Gina McKinley, ABR, CDPE, CRS

Reality of AZ Realty

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 16:24:00 GMT

The reality of AZ realty is that searching for positive news about real estate is not that difficult these days.

Foreclosures have dropped in certain areas of the country. Some areas are showing rebounds, having an increase in sales volume and home values. The available home buyer tax credits and low mortgage rates are boosting home sales.

Even the drop in January sales appears temporary because, after-all, the tax credit expires on April 30th and people will start pounding the pavement in search of the new home to use it on.

Real estate that is selling in most places is because the price is right. For example, people are buying Mesa AZ real estate that they view as priced appropriately. If the home is affordable, it will sell.

The real estate that is not selling is real estate that is owned by people who are having a hard time letting go of what they think their home is worth, or who will lose their shirt if they sell at the correct price.

The reality of realty is that home values are not nearly what most people thought they would be when they bought their homes at the height of the market, but if you price your Mesa home correctly for this new market, you have a good chance of selling success.

Click here for a recent article from CNBC on what is going on in real estate right now.

Gina McKinley is a Mesa AZ real estate agent and would love to show you Mesa homes for sale or other Mesa AZ properties. Gina McKinley can be contacted at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Figuring Out Gilbert AZ Real Estate Statistics

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:39:44 GMT

When looking at Gilbert AZ real estate statistics, don't forget to remember your basic math. Median prices have been going up in some areas, down in others. The median is the value that occurs in the middle of everything that has sold. For example, if seven apples have sold for $1, $1.25, $1.5, $1.5, $1.5, $1.75 and $2. The median price would be $1.5. The median value is the middle price, it does not represent the size, quality or type of apple.

In real estate it is important to remember that the median sales price represents the average price of what homes are selling for in a given area. It is not representing the size, condition or value of a home. The median sales price can be offset by Gilbert foreclosure property that is selling in an area as well as by luxury property that is selling in an area.

The best way to determine the value of your Gilbert AZ real estate is to get it analyzed by an experienced Phoenix area real estate professional such as Gina McKinley. There are many factors in determining real estate values today and picking an average out of the air could hinder the sale of your home. In today's Arizona real estate market it is more important than ever to price your home appropriately.

To search for Gilbert AZ property for sale or if you have questions when selling your Gilbert home, contact Gina McKinley at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Short Sale Myths - Explained Again

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:41:01 GMT

Recently I spoke with a person that lost his job.  This particular couple contacted me regarding doing a short sale on their home in Chandler, AZ. They were thinking of doing a short sale to salvage their credit based upon some research they did online regarding short sales.

Unfortunately, this couple as many others out there, talked to friends and other people about short sales and were given bad information by their accountant. He told them that they should not do a short sale because their lender will take his severace money!! He also then went on to say that there is no difference between a short sale or a foreclosure.

Debunching Myth #1. The lender cannot take your money. The lender will review your financial information as part of the short sale process. They will look at your paystubs, tax returns, checking & savings accounts, and other statements as part of your financial hardship review. As part of the review, the Lender& will make a decision regarding the short sale. Lender's will basically make four decisions; full debt forgiveness, ask for a seller participation of either a cash to close requirement, a promissory note, or a combination of the two, and finally, reject the short sale due to no financial hardship. A decline in property value is not a financial hardship.

Debunching Myth #2 - There is a HUGE difference between a short sale and foreclosure on your credit. If you are able to continue making your payments on your home and do a short sale, your credit will be affected by about 50-80 points and you would be eligible to immediately purchase a home again. A person with job loss that are unable to continue making payments, will not be able to pruchase for three years after the short sale vs. a foreclosure does not allow a person to purchase again for 5 to 7 years depending on the investor that held the mortgage. A forclosure also can effect your credit score by 250 to 350 points and will remain on your credit for 7 to 10 years.

Short Sales can be very complicated transactions and each transaction is different. Please be sure to talk with an approprate expert in short sales. Look for a Realtor that is a Certified Distressed Property Expert and has received the proper training and knowledge.

There are many Short Sale Myths floating around the internet. For more information regarding short sales, please feel free to contact me directly at 480-355-8645 or visit me at www.az-short-sales.com for free reports and information.

