Elkhart County Ramblin's

WAKE UP BUYERS..TIME IS TICKING..and there will be no further extensions of First Time & Move Up Buyers Credit Program!

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 09:57:22 -0800

I bought my first home in 1979 and in all the homes I have bought and sold since then, the government never gave me a cash back. I recently read an article in the 12-27-09 LA TIMES that indicates there will be no further extensions of time to participate in the First Time Buyer/Move Up Buyer Tax Credit Program.

Quote from the LA Times states that: "Proponents of the $8,000 credit for first-time buyers and the $6,500 credit for move-up buyers made it clear during the debate on Capitol Hill that the benefits would not be renewed when they expire. And a lobbyist for the National Assn. of Realtors confirmed that at the group's annual convention last month. Lawmakers "made us promise practically in blood that we would not come back" for another extension, Linda Goold, the Realtor group's director of tax policy, told her members."

If you are a first time buyer or if you are a present home owner who has been wanting to move but didnt think it possible...now is the time. You have a perfect triangle of circumstance to get you packing the moving boxes! According to the local MLS, home prices have fallen 20% or more since 2006. Interest rates remain low and you get money back as well?

The bulk of my buyers in 2009 have been first time buyers, dont get left behind when this program expires in April 2010! Contact me for the latest listings and best deals in Elkhart and St Joseph County! I can email you details, set up appointments, give you all the information you need to make an informed, intelligent decision.

Link to the full LA TIMES article referenced here: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-lew27-2009dec27,0,7521446.story

Patience Pays Off

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:58:38 -0700

When I was a child my grandma possessed some delightful Singer Sewing cards that had bird and bird egg illustrations on them. I attribute my love of birds, gardens and sewing to my Grandma Jones. She also taught me about being patient.

I have put out 3 bluebird houses for the last 3 years. I keep 2 heated birdbaths for the birds and have been rewarded each year in those long cold days of winter with groups of bluebirds stopping by for a drink. The brilliant flash of blue feathers against the grey skies brought me hopes of spring and the thought "next spring they will come back to make nests in my houses". Up until now, I was disappointed, although a couple of house wrens were very happy to find the "deluxe" bluebird accomodations available for their nests.

In 2009 we have hit the JACKPOT! A nesting pair settled in the tiniest of my houses and have now raised 2 broods of 4 babies and are currently laying a third brood, with 3 tiny blue eggs currently in residence. Each day I faithfully reward them with meal worms to feed hungry babies. I also do nest checks daily to make sure all is well and pests havent attacked the babies. My reward is seeing these tiny bits of fluff grow into flying youngsters.

I feel the same sense of accomplishment watching them fly as I do when I wrap up another transaction. Even when its been a tough one to close, it is still time to "give yourself a pat on the back". We all get so caught up in what we are doing, in reacting to the last call, text or email. Grab a lemonade, find a shady tree and take some time today to reflect on how things are going. Take a few moments to get excited about the possibilities coming your way and get out there and MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Looking for the Bottom?

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:54:45 -0700

From a just released report from the Indiana Association of Realtors, we find a continuing down trend in the state and the local Elkhart County market.

For the State through May 08 compared to May 09

Total Units Sold Down from 5,811 to 4,660 or a 19.8% decrease

Median Prices Down from $115,000 to 110,100 or 4.3% decrease

For Elkhart County May 08 compared to May 09

Total Units Sold Down From 131 to 121 for a 7.6% decrease.

Median Price Down from $115,000 to $86,500 for a 24.8% decrease.

Year -To-Date Sales Totals for the State

Total Units Sold Down from 23095 to 18498 for a decrease of 19.9%

Median Sales Price Down from $107,000 to $97,000 for a decrease of 9.3%

For Elkhart County Year-To-Date Sales

Total Units Sold Down from 601 to 461 for a decrease of 23.3%

Median Sales Price Down from $108,000 to $85,000 for a decrease of 21,3%

Links to original statistics, courtesy of the IAR (used w/ permission)

http://www.indianaishome.com/4_0_Reports.asp

Have we found the bottom yet? One would hope so, but with foreclosures and short sales continuing to batter our home values and sales, it remains to be seen. Although we have seen some upward movement in activity this year, the numbers unfortunately don't reflect this.

So if you are a homeowner who is being forced to move due to relocating your job to another state, you will have to have a brutally honest agent helping you to determine an agressive pricing strategy along with a marketing package that will put your home in front of the pack in condition and price.

