Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker 's Blog

Wow Another Year Flies By

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:05:57 -0800

As the holidays approach and we finalize the end of the year books, send out holiday cards, attend holiday parties and prepare for next year. We can't help but remember all who were a part of our year 2011.

Again, this year has brought amazing people into our lives. This business is so rewarding in many ways and often we forget to be thankful for the many yearly blessings.

This year started out with Christina, joining our team and bringing with her a tremendous amount of knowledge in the technology world. Her talents in Real Estate are natural and her clients gratitude for her hard work has reminded me of her value at New Solutions. I look forward to her achievements and contributions in 2012.

The beginning of the year brought Jill, a new client buying a beautiful piece of Chesapeake Bay waterfront land. As well as The Leslie's, dear friends and clients of many years, settling into a new place in New Market. As well as another friend Larry, selling his home of a long time to start his retirement adventures.

Short Sales, Foreclosures and listing's sitting for a very long time have added to the frustrations of this year. However, the amount of time needed for each of these processes and the anxiety created with each one has had an upside. I speak of the depth of relationships formed and the relief felt by all when completed. Working together to manage to the best of our abilities all we do helps us all be better people.

Of those who could not sell, we have managed to rent 5 of our clients homes in order for them to have less of a burden, hold for a better market and/or purchase their new dream home while renting the old.

First time home buyer's continue to be a personal favorite. There is just nothing more rewarding than helping in this huge life changing event. Emily and Jerry, Griffin and Michelle and Brooke I look forward to our continued friendship through this upcoming year.

Their were also 8 clients we have been able to assist in obtaining a rental lease for this year and we certainly hope we are able to further assist you in any housing needs when the lease is up.

Also Joe and Vicky / Mac, I feel each of your homes couldn't be more perfect a fit, thank goodness considering the amount of time and effort you each put forth to acquire such perfect homes. It has been such a pleasure to work with each of you.

This year also brought our newest member of New Solutions, Matt Fischer. Matt brought with him a large knowledge base of the mortgage and real estate industry. He has gotten us approved with HUD for Real Estate held under this program and is currently feverishly bidding, buying, renting and selling these types of properties. We look forward to watching his continued success in 2012.
Also this year, looking back are all the people behind the scenes who make New Solutions what it is. Boni, Mary Ann, Theresa, Mr. Dunn, Ginny, Cheryl and Brian. Stacey, Shelly and Ed. Without each of your contributions and care we would just be another Remax (just kidding, kind of. LOL!). Also a shout out to all those who referred us business this year, we take great pride in providing above and beyond service and reduced expense and we thank each and every one of you for your trust in us.

As New Solutions, we remain committed to the people, the relationships, your needs and wants and we are committed to bring results that are personalized for each client's Mortgage or Real Estate needs.

Happy Holidays to one and all!

Sincerely,

Where will I live if I have to let my home go?

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:28:13 -0700

Recently I have had several inquiries regarding what happens after foreclosure? First I always attempt to encourage working with an HUD approved housing counselor. Secondly I do everything I can to assist in not letting the home go to foreclosure for the individuals sake and as my part in trying to stop the bleeding of these homes sitting on the market. If possible even a Short Sale of the home is easier on the individuals credit as well as the general neighborhood.

However if in the end foreclosure is inevitable....

Housing will become difficult, Owners and Landlords are most frightened of the tenants inability to make the rent payment. This is probably the number one fear among the sellers and landlords I work with. It takes a seasoned approach to display to a landlord the other factors that should be considered. Its not for the faint of heart and can be very frustrating.

Recently I had a client who due to divorce and job loss had pretty horrible credit. We spent months working on proof of her ability to pay and approaching landlords requesting rental agreements for her, after our 3rd turn down we found her current rental property. The positive side to these difficult times is to see her pull herself up and excel at her job. Since finding her the property to rent she has already saved 1/2 of what she will need for a down payment on her next home. To quote her " I will buy much more conservative this next time and I will always have a nest egg in my savings account " Her current landlord does not want to see her go. She will need a 3 year recovery before FHA will even consider lending to her again but she's accepting of what she must do to prove her stability and appreciative to the landlord for the opportunity.

If I can be of assistance or you have any questions on any of the below topics, please feel free to call.

