Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Our Visit to the Rockefeller Tree
This was our 10th Anniversary and we celebrated by going to the Rockefeller tree and staying at the St Regis Hotel.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Looking Through the Buyer's Eyes
Below are questions to ask yourself when preparing your home for sale, to ensure it looks the best it possibly can to the buyer's eyes.
Exterior
•Does your yard look well maintained?
•Are the trees and bushes trimmed?
•Is your lawn mowed and edged?
•Is your lawn free of weeds?
•Are the decks and patios clean?
•Does your house need painting?
•Are there any exterior holes or cracks?
•Are your walks and porches clean and in good repair?
•Does your roof leak or sag?
•Are any shingles or tiles missing?
•Is your chimney in good shape?
Looking Through the Buyer's Eyes full story
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Exterior
•Does your yard look well maintained?
•Are the trees and bushes trimmed?
•Is your lawn mowed and edged?
•Is your lawn free of weeds?
•Are the decks and patios clean?
•Does your house need painting?
•Are there any exterior holes or cracks?
•Are your walks and porches clean and in good repair?
•Does your roof leak or sag?
•Are any shingles or tiles missing?
•Is your chimney in good shape?
Looking Through the Buyer's Eyes full story
Posted using ShareThis
Tips for Finding The Right Home
When beginning the process of finding a new home, it is often difficult to know where to begin. Before researching the market or analyzing housing options, homebuyers may want to start by prioritizing their family's needs, determining what are "must-haves" versus what are "nice-to-haves." Below are some factors you may want to consider when trying to find the right home for your family.
Tips for finding the right home full story
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Tips for finding the right home full story
Posted using ShareThis
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
N.J. homes sales jump 11 percent in quarter, while Atlantic County prices fall 10 percent from year ago - pressofAtlanticCity.com : Latest News
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Today We Celebrate ALL Veterans
Veterans Day is traditionally celebrated on Nov. 11 to coincide with the signing of an armistice that ceased most major conflict during World War I. In 1919 President Woodrow Wilson made Nov. 11 Armistice Day which would later be renamed Veterans Day.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Web site says that Veterans Day “is an opportunity to publicly commemorate the contributions of living veterans.”
It is also a day of remembrance for those serving in overseas conflicts and any who have served.
I know that alot of you have family or friends that have served or are serving in the military. There are many sacrifices that these brave individuals and their families make every day and because of these sacrifices we are fortunate to have the freedom to live our lives as we do.
Today I say thank you to those brave men and women and reflect on how fortunate I am to live in this great country.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Web site says that Veterans Day “is an opportunity to publicly commemorate the contributions of living veterans.”
It is also a day of remembrance for those serving in overseas conflicts and any who have served.
I know that alot of you have family or friends that have served or are serving in the military. There are many sacrifices that these brave individuals and their families make every day and because of these sacrifices we are fortunate to have the freedom to live our lives as we do.
Today I say thank you to those brave men and women and reflect on how fortunate I am to live in this great country.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
"President Obama has signed into law the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act (H.R. 3548) that included, as an amendment, the extension and expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit.
The bill provides a new incentive for existing homeowners who have owned their current homes at least five years, making them eligible for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase a new home. I believe this provision benefitting existing home owners, combined with historically low interest rates, will help engage a large number of qualified move-up buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines hesitant to list their current homes… if they act now!
The bill also extends the previous incentive for first time homebuyers – or anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years. Those buyers will still get up to an $8,000 refundable tax credit.
The legislation includes other qualification provisions. For example, the credit is available only for the purchase of principal homes (no second or vacation homes) costing $800,000 or less and the credit is scaled back and gradually eliminated for individuals with annual incomes above $125,000 or couples with incomes above $225,000.
To qualify under either provision, buyers must sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30. This is likely to be the last tax credit that the government will offer to first time and move-up buyers. The window of time is shorter than it may seem, especially for potential buyers who need to list and sell their existing homes. We must do everything we can to help them take complete advantage of it."
The bill provides a new incentive for existing homeowners who have owned their current homes at least five years, making them eligible for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase a new home. I believe this provision benefitting existing home owners, combined with historically low interest rates, will help engage a large number of qualified move-up buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines hesitant to list their current homes… if they act now!
The bill also extends the previous incentive for first time homebuyers – or anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years. Those buyers will still get up to an $8,000 refundable tax credit.
The legislation includes other qualification provisions. For example, the credit is available only for the purchase of principal homes (no second or vacation homes) costing $800,000 or less and the credit is scaled back and gradually eliminated for individuals with annual incomes above $125,000 or couples with incomes above $225,000.
To qualify under either provision, buyers must sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30. This is likely to be the last tax credit that the government will offer to first time and move-up buyers. The window of time is shorter than it may seem, especially for potential buyers who need to list and sell their existing homes. We must do everything we can to help them take complete advantage of it."
Home Buyers and Home Owners of 5 years, take advantage of the tax credit NOW
President Obama has signed into law the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act (H.R. 3548) that included, as an amendment, the extension and expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit.
The bill provides a new incentive for existing homeowners who have owned their current homes at least five years, making them eligible for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase a new home. I believe this provision benefitting existing home owners, combined with historically low interest rates, will help engage a large number of qualified move-up buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines hesitant to list their current homes… if they act now!
The bill also extends the previous incentive for first time homebuyers – or anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years. Those buyers will still get up to an $8,000 refundable tax credit.
The legislation includes other qualification provisions. For example, the credit is available only for the purchase of principal homes (no second or vacation homes) costing $800,000 or less and the credit is scaled back and gradually eliminated for individuals with annual incomes above $125,000 or couples with incomes above $225,000.
To qualify under either provision, buyers must sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30. This is likely to be the last tax credit that the government will offer to first time and move-up buyers. The window of time is shorter than it may seem, especially for potential buyers who need to list and sell their existing homes. We must do everything we can to help them take complete advantage of it.
The bill provides a new incentive for existing homeowners who have owned their current homes at least five years, making them eligible for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase a new home. I believe this provision benefitting existing home owners, combined with historically low interest rates, will help engage a large number of qualified move-up buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines hesitant to list their current homes… if they act now!
The bill also extends the previous incentive for first time homebuyers – or anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years. Those buyers will still get up to an $8,000 refundable tax credit.
The legislation includes other qualification provisions. For example, the credit is available only for the purchase of principal homes (no second or vacation homes) costing $800,000 or less and the credit is scaled back and gradually eliminated for individuals with annual incomes above $125,000 or couples with incomes above $225,000.
To qualify under either provision, buyers must sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30. This is likely to be the last tax credit that the government will offer to first time and move-up buyers. The window of time is shorter than it may seem, especially for potential buyers who need to list and sell their existing homes. We must do everything we can to help them take complete advantage of it.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Life Line Screening Sea Bright NJ Dec. 21,2009
No one knows when a stoke can strike - since 4 out of 5 stroke victims experience no apparent symptons whatsoever.
Life Line Screening Radiology have had over 275,000 people particpate in the ultrasound screenings that can determine your risk for storke caused by carotid artery disease, abdominal aortic aneuysm, and other vascular diseases.
I have had mine done by them when I saw their screening in Highlands because I fall under the risk factors and the price was reasonable as I did not have health insurance at that time.
I urge you to call Life Line Screening Radiology and pre-register fo rthe December 21,2009 screening as soon as possible. They will be in Sea Bright, NJ, ONLY DAY!
Call Today 1-866-579-4971
Life Line Screening Radiology have had over 275,000 people particpate in the ultrasound screenings that can determine your risk for storke caused by carotid artery disease, abdominal aortic aneuysm, and other vascular diseases.
I have had mine done by them when I saw their screening in Highlands because I fall under the risk factors and the price was reasonable as I did not have health insurance at that time.
I urge you to call Life Line Screening Radiology and pre-register fo rthe December 21,2009 screening as soon as possible. They will be in Sea Bright, NJ, ONLY DAY!
Call Today 1-866-579-4971
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Waterfront Condos along the Jersey Shore in Long Branch
Waterfront Condos along the Jersey Shore in Long Branch
I am constantly asked by prospective buyers looking to purchase a condo with "absolute ocean views" or a "waterfront condo" or a "condo on the ocean" oh yes and it must be under $200,000. Well that just does not happen and then they get very disappointed. So I decided to start writing about the different condos, townhouses that are specifically in Long Branch along the ocean and on ocean ave. For ease of use I am doing it alphabetically and will include address as well as map for visual aid.
Please feel free to contact me any time with questions you may have on these condos in Long Branch or other towns.
