Indianapolis Real Estate

Broad Ripple Village Real Estate Market Report, Indianapolis IN, November 2009 Data

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 14:27:26 -0600

Broad Ripple Village Real Estate Market Info

First I'd like to apologize for getting this data out so late this month. I usually post on the first Monday of the new month. Regardless, I hope you find this information useful...

Following is the market report for the area known as Broad Ripple Village as of December 12th 2009.

Active, Pending, and Sold listings were down in November compared to October, but that is to be expected nearing the end of the year. The good news is that November sales this year were up %1000 compared to last year! %1000 you say! Yes, November sales last year were ZERO, so 10 sales this year increased the numbers dramatically. :) Either way it's good news!

The extension of the Tax Credit for New Home Buyers (or those that haven't owned in 3 years) in addition to existing homeowners being able to receive a credit will hopefully keep the positive activity flowing.

Current Active Listings	61	Min Price: $112,900	Max Price: $489,900	15 Condo, 46 Single Family
Pending Listings	6	Min Price: $61,900	Max Price: $188,900	0 Condo, 6 Single Family
Sold in the month of August	8	Min Price: $47,011	Max Price: $280,000	0 Condo, 8 Single Family

Broad Ripple Village is bound by Kessler Boulevard East Drive on the south, North Meridian Street on the west, the White River on the north, and North Evanston Avenue on the east

Broad Ripple Village is an area that is the perfect combination of old and new. Here you'll find homes built anywhere from the 1800's to current date. Broad Ripple has something for everyone with great restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and an emphasis on being active and healthy.

For more information on Broad Ripple and all that it has to offer, please visit the Broad Ripple Village Association home page.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about the area or if you'd like me to send you the current active listings in the area. I look forward to hearing from you!

Search homes currently on the market

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

"Must Know" Information for the Fannie Mae Deed for Lease (D4L) program and those facing foreclosure...

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 07:39:04 -0600

Fannie Mae Deed for Lease Program (D4L)

I know there are quite a few of you out there going through tough times, even facing foreclosure of your home...

Fannie Mae is now offering another option to individuals that are facing the possibility of losing their home. The Deed for Lease (D4L) program appears to be similar to leasing a car. You will return your property to the bank via a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure at which point a 12 month lease could be issued to you allowing you to stay in the home. Here are key points of information that you need to know:

Your credit will be affected because you are still executing a deed-in-lieu
The amount you pay per month is to be based on fair market rent values not to exceed 31% of your income. If you have no income, you are not eligible
Investment properties with tenants may qualify for this program
The loan cannot be insured by a federal agency (FHA, VA, HUD, Rural Development)
You cannot be more than 12 payments past due on your loan
You cannot be involved in an active bankruptcy proceeding or subject to litigation
After the initial 12 month period is up, they may allow you to sign another 12 month or month-to-month lease

Have a look at the Instructions For Borrowers sheet for more information regarding how this process will work for you.

Your biggest question probably revolves around how you begin the process... To initiate the process you essentially need to initiate a conversation with your lender, the same as you do with a short sale. Talk to them about your situation and ask them if you are eligible for the Deed for Lease Program.

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Price Reduced $14,900 3BD, 1BA on Indianapolis' Westside

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:09:23 -0600

Chanda Barrick | 1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC | 317-572-7770

758 N Holmes, Indianapolis, IN

3 Bedroom Home Indy's West Side Reduced to $14,900

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $14,900

Year Built	1885
Sq Footage	1,176
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	4,191 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Potential Investment property or home for small family. This three bedroom home needs updates and cosmetics.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central heat	- Living room	- Attic
- Basement	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior Front

Contact info:

Chanda Barrick

1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC

317-572-7770

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 17, 2009, 5:54am PST

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

3BD, 1BA Home on Indianapolis' Westside $33,900

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:12:38 -0600

Chanda Barrick | 1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC | 317-572-7770

