On Wednesday, the Senate voted unanimously in favor of a bill to extend and expand the homebuyer tax credit. On Thursday, the House voted 403-12 to pass the measure. Today, President Obama signed the bill – H.R. 3548 – into law. Totaling $24 billion, the law also provides extended jobless benefits for out-of-work Americans and tax cuts for struggling businesses.
The homebuyer tax credit provision, which was added to the stimulus bill by the Senate, extends the $8,000 first-time homebuyer credit through the end of June (for homebuyers who sign a binding contract by the end of April). It also expands the credit to include a $6,500 credit for existing homeowners to buy a new home (as long as they’ve lived in their current residence for at least five years). For more details on the homebuyer tax credit extension and expansion, check out yesterday’s post.
Supporters of the bill say that extending and expanding the tax credits are important to strengthen the fragile recovery that is taking hold in housing markets across the country. While housing market numbers have been strong of late, the unemployment rate is still high (higher than it’s been in 26 years) and consumer confidence is still low. This bill “is critical to maintaining the positive momentum we’ve been experiencing in the housing market and in the overall economy,” said one Realtors association.
What do you think? Do you plan to buy a new home and use the tax credit? Click on the “comments” link below and join the conversation!
Earlier today the House signed a bill that will extend (and expand) the first-time homebuyer’s tax credit and introduce a similar credit for people who already own their home but need to move. President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law on Friday.
Here’s what the law does:
Extends the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit to May 1, 2010.
Creates a new credit of up to $6,500 for existing homeowners who buy a new residence if they have lived in their current one for at least five of the last eight years.
Expands both credits to include individuals making up to $125,000 a year and couples making up to $225,000 (the income limits used to be $75,000 and $150,000 respectively). After those limits are reached, the credits are phased out.
Experts estimate that the extension and expansion of the homebuyer tax credits will cost about $11 billion. The credit has been used in 1.2 million home purchases so far this year; according to the National Association of Realtors, 350,000 of those homes wouldn’t have been purchased without the credit.
What do you think? Is extending and expanding the homebuyer tax credits a good idea? Click on the “comments” link below and join the conversation!
Looking for something to do? Gear up; the month of November is ready for you! Packed with fun filled events to keep everyone and anyone busy all month long. Check them out (and thanks, as always, to About.com for the listings):
What: Photography, jewelry, crafts, paintings, sculptures and more. Live music.
When: In 2009: 6 p.m. 9 p.m.
Where: Mesa Riverview.
Ahwa-Turkey Stomp / Car and Motorcycle Show
What: Vehicles of all different makes, models and years. A judged event with trophies being awardedin various classes. Live entertainment. Food and spirits available. Held in conjunction with the Ahwa-Turkey Stomp to raise money, food and toys for various organizations. Fee to show your car or have a booth. Admission to attend is a frozen turkey, non-perishable food items or new unwrapped toys.
When: In 2009: November 21
Where: Ahwatukee Community Swim & Tennis Center.
Apache Junction Art Festival of the Superstitions
What: Juried fine-art show with live musical entertainment, theatrical performance groups and a Cultural Cuisine Court. Kid Zone.
When: In 2009: November 14, 15
Where: Central Arizona College.
What: Primitives, ephemera, eclectic, glassware, pottery, collectibles, toys, advertising, military items, coins, early American linens, fine selections of vintage costume jewelry and fine estate jewelry.
When: In 2009: November 21, 22
Where: Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix.
What: The Arizona Cardinals play professional football at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
When: In 2009: Various dates in November
Where: University of Phoenix Stadium
What: Jazz, and lots of it!
When: In 2009: November 5-8
Where: Chandler.
Arizona Wine Growers Festival at the Farm
What: The state's top wine makers showcase their finest wines at an interactive event where guests learn about Arizona wine production, walk through exhibits of the state's grape growing regions, taste dozens of wines and ultimately vote for their favorite.
When: In 2009: November 22
Where: Farm at South Mountain
What: Fine art, live music, international foods, and an interactive family area featuring hands-on art activities and creative challenges for children. Over 200 select contemporary artists and crafts people from across the nation will show and sell one-of-a-kind artwork. Free
When in 2009: November 21, 22:
Where: Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza
What: Hundreds of craft beers from breweries across the globe, seminars, food pairing tips and celebrated brewers and beer experts. Live entertainment.
