Real Estate for Sale in Santa Cruz or Lake Tahoe

It's nothing but up from what I am seeing and I am talking prices of Real Estate for sale in my areas of expertise  --- Santa Cruz, Calif. and Lake Tahoe both Nevada and Calif. 

In pockets of  Santa Cruz and especially the Nevada side of  Lake Tahoe the real estate for sale is very healthy and moving. Check out the flow of state to state movement, Calif. to Nev.is quite sizeable.   For equity sales, the time on market is very quick and in many instances, I am seeing 'Overbidding'  -- Yes, it's back!!

Interest rates are incredible.  As long as you can qualify,  the purchase will move along quickly and you will take possession as soon as all your inspections are completed - it's your call.

There are still great deals, fantastic homes, in spectacular areas.  This is the time of Golden Opportunity just grab it, if you can.
Rentals are very much in demand and the rates have been climbing .  It's time to build your portfolio too!  Secure your future and that of your families.

I have never been sorry about buying a piece of the American Dream!!     BUT,
I always made sure I was not putting my other assets in jeopardy, that I had the capital to carry me through, the numbers made sense and the location was top notch.

Speaking of top notch locations you can't go wrong in either Santa Cruz or Lake Tahoe - Let me help you find the BEST ones in searching for any type of real estate for sale!

I Love selling Real Estate and helping people "Live the Life they Love"!

Call me, with over 35 years of Real Estate experience and connections there isn't much I haven't seen but there are more friends I would like to make and families I would like to see flurish.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Realtor  -- Ca/Nv
00599374/0022598

Office - 831-429-9091

"When only the BEST will do  . . . . .

        MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management"

Positive Real Estate news

I just keep getting positive Real Estate news on the horizon. 
Home prices are ekking up, more and more cities are seeing increases in Real Estate property values, less properties 'under water' and even a greater increase in the rental rates.  With these increases in rents and extremly low interest rates,  homeownership is making sense again.  
People are reorganizing their thoughts of how to use their homes.   With the advent of 'Empty Nesters' some are  designing and building new homes with the thought of total use of space and personalizing areas.  People again, being inspired to build their own with new architechtural designs,  focusing on environmentally sustainable, energy efficient products.  Setting  their sites on Eco-neighborhoods.  Moving closer to urban areas and accessability to transportation routes and conveniences.

There is constant change going on in the Real Estate  needs of our growing and shrinking families.  Children leaving, parents coming in their later years and then sometimes, children returning to the 'roost' after college, in these trying times of finding appropriate employment. 
What ever the reason for the fluxuation, many times, efficiency creeps in and the discovery of better  or different usage happens.

If this isYOUR TIME to make a Real Estate change, a great place to start, is my website.  You will find the ability to search anywhere in the State of California, use calculators to figure your monthly payment,  checkout neighborhoods, schools, see where services are and with most properties, take virtual tours.

Don't miss the boat and pass up some great properties that were untouchable just a few years ago.

Marlene Henderson, Broker-Realtor   Ca/Nv  00599374/0022598
831-429-9091 Office
831-419-9091 Cell
http://bestsantacruzproperties.com/

"When only the BEST will do . . . . .
            MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management"

 

The State of Real Estate -- New Twists and Turns!

As we are seeing the market tighten up in most areas, which is a good sign for sellers, let's step back and see what has been generating such a transformation for the industry.  There is always more to the story.
So there are now less forclosed homes coming onto the market.   With the creation of  Calif. Senate Bill 900  which doesn't go into effect till 1/01/13 for primary residences but  it is currently in effect if the property in default is a second home or rental property.  So, this has stalled the process slightly to allow owners the opportunity to see if they can work out some other method to modify or short the home, dis-allowing a lender to 'double track' or expedite a forclosure.
Maybe the advent of the 'Bulk Sales' pilot initiative could also be having an effect even though this is currently in a specific area of the country and  it is being threatened to spread round the state of Calif. and resultantly diminishing the supply of forclosed homes,  we are all waiting with baited breath for any info on this.
The introduction of an opposing bill by Congressman Gary Miller is very much in order, since remember, this would be our tax dollars ultimatly funding this, AGAIN.
Another more 'Normal' occurance is that 'House Flipping' is taking place again.  This is the best and most healthy business move I can think of.  The  investors are usually the 'Mom and Pop' sized team organically coming along and rehabing these foreclosed/trashed properties and making a clean living from their efforts.
But - there is also the latest creation of the called 'House Flopping' a whole new twist by those of a less honorable mindset.

