Richard Ives

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009.

1. It's a refundable tax credit that's lesser of 10% of cost of the home or $8,000. So as long as you buy a home over $80,000, you can qualify for the full $8,000 refundable tax credit.
2. The income restrictions still apply. The full amount of the credit is available for individuals that make no more that $75,000 ($150,000 on a joint return). The credit phases out above those caps ($95,000 for singles and $170, 000 for joint returns). This means if you make in between these amounts ($75,000 - $95,000 for individuals and $150,000 - $170,000 for joint filers), you can still qualify for a partial credit.
3. You do not pay this $8,000 back unless you sell the home within three years from your purchase date.
4. This credit applies to first time homebuyers only. The government's definition of a first time homebuyer is someone who has not owned a principal residence in three years prior to purchase.
5. The time frame is retroactive to January 1st, 2009 and goes through to December 1st, 2009. You must close on a home before December 1st, 2009 to receive the credit.
6. If you close on your home after you file your taxes, you can file an amendment to your 2008 tax return so that you can receive the check AFTER you file that amendment. Contact your tax professional to assist you with filing your amendment or for specific questions in regards to any of the above information. Further information can be obtained by contacting the IRS or the tax professional of your choice directly.

*For further information consult your tax professional or contact the IRS directly.

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, SRES, AHWD Broker/Instructor

Make An Intelligent Move with Richard Ives

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

(C) 2009 RICHARD IVES

If you're considering the purchase of a new home, you may be concerned with the issue of finance. Attaining the right mortgage is a key step in the home buying process, but it doesn't have to be a stressful one. Most lenders offer prequalification, pre-approval or both to help you know where you stand. Let me explain the difference between prequalification and pre-approval:

1. Prequalification: Prequalification is a preliminary estimate of how much you can afford to pay for a home based on information you provide. Because credit and employment information aren't validated for prequalification, it can only be considered a rough idea of a monthly mortgage payment and loan size. This can be a useful guide as you begin the home buying process.
   
2. Pre-approval: Pre-approval is a written commitment from a lender to finance your home purchase up to a set amount. This indicates that the lender has taken a close look into your financial history and has agreed to lend you a specific amount of money, reliant on certain details like a finalized sales contract and professional inspection. Pre-approval indicates to sellers that you are a serious homebuyer.

Regardless of which option you utilize, or even if you take both steps, you'll be able to shop with much more confidence.

If you would like more information on how either process can help you get into the home of your dreams, give me a call. I'd be happy to answer any of your real estate needs.

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, SRES, AHWD Broker/Instructor

Make An Intelligent Move with Richard Ives

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

You might assume that making your home energy-efficient requires a lot of time and money, but generally that's not the case. Often small fixes can have a big impact on your heating, cooling, and other utility bills. Here are some easy things you can do to make your home more efficient:

Tip #1: Don't turn that dial
Keep your thermostat set at one temperature and leave it! In the winter, around 68 degrees should be right, and in the summer, 75 degrees (for homes with a cooling system, of course). Avoiding constant adjustments will keep your energy bills stable.

Tip #2: Stop the drip-drips
Leaky showerheads and faucets are hard-to-miss energy wasters. Toilets that run can also cost you on your water bill. The majority of required repairs are covered in the most basic do-it-yourself handbook.

Tip #3: Go fluorescent
While compact fluorescent light bulbs cost more than the standard incandescent bulbs that you're used to, they last up to five times longer and use only a quarter of the electricity. Many of these bulbs last over five years, and each energy-saving fluorescent bulb will save you $40 to $60 on your electric bill over the course of its lifetime.

Tip #4: Watch that fireplace
Energy can really leak out of that fireplace. Check the dampers and screens to make sure that energy isn't leaking when the fireplace is not in use. If the fireplace is just for decoration, cover the chimney. A well maintained fireplace should be an economical way to heat your house and add a warm atmosphere as well.

Tip #5: Keep those appliances humming
Clean air conditioning and furnace filters frequently, and have your appliances inspected once a year. Efficient appliances lower energy bills and future repair costs.

Tip #6: Windows that waste
Windows are the most common energy waster. Make sure that all the weather-stripping is in good condition, and consider double-paned windows and storm shutters to reduce the energy drain.

