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	<title>Raleigh NC Real Estate</title>
	<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com</link>
	<description></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:44:38 +0000</pubDate>
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		<copyright>&#xA9;Michelle Edwards </copyright>
		<managingEditor>raleighn@raleighncrealestatemls.com (Michelle Edwards)</managingEditor>
		<webMaster>raleighn@raleighncrealestatemls.com</webMaster>
		<category>Real Estate</category>
		<ttl>1440</ttl>
		<itunes:keywords>Raleigh North Carolina, Raleigh Real Estate</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:subtitle>Raleigh Realtor</itunes:subtitle>
		<itunes:summary>Raleigh Real Estate Michelle Edwards</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:author>Michelle Edwards</itunes:author>
		<itunes:category text="Business"/>
		<itunes:owner>
			<itunes:name>Michelle Edwards</itunes:name>
			<itunes:email>raleighn@raleighncrealestatemls.com</itunes:email>
		</itunes:owner>
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			<url>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/wp-content/plugins/podpress/images/powered_by_podpress.jpg</url>
			<title>Raleigh NC Real Estate</title>
			<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com</link>
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			<height>144</height>
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		<item>
		<title>Changes Coming Soon to FHA</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/234/changes-coming-soon-to-fha/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/234/changes-coming-soon-to-fha/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:44:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The Federal Housing Administration is the largest government insurer of mortgages in the world. FHA provides mortgage insurance on loans made by FHA-approved lenders throughout the country. Borrowers must meet certain requirements established by FHA to qualify for the insurance, &#38; the FHA will pay the lender if a homeowner defaults on their loan. FHA [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Federal Housing Administration is the largest government insurer of mortgages in the world. FHA provides mortgage insurance on loans made by FHA-approved lenders throughout the country. Borrowers must meet certain requirements established by FHA to qualify for the insurance, &amp; the FHA will pay the lender if a homeowner defaults on their loan. FHA has insured over 37 million home mortgages and 47,205 multifamily project mortgages since 1934. Currently, FHA has 5.2 million insured single-family mortgages in its portfolio.
Recently, FHA announced that some significant changes were going to be made regarding qualifications. I&#8217;ve listed the major changes below:
An increase in upfront Mortgage Insurance Premiums from 1.75% to 2.25%
A reduction in maximum seller contributions from 6% to 3%
A Congressional request to increase monthly mortgage insurance premiums&#8230;still being decided
These changesgo into effect on April 5th. If you have questions about these changes, or would like to discuss your real estate needs, please call me at 919 306-1639, or email me at michelle@cmetobuy.com.
Learn more from the following links:
Dept of Housing &amp; Urban Development on Buying a Home: http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/topics/buying_a_home
National Assocition of Realtors: www.realtor.org
Michelle &amp; Associates Inc: www.cmetobuy.com
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>8 Reasons Why You Should Work With a REALTOR®</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/233/8-reasons-why-you-should-work-with-a-realtor%c2%ae/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/233/8-reasons-why-you-should-work-with-a-realtor%c2%ae/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:20:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/233/8-reasons-why-you-should-work-with-a-realtor%c2%ae/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Not all real estate practitioners are REALTORS. The term REALTOR is a registered trademark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Heres why it pays to work with a REALTOR. 
1. Navigate a complicated process. Buying or selling [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Not all real estate practitioners are REALTORS. The term REALTOR is a registered trademark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Heres why it pays to work with a REALTOR. 
1. Navigate a complicated process. Buying or selling a home usually requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multipage settlement statements. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes.
2. Information and opinions. REALTORS can provide local community information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more. Theyll also be able to provide objective information about each property. A professional will be able to help you answer these two important questions: Will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?
3. Help finding the best property out there. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your REALTOR to find all available properties.
4. Negotiating skills. There are many negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession, and inclusion or exclusion of repairs, furnishings, or equipment. In addition, the purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required.
5. Property marketing power. Real estate doesnt sell due to advertising alone. In fact, a large share of real estate sales comes as the result of a practitioners contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, and family. When a property is marketed with the help of a REALTOR, you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your REALTOR will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property.
6. Someone who speaks the language. If you dont know a CMA from a PUD, you can understand why its important to work with a professional who is immersed in the industry and knows the real estate language. 
7. Experience. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. Even if you have done it before, laws and regulations change. REALTORS, on the other hand, handle hundreds of real estate transactions over the course of their career. Having an expert on your side is critical. 

