Joyce's Corner

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T09:30:00.004-05:00

Wishing everyone a most happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year 2012. There are mixed reviews on the state of the real estate recovery but we are definitely seeing some good signs of positive activity.
I looked through the postings on the blog, ready to delete anything that was too old to be helpful to anyone and found that many of the older articles are still quite relevant. I left those for you to browse through and hopefully find merit in their being posted.
Again, I wish you a wonderful New Year!

Foreclosure Property Pros & Cons

2011-04-07T10:21:00.003-04:00

Click on this link for valuable tips on whether your interest in a foreclosure property has potential for success.

I thought the timing on this article was "spot on". I just began a kitchen renovation.

2011-02-25T09:39:00.002-05:00

Homeowners Willing to Tackle Remodeling Projects | RISMedia

Interesting article by Stan Humphries, Chief Economist, Zillow.com

2011-02-01T09:40:00.001-05:00

As Housing Market Nears Bottom, Pent-Up Supply Waits | RISMedia

If you are a Facebook user here are some helpful security tips.

2011-01-31T07:41:00.000-05:00

Facebook Just the Latest to Battle Hackers

Thinking of purchasing a Foreclosure Property?

2011-01-25T08:46:00.001-05:00

For Your Clients: Tips for Buying Foreclosures

Information to keep the bed bugs away!

2010-12-23T09:34:00.001-05:00

With all the hype about bed bugs, the EPA has set up a web site on how to get rid of the pests with a safe EPA approved pesticide, when used properly and in conjunction with practical steps like reducing clutter, covering mattresses, vacuuming and other methods.

The EPA pesticide database: http://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/productsearch.

Tips to prevent infestations:
http://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/

Staging your home to attract a specific buyer group

2010-12-18T07:42:00.000-05:00

Home Staging Tips That Focus on Largest Customer Segments

New Website with superb real estate information launched by HUD

2010-11-23T07:04:00.004-05:00

HUD Launches New One-Stop Website for Economic and Housing Data
Here is the Link: http://www.huduser.org/portal/regional.html

Selling? How neat are your neighbors yards?

2010-11-16T07:47:00.002-05:00

Survey: Well-Kept Yards Most Important Factor in Determining Neighborhood Safety

This is so true. Many a time when showing a house the seller has lost out because the buyer is uncomfortable with the neighboring yard, especially if it is the next-door neighbor.

We can all use extra space!

2010-11-12T07:40:00.001-05:00

Here are some ways you can add to your storage space.

Don't miss out on tax credit for new roof!

2010-11-12T07:34:00.003-05:00

http://www.houselogic.com/articles/tax-credits-replacing-your-roof/

Purchase or Refinance Possible?

2010-11-09T07:34:00.004-05:00

Bankrate: Mortgage Rates Return to Record Low Territory

Even with the rates going this low few people are able to capitalize on it. Worth looking into if you aren't upsidedown on your current mortgage but even then your house has to have enough equity built in to get a high enough appraisal to be approved. Qualified first time buyers will benefit the most if they are able to take advantage and that will hopefully put this down market back into a normal cycle. Wouldn't that be nice?!

Replacement Windows & Lead Paint Testing

2010-11-06T07:07:00.003-04:00

Lead Paint Rules Weigh on Window Replacement

I recently had four windows replaced in my home and the contractor did a quick test for lead paint with a kit that he carrys with him. The results were immediate. Fortunately the test showed as negative for the lead. Home improvement stores that are selected to perform the work must test before beginning the work. It cost me $50.

Is Your House Ready for Winter?

2010-10-30T08:08:00.002-04:00

For Your Clients: Preparing Your Home for the Cooler Months

Swan Lake, as you have never seen it performed, before.

2010-10-27T14:25:00.001-04:00

http://www.nzwide.com/swanlake.htm

Job stability is still the key to the housing recovery

2010-10-27T10:33:00.000-04:00

Majority of Americans: Buying a Home Is a Good Decision

It is time to be especially careful with personal info

2010-10-26T10:12:00.000-04:00

Identity Thieves Crafty, Prolific

Twitter, Twitter, Everywhere!!

