How to Get a Loan With Bad Credit
A lot of people make financial mistakes that affect their credit for the worse. Despite warnings that bad credit will discourage lenders from issuing loans, there are a number of lenders who specialize in loaning money to people with bad credit... Read on to learn how you can get a loan with bad credit...
Step 1: Circumstances
Your options are based on your credit history, and some circumstances may limit you more than others. Circumstances that affect your chances for obtaining a loan include:
Credit score:
A credit score of 580 or lower will severely limit your options.
Multiple credit checks:
Checking your credit score too often can affect your credit rating.
Creditor malfeasance:
If you have recently filed for bankruptcy you may only be able to get a high-interest loan or a restricted credit card.
Recent Credit card and previous loan default on your record...
Step 2: Loan Options
Depending on the severity of your circumstances, you may be eligible for one of two things:
An unsecured personal loan
A restricted credit card.
Both of these options come with very high interest rates, which may only increase your debt. High interest rates will skyrocket your monthly loan payments, which could result in surpassing your credit limit if you are unable to pay more than the minimum due. Surpassing your credit limit means penalty fees, and before you know it, your monthly payments become completely unaffordable and you are right back where you started...analyze the following factors:
...Determine how much you can afford to pay back each month.
Avoid making only minimum payments.
Only borrow what you can afford to pay back quickly.
Step 3: The Application Process
If you are applying through a bank...Be sure you have all of the necessary documents and information handy:
Driver's license
Social Security number
Evidence of assets (i.e. property deeds, vehicle titles)
Income documentation
Be sure to examine the terms of the loan, and...negotiate the interest rate so your monthly payments are affordable. Before signing the application, be sure that all of the terms of the loan are terms you agree to so that there are no surprises later. Again, you will want to examine the expected monthly payments and only borrow what you can afford before you sign anything.
Step 4: Getting a Business Loan With Bad Credit
Many people dismiss the idea of getting a business loan because they feel their credit score will deter them from starting that new business. First and foremost...sit down with a financial adviser and determine your options. If your credit is poor and there is recent evidence of creditor malfeasance on your credit report, you may not be able to obtain a business loan...
Step 5: Getting a Car Loan With Bad Credit
There are a number of bad credit lenders in the United States who are more than happy to extend you the funding you need to get a car. As with any other loan, you will need to present the proper documentation, such as income history and credit score information before you can get approved...
Step 6: Borrowing Outside the Bank
Not everyone has the luxury of friends and family with a little extra money to lend, but this is definitely an option to consider. If you are unable to get a loan from a financial institution, look around at the people in your life and evaluation whether or not one of them may be able to help you out. Consider the following options:
Friends Family Your employer
Step 7: Turning Over a New Leaf
It is important when you meet with the lender that you demonstrate the efforts you are making to turn over a new leaf. One surefire way to do this is to only borrow what you need... You may also want to consider showing them your efforts to clear up any debt you may have accrued that put your credit in poor standing...
Part of turning over a new leaf means doing everything in your power to live within your means, and to make sure you make every effort to repay your loan in a timely manner.
Conclusion
During difficult financial times, there is still hope of getting a loan—even if you have bad credit... Some circumstances, like an extremely low credit score or a recent bankruptcy, may make it difficult for you to get a loan. In some cases, a high-interest credit card with restrictions may be your only option.
When you meet with a lender, bring all of the required documentation with you. After filling out the loan application, be sure to review the terms of the loan so there are no surprises later. Above all, use this opportunity to rebuild your credit. Stay on top of your payments and do everything in your power to get the new loan paid off in a timely manner.
Source: http://www.mahalo.com/how-to-get-a-loan-with-bad-credit accessed December 20, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Toasty Cocoa
Ingredients
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred)
2 1/2 cups powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste
Hot water
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and incorporate evenly. In a small pot, heat 4 to 6 cups of water.
Fill your mug half full with the mixture and pour in hot water. Stir to combine. Seal the rest in an airtight container, keeps indefinitely in the pantry. This also works great with warm milk.
Source:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/hot-cocoa-recipe/index.html
Accessed November 12, 2009 @ 10:41 a.m.
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred)
2 1/2 cups powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste
Hot water
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and incorporate evenly. In a small pot, heat 4 to 6 cups of water.
Fill your mug half full with the mixture and pour in hot water. Stir to combine. Seal the rest in an airtight container, keeps indefinitely in the pantry. This also works great with warm milk.
Source:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/hot-cocoa-recipe/index.html
Accessed November 12, 2009 @ 10:41 a.m.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Tax Credit Update
Click on the link below for the latest on the tax credit updates including both extension and expansion:
https://owa.newenglandmoves.com/exchange/Becky.Bonafilia/Inbox/TaxCreditExtensionNE%2011-09.pdf.EML/TaxCreditExtensionNE%2011-09.pdf/C58EA28C-18C0-4a97-9AF2-036E93DDAFB3/TaxCreditExtensionNE%2011-09.pdf?attach=1
I am only a phone call away if you need any clarification on the tax credit.
https://owa.newenglandmoves.com/exchange/Becky.Bonafilia/Inbox/TaxCreditExtensionNE%2011-09.pdf.EML/TaxCreditExtensionNE%2011-09.pdf/C58EA28C-18C0-4a97-9AF2-036E93DDAFB3/TaxCreditExtensionNE%2011-09.pdf?attach=1
I am only a phone call away if you need any clarification on the tax credit.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Mortgage rates more attractive than ever
Mortgages under 5% are back in bloom
With one of the key measures below the benchmark for the second week in a row, would-be home buyers face the best rates since the spring.
feed://rss.cnn.com/rss/money_realestate.rss...
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The possibility of securing a mortgage rate below 5% has greatly improved in recent weeks, in a positive sign for would-be home buyers.
Home mortgage rates fell for the sixth straight week, according to two key measures, with one of them pointing to a sub-5% rate for the 30-year fixed loan for the second week in a row.
Freddie Mac's (FRE, Fortune 500) weekly report said the 30-year rate slipped to 4.87% for the week ended Thursday, the lowest since May. According to the mortgage backer, last week's rates stood at 4.94%.
Mortgage tracker Bankrate.com said the average 30-year fixed loan slipped to 5.22% from 5.25% the previous week. The 15-year fixed rate also fell, Bankrate said, to 4.6% from 4.64% the week before.
The 30-year rate is influenced by the benchmark 10-year note's yield, which moves in the opposite direction of its price. Treasury prices have risen over the past week as $78 billion worth of auctions received above-average demand.
"Another disappointing employment report had investors questioning the strength and sustainability of the economic rebound," the Bankrate report said. "The resulting uncertainty drove investors into the safety of government and mortgage-backed bonds." ...
Rates are returning to levels not seen since the spring when, in an effort to cap mortgage rates, the Federal Reserve began a campaign to buy back $300 billion in Treasurys...
Mortgage rates fell as refinancings abounded. But those benefits seemed to wear off, as rates started on a tear in the summer. By June, the benchmark 10-year bond's yield had increased steadily to hover around 4%....
On Wednesday, reports said Democratic congressional leaders were working to extend a $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers past the Nov. 30 expiration date and could even make it available to current homeowners who buy a new house.
Homeowners have received a boost from both the tax credit and the lower rates -- last year, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.2%, according to Bankrate.
To translate the difference in mortgage rate into dollars, consider a $200,000 loan. At last year's rate of 6.2%, the monthly payment would be $1,224.94, or $124 higher than the monthly payment at the current rate...
First Published: October 8, 2009: 12:32 PM ET
Source: http://money.cnn.com/2009/10/08/real_estate/mortgage_rates/index.htm?postversion=2009100813 accessed Oct. 18, 2009 9:25 a.m.
With one of the key measures below the benchmark for the second week in a row, would-be home buyers face the best rates since the spring.
feed://rss.cnn.com/rss/money_realestate.rss...
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The possibility of securing a mortgage rate below 5% has greatly improved in recent weeks, in a positive sign for would-be home buyers.
Home mortgage rates fell for the sixth straight week, according to two key measures, with one of them pointing to a sub-5% rate for the 30-year fixed loan for the second week in a row.
Freddie Mac's (FRE, Fortune 500) weekly report said the 30-year rate slipped to 4.87% for the week ended Thursday, the lowest since May. According to the mortgage backer, last week's rates stood at 4.94%.
