Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce February Events - 01/30/09 09:11 AM
January is quickly coming to a close, and Super Bowl is almost here! Get your goodies and refreshments ready and keep the Maroons Curse alive by cheering on the Steelers to victory! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! Schuylkill Chamber members are the place to go to to find that WOW gift for your Valentine. Be sure to check out a Chamber member for your gift and Buy Schuylkill, By Choice!
Dig yourself out of the snow and ice and plan on attending any or all of these February events. On Wednesday, February 11, join us for our Networking Before … (5 comments)

Give yourself some credit... if you are a "First-Time Homebuyer" - 01/28/09 03:44 PM
Thanks to Jason for writing this excellent post!
Via Jason Sardi, Mortgage Banker (FHA-VA-USDA-Conventional):
Let's first define "First-Time Homebuyer".  Actually, let's define what the heck I'm addressing in the first place.  It's the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit.  I trust you've at least heard about it and if not... no biggie... I will give you some of the talking points and the direct address to the site momentarily.
The whole concept of "First-Time Homebuyer" can be a tad misleading for some of you.  You are considered a first-time homebuyer (under this tax credit) if you have not owned another home at any point in time … (2 comments)

January 29 - Feb 8 Things to Do in Schuylkill County - 01/28/09 07:35 AM
January 29 Happy Hour at The Porter House Grille Enter to win a Yuengling Snowboard 5 pm to 7 pm, The Porter House Grille, 100 S. Centre St., (located at the Ramada Inn) Pottsville. Yuengling Snowboard Giveaway - Every Thursday during Happy Hour enter to win a Yuengling Snowboard, Final drawing will be Thursday February 26. $1.50 Yuengling Drafts. 570-622-4707. www.porterhousegrille.com
January 29 Open Mic / Karaoke at the Lazy Dog Coffeehouse 7-10 pm, Lazy Dog Coffeehouse, 18 East Sunbury St., Minersville. Everyone is welcome, from seasoned players to first-timers. A great place to test out new material or shake off … (3 comments)

Advice for Sellers-Leave During Showings - 01/27/09 01:07 PM
 
Via Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage):
If you must be home during showings of your property, I can suggest that you step outside and let the potential buyers look around without you there. Let your Realtor do the "selling" of the home. Let me give you a recent scenario and why I am suggesting this for you.
Awhile back, I took some buyers out to look at a home. It was the first weekend on the market. The sellers were home during the showing and stayed in the home. They were so excited to have a showing … (0 comments)

HGTV is looking for first time buyers in Greater Philadelphia! - 01/26/09 06:03 PM

Via HGTV My First Place (HGTV/High Noon Entertainment):
MY FIRST PLACE, HGTV’s hit series, is still casting for our Sixth season and we’re STILL looking for first-time homebuyers in the Greater Philadelphia area RIGHT NOW! AGENTS involved play a significant role in the storytelling methods of the show and will receive nationally televised (HGTV)positive exposure. We are looking for fun, high-energy people who are just starting the home-buying process for their first place! Our goal is to capture all the trials and tribulations of looking for, bidding on and buying your first place.  Ideal candidates will be enthusiastic buyers with a great story to tell and a desire to … (1 comments)

First Time Home Buyers Top 5 List for Reading A Home Inspection Report - 01/26/09 06:48 AM

Via Jim Mushinsky (Centsable Inspection):
<!-- @page { margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } H3 { margin-bottom: 0.08in } H3.western { font-family: "Arial", sans-serif } H3.cjk { font-family: "MS Mincho" } -->
First Time Buyers Top 5 List for Reading A Home Inspection Report By: James Mushinsky – Centsable Inspection – January 2009
 
You've just had the home inspection and anticipating the report. The inspector pointed out so many items, and explained all the various components in the house. Don't get overwhelmed by the inspection report. Remember these 5 points.
 