Even if you are relocating to a market that has not been hit hard, its likely you will be paying less on the other end as well, so take that into consideration when your agent suggests marketing your home for several thousand dollars less than you think its worth. In addition to having your home in tip top condition, you need to calculate how much its going to cost you to carry this home from month to month. The last thing you want to do is hang on to that higher price for too long and after a few months of paying double payments you find yourself in a financial box.

Be smart, be aware and GO SELL YOUR HOUSE!

Wordless Wednesday

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 10:24:08 -0700

Job Angels Helping People

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:29:04 -0800

Lots of people have heard of Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn by now. A good portion of you are tweeting, blogging and staying in touch regularly with your network, friends, and family. Along the way you are also in hope of finding your next client or referral.

How about helping someone find their next job?

With nano second speed, a single tweet sent out January 29, 2009. is starting to help the unemployed one job at a time. Sent by Mark Stelzner Principal/Founder at Inflexion Advisors, the tweet said “Was thinking that if each of us helped just 1 person find a job, we could start making a dent in unemployment. You game?” In a short period of time, over 1,500 Job Angels have spread themselves across the internet. Donations of network space, time, and expertise have started making a big difference in helping people who need to find a connection to a new job and a new hope in their lives.

Many people in the world today look at the US and think we are going down for the count. Some of them are rejoicing at the thought. How little they actually know the American people and their spirit. From the food bank drives being held all over the country. From the school kids saving their pennies to help another in need. Job Angels is another indication that while we may be down, we are far from being out.

If you or someone you know could become a Job Angel, will you do your part by spreading the message to those you know? These are the links to the various groups and the website.

Job Angels Website http://www.jobangels.org/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jobangels

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/groupAnswers?viewQuestions=&gid=1789016&forumID=3&sik=1235779285211

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=47105839914

Spring on my Plate

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:53:12 -0800

Winter does not deter me, I enjoy its frosty days and even the occasional blizzard. This time of year I am ready for winter to be gone and spring to arrive. My internal clock wants spring days and my appetite wants something different, something thats not comfort food, that has some crunch. This is a recipe that I use to give me the crunch I am craving, bright color on my plate and the promise that soon it will be warm again.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Winter Coleslaw

Place in a large mixing bowl

1 cup chopped walnuts ( alternate choice: 1 cup toasted, chopped or sliced almonds)

1/4 c sunflower seeds

1 tsp. celery seed

1 cup shredded carrots

1 c. dried cranberries

2 cups red cabbage

2 cups green cabbage

2 Tbs chopped fresh chives

Dressing:

1/3 cup of white balsamic vinegar (can use white vinegar if balsamic is not available)

1/4 cup sugar or to taste

1/4 cup canola or light olive oil

Salt and pepper to your taste

Mix dressing ingredients in a shaker, shake and mix well until the sugar is dissolved. Pour over salad ingredients, let set a minimum of 4 hrs or more before serving. This is a salad that gets better with each day.

Will keep for 5-6 days.

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit FAQ's

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:06:59 -0800

First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit FAQ'S

Congress Enacts Bigger and Better Home Buyer Tax Credit

Provided Courtesy of CENTURY 21 Realty Group
February 17, 2009, 4:57 PM

A tax credit of up to $8,000 is now available for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. Unlike the tax credit enacted in 2008, the new credit does not have to be repaid.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 authorizes a tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

The following questions and answers provide basic information about the tax credit. If you have more specific questions, we strongly encourage you to consult a qualified tax advisor or legal professional about your unique situation.

Who is eligible to claim the tax credit?
First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home—new or resale—are eligible for the tax credit. To qualify for the tax credit, a home purchase must occur on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. For the purposes of the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when closing occurs and the title to the property transfers to the home owner.

Who is elibible to claim the tax credit? First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home—new or resale—are eligible for the tax credit. To qualify for the tax credit, a home purchase must occur on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. For the purposes of the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when closing occurs and the title to the property transfers to the home owner.
What is the definition of a first-time home buyer? The law defines "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the homeownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.