Here is a great bargin with no Tricks involved just a shear Treat! and it's a property you will want to keep in the family for generations.

For all your Real Estate information and needs and even a few chuckles, call me!
I'm always glad to inform and be your BEST resource for Real Estate.
Whether it be in The Monterey Bay area or in Lovely Lake Tahoe.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner/Realtor
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Managment

831-429-9091 Office
831-419-9091 Cell
www.BestSantaCruzProperties.com

Have a safe and fun Halloween

The Real Estate Recovery is underway

The Real Estate Recovery is underway!   and from all the tracking I have been doing, there are strong signs of quality properties at prices that are affordable to the pent up desire of the home buying public.
In my last posting, I referenced many articles from sources I trust.  Now the proof is in the actions of the activity in the real world. Check out the number of pending property sales from my featured properties.  Several are in YOUR neighborhood!

The process is still slow since the banks are taking THEIR TIME in approving loans, but oh-h-h-h the loan rates -  so-o-o-o-o   attractive and hopefully they will stay that way long enough for you to get in on all the 'Bargains'.


Speaking of Bargains here's one in Lake Tahoe I would love to put someone in!!
and closer to Santa Cruz this is a spot that you can build an Eco-home at. 
But there are so many possibilities search for yourself and create your own Real Estate Recovery that you will enjoy for generations!

Call now, for all the quality information you have been searching for

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Realtor - Ca
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management
00599374
831-429-9091 Office
831-419-9091 Cell

4855 Dawn Lane Soquel, Calif. Eco Home neighborhood Sooo.... what are you waiting for???

What ARE you waiting for ???   Build your own Eco Home

                                     4588 Dawn Lane is a rare find!!

Interest rates for Real Estate are the lowest ever,  now with the FED, injecting more $$$$$ for Mortgage Backed Securities to the tune of $40 Billion a month, and guaranteeing no interest increase till 2015, it couldn't be a better time.

The location is highly desirable with it's closeness to town, freeway, schools, parks and in general the heart beat of Soquel/Capitola. 
All utilities are at the lot and ready for you to build the Eco Home to live out your dreams.
Proof - a beautiful Eco Home next to this lot had two offers and went into escrow in 8 days.
Sooo......  what are you waiting for ??  Don't wait too long, the opportunity to build your own Eco Home could pass you by and leave you with only regrets.

Can't wait to hear from you!  I am here to help you "Live the Life you Love"

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner  -  Realtor
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management

831-429-9091 Office
831-419-9091 Cell

Real Estate is on the Rebound

Is Real Estate on the Rebound?
 From my professional experiences since the beginning of '12, I have completed three all cash transactions and have several more in the works with lenders somewhat hamstrung with new regulations but it looks like they will eventually work their way through the hurdles and close escrow.  Luckily NONE are shortsales or foreclosures.  I believe Real Estate is on the Rebound.
In comparing notes with fellow active brokers and agents, lenders, inspectors, appraisers, we all feel the positive energy, the hope of the end of this industry draught.  We believe Real Estate is on the Rebound.
In reading through many industry articles, one has to pick through the important words and dig beyond the 'Buy Lines'  to get the the meat.
There is also a ying and yang in the dynamics of the industry that needs to be understood.  When do the interest rates rise and what will the effect be?  To what level do the foreclosures need to sink for housing starts/construction to get back to the levels needed to sustain a growing population?  How does the purchase of forclosured properties by gov't agencies, really benefit the tax payers?
This is a Trillion dollor question, because that is what it takes to do this and IT AFFECTS ALL TAXPAYERS!!!

In the areas I work, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Santa Clara Valley and enchanting Lake Tahoe, the inventory is shrinking, the asking prices and selling prices are narrowing, the quality of product is far better than the crazy days of rocketing sales and quick flips.  Don't wait too long,  Real Estate is on the Rebound.
With interest rates so low, don't pass up this chance to own the American Dream or even Build your own.

