Listen Up 1st Time Buyers...Free $$ and Details on the $8,000 Tax Credit

If you've been renting an apartment or leasing a home for awhile in Northville, Plymouth or the surrounding area, this might be the perfect year to buy your first home.



In addition to the low interest rates and great deals out there right now, the big advantage to buying before the end of 2009 is the $8,000 tax credit enacted by Congress this year to stimulate the housing market. Unlike the 2008 credit, the 2009 tax credit does not have to be paid back.

Here's a great video about the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit with answers to a lot of questions you might have:



Plus here's a matrix outlining the tax credit. And if you'd like to explore your housing options further, give me a call!

January 2009 Market Report

I know, its the first day of March, but better late than never.

The January statistics issued by our local MLS Realcomp indicated home sales continued their upward trend. In fact, sales increased 25.7% over January 2008.

Most home sellers who don't have to sell are staying put or leasing until things start to recover. Most homes on the market are well priced and inventory is down 21.1% over January 2008.

The first-time home buyer market remains strong and should continue with the recent passage of the $8,000 credit for first time buyers, which unlike the 2008 credit, doesn't have to be paid back. That's a nice incentive, which should hopefully spur more sales enabling move-up buyers to make their moves.

With changes every day, it's hard to keep up, but here are a few interesting stories I've come across:

• Freddie Mac to let residents rent homes after foreclosure
• MSNBC FirstRead's explanation of the Homeowner Afforability and Stability Plan
• A blog post with several resources for laid off workers
• Detroit Free Press article with advice for tax appeals

By the way, if you know anyone Michigan homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments who might be facing foreclosure, please have them visit Save The Dream operated by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). Their toll-free number is 866-946-7432 and directs homeowners to a foreclosure prevention counselor in their county.

Southeast Michigan December 2009 Market Report

Residential sales ended 2008 up 19% higher than 2007 with December's strong finish. In fact, according to Realcomp, every county in the entire MLS showed increased sales and pending sales, which bodes well for 2009.

Sales for the entire MLS during December 2008 were up 31.6% over December 2007, reflecting the 12th straight month of growth.

Strong 2008 starter home sales (those priced under $125K) were up 61% over 2007 due in large part to affordable home prices and low interest rates.

Even though December's inventory was down over 18% over December 2007, the supply of homes remains greater than the demand. Therefore homes selling in this buyer's market are priced to sell.

Market activity has started strong this year. It's still a wonderful time for first time homeowners to take advantage of low interest rates and values.

A Grain of Salt

This morning I answered a question on a popular real estate site about how a Livonia MI home could sell so cheaply ($90K) in an area of expensive homes without being listed for sale.

Turns out the home in question was in a new subdivision of about 70 homes so it was purchased through the builder. Upon further investigation, I discovered that after the transaction closed, only the sale of the parcel of land was recorded as the real estate 'sale' on public records. Also recorded was mortgage for over $300K. That doesn't account for how much the Buyer might have paid as a down payment.

It's become so easy to do home value research online through sites like Zillow and Trulia. However, until each municipality standardizes how new construction transactions are to be recorded, data will continue to be skewed and deceptive.

Your best resource for local home values is still a local professional real estate agent who can fill in the full picture for you.

29445 Orangelawn St | Livonia, MI 48150 Just Listed For Sale

The Seller's Job Has Moved Out Of State and She Hates To Leave This Great 2 Bedroom Condo With Basement!

Cute Updated Oak Kitchen With Hardwood Flooring, Newer Appliances, Newer Carpeting, Windows, Air Conditioning & Furnace * Two Spacious Bedrooms With Updated Bathroom * Basement With Newer Washer & Dryer * Like Living In A House With The Convenience Of A Condo Plus Short Walk To Shopping, Restaurants & Parks * Offers Are Subject To Short Sale/Bank Approval

Property information ~ $59,900
2 bedroom, 1 bath condo with basement

September Market Report

As if the Michigan economy didn't have enough challenges, the past month of national and world financial chaos certainly hasn't helped.

Even with all those challenges, the Southeast Michigan counties of Wayne, Oakland, Livingston, and Macomb all experienced higher sales volumes than last year for the month of September. Depending on the zip code, the number of September sales in Plymouth increased 48.5%, Livonia between 30-54%, Northville 15-175%, Westland 22-100%, and Canton 27-29%. However, sale prices are continuing to decline.

The good news is that between the higher number of sales and Sellers choosing to wait out the market and not putting their homes up for sale, the inventory of homes on the market was down 16.43%.

