I.R.S. Makes Homebuyers Smile

If you’re interested in buying a home, a recent IRS announcement might just make your day. (Yes, an IRS announcement that DOESN’T induce heartburn.)

The good news? People who qualify for the first-time homebuyer tax credit can claim the tax credit either on their 2008 tax returns due April 15 or on their 2009 tax returns. That’s according to a February 25th IRS press release.

The release quotes IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman as saying, “For first-time homebuyers this year, this special feature can put money in their pockets right now rather than waiting another year to claim the tax credit. This important change gives qualifying homebuyers cash they do not have to pay back."

Are you taking advantage of the first-time homebuyer tax credit? We’d like to hear from you! Do you think it will promote economic recovery? Did the tax credit play a roll in your decision to buy a home? Drop us a comment and share your two cents!

Question to Obama

Seeking a loan modification program? Adam Palmer, a Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT Associate, recently asked President Obama about this subject during a Q&A session in Fort Myers. Here’s what he asked: “So many of the lenders these days are unwilling to discuss any possibility of doing a loan modification program unless you're currently in default. Subsequently, this is penalizing responsible Americans who have lost all the equity in their property. What can be done to change that?”

See President Obama’s response. What do you think of Obama’s response? Post a comment and let us know!

Southeast Market Report

Guest Contributor Charles Richardson, Senior Regional Vice President, Southeast Florida, Coldwell Banker

As the Market Leader, communication to our sales associates and to our consumers is vital. Learning the market trends in Southeast Florida will assist us and our consumers on what to expect in this extraordinary market. In pulling the market stats from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for the month of January, it was enlightening to identify the following:

In Miami Dade County, the Total Active Inventory of Single-Family Homes and Condos was 37,566, of which Coldwell Banker is marketing six percent of these. Four percent of the Total Inventory from the MLS resulted in a Closed Sale this month while ten percent of the Coldwell Banker inventory closed this month — once again confirming the fact that Coldwell Banker Sales Associates are 2.5 times more successful than the average of the MLS. Additionally, five percent of the Total Inventory from the MLS resulted in a Pending Sale as compared to nine percent of the Coldwell Banker total inventory, once again confirming that clients listed with Coldwell Banker had an 80 percent chance of selling their homes in Miami-Dade County than if they were listed with another broker.

In Broward County, the Total Active Inventory of Single-Family Homes and Condos was 38,945 of which Coldwell Banker is marketing six percent as well. Five percent of the Total Inventory from the MLS resulted in a Closed Sale this month while 12 percent of the Coldwell Banker inventory closed this month — once again confirming that Coldwell Banker Sales Associates were 2.4 times more successful more successful than the average of the MLS. Additionally, six percent of the Total Inventory from the MLS resulted in a Pending Sale as compared to ten percent of the Coldwell Banker total inventory, confirming that clients listed with our company had a 67 percent better chance of selling their homes in Broward County than if they were listed with another broker.

It’s no coincidence that Coldwell Banker continues to excel in this market. We have the proven marketing tools, online resources and the insight to price our properties correctly in this competitive market.

Homeownership: the time is now!

According to a Florida Association of Realtors® press release that came out today, “Florida’s existing home sales rose in January, making it the fifth month in a row that sales activity showed increases in the year-to-year comparison.” Here’s a blurb from the release:

“Many people are looking at today’s market and seeing opportunities to find the home or business they’ve always wanted,” said 2009 FAR President Cynthia Shelton. “With a range of available housing options, historically low mortgage interest rates and affordable prices, buyers who may have been hesitant before should take a closer look at the current opportunities for homeownership...”

What about you? Are you seizing the current opportunities for homeownership? If so, post a comment and tell us your story!

A.R.R.A. and energy

You've probably been hearing a lot about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, and that its goal is to provide a stimulus to the U.S. economy. Did you know that the bill includes numerous provisions, including $40.75 billion for energy? Here are just a few energy-related items included in the Act:

● $5 billion for weatherizing modest-income homes

● $4.5 billion for state and local governments to increase energy efficiency in federal buildings

● $300 million to buy energy efficient appliances

● $300 million for state and local governments to purchase energy efficient vehicles

● $250 million to increase energy efficiency in low-income housing

What do you think? Will the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 cause positive change for America? Chime in with your take!