1037 N Belmont, Indianapolis, IN

3BD, 1BA Home on Indianapolis' Westside $33,900

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $33,900

Year Built	1920
Sq Footage	1,262
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	8,190 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This 3 bd/1ba home with a large enclosed front porch, has potential for an investment property or home for a small family. Just one block from Wendell Phillips elementary school, This home is also just minutes away from the university, hospitals, downtown, and shopping. Furnace was replaced in 2006.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central heat

- Living room

- Basement

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

1037 N Belmont

Contact info:

Chanda Barrick

1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC

317-572-7770

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 17, 2009, 6:04am PST

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

8 Things You Should Know About the 2009/2010 Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:35:32 -0600

8 Things You Should Know About the 2009/2010 Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension

What was originally considered a “First-Time Homebuyer” tax credit has been extended into 2010, so I thought I’d give you the key points you need to know regarding the new extension.

It’s Important to note, the key points in this post are applicable to transactions that take place AFTER November 7, 2009. If you closed on your home before this time, please see my other post regarding the 2009 Homebuyer Tax Credit.

This post will be updated accordingly when the revised form number 5405 has been made available on the IRS website.

First and foremost, this credit no longer applies to just first-time homebuyers and/or those that haven’t owned a home in the last three years. The credit now applies to existing homeowners as well. Here’s the breakdown of who qualifies for the credit:
1. First-time homebuyer – If you’ve never purchased a home before you are a first-time homebuyer.
2. Owned a home 3 or more years ago – If you held no ownership interest in a home for AT LEAST THREE YEARS PRIOR to the date you close on a home you plan to buy
3. Existing homeowners – This category includes those individuals who have used their existing home as a principal residence for FIVE CONSECUTIVE YEARS during the last eight years. There are a few scenarios that apply here. If you’d like to run your situation past me, feel free to contact me to help you determine whether or not you qualify.
The income caps have been raised.
1. If you make $125,000 ($225,000 if married) or less you are eligible for the full amount either $8,000 or $6,500
2. If you make between $125,001 and $145,000 ($225,001 to $245,000 if married) the credit amount is reduced
3. If you make over $145,000 (over $245,000 if married) you are not eligible for the credit
The amount available for the credit varies based on how you qualify:
1. $8,000.00 - First-time homebuyers and those that haven’t owned a home within the last three years qualify for up to $8,000 based on the purchase price of the home.
  1. If you are married filing separate, the amount each of you can claim is 50% of what the transaction qualifies for (i.e. if the transaction qualifies for the full $8,000 credit, each of you may claim $4,000)
  2. If you purchased the home with others you can claim a certain percentage of the total amount received for the credit. For example if two people purchased the home equally, the ownership interest would be 50%; three people 33%, etc...
2. $6,500.00 – Existing homeowners qualify for up to $6,500 based on the purchase price of the home.
  1. If you are married filing separate, the amount each of you can claim is 50% of what the transaction qualifies for (i.e. if the transaction qualifies for the full $6,500 credit, each of you may claim $3,250)
  2. If you purchased the home with others you can claim a certain percentage of the total amount received for the credit. For example if two people purchased the home equally, the ownership interest would be 50%; three people 33%, etc…
The Date for this particular extension is April 30, 2010. If you qualify for the credit and you have an accepted purchase agreement on or before April 30, 2010 you may claim the credit; however, the transaction MUST CLOSE ON OR BEFORE JUNE 30, 2010.
Maximum purchase price for the home cannot exceed $800,000.
You must attach the HUD/Proof of Purchase for the home to your amendment. The 2009 tax credit did not require one to attach proof of purchase which sparked a slew of individuals taking advantage of the program. As a result, you must supply proof of purchase when you submit the claim for the credit.
There is a possibility that you’ll have to pay back the credit
1. If you sell the home you purchased within three years you may be required to repay the money you received. There are other possibilities, please see form number 5405’s instructions for further information regarding repayment requirements.
  1. It’s important to note, this may change based on the information provided in the revised form. I will update this post accordingly if this requirement change
To claim the credit you’ll need to complete IRS form number 5405 and submit it with your 2010 or 2011 tax return. In addition you can file an amendment to your return if you’d already completed a return before you purchased your new home.
1. Again, it’s important to note that the current form number 5405 will be amended to reflect he new provisions of the tax credit. If you close on your home AFTER November 6, 2009, you will need to submit the revised form…DO NOT USE THE CURRENT 5405 FORM if you closed after this date. I will update this post to reflect the new form when it is made available.