So we will now start with the Anchorage
Come and get away at the Anchorage, located 480 Ocean Ave., in one of the most up and coming towns on the Jersey Shore! This ocean front high rise building in the section known as west end offers comfortable living at a great price. Also a perfect escape from the hustle of the city, just step out your door and you're on the beach! Get cozy in a one or two spacious bedroom unit here at Anchorage. Relax on the balcony and enjoy direct water views, side views of water or wake to glorious sunrises from the large bedroom windows. Wind down with the re-modeled in-ground pool, exercise room, sauna and clubhouse. Literally steps to the ocean, this high rise is ready for your occupancy!
As with many condos along the Jersey Shore this is a no pets condo.Anchorage maintenance fee includes common area, exterior maintenance, snow removal, trash removal, sewer, water management fee. 2008 SOLD price range for a 1 bedroom 206,000 - $310,000
prices are affected by floor level and water views as well as updates if any were made
Nothing has sold yet in 2009,
Search for Anchorage Condos
Anchorage General Info:
Incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean
Walking distance to Pier Village
Minutes from Garden State Parkway
Anchorage Recreation:
Recreation room, exercise room and pool
Boating, fishing, and all water activities
Boardwalk along water
Anchorage Living Features:
Reserved parking
Laundry room on every floor
Waterfront
I am constantly asked by prospective buyers looking to purchase a condo with "absolute ocean views" or a "waterfront condo" or a "condo on the ocean" oh yes and it must be under $200,000. Well that just does not happen and then they get very disappointed. So I decided to start writing about the different condos, townhouses that are specifically in Long Branch along the ocean and on ocean ave. For ease of use I am doing it alphabetically and will include address as well as map for visual aid.
Please feel free to contact me any time with questions you may have on these condos in Long Branch or other towns.
So we will now start with the Anchorage
Come and get away at the Anchorage, located 480 Ocean Ave., in one of the most up and coming towns on the Jersey Shore! This ocean front high rise building in the section known as west end offers comfortable living at a great price. Also a perfect escape from the hustle of the city, just step out your door and you're on the beach! Get cozy in a one or two spacious bedroom unit here at Anchorage. Relax on the balcony and enjoy direct water views, side views of water or wake to glorious sunrises from the large bedroom windows. Wind down with the re-modeled in-ground pool, exercise room, sauna and clubhouse. Literally steps to the ocean, this high rise is ready for your occupancy!
As with many condos along the Jersey Shore this is a no pets condo.Anchorage maintenance fee includes common area, exterior maintenance, snow removal, trash removal, sewer, water management fee. 2008 SOLD price range for a 1 bedroom 206,000 - $310,000
prices are affected by floor level and water views as well as updates if any were made
Nothing has sold yet in 2009,
Search for Anchorage Condos
Anchorage General Info:
Incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean
Walking distance to Pier Village
Minutes from Garden State Parkway
Anchorage Recreation:
Recreation room, exercise room and pool
Boating, fishing, and all water activities
Boardwalk along water
Anchorage Living Features:
Reserved parking
Laundry room on every floor
Waterfront
Saturday, September 05, 2009
BOOST your Credit Score
Theoretically, You have More control over the amount and terms of debt than you do over how the markets impact the value of your investments. Do you have as much control as you would like? Are the low interest rates you've been reading about out of reach because your credit score isn't high enough? It's NEVER too late to get your debt under control and take steps to increase your credit score.
WHY CREDIT SCORES MATTER
The so called FICO score is the most widely accepted measure of credit worthiness; it is a quick gauge of your ability to repay debt. A high credit score can not only help you secure a lower interest rate when you need to borrow; it can even reduce your insurance premiums and some employers consider it when deciding whether or not to hire you for a job.
In general companies using the FICO score believe people with higher scores tend to act more responsibly in other ares of their lives as well. Conversely, a lower score makes it harder to get a loan, land a job or qulify for the best terms on a wide variety of consumer contracts.
FICO scores range from 300 to 850. Only a small percentage of consumers have scores over 800. The median score is roughly 725 and a score of 760 or higher usually gets you the best deals in interest rates etc. Income and assets (which are NOT included in the credit score formula) can also affect the amount and terms of a loan. However depending on the lender's standards a good job, high net worth may NOT be Enough to OVERCOME a POOR credit score.
A higher credit score will give you leverage in negotiating the best terms. MyFICO.com estimates that someone with a FICO score of at least 720 who takes out a 36 month $20,000 car loan will pay a 6.47% annual percentage rate (APR). In contrast with someone with a score between 500 and 589 will pay 18.403%.
(Source: MYFICO data as of July 14,2009. Interest rates are natioanl averages).
IMPROVING YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Five factors have an impact on your FICO score: payment history,leght of credit history, credit use, frequency of new credit requests and typres of credit. see previous article explaining what you can do to increase your credit score.
CHECK YOUR CREDIT HISTORY
The three main credit reporting agencies - Experian, Equifax and Transunion - are each required to provide consumers with a FREE copy of their credit report every 12 months.
It's a good idea to request a copy from one of the three agencies every four months on a rotating basis.
To do so go to http://www.annualcreditreport.com/
As you check out your credit reports, look for errors (such as accounts you never heard of or closed long ago, or late payments that were actually paid on time) and follow instructions for correcting mistakes.
THE BOTTOM LINE - BORROW SMART
For most people, some level of debt is a necessity. When you need to borrow, take appropriate steps so YOU are the one who is In Charge of the terms and conditions - not the lender.
The material here is provided for general inforamtion purposes only.
WHY CREDIT SCORES MATTER
The so called FICO score is the most widely accepted measure of credit worthiness; it is a quick gauge of your ability to repay debt. A high credit score can not only help you secure a lower interest rate when you need to borrow; it can even reduce your insurance premiums and some employers consider it when deciding whether or not to hire you for a job.
In general companies using the FICO score believe people with higher scores tend to act more responsibly in other ares of their lives as well. Conversely, a lower score makes it harder to get a loan, land a job or qulify for the best terms on a wide variety of consumer contracts.
FICO scores range from 300 to 850. Only a small percentage of consumers have scores over 800. The median score is roughly 725 and a score of 760 or higher usually gets you the best deals in interest rates etc. Income and assets (which are NOT included in the credit score formula) can also affect the amount and terms of a loan. However depending on the lender's standards a good job, high net worth may NOT be Enough to OVERCOME a POOR credit score.
A higher credit score will give you leverage in negotiating the best terms. MyFICO.com estimates that someone with a FICO score of at least 720 who takes out a 36 month $20,000 car loan will pay a 6.47% annual percentage rate (APR). In contrast with someone with a score between 500 and 589 will pay 18.403%.
(Source: MYFICO data as of July 14,2009. Interest rates are natioanl averages).
IMPROVING YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Five factors have an impact on your FICO score: payment history,leght of credit history, credit use, frequency of new credit requests and typres of credit. see previous article explaining what you can do to increase your credit score.
CHECK YOUR CREDIT HISTORY
The three main credit reporting agencies - Experian, Equifax and Transunion - are each required to provide consumers with a FREE copy of their credit report every 12 months.
It's a good idea to request a copy from one of the three agencies every four months on a rotating basis.
To do so go to http://www.annualcreditreport.com/
READ THE SCREEN CAREFULLY.
They will try to make you think you have to pay for the credit report.
Scroll the screen and you will find where to click for your FREE CREDIT REPORT!
Remember either every 4 months with a different agency or 1 time a year on ALL 3 agencies.
P.S. I just did it myself I got my credit report but NOT my credit FICO score you have to pay for that. OR get pre-qualified by a mortgage company and they will have to give you a copy of your report and the FICO score.
As you check out your credit reports, look for errors (such as accounts you never heard of or closed long ago, or late payments that were actually paid on time) and follow instructions for correcting mistakes.
THE BOTTOM LINE - BORROW SMART
For most people, some level of debt is a necessity. When you need to borrow, take appropriate steps so YOU are the one who is In Charge of the terms and conditions - not the lender.
The material here is provided for general inforamtion purposes only.
Five Ways to Improve Your Credit
PAY YOUR BILLS ON TIME! - Payment history accounts for roughly 35% of your score. Paying your bills on time is the MOST important thing to do. If you are behind, get caught up and then stay current. If you are struggling, CONTACT your creditors to work out a payment schedule.
INCREASE THE LENGTH OF YOUR CREDIT HISTORY - It accounts for 15% of your score. Cancelling an OLD card or getting alot of NEW credit within a short time span can hurt your score because it lowers the AVERAGE AGE of your accounts.