Call Me today, I will be happy to start you on your way to Home Ownership.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner - Ca/Nv
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management

00599374
831-429-9091  Office
831-419-9091  Cell
www.BestSantaCruzProperties.com

  "When only the BEST will do . . . . .
                       MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management"

Taking Real Estates' Temperature

-There is so much conflicting info bouncing around.  Real Estate is up, it's down - the use of this metric and  that one that can truly be missleading to the point no one wants to even bother reading anything.  Many times a broad statement infering national statistics, when there is a pocket of data pinpointing select neighborhoods.  Yessssh, time wastes and frustrations.    I came across this article that I think truly sums up real life concerns in Real Estate and can be applies to a broad spectrum of areas.  We are a global economy, so the trickle down from factors such as listed, are driving forces we need to keep our eyes wide open for.  Our local markets, Santa Cruz, Monterey Bay and up to Lake Tahoe are still crawling along and the properties I see that are priced right, presented well, in desirable locations close escrow.
If you are in the market - to buy or sell-  do it with a professional. So many wrong paths you can go down with the do-it-yourself model.
The interest rates are the lowest in 50 years, make sure you get qualified first with an expert mortgage broker , then call me!
I have over 35 years of professional experience in all phases of real estate and will make the transaction a breeze!!  Read some testimonials,  I love what I do.
Whether it be in the Monterey Bay area, San Francisco or anywhere around Lake Tahoe you will get the best service out there.

Life the life you love,

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management

831-429-9091  Landline
831-419-9091  Cell

Lake Tahoe, California or Nevada

Lake Tahoe, California or Nevada

Yes, this is one of God's gifts to mankind and the area makes one realize this gift everyday.
Whether it be in the Spring when the temperatures are well in and below the freezing zone

allowing you to enjoy all the exciting, healthy, outdoor activities around the Lake

to the mid summer when the temps hover in the 70's to 80's and floating on the lake, in any device you fancy, is what living is all about.
You'll find some of the tastiest restaurants too!

There is so much natural beauty and solitude Lake Tahoe becomes addictive.

The hiking, biking, paddling, rowing, and just sitting and enjoying this

can make all the rest of the troubles in the world dissappear.

So, come on up, Breath the Fresh Air, get revitalized, just relax and watch the sunset on another perfect day!

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Realtor Ca/Nev.

MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management

www.MoeBEST-Henderson.com

831-429-9091

Let me help you find your Dream!

Healthcare law, new taxes, selling homes, investments taxed

This is an important piece of info anyone that owns Real Estate has investments, stocks, dividends should be aware of. This is in the Health Care Law signed March of 2010.

When considering a sale of any of these assets and several others, you should consider this before you make a change!

http://www.realtor.org/small_business_health_coverage.nsf/pages/health_ref_faq_med_tax_earned_income?opendocument

http://www.realtor.org/small_business_health_coverage.nsf/docfiles/government_affairs_invest_inc_tax_broch.pdf/$FILE/government_affairs_invest_inc_tax_broch.pdf

How to Relocate in 7 Easy Steps

Does the  thought  of “ How to Relocate”,  send chills down your spine?

Relax, it is definitely doable and of no cause for anxiety.

After having helped  people move around the globe and really feeling the trepidation they had,  I’m glad I could be the calm in the storm for them.
Since people make these moves for all kinds of reasons,   a key component   is the Cost of Living. These costs from one place to the other,  need to be carefully analyzed.    Having to determine how much your standard of living is going to go up or down depends on so many factors.

That said, and the decision made,   the mechanics of relocating with a competent professional  is a snap.

In picking that competent professional, these guidelines should be followed!

1.        Get references for the person you are considering ---- where?   Google the area,  search real estate,  relocating, pick an agent.     Then check Linkedin,   their website,  facebook,  their blog.  Get a feel for their personality from these sites.   Where their area of expertise is.  How deep is their experience?

2.       Pick up the phone,  call them  or even better Skype them.  You can tell a lot from this.  Their tone,  how  organized  they are, the words they use and how they use them.   If there is a sense of humor,  you want this to be enjoyable!     Your initial impression will be the best.