When: In 2009: November 12 - 14
Where: Scottsdale.
Breast Cancer Awareness Events
What: Walks and runs to raise money to fight breast cancer.
When: In 2009: Various dates in October and November
Where: Salt River Project, 1600 N. Priest Drive in Tempe
Carefree Fine Arts and Wine Festival
What: Arts, crafts, entertainment, wine. Over 160 artists will have displays. This is Arizona's largest wine tasting event, featuring wines from Arizona, California, Australia, Germany, Austria, France and Italy. Sponsored by Thunderbird Artists.
When: In 2009: November 6 - 8
Where: Carefree
What: A family-friendly street festival featuring members of Local First Arizona. About 60 vendors on hand with entertainment provided by Arizona musicians, bands and performers. Beer & Wine Garden, raffle and silent auction raise funds for Local First, activitiers for young kids, craft booth.
When: In 2009: November 7
Where: 1651 E Camelback Rd
Chiles and Chocolate Festival
What: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix. Chili and chocolate products from local vendors, unique Southwest gifts, cooking demonstrations, Spanish Flamenco dance and Latin jazz.
When: In 2009: November 14, 15
Where: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.
What: Sample more than 70 wines from different regions of the world and talk with representatives from the different wineries. Hors d'oeuvres and desserts.
When: In 2009: November 13
Where: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.
Cowboy Artists of America Exhibit
What: The Phoenix Art Museum hosts this event. Paintings, drawings and sculptures. Many never seen before.
When: In 2009: October 18 - November 15
Where: Phoenix Art Museum
What: Festival Highlights include cultural show, parade, food fair, Clothes and Jewelry Bazaar, cooking and cultural Demos, children's meal. Free admission.
When: In 2009: November 22
Where: Heritage Square, Phoenix
What: Visit different downtown Phoenix bars and restaurants and enjoy entertainment, food samples, and drink specials only available to Pub Crawl participants. Take part in the Pub Crawl competition by collecting beads from participating locations. Free Trolley buses available until 3:30 a.m. to move participants to and from participating locations. 21+ only.
When: In 2009: November 13
Where: downtown Phoenix
What: At Gilbert's Freestone Park Amphitheater, located by the lake in Freestone Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Free. Food and beverages are available to purchase.
When: In 2009: November 12
Where: Gilbert's Freestone Park
What: Downtown Tempe's tree lighting ceremony, parade and entertainment.
When: In 2009: November 27
Where: Tempe Beach Park.
What: Visit more than 80 downtown Phoenix art galleries, studios and art spaces. Free.
When: In 2009: First Friday of the month.
Where: Phoenix
What: Arizona's Ironman triathlon features a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike and a complete marathon (26.2 miles). Many vantage points for spectators to view the races, sports expo.
When: In 2009: November 22
Where: Tempe.
Fountain Festival of Arts and Crafts
What: Arts, crafts, food, music, entertainment.
When: In 2009: November 13-15
Where: Fountain Hills Park.
What: At 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Entry fees to participate in Open Bull riding, Novice Riding Calf Riding (10 yrs & under), Sheep Riding (6 yrs & under). Admission fee to be a spectator.
When: In 2009: November 6, 13, 20, 27
Where: Rawhide Western Town.
Gila Bend Desert Shrimp Festival
What: Cooking contest, shrimp eating contest, shrimp coloring contest, bobbing for shrimp, kids sand castle building contest, live entertainment, arts & craft vendors.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: Gila Bend
What: A week-long celebration of Gilbert’s rich western heritage. Re-enactment of the historical Pony Express ride, Gilbert Days Parade, food, entertainment, Chili Cook Off, Gilbert Days Jackpot Roping, Competition Barrel Racing, Lil’ Dudes Rodeo, carnival and more family-friendly activities.
When: In 2009: November 13-22
Where: Gilbert
What: Glendale's kick-off to the holiday season. A million lights, music, fireworks, crafts, train rides, Santa and more.