For example, if you have not owned a home in the past three years but your spouse has owned a principal residence, neither you nor your spouse qualifies for the first-time home buyer tax credit. However, unmarried joint purchasers may allocate the credit amount to any buyer who qualifies as a first-time buyer, such as may occur if a parent jointly purchases a home with a son or daughter. Ownership of a vacation home or rental property not used as a principal residence does not disqualify a buyer as a first-time home buyer.
How is the amount of the tax credit determined?
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit?
The tax credit amount is reduced for buyers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of more than $75,000 for single taxpayers and $150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return. The tax credit amount is reduced to zero for taxpayers with MAGI of more than $95,000 (single) or $170,000 (married) and is reduced proportionally for taxpayers with MAGIs between these amounts.
What is "modified adjusted gross income"?
Modified adjusted gross income or MAGI is defined by the IRS. To find it, a taxpayer must first determine "adjusted gross income" or AGI. AGI is total income for a year minus certain deductions (known as "adjustments" or "above-the-line deductions"), but before itemized deductions from Schedule A or personal exemptions are subtracted. On Forms 1040 and 1040A, AGI is the last number on page 1 and first number on page 2 of the form. For Form 1040-EZ, AGI appears on line 4 (as of 2007). Note that AGI includes all forms of income including wages, salaries, interest income, dividends and capital gains.

To determine modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), add to AGI certain amounts such as foreign income, foreign-housing deductions, student-loan deductions, IRA-contribution deductions and deductions for higher-education costs.
If my modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above the limit, do I qualify for any tax credit?
Possibly. It depends on your income. Partial credits of less than $8,000 are available for some taxpayers whose MAGI exceeds the phaseout limits.
Can you give me an example of how the partial tax credit is determined?
Just as an example, assume that a married couple has a modified adjusted gross income of $160,000. The applicable phaseout to qualify for the tax credit is $150,000, and the couple is $10,000 over this amount. Dividing $10,000 by $20,000 yields 0.5. When you subtract 0.5 from 1.0, the result is 0.5. To determine the amount of the partial first-time home buyer tax credit that is available to this couple, multiply $8,000 by 0.5. The result is $4,000.

Here’s another example: assume that an individual home buyer has a modified adjusted gross income of $88,000. The buyer’s income exceeds $75,000 by $13,000. Dividing $13,000 by $20,000 yields 0.65. When you subtract 0.65 from 1.0, the result is 0.35. Multiplying $8,000 by 0.35 shows that the buyer is eligible for a partial tax credit of $2,800.

Please remember that these examples are intended to provide a general idea of how the tax credit might be applied in different circumstances. You should always consult your tax advisor for information relating to your specific circumstances.
How is this home buyer tax credit different from the tax credit that Congress enacted in July of 2008?
The most significant difference is that this tax credit does not have to be repaid. Because it had to be repaid, the previous "credit" was essentially an interest-free loan. This tax incentive is a true tax credit. However, home buyers must use the residence as a principal residence for at least three years or face recapture of the tax credit amount. Certain exceptions apply.
How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application?
Participating in the tax credit program is easy. You claim the tax credit on your federal income tax return. Specifically, home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and then claim this amount on Line 69 of their 1040 income tax return. No other applications or forms are required, and no pre-approval is necessary. However, you will want to be sure that you qualify for the credit under the income limits and first-time home buyer tests.
What types of homes will qualify for the tax credit?
Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit. This includes single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. The definition of principal residence is identical to the one used to determine whether you may qualify for the $250,000 / $500,000 capital gain tax exclusion for principal residences.
I read that the tax credit is "refundable." What does that mean?
The fact that the credit is refundable means that the home buyer credit can be claimed even if the taxpayer has little or no federal income tax liability to offset. Typically this involves the government sending the taxpayer a check for a portion or even all of the amount of the refundable tax credit.

For example, if a qualified home buyer expected, notwithstanding the tax credit, federal income tax liability of $5,000 and had tax withholding of $4,000 for the year, then without the tax credit the taxpayer would owe the IRS $1,000 on April 15th. Suppose now that the taxpayer qualified for the $8,000 home buyer tax credit. As a result, the taxpayer would receive a check for $7,000 ($8,000 minus the $1,000 owed).
I purchased a home in early 2009 and have already filed to receive the $7,500 tax credit on my 2008 tax returns. How can I claim the new $8,000 tax credit instead?
Home buyers in this situation may file an amended 2008 tax return with a 1040X form. You should consult with a tax advisor to ensure you file this return properly.
Instead of buying a new home from a home builder, I hired a contractor to construct a home on a lot that I already own. Do I still qualify for the tax credit?
Yes. For the purposes of the home buyer tax credit, a principal residence that is constructed by the home owner is treated by the tax code as having been "purchased" on the date the owner first occupies the house. In this situation, the date of first occupancy must be on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

