Patriots Ridge Real Estate Info

September Newsletter

2011-09-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Here’s What’s Happening in Patriots Ridge

ACTIVE: There are currently 14 homes for sale in your neighborhood. Ten of these are 2 bedroom, 1 and 1/2 baths. They range in price from $155,896 to $227,500. The median sales price is $204,450. The average days on market is 68. Two of these are short sales. There are three 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath homes and one 3 bedroom, 1 1/5 bath home for sale.. They range in price from $239,900 to $259,900. The median price is $254,950. The average days on market is 60.

PENDING:

5430 Simpson Ct, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Listed for $198,000

5001 Esther Reed Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed for $229,900

5010 Esther Reed Dr, 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Listed for $229,879

3717 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed for $193,500 (sold “as is”)

3762 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed for $259,900

3778 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed for $242,500

SOLD:

4031 Captain Molly Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $187,500

4121 Captain Molly Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $199,030

3624 Nancy Ward Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $185,000

5453 Rinker Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $193,000

4610 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $237,500

3811 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $236,900

3715 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $255,000

PATRIOT’S RIDGE HOMEOWNERS

YOU DESERVE MORE!!!

Over the past 2 years 63 homes have sold in your neighborhood.

Of those 63 ONLY 2 (TWO!!) had virtual tours!!!!

And NONE had utilized all the allowable photo’s!

When we list a home you get:

1. Virtual tour

2. Maximum allowable pictures in the MLS

3. Uploading of virtual tour to 32 sites including Google,

Trulia, Realtor.com, YouTube, Craig’s List, and much more!

4. Weekly summary of what has come on the market and what has sold so you always know where you stand in the market place.

5. Color Brochures for your home to be given to potential buyers.

6. Password to our on-line marketing program specifically designed for your home so you can see (24/7) what we’re doing to market your home.

7. Up-to-date feedback on all showings.

8. Broker’s Open Luncheon to introduce the Realtor community to your home.

9. And MUCH MORE!!!!!!

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I’m often asked why one house sells so high and a seemingly same house sells for less. The reasons are many. There’s the obvious difference: A perfect picture: Price, location, condition. But the not- so -obvious plays a huge role too. For example, we’ve had sellers who were buying up and got a fantastic deal on the other end and just didn’t care about the extra 10, 20 or $30,000.00. Then there’s the homeowner who has bought something else and now needs to get their house sold as carrying two homes is killing them—or the couple who’s living with their mother-in-law in Kansas, waiting for the house here to sell and they’re ready to shoot themselves. In some cases, those with great equity just decide that they want to be the next one sold . . . so they complete our to-do list and price it below the competition.

The problem in today’s Real Estate market is that those who can afford to shear off a couple of thousand for the sake of “getting it done now” become the new base-line for the next sale. Buyers can’t get into the last sales so they look strictly at square footage, rooms and finishes. The same for the appraiser who will tell the bank how much they should lend. The last price of a sold is the “new” price of a neighborhood. Foreclosures and short sales abound in every neighborhood of Buckingham and Plumstead. It’s a fantastic time to buy and it may be the best time for many years to come to sell. Keep paying off your home and increasing your equity and you’ll be in a better place when your time comes.

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10th Annual Keller Williams Food Drive

For the past 9 years Keller Williams Agents have been loading up the shelves at the New Britain Food Larder which serves more LOCAL people than you can imagine!

Date: Saturday, October 1st

Bring your donations to the New Britain Food Larder

Located right on 202, after the 7-11 at the next light

Anytime before 12:00 Noon

Come enjoy some delicious Chili as it is also our

Annual Chili contest (I won last year)!

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The scoop on light bulbs

By 2012 many types of incandescent bulbs will no longer be sold in the U.S. By 2014 all will be discontinued. Traditional 100 watt light bulbs are going to be phased out come this December 31. By Jan. 1, 2014 the only incandescents will be the three-way bulbs. BUT, don’t fret! LED bulbs are LONG LASTING and last up to 10 times as long as compact fluorescent and FAR longer than typical incandescent. They are more DURABLE because they don’t have a filament and can be jarred and bumped. They are COOL because they do not cause heat build-up, producing 3.4 btu’s/hour compared to 85 for the one’s we use now. Should cut down on air-conditioning! MORE EFFICIENT using only 2—10 watts of electricity (1/30th of incandescent). These bulbs last for years and save 80% in electricity! LED bulbs costs more but the longevity and cost savings of usage are fantastic! And the next time you see a really bright traffic light, you’ll know they’re using LED’s!

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What Projects are Worth It?

If you’re thinking of doing some improvements stick to the most used areas of your home and those that will pay you back when it’s time to sell.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost Versus Value Report” last year, the following projects give the highest paybacks upon sale nationwide:

*Adding an attic bedroom (which none of us can do because of our truss systems) 83.1%

*Adding a wooden deck, 80.6%

*Minor Kitchen remodel, 78.3%

*Basement remodel, 75.4%

*Major kitchen remodel, 72.1%

*Bathroom remodel, 71%

Some remodels, according to the Magazine, let you recoup the entire cost—and then some. Replacing your front door with a new steel unit is estimated to return 128%. Other replacement projects give great returns because they not only are re-9investments in the home, but provide great curb appeal as well. Buyers are enticed to view a home when greeted with bright new doors, clean easy-care replacement windows, smooth new driveways and no over-grown vegetation.

