Something for nothing…

Seems to be a plague in these uncertain times of people wanting something for nothing.  I see offers everyday that come in 30% or more under the list price of a property.  While these do occasionally come together, most of the time, the deal upsets the seller, who then retaliates with an above asking price counter offer, just to give the proverbial bird to the potential buyer.  his is not productive for either party involved.

To counter this problem, listing agents then list their properties with a buffer, allowing the example of 30% to be reduced to only 10%, thus giving the  seller a more reasonable position to accept or counter.  The obvious problem with this approach is that the property is then listed to high, and will not bring any offers.  If this happens too much, then we add to a problem that is already plaguing the market, too many homes on the market.

So now what…

More inventory drives prices down, lower prices bring out more people that want something for nothing, they write offers that don’t make sense, sellers price their homes outside market value, these homes then sit on the market, thus increasing inventory, thus driving prices down, brining out more people looking to low ball, …  Get the point.

There are too many properties that are priced well, and are excellent homes for whatever your purpose might be.  Simply look at what has sold in the area over the past 3-6 months, and look at the trend for the area.  Then look for the fair offer based on the market value of the property. 

If the housing market is ever going to recover, the inventory levels need to stabilize…And they will.  The so called bottom (another post altogether) will happen, but the real question is are you willing to let THAT home slip away while trying to play the market.  THAT home, you know, the one that is perfect for the family, or that is in the best neighborhood for rent, or the only home in your range that is in that perfect school district.  Your call.

Like the home seen in this entry, give me a call, we’ll go take a look.

Let us NEVER forget, and may we always rise to the occasion!

Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Pearl Harbor Speech, December 8, 1941

To the Congress of the United States

Yesterday, Dec. 7, 1941 – a date which will live in infamy – the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with the government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.

Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleagues delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.

Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.

Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.

This morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.

As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.

Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.

No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.

I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces – with the unbounding determination of our people – we will gain the inevitable triumph – so help us God. I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.

Picture courtesy of

http://www.nps.gov/usar/photos2/PC-44738.htm
Last Updated: 03-Dec-2001

Energy Saving Tips

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I would like to take the opportunity to share some information with you about energy efficiency. One of the best parts about energy efficiency is that you can help protect the environment and save money—all at the same time.

The first step to energy efficiency is conducting a home energy audit. This allows you to assess how much energy your home is using and where you can potentially conserve. Here is a list of things to look for when conducting your own home energy audit, as well as ways you can save energy and money:

• Air Leaks—You can check for air leaks (drafts) along baseboards, edges of flooring, or junctures of the walls and ceilings. Flowing air through electrical outlets, switch plates, window frames, weather-stripping, fireplace dampers, attic hatches and wall or window mounted air conditioners are also good places to check. You can usually seal leaks by caulking or weather-stripping them.

• Insulation—If the insulation levels in your home are less than the recommended minimum, you could be losing heat through the ceiling and walls, which could cost you a lot of money. If you think this is happening, consider having a professional assess the insulation levels in your home to determine if you need additional insulation installed.

• Heating/Cooling Equipment—Inspecting all heating and cooling equipment annually is also a good idea. Replace filters every other month or so, especially when usage is high. I also recommend having a professional check and clean your equipment once a year. And if your appliance is more than 15 years old, it’s probably time to update it with a newer, energy-efficient unit. In the meantime, to reduce your demand on heating, it’s recommended that you keep your thermostat set between 65 and 72 degrees during the winter months. Keep in mind that by simply lowering your thermostat one degree, your furnace will use seven percent less energy overall.

• Lighting—It is estimated that lighting accounts for about 10% of your home energy bill. Lighting that has the Energy Star label uses about 66% less energy than standard lighting. Energy Star compact fluorescent lights (CFL’s) provide the same lighting as standard incandescent bulbs but use less energy and last ten times as long.

· Household Appliances—When purchasing new household appliances read the Energy Guide labels which estimate annual energy use. Many energy-efficient washing machines use up to 40% less water and 60% less energy, which over the process of a year can reduce your power bill by up to $100. Energy-efficient refrigerators use on average 40% less energy and the dishwashers can use up to six less gallons of water per load than washing by hand. Add up the numbers and the savings are significant, both in dollars and energy.

There are a number of things you can do to conserve energy around your home; these are just a few ideas to get you started. For more information about energy conservation, I suggest going to www.energystar.gov

Keep an eye on your Credit

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Did you know that many credit rating files contain inaccuracies that can affect your credit rating? With the threat of identity theft, the possibility of data sneaking in from a file of someone with a name similar to yours, and creditor reporting errors, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your credit, particularly if you are thinking of making a large purchase, such as a home, in the coming year.

Equity Home Mortgage Update.

Fast Turn around for Home Financing.

Rates are good and holding steady. We have seen rates come down a little over the last few days. Loans are still being made. In fact, the service levels are some of the best we have seen in a long time. We were able to close a transaction – from start to finish – in 6 working days. Considering that the last day was to have the deeds record, we really did it in five days!

Sell Sell Sell…

As many of you know, the housing market seems to be pretty sluggish. You hear reports everyday about the impending doom for the housing market, and how we are all going to lose our shirts on the value of our homes. With that in mind, here is my Christmas present to you!

SW Sherwood in Portland

Grand & Elegant living. Masterfully remodeled in 2006.

4 Bedroom, 3 bath, 3067 sq ft. New & refinished wood floors, new runner & upgraded carpet. New electrical & gorgeous lighting, both inside & out. New Formal Living silk window treatments. New appliances, New custom cabinets, Kohler sink & faucet, Calcutta Oro Marble countertops with Ogee edge & Ann Sacks backsplash in kitchen. Remodeled 1st floor bath with custom cabinets, Ann Sacks tile, granite sink, and limestone slab. 9′ ceilings, and designer finishes throughout.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Bit about the appraisal process.

The appraisal process often baffles consumers. They may feel that their home is worth a higher dollar amount, and so the appraised value doesn’t always make sense to them.

Rate Improvement Possibilities

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Jobs Report

So, this morning, the jobs report was released…..and it was stinker.  In fact, it was the worst report in 14 years.  To "add salt to the wound", the numbers for August & September were revised downwards by large amounts.

Do it yourselfers…Make sure you do it right.

MythBusters-Exploding Water Heater

I love these guys.

NEWS FLASH: PORTLAND WASTING MONEY

Hundreds of thousands of dollars are wasted every year in the greater North West by home owners trying to do simple household projects themselves.

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