West Michigan Real Estate Blog

Buyers, What Are You Waiting For?

2008-12-02T13:22:00.000-05:00

Recently, the inventory of homes for sale has grown to an all-time high. As a result home prices have declined in many major markets for the first time in almost a decade. Many home buyers are holding out, assuming that they will get a better deal down the road, but savvy buyers are not waiting. They’re finding ways to negotiate good deals now.

Kathleen Kuhn, president and CEO of HouseMaster, one of the most experienced national home inspection organizations in North America, suggests that smart buyers are using the home inspection to further negotiate the price of a home if needed repairs are found. “Smart home buyers understand that the listing price is not necessarily the seller’s bottom line. Buyers can leverage the findings of a credible home inspection to further negotiate the price of the home.”

The home inspection is generally performed shortly after a bid has been accepted or a contract has been signed. Kuhn explains, “A qualified home inspector will perform a visual evaluation of all the major systems – including electrical, plumbing, heating or cooling – as well as visible structural elements, roofing and drainage. Areas of concerns are then documented.”

If a serious condition or defect is found, the home buyer can discuss it with the real estate agent and seller, and negotiate the cost of repair or replacement against the home’s list price. HouseMaster research has shown that 40 percent of resale homes have a serious defect that will cost at least $500 to $1000 to repair or replace.

However, Kuhn points out that a home inspection is not designed solely to be a to-do list for the home seller, and a good home inspector will not only alert a buyer if any defects exist, but will also make note of the home’s good aspects. If the home meets expectations, then the buyer can move forward with confidence. If not, a buyer can choose to negotiate further. Either way, they win. So buyers who have been standing on the sidelines waiting for some magic sign to tell them that home prices are as low as they will go, should ask themselves what they’re really waiting for. Some buyers wait for opportunities; others make them happen.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at housemaster.com.

This information is provided for general guidance purposes only. Neither DBR Franchising, LLC nor the local HouseMaster® franchise warrants its accuracy and assumes no liability related to its use. Contact the local franchise office and/or qualified specialists for advice pertinent to your specific house or circumstances. © Copyright 2008 DBR. Each HouseMaster franchise is an independently owned and operated business. HouseMaster is a registered trademark of DBR Franchising, LLC.

Asbestos Removal and Greener Alternatives

2008-11-19T16:23:00.001-05:00

There are many things to consider when remodeling or purchasing an older home. Homes built before 1980 have the strong likelihood of containing asbestos. Due to a steady progression of technology and green sustainable methods, there are many ways to ensure your home or property is asbestos free. If you are interested in saving money, remodeling and improving your carbon footprint, here is some information to get you on the right track.

Used in millions of homes throughout the last quarter of the 20^th century, asbestos insulation can become a real dilemma for homeowners due to causing a variety of health problems, including Peritoneal Mesothelioma and Malignant Mesothelioma. These types of cancer take the lives of thousands each year.

Non-regulated asbestos material can be legally performed by homeowners, regular contractors, or licensed asbestos abatement contractors as long as the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) are not violated. Asbestos removal in public facilities, homes and workplaces must be undertaken by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. Once the removal is complete, green insulation options should be given serious consideration, such as: Cellulose, Cotton Fiber and Lcynene.

The United States Green Building Council (USGBC), in a study conducted in 2003, estimated a savings of $50-$65 per square foot for well-constructed green buildings in the U.S. (see table below) during that year. The numbers continue to improve as more eco-friendly options become available, and those kinds of figures have finally begun to attract those who thought eco-friendly construction was just a bunch of hogwash.

Radon Overview

2008-10-24T17:18:00.002-04:00

Radon is an odorless, colorless radioactive gas, which is formed by the natural breakdown of uranium of radioactive contaminated soil. Radon can be found in high concentrations in rock and soil that contains granite, shale, phosphate and uranium, or even fill soil containing industrial waste. Radon gas moves through the soil toward the earth’s surface where it either safely dissipates in outdoor air or seeps into buildings through cracks and gaps in the building's foundation. Radon can also be introduced into a building or home through the water-supply, particularly if there is a private well. Certain building products, such as the stone used for a fireplace, can also be a source of radon gas.

Research indicates that once trapped inside a home, radon can accumulate to the point where it can be harmful to the occupants. Actually, it is the breakdown of radon into what is referred to as radon decay products (or radon daughters) that represents the greatest concern. These radioactive products become attached to airborne particles, which can be inhaled and ultimately cause lung tissue damage and cancer. Smokers are especially prone to the adverse effects of long-term radon exposure.

The potential for radon in any particular home is dependent on a number of variable factors such as the underlying soil composition, the type of construction materials and methods used, weather conditions, and even occupant lifestyle. Radon concerns tend to be greatest in hilly or mountainous regions, and less of an issue in sandy coastal areas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (www.epa.gov) and local health departments can provide information on radon and have maps identifying known radon hot spots. But pockets of radon-producing elements can be found almost anywhere.

Radon levels may vary from season to season, day to day, or even by the hour, as pressure differences occur outside or within a structure. Dramatically different radon levels can be found in seemingly identical neighboring homes. Consequently, the only way to determine if there is a radon concern is to perform a test. While radon kits are available for consumer use, it is generally recommended that radon screening or testing be performed by a qualified radon specialist, especially for real estate transactions.

Even with professional testing, it can be difficult to readily determine average annual radon levels in a particular home. Radon levels tend to become elevated when the air pressure within a house is less than that of the radon gas in the soil. This type pressure imbalance can occur with the use of certain appliances and fans, particularly in relatively airtight structures. Fuel-burning appliances that require indoor air for combustion, or draw in air for other purposes, lower indoor air pressure. This action can result in the radon gas being drawn into the building through sub-surface cracks and/or other openings. The adjacent illustration highlights the common radon entry points for a house.