8. Objective voice. A home often symbolizes family, rest, and security " its not just four walls and a roof. Because of this, homebuying and selling can be an emotional undertaking. And for most people, a home is the biggest purchase theyll every make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on both the emotional and financial issues most important to you.

Know some one who is thinking about buying or selling real estate? I&#8217;d love to help. I&#8217;ve got 20 years experience in the Triangle market.The clock is ticking on the real estate tax credits; call or email me today to find out how to take advantage of this historic opportunity. www.cmetobuy.com 919 306-1639 cell or michelle@cmetobuy.com 

Follow us on Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=618254600#!/pages/Raleigh-NC/Michelle-Associates-Inc/190448311064?ref=ts
More on the National Association of Realtors- http://www.realtor.org/ 
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Raleigh&#8217;s Recycling Changes- Good or Bad?</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/232/raleighs-recycling-changes-good-or-bad/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/232/raleighs-recycling-changes-good-or-bad/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 19:44:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

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		<category><![CDATA[Inside Beltline Raleigh North Carolina]]></category>

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		<category><![CDATA[Contact Michelle Edwards Realtor in Raleigh NC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/232/raleighs-recycling-changes-good-or-bad/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
As Raleigh prepares to move to biweekly pickup of recycling, I&#8217;m asking how residents feel about the change. The City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services department tells us that the change will offer us superior service. We will all receive a 95-gallon cart in order to service our recycling needs,and they will bepicked up every [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[
As Raleigh prepares to move to biweekly pickup of recycling, I&#8217;m asking how residents feel about the change. The City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services department tells us that the change will offer us superior service. We will all receive a 95-gallon cart in order to service our recycling needs,and they will bepicked up every other week. These containers are designed to be able to hold and store a variety of recyclable materials in a way that our current containers cannot. They will also have lids and wheels, making them easier for residents to use, fill, store and bring to the curb. Eventually, if the city decides, they can automate the collection process with truck arms to grab the containers, much like we now have for regular trash collection.
We&#8217;ve all seen overflowing bins on street sides; having larger containers should help with that. And, having lids should help us all with odors or other issues stemming from holding recycables in garages longer between pickups. But, some residents are saying the switch to 95 gallon containers is unnecessary for most residents, and the larger containers are too cumbersome for people to use regularly. They suggest that the net effect is less participation, not more.
Charlotte is changing their program as well. The city&#8217;s new 96 gallon recycling bins have chips in them, telling the city exactly who is recycling and they&#8217;ve automated the sorting process. Residents can opt out of the new cans, but have to call and request to do so. They&#8217;re hoping the new cans inspire more participation, and are expecting to save $12M over the next 5 years in landfill fees and saved payroll. Charlotte as also gone to biweekly recycling collection.
So please, tell us what you think about the changes coming to your neighborhood. I&#8217;d love to hear from you.
Here are some comments from residents:
Judy says- &#8220;I&#8217;m okay with it. I rarely have a full container each week so two weeks gives me more time to collect my recyclables. My neighborhood is exempt from the automatic trucks because of the small size of our streets/cul-de-sacs. I&#8217;m all for better efficiency.&#8221;
Matthew says- &#8220;Raleigh should give residents the choice of small vs. large recycling bins- and weekly pickup, too.&#8221;
If you&#8217;d like to hear more on this discussion, check out Michelle &amp; Associates Inc. on Facebook, or email me at michelle@cmetobuy.com
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Top 10 Reasons to Buy a House</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/230/top-10-reasons-to-buy-a-house/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/230/top-10-reasons-to-buy-a-house/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 21:52:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/230/top-10-reasons-to-buy-a-house/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You may have been hearing conflicting things about the housing market lately. Below I&#8217;ve listed a few of the best reasons to buy a house. Take a look, and if you are thinking of buying or selling property, I&#8217;d be happy to discuss your options. Call me at 919 882-5630 or email me at michelle@cmetobuy.com [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[You may have been hearing conflicting things about the housing market lately. Below I&#8217;ve listed a few of the best reasons to buy a house. Take a look, and if you are thinking of buying or selling property, I&#8217;d be happy to discuss your options. Call me at 919 882-5630 or email me at michelle@cmetobuy.com . Also, you can check out my current listings and find other valuable tools on my website, www.cmetobuy.com

