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September Sales up Nearly 9%...Should I be excited?

While that is a good number, anytime we can see a positive number like that it's a good thing, There is another side to it. The Average price of those sales is down another -2.63%. Cincinnati has posted a third month with an increase in sales, however, a third month with a decrease in average price. We are still down on the year compared to this time in 2010 and we're down across the board on those numbers.


I have to say...all in all...not as bad as I had expected.  Homes are selling, but clearly the motivating factor in Buying a home is the price.  (Did you hear that Mr. and Mrs. Seller?)  Yes, your home can sell, but No, not likely for the amount that you would want, or perhaps need.

So, September overall looked like this:
We are likely up in September of 2011 because sales in September of 2010 were pretty slow after the Home Buyer Tax Credit ended.  Folks just needed to take a break, and most of the good inventory had been picked from the market.  What was left in 2010 was...shall we say, less than move in ready.  

Moving forward, I do expect us to return to a bit more normalcy, as sellers are smarter and more realistic about price and have gotten pretty creative in marketing their homes and attracting buyers.  Buyers continue to take their time to pick through the inventory, however, and that tends to slow things down a bit.   We'll move into the holiday season and likely see a normal reduction in sales - but we will see some sales!  

If you are looking at these numbers and thinking, how does this affect my home in my area then send me an email.  I will be happy to provide you with an Market Position Analysis showing you just how your home would stack up in today's market.  I do this for free, because I'm a nice guy and, well, You should know how your investment is doing.

Chris Wood

The Accidental Landlord

In today's market sellers are finding that more buyers are looking to rent than buy - even with interest rates and home prices as low as they as they are.  One of the last things our sellers have on their minds is being a landlord.  Yet, here they are faced with owning a home and having to move out of town for their job.  While this can actually be a good thing for a homeowner - there are a few points to consider before renting out that home.

  • When a home owner leases or rents their home it is no longer their primary residence.  This affects real estate taxes, property insurance and could even affect their mortgage.
  • HOA restrictions may prevent or limit the lease or rental of a home.
  • If the seller received any federal monies ($8,000 tax credit, etc) there may be paybacks required.
  • Securing a mortgage on the new residence and/or refinancing the old residence may present additional complications.

Need to be sure before you rent or lease your home?!  Contact a REALTOR, as well as a tax attorney and your home insurance company prior to committing or advertising your home for rent or lease!

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Great Home in Batavia Lakes

Located in Batavia Lakes subdivision this home is surrounded by perfect landscaping that offers great curb appeal and privacy.  Inside the home is immaculately kept - ready for you to move right in!

 Imagine your evenings, sitting on the back covered patio watching the birds - or take a stroll through the sidewalk community down to the lake, just behind the house. 

Inside you will find 3 generously sized bedrooms with a large loft that is currently being used as an office.  The loft could easily be enclosed to provide a 4th bedroom if desired, however, this space creates a great open feel to the living room.

A formal dining room provides a space to enjoy family holidays, game night or even regular family meals.  The kitchen has a tile floor that extends into the breakfast area where you can watch the small decorative pond out the back picture window. 

To find out more information and for more photos please visit: 4244mallard.chrisjwood.com You can also visit our virtual open house from this page.

Or call (513) 791-2255 to schedule a personal tour.

Chris W.

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March Home Sales stink more than we want them too.

Ok...Don't shoot the messenger.


In a quick review of the March 2011 numbers compared to 2010 March numbers we can really see the effects of the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.  In an effort to "clean up" the numbers, the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors is releasing numbers using a 3-year rolling average.  This can be helpful to see what is going on - while attempting to take out some of the affects of the tax credit.  These numbers are below: 

Closings:
March 2009:  1,389
March 2010:  1,594
March 2011:  1,477

3 year Avg:  1,487
# Closings:  -0.7%


Now, for you purists out there, me being one of them, Let's just look at the straight up number compared to last year.


Closings:
March 2010:  1,594
March 2011:  1,477

# Closings:  -7.34%
Gross Volume:  -18.93%
  (yep, that's pretty Gross)
Average Price:  -12.51%

(yeah, I see why they might want to Average those things out over 3 months rather than just a straight up comparison).  That's just Nasty.


