Congratulations Celina High School!
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Thursday, September 30
Kenny Chesney Visits Celina High School - Boys of Fall Tribute
Kenny Chesney paid a surprise visit to Celina High School in Celina, TX. The small town north of McKinney was an inspiration for the video for his hit song Boys of Fall. Kenny Chesney surprised the high school students and staff during their pep rally, while premiering the Boys of Fall video.
Congratulations Celina High School!
Congratulations Celina High School!
Tuesday, September 28
TV Real Estate Shows - Effects on Real Estate Industry
There are countless shows that feature home improvement and real estate investing, which attempt to appeal to entrepreneurial viewers.
The truth is that many viewers are capable of succeeding in these things but television never really shows how hard the work actually may be. The television cameras do not always show the blood, sweat, and tears that go into making these projects successful and rarely mention the countless complete and total failures that occur along the way.
The cameras are also not to keen for showing up at 4 am and rolling well after midnight when the work for the day is finished. It doesn't catch the heart attacks and nightmares as credit cards are going dangerously close to being completely maxxed out while dreams of quick riches fade right in front of investor's eyes.
This does not mean that every project is doomed to failure only that things are not always as rosey as they may appear to be on the television shows. It is very possible to turn a substantial profit in a relatively short amount of time if you keep your cool, use your head, and buy and sell in the right conditions.
The problem is that so many people do not consider the big picture and find themselves in over their heads and out of money before the project is anywhere near completion.
Fortunes can be made and lost in real estate; the trick is always in placing your bets on the right property at the right time.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Monday, September 27
1 Home Sold to 2 Different Buyers
A series of mis-communications has led to one house being sold to 2 different parties. Now, there is a couple with their first home in court against an investor group to determine who has rightful ownership. Here is an excerpt of the story:
Less than a week after they closed sale on the condo, it turned out, a small group of investors had purchased the same property -- at a foreclosure auction.
How could that have happened? How could one home have been sold to completely different buyers?
Both sides say they did everything right. Both sides have deeds. And both sides are in court right now, trying to sort out the mess.
Though they're facing off in a legal fight, Haushalter said he feels sympathy for Garhartt and Lively, who he views as solid, responsible home buyers who took all the right steps in saving for and purchasing a place to live.
"The only people I feel worse for than them is us," Haushalter said. "We don't have a house or our money. At least they have the house that they bought.""
~MSNBC
"Douglas Garhartt and Brandon Lively were just settling in to the ocean-view San Clemente townhome they bought in March when suddenly they were faced with the threat of eviction.
How could that have happened? How could one home have been sold to completely different buyers?
Both sides say they did everything right. Both sides have deeds. And both sides are in court right now, trying to sort out the mess.
Though they're facing off in a legal fight, Haushalter said he feels sympathy for Garhartt and Lively, who he views as solid, responsible home buyers who took all the right steps in saving for and purchasing a place to live.
"The only people I feel worse for than them is us," Haushalter said. "We don't have a house or our money. At least they have the house that they bought.""
~MSNBC
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Friday, September 24
Don't Forget Your Termite Inspection
Termite damage, no matter how small it may be, is never good for a home. During a real estate inspection, if any termite damage is found, it will affect the outcome of the home. In most cases, the buyer is told that the seller will fix the problem.
Treatment for termite damage is generally in the neighborhood of $1,000. Even though the termites will be gone, you have to wonder about the damage to the structure. The last thing you want is to move into a home that you know has been treated for termites, only to find the structure to be in very bad shape.
If any type of damage was done to the wooden structure of the home, you may need to get immediate repairs. While some damage may be visible, there are other types of damage that are invisible to the naked eye. To find out just how bad the damage is, carpet will need to be removed, walls and ceilings opened, and possibly some type of excavation.
Before you buy a home, you should always have it checked for termites. There are a lot of termite inspection companies available to help you. If you have the proper inspections performed before you make the purchase, you will know what to expect in the coming months and years.
