Thursday, June 10 Debunk the Myths of Aging Kathryn Linnemann Branch Library 10-11:30 a.m. Enjoy a lively discussion about the myths of aging, how they shape society and our own attitudes. Exchange ideas on problems created by these myths and strategies to overcome them. Presented by Barnes-Jewish St. Peters. FREE Saturday, June 12 Passport to … Continued
The $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit program has been extended to allow military personnel to take advantage of this home ownership opportunity. The new deadline for qualified service members is April 30, 2011, with the property closed no later than June 30, 2011. The extension also includes the $6,500 tax credit for repeat buyers. Qualified … Continued
Learn how to use common sense tips to avoid tragedy With the advent of summer, thunderstorms and lightning are sure to follow. Unstable weather in the St. Louis area has almost become commonplace this year and during the latest round of thunderstorms, lightning was suspected to start a hotel fire in O’Fallon, Illinois. May is … Continued
Join top SCHNEIDER REAL ESTATE agent Grant Hickman at the Mortgage Solutions LLC educational workshop on home buying and selling in today’s market. The free program is set for Thursday, May 20, from 6-8 p.m. at the Foundry Art Centre. “The more information buyers and sellers have about today’s changing real estate market, the more … Continued
By sticking with a seasonal maintenance routine, you’ll catch those little problems before they become big headaches. The weather is delightful in the St. Charles area now and the urge to get outside before the sweltering July heat and humidity come is undeniable. This is also the season for your spring home maintenance checks to … Continued
Enlist a friend to help you simplify your house and eliminate dirt, odors This spring is shaping up to be a hopeful time for homebuyers and sellers. The Federal Reserve indicates interest rates will stay low for the time being and the Commerce Department reports that new home sales in March were up 27 percent. … Continued
Jobs, continued low interest and a variety of housing choices encourage potential buyers Positive signs are beginning to indicate an upturn in the real estate market. The Labor Department announced a decline in unemployment filings as layoffs ease and hiring slowly increases. Economists are encouraged that the economy is getting closer to generating job gains, … Continued
The new rebate incentive replaces inefficient appliances with those that use less energy and water. With spring coming along nicely, all kinds of government programs to help both homebuyers and sellers, and the variety of green options available, here’s one more reason to increase your home’s market value and practice conservation. Beginning April 19, the … Continued
Sunday, May 1Run, Walk, Roll Away From ViolenceFrontier Park7-11 a.m.Sponsored by Bridgeway Behavioral Health Foundation, this event will benefit the domestic violence and assault programs. The event features a warmup, a competitive 5k race and a 5k fun walk and roll. To register, visit the Bridgeway website. Sunday, May 1The Vino Fondo, Missouri’s Grand Fondo … Continued
10 Facts about Capital Gains and Losses Have you heard of capital gains and losses? If not, you may want to read up on them because they might have an impact on your tax return. The IRS wants you to know these ten facts about gains and losses and how they could affect your tax … Continued
With mortgage rates potentially increasing, now is the right time to buy a home Some goods news for the housing market—pending home sales rose in February by 8.2%, possibly showing another surge of sales as the deadline draws near for many government assistance programs, including the $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers. Pending home sales … Continued
Friday, April 9-Sunday, April 11Used Book SaleSt. Charles Public LibraryFriday, 2:30-7:30 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sunday, noon- 2p.m.Hardcover and paperback books available at bargain prices. Saturday is half price day and Sunday is bag day. Sponsored by the Friends of the St. Charles Public Library. For more information call 630-584-0076 or go to the … Continued
Our area is also a “best-bang-for-the-buck†and home prices edge up. It seems as though St. Louis has a lock on the good news department lately. Our region was selected for two Forbes.com lists and home prices are moving up. If you’re shopping for a house, St. Louis is one of the best markets, according … Continued
Homebuyers can take advantage of a variety of tax credits to choose the perfect home. An array of financial assistance for home purchase is available for qualified buyers in just about every income level. Of course there’s the $8,000 tax credit for first-time buyers and $6,500 for repeat buyers, which expire on June 30, but … Continued