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Garbage Disposal Care and Maintenance:

So . . . Who knows the rules of taking care of your disposal? Here’s some help:

Put food in slowly. If you shove it in it can cause a clog an will shorten the life of your system.

Grind up those chicken bones and small fruit pits! They actually help clean the walls of the disposal.

Use only cold water and run if for 15 to 20 seconds. This solidifies the grease so it can get ground up.

Keep it smelling nice—grind citrus fruit peels or add a few drops of dish soap and let it run for a few minutes.

Sharpen the blades by filling it with ice cubes every month or so.

DON’T: Use hot water as it makes grease liquefy and clog the drain. DON’T grind celery stalks and onion skins as they will tangle up and clog it the same as pasta and rice which swells with water and clogs it up. DON’T turn off the motor too quickly. Make sure everything is ground up and then run the water for 15 seconds to flush it out. DON’T put your coffee grounds in because the disposal can handle it but your pipes will clog. And finally, DON’T forget to use it because it’ll get rusty and can lead to premature replacement.

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Kids Away At College?

Ask your insurance company for “casual driver” rates on your car insurance. AND, lots of policies only cover $500.00 (not even the cost of that new lap-top)! Estimate all your student has in their apartment or dorm room and be sure it’s covered. And did you know??? College kids are targeted for 35% of identity theft. They are very casual about giving out their social security numbers and personal info.

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Can’t say it enough!! Be sure you add the sump pump rider to your insurance policy. If they don’t have it . . . Change insurance companies!

Here's What's Happening in Patriot's Ridge

2011-06-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

ACTIVE:
There are currently 15 homes for sale in your neighborhood. Nine of these are 2 bedroom, 1 and 1/2 baths. They range in price from $169,900 to $229,900. The median sales price is $204,900. The average days on market is 210. One of these is a short sale. There are six 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath homes for sale. They range in price from $193,500 to $259,900. The median price is $247,400. The average days on market is 68.

PENDING:

3624 Nancy Ward Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Listed at $189,900
4031 Captain Molly Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Listed at $195,900
4121 Captain Molly Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Listed at $209,000
3811 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed at $236,900
4610 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed at $243,000
3715 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed at $254,900

SOLD:
4580 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $240,000
3775 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $247,500
4651 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $180,000 Short sale
3756 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $185,000 Short sale
3600 Nancy Ward Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $181,000
5005 Rebecca Fell Dr, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $189,175

Why Buying a New Home Now Could Be Your Best Move Ever:

THE SKY IS FALLING . . . Or so the national media would have you believe. The truth is that consumer confidence is up, foreclosures are settling down, prices in many areas have bottomed out, and all of these college kids who moved back home will eventually find jobs and start buying houses. Prices are low and investors are buying as rental vacancy rates are way down (great time to buy a rental property!), and interest rates are incredible! All the factors that making buying now a brilliant decision!

And some little known facts from the National Association of Realtors:
- For every home that someone buys there is up to $60,000 brought back into the local economy with furniture, updates and related items.
-Every home sale affects 80 different occupations!
-Home sales are responsible for 2.5 million private-sector jobs each year.
-Housing accounts for 15% of America’s Gross Domestic Product and is a key driver in our economic recovery.
-Out of the last eight recessions, housing brought us out of six of them. So . . . go buy a house!!!!

TAX ASSESSMENT APPEAL RIP OFFS !

We recently received a solicitation from “Value Appeal” to reduce our Real Estate Taxes for our residence in Cold Spring Hunt. They claim that we are over-assessed by $2300 and that they can help us reduce our taxes by $2300.

They are wrong in the calculation of our assessment as we appealed our taxes two years ago and our assessment is right in line with value but "Value Appeal" charges you the $100.00 just to get a report!!! They are obviously inflating their number to get you to use their services.

The appeal is a simple process that will cost you $25.00 to the Board of Appeals. IF YOU QUALIFY and that's a big IF. Email us today to see what the county values your property at for tax purposes. 95% of you will not qualify for an appeal as the state/county has played with the assessment numbers. We would be happy to tell you if you qualify and give you the comps you need if you do qualify. We have done hundreds of them in the past two years, and we will help you do yours before the deadline on August 1st for free. If you have any questions please email (only) us at jeri@gutner.com and we will gladly help you.
Watch us Re-Do our Master Bath!

Well . . . Unfortunately, real estate got in the way of my bathroom renovation so no new pictures to show. I did get as far as fixtures—and trying to find fixtures that match each other is no easy chore! Stay tuned to our blog for updates. Go to www.gutner.com and click on BLOG.

A friend of ours from whom we have been getting our prescription eye wear for years has opened in Rice’s Market in the new barn. Save 40% to 60% on your next purchase and mention Jeri and Henri for an added 10% off!

MOST AND LEAST AFFORDABLE CITIES! A New Jersey surprise!

Looking for the most affordable metro area with populations of less than 1/2 a million? Check out the 10 most affordable cities: Kokomo, Indiana; Monroe, Michigan; Cumberland, Md.; Elhart-Goshen, Indiana: Springfield, Ohio; Sandusky, Ohio; Bay City, Michigan; Rockford, Ill.; Fairbanks, Arkansas; and Flint, Michigan. If you want to move to the 10 least affordable areas head out to California although Ocean City, NJ ranks #4 least affordable!

