From the monthly archives:

February 2009

New construction $10,000 tax credit

February 23, 2009

The folks in Sacramento have instated a $10,000 tax credit — or the lesser of that versus 5% of the purchase price — to entice buyers of qualified, principal residence new construction. The sales need to occur between March 1, 2009 and March 1, 2010. This tax credit is offered on a first-come basis…and the state [...]

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Wood shake roofs: 30 years

February 11, 2009

aluminum windows 15-20 years dryers and refrigerators 13 years copper gutters 50+ years   Want to know more? Here’s a 2007 study by the National Association of Home Builders on the life expectancy of major home components. When considering property, this should help forecast major repairs and replacements down the road.

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Kitchen & bath trends

February 11, 2009

In this month’s issue of REALTOR Magazine, which focuses on household elements, there’s a piece on kitchen and bath design trends. I agree that the two most impressionable rooms, for buyers, are the kitchen and baths. Many saavy buyers will overlook outdated kitchens and baths when properties are in otherwise good overall condition and priced [...]

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