Patty's Blog

Homebuyer tax credit

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 09:55:50 -0600

As you may have heard, significant improvements in the temporary First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit were signed into law on Feb. 17 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to provide a housing stimulus for first-time home purchases that occur between Jan. 1 and Dec. 1, 2009.

This is even better news for first-time homebuyers than the tax credit announced in April 2008 because not only has the tax credit maximum increased from $7,500 to $8,000 - but more significantly - it does not need to be repaid unless the individual re-sells the home within three years.

There are several notable points about this federal income tax credit that I have bulleted for your convenience so you can easily explain the highlights to potential first-time homebuyers. They are:

•	Credit maximum was increased from $7,500 to $8,000. The credit is calculated as 10% of the purchase price. Example: If the purchase price is $70,000, the credit is $7,000.
•	Removed the repayment requirement, provided the homebuyer does not resell the home for three years.
•	Eligibility remains for first-time homebuyers only. In this case, a first-time homebuyer is defined as an individual who has not owned a primary home at any time during the three years prior to purchase, but who may have done so prior to that time. Although certain income limits do apply, the amount of the credit is the same for all taxpayers, married or single.
•	To be eligible for the full tax credit, the homebuyer can have an annual adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 on a joint return). A homebuyer with an annual adjusted gross income above that level and up to $95,000 ($170,000 on a joint return) is eligible for a reduced tax credit.
•	The tax credit can be claimed on one's individual or joint tax return for the purchase of any single-family home between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 1, 2009. It can be claimed on a 2008 tax return (to be filed by April 15, 2009), an amended 2008 tax return, or a 2009 tax return. Individuals should consult a professional tax advisor for exact tax calculations and timing.

To further assist you in communicating this good news, we have created a Consumer Guide chart that explains these important points. In addition, the National Association of Realtors® has prepared a Major Modifications Chart that brokers/agents can use to understand the improvements made in the tax credit since last April. We also have a PowerPoint presentation summarizing the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit for your use during first-time homebuyer seminars in your local market and in individual client meetings. Be sure to note that you are not a tax or legal professional, and of course encourage homebuyers to use their own advisors.

Keep in mind that this tax credit is retroactive. You should reach out to your recent first-time homebuyers who closed on or after Jan. 1, 2009 or are currently under contract to close in the near future. Plus, this is a great opportunity to call your customers and potential buyers and help get this important message out to those who can reap the benefits associated with it.

Home Buying Tips

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 10:33:47 -0600

Once you've found your dream house, it's time to get started with the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Purchase contracts vary in length and terms from state to state, and within a state, from locality to locality. Because you and the seller have different goals, rely on my experience and expertise. I can bring order and calm to the process and will know what questions you may not know to ask to help you reach a favorable outcome.

Multiple offers on the same home are not uncommon, so you may only get one chance to make an offer that the seller will consider. That's why it's important to think carefully about your strategy. In most cases it is better to have your real estate professional negotiate the offer. If you have any personal interaction with the homeowner, don't give out any information about your move, your current housing status, financial status or your feelings about their property - positive or negative. This could hurt you in future negotiations.

Patty Rostad,Realtor

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

1109 N. Hall Road

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-984-2121

www.prostd.century21reg.com

WINTER TIME SELLING TIPS!

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 12:30:10 -0600

TIS THAT TIME OF YEAR WHERE THE BEAUTY OF THE OUTDOORS TURNS A DULL GRAY, FLOWERS DIE AND TREES LOOSE THEIR BRILLIANCE. SO IF YOU ARE SELLING YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME YOU SIMPLY MUST PUT THE EXTRA EFFORT INTO "CURB APPEAL". NOW MORE THAN EVER, IT'S IMPORTANT TO LET YOUR HOME STAND OUT AND BE SEEN. HERE'S A FEW TIPS FOR WINTER SELLING:

1. MAKE SURE YOUR ADDRESS IS VISIBLE FROM THE STREET. NUMBERS SHOULD BE HORIZONTAL RATHER THAN VERTICAL AND LIT UP AT NIGHT AS NIGHT COMES SOONER IN WINTER MONTHS.

2. FRONT DOOR - MAKE SURE THERE'S A CLEAR PATH TO THE FRONT DOOR, PLENTY OF LIGHTING, NO DEAD PLANTS OR BUSHES BLOCKING THE WAY. A FRESH COAT OF PAINT AND NEW HARDWARE DO WONDERS.

