Market Update : indian hills

Have You Seen The New Show "Hoarders"? Do You Need To De-Clutter?

Liane Thomas — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:57:00 GMT

Last week I caught the premier of the show "Hoarders" on A & E (if you missed it, you can go to their website to view the entire episode). It was amazing, and got me to thinking about how someone goes from being a pack rat (guilty!) to being a hoarder.

The show inspired me to get rid of some of the clutter around my home, and my office. It seems like a big task, but by breaking it down, it can be done in 10 easy steps.

Step # 1: Set A Schedule

You are much more likely to stick to a routine, whatever it may be, if you work on a schedule. In addition, this allows you to clean when you can minimize interruptions and maximize your time.

Step # 2: Set A Goal For Each Room

If you can visualize what you want, you will be better able to achieve it. By setting goals for each room, you can note the things that need changing and work toward that goal one day at a time.

Step # 3: Create A Timeline

When do you hope to have your home completely free of clutter? One week, two weeks or even a month? Depending on your schedule and the amount of clutter that you have, it may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks before you can kick back and relax again.

Step # 4: Start Small

The clutter in your home didn't appear overnight, and it won't disappear overnight either. If you start small, you will be less likely to get frustrated and give up midway through your cleanup.

Step # 5: Categorize Your Clutter

When cleaning, it's important to categorize your items into groups. By separating the items that you want to keep, toss and donate, you will be able to move through your clutter quickly and efficiently.

Step # 6: Letting Go

A good rule of thumb for uncluttering your home is to get rid of anything that you haven't used within the past year. If it's still useful, consider donating it to a good cause. Otherwise, toss it.

Step # 7: Storing Your Seasonal Apparel

When storing seasonal clothing, purchase a sturdy plastic storage bin with a lid and roll your clothes instead of folding them in an effort to maximize storage capability. When full, snap the lid on and slide the unit into your closet.

Step # 8: Closet Organization

Did you know that your choice of clothes hangers can greatly impact the storage capacity of your closet? Wire hangers take up less space and can save your shirts from getting that annoying shoulder bump that often arises from the use of plastic hangers.

Step # 9: Shoes Blues

When it comes to storing shoes, many homeowners are fighting a losing battle with clutter. How many pairs of shoes do you own? How neatly are they stored? If your shoe storage has you down, try purchasing clear lidded shoe boxes. These handy creations can house each pair of shoes and can be stacked neatly in your closet. And best of all, you can see your shoe collection without having to sift through a sea of sandals.

Step # 10: Read The Labels

If you have medicine, food or anything else with an expiration date in the home, check to make sure that the items are still good. If the expiration date has already come and gone, throw them away.

If these ideas inspire you, please respond and share your success! Thanks, Liane

Brought to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR®
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
1860 Compton Avenue
Corona, Ca 92881
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

One in Four Borrowers is Underwater on their Home

Liane Thomas — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:04:00 GMT

One in four borrowers is underwater
Despite recent indicators that the housing market is improving,a new report shows that one in four mortgage borrowers are underwater, meaning they owe more on their mortgage than their home currently is worth. According to First American CoreLogic, nearly 10.7 million households had negative equity in their
homes in the third quarter, accounting for about 23 percent of all U.S. homeowners. Most homeowners, however, still have equity, and nearly 24 million owner-occupied homes do not have a mortgage, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

A study by credit-scoring company Experian shows that approximately 588,000 borrowers strategically defaulted on their mortgages last year, even though they could afford to pay--more than double the number in 2007. Homeowners with negative equity are more likely to strategically default if they live in a state where the bank cannot pursue their assets in court, according to a study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. California is
an example of a state with anti-deficiency laws protecting homeowners from personal liability under certain circumstances.

"Borrowers who are less than 20 percent underwater are likely to maintain their mortgage if their loan is modified and the payments reduced," said an official with Citigroup's mortgage unit. "Beyond 120 percent, the most effective modification is a complete loan restructuring, including a principal reduction."

