Interest Rate Drop Fuels Demand – Mortgage News

October 13, 2009

 

Interest Rates hit near 40 Year Lows – Tacoma Real Estate

Interest Rates have been a major factor in fueling the Real Estate market. Read through this brief report offered by Keller Williams International.

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According to Freddie Mac, 30-year-fixed-rate mortgage average fell further to 4.87 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending Oct. 8 from 4.94 percent last week. “Such low rates are spurring mortgage demand,” said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist, in a statement.

“Interest rates for 30-year fixed-rate loans were the lowest since mid-May; 15-year FRMs were at a record low since data were first collected in 1991 and 5-year ARMs also hit an all-time record starting in 2005. Compared to a year ago, consumers could shave almost $134 off their monthly mortgage payments on a 30-year fixed-rate loan for $200,000 by refinancing.

In addition to spurring mortgage demand, applications were up to a 19-week high over the week ending in Oct. 2, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association – applications to purchase a home were at the strongest pace since the beginning of 2009.

source: Keller Williams

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The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

 

Trey Affolter   *   Realtor   *   253-222-6000   *   www.treysellshouses.com   *   treyaffolter@kw.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Real Estate Market Update thru Sept. 2009

October 12, 2009

 

Market Update thru September…

INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE  At the end of September, the supply of homes for sale was reported down 1.8% from the previous month in 27 major metropolitan areas. We all know the factors. Home prices are very affordable, mortgage rates and very favorable and first-time homebuyers are taking advantage of the $8,000 tax credit set to expire at the end of November, now just seven weeks away.

Source: Inside Lending Newsletter from Peter and Dawn James

For Information about the local Real Estate Market in and around Tacoma, contact Trey Affolter.

Search Washington State Real Estate MLS Listings  

The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

 

Trey Affolter   *   Realtor   *   253-222-6000   *   www.treysellshouses.com   *   treyaffolter@kw.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Is Your Home Ready for Winter?

October 10, 2009

Homeowners: Time to Get Your Home Ready for Winter

Early fall is the time to prepare your home for winter & the colder weather it brings. Following these 9 simple steps offered by Puget Sound Energy can help manage your home’s energy costs & save in heating expenses.

  1. Check doors & windows for leaks & drafts. Make sure doors seal properly, and add weather-stripping to keep heat from escaping.
  2. Examine heating ducts for leaks. Repair or replace damaged ducts.
  3. Add insulation to your attic, and weather-strip and insulate your attic hatch or door to prevent air from escaping.
  4. Close the fireplace damper when it’s not in use.
  5. Have the furnace inspected and serviced to make sure it is in proper working order.
  6. Clean or replace the furnace air filters at least every two months during the heating season. The furnace will run more effectively and use less energy.
  7. Set the thermostat at the coolest level you can without making your rooms uncomfortable.
  8. Lower the thermostat at bedtime or while away during the day.
  9. Make sure all heating vents are opened and not blocked by furniture or other items.

source: Puget Sound Energy

 

Search Washington State Real Estate MLS Listings  

The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

 

Trey Affolter   *   Realtor   *   253-222-6000   *   www.treysellshouses.com   *   treyaffolter@kw.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


How Interest Rates Impact Your Mortgage Payment

October 10, 2009

Mortage Interest Rates affect Your Mortgage Payment

Interest rates are at 40 year lows. Here is a cute video that explains the impact of interest rates on your mortgage payment and some very good reasons to take advantage of today’s interest rates!

Search Washington State Real Estate MLS Listings

The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Trey Affolter * Realtor * 253-222-6000 * www.treysellshouses.com * treyaffolter@kw.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Need to Hurry Your Home Purchase Before $8k Tax Credit Expires?

October 10, 2009

How to Buy a Home Before $8K Tax Credit Deadline

With the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit expiring November 30, and that it can take 30-45 days to close a home, here are 5 tips to expedite your home purchase in order to take advantage of the tax credit.

1. Get Pre Approved for Mortgage.

2. Make sure you are liquid

Have enough money available for your down payment and closing costs as your mortgage requires.

3. Avoid “Short Sale” Listings

A short sale occurs when a homeowner owes more on their home loan than what they are selling the home. Because the current lien holder has to approve the sale and the loss, these properties can take months to close.

4. Don’t go on a shopping spree before you close

Avoid making any big purchases on a credit card or with any financing programs. Big purchases may affect you home loan and your ability to qualify.