The 10 most affordable with populations of 500,000 or more were Syracuse; Youngstown; Indianapolis; Warren-Troy, Michigan; Toledo, Lakeland-Winter Haven, Fla; Harrisburg-Carlisle, Akron, Dayton, Detroit. Median sale price of $80,000. Of course the least affordable were NY; San Fran; L.A.; Honolulu; Santa Ana-Anaheim; San Jose; Bridgeport-Stamford, Ct; Nassau-Suffolk; SanDiego and El Paso. Median sale price of $425,000.

10 Easy to-do Upgrades that add Style and Value

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference in the value and appeal of your home. Whether you’re trying to sell your home or just spruce up the place, here are 10 easy ways to get started.

1. Update hardware on cabinets and drawers

2. Replace towels and rugs in the bathroom(s)

3. Add overhead lighting or wall sconces to brighten rooms
4. Declutter small spaces and closets with DIY storage kits
5. Wash or power wash the exterior of your home (especially windows)
6. Add area rugs to throw in a hint of color
7. Hang a mirror in small rooms to give the illusion of more space
8. A fresh coat of paint on walls and trim brighten any room
9. Try a fresh new color on your front door for character
10. Mow and mulch your lawn even in the cooler months

Make a plan. Set a budget. Get started!

Local Hazardous Waste and Old Computer Collection

Hazardous Waste and Old Computer Collection Program for Middle Bucks is being held from 9:00 to 3:00 on Saturday, July 23rd, at CB South High School, 1100 Folly Rd., Warrington. You can bring as many 3 computers and 25 gallons of Hazardous products including: pesticides; flammables such as gas, oil, spot removers and paint thinner; caustics such as lye, oven cleaner, drain and metal cleaner; toxics such as rust/paint remover, antifreeze, weed killer, fluorescent lamps; household batteries and Lead-Acid Batteries including car, marine, motorcycle and truck batteries.

June 2011: Here's What's Happening at Patriot's Ridge

2011-06-09T08:44:00.001-07:00

ACTIVE: There are currently 19 homes for sale in your neighborhood. Fourteen of these are 2 bedroom, 1 and 1/2 baths. They range in price from $189,712 to $219,900. The median sales price is $203,700. The average days on market is 163.

There are five 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath homes for sale. They range in price from $205,000 to $260,000. One of these is a short sale. The median price is $255,000. The average days on market is 88.

PENDING: 5005 Rebecca Fell Dr, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Listed for $199,900

4580 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed for $254,900

3775 Swetland Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Listed for $249,900

SOLD: 5502 Rinker Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $220,000

3700 Swetland Dr,, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Sold for $240,000

What is happening in Patriots Ridge in April 2011

2011-04-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

What is Happening in PatriotsRidge in April 2010 including some rentals.

If you are ready to go on the market, please contact jeri@gutner.com

If you would like to see one of these properties, or anything else in Bucks or montgomery Counties
Please contact henri@gutner.com

2010-12-06T12:51:00.000-08:00

November 2010 Newsletter

Here’s What’s Happening in Patriots Ridge

ACTIVE:

There are currently 17 homes for sale in your neighborhood. Thirteen of these are 2 bedroom, 1 and 1/2 baths. They range in price from $194,900 to $229,000. The median sales price is $214,000. The average days on market is 86.

There is also a foreclosure /short sale 2 bdrm/ 1 1/2 bath for $165,000. I understand it needs some work.

There are four 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath homes for sale. They range in price from $230,000 to $269,900. The median price is $254,950. The average days on market is 74.

PENDING:

39 21 Captain Molly Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Asking price $204,900

5085 Rebecca Fell Dr, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Asking price $207,900

3645 Nancy Ward Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Asking price $210,000

4625 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, Asking price $259,000

SOLD:

5015 Rebecca Fell Dr, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $201,000

3631 Nancy Ward Cir, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $205,000

5033 Rebecca Fell Dr, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $205,000

5043 Rebecca Fell Dr, 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $212,000

4530 Louise Saint Claire Dr, 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, Sold for $220,000

HOW NOT TO BE ON THE MARKET FOR LONG

If you are thinking that a move is in your future you need to begin NOW. You may think that you don’t have a lot to do to go on the market, but we’ll bet there are things you MUST do that you don’t even know. We are very slow between now and the end of January and if you would like us to help you make your list of to-do’s to get ready for market, feel free to give us a call. We have done this for several people and it will really help move your home faster and for a better price.

See all of our listings with “real” virtual tours (not still pictures!) at www.gutner.com

Did you know that over the past year, 34 homes have sold in your neighborhood.

NONE of them had a virtual tour!!!! Don’t you deserve the same marketing

As a higher priced home???

Call us. Your home will have a virtual tour in addition to the best coverage available!!!!

Still haven’t Re-Financed?

Over the next few months mortgage rates will be at their best. Whenever the market slows down, rates go down and we’re coming into the winter months. If you are staying in your home for 5 more years you should really consider recasting your loan:
Loan Amount: $200,000 Rate: 6.25 Current Payment: $1,714 New Rate: 4.25 New Payment $1,504
Loan Amount :$300,000 6.25 $2,572 4.25 $2,256
If you are trying to decide if you should do a 15 year mortgage here’s something to think about:

On a $200,000, 30 year mortgage at 4.5%, you’ll pay $164,813 in interest with a monthly payment of $1,013. Pay down the loan in 15 year (by making prepayments of about $517 per month on the mortgage balance) and your monthly payment would be $1,529 and you’d pay $75,396 in interest. If you went with a 15 year mortgage at 4% instead, you’d pay $66,286 in interest and have a payment of $1,479. So ask yourself if you’d be willing to pay a few thousand dollars more in interest for the flexibility of having an extra $500 a month to cover life’s expenses without tapping home equity. Also assess whether you’re disciplined enough to actually prepay the loan. If the answer is no, then a shorter-term mortgage is a good fit.

