"Lauren's Lancaster" Blog

Open House This Sunday - Hamilton Park Home With Great Yard

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:44:09 -0500

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

Open house this Sunday June 21st from 1-3, 128 Atkins Ave in Lancaster. This Hamilton Park home is move in ready and all the appliances stay. 4 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, great fireplace in the living room, beautiful hardwood floors, and a flagstone patio ready for summertime entertaining.

Located on Atkins Ave, a quiet street with many beautiful homes. Sit on the front porch and enjoy nice weather. Plenty of parking on this street but this home also has a driveway and garage in the back.

All the appliances are newer and even the washer and dryer stay. Kitchen door conveniently leads to the back patio for easy barbecues! The wood burning fireplace is a great way to warm up in winter.

Great closet space, some with organizers, nice built-ins, third floor bedroom is very large with windows on three sides. Visit www.128atkins.com for more information and pictures.

___________________________________________________________________________

For Lancaster PA homes for sale click here. Jeff Geoghan is a top real estate expert in Lancaster County, PA, and an involved community member. Jeff's work has been featured in the Lancaster Newspapers, WGAL Channel 8, PA Business Journal and Wall Street Journal. Jeff's blog on Lancaster County and its homes is nationally-featured. Contact Jeff for more help with your Lancaster PA Real Estate needs. Jeff is also a photographer - view some of his lancaster pa photography portfolio. Comments are welcome!

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

Interested in listing your Lancaster PA Home for sale? See our #1 home marketing program!

Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Ten Ways To Enhance Your Personal Giving - From Bare Financial

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:34:11 -0500

More news from our team:

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

I'm proud to announce a new partner of the YourLancasterHome.com Real Estate team - Bare Financial Services will be providing financial advisory services to our clients in a new program, which I'll be publishing a press release on this week. In the meantime, Jeremy Walter of Bare Financial posted his June "Monthly Minute" newsletter and I liked the lead story. It's a list (who doesn't like lists?) of ways that you can find to give more in a creative fashion. Here's the list:

1. Give a "donation loan" in which the recipient repays you by donating the "loan" to someone else

2. Pay for someone's gas next to you at the gas station

3. Loan a family car when it's not being used to a family who needs it

4. Offer to drive people needing transportation to doctor appointments, airports, etc.

5. Donate unused air conditioning window units to a family who needs one

6. Purchase a restaurant gift certificate and offer free babysitting to new parents

7. Give out change at local laundromats and talk to the person while waiting for their clothes to wash/dry

8. Create scholarships to pay for events a family couldn't usually afford (church events, summer camps, mission trips)

9. Spend a Saturday morning looking for a moving van and offer to help the family move their belongings

10. In addition to a monetary gift to a local ministry, offer to volunteer regularly on a fixed day of the week or month either in their office or ministry field

Our Newest Listing: 128 Atkins Ave, Hamilton Park, Lancaster PA

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:51:06 -0500

The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group is proud to present our newest listing, you have to see this one!

Idyllic Hamilton Park Home

Location: Hamilton Park

Explore the beauty of Hamilton Park and this exquisite home! You are going to be impressed by the grounds, including the large rear property with driveway, garage, stone patio and lots of yard to enjoy. Inside, a nice kitchen with all appliances staying and a full 3rd floor bedroom make this brick home spacious without being pretentious. Lots of details...absolutely worth a look!

Information

Contact Information

Jeff R. Geoghan MBA, Realtor

717-799-0851

Contact Reply Form

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Pricing

Price: $172,253

Property Location

128 Atkins Ave
Lancaster, PA 17603
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 1

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 1937

Subdivision: Hamilton Park

Lot Size: .11

Garage Size: 1

School District: Lancaster

Square Footage: 1627

Agent Name: Jeff Geoghan

Broker: Coldwell Banker Select Professionals

MLS #: 150391

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Grass Lawn

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (6 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 2560488

Lancaster City Spring Art Walk

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 15:24:54 -0500

Today the girls and I went downtown to the Lancaster Spring Art Walk. There were several venues with free kids crafts. We had a great time walking around in the beautiful weather and making crafts including a drum, a dreamcatcher, and paper quilt.

We also stopped for lunch at "Rice and Beans", a new restaurant that opened on Queen Street. We got the Cuban sandwich and the stewed chicken with yellow rice, and beans. They were each $5.50 and very tasty.

The Art Walk continues tomorrow so if you have time, go! It's a great time of year to walk around downtown and see all of the trees in bloom.

Coldwell Banker Select Professionals, based at 1000 North Prince Street in Historic Lancaster City serving all of the Lancaster County PA real estate market.

Things To Do This Weekend In Lancaster

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:44:10 -0500

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

25th Anniversary Spring Art Walk
April 18 – April 19
Downtown Lancaster
During ArtWalk, artists open their studios and galleries for the weekend and invite the public to stroll around downtown Lancaster and visit with the artists. Area restaurants and shops will also open their doors with special exhibits.
Website: http://www.lancasterartwalk.com

New Danville Auction
April 17
New Danville Campus of Lancaster Mennonite School
Food starts at 4 p.m. and the general auction begins at 5:00. Sale items will include quilts and wall hangings, toys, quality crafts, furniture, classroom baskets, gift certificates, and new items from area businesses. There will be a separate plant and shrubbery auction. All proceeds benefit the school's annual fund.
Time: 4:00 PM
Admission:     Free
Address: 393 Long Lane, Lancaster, PA 17603

Launch Music Conference
April 16 – April 19
Downtown Lancaster
LAUNCH Music Conference will feature dozens of credible music industry professionals speaking on panels covering a variety of topics and will feature over 150 showcasing artists, performing in more than a dozen venues throughout the city - spanning every musical genre.
Time: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission:     Registration fee $40.00. Some performances free admission.
Address: 151 North Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Website: http://www.launchmusicconference.com

Audience Requests and Lancaster Symphony Orchestra
April 17 – April 19
Fulton Opera House
Audience Requests April 17, 18, 19, 2009 at Fulton Opera House in Downtown Lancaster. Featuring music voted on by the audience throughout the season. Tickets at (717) 397-7425 or www.thefulton.org.
Admission:     Admission Fee
Address: 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA 17608
Website: http://www.lancastersymphony.org/20082009SeasonSchedule/20082009AudienceRequests/tabid/1639/Default.aspx

