasonable and easy to explain, and we'll be glad to discuss these with you or anyone you know who is looking to buy a home. With today's combination of lower home prices and lower interest rates, this temporary incentive from the government is really a great option for many Americans who act now to finally fulfill their dreams of owning a home.
What if the government decided today that, instead of bailing out Wall Street, it was going to give every American $8,000? What would you do with the money?
For most Americans, paying off credit card debt would be a great way to use the free money. According to a Nilson Report released in April 2009, the average credit card debt per household in the US was $8,329 at the end of 2008. That money from the government would almost wipe out your debt completely. Imagine being completely debt free.
Healthcare is a big topic these days. According to the most current Census Bureau statistics, some 45.7 million Americans do not have health insurance. So, many Americans might choose to use their $8,000 to enroll their family in a healthcare program through their employer. The federal government tracks the average spending on health insurance for people with job-based coverage, and the most recent figures (from 2005!) indicate that the average individual's premiums were $3,991, while families spent an average of $10,728. Your $8,000 would go a long way in insuring your family.
Some Americans might choose to start a small business. Experts estimate that start-up costs for many new business ventures are between $10,000 - $15,000. With $8,000, a large portion of your initial investment would be covered.
If you really think about it, there are so many things you could do with $8,000. You could open a 529 college savings plan. You could add your 8 grand to the government's $4,500 Cash for Clunkers plan and buy a new car. You could take your family on an amazing once-in-a-lifetime vacation. You could open an IRA and save for retirement...
But what's the point in dreaming. The government's not giving away $8,000, right?
Wrong.
Right now, through November 30th of this year only, the government is giving qualifying first-time home buyers up to $8,000 for purchasing a home (or up to 10% of the purchase price). This is free money that you do not have to pay back. And here's the best part: if you qualify, you can get your money from the IRS this year, even if you've already filed your 2008 taxes.
There are, of course, limitations and other qualifying factors, but they are all pretty reasonable and easy to explain, and we'll be glad to discuss these with you or anyone you know who is looking to buy a home. With today's combination of lower home prices and lower interest rates, this temporary incentive from the government is really a great option for many Americans who act now to finally fulfill their dreams of owning a home.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Tax-Free Weekend
Tax-Free Weekend
We are a week away from the back to school bell, and this weekend we will all be scrambling to get those last minute items. Shoppers can get a break this weekend from sales tax with the states annual tax holiday beginning Friday and extending through Sunday. This saves shoppers about $8 for every $100 spend. New items added to the list this year are backpacks, and most school supplies, that include binders, folders, lunch boxes, pens, pencils calculators, book bags and much more.
For more detailed information click on the link below
Texas Tax Holiday Official Page
We are a week away from the back to school bell, and this weekend we will all be scrambling to get those last minute items. Shoppers can get a break this weekend from sales tax with the states annual tax holiday beginning Friday and extending through Sunday. This saves shoppers about $8 for every $100 spend. New items added to the list this year are backpacks, and most school supplies, that include binders, folders, lunch boxes, pens, pencils calculators, book bags and much more.
For more detailed information click on the link below
Texas Tax Holiday Official Page
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Pending Home Sales up for Fifth Consecutive Month
Pending Home Sales up for Fifth Consecutive Month
RISMEDIA, August 5, 2009-Pending home sales are up for the fifth consecutive month, the first time in six years for such a streak, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in June, rose 3.6% to 94.6 from an upwardly revised reading of 91.3 in May, and is 6.7% above June 2008 when it was 88.7. The last time there were five consecutive monthly gains was in July 2003.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said a combination of positive market factors is fueling the gains. “Historically low mortgage interest rates, affordable home prices and large selection are encouraging buyers who’ve been on the sidelines. Activity has been consistently much stronger for lower priced homes,” he said. ”Because it may take as long as two months to close on a home after signing a contract, first-time buyers must act fairly soon to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit because they must close on the sale by November 30.”
The Pending Home Sales Index in the Northeast rose 0.4% to 81.2 in June and is 5.8% above a year ago. In the Midwest the index increased 0.8% to 89.9 and is 11.6% above June 2008. The index in the South jumped 7.1% to 100.7 in June and is 8.9% higher than a year ago. In the West the index rose 2.9% to 100.4 but is 0.2% below June 2008.
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, is hopeful that a recently elevated level of contract cancellations will ease. “Last month, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae clarified that appraisals should be done by professionals with clear local expertise,” he said. “This should mitigate the situation of many valuations done by out-of-area appraisers coming in below the price negotiated between buyers and sellers. Hopefully, in the months ahead, we’ll see an even closer relationship between contract activity and closed transactions.” McMillan said NAR is continuing to press the appraisal issue. “We have asked Congress and the Federal Housing Finance Agency to immediately implement an 18-month moratorium on the new appraisal rules to further address unintended consequences of the new guidelines,” he said.
NAR’s Housing Affordability Index (HAI) remains very favorable. The affordability index stood at 159.2 in July, down from record peaks in recent months but it remains 36.6 percentage points above a year ago. Under these conditions the typical family would devote 15.7% of gross income to mortgage principal and interest, well below the standard allowance of 25%. The HAI is a broad measure of housing affordability using consistent values and assumptions over time, which examines the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income.
“A monthly rise in home prices and somewhat higher mortgage interest rates led to a modest decline in affordability in June, but it was still the sixth highest index on record dating back to 1970,” Yun said. “Because housing is so affordable in today’s market, job security and the first-time buyer tax credit are bigger factors in influencing home sales.”
A median-income family, earning $60,700, could afford a home costing $289,100 in June with a 20% downpayment, assuming 25% of gross income is devoted to mortgage principal and interest. Affordability conditions for first-time buyers with the same income and small downpayments are roughly 80% of what a median-income family can afford. The affordable price was much higher than the median existing single-family home price in June, which was $181,600.
Yun expects existing-home sales to gradually rise over the balance of the year, with conditions varying around the country. “It appears home sales are on a sounder footing and inventory is gradually being absorbed.”
For more information, visit www.realtor.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-08-04/pending-home-sales-up-for-fifth-consecutive-month/#ixzz0NFTbnzEY
RISMEDIA, August 5, 2009-Pending home sales are up for the fifth consecutive month, the first time in six years for such a streak, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in June, rose 3.6% to 94.6 from an upwardly revised reading of 91.3 in May, and is 6.7% above June 2008 when it was 88.7. The last time there were five consecutive monthly gains was in July 2003.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said a combination of positive market factors is fueling the gains. “Historically low mortgage interest rates, affordable home prices and large selection are encouraging buyers who’ve been on the sidelines. Activity has been consistently much stronger for lower priced homes,” he said. ”Because it may take as long as two months to close on a home after signing a contract, first-time buyers must act fairly soon to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit because they must close on the sale by November 30.”
The Pending Home Sales Index in the Northeast rose 0.4% to 81.2 in June and is 5.8% above a year ago. In the Midwest the index increased 0.8% to 89.9 and is 11.6% above June 2008. The index in the South jumped 7.1% to 100.7 in June and is 8.9% higher than a year ago. In the West the index rose 2.9% to 100.4 but is 0.2% below June 2008.
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, is hopeful that a recently elevated level of contract cancellations will ease. “Last month, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae clarified that appraisals should be done by professionals with clear local expertise,” he said. “This should mitigate the situation of many valuations done by out-of-area appraisers coming in below the price negotiated between buyers and sellers. Hopefully, in the months ahead, we’ll see an even closer relationship between contract activity and closed transactions.” McMillan said NAR is continuing to press the appraisal issue. “We have asked Congress and the Federal Housing Finance Agency to immediately implement an 18-month moratorium on the new appraisal rules to further address unintended consequences of the new guidelines,” he said.
NAR’s Housing Affordability Index (HAI) remains very favorable. The affordability index stood at 159.2 in July, down from record peaks in recent months but it remains 36.6 percentage points above a year ago. Under these conditions the typical family would devote 15.7% of gross income to mortgage principal and interest, well below the standard allowance of 25%. The HAI is a broad measure of housing affordability using consistent values and assumptions over time, which examines the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income.
