GDHI.org

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Interest in alternative assets among both institutional and individual investors has been growing in recent years

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Like the iconic waterfront Sydney Opera House, the Wuxi Grand Theatre, built by Finland’s PES-Architects, benefits from its location.

Located on a manmade peninsula, the theater is highly visible from all directions- a prime spot that provided the opportunity to construct an eye-catching roof that places the building in a direct dialogue with the city’s weather. Eight massive steel wings stretch out from the roof 50 meters high, adding a distinct sculptural element while reflecting direct sunlight, sheltering interior spaces from excessive heat. The slanted roof also works to harvest rainwater, taking advantage of the local climate and reducing the building’s impact on the environment.

Thousands of LED lights illuminate the aluminum wings; inside, the Main Auditorium is covered by over 15,000 bamboo blocks, capturing the local character while infusing a distinctly Finnish element in its forms and materials.

One year after its opening, the theater has seamlessly integrated its green terraces and lakeside landscape into the urban context and local culture…

See on www.architizer.com

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Located in Martinborough, New Zealand, Cornege-Preston House cleverly mixes modern amenities with a peaceful rural environment atmosphere.

Envisioned by architectural firm Bonnifait + Giesen, the 2,153 square foot contemporary residence offers plenty of sustainable features, such as double-glazed windows and skylights for cross-room solar penetration and heat retention, water heating by solar hot water panel on roof topped up by thermostat-controlled electricity and two 25,000 litre tanks capturing rainwater…

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See on Scoop.it – Loving Earth Day

From 1971 to 2000, the world’s land areas were the warmest they have been in at least 1,400 years, according to a new study inNature Geoscience. The massive new study, involving 80 researchers from around the world with the Past Global Changes (PAGES) group, is the first to look at continental temperature changes over two thousand years, providing insights into regional climatic changes from the Roman Empire to the modern day. According to the data, Earth’s land masses were generally cooling until anthropogenic climate change reversed the long-term pattern in the late-19th Century.

“Even just a few years ago we would have aimed for a single worldwide temperature series,” says co-author Ulf Büntgen with the Swiss Federal Research Institute (WSL) and PAGES. “Nowadays, we know how important it is to have a better understanding of regional differences.”

Scientists were able to reconstruct continental temperatures across every continent except Africa, where data is still lacking. They found that continents could still show important idiosyncrasies even in the midst of global trends.

“Distinctive periods, such as the Medieval Warm Period or the Little Ice Age stand out, but do not show a globally uniform pattern,” explains co-author Heinz Wanner with the University of Bern and a member of PAGES.

The researchers found that such temperature changes occurred during different times on continents. For example, the Medieval Warm Period occurred from around 830 to 1100 AD in the northern hemisphere, but a similar warm-up period doesn’t show up in the southern hemisphere until 1160 to 1370 AD, a lag time of 300 years. Meanwhile, the Little Ice Age began decades earlier in the northern hemisphere than in the southern. The oddest continent proved to be Antarctica, which bucked trends elsewhere during several periods.

Looking at the temperature data over 30 years intervals allowed scientists to note that the most recent period (1971-2000) held the title for the warmest on record. Still, zooming into a continental view showed a slightly more diverse picture: for example, temperatures in Europe from 21-80 AD may rival those of 1971-2000. But globally the picture remains the same: over a thousand years of cooling, replaced suddenly by warming beginning in the late 19th Century. According to climatologists, temperatures have risen about 0.8 degrees Celsius (1.4 degrees Fahrenheit) in the last hundred years over land and sea due to burning fossil fuels, deforestation and other land-use changes, and industrial agriculture. The most recent decade was the hottest yet.

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MSNBC
Hug a tree! 5 fun facts about Earth Day
Fox News
Though Earth Day is mainstream now, its roots go back to the radical 1960s.

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See on Scoop.it – Loving Earth Day

We all know that fish can be a great source of heart-healthy lean protein. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, swapping in one or two servings of fish as your protein each week can lower heart attack risk by up to one-third.

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Today marks the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day. More than a billion people around the world will take part in activities and events centered around raising (How Will Your Family Celebrate Earth Day?: Today marks the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day.

