Lehigh Valley Realty & Jeffrey Burnatowski

2011-11-03T15:16:00.000-04:00

If you havea portable generator and have a gas/oil heating system, you may want to change your existing shut off switch to a 3 way double pole transfer switch. You would need to purchase a male pigtail and a surge protector. In the generator mode you should also turn the furnace breaker to off as to not back feed the panel. Materials will cost about $70.00. Best done by a licensed electrician. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Lehigh Valley Real Estate Market Watch April 2011

2011-05-14T09:34:00.000-04:00

* Month in Review: Comparison of Activity from March 2011 to April 2011 Number of sales – During April 2011, 334 sales were reported which is a 13% decreased compared to March 2011 at 382.

Average Market Time – The average time on the market for properties sold during April 2011 was 96 days, which is a decreased compared to March 2011 at 110 days.

List Price to Sold Price Ratio: The average sales price compared to list price for residential properties sold during the month of April 2011 is 95%, which is a decrease compared to March 2011 at 96%.

Year in Review: Comparison of Activity from April 2010 to April 2011: Number of Sales – During April 2011, 334 sales were reported, down approximately 36% from April 2010 at 518.

Average Market Time – The average time on the market for properties sold during April 2011 was 96 days, which is an increase compared to March 2010 at 79.

For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

* Information from LVAR

HVAC - AFUE & SEER

2011-04-11T11:30:00.000-04:00

What does it mean? In the heating and cooling systems have two different means of determining the efficiency between them. To know what the efficiently of a boiler or furnace AFUE is used, which is the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency is the ratio of heat output. For example a boiler or furnace of an AFUE of 95% means 95% of the energy in the fuel heats the home and 5% escapes through the exhaust. On the cooling side is SEER which means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is the ratio of cooling delivered by a system, measured in BTUs to the cost of electricity to run the system. The higher the SEER , the more efficient the system. The minimum SEER for new units is 13. This would be 25% more efficient then an older 10 SEER unit. The higher the SEER you need to calculate how long it will take you to recoup the costs of the higher SEERs. Feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Snow Rakes To The Rescue

2011-02-15T12:29:00.000-05:00

Being a a Homeowner has many joys and responsibilities. This winter proved that mother nature always has the upper hand. One tool to have on hand is called a "Roof Rake". This handy tool can save you damage to your home. What it is a telescoping device where you can remove snow and weight off your roof & gutters. This aides in better draining of your roof and can help keeping water/ice to back up into your home. Call must be used so you do not damage your shingles. A better made unit will have roller wheels so you have better control so not to dig or lift the shingles. I feel it is worth to have on hand. Another great use is pulling snow & ice off your inground pool cover. If you have any additional questions feel free to email me. findit@LehighValleyRealty.com http://www.garelick.com/product.php?pnumber=89416

2011-02-15T12:22:00.001-05:00

Flood Insurance

2010-11-14T10:04:00.002-05:00

More than 5.5 million households depend on the National Flood Insurance Program as their main source of protection against flooding, the most common natural disaster in the U.S.. That program in late September averted a last-minute lapse when Congress Ok'd a one year extension, expiring September 30th. 2011. NAR is now asking lawmakers to pursue long - sought reforms to the program, including raising coverage limits and adding new coverage for living expenses, business, interruptions, and replacing lost items. By law flood insurance is required for those seeking to obtain federally related mortgage loans in nearly 20,000 communities. The National Association of Realtors would like to have it extended for 5 years instead of single year extensions. For more info contact me @ findit@LehighValleyRealty.com.

New Rules for Free Credit Reports

2010-05-11T19:14:00.002-04:00

The Federal Trade Commission has amended rules governing free credit report offers in an effort to prevent deceptive marketing practices. Effective 04/01/10, any advertising for a "free credit report" must include a disclosure statement notifying consumers that they have a right to a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com or calling 877-322-8228, the only authorized sources under federal law.
The new rule is intended to reduce consumer confusion about offers that are advertised as free but often require consumers to spend money on credit monitoring or other products and services. The amended rule also requires the three reporting agencies - Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union - to delay any advertising for products and services on AnnualCreditReport.com until after the consumer receives their free credit reports. For more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

250 N. Jordan St. Allentown, PA

2010-04-21T08:25:00.000-04:00

Tax Credit Deadline

2010-02-24T11:20:00.004-05:00

As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market, Congress extended the Home Buyer Tax Credit to April 30th. 2010, and expanded to include repeat buyers. To qualify, 1st. time and repeat buyers must have a binding written contract by 04/30 and close by 07/01.

The maximum allowable credit for 1st. time home buyers is $8,000.00. The maxiumum for repeat buyers/ long term residents is $6,500.00.This is only for Owner occupied homes no investments properties.

Buyers can apply the credit to their 2009 tax return filed before 04/15 or apply it to their 2010 return.

To qualify as a 1st. time home buyer, the purchaser or his or her spouse may not have owned a residence during the 3 years prior to the purchase. To qualify as a repeat buyer, current home owner must have used the being sold or vacated as a principle residence for 5 consecutive years within the last eight.

The full credit will be available to taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income up to $125,000 and $145,000 or $225,000 and $245,000 for joints filers are eligible for a reduced credit Those with higher incomes do not qualify. (Source Realtor Magazine) If you have any questions feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Save your gutters!

2010-02-14T18:41:00.003-05:00

Driving through Allentown this past weekend I noticed a lot of home gutters loaded with ice & snow and adding additional stress to the gutter systems. This causes a lot of problems with the weight of the snow and the daily melting and night freezing. I have used a tool called a roof rake to remove excess snow from the roof edges. I attached a link of one these products to save you a call to a roofer to reattach or replaces damaged gutter. Check out http://www.roofrake.com/
I hope this will help you out to keep your gutter system working the way it was designed. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Get Ready For The Snow!

2010-01-08T10:42:00.007-05:00

If a big snowstorm has you dragging out your snow blower, make sure you follow these snow blower safety tips to make sure to keep safe while you use this amazing and fun machine!

• FIX CLOGS CAREFULLY - If your snow blower becomes clogged, turn it off and remove the key before trying to clear it. Use a stick and NOT your hands to clear it! Also make sure that the snow blower is completely turned off before replacing any parts.

• VENT PROPERLY- Always start your snow blower in a well-ventilated area to avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.

• FRESH GAS - If you haven’t used your snow blower in a while, remember that the gasoline still inside it from the last snow blower use is only good for about 30 days, unless you’ve added a fuel stabilizer. If before a snow storm taking it out of the shed and keep it in a garage if you have one will make it easier to start and service if needed.

• GET IT SERVICED – If your snow blower hasn’t been professional serviced in a while, get it done now. Mechanical updates, like new spark plugs, shear pins or belts, will definitely keep your machine operating normally and help avoid accidents and other snow blower safety concerns. It is always a great idea to get it service in the spring or summer when you do not need it at the moment. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Tax credit extended!

2009-11-18T18:47:00.003-05:00

Lehigh Valley Association of REALTORS
Homebuyer Tax Credit Information

SUMMARY:

On votes of 98- 0 and 403 - 12, the Senate and House have respectively passed legislation that includes an extension and expansion of the homebuyer tax credit. President Obama signed the legislation on Friday, November 6. Many parts of it take effect immediately. As of the signing of the legislation, the income limits increase to $125,000 adjusted gross income on a single return and $225,000 on a joint return. In addition, the so-called "move-up" credit is also in effect as of November 6. Thus, individuals who have used a home as a principal residence for 5 consecutive years of the past 8 years will be eligible for a $6500 refundable tax credit for purchases completed between November 6, 2009 and April 30, 2010.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Who Qualifies for the Extended Credit?1. First-time home buyers who purchase homes between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010. To qualify as a "first-time home buyer" the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase. 2. Current home owners purchasing a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, who have used the home being sold or vacated as a principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight. Please note that it is not a "Seller Credit." Sellers do not simply get the credit if they sell their home during this time period. They must purchase a home within the time period to receive the credit. Which Properties Are Eligible?The Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including: single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops. How Much Is Available?The maximum allowable credit for first-time home buyers is $8,000.The maximum allowable credit for current homeowners is $6,500. How is a Buyer's Credit Amount Determined?Each home buyer's tax credit is determined by two additional factors:1. The price of the home. Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, credit may only be awarded on homes purchased for $800,000 or less. 2. The buyer's income. Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, which is effective on November 7, 2009, single buyers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000-may receive the maximum tax credit. If the Buyer(s)' Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit?Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for the credit. The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income-over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit. Can a Buyer Still Qualify If He/She Closes After April 30, 2010?Yes. Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, as long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until July 1, 2010 to close. Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid?No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

State Foreclosure Stats

2009-08-26T11:48:00.004-04:00

1. California - 10,424 units

2. Florida - 4,286 units

3. Michigan - 2,984 units
4. Arizona - 2,310 units
5. Illinois - 1,959 units
for more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyrealty.com

Stimulating Home Sales

2009-07-18T08:46:00.002-04:00

NAR estimates that the federal government's economic stimulus plan, along with lower interest rates and other mortgage relief measures, could help trigger 900,000 additional home sales in 2009, compared with conditions in the absence of the stimulus package. The association also expects home inventory to fall below an 8- month supply by the end of the year. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Pool Tips

2009-05-20T11:52:00.001-04:00

An important part of day to day swimming pool maintenance is running the filtration system, and testing and adjusting pool chemical levels. These two simple steps, along with a dose of pool shock once a week, will ensure a clean and clear swimming pool all summer. A swimming pool owner is typically also a busy homeowner, with several other projects around the house to worry about in addition to the pool. It is important to develop a simple weekly pool maintenance routine, and stick to it. If a simple schedule is followed, maintaining the pool should only take up 1-2 hours of your time (or less), only two days a week. Pick two times during the week that are a few days apart, when you know you will have 1-2 hours to dedicate to the swimming pool. For instance, choose Sunday afternoon and Wednesday evening for your weekly pool maintenance. Follow this link to purchase pool maintenance chemicals from our preferred online pool supply retailer.The pool filter system needs to be run at least 8 hours every day, or as long as it will take your particular pool filter system to turn over the entire volume of water in the pool. This should not involve any attention from the pool owner. Inground swimming pool pumps are typically installed with a timer built into the electrical system, and timers rated for outdoor use are widely available at any hardware store or home improvement center to use with an above ground pool pump. Check the maximum capacity of the outdoor rated timer, if purchased separately, to make sure your pool pump does not overload it.Twice a week the pool chemical levels should be checked and adjusted as needed. This generally consists of testing the pool pH, pool Alkalinity and Chlorine level. The pH should be maintained at 7.2?7.6, and the Alkalinity should be maintained at 80-120 ppm (Parts Per Million). If these chemical levels are not in range, they are easily adjusted with pool pH Increaser or pH Reducer and Alkalinity Increaser, widely available from any pool supply company. The pool chlorine level should be maintained at 1-3 ppm at all times, using chlorine tablets in an automatic chemical feeder or a floating chlorine dispenser. Under normal conditions the pressure gauge of the pool filter should be checked twice a week, and any cleaning or maintenance performed following the pool filter manufacturer?s instructions. The pump basket and skimmer basket(s) should also be checked and cleaned of any debris. If a large amount of debris falls into the pool (such as leaves in the Fall) the filter pressure and pump/skimmer baskets must be checked more frequently. Once each week the pool should be ?shocked?. This is a quick and easy process that consists of dissolving a highly concentrated form of granular chlorine (called pool shock) in a large bucket of water. The bucket is slowly poured into the swimming pool, directly in front of a return line fitting with the pool filter system running. Under normal conditions the easy weekly maintenance routine described above will keep your swimming pool clean and safe. You should always be on the look out for problem situations that are out of your control. Heavy rains, extended periods of hot sunny weather or large amounts of debris in the pool will require that you break from your easy weekly routine and spend some additional time maintaining the swimming pool. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Tax Credit Loan!

