Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
Keeping Up The Yard Through The Winter
Provided By Realty Times
This is the time when people start to want to stay indoors a bit more, especially when the temperatures significantly drop.
But you can't neglect your outdoor patios and decks, especially if you plan to sell soon. Buyers won't want to see broken-wood decks or corroded wrought iron patio sets in your backyard.
The good news is that if you prepare ahead, you can save yourself time and money. Taking some good housekeeping steps now will allow you to step outside into the fresh spring air next year to a well-preserved outdoor space.
Where to begin? First, if your deck is looking a little worn and tired, make the necessary repairs now. Don't wait until you can stick your foot through a board (like I did). That's not only dangerous but it also mandates a quick fix.
Give your deck a good cleaning and sealing or staining before the weather gets too cold and wet to do this. Make sure you check for loose nails and get rid of any splintery edges by sanding them down. Seal with waterproofing sealants. For these, generally the weather has to be above 32 degrees F and 50 degrees F for sealing and stains, respectively, to work properly.
Put the clippers to work. Take a good look around your yard and decide which plants need to go. Many annuals may have been killed by frost and it's time to clear them away. Keep your flowers keep them looking good by trimming away dead leaves. If you cut your plants back now it will cause them to grow and flower more effectively later on.
Add seasonal plants. You can still have some nice color in your yard if you get the right plants for your yard's climate. Kale and ornamental cabbage are attractive. In warmer climates try primroses for winter color.
Use creative containers with your seasonal plants. Putting a perennial plant in a beautifully painted container can add style and allure to your patio all winter long.
Plant potted vegetables. Nothing's better than fresh food especially when it comes from your own yard. There are some cool-weather vegetables that work well in pretty pots. Things like lettuce: kale, leaf, mustard, and Chinese cabbage are good for this. Also, don't forget herbs; they'll come in handy for the holiday dinners.
Get artsy. Making your yard look good in winter is also about what you leave outside. Those brightly colored throw pillows and rugs that worked great in summer, of course, should be brought inside. Instead get creative with lights that give a sparkle on a cold winter night. Hang plants with ornaments on them. Also, hang bird feeders to attract birds.
Taking a few simple steps to keep your deck, yard, and outdoor furniture in good condition will give you an easy progression into spring. And, if you're listing your home for sale in the winter, these steps are sure to please buyers
This is the time when people start to want to stay indoors a bit more, especially when the temperatures significantly drop.
But you can't neglect your outdoor patios and decks, especially if you plan to sell soon. Buyers won't want to see broken-wood decks or corroded wrought iron patio sets in your backyard.
The good news is that if you prepare ahead, you can save yourself time and money. Taking some good housekeeping steps now will allow you to step outside into the fresh spring air next year to a well-preserved outdoor space.
Where to begin? First, if your deck is looking a little worn and tired, make the necessary repairs now. Don't wait until you can stick your foot through a board (like I did). That's not only dangerous but it also mandates a quick fix.
Give your deck a good cleaning and sealing or staining before the weather gets too cold and wet to do this. Make sure you check for loose nails and get rid of any splintery edges by sanding them down. Seal with waterproofing sealants. For these, generally the weather has to be above 32 degrees F and 50 degrees F for sealing and stains, respectively, to work properly.
Put the clippers to work. Take a good look around your yard and decide which plants need to go. Many annuals may have been killed by frost and it's time to clear them away. Keep your flowers keep them looking good by trimming away dead leaves. If you cut your plants back now it will cause them to grow and flower more effectively later on.
Add seasonal plants. You can still have some nice color in your yard if you get the right plants for your yard's climate. Kale and ornamental cabbage are attractive. In warmer climates try primroses for winter color.
Use creative containers with your seasonal plants. Putting a perennial plant in a beautifully painted container can add style and allure to your patio all winter long.