Click here to read more details about the ARRA.

Charming Seaside Village

The area of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is a charming seaside village located just east of Fort Lauderdale on a barrier island where trade winds blow and pelicans fly overhead.

They enjoy both a local-resident and an international snow-bird population. The convenient location draws many to the town and into the Coldwell Banker Office to inquire about area prices. During “season” the area provides an excellent source of short-term rentals to which many return year after year. Both beachfront and golf-course condos and homes are available.

There are a variety of beautiful communities in this area, including:

Sea Ranch Club – A luxurious oceanfront three-building complex that offers resort-like living with 24-hour security. It features 1,200 ft. of deeded beach. Amenities include three heated swimming pools, eight tennis courts, putting green, shuffleboard, ping-pong, party, exercise and card rooms. Sales prices vary depending on exposure. One-bedroom units range from $350,000 to $400,000. Two-bedroom units range from $450,000 to $750,000 and three-bedroom units range from $775,000 to $1,200,000.

The Galt Mile – Consists of approximately 15 buildings, condos and co-ops encompassing approximately 5,000 units in all. The two-bedroom units range from $400,000 to $600,000. Three-bedroom units located on the Southeast corner range from $700,000 to $80,000. All have great beach appeal and supermarkets, beauty shops restaurants are very accessible.

For additional information on Lauderdale-by-the-Sea or its surrounding communities, please visit us at www.FloridaMoves.com/ftlauderdalebeach.

Live in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea? Post a comment about how you enjoy living there!

Guest Contributor Jay Chernoff, Branch Manager - Ft. Lauderdale Beach

City Beautiful

Developed by George Edgar Merrick during the Florida land boom of the 1920s, Coral Gables is one of the first planned communities and is referred to as City Beautiful. By 1926, the city covered 10,000 acres had netted $150 million in sales with over $100 million spent on development.

The City of Coral Gables, known for top-rated municipal services, fine residential areas, historic landmarks and high quality of life, has also emerged as the Corporate Capital of the Americas with more than 175 multinational corporations positioning Coral Gables as their Latin American headquarters. It is nationally recognized for its public education, highly successful national merit scholarship program, unmatched academic climate and active community and parental involvement and support. It is also the home of the University of Miami.

The City of Coral Gables offers a wide range of housing choices including rental units, condominiums and single family homes. Over the years, homes in the City have appreciated at a rate significantly greater than most of the surrounding areas. Strict zoning laws, a low combined tax rate and responsive municipal services together with beautiful residential areas make Coral Gables a sought-after address for both residential and commercial properties.

For additional information on the city of Coral Gables or its surrounding communities, visit http://www.floridamoves.com/coralgablessanremo

Photos contributed by City of Coral Gables.

Guest Contributor Nancy Hogan, Branch Manager - Coral Gables

Community Sense

Can you imagine living in a neighborhood where shops, restaurants, jobs, schools and amenities are part of the development? Imagine walking, playing tennis, biking and enjoying beautiful parks, spacious aquatic centers and movie theaters in a development that has a true sense of community - where getting out and interacting is encouraged by the countless activities. It seems impossible, but this idea isn’t as farfetched as you might think- if you make one of Metro Atlanta’s master-planned communities your next home. Master-planned communities offer a large number of amenities and encompass an enormous amount of land. Because of the size of these communities, multiple builders join together to develop different sections. All the amenities generally are included in the original plan. Developers try to anticipate the future needs of the homeowners and devise a master plan based on these needs. They may include schools, shops and other amenities that exceed the pool and clubhouse often found in many other neighborhoods. Some even include office space in their development plans or employ activities directors, which are especially great for new residents looking to meet others in their community. Visit www.americanhomeguides.com/homes/planned/georgia/atlanta to find more information about Atlanta’s planned communities. Live in a planned community and have feedback about your experience? Send your comments.