3.        Get your relationship in writing, establishing what will be accomplished, at what price and in what amount of time.  Defining everything up front is not just professional,   it is smart. 

4.       Clearly outline your needs and then preferences.  A great agent will ask questions that you might not think of and have suggestions --  pay attention to that.

5.       Make sure they are computer literate. This all being done at a distance, proves how important technology can be and how easy working with a savvy  professional  can make your relocation.  Make sure you can have a satisfying  and productive interaction via the computer with the conveyance of information, maps, pictures, legal documents, official agency representations, signatures, wire transfers of money and in general authenticating all doc’s for a legal purpose.

6.       Make sure the information starts to flow immediately.  If you have someone that is not  really on top of your needs, you need to find this out quickly.  Expect action, concise pictures and descriptions in an orderly fashion.  This person is your eyes and senses.

7.       Make  THE   visit.  Your agent should have enough properties for you to see on one visit, that you should be able to pick one that day.  This is when there has been great communication, transfer of info and pics.  Where the agent has ‘gotten into your shoes’ and really engaged in your needs.

One of the biggest aspects  for the agent is LISTENING!!   I love getting to know new people, maybe this is why I have been in Real Estate and helping relocate families for over 35 years.

I truly enjoy getting to know my clients, understanding the differences in culture, language and values.  This is more than a ‘job’ ,  it is an adventure,  with each new person.

Call me anytime, for any Real Estate need!

Marlene Henderson, Broker - Realtor  Calif./Nev.

#00599374

"When only the BEST will do . . . .

                                MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management"

Facebook IPO and the phenomenon on San Francisco Bay Area Real Estate

With the  Facebook IPO just days away, I don’t   doubt this will pull the San Francisco Bay Area Real Estate market out of the doldrums.  Sure, we are experiencing a lot of sales, but these are a greater percentage of “Shorts” and” REO’s fuel by international moneied investors.  The Facebook IPO will not just effect the direct employee/shareholders,   turning  them into overnight  millionaires but so many ancillary offshoots.   We will start seeing more normal sales and the easing of pressure from the average homeowner just wanting to make a change, than so many sales because of home devalue and loss.  

$5 Billion (Yes with a B) is the projected figure, the resounding   effect can only be positive.

Facebook’s creation and phenomenal engagement with the world in such a short time has been breathtaking.  No matter what you might think of Facebook’s founders ethics – Mark Zuckerberg’s continual refinements and resultant creation has been a life changer and mostly for the positive.

The San Francisco Bay Area Real Estate market and I am including Santa Cruz and Monterey in this since Santa Cruz and Monterey Beaches are the weekend get-a-way and vacation destinations for the SF crowd.  There is no better, to de-stress and enjoy the gorgeous sunsets, mild temperatures and gentle summer breezes, without the 12 hours of travel time door- to-door.
Many will have the choice of, A Stately Urban enclave, A Private Exec Perch (with ALL the bells and whistles), the Trip in the Sand Beachhouse,   to the  High Tech, Jaw Dropping   Sand Pad!   or you can go a little crazy!!

The Facebook IPO is the Boost we need, the trickledown to our communities will be immense  ---  Three Cheers for FACEBOOK!

I can't wait to hear from some of you new millionaires! 

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner

MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management

BestSantaCruzProperties.com

“When only the BEST will do . . . . . .

                        MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management”

The Housing Market and The Next Real Estate Bubble

Well, I hate to say it but, the housing market is continuing to struggle and,   I told you so!  The second housing bubble looks like it is on the way and we haven't  come out of the first one.  The Real Estate Bubble from 2005 to the present,  has devastated so many lives.
With all the talk and money thrown around, politicians puffing about all they are doing to fix the problem.  Programs created but no one knows how to implement them.  Bureaucracies create with new Federal/State employees and lots more regulations will fix it  ----  Really??
FHA is just exacerbating and extending the problem.  To be offering 3% down loans in a still declining market is insane.  Just more Gov. interference and the beat goes on.
People need homes for their families stability, our country needs the stability and for families to set their 'Roots'.  It is an absolute 'Win-Win' for all, for this disaster to end.
There are areas that are doing better and in fact very little has been affected in housing prices in several areas around the country.
Santa Cruz has always had a strong draw and the housing market will rebound, the beach, the fantastic weather, is a magnet.
Invest wisely and look at the long term!  Don't let the monthly 'stats' or predictions drive your decision about your home and life.  If you really read the charts/article, there is a lot of contradicting info.   
Realize setting "Your Roots' is more important than market value of the moment.  Chasing the dollar, will never out weigh stability in your home.
This is still the best time to by, low interest rates, low prices, motivated sellers.  You, the buyer, are still in the drivers seat.