Plant potted vegetables. Nothing's better than fresh food especially when it comes from your own yard. There are some cool-weather vegetables that work well in pretty pots. Things like lettuce: kale, leaf, mustard, and Chinese cabbage are good for this. Also, don't forget herbs; they'll come in handy for the holiday dinners.
Get artsy. Making your yard look good in winter is also about what you leave outside. Those brightly colored throw pillows and rugs that worked great in summer, of course, should be brought inside. Instead get creative with lights that give a sparkle on a cold winter night. Hang plants with ornaments on them. Also, hang bird feeders to attract birds.
Taking a few simple steps to keep your deck, yard, and outdoor furniture in good condition will give you an easy progression into spring. And, if you're listing your home for sale in the winter, these steps are sure to please buyers
Friday, October 14, 2011
Tips for Saving
Provided By Realty Times
Saving money for a downpayment is a very worthy goal. Homeownership has been shown to be a good long-term investment that creates family and community stability.
The National Association of Realtors' 2010 Social Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing study found some delightful upsides of becoming a homeowner, such as it making "a significant positive impact on educational achievement," and "evidence of the positive impact of homeownership on health even after controlling for factors like income and education.'
Many families find finances to be tight. Money comes and goes. How can you budget your life so that homeownership turns from a dream into reality?
First, be realistic about your current expenses. Take a few weeks to a month to track every expenditure. If you use a debit card for every purchase, you may already be able to go into last month's records for a break-down. Divide expenses into columns: rent/mortgage, groceries, household expenses, travel, fuel, dining out, entertainment, clothing, etc.
Now, align that list with your monthly income. Are you sending out more than you're taking in? Today's economy is not a time to be cutting it close. If homeownership is truly a goal, then you should make sure that you are saving all you can.
Decide what things can be done without. Are you overspending on dining out or going to movies? Try to find alternatives that cost less or content yourself with home-cooked goodness and Netflix! A typical night out can cost anywhere from $50 to $100. If you save that money each week it adds up to $2,600 to $5,200 a year!
The same goes for cable or satellite TV. Many people pay tons each month for their beloved channels. At $100 a month, that adds up to $1,200 a year.
Start a savings account that is specifically for your downpayment. Put money in it at the beginning of each pay period. We tend to spend a dollar here or a dollar there when we have it accessible in our daily accounts. Be tough on yourself and transfer the funds to savings as soon as you have them. Then watch them grow!
Find other ways to save on money. Some families shop sales and with coupons. It's time downgrade other parts of your life. Do you really need a luxury car and latest fashions or will a cheaper model and recycled fashions be sufficient?
Many companies offer family plans, such as gyms and cell phone providers. Credit card companies may be willing to negotiate a lower rate on your balances. Be willing to talk to companies to see what deals they offer!
The act of savings can be hard in our society. Everything we "want" is right at our fingertips, either down the block or on the Internet. The key to reaching your goal is to keep your focus. It will be worth it!
Saving money for a downpayment is a very worthy goal. Homeownership has been shown to be a good long-term investment that creates family and community stability.
The National Association of Realtors' 2010 Social Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing study found some delightful upsides of becoming a homeowner, such as it making "a significant positive impact on educational achievement," and "evidence of the positive impact of homeownership on health even after controlling for factors like income and education.'
Many families find finances to be tight. Money comes and goes. How can you budget your life so that homeownership turns from a dream into reality?
First, be realistic about your current expenses. Take a few weeks to a month to track every expenditure. If you use a debit card for every purchase, you may already be able to go into last month's records for a break-down. Divide expenses into columns: rent/mortgage, groceries, household expenses, travel, fuel, dining out, entertainment, clothing, etc.
Now, align that list with your monthly income. Are you sending out more than you're taking in? Today's economy is not a time to be cutting it close. If homeownership is truly a goal, then you should make sure that you are saving all you can.
Decide what things can be done without. Are you overspending on dining out or going to movies? Try to find alternatives that cost less or content yourself with home-cooked goodness and Netflix! A typical night out can cost anywhere from $50 to $100. If you save that money each week it adds up to $2,600 to $5,200 a year!