Florida’s First “New Town”

Miami Lakes was developed in 1962 by the Graham Companies, led by three brothers: the late Bill Graham, Bob Graham – former Florida Governor and US Senator, and the late Philip Graham – publisher of the Washington Port and Newsweek, along with Lester Collins – grandson of Miami Beach developer John S. Collins. This master-planned community was Florida’s first “new town”. The master plan allowed for four decades of growth and construction in changing market conditions, and the development of the original 3,000 acres of dairy land has led to a vibrant and beautiful town with quiet residential areas, 23 lakes, parks, tree-lined streets and a hometown atmosphere. Today, Miami Lakes, which had an estimated median household income of $74,000 in 2007, offers quality education with four public and one private high school, and four public and two private middle/elementary schools. There are state-of-the-art medical facilities, modern hotels, and employment opportunities at a mix of commercial and industrial enterprises. Its unique location has easy access to four major expressways and two international airports, and well has having its own business airport just across its eastern boundary. Beautiful tree-lined Main Street, with an old world mix of businesses and residences, is the heart and soul of this vibrant community. It has to be visited to be truly enjoyed. For additional information about Miami Lakes and its surrounding communities, visit http://www.floridamoves.com/MiamiLakes Guest Contibutor Stephen Touzalin, Branch Manager - Miami Lakes

Discovering Northeast Fort Lauderdale

When you're looking for a home in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than the Northeast section of town! From oceanfront condos and beach houses, to direct ocean and Intracoastal front estates. From homes on deepwater canals with no fixed bridges to waterfront homes with fixed bridge canals or homes on lakes or dry lots, they have it all!

Imagining a sailboat bobbing in the wind on a canal behind your house? Then Bermuda Riviera, an enchanting yachting and boating community of waterfront homes across the street from the world famous Galt Ocean Mile, might be ideal for you.

A historic home on a street shaded by massive ancient Oak trees draped with Spanish Moss? Then you need out check out Victoria Park! In recent years Victoria Park has been a magnet for those who want to live near downtown's business, shopping and entertainment areas. People have taken older residential real estate and renovated and upgraded to create modern and appealing Fort Lauderdale homes.

Charming seaside ambiance along the ocean? Then Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is the place for you! With its many wonderful boutiques, unique gift shops, ice cream parlors, restaurants and boutiques, Lauderdale By The Sea is a favorite place for locals and tourists alike. There is a fabulous live coral reef just 100 yards off shore which makes this beach a favorite destination for local divers and snorkelers. Fishermen can test their prowess at world famous Anglin's Fishing Pier, located right at the end of Commercial Boulevard.

For additional information on the area of Northeast Fort Lauderdale, visit http://www.floridamoves.com/Ftlauderdalene

Do you live in Northeast Fort Lauderdale? Please share your thoughts about it!

Guest Contributor Jay Chernoff, Branch Manager - Fort Lauderdale Beach

Active in Coral Springs

Coral Springs is the place to live, work and play! Recipient of the 'Florida City of Excellence' award, Coral Springs is known for its elaborate water sports complex and ice skating arena that draw athletes from around the country. The city has a diverse business community, top rated schools, beautiful parks, shops, malls and other amenities which make family living ideal for a community that has almost a third of its population under 18 years of age.

Home to some of the best schools in Florida, 95% of the city’s schools earned an “A” grade, the State of Florida rating system for public schools. Coral Springs was voted one of the “Best of 100 Communities for Young People”.

The city boasts a State-of-the-Art Regional Sportsplex with aquatic center, tennis & ice rink. The famous Honda Classic Golf Tournament, hosted by the TPC in Heron Bay has been one of many of the city’s’ highlights for years.The Coral Springs Center for the Arts with its 1,400+ seating offers popular shows & yearly Broadway series performances. The Coral Springs Museum of Art focuses on art classes and programs for the community and presents various exhibits throughout the year.

