Pending home sales are up for the second month in a row

First-time homebuyers can make the purchase rewarding with careful planning and financial honesty A glimmer of positive movement surfaced in the real estate market this week—­pending home sales increased for the second straight month. Low interest rates make purchasing a home very attractive now. For first-time homebuyers, the process can be intimidating, but breaking down … Continued

Down payment assistance makes home ownership easier

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

Borrowers will assume more costs as a result of FHA changes

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

Is 2010 the perfect year to buy the perfect home?

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

Property tax credit will help stimulate more home sales in 2010

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

Amend your taxes to get HOUSING TAX CREDIT NOW

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

9 Tips for Homebuyers

As demand for homes is expected to increase this Spring, Bankrate.com offers 9 tips for homebuyers. Buyers have access to the lowest mortgage rates in years and an $8000 first time home buyer tax credit that does not have to be repaid if the homeowner lives in the home for at least three years. This … Continued

Around St. Charles County

May 1 – 3: Augusta Plein Air Art Event May 3: Fiber Arts & Spring Planting Festival at Daniel Boone’s Home from 9 – 5. Admission. May 4: Main Street Bridal Showcase noon to 4:30 in St. Charles May 17: St. Charles in Bloom on Main Street 10 – 5 May 17 – 18: Lewis … Continued

Buying Smart

When is the “right time” to buy a house? Well, if you are waiting for a big neon sign to turn on and read “BUY NOW” forget it, it’s not going to happen. Market timing is a talent you have to be able to pick up on quickly. By knowing the tricks of the trade, … Continued