3. LANDSCAPING - RAKE THOSE LEAVES, TRIM DEAD BRANCHES, A FRESH BATCH OF MULCH AND MAYBE A SMALL WINTER POTTED SHRUB IF THERE'S ENOUGH ROOM AT THE ENTRANCE. NO FAKE FLOWERS!!

4. HAVE A CLEARLY DEFINED EDGE BETWEEN LAWN AND PLANTING BED. USE STONE, BRICK, OR BED LINERS FROM THE NEARBY LANDSCAPING STORE.

5. CLEAR THE CLUTTER! EXTRA CARS, POTS FULL OF DEAD PLANTS, BIKES, GARDEN TOOLS, HOSES. REMOVE AND STORE FOR WINTER. KEEP GARBAGE CANS OUT OF SIGHT.

6. TOUCH UP PAINT ON TRIM AND GARAGE DOORS. REPAIR/REPLACE LOOSE SHINGLES. PAINT/REPLACE MAILBOX, REMOVE STAINS FROM CONCRETE WALKS AND DRIVEWAY AND FILL IN CRACKS.

SERIOUS BUYERS ARE LOOKING DURING THESE COOLER MONTHS SO KEEP YOUR HOME IN THE SPOTLIGHT!

On the lake - 5 acres - Dandridge, TN

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:15:27 -0600

Take a look at this one! 7.17 acres on main road, lake frontage and city water. 3 bd/2ba home with plenty of level land surrounding it and gentle slope to water. Convenient to everything. I-40 and the charming and historical town of Dandridge just minutes away. This property can be divided with county approval. Opportunity for your own lake home, development or investment. Bring me an offer!

Offered at $695000 KAAR MLS #638996 GSMAR #146027

Patty Rostad/Linda Arendt

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

1109 N. Hall Road

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-984-2121

Cell: 865-789-7529

Space for everyone in this 3700+ sq. ft. home in Maryville

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:14:35 -0500

Great opportunity to own this brick ranch home on 1.62 acres in Maryville. Outside offers covered porch in the front, deck with sun shade, covered patio, in the back of home. Storage building and putting green included. Inside boasts cathedral ceiling and fireplace in great room. Open floor plan with dining space and breakfast nook. French doors lead to deck. 3 bedrooms with walk in closets and 2 full baths on the main level. Master bedroom is spacious with cathedral ceiling. Master bath has whirlpool tub and separate shower along with 2 sinks/vanities and tile flooring.

Downstairs recreation room provides all you need for entertaining with it's 35 x 33' room size. Additional 14 x 15 room ( with huge closet) downstairs provides guest space, office, hobby room - you decide! 3rd full bath located here as well. Home offers many amenities such as central vac, security system, wired in lower level for surround sound, air filtering system, utility sink and more!

MLS #636547 Offered at $359900

**Additional pictures at www.prostad.century21reg.com

Patty Rostad

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

1109 N. Hall Road

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-984-2121

Investment Property Reduced - Duplex in Fountain City $109900

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:39:42 -0500

Take a look at this investment opportunity in Knoxville! Duplex - each side 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, kitchen and living room. Wood floors. Basement shared by tenants with storage, indoor parking and washer/dryer. Freshly painted on the outside. Steady tenant history. MLS# 600571 Visit my website for additional pictures at www.prostad.century21reg.com
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Patty Rostad
Century 21 REG,LLC

Fall in love with this 5 acres w/creek $59,500

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:30:53 -0500

Get away to this 5 acre tract in the Chilhowee Mtns. Wooded with year round creek. Property is suitable for a variety of building plans. Very private and only 8 miles from town. Great to come home to after a long day. Take a walk to the creek on the trail that winds thru property. Seasonal mountain views. Every season makes this property special. Light restrictions, great for that log cabin you've dreamed of.

See additional pictures at wwww.prostad.century21reg.com

Owner/Agent

Patty Rostad, Century 21 REG,LLC 865-984-2121

1109 N. Hall Rd., Alcoa, TN 37701

Increasing you home's value

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:12:43 -0500

With all the competition out there it is vital for home sellers to set their home above the competition in terms of presenting the home for sale. Check out these tips to make a lasting impression on home buyers.

1. Take a good look around! Don't look at just cosmetic items, what about roofs, potential termite problems, electrical or plumbing issues. Issues such as these are better resolved now before the potential buyer conducts an inspection. Make your home ready!

