Short sales are the most misunderstand real estate transaction out there. A short sale, or "pre-foreclosure" sale occurs when the Seller is selling the home for less than what is owed to the bank, or banks, if there is a second mortgage on the property. The transaction can only take place if the bank (or banks) approve the … [Read more...] about Are Short Sales Worth It?…The Zombies of the Real Estate Market
Homeowner Bailout Plan – Good, Bad or Ugly?
As a Realtor, I get asked lots of real estate questions. The question of the day is most certainly "What do you think of the Obama's Homeowner Bailout Plan?" And I have to say, it is not an easy question to answer. There are so many levels to the current housing situation, and effects from other areas of the economy that will … [Read more...] about Homeowner Bailout Plan – Good, Bad or Ugly?
First Time Homebuyer’s Tax Credit – Update
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 authorized a $7,500 tax credit for qualified first-time home buyers - those buyers who have not owned a home in the last three years. The homes had to be purchased on or after April 9, 2008 and before January 1, 2009. Although the $7500 would be fully refunded when you filed your tax … [Read more...] about First Time Homebuyer’s Tax Credit – Update
The Fed cut rates…why don’t mortgage rates follow?
In an effort to bolster the US economy, the Federal Reserve has lowered the prime rate several times over the last few months. But Fed rate cuts don't always translate into lower mortgage rates. Today, rates are falling, but that trend will reverse if investors conclude that the Fed's monetary stimulus, combined with Congress's … [Read more...] about The Fed cut rates…why don’t mortgage rates follow?
Now, That’s Depressing!
Prices have declined, interest rates are low and there is a LOT of inventory to choose from. So why aren't more Buyers jumping on the band wagon? With all the negative press these days, who can blame them. I actually heard a news story that compared today's real estate market to the Great Depression! The Great Depression was a … [Read more...] about Now, That’s Depressing!