Not Inspected Items. Licensed Home Inspectors have State … (0 comments)

Butler Co. Mobile Home Park MUST SHUT DOWN - 01/23/09 02:05 PM
Kennedy Mobile Home Park Has Until Jan. 31 to Close
Butler County Court of Common Pleas has ordered Victor Kennedy, the owner of Kennedy Mobile Home Park in Marion Township, Butler County, to close the property by Jan. 31.
“The mobile home park’s wastewater treatment plant has discharged inadequately treated sewage for a number of years into an unnamed tributary of McMurray Run in the Slippery Rock Creek watershed,” said Department of Environmental Protection Northwest Regional Director Kelly Burch.
“The department initiated a number of enforcement actions and attempted to work with Mr. Kennedy after attempts to encourage voluntary compliance … (0 comments)

Mortgage loan modifications ought to have more bite - 01/22/09 09:38 PM

Via Esko Kiuru - Las Vegas NV Mortgage Consultant (Sinifox Financial):
As foreclosure numbers keep growing nationwide lenders are facing more pressure to make home loan modifications, or workouts, more meaningful. Up to now their efforts have mostly been half measures from the borrower's perspective, backed by recent stats that around half of modified home loans re-default within six months. That surely isn't helping the pummeled real estate market to recover, something everyone ought to strive for, and thus help the entire economy get back on track.   
The entities operating between distressed homeowners and the investors who have bought their underlying … (0 comments)

Hegins PA Single: $88,000 - 01/22/09 07:18 PM
Nice single on large lot in town. Fenced yard with carport, shed, nice flagstone patio, outdoor fireplace ... great for entertaining outdoors. Country kitchen, large living room, dining room + game room. Stove/fridge remain. Upstairs walk in closet. Attic could be finished for 3rd bedroom. To get to basement, trap door in laundry room (off kitchen). Furnace 95. This is a really nice little house in rural Pennsylvania! Come see it for yourself. www.move2pennsylvania.com … (1 comments)

Buyers - Make A Wish List Before Starting Your Search - 01/21/09 01:27 PM

Via Brigita McKelvie - Lehigh Valley, PA, Residential, Rural & Horse Properties (Vision Realty Group):
Buyers, when you are ready to purchase a home and before doing the actual search, make a checklist of priorities in your dream home.  Knowing exactly what you want will cut down wasted time looking at homes that you would not even consider.
 
While your opinions on the type of home you want to own may change during the homebuying process, use this easy checklist to help you prioritize.  It will make the shopping process less time consuming.
 
Your Property Wish List
 
 
How close … (2 comments)

Annual Seedling Sale 2009 - 01/20/09 02:06 PM
Now until April 1
34th Annual Seedling Sale-2009
Proceeds support the programs and projects of Sweet Arrow Lake County Park---the crown jewel of Schuylkill County. The Sweet Arrow Lake Conservation Association (SALCA) and Schuylkill Conservation District are cooperating in this sale.
Pick up date: Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon at the Sweet Arrow Lake County Park Clubhouse parking lot, off Rt. 443, near Pine Grove. Seedlings are bare root and will be healthy at pickup. No guarantees after this date.
Contact “Porcupine Pat” at 570-622-4124 ext. 113 or porcupinepat@yahoo.com for more information.
 
www.move2pennsylvania.com
… (0 comments)

48 York Farm Road, Pottsville: $94,000 for a SINGLE! - 01/20/09 12:57 PM
Wonderful location, off street parking next to house. Lower level bar area opens to large patio overlooking town. First floor bedroom + 2 upstairs. House needs some updating--come in and make it your dream home! 100 amp electrical. Oil, last cleaned 12/07. 830 gals used last yr. All appliances can stay. Where else can you buy a SINGLE home for this price? www.move2pennsylvania.com … (0 comments)

42 York Farm Road, Pottsville PA: $119,900 - 01/20/09 12:54 PM
Location, location, location! Perched above town in York Farm area, centrally located near Pottsville's sports complex, swimming pool, all schools. Off street parking + 1 car garage. New wall-to-wall carpet throughout, newly remodeled modern baths. New roof, large fenced in lot, central air. Microwave, range, dishwasher remain. Deck. Ready NOW for you to move in! www.move2pennsylvania.com … (0 comments)