Since radon gas is naturally occurring, it cannot be eliminated; but it can be controlled. Once the radon level in a particular house is quantified using one of several recognized radon-testing methods, steps can be taken to lower the radon level and the potential health concern. The EPA has established a continuous exposure level of 4 (or more) picocuries per liter (pCi/L) as the action level for remediation.

This measurement does not necessarily represent a safe amount of radon; rather it is a guidance point to determine when remedial action is advisable. It is also deemed the point to which conventional radon remediation methods can be expected to lower radon levels in a building. Radon levels below 4 pCi/L are commonly measured in buildings and generally do not require any significant remedial action (subject to the specific situation or occupant concerns), as it may be difficult to achieve significantly lower levels even if a radon mitigation system is installed. In Canada, the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation considers 20 pCi/L as the guidance level for remedial action.

There are several methods that can be used to lower radon levels. These include ventilation systems, pressurization of the basement air, and block wall ventilation. However, the most commonly used and effective radon mitigation method is sub-slab suction. This method makes use of plastic piping, installed through the floor slab of a house, basement, or even crawlspace, and a low-volume, continuously operating fan to create a negative-pressure within the piping to draw in radon-laden air from below the house and vent it harmlessly to the exterior.

Keeping Critters Out Of Your Home

2008-08-19T11:31:00.000-04:00

With the onset of winter your home becomes a refuge, but not just for your family. As temperatures cool down, rodents, including mice, rats and squirrels, often take shelter in homes, causing potential hazards to both health and property. Larger animals such as opossums and raccoons can also move in.

According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), rodents invade an estimated 21 million homes every winter. Rodents can enter homes through almost any opening. Once inside, they can cause severe damage as they can chew through wallboards, cardboard, wood and even electrical wiring, increasing the potential risk of a fire. Rodent droppings can cause allergies and disease.

While most of these pests will return to the outdoors again when it warms, it’s best to inspect now for signs of activity and take steps to evict them if possible. On the inside, look for rodent droppings or food debris in undisturbed areas, including basements, attics, and garages, and food storage and prep areas. Check around the inside and outside perimeter of the house near ground level and at the roof edge or eaves.

Wood is a favorite target of these pests, but they can gnaw through metal or just about any exterior wall material except concrete or masonry. Wood softened by decay is particularly prone to rodent damage. Any suddenly appearing holes at the roof edge, or in the fascia or soffits, may be signs of squirrel or other pest activity.

The NPMA also recommends taking these precautions to keep rodents outside:

Make sure all holes, cracks and voids are sealed.
Maintain proper drainage at the foundation and install gutters.
Keep branches and other plants cut back from the house.

If you find rodents in your home, call a local pest professional to identify and correct the problem. For more information on rodents and other pests, visit pestworld.org.

This information is provided for general guidance purposes only. Neither HMA Franchise Systems, Inc. nor the local HouseMaster® franchise warrants its accuracy and assumes no liability related to its use. Contact the local franchise office and/or qualified specialists for advice pertinent to your specific house or circumstances.
© Copyright 2008 HMA. Each HouseMaster franchise is an independently owned and operated business. HouseMaster is a registered trademark of HMA Franchise Systems, Inc.

Information: A Homebuyers Best Friend

2008-07-31T10:36:00.001-04:00

In the past decade, it seems that many prospective home buyers have toiled over studying the housing markets, the mortgage rates and even the stock market. All these elements fall outside a buyer’s control. However, there is always one reliable source of information a prospective home buyer can count on -- the home inspection.

HouseMaster, the most experienced home inspection franchise, notes that too many home buyers are still unaware of the importance of a thorough and proper home inspection. They spend months researching neighborhoods and mortgage providers, but the home inspection often becomes an afterthought when they make an offer on a prospective home.

Kathleen Kuhn, HouseMaster president and CEO, says “Buyers should take the time to research home inspection providers because there is a difference in training and qualifications. The information on an inspection report can influence the final price of the home and help a buyer shape realistic expectations for the home once they move in. So a good home inspector is a critical component in the process.”

Buyers should not balk at the idea of a home inspection that takes two hours or more, depending on the size of the home. This is the average time needed to review all the major elements of a home, and it’s the ideal time for a well-trained home inspector to show prospective homeowners how to locate and operate some key components. This is the time when buyers get a “backstage” tour of how the home works.

A buyer who is prepared with the right information, the right frame of mind, and a little patience can usually find a suitable property in any market. So if you’re time to become a homeowner, do the research and make the move.

Well Water Wisdom

2008-07-18T18:28:00.000-04:00

Having a well can seemingly offer greater control over a homeowner’s water source. Yet all wells draw from migrating underground water sources, which are subject to pollution. Homeowners with private wells have to assume command of the supply and not just the in-house water distribution system. That means water samples have to periodically be sent to a qualified lab for purity testing. The lab can suggest remedial measures, if needed.

Homeowners should also inspect and maintain the system that controls the volume and pressure of the water supply. Submersible well pumps are common today. If you have one, it’s important to maintain the protective air pocket in the tank or risk having to replace the pump prematurely. To check, open a faucet and note the time between pump start and stop. If it cycles on and off frequently, follow tank maintenance instructions or call a professional well service.

Download Now! - Homeowner Information Guides

2008-07-08T17:52:00.001-04:00

Access and download our complete list of Homeowner Information Guides.

HouseMaster’s experienced technical staff has authored dozens of informational articles on virtually every part of a home — from roofs to basements — as well as common home problems and remedies. Take a minute to browse these quick, one- to three-page resource guides now by clicking the link below.

Homeowner Information Guides

Are Skylights Right For My House?

2008-06-13T10:19:00.000-04:00

Question: My kitchen has only one window leaving it pretty dark most of the time. We thought about a skylight but have been advised against it because of the design of our roof and attic. Any suggestions?