5. Work with a Realtor®

source: smartmoney.com 

The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Tacoma is the Best Housing Market

September 1, 2009

Tacoma Real Estate Rates Tops in 10 Best Markets

Moody’s Economy.com forecasts Tacoma to make a case as the best place in the United States to invest in Real Estate through year 2013. Based on the Case-Shiller index, Tacoma median home price is estimated to go up 20.7% in that period.

Read entire article

 

 

The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

 

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Home Updrades to your Tacoma Home offer Tax Breaks

September 1, 2009

4 Upgrades Worth the Tax Break

SmartMoney.com looks at a portion President Obama’s stimulus package which offers tax breaks to homeowners who make upgrades towards new roofing, windows, doors, air conditioners and insulation.

Read entire article

 

 

The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

 

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Move-Up Home Buyers Benefit – Tacoma Real Estate

September 1, 2009

Want to Buy a Bigger Home –> Attention Move-Up Buyers

Move-Up Home Buyers Benefit – Tacoma Real EstateMove-Up Home Buyers Benefit – Tacoma Real EstateMove-Up Home Buyers Benefit – Tacoma Real EstateIn MSNBC’s article, “Math smiles on move-up buyers,” the decision to sell your current home and invest in a larger home is discussed.

Tacoma home buyers are benefiting from the market and taking advantage of the opportunity to buy a bigger home. If you are considering investing in a larger home, talk with The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty to discuss how to reach your Real Estate goals.

Read Entire Article

Resource: MSNBC Business

 
 The Trey Affolter Team at Keller Williams Realty always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

 

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Clean GREEN your Tacoma Home

June 18, 2009

GREEN Product Ideas to Clean your Home

There are many effective cleaning agents probably already residing in your pantry!  No need to spend money on costly products that not only can cause allergies or headaches when in use, but can be harmful to the environment as well.  Check out this list of a few “natural” solutions that can keep your home clean and reduce the impact on your pocketbook and your environment. 

General Cleaning Agent:
1 cup of distilled vinegar
1 cup of hot water
* add baking soda for a
mild abrasive clean
 
Window & Mirror Cleaner
2 T. white distilled vinegar
    (or lemon juice)
1 gallon water
Mix, spray on windows and
be sure to wipe clean with
newspaper over paper towels
to avoid streaking
 
Furniture Polish:
½ cup olive oil
½ cup distilled vinegar
20 drops of lemon oil
Shake well – Rub into
wood with dry cloth
 

Weed Killer:
1 gallon white vinegar
1 cup salt
8 drops liquid soap
Mix and spray on weeds!

source: PCbank

The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate.  

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional


Top Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Buy a Tacoma Real Estate Home

June 18, 2009

Top Reasons to Buy A Tacoma Real Estate Home…NOW!

Thinking of buying a home in the Tacoma to Seattle area or other surrounding cities within Pierce, King, or Thurston Counties? Consider these reasons:

1. $8,000 Federal Tax Credit – Available for qualified first time home buyers until December 1, 2009.

2. Low Interest Rates – Home Mortgage rates remain at near record lows.

3. Unbeatable Investment – Even in a down real estate market, over the long term home prices still appreciate more than the stock market.

4. Available Loans – Lenders are still lending money and there are great home mortgage programs available.

5. Great Selection – With so many homes on the market, buyers have a lot of options.

6. Home Prices – Home prices have rolled back to early 2000 prices. Home affordability is better than it has been in years.

 

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Further Real Estate advice is offered in the additional articles below. Educate yourself!

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Additional articles about Tacoma Real Estate to educate yourself. Enjoy!

Good News Released for the Tacoma Real Estate Market!

Time to Get Off the Fence and Into a Home

Time to Buy a Tacoma Real Estate Home…or refinance?

Washington Real Estate on Sale…Just Got Cheaper!

 Is The Real Estate Market Tide Turning?

What are your waiting for? It’s Time to Invest in Tacoma Real Estate 

Order you copy of “Now’s The Time To Buy…Top 10 Reasons Why,” Today!

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Real Estate Links:

Home Buyer $8000 Tax Credit

Down Payment Assistance Programs for Washington State Home Buyers

CLICK HERE TO SEE FREE HOMEBUYER’S RESOURCES

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The Trey Affolter Team, Keller Williams Realty, always welcomes comments and is available to answer questions about Tacoma Real Estate and the surrounding cities within Pierce County Real Estate, South King County Real Estate, and North Thurston County Real Estate

 

253-222-6000

http://www.TreySellsHouses.com

Your Tacoma Real Estate Professional