Short sale
Foreclosure
Representing the landlord
Representing the tenant
Refinancing
Pre-Approval
Buying and Selling
Lender guidelines
Housing strategies-(Cant sell for what I owe / what to do)

New Solutions Newest Team Member

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 17:52:06 -0700

Welcome Matt to New Solutions Realty,

His many years in the mortgage, and real estate profession's make us excited to announce his joining us at New Solutions Realty. He will add to the Solutions we already offer, for example Matt is strong in working the FHA Foreclosure Arena he also holds a lenders license and license to conduct real estate settlements. Welcome Matt and much success.

Nauti - Momma.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:31:14 -0700

I could not pass up on this Momma birds brilliant use of material for building a nest.

I'm not sure how the boat owner feels.

AS Reported on MSN Today. GREAT NEWS!!!!!

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:00:10 -0700

15 cities with the most improvement in home prices and we came in 5th.

5. Bethesda-Frederick-Rockville, Md.

Population: 1.2 million

Average home price: $381,500

Year-over-year home price change: +1%

12-month home price forecast: +2%

These suburbs of Washington, D.C., have benefited from a surge in government hiring. Leisure and hospitality jobs are up, too, giving this area a low 5.2% unemployment rate. While prices did slide 18% from the peak in fourth quarter 2006, they are projected to rise steadily in the next three years.

Trends Buyers want in Homes today.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:48:38 -0700

All Buyers in todays market want a good deal and competiting with the foreclosure market is tough for sellers. So I wanted to share a couple of items that seem to be making my buyer clients want to make an offer.

1. Homes in Good Condition.

This is also important under the stringent lending rules. Homes in rough shape will not qualify for traditional loans. FHA which allows for minimum downpayment wont tolerate a fixer-upper.

2. A Good Deal.

All my buyers want that foreclosure or short sale deal, but they dont want to buy all new appliances, replace every door, paint, clean and fix all the holes in ceiling, walls and cabinets. They want the price on a lived in, loved, owner occupied property. So its very important as a seller to prepare for giving incentives, Paying for closing costs and potentially accepting a low ball offer. Also advertising incentives for new carpet, flat screen TV and allowance for furniture has become a trend.

3. Warm Spaces.

I have noticed a trend of potential buyers, they walk through the home but always find that "SPOT". Something unique or trendy. Spaces for entertaining are becoming more important also breakfast bars and stools in the kitchen. Outdoor living areas with tables, fire accents, lighting and TV or Music, seem to be bringing alot of attention. Another recent example well received by my buyers was an area in the yard with a slate patio, lighting thoughout, outdoor kitchen and fire pit and comfy furniture. This almost sold the house, on the inside they were only ok with this house but were considering writing an offer.

4. Kitchen and Bathrooms.

Open them up as much as possible, walls that have been taken down to open the kitchen up to other rooms is a Huge seller. Also open those baths up as much as possible. Skylights help bathrooms, and designer tiled showers instead of traditional tubs seem to be popular with buyers and it does enlarge the bathroom.

Eastern Box Turtles hatchlings at Lake Linganore, MD

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:24:40 -0700

The Box Turtles Around Our Home

One of my favorite things to see around our neighborhood

are the Box Turtles as they emerge from their woodsy nests.

These Eastern Box Turtles are found all throughout Lake Linganore. Early in the day they can be found foraging at the edge of the forest. Their shell pattern is perfect camouflage for the forest floor. They tend to avoid open areas and bright sunlight. They establish a territory that is from 2-12 acres. They are 4.5-6" long the largest recorded size is 7.8".

Box Turtles do not have a set incubation period that can take 2-3 months to hatch, or 70 to 90 days. The factors involved in determining incubation time are average nest temperatures and relative humidity inside the egg chamber. Depending on the average nest temperature, the eggs can be all males or females.

In our yard we have seen the turtles lay eggs the first week in June and typically we see hatchlings the last week of August.

Stay tuned as we will post this years activity if we are fortunate enough to catch the turtles in our yard with our cameras.

Sincerely,

Spring has Sprung!!!!

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:54:06 -0700

Walking around the yard, raking old leaves. Gathering fallen limbs. Watching the robins and seeing the crocus bloom. Its official Spring has arrived in my back yard, Maryland.

CRAIGSLIST SCAM

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:35:53 -0800

WARNING! REALTORS and CRAIGSLIST USERS.

My rental listing has never been placed on Craigslist only the MLS.

I have been spending hours on the phone and e-mail handling inquiries from potential clients who have seen several different listings on Craigslist. Rental prices on Craigslist range from 800 to 1200. The listing describes the property based on information from the true listing and also describes the property with completely false information.