Look Ahead When it Comes to Arizona Real Estate

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:13:02 GMT

The latest real estate headlines for the US are that home sales were down in January, some of these headlines even use the word "plunged". However, there are a few areas scattered around that managed to buck this trend and no media frenzy can change that. Think about it, is it really a surprise that sales are down in January? January is the coldest month, even if you live in a southern state like Florida, who wants to move in to a new house in January.

Does anyone really feel like shopping in January when they have just completed a major holiday season that began with Thanksgiving at the end of November? Most people are just plain worn out by the time New Year's Day is over, the last thing they feel like doing in packing up and moving. It is a month to relax and observe.

The original First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit was meant to expire in November and when it got extended and expanded people realized that they had more time to make a decision. January data is showing a dip because people wanted to stop and take a look at what the new year would bring. Now that 2010 is here and people can see that mortgage rates and property values are staying low, housing is bound to show a steady increase in sales and eventually prices as well. Even Warren Buffet appears optimistic, stating that he believes that housing problems will soon be behind us.

Click here to view Warren Buffet's stance on the economy and real estate as a whole.

Gina McKinley, a Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa AZ Realtor, is optimistic about Arizona real estate too. Gina McKinley would be happy to show you Phoenix area real estate for sale or to answer any of your questions when relocating to Scottsdale AZ area. Gina McKinley can be contacted at (480) 600-1129 or by email.

No Change in National Interest Rates in Near Future

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 19:32:01 GMT

Interest rates appear to be staying put until the US economy gets back on track. This past week Ben Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, announced his desire to keep interest rates low due to the fragility of the economy.

Unemployment figures are continuing to rise. These increasing unemployment figures are interfering with recovery and affecting real estate and general sales figures across the country.

Historically low interest rates and low home values combined with the extended and expanded First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit, have been instrumental in boosting real estate sales in the United States. These incentives are bringing buyers off of the sidelines and have created a true “buyer’s market”.

Real estate is typically a catalyst for for economic recovery and keeping mortgage rates low will be a significant help in keeping the sales coming in the Phoenix Arizona region. Click here to see a recent article about Ben Bernanke and his commitment to keeping interest rates low.

To find out how you can take advantage of the low interest rates when purchasing Phoenix property for sale or to view homes for sale in Arizona, please contactPhoenix realtor Gina McKinley. She would love to show you available Phoenix real estate for sale and can be reached at (480) 600-1129 or by email.

Help the Environment & Your Chandler AZ Real Estate with Green Improvements

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:38:18 GMT

When it comes to your home going green no longer means painting your house a shade of the color, it means you are taking steps toward improving both the environment and your wallet.

In Chandler AZ real estate green improvements can mean more energy efficient appliances like refrigerators, stoves, toilets and lighting fixtures to major improvements like adding solar heating, recycled materials and wind energy. Green improvements are not only becoming more popular but they are also becoming more attractive financially due to tax savings and long term cost effectiveness.

Choosing renewable products and making environmentally friendly decisions when it comes to your Chandler AZ property can make a big difference. While being green is often a state of mind, for people who dedicate themselves to recycling, turning off lights, and bicycling instead of driving a car, making green improvements in the home has proven to make quite a difference.

For information about green choices for the home click here to read a recent article from Realty Times.

Gina McKinley, a Chandler real estate agent, can help you find green Chandler homes for sale or other Phoenix area property. Gina McKinley would love to speak to you and can be contacted at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Foreclosure Figures Show Improvement Nationwide & in Phoenix Area

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 15:55:19 GMT

The feeling is that foreclosures are subsiding in the Phoenix Area. The incredible increase in foreclosure activity that hit the United States hard over the past couple of years was a huge catalyst for falling home prices, as well as a staggering hit to the national real estate market as a whole. The decrease in foreclosures for the end of 2009 that has been reported is good news for all. As foreclosures start to disappear Phoenix AZ real estate values will be less affected.

The Mortgage Bankers Association reported on Friday that there was a decrease in foreclosure applications for the last quarter of 2009. This was particularly good news considering the fourth quarter typically sees a rise in foreclosures due to heating costs, according to the MBA.

While foreclosures will still be coming the decrease appears to make the problem improving or, at the very least, not getting worse. The nation's employment numbers need to improve before we are out of the woods but slowly and steadily we are climbing out of the recession and real estate is taking baby steps toward a solid recovery.