Here are a few more posts you may find useful:

Buying a Home
8 Things to Consider When Buying a Home
Answers To: How Much Money Is Needed To Buy A Home?
How the HUD Bidding Process Works
Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval, Which is better?

Selling Your Home
Should You Sell Your Home Before Buying a New One?

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Foto Friday....Just Loungin' Around...

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:55:17 -0600

Earlier this week (or maybe it was over the weekend) I was out in the backyard when I noticed this little guy/gal was just lounging on a tree branch. It stayed there motionless for a while and I almost thought it was dead until I actually grabbed my camera and got a closer look, LOL.

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Broad Ripple Village Real Estate Market Report, Indianapolis IN, October 2009 Data

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:27:47 -0600

Broad Ripple Village Real Estate Market Info

Following is the market report for the area known as Broad Ripple Village as of November 10th 2009.

Good news for October sales...They were up compared to September (8 sold), in addition to being up from October 2008 (10 sold) sales!

Current Active Listings	70	Min Price: $112,900	Max Price: $525,000	15 Condo, 55 Single Family
Pending Listings	9	Min Price: $44,900	Max Price: $290,000	0 Condo, 9 Single Family
Sold in the month of August	13	Min Price: $95,000	Max Price: $252,000	3 Condo, 10 Single Family

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

How I Use My Blog To Help Clients, Potential Clients, and Readers In General...

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:34:34 -0500

Bob Stewart recently challenged us to write a post explaining how we've actually used our blog to enhance our relationships with our clients....For me, there is a specific post that immediately came to mind for this challenge.

Earlier this year, there was so much chatter about the tax credit, I felt compelled to write a post of my own regarding information I felt was important for people, in general, to know. I wanted my post to be informative so people that were first time homebuyers would understand it wasn't a simple matter of buy a house, get $8,000...

After writing the post, I didn't really do much with it as far as my clients go, until I had a "DUH" or "AHA" moment and realized "Hello Chanda, you should be sending this info to your first time homebuyers!" I began with a client that had just closed the purchase of her first home. I sent her a link to my post, in addition to the IRS link explaining how to amend a tax return. She was grateful for the information provided and I believe this along with making her experience as informative and easy-going as possible is a big part of why she sent me so many referrals.

I then decided I'd start using this post to help answer questions of those asking questions in various forums I participate in. Although they may not live in my area, I was able to provide them with information that was useful in helping to determine whether or not they qualify for the credit and where to go to get the form. Again, I've been the recipient of quite a few "Thank yous" since providing this information.

I recently worked with another first time homebuyer and after the transaction closed I sent her the link to my post explaining the credit and the link to amend her taxes. Again, another very happy client that has something to refer to when she has questions regarding this year's tax credit.

All in all, I think this was one of my best and most informative posts because it provides information I can pass on to my clients in addition to something for the rest of the first time buyers out there to reference as well.

To sum it all up, this isn't the only post I've used to provide information. When clients/potential clients ask about something I know I've written a post about or if they inform me that this is their first purchase there a few different posts that I send the links to. It gives them the ability to take the information in at their own pace and ask questions when they are ready.

Here are a few of the posts that my clients (and other homebuyers and sellers) may find useful:

Buying a Home
8 Things to Consider When Buying a Home
Answers To: How Much Money Is Needed To Buy A Home?
How the HUD Bidding Process Works
Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval, Which is better?

Selling Your Home
Should You Sell Your Home Before Buying a New One?

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Foto Friday...Tuesday Was Woodpecker Day...