2. Cut energy costs. Home buyers need to see how efficient your home is which impacts their future utility bills. Caulk, install new door seals if needed, check the insulation in the attic, around pipes and hot water heater. Check windows for leaks and leaky faucets and toilets.

3. Paint, a fresh coat of neutral paint goes along way in making the home look clean and well kept. Odd colors say "work to do" for the buyer!

4. Get the clutter out and make your home look well organized and larger. Have a garage sale or donate items to local charities before your home goes on the market. Make sure home "flows" with clear walking paths from room to room.

5. Don't forget about the outside! Buyers will not want to come in if the outside does not entice them. Rake, pull weeds, touch up front door and trim. Clear toys from yard and easy on the lawn ornaments!

In this market - competition is strong. Make your home stand out with little money and elbow grease!

Century 21 Real Estate Group works for YOU!

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:11:28 -0500

WHAT CAN I OFFER YOU AS A HOME SELLER OR BUYER?

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC has two offices with full-time brokers

Closing coordinator to ensure a smooth sale

Relocation Director - provides assistance to potential buyers from outside our area

Century 21 is the 3rd most visited website in the country

Century 21 is the most recognized logo in real estate

Phones are monitored 24 hours a day

Caravan by our agents each week to our new listings

Over 3500 Realtors belong to the Knoxville MLS

Century 21 Real Estate Group website (century21reg.com)

My personal website (prostad.century21reg.com)

Advertise is multiple media outlets such as over 20 internet sites, flyers, and print ads

5 acres of your own in the mountains,with creek and privacy $59,500

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:27:07 -0500

Take a look at this 5 acres near the Smokies. Wooded with year round creek. Many building sites. Walking trails take you to the creek and provide a nice way to see the land with an easy stroll. All properties in the areaa are at least five acres. Winter mountain view and great Fall foliage. Every season offers something different. Make an Offer! MLS#581158 Owner/Agent

Check out my website for more pictures! www.prostad.century21reg.com

($200/yr road maintenance fee)

Patty Rostad

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

865-984-2121

www.prostad.century21reg.com

Investment property in Knoxville, Duplex $117,900

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:22:01 -0500

Duplex in Fountain City. Each side has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, living room and kitchen. Basement offers washer/dryer for use by tenants, lot of storage and indoor parking. Freshly painted on the outside. Good rental history! MLS #600571

Patty Rostad

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

865-984-2121

Web: prostad.century21reg.com **for more pictures

Real Estate in Blount County Tennessee ~ prostad@century21reg.com

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:31:18 -0500

Please visit my website at www.prostad.century21reg.com to search properties in East Tennessee. Find out more about our area, schools and attractions. It's a great place to live and retire!

If I can help you in any way regarding your real estate needs, please do not hesitate to let me know. As a professional I know your time is valuable so give me a call and let me do the leg work on your next property!

Patty Rostad, Realtor

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

1109 N. Hall Road

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-984-2121

My Website: www.prostad.century21reg.com

Your place in the hills of Tennessee - 5 acres w/creek $59,500

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:33:27 -0500

5 acres of private wooded land, with year round creek. Enjoy your own mini-national park with walking trail, creek and winter mountain views. Beautiful Rhododendron in bloom right now! Terrain offers a spot for just about any kind of building plan. Build your dream home or invest for later. Check out my website for additional pictures at www.prostad.century21reg.com Owner/Agent mls#581158

Licenced in TN

Getting ready to move? Here's some tips!

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:09:28 -0500

1. Clean House - clear out all that stuff that's been sitting around. Have a garage sale or donate to charity. This will greatly reduce time spent packing.

2. Organize - Up to two month before moving, make a list of your mail and people who need to be notified of your move including subscriptions, organizations you are involved with, doctors,vet, bank, insurance company and notify the post office.

3. Make a list that included utilities like water, phone,electric, gas, cable and internet and notify them of change of address.

4. If you are using a moving company, plan to be available during loading and unloading to answer questions. Have a home inventory list. and make sure the movers have your contact information.

5. Keep safety in mind - if you are moving yourself or hiring a mover, make walkways safe by removing rugs, low hanging items and tripping hazards.

6. Label - Label all boxes with contents and the room where they will end up. Pack yourself a "moving suitcase" containing essentials, spare clothes, snacks, etc.

7. Do a double-check - Walk through home one more time before truck leaves. Check basement, crawl spaces, attics, all closets, pantry, backyard and garage before letting the truck leave. Make sure to check the truck after unloading to ensure all items have been removed.