Click here to read the full report from the MBA.

Gina McKinley, a Phoenix and Scottsdale area real estate agent, can help you search for Phoenix AZ foreclosed homes today. Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 600-1129 or by email.

Arizona Home Trends Lean Towards Simple, Efficient Lifestyle

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:05:33 GMT

From simple wall coverings to energy efficient appliances, Arizona home trends are set in home remodeling and design just as they are in fashion, entertainment and elsewhere.

Realtor Magazine recently published an article on current home trends and, not surprisingly most are geared toward cost effectiveness, energy efficiency or reducing stress. The past few years of enduring a recession and a housing bust have made people want to get down to the basics and live a simpler life and these priorities have filtered into the AZ home.

Current trends in Arizona home design include neutral colors, like white and beige, which are more calming than bright vibrant colors. Energy efficient appliances like refrigerators and cook tops are also being used more frequently as they are better for the environment and, in the long run, the wallet.

In order to keep the calm people are also adding relaxation rooms to their homes, whether they be complete spa rooms or a simple massage chair. A designated place to unwind helps erase stress and add to home's value at the same time.

Click here for a complete look at current home trends.

Gina McKinley, a Phoenix area Realtor, can help you use these current AZ home trends to your advantage when selling your Phoenix area home for sale. Gina McKinley can be contacted (480) 600-1129 or by email.

Research the Neighborhood Before Purchasing Your New Chandler Home

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:26:47 GMT

While many people seem to think that it is not wise to think of your home as an investment, the reality is that the opposite is true.

That being said there are some things to keep in mind when setting out to buy a Chandler AZ home, the least of which is getting to know the different Chandler neighborhoods that would meet your needs. If you do your neighborhood homework, selecting your home properly can insure more of a return on your investment when you decide to sell at some point in the future.

Research which Chandler area that you want to live in. Aside from knowing the schools and amenities that are available, take a close look at the Chandler property levels. Which streets hold more value? Is one edge of the neighborhood closer to a more upscale neighborhood, or is one side closer to a less desirable neighborhood?

According to Realty Times, less is more. They say purchasing the lessor home in the best neighborhood will give you the greatest return every time versus buying the best house in the neighborhood.

While you may not look at your primary residence as an investment, in the long run it may be the best investment you have, so do your research to come out ahead.

Click here to read buying advice from Realty times.

Gina McKinley, a Chandler AZ Real Estate Expert, can help you find the best Chandler home for sale to fit your needs. Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Remodeling and Renovating Your Gilbert AZ Home

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:06:15 GMT

Remodeling and renovating your Gilbert AZ home should be evaluated more closely than in the past, with an eye on your return on investment. If your remodel/renovation is strictly to improve your living situation, you plan on staying in your home for many years to come, and you have the money to make your improvements, by all means go ahead and make whatever changes are necessary.

If, however, you are looking at your home improvements as a way to maintain or improve your Gilbert home's value, do some research and evaluate whether you will get the return you need or expect to get when you sell.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Stay on par with your neighbors. Having the best house on the block might be nice, but it certainly won't give you the most bang for your buck. Your home is typically as valuable as other comparably sized homes around you.
Ascertain your home's condition. Today's Gilbert AZ home buyer does not want to spend a lot of money fixing up needed repairs like a leaky roof and broken windows. Keep on top of necessary repairs and upgrades to make it clear that the home is well taken care of.
If you are making upgrades to your home see if they can be energy efficient upgrades. Not only will you get a tax break but you will probably save money in the long run as well.

There are many remodeling and renovating items that you can choose to do that are cost-effective and attractive to future home buyers. For a recent article from Money that touches on the subject of remodeling and renovating click here.

To learn more about what you can do to make your Gilbert AZ home more attractive to buyers or to search Gilbert AZ property for sale, please contact Gina McKinley, a Gilbert area Realtor, call 480-355-8645 or email her here.

Gina McKinley Can Make Relocating to the Phoenix AZ area Much Easier

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:04:30 GMT

Moving to a new Phoenix AZ area home can be quite an ordeal, whether you are moving within the same area or across the country. To make a complicated and often stressful situation easier choosing a qualified and experienced Arizona real estate broker like Gina McKinley and that can make all the difference.