Call me,  I will be happy to guide you to the right decisions.

Marlene Henderson, Owner/Broker
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management

831-429-9091 Office
831-419-9091 Cell

"When only the BEST will do . . . . . .
         MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management"

Landscaping, Design and That Glow

 Landscaping, Design and That Glow

There are so many aspects of properly designed and installed landscaping for a home, any home, let’s see if I can hit on the most important ones and why this is so important for you and your home.

First there is your personal enjoyment.  If it doesn’t please you as the ruler of  your domain, what’s the point.  There is  that immediate pleasure, when you set your eyes on something of beauty, in nature, that is irreplaceable and if it is of your creation and nurturing, the satisfaction runs all that much deeper.  When you harvest  those first cuttings to share with others --  sublime satisfaction—the Glow.

Then the creativity to envision a living work of art that is of your mental design and see it come to life.  To experience the birth of blooms and eruption of leaves, the assortment of colors, the timing of each plants’ development and growth, the fragrances that are so unique and the creatures they attract.  To experience the hum of life around you, whether it be from butterflies and bees to sprouts and shoots of plants poking out of the ground and the wind through the leaves.  It is all magical, wondrous,  transforming  and worth the effort –The Glow.

It’s good stewardship of the land and the systems it will support.  To know that you are producing  an enrichment to the air and soil, food for the birds and bees and the systems they are creating.  Keeping care of a cycle that has been around since the dawn of time and will continue since you have done your part – The Glow hits again.

Lastly, it creates visual beauty (curb appeal) for your living environment that expresses a richness that money and words can’t.  The balance that well designed and cared for landscaping can exude is what I call The Glow.  Whether it be a flower or veggie garden or a well designed combination of  the two, it will only compliment the environment it encompasses.  Don’t pass up the opportunity to create your spot of beauty and satisfaction and to have your Glow turned on.

I’d love to help you on your way to Love the Life you Live with a property ready to be transformed or one that has been established and you can add your personal tastes!  Call anytime.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner --- licensed in Calif. and Nevada

831-429-9091 office

831-419-9091 cell

MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management

“When only the BEST will do . . . .   MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management”

Kitchens -- The Heart of the Home

Kitchens      

How important are they when choosing a home?  Kitchens are the lead determinant  in housing, whether it be for a purchase or lease.   If you are building a house or doing a remodeling project, the kitchen is a key segment of the entire project.  People really get swept away in a beautifully designed kitchen.
The materials should coincide with the personality of the entire home too.
Do your homework!
Visit showrooms for kitchens, look through kitchen magazines, go to open houses – Be realistic!
Consider the kitchens usability.  Touching the materials is important; don’t just rely on your computer screens.  Working with a designer could be a way to go also, if you feel overwhelmed by the choices of components demanded of a quality kitchen.  Design tips can end up creating a working environment that actually saves you money since designers have not only great connections in the construction field but have learned efficient designs that add so much and can cost very little.
Work with a contractor whom is flexible and easy to simply talk with.  Develop a rapport prior to beginning the project with the right partners.
The return on dollars spent in a well  designed kitchen is one to one at a minimum.  Dynamic kitchens can sell a home.
I work with a few good ones, I’d love to help you out.  Call any time.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner

“When only the BEST will do . . . . . .
          MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management”

Invest in YOUR Future Don't Let others decide

I keep reading so much of the what’s, whys and who dunits of this Real Estate bubble burst, economy melt down, global financial crackup. All a lot of lip service, pontificating and finger pointing. Amazing! And by the ones that created it, run governments (ours mostly) and dictate policy and legislation that still perpetuate the problems.