2009-05-18T12:32:00.002-04:00

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Loan Programs
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provided a federal income tax credit for first-time homebuyers of ten percent of the sales price, up to a maximum of $8,000, for the purchase of a new or existing home. The tax credit is available to qualified homebuyers who purchase a home before December 1, 2009.
To help buyers that need down payment and closing cost assistance when purchasing a home with the tax credit, a number of HFAs are offering special short-term second loans to qualified buyers. These loans are available for little or no interest and may be repaid with the homebuyer tax credit refund.
Linked below are descriptions of HFA first-time homebuyer tax credit loan programs. http://www.ncsha.org/section.cfm/3/34/2920 for more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Don't Participate In This Recesssion

2009-04-27T07:32:00.003-04:00

It is all a state of mind. In my 26 years as a Realtor in the Lehigh Valley area, I have seen many up, down & sideways markets. In the end the affordability index for real estate is at an all time high. You have to live somewhere, and with the abundant supply of housing choices & fixed rate mortgages at an all time low around 4.75 % for 30 years. It is very hard to pass up. You are also positioned to gain equity in this market. Remember real estate is going to bounce back. If you are concerned on losing your job, you can lose your job in any market and it still affects you when you are also renting! If you are waiting on the sidelines, do not wait to long, the buyer activity is picking up. Do not forget if you are a 1st. time home buyer, you can qualify up to an $8,000.00 rebate from Uncle Sam. This goes away if you do not purchase by December 2009. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Making Home Affordable Program

2009-03-27T18:25:00.002-04:00

On March 19, 2009, the Obama Administration unveiled its new website on its Making Home Affordable Program. The program has two main components: (1) refinancing of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans for borrowers who are current and have loan-to-value ratios of 80% to 105%, and (2) loan modification for borrowers in default or at imminent risk of default who have high debt-to-income ratios and mortgages with balances up to $729,750. The new website is designed to make information about eligibility, free counselors, and other program details readily available. It also includes links that let borrowers learn whether they have a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan. These programs are key elements in the effort to turn around the housing market by preventing foreclosures and avoiding unnecessary increases in the inventory of unsold homes. Visit http://takeaction.realtoractioncenter.com/ct/IpS8IO91jEph/. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Realtor Win

2009-03-12T19:01:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, President Barack Obama signed H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Bill, into law. In doing so, he ended our nearly eight-year battle to preserve the separation between banking and commerce. Specifically, this new law permanently bans large national banking conglomerates from entering the real estate business by preventing the Treasury and Federal Reserve, by rule, order, or any other way, from opening the door to such activities. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

FHA Update for Lehigh County

2009-02-27T09:55:00.001-05:00

FHA LOAN LIMIT IN LEHIGH VALLEY NOW $402,500 EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
As a result of the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, on February 25 HUD published changes to FHA's single family loan limits. In the Lehigh Valley, limits will revert to the higher 2008 mortgage limit of $402,500 immediately. The new loan limits, which are effective for any loan closed in calendar year 2009, are in effect through December 31, 2009. For more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Fund Raiser for Upper Macungie Twp. Station #56

2009-02-27T07:36:00.003-05:00

Bus trip to New York to benefit UMT Station #56 on Saturday May 16th. 2009. Leaving Upper Macungie @ 8:00AM and arriving home around 7:00PM. The cost is $40.00 per person. "You are on your own for the day." For more info contact Rosie Burnatowski @ 610-390-7855 or email: nurse97@ptd.net

Tax credit for 1st. time home buyer's

2009-02-26T11:00:00.003-05:00

Tax Credit for Homebuyers First-time home buyers who purchase homes from the start of the year until the end of November 2009 may be eligible for the lower of an $8,000 or 10% of the value of the home tax credit. Remember a tax credit is very different than a tax deduction – a tax credit is equivalent to money in your hand, as opposed to a tax deduction which only reduces your taxable income.
The tax credit starts phasing out for couples with incomes above $150,000 and single filers with incomes above $75,000. Buyers will have to repay the credit if they sell their homes within three years.
Tax Credit Versus Tax Deduction
It’s important to remember that the $8,000 tax credit is just that… a tax credit. The benefit of a tax credit is that it’s a dollar-for-dollar tax reduction, rather than a reduction in a tax liability that would only save you $1,000 to $1,500 when all was said and done. So, if a home buyer were to owe $8,000 in income taxes and would qualify for the $8,000 tax credit, they would owe nothing. Better still, the tax credit is refundable, which means the home buyer can receive a check for the credit if he or she has little income tax liability. For example, if a home buyer is liable for $4,000 in income tax, he can offset that $4,000 with half of the tax credit… and still receive a check for the remaining $4,000!
Phaseout Examples
According to the plan, the tax credit starts phasing out for couples with incomes above $150,000 and single filers with incomes above $75,000.To break down what this phaseout means to home buyers who are over those amounts, the National Association of Home builders (NAHB) offers the following examples:Example 1: Assume that a married couple has a modified adjusted gross income of $160,000. The applicable phaseout to qualify for the tax credit is $150,000, and the couple is $10,000 over this amount. Dividing $10,000 by $20,000 yields 0.5. When you subtract 0.5 from 1.0, the result is 0.5. To determine the amount of the partial first-time home buyer tax credit that is available to this couple, multiply $8,000 by 0.5. The result is $4,000.Example 2: Assume that an individual home buyer has a modified adjusted gross income of $88,000. The buyer’s income exceeds $75,000 by $13,000. Dividing $13,000 by $20,000 yields 0.65. When you subtract 0.65 from 1.0, the result is 0.35. Multiplying $8,000 by 0.35 shows that the buyer is eligible for a partial tax credit of $2,800.
For those tracking the math in the examples above, you may be wondering where the “$20,000” came from—that is, why you divide “$10,000 by $20,000” in the first example and “$13,000 by $20,000” in the second example. Here’s where the $20,000 comes into play:
The tax credit amount is reduced for buyers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of more than $75,000 for single taxpayers and $150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return. The tax credit amount is reduced to zero for taxpayers with MAGI of more than $95,000 (single) or $170,000 (married) and is reduced proportionally for taxpayers with MAGIs between these amounts.
In other words:
• $170,000 – $150,000 = the $20,000 in the first example• $95,000 – $75,000 = the $20,000 in the second example
Remember, these are general examples. You should always consult your tax advisor for information relating to your specific circumstances.
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5405.pdf

2009-02-17T18:32:00.002-05:00

ECONOMIC STIMULUS PLAN - UPDATE AS OF TUESDAY, 2/17
H.R. 1, the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009," passed the House on February 13, 2009, by a vote of 246 - 184. The Senate also passed the bill later that day. The President is expected to sign the bill soon. The bill is a $780 billion package, with roughly 35% of the package devoted to tax cuts (mostly for 2009) and the rest to spending
intended to occur in 2009 and 2010.
The mix of provisions of interest to REALTORS(r) changed frequently throughout the legislative process, with changes continuing to be made just hours before the measure was released prior to the vote. In the end, the major elements of NAR's housing agenda were included. Congress and the President have announced that a finance and housing package (including tax provisions) will be the next "big" initiative, so Congress has by no means finished its work as it affects the housing industry and REALTORS(r). Here is a summary of key housing provisions adopted on Friday:
**Homebuyer Tax Credit - The bill provides for a $8,000 tax credit that would be available to first-time home buyers for the purchase of a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. The credit does not require repayment. Most of the mechanics of the credit will be the same as under the 2008 rules: the credit will be claimed on a tax return to reduce the purchaser's income tax liability.
If any credit amount remains unused, then the unused amount will be refunded as a check to the purchaser. for more info contact me at : findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Upper Macungie Twp.

2009-02-07T11:21:00.003-05:00

Upper Macungie requires sewer inspectionUpper Macungie Township recently enacted an Ordinance that requires a seller to obtain a sewer later inspection prior to transfer of their property. The purpose is to ensure the sewer line is not connected to their sump pump or otherwise damaged causing the inflow of stormwater or other discharge into the sewer lines. The Ordinance contains loosely written language indicated that either the buyer or the seller can make the repairs through negotiations, and that this Ordinance is not intended to prevent the sale or transfer of property. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

2009-01-13T17:25:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE- January 12, 2009

BLRPD Traffic Unit Back in Action Again

Starting today, Upper Macungie is a safer place to drive. For those who choose to break the law by speeding and driving aggressively, however, Upper Macungie will be the last place they want to be.

Today marks the day that the Berks-Lehigh Regional Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit becomes fully staffed once again. The original four-man unit, which was highly successful due to its aggressive enforcement and traffic accident investigation skills, was reduced to one officer in 2007 due to staffing level concerns in the patrol division. However, Upper Macungie Township Supervisors Edward Earley, Kathy Rader and Samir Ashmar, along with Chief Michael Weiser, agreed that the traffic unit was an extremely vital part of the police department, and therefore agreed to hire three additional officers to bring the unit back to full force. The new unit consists of Officers Cory Reader and Adam Woodruff, who were both members of the original unit. In addition, Officers Dathan Schlegel and Stephen Marshall have been added. Together, these four officers issued over 1600 citations in 2008, as well as completed hundreds of minor and major accident investigations.

“The most exciting part of this new unit is the ability of the traffic division to spread out into Upper Macungie’s residential districts,” stated Chief of Police Michael Weiser. “In addition to strengthening our patrols of our major state routes, including the 222/100 bypass, Tilghman Street, and Rt. 100, we will be able to gradually increase our presence into the neighborhoods where high speeds continue to be a major concern.” Chief Weiser, whose recently announced the department’s 2009 motto of “Community First,” emphasized that the safety of Upper Macungie’s neighborhoods are one of his top priorities, and according to Weiser, “that starts with highly visible patrols and aggressive enforcement of traffic laws, especially speeding.”

