Marquette Musings & Real Estate

2012-01-29T10:01:00.000-05:00

Here’s a look at the Local Market stats for 2011. Every year local Realtors receive an Annual Report of our local market from Closser and Associates. We haven't received this yet, but I'm always anxious enough to want to take a look at things myself. I review with the same parameters that they do. They examine single family homes and condos in the Marquette School District areas (Marquette City, Marquette Twsp, Chocolay, and the portion of Sands Twsp in the Marquette Schools.) I have done the same, and compared 2011 to 2010. Here are my results:

Things look a little SOFT.

The Number of Homes Sold were slightly down, Median Sales Price is down, but Days on Market were fewer. Lets take a look at the details:

Units Sold:
2010 - 287
2011 - 258 - decrease of about 10%

Median Sold Price:
2010 - $152,000.
2011 - $145,500. - decrease of about 4%

Median Days on Market:
2010 - 146
2011 - 88 - nice  improvement.

I had examined the market several times throughout the year and we consistently hit the same median price time and time again, at $150,000., which was a little down from the previous year, but not by much. But by the very end of the year that number slipped.  It might be hard to remember, but in 2010, for the first half of the year the first time home buyers credit was still in effect. So, it does stand to reason that some "volume" of sales would be down this year. It seems that, with the days on market decreasing substantially our takeaway might be that sellers decided to reduce their price, and have it be their home, that was the one to be SOLD.
If we were to take a little longer viewpoint of our market over the last fiveyears -- the years in which the national real estate market really took a spin -- our market has remained very STABLE. In '07 our Median Price was STABLE with the year before, in '08 it was STABLE again, in '09 we saw a 7 % decrease in Median Price (the first significant drop in years), in 2010 we increased by 7% to bring us right back up to that same $152,000. mark, and in 2011 we have a slight decline.

Lets take a look at the higher-end market, above $250,000.

HIGHER END: Same geographical areas - Sales over $250,000. in sales price
2009: Units sold: 26, Median Price: $312,875.
2010: Units sold: 40, Median Price: $304,325.
2011: Units sold: 42, Median Price $300,000. Days on Market down from 143, to 104.

Personally, I believe there is pent up demand in the higher priced market and we will see good sales in 2012. We seem to already have an uptick in recent months, (and an incredibly busy January) with several higher end homes pending right now.

Highest Priced Home Sale:
2008= $900,000., 2009 - $555,000. 2010 - $545,000., 2011 - $587,000.

Chocolay and Sands:
Chocolay and Sands townships had a greater number of home sales than the previous year, but the Median Sales Price dropped. That would make me believe that the increase in sales was perhaps in the lower end, translating into a lower median sales price. However, a bit of good news for this area was that there were twice the number of homes sold over $250,000. this past year. 10 sales instead of the 5 that occured in 2010! This little market shows how come, when someone asks me, "How is the market", my answer is, "It depends". An experienced Realtor will be able to disect the market for you to reflect whats going on in your Area and Price Range.

Negaunee and Ishpeming:
Negaunee City and Township: This area was consistent with regard to the number of sales (71) as the previous year (78) and about the same Days on Market (117), (113), however the Median Sales Price dropped about 15%, to  89,000. from 109,000. (Note: smalll sample.) The higher end (over $250,000.) market looked similar to the previous year: 4 sales compared to a previous 5, with a 2011 median price of $261,250.

Ishpeming City and Township: This area improved slightly. The number of sales went up to 88, from a previous 76. Days on Market fell to 92, from a previous 127. Median Sales Price increased to $65,000. from a previous $63,250. This area only had one sale over $250,000. each of the last two years. This sale price was $265,000. in 2011.

These stats are tentative right now. I’ll report back on the “official” results on the Marquette School District Area after we receive Clossers report, in early February. As usual, please feel free to contact me if you would like any local real estate information, have questions, or if you are thinking of buying or selling.

3rd Qtr 2011 - Look at Marquette & surrounding areas Real Estate Market

2011-10-13T16:11:00.000-04:00

Thought I'd take a comprehensive look at the market as of the 3rd Quarter. Keep in mind that half of last year (2010) the Federal First-Time Home Buyers Credit was in place. Therefore, we might expect that some of the Volume of homes sold might be down this year in comparison.

This is a comparison of Jan - Sept 30, 2011 (first number) to the same period of time in 2010 (second number). Can sum it up in two words - CONTINUING STABLE - but I'll run through the details for you:

Marquette Schools Areas 2011 to 2010: Stable, stable, stable.
Units sold: 216 to 217.
Median Price: $$150,000. and 150,000!!!! Exactly the same.
Days On Market: 95 to 93.

Marquette Schools Over 250K in sold price, 2011 to 2010. Good improvement.
Units sold: 36 to 29. 24% increase.
Median Price: 297,000. to 299,650. Pretty even.
Days On Market: 107 to 145. Improved.

The Marquette School District areas continue to look very stable. The higher-end market is at least seeing some growth in sales activity.

Chocolay/Sands area 2011 to 2010:
Units sold: 71 to 54. 31% increase.
Median Price: $149,900. to 173,000. 13% decrease.
Days On Market: 104 to 86 last year. Up a little.

Chocolay and Sands areas are consistently very stable. Though the median price appears to be dropping, this is a small sample so I dont put much credence behind that right now. A nice increase in the number of homes sold. Maybe more affordable homes have been selling and therefore driving down the median number.

Negaunee areas 2011 to 2010:
Units sold: 57 to 59. Virtually the same.
Median Price: $89,000. to $106,400. Down by about 16% (but a small sample size).
Days On Market: 89 to 114. Selling faster.

Ishpeming Areas 2011 to 2010: Turning around a bit.
Units sold: 63 to 58. Increase.
Median Price: $65,000.to $57,000. 14% increase. Nice!
Days On Market: 71 to127. Nice drop in DOM!

Good signs for a rebound for Ishpeming, as these same areas saw about a 25% decrease in median sales price in the preceeding 2 years.

ALL OF MQT COUNTY:
Units sold: 402 compared to 421 last year.
Median Price: $122,450. compared to 122,000. Nearly identical.
Days On Market: 98 this year compared to 110 last year. Again very close.

We are so fortunate that again, our market appears to be such a STABLE market. Overall the median sale prices are holding steady with last year, as are the number of homes sold. Days on Market in most cases are decreasing, meaning quicker sales (and lending alone is taking a bit longer which lengthens this number). Our higher end market is trending in a positive manner as well (though I only examined the Marquette area for those sales.)

Please contact me if you have any market questions, and/or any general real estate needs.

Market Stats Update - July 2011

2011-08-04T15:30:00.004-04:00

Since it is mid-year already, I thought I'd take a comprehensive look at the market. Remember that until this time last year (2010) the Federal First-Time Home Buyers Credit was in place. Therefore, we might expect that some of the Volume of homes sold might be down this year in comparison.

This is a comparison of Jan - July 30, 2011 to the same period of time in 2010.

Marquette Schools Areas:
Units sold: 154, down 10%.
Median Price: $152,950., up 5%.
Days On Market: Equal

Over 250K
Units sold: 30, up 50%.
Median Price: Basically equal
Days On Market: DOWN from 176, to 102.

Inventory: Currently there are 244 active listings in this area. This represents about an 11 month inventory. In the above 250,000. range, there are 90 active listings, representing about a 21 month inventory.

The Marquette School District areas continue to look very stable. Even though the current median price is a bit above the median in July 2010, $152,000. is actually the exact number for our normal end of year median. The higher-end market looks to be coming back nicely.

Chocolay/Sands area:
Units sold: 51, 11% increase.
Median Price: $142,500., down 14% (but small sample size may effect)
Days On Market: UP from 82 to 127.

Over $250K:
Units sold: 7, up by one.
Median Price: too small of a sample to be accurate.
Days On Market: DOWN from 288 to 162.

Chocolay and Sands areas are consistently very stable. Though the median price appears to be dropping, this is a small sample so I dont put much credence behind that right now.

Negaunee areas:
Units sold: 43, down only slightly.
Median Price: $89,000. Down by about 13% but a small sample size.
Days On Market: DOWN from 119 to 103.

Over $250K:
There were only 2 homes sold in Negaunee City or Negaunee Township in the past 7 months in this price range, and this is the same as last year at this time. The median price is also about the same as last year.   I did not report on the DOM because its not picking up some of the data correctly, so the number is inaccurate.

Ishpeming Areas:
Units sold: 49, equal.
Median Price: Up by about 18%
Days On Market: DOWN from 159 to 69

Over $250K:
Only one home sold over $250K in each of these years. Median price looks similar, and it looks like the sale this year was on the market for a much shorter period of time than last year.

Good signs for a rebound for Ishpeming, as these same areas saw about a 25% decrease in median sales price in the preceeding 2 years.

ALL OF MQT COUNTY:
Units sold: 298, down about 14%. (Likely from the First Time Buyers Credit last year.)
Median Price: $120,000., up about 3.5%
Days On Market: Down slightly from 119 to 98.

Over $250K:
Units sold: Up from 23 to 35, or about 50% increase. (Most of all of these sales were in Mqt. Schools.)
Median Price: Up slightly.
Days On Market: DOWN from 182 to 99.

Question: "Whats the Foreclosure and Short Sale activity in Marquette COUNTY?"
Fifty (50) units sold since Jan 1. 45 Foreclosures and only 5 Short Sales.  Though our area has not been hit like other parts of the country, I believe that this number may be low because some agents have not utilized the fields available to identify these sales in the MLS software.

In general -- our market once again appears to be a VERY STABLE market. Overall the median sale prices are holding if not increasing a bit. Days on Market in most cases are decreasing, meaning quicker sales. Units sold are up and down depending upon the area, but this is the one number that is most affected by government incentive programs that were inflating this number last year. Our higher end market is trending in a positive manner, though inventory numbers for higher end homes are still high.

Please contact me if you have any market questions, and/or any general real estate needs.

The Closing Process 2011 (Post 7) Home Buyer Seminar

2011-05-18T08:02:00.000-04:00

Once you have an accepted offer on a home there are steps to take to get to the closing table and get the keys to your new home.

The closing process usually takes a minimum of 30 days. If you have a "specialty" loan, such as a FHA, Rural Development, etc. the closing process takes a bit longer (45 days) because there are a few additional steps for your loan.

Generally the Closing Process consists of the following steps, which are best done in chronological order:

1) Final signatures on all documents, and paying your earnest deposit to the broker.

2) If not already done, you will confirm who you are lending with and copy the Realtors on your Letter of Committment. (You will be working together with your Lender throughout the process to satisfy all of their requirements.)

3) Scheduling and conducting your Home Inspection. (usually first 10 days)

4) Given your "go ahead" following the Inspection, your Lender will order the Appraisal (another 7-10 days).

5) Title work will be ordered, received and reviewed.

6) Deed will be ordered.

7) With all else completed and your final loan approval coming out of Underwriting, a closing date is scheduled.

8) You confirm to your Lender that you have Homeowners Insurance, and make calls to switch utilities into your name for the date of closing.

9) Parties meet at the Lenders or at the Title Company and conduct the actual closing (signing documents). Most often you will take possession directly afterward!!! :}

10) CELEBRATE!

HOME BUYER SEMINAR 2011 (POST 6) - HOW MANY TIMES DO I NEED TO GET MY WALLET OUT?

2011-05-11T06:02:00.000-04:00

We're not talking about downpayments or closing costs here, but instead, “How Much Will it Cost Me Between Writing an Offer and Closing on My Home?” Even if you are thinking you have a zero down loan, you still need to have some available resources to get started.

I operate under the “no surprises” rule, so lets go over how many times you may have to get your wallet out, during the closing process:

Earnest Deposit: An earnest deposit is written into the offer to purchase. It’s also known as your “good faith” deposit. It shows the seller that you are a serious buyer, and is held in the Real Estate Company's trust account until closing. The most common amount is close to 1% of the purchase price of your home. A $120,000. home, would likely have a $1,000. deposit. A $275,000. home may have a $2,000. – $2,500. deposit. If you have a specialty loan and have limited funds, we can sometimes get by with a $250. earnest deposit. We will offer what you want and see if the seller will accept it. Your Realtor will need to have this money within 2 days after you are officially under contract. Your check will be deposited – not just held. This is not an ADDITIONAL cost to home buying, as this money will be applied directly to the purchase price of your home at closing.