When: In 2009: November 27, 28
Where: Glendale
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Glendale's Live at the Library
What: Musical entertainment from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Main Library. Concerts are free. Call 623-930-3573 for more details.
When: In 2009: One or two Thursdays per month
Where: Main Library
What: Features cooks and restaurants competing for the title of “Best in the West” gumbo and jambalaya. Competitors will bring their gumbo/jambalaya to the event already prepared and ready to serve in “tastes”. Live music, children's activities.
When: In 2009: November 1
Where: Heritage & Science Park, Phoenix.
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What: Nearly 70 of the Southwest's best Hispanic artists will show and sell their work at the annual Heard Museum Spanish Market. Artwork includes an array of Santos, furniture, jewelry, tile work, glitter art, tinwork, paintings, carvings, pottery and more. Admission is free.
When: In 2009: November 14, 15
Where: Heard Museum, Phoenix.
IHBA NAPA Auto Parts World Finals
What: World Champions will be crowned and Top Fuel Hydro drag boats will reach speeds approaching 250 miles per hour during the three-day event. Firebird Lake at Firebird International Raceway
When: In 2009: November 20 - 22
Where: Firebird International Raceway
What: Jazz ‘N the Plaza is a fall jazz concert series in partnership with Smooth Jazz 95.5 KYOT. It features a new jazz performance each week. The concerts are free and open to the public, seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Refreshments and food available for purchase. Montelucia Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley
When: In 2009: November 11, 18
Where: Montelucia Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley
Litchfield Park Arts in the Park
What: Free outdoor concerts at the Wigwam Resort Front Lawn, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
When: In 2009: November 15
Where: Wigwam Resort
Litchfield Park Festival of Arts
What: Fine arts & crafts, live musical performances, festival fare and wine tasting. Located next in the heart of the historic Wigwam Resort, this unique outdoor festival features an Artisan's Village filled with over 300 Fine Arts and Crafts booths. Artist demonstrations, International food court, huge indoor Book and Antique sale and children's activities.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: Located next in the heart of the historic Wigwam Resort
What: The event showcases the rich pioneer and territorial history of Mesa, Arizona. Old west activities, costumes, music and dance.
When: In 2009: November 7 - 8
Where: Mesa, Arizona
What: Marshall Butterfly Pavilion at the Desert Botanical Garden.
When: In 2009: September 26 to November 15, 2009
Where: Desert Botanical Garden.
MOO MOO Palooza
What: Tour a dairy, hay rides, petting zoo, photo opportunities with Daisy the Cow, hay bale maze, Joann’s craft corner, soccer kick, Tractor Garden. The Agriculture Industry will be well represented through the dairy and answer questions. Live DJ, door prizes, milk and ice cream.
When: In 2009: November 11
Where: Superstition farm
What: Independent and classic cinema and documentaries relating to art, artists, and works on view in the Museum, usually followed by discussion. Free with paid museum admission. First come, first seated.
When: In 2009: Various dates in November
Where: Phoenix Art Museum.
What: The Desert Botanical Garden concert series features a variety of music on Friday nights at 7 p.m. Ticketed event.
When: In 2009: November 6
Where: Desert Botanical Garden
What: Checker O'Reilly Auto Parts 500 Presented by Pennzoil Event Weekend.
When: In 2009: November 12-15
Where: Phoenix International Raceway.
Native American Recognition Days at DBG
What: The Desert Botanical Garden host two concerts presented in conjunction with Canyon Records featuring diverse local Native American music.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: The Desert Botanical Garden
What: Sponsored by the Orchid Society of Arizona. Arizona State Veterans Home, Phoenix. Free admission.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: Arizona State Veterans Home, Phoenix
What: These lunchtime concerts will feature local artists playing a variety of music including folk, country, jazz, Dixieland, oldies, and world music. Chairs and lawn seating are available, but guests are encouraged to bring stadium cushions and blankets. Brown bags and picnic baskets are welcome All Out to Lunch concerts are free and open to the public. Wells Fargo Garden at Mesa Arts Center. 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
When: In 2009: November 5, 12, 19
Where: Mesa Arts Center
What: Guests enjoy access to some of the most talented architects, builders and interior designers in town, while sampling gourmet fare from top, local chefs. Fundraiser to Benefit Free Arts of Arizona.