Since 1979, the “Our Town” Festival has been held continuously boasting car shows, beauty pageants, carnival rides and parades.Coral Springs is conveniently located near major highways for easy access to Ft. Lauderdale, Miami and Palm Beach County.

Have any comments about Coral Springs? Post a comment.

For a complete list of available properties in Coral Springs and its surrounding areas, visit www.FloridaMoves.com/CoralSprings. We know Coral Springs!

Do you have information you want to share about this area?

Guest Contributor Chris Maccarone, Branch Manager - Coral Springs

Live and Play in Key Biscayne

It is Miami’s best-kept secret…an oasis of tranquility …only 25 minutes from Miami International Airport, 10 minutes to exciting downtown Miami and 35 minutes to trendy South Beach.The Village of Key Biscayne, bordered on both sides by state park, invites you to enjoy a round of golf on a championship course, play tennis where the pros do at the Sony Ericsson Open tournament, walk the beach and enjoy the view of a lifetime from the Cape Florida Lighthouse, bike the many trails, play soccer on the Village Green or just relax in the Quiet Gardens.

On Key Biscayne, you can take a culinary tour around the world from Argentina to Japan; from Italy to France.You can live in oceanfront condominiums welcoming the day with spectacular sunrises or reside in homes located both on and off Biscayne Bay where sunsets are breathtaking. Residents fully enjoy the island ambiance whether attending the very traditional “small town” 4th of July parade, participating in a Memorial Day ceremony on the Village Green or taking advantage of all the activities at the Community Center. Key Biscayners work together through their schools (there are six of them on the island), religious institutions (five different houses of worship), clubs and organizations (too many to mention) to make every day a special experience for residents of all ages on the Island.

Have any comments about Key Biscayne? Post a comment. For a complete list of available properties in Key Biscayne and its surrounding areas, visit www.FloridaMoves.com/KeyBiscayne. We know Key Biscayne!

Guest Contributor Susie Abell, Branch Manager - Key Biscayne

Cyclical Markets Always Come Back

The market is adjusting, but savvy investors are also cashing in on the inevitable recovery. The 2009 Urban Land Institute’s annual Emerging Trends in Real Estate conference held recently in Atlanta provided an outlook on investment and development trends, real estate finance and other real estate issues. A conference report ranked Atlanta 33rd for commercial and multifamily development and home building, and 24th for commercial and multifamily investing among 50 metropolitan areas. Rescuing downtown and re-creating an urban center extending to Midtown and Buckhead is now a priority for Atlanta developers. According to the report, Atlanta is headed in the direction of a more viable urban landscape with 24-hour neighborhoods and amenities to accommodate expected population growth. This year's report acknowledges the fact that Atlanta is starting to grow like a sustainable city. Increasingly, empty nesters and career-building singles look to escape commuting hassles by settling in infill locations. There is a movement toward creating walkable communities, higher density mixed-use projects around transit and 24-hour neighborhoods. What are your experiences about the Atlanta real estate market?

Historical Coconut Grove

Settled in 1834 by Bahamian seamen, this enchanting, lush tropical village originally called “Cocoanut Grove” is considered the oldest and most important settlement in Florida because of its location on the edge of Biscayne Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful sailing bays. Every great city has a tucked away treasure. In Miami, the enchanted treasure at the center of our tropical soul is called Coconut Grove, a place to play and indulge your senses.

About five minutes away by car from the heart of the Grove is the Viscaya, the James Deering mansion built in 1916 to resemble a 16th century Italian country villa. It has 34 decorated rooms surrounding a central courtyard and exquisite gardens for you to stroll about and view the blue waters of the Bay.

“The Barnacle” is the home of a famous pioneer, Commodore Ralph Munroe who designed yachts and boats – the main transportation in the early days of the Grove. He purchased 40 acres of bay front land in 1886 in exchange for $400 and a sailboat. Walking thru this historic estate helps us imagine a simpler time in South Florida.

