Reflection

As we near the end of 2009 I wish to give thanks for the many blessings we have received this year. We are truly thankful for the freedom we have in the great country we live in and for the opportunities that we have. The friendships we have formed and those that we continue to nurture are tremendous blessings to us. We are deeply thankful for a blessed and happy 2009

Our wish for you is a happy, blessed and prosperous 2010!

Seven Don'ts of Mortgage Funding

Once you've applied for your home loan you must comply with the Seven Don'ts of Mortgage Funding. Any of which could delay or keep you from closing on your new home.

1. DON'T change your employment status.
2. DON'T make any major purchases (cars, furniture, appliances, vacations, etc.)
3. DON'T increase your credit card debt OR miss any payments.
4. DON'T change bank accounts or make undisclosed large deposits.
5. DON'T apply for a credit card, co-sign a loan or make a credit inquiry.
6. DON'T spend money you have set aside for closing-not any, not ever.
7. DON'T delay in providing all paperwork asked for by the mortgage company.

Obtaining credit has been difficult and has increasingly become more difficult in recent months due to the changes in lending regulations. Following the Seven Don'ts will make your home buying experience a positive and pleasant one!

If you would like more information on why it's a good time to buy and sell a home, please contact me at 816-373-3800 x4373.

Seven Don'ts Source-Jodie Roemer, Bank of America Mortgage (816-554-5474)

Home For Sale - 512 NW Ambersham Dr., Lee's Summit, Missouri

Tax Credit Just For First Time Home Buyers? Think Again!

Thinking about moving up or moving down? The picture just became a little rosier for you! Check out the details below and see how tax credits aren't just for first time home buyers any more.


The Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit: The Basics for REALTORS, Homebuyers, and Home owners from the National Association of REALTORS.

You hold all of the aces! Rates are low, prices are low, Tax Credit was extended and expanded and this time of year Buyers need to Buy and Sellers need to Sell!

Call us today for more information and why now really is a good time to be investing in real estate and your future!

Halloween Parade Downtown Lee's Summit Saturday October 31st

Fall is in the air and Halloween festivities are upon us. Whether you have children or not, Saturday's parade in downtown Lee's Summit should be a blast. Beginning at 9:30, if your child has a costume, line up at City Hall (220 SE Green Street). The parade begins at 10:00 a.m. and will march down Third Street to Howard Station Park at SE Main Street. Judges will be looking for the favorite boy, girl, family and the most unique. They will be awarding trophies. Parade participants may trick-or-treat at local merchants from 10 to noon. Donations are being accepted for the Mayor's Care Fund and the monies collected will be presented to the Mayor during the Mayor's Tree Lighting Ceremony to be held on Friday, November 20, 2009. Let the fun begin! Keep up with Downtown Lee's Summit events here!

Three Reasons Why Buying A Home Makes $ense!

Feeling Squeezed By Your Homeowners Insurance?

Know Your Options!

What you pay for homeowners insurance depends on age, location, type of residence, proximity to a fire department, the deductable amount and scope of coverage. Here are some tips to help loosen the squeeze on your wallet while still receiving the best coverage to meet your needs. Get THE FACTS HERE!

If you are looking for a reliable local agent to talk to give us a call. We will be happy to refer you to an agent who can be of help!

Fall Home Projects

Fall is right around the corner. We have comprised a short check list you might consider for your home this season.

• Seal Driveway and Sidewalks
• Stain Wood Decking and Fencing
• Clean Gutters and Downspouts (this one might be ongoing until the trees lose all of their leaves)
• Trim Trees, Manicure Flower Beds and Gardens
• Have Furnace Checked and Serviced
• Clean Carpets
• Check Soil Grade around Home and Structure for Good Drainage
• Check Roofing for Missing or Damaged Shingles and Check Vent Pipe Boots

Sign up for Market Snapshot at our website for ongoing, real time real estate activity going on in your neighborhood delivered FREE straight to your email.

As always, you can depend on us for no hassle, honest and dependable service to you!