So what does this mean to you? If you are underwater on your home, you are not alone. And you do have options....loan modification, short sale, deed in lieu of foreclosure, foreclosure, and bankruptcy are just a few. Not sure what to do first? Call for a free consultation. We will help you find the options available to you, no cost, no obligation, no pressure.

Brought to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR®
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
1860 Compton Avenue
Corona, Ca 92881
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

CNN Says Housing Market may be Stabilizing!

Liane Thomas — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 21:20:00 GMT

CNN is searching for a bottom in the housing market

With consumer confidence rising in May to its highest level in eight months, housing starts increasing more than 17 percent in May compared with the previous month, and sales of existing homes climbing 2.9 percent in April nationwide, it appears that the housing market may be stabilizing.

So what does that mean to you?

Although sales of existing, single-family homes rose 35.2 percent in May in California, compared with a year ago, the median price declined 30.4 percent during that same year. Some industry analysts predict that as specialized adjustable-rate mortgages, known as option ARMS and Alt-A mortgages, reset over the next 18 to 24 months, prices could decline further before stabilizing.

"We are seeing strong buying activity, particularly in those boom and bust markets, where prices have declined significantly. Buyers are coming in and fighting over properties -- there is multiple bidding in California and Florida," says Lawrence Yun, chief economist with the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS(R).

Sales of existing homes are soaring as many investors and first-time buyers purchase distressed properties. Yun estimates that about 50 percent of current sales involve distressed properties, and he expects the trend to continue as foreclosures rise in the months ahead.

Although some economists predict home prices will continue to decline in the coming months, California'ss median home price rose for the third consecutive month in May, posting the largest monthly increase on record for the month of May.

Some buyers are trying to time the bottom of the market and purchase once it appears that prices are consistently and steadily rising. Many housing forecasters advise against this approach as buyers should not view their homes solely as investment opportunities. Historically, the average annual rate of return on a home lived in for five years or more is nearly 12 percent, based on data C.A.R. has collected over the last 40 years.

If you are thinking of selling your home, now is an excellent time with low inventory and the seasonal spike we get this time of year. Even if you are underwater on your home, like so many families, we'd like to help you find a solution. Call for a free consultation. Thanks!

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R), CDPE
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
951 454-3805

California Running Out of $10,000 Tax Credits for New Homes

Liane Thomas — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 09:56:00 GMT

First-time home buyers wanting to take advantage of the state's $10,000 tax credit may have less time than originally expected. California set aside $100 million to help home buyers purchase newly built homes, hoping to jump start the residential-construction market. According to state officials, the tactic has worked well and is helping to entice home buyers into the market. However, there only is approximately 20 percent of the program?s funding remaining.

The program launched in March, and as of June 3 nearly $24 million in tax credit certificates already had been issued, according to the state's Franchise Tax Board, leaving nearly $76 million in credit available. Many applications still are in the pipeline awaiting approval. If all of the submitted applications are approved, only $17.5 million would remain in the fund.

The California state legislature is considering adding another $200 million to the program. However, securing approval may be difficult due to the state's estimated $24 billion budget deficit. A bill to extend the program already has won Assembly approval and now is awaiting activity in the state Senate.

So what does this mean to you? If you are considering buying a new home, you need to move fast! If you are a first time home buyer you, and you have completed the home buying process before 12/1/09, you could cash in on a much as $18,000 in tax credits. Need help finding you home? Call or email us! We offer a free service to get you in touch with a professional in your area who will help you find you home AND secure your tax credit!

Thanks!

Information provided by:
Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R), CDPE
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Riverside, Norco, and surrounding communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com
951.454.3805

Banks Accepting More Short Sales!

