Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz's Blog

Who Says Des Moines Homes Are Not Selling Fast?

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:55:27 -0500

A look at the Days on the Market for January to June, 2008
by: Brian Wentz, REALTOR

2008 has thrown every obstacle at the Des Moines Iowa Real Estate market one can think of. From a ridiculously hard and cold winter, to summer floods and tornado's, not to mention the national media beating the "The Market is Bad" drum, we have seen out share of headwinds in the market in 2008!

But the numbers show the resiliency of the Des Moines market! After a pretty substantial jump in the number of days it has taken to receive an offer in February, March and April (when the weather ruled the headlines), the Des Moines Area Association of Realtors stats show the market is gaining steam!

In fact the average number of days it took to receive an offer was down by almost 20 days in June! That is great news for home owners wanting to sell their home in the current market! Those are much more typical numbers for the Des Moines market, and a positive sign of things to come!

If you are planning to buy or sell a home in Des Moines, this type of information can be of great assistance in planning your move! Let's talk about your potential move today!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Helping you buy or sell real estate in the Des Moines Iowa area, including Ankeny, Altoona, Clive, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Waukee, and Johnston.

7,500 Reasons to be a "First Time Buyer" in the Des Moines area by June '09!

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 23:52:25 -0500

How the "Home Buyer Tax Credit" can help you buy your first home in Des Moines NOW!
by Brian Wentz, REALTOR

This week brought first time buyers in Des Moines a new Federal Tax Credit that can be a great reason to start looking for a first home, especially if you have been sitting on the fence waiting for the right time to get into the market!

The bill, H.R. 3221, the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, passed congress and was signed into law this week, giving first time home buyers up to a $7,500 tax credit incentive to purchase a home between April 9th, 2008 and July 1st, 2009. Law makers offered the incentive to jump start entry buyers, which can have a ripple effect throughout the markets. And it may well do just that!

Unlike a tax deduction, which only saves a tax payer a partial amount, the Tax Credit program is a dollar for dollar reduction in federal taxes due, up to $7,500.

So it works like this: Lets say a first time buyer owes Uncle Sam $6,000 in federal taxes-- under the new program, eligible tax payers would see the $6,000 tax bill wiped out, and would still receive a check for the additional $1,500. A tax payer who was owed a refund of $2,000 would now receive a refund of $9,500! (Based on a married filler, making less than $150,000 a year.)

The program does have a payback provision, meaning recipients are required to pay back up to $500 each year to the IRS, for up to 15 years. But that essentially means a 15 year tax free loan from the government! Not bad, eh! And as as added incentive, if you sell the home and do not make a profit, the credit is forgiven. Alternatively, if you were to sell and make a small profit, only the amount of profit would be owed to the IRS, with the remaining balance forgiven!

The tax credit will benefit first time Des Monies home buyers' (defined as someone who has not owned in the past three years) in several key ways. Buyers may find they are able to put down larger down payments on loans, knowing they will owe less on their Federal tax bill in 2008/09. That results in lower monthly payments, and less expensive mortgage insurance premiums! But the program may also make properties which need a little work more enticing, as the cost to make repairs will be offset by the credit program. (Can you say new roof and AC??)

For more information on the details of the tax credit, visit The National Association of Home Builders' Federal Housing Tax Credit website. There you can find the program overview, as well as "Frequently Asked Questions" that will help you understand the program better.

With low interest rates, good inventory levels, and a NEW TAX CREDIT, Des Moines area home buyers should have all the incentive they need to get out of their rental and into their first home!

If you are planning to search for your first home in Des Moines, or know someone who should be, we'd like to talk with you! We still have several hard to find, SPECIAL 100% financing programs available! Discover why NOW is a great time to buy in Des Moines!

We LIVE in homes differently than we SELL them...

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:12:44 -0500

Staging a home to bee seen in it's best light.
by: Brian Wentz, REALTOR

I recently ran across a listing in the Des Moines MLS that caught my eye... A click on the virtual media link made me chuckle.