KEEP CREDIT BALANCES LOW - Credit use makes up 30% of your CREDIT SCORE. Try to keep the amoutn you borrow below 25% of your AVAILABLE CREDIT. Even if you pay off your credit cards every month, the average balance will still impact your score.
MINIMIZE NEW CREDIT REQUESTS - They account for 10% of your credit score. Every time a potential lender asks for a copy of your credit report, an inquiry is recorded. If you will be applying for a loan in the near future, DON'T apply for ANY NEW credit cards beforehand. You can also ask the three main reporting agencies to stop unsolicited credit offers.
MAINTAIN DIFFERENT TYPES OF INSTALLMENT AND REVOLVING DEBT - About 10% of your score depends on the type of credit used. How you handle revolvng credit (ie: credit cards) carries more weight than how you deal with installment debt (such as car loans and mortgages).
source; My fico. The material is for general informational purpose only.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
IRS Warns Taxpayers to Beware of First-Time Homebuyer Credit Fraud
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today announced its first successful prosecution related to fraud involving the first-time homebuyer credit and warned taxpayers to beware of this type of scheme.
On Thursday July 23, 2009, a Jacksonville, Fla.-tax preparer, James Otto Price III, pled guilty to falsely claiming the first-time homebuyer credit on a client’s federal tax return. Price faces the possibility of up to three years in jail, a fine of as much as $250,000, or both.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
New Truth In Lending Rules can cause a 3 day delay for closing
New Truth In Lending Rules for Mortgages
Here are the new rules for TIL (truth in lending) forms for all mortgages applied for after July 30th, 2009.
• The “early” TIL disclosures must be delivered or placed in the mail not later than 3 business days after the creditor receives the consumer's written application, and at least 7 business days before consummation of the transaction. This is a new “waiting period.”
“business days” do not include Saturday or Sunday. Similar to attorney review.
• If the annual percentage rate (“APR”) on the disclosure becomes inaccurate, by increasing or decreasing changes by more than 1/8 (.125%), the creditor must now make corrected disclosures to the consumer with a revised APR. The consumer must receive the corrected disclosures no later than 3 business days before consummation.
What does this mean?
If any of the fees change on the final settlement statement to a great extent compared to the GFE (good faith estimate) that was signed by the borrower at time of application (increase OR decrease in fees), a new TIL(truth in lending) disclosure will have to be generated and you have to wait 3 more days before you can close.
So a lender can’t have a higher or lower rate by more than .125% at closing AND the lender fees can’t go up or down by more than a couple of hundred bucks or you will have to wait another 3 days. Lender credits of any significant amount will cause a 3-day delay, even if it benefits the buyer.
for more highlights on this new rule
Here are the new rules for TIL (truth in lending) forms for all mortgages applied for after July 30th, 2009.
• The “early” TIL disclosures must be delivered or placed in the mail not later than 3 business days after the creditor receives the consumer's written application, and at least 7 business days before consummation of the transaction. This is a new “waiting period.”
“business days” do not include Saturday or Sunday. Similar to attorney review.
• If the annual percentage rate (“APR”) on the disclosure becomes inaccurate, by increasing or decreasing changes by more than 1/8 (.125%), the creditor must now make corrected disclosures to the consumer with a revised APR. The consumer must receive the corrected disclosures no later than 3 business days before consummation.
What does this mean?
If any of the fees change on the final settlement statement to a great extent compared to the GFE (good faith estimate) that was signed by the borrower at time of application (increase OR decrease in fees), a new TIL(truth in lending) disclosure will have to be generated and you have to wait 3 more days before you can close.
So a lender can’t have a higher or lower rate by more than .125% at closing AND the lender fees can’t go up or down by more than a couple of hundred bucks or you will have to wait another 3 days. Lender credits of any significant amount will cause a 3-day delay, even if it benefits the buyer.
for more highlights on this new rule
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Are We There Yet? Have we reached bottom?
"How's the market"? Are we there yet? That is the question that I get asked the most. In Rumson, the price ranges that are currently selling the most are $500,000 - $600,000 and over $2M Homes and under $3million and anything over $3 million is still taking longer. The luxury market always takes longer in any market.
The Average sold price in Monmouth County is $471,501 with 105 days on the market.
for more statistical information you can go to my website www.monmouthmarketwatch.com
Rates remain low, inventory is still high, so plenty of choices, and with some very motivated sellers It is a GREAT time to buy.
For first time buyers or if you have not owned a home for the past three years the $8000 credit is good until December 1st, 2009. Use it.
The second most asked questions - "Have we hit bottom"? “When will we hit bottom?”
"I don't know', and guess what neither does anyone else!!.
I do sense the buyer confidence is on the rise and that we appear to be leveling off. This does not mean that prices will suddenly go back up, as with any cycle it takes a long time for the cycle to complete.
Therefore, my advice to the seller who is thinking of waiting- you might have to wait for several years just to get back to where we were 2 years ago.
For the buyer, I advise moving ahead at this time before mortgage rates move upward and change the affordability factor. Smart sellers have been moving with the market, pricing correctly the first time and selling quickly, freeing up equity to invest in other real estate.
Selecting a realtor is not like choosing a flavor of ice cream. Please consider the size of the transaction before deciding to place the responsibility upon a friend or acquaintance to represent you. In additon to intelligence and knowledge, look for integrity and ethics. Some agents do less transactions but with better results.
Even a good agent is only as good as their client allows them to be. In some cases the client ignores good advice and ends up selling for less later on. In some instances it may not be what the client wants to hear, but it is only when one has factual honest information the client can make informed decisions.
The Average sold price in Monmouth County is $471,501 with 105 days on the market.
for more statistical information you can go to my website www.monmouthmarketwatch.com
Rates remain low, inventory is still high, so plenty of choices, and with some very motivated sellers It is a GREAT time to buy.
For first time buyers or if you have not owned a home for the past three years the $8000 credit is good until December 1st, 2009. Use it.
The second most asked questions - "Have we hit bottom"? “When will we hit bottom?”
"I don't know', and guess what neither does anyone else!!.
I do sense the buyer confidence is on the rise and that we appear to be leveling off. This does not mean that prices will suddenly go back up, as with any cycle it takes a long time for the cycle to complete.
Therefore, my advice to the seller who is thinking of waiting- you might have to wait for several years just to get back to where we were 2 years ago.
For the buyer, I advise moving ahead at this time before mortgage rates move upward and change the affordability factor. Smart sellers have been moving with the market, pricing correctly the first time and selling quickly, freeing up equity to invest in other real estate.
Selecting a realtor is not like choosing a flavor of ice cream. Please consider the size of the transaction before deciding to place the responsibility upon a friend or acquaintance to represent you. In additon to intelligence and knowledge, look for integrity and ethics. Some agents do less transactions but with better results.
Even a good agent is only as good as their client allows them to be. In some cases the client ignores good advice and ends up selling for less later on. In some instances it may not be what the client wants to hear, but it is only when one has factual honest information the client can make informed decisions.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
MOnmouth County Market Statistics
In The Northeast sales have increased by 13.% as compared to last year same time fram Jan thru June 11.6% however the sales price has declined 11.1% this year compared to last years decline of 10.5%
What this means is that the market is moving. People are buying and selling when the property is price to market!
here is a brief overview of inventory in the folowing towns single family only Jan 09 to June 09:
What this means is that the market is moving. People are buying and selling when the property is price to market!
here is a brief overview of inventory in the folowing towns single family only Jan 09 to June 09:
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Friday, July 03, 2009
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
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Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Speak Out Against Taxes on Real Estate: Demand Full Restoration of Property Tax Deduction
Earlier this spring, the New Jersey Association of REALTORS (NJAR) notified you of Governor Jon Corzine's budget plan calling for a one-year suspension for all non-senior households earning more than $150,000 to deduct property taxes from their state tax filings. In a high-cost state like ours, imposing this income threshold could mean that a husband and wife working as a police officer and school teacher may not qualify for the deduction. Recognizing the harmful impact this plan would have on working class homeowners, NJAR is, once again, asking that you take action against this proposal.
As budget negotiations are drawing to a close, it’s crucial to send Trenton one last message that you oppose even the partial elimination of the property tax deduction. Given current economic conditions, this is the worst possible time to propose any legislation that undermines the basic foundation of homeownership. The partial elimination of the property tax deduction is just a third of the triple whammy for homeowners under this budget plan. All non-senior taxpayers are slated to lose their property tax rebates. Additionally, educational and municipal aid, which is used to offset property taxes, is either being frozen or cut. These proposed policies will certainly lead to higher property taxes.