Sticky Business
April 17
Hands-on House, Children’s Museum of Lancaster
Get stuck on fun as you investigate why magnets make things stick. For ages 2-10 with an adult.
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Admission:     FREE with regular $7 admission
Address: 721 Landis Valley Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601
Website: http://www.handsonhouse.org

WXPN Presents Music Fridays!
April 17
Downtown Lancaster
The third Friday of every month, performances abound throughout restaurants and businesses all over Downtown Lancaster on sidewalks and inside stores. Performances includ belly dancing, a jazz quintet, solo acoustic, rock and Americana groups. For a list of participating merchants, visit the website.
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Address: 300 N Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Website: http://www.DowntownLancaster.com

Barnstormers Spring Training
April 18
Exhibition game vs. Somerset Patriots. More than just baseball, it's affordable and fun family entertainment. Fans enjoy the largest Kids' Play Area in minor league baseball, concession stands offering a "taste of Lancaster," unique promotions and giveaways and "up close" seats that will allow you to feel that you are part of the game!
Time: 1:30 PM
Admission:     See website for details.
Address: Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17601
Website: http://www.lancasterbarnstormers.com

East Petersburg PA Home For Sale

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:23:15 -0500

Check out this new listing from The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group:

___________________________________________________________________________

Listen to this article as a podcast at:

For Lancaster PA homes for sale click here. Jeff Geoghan is a top real estate expert in Lancaster County, PA, and an involved community member. Jeff's work has been featured in the Lancaster Newspapers, WGAL Channel 8, PA Business Journal and Wall Street Journal. Jeff's blog on Lancaster County and its homes is nationally-featured. Contact Jeff for more help with your Lancaster PA Real Estate needs. Jeff is also a photographer - view some of his lancaster pa photography portfolio. Comments are welcome!

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

Interested in listing your Lancaster PA Home for sale? See our #1 home marketing program!

Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Coldwell Banker Select Professionals, based at 1000 North Prince Street in Historic Lancaster City serving all of the Lancaster County PA real estate market.

Lancaster PA First Time Home Buyer Seminar

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:17:48 -0500

If you are a first time home buyer in Lancaster PA, stop by this Thursday evening for a free 1 hour home buyer seminar. We will have a mortgage professional on hand to answer your questions on financing.

Where: 1000 North Prince St, Lancaster PA 17603

When: Thursday, March 26th, 6:30 pm

If you have questions about the process of buying a home, financing a home, inspections, or any real estate related issue, stop in for this informal time of answers.

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

Interested in listing your Lancaster PA Home for sale? See our #1 home marketing program!

Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Coldwell Banker Select Professionals, based at 1000 North Prince Street in Historic Lancaster City serving all of the Lancaster County PA real estate market.

Lancaster City Gear

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:07:53 -0500

I didn't know Lancaster City had gear for purchase, I found this on their website, hopefully the pictures will show up. Click here to view everything.

SHOW YOUR PRIDE WITH CITY OF LANCASTER PRODUCTS
You can help the City's Employee Activity Committee raise funds for the Annual Holiday Party and, at the same time, show your community pride. The Committee is selling "City of Lancaster" products ranging from computer and tote bags, to caps and thermal tumblers. For more information, or to place an order, contact our Human Resources Bureau at (717) 291-4719.

Dimension E-Organizer
$14.00

Manchester Writing Pad
$16.00

Verona Compu-Messanger Brief
$20.00

Paragon Compu-Brief
$28.00

Glacier Tumbler
$10.00

Glacier Tumbler w/Handle
$10.00

C.A.P America Hat
$15.00

Excel Sport Leisure Tote
$10.00

Carry-All Tote
$10.00

Double Pocket Tote
$12.00

Volunteer With MOOSE

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:04:07 -0500

Looking for a way to get involved in Lancaster City events? Here is some information from the Mayor's office on special events:

Volunteer with MOOSE!

Special events are not possible without the assistance of local volunteers. Be a part of the fun and help out during one of the City's special events.

We are currently accepting volunteers for Celebrate Lancaster! 2009. For more information and to apply please click here.

Internship Opportunities with MOOSE
Interns with the Mayor's Office of Special Events will have hands-on experience with assisting with development and execution of MOOSE's four major special events, coordinating media and public relations efforts relating to events and assist in other special projects as assigned by Mayor and MOOSE's board of directors.

Essential functions
- Assist in coordination of event logistics including contracting with entertainment, handling of vendors and developing basic design and layout of the events
- Maintain up-to-date vendor, entertainment, volunteer and special event resource files and databases
- Assist in coordination of public relations and marketing efforts for the events including, but not limited to, development of press releases and/or press announcements and proofing of marketing materials

Supervision received
- Intern will receive supervision from the Director and Special Events Manager who will review work and results obtained

Minimum required knowledge, skills and abilities
- Thorough knowledge and ability to operate a personal computer and the Internet
- Must be detail oriented with the ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects
- Some local travel may be required

To apply for an internship with MOOSE please email resume to moose@cityoflancasterpa.com or mail to: Mayor's Office of Special Events, 120 N. Duke Street, PO Box 1599, Lancaster, PA 17608-1599.

Things to Do in Lancaster

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:39:51 -0500

There is an event next month that is great for parents. Consign your gently used kids clothes and make some exra pocket cash, or attend the event and get some great deals. Mark your calenders now! Check out the website at www.finderskeepers4kids.com

"Finders Keepers" coordinates a semi-annual sale event where multiple families agree to consign their quality kids items together for two days at a convenient location. We welcome all kids items that follow our quality and safety standards such as our HUGE selection of seasonal clothes, (newborn to size 10), outer wear, shoes, strollers, baby furniture, books, videos, toys, games, ride-on toys, etc.

Public sale hours are Friday, April 17,2009 from 4:00-9:00PM, and Saturday, April 18 from 8AM-12:00PM at the Lancaster Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster, PA. (For directions, see www.farmandhomecenter.com). The Farm and Home Center is behind the Honda dealership on Manheim Pike, Route 72.

SHOP HALF OFF SATURDAY FROM 10:00AM-NOON!