The Grove’s retail offerings don’t miss a beat. From shopping, outdoor cafés and restaurants, movies, artist studios to live music and night clubs all in walking distance of the many luxurious hotels in the Grove and located in CocoWalk, the streets of Mayfair, Commodore Plaza, Main Highway and Bayshore Drive to name a few. The groovy Grove is a place to play and will hold your attention 24 hours a day!

Demographic date by zip code 33133 (Coconut Grove) Population: 30,674. Male population: 15,005. Female population: 15,668. Total Households: 13,767. Households without Children: 11,023. Average Household Income: $109,897. Median income: 35-44, $61,290. 45-54, $61,952. 55-64, $59,257. Average Household Net Worth: $666,468. Median Home Sale Price: $410,000. Data on community demographics provided by OnBoard LLC, 2007. For additional information about Coconut Grove and its surrounding communities, please visit www.Floridamoves.com/CoconutGrove.

Guest Contributor Judy Campo, Branch Manager - Coconut Grove

Variety in Kendall

Kendall is located in the heart of Miami. Kendall has both affordable housing as well as luxury homes. The area is perfect for homeowners who need excellent schools, large well maintained parks and a large variety of community centers and services.

There is a wonderful variety of 2 and 3 bedroom condominiums and townhomes with community pools, tennis and exercise facilities. Single family homes with 3, 4, 5 or more bedrooms are available with and without pools and surrounded by lush green grass and tropical landscaping.

Downtown Kendall features mixed use buildings with New York style retail shops on the bottom floor with condominium residences on top with ample parking garages. Small communities embedded in the area showcase lakes, golfing communities and even horse country.

A short trip will get you to beautiful Florida beaches, a Tropical Garden and the world famous Metro Zoo. Jump on the Florida Turnpike heading south and you are less than one hour from the beautiful Florida Keys.

Kendall is a community with enough variety for any lifestyle you may choose. For a complete list of available properties in Kendall and its surrounding areas, visit http://www.FloridaMoves.com/Kendall

Guest Contributor Nancy Klock Core, Branch Manager- Kendall Town and Country

City Named for "Adventure"

Aventura is a planned city located in northeastern Miami-DadeCounty in the metro area of Miami-Ft. Lauderdale. Incorporated on November 7, 1995, it was named after the first group of condominium developments in the area and comes from the Spanish word “adventure.”

Aventura’s appeal can be attributed to its abundance of shopping, fine restaurants, entertainment and amenities. Aventura is also home to the Aventura Mall — a 2.4 million square foot high-end regional mall located in the center of the city. The city also has its own exclusive park, Founders Park, and an outdoor mall named The Shops at Waterways. Some of South Florida’s finest beaches are just a few minutes away from Aventura, across the William H. Lehman Causeway.

According to the U.S. Census estimates of 2007, the city had a population of 29,475. The population has increased 17.5% since 2000. The estimated median household income in 2007 was $54,039. The estimated median house or condo value in 2007 was $331,869. The estimated median household income in 2007 was $54,039. The estimated median house or condo value in 2007 was $331,869.

Since its incorporation, the city has accomplished the goals of creating its own police force, new parks, and a school. The Aventura City of Excellence is a K-8 charter school sponsored by the city.

The City of Aventura has clearly established itself as a viable locale for corporate America. The city’s progress and development continue at a record-setting pace while emphasizing community involvement.

For a complete list of available properties in Aventura and its surrounding areas, visit www.FloridaMoves.com/aventura

Live in Aventura? Post a comment and share your thoughts about living there!

Guest Contributor Mike Brunnberg, Branch Manager, Aventura

Real Estate Recovery in Southeast Florida

The Southeast Florida real estate market is showing signs of recovery. According to a recent article in the Florida Real Estate Journal, sales of single-family homes in Miami rose 29% in the fourth quarter of 2008 as compared with the same period a year ago. The upward trend of real estate sales continues to reflect a strong revival in sales activity over the past 5 months.