Mortgage tracker Bankrate.com said the average 30-year fixed loan slipped to 5.22% from 5.25% the previous week. The 15-year fixed rate also fell, Bankrate said, to 4.6% from 4.64% the week before.
The 30-year rate is influenced by the benchmark 10-year note's yield, which moves in the opposite direction of its price. Treasury prices have risen over the past week as $78 billion worth of auctions received above-average demand.
"Another disappointing employment report had investors questioning the strength and sustainability of the economic rebound," the Bankrate report said. "The resulting uncertainty drove investors into the safety of government and mortgage-backed bonds." ...
Rates are returning to levels not seen since the spring when, in an effort to cap mortgage rates, the Federal Reserve began a campaign to buy back $300 billion in Treasurys...
Mortgage rates fell as refinancings abounded. But those benefits seemed to wear off, as rates started on a tear in the summer. By June, the benchmark 10-year bond's yield had increased steadily to hover around 4%....
On Wednesday, reports said Democratic congressional leaders were working to extend a $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers past the Nov. 30 expiration date and could even make it available to current homeowners who buy a new house.
Homeowners have received a boost from both the tax credit and the lower rates -- last year, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.2%, according to Bankrate.
To translate the difference in mortgage rate into dollars, consider a $200,000 loan. At last year's rate of 6.2%, the monthly payment would be $1,224.94, or $124 higher than the monthly payment at the current rate...
First Published: October 8, 2009: 12:32 PM ET
Source: http://money.cnn.com/2009/10/08/real_estate/mortgage_rates/index.htm?postversion=2009100813 accessed Oct. 18, 2009 9:25 a.m.
Warm Apple Crisp anyone?
Becky's Suggestion: Added a scoop of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream to this one for a great fall treat!
Apple Crisp IV
SUBMITTED BY: rhonda
Original recipe yield 1 - 9x13 inch pan
SERVING...
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1 1/2 cups butter
2 quarts peeled, cored and sliced apples
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the flour, oatmeal, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar. Cut butter into mixture until crumbly.
Take half of the mixture and pat it into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cover crumb mixture with apple slices, then sprinkle apple slices with remaining crumb mixture.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until apples are tender.
Source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Apple-Crisp-IV/Detail.aspx accessed October 18, 2009 @ 9:08 a.m.
Apple Crisp IV
SUBMITTED BY: rhonda
Original recipe yield 1 - 9x13 inch pan
SERVING...
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1 1/2 cups butter
2 quarts peeled, cored and sliced apples
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the flour, oatmeal, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar. Cut butter into mixture until crumbly.
Take half of the mixture and pat it into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cover crumb mixture with apple slices, then sprinkle apple slices with remaining crumb mixture.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until apples are tender.
Source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Apple-Crisp-IV/Detail.aspx accessed October 18, 2009 @ 9:08 a.m.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Keep Swine Flu at Bay- some tips
Infection
Swine flu: Home care tips
During an infectious disease outbreak or pandemic, hospitals can quickly become overwhelmed with patients, many of whom could probably be cared for in their home...
Like other types of flu, swine influenza (or influenza A (H1N1)) spreads from person to person via droplets of fluid that become airborne when a person coughs or sneezes. The virus may also fall on surfaces - doorknobs, cupboard handles, keyboards - and live for a period of time (some viruses and bacteria can live more than 2 hours), possibly infecting others who touch them and then touch their own nose, mouth, or eyes. That is why it is vital (to)... understand and follow hygiene and safety guidelines.
If someone in your home becomes ill, they will need to stay home for at least 7 days after onset of illness and after fever has gone down. Choose one person to be the primary caregiver to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others.
As a caregiver, you will need to consider these home-care basics:
Get a doctor's advice. If someone shows flu symptoms, it's important for them to stay at home. But you will also need to ask a doctor a few home-care questions: Will this person need an antiviral medication? Will I and my other family members need to take any medication?... Are there medications that children can or cannot take?
Become a hygiene expert. The simple act of hand-washing significantly cuts the risk of viral transmission. All members of the household should wash their hands often using soap and water for at least 15 seconds. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used. Use paper towels to dry hands, or else assign everyone their own towel. Within the home, too, you will need to be diligent about cleaning and disinfecting areas in which the sick person stays. Take caution when handling laundry, and tumble-dry clothing and linens in a hot dryer. Wash your hands immediately after.
Give a sick person their space. Keep the sick person in a room of their own... and keep the door closed. A separate bathroom would be best, too...
Be medication smart. Follow any instructions from your doctor or pharmacist. Read medication labels carefully...
Take care of yourself. When caring for a sick person, wear a properly-fitted, government-approved face mask or respirator. Avoid face-to-face contact with the person as much as possible. If caring for a small child, hold them as little as possible...
Use masks safely...Masks should be fitted to the nose and mouth without gapping. Do not reuse disposable facemasks. Launder and tumble-dry reusable masks. Whenever you remove a facemask or respirator, wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Remind the sick person of hygienic habits... As a care-giver...give gentle reminders:
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Wash hands thoroughly in soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Throw used tissues away into a trash can lined with a disposable plastic bag.
Get plenty of rest and drink lots of clear fluids to prevent dehydration...
Amy Toffelmire
Source: http://health.lifestyle.yahoo.ca/channel_section_details.asp?text_id=5048&channel_id=1020&relation_id=22513 accessed September 19, 2009 9:46a.m.
Swine flu: Home care tips
During an infectious disease outbreak or pandemic, hospitals can quickly become overwhelmed with patients, many of whom could probably be cared for in their home...
Like other types of flu, swine influenza (or influenza A (H1N1)) spreads from person to person via droplets of fluid that become airborne when a person coughs or sneezes. The virus may also fall on surfaces - doorknobs, cupboard handles, keyboards - and live for a period of time (some viruses and bacteria can live more than 2 hours), possibly infecting others who touch them and then touch their own nose, mouth, or eyes. That is why it is vital (to)... understand and follow hygiene and safety guidelines.
If someone in your home becomes ill, they will need to stay home for at least 7 days after onset of illness and after fever has gone down. Choose one person to be the primary caregiver to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others.
As a caregiver, you will need to consider these home-care basics:
Get a doctor's advice. If someone shows flu symptoms, it's important for them to stay at home. But you will also need to ask a doctor a few home-care questions: Will this person need an antiviral medication? Will I and my other family members need to take any medication?... Are there medications that children can or cannot take?
Become a hygiene expert. The simple act of hand-washing significantly cuts the risk of viral transmission. All members of the household should wash their hands often using soap and water for at least 15 seconds. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used. Use paper towels to dry hands, or else assign everyone their own towel. Within the home, too, you will need to be diligent about cleaning and disinfecting areas in which the sick person stays. Take caution when handling laundry, and tumble-dry clothing and linens in a hot dryer. Wash your hands immediately after.
Give a sick person their space. Keep the sick person in a room of their own... and keep the door closed. A separate bathroom would be best, too...
Be medication smart. Follow any instructions from your doctor or pharmacist. Read medication labels carefully...
Take care of yourself. When caring for a sick person, wear a properly-fitted, government-approved face mask or respirator. Avoid face-to-face contact with the person as much as possible. If caring for a small child, hold them as little as possible...
Use masks safely...Masks should be fitted to the nose and mouth without gapping. Do not reuse disposable facemasks. Launder and tumble-dry reusable masks. Whenever you remove a facemask or respirator, wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Remind the sick person of hygienic habits... As a care-giver...give gentle reminders:
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Wash hands thoroughly in soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Throw used tissues away into a trash can lined with a disposable plastic bag.
Get plenty of rest and drink lots of clear fluids to prevent dehydration...