After the clients contacted the craiglist scammer the gentleman tells them to wire money to Nigeria and the Keys will be mailed to them within 24 hours of receipt of wire.

Most adults, would know better but I do have one young couple that almost followed the scammer's instructions. Luckily they drove by the property to check it out before sending the wire and called me off the sign when they saw it.

We have attempted several times to flag the listings and contact Craigslist support it just keeps popping up with slightly different information. I don't know how to stop this type of activity but I will be keeping a much closer eye on my listings. As well as what type of information I put in the listing. Unfortunately the MLS is being abused from all over the World and Craigslist is becoming a scammer's playground.

Any Suggestions?

Anyone else experiencing this type of activity?

I CAN make big plans...therefore I DO.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 12:43:40 -0800

Here at New Solutions Realty, we believe in making big plans. Plans that include assisting sellers in a tough market and helping buyers find the home of their dreams. Plans to serve in the community by looking for opportunities that arise and responding to needs. We believe that the best way to make things happen is to plan for them and they will arrive.

Owning your own home is exciting and beneficial in numerous ways. That's why we've started a contest for current homeowners inviting them to share their experiences in what makes being a homeowner so special to them. We look forward to hearing their stories and will give the winner a T-shirt with our contest logo that says, "I CAN...because I'm a homeowner.

Be sure to stay tuned as this event goes forward and see the winning story or subscribe to our newsletter email list for ideas like this and more at www.newsolutionsrealty.net

Kodak Video Challenge "A Look At Lake Linganore in the Winter"

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:09:05 -0800

Here is a look at our most recent video showing one of the lovely subdivisions of Lake Linganore, MD called Pinehurst. We specialize in properties located around Lake Linganore and are currently working with buyers and sellers who want to live there and also want to sell. Although the lakes are frozen in the Winter, the area is still offers much to enjoy. This video gives a glimpse of the peaceful countryside and lovely lakes. It's always beautiful, it's Lake Linganore!

This post is written as a submission to the ActiveRain Kodak Video Challenge contest. I have the chance to win the KODAK PLAYTOUCH Pocket Video Camera, great for realtors looking to create wide angle home tours and real estate marketing videos!"

Creating Community Involvement

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:21:07 -0800

I care about Lake Linganore and the community, that's why I serve as a volunteer for the Pinehurst Village Committee, one of it's sub-divisions. My active involvement on the committee provides me the type of exposure I need as a trusted real estate broker, as well as puts me in contact with other community-minded people who tend to be the movers and shakers of the town. Most importantly, I can serve the community by keeping them up to date with neighborhood improvements, helping find lost pets, alerting them to potential traffic constructions as well as helping them bond and strengthen as a group making a better community overall.

Why not serve in your community and make a real (estate) difference today?

Just one of the new solutions we offer to real estate.

New Solutions Realty, Welcomes Christina Simmons.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 11:11:23 -0800

Christina brings her background in high-level technology, and we often refer to her as the gadget girl. She is a natural to all things IT. Bringing this expertise to New Solutions which will be keeping us at the forefront of the ever changing technology world. Christina has school age children involved in school activities so many of you already know her. Its easy to find her enjoying the beaches of Lake Linganore almost every weekend in the Summer and has been a resident of Lake Linganore for Nearly 10 Years.

Her expertise of the amenities included in all the Villages of Lake Linganore will quickly establish her as your neighborhood specialist.

She had been in Frederick County for Nearly 20 years and has a vast knowledge of the Real Estate here.

We look forward to all Christina will bring to our Real Estate Community.

Please Welcome her!

Christina@newsolutionsrealty.net

Twas the night before Christmas....with our home on the market!

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 11:37:53 -0800

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND ALL THROUGH THE HOUSE, WHAT WERE WE DOING BUT GETTING RID OF THE MOUSE.

CLEANING AND POLISHING AND SCRUBBIN TOO.

SOON WE WOULD BE SHOWING AND AIR FRESHENER TOO!

BAKING AND ORGANIZING AND SHOOING OUR CAT "MOON",

THE CLIENTS TO SEE OUR HOME, WILL BE HERE AT NOON!

SWEEP THE STINKBUG! TAKE OUT THE TRASH!

COME ON FAMILY WE NEED TO LEAVE HERE IN A FLASH.