“A monthly rise in home prices and somewhat higher mortgage interest rates led to a modest decline in affordability in June, but it was still the sixth highest index on record dating back to 1970,” Yun said. “Because housing is so affordable in today’s market, job security and the first-time buyer tax credit are bigger factors in influencing home sales.”
A median-income family, earning $60,700, could afford a home costing $289,100 in June with a 20% downpayment, assuming 25% of gross income is devoted to mortgage principal and interest. Affordability conditions for first-time buyers with the same income and small downpayments are roughly 80% of what a median-income family can afford. The affordable price was much higher than the median existing single-family home price in June, which was $181,600.
Yun expects existing-home sales to gradually rise over the balance of the year, with conditions varying around the country. “It appears home sales are on a sounder footing and inventory is gradually being absorbed.”
For more information, visit www.realtor.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-08-04/pending-home-sales-up-for-fifth-consecutive-month/#ixzz0NFTbnzEY
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Energy Saving Tips - Free and Low Cost Recommendations
Free and Low Cost Recommendations
Replace Light Bulbs
Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and save 75% off lighting costs.
Unplug Electronics
Unplug electronics, battery chargers and other equipment when not in use. Taken together, these small items can use as much power as your refrigerator.
Save Water
Installing faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads will cut water heating costs by 50% and save up to $300 per year. It will also cut water use by up to 50%. As much as 19% of California electricity is used to pump, transport and treat water.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Setting your air conditioner 5° higher will save up to 20% on cooling costs.
Buy Energy Efficient Appliances
Always buy ENERGY STAR qualified appliances and equipment - they're up to 40% more efficient. Find rebates and incentives in your area using our rebate finder.
Adjust Your Water Heater
Turn your water heater down to 120° or the "Normal" setting when home, and to the lowest setting when away. Water heating accounts for about 13% of home energy costs.
Keep Cool With Ceiling Fans
Reduce air conditioning costs by using fans, keeping windows and doors shut and closing shades during the day. Most ceiling fans use less energy than a light bulb.
Be Smart About Lighting
Turn off unnecessary lighting and use task or desktop lamps with CFLs instead of overhead lights.
Power Down Your Computer
Enable "power management" on all computers and make sure to turn them off at night. A laptop computer uses up to 90% less energy than bigger desktop models.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water
When possible, wash clothes in cold water. About 90% of the energy used in a clothes washer goes to water heating.
Load Up Your Dishwasher
Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when fully loaded. Fewer loads reduce energy and water use.
Maintain Your Clothes Dryer
Make sure your dryer's outside vent is clear and clean the lint filter after every load. When shopping for a new dryer look for one with a moisture sensor that automatically shuts off when clothes are dry.
Find and Seal Leaks
Sealing cracks, gaps, leaks and adding insulation can save up to 20% on home heating and cooling costs.
Test for air leaks by holding a lit incense stick next to windows, doors, electrical boxes, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, ceiling fixtures, attic hatches and other locations where there is a possible air path to the outside. If the smoke stream travels horizontally, you have located an air leak that may need caulking, sealing or weather stripping.
Replace Light Bulbs
Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and save 75% off lighting costs.
Unplug Electronics
Unplug electronics, battery chargers and other equipment when not in use. Taken together, these small items can use as much power as your refrigerator.
Save Water
Installing faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads will cut water heating costs by 50% and save up to $300 per year. It will also cut water use by up to 50%. As much as 19% of California electricity is used to pump, transport and treat water.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Setting your air conditioner 5° higher will save up to 20% on cooling costs.
Buy Energy Efficient Appliances
Always buy ENERGY STAR qualified appliances and equipment - they're up to 40% more efficient. Find rebates and incentives in your area using our rebate finder.
Adjust Your Water Heater
Turn your water heater down to 120° or the "Normal" setting when home, and to the lowest setting when away. Water heating accounts for about 13% of home energy costs.
Keep Cool With Ceiling Fans
Reduce air conditioning costs by using fans, keeping windows and doors shut and closing shades during the day. Most ceiling fans use less energy than a light bulb.
Be Smart About Lighting
Turn off unnecessary lighting and use task or desktop lamps with CFLs instead of overhead lights.
Power Down Your Computer
Enable "power management" on all computers and make sure to turn them off at night. A laptop computer uses up to 90% less energy than bigger desktop models.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water
When possible, wash clothes in cold water. About 90% of the energy used in a clothes washer goes to water heating.
Load Up Your Dishwasher
Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when fully loaded. Fewer loads reduce energy and water use.
Maintain Your Clothes Dryer
Make sure your dryer's outside vent is clear and clean the lint filter after every load. When shopping for a new dryer look for one with a moisture sensor that automatically shuts off when clothes are dry.
Find and Seal Leaks
Sealing cracks, gaps, leaks and adding insulation can save up to 20% on home heating and cooling costs.
Test for air leaks by holding a lit incense stick next to windows, doors, electrical boxes, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, ceiling fixtures, attic hatches and other locations where there is a possible air path to the outside. If the smoke stream travels horizontally, you have located an air leak that may need caulking, sealing or weather stripping.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Carroll Suspends Out-of-District Activities, Monitors North American Influenza Situation
Carroll ISD suspended out-of-district travel and out-of-district activities this week in an effort to minimize student and staff risks of exposure to the North American Influenza (H1N1), formerly known as swine flu. Although no cases have been confirmed in Carroll ISD, Superintendent David Faltys said district officials are following the lead of federal and state health officials, area school districts and the University Interscholastic League. In an unprecedented move, the UIL suspended all interscholastic activities for public schools in the state of Texas until May 11. The decision was made in an effort to prevent students from intermingling with other students in various parts of the state. Later that evening Fort Worth ISD closed all 140 of its campuses at the direction of health officials. In addition Cleburne ISD has closed and several other North Texas districts are awaiting tests results. Mayfest and other outside group activities in Fort Worth have also been canceled.
Carroll officials suspended field trips and out-of-district travel. The aquatics center was closed to the public, but will remain available for Carroll ISD classes and practices. The district initially limited in-district activities, as well, but after further assessing the situation, Dr. Faltys announced this afternoon that local, in-district activities will be allowed for now. Information can change at any time and CISD will continue its commitment to provide open and honest communication to the families of our district. We still have no confirmed cases of this flu strain in Carroll ISD, but we are working to educate and minimize risk. Please know that the safety of our students is our top priority as we monitor this ongoing situation.
CISD's goal in announcing the suspension of out-of-district travel and activities yesterday was, and remains today, to minimize the risks to our students and staff. Since that announcement, a number of related questions surfaced, and school administrators met today to consider those questions. The state and county health departments have recommended what they call "community-level social distancing" to help prevent the spread of this strain of influenza.
After reviewing the additional school closures, information from the Texas Education Agency and input by our local staff, Superintendent Faltys provided the following clarifications:
- The suspension of all out-of-district field trips and travel remains in effect until further notice. The state's recommendation to use May 8 as a guide will be our guide as well. The district does not recommend the canceling of trips or activities beyond that date at this point. We will meet as early as Monday, May 4 to assess the situation again.
- All in-district activities involving CISD students, staff and parents may continue. This includes concerts, local banquets and evening presentations involving families within our community. Certainly parents may always exercise their right to restrict participation if they do not want to attend or wish to limit their child's participation.
- The SAT test being administered by the College Board at Carroll Senior High School on Saturday will be held as planned.
- Community activities involving the rental of CISD facilities are permitted as well. This includes local church services, Boy Scout meetings, etc.
- Check the City of Southlake website for details on city-sponsored, joint-use activities as well as Parks and Recreation activities.
- Election day voting at Carroll High School will continue as planned.
It's our hope that these clarifications provide the public and our staff with the details necessary to plan and prepare for the next few days. The situation will involve ongoing review and further announcements as information becomes available. Carroll ISD will continue to utilize its website, parent calling system and emails to notify the public of changes.