As an agent, we frequently are in a position to coach sellers on what to do get their home sold for the most money. Often a fresh coat of paint, and some staging does the trick.

Beth and I always say "We LIVE in homes differently than we SELL them..." Buyers prefer to be able to picture themselves living in a home, as opposed to the current sellers...

Here is a great example of that!

If you need assistance getting your home ready to be see in its' best light, give us a call for a no obligation appointment today!

3BR Waukee 2 Story with LOTS of space!!

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 02:00:41 -0500

180 Melrose Drive, 3BR Waukee 2 Story with LOTS of space!!
by: Brian Wentz, REALTOR

We just listed this great Waukee two story, located in the Winfield development in Waukee, Iowa. This 3 bedroom two story has more space than you typically find at the $188,500 price point, and includes a GREAT finished basement with two storage rooms and enough space for a pool table.

Specializing in homes for sale in Waukee, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Clive, Johnston and Des Moines, Iowa!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst,
Burnett Realty
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Waukee Home For Sale: 670 Boone Drive; 1.5 Acre in Town!

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:33:00 -0600

I just listed this wonderful Waukee home, on a 1.5 acre lot in town!
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

Please enjoy a tour of this home: (If the video tour is not visible, click here.)

And now for some additional information...

Brian Wentz | Burnett Realty | 515-779-7677

670 Boone Drive, Waukee, IA

In town acreage in Waukee: 1.5 Acres!

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $229,900

Year Built	1964
Sq Footage	1,760
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	1.5 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Own your own in town acreage! This 1760 square foot ranch sits on a 1 acre lot and includes the neighboring 1/2 acre lot! Well maintained ranch with large family room addition, Large eat in kitchen with new countertops, newly refinished hardwood floors in bedrooms, entry and hall, Charming heated sun porch, deck, 2 fireplaces and attached heated 2+ car garage! Property is on city water & sewer plus deep well with new pressure tank for inexpensive summertime lawn watering. (Lot also has access to city water and sewer) Fin lower level has office or family room + 3/4 bath & nice laundry room! 26 x 40 Metal outbuilding is perfect for boat, toy or RV storage plus lot has 2 sheds! All appliances included + HSA Home warranty!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Fireplace	Hardwood floor
Family room	Living room	Office/Den
Breakfast nook	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Basement	Laundry area - inside
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Own for only $1,415/month P&I w/ $2,500 down! (6.5%APR,30 Yr.)

2 lots included: 1st is 1 acre, 2nd is .5 acre!

Home is on city sewer & water, adjoining lot has access to both!

Oversized family room addition with fireplace and sun room!

Main floor office with second fireplace!

24 x 60 Barn, perfect for boat, RV or toy storage!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Brian Wentz

Burnett Realty

515-779-7677

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 31, 2008, 9:55am PST

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Homes for sale in the Des Moines Iowa area, including Ankeny, Altoona, Clive, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Waukee, and Johnston.

Des Moines Iowa Mortgage Rates Jan 24th: A Ride on the Rollercoaster...

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 08:29:18 -0600

Mortgage rates go down then jump by more than 1/2%, all in one day!
by: Brian Wentz, Relator

What a day it was! The Des Moines Real Estate market was not immune to the roller-coaster of a day brought on by the moment by moment changes in the mortgage markets.

I arrived at the office at 9:00 AM to the good news that rates had dropped from 5.25% down to 5.0%. "That's incredible", I thought.

Than, by noon- I got the update from one of my trusted lenders that rates fell even further to 4.875 % for a 30 year fixed rate. "Amazing- a 10 year low", I thought!

Then, about 2:00 things came to a sudden, screeching halt. E-mail after e-mail cried that rates were headed up. And in the aftermath, rates finished the day out at around 5.5% for a 30 year loan.

