Due to our economic times and all the negativity that surrounds us with television and the news, it seems that it is time to take action and be proactive.
Many families are struggling to make ends meet. Sometimes it's hard to think of different ways to save money. It's like the old saying
you can't see the forest for the trees...
Here are a few ways to help save money in your household. Can you think of any to add?
Get rid of the Satellite Dishes and just have cable (don't need 105 channels)
Get rid of home phone line and use cell phone instead
Unplug phone Chargers, coffee pots, toasters when not being used- Susan Hilton contributor
Replae light bulbs with fluorescent lights - Kathryn Acciari, contributor
If you have more than one heat zone, turn down the temp in the zone(s) you are not currently occupying. Programmable thermostats can help. Kathryn Acciari, contributor
Likewise, with more than one cooling zone, turn up the temp in the zone(s) you are not using. Kathryn Acciari, contributor
Buy fruit that is pre-bundled into bags. Usually saves 20 cents/lb. Kathryn Acciari, contributor
Use newspaper as mulch. Tear it up, spread it around, then cover with a cosmetic layer of mulch. Kathryn Acciari, contributor
Cancel your magazine subscriptions and use your library card instead. Kathryn Acciari, contributor
If you are not too particular about your wine, try boxed wines. Yes, I know, some will turn their noses up. But before you do, I dare you to do a taste test of Banrock Station's boxed Shiraz vs. a $10-$15 bottle of Shiraz. Then put the boxed wine in a nice decanter when you have guests! Kathryn Acciari, contributor
Lastly, bank whatever you save. I'm funding my son's college tuition by banking what I save on my grocery bills. He also rolls spare change, which go into his fund.Do you have any money saving tips for the readers? I will add your money saving tips to the list. Kathryn Acciari, contributor
Do YOU have any money saving tips for the readers?
GREAT NEWS for California Homebuyers! Double Jeopardy...
Home buyers who buy a house from a home builder will receive $10,000 tax credit.
This is a CA State tax credit which applies only to new construction.
Rules to Qualify for tax credit:
applies to homes closing by March 1, 2009 through March 1, 2010.
applies to anyone buying new construction as their primary residence
tax credit is applied over a 3 year period (1/3 per year)
homes $200,000 and over receive $10,000 credit
homes under $200,000 get 5% of the value as tax credit
must live in the home at least 2 years from close of escrow
there are no income limits
The KICK is that there is only $100 million allocated for this tax credit and when it has been used, it's gone. So, the first 10,000 new home sales will receive the $10,000 CA State Tax Credit.
If you are one of the lucky ones and qualify for the Federal tax credit of $8,000 then you will receive up to $18,000 tax credit all together...such a deal!
On Friday, February 27th, the Franchise Tax Board will have more information on their website.
I can tell you that you want to make sure you are represented by a Realtor before going to the new home builders. A Realtor is your best representative and can negotiate an excellent price and terms for you.
This year I have helped several homebuyers buying new homes and lofts in Sacramento and West Sacramento. It would be my pleasure to help you, too!
If you like what you read here on Sacramento Real Estate Voice simply click and subscribe to get the latest articles sent to your email.
Click Sacramento MLS where you can pick any community or city around Sacramento and see homes for sale or simply click on the search icon and pick the area you are interested in finding a home or condo for sale in .
If you have a real estate question that you would like an answer to, be sure to check outand read what other home buyers and home sellers have asked and feel free to ask your Real Estate question by email. Perhaps, your question will be part of the next article featured on Sacramento REAL Estate Voice.
Loan modifications have proven they don't work for over 90% of the population who have received them and fail within 6 months. Eventually, I feel that those that don't fail have an excellent chance at Foreclosure down the line. You ask why?
BECAUSE the mortgage loan balance has NOT changed.
What needs to be done to help solve this housing crisis and stop the foreclosures, in my opinion is the "cram-down."This is where Bankruptcy Judges could lower the mortgage loan amount for the homeowner/borrower.
If time is of the essence, doing loan modifications and having these banks that can't manage the Short Sales and Foreclosures handling Loan Modifications seems a bit ludicrous considering their track record.
A little catch...Bankruptcy Judges do not have the authority with primary residences to lower the mortgage loan, only investment and 2nd homes. Congress would need to change the bankruptcy law and add this provision in.
Either the banks get the value or less for the property with a foreclosure sale or leave the homeowner in their own home and lower the loan balance to the value of the property. Seems like a no-brainer to me!