As you know, the state budget process can be extremely turbulent. In the past, lawmakers have proposed tax increases at the last minute to avoid public scrutiny. Speak out against any eleventh hour attempt by lawmakers to raise or impose new taxes on the real estate industry or property owners. Let legislators know that we will be opposed to any effort by them to hike taxes on real estate. Encourage REALTORS, clients, family and friends to send a letter to their lawmakers through the NJAR Action Center.
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As budget negotiations are drawing to a close, it’s crucial to send Trenton one last message that you oppose even the partial elimination of the property tax deduction. Given current economic conditions, this is the worst possible time to propose any legislation that undermines the basic foundation of homeownership. The partial elimination of the property tax deduction is just a third of the triple whammy for homeowners under this budget plan. All non-senior taxpayers are slated to lose their property tax rebates. Additionally, educational and municipal aid, which is used to offset property taxes, is either being frozen or cut. These proposed policies will certainly lead to higher property taxes.
As you know, the state budget process can be extremely turbulent. In the past, lawmakers have proposed tax increases at the last minute to avoid public scrutiny. Speak out against any eleventh hour attempt by lawmakers to raise or impose new taxes on the real estate industry or property owners. Let legislators know that we will be opposed to any effort by them to hike taxes on real estate. Encourage REALTORS, clients, family and friends to send a letter to their lawmakers through the NJAR Action Center.
6k5m7ncjz4
Friday, May 29, 2009
DoD Publishes Help for Military Families Selling Due to Transfer
DoD Publishes Help for Military Families Selling Due to Transfer
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) expanded the Department of Defense's (DoD) authority to help active duty families who are having to sell their homes at a loss due to a permanent change of station (PCS). Last week, DoD published the guidance on this new program. Families with homes purchased prior to July 1, 2006 located where the market area is experiencing a decline of at least 10 percent can receive up to 90 percent reimbursement on the loss of the sale of their home based on the previous fair market value. This is increased to 95 percent for Wounded Warriors and Surviving Spouses. For full guidance on the Housing Assistance Program, visit the program website.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) expanded the Department of Defense's (DoD) authority to help active duty families who are having to sell their homes at a loss due to a permanent change of station (PCS). Last week, DoD published the guidance on this new program. Families with homes purchased prior to July 1, 2006 located where the market area is experiencing a decline of at least 10 percent can receive up to 90 percent reimbursement on the loss of the sale of their home based on the previous fair market value. This is increased to 95 percent for Wounded Warriors and Surviving Spouses. For full guidance on the Housing Assistance Program, visit the program website.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
You can NOT use the tax credit as a down payment
DON'T BE FOOLED!!!! AS OF TODAY you can NOT use the tax credit for a down payment
Yes there has been a lot of discussion about this topic but it is NOT an option currently. Those statements were made by the SECRETARY of HUD yesterday and a HUD/FHA letter was published on the website Monday night.
BUT……..the new DIRECTOR of HUD pulled that Mortgagee letter this morning and is no longer even available on the HUD website.
Here is the link to all Mortgagee Letters:
http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/letters/mortgagee/
Notice ML 09-15 has been pulled.
This theoretical program is now off the table
Yes there has been a lot of discussion about this topic but it is NOT an option currently. Those statements were made by the SECRETARY of HUD yesterday and a HUD/FHA letter was published on the website Monday night.
BUT……..the new DIRECTOR of HUD pulled that Mortgagee letter this morning and is no longer even available on the HUD website.
Here is the link to all Mortgagee Letters:
http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/letters/mortgagee/
Notice ML 09-15 has been pulled.
This theoretical program is now off the table
Friday, May 08, 2009
Making Home Affordable Allows Modification of Second Mortgages
Making Home Affordable Allows Modification of Second Mortgages
On April 28, 2009, the Treasury Department announced expansion of the Making Home Affordable Program to help reduce payments on second mortgages. The Obama Administration took this action because as many as 50 percent of all at-risk borrowers have second mortgages and without modifying them the borrowers remain at a higher risk of default. Under the Second Lien Program, if the servicer initiates a Home Affordable Modification on the first mortgage, participating servicers will automatically reduce payment on the second lien in accordance with complex, but uniform, program criteria. As an alternative, servicers may extinguish the second lien in exchange for receiving a lump sum payment. For more details, read the Treasury Department's press release.
On April 28, 2009, the Treasury Department announced expansion of the Making Home Affordable Program to help reduce payments on second mortgages. The Obama Administration took this action because as many as 50 percent of all at-risk borrowers have second mortgages and without modifying them the borrowers remain at a higher risk of default. Under the Second Lien Program, if the servicer initiates a Home Affordable Modification on the first mortgage, participating servicers will automatically reduce payment on the second lien in accordance with complex, but uniform, program criteria. As an alternative, servicers may extinguish the second lien in exchange for receiving a lump sum payment. For more details, read the Treasury Department's press release.
Friday, May 01, 2009
TLC Casting Buyers and Sellers for Moving Up
TLC Casting Buyers and Sellers for Moving Up
Cable network, The Learning Channel (TLC), is currently casting for its hit series Moving Up, hosted by Doug Wilson. Producers are looking for buyers and sellers who are under contract and planning to move in June. Interested candidates must still occupy their current home. Buyers moving into a home that is already vacant are not eligible. Both residences must be within 45 minutes of Manhattan.
The series follows a chain of homeowners as they go through the renovation and/or redesign process in their new home. Moving Up offers the former homeowners the rare chance to visit their once beloved homes and see all of the new changes. Opinionated consumers who demonstrate compelling ideas to alter the house are preferred.
Contact Jodi Friedman at (212) 974-9050, ext. 125 or JFriedman@bbcnyproduction.com if you or someone you know would be a good fit for the show.
Cable network, The Learning Channel (TLC), is currently casting for its hit series Moving Up, hosted by Doug Wilson. Producers are looking for buyers and sellers who are under contract and planning to move in June. Interested candidates must still occupy their current home. Buyers moving into a home that is already vacant are not eligible. Both residences must be within 45 minutes of Manhattan.
The series follows a chain of homeowners as they go through the renovation and/or redesign process in their new home. Moving Up offers the former homeowners the rare chance to visit their once beloved homes and see all of the new changes. Opinionated consumers who demonstrate compelling ideas to alter the house are preferred.
Contact Jodi Friedman at (212) 974-9050, ext. 125 or JFriedman@bbcnyproduction.com if you or someone you know would be a good fit for the show.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Northeast home sales drop 8 percent
Northeast home sales drop 8 percent, prices fall, in March, Realtors say
- The Star Ledger (4/23/2009)
"Prices have fallen 15 percent to 20 percent here since June 2006, and New Jersey real estate analyst Jeffrey Otteau said he expects the eventual damage to hit 24 percent. He said he expects prices to keep falling at a rate of 1 percent a month."
Click to Read Full Story
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
71% Think now is a good time to buy
GALLUP POLL: Americans See Buyers’ Market in Housing
Seventy-one percent think now is a good time to buy a house
by Dennis Jacobe, Chief Economist, Galluphttp://www.gallup.com/poll/117586/Americans-Buyers-Market-Housing.aspx
PRINCETON, NJ -- Plunging housing prices combined with historically low interest rates have persuaded 71% of Americans that now is a "good time" to buy a house -- up 18 percentage points from a year ago and the highest level of housing-purchase optimism in four years.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Asbury Park Considering New Parking Plan
Asbury Park Considering New Parking Plan
On April 22, 2009, the Asbury Park City Council will consider a parking plan prepared by the Asbury Park Parking Advisory Committee similar to a proposal considered but not enacted in 2008 in the Borough of Point Pleasant Beach.
This plan calls for a combination of meter and permit parking in the beachfront area. NJAR®, along with the Monmouth County Association of REALTORS® and South Monmouth Board of REALTORS®, oppose this proposal as it increases the cost to live in and visit Asbury Park.
On April 22, 2009, the Asbury Park City Council will consider a parking plan prepared by the Asbury Park Parking Advisory Committee similar to a proposal considered but not enacted in 2008 in the Borough of Point Pleasant Beach.
This plan calls for a combination of meter and permit parking in the beachfront area. NJAR®, along with the Monmouth County Association of REALTORS® and South Monmouth Board of REALTORS®, oppose this proposal as it increases the cost to live in and visit Asbury Park.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Encore of First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Webinar – April 27
Encore of First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Webinar – April 27
Due to popular demand, NJAR® will be hosting a second free webinar for members and the public on Monday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. titled Get the REAL StorySM on the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
Linda Goold, director of federal tax programs for the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR), will discuss how home buyers can take advantage of the federal first-time home buyer tax credit, how it functions, and how purchasers can claim it. NJAR® will begin the webinar with information on the newly redesigned website, www.REALstoryNJ.com, along with details on the revamped Get the Real StorySM public education campaign focusing on the benefits of New Jersey's real estate market.