734 Water St. Pottsville PA: $22,000 - 01/20/09 08:38 AM
Seller is packing up now--ready to move in very soon. Installing new carpet in downstairs. Modern bathroom with soaking up and shower upstairs, ceramic tile. Laundry 2nd floor, off hall. Large front bedroom and owner is framing in 2nd room for smaller bedroom or office. Oil burner 4 years old. Roof 9 years. In Pottsville Centre Street north then TURN R AT ROBERTS SIGNS, TURN LEFT AT STOP SIGN. TURN LEFT ONTO WATER ST. … (1 comments)

220 E Liberty St. Schuylkill Haven PA: $169,995 - 01/20/09 08:32 AM
Freshly painted, new fixtures, ceiling fans, patio, 8-person hot tub. New bar and carpeting downstairs. Added another bedroom downstairs, baths re-tiled. Fenced yard outside town, yet in Schuylkill Haven boro limits. Storage attic, 2 car garage with lots of new storage racks. Newer roof (4 yrs) and windows. Plenty of off street parking! State gamelands behind house... walk to your hunting spot! www.move2pennsylvania.com … (0 comments)

Book Review: “Organizing from the Inside Out” - 01/19/09 04:04 PM

Via Regina P. Brown at R.P. Brown Real Estate:
We're so busy multi-tasking that staying organized seems like an impossible goal.  Take a look at the book "Organizing from the Inside Out" for some simple tips that can help YOU stay in control of your day (not vice-versa)!
This fabulous book by Julie Morgenstern outlines her foolproof system for organizing your home, your office, and your life!
America's #1 organizer shows you how to get organized and stay organized.  It's a fun and easy book including simple steps for cleaning up your office, the rooms in your house, or that dreaded garage … (0 comments)

Lancaster County PA - What is Clean & Green? - 01/18/09 06:16 PM
This info comes to us from LANCASTER COUNTY, but it also applies to Schuylkill County and all of Penna!
Via Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals):
If you have heard certain properties being labeled as "Clean & Green" you may be wondering just what that means... Here is an explanation from the PA Department of Agriculture:
Clean & Green  Purpose The Clean and Green as it is commonly known, is actually ACT 319.  The Clean and Green program is a state program designed to preserve agricultural and forest land. The purpose of ACT 319 is to provide a real estate … (1 comments)

Round 2 - Seller-Financed Downpayment Assistance Programs - Nehemiah & AmeriDream alive? - 01/18/09 06:08 PM

Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
Before you get started, please click on : All out of Love - by : Air Supply  -  This is how so many others and myself have felt without the seller-financed downpayment assistance programs.  Such programs sponsored by Nehemiah and AmeriDream....
 
As many of us know, there are tens of thousands of homes available and vacant due to the foreclosure crisis. As of October 1, 2008, the seller-financed downpayment programs were eliminated with no real answer if they would … (0 comments)

First time homebuyers Tax Credit - How to use it before you actually buy your home.... - 01/18/09 06:05 PM

Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):

 
Saving money....  ouch...  In today's market, not as easy for some depending on their situations. I know some people that make a good living, but that they have a large family to support. Sure, define a good living, which would be different for each one of us. But the bottom line is that many of us could use help one way or another when it comes to buying a home.
I wrote a post a few weeks ago … (0 comments)

What Obama Must Say to the Banks - 01/18/09 04:10 PM
I love the writer Thomas Friedman (author of The World is Flat). I read his editorials faithfully in The New York Times. He pulls no punches and tells it just the way he sees it. Today's editorial is THE BEST when it comes to his take on the banking crisis, and what Obama needs to say to bankers/
Read the entire piece here  (it's short--you can do it in a few minutes!)
Here's a teaser clip:
Many commentators have suggestions for Barack Obama on what should be his first meeting at the White House. Here is mine: Mr. Obama and his … (7 comments)

January 24: Indian Cave & Aswesome View Above Pottsville Trek - 01/17/09 03:47 PM
Indian Cave and Awesome View above Pottsville Trek
2:00-4:30 p.m. with “Porcupine Pat.”
Meets on 26th Street just before the Pottsville Club parking lot. See an authentic Lenape cave and wonderful views of Pottsville and surrounding communities. (two miles – moderate). All hikes are free and open to the public. Poor weather cancels and participants should dress for comfort.
For more information visit: www.schuylkillonthemove.com or email: porcupinepat@yahoo.com or 570.622.4124 x 113.
This weekend it's FREEZING, but hopefully by the 24th we'll have decent weather for this hike.
… (0 comments)