Inspection: If you choose to hire an Inspector you will contract with them “outside of closing”. This simply means that this transaction is not a part of the closing process. You schedule the inspection and pay the inspector directly for his services. Generally inspections cost $300. – $400. and are payable at the time of the inspection. If you choose to have your inspector conduct additional tests such as water tests, radon tests, etc. you will be charged for those additional fees.

Specialty Loan Requirements/repairs to the home you choose:Depending upon the loan you are getting, the home may have to meet certain structural requirements. You could be responsible for correcting any deficiencies prior to closing on the home. (I know, it seems odd to be doing repairs on a home that you don’t own yet, but this is just the way it is sometimes!) Obviously we attempt to minimize these items and discover them as early as possible. A common requirement is that you could have to install a GFI electrical socket, or put a railing on a stairway. So you could need to have the financial wherewithal to accomplish these repairs. These fees could be any amount, but I've most often seen pretty minimal requirements so in general estimate: $100.

Lender Application Fees: Your lender oftentimes will require an application fee that is likely to be around $300. Ask about the possibility of this fee when you first meet with your lender.

Utilities: Sometimes a utility company could require a deposit or establish account fee. Most often these will show up on your first bill, so may not be an issue up front.

Insurance: Generally your lender will require that your annual home owners insurance be paid up front and that you bring in a rider showing that you have your policy in place and that it is paid for. Inquire more about this with your lender. Insurance costs are all over the map, I would estimate that a starter home could possibly have insurance costs as low as $300.

NOTE: It is difficult to estimate fees that could vary based on the prices of homes, various lender policies, and your own choices. This is intended to let you know about the existence of these fees rather than estimate the amounts -- but, it sure is better to know ahead of time that you're going to need some cash up front.

No surprises, right? ~ Liz

End of April Market Stats

2011-04-30T09:40:00.000-04:00

Just took a look at our local market stats for the end of April, in the areas of the Marquette School District. (Mqt City, Twsp., Chocolay and Sands Twsps.) I compared 2011 to 2010.

ALL PRICE RANGES:

# Solds: down from 81 in 2010, to 70 in 2011.

Median List and Sold Prices: down slightly, 2010 - $144,900./140,000. 2011 - $140,000./$138,000.

Days on Market: down from 120 to 102.

OVER $250,000. SALES:
# Solds: down slightly from 12 to 11 this year.
Median List and Sold Prices: up, $284,950./$276,116 in 2010. 2011 - $329,900./312,000.
Days on Market: down from 187 to 99!

Quick peek at over $300,000. Five sold by this time last year, six sold this year.

Observations: Last year the market was still dealing with the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit which affected the first set of numbers - the general market - with much more activity last year. That would have accounted for the larger number of sales last year, and also the higher median sales price because there was more competition for those homes last year.

It does appear that our higher end market is continuing to trend upward. The median sales price is higher and the days on market is way down. Only qualifier here, is that these are fairly small samples. Across the board the List to Sold price ratio is about 95%.

HOME BUYER SEMINAR (Post 5) - Obtaining Your New Mortgage!

2011-04-26T07:30:00.000-04:00

I asked Kristen Derocha of River Valley Bank in Marquette, if she would be a guest columnist for the Home Buyer Seminar. She was kind enough to provide the following, regarding the process of getting that "all important pre-approval" and ultimately your new mortgage. Kristen would be a great choice to meet with to inquire about your next mortgage -- you'll find her to be friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and sincerely there to help you accomplish your goals. Her contact information is listed below.

1. What advice do you have for those seeking a first home mortgage?Buying your first home can be an overwhelming experience for anyone. With the help of an experienced Mortgage Banker, that experience will become easier. Choosing a Mortgage Banker that is compatible with your personality assures you that your experience will be a positive one. Your Mortgage Banker will provide you with the proper tools to pre-approve your application quicker and choose a team that will make your dream a reality.

2. What personal finance info. does one need to gather in order to apply for a home mortgage?

Bringing all of the pertinent information to your Mortgage Banker in a timely manner a key factor to help your team qualify you faster and help you decide on the home that is right for you. This information may include the following:Your 2 most current W2s2 most current paystubs Last 2 months checking and savings statements from your bankStatements from your current retirement accounts (i.e. 401K, stocks, IRA’s)If you are self-employed, copies of your last two years tax returnsIf you are refinancing, a copy of your current homeowners insurance policy

3. What should someone do if they're turned down?

Not every situation is going to qualify for a mortgage. Work with your Mortgage Banker to get the specifics on why your situation does not meet the lending guidelines. Your Mortgage Banker will guide you to the path to improve your situation and get you in a home faster.

4. When is it advisable to refinance your home mortgage?

Your Mortgage Banker will give you options that may reduce your current mortgage payment, help you reduce the length of your mortgage and/or roll in other outstanding debt to reduce your overall payments. Typically, homeowners refinance when they can save over 1% in their interest rate or shave enough off of their monthly payment to make it worth while to them. Ultimately, only you will be able to make the decision on whether or not it is the right time for you to refinance your home.

5. What should one look out for when refinancing?

Working with a reputable Mortgage Banker is essential to the success of your refinancing needs. It is extremely important to make sure you are getting “the whole picture” when looking at things such as rate, term, points and closing costs. Make sure that you get a Good Faith Estimate from your Mortgage Banker so that you can be assured of what the total cost of your transaction is going to be and that the payment amount is in line with your budget.

6. How can an applicant best help the refinancing process go smoothly?

Working with your Mortgage Banker and supplying all of the required documents in a timely manner will help your refinancing process go smoothly. It is a team effort to gather all of the information to submit your application and get your loan closed quickly.

Make every moment an Incredible one!!!
Kristen A. Derocha
Mortgage Banker
River Valley Bank
1140 W. Washington St.
Marquette, MI 49855
Direct Phone (906) 226-1393
Cell Phone (906) 361-4101
Fax (906) 226-0290
kderocha@rivervalleybank.com

Thank You Kristen!

Now go get pre-approved! ~ Liz

HOME BUYER SEMINAR 2011 (Post 4) - TOURING HOMES!

2011-04-19T05:02:00.000-04:00

So, you've been pre-approved by your lender. You've chosen your REALTOR, and we've discussed what you are looking for in a home and come up with a list of properties. Now we should begin to tour homes in order to find the one that is right for you.

By touring homes you will begin to get a good sense of the local market -- or in other words what type of home is being offered for what money. You will also get a sense of what size of home seems about right for you. You'll likely begin to fine tune those needs and wants.

As we tour homes we will have a Sellers Disclosure on hand which offers lots of detailed information on the home provided by the Sellers, such as: do the major systems in the home (heating/plumbing, etc.) work, has the basement ever had evidence of water, does the roof leak, age of furnace, etc. We will be looking for positives in the home as well as negative factors.

When you finally narrow the field to a few homes that you might actually be interested in, then its time to find out even more about them. I will always check on the heating costs for the home - and if you want, other utilities. The heating bill tells you a lot about the home (windows and insulation and furnace for example). Most of the other utilities will be more dependant upon your own personal use and the power company in that area. I also will help you to ESTIMATE what the property taxes will be once you own the home. You'll notice that we are rarely provided with current tax information. That is because the current owners taxes are rarely indicative of what YOUR taxes will be after you take ownership. I will look for the most current information we have from the local municipality: the local millage rate and the Assessed Value of the property, and we can get a good estimate of what you can expect.

While we are in the home its a good idea for us to think through what items we might want to write into an offer, such as: what personal property you want to ask for, what information you might make your offer contingent upon -- such as covenants, leases, road association info, etc.

Once you are satisfied that this is the home you want to make an offer on, then we are ready to go back to the office and do just that. We'll cover writing offers next week!

Lets go see some homes! ~ Liz

HOME BUYER SEMINAR 2011 (Post 3) - Finding Your New Home!!

2011-04-11T22:00:00.002-04:00

O.K. – so now we need to find you a home! You’ve already been pre-approved by your Lender, so we know what price range you qualify for. You’ve also already chosen your REALTOR.

Your REALTOR needs to know your needs and wants in a home. Things like, how many bedrooms and baths you will need – the amount of square footage you might want (You'll get a good sense of the sq. footage that fits for you, once you get out to see some homes.) – the age of the home you would be interested in (do you like vintage homes, or do you want a more modern home) – if you are o.k. with a “fixer-upper” or need to have the home closer to “move-in” condition – what areas or neighborhoods you like – related to that, what school system do you prefer – what size of lot do you prefer – even, how busy the road is in case you have children or pets – are there types of construction that you prefer (conventional frame, modular, manufactured, mobile) – do you want a garage, a basement, a family room, a fireplace, etc.

Armed with this information, your REALTOR will begin to set up your “search” on the computer. They are searching the entire MLS (Multiple Listing Service) for you. The MLS is a single system that every participating Real Estate Agency places their listings into. We “share” our listing information with one another, and ANY agent can show and sell you ANY of the properties.

So once your search is completely set up, it is usually emailed to you. You will be able to examine lots of detailed information about each property and look at photos and hopefully a Virtual Tour. Personally, when I set a new client up on a computer search, I will also set them up on "auto email". This feature allows my client to receive all “new listings” that continue to hit the market after I’ve sent them their initial search. You will receive these listings just minutes after they hit the market!

Because your REALTOR now knows you and knows what you are looking for, if they are on the ball, they may be able to benefit you by letting you know about homes that are just coming onto the market – before too many other buyers know about them.

You will review your list of homes, choose those you like best, drive by the homes first, and then ask your REALTOR to set up showing appointments. Most often your REALTOR will need at least one day ahead to get these appointments set up with the owners of the homes.

When we tour the homes we will look for both good and bad elements. Your REALTOR should have a Sellers Disclosure on hand during your showings. We’ll look for items such as a leaky roof or basement. As you tour more and more homes you will get a better sense of what you really like – and your REALTOR will be paying attention so that they can help find that perfect one for you.

Little by little we will fine tune your search, and hopefully shortly we will walk into the one you think could become YOUR home. Next week we’ll talk about making an offer on it!

Lets get out there and look at some homes! ~ Liz

The Master Handyman Show

2011-03-30T09:29:00.002-04:00

OK - I am such a nerd, house-junkie, DIY freak, whatever. But I have to share this show and website http://www.masterhandyman.com/ , with my friends. I promise you, this site will save you tons of time and money with ANY project you may have around the house.

I work lots of Saturdays, and The Master Handyman is on the radio on Saturday mornings. So, I listen to him while Im running in between showings, etc. He's a terrific, knowledgeable resource. THIS would be my absolute "go to" prior to any project.

HOME BUYER SEMINAR 2011 (Post 2) - Choose a GOOD REALTOR!

2011-03-29T05:36:00.001-04:00

Recently I was explaining the process of home buying to first time home buyers that were feeling somewhat overwhelmed understanding the “whole process”. I found myself boiling it down to the fact that – if they found themselves a good Lender and a good REALTOR – they’d do just fine. I really believe that. It’s like any other time you might employ a professional -- getting dry-walling done –- having surgery -- or fighting a court battle. It only makes sense to employ an expert. We all know that choosing the right professional can make a huge difference in your overall experience.

Your REALTOR should be someone you like, and trust, and that knows their stuff. Its really important that your REALTOR have sufficient experience because they are going to be: helping you locate and then critique properties, supplying you with market data, writing an offer that protects your interests, negotiating successfully for you, being creative in solving a variety of problems that could arise, and effectively and efficiently closing the deal for you. Remember, your REALTOR doesn’t just get keys and open houses for you. They will likely spend several months helping you with a variety of tasks.

I’m very protective of my Buyers. I don’t think of what I do as “selling” them a home. Instead I provide them with a full array of services, so that they can locate the correct home and ultimately have the confidence that they made an intelligent buying decision.