See on childparenting.about.com

Written By: Rebecca Martinez

FHA The Federal Housing Authority has been this country’s most affordable financing option for low-down payment and first-time homeowners. FHA has made home ownership possible for many lower income , and credit blemished Americans. However, as of April 1, 2013 FHA loans will be more expensive, less appealing and more difficult to attain.

FHA’s guidelines and MIP (mortgage insurance premium) will increase and change once again. As of April 1, the MIP (mortgage insurance premium) will be increased by one-tenth of a percent. This will be the third increase of MIP since 2011.

Other forthcoming changes will begin as of June 3, 2013 which will include a minimum requirement of 5 percent down on all FHA loans above $625,500, and mandatory manual underwriting for all borrowers with credit scores below a 620 exceeding a 43 percent debt to income ratio.

FHA will also rescind on one of it’s most popular policies which is giving the borrower the right to cancel mortgage insurance premiums after the loan reaches a lower loan to value percentage and declines to 78 percent of it’s value.

As of June 3, 2013 the borrower will no longer have the right to cancel the mortgage insurance premium, and will be forced to keep the MIP (mortgage insurance premium) through the entire life of the loan.

These new guidelines will make an FHA loan more expensive, and unappealing to a low-down payment borrower. Always remember to ask a qualified mortgage professional to provide you with all of your financing options.

Sources:
For full article visit
Daily Herald By: Ken Harney @2012 Washington Post Writers Group

Portland, Oregon is one of the most beautiful places to live in the Pacific Northwest. The landscape is picturesque and formed by many mountains, rivers, and forests. The weather here is rainy, and a bit colder. However, even though the color of the skies are mostly gray there is nothing dull about this city.

The winter nights are long, cold and dark and the days are usually cold and gray making it an ideal setting to enjoy a cup of coffee, beer, book, or a movie. Take a trip to the mountains, or to the coast. Take up an outdoor sport from snowboarding to fishing the Pacific Northwest will bring out the outdoor enthusiast in you.

Portland is located in the Pacific Northwest approximately 60 miles away from the Pacific Coast, and approximately 65 miles away from Mt. Hood. Three (3) prominent volcanoes can be viewed from different parts of the City of Portland: Mt Hood , Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Adams. The city is also surrounded by three (3) major rivers: Willamette River, Clackamas River, and Columbia River. The lush trees of the Pacific Northwest forest gives this city’s residents a clean dose of oxygen. Written By: Rebecca Martinez Artwork By: Rebecca Martinez

Carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless, colorless, tasteless and can only be detected with a carbon monoxide detector. In a home carbon monoxide can be poisonous and sometimes lethal. Properly installed carbon monoxide detectors can keep your family safe. Carbon monoxide in home can be produced by water heaters, space heaters, open flames, blocked fireplaces and/or wood stoves, and/or a running car in a garage. If you are installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home always follow the manufactures instructions. Properly place 1 per floor including the basement, and within 15 ft. from each bedroom.

The State of Oregon requires that Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Detectors must be installed per code in all dwelling units when title is transferred and/or conveyed. As of April 1, 2011 all dwelling units that convey, or transfer title must meet appropriate State of Oregon ordinance code.

Here is an excerpt regarding the requirements of the Department of State Police, Office of State Fire Marshall:
“Installation and Location of of Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Detector

837-047-0130 Installation and Location of Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Detector

(1) All carbon monoxide alarms or detectors must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended instructions and located in accordance with these rules and applicable building code at the time of construction or alteration of the dwelling.

(2) One and Two Family Dwellings and Manufactured Dwellings:

A properly functioning carbon monoxide alarm must be located within each bedroom or within 15 feet outside of each bedroom door. Bedrooms on separate floors in a structure containing two or more stories require separate carbon monoxide alarms.
“For more information and State of Oregon ordinances visit link below:
Division 47

Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements: Oregon State Laws & Ordinances

With Christmas trees all around us it’s not hard to believe that Portland, Oregon is a great place to experience during the holidays. With long shopping lists to be checked off it’s great to know that there are plenty of FREE holiday events to enjoy. Portland, Oregon’s ideal location, and landscape provide for many outdoor activities from Mt. Hood to Seaside there is plenty of snowboarding, skiing, fishing, and hiking to enjoy. Here is a list of a FREE holiday events to experience this holiday season.

