Boise’s Best Realtors

I find myself taking for granted knowledge that surrounds me on a daily basis.  One such oversight was recently pointed out by a dear friend.  It’s called the Streamline refinance.  It is for people with FHA and VA mortgages who would like a lower interest rate.  Rates are moving between 4.75% and 5.25% on a regular basis, so if your rate is higher than 6%, now may be the time to take advantage of this program.  It can be done with or without an appraisal and requires NO INCOME verification.  The cost is low and in many cases, can be added to the principal, resulting in no out of pocket expenses.  It takes about 3 minutes to determine if the refinance makes sense, so that’s relatively painless.  For more information, please call Jennifer Conklin 208-371-4766 or email me Jconklin@Idahopmg.com

The Treasure Valley will see a decrease in the FHA loan limits for 2009.  Ada and Canyon counties will both adjust.  New limits will be $271,050.  This is a significant drop from the 2008 limit of $303,750.  There is still time for a purchase at the higher limit, but not much.  The drop isn’t a huge surprise as FHA hopes to maintain their stellar positioning, especially in light of problems with Fannie and Freddie.  FHA currently requires 3% down from the borrower, though rumors abound that an increase to 3.5% is in the works.  While the seller is no longer allowed to partcipate in the down payment, gifts, community seconds and loans from employers are still viable alternatives.

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Some people seem to think so.  Ada County sales are at 279 for the month of October.  Canyon County sales are at 270 for the month of October, with 10 days left to go in the month.  Not bad for a market that is “in the tank” according to…well, all radio stations, news stations, and the local papers.  So, what do these numbers mean to you, the consumer, the local, the buyer/seller?  It means that even in our economy(which has been painted as nothing less than bleak at best by the local media), people still have jobs, banks are still lending money, and people are still buying.  Consumer confidence is anticipated to return after the elections are over, as they always do.  Interest rates are still at an all-time low.  Tax credits, seller motivation, and homeowners exemption are just a few of the perks buyers benefit from by getting off the fence.

So, is now a good time to buy in the Treasure Valley?  I’d say it’s one of the best times in recent history, contrary to what we’re constantly being fed.  Jump on the bandwagon with the other 549 people in the Treasure Valley that have gotten a steal on a home and call a local realtor today(I know of a few good ones). 

How’s that for a pep talk?  The media(local and national) can shove it.

With recent talks of layoffs pending, it’s nice to get some positive news.  There are plenty of companies looking to the Treasure Valley for a home base, with the beautiful autumn weather we’re having, hopefully the plans become a reality.

http://www.idahobusiness.net/archive.htm/2008/10/02/BVEP-reports-plenty-of-projects-looking-at-the-Treasure-Valley

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In support of Breast Cancer Awareness, Family Circle researched which states in the nation had the highest percentages of women who get regular mammograms.  Idaho failed, ranking worst in the nation at 33% who have not had a mammogram within the last 2-3 years.  This staggering 33% also factored in women who do not regularly get mammograms.  The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends performing self-tests weekly and having a mammogram performed by a professional every 1-2 years.  For women with a history of breast cancer in their families, it should be done every 6 months.  To get a list of FDA approved facilities in our area, visit http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfMQSA/mqsa.cfm.  Let’s boost our numbers!

City of Boise has their 2008 grant money back!  The grant is designed to help low-to-moderate income families obtain financing for the purchase of new and existing homes.  Funds are limited and it is a first come, first serve basis.  For maximum income guidelines and more information about qualifying, visit www.boisecity.org.

This doesn't have to be your starter home

There has been significant confusion regarding current incentives for First Time Home Buyers.  This is the best article around for spelling out the conditions and answering questions.  The time frame is April 9, 2008 to July 1, 2009 to qualify.  A first time home buyer is defined as someone who has not owned in the past three years.  Please read the article for more information or contact any member of the Conklin Team!

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/print.php?page=faq.php

With land along the Boise River at a premium, it seems odd that one of the best locations has long gone unnoticed.  That is, until now.  With the new Vertex development underway, the Garden City River District is soon becoming a trendy spot.  The location couldn’t be more ideal.  Close to shopping, roadways, the Greenbelt, and of course, the RIVER!  To read more about this exciting new development, check out this articele in the Idaho Business Review: http://idahobusiness.net/archive.htm/2008/09/23/Garden-City-development-seeks-to-augment-live-work-create-vision

The Idaho Meth Project continues to amp up in order to educate Idahoans about the use of Meth among teens and adults.  Targeting ages 17-21, this campaign is designed to spread the word about usage and prevent more from falling victim to this addictive drug.  The “Not Even Once” slogan is plastered on window stickers, tattoos, radio ads, TV ads, and billboards.  They are looking for opportunities for a continued presence in the community and are looking to speak in public/private schools this fall/spring.  If anyone has more information about it, please comment.  Or, visit the website at www.idahomethproject.org.  On this site, you can also register to be a volunteer, join our district 4!