About Clark County, WA

Oh when the Saints- Go Marching in.....

02-09-10

Bill Black CMP

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Office: (360) 326-8891

Mobile: (360) 910-3290

Bill Black CMP
Loannetwork LLC, Vancouver
1001 Main Street Suite A
Vancouver, WA 98660
bill@billcblack.com
360-326-8891

www.aofdowntown.com

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February 9, 2010

What is another 800,000 or so…

The job market lost 820,000 jobs last month. Well not exactly last month. This number included the "adjustment of statistics" for the past year. In this column we will not get into how the government miscounts so badly. However, we will point out that it just makes the deep recession we are coming out of even deeper. Eventually we must replace all of these jobs and we have dug ourselves quite a hole to climb out of. Certainly this makes the jobs programs proposed by the Administration more likely to become law as the next phase of stimulus kicks into gear.

And certainly, the fact that there would be such a significant adjustment is one reason the stock market became so volatile this week. Thursday was particularly brutal, especially when we mixed in concerns about the debt of foreign governments. When you remove this big adjustment, the numbers for January were not all that bad. The loss of 20,000 jobs is not positive, but it still is much better than the hundreds of thousands of jobs we were losing just a few quarters ago. However, it is still a long way from recovering from seven million jobs lost. This does help by way of the fact that it takes some of the upward pressure off of rates, oil prices and other commodities, at least in the short-run.

The Markets. Rates continued to be stable in the past week. Freddie Mac announced that for the week ending February 4, 30-year fixed rates averaged 5.01%, up from 4.98% the week before. The average for 15-year fixed rose slightly to 4.40%. Adjustables were mixed with the average for one-year adjustables falling to 4.22% and five-year adjustables rising slightly to 4.27%. A year ago 30-year fixed rates were at 5.25%. “Rates remained relatively stable for a second week amid news of a strengthening housing market," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist. “Residential fixed investment rose for two consecutive quarters over the last half of 2009 following a steady quarterly decline since the beginning of 2006. Pending existing home sales rebounded by 1 percent in December from a record drop in November that was due in part to the original expiration of the homebuyer tax credit, according to the National Association of Realtors. Even more encouraging news came from the Federal Reserve’s Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey, which reported that banks have generally stopped tightening standards on most types of loans in the fourth quarter of 2009, with commercial real estate as the exception.” Rates indicated do not include fees and points and are provided for evidence of trends only. They should not be used for comparison purposes.

Current Indices For Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Updated February 5, 2010

	Daily Value	Monthly Value
	February 4	January
6-month Treasury Security	0.16%	0.15%
1-year Treasury Security	0.32%	0.35%
3-year Treasury Security	1.34%	1.49%
5-year Treasury Security	2.29%	2.48%
10-year Treasury Security	3.62%	3.73%
12-month LIBOR		0.906% (Jan)
12-month MTA		0.463% (Jan)
11th District Cost of Funds		1.828% (Dec)
Prime Rate		3.25% (12/08)

The FHA-backed 203(k) rehab loan is an increasingly popular option in today’s market because so many available properties, especially foreclosures, are in need of repair. A streamlined 203(k) provides money to pay for improvements such as a new roof, appliances, furnace, energy-efficient windows, and cosmetic improvements like carpet, paint, and remodeled kitchens and baths. The maximum loan available is $35,000. The buyer must put down 3.5 percent of the acquisition. At closing, the seller is paid and the remaining money goes into an escrow account to pay for repairs. A licensed contractor must complete the work within six months. Some lenders allow the borrower to do minor cosmetic work like painting themselves. We also offer a Home renovation loan that is similiar but only on Fannie Mae owned properties.