2010-10-26T10:09:00.000-04:00

10 Do\'s and Don\'t\'s for Maximizing Your Twitter Account

Opportunity Time for Becoming a Landlord - Tips to help

2010-10-22T07:22:00.001-04:00

Patience is Key When Looking For and Purchasing Rental Property

Are our children safe when using the Social Media Websites?

2010-10-21T07:25:00.002-04:00

Study: Bullying, Cyberbullying are Parents Biggest Fear

Are you ready for winter?

2010-10-21T07:23:00.000-04:00

Prepare Your Home for Winter with These Simple Tips

Bank Are Scrutinizing Qualifications of Potential Borrowers

2010-10-14T08:37:00.000-04:00

Mortgages Cheap, But Hard to Get

Tips to Prepare for a Comfortable Retirement

2010-10-12T07:32:00.002-04:00

Seven Steps to a Sound Retirement

Magnificent Video showing the far reaches of our world

2010-10-06T15:35:00.002-04:00

Click this link to view a beautiful short video of the wonders of our Earth.

Credit Card Update

2010-10-06T09:22:00.000-04:00

Survey: Credit Card Issues Improving in Wake of Credit Card Act of 2009; Some Perils Linger

Lead Paint Rules for Window Replacement

2010-10-01T05:56:00.001-04:00

By Al Heavens

RISMEDIA, October 1, 2010--(MCT)

Question: My daughter recently obtained estimates for replacing 17 windows in her home, which is more than 50 years old.

One contractor mentioned the Environmental Protection Agency's new requirement of lead-paint precautions, containment, and other things, which would add $500 to the project cost.

He also stated that she could first test for lead paint ($60), but because of the age of her home, the house more than likely contained lead paint.

The EPA website was a little confusing and wordy, so I'm not sure if she is required to follow the EPA guidelines. She has no children and no plans for them in the next few years.

Only one section of four connecting casement windows in the living room will be removed and replaced with three regular double-hung windows.

This will require removing and replacing some old woodwork. The remaining windows throughout the house will be normal window replacement.

Can you explain the EPA regulations so we will know if the lead paint precautions are needed or not?

A: I'll try, although a series of postponements and lawsuits have turned the situation into a minefield of contradictory information.

Originally, a law was passed to require contractors who "disturb lead-based paint in homes, child-care facilities and schools built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination."

Although the law applies to 79 million houses, just 38 million of those are believed to have lead paint.

That law took effect April 22, but in late June, the EPA said it would delay enforcement of the law until October because there weren't enough government-approved trainers needed to certify thousands of contractors.

That enforcement deadline has now been extended to Dec. 30. By early July, 320,000 contractors had been certified.

That's one problem. The next one relates to your daughter's decision to have children at some point down the road.

The law had an "opt-out" clause that allowed consumers to permit contractors to bypass extra preparation, cleanup and record-keeping requirements in homes where there were no children under 6 years old or pregnant women, thus avoiding additional costs.

That provision expired July 6, and the EPA had no plans to reinstate it. The National Association of Homebuilders and others filed suit to force the EPA to reinstate the opt-out rule.

If that rule had been in force, your daughter could have chosen to bypass the law.

The law states that a hazardous condition exists when lead-paint dust is present on a floor to the extent of 40 micrograms (one millionth of a gram) in a square-foot area.

Another way of expressing it is if a square centimeter lead-based paint chip were ground into dust, it would (by EPA standards) contaminate 25 square feet of floor space.

The feds require the "proper" containment and cleanup when six or more square feet of lead-based paint will be "disturbed" in a home.

The EPA suggests consumers ask to see certification before they sign a contract.

Since December 2008, remodelers have been required by law to supply a brochure to customers outlining the dangers and rules.

The thing I find most interesting is that your daughter's contractor says that the cleanup will add $500 to the job.

