MeLisa Minter, MBA, Realtor - 469-766-7379

This just in....Congress has Agreed to Extend and Expand the $8,000 Tax Credit Incentive.

The new Law not only extends the $8,000 First-time buyer Tax Credit through June of 2010, but it also Expands and reaches another group of buyers. Those Buyers who have owner their current home for the last five years, now qualify for $6,500.

The Senate Approved it on Wenesday and the House just approved it today. The Bill is expected to be signed by President Obama on tomorrow (Friday).

This is great news for the housing industry, because now, many buyers who wish to move-up can now be able to take advantage of a $6500 Tax Credit.

Both buyers have to have a signed contract by April 30, 2010 and Close by June 30, 2010. I personally think that this will definitely keep our housing market moving in the right direction. What are your thoughts on this?

I Love Halloween on Houston Street in my town. This was my second year taking my little ones trick or treating down Houston Street. When I went my first year, it was exactly like the scene out of a movie. I've never seen so many townspeople in one place. But I guess that's the good thing about living in a small town. You get to see all of the people that you normally see at church, at the little league games or just at the local Brookshire's Grocery Store. It's about Community. It's about Fun!

You see, not only is Houston Street the most prestigious street in Kaufman, but it is also home to many of the grand historical homes, some of which still have the pre-Civil War Wrought Iron Fencing in the front yard, as well as some brand new craftsman style homes. I love this street.

Most of the residences of Houston Street participate in the Halloween festivities. I couldn't help but drive down Houston street several times during the weeks of October, and notice how the residences were preparing for the big night.

They really do go all out! and it has become a tradition for the people who grew up here as well as for the newcomers such as myself.

Happy Halloween Kaufman.

After countless days and hours of Target Practicing with his Matthews Bow....the Kaufman County Game Warden gathered enough patience and precision that allowed him to take the Buck of a Lifetime, on Monday, October 19, 2009. This certainly proves that practice definitely makes PERFECT.

Click here for the photo and interview.

This could not have happened to a better guy. And I have to admit that I am totally biased, because this great guy is not only a great hunter, but a GREAT husband and father as well.

Since distressed properties have taken over the market and may seem like the best deal in town, there are many things to consider before purchasing. one.

First of all, Foreclosed properties are much easier to purchase than properties that are pre-foreclosures/short sales. That's because the banks have already taken possession of the property and are now the current owners. They've have appraisals done and several broker price opinions done in order to help them determine the price that they should list the property for. These prices are generally prices that should get the foreclosed property sold within 30 days. That's the bank's motivation, to hurry and get these properties off of their books, so that they can continue lending.

Secondly, foreclosed properties are usually being sold AS-IS, with no Warranties, no Repairs, no Seller's Disclosures and is basically "what you see is what you get." Now grant it, each bank is different in what they will do in order to get a foreclosed property sold. For example, I had a foreclosed listing that needed extensive foundation work, to my surprise, the bank paid for that and the transaction closed smoothly. Also, on another transaction, I had a foreclosed listing that needed two HVAC units and the bank paid for those as well. So have your agent contact the listing agent to see exactly how motivated the bank is in moving a particular foreclosed property.

Thirdly, foreclosed properties can Close quickly, so be sure that you are pre-approved and have any other financial requirements in order. Generally, when the bank says "When," you should be ready to tell them, or they will move on to the next interested party.

Finally, you're not the only one interested in purchasing foreclosed properties. The competition is very stiff and if you are not ready to purchase then get out of the way, because you will only end up disappointed. Investors are out looking at the same foreclosed properties as you, and they can generally buy in bulk and pay cash. For example, I just listed two foreclosed properties last Thursday night and had three offers on one of them by Friday afternoon, and they were all from investors.

So yes, foreclosed properties are a great deals, but it is up to you to be ready and prepared to take advantage of those deals. Let me help get you ready you don't miss out on the opportunity of a life-time.

Visit my website to sign up for your FREE FORECLOSURE LIST.

MeLisa Minter, MBA, Realtor

melisa@homesmint2be.com

469-766-7379

Here We Go!! Another Season of Little League Football in Kaufman, Texas.

This will be our second season participating, so I'm a little ambivalent about it. I look forward to the games, but not the rough and demanding practice schedules that these little ones have to edure. Not to mention that most of the games are on Saturdays, smack in the middle of the Day. This requires me to either set very early or very late showing appointments on Saturday.

But I know with Football Season, also comes very cool weather (not until October here in Texas) and the Holiday Season. My son is already practicing plays and getting use to new players, but when school starts in a few weeks, reality will set in for him.

So I wish the Kaufman Lions Little League Association Good Luck this Season. I don't look forward to sitting in sweltering heat over the next couple of months, but I do look forward sitting in the benches under warm blankets with a cup of hot cocoa come this Fall.

Here's Wishing You Many Touch Downs Guys!!

MeLisa Minter, MBA, Realtor

www.homesmint2be.com