Pioneer Courthouse Square

Holiday cheer fills the heart of downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square.  Enjoy the festive lights, and the beautiful Christmas tree that adorns Portland, Oregon’s most visited city site. Pioneer Square’s Retail Shops, Macy’s, Nordstrom and many other retailers can also provide for a great shopping experience. For more information including maps, special events, and scheduling click on the link provided.
Location: 701 SW 6th Avenue Portland, OR 97204

Hawthorne Holiday Stroll

Celebrate the Third Annual Holiday Stroll in the Hawthorne District. The Habitat for Humanity is hosting the main event located in the 2nd Floor parking lot at Fred Meyer.   The Habitat for Humanity (HBBA) is also sponsoring a post-shopping holiday party music by the Inspirational Beets. For more information including maps, special events, and scheduling click on the link provided.
Location: SE Hawthorne & 32nd starts in the Fred Meyer parking lot
Dates: December 1, 2012

Hours: 11- 4pm Stroll

           4pm-9pm Afterparty

Peacock Lane: 

A long time Portland holiday tradition is the holiday display of lights at Peacock Lane. This tradition started in the 1920′s making this one of Portland’s greatest holiday traditions . Enjoy a beautiful display of Christmas lights that will fill you with the holiday spirit. Depending on your preference you can choose to walk, drive, or ride the horse-drawn carriage. For more information including maps, special events, and scheduling click on the link provided.

Location at: On SE 39th and one block east of SE 39th between SE Stark St. and SE Belmont St.
Dates: December 15, 2012 – December 31, 2012

Hours:December 15, 2012 – December 30, 2012 6 pm-11 pm

           December 24, 2012 – December 31,2012 6 pm-12pm

When considering home improvements it is important to weigh out the pros, and cons. To help prioritize home improvements consider the floorplan size, age, style, condition, and location of the property. Some home improvements are more expensive than others, however some will provide a greater return on your investment. Here is a list of five (5) inexpensive fixes, and home improvements that add more value to your home, and make it more attractive to a buyer.

1. Clean and Declutter Your Home. A clean home is very welcoming, and a decluttered home is very inviting. A deep cleaning of every corner of every room will make your home smell better, and look brighter. Clean the floor coverings including harwoods, tile, vinyl, rugs, and carpets. Declutter, and start pre-packing. Put away all of your personal belongings that you do not use on a regular basis including family pictures, family heirlooms, clothes, etc… Simplify start pre-packing, keep cleaning and get ready to move. Remember to maintain a clean, and immaculate home throughout the entire listing period.

2. Paint the Interior and/or Exterior Of Your Home. A fresh coat of paint makes a huge difference making a home feel fresh and clean. It is always best to hire a professional painter, but if you can’t afford one make sure to use the right tools, paint, and the right finish. Always use neutral colors stay away from the darker colors. Using neutral colors gives the new buyer a clean pallette to work with.

3. Landscape Keep All Exterior Grounds Clean. Many times a buyer will drive by, and make a choice just by looking at the exterior of the home, and landscape. Hire a landscaping expert that can give you advice on the best design for your particular property. If you decide to go about it on your own make sure you do your homework. Certain shrubry, vegatation, trees and plants grow in certain climates, and can only withstand certain conditions. A home’s curb appeal alone will welcome more buyers.

4. Update Kitchen and/or Bathrooms In Your Home. Next to the price, and location a home’s kitchen and bath will make or break a deal. Money spent on upgrading or remodeling your kitchen or bath is money well spent. Dryrot is a deal killer, so replacing any dry rot is a must. A kitchen can be quickly updated by installing new appliances, cabinets, or countertops the possiblities are endless. Hire a professional remodeler if you want to bigger jobs. The smaller jobs, or do it yourself jobs are also great ways to improve your kitchen, and bathroom spaces. The internet along with magazines can be a great place for inspirational design, and home improvement ideas.

5. Add An Extra Bedroom and/or Bathroom. Adding a bedroom and/or bathroom that increases accessiblity can also increase your bottom line. Keeping accesiblity, and floorplan in mind converting a 1/2 bath to a full (1) bath that is located on a different floor can make a big difference certain buyers. Consquently, contacting a local contractor is a great first step. It is also important to do your homework. Building permits, or building codes could apply to your remodel so contacting a professional is highley recommended. I have put together a quick guide as to what constitues a legal bedroom. However, certain requirements and/or regulations set by FHA/FHMC/FNMA may apply or vary.
These five (5) requirements are:
1. The living space must equal or be greater than 80 sq.ft.
2. An open window that is accessible, with atleast 5.2 sq .ft. of opening for an older home, and 18 sq. ft. opening for the newer buildings. A slider can be approx 3ft. X 4ft. or 4ft. X 4ft.
3. A lockable door or closable door.
4. A heating source.
5. A closet or storage space affixed to the wall.