We are getting ready to buy our first home and we want to make a smart investment. What are the biggest mistakes new homebuyers make?

Probably the biggest mistake is looking at homes that you can’t afford. You could end up buying a house that you really can’t afford. You’ll need to figure in all the extras like utilities, homeowner fees and taxes. Or you could feel a little let down in what you can afford. You need to be realistic.

Another big mistake is not planning for your future. What are your needs for the next 5-10 years? Is the house large enough? Also, think about the location. Is the house located in a good school district? (Always a plus.) Does it have amenities nearby? Is the area relatively quiet? Do you like the neighborhood and neighbors?

When you’re looking at houses, make sure you look at several of them. Don’t buy on impulse. Take time to really look at the houses, and evaluate the properties before making an offer.

Lastly, educate yourself about the buying process particularly financing and escrow. If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call us at 816-373-3800 x4373.

Affordability Index

Housing affordability condition remains extremely favorable. NAR’s Housing Affordability Index, while declining modestly in June, was still the sixth-highest index on record dating back to 1970. With a 20% down payment and 25% of gross income committed to mortgage principal and interest, a median-income family earning $60,700 could now afford a home costing $289,100 at the current interest rate, well above the median existing-home price of $181,800.

With the housing affordability index at 16%, it is far below the historical standard of 25%.

If you are curious about home prices and activity in your neighborhood, click on MLS Market Snapshot for current, free market information on your neighborhood delivered directly to your email.

Home Sales

Some good news to report!

Sales of existing homes trended upward for the fourth straight month, benefiting from favorable affordability conditions. The $8,000 tax credit continued to draw in first-time buyers, who accounted for 29% of all transactions in May. Repeat buyers, who often sell their current house to first time buyers, are also coming back to the market in large numbers.

Latest data release: June 23, 2009
Source: National Association of Realtors
KW Research

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers, Sellers Rank Real Estate Companies

The 2009 J. D. Powers Study ranked our company, Keller Williams, as #1 in Home Buyer Rankings and a narrow second place of Home Seller Rankings. Check out the article below:

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers, Sellers Rank Real Estate Companies

Shared via AddThis

How Do I Find The Right House And Make An Offer?

We recommend that you make a wish list of everything you would like to have in a new house. Then make a list of everything you don’t like in your current home. These two lists will give you a good idea of where to start, and help you analyze your needs.

Buying a home requires making some compromises. You may not get everything you want, but make sure to get what you need. For example, when buying a home, the neighborhood should be your main consideration. Is the house in a neighborhood that you like and feel safe? Will you have a reasonable commute to work? Does it have a good school system? (Not only is this important if you have children; it will impact the resale value of your home down the road.) Does the area have the amenities that you’re looking for (parks, stores, and library) within a few miles?

Buying a house is a big financial investment and commitment for many years. Before you make an offer, ask yourself if you can afford the house? Be cautious. If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 816-373-3800 x4373.

We are getting ready to list our house for sale, but I’m concerned about what to do when the house is being shown?

Plan to take your family (and your pets if possible) away during showings. It can be uncomfortable for you and potential buyers if you’re there, which could result in a “no sale” for you.

Lock-up, or put in a safe-deposit box, any valuables (jewelry, cash, private financial information), while you are away from the house.

Before the house is shown, make sure the home is clean and neat. Open all the blinds and shades, and turn on lights if you have dark rooms or corners. Make sure the kitchen and counters are sparkling clean and all dishes are put away.

Store children’s toys in organized boxes and keep big items like bicycles, wagons, skateboards, basketball hoops put away. Keep the house as clean as possible and remove all clutter. If need be, box up any clutter and store it off-site.

If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 816-875-1661.

What Does The Second Half of The Year Look Like For Real Estate?