According to the homebuilders' association, a complete window replacement requires the contractor to install thick vinyl sheeting to surround the work area both inside the home and outdoors — with prep time and material costs adding an estimated $60 to $170 for each window.

By the builders' estimates, remediating the lead would add $1,000 to $3,000 to the job, if 17 windows are involved. I'd say that if the contractor's estimate is in writing, $500 for the entire job seems like a bargain.

Both sides acknowledge that there are differences in estimates of what meeting these requirements will cost the typical consumer. Make absolutely certain of what the real costs are before signing a contract.

(c) 2010, The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.

Walk-Through Checklist Provided by Roots Home Inspection

2010-09-22T06:44:00.000-04:00

Tips for Safer Social Networking

2010-09-09T07:32:00.000-04:00

Brought to you by and sponsored by RISMEDIA, September 9, 2010--

The popularity of social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn is continuing to grow dramatically, but not just with users. Cybercriminals increasingly are targeting these sites and their troves of sensitive, personal information.

"While many of these sites are great for finding friends and connecting with business partners, users are sharing more information than ever before -- and the bad guys are taking note," said Andy Hayter, anti-malcode manager of ICSA Labs. "And it is not just about the sensitive data that users are exposing; the threats are also coming from scams, viruses and other forms of malware that can take many forms on these sites."

ICSA Labs, an independent division of Verizon Business, offers these helpful tips on how consumers can enjoy social networking while protecting themselves from security threats:

1. Be wary of worms, Trojans and botnets that can infect and take control of your computer. Access to sensitive documents and personally identifiable information poses a significant threat to users. The Koobface worm, for instance, infected hundreds of thousands of Facebook users in June. Users received a video claiming to be from a Facebook friend, but after downloading the video, the worm distributed the malware to a user's Facebook friends and granted attackers full access to the user's computer.

2. If you receive a request to connect from someone you do not know, do not accept it. Trojans are infamous for tricking victims into providing sensitive information and are increasingly surfacing on social networking websites. By taking over a user's contacts or "friend" list, the Trojan sends invitations to the user's friends to try to infect their computers as well. The ZeuS Trojan is one example of malware that is remotely controlled by criminals who infect computers, wait for users to log on and then try to gain access to their bank accounts.

3. Do not share too much personal information. Hackers can easily piece together different bits of information posted to Facebook and other sites and compile a complete profile of an individual's identity, especially using birth date information. With this knowledge, hackers can trick users with targeted information that only a "friend" would know.

To safeguard against misuse of personal information, it is important for users to review and understand the privacy policies on social networking sites to make sure they disclose personal information. In addition, users should regularly check their credit report and other financial statements to verify their identity is unharmed.

4. Be careful where you click. Just because a link came to a user from someone the user knows - a "friend" - does not mean it is safe. Users can easily check by rolling over the link for a moment before clicking to verify the Web address is legitimate. Link shorteners, such as bit.ly and tinyurl, are becoming common practice and making hackers' jobs even easier as they try to mislead victims into clicking on malicious links.

5. Use and frequently update software security programs. Updating security software is the simplest way to protect a computer from malware like worms, viruses, Trojans and clickjacking. Users should make sure that their anti-virus, firewall and spyware products are up-to-date and that they have installed the latest software upgrades. Products should also be certified by an accredited third-party organization, such as ICSA Labs, and meet the appropriate standards.

Added Hayter, "A lot of it comes down to 'whom do you trust?' and making smart decisions about who users accept as their friends on these sites. If users pay close attention to whom they are connecting with, what they are clicking on, what they post on these sites and keep their security software updated, they'll be in a much safer place."

A Powerful Sales Pitch - Electric Suppliers

2010-09-08T12:19:00.010-04:00

As offers for cheaper electricity flood the state some answers to help ease consumers concerns - As published in the Star Ledger, September 8, 2010

Click on link to follow article - to see complete posting click on "continuation" at the top of the article.