Reserve your space for the encore presentation of Get the REAL StorySM on the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit today. The address for viewing the webinar will be http://njar.acrobat.com/tc042709.
Due to popular demand, NJAR® will be hosting a second free webinar for members and the public on Monday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. titled Get the REAL StorySM on the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
Linda Goold, director of federal tax programs for the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR), will discuss how home buyers can take advantage of the federal first-time home buyer tax credit, how it functions, and how purchasers can claim it. NJAR® will begin the webinar with information on the newly redesigned website, www.REALstoryNJ.com, along with details on the revamped Get the Real StorySM public education campaign focusing on the benefits of New Jersey's real estate market.
Reserve your space for the encore presentation of Get the REAL StorySM on the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit today. The address for viewing the webinar will be http://njar.acrobat.com/tc042709.
Great News for Homeowners and Realtors Selling Houses in Oceanport...
Oceanport Approves New Sign Ordinance
After hearing concerns that the Borough of Oceanport did not allow the placement of open-house directional signs, REALTORS® from the Monmouth County Association of REALTORS® (MCAR) and NJAR® began working with the Mayor and Council in Oceanport to request a change in their sign ordinance.
On April 16, 2009, the Oceanport Borough Council approved an ordinance permitting the placement of two temporary, directional signs in the public right-of-way advertising an open house. In addition, as was the case under the previous ordinance, one temporary sign is allowed on the property being sold. Under the new ordinance, no sign can block a site triangle or have any attachments such as balloons that can obstruct a driver's view.
This is great new for homeowners and Realtors where the houses were more inland and not of the main road this way people driving by can find the house even if they did not see the ads
After hearing concerns that the Borough of Oceanport did not allow the placement of open-house directional signs, REALTORS® from the Monmouth County Association of REALTORS® (MCAR) and NJAR® began working with the Mayor and Council in Oceanport to request a change in their sign ordinance.
On April 16, 2009, the Oceanport Borough Council approved an ordinance permitting the placement of two temporary, directional signs in the public right-of-way advertising an open house. In addition, as was the case under the previous ordinance, one temporary sign is allowed on the property being sold. Under the new ordinance, no sign can block a site triangle or have any attachments such as balloons that can obstruct a driver's view.
This is great new for homeowners and Realtors where the houses were more inland and not of the main road this way people driving by can find the house even if they did not see the ads
Correction Re Monmouth Tax Appeals
Please accept my apologies for stating incorrect information about Monmout County tax appeals. I read my tax card incorrectly and spoke to people who corrected me.
What I read was regarding tax revaluation. Some town in our county are being revalued and this applied to that.
I have deleted the post so there is no further confusion.
The tax appeal date deadline is every year no matter what April 1st.
I am sorry if I have caused any confusion , that was not my intent.
As an aside BEWARE of people telling you that they can get you a tax appeal or tax reduction now. I have been informed that there are people out there taking advantage of people.
Again my apologies.
What I read was regarding tax revaluation. Some town in our county are being revalued and this applied to that.
I have deleted the post so there is no further confusion.
The tax appeal date deadline is every year no matter what April 1st.
I am sorry if I have caused any confusion , that was not my intent.
As an aside BEWARE of people telling you that they can get you a tax appeal or tax reduction now. I have been informed that there are people out there taking advantage of people.
Again my apologies.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Tax Credit for Ford Hybrids Begins Phase-Out
WASHINGTON — The tax credit for hybrid passenger automobiles and light trucks manufactured by Ford Motor Company has begun to phase out for purchases made after March 31, 2009.
Taxpayers may claim the full amount of the credit only on purchases made before April 1, 2009, because the total number of vehicles sold reached the 60,000 vehicle threshold in the last quarter of 2008. The cumulative sales of qualified Ford hybrid vehicles sold from the period of Jan. 1, 2006, to Dec. 31, 2008 is 66,157.
For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after April 1, 2009, and on or before Sept. 30, 2009, the credit is 50 percent of the full amount. For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after Oct. 1, 2009, and on or before March 31, 2010, the credit is 25 percent of the full amount. For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after April 1, 2010, no credit is allowable.
The full credit amount for vehicle purchases made prior to April 1, 2009 is:
2005, 2006, 2007 Ford Escape 2WD, $2,600;
2008, 2009 Ford Escape 2WD, $3,000;
2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 Ford Escape 4WD, $1,950;
2008 Ford Escape 4WD, $2,200;
2010 Ford Fusion, $3,400;
2008, 2009 Mercury Mariner 2WD, $3,000;
2006, 2007, 2009 Mercury Mariner 4WD, $1,950;
2008 Mercury Mariner 4WD, $2,200;
2010 Mercury Milan, $3,400
Related link:
N-2009-37 - Phase-out of Credit for New Qualified Hybrid Motor Vehicles and New Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicles
Taxpayers may claim the full amount of the credit only on purchases made before April 1, 2009, because the total number of vehicles sold reached the 60,000 vehicle threshold in the last quarter of 2008. The cumulative sales of qualified Ford hybrid vehicles sold from the period of Jan. 1, 2006, to Dec. 31, 2008 is 66,157.
For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after April 1, 2009, and on or before Sept. 30, 2009, the credit is 50 percent of the full amount. For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after Oct. 1, 2009, and on or before March 31, 2010, the credit is 25 percent of the full amount. For vehicles purchased for use or lease on or after April 1, 2010, no credit is allowable.
The full credit amount for vehicle purchases made prior to April 1, 2009 is:
2005, 2006, 2007 Ford Escape 2WD, $2,600;
2008, 2009 Ford Escape 2WD, $3,000;
2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 Ford Escape 4WD, $1,950;
2008 Ford Escape 4WD, $2,200;
2010 Ford Fusion, $3,400;
2008, 2009 Mercury Mariner 2WD, $3,000;
2006, 2007, 2009 Mercury Mariner 4WD, $1,950;
2008 Mercury Mariner 4WD, $2,200;
2010 Mercury Milan, $3,400
Related link:
N-2009-37 - Phase-out of Credit for New Qualified Hybrid Motor Vehicles and New Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicles
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Fannie Mae Issues Guidelines for Loan Limits in High Cost Areas
Fannie Mae Issues Guidelines for Loan Limits in High Cost Areas
On March 20, 2009 Fannie Mae Issued Announcement 09-08, implementing the 2009 conforming loan limits for high cost areas (known as high-balance loans), like New Jersey. Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), loan limits on mortgages secured by Fannie Mae were increased. Loan limits from Fannie Mae are limited to $417,000 to $729,750, depending on the county where the home is located and the loan program. The guidelines instituted in the announcement apply to loans delivered to Fannie Mae starting May 1, 2009.
Loan must be conventional, first-lien mortgages only.
One to four unit properties are eligible.
Loans must be fixed-rate or adjustable rate loans (no balloons).
Loans must meet loan-to-value (LTV) and minimum credit score requirements. For one unit properties with a fixed rate mortgage, the maximum LTV is 90 percent. The minimum credit score is 700 for LTVs above 75 percent and 660 for LTVs at or below 75 percent. For one unit properties with an adjustable rate mortgage, the maximum LTV is 75 percent and the minimum credit score is 680. For second homes and investment properties, the maximum LTV is 65 percent and the minimum credit score is 740. Other rules apply to other categories. See HUD's website for details on local loan limits and get more information regarding the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) on our FHA page.
On March 20, 2009 Fannie Mae Issued Announcement 09-08, implementing the 2009 conforming loan limits for high cost areas (known as high-balance loans), like New Jersey. Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), loan limits on mortgages secured by Fannie Mae were increased. Loan limits from Fannie Mae are limited to $417,000 to $729,750, depending on the county where the home is located and the loan program. The guidelines instituted in the announcement apply to loans delivered to Fannie Mae starting May 1, 2009.
Loan must be conventional, first-lien mortgages only.
One to four unit properties are eligible.
Loans must be fixed-rate or adjustable rate loans (no balloons).