 There are some trends that are looking up, like the local job market - Unemployment dropped last month to 8.9%, the best reading since January 2008, as well as Cincinnati's numbers on housing - we are out performing other major Ohio cities like Dayton, Columbus and the Cleveland/Akron area by significant margins.


So, while there are some items that we can cling to to improve our mood this Spring - until people start buying houses again, we will be grasping at the wind.  Rates on Loans are still quite impressive - if you can get one.  The number of hoops to jump through to get a loan have increased greatly with lenders continuing to be more and more cautious about where they put their money.  (Wouldn't you?)  


Meanwhile, Inventory continues to increase with an apparent lack of buyers on the market - this makes for once again some long marketing times for those folks trying to sell.  Hopefully some Sun will brighten those days waiting with an influx of buyers - the non-fence-sitting type.  (Hey, it's my dream I can see it how I want).  In the meantime - as it has been, PRICE will continue to be a driving factor in sales.  If you are thinking about selling - now is the time to talk to a professional so that you are aware of your options.  Give me a call and we get those options sorted out.


Chris W.

Loveland School Levy (Update)

From the most recent newsletter from the Loveland School Disctrict concerning the Levy on the May 3 Ballot:

The date Tuesday, May 3, 2011 is an important day for the Loveland City School District.  The district has a 3.5 mill operating levy on the ballot to generate approximately $2.7 million a year for the district.

 "We have studied our budget and believe this is the minimum amount to keep our district financially solvent and educationally sound for the next several years. The passage of the levy is critical," Loveland Superintendent Dr. John Marschhausen said.   

According to Marschhausen, the district's staff has agreed to pay freezes and zero step increases for the next two years as the district faces state, national, and local cuts.  While Dr. Marschhausen is optimistic that the levy will pass, he and the Board of Education have made plans in case the levy fails.  The Board has proposed cuts in staffing and transportation, increases in pay to participate fees, and the adoption of alternating kindergarten.

Dr. Marschhausen has scheduled dozens of community meetings to share details on the operating levy and finances of the district.  He has two remaining Community Conversations scheduled.

Community Conversations

April 19th, 6:30 p.m.

LIS/LMS Media Center

Board Meeting


April 21st, 5-7 p.m.

The Works - Dinner Talk

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FHA Announces Increase to Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium

From a recent announcement by the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors we get some confirmation that loans are going to start costing more money. It's a big increase when you see what it does to your monthly payments

 From CABR:

HUD Mortgagee Letter 11-10 includes an announcement from FHA regarding an increase to the Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium on standard FHA loan programs and a change that affects case numbers.

 

Here are the 7 things you need to know about these changes:

 

1. These changes are effective April 18th, 2011.

2. The Annual Insurance Premium will increase .25% for standard forward mortgages*. The Upfront Mortgage Insurance** remains at 1.00%.

3. The Annual Premium was .90% is now 1.15% for LTVs GREATER than 95% on 30-year loans

4. The Annual Premium was .85% is now 1.10% for LTVs EQUAL to or LESS than 95% on 30-year loans

5. The Annual Premium  was .25% is now .50% for LTVs GREATER than 90% on 15-year loans

6. The Annual Premium was 0% is now .25% for LTVs EQUAL to or LESS than 90% on 15-year loans

 

To illustrate, on a home priced at $163,000 with 3.5% down, the monthly payment was $118 per month and is now $151 per month-- a $33 per month increase.

I believe we'll start to see these types of changes in all types of loans - Banks have been tightening up their requirements for some time, but now they are going to start requiring more money down, and still charging you more - even if you have the money to put down.

 

Chris Wood
REALTOR
 

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Loveland City Schools to add 3.5mil levy on ballot in May

In a January board meeting a resolution was passed to add an Operating Levy to the May 2011 Ballot. Click here to ready the announcement by Loveland District: Loveland City Schools


You may recall a levy that was difficult to pass back in 2008, took them twice to get it done. That levy was a non-increase and the board promised to not ask for more money until 2012. That Levy is set to expire January 2012, when this new one will take affect. - So the board can say that promises were kept. This upcoming Levy is being asked to help cover increase operating costs and is expected to generate around2.7 million additional dollars for the district.