TEN GREAT REASONS TO BUY A HOME
1. Quality of life " a home provides stability and security for you and
your loved ones.
2. Pride of home ownership " its your personal haven and youre
your own landlord.
3. Historically low interest rates " around 5.5 percent in the U.S.4. Tax Credit " U.S. government provides a special $8,000 incentive
for qualifying first-time buyers. Just 70 days left to qualify!!!
5. Appreciation potential 
" your home investment can grow in value. 6. 
Equity buildup and debt pay down " homeowners enjoy an
average net worth of approximately $184,000 vs. $4,000 for renters.
7. Leverage " where else can you buy an investment of this magnitude
with 5-10 percent down?
8. Tax deduction advantages " property tax and mortgage interest
write-offs (in Canada, home owners gain a tax benefit upon selling).
9. Tax exemption " up to $500,000 per couple or $250,000 per person
on sale of a primary residence in the United States (no tax upon sale
in Canada).
10. The real cost of renting " at $800 per month, with the average
6 percent rental increase per year, you will pay $126,536 
over a 10-year period but have zero ownership of the property.
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Changes in the Mortgage Market</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/229/changes-in-the-mortgage-market/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/229/changes-in-the-mortgage-market/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:25:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh Home Values]]></category>

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		<category><![CDATA[North Raleigh Real Estate Specialist or Realtor]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Wake Forest Real Estate Specialist or Realtor]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[North Hills Real Estate Specialist or Realtor]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Wakefield Real Estate Specialist or Realtor]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Falls River Real Estate Specialist or Realtor]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Woodspring Real Estate Specialist or Realtor]]></category>

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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/229/changes-in-the-mortgage-market/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[











There have been some big changes this week regarding FHA loans. I&#8217;ve received some helpful information from our lending partners atIntegrity Mortgage. I&#8217;ve included some of the highlights below. If you have questions about how these changes may affect you or someone you know,please contact me.




New Lending Policies Announced by FHAIf you were listening to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[











There have been some big changes this week regarding FHA loans. I&#8217;ve received some helpful information from our lending partners atIntegrity Mortgage. I&#8217;ve included some of the highlights below. If you have questions about how these changes may affect you or someone you know,please contact me.




New Lending Policies Announced by FHAIf you were listening to the housing news last week, you probably heard a number of reports about lending changes that were announced by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). While many of the news reports were confusing, the truth is pretty clear, and isn&#8217;t as bad as some people may have heard.Overall the measures are intended to help the FHA better manage its risks and strengthen its capital reserves, while still providing home loans to the nation. The good news, as FHA Commissioner David Stevens stated recently, is that &#8220;by continuing to provide affordable, responsible mortgage products, FHA will support the housing market&#8217;s recovery&#8221; and &#8220;remain the largest source of home purchase financing for underserved communities.&#8221;What&#8217;s Changing?If you or someone you know is considering an FHA loan, some of these changes may affect you. Here&#8217;s a clear, concise rundown of the major changes and what they mean:1. Increased mortgage insurance. The mortgage insurance premium (referred to as private mortgage insurance by many people) will be increased from 1.75% to 2.25%. This change will add some cost to purchasing a home, but will not overburden consumers since the mortgage insurance is paid over the life of the loan, rather than upfront at closing.2. New down payment and credit score requirements. According to the new policy, homebuyers who have a credit score of at least 580 may still be able to purchase a home with 3.5% down, but those with credit scores of less than 580 will be required to put down at least 10%. This change is designed to help the FHA balance its risk, while still providing affordable down payments for consumers with a history of good credit and responsibility.3. Reduced seller concession. Basically, this change means that the person selling the home will now only be able to offer the homebuyer 3% to help defray closing costs, as opposed to 6% under the previous policy. In addition to these changes, the new policies contain a series of new measures aimed at increasing lender enforcement. These changes will become effective on April 5, 2010. The bottom line is that the changes will impact some homebuyers more than others. But in the end, the FHA is still committed to providing affordable home loans. 
There are many different programs available for homebuyers, so finding the right plan for you just requires a short discussion about your goals and financial picture.
Michelle@cmetobuy.com
www.cmetobuy.com
919 882-5630 office
919 306-1639 cell