Only items that are marked "Firm" on the price tag will NOT be half off. Bring your friends and get half off already LOW prices on hundreds of items!

This sale is fun! It is a great way to shop for your kids, and an even better way to make money from all the clothes and toys your kids have outgrown. We have A LOT of great items at incredible prices!! Everything at this sale is for KIDS!! Come and see what all the excitement is about!!

Shoppers Welcome!!

Cash or Check with valid PA Drivers License Accepted.

Shopping Tip: Bring your laundry basket or a box! It makes shopping so much easier!!

Consignors Welcome!!

Space is limited so register today! Registration will close on April 10, 2009 or when all openings are filled. Please register now!

Lancaster City Real Estate News

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:31:42 -0500

The following is an article from lancasteronline.com about new apartments being built in Lancaster City.

By BERNARD HARRIS, Staff Writer

The former Swisher tobacco warehouse, 425 N. Prince St., has been renovated.

On Lancaster City's North Prince Street, it's hard to see the downturn in the nation's economy.

All 24 upscale apartments in Ed Drogaris' Swisher building have been rented following a $7.9 million renovation, the real estate developer said this week.

New tenants began moving into the building, at 425 N. Prince St., at the start of the new year. The last of the leases were signed about two weeks ago.

The space between the building and North Prince Street, where three rowhouses previously stood, is slated to become a courtyard for the restaurant, said Drogaris.

On the building's second level are two office spaces, of 3,000 and 3,800 square feet.

Drogaris said he hopes to have the office space leased by May and the restaurant operating by fall.
Related Topics

The building is next to the former Buckwalter tobacco warehouse, which Drogaris renovated. It is now the home to the Brickyard sports bar, office and residential tenants.

The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Swisher building is $760, or about $120 more than the city average. The monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,250, or nearly double the city average. The two-bedroom apartments include two baths and a study, Drogaris said.

He said people want to live downtown and are willing to pay higher rents for an apartment with character. The renovated building has high ceilings, exposed brick, exposed wooden beams, stainless steel appliances and ceramic tile, he said.

"I think people want something that is unique," he said. "It's got character. It's got uniqueness and we're really excited about it."

Two Gorgeous Lancaster City PA Parks - Musser Park and Buchanan Park

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:02:36 -0600

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

If you live in Lancaster City you may already know this, but there are several very nice parks to visit there. Two of my favorites are Musser Park and Buchanan Park.

Musser Park originally opened in 1949, a bequest to the City of Lancaster by Henry Musser, maker of umbrella handles. It's a 3.1 acre green space within a beautifully historic city district. The park had been unimproved for many years before a the Musser Park Civic Association embarked on a well-deserved upgrade. Renovations included new grading and seed of the well-known "bowl" in the center of the park, a new water fountain, concrete game tables with checkers, etc. etched in, new signage at the park entrance points, a new rubber surface for the popular playground, and nice new brick and concrete walkways throughout. New, attractive light poles have been strategically placed about the park as well. Musser Park is located along East Chestnut Street between Lime and Shippen Streets.

If you haven't been by Buchanan Park, you should check it out. This 22 acre gem is located right next door to Franklin & Marshall College at the corner of Race Ave & Buchanan Ave in Lancaster City's "West End". There is lots of grass to play, run, walk, read or picnic on and it's almost never crowded. There is a nice botanical garden area with roses and benches to relax. It's also home to numerous monuments and a locally-famous "sledding hill" in the center of the park - it's overrun in the winter with city families looking to have some downhill fun! Also, there is a replica building of the original Lancaster County courthouse which sat in the center of the city square (where the Civil War Monument is today) in the early years of Lancaster's growth.

Take some time to stop by these wonderful parks - pull that car over! Watch spring spring and enjoy trees in the city...

___________________________________________________________________

Listen to this article as a podcast at:

For Lancaster PA homes for sale click here. Jeff Geoghan is a top real estate expert in Lancaster County, PA, and an involved community member. Jeff's work has been featured in the Lancaster Newspapers, WGAL Channel 8, PA Business Journal and Wall Street Journal. Jeff's blog on Lancaster County and its homes is nationally-featured. Contact Jeff for more help with your Lancaster PA Real Estate needs. Jeff is also a photographer - view some of his lancaster pa photography portfolio. Comments are welcome!

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

Interested in listing your Lancaster PA Home for sale? See our #1 home marketing program!

Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Coldwell Banker Select Professionals, based at 1000 North Prince Street in Historic Lancaster City serving all of the Lancaster County PA real estate market.

Things To Do This Weekend In Lancaster

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:35:09 -0600

It's first friday in downtown Lancaster City. Fri, Mar 6, 09 First Friday
5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Over 60 galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants extend their hours. Many artist premiers and openings. First Fridays are a great time to experience downtown Lancaster! Join the thousands who enjoy the evening's artistic energy and fun surprises that make each First Friday special. Come on out this Friday and check out some of these events:

Thu, Mar 5, 09 -Sat, Mar 28, 09      Convergence of Synergy
5 - 9 p.m. First Friday Reception at Annex 24 Gallery. Kenny Reisig, John Berkey and Raymond Rall s convene to present independent components from paintings, photography, sculpture and carvings, etchings, projection and surely combinations thereof in celebration of our 1st
Location: 24 W. Walnut St.

Thu, Mar 5, 09 -Sun, Apr 5, 09 Fabric works by Carol Piersol
Fabric works by Carol Piersol, who has worked with fabric and fabric design as art since a child and in the costume shop at Roschel Center for the Performing Arts.
Location: The Sally Mather Gibson Curriculum Gallery, F&M Campus

Fri, Mar 6, 09 -Tue, Mar 31, 09    Christiane David Gallery proudly presents J. Scott Wolf.
5:30 - 9 pm. Christiane David and Scott Wolf have known each other since owning their shops at the Artworks at Doneckers. Throughout the month of March Scott Wolf will be exhibiting his new original works of the different seasons of Lancaster county, depicted in light, color and drama.
Location: 142 N. Prince St.

Fri, Mar 6, 09 -Tue, Mar 31, 09 First Friday at Carmen & David's Creamery
Carmen & David' s Creamery will showcase another young photographer for the month of March, beginning with a First Friday reception for Nathan Deatrick, a 21-year old Lancaster County native. He captures pictures of ordinary objects and architectural scapes from some very interesting views.
Location: 27 N. Prince St.