A referral is a great way to find a good Realtor. Look at whether the Realtor has certain credentials, seems to do a fair amount of business, certainly that they have a website, email, etc. It seems incomprehensible today, but some REALTORS may not know how to email you listings! Another way to see if they are internet savvy would be to simply Google one – try something like Marquette MI Realtor. Checking out a REALTORS’ personal website can tell you about their expertise, and give you a personal feel for that agent. Visit me at www.BuyMarquette.com, or www.LizGrill.com! Just remember... Experience counts when you're hoping your Realtor knows enough to write in to have the septic tank pumped so that it gets inspected, or when you find yourself suddenly competing with another party for the home of your dreams.

As far as credentials go--- many of us have lots of initials after our names. The more initials, the more education basically. A common designation is an ABR (Accredited Buyers Representative). Another very desireable designation is that of Assoc. Broker (one of the highest educational markers). Others may be GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) or EPro – (Internet Proficiency.)

Your REALTOR may spend several months working with you. They may spend many of their summer evenings and Saturday afternoons helping you to see the homes you want. In exchange for their professional assistance, they are hoping that one day they will receive compensation for their time spent. You have a right to find the correct REALTOR for you. You do not HAVE to work with the first one you speak to. However, it becomes much less complicated if you will set out to find the right professional for you - up front- and then be loyal to them. REALTORS work within a Code of Ethics, which among other things requires us to inquire about whether or not our buyers are already working with another agent, and sometimes requires us to pay another agent a portion of our commission because they may have had some previous contact with you. So, it just makes sense to find the “right” partner early on and then stick with them.

I'd love to be your Buyers Agent!
Stay tuned -- I'll see you next week ~ Liz

Home Buyer Seminar 2011 (Post 1)- Ten Steps to Buying a Home

2011-03-23T14:23:00.000-04:00

WELCOME TO MY FIRST ENTRY IN THE ONLINE HOME BUYER SEMINAR. I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS! PLEASE EMAIL ME WITH ANY COMMENTS, AND ALSO SEND ALONG ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE!

~ Liz

You Want to Buy a Home!
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions any one of us will ever make. And yet, it’s much more than just a financial decision. Many factors will play in to your home buying decision, such as price, location, your personal needs and wants, and how long you intend to stay in this home, for starters.

I have outlined below 10 steps to Purchasing Your New Home:

1) Get Pre-approved by a LenderUnless you are paying cash, you are going to have to get a mortgage, to buy a home. You can begin this process with a simple conversation with a lender of your choice. Your REALTOR may be able to point you to several lenders that they have had positive experiences with.

Your lender will be able to tell you what price range you qualify for, so that you can begin shopping for homes that will fit for you. Did you know that the second item on a Purchase Agreement is a paragraph that asks, what TYPE of loan you are going to be getting, and also whether or not you are pre-approved? Getting pre-approved can actually save you money! Picture the following scenario: A seller has two offers come in at the same time. One buyer is pre-approved. The second buyer has offered $1000. more, but his/her purchase agreement says, that they will go to the bank within the next 10 days to see if they can get pre-approved. Which offer do you think the seller is likely to favor?? The one where the buyer is already Pre-Approved!

2) Find a Qualified Buyers RepresentativeBefore you do anything else, find the professionals that will help you to purchase your home. Your lender and your REALTOR. Your REALTOR should be someone that you like and trust, and that will work hard for you. A Buyers Representative is a REALTOR that is working for you, the Buyer. Look for a REALTOR that has the designation of an ABR (Accredited Buyers Representative). You might also want to determine that your REALTOR has satisfactory experience. Your REALTOR doesn’t just schedule showings for you; they must be able to craft a good purchase agreement, with sufficient provisions to protect their client. They should know the market. They should be able to provide you with sales data that helps you to determine the price you should be offering. You may want them to be competent enough with technology so that they can provide you with up to the minute listings. Basically, they are going to be the one helping you find a home, negotiate a purchase agreement, and follow up on all aspects of your closing. Finding the right REALTOR can make this a better, more enjoyable, experience for you all the way around.

3) Assess your Wants and NeedsStart writing down what you really consider NEEDS, and also what you WANT in a home. You may not get all of the “wants” but you should strive to get all of your “needs”. If you are a couple, write them down separately and then see how you match up. The process is definitely a give-and-take one. Your REALTOR can set up a search of homes for you that closely match these items.

4) Shop for a HomeYour REALTOR will listen to what you want and need in a home and supply a list of homes to you for your review. Usually your REALTOR will need one day ahead to schedule showings for you. As you begin to tour homes, you will begin to get a sense of what you like and dislike and your REALTOR will too! Soon you’ll find the one that fits.

5) Negotiate TermsOnce you find the home you want you will work with your REALTOR to put together your Offer. Purchase Agreements are always WRITTEN. They contain items such as: how much you are offering, the type of loan you will be getting, when you want to close, when you will take occupancy, what personal property you are asking for, inspections and tests, title work, prorating taxes, and any other items particular to that sale.

6) Obtain your MortgageAfter we have successfully negotiated a deal on the home that you want, I always say to my clients, “Now is the time to keep your lender happy!” Now your lender will direct you to give them additional information that they might need to further your mortgage.

7) Prepare for the ClosingTogether we will be going through the steps outlined in your purchase agreement. Most closing periods are about 30-45 days. The first thing we do is make sure your loan is all set. Then you will schedule your inspection. If that turns out o.k., then we will have your lender schedule the appraisal. Your REALTOR will receive the title work on your home and review it with you, along with your lender. The deed will be ordered. You will secure your Home Owners Insurance. When the closing day is determined, then you will call to switch utilities into your name and we will plan to meet at the bank! We may also want to do a final walk through of the home before closing.

8) Actual ClosingGenerally the title company or the lender will conduct the closing. They will be in touch with you to make certain that you know how much money (if any) you need to bring to the closing table, and any other items that you will need.

9) MoveIt is the norm in our area, to receive immediate occupancy upon close. This means, you get the keys to your new home at the closing table and you get to go right there!! It’s YOURS!

10) CELEBRATE!

I also have a Homebuyer’s Toolkit that is published by REBAC, the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council. This booklet also details all the steps to purchasing a home. I would be happy to mail you a copy of this booklet, if you would like to call or email me with your mailing address.

There’s a lot to this, but its loads of fun too! ~ Liz

Vintage Doors Website

2011-02-20T05:58:00.000-05:00

Don't you love the sound of a traditional wood screen door slamming? I will be in need of two new screen doors come spring. (The dog ran through both of them - long story.) I found a website for beautiful Vintage Doors if your home or cottage calls for them. More than just screen doors, this company has interior pantry door designs, beautiful solid exterior doors, and screen porch panels. Check it out ! Go to VintageDoors.com

"Spring is just around the corner!" ~ Liz

Fun Website for SHUTTERS!

2011-02-20T05:46:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to introduce you to a great website if by chance, you are in the need for interior or exterior shutters. This company will even do custom pieces. Lots of colors, cut-outs, odd shapes and sizes. I've found that WOOD shutters are just about absolete at traditional local home improvement shops (ie, Lowes, Mesnards) and a plastic shutter for inside just seems - well... "it might make me shudder!" Shuttercraft, Inc.

"Hope you always find that perfect piece for your home" ~ Liz

Annual Market Report for 2010 - Marquette MI

2011-02-16T13:07:00.000-05:00

Local Realtors received the annual report of the local Real Estate Market from Closser and Associates yesterday. As predicted, the market rebounded in 2010, with an increase of 7% in the Median Price, which is an equal offset to the 7% decrease we experienced in '09. (Note: Sales examined are Marquette School District areas, single family and condos only.)

Some other interesting factoids are:
The NUMBER of homes sold was way up - 17% over '09 - to 287.
Days On Market went down - from 167 in '09 to 146.
Median Sales Price is 152,000.
Avg Sales Price is $171,702.

Broadening the scope to the entire UP MLS - Average home price only went up .3%, but this was higher than half of the Boards of Realtors throughout the State.

Interested in what some other Median Home Prices are throughout the Nation?
Marquette       $152,000.
Lansing           $84,000.

Appleton         $119,000.
Green Bay       $130,000.

Grand Rapids $91,000.

New York $350,000.

Minneapolis $170,000.

San Fran $567,000.

Silicon Valley $602,000.

Tampa $134,000.

Wash D.C. $325,000.

Madison $217,000.

There are other details that do come into play, such as your area and your price range. If you have any specific questions, I am always happy to help. Please contact me.

Looking toward a successful 2011 for everyone!

January 2011 way over last year!

2011-02-04T20:10:00.001-05:00

January stats are in for the overall North Central MLS. Number of properties sold in January, up 51% over January 2010. Dollar volume up by 58%. Wow. Terrific activity. Good things to come in 2011! Hang on!

People ask "how can you tell when the market is on is way back up?". The answer is - when more homes are selling, and faster, and at increasing prices. The stats show all of that happening.

Cost VS Value of Remodeling Projects

2011-01-27T16:43:00.001-05:00

Just attended an online seminar on Cost VS Value. Great insights on the recent study for 2010 on remodeling/replacement projects and the return they bring to homeowners. Also recent trends in housing, additions, and remodels were discussed. An overwhemlming tone to the findings in this report was that the economy strongly influenced todays trends. Most of the top 10 projects (7 of 10) were not the "sexy - glamorous" improvements that we normally think of, but instead were less expensive and just more practical projects such as replacing the front door, or replacing windows and siding. As always, the big ticket items are kitchens and baths. These will always be huge in influencing buyers.

The speakers mentioned that more people were opting for smaller remodeling projects - for example, doing updates like new flooring or hardware, rather than a complete kitchen tear out. Another popular direction in home improvement is of course going "green". With expectations that gas prices will continue to climb, energy efficiency improvements are going to translate well for homeowners. I'll write more on a later post about credits and programs available this year to help with those projects.

Above all, remember that "resale" is not ALWAYS the only point to consider. Even if you do not receive dollar for dollar return, remember that hopefully you also will receive plenty of pride and enjoyment from the improvements that you accomplish in your home.

Please call on me if I could help you with any of your remodeling questions. For more info on the report go to http://www.costvsvalue.com/

Start planning those spring projects now! ~ Liz

2010 MARKET STATISTICS - Marquette, MI Area

2011-01-08T17:07:00.007-05:00

Here’s a look at the Local Market stats for 2010. Every year local Realtors receive an Annual Report from Closser and Associates. We haven't received this yet, but I'm always anxious enough to want to take a look myself. I review with the same parameters that they do, for consistency. They examine single family homes and condos in the Marquette School District areas (Marquette City, Marquette Twsp, Chocolay, and the portion of Sands Twsp in the Marquette Schools.) I have done the same, and compared 2010 to 2009. Here are my results:

Things look good!
The Number of Homes Sold are UP, Median Sales Price is UP, and Days on Market is virtually the same.

Units Sold:
2009 - 243
2010 - 279    14.8% increase.

Median Sold Price:
2009 - $142,000.
2010 - $152,000.     7 % increase.

Median Days on Market:
2009 - 98
2010 - 104

These results were not surprising to me because I had taken a look at the market at the end of the third quarter and found about the same trend. We had a great year - my personal best ever. Interest rates are historically low, the first time home buyers credit program was in effect for half of the year, and there was a nice selection of homes. However, this was a year where sellers had to really have their game on.  Despite these stats, sellers had to price right in order to get their home sold, or reduce and reduce until the market responded....so sometimes this year's market was difficult to figure out.

If we were to take a little longer viewpoint of our market over the last four years -- the years in which the national real estate market really took a spin -- our market has remained ENTIRELY STABLE. In '07 our Median Price was STABLE with the year before, in '08 it was STABLE again, in '09 we saw a 7 % decrease in Median Price (the first significant drop in years), and now in 2010 we have increased to bring us right back to essentially the same Median Price that we have seen year after year. Once again STABILIZED.

There is another item that, when thrown into the mix, has to be acknowledged in affecting our Median Price in '09 and '10. That is the first time home buyers credit. This program heavily loaded the sales in the lower price range. This factor alone would have the effect of lowering the Median Sales Price for the year. So, this may have been a major factor in seeing the drop in Median Price in 2009, and could also mean that we would have seen an even greater increase this year if the program had not been in effect for half of 2010.