On the first day of the BLRPD Traffic Unit being back to full force, one unlucky Allentown resident was the first to discover that the unit means business. After a seven mile chase that included several high speed trips through a residential crime watch zone, the suspended driver was eventually surrounded by numerous patrol vehicles and taken into custody.

Officer Peter V. Nickischer
Public Information Officer
Berks-Lehigh Regional Police
610-683-8740 ext. 225

For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Lehigh Valley Tour

2009-01-01T20:17:00.000-05:00

for more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Save On Your Utilities

2009-01-01T19:29:00.004-05:00

Lower thermostats to 65-68 degrees during the day and 60 degrees at night.
Have your furnace serviced once a year.
Consider the advantages of a clock thermostat which will automatically turn the heat down at a regular hour before you retire and turn it up just before you awake.
Dust and vacuum radiators & ducts frequently.
Keep drapes and shades open in sunny windows; close at night.
For comfort in cooler indoor temperatures, use best insulation of all - warm clothing.
Caulk and weatherstrip doors & windows.
Install storm windows & doors.
Insulate attic & walls.
Use bath and kitchen ventilating fans only as needed.
Be sure the fireplace damper is closed except when in use.
Repair all leaky hot water faucets as quickly as possible.
Insulate hot water pipes.
Use less hot water reduce temperature to 120 degrees.
Close doors and registers of rooms which are seldom used.
If you are going away for a weekend trip, lower the thermostat to 55 degrees.
Turn off electric lights and other appliances when not in use.
Check out this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hT5HZnQV2dQ&feature=channel_page
If you need additional info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

FHA Update for Lehigh County

2008-12-12T18:04:00.004-05:00

New Changes in FHA loan guidelines have created exiting new opportunities for qualified buyers who have been waiting for the right time to buy. These opportunities include:

Loans up to $402,500.00

Down payment as low as 3.5%

Gift funds allowed

Flexible qualifying guidelines

Fixed or adjustable-rate loans

Low, competitive rates (Source: Countrywide Homes Loans) for more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Save some dollars

2008-12-11T17:41:00.002-05:00

All of look for ways of saving energy in our homes. When it comes to replace existing appliances, try to find appliances that have ENERGY STAR label. These appliances meet EPA & Department of energy efficiancy standards. In 2007 alone, Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved enough energy to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 27 million cars. Use modern controls to help systems consume less energy. A programmable thermostat puts your heating and cooling systems on a schedule that reduces energy use by as much as 10 percent a year. Your heating system can gain even more efficiency with an advanced burner control that matches the burner's performance more closely to the home's actual heat loss. Energy use will decrease up to 10 percent, and there will be less wear and tear on your system. I hope you found this of value. Feel free to drop me a line on a subject you would like more info on at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Start Packing The Correct Way

2008-12-03T12:04:00.002-05:00

You found the perfect home, signed on the dotted line and are daydreaming about life in your new home. As moving day looms, it is also time to think about packing up your belongings. Have you found enough boxes? How to handle those precious family heirlooms and other breakables? Here are a few tips for making your big day go as smoothly as possible:
Before you start

Prioritize your packing list. Consider what you do not need to take with you, what will you need extra packing care and how to best organize your things.
Estimate how many boxes you will need and get them well in advance of moving day. Save newspapers to line boxes.
Consider investing in moving insurance, which covers any damages or breakages during the move.
Start early. Packing always takes longer than you think.
Begin at the top of the house first and work your way down. Attics are a great place to start sorting.
Move from room to room, packing and labeling carefully as you go. Clearly mark boxes that contain breakable objects. Be sure to keep all boxes that belong to a certain room together. It will make it easier when you unpack.
Newspaper can sometimes leave marks, so wrap your valuables in bubble wrap, blankets or pillows to avoid messy newsprint.
Keep all of your important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, in the same place for easy reference.
You likely won't want to shuffle through boxes on your first night in your new home, or you might be traveling a long distance and have your household items show up after you have arrived. Either way, pack an essential box containing a change of clothes and toiletries as well as coffee, tea, snacks, cups, plates etc. A small tool kit, first-aid supplies, pen and paper are also important to have on hand. If you like additional info feel free to email me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Do this quick check!

2008-10-23T14:26:00.002-04:00

Now that old man winter is approaching, it would be a good idea to check your plumbing vents on your roof. As you can see these are new repalcement units. You are looking at a radon and a plumbing vent. After about 10 years in service the rubber gaskets/seals deteriorate, dry out and crack. This will lead to leaks into the living area of the house. This is something that few homeowners ever look at until moisture enters the home. You may want to have your roofer or handyman evaluate yours before the weather turns. If you have any questions contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

I Want to Sell My Home

2008-10-19T17:39:00.005-04:00

This is music to my ears. With today's market, the Seller needs to take a proactive approach. Let me explain, today's Buyers are more demanding in what they are looking for, The common threads are value & condition. Sellers need to listen and act on pricing & directives from their Realtor to be successful in this market. Let me give you some worthy tips. Albeit it may not be what you want to hear. I would think almost 26 years of experience accounts quite a bit. Lets start with pricing , what your neighbor received on their home 9 months ago is ancient history. The correct placement of value on your home is paramount in closing on your home. A well prepared (CMA) Comparative Market Analysis should be your guide. Forget about adding X amount of dollars to the suggested list price for bargaining room. This is old school and it will reduce the amount of prospects viewing your home. What it will do is extend the marketing of your home, hence additional costs to you, ie. mortgage payments, taxes, insurance etc. Let's delve in house preparation in one word "NEUTRAL". Sure, you paid a lot of money for that specialty floral wallpaper. But guess what, more often then not.. the prospect will not like it. Your first thought is, they can remove it after they move in. "NOT". They will keep looking till they find what they want. This goes for carpeting , paint and beyond. To make this work for you, you need to prepare your home before it hits the market. You only have one time for first impression. A blank canvas will go a long way. Fresh, Bright & Clean is what today's Buyer is demanding for. I have many other tips & suggestions, feel free to email me for more info at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Timing Is Everything

2008-10-13T09:44:00.003-04:00

Many Buyers as of late are on the fence, if they should purchase a home now. I know they have pause for concern. Let me give you some facts, yes credit did tighten up. But it is mostly found in the population that have a low credit score. For the most part you can achieve financing with as little as 3% down payment with FHA or no down with VA financing. These programs are backed by the government and can be achieved with minimum amount of headaches. As a Buyer you may say, I want to wait to see what happens to the market....You can but lets looks at what is going on now. "ROBUST inventory, LOWEST interest rates in years, and MINIMAL competition." So I ask you this if you wait till the market flips, you will be competing against all the others like you waiting on the side lines. So now you can start looking or upgrading to your dream home. It is very seldom that a market has ample inventory, low interest rates and little Buyer competition. Even if the current market slips, Real Estate does always recover. You can now start enjoying your new home and also take advantage of the tax benefits and your future. If you are a 1st. time home buyer, you can take advantage of up to $7,500.00 tax credit for homes purchased before July 1st. 2009. This program is the Housing and Economic Recovery Act 2008. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com .

Hanna makes an unwanted visit to Allentown

2008-09-07T10:26:00.006-04:00

Our hearts and prayers go out to our East Allentown friends who were affected from tropical storm Hanna which may have sparked a tornado that cut through the neighborhood around Dieruff High School. Pictured are two homes that were damaged on the 800 block of N. Kearney St. Roofs, siding, fencing and numerous tree damage in this area. Dieruff High School was indeed damaged with its flat roofing material tore from its decking. Many numerous mature trees around the school have been damaged and crews are on site to assist on the clean up and repairs. On the 800 block of N. Irving street, some homes also were also damaged with roofs blown off. The damages were estimated around 1.5 million dollars. Thankfully, with all the destruction no one was injured or killed during this storm.

Great News From Veterans Affairs

2008-08-24T10:15:00.002-04:00

The department of Veterans Affairs will use a locality based approach in raising ceilings on its n0-down payment home loans from $417,000.00 to as much as $729,000.00. The increase are effective immediately under the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. The increased limits for veterans are based on local housing costs, tied to the similar locality adjustments of the Federal House Loan mortgage Corporation., Freddie Mac. More information about VA home loans is available at www.homeloans.va.gov. Source: Department of Veterans Affairs. Feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Mortgage News!

2008-08-22T18:15:00.002-04:00

Buyers flock to FHA, government-backed loans Borrowers are flocking to government-insured loans, particularly those offered by the Federal Housing Administration, as they seek to refinance out of costly adjustable-rate mortgages or take out purchase loans with low down payments. The Mortgage Bankers Association says applications for government-insured loans were up 133.9 percent in July from a year ago, while applications for conventional loans like those purchased and guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac fell 50.2 percent. The FHA loan limit increases signed into law earlier this year, coupled with the permanent increases included in the recent Housing Bill can be credited with increased applications for these loans.Source: Inman News, 8.18.08

Feel free to contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Enviromental Home Hazards

2008-08-07T14:07:00.002-04:00

Although homeowners say they are concerned about common environmental health risks, they often do little to protect themselves. A recent survey by pest control company Orkin, Inc., with the assistance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH), found that 70 percent of owners have never had their homes tested or inspected for lead, radon, carbon monoxide or mold even though they are concerned that environmental hazards could affect their health. While nearly all (95 percent) are aware that pests, such as ticks, mosquitoes, roaches and rodents can spread disease, nearly 70 percent reported that they do not consult a pest control professional. The CDC, NCHH and Orkin have launched a public awareness campaign to educate consumers on how to protect themselves against harmful environmental health hazards and close the gap between awareness and action. If you have any questions contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day.

Energy Star Info

2008-08-07T13:47:00.002-04:00

This is an interesting site to help you find energy efficient products. Figure out how much you would save by using an Energy Star fan at http://www.energystar.gov/ Click the "heating and coling" link through to ceiling fans, where you will find a Savings Calculator worksheet as well as lists of energy efficient fans. The site goes into quite of few different areas like making your HVAC more efficent. If you like more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Did You Know?