Say YesToSaveHomes.com and no to a transfer tax on real estate sales Yet another tax on real estate transfers is double taxation. A petition drive to prohibit the tax would protect buyers and sellers from additional expense. With deficit budgets and declining revenues, legislators are looking for new sources of revenue and a transfer tax … Continued
Staging increases your chances of a quick sell, reduces the time on the market, and supports your asking price. Making your home alluring for potential buyers is a smart move in today’s real estate market. In fact, staging your home is now almost a must-do for a quick sell and the best price. The Internet … Continued
Through March 282010 Orchid ShowMissouri Botanical Garden9 a.m.-5 p.m.Annual orchid show features more than 800 orchids from the Garden’s world-class collection in a lush garden of French-inspired design. Winding streets lead to a French bistro beneath the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.$5 plus garden admissionFree for member Friday, March 5Star PartiesSt. Louis Science Center Planetarium6:45 … Continued
HUD’s actions will help speed foreclosure sales and protect against predatory flippers. With the housing industry still facing recovery challenges in 2010, there is some good news in the St. Louis area. Foreclosure activity from December to January declined by five percent, according to RealtyTrac. This is the second straight month that action on foreclosed … Continued
Earth friendly flooring, wallboard, insulation and roofs can bring in more potential buyers and do some good for the earth we live on. As the selling season comes into sight, plans should be underway to spruce up your home with some remodeling projects. Last time we talked about Bathroom Remodeling Ideas that have the best … Continued
ASK THE GRANT HICKMAN TEAM FOR HELP, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE. CALL (314) 265-1531 I know that financial situations can be difficult to discuss. We have many resources and answers that might help prevent you going into foreclosure. On the news and signs surrounding our neighborhoods, we are reminded that many of or friends, … Continued
Whether you’re moving on or staying put, minor face-lifts will freshen a home. Here’s a true story. Our friend Dan was getting his house ready to sell. The hardie siding installation screen in the front door had a hole for, oh, three years running. He took the screen to the hardware store, had it fixed … Continued
The move is designed to generate additional income to ensure FHA solvency. Borrowers who choose Federal Housing Authority (FHA) programs will see increased costs involved with that agency’s mortgage insurance and will have to have higher FICO scores. The move provides more financial stability for the FHA as rising defaults dipped below required reserves. Right … Continued
The Big ReadFoundry Art CentreThe 2010 BIG READ, featuring Mark Twain’s classic novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Events include book discussions, live theatre, music, film screenings, concerts, an essay contest, lectures, field trips, interactive art projects and culminate with an ice cream social and raft building contest. The Big Read is sponsored by the … Continued
Efficiently heated homes save money and increase potential sales Sealing your house up tight for both winter and summer is the cost-effective way to go, but must only be done if you know what to look for when buying a dehumidifier as getting the wrong one for your house can do more harm than good. … Continued
SCHNEIDER Real Estate Career Ni
Housing crisis for Haitians looms large; St. Louis’ best musicians sing out to help With more than one million Haitians in need of shelter, donations will help tremendously. And, the “St. Louis Musicians for Haiti†concert at the Sheldon sings for Doctors Without Borders. The devastation caused by the earthquake in Haiti is incomprehensible, but … Continued
While all the signs point to a continued buyer’s market, some common sense, financial stability and planning will make buying a home affordable. The word on the street is that 2010 will be a prime year to purchase affordable real estate. Considering the stresses of the past few years, good news is always welcome. However, … Continued
St. Charles existing home sales increase 16.3 percent in October; first time homebuyers make a huge difference Consumers are responding to federal government stimulus programs and have an eye out for foreclosed properties for investment First-time homebuyers have been out there in force, accounting for 47 percent of the homes purchased between July 2008 and … Continued
Friday, January 121st Annual New Year’s Day KATY Trail Ride
11 a.m.Defiance, MOSponsored by Trailnet. An enthusiastic group of bicyclists have started each New Year with a bike ride on the KATY Trail. Join them this year for the 21st Annual New Year’s Day KATY Trail Ride. The group will leave from the KATY Trailhead in … Continued
As Chair of the Missouri Housing Development Commission, I am very excited to announce that moments ago we passed a $35 million economic development initiative. This initiative, first unveiled by Governor Jay Nixon and myself on November 24, will provide property tax relief to thousands of qualified middle- and low-income Missouri homebuyers, create and protect … Continued