In my entire career, I have never seen single say swings like this. It was something, and I am sure many of our lenders were ready to go home and forget the day. I know their phones were ringing off the hook, and I am sure there were some frustrated customers along the way. When rates change this fast, it is impossible to keep up!

But how does the saying go; "Sometimes, that's how the cookie crumbles". I suppose tomorrow is a new day, and hey, 5.5% is an amazing rate no matter how you look at it!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

New Construction and homes for sale in Des Moines, Iowa including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee

Homes for Sale in Des Moines, Iowa: "Buy" the numbers...

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 07:47:31 -0600

A look at inventory levels of Homes For Sale in the Des Moines metro area.
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor, ABR, CBR

I am a visual person, and I love graphs. So recently when a client asked me how many homes were for sale across different price points in our MLS, I thought it might be interesting look answer the question with a chart.

Below I have assembled the two graphs to show, visually, a snapshot of the Real Estate Market in the Des Moines metro area, as of January 18th 2008.

These numbers represent the homes for sale, and pending by each $50,000 price point. One observation I found interesting, take a look at the number of homes for sale above the $1 million mark!

And Now for the higher end homes...

If you are planning to buy of sell a home in Des Moines, this chart can help you understand your competition and activity levels in your price points.

Des Moines' Western Suburbs: What's that number?

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 07:14:34 -0600

Essential numbers you'll want to have in your cell phone!
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

OK, I am a bit of a Boy Scout- I admit. And what was the motto? "Always be Prepared", of Course!

So if you live in the western Des Moines suburbs of Clive, West Des Moines or Urbandale, there is a number you just might want to program into your cell phone, so you can be prepared too.

These western Des Moines cities are served by West Com Dispatch, a consolidated fire, ems and police communication center, and one call to the center can dispatch police or emergency responders is a wide area of the metro area.

The emergency number is 911, of course. But having the non-emergency number can come in very handy for times that you just need to report a potentially dangerous situation, but don't want to clog up the 911 lines.

Last summer, while out showing a home, I witnessed a large dog running loose and chasing after a runner. Yikes! And I have had more than one occasion where items have fallen off vehicles along the interstate and I-235, presenting a hazard for other unsuspecting drivers.

Having these numbers handy made calling the situation in easy, and keeps others from getting hurt! So take a moment and plug the number into your cell phone. You'll appreciate having them if you need it!

Here are the numbers I have in my phone:

WestCom Dispatch: 515-222-3321

Des Moines Non-Emergency Police: 515-283-4811

Iowa State Patrol, Non Emergency Dispatch: 1-800-525-5555

Des Moines, Iowa: A Visit to West End Architectural Salvage; Recycling the past!

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 22:05:46 -0600

An enchanting store worthy of an afternoon visit!
by: Brian Wentz

This one of a kind store is like a window into the past! Located at 9th and Cherry in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa, West End Architectural Salvage is sort of a high end junk yard for recycled home products and custom made art work- all delivered with a touch of something special!

Many of the stores offerings have been rescued from turn of the century homes that were to be demolished, or that have been removed during construction updates. It really doesn't matter what you are looking for; if it is old, they likely have it. But unlike so many "antique vendors" who stock a lot of junk, you'll only find truly special, one-of-a-kind and hard to find items here!

Entering at street level, the large granite coffee bar and open front lobby warmly greets you. The large sitting area, complete with custom made tables constructed on site, is a great place to kick back and enjoy a cup of the stores Joe before wandering around. And speaking of wandering around, that's precisely where you will often find the store's owner, Don Short, who will likely introduce himself, and strike up a conversation if you happen to run into him.

To add to the experience, Architectural Salvage's building, by itself, is truly something to be seen. The 5 story structure is a converted warehouse, stripped to the bones; with exposed wood timber construction, brick walls and original hardwood floors.

The main level of the store includes custom jewelry and original artwork fabricated using scrap materials from the upper levels, such as tin covered tables and mirrors fabricated from old lumber. On the upper levels you'll find a collection of antique white oak furniture (some has even been restored), recycled building products such as 6 panel doors and hinges, along with anything and everything you'd expect to find in a turn of the century home. On one particular visit, the store even had a full size front entry staircase, like something you'd expect to see in "Gone With The Wind"!