Loveland Board of Education President, Dr. Kathryn Lorenz said, "It is always difficult to come to the community asking for additional funds, but the Board believes that we have been responsible with the taxpayer funds entrusted to the district and can show additional funds are needed now. The new funds are not for added programs, but rather, to continue programming and maintain the district's academic excellence."


The levy request is being asked because revenue from multiple sources is being lost. Federal Stimulus funds, personal tangible property revenue as well as tax dollars from Duke Energy. The board is expecting this levy to pass, but has stated that they are preparing a plan should it fail - likely including the usual threats of busing service, extra curricular activities, etc.


We will watch carefully as this unfolds and we move toward voting day. I expect to see a ramp up of conversation on this topic as we enter late March and throughout April. Check back for more updates!


Chris W.

REALTOR

chris@chrisjwood.com

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A monthly list of To Do items for your Home

Courtesy of our good friends over at Home Services Link!  Where you can find contractors you can trust, fast and easy - you name the project, they find you a contractor.

January - Flooring -  Are your carpets showing a little wear and tear? Have you always dreamed of having beautiful hardwood floors? Refinishing wood floors and replacing old carpet can reinvent a room without changing anything else. So kick-start your year with new flooring that is sure to wow (for less). January is the best time to take advantage of bargains. During this month you'll find the lowest prices on flooring material due to slow sales.

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February - Get rid of the clutter, Storage - There's no need to scrimp and save for an extravagant renovation project like adding a second story. Simply clearing up the clutter in your home can double it in size. Maximize winter's down time by organizing your closets, drawers, garage, computer files and storage areas. Focus on one room at a time and schedule different rooms for different days. Utilize a good all-in-one copier/printer/scanner to digitize paper documents and eliminate mounds of paper clutter. Need budget storage? Wire shelving systems brings order to closets and garages -- without costing a bundle. For your closets or office, turn to a professional for some great systems that can make like a lot easier.

-Contractor

March - Spring Cleaning -  Don't be overwhelmed by the thought of spring cleaning. Breeze through the mess that winter has left behind by tackling it in a room-by-room fashion. Wash windows and floors; polish furniture; clean bathrooms; dust lightbulbs and light fixtures; tame clutter zones; and polish wood furniture. No time for a big scrubfest? Remember, you have a whole month -- so don't try to get all your spring cleaning done at once. Break it down and you can clean your home in just 10 minutes a day.  OR you can hire a professional for less than a few hundred dollars to handle the large items while you knock out the little nuances.

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April - April showers bring May flowers, and a need to check your gutters -Rain gutters carry away thousands of gallons of water from your house's exterior and foundation walls. But after a harsh winter of diverting rainwater and melted snow from the roof, your gutters are due for an inspection and cleaning before the heavy rains begin. It's advisable to revisit this project late in the fall too when leaves, twigs and other debris have fallen and collected in gutters.  CAUTION, this is something that many homeowners try themselves, this is a project that should only be performed by a professional, you don't want to take a chance of falling off the roof.

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May - Get your deck ready for grilling - Pressure washing is a fast and easy way to blast grime, mold and mildew off of your home's exterior, decks, driveways, and sidewalks. Pressure washing is a potentially hazardous job, so stand at least three feet away from the surface you're cleaning. Make sure to avoid windows, light fixtures, and anything else that could break under the pressure. If you're not comfortable using the equipment, simply hose off the surface instead. Many companies can make your deck look brand new with their special products and tools.

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June - Better make your AC is ready! - A properly maintained air conditioning system will run more efficiently, use less energy and lower your utility bills. For window air conditioning units, clean the filter and coils. Concerning central air conditioning units, it's highly recommended that you call a professional to inspect your system. In addition to pro help, you can DIY clean your system by replacing your air conditioner filters regularly; this will cut down significantly on dust and allergens in the home. Also, clean the condenser and evaporator coil in the unit.