The time is NOW in South Florida! “The current South Florida real estate market offers prospective buyers affordability and opportunities not available in over a decade,” said Rick Burch, 2009 chairman of the Realtor Association of Greater Miami and the Beaches. “These opportunities may not last long since we’re already seeing increased demand for properties throughout South Florida,” added Burch.

Recovery in Greater Ft. Lauderdale The Greater Ft. Lauderdale real estate market is also showing signs of recovery. The sales of single family homes have increased in each of the last six months as compared with the prior year. Condominium sales have increased in four out of the past six months. Year end sales figures in Broward County show a 4% gain for single family homes over 2007 numbers while condominium sales remained the same as the previous year. Fourth quarter sales were up 42% for single family and 21% for condominiums.

Prices are falling in Dade and Broward Counties Median prices for Dade and Broward Counties continue to fall as a result of foreclosures, short sales and mortgage fraud properties that have come back into the market mix. The result of the falling prices has been incredible values emerging that are stimulating further sales activities. Lower interest rates in the market also are positively influencing the sales activities.

The bottom line? It’s a great time to be a buyer in Southeast Florida!

Guest Contributor Charles Richardson, Coldwell Banker Senior Vice President of Southeast Florida.

Cooper City: “Someplace Special”

When families choose an area to live in, most of us yearn for the same thing: fewer crowds; less concrete and hassles; more serenity, nature and neighbors we can count on. Cooper City has earned the reputation of being called “someplace special”. While the City enjoys remembering its past, it understands the need to focus on the future. In August of 2007, Family Circle magazine named Cooper City as one of “10 Best Places to Live in America”. Their goal was to find communities across the country that combined big-city opportunities with suburban charm, locations that offered an ideal blend of affordable houses, good jobs, top-rated schools, wide-open spaces and a lot less stress. In July of 2007 the population in Cooper City was 29,311; the median resident age was 36.7 years and the estimated median household income was $94,960. Its popular appeal has grown the community significantly over the past few years. Surrounding neighborhoods of Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Davie and Southwest Ranches have similar appeal. Pembroke Pines started as a fine residential community that had all types of housing, which included single family, town homes, condominiums and apartments. It also provided its own police and fire departments. The large Memorial Healthcare system built a full-service hospital in the center of town at Flamingo Road next to the Pembroke Lakes Mall. For a list of available properties in Cooper City and its surrounding areas, visit www.floridamoves.com/coopercitypembrokepines

Live in Cooper City? Share your comments about what you love about it!

Living it Up — Hollywood Style

Named in 2007 as one of 10 All-America Cities by the National League of Cities, Hollywood is a mature and built-out Southeast Florida city that is both sought after as a year-round tourist destination and as a long established residential community. A coastal city of over 130,000 residents located in Broward County, Hollywood is nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport touches the city, while Port Everglades, the second busiest cruise port in the world, is partially within its municipal boundaries. Hollywood benefits from three waterfront development opportunities: the Atlantic Ocean coastal property and the opposing shores of the Waterway itself. Characterized by top-quality restaurants and night clubs, quaint sidewalk cafés, brick-lined walks and six blocks of unique boutiques, shops and art galleries along Hollywood Boulevard and Harrison Street, the pedestrian-friendly environment is the perfect place to enjoy South Florida. Just minutes from the beach, the downtown district is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the backdrop for year-round festivals, street markets and entertainment. Hollywood offers the full range of residential properties in all price ranges, from super luxury high-rise ocean front condominiums to large lot suburban-style estate properties. For a list of available properties in Hollywood and its surrounding areas, visit www.FloridaMoves.com/Hollywood. Live in Hollywood? Drop us a comment and tell us what you love about it!

Lower Rates Encourage Home Buyers

A recent issue of Realtor Magazine reported that sales are picking up in markets such as Arizona, California, Florida and Nebraska.

According to National Association of Realtors chief economist Lawrence Yun, although inventories remain high, buyers are returning in such a strong way that we’re even seeing a resurgence of multiple bidding in some instances. Interest rates are at their lowest in more than 35 years. Home prices are becoming more realistic and sellers are becoming more flexible.