Loans must meet loan-to-value (LTV) and minimum credit score requirements. For one unit properties with a fixed rate mortgage, the maximum LTV is 90 percent. The minimum credit score is 700 for LTVs above 75 percent and 660 for LTVs at or below 75 percent. For one unit properties with an adjustable rate mortgage, the maximum LTV is 75 percent and the minimum credit score is 680. For second homes and investment properties, the maximum LTV is 65 percent and the minimum credit score is 740. Other rules apply to other categories. See HUD's website for details on local loan limits and get more information regarding the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) on our FHA page.
State Budget Hearings Underway
State Budget Hearings Underway
In preparation for the Fiscal Year 2010 budget process, the New Jersey Senate and Assembly budget committees continue to meet while the remainder of the Legislature is on recess. The New Jersey Constitution mandates that a balanced budget be in place by July 1.
During this week's budget hearings, the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services (OLS) revealed that state revenue will be $605 million less than what Governor Corzine projected last month in his budget address. OLS also released estimates that indicate the realty transfer fee will produce less revenue in fiscal years 2009 and 2010 combined than it yielded in 2006; the last year the fee was increased.
Reacting to the new revenue projections, NJAR® issued a press release explaining how the downturn in realty transfer fee collections shows that high taxes on real estate have a detrimental impact on the state economy.
In preparation for the Fiscal Year 2010 budget process, the New Jersey Senate and Assembly budget committees continue to meet while the remainder of the Legislature is on recess. The New Jersey Constitution mandates that a balanced budget be in place by July 1.
During this week's budget hearings, the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services (OLS) revealed that state revenue will be $605 million less than what Governor Corzine projected last month in his budget address. OLS also released estimates that indicate the realty transfer fee will produce less revenue in fiscal years 2009 and 2010 combined than it yielded in 2006; the last year the fee was increased.
Reacting to the new revenue projections, NJAR® issued a press release explaining how the downturn in realty transfer fee collections shows that high taxes on real estate have a detrimental impact on the state economy.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
Top Relocation Destinations 2008
Allied Van Lines have released their annual survey of top relocation destinations.
- TEXAS tops the list for the 4th year in a row iwth 1903 in bound
- North Carolina with 800 inbound
- Virginia with a gain of 398
Biggest Losers:
Michigian
Pennsylvania
no surprise New Jersey
Illinois
World's Most Expensive Real Estate
Global Property Guide's 2009 List of the world's most expensive real estate is:
- Monte Carlo $45,000 per square metre( = .8361 square yard)
- Central Moscow $20,853 per square metre
- London $20756
- Tokyo $17,998
- Hong Kong $16,125
- New York $14,898
- Paris $12,122
- Singapore $9,701
- Rome $9,166
- Mumbai $9,163
For more info you can visit www.globalpropertyguide.com
Thoughts on Home Staging
It is a quick, intensive house make over that creates a theater for the home buyer. Staiging is a hybrid of advertising and marketing, which carefully designs the house to appeal to the statistically probable buyer.
Stagers create a property to appeal to the buyers not how they live NOW but how they aspire to live.
Homes that have been staged get faster market attention, sell rapidly for a higher price, are more organized and make the moving process lerss stressful for the seller
Stagers create a property to appeal to the buyers not how they live NOW but how they aspire to live.
Homes that have been staged get faster market attention, sell rapidly for a higher price, are more organized and make the moving process lerss stressful for the seller
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Call for Full Restoration of the Property Tax Deduction
In his budget address on March 10, 2009, Governor Jon Corzine called for a one-year suspension for all non-senior households, regardless of income, to deduct property taxes from their state tax filings. Reacting to overwhelming public angst, Governor Corzine recently adjusted his budget plan to include the restoration of the property tax deduction for senior citizens and households earning up to $150,000.
Although the partial restoration of this critical deduction is a step in the right direction, NJAR® still needs your help! Governor Corzine still has plans to eliminate property tax rebates for everyone except senior citizens and households who make less than $75,000. Given current economic conditions, this is the worst possible time to propose any legislation that undermines the basic foundation of homeownership.
Take action by participating in NJAR®'s new letter-writing campaign calling for the full restoration of the property tax deduction. Additionally, encourage your clients, friends and family to send a public letter to lawmakers.
Although the partial restoration of this critical deduction is a step in the right direction, NJAR® still needs your help! Governor Corzine still has plans to eliminate property tax rebates for everyone except senior citizens and households who make less than $75,000. Given current economic conditions, this is the worst possible time to propose any legislation that undermines the basic foundation of homeownership.
Take action by participating in NJAR®'s new letter-writing campaign calling for the full restoration of the property tax deduction. Additionally, encourage your clients, friends and family to send a public letter to lawmakers.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Most Active Towns in 2008 with Condo Sales
January 200891 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$339,279
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Long Branch 122.Freehold 113.Howell 10
February 2008107 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$316,498
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Tinton Falls 162.Freehold 113.Long Branch 9
March 2008107 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$294,969
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Freehold 162.Middletown 113.Tinton Fall 11
April 2008115 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$325,691
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Manalapan 152.Freehold 153.Howell 11
May 2008 139 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$334,763
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.
Long Branch192. Tinton Falls 163. Manalapan 11
June 2008 131 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$338,278
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Long Branch 16
2.Tinton
Falls163. Freehold Twshp. 15
July 2008132 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$317,337
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Freehold Twshp 192. Tinton Falls 153.
Long Branch 11
August 2008127 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$316,986
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Tinton Falls 152. Freehold Twshp. 123.
Long Branch 11
Sept 2008134 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$304,534
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Tinton Falls 172. Howell 163.
Long Branch 14
Oct 2008131 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$ 332,915
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Manalapan 142. Freehold Twshp 123.
Asbury Park10
Nov 200856 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$ 284,781
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Tinton Falls 92. Freehold Twshp. 83. Manalapan 6
Dec 2008 79 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$ $297,218
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.
Middletown2.
Asbury Park3. Manalapan
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Long Branch 122.Freehold 113.Howell 10
February 2008107 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$316,498
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Tinton Falls 162.Freehold 113.Long Branch 9
March 2008107 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$294,969
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Freehold 162.Middletown 113.Tinton Fall 11
April 2008115 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$325,691
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Manalapan 152.Freehold 153.Howell 11
May 2008 139 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$334,763
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.
Long Branch192. Tinton Falls 163. Manalapan 11
June 2008 131 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$338,278
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.Long Branch 16
2.Tinton
Falls163. Freehold Twshp. 15
July 2008132 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$317,337
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Freehold Twshp 192. Tinton Falls 153.
Long Branch 11
August 2008127 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$316,986
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Tinton Falls 152. Freehold Twshp. 123.
Long Branch 11
Sept 2008134 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$304,534
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Tinton Falls 172. Howell 163.
Long Branch 14
Oct 2008131 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$ 332,915
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Manalapan 142. Freehold Twshp 123.
Asbury Park10
Nov 200856 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$ 284,781
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1. Tinton Falls 92. Freehold Twshp. 83. Manalapan 6
Dec 2008 79 Sold Condos by TownAverage Condo SOLD price$ $297,218
Most Active Town in Condo Sales1.
Middletown2.
Asbury Park3. Manalapan
Sunday, March 15, 2009
236 Fair HAven Rd, Fair HAven NJ
Testing my new wida angle lens during my open house at 236 Fair Haven Rd. NJ. Lot's of people coming to this open house because we dropped the price 10,000 to $479,000 and as a result I am hoping someone will definitely put pen to paper.
It is interesting to see how much more you can get with a wide angle lens. I also tested my tripod in standing postion as well as holding it with my hand to see if I still jiggle and as you can see no jiggling.
there does seem to be a little distortion but not alot of fish eye which I was afraid of. You do get a good sense of the rooms.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Direct: (732) 245-4031 Issue # 178
In This Issue:
This Month's Free Offer
Home Selling Question
Just Sold!
Just Listed! Do you know of a Buyer for this house?&bsp;
Thank YOU for YOUR Referrals
Welcome To The Latest Issue and Hello again.
Who's The Largest Private Landowner In The U.S.?
I've heard McDonalds, the Catholic Church, and TIAA-CREF. But according to Wikipedia, Ted Turner owns more land than any other American and uses much of it for ranches to re-popularize bison meat (for his Ted's Montana Grill chain), amassing the largest herd in the world.