July - Paint - A fresh coat of paint is the easiest and cheapest way to dramatically change a room's appearance. It not only adds to your home's appeal, it can even make it look cleaner.

August - Get Ready For Guests, Deep Clean Your Carpet - After a messy winter and active summer, nearly a year's worth of spills, foot traffic, accidents and lively pets have taken a toll on your carpets. Give flooring a quality cleaning to remove dust, dirt and grime buildup that is embedded deep down in carpet fibers. Shampooing or deep cleaning your carpeting will give it a tidy appearance, as well as a fresh smell.

September - Roof Repair - Roof shingles will eventually come loose in spots, so take advantage of the reasonable fall temperatures to inspect your roof for loose and damaged shingles. The harsh winds and cold winter weather can exacerbate shingles, potentially causing a small roof leak. Make sure to repair damage well in advance of the first snowfall.

October - Yard Work - Your thoughts may be turning towards winter, but this is a time to actually start prepping for spring. To ensure a beautiful lawn next year, complete important yard work such as raking leaves, fertilizing, top dressing, and re-seeding in the fall.

November - Fires may be romantic, but make sure they're safe as well - With winter just around the corner, now is the perfect time to prepare your fireplace. Part of this preparation includes inspecting and cleaning the accumulation of soot, ashes and debris from your wood-burning, gas or electric fireplace. Doing this will assure safe and efficient heating of your home come winter.

December - It's here...BURR.  Winterize your home - Old Man Winter is ready to roar and wreak havoc on your home and energy bills. Combat the chill by sealing gaps around door and windows with weather-stripping: an easy, inexpensive tool for sealing openings, staying warm, and reducing your heating bills.

Chris Wood
chris@chrisjwood.com


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Closing out the year...with baited breath

We closed out December with 1,197 Homes being sold through our Multiple Listing Service of Greater Cincinnati and 16,903 homes sold in all of 2010.  How does that compare to last year you ask?  I'm glad you did!


Comparatively, we sold 9.80% fewer homes in December of 2010 than we did in December 2009.  I can try to dig into the bright side here but quite frankly, I don't have the energy for it.  Let's face it, that number stinks; now - let's get on with getting on.  As we look overall through 2010, we can see that home prices do seem to have stabilized a bit, and while inventory still seems a high for the volume (or lack thereof) of buyers in the market we seem to be moving in a positive direction.  As an added benefit, rent prices are increasing and with continued low rates and still depressed home prices it can quickly become advantageous for renters to buy.


For the year of 2010, we sold 16,903 homes which is 10.15% fewer homes than were sold in 2009 but as I said earlier the median price of homes is 0.88% positive over the median price of homes sold in 2009.  If you are a "glass is half full" kind of person this number is for you.  I could make it look better by reporting the "Average" - but I don't really like averages and I feel that the median numbers give us a much better view of what the market is REALLY doing.


Getting inside these numbers we see a few things. #1 - Lender involvement in the above numbers for 2010 is just above 30%.  That means that over 30% of 2010's sales where short sales, foreclosure properties, etc.  Believe it or not that number is down by -1.23% over 2009.  But don't expect that number to decline anymore through 2011 - in fact, it may approach closer to 40% again by the time the year is out.  #2 - Lenders are sitting on close to 3 Million properties that are currently over 3 months delinquent in their mortgage payments.  This is a problem that will not be going away in a year or two.  You could look at this foreclosure market a variety of ways.  For another view of this you can visit The Angry Capitalist and enjoy Dan's insight on the housing market - the economy and what's wrong with the world, and you for that matter!  There are some good reads there - I don't agree with all of them but he's a smart guy and I always enjoy a different perspective.  We've got a long way to go here and I expect 2011 will provide us with some ups and downs - much like 2010.  What this country needs right now are jobs!  Solve that quandary and you will be amazed at how quickly other things will follow suit.