In contrast, for newly-constructed homes bought from a home builder, eligibility for the tax credit is determined by the settlement date.
Can I claim the tax credit if I finance the purchase of my home under a mortgage revenue bond (MRB) program?
Yes. The tax credit can be combined with the MRB home buyer program. Note that first-time home buyers who purchased a home in 2008 may not claim the tax credit if they are participating in an MRB program.
I live in the District of Columbia. Can I claim both the Washington, D.C. first-time home buyer credit and this new credit?
No. You can claim only one.
I am not a U.S. citizen. Can I claim the tax credit?
Maybe. Anyone who is not a nonresident alien (as defined by the IRS), who has not owned a principal residence in the previous three years and who meets the income limits test may claim the tax credit for a qualified home purchase. The IRS provides a definition of "nonresident alien" in IRS Publication 519.
Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction?
No. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in what the taxpayer owes. That means that a taxpayer who owes $8,000 in income taxes and who receives an $8,000 tax credit would owe nothing to the IRS.

A tax deduction is subtracted from the amount of income that is taxed. Using the same example, assume the taxpayer is in the 15 percent tax bracket and owes $8,000 in income taxes. If the taxpayer receives an $8,000 deduction, the taxpayer’s tax liability would be reduced by $1,200 (15 percent of $8,000), or lowered from $8,000 to $6,800.
Is there any way for a home buyer to access the money allocable to the credit sooner than waiting to file their 2009 tax return?
Yes. Prospective home buyers who believe they qualify for the tax credit are permitted to reduce their income tax withholding. Reducing tax withholding (up to the amount of the credit) will enable the buyer to accumulate cash by raising his/her take home pay. This money can then be applied to the downpayment.

Buyers should adjust their withholding amount on their W-4 via their employer or through their quarterly estimated tax payment. IRS Publication 919 contains rules and guidelines for income tax withholding. Prospective home buyers should note that if income tax withholding is reduced and the tax credit qualified purchase does not occur, then the individual would be liable for repayment to the IRS of income tax and possible interest charges and penalties.

Further, rule changes made as part of the economic stimulus legislation allow home buyers to claim the tax credit and participate in a program financed by tax-exempt bonds. Some state housing finance agencies, such as the Missouri Housing Development Commission, have introduced programs that provide short-term credit acceleration loans that may be used to fund a downpayment. Prospective home buyers should inquire with their state housing finance agency to determine the availability of such a program in their community.
If I’m qualified for the tax credit and buy a home in 2009, can I apply the tax credit against my 2008 tax return?

Yes. The law allows taxpayers to choose ("elect") to treat qualified home purchases in 2009 as if the purchase occurred on December 31, 2008. This means that the 2008 income limit (MAGI) applies and the election accelerates when the credit can be claimed (tax filing for 2008 returns instead of for 2009 returns). A benefit of this election is that a home buyer in 2009 will know their 2008 MAGI with certainty, thereby helping the buyer know whether the income limit will reduce their credit amount.

Taxpayers buying a home who wish to claim it on their 2008 tax return, but who have already submitted their 2008 return to the IRS, may file an amended 2008 return claiming the tax credit. You should consult with a tax professional to determine how to arrange this.

For further information click on this link: http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/2009/faq.php

If you needed any further convincing that now is a great time to buy, the following information should ease your mind. If you, or any one you know, is interested in buying or selling or has questions about the housing market, please contact me.

Wordless Wednesday late on Tuesday

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:55:27 -0800

Merry Christmas to All and to all a Good Night

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:01:52 -0800

Water Lightly with allot of Patience

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:15:53 -0800

As I searched the garden centers this summer for a new pot for this Pony Tail Palm it brought back the journey the palm and I have been on for the last 15 years or so. This baby was in a 1 gallon pot in Sarasota FL when it came to live with me. It road on the front seat of my car for the 1500 mile trip back to Indiana. I wanted to bring a small bit of Florida with me and this was it.

I have to baby it more here in the north, protect its bark from hungry Indiana squirrels, water it just so through the long cold winters. Pony Tails, like other palms are tropical in nature and they store water in their bases for the long dry spells of their native environments. I know that too much water can kill them quickly and not enough water dries the fronds badly, especially when the pot is parked in front of the heat registers. The old pot was a clay pot of the type you cant purchase here and I knew going into a larger pot, one has to be careful not to increase the pot size too much, especially for plants that prefer being crowded a bit in the root zone.

After transplanting I watched anxiously as it seemed that one of the heads was throwing up some new frond growth, but the other was not. However since its been moved inside, the other head is now also starting some new growth. Once again if I listen to my plants I am reminded to be patient, stay grounded in the moment and be grateful for what I have.