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:11:06 -0500

I don't know what was going on Tuesday, but as I looked out the window I saw a HUGE bird on the side of my tree....I'd never noticed this type of bird around before so I went out to take a closer look...

As I got closer I realized this was the real life version of WOODY WOODPECKER, LOL! I couldn't get over how large he/she was! After looking it up, it appears this species is the Pileated Woodpecker... It flew from tree to tree pecking here and there, always just out of the way to get a good shot with my camera...

As I was trying to capture a good shot of "Woody", I noticed yet another woodpecker in another tree....Another species which appears to be the Red-bellied woodpecker... I've been here for four years and have to admit I've never seen either of these birds in my neck of the woods, it was a treat! I hope I can get a good shot of the Pileated some day.

Anyway, enjoy! I guess I got a bit wordy with my post, huh? :)

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Just Attended an Architectural Styles Class Here in Indy...

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:42:47 -0500

Architectural Styles in Indianapolis

If you know me, you know I'm fascinated by Architecture, old and new, which is exactly why the Architectural Styles course offered by the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana appealed to me so much. I signed up a couple of months ago for the two hour course so I could get a better handle on the various styles found here in Indianapolis.

Two hours flew by! It's a shame there were only five of us in attendance, but in actuality I'm happy it turned out that way because I think it gave us an opportunity to ask questions more freely.

It's amazing...Just as fashion trends are almost always bound to come back in style, I found that homes built around Indianapolis go through the same cycles. A perfect example of this would be the The Village of WestClay in Carmel Indiana which I wrote about in the past. These homes are new construction yet they are built to mimic various architectural styles of the past.

As a result of my newfound knowledge, I've decided to create a series of posts that highlight the various architectural styles that can be found here in Indianapolis. Who knows, maybe there will even be a quiz at the end of the series. ;o)

Another post of interest related to architecture in Indianapolis is the one I did on The Old Northside of Indianapolis.

If you're interested in seeing what homes of various architectural styles are on the market here in Indianapolis, feel free to give me a call or shoot me an email so we can begin the search for your dream home today!

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Indianapolis Real Estate Agent Earns Real Estate Webographer Certification

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:38:02 -0500

Indianapolis Real Estate Agent Chanda Barrick Earns REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER^TM Certification.

For Immediate Release

Indianapolis, Indiana. 10-19-2009. Chanda Barrick has successfully completed the REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER^TM certification to join an elite group of real estate professionals who have earned the prestigious certification offered through the National Institute of Webographers, LLC. Chanda has successfully completed 12 courses including: Online Business Strategy, Agent Websites, Single-property Websites, Lead Generation and Management, Virtual Tours, CMA and AVM technology, Neighborhood Search, Online Transaction Management, Electronic Forms, Virtual Assistants, Mobile Technologies and Blogs.

The REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER^TM certification teaches real estate professionals how to increase marketability by determining where to invest resources in order to generate leads, acquire new clients, advertise and facilitate closings.

About Chanda Barrick
Chanda Barrick, a REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER^TM professional, knows how to win more listings, attract buyers by turning a listing process into a marketing process. For more information about the valuable services that I provide to my clients and web-savvy consumers, please feel free to contact me at:

Chanda Barrick
http://www.chandasellsindy.com
chanda[at]chandasellsindy.com

Following paragraph courtesy of the National Insitute of Webographers

About National Institute of Webographers, LLC
Since 2004, The National Institute of Webographers, LLC has specialized in the education, training, assessment and certification of web-based technologies for the Real Estate industry. The REAL ESTATE WEBOGRAPHER^TM Certification (REW^TM) provides consumer-facing solutions, education and training through a series of interactive online courses. Certification, online modules for REALTORS® and Assistants include Agent Websites, Single-property Websites, Lead Generation and Management, Virtual Tours, CMA and AVM technology, Neighborhood Search, Online Transaction Management, Electronic Forms, Blogs, Mobile Technologies, Virtual Assistants, and the Learning Laboratory^TM, where Certificants can access an array of showcased technologies for hands on learning. Available 24/7/365, these courses provide the opportunity for working professionals to learn at their own pace while enhancing the skill sets necessary to compete and excel with today's web savvy consumers. REW^TM professionals provide consumers with a positive and profitable Real Estate experience. For more information regarding The National Institute of Webographers, please visit www.webographers.com or contact Scott Lau at ScottLau@Webographers.com.