And if you are looking for a unique location to host an event, the store itself can be rented for an evening!. An event on site is a truly remarkable experience, as I found out first hand when we recently hosted a party at the store 65 or so people. The accommodations were top notch, to say the least!

If you are in Downtown Des Moines anytime soon- be sure to stop by the store, which is just under the 9^th Street viaduct. I promise, you will not be disappointed at all!

Take a tour of the building below and see some of the items I discovered on a recent visit. (Click Here if the slide show is not visible!)

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com
Homes for sale in the Des Moines Iowa area, including Ankeny, Altoona, Clive, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Waukee, and Johnston.

Homes in Des Moines, Iowa: Credit Score Secrets for 2008 Revealed

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 15:31:25 -0600

New changes in the way credit bureau's look at your credit score.
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

Fair Isaac, home of the well known "FICO" scoring method, has announced some changes that will impact consumers credit scores in 2008. Dubbed "FICO '08", the new guidelines put heavier emphasis on several key areas which received less focus in the past, such as having higher balances on credit accounts and keeping a mix of both revolving and installment accounts.

The new scoring system may also be more forgiving to consumers who apply for new lines of credit. This change better reflects the fact that today's consumers seek and use credit more than in previous generations.

FICO 08 also addresses a process which has been come to be known as "piggy backing". In recent years lenders and consumers have used a loophole that could quickly boost a consumers credit score by adding their name to another consumers credit history. Some credit repair companies have even gone so far as to "rent" one consumers good credit to boost another consumers credit scores.

Read more about the changes and how to Build a Killer Credit Score in 2008.

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Helping buy or sell homes in Des Moines, Iowa including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny, Altoona and Waukee.

(Source: MSN Money)

Radon Awareness in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 10:42:45 -0600

Radon Testing Becoming More Popular in Iowa
by: Brian Wentz

January is Radon Awareness month! Not more than a few years ago no one was talking about this colorless odorless gas that seems to emit from the soil. But more and more I am receiving request from home owners and consumers who want buy a home in Des Moines, and are tuned into the issue.

The Iowa Department of public health reports that 7 out of 10 homes in Iowa show elevated levels of radon, above the "action level" of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L).

If radon is somethingyou have a concern about, you can hire one of a number of inspectors to set a recording device that will track indoor radon levels over a 24 to 72 hour period. If you plan to buy a home in Des Moines, or anywhere in Iowa, you may want to include a radon test as part of your home inspection. Costs range in the neighborhood of $150.00.

Here, Kevin Nelson of Pillar To Post is seen setting a radon level recorder in a home for sale in Urbandale Iowa. Kevin can be reached at 515-331-0787 or 515-559-4712.

Other inspectors can be found in the yellow pages of the phone book, and more information is available at the Iowa Department of Health's Radon Information Page, or Radon.Org.

How Does Radon Get Into Your Home?

Radon is a radioactive gas. It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up. Any home may have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements.

RADON GETS IN THROUGH:
Cracks in solid floors
Construction joints
Cracks in walls
Gaps in suspended floors
Gaps around service pipes
Cavities inside walls
The water supply

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Homes for sale in Des Moines, Iowa including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Des Moines Iowa Home for Sale: 4041 43rd Street!

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:06:35 -0600

Just Listed for sale in Des Moines!
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

Here is a great home, ready for its new owners!

The CRA Loan is an excellent financing option for this home, with financing as low as $960 per month with $3,100 down. See more information about this loan program here!

Please enjoy a virtual tour of this home:

Brian Wentz | Burnett Realty | 515-334-4994

4041 43rd Street, Des Moines, IA

Charming 3BR, 2BA, in Great Des Moines Location!