If the first half of the year is a consistent trend, then I believe we will continue to see market improvement in our area. Inventory has been coming down. Unfortunately, so have prices of homes. It is a terrific time to buy and a really good time to sell as well if you prepare properly. We can help you with a strategy that will get your home sold! If you are looking for recent real estate neighborhood information in your area or one that you are watching, visit my website. You can obtain your Market Watch information delivered directly to your email in just minutes. No secret spamming or bugging you. Just information that you can use. You can receive it on a one time basis or ongoing. You decide. One more way we can be your information resource.

Visit www.debbiewhitehomes.com for information you can use right now

Home Values

Sign up for a FREE report for home values in your neighborhood. Receive it as often as you would like. Our Market Snapshot is another added value provided by us so that you can be "in the know"!

What Should I Look For In A House I Might Have To Sell In A Few Years

Real Estate Corner…

Q. I’m looking for a house with good resale value. What should I look for in a house that I plan to sell within a couple of years?

A. If you’re looking to buy a house to turn a profit, or “flip” in a short period of time, do the research on the current home buying market trends upfront. First, find out what neighborhoods are currently the most sought-after in your city. Where is there new growth or new planned communities? Look at the potential buyers market? Are buyers mostly young families, retirees, or singles?

Ask a real estate agent for areas showing the greatest short-term growth and other positive features, such as neighborhood amenities, average annual price increases, and available parks and recreation.

Look at potential houses that need inexpensive repairs: new paint, new carpet and tile, skylights, new appliances, and updated landscaping. Avoid any houses that have either functional or mechanical obsolescence (one bath, poor floor plan, or houses requiring costly plumbing or electrical repairs).

If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 816-875-1661.

First Time Home Buyers

The first time home buyer market is heating up. You're likely to find a competitive experience shopping for a home in this sector. The pool of buyers has increased with the tax credit as a great enticement. With the increased number of buyers, inventory is dropping as these homes are being purchased at great values. Homes you might not have been able to qualify for a few years ago can be purchased at great prices. Visit my website at www.debbiewhitehomes.com and begin your home search. I can help you find your dream home!

Create Your Own Miracles

Create Your Own Miracles

Miracles are extraordinary events or phenomenon that simply happen and cannot be explained by rational thought (like medical miracles of physical healing, coincidences that change your life). There are also the everyday miracles of being in the right place at the right time where something wonderful happens. You can create your own miracles by following these five simple steps:

1. Be Optimistic. We attract what we expect. Expect that everything is working towards your highest good.

2. Open Your Mind To Possibilities. Positive solutions can come through unexpected channels. Be open to new ways of thinking.

3. Imagine Yourself As You Want To Be. Visualize how you want something to be (better health, new job, new house, relationship).

4. Be Clear About What You Want. Focus your attention on specifically what you desire. Many times people are vague about what they want.

5. Meditate or Pray. Allow yourself daily quiet time and space to meditate or pray, whether it is for you or someone you care about.

Bonus: Be thankful or have an attitude of gratitude. Being thankful creates miracles all on it's own!

Real Estate Corner

Q. Are Rent-To-Own Homes A Good Idea?

A. If you’re interested in owning a home, but you’re having some difficulty obtaining conventional financing, renting a home with the option to buy may be a good alternative. In this scenario, a portion of your rent goes toward the purchase of the home. It’s important to carefully read the contract, and consult an attorney if you have any questions or concerns before entering into a contract.

Typically, you will sign a lease with an option to purchase for an agreed price over a specific time (1-2 year lease, at which time you’ll need to obtain financing from a lender). To acquire the option, the renter/buyer pays a one time, non-refundable fee, called the option consideration (2-7% of the purchase price). A percentage of all your rent payments (at least 50%) should be applied toward the purchase of the home. Rent payment must be on-time; otherwise it won’t count towards the purchase price.
You’ll be required to handle most of the home maintenance. Make sure you have the house inspected by a professional before entering into a contract.

New On The Market - 1702 Lexington, Pleasant Hill, Missouri

Click on this Photo for more information, additional photos and virtual tour!

Landscaping 101

Landscaping can add 7 to 15% to your home's value. Colorful landscaping, a fresh coat of paint and attention to detail not only bring you enjoyment every day, but also increases the value of your home.