I"ll put my money on the Bankruptcy Judges over the banks any day
Don't think for one moment that these troubled homeowners are getting away with anything. Their credit is ruined, they've been receiving countless calls and mail about their lateness in payments. They're suffering. Not to mention children being uprooted from their neighborhoods and schools. Don't worry, they suffering.
This would help those homeowners in trouble, save the neighborhood and show a little empathy for mankind. Something sorely missing these days.
What are your thoughts? Do you have a solution or do you think there is a solution? Would you like to see the neighborhoods come back, the value of your home stop going down? Jobs return?
Click Sacramento MLS where you can pick any community or city around Sacramento and see homes for sale or simply click on the search icon and pick the area you are interested in finding a home or condo for sale in .
If you like what you read here on Sacramento Real Estate Voice simply click and subscribe to get the latest articles sent to your email.
While showing homes for sale in Sacramento and waiting for the home buyer to meet me at the house I found some information that will save you some money if you call 411 and get charged for those information calls.
Google has a nationwide information source that is absolutely FREE. It works on cell phones and landline phones.
Program it into your phones and save some money...we all need to save as much as we can and every little bit helps.
Where is all this bailout money that we as tax payers have paid banks? As a Sacramento Realtor/Broker and owner of Riede Real Estate I am here to tell you that the banks have taken our money and bought out other banks and no telling what else...but they aren't helping the distressed homeowner.
For over a year there have been TV commercials stating that all you have to do is call your bank. If you would like to see what a typical scenario of "just calling your bank," is like you really need to watch ABC news video were Congresswoman Waters of Los Angeles tried to do just that with IndyMac Bank, Bank of America and Countrywide (was this when Countrywide outsourced these calls to India?...of course it's no better now, either). It is a joke calling the banks for help! If they treat a Congresswoman like this, how do you think they treat the troubled homeowner calling?
If that doesn't beat all! Loan modifications so far have been a joke with the banks. Many won't do them and some of those that have simply buy the troubled homeowner a couple of months at a reduced rate with an exorbitant balloon payment at the end of 3 months. Who in the world do they think they are helping? No wonder their recitative rate is what it is. Who in the world do they think they are helping?
My guess is that the banks are hoping for more of a bailout and are simply buying time until they get it...we don't seem to give them any restrictions with the bailout money so what in the world do we expect? Until and unless Americans stand up, contact their congress representative and demand the U.S. Government either stop the bailouts or put restrictions on how the money is spent, this will continue. As long as we continue to have foreclosures, the economy can not and will not recover.
Today, Forbes reported on an article in the Associated Press that Wells Fargo is expanding their mortgage modification program. Supposedly, since they bought out Wachovia they are touting to extend loan terms 40 years, reduce interest rates and reducing the principal of the loan to troubled homeowners where housing prices have significantly declined. Let's see if this is hype or if they actually perform. In the past they have not helped any of their current Wells Fargo clients needing loan modifications but there is also hope.
The Hope loan modification by Secretary Paulson was a failure and never even got off the ground. False hope for the homeowner. Watch this video with Congresswoman Waters who actually tells it like it is.
Loan modification certainly beats leaving vacant homes deteriorating neighborhoods and then finally selling at a much reduced rate as a foreclosure. Some of these people speaking for the bank in Washington need to call their own banks and see how far they get. They are full of words and say the right thing but unfortunately what they say and what they do are on either end of the spectrum.
And then we have all the scammers taking what little money the troubled homeowner has and promising loan modifications. Everyone is on the bandwagon to "help" the homeowner except the banks. There are few and far between who are actually helped. I would love to hear from those of you who have succeeded in a loan modification along with the terms of your approved loan modification.
Am I the only one that sees our current practice as insane? What are your thoughts?
Please comment below and let's get real...
Look at all of the homes for sale by Clicking Sacramento MLS where you can pick any community or city around Sacramento and see homes for sale or simply click on the photo and pick the area you are interested in finding a home or condo for sale in. Or click here to see all Sacramento Bank Owned Homes for Sale or Sacramento Short Sale Homes for Sale
If you like what you read here on Sacramento Real Estate Voice click and subscribe to get the latest articles sent to your email. Don't miss out on home buyer tips, homeowner tips and your real estate questions.
If you have a real estate question that you would like an answer to, be sure to check outand read what other home buyers and home sellers have asked and feel free to ask your Real Estate question by email. Perhaps, your question will be part of the next article featured on Sacramento REAL Estate Voice. Just ask the Realtor, Gena Riede of Riede Real Estate.