So, where was our market struggling?
HIGHER END: Same geographical areas - Sales over $250,000. in sales price
2009: Units sold: 26, Median Price: $312,875.
2010: Units sold: 40, Median Price: $304,325.
This is a 3% decrease in Median Price, and about a 54% increase in the number of homes sold! So.... a moderate drop in price, but many more homes sold. Sellers of higher priced homes needed to bring down their prices some, but if they did, there were buyers out there! Some higher priced homes that had been on the market for over a year - sometimes two years - finally sold. (Personally, I believe there is pent up demand in the higher priced market and we will see good sales in 2011.)

Highest Priced Home Sale:
2008= $900,000., 2009 - $555,000. 2010 - $545,000.

Check back because I'll also take a look at Negaunee and Ishpeming.

These stats are tentative right now. I’ll report back on the “official” results after we receive Clossers report, most likely in early February. As usual, please feel free to contact me if you would like any local real estate information, have questions, or if you are thinking of buying or selling.

High End Market BACK?

2010-12-15T23:18:00.002-05:00

Some more positive news in the market! The area that was lagging -- the sale of higher priced homes -- may be turning around. Homes over $300,000. (in our local area) saw sales of only 3 in the first quarter of 2010, 4 sales in the 2nd quarter, 4 in the 3rd quarter, but 6 in this last quarter. Actually there were 4 of these sales in November alone! In this last group of sales we also finally saw some of the sales in the $400,000. reappear.

People ask, "how can you tell when the market has bottomed out and is on its way back up?" The answer to this is, "when more homes sell, the sales happen sooner, and of course, when the prices begin to rise." All year we have seen a greater number of homes selling, and days on market fall. The median price of higher priced homes is still lower than it was last year, but Im going to venture to say that that's going to stabilize. I believe there is simply pent up demand in the higher end market. Don't listen to the doom and gloom - our market is showing many positive signs.

If you'd like to discuss any aspect of the market in particular, please contact me directly (or keep checking back here). For greater detail see the previous post on our entire market at the end of the 3rd Quarter 2010. It may really surprise you!

Here comes 2011! ~ Liz

3rd Qtr Market Statistics

2010-10-06T17:24:00.000-04:00

January 1 to September 30 Sales data - comparing 2009 and 2010

(Single Family - Residential)

It’s time for 3rd Qtr Real Estate Stats. This is certainly a challenging year for me to get my head around! Some areas and price ranges are stable or even increasing, while others are down.

Some things that might just surprise you??

The overall MLS has experienced a 20% increase in total transactions over 2009!
In the Marquette School District Areas - the median price is creeping upward.
The over $200,000.'s in Mqt. Sch Dist., has a drop in price, but MANY more sales over last year.
In Chocolay/Sands the median price is up a sizeable amount and days on market are down!

These things translate into a pretty positive climate for Buyers ~ prices down (or maybe on their way up!) plentiful supply and just phenomenal interest rates! Did you know some people are getting interest rates in the 3s’???

AREA: Marquette School District Area:

197 Active Listings at this time.

2009 2010

# Homes Sold: 168 201

Median Sold Price: $141,750. $145,500.

Median Days on Market: 102 99

These are all positive signs for this area. More homes sold, a slightly higher median sales price and less days on market.

Though these numbers look good, you should note that the 197 active listings represents about a nine month inventory of homes if only 201 have sold so far this year. So there is still a fairly large inventory.

Over $200,000. homes in the same area:

67 Active Listings.

2009 2010

# Homes Sold: 30 49

Median Sold Price: $257,000. $234,900.
Median Days on Market: 127 141

As you can see, the higher price market has been hit a bit harder. Sellers have had to come down in price, but when they have, the sales have been there -- 49 sold rather than 30 last year. However, with 67 active listings in this higher priced market, the homes must be priced right to sell, as 67 active listings represent over a one year inventory, at the pace of sales right now.

How about Chocolay and Sands?

Median price went from $150,000. in 2009 to $173,000. in 2010., with about the same # of sales 57, and 54 respectively. There are 63 current Active Listings. Again, over a 9 month inventory.

Negaunee City and Township?

Median price went from $83,250. in 2009 to $106,400. in 2010. Number of homes sold went from 38 in 2009, to 59 in 2010. There are 70 active listings, so again a large inventory.

Ishpeming City and Township?

Very stable right now with 2009 to 2010 Median price going from $57,000. to $60,000., and the number of homes sold from 58 to 56, respectively. There are 65 active listings, so over nine month inventory.

The only other variable to consider is that we did have a Buyer Tax Credit during the first half of this year. But this credit program was also running in 2009. All in all, it appears that we are certainly holding our own. The only lagging area seems to be in the higher priced homes. If you would like any additional information please contact me direct.

ENERGY savings in 2010!

2010-07-04T09:05:00.001-04:00

If you are planning any energy related changes to your home, 2010 is THE YEAR to do it! The same holds true if you are considering the purchase of new appliances. There are not only some terrific values out there, but also a tax credit available from the government. I have gathered information from several local retailers for you.

1) The Window Store -- TWS provided me with information for you and also a valuable coupon of up to $500. Please drop me an email to request this information. This is a win-win-win-win situation. You could put in new windows, get a discount from the window store, have valuable energy savings afterward, and potentially file for an energy credit on your income taxes!

2) H.E.S. - Home Evaluation Services - Kerry Noble has opened an office in Chocolay in the Togo's plaza that deals with energy related services. Kerry has recently teamed up with Gary Horwood previously of The Window Store. This business can advise you, point you into the direction of other retailers/service providers, do an energy audit on your home, etc. The energy audit is the neatest thing! They test your home and provide you with a report that will identify and prioritize the changes you could make to improve on your energy savings. The audit provides both the cost to do the change and the savings the change will provide. You will be able to clearly see how long it will take you to breakeven. Some changes may pay for themselves in a matter of months, and others may take years -- easy straightforward decision-making. Stop in or call on HES -- you'll be glad you did!

The government is providing a tax credit for energy related items also. Please go to Energystar Gov Tax Credit to find out more.

Hope this information helps -- saves you money -- and gets you a tax credit this year!!

Win-win-win-win! ~ Liz

Liz the Gardener

2010-06-03T00:02:00.001-04:00

I spent all four days surrounding the Memorial Day holiday beginning to tackle my back yard gardening. We have quite a large back yard that has some great features, but needs a complete overhaul. Bill tilled the perimeter for me, and then left me for the long weekend to fend for myself. Me and a shovel, some peat, manure, and a checkbook - we had some quality time together! I found lots of beautiful plants and shrubs, and worked to find different textures, heights and both spring and summer-fall bloomers. Bing supervised (mostly by laying flat on his belly in the dirt) and by late Monday evening I had completed probably a 35' strip along one fence line. (I'll come back and add some pics.)

Im going to try to attend the 3rd annual Garden Conference going on at NMU on June 26th. See details below, and for more info check out the Marquette Beautification Committee's website at: http://www.mqtbeautification.org/index.html

MBRC 2010 Garden Conference

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Schedule

9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Keynote: Eight Months of Color

Janet Macunovich and Steven Nikkila

11:00 a.m. - noon Workshop Session A

1. Fifty Favorite Gardens, Before and After Janet Macunovich and Steven Nikkila

2. Oh Those Pesky Lawn Weeds!

and How to Eradicate Them Lynn Adams

3. Hummingbird and Butterfly Gardening Chris Ainsle

4. Building a Healthy Soil Jim Isleib

5. Won’t You “Bee” My Neighbor? Lee Ossenheimer

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Workshop Session B

1. Fifty Favorite Gardens, Before and After Janet Macunovich and Steven Nikkila

(repeat of Session A 1)

2. Gardening in Containers Linda Andriacchi

3. You Can Grow Clematis Bill Van Kosky

4. Gardening 101: Playing in da U.P. Sandbox Kari Stordahl

5. Coneflowers as Garden Favorites Larry Pagel

2:50 p.m. - 3:50 p.m. Workshop Session C

1. Native Gardening with UP Wildflowers Teri Grout and Elizabeth Coyne

and Shrubs

2. Bearded Iris 101 Marsha Preston

3. Tips for the Vegetable Gardener Norm Hefke

4. The Home Orchard for Beginners Jim Isleib

5. Tropical Plantings - Panama Plus Judy Quirk

Website Find - Walpole Woodworkers

2010-06-01T08:18:00.001-04:00

Oh my -- just my style. Guess if you painted anything white, I would like it. This website offers wonderful garden elements such as arbors, cupolas, lantern posts, fences, etc. Buy or just get ideas. http://www.walpolewoodworkers.com/

Enjoy our Summers and make your home your special place! ~ Liz

Website Find - Garden Artworks

2010-05-31T08:09:00.002-04:00

Truly awe inspiring garden fountains and artwork. Must convert pounds to U.S. Dollars. High end incredible designs. www.allisonsgarden.com

Enjoy the Garden! ~Liz

Assessment Notices Mailed

2010-03-14T14:29:00.001-04:00

March is the time for local Assessing Offices to mail out to property owners, their Assessment Notices for the upcoming year. I welcome you to contact me if you have any questions about your notice. As a previous City Treasurer for nearly 12 years, and also as a Realtor/Assoc. Broker I understand these notices.

This Notice tells you a number of important things. A change in Assessed Values should tell you something about your very local market. These numbers generally (there are other reasons) change based on Sales of homes near your own, over the past 1-2 years. There are places in our community that actually are showing pretty significant decreases - which of course, we have not seen in a number of years. Changes differ from neighborhood to neighborhood though.

Your change in Taxable Value - if you just purchased - is important to examime because it was allowed to become "uncapped" and can move considerably the first year following your purchase. This new number establishes where you will go from here in large part with your property taxes, so you will want to take a good look at it.

If you didnt move last year, your Taxable Value is adjusted based on the following formula. TV will be adjusted by the Cost of Living (set statewide) or 5% whichever is less. This began with the passage of Proposal A in 1994. 2010 is the very first year ever that the Cost of Living is actually a negative number -- and therefore, Taxable Values went down slightly.

Taxation can be complicated. My advice of course is to contact your local authorities if you have questions. You only have so much time to discuss or appeal this information, so please heed the dates on your notice. I would encourage you to discuss your notice with the local authorities if possible first, and then understand that Board of Review is in place as an appeals process.

Good Luck!! ~Liz

U.P. Builders Show Mar 5-7

2010-03-02T21:10:00.004-05:00

Come check out the UP Builders Show this weekend. We consider it the kick-off to our Spring Real Estate Market. You'll also find vendors of all kinds, with new products and new ideas for all your home improvement projects. Its fun for the entire family. I'll be there Saturday morning. For additional information check out www.upbuildersshow.com

See you at the show! ~ Liz

Heikki Lunta Winterfest this Weekend in Negaunee!

2010-01-13T16:25:00.005-05:00

Heikki Lunta Winterfest in Negaunee is set for this upcoming weekend January 16 and 17 and will feature events such as: a fishing derby, fireworks, bazaars, bonfires and blooper ball!! Few things are as fun as sitting near a bonfire along Teal Lake and watching Fireworks in the Winter sky. Enjoy everyone!

Please visit www.negauneeirontown.com for all the details.

2009 End of Year Market Stats

2010-01-13T16:02:00.003-05:00

Here’s a quick peek at the Local Market statistics for the end of 2009. Every year we receive an official Annual Report from Closser and Associates. This years report is scheduled for Feb 4th. When I look at the market, I try to review it with the same parameters that the Closser report does, so that it has some consistency. They examine single family homes and condos only in the Marquette School District areas (Marquette City, Marquette Twsp, Chocolay, and the portion of Sands Twsp in the Marquette Schools.) I have done the same, and compared 2009 to 2008. Here are my results:

Units Sold - remained basically equal

Median Sold Price – down about 7%

Median List Price – down about 6.25%

Median Days on Market – down about 9%

These results were not surprising to me. This has been the year that our market started to reflect the downturn that has been occurring across the country. In the previous two years we had seen a drop in the number of homes sold but not in our prices. This year things changed for us.

Highest Priced Home Sale:
2008= $900,000., 2009 - $555,000.

2009 Median Sales Price: $142,000.

These stats are tentative right now. I’ll report back on the “official” results after we receive Clossers report. As usual, please feel free to contact me if you would like any local real estate information, or if you are thinking of buying or selling.