10 Cities Boasting Mini Sales Booms - 01/17/09 03:42 PM

Via Kristin Johnston (Remax Realty Center):
 
 

According to NAR's weekly news, some cities that were hardest hit by the real downturn are experiencing mini sales booms.Las Vegas real estate properties are down 28 percent in price, but sales of homes are up 15 percent.Motivated buyers accounted for 64 percent of Las Vegas sales in October, says Radar Logic, a derivatives firm. That's the highest rate in the country."There's a pretty active housing market, it's simply at a lower-priced inventory," says Michael Feder, chief executive of Radar Logic. "And there are now bidding wars taking place over homes in … (0 comments)

Penn State Schuylkill offers Real Estate Licensing Courses - 01/16/09 01:06 PM
Penn State Schuylkill is offering a Real Estate Certification Program in the Spring.
Real Estate Fundamentals is scheduled from March 31 through April 25, Tuesdays from 6-9:45 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 12:45 pm. Real Estate Practice is scheduled from April 28 through May 23, Tuesdays from 6-9:45 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 12:45 pm. The registration fee is $229 per person. If you register for both classes, the cost for the first class is $229 and the second class is $179. Costs do not include textbooks.
Courses are approved by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. For … (4 comments)

Pennsylvania Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program - 01/16/09 01:03 PM
Pennsylvania’s small businesses can cut costs by improving their energy efficiency through the state’s recently created Alternative Energy Investment Fund, acting Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger said today. Hanger announced the opening of the $3 million Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program – the first program available through the $650 million fund signed into law by Governor Edward G. Rendell last July. Grants will apply to energy efficiency improvements on systems such as lighting, heating, cooling, refrigeration and process machinery, as well as building insulation and weatherization improvement projects.
The Department of Environmental Protection will hold a workshop from 9 am … (0 comments)

What should my initial offer be? - 01/15/09 03:14 AM

Via Chris Olsen (Olsen Ziegler Realty):
The short answer like most answers in real estate: it depends. 


Let's look at some common scenarios that play out.  You are the buyer and I am your buyer's agent:
Scenario #1 -- Brand new (first few weeks) on the market.  Generally, a very strong buyer's market  (January 2009).
You absolutely love this home, must have it and you want to write an offer on it immediately.
What should you offer?  Do you think the seller is ready to give their home away because it's a bear of a real estate market?  Think you … (1 comments)

Jan. 17 Winter Fun in Schuylkill County - 01/14/09 06:39 PM
January 17, 2009 8:00 pm
Winter Blues Beater Mid Winter Festival 8 p.m. - Midnight, Lessie's Garden, 2 Park Street, Agricultural Park. Sponsored by Avenues and Greater Pottsville Winter Carnival. Music by Sapphire.
 
January 17, 2009 11:00 am
Snowflake Flurry 11 am-3 pm, Visitor Center, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Kempton. All programs free of charge. Trail fee applies. Cure cabin fever with a full day event related to snowflakes and winter. Includes storyti me, snowflake-making workshop and live owl program. See website closer to date for complete itinerary. www.hawkmountain.org
… (0 comments)

Credit Scores? What to do in Your Scenario ... - 01/14/09 02:26 PM

Via Steve Kappre, Gloucester County, NJ Loan Officer/Mortgage Planner - 856.419.3561 (Treasury Mortgage):
I'm sharing this great testimonial that I recieved last night because I know many people are in the same boat. The questions regarding credit scores are numerous, varied, and frankly getting them answered correctly makes a HUGE deal regarding many other areas in life.  Maybe you can find the same helpful information below in the credit score links.
"I am very grateful to you for taking the time to help me (fix my credit) even though I am doing the work. The fact that you have laid out the … (0 comments)

Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeals in Schuylkill County: How to Workshops - 01/13/09 10:38 AM
State Rep. Tim Seip will hold three workshops to inform property owners on the process for appealing their real estate tax assessments. All three workshops will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.:
• Thursday, Jan. 15, Tremont Borough Building, Council Chambers, 139 Clay St.;
• Thursday, Jan. 22, Schuylkill Haven Recreation Center, 340 Haven St.;
• Thursday, Jan. 29, Pine Grove Township Building, 175 Oak Grove Road.
Seip also plans to reintroduce his legislation to ban "spot" appeals of assessments that are initiated solely because a property has been sold, even though other similar nearby properties continue to be … (0 comments)

Real Estate Capital Gains When Selling Your Home - 01/12/09 09:55 PM

Via Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty):
As a Realtor working in Metrowest Massachusetts for the last twenty three years, it surprises me how often people do not realize the current tax laws regarding capital gains when selling their home.
The new capital gains tax law actually went into effect in 1997 and is known as the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997.
The current capital gains tax law when selling your personal residence allows for an exclusion of up to $250,000 in profit if you are single and $500,000 if married. In order to be eligible you must have … (1 comments)

Buyers--Be Nosy!! - 01/12/09 09:52 PM

Via Chris Olsen (Olsen Ziegler Realty):
If there is one thing that really gets to me when I am showing properties to a buyer, it is the smell of animals in a house.  Now, I know most of America is pet-friendly and pet-loving, including myself, but come on....cat litter box smell??  Aquarium algae smell??  Dog urine smell??  Hamster cage smell??  All of these smells are offensive and definite turn-offs to buyers.  I don't care if the buyer has a pet, they don't want to smell someone else's, especially in a house they are considering to buy!

So, buyers keep your noses … (0 comments)

Jan 17-Feb 21 Sovereign Magestic Theater Events / Pottsville - 01/12/09 01:29 PM
Mike Narvaez & La Overtoner - Saturday, January 17, 2009 8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $5.00 per person. Mike Narvaez is a singer songwriter from Hamburg Pennsylvania and is very proud of his town. Many of his songs are influenced by love, and small town life. Mike has an affinity for classical guitar. This makes him a very diverse, well rounded player, capable of playing any music, any time, anywhere. He relies heavily on his finely tuned ear, and his soul. He is currently playing out again in many small town bars. He is recording with Dan McKinney in Bethlehem, and Mike … (0 comments)

Ready to Buy a Home? Know Your Buyer Broker's Duties - 01/11/09 06:40 PM
This is a post that is the perfect follow up to my last blog post, about QUESTIONS that agents cannot answer for buyers.
Via Brian Block -- Northern Virginia & D.C. Real Estate (RE/MAX Allegiance):
Are you ready to start along the path to purchase a home? 
 
If so, it's likely that you'll hire a real estate broker to help you find the property, place an offer, negotiate the deal, and ultimately purchase your next home.

 
Before you sign the last page and place your initials on all the pages of the Buyer Broker Agreement (officially called "Exclusive Right to … (0 comments)

Buyers: Why we cannot answer certain questions! - 01/11/09 03:33 PM
If you're a buyer, and you call a real estate salesperson--perhaps the listing agent from the sign--there are certain questions we are NOT allowed to answer, by law. Why not? Sometimes it's because the questions might be considered discriminatory, sometimes it's because we cannot release "nonpublic" information to someone we don't officially represent, other times the answer is confidential between the agent and the seller.
Here are some questions we cannot answer:
 
1. Is it a good neighborhood? Well that depends. What do you mean by "good"? Are you asking me the racial or ethnic composition of a neighborhood? Cannot … (9 comments)

Atlas Shrugged: You Must Read This Article! - 01/11/09 01:57 PM
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123146363567166677.html
'Atlas Shrugged': From Fiction to Fact in 52 Years
 
Click the link above to an online article from the Wall Street Journal. It is GREAT in putting in perspecting 2008/2009's government tactics ... TARP ... the Bailouts ... etc. For those of us who've been saying for months that TARP is not going to work, that there must be more oversight, that the Bailouts of specific banks and golden child industries--and not others--is ridiculous ... we're right! You must read this article.
 