The latest that I have been reading about since Aug. 2011 is the proposition to now take all the REO-Bankowned-Forclosed homes and turn them into RENTALS!! This to either be done through another Gov. run Program/Agency, more bureaucrats or incentivizing INVESTORS (hand picked???) to purchase these properties for use as RENTALS. This again would be more tax dollars spent, to disallow the free market to work, all at tax payer expense.


So the cycle will never end.


The debt grows higher, we have families that will always be renters, never invest in a home of their own and all continue to be taxed to the point of just treading water. All the while these politicians, unelected bureaucrats and so called experts collect whopping salaries, benefits and retirement packages that are catapulting our economy and country into the abyss of financial ruin.

With this abundance of properties available and the interest rates at all time lows,  don't wait, till it's too late! 

Make your move now!  It is cheaper to buy than to rent!


Call me  Marlene 831-429-9091   
I'd love to help you find your home. 

Look for so many possibilities on my website.
                http://1459highst.epropertysites.com/

The Latest News on Real Estate Lending

The Latest News on Real Estate Lending

Just finished attending the  Latest Real Estate Lending panel by our local, Monterey Bay Area, Real Estate Lenders that have been in the Mortgage business collectively for decades.  These Real Estate Lenders take their business seriously and have weathered the storm of the Real Estate collapse because  of their hard work, honesty, diligence in providing the best information and service in this constantly changing business.

With so much at steak with individuals/families, these professionals know how every increment of cost effects budgets and the quality of life.  Professional Real Estate Lenders, keeping up on the latest news on real estate lending is a way of life.
For example do you know who the best lender source is?
Do you know what the bond markets are doing?  Do you know how the bond markets effect the interest rate?  Are you keeping track of what Washington is doing and when the next hidden tax will hit you?

The basic thrust of their comments is that the market is improving locally, multiple offers on well priced properties, the interest rates and fees charged for either a purchase or “re-fi” are the best right now since there is legislation on the books and in the works to cause a ‘Change’ coming as the year progress and into 2014.

For a list of the Best Real Estate Lenders, just call me, I would be very pleased to refer any of them.  For any of your Real Estate needs and for the latest news on Real Estate I am just a phone call away.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner

MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and Property Management

When only the  BEST will do . . . . . .


MoeBEST-Henderson  Properties and Property Management

Rental Program by the Govm't?

Just remember anytime the government gets involved with private enterprise it skews the natural balance/energy of the markets. Look what happened when the Glas/Speigle Act was repealed in 1999! This opened the flood gates to derivitives and Voila the banking debacle that has resounded for 10 years --- so far. Let the natural market of investors and buyers absorb this wrecked housing market. Limit the monies that have been given to the banks to only be used to actual real estate purchasers NOT for their investment portfolios. Sadly there was no oversite nor accountability designed when the BILLIONS where handed out - Amazing! You don't cure a cold by inducing pneumonia. I whole heartedly agree with NAR.

Is this really tax relief or just perpetuating the problem???

Two Things You May Have Missed

by Dean Hartman on February 16, 2012

Before the end of the year, Congress and the President agreed to extend the payroll tax cut. In that bill, there were two items of interest for those involved in real estate.

1.) The hike in the Guarantee Fees charged by the GSEs Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

The 10 basis point increase in the fees has translated to a .375% to .5% increase in mortgage rates for conventional loans. Many customers who started their loans a couple of months ago are being “surprised” with higher than expected rates. Heck, everything you read in the papers says rates are at historic lows and will likely stay there through 2014. Many consumers feel as if their lender is being unscrupulous. However, your lender has fallen victim to the increase in Guarantee Fees and how the secondary market is passing on the cost. What looks like possible lender greed is just a passing on of the increased expense imposed by the government. Sadly, the increased revenue isn’t even being used to help aid an ailing Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. It is being turned over to the US Treasury to cover the temporary extension of the payroll tax cut.

2.) Permission for HUD to increase the insurance premiums they charge on FHA loans.

If you remember, HUD charges two insurance premiums – a monthly one and an up-front one that is usually added into the loan. Most recently, they reduced the up-front mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) and dramatically raised the monthly fee (MMIP). It is widely anticipated that, maybe as soon as April, we will see a hike in the UFMIP with no adjustment to the MMIP. While this will help shore up the reserves in the insurance fund, it will simultaneously make buying a home more expensive. No one knows the effective date or amount of the increase. Buyers should look to buy before the increase in fees.