Liane Thomas — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:36:00 GMT

Did you know the Obama administration, through the Making Home Affordable program, is giving lenders and loan providers an incentive of up to $1,000 for each completed short sale? This is in addition to $1,000 to share the cost of paying any second-mortgage lenders to release their claim on the property. These incentives offered by the government, coupled with lenders wanting to reduce bad loans, are likely to increase the number of short sale transactions. "Without a doubt, lenders are more willing to work through short sales," said Andre L. Mitchell, the executive vice president of the Lynx Mortgage Bank. "In this marketplace if the lenders can negotiate in any way to get rid of a bad loan, they're going to do it." Banks may lose less money in short sales than in foreclosures, where banks may carry the house for a considerable period of time before selling it. Analysts believe short sales are often the best option, even for homeowners thinking about a new loan to save the home. "It's gotten to the point where people understand that sometimes you have to start over," says Mitchell. "A loan modification might help you in the short term, but sometimes what people need to do is get out completely."

Personally, we are seeing short sales getting approved faster, and the process is becoming easier than it has been in the past. We have been helping homeowners who are underwater since 2007. If you are a homeowner who is underwater, behind in payments, or facing a foreclosure, we'd love to talk with you. There is no obligation, and no cost to you. Thanks!

Brought to you by:
Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
Thomas Realty Group, Inc.
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com

6645 Avenue Juan Diaz in Jurupa Hills, Riverside is Sold!

Liane Thomas — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 19:34:00 GMT

Riverside, San Bernardino - The single story at 6645 Avenue Juan Diaz has been sold. This was a short sale successfully negotiated and closed by Liane Thomas of Thomas Realty Group. If you are underwater on your home and want to know what your options are, call Liane for a free, no obligation consultation.

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
Thomas Realty Group, Keller Williams Realty
951.454.3805
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

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Home Sales Jump ~ April 2009

Liane Thomas — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 19:02:00 GMT

Pending US Home Sales Surge

Pending US home sales skyrocketed to their highest number in 7 years, a sure sign that the bottom is forming and that bargain seekers have arrived. The National Association of Realtors reported that its seasonally adjusted index of sales contracts signed (the Pending Home Sales Index) jumped 6.7% to 90.3, well ahead of analysts' expectations. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said buyers have responded to favorable market conditions. "Housing affordability conditions have been at historic highs, but now the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit is beginning to impact the market," he said. "Since first-time buyers must finalize their purchase by November 30 to get the credit, we expect greater activity in the months ahead, and that should spark more sales by repeat buyers."

So what does that mean to you? If you want to sell your home, this is probably the best time since 2006. Call me for a no obligation consultation to find out what your house is worth in todays market. We can help you sell your home fast, even if you owe more than your home is worth!

If you are considering buying a home, you MUST close escrow before the end of November to cash in on the tax credit. That means you need to be in escrow by September, and that means you need to be looking for a home TODAY! Please take advantage of this awesome opportunity pass you by!

Brought to you by:
Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com

Spring Projects to "Summerize" your home

Liane Thomas — Mon, 25 May 2009 20:47:00 GMT

"Summerize" Your Home with These Spring Projects

It's hard to believe, but the official start of summer is just a few weeks away! Here are some spring cleaning projects you should definitely consider tackling before the hottest days of summer descend upon us.

Air Conditioning
It's important to have your air conditioner in perfect working order before summer starts. Taking care of any issues after the summer heat hits can potentially result in an increase in price, as well as an increase in the time it takes for a technician to visit your home. You should also replace any filters now. Simply remove the old one and take it to your local home improvement center. Sales representatives should have no problem finding its replacement.

Clean out your garage
Organizing a garage can be an excruciating experience during the hot summer months, so if that's something you need to do, don't put it off any longer. Once you clean out your garage, either donate any unwanted items or sell them.

Paint
Late spring is the perfect time to paint the interior of your home since the weather best lends itself to keeping your windows open, allowing the fresh air in and the paint fumes out. If you decide to paint the inside of your home, think about lightening the existing color as opposed to darkening it. Lighter colors are not only inviting, they create the illusion of a bigger, more open space.

Buy fans
Installing ceiling fans and using portable fans are great methods for cutting the heat inside your home. They are also far less expensive to use than an air conditioner. Using fans of any kind also enables you to keep windows open at night, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout the house.