The same goes for cable or satellite TV. Many people pay tons each month for their beloved channels. At $100 a month, that adds up to $1,200 a year.
Start a savings account that is specifically for your downpayment. Put money in it at the beginning of each pay period. We tend to spend a dollar here or a dollar there when we have it accessible in our daily accounts. Be tough on yourself and transfer the funds to savings as soon as you have them. Then watch them grow!
Find other ways to save on money. Some families shop sales and with coupons. It's time downgrade other parts of your life. Do you really need a luxury car and latest fashions or will a cheaper model and recycled fashions be sufficient?
Many companies offer family plans, such as gyms and cell phone providers. Credit card companies may be willing to negotiate a lower rate on your balances. Be willing to talk to companies to see what deals they offer!
The act of savings can be hard in our society. Everything we "want" is right at our fingertips, either down the block or on the Internet. The key to reaching your goal is to keep your focus. It will be worth it!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Fannie, Freddie expand allowable foreclosure assistance for military
Provided By Housing Wire
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will allow military members to claim a permanent change of station order as a hardship to be evaluated for foreclosure assistance.
In September, the Treasury Department clarified that rule for veterans looking for help through the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives program after many called in requesting a change.
According to Fannie guidance released Friday, GSE servicers may evaluate a borrower for assistance if they fall behind on their mortgage because of a distant employment transfer. Fannie said it would provide more guidance on eligible hardships soon.
A spokesman for Freddie said its guidance states that documentation is not required by the servicer if the military member claims a permanent change of station order as a hardship.
Fannie recently began granting a six-month forbearance to families of service members who were killed or injured on active duty and also created a hotline just for military families to call if they get in trouble on their home loan.
"Fannie Mae has a long standing commitment to our men and women in uniform," said Terry Edwards, executive vice president of credit portfolio management, at Fannie.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will allow military members to claim a permanent change of station order as a hardship to be evaluated for foreclosure assistance.
In September, the Treasury Department clarified that rule for veterans looking for help through the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives program after many called in requesting a change.
According to Fannie guidance released Friday, GSE servicers may evaluate a borrower for assistance if they fall behind on their mortgage because of a distant employment transfer. Fannie said it would provide more guidance on eligible hardships soon.
A spokesman for Freddie said its guidance states that documentation is not required by the servicer if the military member claims a permanent change of station order as a hardship.
Fannie recently began granting a six-month forbearance to families of service members who were killed or injured on active duty and also created a hotline just for military families to call if they get in trouble on their home loan.
"Fannie Mae has a long standing commitment to our men and women in uniform," said Terry Edwards, executive vice president of credit portfolio management, at Fannie.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Time to Move up?
Provided By Realty Times
The market if fraught with scary headlines and ominous news reports. Could the economy slip once more into a recession? Will home prices fall even further? It's enough to make even the bravest buyer a little squeamish.
The truth of the matter is that now is a fantastic time to buy. Interest rates are wonderfully low and affordabilty rates are at record highs. Not only that, but there is an oversupply of homes on the market. Now is a great time to move up if you play host to the right set of circumstances.
In order to evaluate if now is the time for you to buy, consider these five issues.
1. Interest Rates: Low rates translate into smaller monthly payments and less money over the long-term. The Federal Reserve has promised to keep interest rates low for the foreseeable future, but in the next few years we could see rates climb back upward. If you have excellent credit, you'll likely qualify for an exceptional rate. Better yet consider doing an all-cash purchase (like the nearly 30 percent of the market) and avoid interest rates altogether!
2. Why are you buying?: This is an important question to spend some time pondering. Don't move on a whim. What is the real need to move? Many move-ups need more space, want to claim a more prestigious address, or are ready to settle down for good and want to be exactly where they've always dreamed. Perhaps your current home is unable to be remodeled to accommodate your wants and needs. Regardless of the reason, be sure to spend ample time thinking about what move is best for your family.