Green market research firm SBI Energy forecasts that in the next five years, the market for energy-efficient home renovation products will grow 15 percent, 50 percent faster than the renovations market as a whole. According to the report, the energy-efficient market will reach $35 billion and claim 15 percent of all home renovation dollars spent. "The growth will come as a result of the tax credits, new incentives, and the reality that more agencies and utilities are promoting the fact that adding improved energy efficiency is the most cost-effective way to decrease home utility bills," says Norman Deschamps, author and SBI Energy analyst. Source: SBI Reports

Falling prices for real estate and the declining value of the dollar are luring investors from all over the world to purchase properties for as little as half what they might have paid four years ago. "This could be a once-in-a-generation opportunity for real estate investment," says Arthur Wong, whose Calgary, Alberta-based U.S. Real Estate Fund has invested $5 million in properties in the U.S. Southwest and plans to buy millions more. Buyers from countries like Brazil, Canada, France, and the Netherlands, whose currencies are particularly strong against the dollar, are spending millions on luxury condos in New York City, Las Vegas, and Miami. Foreign buyers also find the warm climates of California, Texas, and Arizona attractive. Peter Zalewski, a principal with Miami-based Condo Vultures, says he has sold foreign condo buyers seven bulk deals in downtown Miami alone, with investors coming from Argentina, Canada, Colombia, Italy, Norway, and Venezuela. Source: MSNB

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Vancouver WA Real Estate Market Report for the month of January 2010

02-09-10

Alexander-Slocum REMAX Team - Vancouver WA Real Estate

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Office: (888) 525-5528 x81

Vancouver Washington Real Estate Market for the month of January 2010

Earlier this month we logged into the Vancouver MLS to obtain a quick update of what happened with real estate and homes for sale within the confines of Vancouver, in Clark County Washington. Here is what we have to report:

Vancouver WA Real Estate Market Report by REMAX John Slocum for January 2010

From this snap-shot view we see another significant increase in the number of Pending transactions compared to the typically slow December, as well as a modest increase in the number of total Active listings available at the end of the month. This month the 3rd Party + Pre-Foreclosures + Foreclosures combined are about 36.2% of the Active homes listed (about 35.0% last month), yet they represent about 43.4% of the homes going under contract (about 51.1% last month) - this is a continued high level for these two segments!

Key items we are looking for in a market turnaround are not just an increase in the number of transactions but, an increase in the "Normal Sale" (i.e., non-Pre-Foreclosure / Foreclosure) category. For this month we are seeing a continued status-quo for both key factors.

The Chart below shows the current trend of home prices for Vancouver WA, compared to other Pacific Northwest cities of Seattle Washington, and Portland Oregon. For home prices to start going up, we will typically first see a meaningful AND sustained increase in the number of homes purchased. Although there had been modest increases in home buying activity for the late-Summer and early-Fall months combined, we are not confident that it will return until February or March.

Real Estate Market Chart by Altos Research www.altosresearch.com, and courtesy of John Slocum and Kathryn Alexander REMAX Vancouver WA and www.ClarkCountyExpert.com

If you are looking to sell your home in Vancouver or Clark County Washington in this challenging market time please call or e-mail us with the details of your situation and we'll customize a marketing plan to get your Vancouver Washington Home Sold!

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Definitions:
1) 3rd Party = the sales contract requires the approval of a third party; and includes Short-Sales, Trust Sales, Relocation Company sales, etc.
2) Pre-Foreclosures = aka Short-Sales are homes where the lending bank(s) agrees to take less, allowing a sales transaction to take place.
3) Foreclosures = aka REO's and Bank Owned Homes, already Foreclosed by the Lender(s).
4) PENDING = listed homes that have been marked as under contract by the listing agent during the past 30 days.
5) SOLD = listed homes that have been marked as closed sales by the listing agent in the past 30 days. Note: some of these sold homes may have been "pending sales" for far more than 30 days!

Disclaimer: this information is drawn using custom search parameters from the predominant MLS system covering Vancouver Washington and is not guaranteed to be accurate.

The above information was provided by John Slocum and Kathryn Alexander, recognized as one of the top teams at REMAX Vancouver WA. We hope you enjoy the information in our posts, including videos on real estate and Living in Vancouver Washington and the rest of Clark County.