GET IN THE CAR WITH THE DOG AND THE CAT,

2 KIDS AND THE GAMEBOY AND I HEAR A VERY LOUD SPLAT!

I'M ABOUT TO EXPLODE AT MY FAMILY INSIDE,

WHEN I REALIZE THE NOISE IS ON THE OUTSIDE.

AS I OPEN MY DOOR TO EXPLORE,

WHAT DO I FIND BUT MY COFFEE AS AS IS POURS,

DOWN THE ROOF AND ON MY HEAD.

AS I PULL OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, WIPING MY FOREHEAD.

IT COMES TO MIND I HAVE NOT MADE OUR BED,

AS WE HOPE AND WE PRAY THESE ARE THE CLIENTS THAT WILL BUY.

WE GET A PHONE CALL FROM THE AGENT, CANCELLING FROM THE GUY.

TO ALL OF YOU WHO HAVE A HOME TO SELL

WE WISH YOU ALL A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

AND A BETTER 2011! AND A BUYER ON THE DOORSTEP RINGING A BELL!

Past clients and the clients I cant wait to meet.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:06:00 -0800

November is nearing an end and I found myself reflecting on some of this year's clients, both current and previous. I am most rewarded by meeting new people, hearing the stories, seeing the plans and dreams and watching it all come together. Here are a couple of examples.

A single mom with 2 adopted children buying a beautiful new home as well as keeping her old home as a rental property. She is strong and determined and I look forward to knowing her for many years to come as well as watching her dream come true.

Another client building her dream home even after several very difficult events in her life. She is one, who I learn from every time I talk to her. I look forward to being a source of Mortgage and Real Estate services though this process and a friend when its all over.

The client who holds the most emotion award was the child of a long time client/friend. When he returned home from Afganistan to purchase his first home. I do believe I cried more than once with this mom. He was able to use his VA Benefits as well as take advantage of the tax credit.

Also this year I have had a couple of divorce situations. although I have always thought this as a bad thing when I watched the recovery and growth, happiness and relief of both parties of both marriage's I feel fortunate to have seen a happy ending.

I've known of 4 new babies come into this world from my clients or children of my clients this year. Two new puppies.

I helped my youngest client this year and couldn't help but feel proud of this 21 year old. Moved 3 states away from family landed a great job and purchased his first home. A Well done football paint job also.

I've made some new friends who will be future clients and I have past clients who have become great friends. I cant wait to meet those plans and dreams of next year and watch them all come together. For those of you whose stories I used and those I did not. Thank you, Friends.

FULL SERVICE, LESS COSTS. EXPLAINED!!!!

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:44:29 -0700

FULL SERVICE, LESS COSTS AS OUR COMPANY PHILOSOPHY........

Real Estate has changed expeditiously over the last decade or so. Online, text, e-mail, digital cameras, web based real estate sites, mortgage calculators and a wealth of public records, criminal statistics and blogs from the comfort of your home. These changes have also effected how Real Estate shopping, buying, selling, closing, and comparing takes place. 89% of all home buyers and sellers are beginning the home search online. Many clients call me with homes they have seen online and want to see more. Sellers are checking Zillow.com (a value site), pulling up the Real Estate Tax Assessments, telling me what other homes like there's are for sale.

Gone are the days of taking pictures with film, running them to the 1 our photo shop and then over to the print shop to prepare the flyer's and brochures. All very expensive and time consuming.

Gone are the days where you flip through a binder of listed properties to find options for new buyers. Or binders full of home listings typed up on the typewriter. Buyers meeting you in the office to sit down and look at potential printouts of home listings.

Gone are the days of expensive print magazine articles, Gone are the days of chauffeuring clients around to look at the neighborhood and its amenities. Thank you Google Earth. ( I had a client tell me that when she google earthed the community pool in our neighborhood, she recognized her personal umbrella on the pool deck).

So many options for information, statistics, neighborhood blogs, search engines for properties, sold, for sale, foreclosures, values, Realtors and their sites, web pages, statistics, search engines. I could go on and on.

At New Solutions we are working our philosophy,

if it costs less to work Real Estate online and online is where its at

it should also reduce the commissions charged.

Full Service still means........

Staying completely and constantly educated on new technology, law, the mortgage industry with its ever changing guidelines and negotiation techniques. Keeping up an online presence, blog, social networking and inexpensive/green, eye catching marketing and selling tools.

Being available for my clients when they need me and for what they need me for, clients needs are changing.

Examples of recent requests.