World Cup Speed Skating in Marquette Nov 12-15!

2009-11-14T09:06:00.007-05:00

We are so lucky to be hosting the 4 day World Cup short track speedskating competition, right here in Marquette! The United States gave the home crowd a good show on Friday. Team USA advanced three men and three women in the 1,000 meters. Katherine Reutter had the top women's time, just shy of the world record. Apolo Anton Ohno ranked second in the men’s race.

Saturday's activities begin just after Noon, and end with an awards ceremony at 5:30 pm. Sunday's schedule runs from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Berry Events center is located on Fair Ave. Coming in through downtown Marquette, take Front St. North until Front St. ends, and you will be facing the Berry.

Enjoy Marquette while you are in the area. Many fine restaurants: for Italian food check out the Casa Calabria, the new Wild Rover Irish Pub is fun downtown, the locals love casual food at Stucko's or the Portside, and the list goes on. Lots of great coffee shops too, dotted about for your morning in town.

TAX CREDIT EXPANDED and EXTENDED

2009-11-06T15:20:00.003-05:00

Great News for everyone! The existing First Time Home Buyers Credit that was due to expire by Nov. 30th just got renewed life. Its been extended until April 30, 2010, and now (qualifying) existing homeowners can also get in on things!!

Here are the details: http://embedit.in/SaCtaz62FN.swf .

If you still have questions, just let me know!!

Carve an E-PUMPKIN!

2009-10-29T12:43:00.013-04:00

What type of Jack-O-Lanterns do you like? Do you like the friendly, happy ones, or the mean ones? Or are you one of those artist types that spends hours carving a black cat silhouette or an even more elaborate scene or design? Still undecided? Try out this great Pumpkin Simulator at http://carveapumpkin.bhg.com/carveapumpkin/?ordersrc=rdbhg0119 The simulator lets you try out all sorts of faces and designs without touching a knife, a pumpkin or any of the nasty, slimey seeds and stuff inside them. Cool! Let me know what type of pumpkin you draw and feel free to pass this along to others that may enjoy it. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

Don’t be scared!!!! ~ Liz

Closing Day is Here!! (Post 9 of Home Buyer Seminar)

2009-10-27T15:18:00.003-04:00

The Day of Closing!!

Congratulations. The day is finally here. You will have:

Already obtained your annual homeowners insurance and provided your lender with your rider.

Already phoned the local utilities to switch them into your name.

Already found out from your lender how much (if any) money you need to bring to the closing. Most likely in the form of a Cashiers Check.

We will meet at either the Bank or the Title Company. In attendance will be your Realtor, your Lender, most of the time a Representative from the Title Company - sometimes an Attorney, along with the Listing Realtor and most often the Sellers. No wonder it takes awhile to arrange a time and date!!

You will start out meeting privately with your Lender and the Title Company representative to complete all of your Mortgage documents. When those are completed then they will call in the rest of us and there will be a few more documents for you and the Sellers to sign.

Depending upon the occupancy language that is written into your contract, you most likely will be given the keys and be able to go right over to Your New Home!!

Your relationship with me as your Realtor does not end at the closing table. If you have any questions with your home, or anything related, Im always just a phone call away!

First Time Home Buyer Credit!! (Post 7) Home Buyer Seminar

2009-07-15T17:19:00.006-04:00

The First-Time Homebuyer Credit has proven to be a major incentive in this year's local market. Many are taking advantage of this opportunity and finding their first home. What a wonderful nest egg!

Below you will find the BASICS OF THE CREDIT as well as answers to frequently asked questions. I am available also to answer any of your additional questions.

"I would LOVE TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR FIRST HOME!"

BASICS OF THE PROGRAM

AMOUNT OF CREDIT: Maximum $8,000.
ELIGIBLE PROPERTY: Any single family residence (including condos) that will be used as a principal residence.
REFUNDABLE: Reduces (or can eliminate) income tax liability for the year of purchase. Any unused amount of tax credit refunded to purchaser.
INCOME LIMITS: Full amount of credit available for individuals with adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 on a joint return). Phases out above those caps ($95,000 and $170,000).
FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER: Purchaser (and purchaser’s spouse) may not have owned a principal residence in 3 years previous to purchase.
FINANCING RESTRICTIONS? No.
REPAYMENT? No.
RECAPTURE: If home is sold within three years of purchase, entire amount of credit is recaptured on sale.
TERMINATION: Program ends December 1, 2009 (Must CLOSE by)

Note: The credit is an Income Tax Credit obtained through the filing of your 2009 Income Taxes, or ammending your 2008 Income Taxes. You should consult your income tax preparer or other professionals to determine your certain qualification.

MORE DETAILS--

1. What's this new homebuyer tax incentive for 2009?
The 2008 $7500, repayable credit is increased to $8000 and the repayment feature is eliminated for 2009 purchasers. Any home that is purchased for $80,000 or more qualifies for the full $8000 amount. If the house costs less than $80,000, the credit will be 10% of the cost. Thus, if an individual purchased a home for $75,000, the credit would be $7500. It is available for the purchase of a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

2. Who is eligible?
Only first-time homebuyers are eligible. A person is considered a first-time buyer if he/she has not had any ownership interest in a home in the three years previous to the day of the 2009 purchase.

3. How does a tax credit work?
Every dollar of a tax credit reduces income taxes by a dollar. Credits are claimed on an individual's income tax return. Thus, a qualified purchaser would figure out all the income items and exemptions and make all the calculations required to figure out his/her total tax due. Then, once the total tax owed has been computed, tax credits are applied to reduce the total tax bill. So, if before taking any credits on a tax return a person has total tax liability of $9500, an $8000 credit would wipe out all but $1500 of the tax due. ($9,500 - $8000 = $1500)

4. So what happens if the purchaser is eligible for an $8000 credit but their entire income tax liability for the year is only $6000?
This tax credit is what?s called refundable credit. Thus, if the eligible purchaser?s total tax liability was $6000, the IRS would send the purchaser a check for $2000. The refundable amount is the difference between $8000 credit amount and the amount of tax liability. ($8000 - $6000 = $2000) Most taxpayers determine their tax liability by referring to tables that the IRS prepares each year.

5. Is there an income restriction?
Yes. The income restriction is based on the tax filing status the purchaser claims when filing his/her income tax return. Individuals filing Form 1040 as Single (or Head of Household) are eligible for the credit if their income is no more than $75,000. Married couples who file a Joint return may have income of no more than $150,000.

6. How is my income determined?
For most individuals, income is defined and calculated in the same manner as their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) on their 1040 income tax return. AGI includes items like wages, salaries, interest and dividends, pension and retirement earnings, rental income and a host of other elements. AGI is the final number that appears on the bottom line of the front page of an IRS Form 1040.

7. Do individuals with incomes higher than the $75,000 or $150,000 limits lose all the benefit of the credit?
Not always. The credit phases-out between $75,000 - $95,000 for singles and $150,000 - $170,000 for married filing joint. The closer a buyer comes to the maximum phase-out amount, the smaller the credit will be. The law provides a formula to gradually withdraw the credit. Thus, the credit will disappear after an individual?s income reaches $95,000 (single return) or $170,000 (joint return). For example, if a married couple had income of $165,000, their credit would be reduced by 75% as shown: Couple?s income $165,000 Income limit 150,000 Excess income $15,000 The excess income amount ($15,000 in this example) is used to form a fraction. The numerator of the fraction is the excess income amount ($15,000). The denominator is $20,000 (specified by the statute). In this example, the disallowed portion of the credit is 75% of $8000, or $6000 ($15,000/$20,000 = 75% x $8000 = $6000) Stated another way, only 25% of the credit amount would be allowed. In this example, the allowable credit would be $2000 (25% x $8000 = $2000)

8. What's the definition of principal residence?
Generally, a principal residence is the home where an individual spends most of his/her time (generally defined as more than 50%). It is also defined as owner-occupied housing. The term includes single-family detached housing, condos or co-ops, townhouses or any similar type of new or existing dwelling. Even some houseboats or manufactured homes count as principal residences.

9. Are there restrictions related to the financing for the mortgage on the property?
In 2009, most financing arrangements are acceptable and will not affect eligibility for the credit. Congress eliminated the financing restriction that applied in 2008.

10. Do I have to repay the 2009 tax credit?
NO. There is no repayment for 2009 tax credits.

11. Do 2008 purchasers still have to repay their tax credit?
YES. The $7500 credit in 2008 was more like an interest-free loan. All eligible purchasers who claimed the 2008 credit will still be required to repay it over 15 years, starting with their 2010 tax return.

Spring Into Home Maintenance

2009-05-03T12:49:00.004-04:00

Six features that need most attention

Spring is always an ideal time to be checking the exterior of your home and catching up on any maintenance items that have come to light since last summer. As always, maintenance begins with a stroll around the house and a careful examination of its condition. Take a tablet with you, make some notes as you go, and then sit down and work up a list of things to take care of -- sort the list in order of the most pressing items first -- and then list the tools and materials you'll need for each task. By sorting and organizing your list in this manner, you can take what may sometimes be a long list of projects and make it a lot easier to undertake.

THE ROOF
Roof damage is an obvious area of concern. You'll want to actually go up on the roof so that you can make a thorough and careful inspection of several different things, so if you're not comfortable with the height or steepness of your roof, consider hiring an experienced, licensed roofing company to do the inspection for you.
As you walk around the roof, look for missing or loose shingles, including ridge cap shingles. Examine the condition of the flashings around chimneys, flue pipes, vent caps, and anyplace where the roof and walls intersect. Look also for areas of overhanging trees that could damage the roof in a wind storm, as well as buildups of leaves, pine needles, and other debris. If you have roof damage in a number of areas, or if the shingles are of an age and condition that makes patching impractical, now may be the time to consider having the entire roof redone. Also, remember that if the shingles have been damaged by wind or by impact from falling tree limbs or other items, repair of the damage may be covered by your homeowner's insurance.

SIDING
Siding can suffer damage from exposure to sun, wind and rain. As you work your way around the house, you'll want to look for areas of siding that may be loose, cracked or sagging. In the case of plywood siding, look for areas of delamination -- separation of the layers of plywood -- or for an overlap seam that may be working loose.
In addition to examining the siding, check the condition of any wood trim, and the condition of both paint and caulking. Peeling or missing paint will need to be spot primed and painted, and the caulking around windows, doors, and trim may need to be cleaned out and replaced to prevent moisture and air from creeping into open gaps.

GRADE
Heavy snow and rain can often cause the soil around your home to move -- washing away in some areas and piling up in others. This type of alteration in the grade levels around your home can result in drainage problems and potential damage to your home, so look for areas of water staining on the concrete, or dirt or water stain patterns on siding -- if they're present, plan on moving and contouring some soil to redistribute the drainage patterns.

FENCES
Ground water can play havoc with fences and gates as well -- soft, wet soil allows fence posts to loosen up and eventually sag or fall over. Check fences by wiggling the posts to see if there is movement -- if there is, plan on removing soil around the base of the posts and pouring additional concrete to reinforce them. This is also the time to check the condition of fence boards and the condition and operation of gates.

SPRING CLEANING
Once you've completed your examination of these and other areas of your home's exterior and completed any necessary repairs, spring is also the ideal time to undertake a good exterior cleaning. In addition to gutters and roof, remove and store your storm windows and clean your windows; use a broom or water to remove cobwebs and dirt from under eaves, as well as on siding and exterior doors; pressure wash patios and walkways (pressure washers can be purchased or rented); and care for exterior wood decks.

SMOKE DETECTORS
Every spring and fall, you want to check your smoke detectors. Replace the batteries, clean the covers, and test the detector's operation before it's too late. If you have gas-fired appliances in the house, including a water heater, now is also a great time to consider adding a carbon monoxide detector. CO2 detectors are inexpensive and easy to install, and are available at most home centers and other retailers of electrical parts and supplies.

HOPPY EASTER!

2009-04-02T15:35:00.003-04:00

"Downtown Ultimate Egg Adventure"
Downtown Marquette

April 3rd & 4th, 2009

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Look for signs in the windows of downtown Marquette businesses for the

"Ultimate Egg Adventure" participation.