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $129,900

Year Built	1956
Sq Footage	988
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	9,900 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Charming 3BR, has 4th non-conforming in LL. Includes 1+ 3/4 baths and a finished walk out lower level! Large kitchen, exposed hardwood floors, spacious living room with second family room down. Large fenced yard with nice patio area. Stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and HSA warranty included!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C

Hardwood floor

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Own for only $960/mo with $3,100 down! (6.3%APR,30 YR.)

3 Bedrooms on the lain level.

1 Main level bath + 3/4 bath in lower level!

Wonderful finished Lower Level with Walk out!

Quiet neighborhood, close to malls and interstate access!

Spacious Kitchen, with all appliances included!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Brian Wentz

Burnett Realty

515-334-4994

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 15, 2008, 4:56pm PST

List of Foreclosure Homes for sale in Des Moines Iowa ~ January 12th Update

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 01:47:03 -0600

List of available HUD, REO, foreclosure and bank owned properties in Central Iowa
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

As of January 12th, there are around 200 foreclosed homes for sale in the Des Moines area MLS.

Many of these homes present opportunities for investors to rehab (or flip) these properties, or to gain some sweat equity through renovation, in the case of someone who wants to purchase a foreclosure and use the home as a personal residence.

Bank owned properties are also very well suited to be converted into rental properties. A little elbow grease can go a long way, and often rentals, as compared to rehabs, do not require the significant extra upfront expenses to carry the property and fund more pricey renovations.

But either path can add income or equity to your investment portfolio!

Here is the current inventory. If you would like additional information on any of these properties, contact me with the ID number or address for more information!

Click Here to view this file in Full Screen or use the controls below:

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Buy rental homes and rehab homes for sale in Des Moines, Iowa including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee

Interest Rates hitting 5.375% in Des Moines ~ Time to Re-Fi?

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 00:24:45 -0600

Mortgage rates falling to near historic lows for Des Moines lenders.
by Brian Wentz, Realtor

Cetntral Iowa Lending, our in house mortgage lender here at Burnett Realty, announced on Friday that rates were at an amazing low rate of 5.375% with around 1% origination fees.

Over the past 20 months, rates have been as high as 6.5% for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage.

Below is a chart of recent mortgage rates. As you can see, it is a great time to buy a new home, or refinance a home loan in Iowa!

If you have an interest rate above 6%, you may want to look at the benefits of refinancing to take advantage of today's great rates.

For a free review of your current mortgage, contact Bryan Byrnes at 515-334-4982 or Mick Hayes at 515-334-4981, or visit Central Iowa Lending.

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

New Construction and homes for sale in Des Moines, Iowa including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee

Homes Sold & Activity in Des Moines, Iowa: 1/1/08 through 1/7/08

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 23:53:59 -0600

A weekly update of Homes for Sale and Homes Sold in Des Moines, Iowa.
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

The year got off to a strong start in 2008! Interest rates remain low (around 5.5% or better) and buyers seem to be returning to the market in good numbers.

The first week of activity in the Des Moines Real Estate market resulted in 337 new listings, 113 homes that received offers, 121 closed sales. 256 homes expired unsold during the same time.

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Homes for sale in Des Moines, Iowa including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Secrets of Foreclosed Homes in Central Iowa and Des Moines

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 19:38:37 -0600

Finding hidden information on investment homes to flip, rehab, rent or resell in Iowa.
by Brian Wentz, Realtor

Many of our investor clients ask us to locate bank owned and government foreclosed properties for them. These properties can have considerable investment value, as lenders prefer to get foreclosures off their books quickly. Especially these days.

Knowing where to look, and what information is available can certainly give you a head start . So I wanted to take a moment to share a website I use that you might find valuable also!

VA and FHA foreclosures in our area are managed by "Best Assets". This company maintains a website which includes government repossessed homes for sale in Iowa, and a few other States. The site also includes a considerable amount of additional information about each property; information which is often not found anywhere else! This can include inspections that have been completed, known defects, lead paint information, and recommendations for additional inspections you may want to have preformed.

