Interest Rates At 5 Year High

The central bank boosted the federal funds rate, the interest that banks charge each other, to 5.25%, the highest level in more than five years. When the Fed started reining in credit two years ago, the rate was 1 percent, the lowest in 46 years.

How does the rate increase effect your ability to get a mortgage? Give me a call or visit my website. I will introduce you to a well-qualified, experienced, knowledgeable loan officer who will answer all your questions.

Small Kitchens Aren't Always a Bad Thing

Buyers who immediately disregard homes with small kitchens may be severely limiting their options. After all, small kitchens don’t have to be cramped; they can be comfortable and efficient. Here are some tips for making the most of the space from Tampa, Fla., interior designer Jay Tenuta, owner of La Bella Interiors.

1. Buy a 24-inch deep refrigerator instead of the standard 30-inch one.

2. Add glass-fronted door to cabinets. They create the image of greater space. If that's too expensive, open shelving is another alternative that will give an open, airy look.

3. A fold-out table provides a breakfast nook, then disappears when it isn’t needed.

4. Don't use the tops of your cabinets for decorative display when you can use them for storage. Affordable baskets and boxes are a perfect option.

5. Create an island on casters that wheels out of sight when it’s not needed.

6. Surf the Web for space-saving ideas. For example, Ikea.com provides kitchen planning ideas, storage containers, and furniture made specifically for small spaces.

Source: St. Petersburg Times, Elizabeth Bettendorf (05/26/2006)
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Thinking of buying or selling a central New Jersey home? Visit my website to view all available listings or to get your Free home evaluation.

Apartment Rents Increase In 2006

The National Association of Realtors is predicting a 5.3% increase in rents this year. This is more than double the 2005 increase and the largest increase since 2000.The only way to control your housing budget is to own your own home and not be at the mercy of your landlord.

Home prices continue to rise, but buying at today's prices is an investment in your future. New Jersey continues to see double digit appreciation which you can only benefit you if you own your own home. A mortgage payment is investing. A rent payment is throwing money away.

I am glad to show you a rent vs. buy comparison, so you can determine if buying a home is the right decision for you. So, contact me, today!

Who Needs A Survey?

A property survey is a map of a property showing where structures, easements and boundaries are located. To most buyers, being required by the mortgage company to have an updated survey for closing just seems like a waste of money. And, who wants to spend more money than absolutely necessary?

But, a survey is like insurance. The chances of you ever really needing it are slim, but if you ever do need it, you will be glad you have it. CNNMoney.com has a great article about folks who wished they had a survey. Be sure to take a look.

Thinking of buying or selling a home? Visit my website. Here you can look at all homes listed for sale in Hampton Roads and get a Price Valuation.

What Is A Contingency Contract?

Sandra Nickel, Realtor in Montgomery, AL, has an excellent post on contingency contracts. What are they and should you as a seller accept one. It is short, sweet and informative.

Please contact me with any questions you have about contingency contracts or real estate in Southern New Jersey.

Painting Tips

Tis the season for do-it-yourself projects. The honey-do- list at our house is a mile long and I am always looking for a way to make the job I am tackling easier. Sam Miller, an excellent Realtor in Mount Vernon, OH has a post with interior painting tips. If painting is on your list of projects, take a look.
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If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, visit my website. Here you can view all local real estate listings.