A proposal before the Missouri Housing Development Commission would credit up to $1,250 in property taxes for qualified buyers. Buying a home in Missouri in 2010 looks to include even more incentives for people to enter the housing market. The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) is considering a proposal to provide up to $1,250 in … Continued
Daily Real Estate News | December 7, 2009 | IRS Sets New Rules for Tax CreditThe IRS has spelled out guidelines for eligibility for the home buyer credit when co-borrowers purchase a property. When a home-owning parent of an adult child co-signs for a mortgage and both names appear on the note, the IRS says … Continued
Holiday light displays make the season bright and glitzySt. Charles County is one of the most lighted up communities during the holidays. Add the traditional lights in St. Louis, and families can see stars every evening. Here are a few to enjoy. O’Fallon Celebration of Lights, Fort Zumwalt ParkThrough December 30 (closed December 24 and … Continued
Hello Family and Friends! As another year comes quickly to a close we wanted to take this opportunity to express a heartfelt THANK YOU!!! Through your confidence in us as experts in real estate, we have had the privilege to help over 50 families buy and sell their homes this year! We consider ourselves so … Continued
First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended Into 2010! Plus…A New Tax Credit for Certain Existing Home Owners! It’s official. President Obama has signed a bill that extends the tax credit for first-time homebuyers (FTHBs) into the first half of 2010. This program had been scheduled to expire on November 30, 2009. In addition to extending … Continued
Q: Please introduce yourself? A: Adam Glosier Q: What is the name of your business? A: ROI Realty Partners, Inc. Q: How can someone contact you to learn more? A: (314)598-2357 or aglosier@roirp.com Q: Where is your business located? A: 2850 West Clay, Suite 220 in St. Charles, MO 63301 B: 101 West Vandalia, Suite … Continued
Let’s stop Missouri politicians from penalizing homeowners and buyers Missouri is one of 13 states that does not levy a transfer tax on home sales, and a coalition of property owners, businesses and the Missouri Association of REALTORSâ„¢ want to keep it that way. The group sees transfer taxes as double taxation because Missourians already … Continued
Careful preparations and common sense will make this season a fire-free, happy holiday for your family. Keeping your family safe during the holidays is top priority so that all can enjoy the lights, the glitter and the sights of the season. Seasonal fires claim more than 400 lives, 1,650 injured and more than $990 million … Continued
Joan Campbell with J Campbell CPA, has been a Certified Pro Advisor for more than 20 years. She can help get your personal or business books set-up correctly, or prepare your payroll, make sure you are tax compliant. So you don’t have to crunch numbers all day.Call The Grant Hickman Team @ (314) 558-9225 for … Continued
Amending the tax return is to the home buyers benefit. It is better to get it down now before everyone else. Also, the IRS is constantly changing the rules. If you closed on your home after Nov. 6th, you must use the new form. Buyers need to use someone who is aware of the forever … Continued
December 2009 Calendar of Events 11.30.09 Ongoing through Saturday, December 26St. Charles Christmas TraditionsChristmas gets that much better with the historic celebrations on Main Street. Shops open their doors with special holiday gift ideas, Victorian carolers roam the streets singing traditional songs of the season while the Legendary Christmas Characters tell of Christmas lore past. … Continued
St. Charles is in the news again, this time in the AAA Midwest Traveler Magazine. Our holiday festivities, Christmas Traditions, is prominently featured in the November/December issue. To read the feature story, go to http://www.ouraaa.com/traveler/mid/2009/11/tank.htmlThis joyous season kicks off with opening ceremonies on Friday, November 27, at 11 a.m. at Kister Park. Santa and Mrs. … Continued
Good news all around today—the $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers has been extended to June 30, 2010. This action will encourage a robust housing market in the first quarter of 2010 and affect home prices. The legislation also includes a $6,500 tax credit for people who currently own a home and want to … Continued
Month of NovemberNative American Heritage MonthSt. Charles Community College celebrates Native American Heritage Month Festivities with concerts, documentary films, panel discussions, and a luncheon event, “The True Story of the First Thanksgiving.For schedule, go to www.stchas.eduOr call 636-922-8544 FREE Wednesday, November 4Medicare Update 201010-11 a.m.Progress West HealthCare Center Community RoomCLAIM is a Medicare and insurance … Continued