Fri, Mar 6, 09   First Friday Kirtan
7:45 - 9 pm. First Friday Kirtan Ohm’ your way to the Yoga Path and experience the uplifting energy of Kirtan, a form of group chanting from ancient India. Afterwards enjoy a sampling of delicious Ayurvedic vegetarian foods flavored with exotic and healing Indian spices, presented by Spice of Life.
Tickets: $10
Location: 428 N. Duke St.

Fri, Mar 6, 09   Friday Night Live!
6 p.m. Friday Night Live! with 8-Track Radio and local craft and food artisans featuring the J.P. McCaskey High School art show. Cast a vote for your favorite art pieces in the “publicly-juried” J.P. McCaskey High School art show and help raise funds for Building Character’s art scholarship fund, and the J.P. McCaskey art club.
Location: 342 N. Queen St. Warehouse C

Fri, Mar 6, 09   Gallery talk and reception “Expanding Universe
6 (First Friday) 4:30 pm An exhibition of welded steel sculpture by Brooklyn, NY artist, Martha Walker. Show runs January 20 - March 29
Location: The Dana Gallery at The Phillips Museum of Art (Steinman College Center), F&M Campus

Fri, Mar 6, 09 -Fri, Apr 10, 09 Landscapes of Imagination
5 - 8 pm. First Friday reception , continues through April 10. "Landscapes of Imagination" is a rarely seen exhibit of drawings, etchings and illustations by Marvin Bileck (deceased 4/2005) and drawings by Emily Nelligan (b. 1924.) The artwork includes explorations into a subject that inspired both artists over a period of 50 years: the landscape of Great Cranberry Island, Maine.
Location: 204 N. Prince St.

Fri, Mar 6, 09   Modigliani String Quartet
8 pm. The Quartet won the 2006 Young Concert Artists International Auditions in New York and have performed at Carnegie’s Zankel Hall and the Kennedy Center. Their program will include works by Haydn, Beethoven and Ravel.
Tickets: students $1 and off campus patrons $10
Location: Barshinger Center of Musical Arts, F&M Campus

Fri, Mar 6, 09    Opposites Attract @ Irish Gypsy TRUNK SHOW
Come meet head shoe designer, Jessica Todd, and owner Rick Kramer of the brand new shoe line 'Oppasites Attract' . View and try on the new styles for spring 09. Be one of the first to own a pair of these new, fashion forward, comfortable and innovative new styles. Preview this new brand at www.oppasitesattractshoes.com and come try for yourself at Irish Gypsy.
Location: 52 N. Prince St.

Fri, Mar 6, 09 -Sat, Mar 7, 09 Symposium
5:30 p.m Professor Stanley J. Michalak, keynote address on March 6. March 7 - 9:00 a.m. Sonja A. Trent Brown; 10:30 a.m. Timothy Armer; 1:00 p.m. Melissa Stein; 2:30 p.m. Devon Powers. CLAS Inaugural Symposium for Emerging Scholars engages the concept of "resonance" as it applies to texts, ideas and events that are transformed in space and time.
Location: Bonchek Lecture Hall, Barshinger Life Sciences & Philosophy building, F&M Campus

Sat, Mar 7, 09   "As We Are"
5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at St. Andrew UCC. Featuring the jazz group, "The Myopics." Master's level students of Lancaster Theological Seminary are creating a new type of worship experience in a cafe atmosphere that is geared to people wanting to experience alternative worship; music, drama and prayer all in a casual setting.
Location: 701 N. Lime St.

Ten Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 19:24:13 -0600

Here are ten tips from HUD.gov on ways to lower your homeowners insurance.

1. Shop Around

It'll take some time, but could save you a good sum of money. Ask your friends, check the Yellow Pages or contact your state insurance department. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (www.naic.org) has information to help you choose an insurer in your state, including complaints. States often make information available on typical rates charged by major insurers and many states provide the frequency of consumer complaints by company.

Also check consumer guides, insurance agents, companies and online insurance quote services. This will give you an idea of price ranges and tell you which companies have the lowest prices. But don't consider price alone. The insurer you select should offer a fair price and deliver the quality service you would expect if you needed assistance in filing a claim.

2. Raise Your Deductible

Deductibles are the amount of money you have to pay toward a loss before your insurance company starts to pay a claim, according to the terms of your policy. The higher your deductible, the more money you can save on your premiums. Nowadays, most insurance companies recommend a deductible of at least $500. If you can afford to raise your deductible to $1,000, you may save as much as 25 percent. Remember, if you live in a disaster-prone area, your insurance policy may have a separate deductible for certain kinds of damage. If you live near the coast in the East, you may have a separate windstorm deductible; if you live in a state vulnerable to hail storms, you may have a separate deductible for hail; and if you live in an earthquake-prone area, your earthquake policy has a deductible.

3. Don’t confuse what you paid for your house with rebuilding costs

The land under your house isn't at risk from theft, windstorm, fire and the other perils covered in your homeowners policy. So don't include its value in deciding how much homeowners insurance to buy. If you do, you will pay a higher premium than you should.

4. Buy your home and auto policies from the same insurer

Some companies that sell homeowners, auto and liability coverage will take 5 to 15 percent off your premium if you buy two or more policies from them. But make certain this combined price is lower than buying the different coverages from different companies.

5. Make your home more disaster resistant

Find out from your insurance agent or company representative what steps you can take to make your home more resistant to windstorms and other natural disasters. You may be able to save on your premiums by adding storm shutters, reinforcing your roof or buying stronger roofing materials. Older homes can be retrofitted to make them better able to withstand earthquakes. In addition, consider modernizing your heating, plumbing and electrical systems to reduce the risk of fire and water damage.

6. Improve your home security

You can usually get discounts of at least 5 percent for a smoke detector, burglar alarm or dead-bolt locks. Some companies offer to cut your premium by as much as 15 or 20 percent if you install a sophisticated sprinkler system and a fire and burglar alarm that rings at the police, fire or other monitoring stations. These systems aren't cheap and not every system qualifies for a discount. Before you buy such a system, find out what kind your insurer recommends, how much the device would cost and how much you'd save on premiums.