Tips to Save $$$$ on Your Utilities

Turn down your water heater. 13% of your home’s electricity goes to heating water. Set it to 130—140 degrees and install an Insulation jacket. Insulate the first six feet of piping that comes off of your heater.

Turn off heat drying on your dishwasher.

Switch to CFL lighting (4X less energy) and look for the new LED lighting options coming to Home Depot soon.

LED bulbs can also save you money in the long term, because an incandescent bulb requires about $300 worth of electricity over ten years of use. The LED bulbs cost $40 (for the 60 watt equivalent Zetalux) and $50 (for the 100 watt equivalent) and their cost to run over ten years is about $38. Multiply that by all the bulbs in your home . . . WOW!

Install a programmable thermostat. Futures markets predict an unprecedented raise in the cost of natural gas this year. In January you will be able to pick an alternative source (other than PECO) and get a more competitive rate. It will still go through PECO for billing and pipes, etc., but you’ll be able to lower your bill a little. YOU CAN DO THIS ON YOUR OWN. Many people are running around selling this but you can do this yourself!!!

Wash your clothes with a full load on cold. 90% of the energy consumed by your washing machine goes to heating the water.

Clean the condenser coils on your refrigerator(s)!! Especially if you have pets! Get out your vacuum and do it NOW! You should do this every 3 or 4 months to cut your energy and prolong the life of your refrigerator.

75% of your energy is from “phantom” users including televisions, VCRs, stereos, computers, phone chargers, etc. Turn them off when not in use!

Keller Williams Coat Drive—

WE are working with a Philadelphia organization and collecting coats that you don’t need anymore. If you have a coat or 2 that you are ready to part with, call or email me and I will pick up or you can leave it outside in a bag, or you can drop off to me at my house in Cold Spring Hunt at 4060 Hunt Drive. THANKS!!!

April Newsletter

2010-04-23T14:01:00.000-07:00

April 2010 Newsletter Here’s What’s Happening in Patriots Ridge

ACTIVE: 3927 Captain Molly - 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, finished bsmt. Was $218,500. Reduced to $212,000. Reduced to $209,000 for 215 days.
3926 Captain Molly - 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin bsmt $219,900. Reduced to $214,000. Reduced again to $209,900 for 100 days.
3921 Captain Molly - 2bdms, 1 /1/2 bath, finished loft, finished basement. Listed for $214,900 for 46 days.
3965 Captain Molly - 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin bsmt $225,000, then $219,900. Reduced to 214,900. On the market for 162 days.
3631 Nancy Ward - a Reed, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, hrdwds, fin bsmt. Was $237,500, now $225,000 for 270 days.
5484 Rinker Cir - 2 bdms 1 1/2 baths Hardwoods, finished basement. Listed at $229,900. Reduced to $218,00 for 49 days.
3758 Swetland - 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath, end unit w/garage. $283,900. Reduced to $267,000 for 287 days.
3756 Swetland Dr. - 3 bdms, 2 1/2 baths, extra room in basement. Listed at $274,900. Reduced to $264,000 for 61 days.
5489 Rinker Cir. - 2 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths, tile floor entry, hardwood in kit. and dining rm., upgraded cabinet package. Listed at $218,900 for 30 days.
5021 Rebecca Fell Dr. - 2 bdrms, 1 1/2 bath, end unit, finished basement. Listing for $219,500 for 28 days.
5443 Rinker Cir. - 2 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths, pergo flooring thru-out 1st floor, finished basement. Back on market for $225,000.
3764 Swetland Dr. - 3 bdrms, 2 1/2 bath, new carpets, semi private rear yard backs to woods. Listed for $259,500 for 20 days.
3726 Swetland Dr. - 3 bdrms, 2 1/2 bath, end unit, backyard backs up to woods. Listing for $263,900 for 16 days.
3781 Swetland Dr. - 3 bdrms, 2 1/2 bath, remodeled eat-in kit. w/lots of cabinet space. Lower level with fam. Rm. opening to patio and back. Listing for $267,000 for 12 days.
PENDING: 5040 Rebecca Fell - end unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, new carpet. Listed $219,900 for 118 days.
4506 Lousie Saint Claire - 3 bdm, 2 1/2 bath, end unit, wood floors, deck, fin. bsmt., 1 car garage. $263,500 for 56 days.
5402 Simpson - 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, $226,000. Reduced to $219,500. 102 days on the market.
5536 Rinker Cir - 2 bdms. 1 1/2 bath, finished basement, remodeled bath. Listed at $216,000 for 18 days.
5473 Rinker - a Mifflin, end unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, mstr w/sitting area. Was $222,500. Reduced $214,000, 235 days.
3817 Swetland - 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath, fin. bsmt. $229,000. 46 days on the market.
5443 Rinker Cir. - 2 bdms, 1 1/2 bath, wet bar in finished basement. Listed at $224,900 for 25 days.
SOLD: 5532 Rinker - 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, fin. bsmt. Just listed $196,000 for 33 days.
4125 Captain Molly - end unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, patio. Was $225,900. Reduced to $209,000 for 135 days,
5492 Rinker - 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bathm loft. Was $234,000. Reduced to $218,000 for 288 days.
5001 Rebecca Fell - end unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin bsmt. Listed for 17 days, $219,800.