Thinking of selling your home in this market? We have the insight and passion for selling homes to get you moving!

For Southwest Washington homes and Real Estate in Vancouver WA visit Vancouver Washington Real Estate. If you have an immediate need to search the MLS for Vancouver WA please visit Vancouver WA Homes For Sale

If your interest is in foreclosures, pre-foreclosures (short-sale homes) and Bank Owned Homes in Vancouver Washington we have a special search set up for you at Bank Owned Homes Vancouver WA.

Current MLS Market Report for Vancouver WA and Clark County

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Save the Planet, Save some $$$! The R-Value in Insulation

02-09-10

Mikel Erdman

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Office: (888) 755-8783

With all of the talk about being environmentally friendly, green certified, and Eco-chic I thought I'd take a moment to share a bit about energy conservation. A great place to start is with your home insulation. Heating and cooling a home account for about 56% of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most homes. Adding insulation is one of the least expensive ways to boost efficiency to save energy, protect the environment, and save a chunk of money in the process. New Insulation R Value

R-Value measures insulating power.

Insulating your home can dramatically cut down on home heating and cooling costs. When you shop for insulation, always look for the "R-Value" - the higher the R-Value, the better the insulating power. Be careful not to mistake thicker insulation as better insulation. Thick insulation does not necessarily mean higher R-Value.

To find the R-Value you need, check with your local utility company. Recommended levels vary depending on where you live. Remember, if you install more insulation than necessary, you'll be wasting money. If home contractors install your insulation, be sure to discuss what R-Value is best for your home.

Ask retailers and home installers for a fact sheet on insulation before buying. This fact sheet, required by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), tells you the type of insulation, its R-Value, and the area it will cover.

If home contractors install your insulation, they must give you a contract or receipt showing the insulation's R-Value, coverage area, and thickness. If loose-fill insulation is installed, the number of bags used also must be included.

These are just a few things to consider when adding or upgrading the insulation in your home. As always, consult with a local professional in order to uncover any additional regulations for your area. Your real estate agent will likely be the best resource for a qualified referral to a contractor in this area. Give them a call and ask for their advice. They will appreciate your call and ensure that your needs are taken care of.

This information is included in the Ultimate Home Journal, the best home diary available on the market today. This high quality, 160 page book is the place to keep all of the who, what, when, why and how's of your home.

You can receive a FREE copy of the Ultimate Home Journal by becoming our Fan on Facebook.

Here are a few more e-terms for you:

Carbon footprint
A measured amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide which are released into the atmosphere by manufacture, transport, products, materials, activities etc. Footprints are described in CO2 equivalent grams.

Close the Loop
To buy a recycled product which has been remanufactured / reprocessed / reused on more than one occasion. This eliminates waste and creates a complete product cycle.

Eco-chic / Green Chic
The trend and fashion of being environmentally conscious and buying 'green’ products.

Eco-elite
A person who is environmentally conscious and who has the finances to support their environmental preferences.

Green Building / Sustainable Building Design
Building design and construction which uses methods, systems and materials that have a lower negative effect on the environment than conventional building design. Typical features are energy efficiency, daylighting, renewable energy, water conservation, waste management, eco building materials and brown land use.

Holistic Interior Design / Zen Interior Design
A complimentary way of designing interiors based on achieving a balance between; design principles, human health and well-being and our natural environment.

Post-Consumer
A product or material which has been recycled or reused after its original purpose has completed. An example would be PET plastic bottles which have been recycled into new plastic bottles. The label may say “made with 95% post-consumer waste”.

What is your favorite e-word or phrase. I'm awarding a special prize to the funniest, best, most entertaining reply!