2008-07-19T08:23:00.003-04:00

Running a sprinkler for two hours can use up to 500 gallons of water. To figure out the right amount to water, put an empty tuna can on your lawn. When it's full, you've water about the right amount. For more info on how to save around the house contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Reverse Mortages

2008-07-19T08:06:00.002-04:00

In a survey by the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Atlanta, 26% of homeowners who have reverse mortgages said their #1 reason for getting such a loan is to pay for daily living expenses. Only 3% said they used funds from a reverse mortgage to pay for a vacation. Other reasons cited for obtaining a reverse mortgage:

Budget too tight 19%
Need more liquid assets 16%
Home repairs and maintenance 15%
Provide care for dependents, pay medical bills 8%
Pay property taxes and homeowners insurance 7%
Falling behind on monthly payments 6%
If you additional information contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Cut, Don't Run

2008-06-07T11:38:00.003-04:00

Pools, sprinklers, hoses - there are many ways to use water outdoors in the summertime, and there are also countless and easy ways to conserve it. Check out the follwing tips for developing good H20 habits:

Water your lawn only when necessary; if you leave footprints when you walk across it, it's time to water (usually once every three days).
Minimize evaporation by watering your lawn during the early morning hours,when temperatures are cooler and winds are lighter.
Divide your watering cycle into shorter periods to reduce unoff and allow for better absorption.
Periodically check your pool for leaks if you have an automatic refilling device.
Weed your lawn and garden regularly; weeds compete with other plants for nutrients, light and water. for more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Check Out Cork Flooring

2008-04-28T12:16:00.002-04:00

Cork isn't just for wine bottles anymore. This green material is, well popping up all over the place, from wall coverings that are durable and soundproof to stylish flooring that's easy on your feet. Plus, cork is naturally antimicrobial and insect-repellent, and it does not absorb dust. Harvested from the bark of the cork oak, the material is so eco-friendly and renewable. So, save a tree and look to cork the next time you're considering what to do with the outdated parquet kitchen floor. If you like more info check out http://www.corkflooring.biz . If you have a question email me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com .

The Sky Is Not Falling

2008-04-16T10:06:00.002-04:00

Everyday whether the news comes from the local paper or other media, our local Real Estate market is still alive. It is not doom & gloom! It is a state of mind if you keep hearing the negative reports, you tend to believe in it. In the media "Blood Sells". Our local market is healthy, it is a fabulous time to purchase the home of your dreams. Buyers have choices in this market. They are not pressured to make an instant decision and again having a variety of homes to choose from. No one can predict the future, however we all need shelter. Let's look at the facts. We have the lowest interest rates in years, ample housing stock both in new and resale homes. Builders are giving incentives as well as some sellers. You do not have the competition from other buyers for the same home as a few years ago. Real Estate goes in cycles, in the long run it is still the best investment. It is tangible, equity build-up, tax benefits and it is yours. It is true the lending institutions had to adjust their lending practices. But the end result is their is plenty of money to loan. If you need additional info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Moving Service for Pet Owners

2008-04-15T16:15:00.002-04:00

An estimated 70 million Americans own pets and consider them part of the family. So when it comes time to move or travel, pet owners are faced with a dilemma about how to transport their pets safely and with minimal hassle.

Petrelocation.com is an online company offering a door-to-door service for transporting animals across town, across the country or to another part of the world. The Austin, Texas based company uses a network of carriers and transportation routes to create a customized travel itinerary for many types of animals. If clients want to know where their beloved pals are at any time during their travels, they can check the real-time flight status online. The website also provides destination-specific information, such as local veterinarians, dog parks and vaccination requirements. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

National Association of Realtor's 2007 Profile

2008-04-07T11:57:00.002-04:00

An overwhelming number of homebuyers say central air conditioning is the most desired home feature when choosing a home, according to the 2007 Buyer's Home Feature Preferences. Other features homeowners ranked as "very important."

Garages (2 or more spaces) 57%
Walk-in closet in master bedroom 53%
Backyard/play area 50%
Cable/Satellite TV-ready 46%
High-speed Internet access 40%
Separate shower enclosure in master/main bath 36%
Fencing 36%
Patio 36%
Home less than 10 years old 33%

For more info contact Jeffrey Burnatowski at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Spring Cleaning

2008-03-25T19:18:00.002-04:00

With the spring selling season arriving, start polishing your home!

Let the sun in. Make every room look brighter with clean blinds and windows. Washing windows on a cloudy day reduces streaking.

Sniff out smells. Check out your drip tray underneath your refrigerator and wash out any standing water from defrosting. Was the inside of the refrigerator with baking soda and water solution.

Make your bed better. Vacuum mattresses and box springs, and then rotate and flip over. Wash mattress pads, dust ruffles and pillow case covers in hot water.

Clean those coils. Improve energy efficiency by vacuuming grates, coils and condensers of your furnace, stove and refrigerator.

Wash the walls. Grease smoke and dust can adhere to walls and makes decorating look dingy.
For more info feel free to contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Great News For Buyers & Sellers

2008-03-12T13:44:00.002-04:00

FHA Loan Limits increased to $402,500 in the Lehigh Valley:

On March 6, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development published new FHA and conforming loan limits, based on median home prices as mandated by the Economic Stimulus Act signed by President Bush in February. New loan limits for FHA and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are now calculated at 125 percent of the HUD published median prices.

In the Lehigh Valley, single-family FHA loan limits increased from $305,666 to $402,500 effective immediately. NAR was deeply involved in advocating for this positive change. NAR expects the impact on the housing market to be significant because of the infusion of capital into the mortgage market, which should result in lower interest rates across the board. In addition, there will be a direct impact on high-cost areas that previously required borrowers to take out costlier jumbo mortgages. If you need more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Landscaping Facts

2008-03-06T10:52:00.002-05:00

Homes with "excellent" landscaping can expect a sale price about 6 to 7 percent higher than equivalent houses with "good" landscaping, while improving landscaping from "average" to "good" can result in a 4 to 5 percent increase. (Clemson University)
Landscaping can bring a recovery value of 100 to 200 percent at selling time. Kitchen remodeling brings 75 to 125 percent recovery rate, bathroom remodeling a 20 to 120 percent recovery rate and addition of a swimming pool a 20 to 50 percent recovery rate. (Money Magazine)
The American Nursery & Landscaping Association web site has facts about landscaping and the value it adds to a home at www.anla.org. If you like additional information, email me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com .

Top Design Trends

2008-02-20T17:05:00.002-05:00

For the third consecutive year, home offices are the most popular special - function room among homeowners, according to the American Institute of Architects' Home design Trend survey for the second quarter of 2007. Nearly two-thirds (61 percent) of residential architects surveyed said homeowners are looking for home offices in their new homes compared with 51 percent a year ago. The survey also found that homeowners want more than a desk in the corner of the bedroom; they are looking for accoustic privacy, better natural lighting and, in some cases, a separate entry for clients. Other special -function rooms that are gaining popularity include a media room/home theater, a fitness room and a kid's or guest wing. Rising utility costs and greater enviromental awareness are also prompting an increasing number of homeowners to go green with their home designs, the survey concludes. More homeowners are demanding sustainable designs and energy-efficient products, such as tankless water heaters, geothermal heating and cooling systems, structual insulation panels, and flooring products made of bamboo and cork. I hope you had founfd this informative. Feel free to contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com .

Who's Buying

2008-02-04T16:58:00.000-05:00

More than a million new households are formed annually, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, with most being adult children leaving home. Among them, single women continue to be the biggest growth category of buyers (making up 22 percent of all buyers in 2006, up from 14 percent in 1995). The share of married folks buying homes fell to 61 percent in 2006 (from 68 percent in 2001). Single male buyers have been holding steady through the decade at 9 percent. If you have any questions feel free to email me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Buyers Wake Up!

2008-01-25T07:19:00.001-05:00

With all the negative press on our local Real Estate market it is keeping prospective Buyers on the side lines. This is a Golden opportunity to get into Real Estate. Let me give you some key points in why you should act now.

There are lots of good reasons to buy a home besides just wanting one. Regardless of why you want to move, I want to help you. Please contact me to get serious.
Home ownership is part of the American dream.
Many people buy homes to have control of where they live, how much they pay, and the condition of the property.
Most people consider their home to be their largest investment due to increasing values and the amortization of their mortgages.
Three out of four people say that pride of ownership is an important reason for buying.
Almost 70% of people did not like the concept of “paying rent” and getting nothing but a place to live for it.
People like to be able to control and modify the feature of a home.
More than 50% of renters associate settling down to purchasing a home.
Home ownership continues to be the largest single source of savings for U.S. households.
Most renters say that the sacrifice made to be able to purchase a home is worth it.
The equity in a home can be accessed, with good credit, and used for any reason such as education, medical, or starting a business.
Homes have continued to appreciate in value over the long term and are considered to be good investments. Cheap money is available, the lowest interest rates in years. 100% financing is still available with acceptable credit rating. A good example is the property above. The property is listed for $67,900.00 total payment including taxes and insurance is $566.00 per month with a fixed rate of 6.5% with total cash out of pocket of $2400.00, with 98% financing. If you like more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Help for Borrowers

2008-01-11T07:35:00.000-05:00

With so much uncertainty surrounding the mortgage industry, it's no wonder that many consumers are confused about home loans. The National Association of Mortgage Professionals, which was formed in early 2007 to raise the level of integrity and professionalism among mortgage professionals, has launched a free Mortgage Helpline at 888.680.6267 to help borrowers review their mortgage options and resolve problems. When the borrowers call, they can talk to a mortgage representative who provides sound advice and answers to their mortgage questions. If you like more info contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

FHA Financing To Bridge Buyers & Sellers

2007-12-27T11:24:00.000-05:00

To keep our Real Estate market flowing and to help people needing to refinance for Arm's adjusting or just getting a fixed rate mortgage. FHA is alive and well. Let me show you the benefits of this program.

1. Can be no dollars out-of-pocket using down-payment assistance programs, even 97% max LTV.

2. Allows for 95% LTV cash-out.

3. Flexible credit options including nontraditional credit.

4. Easy, consistent Mortgage Insurance premium.

5. No income limits.

6.Borrower's cash investment may be a gift from a family member, employer, or local government entity.

7. Seller can pay up to 6%.

8. No prepayment penalties on FHA - insured loans.

9. FHA loans are assumable.

10. Non-occupant co-borrowers allowed without the requirement that the occupant meet specific minimum debt-to-income ratios of their own.

Feel free to email me if you need any additional information at: findit@LehighValleyrealty.com

Santa & Elves in Allentown

2007-12-26T07:37:00.000-05:00

The weather was mild in Allentown on Christmas day. Santa and his helpers came to St. Paul's Lutheran Church at 36 S. 8th. St. They served over 350 people in need. The experience can be felt in the basement of the Church. These people gather together as one big family, to sit down for a hot Christmas dinner. They were given a Thanksgiving dinner consisting of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans and pumpkin pie as well as drinks. The gratitude from these people was overwhelming. After the dinner the guests were given bags of essentials, ie. toiletries, gloves, socks etc. The children had toys, coloring books, and clothing which was donated by our local business partners. We were all entertained by "Pappa John" with his electric piano and powerful voice, singing Christmas Carols and various music selections. It was a very warm and sense of community on Christmas day. On my way home Christmas evening from my in laws, I said to my wife, I wonder where all these people are this Christmas evening. It gives us all pause to be thankful what we have. If you like to get involved at the Soup Kitchen, contact Rev. Richard Baumann of St. Pauls's Lutheran Church at 610-435-9065.

