Wendy Benedict ~ Lehigh Valley, PA Real Estate

Christmas City Cirque was back in town this past weekend. It was a great show!

A press handstand is difficult on it's own, but when performed on top of a table stacked with 7 chairs...it was truly amazing! The show was a fun combination of tumbling, balancing, juggling and dancing acts requiring an incredible amount of strength, balance, concentration AND courage!

My family had a great time...the show took place in the heated tents that held the Christkindlmarkt Marketplace.

There is always something fun going on in Historic Bethlehem! Check out www.christmascity.org

for a calendar of events, purchasing tickets, and money-saving coupons.

Prior to the show, we had dinner at Mama Nina's Foccacheria on Main Street. If you are in Bethlehem and in the mood for Italian...I highly recommend it! The food was great, the atmosphere was cozy with faux-painted walls and faux balconies. The ceiling is painted like a bright blue summer sky with clouds. The menu will satisfy the most critical foodies in your family!

In this challenging economy, we can all use a break. If you love going to the movies, but HATE the cost, check out The Boyd Theatre on Broad Street in Bethlehem. For all of you long-time residents...Yes, it IS still open! If you are new to the Lehigh Valley...put it on your list of places to try. I remember going there as a kid. It is still as charming as it was, featuring one movie at a time. And they are first-run movies. For a matinee, you will only pay $4, after 6pm, admission is $6! For 65 and over or 11 and under, admission is always $4! The theatre currently has the lowest first-run admission and concession stand prices in the Lehigh Valley.

Walking distance from all of the fun, trendy shops and restaurants of Historic Bethlehem...it makes for a wonderful afternoon or night out.

Movie popcorn and candy is available too...most items are only $1 or $2.

The Boyd originally opened as The Kurtz Theatre in 1921, featuring vaudville acts. In 1924, under new ownership, became known as The Colonial Theatre and it wasn't until 1934 it became known as The Boyd. Check out The Boyd's website at www.theboyd.com

NOW may be the perfect time for you!

Attend a FREE information seminar designed for just for you! Get the answers to YOUR questions, learn about the benefits of buyer agency for you, learn about our local real estate market here in the Lehigh Valley, get the answers to all of your questions and concerns about obtaining a mortgage. Call today for details and location about this information-packed seminar.

Get the keys to home ownership!

Find out if you can buy a home now. Seminar to be held on Thursday, December 11 from 6-8 pm.

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Checked my email today and found an invitation to a party from a neighbor! YEAH! I love parties! I read on further and discovered it is a 'Gold Rush' party. I can bring my old, broken, mismatched, or no longer wanted jewelry and get paid for it...hmmm....

I have been to many home parties where the guests mingle, drink wine, munch on appetizers and after a short presentation by a party consultant, browse through the catalogs and place orders, but...

Unlike Tupperware or Pampered Chef, this is a home party where I can leave my checkbook at home-- I don't have to buy anything! Interesting...I never heard of this!

Ironically, next I visit the website for our local newspaper and the top story is the latest craze for girl's night out -- Gold Rush parties! This is bigger than I thought! Apparently, women all over are cashing in their bling! View story at: http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-5gold.6683740dec07,0,6140674.story

One by one, you sit down with the jeweler, who weighs what you bring and cuts you a check on the spot. The hostess gets a cut of the evening's proceeds, usually 10 - 15%.

Is this a sign of the times or what??

Interesting concept, great way to get rid of unwanted or outdated gold...but I am just not ready to start selling off my jewelry!

Are you telling your clients about the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit?

Here's a quick glance at the highlights:

• The tax credit is available for first-time home buyers only.
• The maximum credit amount is $7,500.
• The credit is available for homes purchased on or after April 9, 2008 and before
  July 1, 2009.
• Single taxpayers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000 qualify for the full tax credit.
• The tax credit works like an interest-free loan and must be repaid over a 15-year period.

Get more information at the following link: www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com

It really is a good time for buyers....low interest rates....plenty of choices in terms of inventory to look at...sellers are willing to negotiate again...and the tax credit!

Don't forget to remind your past clients who may qualify!