Keller Williams Agents have huge Hearts! Helping people in our community is a huge part of our company. This year, our RED DAY will benefit Seniors. Feel free to join us on May 13th at the Senior Center located at 700 North Shady Retreat Road to help paint the outside and 3 offices on the inside. We’ll be there from 8:00 to 5:00—join us for an hour or so, if you can. We are doing this in conjunction with THE TWILIGHT WISH FOUNDATION, a national organization founded by Cass Forkin of Buckingham. TWF is an incredible foundation granting wishes to Seniors. From a new mattress or air conditioner to re-uniting families they haven’t seen in years, riding on a motorcycle, and going to a prom, each wish is different. See them on the web at www.twilightwish.org. The stories are compelling, like Margaret, 81, a nursing home resident who lost her son suddenly and because of financial circumstances he had to be buried in an unmarked grave. TWF arranged for a headstone and a service to place it. They are Fantastic!

BUILDER Magazine’s Top 10 Elements of Style for 2010
Let’s not call them “trends” because trends come and go. Builders try to design homes that will last for generations. Builders are paying attention to Consumers who now desire less maintenance and more free time. Here’s the top ten design areas that builders agree on this year.

1. Standard height of 9 feet on first floor and a shift away from the two story great room to more effective use of second-floor space.
2. Low-maintenance/no-maintenance materials, especially on exteriors. Ceramic tile and stone floors, brick exteriors, and metal trim instead of wood on the outside are just a few examples.
3. Larger laundry rooms and mud rooms.
4. Natural materials are important on the interior—hardwoods, granite. Classic is here to stay.
5. “Me” spaces. Quiet corners and cubby holes to escape everyone, a computer niche, a junk room, a chair with a bookshelf.
6. Decline of the living room and increase in “special” rooms, such as home offices and media rooms. As houses get smaller there just isn’t room for a place you only visit to dust. It will still exist in many builders homes but it will not be a “formal” room.
7. Technology advances. Builders agree that they need to offer pre-wiring for an abundance of amenities, like Ethernet, surround sound, stereo equipment. Keyless entries, computerized security systems, advanced lighting controls, etc.
8. Outdoors for entertaining. Builders are paying attention to the back yards. Covered areas with full kitchens, home theaters, sleeping porches and dining rooms are popular. Decks and patios are still strong, but a screened porch is more popular.
9. Mixed products on the same street. Smart-growth initiatives are promoting design plans for master neighborhoods that mix singles, townhouses and condo’s.
10. Rear-loaded homes. As lots get smaller, garages are going out back or across an alley, saving the front of the home for porches. Remember your parents home, drive up the driveway and the garage is hidden back there. It’s back!

Need Help With “Stuff” around the House?
People I can’t live without:
My Painter, HVAC guy,
My Second Husband (our handyman)
My Decorator
My Tree Guy
My Plumber and My Roofer
Need a referral? Call Us!
If you are planning to put your home on the market in the next 6 to 8 months,
it’s not too early to start talking to us!
Attic Ventilation

Attic areas can hold substantial amounts of moist air. In the summer it is very hot and humid in the attic, however, in the winter it can be more humid causing a fair amount of problems.
1. The roof is roughly 1/2” away from blistering shingles.
2. As heat in the house rises, it gets trapped in the attic acting as a hat for the entire home.
By having good ventilation the hot air would be removed drawing in relatively cooler air. Insufficient air movement in the attic doesn’t allow the heat from the second floor to go anywhere. Hi temps and humidity will delaminate the roof sheathing, excessively dry out the roof framing and cause an earlier need to replace.

There are many ways to vent an attic; fans, ridge vents, gable end vents. The important thing is that it IS ventilated which will save you repairs and heating/cooling bills.

How to Save on Homeowners Insurance

1. Don’t shop on the internet. It is impossible to compare apples to apples.
2. Raise your deductible. A $1,000 deductible can save you as much as 25%.
3. Ask whomever is quoting how they figure the cost of the land into house coverage. Land doesn’t burn or blow away.
4. Buy your home and auto policies from the same company.
5. Ask what you can do to lower your costs by reducing risk.
6. Improve your home security w/alarms w/monitoring station.
7. If you’re at least 55 years old and retired or work from home, insurance companies love homebodies. They maintain their homes and are quick to spot problems.
8. Maintain good credit. It’s the first thing they look at.
9. Stay with the same insurer and if you ASK your loyalty will be rewarded with a discount.
10. Review your coverage and policy and coverage every year.

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY -
BE SURE YOU HAVE SUMP PUMP COVERAGE!!!
Remember!!! We work with ALL national Relocation Companies and while they may tell you that you have to work with their selections, that is NOT the case!