It is important to price your home competively from the very beginning this will insure a higher rate of return. Pricing a home correctly from the beginning can make a world of difference. Another great resource quick fixes, and inexpensive home improvements is the article published in Realtor Magazine “25 Quick, Cheap and Easy Home Sale Tips” written by Barbara Ballinger. When tackling major home improvements and/or selling your home it is important to keep the three (3) major factors that determine a property’s desirablity price, condition, and location. Written By: Rebecca Martinez

For more information email sell@greendreamhomesinc.com or
Contact Rebecca Martinez
mobile:(503)880-HOME (4663) email: rebecca@greendreamhomesinc.com

 As the principal broker of Green Dream Homes Inc., and as a long time Oregonian I believe that Portland, Oregon is one of the best places to live. Portland has welcoming neighborhoods, temperant weather conditions, and diversed progressive communities that make it an ideal place to live.

Finding the right home and neighborhood will just depend on individual preference and lifestyle. Architecutural diversity is seen throughout The City of Portland. It is not uncommon to find a 1920? s Bungalow next to a newer Craftsman style home in many city neighborhoods. Portland is divided into Southwest (SW), Southest (SE), Northwest (NW) and Northest (NE). The Westside and Eastside of Portland are divided up by the Willamette River. South Portland is split up in 2 different sections there is Southeast (SE) & Southwest (SW). North Portland is also divided betweeen Northeast (NE) & Northwest (NW).

Consequently, there are very nice neigborhoods throughout The City of Portland with great homes, schools, and shopping. The City of Portland, The Portland Police Department along with other community organizations have done a great job with urban development, and community safety. There is no question as to why this city is referred to as The City of Roses.

By: Rebecca Martinez
October 18, 2012

It is getting colder here in the Great Pacific NW, and it is time to get our homes ready for this autumn season. Although, it’s hard to face and admit it our gorgeous summer days are long gone. Time has come to prepare for the upcoming changing colder weather. Here is a checklist of a few home maintenance tips that will help you get your home ready for the upcoming fall and winter season.

1. Inspect your HVAC (heating system) in your home. Get your furnace ready. Now is a good time to replace all filters. You can contact a certified HVAC contractor who can professionally inspect your home’s HVAC system.

2. Inspect the exterior of your home also referred to as the shell. Check the roof, windows, fireplaces, doors, celings, floors, and walls for any water and/or air leaks or damage. Insulation can be installed in the floors, walls, and ceilings. Insulation is like your home’s blanket it helps your home be more energy effecient.

3. Check the roof, and clean the gutters. This is very important especially here in the Pacific NW. Our autumn season can be filled with a great deal of rain, and the falling leaves put a big damper on your gutters. You can also contact a certified home roof inspector to professionally inspect your roof.

4. Check the plumbing a leaky pipe can cause havoc to your pipes on a freezing day or night. Make sure you drain all the water from outside hoses and/or faucets especially on very nights when temperatures reach below freezing. A plumber can also inspect your pipes for weatherization preparedness.

5. Check the perimeter of the foundation, sidewalk, and driveway for any cracks, and seal all cracks. Sealing the cracks helps the cracks from futher splitting, and cracking during the cold weather ahead.”

Sources:
Fall Home Maintenance – Whay You Should Know By: ResNet website article http://www.resnet.us/ibrary/author/admin/

For more information contact:
Rebecca Martinez
mobile:(503)880-HOME (4663) email: rebecca@greendreamhomesinc.com

Great news Portland, Oregon real estate owners and investors. Portland metro home prices are on the raise, and are appreciating equity for the third consecutive month. According to the latest press release from the S&P (Standard & Poors/Case-Shiller) home price index. The S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices are used to evaluate our national housing market. The S&P measures and tracks residential real estate including 20 metro markets. The data and reports indicate that Portland home prices are up by 3.18% in comparison to last years data. The data indicates that Portland Oregon’s home prices have climbed considerably higher almost doubling the national average increase of 1.2%. This is uplifting news for Portland Oregon real estate owner and investors. Furthermore, upbeat trends are a good indicator that our local, and national economy is rebounding. These recent developments will help us stay optimistic about real estate and our future. Written by: Rebecca Martinez

