"Hey, how's the market lately?"

As a real estate agent in Westfield, Western Massachusetts, I get that question a lot.  My answer changes, but lately the answer has been, "it is good!" to which I get a lot of surprised responses.

Well, I wouldn't blow smoke...I have proof that Western Massachusetts real estate is improving! 

Let me start with my own office's numbers.  Park Square Realty in Westfield and Agawam has the following to report:

Some statistics right from our Show Desk Tracking System-

Park Square Listings: First 2 Months of 2009... 345 Showings... 12 Pendings.

                               First 2 Months of 2010... 354 Showings... 44 Pendings.

Approximately the same amount of showings as last year at this time, but almost 4 times the amount of pendings.. THAT is a good sign! 

Western Massachusetts buyers are serious right now and Park Square Realty's listings are selling.

 

Not enough proof for you?  Here is some good news from the Massachusetts Association of Realtors:

"The Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® (MAR) reported today that the number of single-family homes put under agreement in February was up 16 percent over the same time last year, while condominiums were up 25 percent. February marks the eighth straight month that the number of both single-family homes and condominiums put under agreement had increased over the year before."

Still not enough?  How about a word from Warren Buffett?  

"Within a year or so, residential housing problems should largely be behind us," Buffett wrote Saturday in his annual letter to the shareholders of his Berkshire Hathaway.

If you are thinking of making a real estate decision, I am here to help and to educate!

 

 

I recently did a video explaining the home buyer tax credits and why they make it such an ideal time to buy a home in Western Massachusetts. Home sellers, you can benefit from this tax credit, too! The buyers are out in record numbers and we are seeing a lot of activity on well priced homes for sale. The buyers who haven't found the right home, yet, will be excited to see fresh inventory hit the market. If you have been considering making a move, now might be the perfect time. In addition to the increased buyer activity, there is a repeat home buyer tax credit available, too! If you qualify (see this post) then you can get a $6,500 tax credit! You have to be under contract by April 30th so don't delay!

Here is a video explaining why I think it is the right time to make a move in Western Massachusetts!

I have been involved in Western Massachusetts real estate for over 20 years and am a Realtor at Park Square Realty in Westfield, MA. Get in touch, I would love to help!

 

In my video I explain to first time home buyers in Western Massachusetts why now is a great time to buy a home. There is this fantastic tri-fecta in place right now: first time home buyer tax credit + low interest rates + low home prices = great values!

I have been helping buyers and sellers with their real estate decisions in Western Massachusetts for over 20 years! If you are thinking of taking advantage of the first time home buyer tax credit, get in touch...I love to help! Don't forget we have to have a home picked out and under contract by April 30, 2010!  Be sure to check out my other posts that help to teach first time buyers about the process of buying their first home.

 

Western Massachusetts Repeat Home Buyers:

If you are considering making a move to reap the reward of the $6,500 tax credit, working with me can raise your credit up to $7,100! The federal housing tax credit guidelines for existing home owners allows for up to $6,500 for buyers who are under contract to purchase by April 31, 2010 and who close on the property prior to July 1, 2010.

What is the definition of a move-up or repeat home buyer?

The law defines a tax credit qualified move-up home buyer (“long-time resident”) as a person who has owned and resided in the same home for at least five consecutive years of the eight years prior to the purchase date. For married taxpayers, the law tests the homeownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse. That is, both spouses must qualify as long-time residents, with at least five years of principal residency for each. Repeat home buyers do not have to purchase a home that is more expensive than their previous home to qualify for the tax credit.

Make your move with me and I can add $600 to the overall credit!

The Park Square Realty Corporate Advantage Program is a one stop shopping system with the extra advantage of a credit at closing...win-win! You will get: A personal home buying consultant. Realtor/real estate agent Lesley Lambert A personal home mortgage consultant ... our in-house Wells Fargo representative A personal attorney chosen from our list of partners A credit at closing! Whether you are a home buyer who is moving up or moving down, these credits are available to you through April 30, 2010. Don't lose out on this opportunity....the clock is running down! Western Massachusetts home buyers, contact Lesley Lambert at Park Square Realty in Westfield, MA

Whether you are selling your home this winter or not it is important that you take a few minutes to perform some seasonal maintenance.  Winters in Western Massachusetts and other cold climates can do damage to property that hasn't been looked after.

These ten tips will ensure that your home stays in tip top shape!

#1- Safety First!  Check that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have batteries and are functioning properly.

#2- It's f-f-freezing!  Insulate pipes in basements, crawl spaces and attics. These exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.

#3- Have you changed your furnace filter?  If you have a forced warm air system, you need to either upgrade to a high grade filter that is intended for several months, or change the filter every month or two.  A clogged filter will reduce your furnace efficiency and can even prevent it from working at all!

#4- If your heating system has a whole house humidifier, it should be cleaned regularly.  Mold and bacteria can build up in there and will be pushed out in the air by the furnace.

#5-  Firewood should never be kept against a home.  It is a fire hazard and also attracts infesting bugs, which will make for long term problems.

#6- Put stormwindows on to save on heating costs.  Keep warm air in and cold out!

#7-  The dryer needs some attention, too!  Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer

#8- Check that the weather stripping around doors is intact, and not brittle. Replace if necessary.

#9-  Check electric outlets for drafts.  If you feel cold air purchase foam insulation kits that are installed between the wall and the plate.

#10- Prepare for Blackouts - winter brings heavy snow that can knock out power and telephone lines, so be prepared. Stock up on emergency items such as candles, flashlights, batteries, etc. Have these items where they can easily be accessible.

 

 

With a few little tasks you can ensure the value, warmth and safety of your home are kept at a premium!

APRIL 30, 2010

That is when the home buyer tax credit expires.  No kidding.  No rumors of extensions.

GONE.

If you are a first time homebuyer, you must close on your new home by April 30, 2010 to collect up to $8,000 in tax benefits.

Other buyers who may qualify for the "Step Up" Home buyer credit must be in contract by April 30, 2010 with a closing no later than July 1, 2010 to collect up to $6,500.  My blog post on the tax credit extension has a complete guideline for your review.

 

Flash-Toys

The clock is running out on your chance to buy a new home while the prices are at historic lows, the rates are still very good

AND you will get a tax credit!

 

 

Don't delay: make an appointment to see this well maintained, updated ranch in desirable Shaker Heights, Westfield, MA! Recently updated kitchen with lovely cabinets and solid countertops, updated bath, refinished wood floors, fireplace, finished basement, inground pool and so much more!

For more information you can: Text 287FALLEY to 368266

The rush of the holidays is over and the real estate market is heating up.  Buyers are contacting me daily and the energy in the Western Massachusetts housing market is GOOD!  What a difference a year makes: this time last year was the slowest I have ever been in real estate....I am glad things are moving in a positive direction for all of us!

The revised tax credit is part of what is stimulating buyers to get motivated early on in the year. 

I wanted to take a moment to make sure that you have current and accurate information about the new Home Buyer Tax Credit.