City of Allentown Inspection Program

2007-12-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

Last night, Allentown City Council adopted a residential resale inspection ordinance (Bill No. 109) requiring inspection of all residential properties in the City prior to transfer of title. The City believes that this proposal is will ultimately improve the safety and quality of the housing stock in Allentown. LVAR agrees and believes this type of inspection Ordinance in Allentown is long overdue. LVAR believes that an improved housing stock in Allentown translates into increased home values and a more desirable community in which to live and work. If you like more info on Bill # 109 click on this link: http://www.lehighvalleyarea.com/content/upload/AssetMgmt/Government%20Affairs/lvarpriorities/BillNo109_Final.pdf If I can help you with additional info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com. Have a great day!

Mortgage Interest Costs Less Than You Might Think

2007-12-19T18:11:00.000-05:00

Interest payments on a residential mortgage - assuming the mortgage isn't larger than the purchase price of the home - are fully deductible in most circumstances. That is a key reason why home ownership is a superb tax shelter.

Mortgage interest on a second home is also deductible. If you own a third home for personal purposes, the mortgage interest is treated as "consumer loan" interest is not deductible, with some limitations.

Tip: If you are planning to buy a home with a large amount of cash, consider carefully if you plan to ultimately finance the property. For interest to be deductable on a financing more than 90 days after closing, it will be limited to the original acquisition loan balance plus $100,000, unless the new financing is used to improve your home.

Be sure to keep careful records of when and how much you spend on home improvements when you refinance your home or take out a home equity loan. Consult your tax advisor about the deduction of interest payments when you refinance with a higher loan amount to take money out of the refinancing or pay off other debts.

If you are caught up in a subprime mortgage or a adjustable rate mortgage and need to refinance, consider a FHA mortgage. Contact me at : findit@LehighValleyRealty.com to help you get a permanent mortgage program. Have a great day!

Santa Visits Macungie

2007-12-08T19:40:00.000-05:00

Macungie Animal Hospital at 161 E. Main St. in Macungie was visited by Santa Claus today. Santa was quite busy today for numerous pets that came to Santa. Sitting with Santa is Lacey a Golden Retriever puppy. Lacey was more interested in the other dogs that were waiting to get their lists of raw hides, squeak toys and the most trendy leads to Old St. Nick. Dr. Nancy Soares and her staff kept all the critters under control. Check out http://www.macungieanimalhospital.com/
or 610-421-8381. Happy Holidays to all. Feel free to contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Clothes Dryer Safety

2007-12-07T11:08:00.000-05:00

A dirty lint trap can waste energy dollars by making your dryer run longer – but more importantly; it can also be a major fire hazard if the lint ignites. To make your dryer both safe and energy efficient, clean your lint trap regularly and eliminate any kinks or other obstructions in the dryer exhaust duct. One sure fire way to know that your dryer’s exhaust or lint screen is blocked is if your clothes are still damp after a normal drying cycle.

Take special care when drying clothes that have been soiled with volatile chemicals such as gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils and stains. If possible, wash the clothing more than once to minimize the amount of volatile chemicals on the clothes and, preferably, hang the clothes to dry. If using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that has a cool-down period at the end of the cycle. To prevent clothes from igniting after drying, do not leave the dried clothes in the dryer or piled in a laundry basket.

If your dryer’s drum stops turning, if it doesn’t heat up or if it squeals or rumbles when it’s running, it’s time to call in a pro in to keep your dryer running safely and efficiently. If you have the option of having gas connection for your dryer. You may want to purchase one. They are more efficient and your clothing will last longer. The gas dryer is about $75.00 more to purchase but worth the investment. Running a gas line to the unit should run about $350.00 if you do not have one. I hope this info helps. Feel free to drop me a line at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Appliances Fix or Replace?

2007-12-04T10:51:00.000-05:00

A recent issue of Consumer Reports offered a timeline to determine when to say "adios" to old appliances that aren't operating properly. The magazine took into account age, typical repair and replacement costs, and improvements made in newer models.
Here are the ages when it's more sensible to replace an appliance than fix it:

Six years: dishwashers, over-the range microwaves, top-freezer refrigerators
Seven years: clothes dryers and top-loader washers

Eight years: Bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators, electric or gas ranges, electric wall ovens and front-loader washers. I hope you found this post interesting. Feel free to email me at anytime at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Shocking Night in Upper Macungie, Twp.

2007-11-29T10:17:00.000-05:00

I had a unique opportunity to see a live demonstration of the Taser X 26 by Sgt. Daniel Fagan of the Berks Lehigh Regional Police Dept. last evening at the Upper Macungie, Twp. municiple building. I have to admit it was very educational to say the least. The police version of the Taser costs $750.00 per unit. A Civilian model is available. http://www.taser.com/Pages/default.aspx

We also watch a few video clips of officers utilizing this deterrent. We were informed that the X 26 Taser enters the muscles and produces involuntary muscle spasms and is not affected by water. The unit produces 50,000 volts. Interesting point is the officers apprehending a suspect will not have any transfer of the shock to them. It is isolated only to the areas were the probes on the perpetrator landed. In a video from a Florida police station showed it reduced injury to law enforcement up to 80%. It also saved that municipality on their Workman's comp. The X26 has a cartridge that deploys 2 probes up to 21 feet with trailing wire to transfer the charge to the probes from the Taser. I can see this as a non lethal way to immobilize a perpetrator, and especially useful if the officer is solo. A most informative program for sure. Feel free to email me for more info at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Allentown On An Upswing!

2007-11-28T11:13:00.000-05:00

If you have been traveling on Tilghman St. just west of Ruby Tuesday is the future home of a Starbucks http://www.starbucks.com , ATT http://www.wireless.att.com/home , Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries http://www.fiveguys.com , and Supercuts http://www.supercuts.com . This over 11,000 sq.ft. building should be open for business in December 2007 per Real Services, Inc. They are located at 40th. & Tighman Sts. in Allentown and will be managed by Tilghman Assoc. LLC. these fine companies will be an asset to Allentown and surrounding communities. If I can assist you feel free to email me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day!

Home Tech Item

2007-11-26T18:10:00.001-05:00

I am always interested in new or interesting items for your home. I found the "Garage Butler" a neat item. It is a great safety item to have for your home. and for $59.95 it is a great value.

The Garage Butler will automatically close your garage door when you forget. You can now have peace of mind knowing that you never have to worry about leaving it open again.
According to statistics, half of all burglaries occur from a garage door being left open. The Garage Butler will eliminate the possibility of this happening to you.
This patented device will attach to any garage door mechanism that has a working opener/closer button* and will not interfere with the opener's normal operation, nor will it interfere with any infrared safety circuit.
If you forget to close the door, the door will close automatically when it gets dark. Or you can turn the switch to the 'off' position and you can leave your garage door open for an unlimited period of time.
Features:
Works with all current opener safety features
Easy installation, attaches to your current opener button
Close timer delay, 3-10-20-30-45 or 60 minutes
Hold button to override timer delay
Light sensor that closes the garage door when it gets dark
Audible warning 30 seconds before closing
On / Off button giving you complete control
Status indicator light
Manual open/close button
Double sided mounting tape — no holes to drill
Patented lowest cost product on the market.
*The Garage Butler works by attaching itself to the contacts found inside the button that is used to open and close the garage door. If you do not have a button on the wall, make sure that your opener/closer system has contacts on the actual unit by the roof. Additional wire may need to be purchased from your local hardware store to lengthen the wire so that it can be attached to your existing opener/closer. You can purchase it from http://www.garagebutler.com or order it from Hobbit Distributing, Inc. a great company to deal with at 1-800-946-2248 web: http://www.hobbitdist.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc I hope this was helpful, contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day!

Pets & Households

2007-11-26T11:46:00.001-05:00

A recent study from the American Pet Products Manufactures Association found that 69 million American households own pets, and about three-fourths of these househoulds view their pet as a child or family member. If you are looking for a pet, why not look at your local animal shelter. Or search online at http://www.petfinder.com/
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/PA31.html
http://www.healthyanimalcenter.org/petsList.asp?cat=6
http://dvgrr.org/RP_Adoptable.asp?cid=All

I hope this helps you in your search for these animals that need a loving home. Feel free to email me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com.

Allentown Brew Works, Check it Out!

2007-11-24T08:09:00.000-05:00

Last evening, My wife & I and friends of ours ventured down to the Allentown Brew Works located at 814 Hamilton St. in Allentown. http://www.thebrewworks.com/ It was a pleasant and festive setting, and the food was great. My friend Jim was quite impressed with the special holiday ale from this micro brewery. The pricing of the fare was very reasonable. We were able to dine and have drinks for under $80.00. I was amazed on how this massive building was transformed into a lovely place to enjoy the evening in a smoke free environment. I remember this old building when I was a child growing up in Allentown. I think down town Allentown indeed has another thing to be proud of. I know this is one of the many positive changes happening in the Queen City. I rate this this establishment Five Stars. Feel free to email me : findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Pocketing Profits When You Sell!

2007-11-23T12:27:00.000-05:00

Taxpayers who sell their principle residence can keep tax free up to $500,000 in profit if they file singly. The property must have been owned and used as the principle residence for any of the prior years. Homeowners can shelter the profits on the sale of a home as often as once every two years. If the two-year use and ownership tests are not met, but the home is sold because of special circumstances (for example loss of job or health problems, etc.) the exclusion is prorated. Otherwise, gains above $500,000 or $250,000 are taxed at current capital gains rates, which vary depending on your tax bracket. Homeowners should continue to maintain records of selling and improvement expenses because some states still tax capital gains on home sales. In addition, those expenses can be used to determine your tax basis once you sell your home. Some Real Estate transactions may need additional research, as always consult your CPA or tax preparer. I hope this post was helpful to you. If I can assist you in Real Estate related matters contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

House Tip/Keeping it Clean

2007-11-23T07:32:00.000-05:00

If you have a jetted/jacuzzi tub, you will have to take a little care in maintaining the internal components of it. About twice a year you should clean the unit out. The 1st. step is to fill the tub with hot water, just enough to cover the intake and jets. Turn the unit on and add 2 tablespoons of automatic dish washing detergent and 4 ounces of bleach. The bleach will kill any mold inside the pump and hoses. Run the tub for about ten minutes and drain. You must refill the tub again with just plain hot water and run for 5 minutes and drain. To go one step further in my illustration to the right, you may want to remove the intake cover, and clean it out with an old toothbrush, as well as the jets. This should help to keep your tub in tip top shape and more important keep you safe from mold & mildew concerns. If you have any questions, email me @ findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

"Missed Opportunity"

2007-11-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

I have been in Real Estate for almost 25 years, I have seen all types of markets up, down & flat. I must admit I have seen brighter days in our local Real Estate market. This market is robust and full of opportunity for a purchaser. Case in point, I have been showing a prospect the same home for a least four times. The prospects said they wanted to go forth and make an offer. I prepared all the necessary documents and waited for their arrival to my office. As I waited for them our appointment time has passed and I received a call from them. They informed me that they changed their mind on the purchase. Their main concern was the present Real Estate market conditions. They did inform me that they have been looking for a home for the past 2 years and attended many Open Houses. I tried to explain to them that "NOW" is a great time to make a purchase to no avail. What these people fail to realize, even if the market slips a little more, it does not matter. If you are going to live in the home for at least two years, the market will be on a upswing. I also pointed out when the market does heat up again, they will be competing with other buyers who have been sitting on the side lines. You and your family would be enjoying their new home and enjoy all its advantages. "Missed Opportunity" Feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Home Inspection Thoughts

2007-10-22T12:06:00.000-04:00

Whether you are buying a home or selling one, a home inspection is an essential part of the process. It may identify the need for major repairs or uncover builder oversights, as well as highlight the importance of maintenance to keep the home in good shape. The inspection typically will take place after the agreement of sale is executed. Before you sign, be sure the inspection clause is used in your transaction. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which the buyer and seller are obligated.