When: In 2009: November 8
Where: 103 West Highland Avenue, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85013
What: A family and pet-friendly festival and walk. Benefit for homeless pets at the Arizona Humane Society.
When: In 2009: November 7
Where: Peoria Sports Complex
What: A festival celebrating the uniqueness and creativity of Greater Phoenix. Live music, street performances, visual arts, and the public procession of the Parade of the Arts with unique floats and costumes. Family appropriate with activities for children.
When: In 2009: November 14
Where: Downtown Phoenix
What: Our professional basketball team plays hoops at the US Airways Center.
When: In 2009: Various dates in November
Where: US Airways Center
What: From Scottsdale Fashion Square to Scottsdale Waterfront to Southbridge. Two runways: a tented New York Fashion Week-style tent as well as a runway under the stars. Also includes a Luxury Pavilion (fine living purveyors of fashion, design, spas, and health care), and a Milan-style Wearable ArtWalk.
When: In 2009: November 5 - 7
Where: Camelback Road and New Marshall Way
What: Live music, local Greek folk dancers, the professional Olympian Dance Troupe of Chicago, Greek cooking class, and other programs including Greek films, seminars, and pottery classes. Some activities are focused on children.
When: In 2009: November 6, 7, 8
Where: Scottsdale.
What: Thanksgiving Day Parade in Fountain Hills. Free. Starts at 9 a.m. Floats and marching bands.
When: In 2009: November 26
Where: Fountain Hills
What: Many of the cities in Greater Phoenix have special ceremonies, parades, luncheons and other community activities to honor our veterans.
When: In 2009: November 7 - 11
Where: Anthem Community Park
What: A variety of athletic events for all participant 50+ young
When: In 2009: November 21
Where: Avondale
What: Walks, contests, demonstrations, entertainment for you and your dog. Free admission, entry fee for events.
When: Tumbleweed Park, Chandler.
Where: In 2009: November 21
What: Lights, animated displays, and carousel rides at the Phoenix Zoo.
When: In 2009: November 26 - January 10, 2010
Where: Phoenix Zoo
Looking for something to do? Gear up; the month of November is ready for you! Packed with fun filled events to keep everyone and anyone busy all month long. Check them out (and thanks, as always, to About.com for the listings):
What: Photography, jewelry, crafts, paintings, sculptures and more. Live music.
When: In 2009: 6 p.m. 9 p.m.
Where: Mesa Riverview.
Ahwa-Turkey Stomp / Car and Motorcycle Show
What: Vehicles of all different makes, models and years. A judged event with trophies being awardedin various classes. Live entertainment. Food and spirits available. Held in conjunction with the Ahwa-Turkey Stomp to raise money, food and toys for various organizations. Fee to show your car or have a booth. Admission to attend is a frozen turkey, non-perishable food items or new unwrapped toys.
When: In 2009: November 21
Where: Ahwatukee Community Swim & Tennis Center.
Apache Junction Art Festival of the Superstitions
What: Juried fine-art show with live musical entertainment, theatrical performance groups and a Cultural Cuisine Court. Kid Zone.
When: In 2009: November 14, 15
Where: Central Arizona College.
What: Primitives, ephemera, eclectic, glassware, pottery, collectibles, toys, advertising, military items, coins, early American linens, fine selections of vintage costume jewelry and fine estate jewelry.
When: In 2009: November 21, 22
Where: Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix.
What: The Arizona Cardinals play professional football at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
When: In 2009: Various dates in November
Where: University of Phoenix Stadium
What: Jazz, and lots of it!
When: In 2009: November 5-8
Where: Chandler.
Arizona Wine Growers Festival at the Farm
What: The state's top wine makers showcase their finest wines at an interactive event where guests learn about Arizona wine production, walk through exhibits of the state's grape growing regions, taste dozens of wines and ultimately vote for their favorite.