If the inspector or contractor doesn’t find any termite damage, you should always have it documented. This way, if termite damage does exist, you’ll have the documentation to back you up. Termites can destroy wood in little to no time at all, which is why you should always do what you can to have your home treated as soon as you suspect any type of damage.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Thursday, September 23
Choosing a Real Estate Agent
Having a real estate agent to help you out is essential when aiming for a quick and good deal, whether you are buying or selling your home or property. Selling your house is not just about placing a “for sale” sign in your lawn or placing your house in the classified ads.
There are many real-estate agents out there, how do you choose the right person?
Hold interviews
The best way of getting to know an agent is by talking to them personally. You could directly discuss with them what their qualifications, ask about their previous transactions, and seeing if your personalities would match.
Qualifications and history
Check if they have enough experience and expertise, especially in your location.
Referrals
Ask your friend, family or relatives if they would be able to recommend somebody. Personal experiences will give you a good indicator of what to expect.
Customer service
Your agent maybe good, but they may be difficult to contact. That would surely create problems. How the agent communicates with clients show how they value the property and how serious they are.
Contacts and access to tools
Your real-estate agent should have access to Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Also, a web presence in on other networks will give you a well rounded experience.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Tuesday, September 21
Buying an Unfinished Home
Unfinished homes present a great way to save a lot of money and get yourself a new home in the process. If you buy an unfinished home, you can keep your monthly mortgage payment low and also lower your initial investment. You may also be able to buy a larger foundation size as well, which you can easily add on to and save money in the process.
Normally, unfinished starter homes leave the upstairs area unfinished. The question here, is just how much equity you want to put into an unfinished area. Sometimes though, an unfinished home may leave the roofing, framing, plumbing, or electrical aspects unfinished. Before you make a purchase, you should always decide how much money you have to finish what needs to be finished.
When looking at unfinished homes, you need to look at what banks are willing to accept. If you are planning to get a mortgage, most banks will need to ensure that the home is up to local codes and in living condition. What this means, is that there will need to be a living room, bedroom, and other rooms finished. If the home is lacking quite a bit in terms of being unfinished, most banks will not approve a mortgage.
Of course, buying an unfinished home provides an excellent way to get into your very own home and providing you with he chance to grow into your home. But, be sure to ask questions of the builder/seller and your mortgage loan officer.
Monday, September 20
1189 Landon - 3 Bedroom Townhome for Rent in Allen ISD - $1550
Fluid floorplan with very large kitchen, formal dining, vaulted ceilings in Family Room.
Separate shower stall and garden tub. Low maintenance living.
Use of Twin Creeks amenities which includes: pool, tennis, basketball, baseball, hiking, fishing, and much more!
Exemplory rated West Allen Schools
Friday, September 17
Tips for the Winter to keep your electric bill down
Tips for the Winter to keep your electric bill down:
- Turn the thermostat down in winter as much as possible.
- Lower thermostat when away from home and asleep at night
- Open curtains or shades on the south and west sides of your house on sunny days during cold weather.
- Close curtains or shades at night during the winter.
- Run paddle fans clockwise on low during the winter to circulate air, and counterclockwise during the summer (when in room) to feel cooler.
- Check ductwork on HVAC system for leaks. Patch ducts with metallic tape or duct mastic.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Thursday, September 16
Allen ISD Football Schedule
2010 Allen Eagle Football Schedule
| 8/28 (Sat.) | Cedar Hill @SMU | W | 33-27 |
| 9/3 | @Justin Northwest | W | 46-7 |
| 9/10 | vs Longview | W | 24-20 |
| 9/24 | vs Plano | 7:30 | |
| 10/1 | @ Lewisville | 7:30 | |
| 10/8 | vs Plano East (Homecoming) | 7:30 | |
| 10/15 | @ Plano West | 7:30 | |
| 10/22 | vs Marcus | 7:30 | |
| 10/29 | vs Hebron (Senior Night) | 7:30 | |
| 11/5 | @ Flower Mound | 7:30 |
For More Sports Schedules: Allen ISD Athletics
Tuesday, September 14
Rid your house of allergens
Suggestions to protect yourself against common household allergens:
- Use special bedding covers and launder sheets and blankets weekly in 130°F water to kill dust mites. You can also tumble dry items first in a hot dryer for 30 to 60 minutes (longer for thick comforters), then washing on hot.
