Halfway there!

It's hard to believe but we are almost half way through 2009! With the second quarter almost over, we are happy to report a positive outlook for the remainder of this year and going into 2010.

We've seen many 1st time buyers take advantage of the Stimulus Tax Credit with more than half of our transactions being those eligible for the credit. If you are eligible, consider buying now. Interest rates are very affordable and we have a good inventory of affordable housing.

We like to consult with buyers, set up lending for pre-qualifications, and plan out our process. These steps help avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed and allows buyers to enjoy their homebuying adventure. Call or e-Mail us today for your consultation.

Summer Leasing

We're almost leased up! There are just a few properties still available. For listings, check out the rentals posted on www.CallChoiceRealty.com.

Check your credit report annually!

Whether you are in the market to make a purchase or not, it is a good idea to monitor your credit report on a regular basis. At the least, you should be checking it annually. Credit card companies often make errors and finding a mistake sooner than later may be easier to get it fixed. There are various sources but one you can do annually is www.annualcreditreport.com. If you think there is an error, it is good to have receipts and statements to debate the item in question which is why it is important to keep and file all of the paid bills. If you are having trouble getting something accomplished, I would recommend seeking help with a local banker in which you have a relationship. Even if they are not the source of the questionable item posted, they may have experience with solving these problems and will make it easier for you to resolve. A credit report is very important for everyone!

B-Line Trail

I'm really excited to be a part of an organization that consistently gives back to the community.

The B-Line Trail runs through downtown provides recreation for the residents of the community. It allows people to browse, exercise or commute, whichever is preferred. The Farmer's Market located at City Hall also adjoins the B-Line Trail and features art work along the way.

The Bloomington Board of REALTORS funded the Realtor's Plaza located around 3rd Street near the Bloomington Convention Center. The donation of $50,000 helped speed along the development and we're excited to host the Grand Opening later this month!

I encourage everyone to take time to enjoy the trail and see all of the wonderful amenities we have all around B-Town! I will be looking forward to seeing real estate improvements along the B-Line Trail as value can easily be increased with such a great feature nearby and smart owners and investors should capture this amentity!

Open Houses

Open Houses are not as populated as they used to be. I believe that is due to the Internet and having virtual tours available. People are too busy nowadays to take time out to tour from open house to open house. And, gas prices are up and down causing people to rethink the errands they run each day.

We are having a couple of open houses this coming weekend. One is a solid brick and vinyl house in Van Buren Park with new flooring, large yard and unfinished basement for $150,000. The other one is a large country home on Starnes Road.

If you are out and about, stop by and visit!

Economic Affects to Local Market Activity

B-town Residents have not felt the pinch like some people around the Country. Our Sellers, for the most part, have not been in a forced sale situation, although we are seeing some Short Sales and Foreclosures. The local makret shows the average sales price has gone up, proving the local market is not a declining market.

The end is near as some Analysts are predicting. By the end of 2009 and early into 2010, the Nation should see an economic turn to the positive with housing and the overall economy.

Wondering if it is a good time to buy? We'll only know we hit bottom once the sales and pricing go up! And, then, we've past the bottom!

Painting and Color Trends

I really enjoy paint colors. And, now that Spring is here and the weather is improving, many people are thinking about the Spring projects to freshen up their homes. Painting is an inexpensive way to change the atmosphere of a room and give an immediate fresh feeling. I was reading an article in The Herald-Times that Purple is a popular, high fashion color this year, ranging from grayish-voilet to darker, deeper plum. Another popular color tone for the year is Blue, which has become more popular than Green. Yellow, a cheerful color, is also popular and gives a lastly energetic feeling. I'm not a huge fan of Gray but apparently it is taking the place of black and brown. Maybe a charcoal grayish brown, like deep Bronze would work for me!

Whether you plan to sell the house or stay in it for ten more years, painting is a simple, affordable way to keep your house updated and attractive! Just take it room by room and it's not too overwhelming!