My advice, if you are thinking about putting your house on the market - think long and hard about why.  And before you do, consult with a REALTOR® to find out what the market is willing to pay for your home.  A good plan, starts with good planning.


Chris Wood

chris@chrisjwood.com

Existing Home Sales Decline in October

Existing-home sales retreated in October on the heels of two strong monthly gains, according to the National Association of REALTORS®

Existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops, declined 2.2 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.43 million in October from 4.53 million in September, and are 25.9 percent below the 5.98-million-unit level in October 2009 when sales were surging prior to the initial deadline for the first-time buyer tax credit. Year-to-date there were 4.149 million existing-home sales, down 2.9 percent from 4.272 million at this time in 2009.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the recent sales pattern can be expected to continue. “The housing market is experiencing an uneven recovery, and a temporary foreclosure stoppage in some states is likely to have held back a number of completed sales. Still, sales activity is clearly off the bottom and is attempting to settle into normal, sustainable levels,” he said. “Based on current and improving job market conditions, and from attractive affordability conditions, sales should steadily improve to healthier levels of above 5 million by spring of next year.”

Tight Credit Hurting the Market
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to a record low 4.23 percent in October from 4.35 percent in September; the rate was 4.95 percent in October 2009.

The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $170,500 in October, down 0.9 percent from October 2009. Distressed homes accounted for 34 percent of sales in October, compared with 35 percent in September and 30 percent of sales in October 2009.

NAR President Ron Phipps clarified that several factors are restraining a housing recovery, even with great affordability conditions. “We’ll likely see some impact from the foreclosure moratorium in the months ahead, but overly tight credit is making it difficult for some creditworthy borrowers to qualify for a mortgage, and we are continuing to deal with a notable share of appraisals coming in below a price negotiated between a buyer and seller,” he said.

“A return to common sense loan underwriting standards would go a long way toward achieving responsible, sustainable home ownership. In addition, all home valuations should be made by competent professionals with local expertise and full access to market data – there remains an elevated level of appraisals that fail to provide accurate valuation, which is causing a steady level of sales to be cancelled or postponed,” Phipps said.

A parallel NAR practitioner survey shows 10 percent of REALTORS® in October report they had a contract cancelled as a result of a low appraisal, and 13 percent report they had a contract delayed; 16 percent said a contract was negotiated to a lower sales price as a result of a low appraisal. According to FHFA, Fannie- and Freddie-backed mortgages that were recently originated show an outstanding performance, even better than during the pre-housing bubble years.

“A review of recently originated loans suggests that they have overly stringent underwriting standards, with only the highest creditworthy borrowers able to tap into historically low mortgage interest rates. There could be an upside surprise to sales activity if credit availability is opened to more qualified home buyers who are willing to stay well within budget,” Yun added.

Inventory drops
Total housing inventory at the end of October fell 3.4 percent to 3.86 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 10.5-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 10.6-month supply in September.

First-time buyers purchased 32 percent of homes in October, unchanged from September, but down from 50 percent a year ago during the initial surge for the first-time buyer tax credit. Investors accounted for 19 percent of transactions in October; they were 18 percent in September and 14 percent in October 2009; the balance of sales were to repeat buyers. All-cash sales were at 29 percent in October, unchanged from September but up from 20 percent a year ago.

Single-family home sales declined 2.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.89 million in October from 3.97 million in September, and are 25.6 percent below the 5.23 million surge in October 2009. The median existing single-family home price was $171,100 in October, which is 0.5 percent below a year ago.

Existing condominium and co-op sales fell 3.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 540,000 in October from 560,000 in September, and are 27.6 percent below the 746,000-unit sales rush a year ago. The median existing condo price was $166,000 in October, down 4.2 percent from October 2009.

By Region
Existing-home sales in the Northeast declined 1.3 percent to an annual pace of 750,000 in October and are 27.2 percent below the surge in October 2009. The median price in the Northeast was $240,200, which is 1.9 percent higher than a year ago.

Existing-home sales in the Midwest slipped 1.1 percent in October to a level of 940,000 and are 32.4 percent below the tax credit rush one year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $139,500, down 3.6 percent from October 2009.