8. What not to Pack! Pesticides, paint thinner, charcoal lighter fluid. Valuable such as cash, jewelry and important paper should go with you or trackable shipping service.

9. Be happy! Have the right attitude and preparation and things will go much more smoothly.

Grab your piece of heaven in Maryville, TN - 5 acres $59,500

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Thu, 29 May 2008 09:06:28 -0500

This 5 acres offers everything to the buyer wanting seclusion and nature! Wooded with year round creek. Several building spots which will suit a variety of plans. Never see another home wherever you build. Invest now for your future or build your dream home now. Prices won't get any better in Blount County. Our market is good and the community has tons to offer.

See additional pictures on my website: www.prostad.century21reg.com

Patty Rostad, Realtor (owner/agent)

Century 21 REG, LLC

865-984-2121

Cell: 865-789-7529

Raising Your Home's Value

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:13:36 -0500

Whether getting ready to sell or bolstering your home's appearance - follow these tips for the most bang for your buck!

Let your Bath Sparkle - Updating is key here, but even simple changes like new flooring, mirrors and lighting can add to the bottom line. Repaint walls, cabinets and install new hardware or replace the worn toilet seat.

Kitchen - Here's another place where paint, door hardware, new faucets will add shine. You can even have the cabinet fronts refinished or replaced for a minimum price compared to installing totally new cabinetry.

Appliances - these should match - if they don't you can order new face panels or doors from the manufacturer. Great way to get that streamlined and clean look for the kitchen.

Storage - If you are short on space and large on clutter it's time to look into a storage system you can install in closets or garage. Will add lots of space and create a neat and organized appearance.

Carpet - If it's dingy - have it professionally cleaned. If it's worn, replace it. If you are selling, that is one of the first things potential buyers will see and probably overcompensate when making their offer .

Lights - Updated fixtures, natural light and views of the outside allow buyer's to really see the home as bright and inviting. Pull back those curtains during the day and keep the shades up to present a more open and appealing environment to welcome buyers.

Front door - Clean it, paint it, or replace it and don't forget the hardware. Talk about first impressions!

Curb Appeal - We've heard it before, but chances are people will keep driving by a home on the market if the outside looks like a tornado hit it or it's drab and uninviting. Flowers have the power to brighten things up or greenery in the Fall and Winter. If you have a porch, clean or paint and put out a chair with bright cushions for sitting. Keep the lawn mowed and weeds pulled. Clear out bikes, toys, etc laying around.

To Purchase Title Insurance or not ???

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:26:02 -0500

YES, YES, YES !

Some important reasons to purchase title insurance!

1. A fire destroys only the house and improvements. The ground is left. A defective title may take away not only the house but the land as well. Title insurance protects the buyer against such loss.

2. A deed or a mortgage in the chain of title may be a forgery.

3. A deed or a mortgage may have been made by an isane person or otherwise incompetent.

4. A deed or a mortgage may have been signed by a person under age.

5. A deed or a mortgage may have been made under a power of attorney after the death of the principal and would therefore, be void.

6. A deed or a mortgage may have been made by a person other than the owner, but with the same name as the owner.

7. The testator of a will might have has a child born after the execution of the will, a fact that would entitle the child to claim his or her share of the property.

8 The testator may not havce revoked a will after its execution.

9. A conveyance by heirs-at-law of a person supposed to have died without a valid will may be defeated by subsequent discovery and probate of a will.

10. An heir or other person presumed dead may appear and recover the property or an investment therein.

11. A Judgment or levy upon which the title is dependent may be void or voidable on account of some defect in the proceeding.

12. Title Insurance helps speed negotiations when the property is ready for resale.

13. I an insured title is ever defeated, the amount of the loss is reimbursed by the title insurance company.

14. Title Insurance means free defense in court.

15. Only title insurance protects against claims due to marital status and validity of divorces such as a supposedly non-existent or divorced "wife" or "husband".

Patty Rostad, Realtor (TN lic#282261)

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

865-984-2121

www.prostad.century21reg.com

$$$ SAVER $$$ Energy efficient upgrades for your home

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:26:51 -0500

A FEW TIPS TO SAVE MONEY AND ENERGY - WE COULD ALL USE THAT!

Use CFL's - replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. You will save more than $108 over three years when you replace your four most used 100 watt incandescent bulbs with four comparable 23 watt CFLs and they last about 10 times longer.