Hopefully these ideas help you create a more energy-efficient home. Energy efficiency is not only an important part of conservation; it's also a great way to save money. More homeowners tips are available on my website. If you have any questions about your home, I'm only a phone call away.

AT HOME

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, AHWD, SRES

Broker/Instructor

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, SRES, AHWD Broker/Instructor

Make An Intelligent Move with Richard Ives

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

If you're in the early stages of relocating to a new community you probably have many questions. It can be hard to know where to begin. That's why I've compiled a short list of tips that can help you remember key steps to a successful relocation.

1. Start Early
   While time constraints are often beyond your control, it's critical to get the ball rolling as soon as you become aware of the future move. If you currently own a home, you should begin the selling process. If renting, you need to check with your landlord regarding the status of your lease and potential penalties you may incur by moving. You will need to look for a home in your new city. If pressed for time, it might be more appropriate to search for a rental before committing to the purchase of a home. A trained real estate professional can be of great assistance in all of these areas.
   
2. Clear Clutter
   Arrange a garage sale, give unwanted items to friends or donate them to charity. Start organizing your move and purchase boxes and other moving supplies.
   
3. Details, Details, Details
   File change of address forms and make the necessary arrangements for your children at school. Call all your utility companies and schedule the cancellation of service for at least 1-2 days after your planned move date. Remember, many utility companies will charge you an extra billing cycle if not given enough notice.
   
4. Pick the Right Moving Company
   Decide how much involvement you need from your moving company (packing, unpacking, etc.) and investigate moving companies. Your real estate agent can provide suggestions. Get a full estimate and ask the moving company representative any questions you may have. Consider the benefits of moving insurance and check with your insurance provider to see what protection they recommend.
   
5. Don't Forget the Kids
   Moving can be very hard on your children, but there are steps you can take to help alleviate your children's fears. Communicate with them as to exactly what's going on, and get them involved in the moving process and the search for a new home. If they have a favorite toy, pack it last so it is easily accessible.
   
6. Moving Your Pet
   Maintain your pet's daily routine until the day of the move. Take your pet for a routine veterinary appointment and obtain all necessary records. Moving by car is the least upsetting for the animal, but if flying is the only option be sure to plan early. Space for pets on commercial airliners is often limited. You may wish to consider a pet transportation service, which can greatly help your pet with the transition.
   
7. What About Your Car(s)?
   Your moving company may be able to accommodate your car, but it can be costly given the fact that most general moving companies charge based on gross weight. There are companies that specialize in car shipping. Other services can have your car driven to its destination. Check with your auto insurance company about coverage during transport.
   
8. Get Settled
   Make a move-in shopping list, check all smoke and security alarms, set up utilities, and start unpacking!

These are just a few pointers to help you organize your relocation. My website has additional resources available, and I'd be happy to help you with any and all aspects of your relocation. Please call me and let me know how I can be of assistance.

Have a real estate puzzle that you need solved?

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, SRES, AHWD Broker/Instructor

Make An Intelligent Move with Richard Ives

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

U.S. Department of State

With all of the recent changes in the passport process, it's taking longer than normal to receive your passport. After submitting all of the necessary forms, it can take up to 12 weeks for it to arrive in the mail.

The U.S. Department of State has complete details about obtaining a passport.

According to the U.S. Department of State, as of Oct. 1, 2007, all U.S. Citizens traveling outside the United States will be required to present a valid passport to enter and leave the country. Americans are no longer exempt from meeting the entry requirements of Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or countries in the Caribbean region. Many of these regions require a passport, certified birth certificate or other evidence of citizenship for entry.

For more information please refer to the U.S. Department of State's web site by clicking the link at the top of this post.

For all your real estate needs contact Richard Ives of RE/MAX At Home.

Happy Autumn!

Your Friend in Real Estate,

Richard Ives

Broker/Instructor

RE/MAX At Home

AT HOME

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, RECS, AHWD, SRES

Real Estate Broker

Accredited Buyer Representative

Seniors Real Estate Specialist

At Home with Cultural Diversity Certified

e-PRO Internet Certified Specialist

Real Estate Instructor

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/

Richard Ives, ABR, e-PRO, SRES, AHWD Broker/Instructor

Make An Intelligent Move with Richard Ives

www.richardives.remax-ni.com/