Bittersweet in the Woods

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:04:13 -0800

2426 Revere Drive Goshen, IN 46526 MLS#9919142

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:14:28 -0800

FIRE your Decorator, you wont need one for this Goshen beauty!

Three Bedroom/2 bath Split Floor Plan. Family Room, Trex deck, built 1997 2636sq ft. Easy entertaining in the open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Quiet west side neighborhood.

For more info: http://calllandmark.com/listings.htm?agent_mls_id=4245&mls=75

Thanksgiving Day Peace

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:41:19 -0800

Yes Virginia, we have had over 10 inches of snow...

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 09:59:07 -0800

Maybe its because I still have just a smidge of Florida sand in between my toes, but it seems like the snow and winter have arrived very early this November in northern Indiana. Heres the proof, photos taken of my backyard on November 18th to be exact.No matter how long I live, I will never get over the thrill of seeing that clear blue sky behind the frigid trees. Bring on the hot buttered rum and my snow blower, winter is here!

Time Flies

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 18:45:03 -0800

What a difference a month makes. Here in Northern Indiana, you would think it's January 21st, not November 21st! The temperatures and fairly constant stream of snow we have been experiencing is out of the ordinary of the winters we have been experiencing in the last few year. I did see one wooly worm this fall who was scrambling to get into my garden shed and apparently that worm KNEW it was coming! I have spent the past few weeks raking leaves and doing all the other "fall" things in preparation.

So as we start the week heading towards Thanksgiving, what are you going to be thankful for?

My gratitude list includes:

I am thankful for my health and the health of all of my family members

I am thankful for my home.

I am thankful for the beautiful views out my windows. I never get tired of seeing the change of the seasons, do you? I know that some of you reading do not see much of a change in seasons, but even when I lived in tropical Florida, there was a slight..very slight shift in the air and you knew summer was at last coming to an end!

I am thankful for the great variety of birds at my feeders, which are very plentiful right now as the natural seeds are buried until spring

I am thankful that I will have family at the table with me on Thanksgiving

I am thankful for the recent classes I have been taking on SEO and how to further expand my business

I am thankful that soon we will have a new President and cabinet and perhaps they will be able to at least give the world and the country a sense that all is not doom and gloom that we hear constantly on the news.

Finally, I am thankful for Active Rain and all of its generous participants. I have learned more here in a year than I could have ever imagined when I signed up for my account. Thank you all for your thoughts, your arguments, your sharing of knowledge and oh yes, HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

ENOUGH negativity already!

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:11:29 -0700

You know, its not that I do not understand how precarious and delicate things are with the current financial crisis, My head is not stuck firmly in the sand, but I am not ready to be like Chicken Little either, running around shouting "the sky is falling, the sky is falling". I am getting to the point where I want to climb on the tallest mountain and scream ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!

I would like to hear some good news for a change! I would like to send Katie, Tom, Wolf, Nancy and all the rest of the news folks to the GOOD NEWS network (http://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/) since that seems to be the only place where we can read/hear headlines like this:

PENDING HOME SALES RISE or how about this one? VIRGINIA GOVERNOR TAKES PAY CUT AND SLASHES OFFICE BUDGET

or go on over to http://www.happynews.com/ and read about how the Texas city of San Antonio is going "GREEN" in a big way, to help " turn the stench of its residents' waste into sweet green cash and renewable energy" I not only have bookmarked these 2 sites, I plan on using one for my permanent home page.

Lets start turning our attitudes around and that collective energy will turn our world around. We Americans have always been our best when we join together to help each other, whether its fighting a common enemy or helping a neighborhood recover from a natural disaster. Lets show the world we CAN do it again and get our minds out of the mental dump that we have all been in lately!

Fall...its closing in on us.

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 11:46:09 -0700

No..no...nooooooooo can the summer be gone? How can it be? I am still fighting the bunnies and chipmunks for my tomatoes. Hands full of green beans for the pot and small mounds of green peppers turning red on my porch. My attention is riveted as I watch the cherry tree leaves falling like light snow to the ground.

Still in denial, at first I thought the premature drop was due to the severe lack of rainfall in this area the last 2 months. However with the crisp low 50 degree mornings we have had the tulip tree leaves are starting to turn and join the rest in their rush to the ground. Time to haul out the "Fall To Do" list and get started!

Let these suggestions get you ready for the change thats coming.

Call your heating maintenance company for a fall service check that includes inspecting and replacing filters.