Top 10 U.S. Cities For Technology Wired Magazine surveys the top cities in the country for technology. The places that if you want to geek out, you will find true happiness. Criteria included: proximity to top-ranked engineering schools, tech jobs per capita, Geek2Geek Dating Service postings, Craigslists postings, Dorkbot attendees (), availability of free wifi, comic book stores per capita, and Circuit City stores per capita. As you can see, this is not the most scientific of lists, but in it's own sort of way, it probably is fairly accurate. So without further ado, here are the…
The Top 10 Cities For Technology (and Geeks):
Seattle, WA
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Austin, TX
Orlando, FL
Raleigh–Durham, NC
Pittsburgh, PA
New York City, NY
Boston, MA
Washington DC
FREE MLS Online Search For A Monmouth County Homes To search for a home right now, click here: http://www.swiftpage3.com/SpeClicks.aspx?X=2V0P9FXZHQP20DFC01YWWX
This Month's Free Offer: Five Easy Steps To Selling Your Home After serving your neighbors 10 years, I know selling your home is a big deal. Many people just aren't clear how to start. To make it easy for you, here are 5 simple and easy steps to get your questions answered and get on the right track…
1. Call me at (732) 245-4031 We'll chat by phone a few minutes and answer all your questions. Take me for a "telephone test drive" to see if you're comfortable. If not, just tell me "don't call me, I'll call you," and I won't call you. I promise.
2. Get a free, quick, over-the-phone estimate of your home valueEven if you follow nearby sales, it's hard to know the value of YOUR home, so let's get that handled. (If you want a more accurate figure, just invite me over to see your home.)
3. Get a list of easy, fix-ups for your home I know simple things to increase your home value…
4. Free sit-down consultation & game planGet the details on how I sell so many homes for clients. Let's figure out your timing and a step-by-step game plan for selling and possibly buying another home. Know I'll always "give it to you straight": no empty promises or flattering you with a high price you won't get. Good, honest advice.
5. Take the plunge, but with a life-preserverPerhaps we'll decide to work together. Signing a listing contract is a big decision, so let's take the pressure off. You'll have the right, in writing, to cancel our agreement for any reason.
If this makes sense and you like my approach, let's talk… Call me at (732) 245-4031. I look forward to your call!
Send This Free Newsletter To A Friend Subscribe them with a quick email to TellAFriend@GloriaB.com with their email address in the subject line.
Remember to email your questions, comments, compliments, corrections, critiques, &rebuttals to Questions@GloriaB.com .
Home Selling Question
"How does the home sale tax exemption work?"
Answer:Under current IRS Code Section 121 rules, if you've owned & lived in your home for 2 of the past 5 years (730 of the past 1826 days), you can sell and exclude up to $250,000 of your gain if you're a single, or $500,000 for couples.
NOTE: There are MANY exceptions that allow you to sell & avoid gain without having owned/lived in for the 2 years.Please verify the above with your favorite tax professional.
Just SOLD!23 6th Avenue Atlantic HiglandsDetails
JUST LISTED! Oceanport $419,000More Details
Cute as a Button 2 bedroom 2 bath Must SEE! Beautifully renovated 2 bedroom, plus office, 2 bath house, in the Great town of Oceanport. Many extras: decorative molding, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, recessed light, built-ins, updated eat-in kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances, butlers kitchen w/laundry room. Beautiful lot with fenced yard and deck. High efficiency furnace & central air system, new windows and doors. Low taxes. Contingent upon owners firm relocation.
Thank You For Your Referrals
Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Ciambrone for referring your son to buy a home
Have a great week,
Gloria Benaroch 10 Years Experience Broker Associate --- Coldwell Banker, Rumson NJ(732)245-4031 Gloria@GloriaB.com -- http://www.swiftpage3.com/SpeClicks.aspx?X=2V0P9FXZHQP20DFC04YWWX
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This free e-newsletter tells you how to be more successful with your real estate transactions. You receive it because you subscribed, entered your email address at my site(s), or were referred. By reading it, you agree you: 1) understand this is opinion & not advice; 2) will seek professional tax, legal, and real estate advice; 3) are solely responsible for use of content, 4) hold Gloira Benaroch-Garland, and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage harmless. Questions may be paraphrased for clarity/brevity. Disregard this email if you have a listing or buyer-broker agreement..
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Sunday, March 01, 2009
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Market Watch for Monmouth County NJ
In January, the prospect for a strong Spring Real Estate Market is bleak as under contract properties were down by 27% from a year ago and the economic and financial crisis continue to depress home sales.
The under contract properties of this January are down 48% from January 2005; however New Jersey's actual foreclosure rate in January was .02% ranking it 32nd in the nation. By comparison the national average rate is .05% more than double that in New Jersey.
ON the other hand with mortgage rates dropping in the last couple of weeks,there may be a gentle 'Spring Surge' in home sales as long as mortgage rates fall and remain below 4.75% by the end of March.
The under contract properties of this January are down 48% from January 2005; however New Jersey's actual foreclosure rate in January was .02% ranking it 32nd in the nation. By comparison the national average rate is .05% more than double that in New Jersey.
ON the other hand with mortgage rates dropping in the last couple of weeks,there may be a gentle 'Spring Surge' in home sales as long as mortgage rates fall and remain below 4.75% by the end of March.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Speeding in New Jersey....
I received this email from a trusted friend so I thought I's post this info for everyon to be aware.
the latest NJ State Police Initiative (Radio Station 101.5 FM
confirmed this info).
Starting today, New Jersey will launch a 30-day speeding ticket
frenzy. The state estimates that 9 million dollars will be generated
in speeding tickets. One million dollars will go to pay state troopers
over-time.
There will be 50 state troopers on duty at all times patrolling the 9
main intersections and highways as follows:
I-295 North and South,
I-95 Jersey Turnpike North and South
I-80 East and West
I-287 North and South
I-78 East and West
I-195 East and West
I-280 East and West
Route 130 - North and South
Garden State Parkway - North and South
5 MPH above the limit can justify a ticket and every state trooper is
supposed to pull a car over and
write a ticket every 10 to 20 minutes.
They have issued 30 brand new unmarked Crown Victoria cruisers and are
bringing in all of their part-timers on full time. If you work in NJ,
NY, DE or CT, you will probably be on one of these highways.. So,
please be on guard and drive safely!
Starting August 15 , the price of a violation to show your driver's
license, registration or insurance card at the time you are stopped ,
increased from $44.00 to $173.00. (Keep these documents in your car) ..
And the fine for not having all three documents is $519.00!
The fine for hand-held cell phone use while driving will be going up
to $180..00.
Please forward this to people in N.J. and let them know of this latest
Police & n bsp; Initiative
the latest NJ State Police Initiative (Radio Station 101.5 FM
confirmed this info).
Starting today, New Jersey will launch a 30-day speeding ticket
frenzy. The state estimates that 9 million dollars will be generated
in speeding tickets. One million dollars will go to pay state troopers
over-time.
There will be 50 state troopers on duty at all times patrolling the 9
main intersections and highways as follows:
I-295 North and South,
I-95 Jersey Turnpike North and South
I-80 East and West
I-287 North and South
I-78 East and West
I-195 East and West
I-280 East and West
Route 130 - North and South
Garden State Parkway - North and South
5 MPH above the limit can justify a ticket and every state trooper is
supposed to pull a car over and
write a ticket every 10 to 20 minutes.
They have issued 30 brand new unmarked Crown Victoria cruisers and are
bringing in all of their part-timers on full time. If you work in NJ,
NY, DE or CT, you will probably be on one of these highways.. So,
please be on guard and drive safely!
Starting August 15 , the price of a violation to show your driver's
license, registration or insurance card at the time you are stopped ,
increased from $44.00 to $173.00. (Keep these documents in your car) ..
And the fine for not having all three documents is $519.00!
The fine for hand-held cell phone use while driving will be going up
to $180..00.
Please forward this to people in N.J. and let them know of this latest
Police & n bsp; Initiative
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Save Energy and Tax Dollars Too! New Federal Tax Incentives for Energy-Efficiency Home Improvements
I received this from NJ Gas and thought I'd pass this information on.
Save Energy and Tax Dollars Too!
New Federal Tax Incentives for Energy-Efficiency
Home Improvements
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed a stimulus bill, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, that made significant changes to the energy-efficiency tax credits. Tax credits that were previously effective for 2009 have been extended to 2010 and raised from 10 percent to 30 percent. The maximum credit was also raised from $500 to $1500 for the two years (2009-2010).*
Home improvements eligible under this act include:
Roofs
Insulation
Replacement windows and doors
High-efficiency heating and cooling systems
High-efficiency water heaters
Biomass stoves
There are also tax credits for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, windmills and fuel cells at 30 percent of the cost, without any upper limit. Click here for details and complete eligibility requirements.
So as spring approaches, remember those energy-saving home improvement projects can not only lower your energy bills and help conserve our natural resources, but also save you valuable tax dollars.