Carroll ISD suspended out-of-district travel and out-of-district activities this week in an effort to minimize student and staff risks of exposure to the North American Influenza (H1N1), formerly known as swine flu. Although no cases have been confirmed in Carroll ISD, Superintendent David Faltys said district officials are following the lead of federal and state health officials, area school districts and the University Interscholastic League. In an unprecedented move, the UIL suspended all interscholastic activities for public schools in the state of Texas until May 11. The decision was made in an effort to prevent students from intermingling with other students in various parts of the state. Later that evening Fort Worth ISD closed all 140 of its campuses at the direction of health officials. In addition Cleburne ISD has closed and several other North Texas districts are awaiting tests results. Mayfest and other outside group activities in Fort Worth have also been canceled.
Carroll officials suspended field trips and out-of-district travel. The aquatics center was closed to the public, but will remain available for Carroll ISD classes and practices. The district initially limited in-district activities, as well, but after further assessing the situation, Dr. Faltys announced this afternoon that local, in-district activities will be allowed for now. Information can change at any time and CISD will continue its commitment to provide open and honest communication to the families of our district. We still have no confirmed cases of this flu strain in Carroll ISD, but we are working to educate and minimize risk. Please know that the safety of our students is our top priority as we monitor this ongoing situation.
CISD's goal in announcing the suspension of out-of-district travel and activities yesterday was, and remains today, to minimize the risks to our students and staff. Since that announcement, a number of related questions surfaced, and school administrators met today to consider those questions. The state and county health departments have recommended what they call "community-level social distancing" to help prevent the spread of this strain of influenza.
After reviewing the additional school closures, information from the Texas Education Agency and input by our local staff, Superintendent Faltys provided the following clarifications:
- The suspension of all out-of-district field trips and travel remains in effect until further notice. The state's recommendation to use May 8 as a guide will be our guide as well. The district does not recommend the canceling of trips or activities beyond that date at this point. We will meet as early as Monday, May 4 to assess the situation again.
- All in-district activities involving CISD students, staff and parents may continue. This includes concerts, local banquets and evening presentations involving families within our community. Certainly parents may always exercise their right to restrict participation if they do not want to attend or wish to limit their child's participation.
- The SAT test being administered by the College Board at Carroll Senior High School on Saturday will be held as planned.
- Community activities involving the rental of CISD facilities are permitted as well. This includes local church services, Boy Scout meetings, etc.
- Check the City of Southlake website for details on city-sponsored, joint-use activities as well as Parks and Recreation activities.
- Election day voting at Carroll High School will continue as planned.
It's our hope that these clarifications provide the public and our staff with the details necessary to plan and prepare for the next few days. The situation will involve ongoing review and further announcements as information becomes available. Carroll ISD will continue to utilize its website, parent calling system and emails to notify the public of changes.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Congress Should Encourage Home Energy Efficiency with Tax Cuts and Incentives
RISMEDIA, April 28, 2009-The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) called on Congress to ensure that legislation intended to make homes more energy efficient focuses on measures that provide the greatest environmental benefit without putting housing affordability at risk.
NAHB Construction, Codes and Standards Committee Chair Dwight “Sonny” Richardson, a home builder in Tuscaloosa, Ala., made several recommendations to the House Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment when he testified at a hearing on the American Clean Energy Security Act.
First, legislation must be flexible and include not just the savings achieved from insulated doors, windows and wall cavities, but also energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems - or a combination of insulation and appliance requirements depending on the home’s location or market preference. “Don’t modify codes and standards so that they can’t accommodate every state’s climate demands simultaneously or equally,” Richardson said.
Second, Congress should “extend, or make permanent” the tax credits passed earlier this year that incentivize the purchase of energy-efficient windows, additional insulation and other improvements in existing homes - where the greatest gains in energy efficiency are most likely to be realized, he said.
The funding available to encourage home owners to make these improvements should also be available to home buyers to help them pay for the additional costs associated with very efficient new homes, Richardson added.
Finally, “Congress must embrace the broadest possible green building policy and provide consideration for homes that comply with standards approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI),” which federal law gives preference over private guidelines and rating systems, he said.
As an example, Richardson pointed to the ICC-700 National Green Building Standard for residential construction, remodeling, and land development. “ANSI recognition of the National Green Building Standard is important because energy code targets by themselves cannot accommodate the more robust sustainability framework of green building, which achieves greater environmental performance as a whole over energy efficiency alone.”
And in all cases, Congress must acknowledge the need for housing affordability - not just to make it less expensive for consumers to live in homes with these improvements, but also to avoid pricing them out all together. “NAHB hopes that Congress will not impose policies that increase costs for newer, more energy efficient homes in a manner that relegates lower and moderate-income families to less-efficient older housing stock,” he concluded.
RISMedia welcomes your questions and comments. Send your e-mail to: realestatemagazinefeedback@rismedia.com.
RISMEDIA, April 28, 2009-The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) called on Congress to ensure that legislation intended to make homes more energy efficient focuses on measures that provide the greatest environmental benefit without putting housing affordability at risk.
NAHB Construction, Codes and Standards Committee Chair Dwight “Sonny” Richardson, a home builder in Tuscaloosa, Ala., made several recommendations to the House Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment when he testified at a hearing on the American Clean Energy Security Act.
First, legislation must be flexible and include not just the savings achieved from insulated doors, windows and wall cavities, but also energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems - or a combination of insulation and appliance requirements depending on the home’s location or market preference. “Don’t modify codes and standards so that they can’t accommodate every state’s climate demands simultaneously or equally,” Richardson said.
Second, Congress should “extend, or make permanent” the tax credits passed earlier this year that incentivize the purchase of energy-efficient windows, additional insulation and other improvements in existing homes - where the greatest gains in energy efficiency are most likely to be realized, he said.
The funding available to encourage home owners to make these improvements should also be available to home buyers to help them pay for the additional costs associated with very efficient new homes, Richardson added.
Finally, “Congress must embrace the broadest possible green building policy and provide consideration for homes that comply with standards approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI),” which federal law gives preference over private guidelines and rating systems, he said.
As an example, Richardson pointed to the ICC-700 National Green Building Standard for residential construction, remodeling, and land development. “ANSI recognition of the National Green Building Standard is important because energy code targets by themselves cannot accommodate the more robust sustainability framework of green building, which achieves greater environmental performance as a whole over energy efficiency alone.”
And in all cases, Congress must acknowledge the need for housing affordability - not just to make it less expensive for consumers to live in homes with these improvements, but also to avoid pricing them out all together. “NAHB hopes that Congress will not impose policies that increase costs for newer, more energy efficient homes in a manner that relegates lower and moderate-income families to less-efficient older housing stock,” he concluded.
RISMedia welcomes your questions and comments. Send your e-mail to: realestatemagazinefeedback@rismedia.com.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Crud Cruiser
The City of Southlake participates in a household hazardous waste disposal event sponsored by the City of Fort Worth called the Crud Cruiser. When the Crud Cruiser comes to town, Southlake residents have the opportunity to dispose of certain types of household hazardous waste.
The Crud Cruiser is coming to Southlake! The Crud Cruiser will be here in Spring 2009, date to be determined.
What is Accepted?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acids, aerosol cans, antifreeze, batteries (all kinds, including car batteries), brake fluid, cooking oil, craft chemicals, degreasers, drain cleaner, fertilizer, fluorescent light bulbs, herbicides, household chemicals, motor oil, gas and old gas cans, paints & stains, paint thinners, pest strips, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, photo chemicals, pool chemicals, oil filters, solvents, transmission fluid and varnish. Latex Paint is not considered a hazardous waste.
What is not Accepted?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ammunition, asbestos, building materials, butane cylinders, computer components, electronics, explosives, medical waste, PCBs, propane cylinders, radioactive material, smoke detectors, tires and TVs.
Need More Info?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have questions about a specific waste not listed above call the City of Fort Worth Environmental Collection Center 817-871-5276 to find out if it's accepted. For assistance, questions, or more information on proper handling and disposal of household hazardous wastes, contact Deputy Chief Bryan Thomas with the Southlake Fire Services at 817-748-8146.
You Should Also Know
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under a contract with the City of Fort Worth, Southlake residents also have the option of delivering household hazardous waste products to the Environmental Collection Center, located at 6400 Bridge Street. Residents should call 817-871-5257 for days and hours of operation. During the recorded message, you will hear the operator tell you to check with your city to see if you need a voucher. Southlake residents don't need a voucher, but do need to take a current copy of their water bill to prove their residency. This ensures that the Collection Center will charge the city, not you, for your participation.