When: In 2009: November 22
Where: Farm at South Mountain
What: Fine art, live music, international foods, and an interactive family area featuring hands-on art activities and creative challenges for children. Over 200 select contemporary artists and crafts people from across the nation will show and sell one-of-a-kind artwork. Free
When in 2009: November 21, 22:
Where: Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza
What: Hundreds of craft beers from breweries across the globe, seminars, food pairing tips and celebrated brewers and beer experts. Live entertainment.
When: In 2009: November 12 - 14
Where: Scottsdale.
Breast Cancer Awareness Events
What: Walks and runs to raise money to fight breast cancer.
When: In 2009: Various dates in October and November
Where: Salt River Project, 1600 N. Priest Drive in Tempe
Carefree Fine Arts and Wine Festival
What: Arts, crafts, entertainment, wine. Over 160 artists will have displays. This is Arizona's largest wine tasting event, featuring wines from Arizona, California, Australia, Germany, Austria, France and Italy. Sponsored by Thunderbird Artists.
When: In 2009: November 6 - 8
Where: Carefree
What: A family-friendly street festival featuring members of Local First Arizona. About 60 vendors on hand with entertainment provided by Arizona musicians, bands and performers. Beer & Wine Garden, raffle and silent auction raise funds for Local First, activitiers for young kids, craft booth.
When: In 2009: November 7
Where: 1651 E Camelback Rd
Chiles and Chocolate Festival
What: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix. Chili and chocolate products from local vendors, unique Southwest gifts, cooking demonstrations, Spanish Flamenco dance and Latin jazz.
When: In 2009: November 14, 15
Where: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.
What: Sample more than 70 wines from different regions of the world and talk with representatives from the different wineries. Hors d'oeuvres and desserts.
When: In 2009: November 13
Where: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.
Cowboy Artists of America Exhibit
What: The Phoenix Art Museum hosts this event. Paintings, drawings and sculptures. Many never seen before.
When: In 2009: October 18 - November 15
Where: Phoenix Art Museum
What: Festival Highlights include cultural show, parade, food fair, Clothes and Jewelry Bazaar, cooking and cultural Demos, children's meal. Free admission.
When: In 2009: November 22
Where: Heritage Square, Phoenix
What: Visit different downtown Phoenix bars and restaurants and enjoy entertainment, food samples, and drink specials only available to Pub Crawl participants. Take part in the Pub Crawl competition by collecting beads from participating locations. Free Trolley buses available until 3:30 a.m. to move participants to and from participating locations. 21+ only.
When: In 2009: November 13
Where: downtown Phoenix
What: At Gilbert's Freestone Park Amphitheater, located by the lake in Freestone Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Free. Food and beverages are available to purchase.
When: In 2009: November 12
Where: Gilbert's Freestone Park
What: Downtown Tempe's tree lighting ceremony, parade and entertainment.
When: In 2009: November 27
Where: Tempe Beach Park.
What: Visit more than 80 downtown Phoenix art galleries, studios and art spaces. Free.
When: In 2009: First Friday of the month.
Where: Phoenix
What: Arizona's Ironman triathlon features a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike and a complete marathon (26.2 miles). Many vantage points for spectators to view the races, sports expo.
When: In 2009: November 22
Where: Tempe.
Fountain Festival of Arts and Crafts
What: Arts, crafts, food, music, entertainment.
When: In 2009: November 13-15
Where: Fountain Hills Park.
What: At 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Entry fees to participate in Open Bull riding, Novice Riding Calf Riding (10 yrs & under), Sheep Riding (6 yrs & under). Admission fee to be a spectator.
When: In 2009: November 6, 13, 20, 27
Where: Rawhide Western Town.
Gila Bend Desert Shrimp Festival
What: Cooking contest, shrimp eating contest, shrimp coloring contest, bobbing for shrimp, kids sand castle building contest, live entertainment, arts & craft vendors.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: Gila Bend
What: A week-long celebration of Gilbert's rich western heritage. Re-enactment of the historical Pony Express ride, Gilbert Days Parade, food, entertainment, Chili Cook Off, Gilbert Days Jackpot Roping, Competition Barrel Racing, Lil' Dudes Rodeo, carnival and more family-friendly activities.
When: In 2009: November 13-22
Where: Gilbert
What: Glendale's kick-off to the holiday season. A million lights, music, fireworks, crafts, train rides, Santa and more.
