What’s all the buzz?

The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, designed to stimulate the housing market is the perfect opportunity for first time homebuyers. A $7500 tax credit is available to first time buyers under this Act and would get the housing market moving again in the right direction. Another benefit this Stimulus package brings fourth is raises to the loan limits of FHA and GSE loans. This will save the consumer thousands in interest payments over the duration of their loans. If you are looking to make a home purchase, take advantage of this newest option because it does have a time limit and is set to expire July 2, 2009. If you would like more information about the impact this will have, you can read the article by visiting the following link: www.realtor.org/research/reinsights/economistcommentary

The Olympics

Do you follow the Olympics? I don't usually but I had the chance to watch the Men's Volleyball today and it caught my attention and then Michael Phelps winning his first Gold medal of 8 he hopes to win this year at the Beijing Olympics. I also caught parts of the opening ceremony and if you have not seen any of it, look for it online because they really went all out to make it very special. If you are interested, you can visit Olympics on Yahoo Sports to see a current medal count. As of right now, USA is ahead with 8 medals, China in second place with 3 medals.
So what's your favorite sport to watch at the Olympics? Check the schedule on the Yahoo Sports page above to see when you can watch your favorites!

Heritage Hill

I enjoyed an afternoon last week at Heritage Hill in Shepardsville, KY and just wanted to share what a truly beautiful community this is! Any buyer would love what they have created here, from the wonderful homes to the golf course all within a beautifully designed community. To get a better look, visit their website at www.heritagehillcommunity.com and seefor your self all it has to offer. From the beautiful greens, to the Restaurant or club house and pool, you are sure to see something for every member of your family.

Open Houses?

I read an article today about OPEN Houses and what they mean in today’s market. I don’t know how everyone else feels but I feel that an open house is still an effective way to market a home.
From a personal stand point, I think if a buyer is considering a certain home, they are going to do everything possible to get a look and feel for the home and photos and virtual tours only give you so much. And maybe you are considering a particular home and want your mother’s opinion? You have already toured the home and there is an upcoming open house scheduled, just take mom by the house and let her get a look too. Maybe you can’t remember if the 3^rd bedroom is big enough for a full size bed? An open house allows you the freedom to tour the home again without feeling like you have to make a special appointment to get another look.

From a realtor standpoint, anyone who comes to an open house is obviously looking for a home or at least knows someone who will need your services in the future. An open house is a great way to let people know the types of services you offer and also a way for you to reach people who you don’t already know. Hand out those business cards and pay attention to what people’s needs are. Even if it is not an immediate need, someday they may call you and it will be worth the time you spent getting to know them.