It remains a great market for buyers, especially those with good credit, first time homebuyers, or those who don't need to sell anything to buy. There are some smokin' deals out there, particularly if you want to put in a little sweat equity. Additionally, lots of investors are jumping into the market hoping to take advantage of the low prices to position themselves well for the market's turn.

With the financial bailout, auto merge rumors, job insecurity, and presidential politics, we're still in for some rough months ahead. Best to batten down the hatches, cut where you can, and hang on for the ride.

Summary of Economic Stabilization Act by the National Association of Realtors
Tax Credit to Aid First Time Homebuyers by the Internal Revenue Service

Livonia Pumpkin Fest and Haunted Barn

The historic Wilson Barn is the site of Livonia's Pumpkin Fest being held Fridays through Sundays, October 17-19 and 24-26, and Wednesday and Thursday, October 29-30.

Decked out in Halloween haunting style, the barn has been transformed and children aged 12 and under are invited to journey through the spooky historical horse stalls for lots of chills and thrills.

Other activites include a pony ride, bounce house, and pumpkin patch. Cider & donuts are available in the Barn to get you in the seasonal spirit.

Held 5:30 - 8:00 PM on the above dates, admission is $.50/person/trip through the haunted barn.

30553 Grandon | Livonia, MI 48150 Just Listed For Sale

ABSOLUTELY MINT MOVE IN HOME! From The Perfect Lush Landscaping Outside To The Meticulous Interior And Updated Amenities Inside This Home Is A "10" * 2 Fireplaces, 2 Full Baths, Hardwood Floors, A 4 Season Sun Room, Finished Lower Level With Bar and New Berber Carpeting Plus A Newer Kitchen To Die For…This Home Has It All! A Must See!

Property information ~ $192,900
1,211sf, 3 bedroom, 2 bath Ranch

Laurel Park Place Hosts Passport To Safety

As a former "Officer Friendly" while I was in the Marine Corps, I'm happy to see that Laurel Park Place in Livonia is hosting "Passport To Safety" this Saturday, September 13th, 2008 from 11 AM - 3 PM. Dedicated to the safety of childen, it's an opportunity for kids of all ages to have fun while learning how to be safe.

Eight different safety stations will highlight areas such as auto safety, bicycle safety, on-line safety, Stranger Danger, Poisoning & Choking, fire safety, and how to call 911.

Besides being able to win prizes at the safety stations, The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man and Scooby Doo will make an appearance. Representatives from The Livonia Police and Fire Department, The Michigan State Police Computer Crimes Division also will be on hand to inform and educate the children within their respective areas of safety.

It's the perfect opportunity to introduce your children to safety prevention in a fun, non-threatening way while educating them.

Laurel Park Place is located North of 6 Mile Road, just east of I-275 in Livonia, Michigan.

Annexation Plan Goes Down in Defeat

Tuesday, August 5th, Livonia voters and seven Northville Township residents on the old Northville Psychiatric Hospital voted against the plan to annex the 414 acre property.

As a former Northville resident and current Livonia resident, I was conflicted about the debate. Mostly, I'd love to see new life given to this beautiful parcel, regardless of whose responsibility it is.

As it turns out, the developer dropped their $100 million lawsuit against Northville Township in exchange for 100 acres of land. Now that the annexation vote is behind them, that agreement can proceed.

Given the big push in Livonia to stop the annexation, I found it ironic to see this sign at the corner of 6 Mile and Haggerty. Hmmm, I wonder who was behind the stop annexation agenda after all?

9654 Arcola, Livonia MI 48150 Just Listed For Sale

Shows Like A Model!

The "Wow" Factor Is Offered With This All Brick Bungalow - Everything Is Updated, Custom Painted And Shows Like A Model. Newer Windows, Updated Baths, Fantastic Master Suite With Sitting Area, Newer Windows, A/C, Cement Driveway, Stamped Concrete Walkway, Professional Landscaping, Private Backyard, & The Best Is The Finished Lower Level Offering 500sf of Custom Oak Bar & Family Room!

Property information ~ $164,900
1,220sf 3 bedroom,2 bath Bungalow

29162 Minton, Livonia MI Just Listed For Sale

Absolutely Impeccable And Shows Beautifully!

Everything Is Done From The Roof To The Windows, Furnace, Air Condition & More. Hardwood Floors, 3rd Bedroom Currently Being Used As Dining Room With Doorwall To Custom Decking; Updated Electrical, Plumbing, Finished Lower Level Offers An Additional 600sf of Finished Area With Half Bath. Shows Like A Model And A Pleasure To See!