Please keep in mind that the City pays $46 per drop-off regardless of the volume of items being delivered. As a result, the city urges residents to limit their trips to the drop-off center, or to combine their household hazardous waste products with those of their neighbors to make a single visit. For more information, visit the center's website .
The City of Southlake participates in a household hazardous waste disposal event sponsored by the City of Fort Worth called the Crud Cruiser. When the Crud Cruiser comes to town, Southlake residents have the opportunity to dispose of certain types of household hazardous waste.
The Crud Cruiser is coming to Southlake! The Crud Cruiser will be here in Spring 2009, date to be determined.
What is Accepted?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acids, aerosol cans, antifreeze, batteries (all kinds, including car batteries), brake fluid, cooking oil, craft chemicals, degreasers, drain cleaner, fertilizer, fluorescent light bulbs, herbicides, household chemicals, motor oil, gas and old gas cans, paints & stains, paint thinners, pest strips, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, photo chemicals, pool chemicals, oil filters, solvents, transmission fluid and varnish. Latex Paint is not considered a hazardous waste.
What is not Accepted?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ammunition, asbestos, building materials, butane cylinders, computer components, electronics, explosives, medical waste, PCBs, propane cylinders, radioactive material, smoke detectors, tires and TVs.
Need More Info?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have questions about a specific waste not listed above call the City of Fort Worth Environmental Collection Center 817-871-5276 to find out if it's accepted. For assistance, questions, or more information on proper handling and disposal of household hazardous wastes, contact Deputy Chief Bryan Thomas with the Southlake Fire Services at 817-748-8146.
You Should Also Know
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under a contract with the City of Fort Worth, Southlake residents also have the option of delivering household hazardous waste products to the Environmental Collection Center, located at 6400 Bridge Street. Residents should call 817-871-5257 for days and hours of operation. During the recorded message, you will hear the operator tell you to check with your city to see if you need a voucher. Southlake residents don't need a voucher, but do need to take a current copy of their water bill to prove their residency. This ensures that the Collection Center will charge the city, not you, for your participation.
Please keep in mind that the City pays $46 per drop-off regardless of the volume of items being delivered. As a result, the city urges residents to limit their trips to the drop-off center, or to combine their household hazardous waste products with those of their neighbors to make a single visit. For more information, visit the center's website .
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
SPIN INTO SPRING
The SPIN into Spring Garden Tour will take place Sunday, April 19, 2009 from 10am to 4pm. Tickets are available for purchase at Calloway’s Nursery and the Recreation Center Office at Bicentennial Park. For more information please go www.KeepSouthlakeBeautiful.com or call 817.748.8019.
The SPIN into Spring Garden Tour will take place Sunday, April 19, 2009 from 10am to 4pm. Tickets are available for purchase at Calloway’s Nursery and the Recreation Center Office at Bicentennial Park. For more information please go www.KeepSouthlakeBeautiful.com or call 817.748.8019.
Homeowner’s Security Survey
If you are interested in making your home more secure AND saving
money on your homeowner’s insurance rates, we offer another free
service to residents:
For Safety - The Security Survey is an inspection conducted on
your home by a certified Crime Prevention Officer. The officer
checks the interior and exterior of your home and discusses how
better to secure the premises. The officer draws up a plan specific to
your home, making recommendations about subjects such as locks,
lighting, landscaping, etc.
For an Insurance Discount - Texas law allows for a 5% insurance
rate discount if the residence meets certain basic requirements. If
your home meets these requirements, the Crime Prevention Officer
submits a report to the Texas Insurance Board for your rate reduction.
If your home fails to meet the requirements, the officer gives you a
report indicating how to bring it up to the insurance standards.
That same Texas law allows for a 15% discount if the residence
meets the basic requirements as well as certain advanced requirements.
This level requires a monitored alarm system connected to specific
windows and doors in the home.
For further information on this service, contact Corporal Mike
Bedrich at 817.748.8137. Corporal Bedrich will get forms to you
to fill out in advance and set an appointment to meet at your home
for the inspection. Please be aware that the insurance discount is not
immediate - this is one government entity dealing with another!
Colleyville Police Department can also provide this service.
Please contact Officer Bill Hudgins at (817) 503-1230 or by email
at hudginsb@ci.colleyville.tx.us
Best regards,
Rhonda Moore
Lieutenant, Community Initiatives Unit
871.748.8349
Southlake DPS
http://www.kencemedia.org/www.peelinc.com/newsletters/0704TM.pdf
If you are interested in making your home more secure AND saving
money on your homeowner’s insurance rates, we offer another free
service to residents:
For Safety - The Security Survey is an inspection conducted on
your home by a certified Crime Prevention Officer. The officer
checks the interior and exterior of your home and discusses how
better to secure the premises. The officer draws up a plan specific to
your home, making recommendations about subjects such as locks,
lighting, landscaping, etc.
For an Insurance Discount - Texas law allows for a 5% insurance
rate discount if the residence meets certain basic requirements. If
your home meets these requirements, the Crime Prevention Officer
submits a report to the Texas Insurance Board for your rate reduction.
If your home fails to meet the requirements, the officer gives you a
report indicating how to bring it up to the insurance standards.
That same Texas law allows for a 15% discount if the residence
meets the basic requirements as well as certain advanced requirements.
This level requires a monitored alarm system connected to specific
windows and doors in the home.
For further information on this service, contact Corporal Mike
Bedrich at 817.748.8137. Corporal Bedrich will get forms to you
to fill out in advance and set an appointment to meet at your home
for the inspection. Please be aware that the insurance discount is not
immediate - this is one government entity dealing with another!
Colleyville Police Department can also provide this service.
Please contact Officer Bill Hudgins at (817) 503-1230 or by email
at hudginsb@ci.colleyville.tx.us
Best regards,
Rhonda Moore
Lieutenant, Community Initiatives Unit
871.748.8349
Southlake DPS
http://www.kencemedia.org/www.peelinc.com/newsletters/0704TM.pdf
Thursday, April 2, 2009
A New Year, a New Statistic - Home Prices Plunge 19%
RISMEDIA, April 2, 2009-While the new year is a time for many to start over, a report released yesterday on U.S. housing prices may encourage many to start house shopping. Prices of single-family homes in the U.S. dropped a drastic 19% for the year from January 2008 through January 2009, according to Standard & Poor’s S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, one of the leading measures of U.S. home prices.
According to the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, 13 out of the 20 metro areas across the U.S. saw record rates of annual decline, while 14 areas reported declines in excess of 10%, compared with the rates in January 2008. Following the lead of the 14 metro areas, the 10-City Composite and the 20-City Composite also set new records, with annual declines of 19.4% and 19.0% respectively.
“Home prices, which peaked in mid-2006, continued their decline in 2009,” says David M. Blitzer, chairman of the Index committee at Standard and Poor’s. “There are very few bright spots that one can see in the data. Most of the nation appears to remain on a downward path, with all of the 20 metro areas reporting annual declines, and nine of the MSA’s falling more than 20 percent in the last year. Indeed, the two composites are very close to that rate and have been reporting consecutive annual declines since October 2007. The monthly data follows a similar trend, with the 10-City and 20-City Composite showing thirty consecutive months of negative returns.”
As of January 2009, average home prices across the U.S. are at similar levels to what they were in late 2003. From the peak in the second quarter of 2006, the 10-City Composite is down 30.2% and the 20-City Composite is down 29.1%.
While all 20 metro areas reported negative monthly and annual rates of change in average home prices, seven metro areas and the 20-City Composite recorded a record monthly decline in January. Seven metro areas reported declines in excess of 4% in January, with Phoenix leading at -5.5%. On a somewhat positive note, Cleveland, Los Angeles and Las Vegas reported a relative improvement in home prices in year-over-year returns, in terms of lesser rates of decline than the previous month’s values.
In terms of annual declines, the three worst performing cities are Phoenix (down 35%), Las Vegas (down 32.5%) and San Francisco (down 32.4%), while Dallas, Denver and Cleveland had the best results in terms of annual decline: 4.9%, 5.1% and 5.2%, respectively.