- Clean drapes, throw pillows, and stuffed animals every few months.
- Trap dust and prevent it from becoming airborne with electrostatic dusters
- Scrub and disinfect to prevent mold on bathtubs, tiles, and trash cans with a mildew-removing cleanser.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Monday, September 13
Homebuyer Tax Credit Repayment
Important Information for New Homeowners that claimined the First Time Home Buyers Credit:
Nearly half of all Americans who claimed the first-time homebuyer tax credit on their 2009 tax returns will have to repay the government.
According to a report from the Inspector General for Tax Administration, released to the public Thursday, about 950,000 of the nearly 1.8 million Americans who claimed the tax credit on their 2009 tax returns will have to return the money.
Those who bought properties during 2008 were to deduct, dollar for dollar, up to 10% of the home's purchase price or $7,500, whichever was less. The catch: The money was a no-interest loan that had to be repaid within 15 years.
Had they waited to buy until 2009, they could have gotten a much sweeter deal. Congress extended the credit and made it a refund rather than a loan.
Now, the IRS is developing a strategy for separating the 2009 taxpayers who are required to repay the credit from those who are not.
A review by the Inspector General earlier this year found that the IRS could not easily distinguish between home purchases made in 2008 and 2009. That heightened concerns that some claims could be erroneous or even fraudulent, that buyers could, for example, claim their purchase came later than it actually occurred.
Thursday's release reported that 73,000 claims, more than 4% of the 1.8 million homebuyers who received the credit, had incorrect purchase dates recorded by the IRS.
Some of the inaccuracies counted against the taxpayers, Nearly 60,000 were listed as purchasing in 2008 (meaning they had to repay the credit) or had no purchase dates at all, rather than their correct 2009 purchase dates, which would free them of the obligation to pay it back.
It is also taking a look at all those deceased taxpayers who received credits.
The inspector general reported that 1,326 single people listed as dead by the Social Security Administration claimed more than $10 million in credits. The IRS threw out 528 of those 1,326 claims, saving $4 million.
Courtesy of CNN.com
Nearly half of all Americans who claimed the first-time homebuyer tax credit on their 2009 tax returns will have to repay the government.
According to a report from the Inspector General for Tax Administration, released to the public Thursday, about 950,000 of the nearly 1.8 million Americans who claimed the tax credit on their 2009 tax returns will have to return the money.
The confusion comes because homebuyers were eligible for two different credits, depending on when their homes were purchased.
Those who bought properties during 2008 were to deduct, dollar for dollar, up to 10% of the home's purchase price or $7,500, whichever was less. The catch: The money was a no-interest loan that had to be repaid within 15 years.
Had they waited to buy until 2009, they could have gotten a much sweeter deal. Congress extended the credit and made it a refund rather than a loan.
Now, the IRS is developing a strategy for separating the 2009 taxpayers who are required to repay the credit from those who are not.
A review by the Inspector General earlier this year found that the IRS could not easily distinguish between home purchases made in 2008 and 2009. That heightened concerns that some claims could be erroneous or even fraudulent, that buyers could, for example, claim their purchase came later than it actually occurred.
Thursday's release reported that 73,000 claims, more than 4% of the 1.8 million homebuyers who received the credit, had incorrect purchase dates recorded by the IRS.
Some of the inaccuracies counted against the taxpayers, Nearly 60,000 were listed as purchasing in 2008 (meaning they had to repay the credit) or had no purchase dates at all, rather than their correct 2009 purchase dates, which would free them of the obligation to pay it back.
It is also taking a look at all those deceased taxpayers who received credits.
The inspector general reported that 1,326 single people listed as dead by the Social Security Administration claimed more than $10 million in credits. The IRS threw out 528 of those 1,326 claims, saving $4 million.
Courtesy of CNN.com
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Friday, September 10
Amazing Home for Rent in Allen ISD! - $1450 - 4 bedrooms!