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Blogging, Blondes, and BBQ - The Life Of A Realtor®

02-08-10

Mark Hall Vancouver Washington Real Estate

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Office: (360) 816-9697

Blogging, Blondes, and BBQ - The Life Of A Realtor®

So, here I am. An agent who is living the life. I got into the business because I love helping people, I love seeing cool houses, and I love getting in and negotiating killer deals. Imagine my surprise when I found out about the fringe benefits!

Blogging, Blondes, and BBQ

Blogging - What more is there to say? I love it. I like to share my opinion and it is even better when people actually log on the read about it. Writing is a secret passion of mine and, since I am not a famous author (yet!), I can get it out of my system by blogging a few times a week. Cool gig! Right?

Blondes - OK, I put this in for the shock factor, but have you seen my wife? (and partner, and fellow Realtor® who is the brains of the operation?) I doubt that I would be in this business if it weren't for her. She keeps me on track and drives our business to succeed. If her picture wasn't on our business card, I doubt if anyone would call!

BBQ - Since I shared my other two passions with you, I might as well tell you about a third. BBQ, Barbe-q, BBQue, or Barbeque, No matter how you spell it, it still means good eatin'! The key to good "Q", is constant attention, high quality pork ribs, grandpa's secret recipe (most any grandpa will do), patience, and a good grill. Generous amounts of bourbon always helps too. I am not sure if it makes me a better agent, but I think it makes me a better person.
mark hall vancouver wa real estate

Photo by maveric2003. When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of Realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver Washington dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. Blogging, Blondes, and BBQ - The Life Of A Realtor®

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Clark County WA Real Estate Market Report for January 2010

02-08-10

Alexander-Slocum REMAX Team - Vancouver WA Real Estate

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Office: (888) 525-5528 x81

Real Estate Market Activity in Clark County Washington for January 2010

Early this month we logged into the Vancouver MLS (covers Clark County Washington also) to obtain a quick snap-shot view of what happened real estate wise within the confines of Clark County Washington for the previous month. Here is what we have to report:

Table of Real Estate activity in Clark County Washington for January 2010, prepared by John Slocum of REMAX Vancouver WA

From this quick view we see a 44.2% INCREASE in the number of Pending transactions over last month (December was down 21.3%), as well as an increase of 8.1% in the number of total Active listings available at the end of the month. This month the 3rd Party + Pre-Foreclosures + Foreclosures combined are about 34.3% of the Active homes listed (about 32.9% last month), yet are about 43.9% of the homes going under contract (about 51.7% last month).

Key items we are looking for in a market turnaround are not just an increase in the number of transactions and firming-prices but, an increase in the "Normal Sale" (i.e., non-Pre-Foreclosure / Foreclosure) Category. In our opinion we may be in a new era, with the Holiday Season behind us, and a rather narrow window left to utilize the Federal Tax Credits for Home Buyers. The continued extremely low mortgage interest rates should also help provide for a busier than normal First Quarter of 2010!

If you are looking to sell your home in Clark County Washington in this challenging market time please call or e-mail us with the details of your situation and we'll customize a marketing plan to get your Clark County Home Sold!

The largest city in Clark County WA is Vancouver Washington. Other towns include: Amboy, Battle Ground, Brush Prairie, Camas, Ridgefield, Washougal, parts of Woodland and Yacolt.
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Definitions:
1) 3rd Party = the sales contract requires the approval of a third party; and includes Short-Sales, Trust Sales, Relocation Company sales, etc.
2) Pre-Foreclosures = aka Short-Sales are homes where the lending bank(s) agrees to take less, allowing a sales transaction to take place.
3) Foreclosures = aka REO's and Bank Owned Homes, already Foreclosed by the Lender(s).
4) PENDING = listed homes that have been marked as under contract by the listing agent during the past 30 days.
5) SOLD = listed homes that have been marked as closed sales by the listing agent in the past 30 days. Note: some of these sold homes may have been "pending sales" for far more than 30 days!

Disclaimer: this information is drawn using custom search parameters from the predominant MLS system covering Vancouver Washington and is not guaranteed to be accurate.