Analysts say price reductions are enticing consumers with average household incomes to take a second look at their ability to purchase a home. On January 9, Freddie Mac reported that 30-year mortgage rates fell again to a record low of 5.01 percent during the week, representing a 28-year low and nearly a full point below the interest rate at the same time last year. Continued rate decreases have spurred an increase in mortgage applications.

If you have good credit and are in the market to buy a home, now is a good time to jump into the market and take advantage of great interest rates and a wide selection of housing inventory. 

Financial relief for first-time homebuyers!

As you may have seen from today’s headlines, there’s great news for first-time homebuyers: You’ve got access to a limited-time $8,000 federal income tax credit!

With attractive interest rates and a vast array of great homes available, now is the perfect time to invest in a home.

So, what is the $8,000 tax credit all about?

Here’s what you’ll need to know to take advantage of this rare opportunity:

• You’re considered a qualified first-time homebuyer if you haven’t owned a home within the past three years.
• The program provides for a tax credit equal to 10% of the purchase price of a home, up to $8,000 (whichever is less).
• The credit is good for homes closed on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
• A single person or a married couple can qualify for the same tax credit.
• The money from the tax credit can be used for any purpose the homebuyer wishes. 

Want more information? Visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com. 

Important questions to ask your Insurance company.

In Florida where home insurance is one of the most difficult things to arrange when buying a home, many home owners are paying far more than necessary. When purchasing a home or changing insurance companies, many factors determine the amount you pay. A third-party inspection of your home could save you thousands. Type of roof, windows, or location are factors you may expect your insurance company to take into account, but unfortunately this is not always the case. Asking questions is the easiest way to learn more about your insurance. There are no stupid questions!

Contributed by John Greske

Buying a house

When you begin to think about buying a new house, there are many things to take into consideration. First, you need to decide whether you’re looking for a house or a condo, where you want to be in terms of schools, job, stores and attractions. Next, you will need to determine how much money you have to spend in buying your new home and get a mortgage pre-approval. If you are working with a real estate agent, they can assist you in searching for your home that matches your requirements.

Should I buy or rent?

With decreasing US home prices, many people wonder if they should buy or rent a home. There are many misconceptions when weighing the options. Misconception: Purchasing tax benefits take too long to offset costs. Actually, if you anticipate staying in your home for several years, the financial gain for ownership will outweigh the initial cost. Misconception: It’s cheaper to rent. The influx of renters may be having an impact on supply and demand in driving rents higher. It’s better to rent and wait for the market to bottom out. By the time we wait for this to happen, home prices may already be on their way up. I’ll become a victim of the foreclosure mess. Foreclosures account for just a small percentage of all homes sold. It’s critical to be well educated. The good news is, home financing is readily available

Tips for Closing the Deal

Although home appreciation has leveled off, it doesn’t mean that sellers can’t get their asking price. The sale may take a bit longer, but a little creativity can help. Work with a full-service real estate professional to determine the appropriate, competitive listing price for your home. In this market, your sales associate may encourage a list price according to other homes currently on the market, rather than those previously sold. When a buyer sees your house for the first time, a positive first impression is critical. Maximize curb appeal by trimming trees and planting flowers. A fresh exterior coat of paint might also prove valuable. Consider neutral colors for interior walls and carpets. Dark colors on walls, along with unnecessary clutter, make rooms look smaller. If repairs are needed, it’s a good idea to go ahead and fix the problems. Potential buyers will cast a critical eye over your home and, in a situation when more houses are available on the market from which to choose, they may take a pass on a home that needs too many repairs. Be sure to have the home inspection report available for prospective buyers, itemizing repairs that have been made and the associated cost for each. You can sweeten the deal by offering assistance to the buyer in ways that don’t require lowering the asking price. These tactics can allow your home to stand out from the crowd. You can offer to pay a portion of the buyer’s closing costs or, if applicable, home owners association fees.