When: In 2009: November 27, 28
Where: Glendale
Glendale's Live at the Library
What: Musical entertainment from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Main Library. Concerts are free. Call 623-930-3573 for more details.
When: In 2009: One or two Thursdays per month
Where: Main Library
What: Features cooks and restaurants competing for the title of "Best in the West" gumbo and jambalaya. Competitors will bring their gumbo/jambalaya to the event already prepared and ready to serve in "tastes". Live music, children's activities.
When: In 2009: November 1
Where: Heritage & Science Park, Phoenix.
What: Nearly 70 of the Southwest's best Hispanic artists will show and sell their work at the annual Heard Museum Spanish Market. Artwork includes an array of Santos, furniture, jewelry, tile work, glitter art, tinwork, paintings, carvings, pottery and more. Admission is free.
When: In 2009: November 14, 15
Where: Heard Museum, Phoenix.
IHBA NAPA Auto Parts World Finals
What: World Champions will be crowned and Top Fuel Hydro drag boats will reach speeds approaching 250 miles per hour during the three-day event. Firebird Lake at Firebird International Raceway
When: In 2009: November 20 - 22
Where: Firebird International Raceway
What: Jazz ‘N the Plaza is a fall jazz concert series in partnership with Smooth Jazz 95.5 KYOT. It features a new jazz performance each week. The concerts are free and open to the public, seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Refreshments and food available for purchase. Montelucia Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley
When: In 2009: November 11, 18
Where: Montelucia Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley
Litchfield Park Arts in the Park
What: Free outdoor concerts at the Wigwam Resort Front Lawn, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
When: In 2009: November 15
Where: Wigwam Resort
Litchfield Park Festival of Arts
What: Fine arts & crafts, live musical performances, festival fare and wine tasting. Located next in the heart of the historic Wigwam Resort, this unique outdoor festival features an Artisan's Village filled with over 300 Fine Arts and Crafts booths. Artist demonstrations, International food court, huge indoor Book and Antique sale and children's activities.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: Located next in the heart of the historic Wigwam Resort
What: The event showcases the rich pioneer and territorial history of Mesa, Arizona. Old west activities, costumes, music and dance.
When: In 2009: November 7 - 8
Where: Mesa, Arizona
What: Marshall Butterfly Pavilion at the Desert Botanical Garden.
When: In 2009: September 26 to November 15, 2009
Where: Desert Botanical Garden.
MOO MOO Palooza
What: Tour a dairy, hay rides, petting zoo, photo opportunities with Daisy the Cow, hay bale maze, Joann's craft corner, soccer kick, Tractor Garden. The Agriculture Industry will be well represented through the dairy and answer questions. Live DJ, door prizes, milk and ice cream.
When: In 2009: November 11
Where: Superstition farm
What: Independent and classic cinema and documentaries relating to art, artists, and works on view in the Museum, usually followed by discussion. Free with paid museum admission. First come, first seated.
When: In 2009: Various dates in November
Where: Phoenix Art Museum.
What: The Desert Botanical Garden concert series features a variety of music on Friday nights at 7 p.m. Ticketed event.
When: In 2009: November 6
Where: Desert Botanical Garden
What: Checker O'Reilly Auto Parts 500 Presented by Pennzoil Event Weekend.
When: In 2009: November 12-15
Where: Phoenix International Raceway.
Native American Recognition Days at DBG
What: The Desert Botanical Garden host two concerts presented in conjunction with Canyon Records featuring diverse local Native American music.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: The Desert Botanical Garden
What: Sponsored by the Orchid Society of Arizona. Arizona State Veterans Home, Phoenix. Free admission.
When: In 2009: November 7, 8
Where: Arizona State Veterans Home, Phoenix
What: These lunchtime concerts will feature local artists playing a variety of music including folk, country, jazz, Dixieland, oldies, and world music. Chairs and lawn seating are available, but guests are encouraged to bring stadium cushions and blankets. Brown bags and picnic baskets are welcome All Out to Lunch concerts are free and open to the public. Wells Fargo Garden at Mesa Arts Center. 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
When: In 2009: November 5, 12, 19
Where: Mesa Arts Center
What: Guests enjoy access to some of the most talented architects, builders and interior designers in town, while sampling gourmet fare from top, local chefs. Fundraiser to Benefit Free Arts of Arizona.