The American Society of Home Inspectors (www.ashi.org) publishes a Standard of Practice ad Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be included in your home inspection report. Generally, it will cover the conditions of the following:
* heating system
* central air - outside temperature permitting
* interior plumbing, and electrical systems
* roof, attic and visible insulation
* walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
*foundation, basement and structural components

Fee for inspections vary from locations and extent scope of inspections. For more info feel free to contact me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day!

Safety Notice

2007-10-03T17:08:00.000-04:00

Since we are approaching the heating season. Please make note that stoves and ovens are intended for cooking use. Using them to heat your home or apartment could result in a dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause symptoms ranging from mild headache and nausea to in rare cases, death. Follow the manufacturer's instruction when using fuel-burning appliances and install CO detectors in your home to avoid the dangers of carbon monoxide. For more info feel free to email me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Mortgage Market Update

2007-09-18T09:51:00.000-04:00

I tend to be informed on Real Estate issues. I would like to give you some timely info on the mortgage market. At the time of this post over 100 national lenders have closed their doors. The credit market is experiencing unprecedented turmoil. What does this mean to out Real Estate market?

Sellers can no longer be reluctant to accept offers or reduce prices. Tightening credit and diminishing mortgage products will continue to reduce the pool of qualified buyers. This along with increase in national inventories, means now is not the time to hold out for the "best" price possible.

Buyers with credit issues or who have difficulty providing required documentation can no longer sit on the fence. If the market conditions changes, buyers who qualify for a loan today may not qualify a few weeks from now for the same exact loan. Many lenders have stop offering no Doc loans, and some lenders have even pulled back on all forms of stated loans. As market conditions continue to change, a buyer's pre-approval status can disappear even more quickly, delaying or killing the transaction.

Subprime and Alt-A refi candidates, especially those with ARMs schedule to reset over the next 12 months, need to act now, even those with a pre-payment penalty. ARMs borrowers struggling with monthly payments now might be shocked to know that monthly payments can double in some cases once an ARM resets. I hope this post was informative to you. If you have any questions feel free to email me findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day!

Fast Facts

2007-09-11T10:57:00.000-04:00

81 percent of households 65 and older owned homes in 2006 compared with 43 percent of households younger than 35. Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Natural stone counter tops, which are less expensive than they were a few years ago, are gaining popularity and are expected to last a lifetime. Cultured marble tops have a life expectancy of about 20 years. Source: National Association of Home Builders

Get Ready For Winter

2007-09-11T10:15:00.000-04:00

The signs of fall all around. As you prepare for the months ahead - storing summer clothes, checking heating systems and making sure your home is well insulated - don't forget the landscape around your home.

If you've been mowing all spring & summer, it's not time to quit just yet. Continue until the grass stops growing. And speaking of mowing don't forget to take care of your lawnmower. Drain it in late fall, because gas left in the machine will get gummy and may make start up difficult when spring rolls around.

As the temperature drop, so will leaves from trees around your home. It's important to rake lawns regularly. so grass can "breathe." How long can you wait before breaking out the rake? Most gardening experts say you should not go longer than three to four days. however, if the layer of leaves is particularly thick or has been weighed down by rain, the sooner you rake, the better.

If your area gets snow or ice, you'll want to protect deciduous flowering shrubs under a lean-to or similar structure. Begin by building a wire cage that is secured into the ground with poles. Attach chicken wire or heavy gauge wire to the poles and fasten burlap to the sides of the structure to protect the shrubs from damaging wind.

Last but not least, remember your garden hose. Drain it before storing it for the winter and then turn off your outside water supply to prevent pipes from freezing or bursting. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions @ findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day!

Realtor & Client Relationship

2007-08-20T19:25:00.000-04:00

A topic worth exploring is in choosing a Realtor and a Realtor choosing a client. Let's face it, It is like a marriage, and both the Realtor and client must have a good working relationship. From a Realtor perspective it is imperative for the client whether a Buyer or Seller to be honest and motivated. In my my 24 years as a Realtor, I may have had only a handful of clients whom I cared not to work with. The reasons were quite simple, they were unreasonable. I would like to lay the foundation for a sound working relationship, mutual respect and a open line of communication with the same goals in mind "a successful closing". I like to give you a few tips and questions to ask on finding a good Realtor.

1. Find out number of years in the business.
2. Are you a full time Realtor?
3. What designations do you have?
4. Are you familiar with areas of my interest?
5. What other homes have you sold in my area?
6. Do you have past clients I can talk to?
7. Why should I choose you?
8. Do you have a marketing plan?
9. Are you familiar with today's financial climate?
10. Do you return phone calls/emails promptly?
11. Is someone available when you are not?

This will give you some ideas what to look for and ask. Just remember you need to be comfortable, and at ease with the Realtor you choose. Have a great day! For more info feel free to email me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Your Nose!

2007-07-17T10:19:00.000-04:00

One of the problems some homes do not sell is the odors in it. A poll by a Canadian real estate company Royal LePage shows that the odor of a home has a huge impact on buyers' decisions about whether to buy a home. According to the poll, 53 percent of buyers said strong odors such as pet and cigarette smells had a stronger impact on their impressions of a home than overall tidiness and cleanliness, strong wall colors or outdated facade and landscaping. Here are some tips for making sure your home has good scents:

1. Don't mask smells with candles or potpourri. Buyers will wonder what odor you are trying to hide.

2. Keep exotic spices and fish to a minimum when cooking the night before a showing. Work toward achieving a "clean" smell.

3. Remove animals and litter boxes from the property.

Getting rid of repellent scents is the first step, but some staging experts also advise using "homey" smells to entice buyers. After all who doesn't love the aroma of freshly baked cookies or pie? For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Keep Your Cool

2007-07-17T09:23:00.000-04:00

Want to keep your electric bills from going through the roof this summer? Here are a few steps you can take to keep things cool.

1. Open windows and use portable or ceiling fans instead of operating your A/C. Even mild air movement can make you feel three or four degrees cooler.

2. Use a fan with your window air conditioner to spread cool air through your home.

3. If you find your 2nd. floor is warmer than your first floor, keep the fan selection on your central air thermostat set to the on position. This will blend the both floors and drop the upstairs temperature.

4. Without blocking air flow, shade your outside compressor. Change air filters monthly during the summer.

5. Use a programmable thermostat with your air conditioner to adjust the setting at night or when no one is home.

6. Don't place lamps or TVs near your air conditioning thermostat. The heat from these appliances will cause the A/C to run longer.

7. Install White window shades, drapes or blinds to reflect heat away from the house. Close curtains on south and west windows during the day.

8. Caulking and weather stripping will keep cool air in during the summer.

9. Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use. If you have any other questions feel free to email me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Watch Your Insurance Claims

2007-06-18T06:34:00.000-04:00

Having homeowners insurance is a necessity to protect you for some unforeseen covered losses to your property and personal effects. Your insurance should be used only in extreme circumstances. Let me give you an example. Let's say you have a loss for $1,000.00, your insurance company will cover that loss minus your deductible, and you have a deductible of $500.00. Your insurance company will issue a check for $500.00. Do you feel that was a worthwhile claim? I say not! One reason this claim would not be worth filing, your insurance company will use this claim against you. In the future your insurance premiums will increase. Another good reason when its time to sell your home, it can make it more expensive for the new homeowner to get reasonable premium. Even if your insurance company opens a claim, and you never collect a penny, it will still count against you. Based on what the properties loss experience is, you might say. "What does that matter, I do not have ABC insurance". Guess what, it does matter. All insurance companies have access to this information to determine insurance rates. So in conclusion insurance is designed to protect you against losses. You just need to use it in a prudent fashion, for a significant loss to keep your insurance premiums at the lowest possible costs. This will benefit you and your future buyer of your home. To save even more premium dollars increase your deductible. If you have any questions feel free to email at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Resource for Landlords & Investors

2007-05-18T11:47:00.000-04:00

Investing in & managing rental properties can be difficult, but the payoff is often well worth it. A new Website, www.completelandlord.com, aims to make managing rental properties more, well, manageable. The site provides valuable tools, information and online community designed to help landlords and investors increase the return on their property investments. Feel free to contact me for more info at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Pre-Listing Appraisal

2007-05-08T12:17:00.000-04:00

As the real estate markets are adjusting around the nation - home sellers are increasingly ordering appraisals before putting their homes on the market. Paying around $400.00 to have a home appraisal prior to listing can be a very good sales strategy. Of course I always provide a detailed competitive market analysis to help my clients pick the proper listing price. I strive to get homes sold for as much as possible and within the desired time frame. I use many of the same factors that fee appraisers look at when evaluating a property.

Unfortunately, in these changing times, a price pegged to the current market isn't always as high as the sellers hope for. That is why some sellers are seeking a paid valuation from appraisers - professionals who specialize in providing independent and unbiased valuations based on current market conditions.

Besides confirming the right price at which to list the property, sellers who have an appraisal in hand can use it as a sales tool, to reinforce their asking price. Second, buyers will be more comfortable making an offer on an already appraised home as compared with other homes that lack an appraisal. The appraisal can help assure the buyers that they are not paying too much - especially important in changing markets. Feel free to contact me anytime at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Subprime Lending Saga

2007-04-16T11:10:00.000-04:00

One topic that is far reaching today is the subprime mortgage market. It has turned the Real Estate market upside down across the nation. What is the subprime market? It is a way for people with a low credit score of 620 or less to possibly get a mortgage. It does have some disadvantages to main stream financing. The subprime borrower is faced with higher closing costs, junk fees, & a higher interest rate. They are able in some cases to get 100% financing which leaves them & the lender more at risk, because of no equity position. My take on this is with the rapid appreciation of real estate values as of late, both parties would be protected. Poor judgement on the lending institutions on that call, since Real Estate values increase and decrease over time.

Let me give you another example, some lenders used a 2/28 ARM product so these borrowers can build up their credit over time. So if the initial 24 month rate is 8% and it adjusts on the 25th. payment to 10% look at the math based on a $100,000. loan on a 30 year payout. For this example I used a principle & interest payment only. At 8% the payment is $733.76 at the adjustment rate of 10% the payment increases to $877.57. The monthly increase is $143.81. You can see where I am going with this. This would put the monthly budget in a tailspin. Most of the candidates for this type of a mortgage live from paycheck to paycheck. A lender may just issue a interest only loan with negative amortization, in which principle is added to the end of the loan.

