Form 1099 Reporting Requirements to Expand

Last year Congress enacted the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 that has expanded the number of people who may be required to file a Form 1099-MISC. This specifically will target many property owners who receive rental income. Beginning in 2011, recipients of rental income from real estate will be subject to the same information […]

Housing Prices Are Down, Why Is Home Insurance Not?

Many homeowner and prospective purchasers may wonder why insurance rates haven’t fallen on par with the declining value of home prices these last few years. Very simply put there is no direct correlation between the market value of a home and its insurance cost. The primary determining factor for insurance rates are the replacement costs […]

The REALTOR© Difference

Much of the time the term REALTORĀ© is used in a general sense to denote a real estate licensee. However, only about half of all licensed real estate agents are REALTORSĀ©. In order to become a REALTORĀ© a real estate professional must distinguish themselves by learning and voluntarily agreeing to be bound by professional Standards […]

Energy Efficient Tax Credits

The recently signed tax deal between Congressional Republicans and President Obama which extended the Bush-era tax cuts also included a revised extension of the energy efficient improvement credit. Certain energy efficient improvements to windows, insulation, etc. made throughout 2010 are eligible for tax credits of up to 30% of the cost with a lifetime cap […]

Condominiums In Danger of Losing FHA Eligibility

A mandate issued in 2009 by the Federal Housing Administration required that all condominium projects approved for FHA guaranteed loans and refinancing prior to 2007 submit additional documentation by December 7, 2010 in order to remain FHA eligible. This requirement aims to greatly improve the financial stability of these condo projects by guaranteeing adequate budgets […]

Seasons Shift For Sellers

As Fall begins to approach it is wise for sellers to take a look at their home and make any revisions necessary to keep the property in top shape to attract offers. Here are a few tips to keep in mind that could add appeal moving towards the Fall:

Replace seasonal flowers or plants with […]

Termite Warranties

In the desert Southwest there are absoultely termites lurking around most homes and having a proper termite prevention barrier in place is key. New homes will very typically come equipped with a five year warranty, so should you see any termite activity the original subcontractor that treated the home will come out to take care […]

Home Inspection Introduction

Whether you’re selling a home or an interested buyer searching for a new property, the topic of a home inspection is likely to arise at some point. Most people have a general idea of the purpose in getting a home inspection, but often ask the question: Is it really necessary to pay for a home […]