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Any Java/JavaScript Gurus Out There That Can Help Me?

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:50:25 -0500

I have a survey I'd like to implement on my site...I have the script snippet that I need to include in the body of my HTML, but I want this script to execute ONLY upon exit of my website....I keep finding little snippits here and there out on the web, but it doesn't explain what they are doing in english! Is this something that is really difficult to accomplish or is it simple to say "OnExit, execute script x"?

Anybody know or have a buddy that could help me out?

PLEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAASSSSSSEEEEEEE!!!!!

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Queen/King of Google...Your 5 Minutes of Fame....Then Reality Sinks In...

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:12:28 -0500

I realy wish people understood that their post may be at the top of Google 5 minutes before it starts the downward spiral into the abyss of Google search results...

I frequently see posts with people so excited they can hardly contain themselves because they made a post and it was in one of the top spots of the Google search results within a few minutes or hours after they posted...

Here's a little secret folks....chances are, your post isn't going to stay there...

When I first got into this whole blogging "thing", I too found myself oozing with excitement when I performed a search on my keywords and found that I was at the top of Google, then I realized that if I checked back in a few days later, my post essentially disappears off the radar.

What we all need to realize is that the key to staying in that top spot is getting a lot of traffic to your post/blog, links to your blog, among other things...I'm diligently working to finding the secret to climbing that ladder back to the top.

If you don't believe me, check out one of your own posts...You'll realize you are in that top spot for about 2 hours (if even that long), then you will begin the downward spiral. I'm not trying to bring you down, burst your bubble, whatever...I just want you to be aware so you continue to put in the work needed to stay in that top spot.

Again, I just want you to keep in mind that you have to learn how to bring the traffic and links to your blog in order to make it to the top and stay there, that is unless your keywords are so "out of the ordinary" there's nothing else out there to compete with...

Some of our rainers have a huge following and SEO down to a science so it is easy for them to make it to the top and stay there, but for the rest of us still learning, there's more to this formula...

Does this make sense to you all?

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Follow-up to my Success With Answering a Question on Zillow...

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:50:37 -0500

Another Indianapolis (Oaklandon) Home Sold

A few weeks ago I wrote a post in regards to how I answered a simple question on Zillow about an Indianapolis home for sale. The result of answering that simple question resulted in submitting a purchase agreement for that particular property. I was a bit skeptical because it seemed waaaaay too easy....

Well as it turns out, my client(s) have been a true pleasure to work with. The couple were originally from Indianapolis and moved to Florida many years ago. Their daughter wanted to buy her first home in her parents' home town...Incidentally in the same neighborhood her father grew up in. They never physically saw the house, but I took quite a few pictures to give them an idea as to the condition the home was in in addition to giving them a feel for the area.

Long story short, the deal officially closed this week. My client is really excited about the purchase of her first home (even though she hasn't seen it in person yet) and she has tons of family up here that are going to help her bring the home back to it's original charm! I do hope they will send me pictures when the rehab is complete.

It just goes to show, simple gestures can turn into grand things!

Crystal, I hope you enjoy your new home!

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

This is Exactly Why I Don't Think We Should Extend The Tax Credit...

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:09:00 -0500

I receive email updates to a thread regarding the $8,000 tax credit and read a comment today that convinces me more that we should not extend this credit unless there are more controls put in place.

The commenter indicated that her sister never bought a home in 2009, yet she filed the amendment to receive the credit. She never bought a house and had no intentions of buying a house this year or anytime in the near future.