Answer: There is a relatively new product on the market called a tubular skylight that may be an option. This product is perfect for a kitchen or just about any other dark area of your home. It involves the installation of a flexible aluminum, 10 – 22 inch diameter tube that is coated for maximum reflectability. The sunlight is captured by a roof-mounted receptor and directed down through the tubing to a ceiling diffuser that casts the light throughout the area below. Contact your local building supply center for more information.

A Positive Outlook for Home Prices!

2008-05-19T22:06:00.000-04:00

Home Sales, Prices to Pick Up In Second Half of 2008, Says NAR Chief Economist

RISMEDIA, May 19, 2008-Home sales and prices throughout most of the country are poised for improvement in the second half of 2008, and the recovery will vary by market, Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors® said during NAR’s Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. More than 9,000 Realtors and guests attended the conference that ran through Saturday.

Middle-America cities that performed evenly over the past few years - like Cincinnati, Milwaukee and the Kansas City, Mo., area - are likely to experience home price gains in the 20 to 30% range over the next five years, while markets like Miami, Las Vegas and Phoenix could see prices go up as much as 50% during that time period, Yun said.

Yun blamed most of the softening of the housing market over the last year on the “subprime mess,” where consumers with blemished credit records got loans they couldn’t afford when the interest rates reset to higher levels.

“In fact, if you look at where home prices fell the most, it’s the markets were subprime loans were prevalent,” Yun said. Cape Coral, Fla.; Detroit; Las Vegas; Miami; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix and Riverside, Calif. were among the cities with a high percentage of subprime lending and where the markets suffered the biggest downturns, he explained.

“It’s important to keep things in context,” he said. “While much of the media is focusing on the fact that the rate of foreclosures doubled this year from historic averages, the foreclosure rate has gone from 1 percent of all homeowners with mortgages to 2 percent. Foreclosures are being driven principally by subprime loans.”

He further explained that more than half of today’s foreclosures are concentrated in the subprime market. The great majority of homeowners are making their mortgage payments on time.

Now that the subprime market has dried up, and loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration and those purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are making a comeback, the housing markets will strengthen and prices are likely to begin a steady uptick in the coming months, Yun said.

Yun urged the Congress and White House to enact NAR-supported legislation to modernize FHA programs, reform regulation of the government-sponsored enterprises (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac), establish a first-time home buyer tax credit, and make the temporary increases to the conforming loan limits established by the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 permanent.

“These measures would quickly stabilize the housing markets and get fence-sitters into the market to buy homes,” Yun said.

“There are many reasons for people to get into the housing market today, and very few reasons not to. With the plentiful supply of homes for sale at affordable prices, interest rates approaching 40-year lows, and the strong track record of housing as a good long-term investment, conditions are ripe for buyers,” he added. “Those are the facts, plain and simple.”

As for a recession, it’s not happening, Yun said. “A slowdown, yes, but the definition of a recession is two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth. It’s not in the cards - no matter how you look at it.”

A Home Inspection Now Could Avoid Headaches Later

2008-03-10T16:54:00.000-04:00

Despite the downturn in the housing market, millions of homes will still be bought and sold. At a time when price negotiations have become more vigorous, many buyers and sellers neglect one important element that could cost them thousands of dollars: the home inspection.

Mike Kuhn, co-author of The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to Home Inspections has spent nearly two decades trying to change a mindset.

“Approximately one quarter of homebuyers do not get a professional home inspection for their prospective home,” says Kuhn. “An even smaller percentage of home sellers acquire a pre-listing inspection to help them better present their home in a competitive way.” Years of witnessing costly and avoidable errors prompted Kuhn to help develop a guide to home inspections. He believed that if people knew more about the home inspection process, they’d understand what it includes, why it is necessary, and how to make the most of it.

A professional home inspection can help buyers avoid buying someone else’s problems, and for sellers the home inspection can help them eliminate potential defects that could turn off a prospective buyer.

A professional home inspector will review the major, visible and accessible components of the home and provide a detailed written report rating each element. The report should objectively include information in a detailed manner that allows the client to make informed decisions.

A professional home inspector also educates and provides tips on proper home maintenance. Buyers or sellers are encouraged to attend the inspection. Kuhn adds, “HouseMaster inspectors are specifically trained to communicate throughout the inspection, demonstrating how to operate many of the home’s systems and discussing maintenance needs.”

More than ever, buyers need to know what they are buying to reduce the possibility of making a very costly mistake. Sellers need to do what they can to make their home standout from the others on the market. The average home inspection costs between $350-$550, but in almost any kind of real estate market, a home inspection is a wise investment. For more information about The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to Home Inspections and other home inspection resources, visit housemaster.com.

Buying Foreclosures: Deal or No Deal?

2008-03-05T21:58:00.000-05:00

Buyers and would-be investors often look to foreclosure sales to find real estate bargains. But newcomers to this market could find some unpleasant surprises if they go in blind. All homes should be thoroughly inspected by a professional home inspector before sealing the deal.

Why inspect if you can’t negotiate?
Foreclosure homes are usually “as-is” sales. This means that buyers cannot negotiate for the cost of needed repairs, as they may do in a traditional home purchase. Buyers must absorb repair costs themselves and consider this in their purchase offer at auction. So why get a professional inspection on a foreclosure property?

Too many foreclosure buyers think they’re getting a deal when, in fact, they might be purchasing a property with substantial and costly defects. The repair of these major issues could exceed the savings gained in buying a foreclosed property.

Sellers at foreclosure auctions are not usually obligated to disclose defects. But buyers can empower themselves by getting a professional property inspection before the auction that will provide valuable insights about the condition of the home. If pre-auction property inspections are not permitted at the foreclosure sale, buyers will need to weigh that risk carefully.