Another interesting element in many subprime loans are the pre-payment penalty for the borrower. This one amazed me, it is more often than not that a person would not have the ability to pay off the loan ahead of time or pay additional principle payments on the loan. But if they could they would be penalized for doing so. In theory the subprime market has merit. Under certain circumstances the borrower must be fully informed in what they are committing to. A large number of these candidates are long time renters, and fail to realize that they, NOT the landlord are responsible for all utilities, insurance, taxes and repairs of their home. The savings rate in the United States is at an all time low. This falls the hardest in the subprime arena. To give you an idea how large the subprime market is; in 2006 it accounted for $600 Billion which makes up 20% of the $3 Trillion mortgage market. (source CNN Money)

In closing lenders will tighten their standards and they should. The high risk borrower will be removed from the market. The credit score requirements will increase with better creditor documentation, increase on down payment requirements, and more liquid assets in reserves. I see more foreclosures on the horizon. Since 2006 the arms will not adjust until 2008 and all bets are off. I tell prospects with a low credit score to continue to rent, try to pay down debt. Do not take on any more bad debt, and to build up their savings account or start one. This way they can get into main stream financing and secure a brighter future. If you have any questions feel free to email me: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com Have a great day.

Foreclosure Assistance From PHFA

2007-04-04T17:24:00.000-04:00

The handwriting is on the wall, the number of foreclosures is on the rise. In 2006 the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency saw a record number of applications for the Homeowner's Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP). HEMAP is made possible through Act 91 of 1983 and is only one its kind in the country. Homeowners who are more than 60 days delinquent on their mortgage are eligible to apply for this program. HEMAP is a loan program designed to protect Pennsylvanians who, through no fault of their own, are financially unable to make their mortgage payments and are in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure. HEMAP funds loaned to prevent foreclosures are not a grant. The funds are a loan and must be repaid.

Once a homeowner receives notice that the mortgage-lending company is filing for foreclosure, the homeowner must meet with an approved credit counselor within 33 days of receiving notice. The credit counselor will help the homeowner prepares his application for HEMAP.

There are two types of mortgage assistance loans, continuing and non-continuing. Both are limited to a maximum of 24 months from the date of the mortgage delinquency or to a maximum of $60,000. whichever comes first. If I can help you in your Real Estate needs feel free to email me at findit@LehighValleyRealty.com If you like more info on this topic please visit: www.phfa.org/consumers/homeowners/hemap.aspx

What's yours? What's ours?

2007-03-26T18:13:00.000-04:00

PPL had an informative piece on who is responsible for certain items connecting to your home. PPL will repair/replace your "Service Drop".
"The point of Attachment" the home owner is responsible for the anchor that attaches the service drop to your home. "The Service Entrance Cable" is the owner's responsibility, this runs along side the home to the meter and the line that connects to your service panel. "The Meter Base" is the responsibility of the owner, however the "Meter" is covered by PPL. "The Service Panel or Fuse Box" and all existing interior wiring is the homeowners responsibility. Have a great day!

Protecting Your Privacy & Property

2007-03-17T11:03:00.000-04:00

An open house can be a great way to sell your home. It can also be an open invitation to prying eyes. To keep your personal life, well, personal, here are some steps you can take to snoop-proof your house when prospective buyers are around:

1. Clear away mail & paperwork from all surfaces (desk-tops, counter tops, coffee table). Lock up extra-sensitive documents (bank statements, passport, social security card, etc.).

2. Remove diplomas and personal photos from your walls.

3. Store family heirlooms. You don't want your personal effects to distract buyers. A tidy and uncluttered space will help them imagine themselves in the home.

4. Organize closets. Some visitors have no qualms about opening closets and cabinets and peeking into generally off-limit areas. Be prepared by making sure those hidden areas are in tip-top shape.

5. Please hide your prescription medication they can be stolen.

6. Please remove or lock up any guns or ammunition.

If you have any question feel free to email me: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com .

Interesting Fact

2007-03-17T10:55:00.000-04:00

Generation Y is about to become a significant part of the homeowner market. Consumers born between 1974 and 1980 owned only 7 percent of U.S. households in 2005, but 26 percent of them plan to buy homes in 2007. (source: National Association of Home Builders)

Mortgage Insurance Now Tax Deductible

2007-03-05T13:27:00.000-05:00

A federal law went into effect January 1st. 2007 making mortgage insurance tax deductible for the first time. The new law allows homebuyers to deduct the cost of mortgage insurance premiums on mortgages obtained in 2007. The change in the law is expected to help low-and moderate income buyer, the ones who are most likely to need mortgage insurance. Mortgage lenders require home buyers to pay for mortgage insurance if they make a down payment of less than 20 percent. The ability to deduct premiums on taxes will steer more people into taking a loan with mortgage insurance instead of one with a higher interest rate because of the tax deductible factor. Piggyback loans should slow because of this. The mortgage insurance agency predicts the average tax savings can range from $350.00 to $3,000.00 per year depending on the loan amount. Check with your tax advisor or accountant for additional info. (source The Pennsylvania Realtor 03/07) for more info feel free to email me: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Avoiding Home Buyer Headaches

2007-03-01T18:16:00.000-05:00

1. Find a REALTOR® who you can relate to. Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It’s critical that the agent you chose is both skilled and a good fit with your personality.

2. Remember, there’s no “right” time to buy, any more than there is a right time to sell. If you find a home now, don’t try to second-guess the interest rates or the housing market by waiting. Changes don’t usually occur fast enough to make that much difference in price, and a good home won’t stay on the market long.

3. Don’t ask for too many opinions. It’s natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas will make it much harder to make a decision.

4. Accept that no house is ever perfect. Focus in on the things that are most important to you and let the minor ones go.

5. Don’t try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to “win” by getting an extra-low price may lose you the home you love.

6. Remember your home does not exist in a vacuum. Don’t get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself—room size, kitchen—that you forget such issues as amenities, noise level, etc., that have a big impact on what it’s like to live in your new home.

7. Don’t wait until you have found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate insurance availability, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers.

8. Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post-home buying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be some costs. Don’t leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.

9. Accept that a little buyer’s remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big commitment, but it also yields big benefits.

10. Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated an average of 5.4 percent annually over from 1998 to 2002, a home’s most important role is as a comfortable, safe place to live. I hopes this help you in your journey! If you have any other questions drop me a line at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Title Insurance

2007-02-21T22:10:00.000-05:00

Once in awhile I would have a buyer that questions the costs/benefit of title insurance. You can take your chances of purchasing real estate without it. I would strongly advise against it. If your placing a mortgage on your property, your lender will insist on their coverage. Title insurance will protect yourself from financial loss in the event regarding the rights of ownership. For instance if someone did not sign the deed during the chain of ownership, or someone signed a deed that was not the owner of the property. Title insurance will pay the costs to defend you against a covered claim. You need to have a owner's policy to protect your interest. Most Real Estate attorneys can conduct closings as well as a Title insurance company. If you need more info on this topic feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Reducing Energy Costs

2007-02-14T20:49:00.000-05:00

One topic that draws a lot of attention is reducing energy costs. I put a few of them in this post. Since home heating oil is 6% higher this year, and last year it was 35% higher it makes sense to do some obvious measures. The basic one is caulking and weather striping doors and windows. If you have the money for upgrading your windows a good choice would be a maintenance free vinyl clad windows, with low emittance coatings to double insulated filled with krypton or argon gas. If you can't afford new windows, storm windows may be a good choice. If you like a good reference go to: http://www.efficientwindows.org/ . On Southern facing windows you can gain some free heat, by keeping the curtains open during the day. If you are low on funds or may be renting a home, you can purchase the 3M shrink wrap kits that do a nice job.

You can save on your lighting needs with fluorescent compact light bulbs, which also run cooler. Light dimmers work well and save on your electric bill. They do offer dimmers that are compatible with fluorescent bulbs.

To reduce your heating costs, invest in a programmable thermostat. It will save you money and extend the life of your furnace/boiler. If you have a warm air system change your filter every 30 days. This goes without saying, have your system cleaned at least once a year. If your furnace/boiler is over 20 years old it may only be 55% to 70% efficient. Today's models 80% to upper 90 percent efficient. If you do need a new unit, go for the most efficient model you can afford, in the long run it will pay for itself over time. If you would like more info on this topic & other energy related topics visit U.S. Department of Energy site: http://www.eere.energy.gov/ If you have a topic you like more info on, drop me a line at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Savings With Gas Water Heaters

2007-02-14T11:45:00.000-05:00

Natural gas water heaters remain a top value. Next to heating and air conditioning systems, they are the largest energy consumer in the home. Consider that natural gas water heaters:

Cost less than half as much as electric water heating (An average household can take 14 showers with natural gas water heating for the same cost as 7 with electric.)

Heat water twice as fast as electricity.

Are environmentally friendly (Emits far less of the major pollutants that cause poor air quality.) source UGI

How to Price Your Home in 2007

2007-02-10T18:00:00.000-05:00

Being a Realtor for 24 years, I had my share of challenging moments. I have to admit, I am up to be challenged. I pride myself to be able to solve problems and keep the process moving. Having said that, one of the most sensitive topics to a Seller is pricing of their home. For the most part it is their largest asset they have and also tied into this is the emotional attachment they have to their home. My job as their counselor, is to do a good job and show them the current market trends. I do this by providing them with solid documentation of comparable properties within the same geographical area and similar amenities. I prefer to use settled properties within 6 months of closing.

If recent comparable sales are not available based on the amount of sales activity or a rural setting, I can extend the time line up to 9 months. Doing this can on an occasion be problematic, even if you have lots of supporting information to support your price range. The seller may want to go much higher. Let me give you a few scenarios.

Seller: I went to Zillow.com and I found out what my home is worth "X" amount....Well computer generated values are relatively new However recent statistics show they can be off by as much as 23% plus or minus. I am sure down the road the software will become reliable. This is what Zillow.com conveyed to Realtors' .."The Zestimate home valuation is Zillow's estimated market value of a home, given the data we have available. It is a starting point in determining a home's value; it's not an appraisal. (After all, you've been in the house and we haven't!)".

Seller: My neighbor got what they wanted last year! Last year is last year. I will research and find out exactly what they received and research if their was any closing costs paid by the Seller on behalf of the Buyer.

Seller: I like to try listing my home for "X" which is higher. You could, but here is where you may have some trouble. The most critical time in any listing is the first 21 days of the listing. This is when you will get your blast of activity. So you have to see the wisdom of pricing your home correctly from the beginning. It is quite possible if your home is listed outside the recommended price range, you may have no or little activity.