**REDUCED: $1450 per Month!** Kitchen opens up to the living area which has a nice view of the big backyard. This property feels like a culd-a-sac lot with plenty of yard space.
Downstairs provides plenty of room. Second living area could be used a study, media, or extra game room.
All beds located on 2nd level. Master and Bed #2 are very large with bed 3 and 4 providing adequate space.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Thursday, September 9
Allen ISD New Stadium Ceremony
Allen ISD will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Eagle Stadium at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 16 at the stadium site. 301 Rivercrest Blvd Allen, TX.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Wednesday, September 8
Collin County School Wins National Kohl's Contest
A tiny Collin County school is poised to collect $500,000, having finished second in Facebook votes in a national contest sponsored by Kohl's Department Stores.
Lucas Christian Academy, with just 276 students but a highly motivated group of parents and staff, received more than 157,000 votes in balloting that ended late Friday.
Kohl's Cares, the company's philanthropic program, promised $500,000 each to the 20 schools that got the most votes.
Lucas Christian parents and staff took laptops to special events, restaurants and college campuses, persuading thousands to vote for the school.
Before the winners get the money, an audit of the votes must be completed. Schools also must provide Kohl's with plans for how they'll spend the money.
Lucas Christian Academy intends to finish paying for 16 acres in Lucas. The school currently meets in space rented from a church and in portable classrooms.
"The goal would be to pay off that land and then get into the building mode," said administrator Julie Montgomery.
Courtesy of Dallas Morning News
Lucas Christian Academy, with just 276 students but a highly motivated group of parents and staff, received more than 157,000 votes in balloting that ended late Friday.
Kohl's Cares, the company's philanthropic program, promised $500,000 each to the 20 schools that got the most votes.
Lucas Christian parents and staff took laptops to special events, restaurants and college campuses, persuading thousands to vote for the school.
Before the winners get the money, an audit of the votes must be completed. Schools also must provide Kohl's with plans for how they'll spend the money.
Lucas Christian Academy intends to finish paying for 16 acres in Lucas. The school currently meets in space rented from a church and in portable classrooms.
"The goal would be to pay off that land and then get into the building mode," said administrator Julie Montgomery.
Courtesy of Dallas Morning News
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Tuesday, September 7
First Time Home Buyer Tips
First time homebuyers often experience blunders when looking for their first home to purchase. To avoid such a frightful experience, which could lead to a loss of time, effort and even worse your money; here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Lack of research
When buying your home, go back to the basics: research before proceeding with any kind of purchase. Research is basically asking questions about the house or the property. Examples include:
There is nothing wrong with waiting for the right house but a homebuyer should be realistic. It is difficult to find a home that fits 100% of your demands. Homebuyers who are looking for homes with this method can easily by-pass homes that would meet nearly all your standards. To avoid this, it is important to sort out priorities. Identify your top needs, followed by B and C list requests.
Without any professional assistance
Another mistake that most homebuyers make is that they think can get a house on their own. There is nothing wrong with buying a house without any professional help. It is just that it could be very stressful and would take a great deal of your time. Real-estate agents have the resources, contacts, and tools that would make the search quicker.
Lack of research
When buying your home, go back to the basics: research before proceeding with any kind of purchase. Research is basically asking questions about the house or the property. Examples include:
- Reasons for putting the property on sale
- Any problems about the house’s foundation that needs to be addressed.
- If there are any problems in the area where the house and property is located like being near a flood zone, termite problems, etc.
There is nothing wrong with waiting for the right house but a homebuyer should be realistic. It is difficult to find a home that fits 100% of your demands. Homebuyers who are looking for homes with this method can easily by-pass homes that would meet nearly all your standards. To avoid this, it is important to sort out priorities. Identify your top needs, followed by B and C list requests.
