New Marketing: County and Military Home Buyers Guides

For several years, I have been using a County specific and VA Military Home Buyers Guide to provide to my clients. It has been a great way to obtain leads from craigslist and backpage and to use as handouts at open houses.
I have decided to co-brand this item with local area real estate agents wanting to network to increase leads and build upon client relationships. I have produced these guides:
King
Pierce
Snohomish
North Puget Sound
Olympic Penninsula
SW Washington
Kitsap
Thurston
Tri-Cities
Spokane
Additionally, I have Western WA Military Installations and JBLM specific.
Rates are great right now, the market is rich with houses at great prices, and buyers can get good loans. This is one of the best times for buying I have seen since I started in this business in 1987. If you are serious about finding a new way to reach buyers, let's talk! Call me at (253) 536-5626; ext.304 or email me at gwsmith@lendscape.com and let me know your thoughts.

Tax Credit Extended and Expanded

Good news for those feet draggers that waited until the last minute to buy. The first time home buyer credit has been extended through June 30, 2010. Buyers will have to be under contract before April 30, 2010 and the loan must close by the end of June. First timers will still get the $8000 and the income limtis have been raised to $125000 for single persons and $225000. Income above those limits begins to be phased out as it increases until no tax credit is available.
In addition, the program has been expanded to move up buyers that have resided for 5 consecutive years over the last eight years in their same residence. This tax credit follows the same income guidelines but the tax credit is limited to a maximum of $6500. This program is exceptionally good for any senior planning to make a move. They can use a reverse mortgage to purchase their new residence instead of paying all cash or using a new forward mortgage and still bank the $6500 if they qualify. Call my office for details or visit our website at: http://www.cme4loans.com/8000.  Cobranded flyers are available.

FHA 203KS-NEW FHA PROGRAM -"The Baby K"

This new FHA program allows borrowers to finance improvements/upgrades up to $35,000 into the mortgage at the time of purchase. All work must be completed within three months of closing. The work must be done by licensed contractors. If your buyer is in a profession that demonstrates the ability to perform some of the work it would be allowed, (i.e.. electrician can perform electrical update).

Type of repair or updates are:
Repair/replacement of roofs, gutters, and downspouts
Upgrade of existing HVAC systems
Upgrade of plumbing & electrical systems
Flooring
Exterior decks, patios, porches
Minor remodeling (as long as it does not involve movement of structural walls) no additions.
Painting – interior/exterior
Weatherization – including storm windows/ doors, insulation, weather stripping, etc
Purchase & installation of new appliances (including washer and dryer)
Disability access improvements
Lead based paint stabilization or abatement of lead-based paint hazards
Basement finishing/remodeling, which doesn’t require structural repairs
Basement water-proofing
Window & door replacement
Exterior wall re-siding Septic system and/or well repair or replacement.

We will be doing a seminar shortly on how this program can bring faster sales to your listings needing repairs. Call us at (253)536-LOAN for details or drop us an email.