This week I was contacted by Jesse Herman, the Awareness Coordinator at the Mesothelioma Cancer Center who was looking for a Voice that would reach the Sacramento homeowners and home buyers. Sacramento REAL Estate Voice was asked to help since so many of our readers live in Sacramento. I always want to help be a service to my community and thought this was noteworthy.
You may want to share this with homeowners in your community, as well.
Since homes built prior to 1980 likely have asbestos insulation, it is important for Sacramento homeowners and home buyers to be aware of the hazard while remodeling as this can be linked to Mesothelioma cancer. There are many environmentally safe and healthy ways to insulate your home.
Since I am a Realtor and do not have my medical degree let me turn this over to Joe Lederman who will explain the hazards of asbestos, where you can find it and what the "green" (be sure to read my latest update on being GREEN and free e-waste for Sacramento below) alternatives are to help reduce energy costs. Take it away, Joe...
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral used throughout the 20th century in many building and industrial applications. Although manufacturers and mankind has known of asbestos' health hazards for a long period of time, it wasn't until the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in 1990, that it began to regulate the amount of asbestos used in surfacing applications.
Due to its geologic history and location, several types of asbestos occur naturally within California's state lines. It is important for those involved in real estate to take the proper measures in inspecting and removing the harmful product. Citizens of Sacramento must be aware that exposure to asbestos can potentially cause significant health concerns.
Known for its large industrial history, the economy in California has seen much success in ship-building, power generation and mining. Asbestos was utilized consistently, as the substance has fire and heat resistant qualities. Occurring naturally in 44 of California's 58 counties, homes, jobsites and public facilities may still contain asbestos if they were built before 1980. Although asbestos exposure does not always lead to the development of illnesses, it greatly increases that chance. Exposure to asbestos can cause a severe form of lung cancer known as mesothelioma. Many symptoms of the disease may not show up for 20 to 50 years, making it incredibly difficult for doctors to diagnose potential carriers. Mesothelioma treatments typically include radiation, chemotherapy and experimental procedures. Although technology and treatments continue to improve, physician prognosis is usually poor and fatal.
Removal of asbestos in any type of location must be performed by licensed abatement contractors who are trained in handling toxic materials. The California Department of Industrial Relations administers a number of programs which are aimed at preventing asbestos exposure in public facilities, workplaces and homes. Despite knowledge of the state's asbestos problems, many communities throughout California still find themselves constructed atop asbestos deposits.
With the consistent growth in technology and public awareness, there are currently a number of products which replace the need for asbestos. Green alternative options such as cellulose, cotton fiber and lcynene should then be considered as replacements. Research demonstrates that these new forms of insulation such as cotton fiber can reduce energy costs significantly every year. California is adopting the move to a greener lifestyle and is helping lead the nation in the change.
Joe Lederman
Hope you consider hiring someone trained in dealing with toxic materials and found this article helpful when thinking of remodeling your home. It never hurts to take the necessary precautions.
FREE E-Waste at CAL-EXPO this Friday, January 30th 4:30 am to 7:00 pm...drop off your old TV's, radios, computers, small appliances-not refrigerators though) Google Map below
List of accepted items at E-Waste Collection Events: Accepted items:
microwaves
car stereos
monitors
televisions
desktop and notebook PCs
VCRs
stereo equipment
speakers
keyboards
mice
PDAs
digital cameras
zip drives
telephones
cell phones
printers
copiers
laser and multifunction scanners
electronic cables
fax machines
video game consoles
DVD players
small kitchen appliances such as mixers and toasters
NOT accepted: Anything other than electronics including:
hazardous household waste, including fluorescent light bulbs, household batteries, car batteries, paint, pesticides, used oil, cleaning supplies or tires
household appliances such as refrigerators, washers and dryers
look at all of the homes for sale by Clicking Sacramento MLS where you can pick any community or city around Sacramento and see homes for sale or simply click on the photo and pick the area you are interested in finding a home or condo for sale in.
If you like what you read here on Sacramento Real Estate Voice click and subscribe to get the latest articles sent to your email. Don't miss out on home buyer tips, homeowner tips and your real estate questions.
If you have a real estate question that you would like an answer to, be sure to check outand read what other home buyers and home sellers have asked and feel free to ask your Real Estate question by email. Perhaps, your question will be part of the next article featured on Sacramento REAL Estate Voice. Just ask the Realtor, Gena Riede of Riede Real Estate.
Not being a huge football fan, I was wondering how many Active Rain members are watching the Super Bowl today.
It would seem that clients are preoccupied with the game today as the phone is silent.