10 Tips for Hiring a Home Remodeling Contractor

2010-09-03T06:36:00.000-04:00

Friday, Sep 3rd, 2010

Brought to you by and sponsored by
RISMEDIA, September 3, 2010

With the U.S. economy facing the lowest home sale statistics in fifteen years and home values continuing to slide in many regions, it's not surprising to hear that housing trends point towards a large percentage of American homeowners looking to improve and maximize their existing property investment versus buying a new home. When deciding to undertake a remodeling project however, there are several invaluable tips to keep in mind as you discuss your home make-over with potential contractors.

Through advice and stories shared by both contractors and consumers, StageofLife.com, a blogging resource for homeowners, discovered 10 important tips on how to find a trustworthy home remodeling contractor to help ensure the right person or company is hired for your next home improvement project.

Tip #1: Does Your Contractor Have Proof of Insurance?
Ask the contractor to have his insurance company mail or fax a copy of his current contractor insurance card to you. If the contractor can't do this - stay away. Why? If there is an accident at your home, you are then liable. This also applies to any sub-contractor or employee that the contractor may use - those individuals should have active insurance cards faxed or mailed to you as well.

Tip #2: Did You Check References and See Photos?
Ask for at least three references - with two of them being for the same type of project you are planning - and then call the references. Additionally, ask the contractor to provide photos of previous work, especially for the same type of project. If he produces lawn and garden photos and you're planning a bathroom remodel, you may want to check out another contractor.

Tip #3: Does Your Contractor Take Debit or Credit Cards?
Besides your ability to earn a few points, bonus miles, or cash back on your project, a good sign that a contractor is financially savvy and has a bank behind his business is his ability to take debit and credit cards. This doesn't just apply to big contracting companies. Many small, one-man shops will take cards if they have a good relationship with their business bank or credit union.

Tip #4: Manners and Appearance?
If the contractor drove his vehicle to your home to give you an estimate, take a look at the way he keeps the equipment and vehicle. Are things clean? Neatly arranged? If not - that's a big warning. The way a contractor treats his tools is a direct connection to how he'll treat your home. During the initial meeting, does the contractor present himself in a professional way? Do you feel comfortable around him or his employees? They will be working in your home after all.

Tip #5: Clean Up Policy?
Ask about the clean-up policy. For example, if your home improvement is a multi-day project, will the contractor be cleaning up at the end of every day or will he leave the dust, wood chips, and other mess laying there for day #2? The more mess in your home - the more it gets tracked around. Many homeowners find themselves with mouths gaping wide after the contractor has left for the day and their floors and home are dirty and messy around the project area.

Tip #6: Will the Contractor Put It In Writing?
Is your contractor willing to put both his bid and the scope of work in writing? If not - walk away immediately. You'll be surprised how many homeowners have been duped by contractors who verbally tell you what's included in their scope of work, but will then, in the middle of everything, require extra money to finish the remodel, thus holding you hostage with an uncompleted home project.

Tip #7: Availability?
Can the contractor get the job done in your timeline rather than his timeline? There's nothing more frustrating than if a contractor tells you that a job will be done by a certain date and then it isn't . On the flip side, if you can't find a good contractor that's willing to commit to your timeline, your expectations may be too high and you may need to adjust your timeline.

Tip #8: Does Your Contractor Use "Subs?"
Does your contractor plan on doing everything himself? Or will he "sub out" work to the "trades?" For example, if you are remodeling a bathroom, you may need a plumber, electrician, and carpenter. It's okay if the contractor subs work out to these specific trades - it shows he wants the work done right.

Also, it's fair to say that you can expect your contractor to make money off the trades, or other sub-contractors, by marking up those quotes for the project. That is a standard practice to help the general contractor recover costs in the time it takes to manage the schedule. If you don't want to spend the extra money on your contractor marking up the trade quotes, then you should prepare to project manage the remodel yourself, but know this may limit your options on contractors willing to work with you.