Without any professional assistance
Another mistake that most homebuyers make is that they think can get a house on their own. There is nothing wrong with buying a house without any professional help. It is just that it could be very stressful and would take a great deal of your time. Real-estate agents have the resources, contacts, and tools that would make the search quicker.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Friday, September 3
Rent To Own Homes
Rent to Own stores have built an empire with rent to own merchandise, however the buyer normally ends up paying double what the merchandise is actually worth. While this may be a great option for those who have bad credit, most of us would prefer to avoid this route. Homes are no exception, especially if you are buying a home on a rent to own basis.
Even though rent to own may be good for a short period of time, it proves to be an expensive way for someone to buy something they intend to keep. The agreement is normally for around 15 - 20 months, which is where the company makes their money. Although you may be paying just a few dollars a week, the total amount quickly adds up to nearly twice the cost of the item.
In most cases, rent to own houses are put up on the market by the owner. This way, you’ll deal directly with the owner. It will start out as a traditional lease, then proceed to a rent to own basis if you decide you want to keep the home. You and the owner will then work out an arrangement, which will normally be quite a few years. Some owners are very flexible and will work with you just to get the price they want for their home, while others will charge you quite a bit more, in order to make a hefty profit.
If you have bad credit and can’t get approved for a mortgage, then rent to own would be your next best option. With rent to own houses you are paying money towards the home, instead of just paying rent. In some cases this is fine, although you should make sure to double check with the owner before you agree or commit to anything. This way, you’ll know how much you’ll be paying for the home - and for how long.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
Thursday, September 2
Preparing to Buy Your Home
There are millions of people looking to a buy home - either now or in the future. Over the last few years, lower interest rates have come along, making it more affordable than ever to buy a home. When most people stop and give it some thought - buying a home makes a lot more sense than renting a home or an apartment.
The two biggest expenses you will encounter are closing costs and a down payment. Your down payment will typically range anywhere from 3-15% of the price or the value of the property.
It is a good idea to have 20% to put down. If you aren’t able to put 20% down, you will need to buy private mortgage insurance, which will cost you more in terms of your monthly payment.
Closing costs will cost you around 5-7% of the property price. Before you purchase the home, you should always get an estimate.
When you buy a home and get your monthly mortgage payment, it should not be any more than 25% of your total monthly income.
Keep in mind that there is always more money involved with a home other than the mortgage payment. You will also have to pay for utilities, homeowners insurance, property taxes, and repairs/maintenance.
Before you begin the home searching process, you should always look over your credit report and check for any errors. If you have an error on your credit report, it can cost you a lot of money in interest rates. Rebuilding credit can take time though, sometimes even years. You should always plan ahead - and give yourself plenty of time to fix your credit.
Buying a home will require a bit of commitment on your behalf. You should always strive to get the best possible deals, which means knowing your credit and where you stand.
If you can help it, you don’t want to buy a home with bad credit, simply because you’ll pay a lot more money for the home. If you take the time to fix any credit problems and save up some money - you’ll be able to get a much better home for your money.
The two biggest expenses you will encounter are closing costs and a down payment. Your down payment will typically range anywhere from 3-15% of the price or the value of the property.
It is a good idea to have 20% to put down. If you aren’t able to put 20% down, you will need to buy private mortgage insurance, which will cost you more in terms of your monthly payment.
Closing costs will cost you around 5-7% of the property price. Before you purchase the home, you should always get an estimate.
When you buy a home and get your monthly mortgage payment, it should not be any more than 25% of your total monthly income.
Keep in mind that there is always more money involved with a home other than the mortgage payment. You will also have to pay for utilities, homeowners insurance, property taxes, and repairs/maintenance.
Before you begin the home searching process, you should always look over your credit report and check for any errors. If you have an error on your credit report, it can cost you a lot of money in interest rates. Rebuilding credit can take time though, sometimes even years. You should always plan ahead - and give yourself plenty of time to fix your credit.
Buying a home will require a bit of commitment on your behalf. You should always strive to get the best possible deals, which means knowing your credit and where you stand.
If you can help it, you don’t want to buy a home with bad credit, simply because you’ll pay a lot more money for the home. If you take the time to fix any credit problems and save up some money - you’ll be able to get a much better home for your money.
Janus Real Estate Group * Heather Anderson * 972-765-3773
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