In the South, existing-home sales fell 3.4 percent to an annual pace of 1.71 million in October and are 24.0 percent below the year-ago surge. The median price in the South was $148,700, down 0.7 percent from October 2009. 

Existing-home sales in the West declined 1.9 percent to an annual level of 1.03 million in October and are 21.4 percent below the sales rush in October 2009. The median price in the West was $209,300, which is 4.8 percent below a year ago. 

Source: NAR

New Listing in Deerfield Township, Ohio


Recently listed, this 2 bedroom, 3 Bath end unit Townhome has a recently updated kitchen

fixtures, a finished lower level and tons of storage. Outside there is a private patio area

and a HUGE green space with plenty of room for games!


An attached one car garage with direct access to the kitchen make getting the groceries in easy. This Condo is located in Deerfield Township, Ohio, within walking distance to shopping, great parks, restuarants and plenty of recreation.


Email me to arrange your personal tour!

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Preparing your Home for the Cooler Months

Here are some good tips and advice on preparing your home for Winter.  It's a good time to get that HVAC cleaned and serviced as well as your fireplace - gas or wood, they need some attention as well!  If you are looking for a contractor to do a little work on your home let me know.  I have a list of contractors that I have had success with in the past.  I'm glad to share! 

By Stephanie Andre

RISMEDIA—This year has certainly flown by, and now, with the fall in full swing, it’s a great time to start prepping your home before winter strikes. From water leaks to the chimney, it’s better to be ready for the cold season…before it hits.

Here, State Farm offers up some fall maintenance tips for your home:

Check all window and door locks for proper operation
* Windows that can be opened by breaking the glass and unlocking them, are less effective deterrents to criminals. Check with the hardware store for window lock alternatives.
* All exterior doors should have deadbolt locks.

Make sure there are working nightlights at the top and bottom of all stairs
Other safety ideas for stairs:
* Tile and painted wood or concrete stairs can be slippery when wet or when a person's shoes are wet. Resurface the treads with slip-resistant strips near the stair nosing.
* All stairs of at least three risers should have a handrail.
* Do not store items on the stairs.

Have a heating professional check your heating system every year
Woodburning stove connector pipes and chimneys should be inspected by a certified chimney sweep at least annually.

Replace your furnace filter
Furnace filters need to be replaced frequently to allow your heating and cooling systems to operate properly.

Run all gas-powered lawn equipment until the fuel tank is empty
By doing this, you are removing flammable liquid storage from your garage. At the same time, make sure you aren't storing dirty, oily rags in a pile. They can ignite spontaneously.

Have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the flues and check your fireplace damper
Soot and creosote, which build up inside the chimney, can ignite when a fire is lit in the fireplace.

Remove bird nests from chimney flues and outdoor electrical fixtures
Bird nests on top of light fixtures are a fire hazard. Bird nests in chimney flues can prevent a proper venting of combustion gases and can catch fire from sparks. You should exercise great caution when working on your roof or consider hiring a qualified professional to take care of any work that needs to be done.

Make sure the caulking around doors and windows is adequate to reduce heat/cooling loss
Check glazing for loose or missing putty or glazing compound. This will also help reduce water damage to the windows and door frames.

Make sure that the caulking around your bathroom fixtures is adequate to prevent water from seeping into the sub-flooring

Check for cracked or missing caulk around the base of your toilet, bath tub, and bathroom cabinets. Properly sealing gaps between your bathroom fixtures and flooring material can prevent damage.

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Why did I have to Pay for My FREE Credit Report?

I was listening to the Today Show, on NBC, this morning and I overheard a conversation about how low the mortgage rates are and what banks are requiring to obtain those low rates.  It's true, rates are historically low...we're talking biblical times here!  However, not everyone qualifies for that advertised rate.  To get the best mortgage rate lenders are requiring a credit score of 720 or higher!  Up from the previous of 680.  So having excellent credit is more important than ever, and you need to monitor your credit score to make sure you are on track

 Easy right?  You just go to the FreeCreditScore.com website and order yours - except that there seems to be some kind of service that you have to sign up that yes, costs money.  Now, you can opt out and I'm sure that the kind folks there will happily let you go without a fight or jumping through fiery hoops.  OR, you can go to the website that the FTC has authorized to provide you with your credit score once per year.  As a US Citizen, you are entitled to receive your credit score once per year for free - but you have to go to the correct place - and they don't spend money on advertising and catchy tunes.