Amy Toffelmire
Source: http://health.lifestyle.yahoo.ca/channel_section_details.asp?text_id=5048&channel_id=1020&relation_id=22513 accessed September 19, 2009 9:46a.m.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Central Air efficiency
Increase The Efficiency Of Your Air Conditioner
By Jackie Kent
If you have ever spent the summer in Wichita Falls, Texas, or just the month of August in Sacramento, you appreciate your central air conditioner. Summer in any part of the world can be brutal, save the poles, without some kind of cooling system. There are easy tricks you can employ that will increase the efficiency of your central air conditioning system, increase the cooling factor, decrease the temperature within your home and lower your power usage, which will in turn lower your electric bill. First and foremost, just using common sense will save you a ton of money. If the temperature cools off in the evening, turn your air conditioner off and open windows. Letting the cool air in will work to cool your home in two ways. Thermal mass such as furniture and the structure of your house itself holds heat in and will release it into the air. Cooling the large structures by utilizing the outdoor temperatures will decrease the time the air conditioner needs to run and when it is on... Before the temperature begins to rise and when the sun shines, closing the windows and covering them, will keep the cool temperatures comfortable longer. Using the air conditioner only when the temperatures begin to rise inside the home will save money. Utilizing ceiling fans in each room used in your home will make the air feel cooler and decrease the need for lower temperatures to be obtained by the air conditioner... Close the air conditioner vents in the rooms not used in your homes. If your dining room is rarely used, or you have spare bedrooms, close those vents... Make sure your home is well insulated; drafts are just as uneconomical in the summer as they are in the winter. Use insulated drapes, especially on southern facing windows. Keep them closed during the day. These simple tips will keep your home cooler and use less energy, equaling lower energy bills...
source: http://www.allthingsfrugal.com/jk.air.htm accessed August 4, 2009 9:42p.m.
By Jackie Kent
If you have ever spent the summer in Wichita Falls, Texas, or just the month of August in Sacramento, you appreciate your central air conditioner. Summer in any part of the world can be brutal, save the poles, without some kind of cooling system. There are easy tricks you can employ that will increase the efficiency of your central air conditioning system, increase the cooling factor, decrease the temperature within your home and lower your power usage, which will in turn lower your electric bill. First and foremost, just using common sense will save you a ton of money. If the temperature cools off in the evening, turn your air conditioner off and open windows. Letting the cool air in will work to cool your home in two ways. Thermal mass such as furniture and the structure of your house itself holds heat in and will release it into the air. Cooling the large structures by utilizing the outdoor temperatures will decrease the time the air conditioner needs to run and when it is on... Before the temperature begins to rise and when the sun shines, closing the windows and covering them, will keep the cool temperatures comfortable longer. Using the air conditioner only when the temperatures begin to rise inside the home will save money. Utilizing ceiling fans in each room used in your home will make the air feel cooler and decrease the need for lower temperatures to be obtained by the air conditioner... Close the air conditioner vents in the rooms not used in your homes. If your dining room is rarely used, or you have spare bedrooms, close those vents... Make sure your home is well insulated; drafts are just as uneconomical in the summer as they are in the winter. Use insulated drapes, especially on southern facing windows. Keep them closed during the day. These simple tips will keep your home cooler and use less energy, equaling lower energy bills...
source: http://www.allthingsfrugal.com/jk.air.htm accessed August 4, 2009 9:42p.m.
City of Springfield Housing Perks
Housing Assistance Programs
Homebuyer Assistance
Access to homeownership for many households can be an impediment for many desiring to acquire their own home. A critical barrier for prospecting homebuyers often is an inability to provide a sufficient down payment or pay closing costs in purchasing a home. The City, acting through the Office of Housing and in conjunction with HAPHousing; makes two homebuyer assistance loan programs available to help expand home ownership opportunities for low and moderate-income households:
1) The American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) program, offered through HAPHousing. This program provides financial assistance of up to the lesser of $10,000.00 or 5% of the purchase price. Qualified household income may not exceed 80% of the area median income, adjusted for family size. Please refer to the chart below to see if your household may qualify based on these income categories:
Maximum Household Income
1 Person $43,450
2 Persons $49,700
3 Persons $55,900
4 Persons $62,100
5 Persons $67,050
6 Persons $72,050
2) The Downpayment Assistance Program (DAP), available through the Office of Housing, offers potential homebuyers $2,500.00 in financial support. This program is available to households whose incomes are greater than 80.0% of the area median income, but does not exceed 115% of the area median income, adjusted for family size. The chart below establishes the income limits specific for these participants:
Maximum Household Income
1 Person $43,451 < $62,450 2 Persons $49,701 < $71,400 3 Persons $55,901 < $80,300 4 Persons $62,101 < $89,250 5 Persons $67,051 < $96,400 6 Persons $72,050 < $103,500 These programs are supported by HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, and are designed to provide upfront financial support in the form of down payment and closing costs assistance, as well as work in conjunction with homebuyer counseling. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-serve basis and levels of assistance are subject to available funding. General requirements for all first-time homebuyers include: Not having owned a home during the previous three (3) tax years. Household income may not exceed 80% of the area median income for the ADDI program and; 115% of the area median income for the DAP program. Applicants must contribute a minimum of $750.00 of their own funds toward the purchase of the property for the ADDI program and; 1% of their own funds toward the transaction for the DAP program. The property must be the borrower(s) primary residence. The property must be located within the City of Springfield. The price must not exceed 95% area median purchase price for single-family properties (1 to 4 units) The maximum loan-to-value is subject to lender program requirements but may not exceed 103%. The property must satisfy the minimum HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS) requirements. Qualifying ratios for housing and total debt expenses may not exceed 33% and 40%, respectively. Applicants must successfully complete a CHAPA or HUD certified homebuyer education class. Landlord training is required for properties with 2 or more units. Homebuyers interested in more details about the ADDI program may contact Marta Santiago at HAP Housing, 322 Main Street, Springfield, MA or by phone at (413)233-1500. For more information about the DAP program, contact Patricia Montana or Maritza Santiago at the Office of Housing, 1600 East Columbus Avenue, Springfield, MA or by phone at (413) 787-6500
Homebuyer Education
The Office of Housing has designed a first-time homebuyer’s education program that provides an in depth overview of the home buying process. Classes are featured in two, four-hour long sessions and are generally conducted on Saturdays. Topics of discussion typically include: A guide to homeownership; obtaining a mortgage and the various types of loan products; understanding credit and what lenders look for; shopping for a home; what to expect in a home inspection; understanding the aspects of a real estate closing... The course is free to the public... All first-time homebuyers seeking downpayment and closing cost assistance must complete a certified homebuyer education class.
Register for scheduled classes... contact the Office of Housing at at (413) 787-6500.
source: http://www.springfieldcityhall.com/housing/home-buyer.0.html accessed Aug. 4, 2009 9:36p.m.
Homebuyer Assistance
Access to homeownership for many households can be an impediment for many desiring to acquire their own home. A critical barrier for prospecting homebuyers often is an inability to provide a sufficient down payment or pay closing costs in purchasing a home. The City, acting through the Office of Housing and in conjunction with HAPHousing; makes two homebuyer assistance loan programs available to help expand home ownership opportunities for low and moderate-income households:
1) The American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) program, offered through HAPHousing. This program provides financial assistance of up to the lesser of $10,000.00 or 5% of the purchase price. Qualified household income may not exceed 80% of the area median income, adjusted for family size. Please refer to the chart below to see if your household may qualify based on these income categories:
Maximum Household Income
1 Person $43,450
2 Persons $49,700
3 Persons $55,900
4 Persons $62,100
5 Persons $67,050
6 Persons $72,050
2) The Downpayment Assistance Program (DAP), available through the Office of Housing, offers potential homebuyers $2,500.00 in financial support. This program is available to households whose incomes are greater than 80.0% of the area median income, but does not exceed 115% of the area median income, adjusted for family size. The chart below establishes the income limits specific for these participants:
Maximum Household Income
1 Person $43,451 < $62,450 2 Persons $49,701 < $71,400 3 Persons $55,901 < $80,300 4 Persons $62,101 < $89,250 5 Persons $67,051 < $96,400 6 Persons $72,050 < $103,500 These programs are supported by HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, and are designed to provide upfront financial support in the form of down payment and closing costs assistance, as well as work in conjunction with homebuyer counseling. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-serve basis and levels of assistance are subject to available funding. General requirements for all first-time homebuyers include: Not having owned a home during the previous three (3) tax years. Household income may not exceed 80% of the area median income for the ADDI program and; 115% of the area median income for the DAP program. Applicants must contribute a minimum of $750.00 of their own funds toward the purchase of the property for the ADDI program and; 1% of their own funds toward the transaction for the DAP program. The property must be the borrower(s) primary residence. The property must be located within the City of Springfield. The price must not exceed 95% area median purchase price for single-family properties (1 to 4 units) The maximum loan-to-value is subject to lender program requirements but may not exceed 103%. The property must satisfy the minimum HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS) requirements. Qualifying ratios for housing and total debt expenses may not exceed 33% and 40%, respectively. Applicants must successfully complete a CHAPA or HUD certified homebuyer education class. Landlord training is required for properties with 2 or more units. Homebuyers interested in more details about the ADDI program may contact Marta Santiago at HAP Housing, 322 Main Street, Springfield, MA or by phone at (413)233-1500. For more information about the DAP program, contact Patricia Montana or Maritza Santiago at the Office of Housing, 1600 East Columbus Avenue, Springfield, MA or by phone at (413) 787-6500
Homebuyer Education
The Office of Housing has designed a first-time homebuyer’s education program that provides an in depth overview of the home buying process. Classes are featured in two, four-hour long sessions and are generally conducted on Saturdays. Topics of discussion typically include: A guide to homeownership; obtaining a mortgage and the various types of loan products; understanding credit and what lenders look for; shopping for a home; what to expect in a home inspection; understanding the aspects of a real estate closing... The course is free to the public... All first-time homebuyers seeking downpayment and closing cost assistance must complete a certified homebuyer education class.
