An estimated 2 million home buyers are poised to take the plunge just as soon as the economy returns from the deep. That’s because Americans still place a high value on homeownership, but qualifying for a mortgage and raising a down payment in an economy that won’t produce jobs, keeps many of them sitting on the fence. Eighty-nine percent of owners and 59 percent of renters feel that homeownership is important to the American family...

Is a Smaller Home for You? Studies over the past few years have shown a solid trend regarding home sizes. Buyers today want smaller homes with smaller price tags. During the boom era in the mid-2000’s, homeownership was about McMansions and spacious sprawls. The recent recession and continued ailing recovery have made many families rethink their budgets and lifestyles. A 9.1 percent unemployment rate hasn’t “helped.” So,...

Home buyers are ga-ga over gadgets. A survey by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) says home security systems, home theater-wired systems, home automation management systems and energy management systems are hot selling points. “There is a strong relationship between home technologies and the real estate market. While the market needs to recover before home technologies play a more important role in home sales, the industry can...

Buyers and contractors alike are looking for new ways to incorporate green technology into homes. Not only do these upgrades save money in the long run, but they also go a long way in preserving Mother Earth. Have you heard about the government’s “green” homeowners’ incentives? Take a moment to see how you can upgrade your home and get money back! There are two basic tax credits available for those interested in making...

The fourth quarter of the year can cause some sellers to worry if their home hasn’t sold yet. But according to Trulia.com, there is still time to sell. Typically, many buyers are eager to move and get settled in before the school year and holidays begin but that doesn’t mean you should be discouraged. While the spring is considered a peak selling period, I recall looking for a home in the winter months and successfully closing just...