They can be found at www.annualcreditreport.com.  And it is important that you do this at least once per year to stay on top of your credit score - like a bad grade in school, a low number can be difficult to bring up.  Now, there is a benefit to paying a service so that you can have access to your credit score anytime, especially if you have had credit problems in the past, or have latent fears of identity theft or have in fact had your identity stolen.  Also - using the free service does not provide you with some number - you have to pay for that, however, it does provide you detailed information about accounts you have open and if you have any bad marks on your credit.  But - if you are just looking to check your credit report, try the FREE one...the REALLY FREE one.  Schedule it on New Year's, or when you turn the clocks back - just make it part of your annual routine.  I just ran mine and have it booked on my Google Calendar to do it again next year!

Check back for updates on Repairing Your Credit and tips to keep it Solid!

 

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What to do...After the Storm

With the recent storm and high winds that passed through you may be looking at some damage or possibly just some downed limbs in your yard.  It is important however, to take some time to inspect your roof and siding to make sure that you are not missing any shingles or have loose siding.  Below are some tips to managing damage to personal property:

RISMEDIA, October 28, 2010--Fall brings the tall end of hurricane season and also tornadoes throughout the country. For this, Allstate is providing these simple steps for customers and families to help during the recovery. 

* Make sure your home is structurally safe. Be extremely careful inside your home. Debris may be hazardous and the potential for collapse may exist. You may want to retrieve personal items, but if you're told by authorities to stay out, stay out. It's for your own safety.
* Have necessary temporary repairs made to prevent further damage,keeping receipts for work performed. 
* If your home is uninhabitable, find out what living expenses your homeowners or renters insurance policy may cover.
* Be patient and assist claims adjusters assigned to your case. Small losses may be settled quickly; extensive claims will take longer.
* Notify creditors if bills have been lost or you're unable to pay.
* Consider calling your utility company and ask them to stop billing if your home has been destroyed.
* Report your claim to insurance company promptly.
* Prepare to file an insurance claim by gathering all relevant policy numbers.
* Inventory your home for damaged or lost items before your adjuster arrives. This will help speed up your claim process.

* Work with a qualified tax expert to find out about tax breaks for which you may be eligible because of your losses. 

If you are looking for some help to clean up, or a professional to take care of or even inspect some possible damage.  Consider calling Home Services Link, Inc.  Basically like a concierge service, you tell them what you need and want, and they make the connections to qualified and certified technicians.  If you need a roofer, but would like to talk with two or three to make sure you get the best deal - they'll do that.  Those contractors will then contact you and set up appointments - didn't get the call back in the time frame you wanted, let Home Services Link know and they'll take care of it.  And best of all - it doesn't cost you anything - it's a free concierge service that's local.

You can find them on the web at:  http://www.homeserviceslink.com

Posted by Chris Wood | 0 Comments
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Home Sales for September 2010

Well the monthly report is out for September 2010 and as expected we can all say, "eww".  Come on...say it with me!  coming off a very sluggish summer September finished up with 30% fewer closings that September of 2009.  Mind you, prices saw an increase of 2.74% but I don't necessarily see that as a good thing.  We are sitting on over 11 months worth of inventory and there are just not that many buyers on the market right now.  This tells me that the homes that sold were the cream of the crop and were likely fought over by the remaining few buyers.

 I believe that 2010 will close out with numbers continuing to be sluggish and likely widen the overall margin of comparative sales to 2009.  Right now what we need are jobs.  While some manufacturing sectors are announcing an increase in jobs, we will look for more solid growth here to really begin to see the positive affects in the housing market.

See the attached document for the Cincinnati Area Board of REALTORS press release on the September 2010 Sales.

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