Looking at the data from peak-thru-January 2009, Dallas is the least hurt (down 10.8%), while Phoenix is down 48.5% from its peak in June 2006. The rate of decline from the individual heights of each marketplace show how much each market has taken back in terms of the gains they earned within the past 10-15 years. All 20 metro areas are in double digit declines from their peaks, with nine of the MSA’s reporting declines greater than 30% and five of those (Las Vegas, Miami, Phoenix, San Francisco, San Diego) in excess of 40%.
For more information, visit www.standardandpoors.com.
RISMEDIA, April 2, 2009-While the new year is a time for many to start over, a report released yesterday on U.S. housing prices may encourage many to start house shopping. Prices of single-family homes in the U.S. dropped a drastic 19% for the year from January 2008 through January 2009, according to Standard & Poor’s S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, one of the leading measures of U.S. home prices.
According to the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, 13 out of the 20 metro areas across the U.S. saw record rates of annual decline, while 14 areas reported declines in excess of 10%, compared with the rates in January 2008. Following the lead of the 14 metro areas, the 10-City Composite and the 20-City Composite also set new records, with annual declines of 19.4% and 19.0% respectively.
“Home prices, which peaked in mid-2006, continued their decline in 2009,” says David M. Blitzer, chairman of the Index committee at Standard and Poor’s. “There are very few bright spots that one can see in the data. Most of the nation appears to remain on a downward path, with all of the 20 metro areas reporting annual declines, and nine of the MSA’s falling more than 20 percent in the last year. Indeed, the two composites are very close to that rate and have been reporting consecutive annual declines since October 2007. The monthly data follows a similar trend, with the 10-City and 20-City Composite showing thirty consecutive months of negative returns.”
As of January 2009, average home prices across the U.S. are at similar levels to what they were in late 2003. From the peak in the second quarter of 2006, the 10-City Composite is down 30.2% and the 20-City Composite is down 29.1%.
While all 20 metro areas reported negative monthly and annual rates of change in average home prices, seven metro areas and the 20-City Composite recorded a record monthly decline in January. Seven metro areas reported declines in excess of 4% in January, with Phoenix leading at -5.5%. On a somewhat positive note, Cleveland, Los Angeles and Las Vegas reported a relative improvement in home prices in year-over-year returns, in terms of lesser rates of decline than the previous month’s values.
In terms of annual declines, the three worst performing cities are Phoenix (down 35%), Las Vegas (down 32.5%) and San Francisco (down 32.4%), while Dallas, Denver and Cleveland had the best results in terms of annual decline: 4.9%, 5.1% and 5.2%, respectively.
Looking at the data from peak-thru-January 2009, Dallas is the least hurt (down 10.8%), while Phoenix is down 48.5% from its peak in June 2006. The rate of decline from the individual heights of each marketplace show how much each market has taken back in terms of the gains they earned within the past 10-15 years. All 20 metro areas are in double digit declines from their peaks, with nine of the MSA’s reporting declines greater than 30% and five of those (Las Vegas, Miami, Phoenix, San Francisco, San Diego) in excess of 40%.
For more information, visit www.standardandpoors.com.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Maytag Recalls Refrigerators
March 10, 2009
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Name of product: Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand refrigerators.
Hazard: An electrical failure in the relay, the component that turns on the refrigerator's compressor, can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard. Description: The recall includes certain Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand side by side and top freezer refrigerators. The affected refrigerators were manufactured in black, bisque, white and stainless steel.
Sold at: Department and appliance stores and by homebuilders nationwide from January 2001 through January 2004.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MODELS AND SERIAL #'S - CLICK LINK BELOW
Maytag Recalls Refrigerators
provided by
Tammi Burgee * Senior Account Manager * 214 -732- 5999 * tammi.burgee@fnf.com www.homewarranty.com * 1-800-862-6837
March 10, 2009
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Name of product: Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand refrigerators.
Hazard: An electrical failure in the relay, the component that turns on the refrigerator's compressor, can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard. Description: The recall includes certain Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand side by side and top freezer refrigerators. The affected refrigerators were manufactured in black, bisque, white and stainless steel.
Sold at: Department and appliance stores and by homebuilders nationwide from January 2001 through January 2004.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MODELS AND SERIAL #'S - CLICK LINK BELOW
Maytag Recalls Refrigerators
provided by
Tammi Burgee * Senior Account Manager * 214 -732- 5999 * tammi.burgee@fnf.com www.homewarranty.com * 1-800-862-6837
Friday, February 20, 2009
Open House - 8949 Glendara Court, North Richland Hils, Texas - Come and see this great house this weekend with me!
Open House: Satuday, Feb. 21st - 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Open House: Sunday, Feb. 22nd - 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Won't Last Long
Act quickly and check out this new 4-bedroom/3.5-bath 4143-SF home, gameroom and only a short drive to Southlake Town Square and Northeaast Mall. Offers a formal living room with hardwood floors, distinguished family room with gas fireplace. Guaranteed to average $199 or less per month to heat and cool this gorgeous home. BISD.
Don't have time to come this weekend, no problem call me and we can set up a personal showing!
Joana Sweney
817-501-7309
Open House - 8109 Belmont Court, North Richland Hills, Texas --- Come and join me
Open House: Satuday, Feb. 21st - 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Open House: Sunday, Feb. 22nd - 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Open House
Come Get The Keys!
Everything is new and ready at this traditional 4-bedroom/3.5-bath home, gameroom and only an easy drive to Northeast Mall and Southlake Town Square. Guaranteed to average less than $199 per month to heat and cool! BISD
Can't make the open house this weekend - no problem call me and I will set up a personal showing
Joana Sweney
817-501-7309
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Spring Home Buying & Selling Guide
Is now the time to buy?
Yes, and here are five reasons why
No, these five challenges argue against
The housing downturn has helped affordability and mortgage rates are low, but home prices are still falling and job worries abound,
• A couple who jumped in, a renter who didn't
• Home builders don't see much hope for spring selling season
• Join our discussion: Has the housing market hit bottom?
Watch the video at http://www.marketwatch.com/video/asset/home-buyers-remain-cautious/7852A7FD-E572-440A-AC78-C8D31721A381
Is now the time to buy?
Yes, and here are five reasons why
No, these five challenges argue against
The housing downturn has helped affordability and mortgage rates are low, but home prices are still falling and job worries abound,
• A couple who jumped in, a renter who didn't
• Home builders don't see much hope for spring selling season
• Join our discussion: Has the housing market hit bottom?
Watch the video at http://www.marketwatch.com/video/asset/home-buyers-remain-cautious/7852A7FD-E572-440A-AC78-C8D31721A381
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Severe Weather Closings
Wednesday, Jan 28, 2009
Sorted by Category, then Organization
Charter Schools,Colleges,Other Schools,Private Schools,Public Schools
click on the link: http://media.myfoxdfw.com/closings/
Wednesday, Jan 28, 2009
Sorted by Category, then Organization
Charter Schools,Colleges,Other Schools,Private Schools,Public Schools
click on the link: http://media.myfoxdfw.com/closings/
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Downpayment Assistance Program
DPAGroundSwell2 was launched today to coincide with the introduction of H.R. 600, FHA Seller-Financed Downpayment Reform Act of 2009, by Representative Al Green (D-TX). H.R. 600 is the 2009 version of last year's bill (H.R. 6694) that would restore seller-funded downpayment assistance (DPA).
Reformed DPA will help stimulate the housing market by providing working-class Americans with a path to homeownership and generate $150 billion in home sales this year. Purchasing a home now puts homebuyers in a position to build equity as markets recover.
CONGRESS INTRODUCES BILL THAT WOULD REINSTATE DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE: NEHEMIAH RESPONDS
- Bill Would Broaden Opportunities for Sustainable Homeownership Without Government or Taxpayer Dollars -
Sacramento, CA, January 16, 2009 -- The following statement was issued today by Scott Syphax, president and CEO of the Nehemiah Corporation of America in response to H.R. 600, a bill introduced in Congress that would reinstate seller-funded downpayment assistance (DPA). Prior to the October 1, 2008 ban on DPA, Nehemiah was the oldest and largest provider of downpayment assistance.