Gina McKinley, a qualified Arizona Realtor can:

Help you locate the best Phoenix AZ area neighborhood to suit you and your family. She knows the suburban area such as Chandler, Scottsdale, and Mesa, and will match it with your considerations and needs.
Help you settle in faster by matching your interests and hobbies with the appropriate groups. She can also point you toward the right doctors, schools and professional areas that will set you out on the right foot.
Gina McKinley will have the answers to your questions. She has survived relocation many times with many people and has the answers you need.

Keep in mind that choosing Gina McKinley as your AZ Realtor, you are also choosing her solid reputation, a her proven track record, and the knowledge you need to not only succeed in your Arizona real estate transaction, but adjust to your new surroundings, which will make your entire move much more smooth.

Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Perfect Time to be a AZ Real Estate Buyer

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 18:04:35 GMT

It is a buyer's market when it comes to AZ real estate. The seller's market came and went, and now it is the perfect buyer's market conditions. Low interest rates, home values and inventory all point to buy, buy, buy. The only thing standing in the way is money, but if people can get funding, and they are in the right place at the right time, buying real estate is a great idea.

If the AZ real estate market were a car, the first time home buyer would be in the driver's seat. Not only to first time Arizona home buyers get to take advantage of low mortgage rates, low home values, and a decent inventory of homes for sale, but they also don't have to sell a home before they buy a home.

There may not be a better time to be a home buyer, especially a first time home buyer, for a long time. The first part of 2010 displays ideal conditions to get out there and start looking.

Gina McKinley, a Phoenix AZ area real estate agent, can help you start looking for Phoenix AZ, Scottsdale AZ, Chandler AZ, Gilbert AZ, or Mesa AZ property for sale today. Gina McKinley is a great Phoenix AZ area home buyer's resource and can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

National & Scottsdale AZ Real Estate Market Sales Figures Looking Good

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:58:33 GMT

The national and Scottsdale AZ real estate market has been all over the map, today sales figures are looking good

Up, down, sideways, back and forth, it sounds like a game of hopscotch but is actually the way the economy, recession and real estate market have been moving. Mastering what is going on has had experts and professionals confounded, wondering how we can all come out ahead of the game. However there is one aspect that most can agree on - good news is great to hear.

Today's headlines show that overall real estate contracts are up in volume. That, of course, is good news for housing affected stocks, as they increased in price. Some believe that the spring buying season is starting early. December is rarely, if ever, thought of as a Spring month but December showed that the Pending Home Sales Index is up over 10%.

There is no doubt that the real estate industry is faring better than a year ago. To continue this growth trend: job growth needs to improve, interest rates need to remain low, and consumer confidence has to continue growing. So far though, 2010 is looking better than 2009 and hopefully the national and Scottsdale AZ real estate sales will continue to rise.

Click here for an article at Yahoo Finance about good news in the real estate market and its effect on the stock market.

Gina McKinley, a Scottsdale real estate agent, can help you search for Scottsdale Short Sale homes and Scottsdale Foreclosed homes for sale.

Gina McKinley can be contacted at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Selling Your Phoenix AZ Home? Choose the Right Realtor.

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 15:58:00 GMT

When preparing to sell your home it is important to find a real estate professional like Gina McKinley in Phoenix AZ. A warm handshake and a friendly smile is all well and good, but if you want to sell your home pick a broker that is experienced and knowledgeable, you want someone that will do the best job for you.

When selecting your Arizona real estate agent here are a few things to keep in mind:

Data. Get a prospective AZ Realtor to bring in a copy of what they have listed and closed. They can present you with an MLS report that displays their inventory.
References. Get references from a potential Realtor and call them. Find out what other people's experience with a particular Realtor has been.
Price. Get an evaluation of your property. A solid real estate professional will be able to detail what has been selling and for what price. He will be able to evaluate your home and your location, giving you a value for your home that will help sell it not deter people from looking at it.
Plan. What does your Realtor plan to do for you in terms of marketing, sales, listing, etc. Make sure they have a plan for your house and find out what they are willing to do to get it sold for you.

A person's real estate is often their most valuable asset, so do your legwork and choose the best broker for your home. He or she should be a salesperson, and if they can sell themselves to you perhaps they are halfway to selling your home for you as well.