Install dimmer switches
Dimmer switches not only add ambience, they also cut down on energy and the unwanted heat given off by brighter bulbs. Another tip is to use low-wattage light bulbs whenever possible.
Good luck and happy "summerizing!"

Thanks to Fred Wit of Fred Wit, Branch Manager of Benchmark Mortgage and Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist, Registered Financial Advisor for these tips. Fred can be reached at
Office: 760-479-5621
Fax: 815-717-7263
E Mail: fred.wit@benchmark.us
Web: www.bmnationwide.com

Tips reprinted by:
Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
Thomas Realty Group, Inc.
Serving Corona, Riverside, and the surrounding communities
(951) 454-3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

6476 Avenida Mariposa in Indian Hills is Sold!

Liane Thomas — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 14:15:00 GMT

Indian Hills, Riverside - The 2 story at 6476 Avenida Mariposa has been sold. This was a short sale successfully negotiated by The Thomas Group at Keller Williams Realty. The sellers were able to sell their home at market value AND have the bank forgive the balance of the loan.

If you owe more on your house than it is worth and you need to sell, call us. We'd love to help you, too.

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
The Thomas Group, Keller Wiliams Realty
951 454-3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com

Property information

In Escrow! 6476 Avenida Mariposa in Indian Hills, Riverside!

Liane Thomas — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:54:00 GMT

Indian Hills, Riverside - We are pleased to announce the pending sale of the home at 6476 Avenida Mariposa, a 1,785 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story. Now MLS® SALE PENDING $199,999. If you are thinking about selling, NOW IS THE TIME! We have more buyers and we welcome short sales, call for your FREE consultation.

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Price Reduced on 6476 Avenida Mariposa in Indian Hills

Liane Thomas — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:29:00 GMT

Indian Hills, Riverside - Announcing a price reduction on 6476 Avenida Mariposa, a 1,785 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story. Now MLS® $199,999 - .

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Price Reduced on 6476 Avenida Mariposa in Indian Hills

Liane Thomas — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 19:56:00 GMT

Indian Hills, Riverside - Announcing a price reduction on 6476 Avenida Mariposa, a 1,785 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story. This house is STUNNING! Now MLS® $225,000 - .

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2 Story For Sale in Indian Hills

Liane Thomas — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 14:23:00 GMT

• 1,785 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story - MLS® $250,000

Indian Hills, Riverside - Visit me first! Stunning 4 bedroom 2.5 bath two story home that shows like a model The entire home features upgraded ceiling fans and light fixtures, custom paint, newer carpet and tile, and custom window treatments. The formal living room offers a brick faced gas fireplace and soaring ceilings. You'll love the sunny kitchen with new maple cabinets, custom tile countertops and backsplash, new appliances, and so much more. The romantic master bedroom has an oversided closet and a full private bath with double sinks and a skylight. Outside you'll find a secluded and peaceful yard with a covered patio and Koi pond. Great location, near Indian Hills Golf Club, new shopping, and commuter close to the 60 freeway. Save money with a low tax rate, no mello roos, and no HOA fees. Priced to sell fast, visit soon!

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Get Paid Up To $7500 For Buying A House!

Liane Thomas — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:30:00 GMT

Did you know that a law was just passed that would help many home owners avoid foreclosure? Called the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, this is one of the boldest and broadest pieces of legislation related to the real estate market since the great depression. As part of this law, the government will give you a tax credit up to $7500 if you buy a home this year.

What this means to you: If you buy a house this year, you will get an instant tax credit of up to $7500 when you file in the spring of 2009. A few restrictions apply, so please call (951) 454-3805 if you would like more information about this historic legislation. We would love to help you find the home of your dreams, and save $7500 off your taxes, too!

Thank you!

Thomas Realty Group, Inc.

951 454-3805

www.AllCoronaHomes.com

www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com

Price Reduced on 6475 Avenida Mariposa in Indian Hills

Liane Thomas — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 19:06:00 GMT

Indian Hills, Riverside - Announcing a price reduction on 6475 Avenida Mariposa, a 1,750 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story. Now MLS® $350,000 - Priced to Sell!.

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