Tip #9: Quoting & Billing Procedure?
Ask the contractor about his quoting procedure. Will it contain general information, or will it be specific? For example - most contractors will charge you for a fuel surcharge, material up-charges, waste removal, labor, etc. Some will show you these exact costs in a line item invoice, but others roll it up into one big bill. How much detail do you want? You should clarify that with your contractor upfront.

Also - what is the payment or billing policy? Is money required upfront? If so, go back to #1 and #2 above to make sure you have the contractor's references checked and have a copy of his contractor's insurance.

Tip #10: Did Your Contractor Get the Permits?
Ask your contractor to take care of the permits. Although permits cost you money, the inspection process is meant to protect you from poor workmanship and to make sure that everything is being built to code.

By following these 10 tips for hiring a home contractor, you'll feel more confident that you've found the right contractor for your remodeling job.

Preparing for Hurricane Season

2010-09-02T07:00:00.002-04:00

Thursday, Sep 2nd, 2010
Brought to you by and sponsored by

RISMEDIA, September 2, 2010--

With the possibility that Hurricane Earl may strike the Eastern Seaboard, the Private Client Group division of Chartis is reminding homeowners that advance planning can make the difference between minor damage and catastrophic property loss. Private Client Group insures owners of large, complex residences as part of its property/casualty program for high-net-worth families, yet all homeowners can benefit from these practical tips to help minimize damage:

When a Hurricane Is Forecast for Your Area
1. Install storm shutters and secure your garage door.
2. Move personal possessions to the center of your home, away from windows
and doors. Elevate your belongings as much as possible in case water pools on the floor around windows and doors.
3. Remove window treatments from windows and French doors. In the event draperies cannot be removed, elevate or secure/encase the lower portion of drapes in plastic.
4. Roll up area rugs and move them to the center of your home. Elevate them if possible.
5. Place towels at the base of terrace doors.
6. Remove all patio furniture from your yard or terrace, and store it in your garage or house. Remove potted plants, lawn ornaments and sculptures and store them indoors.
7. Fill the fuel supply for your back-up electrical generator. Test the generator under load to ensure it is functioning properly.
8. Place important documents, i.e. insurance policies, bank account information, credit card information, important contact numbers, etc. in a plastic container to ensure their availability after the storm passes.

After a Hurricane
1. If you discover water in your home, contact a restoration company immediately to begin the water extraction process.
2. Run the air conditioner to dehumidify your home.
3. Remove any wet items and store them in the garage, if possible.
4. Call your insurance agent or broker to report any damage.

7 Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Condo

2010-05-24T07:29:00.011-04:00

LowesMoving.com

Friday, May 21st, 2010
Brought to you by and sponsored by
For Your Clients: 7 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Condo

RISMEDIA, May 21, 2010--

You've found your dream condo, and you're ready to relax among the mango trees and swaying date palms. Hold everything. To keep from getting stuck with a lemon, you've got to do some homework. Here are the seven most important questions you need to ask before buying a condo.

1. "What's the Beef?"
Take a look at the minutes of the condo association board meetings to see what the owners have been griping about. If everyone was complaining about the faulty plumbing or the gardener's absence, you know that the complex is having management difficulties. Even if there aren't any complaints, reading the minutes will reveal the sorts of projects that are under way at the complex -- projects the seller may have neglected to mention.

2. "Who's Been Naughty and Who's Been Nice?"
Find out the delinquency rates of present owners. If people aren't paying their
association dues on time, that is either a sign of discontent or an indication that the association might be underfunded.

3. "How Much Is In the Repair Fund?"
Ask if the community has done a reserve-fund review in the past five years. Lester Giese, the author of The 99 Best Residential & Recreational Communities in America, recommends the following formula: If the complex is one to 10 years old, the reserve fund should have 10% of the cost of replaceable items (roofs, roads, tennis courts, etc.). Between 10 and 20 years old, the repair fund should be at 25% to 30%. At 20 years, that amount should be 50% or above. Residents who brag that they don't pay much in maintenance may be in a complex that either is not being kept up well or is living beyond its means.

