Existing-home sales rose again in September, affirming that a sales recovery has begun, Sales jumped 10 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.53 million in September from a downwardly revised 4.12 million in August. of Yun’s press conference from earlier this week.NAR says, Watch and link to a video

On October 15, 2010, the government sponsored enterprises (GSEs), Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, announced appraisal independence requirements to replace the Home Valuation Code of Conduct. The new requirements offer no significant changes to the core principles of HVCC. Continue reading →

Homeowners who are underwater with their mortgage may find that relief is on the way from a bill strongly supported by the National Association of Realtors® that would impose a deadline on lenders to respond to short-sale requests. Continue reading →

Many of you have expressed alarm about the swirl of negative stories around homeownership. Barbara Kiviat at Time magazine tells us that “homeownership has let us down.”

Robert J. Samuelson, the Washington Post and Newsweek columnist, says, “The relentless promotion of homeownership as the embodiment of the American dream has outlived its usefulness.” Continue reading →

Garage sales can be a great way to get rid of clutter — and earn a little extra cash — before you sell your home. But make sure the timing is right. Garage sales can take on a life of their own, and it might not be the best use of your energy right before putting your home on the market. Follow these tips for a successful sale. Continue reading →

Friday, November 12th, Mayfield township Hall, 1900 North Saginaw, Lapeer.  Registrations begins at 8:00 a.m., Class begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. Instructor: Peter Banwell, Cost $40.00 for LUTAR Members, $45.00 for non-members and $50.00 for walk-ins.  Includes a Continental Breakfast & Lunch.  This course meets the 2 hour law requirement,  Call LUTAR  810-664-02721 for details or go to www.lutar.org and fill out the form. 

This will complete your 6 hour requirement for 2010.

Average interest on 30-year fixed mortgages rose for the first time since June, lifting to 4.35 percent this week from 4.32 percent last week and 5.07 percent a year ago, reports Freddie Mac. Rates for 15-year fixed loans held at 3.83 percent, the record low set last week.  Continue reading →

His name is Frank Choate, Coldwell Banker Professionals; he is a team player always volunteering for the Committee or Task force that needs help.  Attends all of the LUTAR classes and events the Association provides. He truly, believes in the REALTOR® Code of Ethics.  Continue reading →

The seemingly endless run of bad housing news is discouraging some potential home buyers from considering a purchase. But the truth is that the advantages of homeownership have very little to do with investment gains. The best things about owning a home have a lot more to do with personal comfort and satisfaction.

Here are five of them: Continue reading →

If you’ve been following my advice on real estate safety and changing your work habits, then good for you! But don’t forget that your own home may also be vulnerable to crime. When it comes to home safety, taking simple precautions can make the difference in having your home broken into, or having the criminals move on to a different home or neighborhood. Continue reading →