7. Seek out other discounts

Companies offer several types of discounts, but they don't all offer the same discount or the same amount of discount in all states. For example, since retired people stay at home more than working people they are less likely to be burglarized and may spot fires sooner, too. Retired people also have more time for maintaining their homes. If you're at least 55 years old and retired, you may qualify for a discount of up to 10 percent at some companies. Some employers and professional associations administer group insurance programs that may offer a better deal than you can get elsewhere.

8. Maintain a good credit record

Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Insurers are increasingly using credit information to price homeowners insurance policies. In most states, your insurer must advise you of any adverse action, such as a higher rate, at which time you should verify the accuracy of the information on which the insurer relied. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don't obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.

9. Stay with the same insurer

If you've kept your coverage with a company for several years, you may receive a special discount for being a long-term policyholder. Some insurers will reduce their premiums by 5 percent if you stay with them for three to five years and by 10 percent if you remain a policyholder for six years or more. But make certain to periodically compare this price with that of other policies.

10. Review the limits in your policy and the value of your possessions at least once a year

You want your policy to cover any major purchases or additions to your home. But you don't want to spend money for coverage you don't need. If your five-year-old fur coat is no longer worth the $5,000 you paid for it, you'll want to reduce or cancel your floater (extra insurance for items whose full value is not covered by standard homeowners policies such as expensive jewelry, high-end computers and valuable art work) and pocket the difference.

11. Look for private insurance if you are in a government plan

If you live in a high-risk area -- say, one that is especially vulnerable to coastal storms, fires, or crime -- and have been buying your homeowners insurance through a government plan, you should check with an insurance agent or company representative or contact your state department of insurance for the names of companies that might be interested in your business. You may find that there are steps you can take that would allow you to buy insurance at a lower price in the private market.

12. When you’re buying a home, consider the cost of homeowners insurance

You may pay less for insurance if you buy a house close to a fire hydrant or in a community that has a professional rather than a volunteer fire department. It may also be cheaper if your home’s electrical, heating and plumbing systems are less than 10 years old. If you live in the East, consider a brick home because it's more wind resistant. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, look for a wooden frame house because it is more likely to withstand this type of disaster. Choosing wisely could cut your premiums by 5 to 15 percent.

Check the CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) report of the home you are thinking of buying. These reports contain the insurance claim history of the property and can help you judge some of the problems the house may have.

Remember that flood insurance and earthquake damage are not covered by a standard homeowners policy. If you buy a house in a flood-prone area, you'll have to pay for a flood insurance policy that costs an average of $400 a year. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides useful information on flood insurance on its Web site at FloodSmart.gov. A separate earthquake policy is available from most insurance companies. The cost of the coverage will depend on the likelihood of earthquakes in your area. In California the California Earthquake Authority (www.earthquakeauthority.com) provides this coverage.

If you have questions about insurance for any of your possessions, be sure to ask your agent or company representative when you're shopping around for a policy. For example, if you run a business out of your home, be sure to discuss coverage for that business. Most homeowners policies cover business equipment in the home, but only up to $2,500 and they offer no business liability insurance. Although you want to lower your homeowners insurance cost, you also want to make certain you have all the coverage you need.

Tell Your Tenants to Get Replacement Value Insurance

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:07:25 -0600

Here is a post from my team mate Brian Schulman. It's the same advice I give to my tenants.

Via Brian Schulman - Your Lancaster County, PA Real Estate Professional (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals):

In Lancaster, PA this week, a family was burned out of their home. They lost everything. As a landlord, one of the things my leases have specified is that the tenants must have insurance on their personal possessions, as the landlord's insurance only covers the buildings and not their personal property.

I make a point of advising renters to get replacement value insurance for their things, rather than actual cash value (ACV). The example I use is: let's say you lose your television in a fire. Let's say the TV is 6 years old. You will have to get a replacement - and you'll probably be buying a new TV. If you're only insured for ACV, you'll only receive what that TV would be worth in a garage sale or re-uzit shop. Think about what your used clothes would be worth now - and what you'd have to pay to replace them! Plus, the difference in premium cost between the the two coverages is really minimal.

There's a parallel in insuring older homes in low-priced areas of cities. Often it would take quite a bit more than a home is worth to replace it in the case of a total loss. Many insurance companies have a minimum coverage amount that they will require regardless of the actual lower resale value of the home. Although it may be possible to insure for only the amount owed on the mortgage, that may not be wise. In case of a loss, rather than ending up with just the mortgage paid off and an empty lot to sell, the owner may be considerably better off rebuilding - but that may only be possible if adequate replacement coverage is in place!

Another consideration is that at the same time you are protecting the interests of your tenants, you are also reducing your own liability as a landlord in case of a loss, by showing that in the lease you required your tenants to carry insurance on their private property..

A legitimate place to lower insurance premiums may be by adjusting the deductible. Many people think nothing of having a $1000 deductible on their $10k to $20k car. Why then should they buy a $200,000 home and insure the home with a $500 or lower deductible? Most people would not make an insurance claim for less than $1000 anyway - so why unnecessarily increase your premiums?

Copyright2009BrianSchulman©

What A Realtor Will Do For You

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:30:25 -0600

If you are looking to buy a home you may be wondering what a Realtor can do for you. Well, besides helping you find a home that fits your needs, there is a Code of Ethics that we must follow. Here is a great summary from the National Association of Realtors. This list tells you how you will be affected by our Code of Ethics.

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® Code of Ethics:

What Does it Mean for Consumers?

How does the Code of Ethics affect everyday real estate practices?

If a REALTOR® represents you, whether you are buying or selling a home, you can count on that REALTOR® to:

1. Be honest with all parties in the transaction – not just with you, as his or her client, but also with the other real estate practitioner and his or her clients.
For example, if REALTORS® represent a buyer with a spotty credit history, they can’t be dishonest with sellers about this fact.

2. Put your interests ahead of his or her own, at all times.
A REALTOR® makes every effort to understand the housing needs of his or her client, thoroughly researches available inventory, and shares all relevant information with the buyer so that he or she can make an informed decision.