Select Indigenous Plants
Choosing native rather than exotic plants for your landscaping will reduce maintenance and increase curb appeal. They don't need watering except during establishment, nor chemical fertilizers because they are already adapted to local conditions. Native plants not only accent your home, they also attract colorful birds and butterflies.

Cold Weather
Keep your landscape from looking cold and bare in the fall and winter months by choosing hardy plants that look good year around. It's important to think in terms of bark, berries and shape.

Bring Life to Small Spaces
Small garden ares should not feature too many different kinds of plants and materials. This will make your landscaping look cluttered. Container gardening can work miracles in small spaces, with the added benefit of being easy to move according to the plants needs. If you live in an apartment or condo, revitalize your entryway, patio or balcony with attractive hanging baskets, planters and unique personal accessories.

Create an Outdoor Space
Create an outside living area by adding a deck or patio for entertaining and relaxing year round. This addition is also a great investment in your home. A 2008 Cost vs. Value Report produced by Realtor Magazine stated that installing a deck can provide up to 81.8% return on investment while a pool returns only 20-50% according to Money Magazine. There are a variety of different surfaces to fit any style or budget.

New On The Market --- 611 NE Thames Court, Lee's Summit, Missouri

Click On This Photo For More Information,

Photos and Virtual Tour!

New On The Market - 16412 E. 52nd Street, Independence, Missouri

Click On This Photo For More Information

Photos and Virtual Tour!

Is There A Silver Lining?

The truth is that there is a Silver Lining in the current market.

Affordability is high. The Housing Affordability Index that measures the ability of a typical American family to qualify for a mortgage based on the median-price for and existing single-family home. A score of 100 indicates that the typical family would have the exact amount required on a 20 percent down payment and monthly payments of no more than 25 percent of their household income. Currently, the index is at 135.2, which means the average American family not only can afford to purchase a home, but will also have excess money for living expenses.

The selection is vast. It continues to be a Buyer's Market. You have more homes in which to choose from.

Owning a home is still one of the Best Long-Term Investments you can make. Historically, homes appreciate, despite short term spikes.

Don't look back wishing you would have purchased real estate when I can show you how!

Source: Buffini and Company

How Do I Find The Right House and Make An Offer?

Real Estate Corner…

Q. How Do I Find The Right House And Make An Offer?

A. I recommend that you make a wish list of everything you would like to have in a new house. Then make a list of everything you don’t like in your current home. These two lists will give you a good idea of where to start, and help you analyze your needs.

Buying a home requires making some compromises. You may not get everything you want, but make sure to get what you need. For example, when buying a home, the neighborhood should be your main consideration. Is the house in a neighborhood that you like and feel safe? Will you have a reasonable commute to work? Does it have a good school system? (Not only is this important if you have children; it will impact the resale value of your home down the road.) Does the area have the amenities that you’re looking for (parks, stores, and library) within a few miles?

Buying a house is a big financial investment and commitment for many years. Before you make an offer, ask yourself if you can afford the house? Be cautious. If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 816-875-1661.

"Chill Out KC"

Are you looking for some things to do? Visit http://www.visitkc.com/. From a list of 33 FREE THINGS TO DO to some fabulous discounts on dining, theater and many other attractions, it's certain to keep you busy until Spring fills the air.

To Buy or Not To Buy...Is it the Question?

To buy or not to buy? Do we or don't we? Have you ever looked back and thought, 'gee, I wish I would have bought that...look what it's worth today'? We think 2009 is posturing to be a great year to buy real estate. We are still at historically low interest rates, prices are low and the government is looking to offer a stimulous tax credit. We already have a $7,500.00 tax credit for first time home buyers who purchase a home before July 1st and are waiting to hear what the stimulous package will offer as well. The conditions to buy simply couldn't be much better. Contrary to popular belief, lenders are lending money. You do need steady employment, a reasonable credit rating and as little as 3.5% downpayment for FHA and 5% for Conventional financing. Don't look back wishing you would have...when we can show you how. Give us a call to see if the time is right for you 816-875-1661.