ALSO

The Easter Bunny will be at the Masonic Temple on
Saturday, April 4th

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

2009-03-26T06:29:00.002-04:00

This handy list of items you may need for preparing your income taxes was online at msnmoney. I thought it appeared very comprehensive. I am not a tax professional, but thought I could share it. Its seems like a good starting point and I suggest you gather data and work with a tax professional. If you would like the name of a good tax preparer in town, email me and I will suggest several.

Taxpayer's checklist for tax year 2008
Information you need
Where to get the data
PERSONAL DATA
Social Security numbers (including spouse and children)
These are required to qualify for exemptions.
Your child-care provider's tax ID or Social Security number
This is critical to qualify for child care credits.
Form 8332, copies of your divorce decree, or other documents proving your right to claim a child living with your ex-spouse.
Divorce documents are on file in the court where you filed. Your lawyer should have them as well. Form 8332 is available on the IRS Web site.
EMPLOYMENT & INCOME DATA
W-2 forms for this year
These come from your employer.
Partnership and trust income
Data for these should come from an accountant or financial institution.
Pensions and annuities
Data should come from the financial institution, insurance company selling the annuity or pension fund.
Social Security Railroad Retirement Benefits
You will need Form RRB 1099 or Form RRB 1042S for nonresident alien recipients of Railroad Retirement benefits.
Alimony received
Tax information should come from your ex-spouse or his representative. Your former spouse will want your Social Security number to be able to deduct any alimony payments.
Jury duty pay
Data should come from the court clerk.
Gambling and lottery winnings
This data should come from the casino or lottery authority. Use Form W-2G.
Prizes and awards
Data should come from the award givers. Use Form 1099-MISC.
Scholarships and fellowships
Data should come from the administrators of these programs. Use Form 1099-MISC.
State and local income-tax refunds
Data should come from the taxing authorities.
HOMEOWNER/RENTER DATA
Residential address(es) for this year
This is your responsibility.
Mortgage interest
Your lender will send you this data on Form 1098.
Sale of your home or other real estate
Your lender or closing agent should send you Form1099-S.
Second-mortgage interest paid
Your lender will send you this data on Form 1098.
Real-estate taxes paid
Your county clerk or lender should send you this data.
Rent paid during tax year
You need to generate this data.
Moving expenses
If your expenses are reimbursed by an employer, the employer will furnish you with data on the moving costs they paid for.
FINANCIAL ASSETS
Interest-income statements
Financial institutions will provide this data on Form 1099-INT & Form 1099-OID.
Dividend-income statements
This will come on Form 1099-DIV from the company paying the dividends.
Proceeds from broker transactions
Your brokers should furnish this data on Form 1099-B.
Tax refunds and unemployment compensation
The issuing agencies should send this information on Form 1099G.
Miscellaneous income including contract or freelance work or rent
This should come from whoever distributes the income on Form 1099-MISC.
Retirement-plan distribution
Whoever sends out your pension checks should send you this data on Form 1099-R.
FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Auto loans and leases Including account numbers and car value -- if the vehicle is used for business
You can get this data from the lender or leasing company.
Student loan interest paid
The lender should furnish this data on Form 1098-E.
Early withdrawal penalties on CDs and other time deposits
Financial institutions should provide this data.
AUTOMOBILES
Personal-property tax information
This data should come from the state or local taxing authority.
DEDUCTIBLE EXPENSES
Gifts to charity
This data should come from the charity. Since 2007, you have new responsibilities. You will need a bank record (such as a canceled check, a bank copy of a canceled check, or a bank statement containing the name of the charity, the date, and the amount) or a written communication from the charity. The written communication must include the name of the charity, date of the contribution and the amount of the contribution.
Unreimbursed expenses for volunteer work
You will need to keep your own records for this. Remember, you can deduct any driving expenses for volunteer or charitable work at the rate of 14 cents a mile.
Unreimbursed expenses related to your job
You will need to maintain this data.
Travel expenses, entertainment, uniforms, union dues, subscriptions and investment expenses
Your broker will furnish some data. Travel, phone and other related expenses are your responsibility to track.
Job-hunting expenses
You will need to keep and maintain this data.
Education expenses
You will need to keep this data. But if you qualify for Hope or Lifetime credits or other college deductions, the college involved will send you the data on the qualifying expenses you've paid. If you plan to claim education deductions, you will need Form 1098-T from the institution. If you expect to deduct interest on student loans, get Form 1098-E from the lender.
Child-care expenses
You will need to keep this data.
Medical savings accounts
The institution handling the account will be able to generate any data.
Adoption expenses
You will need to track this data and be able to document these expenses.
Alimony paid
You or the authority disbursing funds will need to keep this data. To deduct this expense, you will need the recipient's Social Security number.
Sales-tax expenses
If you expect to claim a sales tax deduction on your 2007 tax return, you will need receipts for expenses. Or you can fill out a worksheet that the IRS provides to help estimate sales tax expenses.
Tax-return-preparation expenses and fees
Your preparer can furnish this data to you.
SELF-EMPLOYMENT DATA
K-1s on all partnerships
The partnership management should generate this data.
Receipts or documentation for business-related expenses
This is data you should keep and track.
Farm income
You or an accountant should tack this information. You will need to prepare Schedule F.
DEDUCTION DOCUMENTS
Federal, state and local estimated taxes paid for current year, including estimated tax vouchers, cancelled checks & other payment records
You must keep copies of this data and track it.
IRA, Keogh & other retirement plan contributions
You can get this information from your financial institutions.
Medical expenses
You must track this data.
CASUALTY OR THEFT LOSSES
Other miscellaneous deductions
You will need to file Form 4684.
Updated Dec. 10, 2008

COMING SOON - ONLINE HOME BUYER SEMINAR!

2009-02-26T17:09:00.002-05:00

Coming Soon – the first of its kind – an Online Home Buyer Seminar!! I thought this could be kind of fun -- to take the topics that we would present in a traditional Home Buyer Seminar and do it online! It’s hard to cover all of these things in one evening, and even harder getting lots of people to attend a particular seminar on a particular day. So beginning next Monday, March 2, and every Monday after that (until we run out of things to talk about) I’ll cover a different topic. Posts will be archived so just scroll down on the right sidebar to find them all. If you miss a week, or if you want to tell your friends to join in, they can log on at any time and check out the entire Series.

I plan to cover topics such as:

Reasons to Buy this Year

Steps to Buying a Home

Getting Prequalified

Finding the Right Realtor – Understanding Representation

What to Look for in Choosing Your New Home

Inspections, Appraisals, Titlework – what are these, and who pays for what?

The Purchase Agreement

Negotiating Your Best Deal

Foreclosures and Short Sales

Our Local Market

I’ll also look forward to your questions along the way! I promise this will be an informative and fun way to begin your Home Search.

I’m happy to have you visit my website also at http://www.buymarquette.com/ (See Helpful Links). By the way, I am revamping my website DURING this process too – so I hope we won’t be interrupted. If so, just check back in and it will be back up.

Thanks – see you soon! ~ Liz

Lower Your Heating Bills

2009-02-15T17:54:00.006-05:00

Here are some basic steps to take to Lower Your Heating Bills:

1) Close your drapes at nite and open them during the day to let the sun shine in.
2) Keep interior doors open to allow heat to circulate. Heating systems don’t have to work as hard.
3) Lower the thermostat when you leave the house, and when you go to bed. Or get a programmable thermostat.
4) Seal your windows and/or install storm windows.
5) Change furnace filters for optimum furnace performance.
6) Have furnaces regularly serviced and/or upgrade to a new energy efficient one.
7) Have an energy audit conducted to find those areas to improve around the house. (There are several companies around town that will do this.)
8) Add insulation.

Some of these fixes are VERY inexpensive. Why not keep your cash for yourself, rather than paying it out month after month on heating costs?

Keep your cash! ~ Liz

It Finally Warmed UP!

2009-02-06T17:22:00.001-05:00

AAAAHHHHH!

FINALLY we saw some warmer weather today!!! First day since back in November that we had temps over freeezzziinng. Sorry to all those newcomers to the area. I promise, this is not normal. Neither is the snow level. We’ve gotten hit hard this year!

Go catch some rays! ~ Liz

Take your Sweetie to the Symphony!

2009-01-29T11:40:00.005-05:00

February 14, 2009 7:30 p.m. - Marquette Symphony Orchestra Concert
Winter concert at Kaufman Auditorium with Dr. Jacob Chi, Conductor. Beethoven & Brahms with Pianist Dr. Benjamin Loeb. Cost: Adults $25, Children 13-18 and students $10, Children 12 and under $7. For more information call 227-1032.

Happy Valentines Day! ~ Liz

The Noquemanon is Coming!

2009-01-22T22:21:00.001-05:00

The 11th start of the Noquemanon Cross Country Ski Marathon is set for Saturday, January 24th. The races consist of both a 51K and 25k, that begin in Ishpeming and end at the Superior Dome in Marquette.

Organizers and racers alike are looking forward to a perfect setting this year as the area has experienced significant snowfall and cold temperatures this season. The expectation is about 1000 racers! What an exciting event – and just one of many that we have become known for – the Noq, the Sled Dog Races, the Ore to Shore, etc. Add them all together and its no wonder that Marquette is a sports enthusiasts dream come true!

Participants -- have fun, enjoy the scenary and ski FAST!

Volunteers -- stay warm, and "thank you"!

Get out there and enjoy Winter! ~ Liz

Chocolay Township Residential Sales 2008

2009-01-22T21:51:00.006-05:00

I promised to take a look specifically at the Chocolay Township market for 2008.

It seemed throughout the year, that sales in Chocolay had really slowed, but the numbers don’t necessarily back that up. To many of us, it seemed this past year that there were some terrific homes in Chocolay that would have previously sold right away, - that instead just sat on the market. We spent past year trying to analyze the market area by area and price range by price range to get a handle on the slowdown.

As it turned out, the numbers dont necessarily indicate any significant slowdown. Here are the stats for Chocolay Twsp, residential sales comparing 2008 to 2007:

Units Sold: -7%
Median Sold Price: -2%
Days on Market: +19%
Volume ($) Sold: -7%

If you think that a 7% drop in units sold seems like a large number, it really may not be. For example - the units sold dropped only from 54 homes in 2007, to 50 homes sold in 2008. That does not seem to be a large number of homes in the scheme of things.

If there is ever any type of a search that you would like me to run for you, please do not hesitate to ask. Its as easy as sending me an email. I'll try to get right back to you.

Please scroll down to my previous post on a more comprehensive view of the Marquette Area 2008 Market.

Chocolay Township ~ a beautiful place to live! ~ Liz

Preliminary look at the Local 2008 Market

2009-01-22T20:56:00.013-05:00

Next Wednesday at a meeting of our MLS, local Realtors will receive the “State of the Market” report for 2008. This report is done annually by Closser Associates, Inc. (I’ts one of my favorite day’s of the Year! To know me is to know that I love the numbers.) Let me tell you what we know so far, and what we seem to have experienced this past year. Disclaimer: This is my own interpretation. I will report over again after next Wednesday, with the professional findings of Closser and Associates – so tune back in, and see if I got it right.

You need to know that it seemed Marquette was going to come out of the national real estate mess rather unscathed. We have experienced steady increases in values for nearly the past 10 years.
1999 (6.3%) 2000 (9.7%) 2001 (-.8%) 2002 (11%) 2003 (10.3%)

2004 (14.8%) 2005 ( 3.8%) 2006 (8.9%) 2007 (2.%)

2008 started out strong. It only seemed to really start to slip in the Third Quarter. Personally, I had my best year ever; helped over 37 families buy or sell homes; and did over 7 million in sales volume. However the overall MLS did not fair so well.

For the TOTAL North Central MLS which covers a wide base pretty much from Powell to Gwinn, to Munising to Michigamme, (and these numbers include ALL real estate from single family residential, to multi-family to commercial) the stats look like this: Comparing 2008 to 2007.