Lawmakers are also considering tax credits for repeat buyers to enhance local economies With the first-time homebuyer $8,000 tax credit set to expire at the end of November, both the Senate and House of Representatives are busy working through agreements to extend this popular program, and keep in place the loan limit for U.S.-backed mortgages … Continued
Taking good care of your lawn at the end of the season makes good sense While it may not be as rewarding up front as planting new spring flowers, getting your lawn and gardens ready for winter will be a real time saver come next year. Here are some tips to help you organize a … Continued
Healthcare, cost of living, recreation and education are high on the list Where are the most affordable places for the 55+ crowd to retire and own homes? U.S. News & World Report highlighted the top 10 places attractive for seniors to begin a second life. The cities chosen are based on a criteria of median … Continued
Elias Trace is the newest member of the Grant Hickman Team. He honed his real estate skills at Retail Realty Group, LLC, in Chesterfield, Missouri, and is excited about using his skills to help St. Charles County families buy or sell their home. Because he lives where he works, in St. Peters and St. Charles … Continued
October is the time to garden for now and for a spring sale Look to the future when planning your fall garden. Putting in some extra work and planning now will pay off in ready—made spring blooms By Jeanne Baker, MLA, Landscape Designer Fall is officially here. The nights are cool and the trees are … Continued
SCHNEIDER Real Estate ranked in the top 10 real estate companies in St. Charles through third quarter of this year. SCHNEIDER agents brought the company to the eighth slot in closed transactions in St. Charles County. SCHNEIDER’s 42 agents are very proud of this accomplishment, but we are even prouder, and sincerely thankful, for the … Continued
October 2009 Calendar of Events Saturday, October 3Augusta Bottoms Beer FestivalNoon – 5 pmEnjoy tastings, live music, and brewery items for sale plus a commemorative glass.$25.00 www.augustabottomsbeerfest.com October 4-October 31Pumpkin Fantasyland, Centennial Farms, Augusta10-5 p.m. daily/11-5 p.m. SundayThe farmstead is turned into “Pumpkin Fantasyland” with a whimsical collection of pumpkin figures dressed as farm folks, … Continued
Spring and summer may be the traditional time to buy and sell homes, but autumn and the beautiful fall palate could be your time for a successful sale as it was mentioned at HouseBuyerNetwork.com. Autumn is traditionally a season of recovery and reflection, a time to burrow in after the frantic pace of summer. For … Continued
Rehabbers can combine the loan price and improvement costs in one loan There are homes out there, just waiting to be by a loving family. They may be a bit on the ragged side, down on their luck, but with some tender, loving care, a qualified homebuyer and an FHA 203(k) loan, they’ll be returned … Continued
SCHNEIDER Real Estate agent Robert Clark’s son Cauy, who has tuberous sclerosis complex, will help raise money for research and at cure at the Cardinals’ last regular season game. What better way to cap off a fantastic Cardinals baseball season and send the team on to the Central Division Championships than attending the very last … Continued
Q: Please introduce yourself?A: Jason Jacobs & Kyle Funk Q: What is the name of your business?A: Paragon Custom Homes Q: Where is your business located?A: Wentzville, MO but we service St Charles, Lincoln, Warren and St Louis Counties.Q: Briefly describe what you/ your business does.A: We are a custom home builder that offers quality … Continued
Tuesday, September 15Your Personal Economic Recovery
7-8 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles-St. Charles County Library District
Today’s economic environment may be one of the most challenging. Take control of your financial situation – and the sooner you act, the better. Learn about the steps that can help prepare you for a potential recovery and keep your financial future … Continued
Soaring home sales encourage confidence in the real estate market. The Grant Hickman Team’s new online housing search makes selling and buying a dream. Good news prevails in the real estate market this week. For the first time in five years, existing home sales have increased for four months in a row, according to the … Continued
You can give foreclosed property a new life and participate in the St. Charles region economic recovery Another assistance program designed to help potential buyers enter the housing market is now available from the Missouri Housing Development Corporation (MHDC). Qualified buyers can receive up to $14,999 or 20% of the purchase price on foreclosed property … Continued
YOU MUST Act Now!!! YOU MUST close by Nov. 30th The Qualification, Selection, Inspection and Closing Process takes considerably longer than in previous times…often from 3 to 5 months. Contact Me today to increase your chances of hitting the target and not missing out on Your $8,000 Tax Gift!!