Lee's Summit - Made the 2009 BusinessWeek's List of Best Places To Raise Your Kids?

In case you haven't heard, Lee's Summit has been named to the list of top towns for 2009 to raise your kids by NewsWeek. They rated towns on the following criteria: "towns with at least 50,000 residents and a median family income between $40,000 and $100,000. We then narrowed the list of towns using the following weighted criteria: school performance; number of schools; household expenditures; crime rates; air quality; job growth; family income; museums, parks, theaters, and other amenities; and diversity. We weighted school performance and safety most heavily, but also gave strong weight to amenities and affordability".

10923 Blackwell Road, Lee's Summit, Missouri

PERFECT HOME WANTED! This custom built fantastic 1.5 Story all Brick Home delivers and is inviting you to come take a look. Quality througout with a very open floorplan & beautiful hardwoods. Abundant Walk In Closets & Built-ins. Finished Lower Level includes a media room with surround sound. Relax and enjoy the Salt Water Pool and stone waterfall. Huge 40x60 Detached Garage -- Perfect for all of your toys or home business. Sprinkler System. Beautiful treed/landscaped yard. Award winning Lee's Summit Schools. Visit http://www.debbiewhitehomes.com/ for more information, slide show and virtual tour.

Want a quick peek now...click on the photo for a quick video!

Value Range Pricing

January's Real Estate Corner Question:

Q. I’m looking for a larger house and will be selling my current home. I keep seeing “Value-Range Pricing.” I’m confused. What is Value-Range Pricing, and what should I know about it?

A. Value-Range Pricing is a relatively new pricing strategy that is popular in some parts of the country. Typically, most houses are sold when the seller lists their home with a fixed price based on an analysis of similar properties in the area.

Some real estate agents now use Value-Range Pricing as a marketing strategy when selling a home. Instead of a fixed price, a house is listed within a particular price range. For example, a range price of $260,000 to $290,000 would bring in more potential buyers (and potentially more offers) than a fixed price listing.

There are additional terms that can be negotiated beyond the price: closing dates, costs, home warranties, or title insurance. One word of caution: homes that are Value-Range Priced don’t necessarily sell more quickly, or at a higher price, than fixed priced homes.

If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me at 816-875-1661!

Arctic Chill Brings Real Estate Warming

Is it cold enough for you? We may be experiencing an arctic blast, but we are also experiencing an amazing warming of the Real Estate Market! The historic low interest rates, great purchase opportunities and first time home buyer incentives has warmed it up. A renewed activity in real estate since the first of the year shows 2009 to be more promising than the previous 2008. Don't miss out on tremendous opportunities and wish you would have when we can show you how you can.

What is Appraised Value?

· Appraisals provide an objective opinion of value, but it’s not an exact science so appraisals may differ.

· For buying and selling purposes, appraisals are usually based on market value — what the property could probably be sold for. Other types of value include insurance value, replacement value, and assessed value for property tax purposes.

· Appraised value is not a constant number. Changes in market conditions can dramatically alter appraised value.

· Appraised value doesn’t take into account special considerations, like the need to sell rapidly.

· Lenders usually use either the appraised value or the sale price, whichever is less, to determine the amount of the mortgage they will offer.

Used with permission from Kim Daugherty, Real Estate Checklists and Systems

Welcome to 2009!

Happy New Year and Welcome to 2009! There were many things to be thankful for in 2008 and many others that I believe we are happy to leave behind. I think 2009 will be a year for hope, new challenges and an opportunity to live BIG. Living BIG (Be in Gratitude) is concentrating on what we think about and that which we can be thankful for. What we think about expands. Thoughts of gratitude, optimism and positive energy compounds exponentially. So does unhappiness and negativity. Regardless of our circumstances we can choose! I hope for you in 2009 that it will be your year to live BIG!

Welcome to 2009!