Units Sold: - 25% Volume ($) Sold: - 33% Average Price: -13%

However, - a very important point - the numbers look much differently if you examine only the area that the Closser Report covers annually. This is the only number that we have historically documented, so to me it's these numbers that tell me how we are really doing. The Closser study only looks at the general Marquette Area, and only residential sales. It includes the areas of Marquette City, Marquette Twsp., Chocolay and Sands Twsps. (Marquette Area Schools).

I took a look at these numbers last week, comparing 2008 to 2007 and found the following:

Units Sold: -13% Volume ($) Sold: -17% Median List Price: +3%
Median Sold Price: +2% Median Days on Market: +15%

So, there are many more homes on the market, taking longer to sell, and fewer homes sold, but at pretty level sales prices. To me it seemed that Buyers just slipped out of the marketplace.

I also looked at this same market and separated sales below $200K, and above $200K. Over 200K took the majority of the hit, with days on market increasing by 40%, and median sold prices dropping about 13%.

I’d like to do a bit more research, looking at even more distinct geographical areas, and will report back in my next blog. We did this throughout the year in our office, with each of us taking a different area and reporting back to the group on that area. We worked hard to try to figure out, just what was happening and where, in order to get some sort of handle on the changing market.

I like to keep a good sense of the market, so that I can help my sellers to price right, and my buyers to buy right. It’s probably a very good idea that our market slowed and leveled some. Our values were increasing at a difficult to sustain rate. A 4% market would be much more comfortable growth than 14% per year.

I can tell you that it seems that we are all very busy around our office for January. When we are busy – like in July – the agents remind me of a bunch of little water bugs, zipping around and around, in and out of the office, hustling, copying, faxing, meeting, etc. It looks pretty much like that around the office right now. Hopefully, that’s a really good sign of things to come.

In summary, markets change. And remember, markets ARE local. Don’t get all bogged down with what’s going on in Phoenix or Miami – its not going to relate to Marquette. I think we are in for a successful 2009!

Like I’ve said before, “Go out and buy a home…you have to live somewhere! ~ Liz

BRRRRRRRRRR

2009-01-15T07:44:00.002-05:00

We are in a DEEP FREEZE today! Most schools are cancelled. They’ve been predicting this and its been really cold all week. It’s -1 in Marquette right now and across the U.P. it looks about the same. Iron Wood is -17. Windchills though are expected to be from -20 to -40. Ouch! This is one day that I will be happy I don’t have any showings! I only live about 3 blocks from work, so I’ll tuck into my 8 by 8 over there where, if I close my office door it turns into a sauna.

For all those that have to brave any time outdoors today – be careful, layer, keep hydrated, and try to tuck inside instead – heck, don’t you have any paperwork?

You’re in the U.P. now! ~ Liz

It's Baaack!!

2008-11-18T20:58:00.006-05:00

I stole this title from the front page of the Mining Journal tonite. In case you are not reading this from the Marquette area, it's Ol' Man Winter that they are referring to. I just looked back at a blog entry I wrote last year - about the first "Snow Day" where school was called off. It was November 6th!!!! So, guess we're a little pokey this year. It actually hasnt been that bad, but the snow started around this weekend and is expected to continue off and on throughout most of the week.

Some of the snow totals in just the past day were: Marquette 10", Harvey 5.5", Ishpeming 2" and the winner as usual is our own little snowbelt Negaunee coming in at 14.2"!!

So......get used to it...start driving a bit slower and defensively.....watch out for the other guy... remember that there are actually people in town new to winter driving...and most importantly, don't forget to go have some fun in the snow.

Personally, I like reading a book in front of a warm fire and drinking some coffee laced just a bit, but you "snow-folk" get out there and do your thing. I'll be thinking about you!

Snow crazy! ~ Liz

Karen Larson Interiors - Holiday Open House!

2008-11-17T14:09:00.006-05:00

A wonderful day of Holiday Fun is promised at Karen Larson Interior Design, located at 1508 W. Washington, St. in Marquette. I know the shop will be absolutely enchanting, and it looks like Karen and her lovely staff will provide us with some new ideas through some hands-on events. You won’t want to miss this special day.

Saturday November 22nd, 2008
10-5

Indulge yourself! Stop in for our inaugural holiday demonstrations and tasty treats!

Learn creative and easy ways to personalize your holiday season:

Schedule of Demonstrations

11:00 Tie a beautiful bow, create unique recycled gift wrap and design cute gift tags

1:00 Creating a “candy” tree with for children

2:00 Fun holiday hints for everyone

3:00 Turn your yard greens into topiaries, wreaths, and centerpieces

4:00 Decoupage your holiday pictures and cards

Complimentary wine, gourmet coffee and home-cooked treats fresh from our ovens served all day!

See you there! Merry Christmas! ~ Liz

Back Up Your Data!

2008-10-21T16:02:00.003-04:00

You’ve probably heard the commercials for CARBONITE.COM. I recently attended a seminar where the speaker encouraged us to check this out. If you read the owners comments on how and why they started the company, you will relate. His daughter worked on a college paper for 6 weeks and then got her laptop stolen – and no sympathy from her Professor. Next his partner’s wife had her hard drive crash and lost tons of sentimental photos, important docs, etc. We can all relate to these possibilities.

This company’s service is relatively inexpensive – 50 bucks a year – and is supposed to be seamless – all done in the background – you don’t have to think about anything. I'm not endorsing, but sharing. I think I'm going to look into it. Afterall, I don’t want all the great Blog topics I have lined up, to go “poof” in the night!

Go there and check it out -- http://www.carbonite.com/

Better Safe than Sorry! ~ Liz

Area's Third Quarter Stats

2008-10-21T15:14:00.002-04:00

At this time of general upheaval in the National marketplace, the Marquette Area still remains a pretty stable Real Estate market. I have recently looked at the market - examining Single Family Residential Sales, and comparing sales activity from the end of the 3rd Quarter in 2007, to the same time in 2008.

I looked at MEDIAN LIST PRICE, MEDIAN SOLD PRICE, UNITS SOLD, and MEDIAN DAYS ON MARKET. I also looked at the CURRENT INVENTORY OF UNSOLD HOMES. The areas I included were Marquette City and Twsp, Chocolay and Sands which is the normal area that is used for the professional study done every spring by Closser and Associates.

Overwhelmingly, UNITS SOLD are down, and DAYS ON MARKET are up.

However, MEDIAN SOLD PRICE is actually pretty flat. For the past 5 years our Median Sale Price has looked like this: +10.3% (2003), +14.8% (2004), +3.8% (2005) +8.9% (2006) and +2% (2007). Though we have some individual geographical areas where the MSP is down significantly, if I look at the same areas used for these previous annual stats, our Median Sold Price right now is only down by 1%.

I think one of the most important numbers is to look at is our inventory of Unsold Homes, and in terms of how many months of inventory we have. I can’t track this number historically, but I would say this is much higher than in years past. Active listings in just Marquette City, Marquette Twsp., Chocolay and Sands right now total 206 homes. Some areas have an inventory of homes equaling up to 13-15 months worth.

So, what do we make of all of this? Well, for one thing, Marquette sometimes seems to like to buck the Law of Supply and Demand. We currently have a large Supply (inventory) and a small Demand (units sold are down), but still our prices remain fairly stable.

Buyers have a good situation going on, with loans still readily available and at good rates, and a good supply of homes to choose from. They are taking their time and looking at all of the homes in their price range. Sellers in order to be successful, need to be realistic about their pricing in order to compete in this marketplace. When their home has lots of competition, they need to be the best home for the money, and they will succeed. That’s called Win – Win!

Hey, Buy a Home – You’ve Gotta Live Somewhere! ~ Liz

BING Relaxing

2008-05-28T19:10:00.012-04:00

Man, I’ve been really bad. I don’t know what happened to my blog-energy. I apologize and with tonite’s start, promise to get back on track!! Guess you could say I've been LAZY. So.... with that theme in mind, I thought I would share with you a couple of pictures of BING when he's being lazy.

You will find a previous post that was an introduction to Bing, my darling, deaf, French Bulldog.

Bing likes to RELAX. Most dogs will curl up on the floor, but noooooo, Bing likes to nestle into all our couch cushions, or hang on (or over) the barrel arms of our furniture. It’s fairly new furniture that will need replacing soon – thanks to the little guy. Our friends in the furniture business say they looovvee dogs – because they wreck so much furniture!!

Well, here are some of our favorite shots. If I don’t have 100 pictures of my dog lounging, I don’t have any. Makes me smile tho. Tell me what YOU think!

The end.

Doesn't it just make you want to take a nap? ~ Liz

2007 State of the Market Report

2008-02-17T19:51:00.004-05:00

Last Wednesday at a meeting of our local MLS, we received the “State of the Market” report for 2007. This report is done annually by Closser Associates, Inc.

Study Parameters:
*Single Family and Condos
*Study has been done since 1983
*Includes MLS sales only
*Includes the Marquette Area defined as City of Mqt., Mqt. Twsp., Chocolay Twsp., and that part of Sands Twsp. North of Co.Rd. 480.

2007 Stats:
Total Sales: 264
Avg. No. Listings: 175
Days on Market: 121
Sales Volume: $47,789,000.
Median Sale Price: $150,000.
% Change in Median Sale Price: 2% increase.

In comparison to last year:
Total number of sales was down (by 27 homes).
Average No. listings was up (by 4).
Days on Market was up (by14 days).
Sales Volume was down (by about 1.7 million).
Median Sale Price was up (by 3,000.)

So, overall there are more homes on the market, and they are staying on the market a little longer than before. The number of homes sold dropped a bit, but even so, the median price of those homes actually increased a bit. Though the rest of the nation is dealing with a declining real estate market, our values actually increased by a small amount (2%). All in all, you could interpret these results as defining our market as quite STABLE.

Change in Values in Past 5 Years:
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
11% 10.3% 14.8% 3.8% 8.9% 2%

Thank you to Closser Associates, and in particular Bruce Closser and Claus Janssen for a great report.

Since I experienced my best year ever in 2007 with over 7 million in sales, I am very optimistic about 2008. It’s the best market in a long time with a good supply of homes to choose from, and terrific interest rates.

Go out and buy a home…you have to live somewhere! ~ Liz

Winter Wonderland Weekend!

2008-02-17T19:11:00.001-05:00

What a classic Winter Weekend we just hosted here in Marquette. We had company in town this weekend, grown children and grand children of a dear friend. These college aged kids and young families were able to experience Ski Jumping in Ishpeming, Sled Dog Races in Marquette, and Bobsledding in Negaunee.

They are ready to move from lower Michigan. I told them we have more where that came from. Start Packing! We’ve still got room!

We're so lucky to live here ~ Liz

Art U.P. Style!

2008-02-01T09:32:00.000-05:00

What a fun shop ~ full of wonderful local fare!! Art U.P. Style, owned by local artist, Carol Papaleo is my new favorite art/gift shop in historical downtown Marquette.

The shop’s newest home is in the Masonic Center on Washington St. It features the artwork of Carol and many others. Carol’s work centers on a variety of local scenery. If you’ve moved from Marquette, a sampling of Carols work would make you feel like you were still walking about town. A popular favorite is a calendar that she has put together with 12 of her paintings of Marquette scenes. I just bought one for my sister in Florida.

Don’t forget this shop the next time you need a thoughtful little gift, a hostess gift, or something to help someone keep Marquette in their heart. You can see her work online at http://spaces.msn.com/members/artupstyle.

Stop by and enjoy. It IS a wonderful life! ~ Liz

Introduction to Bing

2008-01-20T21:01:00.000-05:00

Bing is my new baby. He is a delightful, comical, mellow, loving, born-deaf, 3 year old, French Bulldog. I have to confess, that "before Bing", I didn't really like dogs. I didn't see the point. DOGS seemed to just take up space, fart, slobber and wreck things. Then my college bound son decided he was going to get a bulldog. I told him it was the dumbest idea he ever came up with. I figured that, upon graduation, and moving to the big city, I would inherit the (gd) DOG. Well... it took only about 3 days of being around his DOG when suddenly I was driving around town with the sweet thing. I loved the DOG!! So much so, that for my next birthday, my husband and son conspired to get me my OWN.