4. "Can You Cover Me?"
If you look at nothing else, get a copy of the certificate of insurance, which is a
summary of the association's policy. First see if the replacement costs covered by the policy are an accurate estimate of the cost of rebuilding. Then make sure that the policy has a building-ordinance clause, which means that the insurance will cover the cost of bringing the building up to code if there is any rebuilding to be done. On older buildings, there may have been many code upgrades since the time of construction. Finally, make sure that you understand exactly what the association policy covers and what you are responsible for. The smart condo owner will insure his or her personal belongings, along with any other items within the unit that are not covered by the association's policy. If you have trouble understanding the insurance lingo, take the insurance certificate to an agent whom you trust and who understands the state laws.

5. "Does the Association Present Any Legal Problems?"
Buying a single-family home without a lawyer is no big deal for many people. But with a condo, there's so much more involved. Contact a local real estate lawyer and have him or her go over the bylaws of the association. Do they make sense? Are they consistent with the state laws? Giese, the author, once found that the association bylaws of a large garden-style condo complex had been lifted from the books of a high-rise condo, leaving confused tenants with rules about shared hallway space and the correct use of garbage chutes. Benny Kass, a Washington real estate attorney, recommends that you also have your lawyer screen the association at the local courthouse, to see if any owners have filed suit against it.

6. "Is the Complex Renter-Friendly?"
If the renter population is over 10%, there should be clear rental policies, either listed in the bylaws or tacked on as an amendment. Does the management company find renters for you? If so, do they get enough good renters? Ask other tenants about their experience. In addition, ask to see the association's rental lease, and have a real estate lawyer look it over. Keep one thing in mind, though: An association can change its bylaws to prohibit or restrict renting at any time. The more owners who rent, the less chance that will happen.

7. "Am I My Community's Keeper?"
Watch out for a condo whose owners manage the place themselves. Although many are operated efficiently, self-management can lead to more hassles for owners - especially those who live thousands of miles away. If the complex is professionally managed, check out the management company as thoroughly as you check out the association. Ask other owners. Ask people in nearby buildings. And be sure to interview the day-to-day manager directly. If you hook up with a bad manager, you can be sure of this: Your dream condo will keep you up at night.

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10 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale

2010-03-19T06:44:00.003-04:00

Click the link to see what you need to do to get your home ready for buyer viewing.

http://rismedia.com/2010-03-18/10-staging-tips-to-help-your-home-sell/

NJ Monthly Top 100 Places to Live in NJ

2010-02-18T20:32:00.002-05:00

Click here to see where your town ranks.

Real Estate Analysts Cautiously Optimistic for 2010

2010-01-21T06:51:00.002-05:00

Click here for article analizing today's market forecast.

There are six factors predicted to affect the real estate market's recovery over the new few years. Today is a very opportunist time for both the buyer and seller that you won't want to miss!

Tax Credit Extension for Home Buyers

2009-11-24T09:37:00.003-05:00

The market will be busier than usual this Holiday Season with the tax credit extensions now in place. Click below to see newest info!

Current Homeowner Guidelines

First Time Buyer Guidelines

A Fix-up Strategy Works in the Long Run

2009-10-17T07:25:00.002-04:00

Thinking about selling your home? Don't miss this valuable article on what to do to get ready!

Be Aware of 8 Spots Where Germs Lurk in Your Home

2009-08-20T07:49:00.007-04:00

Click here for a list of the most common germ hot spots in your home!

Mortgage Window Shopping

2009-07-11T09:22:00.002-04:00

Five Tips for Prospective Home Buyers

The Otteau Report - Contract Sales 2005 - 2009

2009-07-02T18:25:00.002-04:00

Building on last month's column as to what a housing recovery will look like - more homes selling and fewer to choose from - the New Jersey market continued in the direction of stabilization last month. In May, Contract-Sales continued to rise by equaling the pace from one year ago and appear poised to exceed last year's sales pace soon. - The Otteau Report by Jeffrey Otteau

Money Saving Tips for buying a home

2009-06-20T07:12:00.006-04:00

7 Helpful Tips for Consumers looking to purchase a home

The Perfect Summer Party: How to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Get-together By Susan M. Selasky

2009-06-13T08:12:00.006-04:00

Tips on planning for the perfect "Staycation"!