"There is an overlooked solution to today's housing crisis and fortunately several members of Congress recognize the role DPA plays in getting us there. We commend Congressman Al Green [and additional members of Congress] for working tirelessly to support a bill (H.R. 600) that creates opportunities for sustainable homeownership, which serves as the cornerstone to strengthening a crumbling housing market and breathing life back into the economy. With foreclosures on the rise and banks maintaining their stranglehold on credit, DPA offers a simple solution without spending a single government or taxpayer dime according to the Congressional Budget Office. Further, it enables worthy families to take advantage of depressed home prices, therefore reducing the glut of homes on the market. We urge Congress to reach across the aisle and prioritize broadening opportunities for responsible homeownership in America by reinstating DPA."
http://www.nehemiahcorp.org/
Copyright © 2008 Nehemiah Corporation of America. All Rights Reserved
Broker of Texas Sold Team Realty says about DPS:
This program alone will really kick off the market!
By losing the DPA it is likely to be one of the biggest reason that people are not buying. They don't have enough cash to make the down payment.
I would say that 99.9 percent of our clients that used this help are still in their homes.
1- Because they had a good job and credit, just not cash. If we lend smart we will keep our people in homes and buying homes.
2- This will help investors the most.
3- This will bring back the under 200K buyers by the droves.
Reformed DPA will help stimulate the housing market by providing working-class Americans with a path to homeownership and generate $150 billion in home sales this year. Purchasing a home now puts homebuyers in a position to build equity as markets recover.
CONGRESS INTRODUCES BILL THAT WOULD REINSTATE DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE: NEHEMIAH RESPONDS
- Bill Would Broaden Opportunities for Sustainable Homeownership Without Government or Taxpayer Dollars -
Sacramento, CA, January 16, 2009 -- The following statement was issued today by Scott Syphax, president and CEO of the Nehemiah Corporation of America in response to H.R. 600, a bill introduced in Congress that would reinstate seller-funded downpayment assistance (DPA). Prior to the October 1, 2008 ban on DPA, Nehemiah was the oldest and largest provider of downpayment assistance.
"There is an overlooked solution to today's housing crisis and fortunately several members of Congress recognize the role DPA plays in getting us there. We commend Congressman Al Green [and additional members of Congress] for working tirelessly to support a bill (H.R. 600) that creates opportunities for sustainable homeownership, which serves as the cornerstone to strengthening a crumbling housing market and breathing life back into the economy. With foreclosures on the rise and banks maintaining their stranglehold on credit, DPA offers a simple solution without spending a single government or taxpayer dime according to the Congressional Budget Office. Further, it enables worthy families to take advantage of depressed home prices, therefore reducing the glut of homes on the market. We urge Congress to reach across the aisle and prioritize broadening opportunities for responsible homeownership in America by reinstating DPA."
http://www.nehemiahcorp.org/
Copyright © 2008 Nehemiah Corporation of America. All Rights Reserved
Broker of Texas Sold Team Realty says about DPS:
This program alone will really kick off the market!
By losing the DPA it is likely to be one of the biggest reason that people are not buying. They don't have enough cash to make the down payment.
I would say that 99.9 percent of our clients that used this help are still in their homes.
1- Because they had a good job and credit, just not cash. If we lend smart we will keep our people in homes and buying homes.
2- This will help investors the most.
3- This will bring back the under 200K buyers by the droves.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Starting Over: Real Opportunities in 2009
2008 was one of the toughest, most volatile years our financial systems have ever experienced – but we don't have to tell you that. In some way or another, everyone has felt the effects of this global financial crisis. So, let's skip the painful details. Let's avoid as well the impossible task of trying to predict the end of it, and let's try something different. Let's spend the first month of 2009 looking at solutions to the mortgage and real estate markets – actual viable solutions that you can use right now to help turn things around. If you're a homeowner or looking to be one in 2009, keep reading. You'll be glad that you did.
Face Your Fears
As human beings, we crave certainty, consistency, something we can really count on or believe in. It's comforting, it's consoling, and it's completely natural. But it's also extremely fragile, and always the first casualty of turmoil, especially in the financial markets.
In 2008, one could argue that the biggest market movers were not just the credit crunch or a pending global recession. It was fear, a sweeping lack of confidence that suddenly gripped everyone, from major financial companies and individual investors, to consumers and governments alike. The result was not only the unprecedented financial turmoil that we're not going to discuss in this article, but also an amazing opportunity for those who aren't afraid to face that fear as the real estate and mortgage markets begin to turn – and they will turn. Perhaps they already have.
For instance, mortgage rates are currently the lowest they've been in a generation, and home prices have dropped significantly in many areas. For new buyers and homeowners looking to save on monthly payments, this is great news. Homes you might not have been able to afford just 2 or 3 years ago are now well within your reach at a rate that makes much more sense than renting, in many instances. What's more, the Federal Reserve, the Treasury Department, and even the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) are using all of their tools to address the ailing economy, which many experts believe could lead to even lower rates in the near future.
For homeowners with enough equity, this means now may be the time to lock in a low rate. At the time of the writing of this article, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported that mortgage applications jumped 2.9 percent in one week in December, 77% of which were refinances with an average interest rate of 5.18% for a 30-year fixed and an average rate of 4.93% for a 15-year fixed mortgage.
If the experts are wrong and rates increase, you made a great deal. If the experts are right and rates continue to drop, just ask your mortgage professional about a "no closing cost loan". This type of loan allows borrowers to lock in today's low rate and to refinance again if the rates fall further. Just make sure there's no prepayment penalty if you're not going to stay in the home long enough to recoup your investment.
The Waiting Game
Trying to time the bottom of any market is like trying to catch a falling knife with your bare hands. You're going to lose every time. Instead, consider how long you're going to be in the home before making any home financing decision. If the home you're looking to purchase is below market value with rates are near historical lows and you're planning to stay in your home for more than five years, you owe it to yourself to at least consider your options before it's too late.
While it may not be the right time to try and flip a home for a quick profit, if you're planning on a longer-term investment, it makes a lot of sense to take advantage of this rare combination of discounted prices and lower rates – especially for first-time home buyers.
Did you know that a $7,500 tax credit is now available to first-time home buyers? This special tax incentive was created as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 to help stimulate the housing market, and yet very few people seem to know about it. This program provides qualified first-time home buyers (anyone who hasn't owned a home in the last 3 years) a tax credit of up to $7,500 on either the 2008 or 2009 return. Add this to the list, and waiting any longer to jump in on today's buyers' market just doesn't make a lot of sense.
There are, of course, income limits and other qualifying factors involved in this special tax incentive, but call the mortgage professional who supplied you with this issue of YOU Magazine and run the numbers. See what makes sense for your individual goals and needs.
Sure, home prices could drop even further, but they could just as easily begin to increase again in the next few months – no one knows for sure. But for those looking to refinance, playing the waiting game could prevent you from moving forward if home prices do continue to show weakness and your home fails to appraise. More importantly, you need to review your credit now, and make sure there are no issues that will force you to miss out on a great deal.
With increasing default rates for mortgage and other consumer debt, great credit management is rewarded with the lowest rates available and higher rates can be expected for others. Take a look at your credit report. Experts state that errors can be found in over 80% of all credit reports which can impact your FICO scores. In many cases, the information can be easily corrected but the time to discover an error is not within 30 days of an expected closing. Be prepared, act early, and seek advice and direction where warranted.
It's important to note that mortgage rates are based on the performance of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and rates can change several times throughout the course of a single day. In fact, MBSs have been so volatile recently that movements in the markets that used to take weeks or months now take only days or even hours to make.
The best path to follow is to complete a loan application with an experienced mortgage professional you trust, someone who has experience and access to up-to-the-minute MBS data. Agree on a target rate beforehand and authorize him or her to lock it in when he or she deems appropriate. If rates reach that level or appear to be going higher, he or she can lock it for you without having to track you down first to get your permission.
Remember, buying a home is the largest, most important investment most Americans will ever make. But it is also unlike any other investment available today. After all, you can't live in a mutual fund, and you can't raise your children in a money market account. Buying a home is still the best long-term investment you can make today – the turmoil of 2008 doesn't change that fact. And by buying or refinancing now you could be getting in near the very bottom of the market.