Knowledge is Power
Even with a significant influx of newly foreclosed properties due to the sub prime mortgage mess, the foreclosure market can be competitive, and it is often dominated by experienced real estate investors. Armed with the right information you can make informed bids and find the best home at the best deal. After all, a bargain isn’t a bargain if it costs more than expected down the line.

Remember, buying foreclosed properties can be a risky business, so be certain to consult with needed professionals, including a reputable, certified home inspector, to address questions about specific issues. More homebuyer and home maintenance tips are available online at housemaster.com.

The Tax Man Cometh...

2008-02-19T11:06:00.002-05:00

And along with the tax man come the inevitable new breed of scam artists. Be on guard - criminals who want your personal information use this hectic and confusing time of year to prey on unsuspecting individuals.

Watch out for unscrupulous scammers, who are sending emails that appear to be from the IRS. The content of the emails are often written to persuade you to link to a website that will allow you to update your data or receive important information. Remember, these phony emails are quite sophisticated, and the links send you to what usually appear to be legitimate IRS or government websites. In reality, they are not. These sites will prompt you to divulge private information under the guise of the IRS requiring it, to offer a larger refund, or sometimes, ironically, to protect you from identity theft or loss of privacy.

There are some simple steps you can take to avoid falling prey to one of these scams.

Always Be Suspicious of Emails. Remember, the IRS does NOT initiate communication with taxpayers through email, but rather through the regular mail. If you receive an email that says it's from the IRS, you should immediately be suspicious and should forward it in its entirety to the IRS, so that they can take steps to shut down the fraudulent and bogus websites. The IRS requests that you forward all questionable emails to phishing@irs.gov.

Double Check the URL Address. Keep in mind that all IRS websites begin with the following web address: http://www.irs.gov/. So, if you ever click a link in an email or visit a website that you believe is related to the IRS, the first thing you should do is confirm the website begins with the correct URL address. Remember, sometimes it may "look" legitimate, but is actually an imposter site that is "phishing" for information. So always, always double check the actual URL address before you type any information in the site.

Exercise Extreme Caution with Attachments. When it comes to questionable emails, the best practice is to never open any attachments. That's because attachments are an extremely common method that hackers use to infect your computer with programs that may harm your computer or steal your personal information--often without you even knowing!

In today's technological environment, electronic communication offers us tremendous speed and convenience. But it can also be used for unethical purposes by scammers. Most organizations have worked very hard to put strict privacy policies in place. As a result, government agencies and financial institutions will rarely, if ever, ask you to divulge personal information via email.

If you receive any email asking for personal information of any kind, you should immediately be suspicious. When in doubt, call the customer service lines listed on your statements or documents and discuss the email that you received.

A Taxing Time

2008-01-31T10:45:00.000-05:00

It's that time again...time to start gathering all of that dreaded documentation to send to good old Uncle Sam! Recent stats say the IRS audited 1 out of every 97 returns last year, so it pays to be careful. And even though this may seem like a very painful process, taking just a few simple steps right now will make your tax filing far easier and more accurate.

Keep it together. Make a quick list of all the documents or statements that were needed to complete your return last year - or call your tax planning professional for a checklist. Use this as a checklist to make sure you have a good start on the documents you may need this year. As you receive tax documents in the mail, grab your checklist, and mark the item as received. Then, keep all of the tax documents together in a large file or envelope marked "2007 TAXES."

Do the math. According to the IRS, the most common mistake on tax returns is bad math—from transposed numbers to downright incorrect data. And with one form leading to the other, those errors can make a huge impact. So even if you use tax software, you're not off the hook--since they only add the info YOU put in. Double-check entries carefully.

Every last cent. The IRS receives copies of your Form 1099 earnings each tax season. So, they know how much you make in interest and dividend income, and they will use that info to double-check your filing information. Make sure you collect all your earnings statements and document them on your return.

Sign on the line. It sounds almost silly, but forgetting to sign a return is actually a fairly common oversight. And the IRS won't process a return that doesn't have a signature. So, make sure you sign to avoid resubmitting your paperwork and possibly paying late-filing fees.

Remember, there isn't a lot of room for error when you're dealing with the IRS. A slight miscalculation could mean the difference between getting a return and writing a check--or worse, paying a penalty. It pays to work with a tax professional. If you need a referral, contact me - I'm happy to help!

Daylight Savings Time - Coming Sooner This Year!

2007-02-19T09:39:00.000-05:00

SPRING FORWARD, FALL BACK...OR IS THAT SPRING BACK AND FALL FORWARD?

In any event, Daylight Saving Time (DST) will be springing a bit further this year. Back in 2005, Congress enacted the Energy Policy Act, which will extend DST by one month - beginning earlier in the spring and lasting later into the fall - beginning on March 11th and ending on November 4th.

Originally the bill was written to extend Daylight Saving by two months, but some very verbal opponents fought the change. Farmers say that DST has a negative impact on their livestock in general - as it is tough for them to adapt to the time change, and they therefore produce less milk, eggs, etc. Because DST is not followed uniformly around the world, airlines claim that it might mean many missed international flight connections. Additionally, TV and Cable stations argued that they will lose viewers and advertising revenue, simply due to less time spent in front of the television because of more time spent outdoors in daylight. So a compromise of one additional month of DST was reached - and Congress did retain the right to revert back to the old dates if the change proves to be widely unpopular, or if the energy savings aren't significant.

Why the change?

After making the adjustment to getting up an hour early, Americans overwhelmingly like Daylight Saving Time. There is simply more sunlight in the evenings to enjoy the outdoors and get things done. Additionally, there may be emotional benefits, as we typically feel better with more daylight. Plus, increased hours of daylight saves energy on a national scale. Less electricity is needed, as fewer lights are turned on as early in the evening...and with energy costs so high, even a small amount of savings is very welcome.