901 Cordova St St Louis , MO 63138 $59,500.00 GrantHickman , 314-265-1531 view details 11820 Criterion Ave St Louis , MO 63138 $64,500.00 GrantHickman , 314-265-1531 view details 29 Graystone Ct Saint Charles , MO 63303 $223,500.00 GrantHickman , 314-265-1531 view details 1075 Rogers Ln Florissant , MO 63033 $104,500.00 GrantHickman , 314-265-1531 view details
Spiffing up your home before you sell can reap financial rewards. Finding the right contractor or tradesperson to help is a crucial step. Also remodel your home and invest in the best services from http://formliners.xyz/ to make it look awesome before you sell. You’ve decided to put your home up for sale and move on, … Continued
Smaller houses are contenders in the real estate market. People who are interested in lower costs, less maintenance and an active lifestyle are prime candidates to buy. If the past couple of years have taught us anything, Americans are realizing that the “bigger is better†theory hasn’t worked out too well. That goes for real … Continued
Q: Please introduce yourself?A: Angela Nesslage Q: What is the name of your business?A: Waverly Forest Academy of Learning Q: Where is your business located?A: 3545 Franks Drive, St. Charles, MO 63301Q: Briefly describe what you/ your business does.A: Waverly Forest Academy is a center dedicated to the education of young children and their families. … Continued
ST. CHARLES COUNTY, MO — In an effort to bolster the American dream in St. Charles County, first-time home buyers and new residents planning to buy a newly constructed home could receive $1,000 in closing cost assistance through a limited incentive program offered by HOME St. Charles, a non-profit subsidiary of the Economic Development Center … Continued
August 2009 Calendar of Events Saturday, August 1Race For the River and Clean Water ChallengeNoon-7 p.m.Kayak and canoe paddlers arrive from Washington, Missouri. Live music, food, hands-on environmental education displays and activities. Custom canoe and kayak show.Free Tuesday, August 4Using Genealogical Databases. This is an introduction to using genealogical databases available through the library.10:30-11:30 a.m.Kathryn … Continued
The saying goes “Home is where the hearth is†and it looks like an increasing number of homebuyers will have their very own hearth soon. We gage confidence by the number of satisfied homebuyers who now have their very own place to feel secure, comfortable and to grow. We gage confidence by the number of … Continued
Congratulations to the residents of Lake St. Louis! The community placed ninth in the top 10 places to live in Money magazine’s annual listing of the best 100 places. SCHNEIDER Realtors’ own Jane Nicoletti can testify first hand—she’s lived there for more than 20 years and loves Lake Saint Louis. “Now my grandchildren can enjoy … Continued
Right now is the time to buy your first home and receive the $8,000 tax credit, which is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The deadline to file for the tax credit is November 30, 2009, and while that date may seem way in the future, first-time homebuyers must begin the process now … Continued
Late Payments, death in a family, and divorce legal processes that can be to stressful to deal with this difficult situations. Let me know if we can help. Please remember that I and members of my team are still buying homes. I know that these economic times bring about situations where people need to sell … Continued
When looking to purchase and already existing company, there are 3 key things to keep in mind when looking at options. Will the existing company ‘Service the Debt’ Does the existing company have ‘Future Growth Potential’ Can the existing company afford to ‘Feed My Family and Cover Already Existing Bills As each situation is unique, … Continued
Q: Please introduce yourself?A: Missy Palitzsch Q: What is the name of your business?A: Continental Title Company Q: Where is your business located?A: 2159 Bluestone Plaza, Saint Charles, MO 63304Q: Briefly describe what you/ your business does.A: Title and escrow servicesQ: How many years have you been in business?A: 8 Q: What is your burning … Continued
Your new home is waiting for you. There’s excitement in the air, moving boxes all over the floor and last minute details to wrap up. But, someone in your family just might not be too excited about this move. Children can be very stressed when they leave old friends and familiar settings, whether moving across … Continued