What is Happening in Patriots Ridge in March 2010

2010-03-09T13:31:00.000-08:00

March 2010 Newsletter Here’s What’s Happening in Patriots Ridge
ACTIVE: 3927 Captain Molly, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, finished bsmt. Was $218,500 Reduced to $212,000 for 175 days.
5473 Rinker, A Mifflin, End Unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, mstr w/sitting area. Was $222,500 Reduced $214,000, 235 days.
3926 Captain Molly, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, $219,900. reduced to $214,000 for 60 days.
3921 Captain Molly, 2bdms 1 /1/2 bath, Finished Loft, finished basement Listed for $214,900 for 6 days
5536 Rinker Cir 2 bdms 1 1/2 baths, finished basement, remodeled bath Listed at $216,000 for 4 days
3965 Captain Molly, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt. $225,000, Reduced to $219,900 for 122 days on the market.
3631 Nancy Ward, A Reed, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, hrdwds, fin bsmt. Was $237,500, now $225,000 for 270 days.
5402 Simpson, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, $226,000 62 days on the market.
5484 Rinker Cir 2 bdms 1 1/2 baths Harwoods, Finished basement Listed at $229,900 for 9 days
4506 Lousie Saint Claire 3 bdms 2 1/2 baths End unit, wood floors, deck, fin. bsmt 1 car garage $263,500 for 34 days.
3758 Swetland, 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath, end unit w/garage. $283,900 reducet to $267,000 for 206 days.
3756 Swetland Dr 3 bdms 2 1/2 baths extra room in basement listed at $274,900 for 21 days
PENDING: 5040 Rebecca Fell, End Unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, new carpet. Listed $219,900. For 118 days
5492 Rinker, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft. Was $234,000 Reduced to $218,000 for 288 days.
5532 Rinker, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, fin. Bsmt, Just listed $196,000 for 33 days.
5001 Rebecca Fell, End unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, listed for 17 days, $219,800.
3817 Swetland, 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, $229,000. 46 days on the market.
4125 Captain Molly, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft, patio. Was $225,900 Reduced to $209,000 for 135 days
5443 Rinker Cir 2 bdms 1 1/2 bath wet bar in finished basement listed at $224,900 for 25 days
SOLD: 5404 Simpson, 2 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths, fin. Bsmt, loft, porch, was asking $226,900. Sold in 12 days! For $221,900
3784 Swetland, 3 bdrms, 2 1/2 baths, garage, fin. Bsmt, backs to woods. Was $275,000. Another 12 day sale! $260,000
5518 Rinker, A Mifflin End Unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. basement. Asking $219,000 for 77 days. Sold for $207,000
3708 Swetland, End Unit, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath. Was $267,500 Reduced to $235,500 for 110 days. For $230,900
3817 Swetland 3 Bdms 2 1/2 baths fixer upper , short sale Asking $229,000 sold for $209,000 in 56 days.

Computer and Electronics Recycling Day:
Drop off all your old computer & electronic equipment & help save our Earth! Proceeds to Benefit: A Family of God Lutheran Church, 4770 Route 202, Buckingham, 413 So. To Left on 202, Left into Church parking lot.
Sunday, April 11th, 9AM to 1PM. Items accepted include: Laptop Computers; Printers & Fax Machines; Televisions ($20.00 fee); Batteries (lead acid); Computer parts; Air Conditioners ($20.00 fee); Desktop Computers; DVD Players, VCR’s; Computer Monitors ($5.00 fee); Stereos and Speakers; Cables/Cords; Small Appliances; Dehumidifiers ($10.00 fee); Electronic Toys. All proceeds go to sending kids to camp for week where they will repair homes for the less fortunate. The amounts listed above are not mandatory, but suggested.

What’s Hot?
Well, according to the National Association of Home Builders decking out the kitchen makes the whole home more saleable. Kitchen designs, they say, translates to dollars.
1. “Blue is the new green”. Soft blues are catching on with consumers looking at home as a refuge. It’s calming and clean. Gray is an increasingly popular and pumpkin-orange is great for younger buyers!
2. Now that you’ve stripped all that wallpaper, it’s bAAAck! But large-scale prints and only on an accent wall.
3. Cabinets have gone through oak and maple phases: Now they’re showing up in painted white finishes.
4. The average newly built single home shrank from 2.520 square feet to 2,480 but priorities changed to price, energy and organization. Very high on the list was a kitchen big enough for the whole family to dine—-67% surveyed said they wanted space for a table, as opposed to chairs at a counter. 62% wanted a kitchen that functioned as a family gathering place. Walk-in pantries are highly desirable and a “family foyer” gets top marks—not at the front of the house but by the garage—space for backpacks, coats, boots, etc.
5. And granite . . . “it’s almost a starter-home feature” says a kitchen designer. While it has moved off of the list of “musts” and been replaced by various energy-saving features, buyers expect it.
Need Help With “Stuff” around the House?
People I can’t live without:
My Painter, HVAC guy,
My Second Husband (our handyman)
My Decorator
My Tree Guy
My Plumber and My Roofer
Need a referral? Call Us!
If you are planning to put your home on the market in the next 6 to 8 months,
it’s not too early to start talking to us!

Top Budget Friendly Improvements:
1. Conquer Clutter—Whenever we have sellers get rid of their clutter, they think the house doesn’t look like their home. DUH! That’s the idea. We want people looking at space as theirs, not yours
2. Top Energy Efficient Project: Add Insulation
3. Top Outdoor Structures Project: Add a fence
4. Top Big Ticket Project: Finish the basement
5. Top Home Exterior Project: Repair Gutters
6. Top Outdoor Living Project: Add Outdoor Lighting
7. Top Landscaping Project: Make it look neat, tidy and easy to care for.
8. Top Storage and Organization Project: Maximize and Organize Storage Space
9. Top Bathroom Project: Refresh Fixtures
10. Top Kitchen Project: Upgrade Appliances.
10 Things EVERY Remodeling Contract Should Include:
1. The Contractor’s name, address, phone number, and license #
2. DETAILS on what the contractor will and WILL NOT do
3. A list of materials. Size, color, model, brand name and product
4. All required plans. Assure accuracy. Insist that you approve them and that they are identified in your written contract before any work begins.
5. Written notice of right to, without penalty, cancel within 3 days of signing. It’s the law.
6. The approximate start date and completion date.
7. Financial terms, spelled out—Total price, payment schedule, and any cancellation or “change” fees.
8. A binding arbitration clause, which you’ll need in the event of any disagreements. Arbitration may enable you to resolve disputes without costly litigation.
9. Everything you’ve requested. Make sure all items you’ve requested are included. If you do not see a specific item in the contract, consider it not included. NEVER sign an incomplete contract.
10. A warranty covering materials and workmanship for a minimum of one year and should be identified as full or limited. The name and address of the party who will honor the warranty (contractor, distributor, or manufacturer must be identified. Make sure the time period for the warranty is specified.