And brighter is safer - studies have shown that the DST shift reduces traffic accidents. An increase in accidents in the dark mornings is more than offset by the evening decrease in accidents, due to the increased visibility gained with more sunlight. Halloween will be much safer too - child pedestrian deaths are four times higher on Halloween than any other night of the year. Now, young trick-or-treaters are able to spend an extra hour out getting treats in the light. Candy manufacturers are happy too, as they've lobbied for years to have DST extended through Halloween.

A study by the US Law Enforcement Admin also determined that crime is consistently lower during DST, with violent crimes down as much as 10 - 13%. For many crimes, like mugging, darkness is a factor - so more light in the evening hours reduces these types of crimes.

And throughout its long history, Daylight Saving Time has had a remarkable and sometimes unexpected impact.

A man was actually able to avoid the draft for the Vietnam War using a Daylight Saving Time loophole. When he was born, it was just after midnight, DST. When he was drafted, he successfully argued that in his home state of Delaware, standard time - not DST - was the official time for recording births. So he was technically born on the previous date - which had a much higher draft lottery number - and he was able to avoid being drafted.

In September 1999, the West Bank was on Daylight Saving Time, while Israel had switched back to standard time. A group of West Bank terrorists prepared some timed bombs - but misunderstood the time change - and the bombs exploded early, killing the terrorists themselves, rather than the intended victims - two busloads of innocent citizens.

In the 1950's and 60's, each state and locality was permitted to choose start and end DST dates as they desired. During 1965, Minneapolis and St Paul - which are considered one metropolitan area - didn't agree on start dates, and for a period of time, these Twin Cities had a one hour time change between them. And on one Ohio to Virginia bus route, passengers technically had to change their watches seven times in 35 miles!

To keep to their published timetables, Amtrak trains cannot leave a station before the scheduled time. So when the clocks "fall back" in the fall, all trains that are running on time actually stop at 2:00am - the official time of DST change - and wait one hour before resuming their routes. In the spring, the routes instantaneously become one hour behind schedule, but they just keep going and do their best to make up the time.

So Daylight Saving Time sure can have some unexpected impact - and we'll all have to be ready early this year.

In particular, be sure to double-check all of your electronic devices and confirm that the time is correct. Although you may be accustomed to your computer and digital clock in your car automatically updating, the recent change of dates for daylight saving time may require that these devices be manually changed, as they now may not be ready to update to the correct time on the correct date!

Tax Time is Here...

2007-02-05T11:35:00.000-05:00

...and although most people look forward to their annual visit to their tax professional about as much as a dental exam, this year just might bring a few pleasant surprises. On December 20, President Bush signed the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006. And some of the new changes just might help you.

You now have an option to deduct either state and local INCOME taxes - or state and local SALES taxes, whichever is larger. If you saved all your receipts throughout the year, you can add up the total amount of sales taxes you paid and claim that amount. But let's be realistic...very few of us actually save all our receipts - so instead, you can take the easy road, and simply click on this link: Sales Tax Deduction Calculator

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If you, your spouse, or your children attend any level of college in 2006 or 2007, a hefty deduction of up to $4,000 may apply! This deduction can only be used if it provides more benefit than the Hope or Lifetime Learning Credits, which take into account your college expenses and your Adjusted Gross Income. But it applies even if you are using student loans to pay for your tuition. Definitely worth a closer look - and for more information on what you might qualify for, hit this link: Hope or Lifetime Learning Credit Info.

Many teachers pay for classroom supplies from their own personal funds - but can now deduct $250 of the expense. And better yet, if the expenses exceed the $250 amount, there can be other benefits available by itemizing the supply deductions. Link here to learn more: Educator Expense Adjustment. If you aren't a teacher yourself - being aware of how much is paid out of pocket by teachers - it may be a nice idea to ask your local school or your child's teacher if they need any supplies donated to their classrooms.

If you feel any of the above items might apply to you, be sure to gather the additional documentation, and take the time to ask your accountant if you can benefit from these specific changes. And if you need the referral of a qualified tax professional, I'd be happy to provide a contact. Asking just a few simple questions could give you a well-deserved break!

Live African Web Cam

2006-12-19T11:55:00.000-05:00

If you like natural African wildlife, be sure to check out this live WebCam at this water hole. I have watched it many times and seen zebras, many birds, antelope, and more. On Monday, 12/18/06, I watched a bull elephant stroll up to the watering hole, splash himself, take a few drinks, then wander off into the darkness.

While watching, please note there is a 7 hour time difference, so while your watching, it may be dark there. To best view during daylight hours there, watch between about 10:30pm ET until about noon. More happens during the daylight, but the elephant I saw was at night.

Nkorho Pan is a natural water hole in the prestigious Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, in South Africa. Nkorho pan is named after Nkorho bush Lodge which gets it name from the Shangaan derivative for the call of the yellow-billed hornbill, a common and unusual looking bird from this area.

Check it out... Click Here!

Meet Finley and Twink

2006-12-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

You may or may not have ever heard of Finley and Twink, but they are our Wire Fox Terriers. They just got their Christmas grooming done, and boy do they look good.

Here's Finley...

He's just about 5 years old and we've had him since he was about 7 weeks old. What a sporty boy he is. He's a pure breed Wire, bred from a father who was a "Best in Breed" at Westminster.

And here's Twink...

A little rascal of a Wire. She's quick as all get out, loves to bark, and will love you to death. Twink was rescue we picked up about 3 years ago, she's also just about 5 years old.

Both Finley and Twink wish you a happy holiday season!

Do You Have or Need a Passport?

2006-10-30T11:22:00.000-05:00

As the holiday season approaches - the vacation season approaches as well. And if you haven't yet gotten a passport for yourself or your family members - better act now.