For more information contact:
Rebecca Martinez
mobile:(503)880-HOME (4663) email: rebecca@greendreamhomesinc.com

Oregonian article Portland and U.S. home prices rise in July, fueling optimismPublished: Tuesday, September 25, 2012, 5:24 PM By Elliot Njus, The OregonianOregonLive.com

Daily Real Estate News | Friday, August 24, 2012

While sales of newly built single-family homes is on the rise, buyers are finding fewer choices as inventory sinks to a new record low, the Commerce Department reported Thursday.

New-home sales rose 3.6 percent in July to 372,000-unit annual rate — matching a two-year high that was set in April. New-home sales are up 25.3 percent over year-ago levels.

“Sales of new homes in July returned to the same solid pace they set in May, which was the fastest sales rate we’d seen in more than two years,” says Barry Rutenberg, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders. “This is further evidence that consumers are becoming more confident in local housing markets as they look to take advantage of today’s very favorable prices and interest rates.”

New-home sales have consistently inched higher since last September and are expected to continue to rise through the remainder of the year, according to NAHB.

Still, inventories remain low as builders have been leery of starting too many projects. The inventory of new-homes for sale reached a record low of 142,000 units last month.

“The fact that the inventory of new homes for sale reached an all-time low in July is a worrisome signal that ongoing, unnecessarily tight credit conditions are keeping builders from being able to replenish supplies as consumer demand improves,” says NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe.

Broken down by region, the Northeast saw new-home sales soar 76.5 percent in July, while sales also increased in the Midwest by 7.7 percent. Meanwhile, new-home sales in the South fell 1.6 percent and dropped in the West by 0.9 percent.

The median price of a new home is $224,200, which is down 2.5 percent compared to a year ago, the Commerce Department reports.

Source: National Association of Home Builders and “Americans Bought More New Homes in July,” NBC News (Aug. 23, 2012)

Reprinted from REALTOR® Magazine Online (http://realtormag.realtor.org), August 24, 2012, with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.

by Barbara Ballinger

If you want to get a home sold quickly and inexpensively, you should review these sales and design tips.

Even with rising values and reduced inventory in certain markets, selling a home remains challenging. Buyers expect not just a shiny new stainless sink but pruned hedges, freshly painted walls, glistening hardwood floors, and more. Making everything look great can cost a pretty penny, and many sellers won’t be able to afford all the suggestions you might make.

You can help them prioritize based on the condition of what’s needed most, what buyers in the area typically request, what competing houses offer, and — of course — cost. Here’s a list of 25 affordable, easy-to-make changes from top design and real-estate pros:

