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Archive for tag Housing

Help is on the way!

Well it might not be there in time for many home owners who find themselves “underwater” in their mortgage. As a heads up the new HAMP program or Home Affordability Modification Program, that Washington put in place, has a few changes that were recently implemented. The goal is to streamline the process. Click Here for more information on the HAMP changes.

In other news, a report recently released indicates that FHA is in good shape. Some people critical of the FHA were concerned that they are taking a bigger risk in the mortgage business with their dramatic increase in market share. This story makes the point that their share has risen from a 3% market share to a 30% market share almost overnight. A personal note: FHA has played a role in the real estate recovery; however the low down payments are very concerning. Yes FHA requires a higher credit score, however even with good credit if one of the two persons who are buying the housing loses a job (a possibility in this economy) or their income is adjusted slightly, does FHA think those borrowers wont default? These are difficult times for everyone. The sooner we move towards responsible lending and borrowing the better our recovery will be. If the borrowers continue to live on the edge we could face another round of difficulties.

Posted by:Glenn Hanon

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107 Shopping Days and Counting!

Yesterday, I posted an article about the remaining days available to receive the home buyer and seller tax credits. this link also outlines how mortgage interest rates will affect the housing market, after the tax credits expire. The information comes from another blog that I follow, “Keeping Current Matters”, written by Steve Harney, a respected real estate analyst. The information is timely, and relevant for today’s real estate climate. Remember…as of today, there are 107 house shopping days left! Contact me or your Shorewest agent today, to see how we can assist you with your house shopping needs!

Posted by:Karen Trepton

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WSJ: Is US Housing a Steal

Straight from the News Hub desk is this quick video on the housing market. Now is the time to consider buying your home IF you can afford it. Real Estate has always been a very good long term investment. If you are contemplating buying a home now is the perfect time, interest rates are low and the supply is vast. Check the video out for yourself and decide if it is best for you.

Posted by:Glenn Hanon

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Housing Stimulus

Agree or disagree with the merits behind the Housing Stimulus offered to first time home buyers, we can all agree that it is motivating buyers to move forward. And every statistic shows that if the first time home buyer is out buying homes all other price ranges begin to see movement. Sara and Andrew took advantage of the $8,000 incentive and just bought their first home in Oconomowoc. The $8,000 definitely made a difference when it came time to think about buying their dream home. “Without the incentive, I think we would not be able to move forward with our new home, which we love and can’t wait to move into this May!” says Sara. With the help of their lender and REALTOR®, Glenn Hanon, Sara and Andrew grew more excited that apartment living would be a thing of the past. The credit will help with the down payment and perhaps a small improvement to their home. “2009 is the year to buy”, explained Andrew, “We were able to buy the house we wanted.” If you are contemplating a move from a rental and you think you may qualify for the $8,000 credit, feel free to call me at the office, 262-567-4349 and we can meet to discuss your dreams.

Posted By: Glenn Hanon

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