While a birth certificate used to do the trick for traveling out of the country, effective January 8, 2007, all US citizens leaving the country and traveling by air will be required to present a valid passport. Yep, even the kids. Why? Better security and safety. Passports are much more uniform than birth certificates, making it much easier for border and security officials to detect any forgery, and help prevent unauthorized entry into the US.

The processing of a passport can take several weeks - so even if you don't have a trip immediately planned, get started now. Here are a few helpful links:
If you are applying for a passport for the first time, simply hit this link - First Time Passport Help - for instructions on how and where to obtain a passport, and to download the required forms to save time. When applying for the first time, you must apply in person at one of the 7,000 passport acceptance facilities.

If you need to renew a passport, the renewal can be done by mail, simply hit this link - Passport Renewal Help - to download the required forms.

As always, feel free to pass this on to your friends, family members and coworkers - they'll thank you when they can get back into the country after their holiday vacation...

It's That Time of Year Again...

2006-09-28T10:54:00.000-04:00

Along with back to school, baseball playoffs, football starting, fall in full swing...here comes something less fun, the dreaded cold and flu season. And the cost of the season is nothing to sneeze at - did you know that Americans spent $3.8 Billion on over the counter cold and flu remedies last year? Then factor in how much time and productivity was lost on sick-time in the workplace, money spent on co-pays for a doctors visit and prescriptions - it's a staggering amount of money, let alone the just plain miserable feeling we've all had at one time or another, when colds and flu arrive in our own home.

A few quick tips - some you may know, but a few might be surprises:

First, determine how susceptible you are by asking yourself a few questions. Were you ill several times last year? Do you frequently feel fatigued? Do you sleep less than seven hours per night? If you answer yes to several of the questions, it may be a good idea to consult your doctor for a pre-flu season check-up.

Build up your immune system by taking the time now to catch up on sleep and get a flu shot. Ever heard the old adage to "starve a fever and feed a cold"? While you don't need to go as far as actually starving, the idea is if you're hot from a fever, you need to put less fuel into your body to cool it down, and if you're cold from the chills, you need to eat to fuel your body and warm it up. Modern medicine may argue that adding a few supplements of medicine and continuing to eat would be the best alternative.

For the common cold, take a high dose combo of Vitamin C and Zinc. Taking these supplements has shown that these remedies can markedly reduce cold symptoms. For the flu, ask your doctor for a prescription of an antiviral drug. This could help shorten the duration of the flu and will have you back on your feet in no time. For preventative measures - try a product like Airborne, to help keep your immune system strong.

Here's a tip that's actually pretty enjoyable. Everybody loves a nice steam - but did you know it can help keep you well? That's right, sitting in a hot steam room can actually kill many germs that could make you sick. Experts say that those who enjoy a weekly steam reduce their chances of getting sick very dramatically. Some steam many times a day to break off cold symptoms.

Wash your hands frequently, and carry a hand sanitizer such as Purell with you to keep your hands germ free. Hand to mouth is the most common way that people get sick, so keep those hands clean, and encourage your family to do the same.

And here's a little known, interesting, yet highly effective idea...did you know you can literally "wash that cold right out of your nose"? Although it doesn't look pretty in action, a simple saline nasal wash or nasal irrigation can rid you of colds and allergies, by washing out the germs - and also healing and protecting your nasal passages. When dry winter air makes the tissues inside your sinuses dry and cracked, germs have a perfect place to live and breed - making you sick more easily. But a saline nasal wash, available at most drugstores, can lubricate, protect and clean those nasal tissues - and keep you well and healthy. And it may actually help reduce snoring!

At the end of the day - what's more important than your health? By taking a little time to protect yourself from illness, you ensure that you can continue to do all the other things in life that are important to you - spending time with family and friends, working hard at your career, and enjoying time living in a healthy body!

MISSING: 24 Billion Dollars!

2006-08-16T11:49:00.000-04:00

Remember as a kid, you'd work on that loose tooth and get it out fast…just so the Tooth Fairy would arrive early with some cash under your pillow? There may be a much less painful way to find a pile of cash…that's rightfully yours in the first place. Most people stash a few bucks away here and there, forget where the cash is stashed, and over time find it in odd places like between sofa cushions and in coat pockets. But what about the money you put on deposit with a utility company or the little bank account you set up for a rainy day? These funds can be easily forgotten too, especially if you are caught up in the details of a move…and once you have moved, you may not receive the notices reminding you of your refund due, or the current statement for that rainy day account. But would you be surprised to learn there is over $24 Billion Dollars of this type of missing money…just waiting to be found by its rightful owner? That's a whole lot of greenbacks gone missing…and some of them might belong to you. What happens to this money, and how can you get it back? Good news - it's easier and less painful than working out a loose tooth. Here is the scoop.

When individuals move, forget to change their address, and companies or banking institutions cannot contact them, their property is turned over to the state as "unclaimed property". The state then acts as a custodian of the property until the rightful owner claims it. Unclaimed property includes financial items such as bank accounts, utility refunds, un-cashed checks, certificates of deposit or even escrow accounts on home loans.

To determine if you have any unclaimed property with the state, jump on the web and visit www.unclaimed.org. Click on the state that you live in, and you will be directed to the appropriate website. You will either be able to perform a quick immediate search online, or a few states give you the information on how to just contact them directly to inquire. If you have lived in several states, do a quick search for each, since the funds will be held in the state they originated.

And be cautious of solicitations by mail or email that require you to pay a fee to obtain information about unclaimed property. You may end up paying a fee and receiving no information about unclaimed property, just the contact information for the state. Any unclaimed property information can be obtained free of charge by visiting the above listed website. What about money in Canada, or Federal money such as IRS returns, Savings Bonds, or Federally insured Credit Union accounts? While you're on www.unclaimed.org, just hit "links" at the top of the page to search these resources as well.