Here is an excerpt to whet your curiosity: (the bold emphasis is mine)
 
Many … (5 comments)

New Website to Help Pennsylvanians in Downturn - 01/11/09 11:37 AM
The Commonwealth lauched a new website lately, called Here to Help: http://www.heretohelp.pa.gov
Anyone experiencing hard times--unemployment to heating cost assistance to tax programs... can log on and find links to state assistance programs.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a great place to live, work, learn and play. Our citizens are hard working, our communities are caring and our businesses are industrious. But tough economic times can stretch resources to their limits, taking a toll on vulnerable Pennsylvanians and putting even more people at risk. It is not clear, ultimately, how widespread or how long the current economic downturn will last. It is … (0 comments)

Credit Reports: You have a right to know! - 01/11/09 11:04 AM

Via Jon Wnoroski, Summit County Realtor (Geneva Chervenic Realty, Inc.):
Each and every one of us has a right to get a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies per year.  As we begin 2009 it's a great time to access our free credit report and review what is being reported.  Keep in mind that your credit score is even more important now since we are seeing a tightening of the credit standards and a high score will be necessary in order to get the credit you may need in order to make a major purchase.
Caution is … (0 comments)

46 St. John St, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972: $130,000 - 4 Unit Investment - 01/10/09 04:03 PM
Classic brick corner mansion. Was owner occupied with 1 tenant (caretaker), no rent is paid currently. Large 1st floor apt, 3 on 2nd/3rd floors. One is efficiency. 1st floor fireplace, modern/corian kitchen. Hardwood floors and gorgeous original woodwork throughout. Basement with oil burner and laundry. Was originally one home, converted to 4 units. Water/sewer/elec $2693 in 2008. Oct 08-Jan 09 oil 875gal Route 61 to 443, right at Schuylkill Haven, right onto Main St., left on St. John to corner brick property (corner Union and St. John) Email me for full flyer/details: eramus@comcast.net www.move2pennsylvania.com … (0 comments)

This is what it's all about! Call on my listing from AR - 01/10/09 03:21 PM
Got a contact message on the above property today. They found my listing on Active Rain. Yeah! This may or may NOT be the property for her, but it is a contact, and led to a discussion of what she's looking for / needs and I am hoping to find her something appropriate. Thank you AR! It's all about selling the listings, and making my sellers happy. … (4 comments)

Use a 6 month gift from a relative to buy a home, thanks to the Tax Credit - 01/10/09 03:11 PM

Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):

 
The government is handing out money as a long term loan.  Take advantage of this!!!
 
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 produced the tax credit for First Time Homebuyers. In this case, to be eligible for the tax credit, a first time homebuyer is defined as : someone who had not owned a home from July 2, 2005, through July 1, 2008. In order to become eligible, you have to buy your home after April … (0 comments)

FHA loans vs Conventional loans - A real comparision with 5% down - 01/10/09 03:09 PM
If you're wondering what the cost comparison is FHA vs Convenetional... this is for you!
Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
FHA loans have been more wisely used in recent months as the choice of mortgages. What I hate hearing is that they have taken the spot of the subprime loans. This is not true by any part of the imagination. This statement is from those that are inexperienced in both the mortgage and the real estate industries. The realization has been that 30% of the subprime … (0 comments)

13% of Pennsylvanians Lack Basic Literacy Skills - 01/10/09 10:59 AM
13% of Pennsylvania adults lack basic literacy skills, such as the ability to read newspapers or brochures.
To read the whole report (which was released on January 8, 2009 by the National Center for Education Statistics) go to their online site at http://nces.ed.gov/
The site says this is the first national comparison of state and county statistics on adult literacy.
The percentage of Pennsylvania adults who struggle with basic literacy is at around the national average and remains unchanged from 1992.
Philadelphia County has the state's lowest literacy rate: 22% of adults lack basic reading skills.
Here in Schuylkill County the rate … (3 comments)

Rep. Tim Seip's Offices and Hours Announced (Schuylkill County) - 01/10/09 07:33 AM
State Rep. Tim Seip, who was sworn in to his second term this week, will have new office hours and locations in Schuylkill and Berks counties beginning Monday, Jan. 12.
Seip was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2006 to serve the 125th Legislative District, which includes part of the city of Pottsville and much of central and western Schuylkill County and four communities in northern Berks County.
Seip's new office hours and locations are:
• Pottsville -- 396 S. Centre St., phone 570-624-3145 or toll free 866-299-0277, open Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 … (0 comments)