Buyers Can Apply $8,000 Federal Aid to Closing Costs or Downpayment

2009-06-11T11:16:00.006-04:00

FHA Tax Credit Monetization Helps Homebuyers with Upfront Costs

Pending Home Sales Up for Third Consecutive Month

2009-06-05T16:26:00.000-04:00

Record low mortgage interest rates boosted the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®' (NAR) forward-looking pending home sales index 6.7 percent in April to 90.3 from a reading of 84.6 in March. The April 2009 reading is 3.2 percent above April 2008. “Housing affordability conditions have been at historic highs, but now the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit is beginning to impact the market, too," says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. The index in the Northeast shot up 32.6 percent from March to 78.9 in April.

Secretary of HUD, Shaun Donovan outlines Tax Credit Guidance

2009-06-04T08:40:00.003-04:00

NAR Government Affairs Tax Credit Guidance outlines immediate help for thousands of first-time buyers to purchase a home.

Housing Affordability Surges to Highest Level in 18 Years

2009-05-20T08:19:00.002-04:00

Housing affordability takes a big jump for the first quarter of 2009.

Home Sellers become More Realistic on Home Prices while Realtors Express Greater Optimism about Housing Market

2009-05-18T17:19:00.002-04:00

Sellers are more realistic about pricing their home to sell while buyers are still looking for "the" bargain!

To take advantage of $8,000 Federal Buyer Credit you must close by December 1, 2009!

2009-05-18T17:10:00.003-04:00

High Housing Affordabiliby and Low Interest Rates are contributing to buyer activity.

What are your real estate agents services worth?

2009-05-09T09:42:00.002-04:00

Read how to determine your real estate agent's value.

Top 10 Myths About Credit Scores Debunked

2009-05-07T07:51:00.002-04:00

Credit Score Information on maintaining and protecting your score.

Get Ready for Another Housing Bust?

2009-05-04T11:17:00.005-04:00

Are we headed for another mortgage bust? Read what the Wall Street Journal has to say about FHA mortgage backed loans.

7 Essential Chores to Get the Most Out of Your Spring Cleaning

2009-05-02T07:29:00.004-04:00

Use these cleaning tips to keep ahead of the chores, making life a bit easier!

Spring is here and garage sales are a great way to pick up extra cash!

2009-04-27T15:56:00.005-04:00

Here are some tips on how to hold a successful garage sale!

NJHMFA Offers Cash Advance for First-time Buyers

2009-04-17T17:49:00.001-04:00

The New Jersey Housing Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) is offering cash payments of up to $5,000 for qualified first-time home buyers to help defray closing costs or satisfy down payment requirements and help new buyers to get into the housing market.

The loan, offered as part of NJHMFA's "Prefund" program, would function like a cash advance against the $8,000 tax credit being offered to first-time buyers who purchase a home between April 8 and December 1 of this year. In its simplest terms, purchasers would be provided with the payment as a loan and would be required to repay the advance when they receive their federal tax credit.

The cash advance is available to first-time home buyers who:
Arrange their financing through the NJHMFA. (Obtain a list of participating lenders by calling (800) NJ HOUSE)
Are qualified for the tax credit offered as a part of the federal stimulus program
Pledge to apply the proceeds of their tax credit to repay the cash

For full details regarding the NJHMFA's First-Time Home Buyers Tax Credit Loan (TCLP) visit the HMFA page on the state Legislature's website.

Affordability up in housing market

2009-04-11T07:48:00.004-04:00

Buyers return to market with housing becoming more affordable.