We always hear how our government officials tuck away things in their bills. In this case, while the headlines during the holidays praised Washington for preserving the payroll tax cut, they may have hurt us more in the long run.

Energy Efficient Mortgage 101

                                                                              

A little Mortgage Knowledge can go a Long way! 

Not really that well utilized is the EEM and EIM --- Energy Efficient Mortgage and Energy Improvement Mortgage respectively --- 203 K's

The first is for new homes that are designed and rated Energy Star and the later for existing homes. It has many benefits and is incorporated into the First mortgage at the time of purchase. It comes with load of benefits that can easily be actualized monetarily.

The purchaser of an existing home would have it energy rated by an approved contractor. This would be to determine what needs to be done, at what cost, to make the home more ’efficient’. According to what the energy savings would be once the improvements are completed, this is how much more is allowed in mortgage payment of the borrower. The limit in Calif. for additional mortgage balance is $31,000. on an existing home.

The benefits range from creating a more sound home for the family, to being able to, once you are done with the home, offer it for a premium due to the upgrade of with efficiency features .

From insulation to efficient appliances to weather stripping and double pane windows, the quality of your living environment and the reduction of you utility bills will be directly proportionate to your enjoyment of living.

This can be done additionally when you chose to refi your home.

The offset is in the savings on your utility bills so there is no requirement of additional income. Sweet!

Always keeping myself up-to-date for the benefit of my clients!

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner

MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and

Property Management

www.BestSantaCruzProperties.com

Call anytime 831-429-9091

Summer in the Winter - Santa Cruz, Calif.

Yes, we know why we live here and it gets better all the time. 
While the East coast is suffering with their typical abysmal snow, wind, slush, and horizontal rain, the Midwest is terminally digging out, we in The Monterey Bay are enjoying Summer 70's with clear blue sky's.
While sipping champagne and munching on crabcakes at Chaminade today, gazing out at the crystal clear blue bay dotted with sail boats, I realized how blessed I am. 
When YOU decide you want your piece of heaven, call me.  I'm always happy to share the beauty of the bay and my expertise in guiding you to find your treasured spot to call home.

Marlene Henderson, Broker/Realtor
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management

831-429-9091  Anytime

The Altruistic approach to Real Estate

Well, here we have the latest and greatest vehicle by the administration to get some troubled assets or just some derelict properties cleaned up.  Know of any idle millionaires with spare change laying about?  A few slum lords that need a $ boost to spur things along?  or just your average 'Joe' or "Josie"  that would like to improve the community!  This is all about revitalizing communities and giving dying areas a second chance.
This could be another paperwork nightmare with more bureaucrats with new jobs they don't know how to do or it could be a 'Golden Opportunity' for some truly altruistic types.  I would really like to help the latter.
Since selling Real Estate is my passion, Call me.  There are truly TONS of properties available and with the "Just introduced Gov't program" rolled out, there's no time to waste.  I can lead you to all kinds of locations with a truly needy appeal and the market is ripe for the picking.
Make this YOUR year to make a difference and invest in improving something bigger than yourself.

It's almost FREE money

The rates are AT ALL TIME LOWS,  prices of Real Estate  are what they were in the mid 90's, the selection is fantastic so . . . .   WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR????
This week we will hear all the results of what studies have been worked on the numbers of the last half of last year.  Predictions will be aired, prognostications ventured upon and a good ol rousing Ra, Ra, Ra  for this upcoming year.

Well my advice is, if you have been waiting it's time to jump in!!!  Don't just pay attention to the prices, it's those interest rates that are the real make or break component.  Lock into a below 4% 'er and you will see how you are now paying less than if you were renting and IT'S YOURS.  You can do what you want and not have to ask permission --- Home Ownership.  Looking for that special place is as easy as clicking right here.

I'd love to get you all the info you need, to find the home of your dreams!


Marlene Henderson, Broker/Owner
MoeBEST-Henderson Properties and
Property Management

831-429-9091  Office
831-419-9091  Cell
775-588-3325  Nevada Office