Good day for me to catch up after a busy week with no time to blog.
I heard that the commercials today for Super Bowl are geared more for the rough economy that we are currently experiencing. I'm curious so the TV is on in the background to catch the commercials.
Are you a commercial fend or are you routing for the or the ?
Did you get your 3D glasses to watch the commercials? After the game, let me know what your favorite commercial was or if you had one.
Now, back to blogging, commenting, listening and catching up with all my computer work...
This morning I received a counter in response to an offer for my FHA home buyer. This REO agent crossed off an item I had typed on the Purchase Order.
This is a BIG NO, NO!!
Real Estate Agents, if you are not aware, please become aware that you NEVER change or cross off items on a Purchase Contract.
That is why we have Counters!!
Please learn to use them. Counters are used to indicate what the Seller will NOT cover nor accept.
I am continually surprised at the lack of knowledge out there in the Real Estate world. We have rules for a reason, we have forms for a reason. Please learn to use them properly.
While I'm at it, One of my pet peeves is to read agents who continually write that if a home buyer's offer is not accepted that the buyer needs to get another agent. Or if a bank has not responded on a Short Sale in a timely manner, that the Seller should get a "qualified" agent.
These are blanket statements which in my humble opinion should NEVER be used. It is only the agents who are so unaware and lack experience that make such claims. Unless and until you, as an agent are aware of every buyer's situation, all the ins and outs of their loan terms, whether or not the buyer needs funds back from the bank for closing costs, etc. you have no business making such claims.
Not all banks handle Short Sales the same...
As an experienced Realtor knows, no two deals are alike, nor are buyers or their needs. Loan terms differ. Let's learn to stop making claims such as I have read right here on Active Rain by a limited few. If a home buyer was not selected by a Seller or if a bank has taken an exorbitant amount of time to respond it is not necessarily due to the agent representing the parties in question. Let's not assume and make statements that the agent is not doing a good job and should get themselves another agent.
You do yourself and others an injustice by making such rash claims. It only shows your lack of experience in making these ridiculous statements!
Brought to you respectfully in hopes to reach those who don't seem to know any better.
What a surprise to have been asked by our Sacramento Association of Realtor MLS system, Metrolist to take part in a seminar about social networks.
Active Rain was obviously one of the major social networks discussed and since I have been a member here on Active Rain since August 2006, I was the likely choice to have been asked to participate on the panel for the seminar. Linkedin, facebook, Trulia and Twitter will also be the focus of this February training seminar in Sacramento at the Sacramento Association of Realtors.
This is a seminar geared for the newer members or members who are unaware of the importance of social networking and how it will impact the future of Real Estate.
Graciously, I had to decline due to a previous engagement that takes precedence. Hard to believe that I am considered to have been on all these social networks the longest here in Sacramento...oh well it was nice to have been asked.
Take a ride with Sacramento Realtor, Gena Riede through Silver Springs and Wildhawk neighborhood which borders Elk Grove, CA. Find out what the most important thing you can do for yourself and help your Realtor do the best job for you in the home buying process.
This is an upperscale neighborhood bordering Elk Grove, Ca with lot sizes from .50 acres to full acre lots. If you are a golfer, Wildhawk Golf Club an 18 hole public course neighbors these lusious homes. View Larger Map
This is just one of the many neighborhoods in Sacramento, feel free to look at all of the homes for sale by Clicking Sacramento MLS where you can pick any community or city around Sacramento and see homes for sale or simply click on the photo and pick the area you are interested in finding a home or condo for sale in.
If you like what you read here on Sacramento Real Estate Voice click and subscribe to get the latest articles sent to your email. Don't miss out on home buyer tips, homeowner tips and your real estate questions.
If you have a real estate question that you would like an answer to, be sure to check outand read what other home buyers and home sellers have asked and feel free to ask your Real Estate question by email. Perhaps, your question will be part of the next article featured on Sacramento REAL Estate Voice. Just ask the Realtor, Gena Riede of Riede Real Estate
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
Due to our economic times and all the negativity that surrounds us with television and the news, it seems that it is time to take action and be proactive.
Home buyers who buy a house from a home builder will receive $10,000 tax credit.
While showing homes for sale in Sacramento and waiting for the home buyer to meet me at the house I found some information that will save you some money if you call 411 and get charged for those information calls.
Not being a huge football fan, I was wondering how many 
or the 
?
This morning I received a counter in response to an offer for my FHA home buyer. This REO agent crossed off an item I had typed on the Purchase Order.
;)
;)