1. Be available to handle my pet in case of a showing.

2. An elderly man who couldn't hear the phone ring, we installed a light that blinked.

3. Rake up the apples in the front yard that were attracting hornets or scoop poop, (this was a special circumstance.)

4. text me, I cant talk at work.

5. Hire and monitor painters, cleaners, landscapers, handymen.

6. Change the pictures on my listing 1 a week.

NEW SOLUTIONS, BRIGHT IDEAS THAT BRING RESULTS.

WITH MODERN REAL ESTATE TECHNIQUES

ON A BUDGET TO SAVE OUR CLIENTS MONEY.

SKYLIGHTS IN THE MASTER BEDROOM, LITERALLY!!!!!

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:34:23 -0700

Skylights in the Master Bedroom....Literally

I have showed this foreclosure in Frederick MD twice, to 2 separate clients. The first showing was in April and the second in June. The first showing the upstairs carpet was stained and ceiling stained and it was apparent that there was an issue with a leaking roof. The second showing the damage had spread. You could see it the minute you walked into the kitchen the ceiling had collapsed, due to water damage. The second floor in the master bedroom is destroyed and the ceiling in the master bedroom had also collapsed. When I looked up through the hole in the bedroom towards the roof literally I saw sky.

Now this is a End Unit townhouse and the adjoining wall to the neighbors is receiving damage as well from the hole in the roof which is about 1 foot from the adjoining home.

This is an unsafe home to view as the floors have had time to rot as well. We did not go to the basement as common sense told me what would be discovered there.

So my client and I went on our way to the other homes to see.

This home haunted me that night, it was sad and it was unsafe. So I called the listing agent the next day to discuss my concerns. Also to alert him to the damage certainly effecting the neighbors. After I spoke of what I'd seen and acknowledged this being a Bank foreclosure. I waited for his response.......?........?

He eventually asked; so are your clients interested?

AUGHHGHGHGH!!!! What? Are you not concerned, could you not have some tarp placed to at least slow the deterioration? I believe its unsafe and the neighbors are experiencing issues as well, Is that not of a concern to you or the bank?

Again he asks.... Are you clients interested or not?

After immediately hanging up on him. I still have not decided if I will become more involved.

What I can tell you is...

I'm proud of the common sense my parents taught me.

I'm proud of my ability to feel responsible and concerned.

I know whats right and what is wrong.

I never would be so lazy or inconsiderate of others.

I know if this is how he takes care of the asset he has been hired to sell he should not be in this business.

Thanks for listening.

Kay

Avoiding Surprises.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:45:48 -0700

As Realtors we become very busy juggling several phone calls on several properties. Keeping the details of each property separate from the other. Making and keeping appointments as well as being prepared for those appointments. Going the extra mile and staying on top of the ever changing market. This doesn't account for the work that is needed to grow your business. However buyers and sellers are focused on that one MAJOR event. I have been working on my policies on avoiding surprises and I thought I'd share a few examples, and perhaps get feedback or additional suggestions.

1. At the very first meeting I like to spend 15 minutes or more talking about what will happen, this is a wonderful time to hear the fears that lie beneath the skin of your clients. TAKE NOTE... Address these fears and remember to focus on avoiding that surprise.

2. At this very first meeting I like to talk about the bad that could come. For examples low offers, I like to do the math for them at this point. I also like to put it in the form of % rather than dollars. On a 300,000.00 price and a 285000.00 offer this is a 5% decrease in price. Anything less than 10% is easily negotiable and we cant get offended by such an offer. This also works on behalf of my buyers. If the home is priced reasonably I try to keep our offers within 5% off price. Presenting a tolerance helps avoid the surprise.

3. Appraisals.... This is a HUGE avoid surprise. In today's market it seems more and more appraisals are coming in low. This is a HUGE problem for both Buyers and Sellers as both sides shatter when this occurs. Prepare your clients early to avoid this surprise.

Just a few of many surprises that seem to come up in our industry. As I continue to both fine tune and expand my policy on avoiding surprises. I look to our Real estate community for additional ideas. What was your last BIG Surprise and how did you or wish you had avoided it or at least prepared everyone for it?

Signed,

Striving for Surpriseless.

Let us all remember to honor all who serve(d) for us.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Fri, 28 May 2010 11:50:30 -0700

And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free, and I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me and I'll proudly stand next to him to defend her still today, 'cuz there ain't no doubt I love this land, god bless the USA. -Lee Greenwood

Trees, Trees, Trees.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Mon, 03 May 2010 10:40:52 -0700

I blog often regarding the nature that abounds in our community. Lake Linganore, Maryland is a mostly wooded neighborhood surrounding the Lake Linganore. Today I feel very rewarded if not a lot sore from my accomplishment over the weekend, so I thought I'd Share.