3. Disclose all pertinent facts regarding the property and the transaction to both buyer and seller.
If a REALTOR® believes information provided by a seller is questionable, the REALTOR® is obligated to investigate. REALTORS® should recommend that buyers consult their own experts, such as home inspectors, to address concerns. For example, if a home seller asks his or her REALTOR® to conceal the fact that the roof leaks, the REALTOR® cannot comply; if the seller insists, the REALTOR® should end the business relationship with that seller.

4. Be truthful in all communications with the public.
When REALTORS® distribute newsletters, create Web sites, or place advertisements, they must be careful not to represent other real estate professionals’ work product as their own.

Lancaster Tweetup Breakfast A Success

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:15:00 -0600

I missed my local tweetup this morning but my team mate Jeff Geoghan blogged about it :

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

This morning we held a first "Tweetup" breakfast for local "twitterati" at 7:30 this morning at Prince Street Cafe in Lancaster City. Yes, it was early...but several "tweeters" braved the cold to come out and have a good time together.

Daniel Klotz (@DanielKlotz) and I (@LancasterHomes) had lunch a couple of weeks ago, and hatched up the idea of doing a breakfast that might be a recurring thing. Unfortunately Daniel found something more important than Twitter (work) and was prevented from hosting our gathering. He tapped Max Phillips (@Maxtana) of NotBadDesign.net to guide us and Max did a GREAT job.

Attending was Paul Stoltzfus, Ryan Shen-Hoover, Lydia Brubaker, Bethany Alwan, Bryan Coe, Shanelle Lee and Linda Espenshade. Linda, being a staff writer for the Lancaster Intellingencer Journal, just HAD to write a story about us and brought along a photographer who recorded the event. Eeks! I'm sure we'll all be quoted correctly, right Linda?

Everyone had a great time and we look forward to hearing about the next "Lancaster Tweetup". If you're interested in these events check out #LancasterTweetup on Twitter.com.

On a funny note, my Lancaster PA real estate team is holding our first "Meetup" this Thursday evening at 6:30 - a Lancaster PA first-time homebuyer event. Can you believe that? A "Tweetup" and a "Meetup" in one week!

Habitat for Humanity Project In Lancaster

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 07:24:58 -0600

Here is an article about a new Habitat for Humanity project in Lancaster City. The building is scheduled to start in May. The article is from Lancasteronline.com written by Stephen Kopfinger.

A few more people are going to call the city home. Literally, as in, their own house.

Lancaster Area Habitat for Humanity announced last week that 19 residential building lots at Fairview Avenue and Seymour Street, in Lancaster's southwest end, were purchased from the Preferred Partners real estate group, for $475,000 Wednesday.

"We're absolutely delighted … we're taking a leap of faith," said Stacie Reidenbaugh, executive director of Habitat, Saturday. She said the project, consisting of townhouses clustered in a quad on a 1.3-acre parcel of land, will enable "more people the opportunity to afford a decent home" in the city.

The Habitat project is the first since last year, when four homes in the 700 block of South Queen Street were dedicated, replacing a row of five homes destroyed by fire in 2002. Four more homes in that effort, facing South Beaver Street, are expected to be finished by April.

It all represents confidence in a community, even as bad news about foreclosures dominates the news.

"Habitat for Humanity certainly advances one of our strategic objectives" — namely, affordable home ownership — said Lancaster Mayor Rick Gray by phone Saturday. The mayor's Strategic Plan for the City has established a goal of developing 300 new market-rate, owner-occupied homes by 2011, according to Habitat. Reidenbaugh noted that the Fairview Avenue and Seymour Street neighborhood, in the vicinity of Price Elementary School, is largely owner-occupied.

Construction of the first four homes is targeted to begin in May. Each home will have off-street parking, accessible from a private alley behind the houses, according to Habitat. The project will be enacted over the next two years.

Habitat is seeking grants and gifts from the community to support the cost of the land purchase and construction of the homes. Habitat has raised $339,000 for the Fairview project to date, according to the organization.

Two homes are sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and the local Lutheran congregations through the Thrivent Builds grant program. The third home is sponsored by the Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors.

"Despite the economy, we're confident the community [will] support us, as it has in the past," Reidenbaugh said.

Things To Do This Weekend In Lancaster

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:52:38 -0600

Feb. 19 - 22 - Ice Park Ice-skating - Clipper Stadium, 650 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA. 717-509-4487.

Feb. 20 - Disappearing Act - Hands-On House Children's Museum of Lancaster, 721 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA 17601, 717-569-KIDS. Where do snowmen go on warm sunny days? Come find out what the big “melt down” is all about in our make it, take it workshop. 5:00 - 7:00 pm.

Feb. 20 - musicFRIDAYS - Downtown Lancaster, PA. Each third Friday of the month, Downtown Lancaster hosts Music Fridays. Performances will abound throughout the 300 block of North Queen Street as well as retailers, restaurants, and attractions throughout Downtown. Each month will bring new entertainment to the streets of Downtown Lancaster. 6:00 - 9:00 pm.

Feb. 20 - 21 - CATS - American Music Theatre, 2425 Lincoln Hwy. E. (Rt. 30), Lancaster, PA 17602, 800-648-4102. There's no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theater than with the magic, the mystery, the Memory of CATS. What began as a musical about cats after Andrew Lloyd Webber picked up a book of T.S. Eliot poems in an airport bookshop, has become one of the longest running shows in Broadway's history. Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, CATS features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless melodies, including the hit song, "Memory.”

Feb. 20 - 22 - Feel the Passion - Lancaster Symphony Orchestra - Fulton Opera, 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA. 717-397-7425. Tchaikovsky, Serenade for Strings - The Russian master builds his love song sensuously through the sweetness and deep sonority of strings and percussion. Shchedrin/Bizet, Carmen Suite - With wild abandon, Bizet uses strings and percussion in striking contrast to Tchaikovsky to look at love’s raw, passionate side.

Feb. 21 - Cathy & Marcy and the Delaware Museum of Natural History - Longwood Gardens, US Route 1, Kennett Square, PA 19348, 610-388-1000. This two-time Grammy award winning duo, Cathy & Marcy, has entertained the Queen of Thailand, delighted families at the White House Easter Egg Roll and graced hundreds of folk festivals. From harmonies to banjos, ukuleles to swing, old-time country music to original songs and of course family sing alongs, there is something for everyone.