Gina McKinley, a Phoenix AZ real estate agent, can help you buy or sell your Phoenix real estate today. Contact Gina McKinley with any of your questions at 480-355-8645 or by email.

Tips For Moving Into Your New House in Arizona

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 16:32:43 GMT

When you're buying a new house in Arizona, moving day can creep up on you. Staying organized can help make the entire process run more smoothly and keep stress levels to a minimum. Some things to keep in mind that will make moving easier are:

Book your moving company. Get suggestions from your AZ Realtor, such as Gina McKinley, or friends and book a moving company well ahead of time. Leaving this step until the last minute could leave you without a solid moving company to use.
Packing. Start packing well ahead of time, three or four weeks ahead of schedule may seem early but packing is time consuming and having everything boxed, labeled and organized will make moving easier. Start with items that you know you won't need or can live without and by the last week have only your essentials left. Storing your boxes in an unused room or the garage will make it easy for the movers to collect and move on moving day.
Survey your new Arizona home. Know where you want to put things well before you ever move. Take a good look at each room and know where you want your furniture to go. This will cut back on time and make everything run more smoothly for the movers.

In a nutshell, the more prepared you are to move, the entire transition will be easier.

Gina McKinley, an AZ Realtor, can give you more moving suggestions or show you various Arizona properties for sale in the Phoenix AZ area. Please Call Gina McKinley at 480-355-8645 or email her to schedule an appointment.

Check Carefully into Foreclosed AZ Real Estate Bargain

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:02:18 GMT

For potential AZ real estate investors who have money in their pockets, today's real estate market seems full of bargains. However it still pays be very careful before purchasing property no matter what the sale price.

Some of the best bargains out there have foreclosure written all over them. One of the largest red flags with foreclosures is they are held in the lender's hands, and more often than not, the lender is not caring for the property.

In cold climates this could mean frozen pipes or water damage, and in other areas, it could mean general plumbing problems. In general foreclosure properties are sold "as is". This means there will be no inspections and the lender will not be putting money towards fixing anything in the foreclosed property. Air quality problems that may arise from mold, radon, or gas leaks will not be mitigated. Lead paint will not be replaced, nor will asbestos be removed.

If you have your heart set on a foreclosure property, make sure to carefully inspect every aspect of the foreclosure before committing.

Speak with an experienced Arizona Realtor, such as Gina McKinley, to get a sales history on the house first. Doing your homework could result in a better future home-ownership outcome.

Contact Gina McKinley about Arizona foreclosures in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, or Mesa AZ areas at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

AZ Real Estate Roller Coaster Leaves Many Questions

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 17:26:43 GMT

Let's face it, times are tough and on any given day the mood is a different one than the day before. The market's up, then down, we're in a recession, we're recovering, it is hard to know what is really happening out there with so many mixed signals. Real estate is difficult to figure out, and remains relative to where you are in the country.

So is Arizona real estate really improving? Sales are up, inventory is down but Arizona foreclosures are expected to keep coming, especially with unemployment figures on the rise.

Have we hit bottom? The December real estate sales figures were down as a nation but some areas of the country saw an increase in sales. Parts of the country have hit bottom other parts still have a way to fall. Home prices are apparently steady in parts of the country and climbing in others. The areas where home prices will continue to fall are those hit hard by job losses, an increase in foreclosures and too much inventory.

In a nutshell, AZ real estate is relative. It is improving in many areas and as soon as our recovery includes job growth real estate is going to improve in many more areas.

To find out if southern Arizona real estate is improving in Phoenix AZ, Chandler AZ, Scottsdale AZ, Gilbert AZ, or Mesa AZ, talk to Gina McKinley, an AZ real estate agent, and ask about what market statistics she can provide. Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Click here for an article about real estate on Yahoo Finance.

Inexpensive Ways to Improve the Look of Your Phoenix Home

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:36:32 GMT

There are a million ways to improve the look of your Phoenix home, some are more expensive than others. If you are thinking of selling your home or already have your Phoenix AZ home on the market here are some tried and true, inexpensive ways to improve your home and make it more appealing to a potential buyer.