5 Money Tips for Approaching Housing Finances

2009-04-04T07:22:00.004-04:00

5 Approaches where you can save money on your present or future home

Home Prices Plunge 19% over a year's time.

2009-04-02T11:36:00.005-04:00

Prices have fallen at a record rate and buyers are beginning to step back into the market!

To FSBO or not to FSBO?

2009-03-31T07:31:00.005-04:00

Pro's and Con's to selling your most valuable assest on your own.

The Price is Right - 78% of First-time Home Buyers Say Now Is Good Time to Buy

2009-03-30T07:49:00.002-04:00

73% of first time home buyers said that taking advantage of current housing prices is the reason that they are looking to purchase now.

Using an agent helps to avoid pitfalls

2009-03-28T09:33:00.002-04:00

By Jessica Jones, Special to the Star Ledger, March 28, 2009

Article link will remain active for 7 days from posting.

GUCAR AT A GLANCE - Cell Phone Tax Legislation

2009-03-27T09:56:00.002-04:00

Legislation has been reintroduced in the U.S. House imposing a five year moratorium on enacting new taxes and fees on cell phone consumers. It is expected that a similar bill will be introduced in the Senate in the next few weeks. Cell phone services are subject to 15.2% in federal, state and local taxes, while the tax rate for most other taxable goods and services is 7.1%. NAR’s Business Issues Committee will discuss the legislation and determine next steps.

GUCAR AT A GLANCE - 3/27/09

2009-03-27T09:51:00.002-04:00

Home buyers wanting to take the newly improved home buyer tax credit have to wait until they complete the purchase and close or, in the case of new construction, take up residence to claim the credit, the IRS says in newly released filing guidance . For households who won’t close before the filing deadline, the guidance provides four options: 1) file an extension, 2) file now, amend later, 3) amend the 2008 tax return, or 4) claim the credit in 2009 rather than 2008.

Mortgage rates hit record low

2009-03-26T14:19:00.002-04:00

30-year fixed-rate mortgage now averaging 4.85%: Freddie Mac By Amy Hoak, MarketWatchLast update: 12:05 p.m. EDT March 26, 2009Comments: 50CHICAGO (MarketWatch) --
The average rate on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages hit a record low this week, after the Federal Reserve announced it would purchase Treasury securities over the next six months, Freddie Mac's chief economist said on Thursday. The 30-year mortgage averaged 4.85% for the week ending March 26, the lowest point since Freddie Mac's weekly survey began in 1971. Last week, the mortgage averaged 4.98%; the mortgage averaged 5.85% a year ago.

Google poised to run webphone world by Allan Hoffman of the Star Ledger

2009-03-26T07:43:00.002-04:00

Read about a new Google service, Google Voice, an innovative product with an interesting history.

Short Sales Test Home Buyer Patience by Amy Hoak of RIS Media

2009-03-26T07:28:00.002-04:00

2009-03-25T06:41:00.002-04:00

Saving energy and money this summer!

Home Sales Picking Up in Every Region of the Country

2009-03-24T07:28:00.005-04:00

February sales were up 15% over January and over half of the buyers were the needed first time buyer.

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Congrats!

2009-03-24T06:39:00.001-04:00

Kudos on the Blog Joyce.

All the Best! Yvonne

Health Coverage Assistance for People Out ot Work

2009-03-23T16:18:00.004-04:00

Taking the sting out of COBRA - Federal Subsidy helps unemployed cover extended health insurance cost.

This link will be available for 7 days from posting.

2009-03-23T11:54:00.001-04:00

Joyce,
Your new website looks GREAT!

Wayne

New Website

2009-03-23T11:16:00.001-04:00

View new website at:
http://joycesrealtor.com

Welcome to All!

2009-03-23T10:11:00.001-04:00

Hi,
Today I have entered into the world of blogging. I hope to post helpful news articles about real estate for your viewing pleasure. If you would like to see an answer to your question please email me at; Joyce@hallmarkrealtors.net
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Joyce