Register for scheduled classes... contact the Office of Housing at at (413) 787-6500.
source: http://www.springfieldcityhall.com/housing/home-buyer.0.html accessed Aug. 4, 2009 9:36p.m.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Mom...I'm home
When college kids come home for the summer
How to enjoy the summer and avoid a clash with your college kids
June 11 - They go off to college as your sweet little baby, but when your college-age kids come home, all they want to do is sleep and stay out all night. What’s a parent to do? “Today” contributor and psychiatrist, Gail Saltz is with New York Presbyterian Hospital and she offers some tips for parents.
HOW TO DEAL WITH YOUR COLLEGE KIDS WHEN THEY COME HOME FOR THE SUMMER
Your summer can end in disaster if your expectations and your college kid’s expectations clash when they come home for the summer.
On the one hand, you are looking forward to seeing your child. You miss them. You expect them to be the same person they were when they left to go off to school. You expect them to step back into the role they had before they left for school in doing household chores, keeping a curfew, telling you almost everything, and following the rules of the family. You want to hear all about their studies, their friends, their ambitions and plans for school. You probably even hope to show them off to the extended family at get-togethers because you are proud of them.
On the other hand, your college kid just wants to come home and sleep, hang out with old friends and new friends, stay out all night and generally do whatever they’ve been doing at school.
They have spent the last year in an unstructured and unsupervised environment and probably really like it that way. This new world of theirs contains new people, new habits and a new style of dressing. You may or may not agree with this, and as a result they may not want to discuss it with you.
As you can see, this can all add up to disaster.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HOW YOU CAN AVOID BLOW UPS WITH YOUR COLLEGE KID
1. Negotiate conflicts early: There are things you know will be sources of tension. They tend to be curfews, use of the car, phone and Internet too, money use, who can come over when, and household responsibilities... sit down with your game plan and discuss with them their wishes. Find a place where you can compromise and make these the ground rules for the summer.
2. Be flexible: If you force the same rules on them they had before they lived on their own at school, they will truly resent it and may not want to come home, which would be a loss for you. So try to be more flexible while maintaining certain limits...
For instance, let your kid sleep until 1 p.m. for the first few days but then pick a reasonable time (like 10 a.m.) after that so that the rest of the family can do what they need to. Don’t insist they be home by 11 p.m. when you know at school they were out until 4 a.m., but do say they must tell you when they will be home in advance and stick to it or call if they cannot so you don’t have to worry when they aren’t there. If they use the car they must agree to times you can spare it...
3. Encourage an adult-to-adult relationship: When you come off as an authoritative parent, you push your child away. He or she may be struggling to become an adult, and it’s difficult. Try listening...Invite them to discuss how they feel about various issues and then also tell them how you feel. The evolution to this kind of relationship will be very gratifying for both of you.
4. Accept them: While your child is in the new universe of college, they are most likely trying on different personas, which may be different from the way they were before. But you need to be somewhat accepting of their different clothing, hair, friends and independence. In fact, you need to accept them as adults. If you are going to have a good relationship with them, you need to appreciate them for who they are.
5. Show them you want them home: Let them know how happy you are to be with them... Allow them time with their old and new friends, but then ask them to save some time for you, so you can do something fun together.
Dr. Gail Saltz is a psychiatrist with New York Presbyterian Hospital and a regular contributor to “Today.”
© 2008 MSNBC Interactive. Reprints
Source: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3079389/ accessed June 14, 2009 9:16 a.m. EST
How to enjoy the summer and avoid a clash with your college kids
June 11 - They go off to college as your sweet little baby, but when your college-age kids come home, all they want to do is sleep and stay out all night. What’s a parent to do? “Today” contributor and psychiatrist, Gail Saltz is with New York Presbyterian Hospital and she offers some tips for parents.
HOW TO DEAL WITH YOUR COLLEGE KIDS WHEN THEY COME HOME FOR THE SUMMER
Your summer can end in disaster if your expectations and your college kid’s expectations clash when they come home for the summer.
On the one hand, you are looking forward to seeing your child. You miss them. You expect them to be the same person they were when they left to go off to school. You expect them to step back into the role they had before they left for school in doing household chores, keeping a curfew, telling you almost everything, and following the rules of the family. You want to hear all about their studies, their friends, their ambitions and plans for school. You probably even hope to show them off to the extended family at get-togethers because you are proud of them.
On the other hand, your college kid just wants to come home and sleep, hang out with old friends and new friends, stay out all night and generally do whatever they’ve been doing at school.
They have spent the last year in an unstructured and unsupervised environment and probably really like it that way. This new world of theirs contains new people, new habits and a new style of dressing. You may or may not agree with this, and as a result they may not want to discuss it with you.
As you can see, this can all add up to disaster.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HOW YOU CAN AVOID BLOW UPS WITH YOUR COLLEGE KID
1. Negotiate conflicts early: There are things you know will be sources of tension. They tend to be curfews, use of the car, phone and Internet too, money use, who can come over when, and household responsibilities... sit down with your game plan and discuss with them their wishes. Find a place where you can compromise and make these the ground rules for the summer.
2. Be flexible: If you force the same rules on them they had before they lived on their own at school, they will truly resent it and may not want to come home, which would be a loss for you. So try to be more flexible while maintaining certain limits...
For instance, let your kid sleep until 1 p.m. for the first few days but then pick a reasonable time (like 10 a.m.) after that so that the rest of the family can do what they need to. Don’t insist they be home by 11 p.m. when you know at school they were out until 4 a.m., but do say they must tell you when they will be home in advance and stick to it or call if they cannot so you don’t have to worry when they aren’t there. If they use the car they must agree to times you can spare it...
3. Encourage an adult-to-adult relationship: When you come off as an authoritative parent, you push your child away. He or she may be struggling to become an adult, and it’s difficult. Try listening...Invite them to discuss how they feel about various issues and then also tell them how you feel. The evolution to this kind of relationship will be very gratifying for both of you.
4. Accept them: While your child is in the new universe of college, they are most likely trying on different personas, which may be different from the way they were before. But you need to be somewhat accepting of their different clothing, hair, friends and independence. In fact, you need to accept them as adults. If you are going to have a good relationship with them, you need to appreciate them for who they are.
5. Show them you want them home: Let them know how happy you are to be with them... Allow them time with their old and new friends, but then ask them to save some time for you, so you can do something fun together.
Dr. Gail Saltz is a psychiatrist with New York Presbyterian Hospital and a regular contributor to “Today.”
© 2008 MSNBC Interactive. Reprints
Source: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3079389/ accessed June 14, 2009 9:16 a.m. EST
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The sky is NOT falling, but property taxes might be...
Lower taxes: Silver lining of falling home prices
Home price declines are causing tax assessors to revalue properties downward. Taxes will follow.
Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Last Updated: May 27, 2009: 2:25 PM ET
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Your home value has sunk like a stone, and you're so far underwater you'll have to hold your breath for years. Can you at least get a break on your property taxes?
In some cases, yes. Many municipalities' tax bills are due in May, and the tab for 2009 could be lower.
As a rule, city and county assessors reappraise property values annually or biannually, using recent sales of comparable homes in the neighborhood to set values. So in areas that have seen significant drops in home prices, appraisals - and thereby property taxes - could also drop.
"Assessors have been flooded with requests from homeowners to reassess their home values," said Los Angeles County Assessor Rick Auerbach...