Stop Growing Mold In Your Home - 01/09/09 07:40 AM

Via Steven L. Smith, Bellingham, Wa. Home Inspector (King of the House Home Inspection):
The information in this post goes beyond the standards of a normal home inspection. It is rather detailed. However, the issues described are problems that a home inspector sees and, periodically, might have to report on. The topic is high humidity levels inside the home. High humidity can lead to a myriad of problems in the home.
First, in analyzing homes, we are usually concerned with relative humidity (RH) and that is a percentage of the moisture in the air. Air is saturated at 100%. It cannot hold any more … (0 comments)

Selling Your Home Does Not Have To Be A Mystery! - 01/08/09 07:59 PM

Via Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty):
Selling your home should not be a mystery when you have it priced properly and have selected an agent that knows how to create an online presence for you. A proper price and a coordinated marketing effort are the two most important factors that will lead to a successful sale. Have fun while I read your mind.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

… (4 comments)

PA Realtors Association Releases Its 2008 Profile Of Buyers And Sellers - 01/07/09 06:00 PM
 
Jeff-you beat me to writing this post. I was typing when this posted. So I'll reblog yours!
Erica
 
 
Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):
Listen to this article as an audio podcast.
The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors released its annual statistical report entitled "2008 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers".  You can read all 24 pages here.  Of course, I'm going to do the analysis and bring the highlights to you...
Some interesting factoids from Pennsylvania homebuyers in 2008 were:
Their median age was 38.  Among first-time … (1 comments)

Feb. 13: Next Sheriff Sale in Schuylkill County - 01/07/09 05:54 PM
Last Sheriff Sale -- in December-- I wanted to attend but we were hit with a huge snowstorm. The court house was closed. I wonder if the sale even took place? I think it must have, because this list of properties is different from the ones posted in December. To see which properties are up  for sale, click here.
 
SHERIFF’S SALE of REAL ESTATE BY VIRTUE OF WRITS OF EXECUTION ISSUED OUT OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, CIVIL DIVISION, TO ME DIRECTED, WILL BE EXPOSED TO PUBLIC SALE ON Friday, February 13, 2009
At 10:00 o’clock in the … (1 comments)

INTEREST RATE HISTORY - IT IS INDEED TIME TO BUY A HOME! - 01/07/09 05:33 PM

Via Lenn Harley Homefinders.com MD & VA Real Estate:
HOME OWNERSHIP MAKES MORE FINANCIAL SENSE THAN EVER. 
First Time Home Buyers - It's time to buy a home.  The average interest rate for a 30 year fixed mortgage is about 4.750%  on a national basis (Source:  Chase Home Mortgage). 
All home buyers who do not have a home to sell are in the best position to buy a home with good interest rates than in many years.  Foreclosures and Short Sales have made homes available at prices not seen since about 2003 in many areas. 
Most First Time Home Buyer programs are available to … (1 comments)

2009 Pottsville Winter Carnival Events - 01/07/09 08:25 AM
During the mid 1960's, G. Earl Stevenson, a Pottsville City Councilman and Director of Parks and Public Property, went to St. Paul, Minnesota on business. While he was in St. Paul, he attended the St. Paul Winter Carnival. At that time, the St. Paul Winter Carnival was in existence for over 100 years. There, the Winter Carnival was held every year at the end of January and continued through the beginning of February hosting over 100 events for all to enjoy and participate. St. Paul Winter Carnival had a paid staff including a Public Relations Department, advertising and marketing Department, as … (4 comments)

Special Election For PA's 29th Senatorial District Seat - 01/07/09 08:18 AM
On March 3, voters in the Pennsylvania’s 29th Senatorial District will choose a new Senator. The choice is between state Rep. David Argall, R-124, and Democrat county Clerk of Courts Steve Lukach.
A third candidate, Dennis Baylor, is also attempting to get his No-Party Party of Pennsylvania on the ballot. Baylor has a lawsuit questioning an interpretation of election code now before the state Supreme Court.
The 29th seat is vacant following the Oct. 18 death of former state Sen. James J. Rhoades, who held that seat for many years.
Special election deadlines:
Feb. 2: Last day to register to vote
… (0 comments)