When: In 2009: November 8
Where: 103 West Highland Avenue, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85013
What: A family and pet-friendly festival and walk. Benefit for homeless pets at the Arizona Humane Society.
When: In 2009: November 7
Where: Peoria Sports Complex
What: A festival celebrating the uniqueness and creativity of Greater Phoenix. Live music, street performances, visual arts, and the public procession of the Parade of the Arts with unique floats and costumes. Family appropriate with activities for children.
When: In 2009: November 14
Where: Downtown Phoenix
What: Our professional basketball team plays hoops at the US Airways Center.
When: In 2009: Various dates in November
Where: US Airways Center
What: From Scottsdale Fashion Square to Scottsdale Waterfront to Southbridge. Two runways: a tented New York Fashion Week-style tent as well as a runway under the stars. Also includes a Luxury Pavilion (fine living purveyors of fashion, design, spas, and health care), and a Milan-style Wearable ArtWalk.
When: In 2009: November 5 - 7
Where: Camelback Road and New Marshall Way
What: Live music, local Greek folk dancers, the professional Olympian Dance Troupe of Chicago, Greek cooking class, and other programs including Greek films, seminars, and pottery classes. Some activities are focused on children.
When: In 2009: November 6, 7, 8
Where: Scottsdale.
What: Thanksgiving Day Parade in Fountain Hills. Free. Starts at 9 a.m. Floats and marching bands.
When: In 2009: November 26
Where: Fountain Hills
What: Many of the cities in Greater Phoenix have special ceremonies, parades, luncheons and other community activities to honor our veterans.
When: In 2009: November 7 - 11
Where: Anthem Community Park
What: A variety of athletic events for all participant 50+ young
When: In 2009: November 21
Where: Avondale
What: Walks, contests, demonstrations, entertainment for you and your dog. Free admission, entry fee for events.
When: Tumbleweed Park, Chandler.
Where: In 2009: November 21
What: Lights, animated displays, and carousel rides at the Phoenix Zoo.
When: In 2009: November 26 - January 10, 2010
Where: Phoenix Zoo
On Tuesday I blogged about the fact that home prices rose in Phoenix for the third straight month since August 2006. But there's more good news: the number of home sales was up, too -- across the nation, actually -- leading one real estate expert to dub this a real estate "mini-boom."
Nationally, sales rose 9.4% in September - a higher increase than had been expected, according to the National Association of Realtors. Locally, sales were incredibly strong compared to last year - the number of homes sold in Phoenix was up 16% to 8,922. And the number of homes sold in Scottsdale was up 16.1% to 1,851.
The "mini-boom" is fueled in part by the soon-to-expire First-time Homebuyer's Tax Credit, as well as a still-increasing number of foreclosures.
According to the Arizona Republic, "The foreclosure rate has accelerated in more centrally located, often pricier neighborhoods while slowing down a bit in newer, more remote communities where the foreclosure floodgate burst in late 2007."
What does it mean for you?
If you're a buyer, the rapidly rising number of home sales means that we're moving ever closer to the point where demand and supply are once again in balance, and then to the point where demand outstrips supply and prices rise.
At the same time, with a still-high number of foreclosures on the market, there are great deals to be had, even in the centrally-located, established neighborhoods of Phoenix and Scottsdale. And, if you move fast, the homebuyer's tax credit is effectively an $8,000 rebate on the purchase of a home.
If you're a seller, the real estate "mini-boom" will afford you the opportunity to sell your home for a higher price, in less time. If Congress extends the homebuyer's tax credit, demand will continue to ramp up, and with the recession now "officially" over, consumers will likely soon regain confidence and loosen the purse strings.
What do you think? What's your prognosis for the "mini-booming" real estate market? Are you planning to buy or sell soon? Click on the "comments" link below and join the conversation!
Want to know more? Click here to watch my "October Market Update" video.
REALTOR, Certified Negotiation Expert serving customers in the Phoenix, Arizona area, including Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, and more.
ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
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