Feb. 21 - Honey Brook Quilt Sale & Consignment Auction, 1841 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook, PA, 610-273-2688. See our full schedule of local Mud Sales.

Feb. 21 - Heirloom Seed Project - February Workshop - Landis Valley Museum, 2451 Kissel Hill Rd., Lancaster, PA. 717-569-0401. Morning and afternoon sessions on a variety of gardening topics. Offered by the Heirloom Seed Project and the Backyard Fruit Growers Association. Pre-registration required.

Feb. 21 - May 9 - Behold The Lamb - Sight & Sound Millennium Theatre, Rt. 896, Strasburg, PA. 717-687-7800. The greatest words ever spoken...the greatest miracles ever done...and the greatest sacrifice ever given. Let the greatness and glory of the life of Jesus Christ fill you with His life-changing love. Behold the Lamb is a powerful presentation of the timeless message of the Savior, that "whoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have eternal life!"

Interested In Buying Your First Home This Year? Read This Today

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:07:01 -0600

Here is a great blog from Jeff Geoghan about the new tax incentives for first time home buyers.

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

The 2009 Recovery and Reinvestment act modifies the 2008 first-time homebuyers tax incentives in important ways. If you’re looking to buy your first home this year, you need to be in the know of how this legislation will affect your tax benefits! Here’s a snapshot of the current program for purchases made between 1/1/09 and 12/31/09:

Tax Credit Amount - $8,000

Eligible Properties – All homes eligible as long as used for primary residence.

Refunds Applicable? – YES. If credit exceeds your net tax liability for 2008 or 2009 (you choose which), then you will get the difference as a tax refund in addition to your normal refund.

Income Limits – Full amount of credit for individuals up to $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers). You would still receive a proportional tax credit if income is up to $95,000 for an individual ($170,000 for joint filers).

Time Limits – Buyers may not have owned a primary residence for at least 3 years prior.

Repayment? – NO. This is a major change from the 2008 tax incentive program, which was in effect a zero-interest loan rather than a true tax credit.

What If I sell? – No penalty if beyond 3 years. If sold within 3 years, ENTIRE credit will be owed back to the IRS for the tax year the home was sold.

What’s My Deadline To Buy? – You must close by December 31^st, 2009

I also posted an article dealing with the 2008 program and what you should know if you bought your first home then. Either way, it’s pretty critical that you get tax help for your 2008 return if you think you can take advantage of this incentive. For those “turbotaxers” out there who buy a first home between Jan-April, this means you!

Despite all the controversy over the other 90% of the nearly-$800 billion law, the first-time homebuyer tax incentive has undergone some positive changes and should be considered a serious opportunity for renters and those looking to own in 2009 for the first time. The current low mortgage rates and burgeoning home inventories further enhance that outlook. Even if you don’t buy, make sure you know all the benefits of buying a home this year so that you are making the most informed and best decisions for you and your family.

THE JEFF GEOGHAN REALTY GROUP IS HOSTING A FREE FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER SEMINAR NEXT THURSDAY FEBRUARY 26TH AT THE COLDWELL BANKER BUILDING ON NORTH PRINCE STREET. GET PERSONAL INFORMATION ON USING THE STIMULUS BILL'S HOMEBUYER PROVISIONS. GO HERE TO REGISTER TODAY.

Contact Ron Felpel, President of Home National Mortgage (717-735-8234), for more specific loan qualification info and the latest Lancaster PA mortgage rates. When you’re ready to buy that first home, I’m ready to help you get started.

____________________________________________________________________

For Lancaster PA homes for sale click here. Jeff Geoghan is a top real estate expert in Lancaster County, PA, and an involved community member. Jeff's work has been featured in the Lancaster Newspapers, WGAL Channel 8, PA Business Journal and Wall Street Journal. Jeff's blog on Lancaster County and its homes is nationally-featured. Contact Jeff for more help with your Lancaster PA Real Estate needs. Jeff is also a photographer - view some of his lancaster pa photography portfolio. Comments are welcome!

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

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Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Coldwell Banker Select Professionals, based at 1000 North Prince Street in Historic Lancaster City serving all of the Lancaster County PA real estate market.

Grandview Heights Open House - Sunday Feb. 22 - 1111 Crest Lane, Lancaster PA

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 15:28:00 -0600

BUYERS MARK YOUR CALENDERS FOR THIS OPEN HOUSE!

1111 Crest Lane, Lancaster PA

School District: Manheim Township
List Price: $ 189,753
Agent: Lauren Krady
Phone: 735-6266
Open Hours: 1-4
Open House Date: Sun, 02/22/09

Description: Prepare to be impressed with this classy home on a beautiful Grandview Heights street. Huge lot, hardwood floors, much more! 3 Bedrooms 1.5 Bathrooms, 1 car detached garage, nice deck, fireplace, play space in the basement, washer and dryer included.

Visit www.1111crest.com to watch the home tour.

Directions: From Rt30: South on Lititz pike to Left on Fordney Rd, Right on Pleasure Rd, Left on Crest Lane to Home on Right

Lauren Krady is a real estate professional with Coldwell Banker. She is a member of the J eff Geoghan Realty Group and serves all of the Lancaster PA homes market with superior customer service and dedication.

Contact Lauren to start your home search in Lancaster City and beyond by calling her at (717) 824-7236.

New Construction Incentives in Lancaster PA

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 19:53:41 -0600

I found the following article on Lancasteronline and thought it was interesting. If you are looking for new construction, now is an excellent time to buy.

By Paula Wolf, Staff Writer

With the housing market in the doldrums, many homebuilders nationwide are offering incentives to attract buyers.

Your Towne Builders is offering a $28,000-plus incentive on this spec house.

Bath awaits a buyer at Cedar Chase development.

Local contractors are no exception.

Keystone Custom Homes' "Live Free for a Year" billboards have been a common sight in Lancaster County, but the builder's incentives go well beyond that, said company President Larry Wisdom.

The "Live Free" program — in which Keystone covers the homeowner's mortgage principal and interest payments for 12 months — is still available, and is part of a "menu plan" of choices, he said.

Among the others are cash assistance with closing costs; free upgrades in the home; and a reduction in the listing price, Wisdom said.

Keystone also has an equity program where it takes over the mortgage payments for the old house if that hasn't sold by the time the homeowners move into their new one, he said.