Now you tell me if that's what we want our tax dollars going towards...Hearing stories like this make me realize, as always, people WILL take advantage of a good thing and ruin it for everyone. It sickens me because this story is likely the story of many people that decided they wanted to take advantage of an effort to help stimulate the economy.

If I remember correctly (and please correct me if I'm wrong, it'll make me feel better), the form you fill out does not require you submit any proof of a purchase along with your amendment...In my opinion, if they don't put more controls in place to validate these claims for the credit, then they ABSOLUTELY SHOULD NOT extend the credit.

Many people keep saying we need to extend it, but should we really if things like this are going on?

JMHO...

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

What are Your Thoughts About "By Referral Only" (Joe Stumpf)?

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:41:55 -0500

I really don't know how I got on the mailing list for this program, but I watched the 2 and a half hour video last night and am wondering if I should make the investment to buy the 17 CD program. I did some looking around and there's another program (the name of it slips my mind right now but apparently the guy that developed the other program started with By Referral Only) that has been posted about multiple times here in the rain..It doesn't seem like there's been as much emphasis on the By Referral Only Program.

I'd like to ask those of you who have actually used the program, if you think it works? What is so special about this program that I can't figure out on my own? Of course, just as with any of these "special offers" they are vague about what you get other than 17 CDs. Can you give me some insight as to what exactly you are getting content-wise?

Any input you have would be greatly appreciated. I am only asking about "By Referral Only" at this point...I have a feeling this conversation could digress into other programs, but I'd like to keep it to this one for now...

Do you think it's worth it? If so, why?

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

3 BD, 2 BA Indianapolis Condo For Sale in Franklin Township

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:59:25 -0500

Chanda Barrick | 1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC | 317-572-7770

3086 Wildcat Lane, Indianapolis, IN

3 BD 2 BA Franklin Township Condo For Sale

3BR/2BA Condo

offered at $89,900

Year Built	2003
Sq Footage	1,342
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$130 per month

DESCRIPTION

This 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath condo in Franklin Township boasts vaulted ceilings and a spacious master suite. Prepare your meals on the center island with ease. After your meal enjoy your favorite beverage in the living room or out on the balcony with a view of the pond. Have any questions or interested in seeing this property or any other Indianapolis Real Estate, feel free to contact me.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet	- Living room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Washer
- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

- Guest parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Pond View

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

3086 Wildcat Lane	View of the pond
Master Suite	Kitchen w/Center Island

Contact info:

Chanda Barrick

1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC

317-572-7770

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 9, 2009, 3:33pm PDT

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

IF A FIRST TIME BUYER PURCHASES A MULTI FAMILY, HOW DOES THE $8,000 TAX CREDIT WORK?

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:31:11 -0500

I'm reblogging this because I don't see that Joe received an answer to his question. Anyone have any first hand experience with this scenario or know how this would work?

Via Joe Jackson (Keller Williams Capital Partners):

I have been asked this many times. The web sites I have looked at simply say principle residence. But is your buy a 2 unit and live in one side, do you still get $8,000 or only $4,000?

What is the situation if one buys a 4 unit? $8,000 or $2,000? If any one has the answer to this, I'd appreciate your response!

THE JACKSON TEAM 614.888.1000 614.431.1220

VISIT US AT WWW.THEJACKSONTEAM.NET

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Hilarious Video on the REO "Robot" World...

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:18:53 -0500

If you've ever dealt with foreclosures then you can likely relate to this video. I have dealt with a few REO agents that are very much like this.

But then again, at least the robot actually spoke to the poor buyer bot...In my world, I can't even get them to pick up the phone, return call or email...So in reality, I guess he made more progress than I have in the past...

Enjoy!

Via Ashley Myers (Manning & Company):

Okay, I consider myself a "foreclosure specialist," but can't help but chuckle when I see this video. The demands can be so unreasonably high, I know, but it's always good to laugh at yourself, right?

Feel free to pass the video along - anyone in the REO business, like myself, or any burnt investor trying to get into the world of foreclosures that needs a good laugh!

