Need an Idea for Christmas?

Ho, ho, ho, Merry Christmas! 36% of first time homebuyers recieved help from family for down payment. This is up 28% from last year according to the National Association of Realtors. Maybe you should ask Santa for a down payment for a new home for Christmas. Talk about a gift that keeps on giving!

Big Changes Coming!

There is change in the (very cold) air. I've just come from a class with instructor George Bell to learn about significant changes to several North Carolina real estate forms. Effective January 1, 2011, all new buyer and listing forms will be in effect. What does this mean for you? Good things. IF your agent and mortgage lender fully understands the new forms. While some of the change are just wording, there are major changes to the structure of the contract, including VERY IMPORTANT DATES. As in, these dates can make the difference between you being able to get your earnest money back or not if a transaction does not work out.

I, of course, would love to help you and your friends and family with their real estate needs. But if not me, PLEASE make sure that your agent is VERY familiar with these changes. Your money and your real estate transaction depends on it!

Christmas is Coming!

Oh how I love this time of year! While I would not say I'm obsessive (you know who you are), I am very enthusiastic about Christmas. Things have been a bit crazy lately, but the tree is going up this weekend come hell or high water. If only I could wave a magic wand and my living room be painted before that happens! But, alas, that may take a true Christmas miracle.

Let's get one thing straight right now. WHITE lights ONLY! Color is meant for shiny ormaments and wrapping paper, not lights on a tree, bush, shrub, porch or banister. You can have them in your yard, but I won't be having them in mine. No matter how much James wants it. Luckily there is no fear that "Mr. 80%" will get them up. Not to mention, those might have "disappeared" after I moved in!

Yay for the holiday season! What is your favorite part? Decorating, cooking, visiting family, shopping? I do not discriminate--I like it all!