1. Add power outlets with USB ports in rooms that lack them, especially in the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms where they’re most needed. “Younger, more tech-savvy couples and individuals love them,” says Tyler Drew, broker and property investor with Anubis Properties Inc. in Los Angeles.
2. Eliminate acoustic popcorn-style ceilings since they look dated and tacky.
3. Remove exposed posts and half walls. Today’s buyers want more space, and partial walls and posts gobble up room. The only walls that should remain are those that offer privacy or conceal electrical wires or plumbing stacks.
4. Update wiring for the Internet and flat-screen TVs. You don’t have to run CAT-5 through walls, which can be costly and require opening and closing and repainting walls. Instead, find a place to put a wireless router, Drew says.
5. Clean carpets and wood floors since they’re often the first part of a room that buyers check out; you don’t need to replace them unless they’re in terrible shape. A good carpet steam cleaning or wood floor waxing can be relatively inexpensive, sometimes less than $200.
6. Expand a small kitchen to make it work better and look larger. Two quick fixes: Change the backsplash by adding mirrors, stainless steel, or paint, which will introduce light and views; and add an island, which requires only 30” between counters and the island to pass through comfortably. If there’s not enough room for an island, bring in a rolling cart with pull-out shelves underneath and a wood top, says Libby Langdon, an interior designer, author, and expert with Liebherr Refrigeration..
7. Clear out and clean a garage, a big selling feature.Power wash the floor or paint it if it’s in bad shape, remove dated cabinets, and remove all junk that’s been stored there, so prospects can see how much space they would have for their stuff.
8. Change out corroded or dented door knobs and levers. The replacements don’t have to be expensive but they should look new and clean, Chicago architect Allan J. Grant suggests.
9. Pay attention to landscaping, which can add 7 to 15 percent to a home’s value, according to HabitatDesign.com principals Jessy Berg and Bonnie Gemmell. Focus on mowing grass, removing crab grass, and eliminating dead plants and tree branches. “I’d rather have dirt and the potential to paint a picture for the buyers’ mind than a backyard full of dead plants,” Drew says. But if you have extra funds, consider Sacramento, Calif.-based landscape designer Michael Glassman’s ideas: Add lots of seasonal color through blooming annuals and perennial plants and remove problems like too much noise from traffic or neighbors by installing an inexpensive fountain with trickling water.
10. Paint exterior windows, doors, gutters, downspouts, and trim, then go inside and paint the home’s trim, doorways, and walls that are in need of freshening. Don’t worry about the colors but consider those that veer toward quiet and comfort such as Benjamin Moore’s Yosemite Sand, Edgecomb Gray, or Carrington Beige. “Gray is a hot interior color now,” says Manchester, Vt.-based designer Amy Thebault. Painting rooms other, lighter colors such as white, yellow, and beige help to bounce and reflect sunlight and use more natural and less artificial light, according to Chris Ring, vice president at ProTect Painters, a professional painting source. But in cooler months, Ring says, dark colors such as deep brown and blue absorb sunlight, thereby reducing heating costs. And don’t forget ceilings, which can be a “fifth wall.” You can improve them with paint or old-style metal or faux-metal tiles, says Beverley Kruskol, a general contractor and owner of MY Pacific Building Inc. in Los Angeles.
11. Remove outdated wallpaper, replacing it with paint and preferably a neutral color, says Shelley Beckes, ASID, CID, a designer with Beckes Interior Design in Los Angeles.
12. Remove, store, or discard excessive accessories on tabletops and walls and in cabinets. “Less is more, and you want the house to be seen by prospective buyers without the distraction of too many personal items,” Grant says. Some suggest following the rule of three: Leave out only three things on any surface.
13. Get the house inspected before it’s listed to know its condition and identify any structural issues that could derail sales. Many problems can’t be detected by an untrained eye, including those in a basement, crawl space, or attic, says BillJacques, president-elect of the American Society of Home Inspectors. “There might be roof damage or a plumbing leak. Many inspectors take photos and provide a detailed report,” he says. “And if home owners have repairs made, they should be handled by a qualified licensed contractor, so the home owner can get problems corrected.”
14. Outfit closets for extra storage to make rooms look larger and less cluttered, but don’t redo all closets and elaborately. Top contenders for redos are an entry closet for a good first impression, kitchen pantries where storage is key, and a linen closet to keep sheets, towels, and other stuff neat, says Ginny Snook Scott, chief design officer at California Closets Co. “The costs needn’t be excessive. A linen closet can be fitted with baskets and cubbies for between $500 and $600, an entry closet for between $400 and $700, each dependent on closet size and features,” she says.
15. Tighten a home’s “envelope” to improve energy efficiency and savings. Put money and effort into well-insulated double-paned windows, sealed furnace ducts, energy-efficient appliances, the newest programmable thermostats, LED and compact fluorescent lights, and a smart irrigation box on a sprinkler to cut water usage, says Kate Latham, energy consultant with WattzON, a service based in Mountain View, Calif., which analyzes home energy use to pare costs. “After a few months, sellers can show buyers how costs have dropped. They also should put together a green manual to show which features they added,” she explains.
16. Improve a home’s healthfulness by using paints and adhesives with low or no VOCs. Point out these changes to prospective buyers in another list or manual, Latham says.
17. Use what you have, and arrange each room in a conversational way if possible. Don’t set all furnishings in a family room so they face a TV, since most potential buyers like the idea of an open-room milieu for socializing.
18. Remove and replaced faded draperies, fabrics, and rugs, or leave windows and floors bare to avoid showing lack of attention, Thebault says. Slipcovers, which can cover worn furniture can also provide an affordable decorative feature, changed for each season, says Hugh Rovit, CEO of Sure Fit, a manufacturer and distributor of ready-made slipcovers and other accessories. The company’s slipcovers range from $49.99 to $149.99, based on fabric and treatment.
19. Replace old, dated, or worn bedding. Before any showing, fluff up pillows and covers, and make all beds neatly. Affordable choices can be found at stores like Target and Web sites like Overstock.com.
20. Toss out old magazines. “You don’t want a People magazine from a year ago; it looks like nobody lives in the house or cares,” Thebault says.
21. Check smells regularly. Besides getting rid of bad odors from pets and mildew, introduce nice fresh fragrances, but don’t go heavy on scents from candles. A light lavender or citrus spray is smart and inoffensive. Open windows before showings to bring in fresh air.
22. Make rooms lighter and larger for showings with good lighting. Thebault prefers warm, cool colors rather than fluorescents. Additionally, 60-watt bulbs are a good choice, even though they’re not as energy-efficient.
23. Go with plants rather than flowers indoors since they last longer, but either choice can add vivacity to a room.
24. Pay attention to your bathrooms. Specifically, make sure you have freshly laundered towels, new soap in soap dishes, spotless mirrors, and no mildew in view.
25. Be sure your house is priced competitively with the current market and homes in your area. In most regions, it’s still the No. 1 “fix” to sell quickly. Go a bit under the market price, and you may even bring forth multiple offers that are higher than expected, says Jill Epstein, a REALTOR® with Nourmand & Associates in the Los Angeles area.