If you have a fireplace, its a good idea to make sure birds have not nested in your chimney.

Nows a great time to disconnect and thoroughly clean your dryer vents, heating vents and cold air returns in your home.

Remove and store water hoses after the first frost or two. Remember to flood irrigate your tender or newly planted evergreens, they tend to get dehydrated over the long winter months.

If you haven't done so lately, take the time to check out your gutters to make sure that all are free flowing, because when the cold rains of autumn come, you will want to be cozy inside!

Plant some new spring flower bulbs! There is nothing more exciting than to see the first flush of crocus or early daffodils peeking through the snow. Put a small scattering of them near a window that you see out of often, like a kitchen or dining area window.

Divide your perennial plants like hostas, daylilies and so on.

Prune shrubbery and do any moves or transplanting of small trees.

Clean out the annual beds and vegetable gardens after first frost and mulch with chopped leaves, layers of shredded newspaper, Add a bit of 10-10-10 fertilizer to help with the breakdown and give the soil ready nutrients for next year. If you are fortunate enough to find some, bunny manure is a great addition as well.

When you are ready to pack up the mower for the season, DON'T. Take it to your local maintenance shop instead and have them service it. It has worked long and hard for you this year, you want it ready to go in the spring, with a newly sharpened blade, fresh oil in the tank and a new spark plug.

Don't let the snowblower be neglected either, at the first 6 inches of snow is not a good time to wonder if it will start!

AFFORDABLE FIRST TIME BUYER HOME

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:28:15 -0700

$69,900

MLS# 9918546

Affordable starter home, perfect for first time buyer or newlywed couple. Priced to fit first time buyer's budgets. 2 bedroom 1 bath

Large kitchen bar with stainless steel appliances and over the stove microwave Open airy floor plan with laminate floors (except master bedroom, which is carpeted) Bonus room with outside entrance would be perfect for a home office or den

Above ground pool and paver patio for your summertime parties 6 foot privacy fence and 2 garden sheds for storage Shaded nicely landscaped yard with pond. Minutes to the Toll Road, shopping and restaurants on a quiet cul-de-sac street

MORE Photos and Details here: http://calllandmark.com/listings.htm?agent_mls_id=4245&mls=75

The Maple City-Have you stopped to enjoy it lately?

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 15:29:35 -0700

Like so many kids growing up I could not wait to get away from Goshen, a small town in the midst of walls of corn that seemed to go on forever. My wish came true and I did grow up and move away. Only with the distance of time and miles did I come to appreciate all that I left behind. I returned some 25 years later with eyes that could and still do appreciate all that this little town still has to offer.

The nostalgic part of me wishes the downtown area still hosted some long gone favorites like Kline's Department store, where the clerks called good morning to you by name and where a walk into Murphy's Dimestore tickled your hearing as your footsteps made the old oak floors creak so loudly you wondered if they could support the weight of the dusty shelves loaded with dishes and penny candy cases.

The Maple City is older and like me, has changed over the years, but thankfully some things havent changed and some of the things that are new are an improvement. A current look reveals a rich bounty of places to go, good food to be had, bargains to find and yes, still many friendly folks to wait on you as you make your way through town.

Some of my favorite spots to shop, eat and just hang out include:

John Hall's True Value Hardware
205-207 South Main Street
(574)533-3293
No, the clerks there do not know my name, but they are just as friendly and ever ready to help you find just what you need.

Baintertown Race, located just south of town off of State Road 15.
For a quiet walk, a bike ride, a picnic or just a few moments of natures beauty. Its free and Mother Nature provides an ever changing cornucopia of color and things to see. This photo, taken by a friend of mine was taken in spring, when the Red Bud trees were in full bloom.

County Seat Cafe
124 West Jefferson Street
(574)534-1348   This is a long time favorite of the Goshen natives and others who know the corner to seek out when they are looking for a good cooked meal. Breakfast is my favorite time at this busy Goshen eatery.

The Depot
1013 Division Street
(574)534-4070   Seeking the unusual, the inexpensive find? Find the Depot on Division Street, where items are displayed in a brightly lit room. From canning jars for a quarter to flat screen computer screens for $15, you are sure to find a bargain here!

The Old Bag Factory
1100 Chicago Ave
(574) 534-2502    http://www.oldbagfactory.com/ If its art you seek, do not miss The Old Bag Factory. This is one part of town that changed for the better during my absence. When I left town it was just what its name says, "the old bag factory" where they used to make bags before all that manufacturing was moved elsewhere. Now its a charming grouping of artists who turn out lovely pieces of pottery, quilts to stun you with their beauty, and many other hand crafted items.

