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| Northwest Indiana and Chicago Loop Real Estate Blog |
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Thursday, 07 January 2010
Northwest Indiana Neighborhood Facts
January, 2009-January, 2010
Neighborhood #of Sales Average Sales Highest Sales
Price Price
Dyer 141 $219,436 $1,150,000
Days on Market 98 461
Crown Point 304 $198,587 $1,400,000
Days on Market 121 684
Hammond North/South 433 $ 56,118 $ 225,000
Days on Market 94 537
Hessville 174 $ 66,529 $ 155,000
Days on Market 90 527
Highland 189 $144,577 $ 370,000
Days on Market 97 466
Munster 168 $232,214 $1,150,000
Days on Market 95 677
Schererville 163 $224,174 $ 850,000
Days on Market 122 642
This information was supplied by the GNIAR Multiple Listing Service and does not include all new home sales or homes that sold privately. All the information is public record.
We hope that you will find this information useful.
Please feel free to call anytime for more specific information or a free market analysis of your home.
Homebuyer Tax Credit
Extended and Expanded!
It's Official.
The First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit has been extended, which is great news for you whether you are buying or selling. Buyers now have until April 30, 2010 to secure a contract on a home and must close on that home prior to July 1, 2010 in order to receive the credit. On the heels of an improving market, there really is no better time to take advantage of an incentive like this.
The new Tax Credit is similar to its predecessor only the government has expanded the program and sweetened the pot. Initially, only First Time Buyers were eligible for the $8,000 credit. That opportunity is still available, but now there is a new incentive: $6,500 for existing homeowners who purchase a new home - provided they have lived in their current residence for at least five years. Income limits also have been increased so more borrowers are eligible.
Need help establishing your qualifications? As your REALTOR®, I can help you determine how to successfully take advantage of these incentives. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, sell or move up, I’m here to offer you candid advice on market conditions, and, of course, the updated Homebuyer Tax Credit.
If you want more information feel free to give me a call at (219) 934-6324.
Monday, 07 December 2009
Homebuyer Tax Credit
Extended and Expanded!
It's Official.
The First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit has been extended, which is great news for you whether you are buying or selling. Buyers now have until April 30, 2010 to secure a contract on a home and must close on that home prior to July 1, 2010 in order to receive the credit. On the heels of an improving market, there really is no better time to take advantage of an incentive like this.
The new Tax Credit is similar to its predecessor only the government has expanded the program and sweetened the pot. Initially, only First Time Buyers were eligible for the $8,000 credit. That opportunity is still available, but now there is a new incentive: $6,500 for existing homeowners who purchase a new home - provided they have lived in their current residence for at least five years. Income limits also have been increased so more borrowers are eligible.
Need help establishing your qualifications? As your REALTOR®, I can help you determine how to successfully take advantage of these incentives. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, sell or move up, I’m here to offer you candid advice on market conditions, and, of course, the updated Homebuyer Tax Credit.
If you want more information feel free to give me a call at (219) 934-6324.
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‘Tis the season for winter travel! Be safe on the road this holiday by winterizing your vehicle before you go!
1. Check tires (including spare) and belts for wear and tear.
2. Get an oil change. A thinner grade of engine oil provides better
performance in colder temperatures.
3. Inspect wipers and wiper fluid level to ensure optimum visibility.
4. Pack an emergency kit with flares, antifreeze, bottled water, flashlights, blanket, jumper cables, energy or snack bars, tire iron and jack, tire sealant, tire chains
(if you are going to be in heavy snow areas), cell phone with a booster and your
car owner’s manual.
5. Slow down and brake before turning a corner in icy conditions. In a skid situation, turn your wheels INTO THE SKID and accelerate slightly to regain control.
6. An abundance of travel-weary and intoxicated drivers are on the roadways this time
if year. Be alert, be defensive and stay safe!
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If you’re like most of us, deciphering gift-giving and holiday tipping etiquette can be more than a little confusing. Although every situation is different, let some holiday spirit, common sense and these general rules of thumb be your guide:
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Babysitter:
One evening’s pay, plus a small
gift from your child.