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		<item>
		<title>The Expanded Home Buyer Tax Credit Could Chase Away the Winter Blues</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/228/the-expanded-home-buyer-tax-credit-could-chase-away-the-winter-blues/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/228/the-expanded-home-buyer-tax-credit-could-chase-away-the-winter-blues/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:27:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[

With all the talk in the news lately about the homebuyerstax credit extension, I thought it would be helpful to have a quick explanation of the legislation as a reference. To that end, I&#8217;ve reprinted an article written by Ken Trepeta, the Director of Real Estate Services for the National Association of REALTORS Real Estate [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[

With all the talk in the news lately about the homebuyerstax credit extension, I thought it would be helpful to have a quick explanation of the legislation as a reference. To that end, I&#8217;ve reprinted an article written by Ken Trepeta, the Director of Real Estate Services for the National Association of REALTORS Real Estate Services program.
As always, I&#8217;d be happy to discuss any questions or real estate scenarios you may have. Feel free to call, email or check out my website: www.cmetobuy.com
919.882-5630 office, michelle@cmetobuy.com

By Ken Trepeta, Director, Real Estate ServicesPrint Article 

RISMEDIA, January 7, 2010"As we begin 2010, both real estate professionals and home buyers have something to look forward to and more importantly, take advantage of"the extended and expanded home buyer tax credit.
Originally created in 2008, the home-buyer tax credit has evolved from a $7,500 credit, which had to be repaid by the home buyer over the course of 15 years, to an $8,000 tax credit with no repayment required in 2009. Now, for a limited time in 2010, the $8,000 home buyer tax credit will still be available to first-time home buyers and certain current homeowners will also be eligible for a $6,500 credit.
To help everyone better understand the extended and expanded home buyer tax credit, here are some highlights of the changes.
Who can claim the credit? 
First-time home buyers who purchase homes between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010 are eligible for the credit. To qualify as a first-time home buyer the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.
For current homeowners purchasing a home during the same time frame, they are also eligible for a tax credit, so long as the home being sold or vacated was their principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight. To elaborate, it must be the same home; it is not enough that they have been homeowners for five consecutive years, they must have been in the same home for five consecutive years.
Another key point is that the existing home does not need to be sold. One must, however, occupy the new home as a principal residence and do so for three years or risk recapture of the credit. Also, the new home does not need to cost more than the old home despite the concept that it is directed at move up buyers.
How much is the credit and what are the income limits? 
The maximum allowable credit for first-time home buyers is $8,000 or 10% of the sales price, whichever is less. For current homeowners, it is $6,500 or 10% of the sale price, whichever is less. Under the extended home buyer tax credit, single buyers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000 may receive the maximum credit.
The credit decreases for single buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit deceases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income " over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples " are not eligible for the credit.
What are the deadlines for qualifying for the credit? 
Under the extended home buyer tax credit, as long as a written binding contract to purchase a home is in effect on April 30, 2010, and the deal is closed by July 1, 2010, one can claim the credit.
Will the tax credit need to be repaid? 
No, the buyer does not need to repay the tax credit if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount of the credit will be recouped on the sale. Another provision of the law waives the recapture provisions for service members who receive orders that require them to move.
Are there any other critical provisions? 
-There are three provisions people should be aware of:
-There is an $800,000 limitation on the cost of the home
-The purchaser must be at least 18 years old on the date of purchase
-For a married couple, only one spouse must meet this age requirement and dependents are not eligible to claim the credit