Thursday, July 2-Saturday, July 4Riverfest, Frontier Park. Games, food, crafts, carnival rides, parade, fireworks and fun for the entire family.Thursday, Bluegrass Festival4:30-9:30 p.m.Friday and SaturdayMusic at 2 stages. Parade at 10:00 AM on July 4th. Fireworks at 9:20 PM. On Friday and Saturday www.stcharlesriverfest.com Friday, July 3-Saturday, July 4O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest Friday, 4-11 … Continued
While not recession-proof, the Midwest and more specifically the St. Charles County region, has escaped the recent economic woes and mortgage crisis better than most. O’Fallon is a case in point. The St. Charles County Association of Realtors notes that in May, 102 single-family properties in O’Fallon were sold. That’s a 21 percent increase over … Continued
Every last piece of paper has been signed, the closing was successful, and there were handshakes all around. So, what now? You own a house and ready buy all the appliances and soup makers from productspy.co.uk you’ve always dreamed to have on your kitchen. But it’s not really your home yet. Home ownership is exciting and sometimes … Continued
When times are tough, people tend to look inward for sustenance and stability. Your backyard would be a good place to look also. Home gardening is the trend now, with gardeners hoping to save money and connect with their own personal world through growing their own vegetables. During World War II, Americans planted victory gardens … Continued
In today’s real estate market every buyer is looking for a deal, and in many cases the best deal can be found by buying a foreclosure. The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) has now made that opportunity that much more enticing by releasing their Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), which will provide borrowers with down-payment assistance … Continued
Q: Please introduce yourself? A: Kris Boevingloh Q: What is the name of your business? A: Law Offices of Kristoffer M. Boevingloh, LLC Q: Where is your business located? A: 7717 Natural Bridge Rd., Ste. 203 STL MO 63121 Q: Briefly describe what you/ your business does. A: Law Firm Kris Boevingloh founded the Law … Continued
One of the first questions potential home buyers ask their real estate agent is “How good is the school system?†Of all the local neighborhood amenities that can influence a buyer’s decision to purchase a home, proximity to good quality schools is one of the most influential, according to the 2007 National Association of REALTORS … Continued
June 2009 Calendar of Events Thursday, June 4-Thursday, August 27St. Charles Municipal Band Concerts8 p.m.Jaycee Stage, Frontier Park, downtown St. CharlesFree Monday, June 8I Need a Job!-Surviving a Job Loss presented by the Missouri Career Center6:30-8 p.m.Linnemann Branch, St. Charles City-County Library DistrictFree Wednesday, June 10First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site, 200-216 S. Main … Continued
New home builders are feeling a bit peppy these days as builder confidence rose two points in May for the second straight month, according to a report by The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. This is the first back-to-back increase in builder confidence since February 2008.The index gauges builder confidence … Continued
Q: Please introduce yourself?A: Grant Hickman! Team members include Cary Knobbe and Lori Linhoff Q: What is the name of your business?A: The Grant Hickman Team Q: Where is your business located?A: 1 Point West Blvd., Saint Charles, MO 63301Q: Briefly describe what you/ your business does.A: Buying a home, selling your home, avoiding foreclosure, … Continued
Banks, mortgage lenders, auto finance and consumer credit companies have always looked at credit scores as one of the factors when evaluating if and how much credit they give to someone. These companies and now insurance companies are utilizing credit scores as a much bigger factor than they were before. For example; a year ago … Continued
Intrepid first-time homebuyers jumped off the fence and made an important impact on the housing market this week. Pending home sales rose 3.2 percent in March, according to the National Association of Realtors Pending Home Sales Index. Closer to home the news is even better—pending home sales in St. Charles County rose 26 percent in … Continued
Saturday May 2, Garden Tour and Plant Sale: 9 a.m. to noon, Saint Charles County Master Gardeners, University of Missouri Extension Center, 260 Brown Road, Saint Peters, Free Friday, May 8, American Cancer Society Relay For Life St. Charles: 6 p.m.-6 a.m., St. Charles West High School Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17, 2009 … Continued