The Olympia Candy Kitchen
136 N. Main Street
Goshen, IN 46526
Phone: (574) 533-5040   http://www.olympiacandykitchen.com/history.html
A Goshen institution, the Olympia has been making hand rolled chocolates for over 100 yrs in the same location. A visit here will yield a hard wooden booth (original) and the same lights that were installed in the early part of the 20th century. Never had a Green River before or a Vanilla Phosphate? Its something everyone should try just once and see if you can walk out the door without stopping to buy at least one, or maybe two pieces of chocolates for the road home!

The Chief Ice Cream Stand
1131 Abby Court
(574)533-6448
The Chief has been the summertime hangout for many generations of Goshen folks looking for a little after dinner socializing while waiting inline for a hot fudge sundae or just a dipped cone.

The Courthouse Grounds Goshen is the county seat of Elkhart County and the courthouse and surrounding grounds take up one city block square in the downtown area. The grounds are filled with beautiful maple trees, benches and the famous Neptune Fountain that used to scare me as a little girl. A nice spot to catch your breath and watch the hustle of town go by.

Maple City Market
314 S. Main Street
Goshen, IN 46526
(574) 534-2355     www.maplecitymarket.com
The Maple City Market is a relative newcomer to the downtown area, occupying the old IGA grocery store building. They have organic produce, bulk foods, bulk spices, health foods, vitamins, freshly made breads and deli items for take out. If you time it right, you can walk out with a freshly made loaf of bread that is still warm from the oven. Hurry...its often sold out quickly!

The Refinery Cafe and Coffee Roasters
1907 Elkhart Road
(574)535-0101
Are you a coffee gourmet? Have you always wanted to try to roast your own beans but never really gotten around to it? No need to, just swing into the Refinery, where they roast them for you.

I hope I have intrigued you to seek out the unusual and the usual that continue to make Goshen a great small town to live in.

Anyone need the Blues?

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:26:05 -0700

These days in Elkhart, you can almost hear a collective SIGH as the dog days of August get even doggier with the ongoing saga of lost jobs and worry about the state of the local economy.

Being that I am a certified Pollyanna, I say that yes, it is hard to stay positive with the constant stream of bad news, BUT even if you can't afford a vacation this year, you can plan to attend the Elkhart Island of Blues Festival that will be taking place August 23,2008 at Island Park at the north end of Main Street and Beardsley Av. on the Elkhart River.

Last years festival was a great success, entertaining 4,000 folks with food, drink and great music, lets make this year even BETTER! Come on down and get in the blues the fun and easy way!

Tickets are $18.00 in advance … $20.00 date of festival.

For tickets, please contact The Elco Performing Arts Center at (574) 293-4469.

Entertainment:

Elwood Splinters Blues Band 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Blue Lunch 5:45 pm - 7:00 pm

Root Doctor 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Grammy Nominee Randy McAllister 9:30 pm - 11:30 pm

*Times are approximated

For more information, visit the website. See you there!

http://www.russellproducts.com/islandofblues/tickets.html

Seize the day!

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:04:48 -0700

Today is one of those days here in Hoosier Land. One of those days that makes you glad you are alive and glad you are in Elkhart County! Low humidity, bright sunny day. Low 80's. This is the day I will "store" in my mind to recall during those dark winter mornings when the sky can barely light up enough to drive to work without running your headlights all day long.

Another reason to be happy today? Its harvest time in Indiana. The sweetest sweet corn, peaches, green beans, tomatoes, blueberries and the melons! I am like a drunken sailor reeling from one drink to the next on the constant stream of luscious fruits and vegetables making their way to my kitchen.

One place they are making their way from is the American Countryside Market, CR26, just south of town off of SR 19. Rising to occupy a huge hunk of the flat farmlands, you cant miss the bright red barn color and bright white trim. This is a busy beehive of activity every week. Heres a link to their website with all the details:

http://www.americancountryside.us/market/

In addition to all the great things to eat there, there are also crafters items, and a part of the Quilt Garden Tour that is located all around Elkhart County this summer. These are huge quilt blocks interpreted in summer blooms.If you havent given yourself the time or the gas to take a vacation this summer, spend a little of both to see these lovely gardens.

Enjoy the weekend and remember, SEIZE your day!