Selling foreclosures with a pulse,

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

What can we expect in the aftermath of the $8,000 tax credit...

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:06:44 -0500

I was reading a fellow AR member's post this morning regarding the tax credit and whether or not it is really doing us any good in the long run. I have to agree...While it's been good in the short term, I am wondering how this credit is going to affect the market/economy in general within the next three years.

How many people are rushing out to buy a home right now that may not realistically be ready to buy a home? They just wanted to get in, in time to get the "free" money. Are they fully aware of the strings attached? Many people seem to be under the impression that they just have to buy and the money will come, but do they know what happens if they have to sell the house within the next three years? How many are going to realize they bit off more than they can chew with home ownership and the costs related to it? I want my clients to be as informed as possible which is why I wrote a post informing them about those rarely mentioned things to know about this year's tax credit.

How many people are claiming the credit and wasting their money on frivolous things instead of making sensible investments with this money?

When it comes down to those that have to sell their homes before the first three years of home ownership is up, will they have the ability to repay the money they thought was free?

Is the economy going to suffer further in the long run or is the tax credit really doing our economy good?

I'm not saying everyone is going out and doing the wrong things with this money because many are responsible and doing the right things, but I just hope this doesn't end up being another hit to our economy in the long run...

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Broad Ripple Village Real Estate Market Report, Indianapolis IN, September 2009 Data

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:56:15 -0500

Broad Ripple Village Real Estate Market Info

Following is the market report for the area known as Broad Ripple Village as of October 5th 2009.

Sales for Broad Ripple Village was down compared to August; however, this is typical as we begin to enter the "slow season" of real estate which is usually during the winter season...

August 2009 total number of sales was up, 8 this year compared to 6 sold in August 2008. The major difference is that the average sales price last year was much higher than prices for this year's sales. The good news is...I suspect sales may pick up before the year is over as many first time home buyers try to find a home in time to claim the tax credit.

Current Active Listings	66	Min Price: 99,900	Max Price: 489,900	15 Condo, 51 Single Family
Pending Listings	10	Min Price: 104,900	Max Price: 274,900	2 Condo, 8 Single Family
Sold in the month of August	8	Min Price: 105,000	Max Price: 198,000	1 Condo, 7 Single Family

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

Did I Miss the Memo? Three interested parties out of the blue...

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:15:07 -0500

Today was an unusual day in the wonderful world of real estate. I have a short sale property that I listed August 1st. It's had quite a few showings; but lack of feedback from the agents and calls had me worried this property may not sell as quickly as I'd hoped. Well, apparently a memo went out over the weekend that I wasn't aware of...

First I received a call from an agent that said his client would like to place an offer and that they'd be sending it at about 2 o'clock today. He faxed it right at two...

Literally, as the fax was coming through I received an email from another agent stating she had an interested client and asked if the property had any offers...

I let that agent know that an offer was being received as I typed my response back to her and if her client was interested please let me know as quickly as possible because I planned to submit the package to the bank tomorrow...

About 15 minutes after I sent that particular email I received a phone call...

ANOTHER agent asking about the property and whether or not there were any offers. I explained to him that there was an offer that had been submitted today in addition to another agent that mentioned they had an interested buyer...I also let him know that I planned to submit the package tomorrow and if his client was interested in submitting an offer, please let me know as quickly as possible....

He called me back and said he'd be sending an offer over tomorrow morning...

So did I miss the memo today? It's like the planets were perfectly aligned...It's so odd that I get three interested parties in the same day...Technically in the same hour....after two months on the market. How's that for a series of fortunate events?

They are all first time home buyers so lets hope the bank will cooperate and help make this deal happen in time for the buyer to claim the tax credit!

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

What I wish they told me to watch out for in listing and selling property....

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:18:46 -0500

I thought this would be a fun topic to ask for thoughts on. You know when you start out in real estate that are a lot of things you wish "they" told you.