Paint. Painting a home is something that anyone can do themselves, or hire a painter to do. Fresh paint on the interior and exterior of a home makes it instantly appear clean and fresh.
Clean & De-clutter. Remove clutter, family photos and other personal items and clean and organize your home. Clean your carpets.
Repair & replace. Have a broken window? Fix it. Does your screen door squeak, oil the hinges. Look at your home with a fresh set of eyes and fix what looks broken or is broken. Duct tape may be fine for you, but probably not a prospective buyer.

These are just a few things that you can do yourself. It is a competitive Phoenix AZ real estate market out there and to sell your home quickly and for the most money it has to look its best.

For more inexpensive home enhancement ideas click here to visit an article at Trulia.com.

Gina McKinley, a Phoenix realtor, can help you prepare your Phoenix property for sale. Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

FHA Improvements Will Help Communities Like Chandler AZ

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 18:07:07 GMT

The past few years have not been easy in the housing sector, however the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) is working hard to assure its continued stability in the market.

Created to insure that affordable home financing was available to citizens, and catering mostly first time home buyers, the FHA is an integral part of the real estate business. Thus, keeping this association healthy in communities around the country, such as Chandler AZ, is important.

The changes that the FHA is making to insure its survival are as follows:

Raising mortgage insurance premiums from 1.75% to 2.25% of the loan amount.
New borrowers will have to have a FICO score of 580 or more to qualify for a 3.5% down payment, and those with a score of less that 580 will have to put a 10% down payment toward their new home.
Seller concessions are being reduced to 3% from 6% to limit any inflation that can occur on the price of a house.
FHA lenders are going to be carefully scrutinized to make sure that they are adhering to FHA rules and regulations.

The FHA has helped to put many people into new homes since its inception in 1934. The above changes reflect the FHA's desire to continue helping new home buyers in communities across the nation for many more for years to come.

For more information on the FHA changes click here, or contact the Chandler AZ real estate agent, Gina McKinley, with any questions about Chandler property.

Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email, and would be happy to show you any Chandler homes for sale or Chandler rentals.

Prepare for Home Inspection When Selling Your Scottsdale AZ Home

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:54:09 GMT

Home inspections can often make or break a deal. Hopefully sellers should have an inspection done ahead of time so repairs can be made, and their Scottsdale AZ home can be in its best possible condition.

However, often a seller does not do a home inspection first and is caught off guard by a long list of repairs presented in the due diligence portion of the contract process.

The most common home ailments that show up in the home inspection process are:

Faulty Electrical Wiring
Roof Damage
Plumbing Issues
Poor Drainage
General Lack of Upkeep

These are issues that can really add up, especially to a potential Scottsdale home buyer. These repairs could result in the potential buyer walking away if a seller is unable to step up and make the repairs or commit the money to make the repairs.

Examine these aspects of your home yourself. If you know everything is in good condition, and the work that has been done to your home has been completed by professionals, then you can rest easy. Otherwise, be prepared to make repairs in order to sell your Scottsdale AZ home.

To view an article on home inspections by Realtor Magazine, click here.

Gina McKinley, a Scottsdale AZ Realtor, can help you prepare your Scottsdale home for sale. Contact Gina McKinley today with any questions on improving you Scottsdale property at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Good for AZ Home Downsize

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:36:24 GMT

When the First Time Home Buyer Tax credit was extended and expanded most people thought the expansion was only for AZ home owners who wanted to move up, those who wished to buy a bigger, more expensive Arizona home.

In fact, the expansion simply includes those who have owned a primary residence and lived in it for at least five years consecutive years out of the last eight years.

If current home owners want to downsize they can use the tax credit toward their new home, regardless of whether it costs less than the home that they are selling or is physically a smaller home than the one that they are selling.

It is an anomaly that everyone assumes the tax credit is only for purchasing bigger and better. Many people, especially those whose children have grown and left the nest, want to downsize. After all, who doesn't want to make life simpler these days?

If you have been considering selling your AZ home and moving into a smaller space, consider doing so before the tax credit expires. Place your new Arizona home under contract by April 30th and close by June 30th and you could have a few extra dollars in your pocket.

For more information on the tax credit, click here or contact Gina McKinley, an Arizona realtor, for more information on how to take advantage of the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.

Gina McKinley can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Lock Your Chandler Home Mortgage at Low Interest Rate

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 17:37:41 GMT

Low interest rates have been gracing the real estate market with their presence for the past year, but the word on the financial street is that they won't be here much longer.