Child’s Teacher:
Consider a joint gift with other parents. Gift certificates for restaurants, book stores or local shops are always nice—and cards from your child are always welcome!
Letter Carrier:
The government regulates that
carriers cannot accept cash, but they can accept gifts worth up to $20
on occasion.
Hairdresser
Cost of one visit or a small gift.
Nursing Home Employees:
A gift, not cash. Consider something such as fruit, chocolate or food items that can be shared by the floor staff.
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Live-in Help
(nanny, cook, housekeeper):
One week to one month’s salary
(based on tenure), plus a personal gift.
Pool Cleaner:
Cost of one cleaning, to be
split among the crew.
Trash Collectors:
$10 to $30 each.
Yard Worker/Landscaper:
$20 to $50.
Handyman:
$15 to $40.
Pet Groomer:
If it is the same groomer all year,
Home Health Employees:
Check with service to see
what is allowed.
up to one session, or a gift.
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Fitness Trainer:
Up to the cost of one session.
Dog Walker:
One week’s pay and/or a gift.
Garage Attendant:
$10 to $25
Private Nurse:
A gift, not cash.
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Gift giving is always a personal matter; consider these suggestions as guidelines only. And please remember this: The most important gift we can give each other as human beings is the exchange of good wishes, comfort and care, love, laughter and the ability to ease one another’s days when possible. Such gestures are often the gifts remembered (and cherished) most.
An Equal Housing Opportunity Broker. If Your House is Currently Listed, This is Not Intended As a Solicitation. This newsletter is intended for informational purposes only.
No reader should rely solely on the information contained herein, as it does not purport to be comprehensive or to render specific advice.
©1995-2009 ProspectsPLUS!®
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Monday, 04 May 2009
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Prospective buyers are much better able to visualize your home as their home when there's no clutter. A little bit of spring cleaning could mean money in the bank for homeowners anxious to sell in today's shifting market.
Through our experience as REALTORS®, We have learned what's important to prospective home
buyers. Although many factors ultimately play into the purchase decision, let's begin with the buyer's ability to visualize.
There's a good reason why most model homes have minimal furnishings and wide-open spaces: so buyers can easily see how their family will fit. Providing that same open landscape when selling your own home allows people to put themselves in the picture. The result? You will likely sell your home in a shorter period of time and for a better price.
Whether you are just considering a move, already have the "for sale" sign up or aren't planning to go anywhere for a long time, spring cleaning is a great way to combat the clutter. Simply take stock of what you have, decide what you don't need or want, and clear out the unnecessary items by hosting a yard sale or giving them to charity.
If you've definitely decided to sell your home, get packing early! The benefit of boxing your cherished possessions and other "space takers" is threefold: It will keep them out of harm's way while your property is being shown, it will give you a jump start on packing for the big move, and it will provide the "clean slate" that helps prospective buyers visualize.
If you're on the fence about moving or just need to clear some clutter, start by getting rid of the things that truly don't matter. Go room by room, and gather the "dust collectors" that have no sentimental value. Magazines, newspapers, old binders, worn linens, chipped dishes and that third set of measuring cups all are candidates for the first cut. Remember to lift that dust ruffle and pitch the forgotten-about items under your bed. Then use the long arm of the vacuum to eliminate those hard-to-reach dust bunnies!
Tackle the bathroom cabinets and medicine chests next. With a garbage bag in hand, toss those old prescriptions, half-used products, bobby pins, outdated makeup, etc. As a general rule, if it is expired or hasn't been used in three months?or if you're not even sure what it is?out it goes! When you're done, put new liners on your shelves and in your drawers for a fresh feel and sense of accomplishment!
Next, open your closets and get rid of anything that hasn't been worn in two years, broken/scuffed-up shoes and other items that are simply taking up precious room. Storage areas such as closets rank high in the minds of buyers, so showing space will surely make their faces light up as they consider how much of THEIR stuff will fit!
When you're ready to begin, be sure to get the family involved! Make a game of it for the kids, or make it a contest for the whole family. Turn the music up, offer incentives, and get into the spirit of spring cleaning. Whether or not you are selling your home, decluttering will make you feel refreshed, revitalized and ready for the new season!
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