... even if tax assessors reduce appraised values to reflect market conditions it still does not automatically mean a property tax cut. Localities could still raise their tax rates, the percentage of the home's value that is used along with the assessed valuation, to calculate the final bills.
"Taxes are based on property values times [the tax rate]. We could have declining values but make up for it by raising the rate," said Bill Donegan, the property appraiser for Orange County, Fla., which includes Orlando.
This year, though, the value drops are so steep that any rate rise will probably not offset the lowered assessments. Plus, governments usually can't just raise rates indiscriminately.
"In most places there's a statuary limit to rate increases," said Ken Wilkinson, the property appraiser for Lee County, Fla., where Cape Coral home values have plunged 44% from their peaks. "In Florida, they can't be raised more than 10%."
That should lead to substantial savings. In Orange County, the average taxpayer paid about 8% less last year, or nearly $130. "They may see a bigger drop this year," said Donegan.
The savings will be more modest, or non-existent, in states with lesser price declines. Many localities will raise rates enough to offset lower assessments, according to Joseph Henchman, the Director of State Projects for the Tax Foundation, a group that studies tax policy.
"The actual [revenue] collections could still rise or stay about the same," he said.
Governments may also raise fees on water, sewage and other services to keep up with looming budget deficits. They could even create entire new taxing entities, known as tax district, to fund fire departments, law enforcement, even libraries.
The local governments must keep revenues up to pay for programs they initiated during more flush times.
"We often see a ratchet effect," said Henchman. "Spending goes up when collections are strong but stay up even when collections go down."
First Published: May 27, 2009: 2:21 PM ET
source: http://money.cnn.com/2009/05/27/real_estate/property_tax_breaks/index.htm?postversion=2009052714 accessed June 2, 2009
Home price declines are causing tax assessors to revalue properties downward. Taxes will follow.
Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Last Updated: May 27, 2009: 2:25 PM ET
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Your home value has sunk like a stone, and you're so far underwater you'll have to hold your breath for years. Can you at least get a break on your property taxes?
In some cases, yes. Many municipalities' tax bills are due in May, and the tab for 2009 could be lower.
As a rule, city and county assessors reappraise property values annually or biannually, using recent sales of comparable homes in the neighborhood to set values. So in areas that have seen significant drops in home prices, appraisals - and thereby property taxes - could also drop.
"Assessors have been flooded with requests from homeowners to reassess their home values," said Los Angeles County Assessor Rick Auerbach...
... even if tax assessors reduce appraised values to reflect market conditions it still does not automatically mean a property tax cut. Localities could still raise their tax rates, the percentage of the home's value that is used along with the assessed valuation, to calculate the final bills.
"Taxes are based on property values times [the tax rate]. We could have declining values but make up for it by raising the rate," said Bill Donegan, the property appraiser for Orange County, Fla., which includes Orlando.
This year, though, the value drops are so steep that any rate rise will probably not offset the lowered assessments. Plus, governments usually can't just raise rates indiscriminately.
"In most places there's a statuary limit to rate increases," said Ken Wilkinson, the property appraiser for Lee County, Fla., where Cape Coral home values have plunged 44% from their peaks. "In Florida, they can't be raised more than 10%."
That should lead to substantial savings. In Orange County, the average taxpayer paid about 8% less last year, or nearly $130. "They may see a bigger drop this year," said Donegan.
The savings will be more modest, or non-existent, in states with lesser price declines. Many localities will raise rates enough to offset lower assessments, according to Joseph Henchman, the Director of State Projects for the Tax Foundation, a group that studies tax policy.
"The actual [revenue] collections could still rise or stay about the same," he said.
Governments may also raise fees on water, sewage and other services to keep up with looming budget deficits. They could even create entire new taxing entities, known as tax district, to fund fire departments, law enforcement, even libraries.
The local governments must keep revenues up to pay for programs they initiated during more flush times.
"We often see a ratchet effect," said Henchman. "Spending goes up when collections are strong but stay up even when collections go down."
First Published: May 27, 2009: 2:21 PM ET
source: http://money.cnn.com/2009/05/27/real_estate/property_tax_breaks/index.htm?postversion=2009052714 accessed June 2, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Local Foreclosures Declining
Pioneer Valley foreclosures reported down so far this year
source: The Republican Newsroom
Thursday May 07, 2009, 6:51 PM
Associated Press, accessed: http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/05/pioneer_valley_foreclosures_re.html?category=Business+category=Franklin%20County+category=Springfield May 7, 2009, 9:35 p.m.
By JIM KINNEY jkinney@repub.com SPRINGFIELD - Lenders are foreclosing on fewer Pioneer Valley homes this year, compared to a record-setting number of foreclosures in 2008. The number of foreclosure deeds, typically the final step in the foreclosure process, fell 3.27 percent in Hampden County for the first quarter of 2009. There were 237 foreclosure deeds filed in the first three months of this year. That was down from the 245 foreclosure deeds filed in the first quarter of 2008. The number of auction notices, an earlier step in the process, filed in the county fell 60.17 percent from 575 to 229. The Warren Group, a Boston-based provider of real-estate information and publisher of Banker & Tradesman newspaper, released figures Thursday based on information collected from registers of deeds around the state. In Springfield, the number of foreclosure deeds were unchanged at 154 for the first quarter of both years. But the number of auction notices fell 55.2 percent from 369 in the first quarter of 2008 to 165 this year. Lawyer Eugene B. Berman, chairman of the Hampden County Bar Association Foreclosure Prevention Task Force, said while the declines are good news, that doesn't mean that the foreclosure crisis is over. The county had 1,040 completed mortgage foreclosures, up 41.7 percent compared with the 734 foreclosures in 2007. The previous record of 818 was set in 1997.
"Yes, there is a bit of an abatement," Berman said. "But the totality is overwhelming." He said lenders held off on foreclosures early this year as they waited for the Obama administration to come up with a foreclosure-prevention plan. Now, some homeowners are taking advantage of that plan and refinancing their loans, Berman said. Also, lenders are holding off on taking homes simply because the lenders know they won't be able to sell them again... In Hampshire County, the number of foreclosure deeds fell 29.03 percent from 31 in the first quarter of 2008 to 22 in the first quarter of this year. Auction notices went from 12 in the first quarter of 2008 to none in the first quarter of this year... Berman said the Bar Association has a hotline, (413) 322-7404, that people can call if they fear foreclosure.
source: The Republican Newsroom
Thursday May 07, 2009, 6:51 PM
Associated Press, accessed: http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/05/pioneer_valley_foreclosures_re.html?category=Business+category=Franklin%20County+category=Springfield May 7, 2009, 9:35 p.m.
By JIM KINNEY jkinney@repub.com SPRINGFIELD - Lenders are foreclosing on fewer Pioneer Valley homes this year, compared to a record-setting number of foreclosures in 2008. The number of foreclosure deeds, typically the final step in the foreclosure process, fell 3.27 percent in Hampden County for the first quarter of 2009. There were 237 foreclosure deeds filed in the first three months of this year. That was down from the 245 foreclosure deeds filed in the first quarter of 2008. The number of auction notices, an earlier step in the process, filed in the county fell 60.17 percent from 575 to 229. The Warren Group, a Boston-based provider of real-estate information and publisher of Banker & Tradesman newspaper, released figures Thursday based on information collected from registers of deeds around the state. In Springfield, the number of foreclosure deeds were unchanged at 154 for the first quarter of both years. But the number of auction notices fell 55.2 percent from 369 in the first quarter of 2008 to 165 this year. Lawyer Eugene B. Berman, chairman of the Hampden County Bar Association Foreclosure Prevention Task Force, said while the declines are good news, that doesn't mean that the foreclosure crisis is over. The county had 1,040 completed mortgage foreclosures, up 41.7 percent compared with the 734 foreclosures in 2007. The previous record of 818 was set in 1997.