For instance, I wish they told me to watch out for creepy crawlies when listing properties that aren't exactly in the greatest condition. The second property I listed was infested with roaches...We were OK at the beginning of the initial walk-through because we thought they were dead...My managing broker pulled up a vent and it was like the river Nile flowing with roaches when he pulled that vent up! I came over a day or two later to place the sign and as I opened the front door a barrage of roaches came flying out at me! BLECH! Now why didn't somebody tell me to watch out for these things before?

Again, I wish they told me to be careful with bugs in these properties...I went over to another property briefly today to take pictures. I was in and out in about 5 and no more than 10 minutes. I said my goodbyes to my client and made my way home. I got home, sat down on the couch, and proceeded to start checking my email when I noticed something moving on my shirt....Upon closer inspection I'll be darned if it wasn't a flea on me! I ran outside and realized I had them all over me! BLECH BLECH BLECH! I have pets and I don't want my poor pup and kitten to be burdened with a flea problem. Both me and my dog are allergic....

NOW WHY DIDN'T SOMEBODY TELL ME to watch out for these things before? I have bites all over me and now I'm scared my house is going to end up with a darned flea problem.

I thought this would be a fun topic to bring up for discussion. What are some of the things you wish they told you when you started in real estate?

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

3 BD, 1 BA Home on Indy's West Side $26,900

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:20:49 -0500

Chanda Barrick | 1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC | 317-572-7770

758 N Holmes, Indianapolis, IN

3 Bedroom Home Indy's West Side

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $26,900

Year Built	1885
Sq Footage	1,176
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	4,191 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Potential Investment property or home for small family. This three bedroom home needs updates and cosmetics. Bring any reasonable offer.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central heat	- Living room	- Attic
- Basement	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Exterior Front

Contact info:

Chanda Barrick

1st Choice Real Estate Group, LLC

317-572-7770

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 23, 2009, 6:38am PDT

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

It's Time To Update Your Photo - In HD

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 14:18:36 -0500

I know many of you out there have been dragging your feet about putting a recent photo of yourself out there (I was one of those people); but hey, when you can get an additional 1080 points just for doing it, I say "Why not?"

I just updated my photo a day or two ago. It took a while for the upload to complete and the first try didn't give me the editing option, but after trying again it finally worked. Why don't you give it a shot?

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):

It's Time To Update Your Photo - In HD

Members now have the ability to upload large photos from digital cameras, crop and adjust endlessly, and save the resulting image as their profile photo. These new profile photos are of a much higher quality. So now you can update your photo on ActiveRain and also earn 1080 bonus points.

The new photo or image must be at least 600 x 600. Our new photo upload feature allows you to use any hi-definition or large sized photo taken of you. You know that picture of you in the crowd that you always wished you could use but there were other people in it, or it was just too big? Now you can dig out that photo from the BBQ last weekend, crop yourself out, and upload it. Don't just do it for the points! lol~

Now just because you look great in your College Cap and Gown, I would still suggest using a current photo, or at least one that is no more than 6 months old. I can't tell you how many events I've been to lately where I would've known you had your photo here matched. :-O I have taken the plunge myself, and even though this is not my best photogenic side, it's current and will have to do til I find a better one.

There's no need for a tutorial on this new feature, it's pretty simple and straight forward. Just be sure that your starting image is at least 600 x 600 or you will get an error telling you your photo is too small. Just go to your "My Home" page and click on the "Edit" profile link to add your new HD photo. I can't wait to see all the NEW and UPDATED faces around the community. Let's "FACE" it, you know it's time to update YOUR photo, why not do it in HD and get 1080 bonus points too?

If I'm away from this Blog for any length of time, it's possible you might find me over on one of these other sites, I make my rounds every so often because I know that if you're not here, you're probably over there too! :-)



"RainMaker" Special - Signup Here and Get New Member Discount

Chanda Barrick, REALTOR®
1st Choice Real Estate Group
(O)317-889-1111
(C)317-572-7770
(F)317-889-9198
www.chandasellsindy.com

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