3. Equity: Home values have fallen across much of the country and this could mean that equity you had built over the past few years is gone. Talk to a local real estate agent about the current market value of your home before deciding if now is a time to buy. Most sellers aren't willing to take a loss on their home. The good news? If you've owned your home for many years (at least five) then chances are you do indeed still have equity.
4. Financial Stability: There's a 9.0 percent unemployment rate that doesn't appear to be going anywhere fast. Moving up can mean bigger payments or heftier bills (energy costs, property taxes, etc). Are you ready to take on this new responsibility? Be sure that you have steady employment, adequate retirement savings, an 8+ month emergency fund, as well as savings for downpayment and other closing costs.
5. Family Concerns: There are many different stages to life and at each of these stages one must consider how actions will affect family members. A family with young children will need to consider school districts, sports teams, and friends. A couple nearing retirement may want to consider the needs of children or grandchildren that live nearby. Buying a home is about much more than making a sound financial decision, it's about creating the sort of life you desire.
Moving-up can be part of the fulfillment of a life long dream. Many couples simply can't wait for the day they step inside their perfect home. Now is a great time to make those dreams a reality, just be sure to toss in a little sensibility with your dreaming.
Are you ready to upgrade your home? Give us a call at 972.772.7000 or email us at frontdesk552@kw.com.
The market if fraught with scary headlines and ominous news reports. Could the economy slip once more into a recession? Will home prices fall even further? It's enough to make even the bravest buyer a little squeamish.
The truth of the matter is that now is a fantastic time to buy. Interest rates are wonderfully low and affordabilty rates are at record highs. Not only that, but there is an oversupply of homes on the market. Now is a great time to move up if you play host to the right set of circumstances.
In order to evaluate if now is the time for you to buy, consider these five issues.
1. Interest Rates: Low rates translate into smaller monthly payments and less money over the long-term. The Federal Reserve has promised to keep interest rates low for the foreseeable future, but in the next few years we could see rates climb back upward. If you have excellent credit, you'll likely qualify for an exceptional rate. Better yet consider doing an all-cash purchase (like the nearly 30 percent of the market) and avoid interest rates altogether!
2. Why are you buying?: This is an important question to spend some time pondering. Don't move on a whim. What is the real need to move? Many move-ups need more space, want to claim a more prestigious address, or are ready to settle down for good and want to be exactly where they've always dreamed. Perhaps your current home is unable to be remodeled to accommodate your wants and needs. Regardless of the reason, be sure to spend ample time thinking about what move is best for your family.
3. Equity: Home values have fallen across much of the country and this could mean that equity you had built over the past few years is gone. Talk to a local real estate agent about the current market value of your home before deciding if now is a time to buy. Most sellers aren't willing to take a loss on their home. The good news? If you've owned your home for many years (at least five) then chances are you do indeed still have equity.
4. Financial Stability: There's a 9.0 percent unemployment rate that doesn't appear to be going anywhere fast. Moving up can mean bigger payments or heftier bills (energy costs, property taxes, etc). Are you ready to take on this new responsibility? Be sure that you have steady employment, adequate retirement savings, an 8+ month emergency fund, as well as savings for downpayment and other closing costs.
5. Family Concerns: There are many different stages to life and at each of these stages one must consider how actions will affect family members. A family with young children will need to consider school districts, sports teams, and friends. A couple nearing retirement may want to consider the needs of children or grandchildren that live nearby. Buying a home is about much more than making a sound financial decision, it's about creating the sort of life you desire.
Moving-up can be part of the fulfillment of a life long dream. Many couples simply can't wait for the day they step inside their perfect home. Now is a great time to make those dreams a reality, just be sure to toss in a little sensibility with your dreaming.
Are you ready to upgrade your home? Give us a call at 972.772.7000 or email us at frontdesk552@kw.com.
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