Quilts of Comfort

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:10:01 -0700

In addition to being a real estate agent, I am also a quilter. Quilters always have had a generous hearts, making a quilt to bring comfort to someone is what we do, who we are. We sent thousands of them to Katrina victims. The Linus organization, which gives quilts to kids who need comforting has delivered over 2,300,000 kids quilts to date and that is just a small portion of what goes on. We are as I post this message collecting and sending items to the folks in Cedar Rapids,Iowa area where the quilters there lost everything, even so simple an item as a pack of needles and a spool of thread. We hate the thought of a fellow quilter being without something to stitch on and so help to replenish their sewing supplies and bring comfort to their water weary hearts.

I have always contributed to those types of efforts but never really got my heart into it long term. Sort of like many folks do, just write a check and forget it, that was me. A little over a year ago, an online quilter friend of mine made a plea for help. She had a friend who was making quilts as fast as she could (over 100 a month) for the wounded soldiers being returned from the Mideast. The organization is called American Hero Quilts (http://americanheroquilts.com). I brought the project before my local group called the Heartland Quilters of Elkhart, thinking that maybe we could make a few quilts to donate. After we shipped our second box of quilts, I got a email back from the head of the organization, she told me about a young soldier named Aaron.

Aaron is not a native Hoosier..but a transplanted one. He spent the majority of his youth before going to war in the foster care system in Indiana. He met his future wife there and when he joined up, hoping to make a better life for himself and his family, they didn't count on him coming home minus an arm, an eye and 50% of his skin. Despite all that, when the quilt arrived from Elkhart County just for him with a label on the back that says "Thank you to an American Hero", he didn't want to take it, he didn't think he deserved to have such a beautiful thing.

I am proud to say that to date that I and the Heartland Quilters have donated over 50 quilts to comfort torn bodies and torn souls. I document all of the group quilts,you may see those photos at

http://news.webshots.com/album/560353754iIHaXL

We were extremely fortunate recently to have an article on the front page of the Elkhart Truth and also a short segment on WSBT Channel 22. Thanks to the generosity of the local residents,our work is able to continue. We vow to keep on stitching until they all come home. God Bless the soldiers and their families, who give up so much. God Bless our local supporters, without you our stitches would have come to an end far too soon.

Elkhart County Fair Anyone?

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:41:19 -0700

So sorry for those of you who do not live here or those who are even too far away to travel here. One of the best fairs in the state of Indiana is happening this week in Goshen, Indiana. We have free grandstand shows and some of the best entertainment around! Kellie Pickler, Hootie and the Blowfish and many other shows can all be seen from the grandstand for just the price of admission.

I have always liked going to the fair. My birthday falls around the Centerville MI fair week and every year when we were kids, we went to that fair for my birthday. I was in 4H and one of my entries one year was selected to go to State Fair in Indianapolis. I thought I was hot stuff, but when I got there, it didnt seem so much better than our fair at home! It still doesnt! I went to the state fair a few years ago to see Garrison Keillor and the show was great, but I thought the fair itself was just ok. I have also attended several county fairs and the state fair in Florida and the Hillsboro, MI county fair, all the while judging them against our own. OURS WINS hands down!

Lets not even talk about the food! Yes, every fair has its share of cotton candy, elephant ears, corn dogs and sinfully bad for your, but oh so good fried vegetables...but do the other ones have...Fresh ice cream from the Dairy Club Stand, Nelsons BBQ chicken, fresh lamb burgers from the Lamb Club and lets not even talk about the home-made pies...ahhh what could be better?

Take a look at the website and hopefully someday you will get a chance to be in Elkhart County the third week of July to join us for the best fair in the Midwest! http://www.4hfair.org/grandstand.htm

Stay home...and enjoy the water from your recliner!

Jody Jones Elkhart County Real Estate Agent (REALTY GROUP RESOURCES) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 21:19:05 -0700

OR you could take your pontoon boat out for a spin, which the owners of this most affordable Simonton Lake Channel beauty are offering with a NEW LOWERED PRICE OF $288,900

SEE VIRTUAL TOUR HERE: http://www.circlepix.com/home/4FT3

3 Bedrooms 2 Baths
Open Airy Floor Plan, Some Vaulted Ceilings
Woodburning, stone front Fireplace
3 car garage
Crawl space with storage
New Roof
Tile Entry
New Carpet in Main Living Areas
Laundry Room

Concrete Seawall 140 foot wide with several boat slips

Large Garden Shed to store more toys

Deck

Goldfish Pond with Outdoor Speakers

Quiet, Cul-de-sac location90 miles from Chicago

Minutes from the 80/90 Toll Road Exit# 92