Winning Strategies
The two biggest challenges of buying a new home in today's market are the same as they've always been: qualifying for the mortgage and coming up with the down payment.
Well, that's not exactly true. From about 2000 to 2007, increasing home prices made financing a home very easy for just about anyone. Even for borrowers with a low credit score, mortgages were available with no down payment, and some programs didn't require any documentation at all.
Those days are gone. The exotic mortgage products that fueled the last real estate boom no longer exist, for the most part. Also missing from the mix are "sub-prime" loans. Until stability is seen in the housing markets, don't expect these to return.
Today's mortgage market looks more like it did ten years ago, before the rise and fall of exotic mortgages and the sub-prime collapse. That means you will have to have a good credit score, be able to fully document your income, and, with the exception of some government loan programs, you will likely need to put some money down.
The good news is that there are options available to help you overcome these challenges and take advantage of today's buyers' market. Yes, credit standards have tightened a bit, but with a solid credit score, home financing is absolutely available and affordable to everyone. Documentation will definitely be required, and expect that you will have to provide your last two years' tax returns, W-2s, paystubs for the most recent 30 days, and three months bank statements.
The following are highlights of a few mortgage programs that will help you succeed in today's market. Print out this material and review it with your trusted mortgage professional for full details on each program.
FHA Mortgages
Mortgages from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) have increased dramatically over the last two or three years – and there's a good reason. FHA loans are fully backed by the government and offer consumers who qualify the best of both worlds: low interest rates and low down payment requirements.
FHA Benefits:
Increased loan limits throughout the country
As little as 3.5% down payment requirement
Not typically credit-score driven
Sellers may finance up to 6% of buyer's costs to close
Allows many down-payment assistance programs, including gifts
$7,500 tax credit is available for FHA loans for qualifying buyers
FHA Streamline Refinances
FHA has provided streamline refinances on insured mortgages for almost 30 years. The "streamline" refers only to the amount of documentation and underwriting that needs to be performed by the lender. If you have a qualifying FHA loan, a streamline refinance can help you lower your rate and requires:
No income verification
No bank account verification
No minimum credit score
No appraisal in most cases
FHA 203(k) Mortgages
Even if the home you have your eye on is a fixer-upper, the Federal Housing Administration's 203(k) loan program can help home buyers and homeowners afford to pay for and repair single family properties with a single loan (from $5,000 to $30,000).
Normally, when you want to purchase a fixer-upper, you first have to secure financing to buy the home, then secure additional financing to repair the home. These short-term loans can be expensive and difficult to obtain. With an FHA 203(k) loan, the borrower can get just one mortgage loan to finance both the acquisition and the rehabilitation of the property, making this program ideal for purchasing foreclosed properties at major discounts.
These loans are a bit more complex, especially for first-time buyers and refinancers (there's also a "streamline" version of this program), but it's definitely a viable option if you're looking to make homeownership even more affordable in 2009.
USDA Mortgages
Yes, the US Department of Agriculture is the same governmental agency that certifies the quality of the beef you buy. But it also has a mortgage program that supplies $16 billion in funding to Americans in what they call "rural" areas.
But don't be fooled by the "rural" part. You don't have to live on a farm or in the country to utilize this amazingly affordable program. In fact, there are a surprising number of qualifying areas in both large and small states and cities, so this is definitely an option that's worth investigating if you're looking to buy a home – and here's why:
No down payment is required
No monthly mortgage insurance
Seller can pay 100% of the buyer's reasonable closing costs and prepaid expenses
No reserves are required
VA Mortgages
If you or your spouse is a veteran, you might be eligible for a special mortgage from the Department of Veteran Affairs. In recognition of your valuable service and sacrifice to your country, the VA program is designed to help make housing opportunities affordable for eligible veterans, so take advantage of this program – you've earned it. VA mortgage benefits include:
No down payment
No monthly mortgage insurance
Seller can pay any and all "reasonable" costs to close
Funding Fees are not required for Veterans with disabilities
There are some important residential, marriage, and other qualifications that need to be considered, so talk to your mortgage professional for more information on VA mortgages and any of the programs mentioned in this article.
From You Magazine by
Lisa Warren
Southlake Branch Manager
Silver Oak Mortgage
Phone: (817) 410-2518
Fax: (817) 410-2519
lwarren@somlp.com
www.silveroakmortgagelp.com
2008 was one of the toughest, most volatile years our financial systems have ever experienced – but we don't have to tell you that. In some way or another, everyone has felt the effects of this global financial crisis. So, let's skip the painful details. Let's avoid as well the impossible task of trying to predict the end of it, and let's try something different. Let's spend the first month of 2009 looking at solutions to the mortgage and real estate markets – actual viable solutions that you can use right now to help turn things around. If you're a homeowner or looking to be one in 2009, keep reading. You'll be glad that you did.
Face Your Fears
As human beings, we crave certainty, consistency, something we can really count on or believe in. It's comforting, it's consoling, and it's completely natural. But it's also extremely fragile, and always the first casualty of turmoil, especially in the financial markets.
In 2008, one could argue that the biggest market movers were not just the credit crunch or a pending global recession. It was fear, a sweeping lack of confidence that suddenly gripped everyone, from major financial companies and individual investors, to consumers and governments alike. The result was not only the unprecedented financial turmoil that we're not going to discuss in this article, but also an amazing opportunity for those who aren't afraid to face that fear as the real estate and mortgage markets begin to turn – and they will turn. Perhaps they already have.
For instance, mortgage rates are currently the lowest they've been in a generation, and home prices have dropped significantly in many areas. For new buyers and homeowners looking to save on monthly payments, this is great news. Homes you might not have been able to afford just 2 or 3 years ago are now well within your reach at a rate that makes much more sense than renting, in many instances. What's more, the Federal Reserve, the Treasury Department, and even the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) are using all of their tools to address the ailing economy, which many experts believe could lead to even lower rates in the near future.
For homeowners with enough equity, this means now may be the time to lock in a low rate. At the time of the writing of this article, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported that mortgage applications jumped 2.9 percent in one week in December, 77% of which were refinances with an average interest rate of 5.18% for a 30-year fixed and an average rate of 4.93% for a 15-year fixed mortgage.
If the experts are wrong and rates increase, you made a great deal. If the experts are right and rates continue to drop, just ask your mortgage professional about a "no closing cost loan". This type of loan allows borrowers to lock in today's low rate and to refinance again if the rates fall further. Just make sure there's no prepayment penalty if you're not going to stay in the home long enough to recoup your investment.
The Waiting Game
Trying to time the bottom of any market is like trying to catch a falling knife with your bare hands. You're going to lose every time. Instead, consider how long you're going to be in the home before making any home financing decision. If the home you're looking to purchase is below market value with rates are near historical lows and you're planning to stay in your home for more than five years, you owe it to yourself to at least consider your options before it's too late.
While it may not be the right time to try and flip a home for a quick profit, if you're planning on a longer-term investment, it makes a lot of sense to take advantage of this rare combination of discounted prices and lower rates – especially for first-time home buyers.
Did you know that a $7,500 tax credit is now available to first-time home buyers? This special tax incentive was created as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 to help stimulate the housing market, and yet very few people seem to know about it. This program provides qualified first-time home buyers (anyone who hasn't owned a home in the last 3 years) a tax credit of up to $7,500 on either the 2008 or 2009 return. Add this to the list, and waiting any longer to jump in on today's buyers' market just doesn't make a lot of sense.
There are, of course, income limits and other qualifying factors involved in this special tax incentive, but call the mortgage professional who supplied you with this issue of YOU Magazine and run the numbers. See what makes sense for your individual goals and needs.
Sure, home prices could drop even further, but they could just as easily begin to increase again in the next few months – no one knows for sure. But for those looking to refinance, playing the waiting game could prevent you from moving forward if home prices do continue to show weakness and your home fails to appraise. More importantly, you need to review your credit now, and make sure there are no issues that will force you to miss out on a great deal.