Finally, as an anti-fraud measure, purchasers must attach documentation of purchase to his/her tax return claiming the credit. Normally this would be a copy of the HUD-1, but could include other documents memorializing the settlement.
As with all tax matters, responsibility for complying with the tax code belongs to the taxpayer. Real estate professionals should recommend that their buyers consult their tax professionals to ensure eligibility for the credit and the proper way to claim the credit. For more information including the required IRS forms please contact the Internal Revenue Service at 800-829-1040.
Ken Trepeta is the Director, Real Estate Services for the National Association of REALTORS Real Estate Services program.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2010-01-06/the-expanded-home-buyer-tax-credit-could-chase-away-the-winter-blues/#ixzz0cVf6YWLr
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		<item>
		<title>The 2010 Real Estate Market</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/227/the-2010-real-estate-market/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/227/the-2010-real-estate-market/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:38:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Hello and Happy New Year! As we begin 2010, more market analysts are agreeing that the residential market has hit the bottom, and is beginning to recover. No one can predict the length of time the market will remain at the bottom, but there are a number of indicators that can help us navigate this [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hello and Happy New Year! As we begin 2010, more market analysts are agreeing that the residential market has hit the bottom, and is beginning to recover. No one can predict the length of time the market will remain at the bottom, but there are a number of indicators that can help us navigate this tumultuous time.Barry Habib has over 22 years experience in the mortgage industry and he is often featured on CNBC, NBC, CNN and FOX television networks. Barry has been the keynote speaker for 50 different state Mortgage Banking Associations. He provided a forecast for 2009 which was on the mark so To follow is an excerpt his forecast for 2010.
Its highly likely that the Fed will be on hold for rate changes during most of 2010. The Fed will have to try and play Goldilocksand get it just right for the amount of time they leave interest rates at these historically low levels. Hike rates too soon, and it could derail an already fragile US economic recovery. And lets remember that the government has literally spent Trillions to try and provide stimulus to spark that economic recovery. And the Fed will likely err on the side of keeping rates lower longer, as they certainly would not want to send the US into a double-dip recession, making all the stimulus appear to be a wasted effort. And the Fed will have an excuse to keep rates low, so long as unemployment shows no sign of improving. But there is a very big risk in keeping rates too low too longand that is inflation.
While inflation doesnt appear to be a present concern, it can be very difficult to control once it takes hold. And its effects can be very damaging. Inflation is the enemy of all Bonds " and if it does take center stage, the Fed will have to hike rates very aggressively to attempt to keep it at bay.
Now for the big question where will home loan rates go during 2010 and why? Weve been forecasting rates for a long time, and this is by far the easiest call we have ever had. Rates are going higher in 2010. We do not think that the low rates seen during 2009 will be seen again. There will be more supply coming to the market in the first quarter, while the Feds purchases will be winding down. The overall trend for rates during this period will be higher, but as usual, this will never happen in a straight line. There will be waves and cycles moving up and down " but the trend is clearly up for rates. 
Overall, 2010 will look better than 2009. But, good economic news is a double-edged sword, as it increases the risk of rising taxes and rates. 
Please don&#8217;t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about the forecast data or would like to discuss your real estate needs. www.cmetobuy.com 
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		<title>Keller Williams: 2009&#8217;s Most Recognized Brand of Real Estate Franchise</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/226/keller-williams-2009s-most-recognized-brand-of-real-estate-franchise/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/226/keller-williams-2009s-most-recognized-brand-of-real-estate-franchise/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 21 Dec 2009 20:02:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/226/keller-williams-2009s-most-recognized-brand-of-real-estate-franchise/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[


