On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. Thereafter, the 13 colonies embarked on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. As you know, the rest is history. On this 4th, remember to stop and be thankful that we are a free nation and we are a great country!

Great news for 1st Time Home Buyers and potentially any home buyer! According to major news sources, there have been a number of bills introduced to the House and Senate for a proposed increase in the 1st Time Home Buyer credit up to $15,000! In addition, these bills propose the credit for any home buyer and a separate credit of up to $3,000 for borrowers who refinance. Stay tuned for further updates as they become available!

Lower prices and a saturation of homes on the market increase home affordability! Now is a great time to buy! There are a large selection of homes currently on the market and with still historically low interest rates, don’t wait till it’s too late to purchase a home! Now is a great time to buy.

Lending institutions here in the Bloomington/Normal community have received tougher lending restrictions. Though the housing market here is still strong, it is now more vital than ever, to shop around prior to starting your home buying process. It is equally important to keep a solid credit foundation and routinely check your credit for any discrepancies.

Interest rates are beginning to go back up. They are still historically low, but now is a great time to buy! Contact your lender today to lock in your rate.

Thinking about remodeling? Did you know that according to statistics, a kitchen and bath remodel will yield the best returns for your investments? The average home buyer will purchase a property based on a home having updated kitchens and bathrooms.

Did you know that you are considered a First Time Home Buyer if you haven't purchased a home in the last 3 years? That means that if you have already purchased homes, but haven’t purchased one in the last 3 years, then you are considered a First Time Home Buyer!

That means that you are eligible for the governments First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of $8,000! But you must hurry as you have to close on the property by December 2009. Contact me today for more information!