103 Avenue B, Schuylkill Haven PA: $125,000 - 01/06/09 05:21 PM
Seller offers up to $5000 closing cost assistance (as allowed by your lender). Pellet stove can go with good offer (saves on oil and cuts your heating bill!). 2 car detached garage, fenced yard. Spacious corner lot, plenty of parking, located in Schuylkill Haven's Avenues neighborhood. Take a look ... this house is ready for you now! Want to take a look? Call Erica Ramus at 570 622 6006 ext 301 now for your appointment. www.move2pennsylvania.com … (2 comments)

January Events in Schuylkill County - 01/06/09 04:28 PM
Now through January 10 The Restaurant at the Station’s Annual Toys for Tots Fundraiser - The Restaurant at the Station’s Annual Toys for Tots fundraiser! Nov 29 thru Jan 10 enjoy our Gingerbread House display – handcrafted by local bakers. Stop in at Tamaqua’s Historic Train Station or call for more information 570-668-5020.
January 8 Open Mic / Karaoke at the Lazy Dog Coffeehouse 7 - 10 pm, Lazy Dog Coffeehouse, 18 East Sunbury St., Minersville. Everyone is welcome, from seasoned players to first-timers. A great place to test out new material or shake off your first-show jitters. 570-544-4800. www.lazydogcoffeehouse.com
January … (0 comments)

Networking Basics: Who Cares? - 01/05/09 08:18 PM
This is Part 1 of a series of blogs I'm writing about HOW TO NETWORK. Why am I writing this? Because I am a power networker! That's how I built 2 businesses, and it's the key to my real estate success.
I used to own a local magazine, called Schuylkill Living. I started it in 1997 and knew practically no local business owners, nobody "key" to my business. But in a very short time, I built it up to a successful publication based on my networking skills.
2 years into the magazine, one of my advertisers (who had been bugging me … (15 comments)

January: Radon Action Month in Pennsylvania & Nationwide - 01/05/09 03:27 PM
The EPA has designated January as National Radon Action Month, a time when state radon programs and other partners conduct special radon outreach activities and events across the country. The aim of National Radon Action Month is to increase the public's awareness of radon, promote radon testing and mitigation, and advance the use of radon-resistant new construction practices.
What is radon? Radon is a cancer-causing natural radioactive gas that you can’t see, smell or taste. It is a naturally occuring gas that is generated through the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It makes its way into our homes through … (3 comments)

Is a home protection plan a good investment - 01/04/09 03:49 PM
I do think Home Protection Plans are worth the money. If a seller offers one, frequently that will make the buyer feel more comfortable about buying. If a seller won't pay for one, it can be worth it for the buyer to pay for it for the peace of mind.
Via Kari A. Battaglia - Selling Venice FL Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate):
A home is typically the biggest investment most people will make in their lifetime.  In these challenging times and unexpected repair or replacement cost can be difficult to manage and trying to find the right professional to fix … (1 comments)

Great Mortgage Article for 2009 - 01/02/09 05:02 PM
Mortgages: What You Need to Know in 2009
Mortgage rates are at historic lows and may be poised to go even lower next year. It's a great time to buy a home—if you can With all the doom and gloom over housing, you might be surprised to know that this is a fantastic time to get a mortgage. Not if you have poor credit, to be sure. But you can get a great deal on a 30-year, fixed-rate, conforming loan these days if you have a solid FICO score, a manageable debt burden, and proof positive of a reliable income.
… (7 comments)

 
Dsc_0508 Ambassador_large

Erica Ramus - SchuylkillRealEstate.com - Schuylkill County PA Real Estate

Pottsville, PA

More about me…

Erica Ramus - Ramus Realty Group - Pottsville, PA

Address: 300 Mauch Chunk St. Suite A, Pottsville, PA, 17901

Office Phone: (570) 622-6006 x 301

Cell Phone: (570) 449-2131

Email Me



Listings

Links

Archives

RSS 2.0 Feed for this blog