Reprinted from [REALTOR(r) Magazine or REALTOR(r) Magazine Online  25 Quick, Cheap and Easy Home Sales Tips by Barbara Ballinger], [August, 2012], with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS(r). Copyright [2012]. All rights reserved.

Written by: Rebecca Martinez

Wells Fargo has STOPPED funding for ALL their mortgage wholesale channels.  On July 13, 2012 Wells Fargo announced that they will no longer fund brokered mortgages. This is a result from Wells Fargo settling with the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding previously disclosed claims.  These disclosed claims hold Wells Fargo mortgages liable for having a disparate impact on minority groups including Afrrican-American, and Hispanic borrowers.

Did you know that Wells Fargo funds 1 out of 3 mortgages in the county?  Even though back in 2008 Wells Fargo stopped funding sub-prime loans altogether.  It is certain that  this event will largely affect the wholesale lending industry.   As a real estate agent I know that this will limit the lending options of our buyers, and hope and wish for more lenders, and programs to accomadate for the great loss of seeing Wells Fargo go.
 
For more information and full articles referenced:
News Release:  Wells Fargo Announces Settlement with U.S. Department of Justice Regarding mortgages.  San Francisco July 12, 2012 https://www.wellsfargo.com/press/2012/20120712_WellsFargoAnnouncesSettlment

What Will We Do Without Wells Fargo? by Preston Howard posted July 25, 2012 http://www.crackerjackagent.com/articles/153/what-will-we-do-without-wells-fa#.UCa4jk0rVZc.email

For more information contact:
Rebecca Martinez
mobile:(503)880-HOME (4663) email: rebecca@greendreamhomesinc.com

Written by: Rebecca Martinez
As of July 11, 2012 all of Oregon’s homeowners have a right to a new foreclosure mediation program. This foreclosure mediation progam gives homeowners who fall into default on their monthly mortgage payments the ability to avoid foreclosure by exploring other alternatives through the mediation process. Other alternatives can include a loan modification, short sale, or by just giving them the keys. Although, other mediation programs have proven to be been less than successful in other parts of the country. Oregonians are hopeful that this foreclosure mediation program will be a success here in Oregon. According to CoreLogic Oregon’s foreclosure rate is nearing 3%, and 2.5% are in default by over 90 days. This represents approx 131,000 Oregonians or approx 18.7% are at risk of foreclosure. Mediators are being trained in Salem, and will be available as of August or September 2012. In the meantime borrowers can meet with housing counselors free of charge at certfied federal housing agencies. However, not all banks qualify or will participate in this program please check with your bank for qualification terms. All participating banks/lenders will send out notification which will be sent along with all notices of default. Particiption must be confirmed by calling 855-658-6733 or by visiting Foreclosure MediationOR.org along with a $200 fee. Full article can be found by clicking link below