Seller: My neighbor said my house is worth "X" amount. Well unless your neighbor is going to purchase your home, it is a moot point.

Seller: I agree with your value, I would still like to try a higher list price....You can, but this may be a more prudent approach. How about investing $350.00 for an independent fee appraiser to come out to appraise your home. Please be advised a buyer going for a mortgage will have an appraiser from their lender to value your home. With this market in a correction mode, I have seen appraisal's coming in under value. The Buyer has the opportunity to walk away from the sale, or the Seller adjusting the sales price to match the appraisal. The worst case scenario is the transaction can falter. In closing, I am not saying it is doom & gloom for the Seller. What I am honestly trying to convey is you have to adapt to this current market. In turn you will receive a fair value for your home, and your home will not be on the market for an extended time. The great thing is, you get to move on with your life. My final thought, Zillow.com does not know the neighborhood, I do and possibly your neighbors. Have a great day!

Seller's Property Disclosure

2007-02-04T10:25:00.000-05:00

A Seller disclosure used in Pennsylvania is a 6 page document that must be filled out by the Seller prior to marketing their home. If it is an estate, foreclosure, or relocation buy out, they are not required. You may ask, What is a Seller Disclosure? It asks a series of questions, about all areas of the home, if you had any problems with the home, if you pulled permits for improvements to the home. If their are defects in the home. Do you have water leakage in the home? Was your home ever treated for wood-destroying insects? A big concern addressed are structutural items. You want to know what your source of drinking water is, this is addressed in this document. You will also know what appliances are remaining and if they being sold in a "as is" condition. A good tip! If appliances are staying, with the property, make note of model & serial number so they are not switched out. The disclosure will also state what tests were performed to the property, and the results of them. In a nutshell, it sparks the seller's memory on the condition of the home. Feel free to contact me if you need more info, on this posting or others. Have a great day!

Protecting Your Investment With Home Warranties

2007-01-27T18:51:00.000-05:00

A past client of mine emailed me from Arizona this afternoon. I met them over 20 years ago and sold them their 1st. home. I listed and sold the same home last year. They wanted to know the name of the Home Warranty program that I placed on their home when they lived in Bethlehem. They would like the same program on their new home. This prompted me to to write a little bit on "Home Warranty" programs. First off they are great and well worth it for both the buyer and seller. They reduce a lot of concerns for both parties. What do they cover? Each vendor has their own coverage limitations. For the most part standard coverage are as follows, HVAC system, ductwork, plumbing system, Whirlpool motor & pump, sump pumps, water heater, electrical system, exhaust fan, built-in microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, cooking range, optional coverage would consist of swimming pool and built-in spa equipment, refrigerator, washer & dryer, and well pumps. Please be advised these do not cover a pre-existing conditions. You should be expected to pay a $60.00 deductible per occurrence. If you have lets say 3 plumbing leaks, this would be considered one deductible. The cost for a program is around $425.00.

Save Up By Saving Water

2007-01-25T19:34:00.000-05:00

With over 2 billion Energy Star-certified products sold in the U.S. since 1992, energy-saving appliancesare becoming the rule, rather than the exception. Now, the EPA-the program's creator-is trying to duplicate its success with a new water conserving campaign called Water Sense. First up is a label for toilets that use less than 1.3 gallons per flush-that's 20 percent less water than the 1.6 gallons currently required by federal law. It'll be a few years before Water Sense sets the standards for other products, such as washing machines and dishwashers. Until then, follow these five simple steps to make your home more H2O-efficient:

1. Put a pitcher of drinking water in the fridge; letting the faucet run until water gets cold wastes two gallons per minute.
2. Fix leaks pronto. One drip per second adds up to 2,700 gallons a year.
3. Hose down the garden in the early morning or at dusk to avoid losing water to evaporation caused by the hot sun.
4. Don't use your toilet as a trash bin. Every unnecessary flush equals 1.6 gallons of wasted water.
5. Scrape, rather than rinse, plates when loading the dishwasher. (source Natalie Rodriguez)

What Is Involved With a Building Inspection?

2007-01-23T17:51:00.000-05:00

I received an email the other day from Debra from Emmaus, PA. She wanted to know what are the ins & outs of a building inspection. Deb, the home inspection is quite interesting and educational to the new home buyer. I liked to equate it as a crash course on being a new homeowner. A good inspector will spend anywhere from 3-4 hours inspecting & performing tests on the building. During the course of the inspection, he or she will explain all the functions & maintenance of your home. I would advise asking many questions during your visit. I would like to give you a synopsis of what to expect. Please be aware, some of these tests & inspections may or may not pertain to the home your are purchasing. Lets start with the outside, the inspector will look at the lot, grounds, drainage, retaining walls, fences, foundation, windows, doors, decks, patio, porches, roofs, chimneys, gutters, garages, pool and spa, and any out buildings. On the inside, the inspector will check out the kitchen, appliances, bathrooms, ceilings, walls, flooring, fireplaces, screens, stairways, attic, insulation, basement, and obvious health & safety issues. On the mechanical side the inspector will check your, electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems. He should also give you tips on what may need servicing on a periodic basis. The tests that can be performed are for Radon Gas, Septic Inspection, Mold and Air Quality, Lead Based Paint, Wood Destroying Insects, Bacteriological Water Test for additional fee they can test for e-coli, scan for hardness, metals & pH. Other tests can be EIFS Inspection, that is a stucco like exterior coating that can be problematic, Moisture Intrusion Inspection & Carbon Monoxide. The costs for the inspections can range from $200.00 to $700.00 depending on what you like to have done. Thanks for your question.

Smart Homes Get Smarter

2007-01-22T18:53:00.000-05:00

AT&T, iControl and Nobu offer some of these services for a monthly fee.

Smart sprinklers turn off when it rains.
Sensors detect when the medicine cabinet opens.
All blinds in the house are centrally controlled.
When the phone rings, caller ID is displayed on the TV.
The "movie setting" dims the lights and starts the popcorn maker.
Lights can be turned on while you're on vacation.
Live video of your pets or nanny is sent to your phone.
Motion sensors send a text message when your windows or doors open.
The garage door can be opened or closed from work.
The pool temperature can be set on your drive home. (source Business 2.0)

Why Owning Real Estate Can Make You Rich

2007-01-22T12:30:00.000-05:00

People who say it's cheaper to rent than own are simply wrong. Under certain circumstances in certain markets (where real estate values are overheated and rents low), there may be some short-term advantages to renting. But over the long haul, renting is simply not a good deal (except for the landlord whose mortgage you are paying). If you don't own your home, you can easily wind up spending more than half a million dollars on rent during the course of a lifetime-probably a lot more. Let's do the math. Say your rent is $1,500. a month. Over 30 years, that would add up to a total of $540,000. in monthly payments! But that's only if your rent never goes up-and whose rent stays the same for 30 years? And if you ever have to move-well forget about it! You will have a mortgage payment, maintenance, taxes, insurance. However it will be yours! (source David Bach)

Get Prepared to Purchase!

2007-01-22T07:07:00.000-05:00

I wish I had a quarter of all the potential buyers' that wanted to look at homes that were not pre-approved for a mortgage. This is the 1st. step that you have to explore. Guess what, it is easy! I can assist you in getting pre-approved not pre-qualified within 24 hours with a good "LOCAL" lender. When you are pre-approved, you are in a position to move forward on a home in "YOUR" price range. You now know if your credit is in good shape, if not what steps you need to know to clear up items on your credit report. When you are pre-approved, you are a more serious buyer, and REALTORS like that. To get pre-aproved follow this link: www.ehjmmortgage.com

Defend yourself from "MOLD"

2007-01-21T22:02:00.000-05:00

Follow these suggestions to keep mold from growing in your home:

1. Check the exterior of your home regularly for accumulation of ground water.
2. If you ever see bubbling or dampness in a wall, get the wall opened to see what's causing it.
3. If your house sits above a foundation and there's a heavy rain, put electric fans under the house to dry the ground.
4. Fix leaky faucets, pipes and other leaks as soon as you find them.
5. Have your heating and air conditioning system serviced each year.
6. Clean and dry out wet or damp areas within 48 hours.
7. Keep indoor humidity below 60 percent by venting bathrooms and dryers to the outside, using air conditioners and dehumidifiers, using exhaust fans or opening windows when cooking, washing dishes or cleaning, and increasing ventilation.
8. If you have a leak that saturates carpet, ceiling tiles or upholstery, remove them.
9. Use paint that has an EPA-approved mold inhibitor.
10. Clean kitchens and bathrooms with mold-killing cleaners.
11. Don't carpet bathrooms.
12. Don't put vinyl wallpaper on walls that are at risk of sustaining water damage.
(source Broker Agent News)

Free Credit Reports

2007-01-21T21:31:00.000-05:00

Take advantage of receiving up to 3 FREE credit reports per year. Keep tabs on your credit.FICA scores range from 375 to 900. In general, the higher your credit score the better you will be able to obtain credit. A FICA score under 620 makes obtaining credit difficult. You should identify what your score is and if it isn’t a good number you should then work on making it better. Creditors use your FICA score to determine whether to give you credit and sometimes base interest rates on this score. It is a very important number to know. Below is the FICA Score Ranges and Grade

* 750 and above Excellent A++
* 680 to 750 Very Good A+
* 620 to 680 Good A
* 580 to 680 Above Satisfactory B
* 550 to 580 Satisfactory B-
* 480 to 550 Below Satisfactory C
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp

Rising Housing Costs Outpace Incomes

2007-01-21T21:17:00.000-05:00

The cost of housing has increased faster than the average income over the past five years, causing homeowners and renters alike to pay a larger percentage of their salary in housing costs. A survey published in October by the U.S. Census Bureau finds that 34.5 percent of homeowners spend more than 30 percent of their income on their mortgage, up 5 percent since 2000. The percentage of renters spending more than 30 percent of their income on rent has risen to 46 percent, a 6.7-percent increase. U.S. residents face an increased housing burden in virtually all areas of the country, although Californians were hit the hardest, paying nearly 48 percent of their income on housing. (source The Residential Specialist) January 2007

Quick Fix Up

2007-01-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

Here are five improvements you can make that might help you sell faster in a cooling market:

Create a welcoming entrance. Make sure your front door is clean, polish the hardware, ( or replace it if necessary) and repaint the door, if it is in poor shape. Finally, add a new doormat, update your mailbox, and place attractive greenery or flowers on either side of the door.
Remove clutter and put it in storage. Box up anything you won't use in the next few months (including holiday decorations, seasonal clothing or sport equipment, old toys etc.) and send it to a storage facility.
Replace outdated window treatments with simple white mini blinds or wood blinds, cut-to-measure at a home center. This is a fairly simple fix that can refresh your rooms in just one weekend.
Update your storage space with closet systems so the closet looks organized not cluttered.
Have wood floors professionally cleaned and polished. If you have worn, dirty, or badly colored carpeting with wood underneath, tear it out and expose the wood.