All of these foreclosures are listed for sale in the Des Moines MLS, but the Best Assets website allows the public to view the HUD listings without even registering. Should you find a property you are interested in, you will, however, need a "HUD registered broker" to help you make an offer - and that's me! I am authorized to work with buyers to purchase HUD homes, and can help you understand what is involved!

As a Full service Realtor, and a DMAAR MLS member, I can easily set you up to receive daily emails with the new foreclosures for sale in Des Moines and Central Iowa, including HUD homes and bank owned properties from other sources. (We can do the same if you are looking for a personal home also!) And since I don't list these foreclosure homes, you can be assured I am always working for you!

To see tips on how to use this site, press "Play" below, or Click Here.

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about foreclosed homes in the Des Moines area!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Helping you buy or sell investment homes in the Des Moines Iowa area, including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Des Moines Real Estate: New Construction Homes For Sale, January 1st, 2007

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:43:15 -0600

A look at inventory levels of new construction compared with existing homes for sale in Des Moines.

Des Moines Real Estate: New Construction Homes For Sale, January 1st, 2007
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

Des Moines home builder inventory levels remain high at the start of 2008. New construction currently accounts for around 33% of the homes for sale in our area. Proposed construction levels are down substantially from last year, standing at just around 4% of homes available in Des Moines. Existing homes account for the bulk of our market, at just over 63% of total inventory.

There are currently4,612 pre-owned homes for sale in the Des Moines area and 2,382 new homes for sale. Home builders in Des Moines have proposed building another 303 homes.

In this current environment, new homes for sale in Des Moines present potantial buyers with the opportunity to negotiate with builders for upgrades and even reductions in price. This has not been the case in recent years as new homes sold quickly, and builders did not need to negotiate prices to keep sales moving.

If you plan to build a home in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area, having a REALTOR who stays on top of the ever changing market can be a valuable asset to you! Contact us today to discuss your plans!

Also See:
Des Moines Real Estate: Foreclosure Homes For Sale, January 1st, 2007
Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Sales Activity: December 07: 9.9 Months of Inventory
Des Moines Iowa Real Estate, Homes for Sale, 2007 vs. 2006

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Helping you buy or sell your Des Moines area home, including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Des Moines Real Estate: Foreclosure Homes For Sale, January 1st, 2007

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:14 -0600

A look at the number of foreclosure and pre-foreclosure homes for sale in the Des Moines Iowa MLS.

Des Moines Real Estate: Foreclosure Stats, January 1st, 2007
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

As of January 1st, 2007 there are currently a total of 7,297 homes both for sale, and under contract in the Des Moines Area Multiple Listing Service.

Of these listings, 243 homes are being sold by lenders, after being foreclosed on. Another 179 homes are noted as being in a pre-foreclosure (short sale) status, meaning the seller mortgage amount exceeds the amount the seller expect to receive, after selling their home. Short sales can indicate a homeowner who is in financial distress.

Foreclosure and pre-forclosure homes for sale
account for nearly 6% of the total homes for sale in our area.

If you plan to sell or buy a home in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area, having a REALTOR who stays on top of the ever changing market can be a valuable asset to you! Contact us today to discuss your plans!

Also See:
Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Sales Activity: December 07: 9.9 Months of Inventory
Des Moines Iowa Real Estate: Average Time to Sell a Home in 2007 vs. 2006

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Helping you buy and sell Des Moines Iowa Real Estate, including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Remembering the Barton Solvents Fire | Des Moines Iowa Real Estate

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:11:00 -0600

My personal photos from the Barton Solvents Fire in Des Moines, Iowa
by: Brian Wentz, Realtor

I was sorting through my files on my laptop, and copying off old listing pictures today when I ran across the photos I took of the huge fire we had in Des Moines at the Barton Solvents plant we had back in October. I was just finishing an appointment not far from the facility when I saw the black smoke starting to rise. So I grabbed my camera, and off I went to see what was happening. It was truly amazing to see the flames rising far into the sky and the 55 gallon barrels shooting off like rockets!