With increasing default rates for mortgage and other consumer debt, great credit management is rewarded with the lowest rates available and higher rates can be expected for others. Take a look at your credit report. Experts state that errors can be found in over 80% of all credit reports which can impact your FICO scores. In many cases, the information can be easily corrected but the time to discover an error is not within 30 days of an expected closing. Be prepared, act early, and seek advice and direction where warranted.
It's important to note that mortgage rates are based on the performance of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and rates can change several times throughout the course of a single day. In fact, MBSs have been so volatile recently that movements in the markets that used to take weeks or months now take only days or even hours to make.
The best path to follow is to complete a loan application with an experienced mortgage professional you trust, someone who has experience and access to up-to-the-minute MBS data. Agree on a target rate beforehand and authorize him or her to lock it in when he or she deems appropriate. If rates reach that level or appear to be going higher, he or she can lock it for you without having to track you down first to get your permission.
Remember, buying a home is the largest, most important investment most Americans will ever make. But it is also unlike any other investment available today. After all, you can't live in a mutual fund, and you can't raise your children in a money market account. Buying a home is still the best long-term investment you can make today – the turmoil of 2008 doesn't change that fact. And by buying or refinancing now you could be getting in near the very bottom of the market.
Winning Strategies
The two biggest challenges of buying a new home in today's market are the same as they've always been: qualifying for the mortgage and coming up with the down payment.
Well, that's not exactly true. From about 2000 to 2007, increasing home prices made financing a home very easy for just about anyone. Even for borrowers with a low credit score, mortgages were available with no down payment, and some programs didn't require any documentation at all.
Those days are gone. The exotic mortgage products that fueled the last real estate boom no longer exist, for the most part. Also missing from the mix are "sub-prime" loans. Until stability is seen in the housing markets, don't expect these to return.
Today's mortgage market looks more like it did ten years ago, before the rise and fall of exotic mortgages and the sub-prime collapse. That means you will have to have a good credit score, be able to fully document your income, and, with the exception of some government loan programs, you will likely need to put some money down.
The good news is that there are options available to help you overcome these challenges and take advantage of today's buyers' market. Yes, credit standards have tightened a bit, but with a solid credit score, home financing is absolutely available and affordable to everyone. Documentation will definitely be required, and expect that you will have to provide your last two years' tax returns, W-2s, paystubs for the most recent 30 days, and three months bank statements.
The following are highlights of a few mortgage programs that will help you succeed in today's market. Print out this material and review it with your trusted mortgage professional for full details on each program.
FHA Mortgages
Mortgages from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) have increased dramatically over the last two or three years – and there's a good reason. FHA loans are fully backed by the government and offer consumers who qualify the best of both worlds: low interest rates and low down payment requirements.
FHA Benefits:
Increased loan limits throughout the country
As little as 3.5% down payment requirement
Not typically credit-score driven
Sellers may finance up to 6% of buyer's costs to close
Allows many down-payment assistance programs, including gifts
$7,500 tax credit is available for FHA loans for qualifying buyers
FHA Streamline Refinances
FHA has provided streamline refinances on insured mortgages for almost 30 years. The "streamline" refers only to the amount of documentation and underwriting that needs to be performed by the lender. If you have a qualifying FHA loan, a streamline refinance can help you lower your rate and requires:
No income verification
No bank account verification
No minimum credit score
No appraisal in most cases
FHA 203(k) Mortgages
Even if the home you have your eye on is a fixer-upper, the Federal Housing Administration's 203(k) loan program can help home buyers and homeowners afford to pay for and repair single family properties with a single loan (from $5,000 to $30,000).
Normally, when you want to purchase a fixer-upper, you first have to secure financing to buy the home, then secure additional financing to repair the home. These short-term loans can be expensive and difficult to obtain. With an FHA 203(k) loan, the borrower can get just one mortgage loan to finance both the acquisition and the rehabilitation of the property, making this program ideal for purchasing foreclosed properties at major discounts.
These loans are a bit more complex, especially for first-time buyers and refinancers (there's also a "streamline" version of this program), but it's definitely a viable option if you're looking to make homeownership even more affordable in 2009.
USDA Mortgages
Yes, the US Department of Agriculture is the same governmental agency that certifies the quality of the beef you buy. But it also has a mortgage program that supplies $16 billion in funding to Americans in what they call "rural" areas.
But don't be fooled by the "rural" part. You don't have to live on a farm or in the country to utilize this amazingly affordable program. In fact, there are a surprising number of qualifying areas in both large and small states and cities, so this is definitely an option that's worth investigating if you're looking to buy a home – and here's why:
No down payment is required
No monthly mortgage insurance
Seller can pay 100% of the buyer's reasonable closing costs and prepaid expenses
No reserves are required
VA Mortgages
If you or your spouse is a veteran, you might be eligible for a special mortgage from the Department of Veteran Affairs. In recognition of your valuable service and sacrifice to your country, the VA program is designed to help make housing opportunities affordable for eligible veterans, so take advantage of this program – you've earned it. VA mortgage benefits include:
No down payment
No monthly mortgage insurance
Seller can pay any and all "reasonable" costs to close
Funding Fees are not required for Veterans with disabilities
There are some important residential, marriage, and other qualifications that need to be considered, so talk to your mortgage professional for more information on VA mortgages and any of the programs mentioned in this article.
From You Magazine by
Lisa Warren
Southlake Branch Manager
Silver Oak Mortgage
Phone: (817) 410-2518
Fax: (817) 410-2519
lwarren@somlp.com
www.silveroakmortgagelp.com
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Keller News
The Keller City Council on Tuesday:
Issued a notice of intent to issue $8.45 million in certificates of obligation, bonds that do not require a vote, to pay for previously committed projects including a fire station, drainage improvements, park land acquisition, and parking lot improvements for Johnson Park.
Updated an interlocal agreement with Tarrant County to begin the third phase of Rufe Snow Drive improvements, which are scheduled to begin construction this summer. The council approved a resolution expressing intent to reimburse cost for this project with future bond proceeds.
Approved a bid for traffic signals to be installed at the Keller-Smithfield Road intersection with Bear Creek Parkway East and emergency signals on Bear Creek Parkway at Fire Station No. 4.
http://www.kellercitizen.com
The Keller City Council on Tuesday:
Issued a notice of intent to issue $8.45 million in certificates of obligation, bonds that do not require a vote, to pay for previously committed projects including a fire station, drainage improvements, park land acquisition, and parking lot improvements for Johnson Park.
Updated an interlocal agreement with Tarrant County to begin the third phase of Rufe Snow Drive improvements, which are scheduled to begin construction this summer. The council approved a resolution expressing intent to reimburse cost for this project with future bond proceeds.
Approved a bid for traffic signals to be installed at the Keller-Smithfield Road intersection with Bear Creek Parkway East and emergency signals on Bear Creek Parkway at Fire Station No. 4.
http://www.kellercitizen.com
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Homebuyers
Now, no matter where you live in the United States, owning your own home may be more affordable than you think! If you are currently renting or wanting to move up, HomeSteps would like to help you on your way to homeownership. We will pay up to 3.5%* of your purchase price in closing costs for all offers presented on HomeSteps homes between October 23, 2008 – January 31, 2009.
To qualify for this great money-saving offer, just ask your real estate agent to show you the available HomeSteps homes in your area and to include this closing cost offer at the time of your initial offer on a HomeSteps home.
If you want more information please give me a call at 817-501-7309.
This was provided by HomeSteps, a Freddie Mac Unit.
HomeSteps® 2008 Ask An Agent Sales Promotion
Now, no matter where you live in the United States, owning your own home may be more affordable than you think! If you are currently renting or wanting to move up, HomeSteps would like to help you on your way to homeownership. We will pay up to 3.5%* of your purchase price in closing costs for all offers presented on HomeSteps homes between October 23, 2008 – January 31, 2009.
To qualify for this great money-saving offer, just ask your real estate agent to show you the available HomeSteps homes in your area and to include this closing cost offer at the time of your initial offer on a HomeSteps home.
If you want more information please give me a call at 817-501-7309.
This was provided by HomeSteps, a Freddie Mac Unit.
HomeSteps® 2008 Ask An Agent Sales Promotion
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