Maintain your Air Conditioner's Filter - Clean or replace your air conditioner's filter monthly. Dirty filters block normal airflow and significantly reduce the efficiency of the system, which wastes your money.

Plug the leaks - Air leaks are the greatest energy waster in the home. Installing weather-stripping and caulking leaks will stop those expensive drafts and improve confort.

Program Your Thermostats - you could save 10% on your heating and cooling costs just by setting your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher in the summer and 62 degrees or lower in the winter when you are not at home. If you tell it to return to your preferred temperature before you return home you'll never the difference untill you see the money saved on the next bill.

Optimize your Water Heater - If you don't have one installed already, put an insulative jacket around your water heater and insulate the pipes around the water heater.

Attic Insulation - Add a layer of insulation to your attic, especially if your home was built before 1980. If you have less than 12 inches of insulation, you probably need more.

Patty Rostad, Realtor

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

office:865-984-2121 cell:865-789-7529

www.prostad.century21reg.com

Curb Appeal is a Must!

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 13:29:02 -0500

When selling your home, curb appeal is an absolute must! How your home is viewed on the outside relays to a potential buyer what the inside will look like.

Clean up the yard, store unsightly objects like hoses, bikes, toys, garbage cans, rugs hanging from railings.

Remove dead plants, trees, and shrubs.

Consider a power sprayer for siding and cement driveways and walkways.

Keep the lawn mowed and trim bushes,trees,etc.

Touch up paint on trim and front door.

Clean gutters and sweep driveway.

For night-time - make sure home is well lit, check porch lights and change bulbs.

If it's the season for flowers - there's much to be said for "flower power".

Clean porch/patio furniture and add color with cushions or new paint.

Give potential buyers a reason to knock on your door - don't scare them away!

Maryville City Home $159,900

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:51:27 -0500

Take a look at this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in the city of Maryville. Brick construction, 2 car garage, hardwood and ceramic tile floors. 2nd bath recently added with pedestal sink, tile floor, and shower. This home also has a fireplace, huge fenced in yard and newer hvac system. All rooms are large! Full unfinished basement and home warranty included.

MLS#594537

Patty Rostad, Realtor (TN Lic.#00282261)

Century 21 Real Estate Group,LLC

1109 N. Hall Road

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-984-2121

cell: 865-789-7529

Investment opportunity in Knoxville!

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:09:51 -0500

Located in the Fountain City area of Knoxville, this duplex offers two units, each with two bedrooms and 1 bath. The unfinished basement provides indoor parking for both tenants as well as a shared washer/dryer which remains with the property. Steady tenant history. $117,900 MLS#600571

Offered at: $117,900

Patty Rostad, Realtor (TN Lic# 00282261)

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

1109 N. Hall Road

Alcoa, TN 37701

865-984-2121

cell: 865-789-7529

www.prostad.century21reg.com

5 acres in Blount County with year round creek!

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 09:34:24 -0500

Want the perfect spot for that private home near the mountains? Take a walk on this 5 acre tract at the foot of the Chilhowee Mountains. Several good building sites, very private, wooded with gorgeous creek at back of property. Terrain is sloping and rolling offering plenty of options for building plans. Owner/Agent

$62,500 MLS#581158 *Additional pictures at prostad.century21reg.com

Patty Rostad, Realtor (TN Lic# 00282261)

Century 21 Real Estate Group, LLC

865-984-2121

Cell: 865-789-7529

www.prostad.century21reg.com

Best place to buy a foreclosed home

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 10:48:38 -0500

I received a recent newsletter from the Tennessee Association of Realtors with reference to an article from Forbes.com listing the 10 best places to buy foreclosed homes. Knoxville was ranked #7. The article states the analysis was based on recent data from RealtyTrac, and the report identifies markets where properties in foreclosure may be a good investment because the markets in those areas are stablilizing and "foreclosures aren't symptomatic of local economic ruin."

Just another good reason to check out our area. Give me a call with any of your real estate needs - whether buying a foreclosure, HUD owned homes, land and all types of residential.

Looking for a Realtor in Knox or Blount County?

Patty Rostad (Century 21 Real Estate Group) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:25:50 -0500

Welcome to my active rain! Feel free to contact me on any real estate need you may have. I also can assist you with information such as area attractions, schools, entertainment, and community demographics. You can also visit my web site at prostad.century21reg.com to view current listings! My experience includes residential homes and land, foreclosures and HUD owned properties. Hope to hear from you soon!