"Yes, there is a bit of an abatement," Berman said. "But the totality is overwhelming." He said lenders held off on foreclosures early this year as they waited for the Obama administration to come up with a foreclosure-prevention plan. Now, some homeowners are taking advantage of that plan and refinancing their loans, Berman said. Also, lenders are holding off on taking homes simply because the lenders know they won't be able to sell them again... In Hampshire County, the number of foreclosure deeds fell 29.03 percent from 31 in the first quarter of 2008 to 22 in the first quarter of this year. Auction notices went from 12 in the first quarter of 2008 to none in the first quarter of this year... Berman said the Bar Association has a hotline, (413) 322-7404, that people can call if they fear foreclosure.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Optimism on the Home Front
Western Massachusetts real estate agents see glimmers of hope on the horizon
by The Republican Newsroom
Wednesday April 29, 2009, 6:00 PM
By HOLLY ANGELO hangelo@repub.com Home sales and prices are still down from this time last year, but there are glimmers of hope in the local housing market. Both The Warren Group and Massachusetts Association of Realtors released reports on Wednesday. Single-family median home prices in the state fell 18.2 percent during the first quarter of 2009, compared to the same period in 2008, while sales dropped nearly 11 percent, according to The Warren Group. Locally, the news is better. Home sales in the Pioneer Valley were up 4.3 percent from March 2008 to 2009, according to the Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley.
"There are some promising signs," said Kevin M. Sears... the president-elect of the Massachusetts Association of Realtors. "When the prices come down it makes properties more affordable. You have more folks getting into the market and lower interest rates." Sears said unlike the larger banks, local banks are lending and there is credit out there. "The market is returning a little bit back to normal," he said...
In the state, the median price for homes in the first quarter of 2009 fell to $253,500 from $310,000 in the first quarter of 2008, according to The Warren Group. Sales of single-family homes dropped nearly 11 percent to 6,160 from 6,912 a year ago. In Hampden County, March home sales were actually up 9.31 percent from last March, from 204 sales to 223 sales, although prices in that time period decreased by 11.43 percent, from $175,000 to $155,000. In Hampshire County, March sales decreased by 30.36 percent over the past year and prices decreased by 10.16 percent. Franklin County sales decreased by 14.71 percent, but prices actually increased by 4.91 percent. Statewide, single-family median home prices fell below $300,000 for the seventh consecutive month, according to Timothy Warren Jr., chief executive officer of The Warren Group. The Warren Group is a Boston-based publisher of real estate and related data.
source: http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/04/western_massachusetts_real_est.html?category=Business&category=Franklin%20County&category=Springfield accessed 5/6/09 7:43a.m.
by The Republican Newsroom
Wednesday April 29, 2009, 6:00 PM
By HOLLY ANGELO hangelo@repub.com Home sales and prices are still down from this time last year, but there are glimmers of hope in the local housing market. Both The Warren Group and Massachusetts Association of Realtors released reports on Wednesday. Single-family median home prices in the state fell 18.2 percent during the first quarter of 2009, compared to the same period in 2008, while sales dropped nearly 11 percent, according to The Warren Group. Locally, the news is better. Home sales in the Pioneer Valley were up 4.3 percent from March 2008 to 2009, according to the Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley.
"There are some promising signs," said Kevin M. Sears... the president-elect of the Massachusetts Association of Realtors. "When the prices come down it makes properties more affordable. You have more folks getting into the market and lower interest rates." Sears said unlike the larger banks, local banks are lending and there is credit out there. "The market is returning a little bit back to normal," he said...
In the state, the median price for homes in the first quarter of 2009 fell to $253,500 from $310,000 in the first quarter of 2008, according to The Warren Group. Sales of single-family homes dropped nearly 11 percent to 6,160 from 6,912 a year ago. In Hampden County, March home sales were actually up 9.31 percent from last March, from 204 sales to 223 sales, although prices in that time period decreased by 11.43 percent, from $175,000 to $155,000. In Hampshire County, March sales decreased by 30.36 percent over the past year and prices decreased by 10.16 percent. Franklin County sales decreased by 14.71 percent, but prices actually increased by 4.91 percent. Statewide, single-family median home prices fell below $300,000 for the seventh consecutive month, according to Timothy Warren Jr., chief executive officer of The Warren Group. The Warren Group is a Boston-based publisher of real estate and related data.
source: http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/04/western_massachusetts_real_est.html?category=Business&category=Franklin%20County&category=Springfield accessed 5/6/09 7:43a.m.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Spring (Exterior) Cleaning
by Matt Gallo
When the gray, cold days of winter are finally gone, it's time to give your home a thorough spring cleaning. Although most homeowners tackle the inside of their house, few remember that the outside needs a freshen-up as well! Wash away the grime of winter with window washing, gutter cleaning & pressure washing. You'll be amazed at how bright and clean your home looks.
Window Washing
After the rain, snow, and ice of winter, it's no wonder your windows are dingy and spotted! Eliminate the dirty film of winter and let the cheerful light of spring pour through...it's time to call the window washers...Window washing should include cleaning all windows inside and out as well as any storm windows or screens. Many window washers also offer interior glass washing services for chandeliers, mirrors, lamps, and ceiling fans...
Gutter Cleaning
Gutter cleaning is a maintenance task most homeowners dread, and subsequently neglect...but for gutters to effectively channel rainwater away from your house and foundation, they need to be unclogged and flowing freely... Perhaps the best way to get your gutters clean is to hire a professional gutter cleaning service...They'll remove leaves, twigs, and any built-up debris; flush out your gutters; and ensure that downspouts are working properly. Many gutter contractors can even repair gutters that have been damaged over the winter! Once your gutters are clean and repaired...they'll protect your home from excess rainwater.
Pressure Washing
Winter wreaks havoc on the appearance of your home: storms splash mud on your siding; excessive moisture encourages algae growth on your brick; salt can stain your driveway... Perfect for removing a whole variety of eyesores from mud to dirt, mildew, and mold, power washing can get the exterior of your home looking great again. For optimal results...hire a professional power washing contractor. They'll be able to get practically any part of your home's exterior sparkling clean again without making amateur mistakes like damaging mortar or gouging wood. Contact a power washing contractor to freshen:
Siding / Brick / Stone
Patios / Decks / Roofs
Sidewalks / Driveways / Concrete
...Window washing, gutter cleaning & pressure washing are 3 relatively inexpensive projects that can really help your home look great!...
Matt Gallo is a home improvement specialist and the Internet marketing manager for Prospect Genius...
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Gallo
When the gray, cold days of winter are finally gone, it's time to give your home a thorough spring cleaning. Although most homeowners tackle the inside of their house, few remember that the outside needs a freshen-up as well! Wash away the grime of winter with window washing, gutter cleaning & pressure washing. You'll be amazed at how bright and clean your home looks.
Window Washing
After the rain, snow, and ice of winter, it's no wonder your windows are dingy and spotted! Eliminate the dirty film of winter and let the cheerful light of spring pour through...it's time to call the window washers...Window washing should include cleaning all windows inside and out as well as any storm windows or screens. Many window washers also offer interior glass washing services for chandeliers, mirrors, lamps, and ceiling fans...
Gutter Cleaning
Gutter cleaning is a maintenance task most homeowners dread, and subsequently neglect...but for gutters to effectively channel rainwater away from your house and foundation, they need to be unclogged and flowing freely... Perhaps the best way to get your gutters clean is to hire a professional gutter cleaning service...They'll remove leaves, twigs, and any built-up debris; flush out your gutters; and ensure that downspouts are working properly. Many gutter contractors can even repair gutters that have been damaged over the winter! Once your gutters are clean and repaired...they'll protect your home from excess rainwater.
Pressure Washing
Winter wreaks havoc on the appearance of your home: storms splash mud on your siding; excessive moisture encourages algae growth on your brick; salt can stain your driveway... Perfect for removing a whole variety of eyesores from mud to dirt, mildew, and mold, power washing can get the exterior of your home looking great again. For optimal results...hire a professional power washing contractor. They'll be able to get practically any part of your home's exterior sparkling clean again without making amateur mistakes like damaging mortar or gouging wood. Contact a power washing contractor to freshen:
Siding / Brick / Stone
Patios / Decks / Roofs
Sidewalks / Driveways / Concrete
...Window washing, gutter cleaning & pressure washing are 3 relatively inexpensive projects that can really help your home look great!...
Matt Gallo is a home improvement specialist and the Internet marketing manager for Prospect Genius...
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Gallo
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Looking for a springtime hobby?
Vegetable Gardening
Vegetable gardening involves the production of produce on either a large scale or small. This is becoming a very popular backyard hobby in many areas where soil and weather cooperate for growing.