Last year over 1.3 million claims were paid, totaling around $1.2 Billion Dollars. That's nearly $1000 per person of "found money". So by taking a minute to do a quick search, you may find out that you are a bit richer than you think. And pass this article on to your friends, family members, or colleagues…but be sure to remind them to include you in their celebration when they find their missing "cash stash"!

Title Insurance

2006-08-03T22:50:00.000-04:00

What Is Title Insurance?

A title insurance policy protects the insured against loss or damage sustained by a defect in what´s known as the chain of title. Some of the most common hidden risks that can create a loss include:

False impersonation of the true owner of the property

Forged deeds, releases or wills

Undisclosed or missing heirs

Instruments executed under invalid or expired power(s) of attorney

Mistakes in recording legal documents

Misinterpretations of wills

Deeds by persons of unsound mind

Deeds by minors

Deeds by persons supposedly single, but in fact married

Liens for unpaid estate, inheritance, income or gift taxes

Fraud

Obtaining an Owner´s Policy of Title Insurance will provide protection to the buyer from these and other risks as outlined in the policy. The one-time premium that is paid for this coverage will provide peace of mind for many years to follow.

For more Q & A on Title Insurance Click Here

Are You A 411 Junkie?

2006-06-05T11:19:00.000-04:00

We've all been there…you're driving down the freeway, and realize you need to make a reservation at a local restaurant, find out the hours of a store you're headed to, or check movie listings for that night. What do you do? You likely do not pull off at the nearest exit and bother to find a phone book…you usually just grab your cell phone and dial 411. It's convenient and easy - and you can usually be directly connected to your listing. But…then when your mobile phone bill arrives, you realize how much those innocent directory assistance calls cost you!

Turns out the average amount an individual spends on directory assistance calls each year is $36, but heavy users can spend over $300 a year. And those calls can cost anywhere from $1.25 - $1.75 each…worse yet, directory assistance calls from a land line come with an even steeper price tag, as carriers often charge anywhere from $2 to $4 per call. These fees can add up quickly, and be pretty painful if you are a chronic 411 dialer!

So, how do you avoid these spendy calls when you need to obtain a number in a hurry? Here's the scoop:

Simply dial 1.800.FREE.411 (1.800.373.3411) from your cell phone or land line, and the call is just that…free. The service works just like GOOGLE, commercial radio, or television in that businesses pay to sponsor the service in exchange for presenting their advertisements to customers. When you call 1.800.FREE.411 an automated voice recognition system will ask you for a location, type of listing and name. And in return for the free info, you'll occasionally hear an advertisement from one of the sponsors.

For example, let's say you call and request the number for your favorite local pizza place. While the service is locating the number you may hear a very brief ad for Dominos Pizza offering a deep discount while the request is being processed. After the advertisement plays, you can either connect directly with Dominos or receive the original number you requested. The choice is yours, and the call is still free.

Instead of continuing to rack up big charges for 411, you may want to consider 1.800.FREE.411.

Check out those Theme Parks

2006-05-22T08:51:00.000-04:00

Memorial Day is quickly approaching, and that marks the start of the summer vacation season. It also means many families will be paying a visit to an amusement park. The rides can be a lot of fun....but before you jump on that roller coaster, Ferris wheel, or the famous tea cup ride, you may want to jump on the web first, and find out the scoop on your favorite amusement park.

With just a few clicks of the mouse you can find out everything you want - and don't want - to know about popular theme parks in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia, simply by visiting www.themeparkinsider.com. Once on the site, hit the "Safety" link and view a complete list of verified accident reports, reports awaiting verification, and learn tips on how to keep you and your family safe on theme park rides.

Additionally, click on the "Browse Parks" link and review the ratings and reviews of popular theme and amusement parks, or browse the top ten favorite parks, best attractions, best roller coasters, and even the "most disliked" attractions, so you don't get stuck wasting your time waiting in line for a bad ride.

You can even look up your favorite theme or amusement park and learn the history, get directions, find out the best time to visit, where to purchase tickets, review safety reports specific to the park, and view the list of attractions and their ratings. You can also research dining options, shop hotels, and review featured articles like "How to Save Money with Theme Park Deals and Discounts".

Summer is short, so do your research now and enjoy the ride!

First Class seat...without the hefty price tag

2006-05-15T23:10:00.000-04:00

Ever boarded a plane, walked through the First Class section and wished that you could be one of those passengers seated in a large comfy chair, drink in hand, and plenty of leg room to stretch out? Sure, we've all been there, but maybe felt that the price for a First Class ticket was too expensive. Instead, we just continue to tolerate the headaches of the economy class, complete with getting smacked in the head by passengers trying to cram their bags into the overhead compartment, climbing over other passengers to wedge yourself into your cramped seat, and having your knees crushed when the guy in front of you reclines his chair.

But now...there's a way you might be able to put yourself into a First Class seat...without the hefty price tag. Here's how it's done.

The next time you hit the web to find the lowest coach fare, search out one with a special code like "Q-up", "Y-up", or "Z". These fares are just starting to create a buzz, and although they may cost a little more than bargain tickets, you greatly improve your chances of being upgraded to that cozy First Class seat, especially if you are a frequent flier. And even better...you do not have to use up your frequent flier miles to get upgraded to that seat in First Class; you actually earn air miles when you purchase a Q-up, Y-up or Z coach fare.

So why would an airline offer a seat in First Class with a coach fare rate?

Airlines have introduced these fares as a way to generate additional revenue. According to the Air Transport Association, the airline industry has lost more than $42 billion since the start of 2001, and has had to drastically cut expenses and place restrictions on upgrades to generate revenue. Typically, most of the passengers sitting in First Class seats are not paying the First Class price; they have merely cashed in frequent-flier miles to secure that comfy seat. For example, many passengers purchase the cheapest ticket available, and then use air miles to upgrade to First Class.