It looks like the investigation is showing that the fire started from static electricity when workers were transferring some chemicals. Thankfully, no one was killed in the accident.

What a day that was. Des Moines looked like something out of a Stephen King novel, with the black smoke being seen as far away as 40 miles, and the interstates completely shut down. It was just eerie!

Here were a few of my shots:

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Specializing in homes for sale in the Greater Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Markets, including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Sales Activity: December 07: 9.9 Months of Inventory

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 15:38:56 -0600

Absorption rates are used to determine how many weeks it would take to sell the existing inventory in a given market. Based on the latest figures from home sales in Des Moines, Iowa, there is currently 9.9 months of inventory on the market.

See How Long Homes in Des Moines, Iowa Took To Sell in 2007.

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Helping you buy and sell Des Moines Iowa Real Estate, including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate: Average Time to Sell a Home in 2007 vs. 2006

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 14:21:41 -0600

How long it takes for a home to sell in Des Moines can vary from month to month based on many factors, including interest rates, the amount of inventory in the market and sometimes even weather.

The start of 2007 brought anxious Des Moines home sellers some of the longest marketing times in over two years. The longest selling times of the year came in March, reaching a high of 13.7 weeks. But as the year progressed, the average time it took to receive an offer got down to as low as 11 weeks.

It is always important to note that many homes sell in less time if the home is properly priced, well marketed and in a market ready condition. And some take much, much longer.

In 2007, the homes we personally listed (Brian and Beth that is), sold much faster than the market averages!

Our 2007 Listings sold in an average of 51 days, or 7.2 Weeks.

This was 34 days less than the 86 day average for the Greater Des Moines Real Estate Market!

See 2007 Year Over Year Inventory levels.

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Specializing in Des Moines Iowa Real Estate,including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate, Homes for Sale, 2007 vs. 2006

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 12:44:12 -0600

2007 was a year of constant change in the Des Moines Iowa Real Estate market...

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate, Homes for Sale, 2007 vs. 2006
by Brian Wentz, Realtor

Inventory levels during the first half of 2007 remained higher than the first half of 2006. But as this chart shows, the slowdown which began toward the end of 2006 is showed signs of recovery during the second half of 2007. (Note: December 2007 figures were not available at this time.)

See the 2007 Average Time to Sell a Home in Des Moines.

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Specializing in Des Moines Iowa Real Estate, including Urbandale, Clive, Beaverdale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Iowa Home Buyers and Sellers... Your Safety is Important!

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 11:10:40 -0600

As 2008 rolls in, it is a good time to take a moment for a quick "Home Safety Check".

Des Moines Iowa Home Buyers and Sellers... Your Safety is Important!
by: Brian Wentz, Relator

Smoke Detectors
Those little doo-dads have been going about keeping you safe all year now. So FEED THEM! They need a fresh 9-volt battery to keep them happily working for another year. And if the detector is more than 5 years old, it may be a great time to replace them.

In 2006 there were 3,245 deaths in the US due to fire, and 81% of these occurred in a residence!

Carbon Monoxide Detector
I still find a lot of people who don't have one of these. Early in my career I had a family who had been getting pretty sick, and didn't know why. Turned out their furnace was emitting some pretty bad stuff into their house at night. Thankfully, everything was OK with them after it was all said and done. But I always remember when they called me to tell me about it.

If you don't have one, please get one. They are about $40.00 or so. Unlike smoke detectors, which are mounted at th ceiling level, it is important to mount these units close to the floor on any level where daily living occurs. You can find a variety of CO2 detectors units, and comparision information, here.

Between 2001 and 2003, the CDC tracked over 15,200, non-fire relates carbon monoxide exposure cases. 64% of these were occurred inside personal residences.