Types of vegetable gardening
Vegetable gardening can take on a number of different grow styles. For the home-based gardener, these are the most typical forms:
Basic backyard growing – For people with enough land to stake out a sizeable plot, this type of vegetable gardening will resemble larger-scale productions. A garden might involve multiple crops and rows of plantings.
Container – This type of vegetable gardening is popular among apartment dwellers that cannot grow crops in the ground. It involves the use of special buckets or containers that can be moved in and out of the sun.
Organic – In this type of vegetable gardening, no chemicals or pesticides are used.
Getting started with vegetable gardening
Exact advice for vegetable gardening hinges on the geographical region, season and crops involved. To increase the chances for success with vegetable gardening make sure to:
Select the right time to plant – Make sure to look at a localized growers’ guide for advice on when to plant certain crops.
Properly prepare the earth – Both plot and container-based crops will require proper preparation. Make sure soil is rich in the nutrients needed by a specific plant and also remove all weeds and other obstructions. Aerating the soil is also important.
source: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/vegetable-gardening , accessed April 19, 2009 9:15p.m.
Happy Gardening
Vegetable gardening involves the production of produce on either a large scale or small. This is becoming a very popular backyard hobby in many areas where soil and weather cooperate for growing.
Types of vegetable gardening
Vegetable gardening can take on a number of different grow styles. For the home-based gardener, these are the most typical forms:
Basic backyard growing – For people with enough land to stake out a sizeable plot, this type of vegetable gardening will resemble larger-scale productions. A garden might involve multiple crops and rows of plantings.
Container – This type of vegetable gardening is popular among apartment dwellers that cannot grow crops in the ground. It involves the use of special buckets or containers that can be moved in and out of the sun.
Organic – In this type of vegetable gardening, no chemicals or pesticides are used.
Getting started with vegetable gardening
Exact advice for vegetable gardening hinges on the geographical region, season and crops involved. To increase the chances for success with vegetable gardening make sure to:
Select the right time to plant – Make sure to look at a localized growers’ guide for advice on when to plant certain crops.
Properly prepare the earth – Both plot and container-based crops will require proper preparation. Make sure soil is rich in the nutrients needed by a specific plant and also remove all weeds and other obstructions. Aerating the soil is also important.
source: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/vegetable-gardening , accessed April 19, 2009 9:15p.m.
Happy Gardening
Grilled Flank Steak Crostini
Grilled Flank Steak Crostini with Mustard Greens
Recipe courtesy Michael Chiarello
Cook Time
15 min
Level
Easy
Yield
4 to 6 servings
Ingredients:
1 flank steak
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon garlic, minced (about 3 cloves)
12 cups greens, such as mustard, chard or spinach, washed
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Hot sauce, optional
1 baguette, sliced on the bias into long thin slices
Directions
Bring the flank steak to room temperature.
Prepare an outdoor grill or preheat a stovetop grill pan.
Season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground pepper. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of the olive oil on 1 side of the meat and lightly rub it in.
Sprinkle half of the oregano on top and place the steak on the grill, herb side up.
Grill on 1 side for about 5 minutes or until the juices of the meat come to the surface of the steak. Turn the steak once and continue cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until done to your taste. Let rest for a few minutes.
Meanwhile: In a large saute pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil until hot. Add the garlic and saute about 1 minute, or until light brown. Add the greens and toss occasionally.
After about 3 minutes, the greens will have cooked down. Season with a large pinch of salt and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Cook another 3 minutes. Splash greens with 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar and hot sauce, to taste, if using. Transfer the greens to a plate.
For the crostini: Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the slices on the grill or grill pan and cook until crispy, about 1 minute on each side.
Cut the flank steak across the grain in 1/4-inch slices. Place a slice of steak on top of each crostini, top each with the greens and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and hot sauce, as desired. Can be served warm or at room temperature.
source: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/michael-chiarello/grilled-flank-steak-crostini-with-mustard-greens-recipe/index.html foodnetwork.com, April 19, 2009 8:51p.m.
Recipe courtesy Michael Chiarello
Cook Time
15 min
Level
Easy
Yield
4 to 6 servings
Ingredients:
1 flank steak
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon garlic, minced (about 3 cloves)
12 cups greens, such as mustard, chard or spinach, washed
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Hot sauce, optional
1 baguette, sliced on the bias into long thin slices
Directions
Bring the flank steak to room temperature.
Prepare an outdoor grill or preheat a stovetop grill pan.
Season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground pepper. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of the olive oil on 1 side of the meat and lightly rub it in.
Sprinkle half of the oregano on top and place the steak on the grill, herb side up.
Grill on 1 side for about 5 minutes or until the juices of the meat come to the surface of the steak. Turn the steak once and continue cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until done to your taste. Let rest for a few minutes.
Meanwhile: In a large saute pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil until hot. Add the garlic and saute about 1 minute, or until light brown. Add the greens and toss occasionally.
After about 3 minutes, the greens will have cooked down. Season with a large pinch of salt and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Cook another 3 minutes. Splash greens with 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar and hot sauce, to taste, if using. Transfer the greens to a plate.
For the crostini: Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the slices on the grill or grill pan and cook until crispy, about 1 minute on each side.
Cut the flank steak across the grain in 1/4-inch slices. Place a slice of steak on top of each crostini, top each with the greens and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and hot sauce, as desired. Can be served warm or at room temperature.
source: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/michael-chiarello/grilled-flank-steak-crostini-with-mustard-greens-recipe/index.html foodnetwork.com, April 19, 2009 8:51p.m.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
The Time is Now
$8000 Tax Credit
Find out how you can get an $8000 tax credit.
2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
If you are a first-time homebuyer, or haven’t owned a home in three years, learn how you can get an $8,000 federal tax credit when you close on the purchase of any principal residence between January 1, 2009 to November 30, 2009. The outstanding selection of available homes and attractive interest rates make this a great time to buy a home.
Highlights of the Homebuyer Tax Credit
Buyers will receive a refundable tax credit of up to $8,000 on their 2008 or 2009 income tax return.
• First-time homebuyers and those who have not owned a primary home in the last three years are eligible. Full amount of the credit is available for individuals with an adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 joint return). The credit phases out above those caps.
• The credit is retroactive and can be claimed on an individual or joint tax return for the purchase of any principal residence that closes between January 1, 2009 and November 30, 2009. Vacation and rental properties are not eligible.
• The credit is claimed on a tax return to reduce the purchaser’s tax liability. Any credit amount unused will be refunded to the purchaser.
This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who is thinking of buying a home...
Source: http://www.newenglandmoves.com/taxcredit accessed February 28, 2009
©2009 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC. RE0231
The information in this flyer is not to be construed as legal or tax advice.
Find out how you can get an $8000 tax credit.
2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
If you are a first-time homebuyer, or haven’t owned a home in three years, learn how you can get an $8,000 federal tax credit when you close on the purchase of any principal residence between January 1, 2009 to November 30, 2009. The outstanding selection of available homes and attractive interest rates make this a great time to buy a home.
Highlights of the Homebuyer Tax Credit
Buyers will receive a refundable tax credit of up to $8,000 on their 2008 or 2009 income tax return.
• First-time homebuyers and those who have not owned a primary home in the last three years are eligible. Full amount of the credit is available for individuals with an adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 joint return). The credit phases out above those caps.
• The credit is retroactive and can be claimed on an individual or joint tax return for the purchase of any principal residence that closes between January 1, 2009 and November 30, 2009. Vacation and rental properties are not eligible.
• The credit is claimed on a tax return to reduce the purchaser’s tax liability. Any credit amount unused will be refunded to the purchaser.
This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who is thinking of buying a home...
Source: http://www.newenglandmoves.com/taxcredit accessed February 28, 2009
©2009 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC. RE0231
The information in this flyer is not to be construed as legal or tax advice.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Home Sale Tax exclusions
Modified Home Sale Exclusion for Non-Qualifying Use
By William Perez, About.com
When homeowners sell their main home, they can exclude up to $500,000 in capital gains from income tax. The Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 changes the rules. The amount of profits from the sale of a house that can be excluded is now based on the percentage of time when the house was used as a primary residence.
Homeowners who sell their primary residence can exclude up to $250,000 (or up to $500,000 for married couples filing jointly) in capital gains from their taxes. The amount of gain that will qualify for the exclusion is limited based on the amount of time that the house is used as a primary residence. If the house is used other than as a primary residence, capital gains must be allocated between qualifying and non-qualifying use. Any non-qualifying use can potentially reduce the amount of capital gain that can be excluded. The allocation rules take effect beginning January 1, 2009.