Tax credits for builders of new energy-efficient homes and designers of energy-efficient commercial buildings were also extended. Click here and scroll down to view the details.
*Additional incentives are available through New Jersey's Clean Energy Program.
Save Energy and Tax Dollars Too!
New Federal Tax Incentives for Energy-Efficiency
Home Improvements
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed a stimulus bill, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, that made significant changes to the energy-efficiency tax credits. Tax credits that were previously effective for 2009 have been extended to 2010 and raised from 10 percent to 30 percent. The maximum credit was also raised from $500 to $1500 for the two years (2009-2010).*
Home improvements eligible under this act include:
Roofs
Insulation
Replacement windows and doors
High-efficiency heating and cooling systems
High-efficiency water heaters
Biomass stoves
There are also tax credits for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, windmills and fuel cells at 30 percent of the cost, without any upper limit. Click here for details and complete eligibility requirements.
So as spring approaches, remember those energy-saving home improvement projects can not only lower your energy bills and help conserve our natural resources, but also save you valuable tax dollars.
Tax credits for builders of new energy-efficient homes and designers of energy-efficient commercial buildings were also extended. Click here and scroll down to view the details.
*Additional incentives are available through New Jersey's Clean Energy Program.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Amazing Race from the Jersey Shore
This past Sunday I was walking the boards in Long Branch NJ takng advantage fo the wonderful weather I came across a group of girls gathered around 2 girls who were wearing only their bright pink tshirts. Curious I stopped to see what was going on on as one of the group was videoing these girls. Come to find out these two girsl from the Long Branch area presumably are applying to be on the amazing race.
So if you see them on the next season's show . YOU SAW IT HERE FIRST
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| 2009-02-22-1018-44 |
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| From 2009-02-22-1018-44 |
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Weekly Real EstateTalk Show Launched this weekend...
by the National Association of Realtor.
Beginning on February 14, satellite radio subscribers can hear Real Estate Today on America's Talk, XM Channel 158, Saturdays 5-7 p.m. EST; Talk Radio, XM Channel 165, Saturdays 1-3 p.m. EST; and Stars, Sirius-XM Channel 102, Saturdays 6-8 a.m. and Sundays 9-11 a.m. EST.
Real Estate Today will help build consumer confidence in the market and in the long-term value of real estate to help bring buyers back into the market. Real Estate Today will air online at www.RETRadio.com – visit the site anytime after the premiere to listen to current or past programs.
Beginning on February 14, satellite radio subscribers can hear Real Estate Today on America's Talk, XM Channel 158, Saturdays 5-7 p.m. EST; Talk Radio, XM Channel 165, Saturdays 1-3 p.m. EST; and Stars, Sirius-XM Channel 102, Saturdays 6-8 a.m. and Sundays 9-11 a.m. EST.
Real Estate Today will help build consumer confidence in the market and in the long-term value of real estate to help bring buyers back into the market. Real Estate Today will air online at www.RETRadio.com – visit the site anytime after the premiere to listen to current or past programs.
Friday, February 06, 2009
BREAKING NEWS Home Buyers Tax Credit Bill
A bill just passed the senate that will be a great way for buyers to BUY NOW!
Here are some of the things that this bill will do:
Provide a direct tax credit to any one who purchases any home!
Amount of the tax credit would equal 10% of the purchase price or $15,000, whichever is less
Purchses must be made within one year of this legislation being enacted
This tax credit would not to be repaid unlike the current tax credit
Taxpayers would be able to claim the credit on their 2008 income tax return
This will only apply to the purchase of a principal residence
The Credit would be recaptured if the home sold within two years of purchase
This would sunset the current $7,500 housing tax credit on the date of enactment
Check with your preferred mortgage specialist to find out what information they have on this exciting possibility.
Will Keep you posted
Here are some of the things that this bill will do:
Provide a direct tax credit to any one who purchases any home!
Amount of the tax credit would equal 10% of the purchase price or $15,000, whichever is less
Purchses must be made within one year of this legislation being enacted
This tax credit would not to be repaid unlike the current tax credit
Taxpayers would be able to claim the credit on their 2008 income tax return
This will only apply to the purchase of a principal residence
The Credit would be recaptured if the home sold within two years of purchase
This would sunset the current $7,500 housing tax credit on the date of enactment
Check with your preferred mortgage specialist to find out what information they have on this exciting possibility.
Will Keep you posted
Monday, February 02, 2009
Fair Market Value of the White House...
Drops $23,000,000
Think your home value is down since 2005? Per estimates, this 16BR/35BA, 55,000 sqft home on 18 acres dropped a not-so-cool $23 million the past year, to a still not-to-be-sneezed-at $308,058,000. Think of the monthly payments! Since you mentioned it… With 20% down and a 30-year 5% mortgage, your monthly payment would run you $1,323,000/month. You might even have to take a second job.
Think your home value is down since 2005? Per estimates, this 16BR/35BA, 55,000 sqft home on 18 acres dropped a not-so-cool $23 million the past year, to a still not-to-be-sneezed-at $308,058,000. Think of the monthly payments! Since you mentioned it… With 20% down and a 30-year 5% mortgage, your monthly payment would run you $1,323,000/month. You might even have to take a second job.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Hope for Homeowners
FHA Mortgage Rescue Program
Part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, passed in July 2008, includes provisions to help struggling homeowners replace their mortgages with 30-year fixed-rate loans backed by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). Available from October 1, 2008 through September 30, 2011, the Hope for Homeowners program is designed to help homeowners who can no longer afford their monthly mortgage payments and have mortgages that exceed the market value of their homes.
Find Out More
More information about the Hope for Homeowners program is available online at www.HUD.gov (type “Hope for Homeowners” in the search window) or by calling (800) 225-5342. Both resources also offer information about the FHASecure program -- a program designed to help qualified homeowners who may be facing foreclosure due to an interest rate increase on their mortgage.
Part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, passed in July 2008, includes provisions to help struggling homeowners replace their mortgages with 30-year fixed-rate loans backed by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). Available from October 1, 2008 through September 30, 2011, the Hope for Homeowners program is designed to help homeowners who can no longer afford their monthly mortgage payments and have mortgages that exceed the market value of their homes.
Find Out More
More information about the Hope for Homeowners program is available online at www.HUD.gov (type “Hope for Homeowners” in the search window) or by calling (800) 225-5342. Both resources also offer information about the FHASecure program -- a program designed to help qualified homeowners who may be facing foreclosure due to an interest rate increase on their mortgage.
Real Estate is Local
The key to success this year is remembering that all real estate is local.
Grants To Help States Stabilize Housing Areas
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 provided $3.92 billion in supplemental Community Development Block Grant Funds to help states mitigate the harmful effects of foreclosures -- declining home values, increased crime, significant loss of investment -- in very hard-hit communities
For more information on how these neighborhood stabilization grants may affect your area, browse online to www.SaveAmericasNeighborhoods.org/fact_sheets.asp.
Be sure to check with your state and local governments to find out about any local programs set up to help homeowners, buyers and sellers.
Grants To Help States Stabilize Housing Areas
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 provided $3.92 billion in supplemental Community Development Block Grant Funds to help states mitigate the harmful effects of foreclosures -- declining home values, increased crime, significant loss of investment -- in very hard-hit communities
For more information on how these neighborhood stabilization grants may affect your area, browse online to www.SaveAmericasNeighborhoods.org/fact_sheets.asp.
Be sure to check with your state and local governments to find out about any local programs set up to help homeowners, buyers and sellers.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Identity theft a growing problem
Identity theft a growing problem here are some contact numbers:Stolen Checks:National Check Fraud Service 843-571-2143Scan: 800-262-7771Tele Check 800-710-9898CheckRite: 800-766-2748CrossCheck:707-586-0551Equifax Cehxk Systems: 800-437-5120International Check Services:800-526-5380Stolen ATM card, get a new card, new account number and password.Fraudulent Change of Address: Notify Us Postal Inspector go to website for all numbershttp://www.usps.gov/postalinspectors Social Securty Number Comprimised: 800-269-0271 or website: http://www.ssa.gov/oig CREDIT BUREAUS:Equifax PO Box 105873 Atlanta Ga. 30348-5873Credit Report: 800-997-2493 Fraud Alert: 800-525-6285http://www.equifax.com Experian PO Box 949 Allen tx 75013-0949Credit Report: 888-397-3741Fraud Alert: 888-397-3742http://www.experian.com Trans Union PO Box 390 Springfield, Pa 19064-0390Credit Report: 800-916-8800Fraud Alert: 800-680-7289http://www.tuc.com
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