Dryer Vent Cleaning
This was a new one to me a few years back- frankly I had never heard of the issue before! A keen-eyed home inspector brought it to the attention of one of my buyers. Dryer fires occur from the accumulation of lint in the ventilation system of your clothes dryer. This buildup reduces airflow and can create a highly flammable source for the electric element or gas flame in a dryer.

It is just amazing, but FEMA reports that clothes dryer fires account for about 15,600 structure fires, 15 deaths, and 400 injuries annually. 80% of these occur in residential structures.

There are service providers listed in the "yellow pages" who provide cleaning services for clothes dryers. Most use a unique tool to remove the lint from within a dryer and the ventilation system.

Taking a few moments today will be time well spent, and just might help
keep your home safe from some of these dangers!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Specializing in the Metro Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Markets, including Urbandale, Clive, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Iowa Law on Sex Offenders: "2000 Feet" Required

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 02:25:50 -0600

When moving to a neighborhood, many buyers want to ensure a safe neighborhood. And one of the concerns some buyers have is "Are there any Registered Sex Offenders in This Neighborhood?"

In case you did not already know, in the State of Iowa, it's illegal for a registered sex offender to live within 2000 foot of a school or a registered day care facility.

The "2000 Foot Rule" law, as it has come to be known, first passed in 2002 in an overwhelming vote. The law stemmed from a concerned citizen, who contacted their State Legislator. They were uncomfortable knowing a convicted sex offender was living in a property that overlooked a school yard in Boone, Iowa.

The law has faced several legal challenges, but was upheld by Iowa's Supreme Court in December 2007.

Below is the text of the code, from the Code of the State of Iowa:

Iowa Code

692A.2A Residency restrictions - child care facilities and schools.

1. For purposes of this section, "person" means a person who has committed a criminal offense against a minor, or an aggravated offense, sexually violent offense, or other relevant offense that involved a minor.

2. A person shall not reside within two thousand feet of the real property comprising a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school or a child care facility.

3. A person who resides within two thousand feet of the real property comprising a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school, or a child care facility, commits an aggravated misdemeanor.

4. A person residing within two thousand feet of the real property comprising a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school or a child care facility does not commit a violation of this section if any of the following apply:

a. The person is required to serve a sentence at a jail, prison, juvenile facility, or other correctional institution or facility.

b. The person is subject to an order of commitment under chapter 229A .

c. The person has established a residence prior to July 1, 2002, or a school or child care facility is newly located on or after July 1, 2002.

d. The person is a minor or a ward under a guardianship.

You can find more information at the Iowa Sex Offenders Registry, which allows you to check for offenders who live near a specific address.

Having a Buyers Agent who is up to date on local issues, such as the 2000 foot rule, can add value to your real estate purchase experience!

Be safe and be aware!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Specializing in the Metro Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Markets, including Urbandale, Clive, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.

Iowa Sex Offender Registry

Des Moines Iowa Real Estate- Brian Wentz REALTOR® (Burnett Realty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 01:00:58 -0600

When moving to a new neighborhood, many clients are now checking the Iowa Sex Offender registry to see who might be lurking in a potential neighborhood.

In Iowa, you can check the registry by searching the registry records at www.iowasexoffender.com. The service lets you search by an address, shows you an interactive map of offenders place of residence, and lists the class of offense the offender was convicted on, such as minors or adult victims. You can also receive updates by e-mail if an offender moves to your neighborhood!

The registry has been in effect since 1995. As of November, 2007 the registry includes 6,007 individuals that have been convicted, including 1,548 who now live out of State and 705 who are incarcerated.

For my local area, Polk county has 437 registered sex offenders. Dallas county shows 57 registered offenders and Warren county has 45 registered.

For other counties statistics, click here.

Be safe and be aware!

Brian Wentz & Beth Ernst
Burnett Realty
515-334-4994
www.BrianWentzRealtor.com

Specializing in the Metro Des Moines Iowa Real Estate Markets, including Urbandale, Clive, West Des Moines, Johnston, Ankeny and Waukee.