This week, the results of an exciting survey among Real Estate Professionals have been published. Keller Williams ranks first among real estate franchises. I&#8217;ve included some information below about the survey provided by Stefan Swanepoel.
Should you wish to discuss the results, or how this news affects Keller Williams locally, please contact me at 919 882-5630 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[


This week, the results of an exciting survey among Real Estate Professionals have been published. Keller Williams ranks first among real estate franchises. I&#8217;ve included some information below about the survey provided by Stefan Swanepoel.
Should you wish to discuss the results, or how this news affects Keller Williams locally, please contact me at 919 882-5630 or email me at www.cmetobuy.com.
Real Estate Franchises: Most Recognizable Brands for 2009 



by StefanSwanepoel






11,000+ Agents Cast 390,000 Votes to Select the Top 10
Its been almost 40 years since franchising entered the residential real estate industry; a move that has shaped the industry like few other concepts or strategies before or since. The impact of franchising ranks with MLS and the Internet as the top three game changing strategies in real estate since WW II.
Today there are a growing number of agents questioning the value proposition of real estate franchising. They point to some of the older models that seem to offer little more than a brand; a brand of questioned value in todays online world. A franchise companys long term success (or failure) is therefore dependent upon both its model standing the test of time and its implementation systems supporting the local franchisee in successfully putting those models into operation.
In the 2010 Swanepoel TRENDS Report, scheduled for publication on February 8th, 2010 " reserve a copy now at www.RETrends.com) " a whole trend is dedicated to analyzing real estate franchising. The trend discusses the changes that have occurred during the last year including bankruptcies, acquisitions, large mergers, the re-introduction of previously dormant franchise brands and the launch of several new ones.
The Report details the Top 20 largest franchises based on agent count as of December 2009, inclusive of recent changes and acquisitions up and including that date.
However, as an additional test RealSure (www.realsure.com), the publishers of the Swanepoel TRENDS Report and the Swanepoel SOCIAL MEDIA Report, decided that it would be interesting to compare agent count rankings with the perception and recognizability of franchise brands by the industry itself.
So on Thursday December 3rd a nationwide online survey was launched to determine the Most Recognizable Franchise Brand in Real Estate.
With real estate agents being independent contractors and fiercely loyal to their respective brand the vote quickly garnished huge attention. It went viral through various social media networks, blogs and emails encouraging agents to vote.
In the end an astonishing 11,355 agents voted, casting just over 390,000 votes for 33 different real estate franchise brands making this " according to knowledge " the largest survey of its kind in the industry. The survey required real estate professionals to vote for a franchise on a scale from 0 " 5; starting from Never heard of the brand all the way up to Excellent brand. The brands scores in all categories were taken into consideration to determine the overall rankings. In the end there was a significant difference in the vote count between most of the top 10, thereby solidifying the placement of the brands.
Although another survey can produce different results and rankings, we are confident that this is a very good reflection of the real estate brokerage industrys current opinion and awareness of the franchise brands that serve them.
The Top 10 real estate franchises, most recognized by the real estate industry as quality national brands are:





Keller Williams Realty
Coldwell Banker Real Estate
RE/MAX International
Century 21 Real Estate
Prudential Real Estate
Sothebys International Realty
EXIT Realty
ERA Real Estate
Weichert Real Estate Affiliates
Better Homes &amp; Gardens Real Estate





The franchises that made it to the Top 5 were to be expected and are also the five largest real estate franchises in the country. The Top 5 also comfortably attracted more votes than the second five on the list, strongly pointing to the industrys own internal belief that these are the top five franchise brands that agents would like to work for.
Keller Williams Realtys surprising #1 ranking was most likely due to the strong, above average online and social media presence of their agents and the fact that during 2009 KW surpassed RE/MAX in agent count according to a widely published REAL Trends survey..
The 103-year old Coldwell Banker franchise has been the beneficiary of many NRT, Inc. acquisitions that have allowed the brand to remain at the forefront of many agents in a positive way. RE/MAX with their powerful consumer portal has also enjoyed the highest profile on national television of all the brands, thereby probably contributing to their high ranking.
Most interesting was the strong showing of Sothebys International Realty at #6, ahead of ERA Real Estate (a more established brand in real estate) and EXIT Realty (a more bolder promoter). The ranking was most likely attributed to the luxury homes image that many agents attach to the brand.
Long standing independent and northeast-based regional Weichert REALTORS converted to a franchise seven years ago and has steadily grown. Impressively it was able to break into the top 10 as a recognizable national brand.
Also surprising was the fact that newcomer Better Homes &amp; Gardens squeezed out companies like Realty Executives, John L Scott and Windermere (both still regional players) to claim the last spot in the Top 10. This was most likely attributable to the recent news that 2,000-agent Metro Brokers switched from GMAC to BH&amp;G as well as a few other key acquisitions.
The housing market is smaller than it was three years ago, yet we have more franchisors today than we did back then. Clearly the market is over saturated and yet the franchises reflected on this list are, according to thousands of agents that work for them and for their competitors, the best of the best.
At the end of the day, real estate brokers and agents want and need different kinds of support and thus different franchisors will attract different brokers and agents. For a detailed discussion on franchising, what the 7 key different types of real estate franchises are and which of the strategies currently work the best, read the 2010 Swanepoel TRENDS Report. Secure your copy at a special pre-publication discount of 34% when ordering at http://www.realestatebooks.org/items/Swanepoel_TRENDS_Report_2010.htm
Survey methodology:
The poll was conducted online within the United States between December 3rd and December 11th, 2009 among 11,355 real estate professionals.
All surveys and polls are subject to multiple sources of error that are not possible to quantify. Especially with online polls the errors associated with wording, selection, exposure and attempts to manipulate the vote make it very difficult to guarantee results. Post-survey weighting and adjustments are made to adjust for irregularities found in the voting but we avoid using the term margin of error as we feel it is still misleading.
Due to the very large number of real estate professionals that voted it is felt that the results closely reflect the opinion of the majority in the industry