Green is the hot color right now and should be your color too when you sell or buy a home. Becoming attuned to the current eco-movement will make a huge difference. As a seller, you will boost the value of your home with eco-friendly improvements and give your real estate agent more features to highlight … Continued
RISMEDIA, April 11, 2009-Thanks to record low mortgage rates and declining home prices, 55 million families – or half of all U.S. households – can afford today’s $200,000 median-priced new home, according to figures released by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). “That’s an increase of 17 million households from conditions just two years … Continued
In today’s market, sellers have to work harder to persuade buyers that their property is worth the bite. Landscape designer Michael Glassman along with the support of local landscaping and lawn care providers, has cooked up a recipe for guaranteed curb appeal. 1. Add splashes of color. With every changing season, High end landscaping should … Continued
More than three-quarters (78 percent) of potential first-time home buyers say that now is a good time to buy a home, despite widespread concern about the economy. Out of the 1,000 prospective U.S. first-time home buyers surveyed in early March for the CENTURY 21 First-Time Home Buyer Survey, 68 percent think now is a better … Continued
Environmental psychologist Toby Israel, author of a new book, Some Place Like Home: Using Design Psychology to Create Ideal Place, says people’s childhood homes have a profound effect on what kinds of homes they like best. Before anyone buys, builds, rents or remodels, Israel believes they should consider what kinds of living spaces satisfy them, … Continued
Hi friends, I will be running 13.1 miles this summer in an effort to bring awareness and raise funds to find a cure for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. We appreciate everyone who has donated. If you would like to make a donation RIGHT NOW simply click to make a difference!
Now is your chance to join The Grant Hickman Team. We are offering a unique opportunity for a qualified individual to strengthen our team. If you believe you have the drive, attention to detail, and customer service we are looking for, please contact me directly at realestate@granthickman.com.
What do you think of this—buying a home with an interest rate one percent below the current rate; no closing costs; no income restrictions and no points. With the current instability in the housing market, this may seem to fit in the too-good-to-be-true category. But, it is true. The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA), … Continued
Q: Please introduce your family?A: Brian & Rachel Yost (and girls) Q: Where is your new home located?A: Ballwin, MO / Parkway West School District Q: Describe your situation when you decided to purchase your homeA: Our goal was to move closer to the Christian school where our girls were going to attend. We originally … Continued
Existing-home sales increased in February, reversing losses in January, according to the latest report by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. However, sales activity remains relatively soft, reflecting additional layoffs and buyers waiting for housing provisions in the economic stimulus package to take effect, according to NAR. Existing-home sales— including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops—rose 5.1 … Continued
The Grant Hickman Team earned a host of recognitions in 2008. The team was recently honored with:· Most Improved Production Growth (26%)· #1 in Customer Service· #1 in Homes Sales· #1 in Number of Homes SOLD· Platinum Sales Leader· Agent of the Year· #1 Team at SCHNEIDER Real Estate Meet the #1 Real Estate Team
Don’t be surprised if your friendly lender, the one who invites you to sit down and apply for a mortgage, ushers you politely out the door empty-handed after you’ve chatted a bit. The sudden chill isn’t personal. The Mortgage Bankers Association, or MBA, in Washington, D.C., estimates that about half of all mortgage applicants are … Continued
The amount of damage to a credit score caused by foreclosure, deed in lieu or a short sale during 2008 and 2009 may be mitigated by the slower economic times, say some credit and legal experts. Debited.com has a great guide for fixing your credit. FICO may have to adjust its credit scores to lessen … Continued