Qualifying Use vs. Non-Qualifying UseTaxpayers can qualify to exclude up to $250,000 in capital gains ($500,000 if married and filing jointly) when selling a house. To qualify, the person needs to own and live in the property has his or her primary residence for at least two years out of the five years ending on the date of sale.
Sometimes, however, the property isn't used as a primary residence during the entire five-year period. The house might be rented out, used as a vacation home, or used as a second home. Such uses of the home will be considered non-qualifying use and could subject gains from the sale of the house to tax.
Qualifying use means the property is being used by the homeowner or the homeowner's spouse as a primary residence. Non-qualifying use means the property is not being used as a primary residence by either the homeowner or the homeowner's spouse...
Temporary absences not exceeding a total of two years in aggregate will not jeopardize qualifying use. A property can maintain its status as a primary residence even if the homeowner is absence due to change in employment, health conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Sources:
Section 3092 of Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 (H.R. 3221)
Summary of the tax provisions in H.R. 3221 from the Ways and Means Committee [pdf]
CCH Tax Briefing on the Housing Assistance Tax Act [pdf]
More Tax Planning: U.S. Quick Tips
source: http://www.about.com/, February 7, 2009
By William Perez, About.com
When homeowners sell their main home, they can exclude up to $500,000 in capital gains from income tax. The Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 changes the rules. The amount of profits from the sale of a house that can be excluded is now based on the percentage of time when the house was used as a primary residence.
Homeowners who sell their primary residence can exclude up to $250,000 (or up to $500,000 for married couples filing jointly) in capital gains from their taxes. The amount of gain that will qualify for the exclusion is limited based on the amount of time that the house is used as a primary residence. If the house is used other than as a primary residence, capital gains must be allocated between qualifying and non-qualifying use. Any non-qualifying use can potentially reduce the amount of capital gain that can be excluded. The allocation rules take effect beginning January 1, 2009.
Qualifying Use vs. Non-Qualifying UseTaxpayers can qualify to exclude up to $250,000 in capital gains ($500,000 if married and filing jointly) when selling a house. To qualify, the person needs to own and live in the property has his or her primary residence for at least two years out of the five years ending on the date of sale.
Sometimes, however, the property isn't used as a primary residence during the entire five-year period. The house might be rented out, used as a vacation home, or used as a second home. Such uses of the home will be considered non-qualifying use and could subject gains from the sale of the house to tax.
Qualifying use means the property is being used by the homeowner or the homeowner's spouse as a primary residence. Non-qualifying use means the property is not being used as a primary residence by either the homeowner or the homeowner's spouse...
Temporary absences not exceeding a total of two years in aggregate will not jeopardize qualifying use. A property can maintain its status as a primary residence even if the homeowner is absence due to change in employment, health conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Sources:
Section 3092 of Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 (H.R. 3221)
Summary of the tax provisions in H.R. 3221 from the Ways and Means Committee [pdf]
CCH Tax Briefing on the Housing Assistance Tax Act [pdf]
More Tax Planning: U.S. Quick Tips
source: http://www.about.com/, February 7, 2009
Recouping Renovation Costs
Assessing the Resale Value of Your Renovations
By Lee Wallender, About.com, accessed February 7, 2009
It's closing day, congratulations. Break open a bottle of champagne and enjoy. Ready to renovate? Before you pound that first nail, always look ahead to your home's resale value. Certain modifications give better resale value than others.
High Resale Value
Siding Replacement - Upscale
Bathroom Remodel - Mid-Range
Minor Kitchen Remodel - Mid-Range
Siding Replacement - Mid-Range
Two-Story Addition - Mid-Range
Attic Bedroom - Mid-Range
Bathroom Remodel - Upscale
Major Kitchen Remodel - Mid-Range
Moderate Resale Value
Deck - Mid-Range
Basement Remodel - Mid-Range
Window Replacement - Mid-Range
Window Replacement - Upscale
Bathroom Addition - Mid-Range
Roofing Replacement - Upscale
Bathroom Addition - Upscale
Major Kitchen Remodel - Upscale
Roofing Replacement - Mid-Range
Family Room - Mid-Range
Low Re-sale value
Master Suite - Mid-Range
Master Suite - Upscale
Sunroom - Mid-Range
Home Office Remodel - Mid-Range
Check out REMODELING Online's excellent annual cost vs. value report for more info.
By Lee Wallender, About.com, accessed February 7, 2009
It's closing day, congratulations. Break open a bottle of champagne and enjoy. Ready to renovate? Before you pound that first nail, always look ahead to your home's resale value. Certain modifications give better resale value than others.
High Resale Value
Siding Replacement - Upscale
Bathroom Remodel - Mid-Range
Minor Kitchen Remodel - Mid-Range
Siding Replacement - Mid-Range
Two-Story Addition - Mid-Range
Attic Bedroom - Mid-Range
Bathroom Remodel - Upscale
Major Kitchen Remodel - Mid-Range
Moderate Resale Value
Deck - Mid-Range
Basement Remodel - Mid-Range
Window Replacement - Mid-Range
Window Replacement - Upscale
Bathroom Addition - Mid-Range
Roofing Replacement - Upscale
Bathroom Addition - Upscale
Major Kitchen Remodel - Upscale
Roofing Replacement - Mid-Range
Family Room - Mid-Range
Low Re-sale value
Master Suite - Mid-Range
Master Suite - Upscale
Sunroom - Mid-Range
Home Office Remodel - Mid-Range
Check out REMODELING Online's excellent annual cost vs. value report for more info.
Homes under contract for sale increasing
Pending home sales rise in December
The number of sales contracts signed increased by 6.3%, as buyers respond to fire sale prices driven by a record number of foreclosures.
By Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Last Updated: February 3, 2009: 12:10 PM ET
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Plunging home prices and low mortgage rates pushed homebuying activity higher in December, according to a regular industry report released on Tuesday.
The Pending Home Sales Index, from the National Association of Realtors, measures the number of sales contracts signed each month. It rose 6.3% in December to 87.7, after dropping 4% in November to a record low of 82.5.
The index was 2.1% higher than its December 2007 level...
Sales activity gained the most traction the South, where the index jumped 13% in December. The Midwest was also much higher at 12.8%. The Northeast, however, slipped by 1.7% and the index in the West fell 3.7%.
Home sales also benefited from a drop in mortgage interest rates during the month. The 30-year, fixed-rate loan averaged 5.29% for the month, with the average borrower paying a fee equal to 0.7% of the mortgage principal. That was, by far, the lowest that mortgage rates had been all year...
The lower mortgage rates helped push housing affordability to record levels.
NAR's Housing Affordability index improved to 158.8 in December, up more than 29% year-over-year. That makes buying a home more affordable than any time since NAR started tracking the measure in 1970.
A household earning the median U.S. family income can now afford a home of $277,000, according to NAR. That's well above the national median home price, which was $198,600 in 2008.
The number of sales contracts signed increased by 6.3%, as buyers respond to fire sale prices driven by a record number of foreclosures.
By Les Christie, CNNMoney.com staff writer
Last Updated: February 3, 2009: 12:10 PM ET
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Plunging home prices and low mortgage rates pushed homebuying activity higher in December, according to a regular industry report released on Tuesday.
The Pending Home Sales Index, from the National Association of Realtors, measures the number of sales contracts signed each month. It rose 6.3% in December to 87.7, after dropping 4% in November to a record low of 82.5.
The index was 2.1% higher than its December 2007 level...
Sales activity gained the most traction the South, where the index jumped 13% in December. The Midwest was also much higher at 12.8%. The Northeast, however, slipped by 1.7% and the index in the West fell 3.7%.
Home sales also benefited from a drop in mortgage interest rates during the month. The 30-year, fixed-rate loan averaged 5.29% for the month, with the average borrower paying a fee equal to 0.7% of the mortgage principal. That was, by far, the lowest that mortgage rates had been all year...
The lower mortgage rates helped push housing affordability to record levels.
NAR's Housing Affordability index improved to 158.8 in December, up more than 29% year-over-year. That makes buying a home more affordable than any time since NAR started tracking the measure in 1970.
A household earning the median U.S. family income can now afford a home of $277,000, according to NAR. That's well above the national median home price, which was $198,600 in 2008.
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