I have donated to http://www.arborday.org

for many years.

Last fall the little saplings arrived at my doorstep. These saplings are a gift from Arbor day for my donation. I have never filled out the request in the past to receive this gift but this year I accepted.

These little trees arrived on my doorstep with directions on how to plant them or how to hold them over for the spring planting. The latter was my choice, so I dug the trench as described in the hold over for spring directions and I tenderly placed the roots in and filled the trench so gently.

Four feet of snow, our wicked winter and some unusually warm weather around Easter and Walla!!!!! I have 7 of 10 little saplings all covered in leaves. Oh No! Now, what do I do with them?

Did I mention the nature that abounds????? Let me remind you with this picture.

So not only do I need to get these little trees planted in a permanent place, since they are all still bunched together in the temporary spot. I need to insure they dont become lunch. Tom and I headed out the the hardware store in seach of wire and stakes to afford our little trees safety.

We now have seven, 12 inch tall trees planted in the wooded area in back. Seven holes dug, rocks removed, organic material added, weeds and roots removed and deer barriers in place.

Once this project was complete I couldn't help but think what they might be in 10, 20 or 50 years. It truely was a rewarding afternoon.

New Solutions Realty HAS MOVED.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 10:42:31 -0700

WE'VE MOVED!!!!

We have landed at this wonderful new office space, perfectly located in the middle of Frederick County, MD. Bright ideas that bring results with full service Real Estate and less costs. No Big Franchise fees.

COME ON IN!!!!!! SEE YOU SOON.

Whats on the Horizon ???

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:42:24 -0700

Whats on the Horizon ???

There is a growing divide between delinquencies and foreclosures, which suggests that foreclosure data understate the mortgage distress and delinquencies now building in the U.S. Residential Housing Market.

There could be a coming wave of defaults, borrowers whose homes are significantly underwater with predication's of more than 5 years before an increase in property values. These borrowers may have high credit scores opting to strategically default.

Government programs to support housing have been "Murky" and if the modifications caused by them comes to an end, or doesn't address the perfect credit underwater homeowner, a lot of supply may come to the market.

Mortgage rates also typically move in lockstep with the long-term economic outlook. Economists generally believe that the nation is in the early stages of a slow recovery, and that as the recovery proceeds, interest rates will go up.

Economists are generally predicting that mortgage rates will begin to edge up in late March, settling at about 5.5 percent, possibly as high as 6 percent, for a 30-year fixed-rate loan. The rate today is around 5 percent. They also expect that the inventory of foreclosed homes will grow through the summer, saturating the market with cheap properties and keeping overall prices low.

Its a smattering of opinions out there. These were simply a couple of points that caught my attention as we climb into spring and ride out the wave.

I'm always available to give information, I have had an increase in clients with "I just want information, is there anything out there for me?"

Frederick County Maryland, Lake Linganore, Pinehurst Subdivision

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:27:43 -0800

Frederick County Maryland, Lake Linganore, Pinehurst Subdivision is expected to begin its water, road and sewer improvements. I joined this committee to help in communicating challenges and dates of interest to our neighbors during these long anticipated growing times. Please feel free to contact me at anytime during the CDA/CIP improvements. The second meeting of this commitee is Tonight at 7:00.

October 2009 vs. 2008

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:42:33 -0800

As we enter 2010,

I look at Maryland Association of Realtors Residential Resale figures for October 2009 vs 2008.

Below I share Frederick County with you.

The number of Units sold in 2009: 225

The Number of Units in 2008: 170

32.4% improvement in the number of sales.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Average price per unit in 2009: 256,565

The average price per unit in 2008: 276,620

7.3% drop in sales price since last year.

Also there has been an overall decline in the inventory of unsold homes another positive indicator.

Lets look forward to a much improved 2010!

One way to improve your home and save money this year.

Kay Corbin-Riddle, Broker (New Solutions Realty ) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 15:48:10 -0800

Water heaters

One of your home's largest energy guzzlers is your water heater. Wrapping it in fireproof insulation saves tremendous amounts of energy, but to really save big, install a tankless water heater and receive a tax credit of $300. Through a system of coils, the unit heats water on demand, is more energy efficient and takes up considerably less space. Costs for the system and installation can run between $600 and $1,400.