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		<title>More Home Maintenance tips from our friends at Old Republic</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/225/more-home-maintenance-tips-from-our-friends-at-old-republic/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/225/more-home-maintenance-tips-from-our-friends-at-old-republic/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:17:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever wonderedhow much those holiday lights cost each year? Our friends at Old Republic have provided us with some help in calculating this expense. I&#8217;ve reposted it below:
HOUSEHOLD TIP: Calculating
Holiday Energy Costs It&#8217;s that time of year when houses shine a bit brighter. Ever wonder how much the decorative holiday lights add to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Have you ever wonderedhow much those holiday lights cost each year? Our friends at Old Republic have provided us with some help in calculating this expense. I&#8217;ve reposted it below:
HOUSEHOLD TIP: Calculating
Holiday Energy Costs It&#8217;s that time of year when houses shine a bit brighter. Ever wonder how much the decorative holiday lights add to a monthly electric bill? Here&#8217;s an easy way to help calculate energy costs this holiday season. 

Count the bulbs on all of your decorative indoor and outdoor lights. 
Check the wattage per bulb. 
Multiply watts per bulb by number of bulbs. (1 watt per bulb x 1,000 bulbs = 1,000 watts).
Convert watts to kilowatts - 1,000 watts = 1 kilowatt (kw). 
Estimate the hours per month the lights are on. (5 hours per day x 30 days = 150 hours)
Multiply the total kilowatts by the total number of hours the lights will be on to get the total kilowatt-hours (kwh). For example, 1 kw x 150 hours = 150 kwh.
Multiply the total kilowatt-hours by the total cost of electricity per kwh. (150 kwh x $0.14 per kwh = $21) In this example, the cost of holiday lighting would be an additional $21 per month.

Reprinted with permission of RISMedia, publisher of Real Estate Magazine 
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		<title>Home Maintenance Advice from our friends at Old Republic Home Protection</title>
		<link>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/224/home-maintenance-advice-from-our-friends-at-old-republic-home-protection/</link>
		<comments>http://raleighncrealestatemls.com/224/home-maintenance-advice-from-our-friends-at-old-republic-home-protection/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 21:53:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Raleigh NC Real Estate]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[I ran across this article and thought it was timely and helpful. I hope you all have a happy and healthy holiday season.
HEALTH &#38; SAFETY: Safety Tips for
Holiday DecoratingThe holiday season is here&#8230;and with the holidays comes decorating! The following tips and suggestions will help ensure safety as you get in the holiday spirit. 

Decorate [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I ran across this article and thought it was timely and helpful. I hope you all have a happy and healthy holiday season.
HEALTH &amp; SAFETY: Safety Tips for
Holiday DecoratingThe holiday season is here&#8230;and with the holidays comes decorating! The following tips and suggestions will help ensure safety as you get in the holiday spirit. 

Decorate only with lights that have a NOEL or U/L testing agency label. Check wires, plugs and sockets for signs of wear or defects. Remember: If in doubt - throw them out.
Do not overload outlets and extension cords. Never tie together more than three extension cords.
Be sure decorative lights used outside are approved for outdoor use.
When decorating outdoors, be aware of all power lines. Don&#8217;t work near overhead power lines or anywhere there is a possibility of contacting an overhead power line, either directly or indirectly, with a ladder or other piece of equipment. 
Place Christmas trees away from fireplaces, radiators, television sets, and other sources of heat that may prematurely dry out the tree and make it more susceptible to fire. Make sure the tree has a sufficient amount of water at all times.
Don&#8217;t burn wrapping paper or boxes in the fireplace. These types of materials ignite quickly and may burn uncontrollably.

As always, it is my pleasure to help you with all of your real estate needs.
Call or email me should I be able to assist you.
www.cmetobuy.com
Michelle@cmetobuy.com
919 306-1639 cell
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