A single buyer can't take advantage of all of these options, but can sometimes use more than one, Wisdom said.

The key is to tailor the package to the customer, he said.

Steve Melman, director of economic surveys for the National Association of Home Builders, said a December 2008 survey of NAHB members showed 67 percent reported including optional items at no extra cost in the homes they built, an increase from 59 percent in November 2006.

During that same period, the percentage of builders that reported paying all or some of their customers' closing costs climbed from 50 to 59, Melman said.

NAHB finds the use of incentives generally helps, he said, "but it doesn't solve all the problems."

Some builder incentives also have gotten the attention of the federal government.

A rule change that would bar homebuilders from offering consumers incentives when they agree to use builders' affiliated mortgage and title insurance companies has been put on hold for 90 days by federal housing regulators.

The NAHB and others have filed a complaint in federal court protesting the rule.

Steve Artz, president of Your Towne Builders, said incentives are more prevalent than at any time in his 18 years in the business.

Many involve cash, he said, but others include reduced mortgage rates, for example. Artz currently has a spec house for sale offering a $28,000-plus discount.

Most buyers also are expecting incentives now, he said. And because so many builders are including them, it's harder to stand out from the competition, Artz said.

Rick Martin, president of Wheatland Custom Homes, Ephrata, specializes in energy-efficient houses, and he's offered a year's worth of free gas for heating as an incentive.

But what people really want is a cash incentive, said Martin, 2009 president of the Building Industry Association of Lancaster County. "That's the bottom line."

With all this talk of incentives, however, quality of construction should never be compromised, Martin said.

"You can't afford to ruin your reputation."

If you are interested in buying new construction, contact me today for a personalized search. There are some great deals out there right now.

Contact Lauren to start your home search in Lancaster City and beyond by calling her at (717) 824-7236.

Coldwell Banker Persoanl Retriever

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 19:22:17 -0600

Here is a cool tool from Coldwell Banker to aide you in your home search:

Coldwell Banker^® Personal Retriever service is also available as a Widget - a small application that can search for property listings in the price range and area you're interested in, and deliver them directly to your desktop. It will even alert you when there are new listings.

"What are Widgets" you ask? They're small, mini-applications that perform specific tasks and run in the background on your desktop. There are Widgets for weather forecasts, stock trackers, calculators, sports scores - and now you can get a Widget for your real estate needs.

Available for both PC and Mac:
Click here to install the widget

Both Mac and PC users (running Windows XP or versions of Windows 2000) must download and install the Yahoo! Widget engine at http://widget.yahoo.com.

Once you've downloaded the Widget and it's running on your desktop, you'll need to right-click on the Widget itself to enter and adjust your settings.

Lancaster County Farmers Markets

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 15:57:44 -0600

Here are some of the farmers markets in Lancaster County. We are lucky to live in such a fertile area and have a ton of fresh produce to buy locally. Most of these markets also offer meat, crafts, and baked goods.

Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market

2710 Old Philadelphia Pike
Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505

Indoor, air-conditioned Farmers Market featuring local vendors with a wide variety of homemade goodies. Fresh meats, cheese, fruits & vegetables, baked & canned goods, spices, and candy. Other stores on the premises: Bird-in-Hand Candle & Gifts, Farmers Market Gift Shop, Snyders Crafts, and Fashion Brand Linens & Lingerie.

Farmers Market open 8:30AM -5:30PM on the following schedule: Friday & Saturday, year round; Wednesday, April through November; Thursday: July through October.

Acceptance of credit cards and personal checks vary per vendor.

Columbia Market

308 Locust Street
Columbia, PA 17512

Columbia's Historic Market House is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 9AM to 6PM. The market is located at the corner of Third and Locust Streets in Historic Downtown Columbia. The Columbia Market House is the oldest market house in Lancaster County; it blends both Federal and Greek Revival architectural styles.

Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction

955 North State Street
Ephrata, PA 17522

Featuring: Amish-made items, apparel, baked goods, books, candy, collectibles, crafts, fabrics, flowers, food items, Hex signs, Holiday, home furnishings, jewelry, music, quilts, shoes, sporting goods, and toys.

Open: Friday only 9 AM -9 PM

Central Market

23 North Market Street
Lancaster, PA 17608

This is America's oldest farmers' market building. Since the 1730's farmers have been bringing meats and vegetables to the site for sale to local residents. Many of today's standholders have been "on market" since the early 1900's.

We encourage you to come early and often for the locally grown foods, fresh baked desserts and breads, cheeses, meats, flowers, crafts and always friendly conversation. Fill your basket and your heart from our treasury of good things.

Central market is open year-round on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6AM to 4PM and on Saturdays 6AM to 2PM. Market is closed on holidays. In these cases market is held the day before the holiday.

What are the schools like here?

Lauren Krady Lancaster PA Realtor (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 14:19:37 -0600

Spring must be around the corner, the real estate market in Lancaster seems to be heating up. I had a customer pick out 7 houses he wanted to view, by the next week 4 of them were under agreement. That first time buyer price range is selling!

I often get asked the question "what is the best school district?." It's an important matter for those of us with kids. Realtors can not "steer" people to one school or another. Buyers must do their own research into the local schools. Ask people in the neighborhood and look online. One of the websites you will want to check out is: www.schoolmatters.com

On School Matters, you can compare schools: elementary, middle, and high school. It tells you student to teacher ratio, total enrollment, the reading and math proficiency percentages ( A measure of the percentage of reading tests receiving a score of "proficient" or higher), and even other parent reviews, if available.

Another option, which is currently our family choice, is cyber school. Cyber school is a public school system but is done at home with a parent. All of the books and curriculum, computer, and internet access is supplied. The student is assigned a teacher but the parent is the one in the home doing the day to day lessons. All of the lesson plans are mapped out on the website. Older children do more online and even have virtual classrooms where they interact and do lessons with a teacher and other students. It is a free program and was a good alternative to home schooling for our family. Check out www.k12.com for more details.

I'm always amazed at children in other countries where school is not free or mandatory. So many children in the world are desperate for a chance to learn. They walk long distances, cram into one room schools, and are excited for the opportunity! I'm trying to impress on my daughters the importance of education and the privilege that it is.