But the airlines make little revenue when passengers upgrade using miles, and have been forced to restrict this practice and find a way to fill First Class with individuals that are actually paying for the seat. Consequently, airlines offer an undisclosed amount of seats at a Y-up, Q-up or Z coach rate to generate more revenue. And finding the Y-up, Q-up and Z fares online is fairly easy. With a few clicks of the mouse, you can visit any of the popular travel websites like Expedia, FareCompare, Orbitz, or Travelocity and search out these fares. In fact, FareCompare has a link for Y-up and Q-up fares right on their main page. Simply enter the departing city and a list of all destination cities will appear with the cost.

These fares have been a well kept secret for quite some time, but now are creating quite a stir. The next time you visit your favorite travel website to compare fares, be sure to look into the Q-up, Y-up or Z fare and try to score a bit more legroom for that cross country flight!

Fed Hikes Rates Again

2006-05-12T13:14:00.000-04:00

The Fed is at it again. For the sixteenth time in the latest series that started in June of 2004, they've hiked the Fed Funds Rate by .25%. Why are they hiking rates? Only to keep the economy from growing too quickly, which can result in inflation and drive prices higher on the goods and services we purchase and use every day. Equally important to the rate hike itself was the Policy Statement from the Fed, which is always dissected and analyzed very carefully, as it often gives clues as to the likelihood of future rate hikes. The Fed statement indicated that although inflation appears to be controlled at the present time, further rate hikes may be needed. However, they stressed that the economic news over the coming weeks would be watched very closely in that decision making process.

So what does this mean to you, your friends, family, coworkers and clients? Here's the scoop.

The Fed Funds Rate impacts many things...and it directly affects the Prime Rate, which most Home Equity Lines of Credit are based on. It is also closely tied to the index of many Adjustable Rate Mortgages. A large number of Americans have either a Home Equity Line of Credit or an Adjustable Rate Mortgage...or may even have both. Those rates and indices just jumped again, which may be putting pressure on making monthly payments, or causing concern as to where that rate might go in the future. Moreover, there may be better financing options.

In this frequently changing financial environment, it may be time to take a look at the type of mortgage financing currently being held to find out if it might be time to consider a different strategy that is a better fit for present market conditions.

For Buyers... Get A Home Inspection

2006-05-05T19:46:00.000-04:00

Why a Buyer Needs a Home Inspection

A home inspection gives the buyer more detailed information about the overall condition of the home prior to purchase. In a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home to:

· Evaluate the physical condition: structure, construction, and mechanical systems:
· Identify items that need to be repaired or replaced:
· Estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure, and finishes.

Appraisals are Different from Home Inspections

An appraisal is different from a home inspection. Appraisals are for lenders; home inspections are for buyers. An appraisal is required to estimate the market value of a house and to make sure that the house is marketable.

Be an Informed Buyer

It is your responsibility to be an informed buyer. You have the right to carefully examine your potential new home with a qualified home inspector. You may arrange to do so before signing your contract, or may do so after signing the contract to purchase as long as your contract states that the sale of the home depends on the inspection.

Downtown Grand Rapids Mystery Development Project

2006-03-15T20:17:00.000-05:00

Post your thoughts or comments on what you think is going to be the "Mystery Project" on 30 acres in downtown Grand Rapids. There has been a lot of guessing and speculating as to what it might be and those in the know aren't talking. It will be interesting to hear what others might say. Let others know what your guess is!

5 Reasons You'll Want a REALTOR®

2006-02-26T20:33:00.000-05:00

1. A real estate transaction is complicated. In most cases, buying or selling a home requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multi-page government-mandated settlement statements. A knowledgeable guide through this complexity can help you avoid delays or costly mistakes.

2. Selling or buying a home is time consuming. Even in a strong market, homes in our area stay on the market for an average of 60-120 days. And it usually takes another 30-45 days or so for the transaction to close after an offer is accepted.

3. Real estate has its own language. If you don’t know a CMA from a PUD, you can understand why it’s important to work with someone who speaks that language.

4. REALTORS® have done it before. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. That’s why having an expert on your side is critical.

5. REALTORS® provide objectivity. Since a home often symbolizes family, rest, and security, not just four walls and roof, home selling or buying is often a very emotional undertaking. And for most people, a home is the biggest purchase they’ll every make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you keep focused on both the business and emotional issues most important to you.

Invest a Few Hours for Future Dividends

2006-02-17T21:03:00.000-05:00

Here’s your chance to clean up in real estate. Clean up in the living room, the bathroom, the kitchen...if your woodwork is scuffed or the paint is fading, perhaps you might want to consider some minorredecoration. Fresh wallpaper in the kitchen or bath can add charm and value to your property. Prospects would rather see how great your home really looks than hear you tell how great it could look “with a little work.”

Home Selling Tip - Make the Most of that First Impression

2006-02-17T21:01:00.000-05:00

Never underestimate the importance of outward appearances--especially where your home is concerned. Potential buyers begin their decision making process with their first glance at your property. A well manicured lawn, neatly trimmed shrubs and a clutterfree porch welcome prospects. So does a freshly scrubbed front door. If it’s autumn, rake the leaves. If it’s winter, shovel the walkways. The fewer obstacles between prospects and the true appeal of your home, the better.

Home Buyer Tip - What should I do first?

2006-02-17T20:55:00.000-05:00

Before going out and looking at homes, you should first get in touch with a mortgage lender to at least get pre-qualified so you know how much home you can afford. Getting pre-approved (with a copy of a pre-approval letter) is even better so you will have some leverage in dealing with a seller.
The importance being that the seller then knows you have already been to the lender and your not someone "hoping" to be able to buy the house.