Property information ~ $167,900
1,058sf., 3 Bedroom, 1.1 bath Brick Ranch

The Great Annexation Debate

I first wrote about the old Northville Psychiatric Hospital property back in 2004 when the State of Michigan accepted a bid from a local developer on the property.

Fast forward 4 years, and the property is still entrenched in a quagmire. Now, because of difficulties between the developer and the Township, Livonia residents will have a chance to vote on August 5th whether or not to annex the property to Livonia.

Read the Livonia Chamber of Commerce's Question & Answers Report, check out the pros and cons and decide for yourself what the best course of action is for this property.

All I DO know is that this site along 7 Mile has been an eyesore for far too long!

14720 Susanna Livonia MI Open Sunday

Castle Gardens - We invite everyone to visit our open house in Livonia at 14720 Susanna this Sunday, June 22 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

From a new cherry and granite Kitchen to over 700 square feet of finished living space in the lower level, this totally renovated Castle Gardens brick ranch shows like a model home!

Property information -- $192,900
South of 5 Mile/West off Newburgh on Lyndon

14720 Susanna Livonia MI Open Sunday

We invite everyone to visit our open house in Livonia at 14720 Susanna this Sunday, June 22 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

From a new cherry and granite Kitchen to over 700 square feet of finished living space in the lower level, this totally renovated Castle Gardens brick ranch shows like a model home!

Property information -- $192,900
South of 5 Mile/West off Newburgh on Lyndon

14720 Susanna | Livonia MI Just Listed For Sale

Shows Like A Model!

The "WOW" factor! Totally Renovated From The New Cherry and Granite Kitchen To Over 700 s.f. of Finished Lower Level Living Area With Full Bath. Travertine Marble in Kitchen & Baths, 6 Panel Doors, Sprinkler System, Huge Deck, New Electrical, C/A, Roof, Furnace - Just A Must See!

Property information ~ 1,005 sq. ft., 3 bedroom 2 bath, ranch ~ $192,900

Join The MichiganMoves.com Team!

The MichiganMoves.com Team has signed up to participate in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life® this year and we'd love for you to join and support us!

Also, if you know the Names & addresses of local survivors, please email Debra so she can submit them and they will receive a special invitation to the Survivor's Lap & Luncheon.We're looking forward to a lot of fun and commraderie with a great team while we raise money for a cause that impacts so many people's lives.

Visit our team website for more information. Then please join us in supporting the American Cancer Society in honor or in memory of your loved ones.

You've Got Mail

Did you receive a surprise in your mailbox recently saying your value has decreased, but your taxes have gone up? If you have, you're not alone. Countless numbers of residents in the Detroit Metro area are scratching their heads wondering what's up.

With all the news about declining property values in the area, how could this happen?

Prop A passed in 1994 limiting tax increases to the rate of inflation based on the taxable value (homeowners who used their property as their primary residence). It wasn't a problem when property values were continuing to rise, but starting in 2005 when values stalled to today when they are declining, it's a big problem for many homeowners.

For folks like us, who bought in 2004, both our SEV and Taxable Value declined $11,650 which should hopefully result in a decrease in taxes. But for homeowners who have owned their property since 1994, there is a big gap between the SEV (State Equalized Value--the 'value' the municipality perceives the value to be) and the Taxable Value (the amount your taxes are based on because it is your primary residence).

Papers like the HomeTown News and Detroit News have been warning about it since the first of the year. But now that assessment notices have been received, property owners are flooding tax review boards requesting reductions.

This morning's Detroit Free Press contained an excellent article including definititions, resources, and describes how to read your assessment notice.

For more information about the tax appeal process, check out WWJ.com.

Change Rings In The New Year

The MichiganMoves.com Team is excited to announce our new Downtown Plymouth location.

RE/MAX on the trail at 1000 West Ann Arbor Trail Road recently finished a complete renovation of their historic 1874 building. A large addition and remodeled interior has kept the unique character of the office, and an expanded parking lot to be built in the Spring will complete the renovations.

One of the reasons we made the change was we missed a downtown location, and we searched for a brokerage that didn't charge the administrative fees other brokers have resorted to, saving our clients money.

We're proud to join the 9 other agents in the office, and look forward to sharing our wonderful new location with our clients.

We wish you a very happy and prosperous 2008!