Should you Make Bi-Weekly Payments on Your Mortgage?
With biweekly payments, you pay half of the monthly mortgage payment every 2 weeks, rather than the full balance once a month. This is comparable to 13 monthly payments a year, which can result in faster payoff and lower overall interest costs. For example, the biweekly mortgage payment process can pay off a $200,000 30 year fixed loan at 7% in approximately 24 years (75 months sooner than a standard payment plan), with a total of $68,925 in interest savings.
Your lender might offer several biweekly payment options, where you make a payment that equals half of your normal monthly payment every two weeks. There is a considerable difference between different payment plans, so you should check with the lender to find out how they will treat your biweekly payments, exactly.
What most borrowers get when they convert their loan from monthly to biweekly payments is a pseudo biweekly (or standard biweekly) payment plan. On the pseudo biweekly, the biweekly payments are credited to an account managed by your lender. Once a month, as with standard payments, the monthly payments are made out of that account. The excess amount accumulated in the account by the end of each year is equal to a full monthly payment. At this point your lender makes a double payment.
In order to set up a true biweekly (or simple interest biweekly) payment schedule, you must have a lender that will immediately credit each 1/2 monthly payment upon receipt. The lender must calculate interest for two-week intervals and apply the biweekly payments less the interest to reduce principal every two weeks. Check with your mortgage holder—This is GREAT!

2010-01-26T13:11:00.000-08:00

January 2010 Newsletter Here’s What’s Happening in Patriots Ridge
ACTIVE: 5040 Rebecca Fell, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, new carpet. Just Listed at $219,900.
3927 Captain Molly, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, finished basement. Was $218,500 Reduced to $212,000 for 134 days.
3631 Nancy Ward, A Reed, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, hrdwds, fin basement. Was $237,500 Now $227,500 for 229 days.
5492 Rinker, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft. Was $234,000 Reduced to $218,000 for 277 days.
5532 Rinker, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, loft, fin. Bsmt, Just listed $196,000 for 11 days.
5473 Rinker, A Mifflin, End Unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, mstr w/sitting area. Was $222,500 Reduced $214,000 for 194 days.
5001 Rebecca Fell, End unit, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, Just listed for 13 days, $219,800.
3926 Captain Molly, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, $219,900.
3965 Captain Molly, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt. $225,000, 81 days on the market.
5402 Simpson, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, $226,000 21 days on the market.
3817 Swetland, 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, $229,000. 46 days on the market.
3758 Swetland, 3 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath, end unit w/garage. $283,900 for 88 days.
PENDING: 5404 Simpson, 2 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths, fin. Bsmt, loft, porch, was asking $226,900. Under Agreement in 12 days!
3784 Swetland, 3 bdrms, 2 1/2 baths, garage, fin. Bsmt, backs to woods. Was asking $275,000. Another 12 day sale!
4125 Captain Molly, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft, patio. Was $225,900 Reduced to $209,000 for 135 days
5518 Rinker, A Mifflin End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, finished basement. Asking $219,000 for 77 days.
3708 Swetland, End Unit, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath. Was $267,500 Reduced to $235,500 for 110 days.
SOLD: 3670 Nancy Ward, 2 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths. Sold in 11 days. Priced at $210,000, sold for $201,000.
3629 Nancy Ward, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, finished basement. Asking $207,000 for 14 days. Sold $207,000.
3629 Nancy Ward, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, fin. Bsmt, end unit. Asked $207,000, got $207,000. BANK OWNED.
5537 Rinker, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft. Was Asking $231,900 Reduced to $219,900 for 111 days. Sold $211,900.
3904 Captain Molly, A Davis, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, hardwoods, granite, finished basement. Was $226,000
Reduced to $214,900 for 54 days. Sold $214,900.
5401 Rinker, End Unit, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, hardwoods, fin. bsmt. Asking 219,900 for 48 days. Got $222,000.
5406 Simpson, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft, finished basement. Asking $222,900 for 14 days. Sold 217,900.
3632 Nancy Ward, 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, loft, finished basement. Asking $230,900 for 33 days. Sold $225,000.
5477 Rinker, End Unit, 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bath, loft, hardwoods. Asking $227,900 for 87 days. Sold $227,000.
5052 Rebecca Fell, 2 bdrm, 1 1/2 bath, hardwoods, finished basement. Was $233,000 Reduced to $229,900 for 240 days.
Sold for 221,900.

There are terrific tax credits available from the government for purchases made between now and the end of April and settling before the end of June. $8,000 right off your taxes due to Uncle Sam for a first time home buyer and $6,500 for a couple that moves UP or DOWN!!! This is FREE money. For more info, give us a call!!!