While mortgage rates aren't going to skyrocket out of sight, it is doubtful that they will decrease and certain that they will steadily begin to rise. For those wishing to lock their Chandler home in at below 5%, the time just might be now or never (or at least for a very long time).

This past beginning week in the new year, the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate was 5.09%. The general sentiment among economists is that rates are not going anywhere but up from here. The strengthening of the AZ real estate market and the national economy equals less chance for discounted rates.

If you want to refinance or purchase Chandler AZ real estate, now might be the best time to do so.

For more information on mortgage rates click here to look at a recent article from CNNMoney.com.

Gina McKinley, a Chandler real estate agent, can help you find your perfect Chandler AZ property for sale or can give you more information about how to lock in the current low interest rate.

Gina McKinley can be contacted at 480-355-8645 or by email.

Improve Phoenix AZ Home Exteriors for Better First Impressions

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:53:10 GMT

There is an annual report that examines the cost versus value for home remodeling. The report is helpful for those who are considering making improvements to their Phoenix AZ homes, especially if their Phoenix home is one that they consider selling in the near future.

Historically, bedrooms and bathrooms are where people consider spending their money but the return on the remodel investment is not necessarily there. According to the 2009 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report the best return for your money are exterior improvements that often begin at a lower cost.

Adding decks, replacing siding, new doors and windows are among projects that recoup the most money when re-selling your Phoenix area home. The return on these projects is typically 80% or more. The annual report shows how important first impressions are to Phoenix real estate buyers.

If you are thinking about selling your home consider a home remodel project to make your house exterior more eye catching.

To learn about other Phoenix Area remodel projects that can increase the value of your Phoenix house for sale or if you are interested searching for Phoenix real estate, please contact Gina McKinley. This Phoenix AZ realtor can help you with your real estate questions and can be reached at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Arizona Real Estate is Showing Strong Signs of Recovery

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 15:56:37 GMT

Arizona real estate is showing strong signs of recovery. Last month, overall real estate sales were up over 7% for sales of existing homes. The increase in real estate sales was seen in every region of the United States, due mainly to the first time home buyer tax credit, which was originally set to expire at the end of November, 2009. Low mortgage rates and low Arizona home prices have also been catalysts.

However Arizona foreclosures will continue to rise with unemployment, keeping AZ real estate prices from rising in harder hit areas, and home values as a whole are expected to remain flat for some time.

Interest rates are not expected to continue dropping and will most likely head in the opposite direction, expected to hold steady around 5.2%. According to the Wall Street Journal, Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke himself recently locked in a refinance on his residence, a clear indication that rates just might be as good as they're going to get.

For now, the data shows that AZ real estate sales are on the rise and will continue to improve as long as the mortgage rates stay low and the tax credit remains in place. What happens during the latter half of 2010 is up in the air, but for now the good news is far better than the news of a year ago.

Gina McKinley, an Arizona real estate agent, is awaiting your call to look at Arizona homes for sale or Arizona short sales. You can reach Gina McKinley or other members of her team at (480) 355-8645 or by email.

Avoid Selling Your Mesa AZ Home in Buyers Market

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 16:34:37 GMT

Today's real estate market is a buyer's market, which means you should not sell your Mesa AZ home except if you are forced.

The bottom of the market is near, if it has not already occurred, which means now is the time to hang onto your home. The reason you should not sell your Mesa property right now is clear - obviously you will not be getting top dollar for your AZ home.

However, if you have to sell you need to make your home as competitive as possible. Your home not only needs to be priced to sell and it needs to look its best. It is not the best time to pour money into your home to fix it up unless remodeling your Mesa home has a good cost return, but it is a good time to make it look its best. Paint it, stage it, make it eye catching.

Most importantly, price your real estate better than the neighbor's house and you will be more likely to catch a buyer. Real estate is expected to drop a bit more if not remain flat. If you have to sell be as competitive as you can. If you don't have to sell, stay put. It will be a while before Mesa real estate values start to climb, but if you can hold out you might fare better in the long run.

Gina McKinley is a Mesa AZ realtor and can help you look for Mesa homes for sale. If you are interested in learning more about Mesa AZ real estate, contact her at 480-355-8645 or by email.