So . . . What do you do if you have to sell? You call in a Professional Team who has been in the business for 15 years and sold over a THOUSAND homes! Now honestly, how many Realtors can say that? And ALL of ours got to the settlement table save one buyer (Henri edited the word I wanted to use) who bought the house without his wife and backed out on settlement day when she didn’t like it! The relo company made the seller whole but we’re allowed 1 out of a thousand. No one we know can match that! Times are tough and it’s all about being aggressive with marketing and price. You control the price (along with the buyer and the appraiser) and your Realtor controls the marketing. Members of the Prestigious Cyber Stars, where entrance is determined on web sites, presence on the web and volume of business—there are only 200 in the whole country!!! Curious? Google us—either Jeri or Henri Gutner and see what you get. Then google someone else. Exposure? That’s what it’s all about! And that’s what we’re all about. Henri and I don’t have another spouse who brings home the bacon or carries the health insurance. We HAVE to sell the house or we pay out bunches of money in marketing and get nothing. 2 kids in college, the desire to retire before we’re in our 80’s . . . You get it! AND, we do virtual tours of EVERY HOUSE we sell. Right now, there are no virtual tours of any of the homes listed or sold over the past year!!!

Granite Myths:
If you are hesitant to install granite countertops, let’s dispel these myths right now.
1. Granite is absorbent. Granite qualifies as impervious to water and is actually less absorbent than some solid surface (plastic) products.
2. Granite stains easily. Granite is resistant to stains. Generally any liquid spilled on a granite top, if wiped up within a few minutes, will not stain. Liquids that do not evaporate, such as oil, will cause stains only if left to soak into the stone.
3. Granite requires a lot of maintenance. Routine cleaning with a mile soap and water is all that is generally required. Once a year, a reapplication of a penetrating sealer should be performed. It takes only about 15 minutes. Never use abrasive cleaners.
4. Granite’s tiny pores harbor bacteria. Bacteria are found everywhere. If they are on a granite top, then they can also be found on a laminate or solid surface. Use an antibacterial soap to wash your countertop if you are concerned.
5. Granite and marble are essentially the same. Other than the fact that they are both natural stones and can be polished, granite and marble are otherwise very different. Marble is generally a calcareous stone, formed from oceanic deposits and then compressed under pressure. Granite, however, is an igneous rock, essentially molten magma, that is cooled and hardened below the earths surface.

Your natural stone counter top choice will add years of beauty, strength, durability and ease of maintenance to your home. Do it and enjoy it!

LAST YEAR IN PATRIOTS RIDGE:
Last year 37 houses sold in your neighborhood. This year, there are more on the market right now than there have ever been!
Last year 30 Two bedroom, 1 1/2 bath homes sold for a high of $229,900 and a low of $192,000.
2 Three bedroom, 1/2 baths sold. One for $183,000 and one for $251,000. Both had garages.
5 Three bedroom, 2 1/2 baths sold. The low was $225,000 and the high was $258,000.

Not so fun facts:
One Fourth of Borrowers are Underwater. More than 23% of people with mortgage owe more on their properties than they are worth, according to research firm First American CoreLogic.
Another 2.3 million homeowners are within 5% of being underwater, bringing the total of those who are upside down or close to about 28%.
Fun Fact: U.S. homeowners do have home equity and nearly 24 million owner-occupied homes don’t have any mortgage at all!
Tax Credit Quandaries Answered
How does a current home owner qualify for the $6,500 tax credit?
Buyers must have lived in their homes for at least five out of the last eight years. The home they buy must become their primary residence, but buyers don’t have to sell their previous home. They use the previous home as a rental or second home and still claim the credit!
Does the new home have to be more expensive than the one the buyer currently owns?
NO. Great time to buy or UP or DOWN!
Can buyers claim the credit if they purchase a home from a relative?
No. You cannot claim the credit if the sale is between “related parties including parent, grandparent, child or grandchild.

ZIPS Dry Cleaners—any garment $1.99 (Great for Winter coats and blankets). Men’s laundered shirts are just $1.19. Mention the Gunter's and receive one free garment. 618 York Road in Warminster (across from Arch Bishop Wood HS) 215-442-1471.
AND REMEMBER!!!
Mention the Gunter's at Sherwin Williams for a
very nice discount!

Homebuyer Tax Credit Changes

2009-11-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

You’ve decided to purchase a home and take advantage of the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit. Here's what you have to do to get your benefit:
Close on your home purchase between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, or have a binding written contract by April 30, 2010 and close by July 1, 2010.
Decide whether to:
apply the credit to your 2009 tax return, filed on or before April 15, 2010;
file an amended 2009 return; or,
apply the credit on your 2010 return, filed on or before April 15, 2011.
Attach documentation of purchase to your return.
Documentation of Purchase
Details concerning the precise documents required to confirm your purchase have not yet been released. When this information becomes available, we will include instructions and links to the appropriate forms.
When to Apply the Credit
Buyers purchasing homes on or before December 31, 2009 may claim the credit on their 2009 tax returns.
Buyers purchasing in 2010 will have the option to:
Claim the credit on their 2009 return, even if the purchase is completed after December 31, 2009;
File an amended return for 2009 if their purchase is completed after April 15, 2010; or,
Claim the credit on their 2010 tax returns.
If you, or your client, purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see: How to Get the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
Applying the Credit to Your 2009 Taxes
You will need to do three things to claim the credit on your 2009 tax return:
Fill out Form 5405 to determine the amount of your available credit;
Apply the credit when you file your 2009 tax return or file an amended return;
Attach documentation of purchase to your return or amended return.