Now, truly, the first few days I liked the puppy (pretty much) BUT.... realize, I had no more children at home, no responsibility, no need to leave work in the middle of the day, no one to wreck my new furniture.... you get the picture. So... even tho I liked the little guy, I doubted this decision. Also -- the other major problem was that, after a few days of having the puppy at home, we came to the realization that the DOG was totally DEAF. Now, I added to my concerns that he would be misbehaved, difficult to train, perhaps easily startled and aggressive. I was ready to send him back. Rethink this DOG thing. My husband, (the wisest man in the world) let me go through the motions. When I finally decided on my own, to give the dog a chance and not "anticipate" problems, but see how things went, my husband confessed to me that the dog was never going anywhere. Even if he had had to take him to work and raise him, the dog really was never going back.

Can you even believe that with those ears this little guy is deaf?

Or, that I ever thought of giving him back?

Well... I have to tell you that, I don't know exactly when it happened but now, "I AM a DOG PERSON!" I ADORE this dog. I get so much enjoyment from him, that I can't even believe it. Where I worried about having to leave work to "let a DOG out", I now can't wait to get home to Bing. He is totally my buddy.

Oh -- and the deaf thing??? No problem. We took him to Puppy School, and they taught us a hand gesture for every voice command that the other puppies learned. Bing does just fine. He knows LOTS of signs. And I'm someone that never trained a regular dog -- so if I can do it, anyone can. I think he is maybe even more loveable because of his deafness.

Me and A DOG, in love....go figure. ~ Liz

End of Lake Superior Shipping Season

2008-01-16T21:13:00.000-05:00

Today marks the end of the Iron Ore Shipping Season. The last of the freighters shipped out from Marquette Monday in order to push through the Soo Locks before they closed Tuesday. The closing of the Locks ushers in the official winter break for the Lake Superior shipping season.

See you in the Spring. ~ Liz

Founders Landing Update

2008-01-14T22:10:00.000-05:00

Well, the Marquette City Commission tonite decided to go back to the bargaining table with the Urban Project. Looks like they will negotiate out the resolution of the problems with the fill in the site, timelines for closing, and maybe tweak some details with the plans, etc. But most people seemed encouraged to have the city continue negotiations with this group. Maybe this summer will see some real decisions and progress with the area. Let's hope we will have a resolution that will mean a new tax base for the city, a complimentary area bringing more life into downtown, and a new quality real estate development for buyers!

I hope we get to represent buyers in the purchase of this exciting new development!

Keep tuned for updates! ~ Liz

The Weather Channel names U.P. as Winter Destination

2008-01-13T11:03:00.000-05:00

Once again, Marquette has been recognized nationally as a destination. This time, the U.P. was ranked #6 in a list of “standout destinations” for a winter family getaway, by The Weather Channel. They dubbed us a “Winter Wonderland” (we should say, “confirmed” rather than imply that they came up with that name.)

Specific tourist attractions mentioned were the Porcupine Mountains State Park and the Copper Country State Forest, along with simply the wide array of winter sports throughout the U.P. (see more of the story at http://www.weather.com/.)

One of the things I find myself often expressing to newcomers to the area, is just how readily accessible our vast array of outdoor activities are. Oftentimes when people are moving to the area, they’ll mention that they want to be on acreage, or water, or in the woods, etc. in order to really live the U.P. life. For many that’s where we will end up. But I always try to make the point that, for the vast majority of us – you don’t have to HAVE to live in the woods to enjoy much of what our area has to offer in terms of recreation. You can be fishing, skiing, skating, walking, biking, hunting, snowmobiling, whatever your pleasure… in minutes… from the center of town! If that’s what you want.

I love the fact that our high school students can ski every day - after school and before dinner – how lucky they are!! I had a client once that picked Marquette right from a map and the Weather Channel because of how much snow we received. He purchased a home with the snowmobile trail in his backyard. He was in heaven! I remember one time when I showed a home about 5:30 in the evening, on the banks of the Chocolay River, and there was a guy that I knew on the opposite side of the bank hauling in a great big fish. It totally looked “staged.” Instead, it was just a great example of our easy, casual, available lifestyle.

What a great place to live! ~ Liz

KitchenAid 2 Drawer Dishwasher

2008-01-11T20:24:00.000-05:00

I love doing the dishes. That isn’t right, is it? Honestly, I always disliked doing the dishes. Until – during our recent remodel, and the purchase of our new KitchenAid 2 drawer dishwasher. What a joy. It was destined to be one of my “favorites” that I would recommend to others.

You can spend less on a dishwasher. But this dishwasher is oh so clever. The 2 drawer feature creates an unbelievable amount of space. If you think about it, the sprayers are laid across the bottom of the drawer, so there is no pole sticking up in the middle where you are trying to cram a large pot into one half side of a rack. The drawer set-up completely eliminates that constant fight to “fit” pots and pans. It also allows you to separate pans from glassware if you would like – two dissimilar loads that you might want to run under different settings.

The racks for once are designed for function too. They are perfectly built to accommodate tall stemmed glasses for example (which my last dishwasher couldn’t even handle in any configuration.) Plus they keep stemware safe and not touching with drop-down stem fitting racks. It even comes with little clips that hang onto Tupperware so they aren’t all upside down, filled with water when you are done!!

Plus every rack just pops out if you need to make more room for something. There is also the versatility of running just one drawer when that’s all the dishes you have. You don’t have to wait around for more dirty dishes. This feature is great for us empty-nesters that aren’t creating as many dishes as an entire family would.

Need I go on???? I’m sure we all have better things to occupy our time than all of our mundane chores, so when a product addresses our needs and makes life easier – that’s a very good thing.

Falling in love with your dishwasher – go figure. ~ Liz

Marquette UP 200 Sled Dog Races Slated for Mid-February

2008-01-08T22:34:00.000-05:00

Another uniquely UP event will be the upcoming UP200 Sled Dog Races beginning in Marquette. 2008 Race Dates are: Feb 15, 16 & 17. The outstanding “START” out of Historic Downtown Marquette, is one of a kind. Tens of thousands will gather downtown, warmed by the excitement and spirit of the event. Please consider catching some part of this event – you won’t forget it. For additional information keep checking back here, or go to http://www.up200.org/.

What a fun Valentines Day weekend! For those visitors that would like to live the Marquette Country lifestyle and would like to see some fitting homes this weekend, give me a shout ahead of time. I'll get you into some beauties!

Go teams go! ~ Liz

Heikki Lunta Winterfest

2008-01-07T16:35:00.000-05:00

The 2008 Heikki Lunta (Hey-key-loon-ta) Winterfest is set for January 18-20 in Negaunee. What a crazy yooper tradition.

The big guy is thought to be a mythological Finnish snow “god”, but the Finns are not necessarily laying claim to the legend, so I’m thinking that he may have been made up by the locals over a beer or two at Tino’s in downtown Negaunee.

The scheduled events include a Fishing Derby, Pasty Sales, Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides, Bonfires, Fireworks, and Blooperball (a form of baseball in the snow). Plenty of family fun! I’m only hoping that the last few days of 40 degree weather and rain won’t ruin things for some of the events. But – afterall – Heikki Lunta is the snow god himself isn’t he???

For more info please go to http://www.negauneeirontown.com/ or phone 906-486-8084.

THINK SNOW! ~ Liz

Free Offer!

2007-11-07T14:17:00.000-05:00

What Fun!! In case you haven’t heard of this, you can now special order your own PERSONALIZED M&M’s. You can pick colors and your very own text, and right now there is even a free bonus bag if you purchase by the end of the year. I’m going to definitely try this out this year.

To order online go to: mymms.com. It says enter promo code B R I G H T 3, but I think on the site you can click on the free bonus bag offer.

Here are some message ideas:
Merry Christmas, I Love You, Jingle, Glad 2 B Home, Thanks Mom, You’re Beautiful….you get the idea.

Have Fun! ~ Liz

SNOW DAY!!!

2007-11-06T09:45:00.000-05:00

November 6 – First Snow Storm! Actually, this is the first snow, and decided to come in like a lion. Most schools are closed around Marquette County. I found some kids around the corner from the office that were already up and had made a wonderful snowman!!! They look like they were having a ball – literally.

Enjoy and Be Safe! ~ Liz

Favorite Pasty Shop

2007-11-02T14:55:00.000-04:00

Seems like so many of my “Favorite Friday” features surround food choices. Perhaps I should have called this “Favorite Food Fridays!”

When a newcomer asks me, “where’s the best Pasty?” I always answer with --JEAN KAY’S, located on Presque Isle in Marquette.

For those of you that don’t know what a pasty IS. It is a Cornish meat pie. For those of you that still don’t know what the heck that is; it’s a meal of meat and potatoes, onion, carrot, etc. wrapped in a crust. They are warm and hearty and are a part of our heritage up here. It's my understanding that the Miners ate pastys for lunch because they are hearty meal, and warm, and also easy to handle. In the northern U.P. they are eaten with catsup (and maybe even butter if you’re really bad). Down south (near the bridge and below) they are served with gravy (which we northerners just don’t understand.)

If you want to learn more about Pasty’s in general go to http://www.jeankays.com/, or for a TON of fun information about them take time to go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasty.

Grab a pasty and go for a picnic this weekend. Snow is coming on Monday! Happy Friday! ~ Liz

Marquette in the Fall

2007-10-29T20:42:00.000-04:00

Get out there and enjoy Marquette in the Fall. All too soon, the winter winds will be howling. Some Fall Ideas:

Climb Sugarloaf Mountain.

Go around the "Island" for a last time.

Go for a "color tour" ride to the Keweenaw Peninsula or to Big Bay.

Camp one more time.

Eat at an outdoor restaurant before it's too late!

Rake. Pile. Rake some more.

Have friends over and carve pumpkins together.

Decorate for Halloween.

Plant bulbs for Spring. (The Marquette Beautification Committee sells GORGEOUS Bulbs, as a fundraiser. If you enjoy the Marquette flowers on the boulevard, then support this group!)

Have a Chili Feed with friends. The best part about a Chili Feed, is that the MEN do the cooking! All you need to do to host one, is invite good chili cookers, and supply bread and beer.

Make caramel apples.

Just enjoy.... Marquette is glorious in the Fall. ~ Liz

A Beautiful Fall Saturday

2007-10-27T23:12:00.000-04:00

A beautiful fall Saturday in late October makes all of the “natives” set out for one last (?) ride around the Island. So away we went. Lots of cars were stopped at sunset point to watch the waves, but as we continued just a bit further, there were some brave souls. True U.P. spirit to be sure!

Now mind you, there is a forecast for possible snow tonite, but this was the activity going on out at the Island. Thought I’d snap some shots to share. We think it was probably about 50 degrees out. It’s October 27, 2007, and here is todays weather forecast.

Tonight
A 20 percent chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly cloudy. Lows around 28 inland to around 35 at the shore. Northwest winds 10 to 20 mph decreasing to 5 to 15 mph late.

You've just got to love the U.P. spirit!! ~ Liz

Favorite Appliance Store

2007-10-26T17:03:00.000-04:00

This is one of the easiest recommendations that I could ever make. Some companies have it all figured out from a service standpoint, and Household Appliance on Third St. in Marquette, is that kind of company. They come highly recommended!

My husband and I just did a total home remodel and all of our appliances came from HH. Same with my girlfriend that did hers at the same time. Today I bought a new stove for our rental.

I once had them come out to fix our microwave, as it was making a large noise. We came home from work to find a note explaining that they didn’t fix it afterall, because all it needed was to have a screw tightened. They took back the part they had ordered. I don’t even remember if we got a bill or not. I always wondered how many other companies would have just put the part on anyway and send a bill.

I had a client that told me a story about waking up on the morning of her daughter’s graduation open house, only to find that her oven wouldn’t work. She called HH (mind you, this is a Saturday morning) and they offered to bring over a LOANER.

There are lots of these kinds of stories.

Now, Household Appliance is not necessarily wrapped up in a beautiful package. Their storefront does not say to the general public that this is a fancy, quality, big box appliance store. But just get over it. Inside the products and the people are, in a word, QUALITY.

Thank you Household Appliance. (And thanks for the nice new stove today!) ~ Liz

Favorite Fish Fry

2007-10-19T13:01:00.000-04:00

Friday nite fish fry is a tradition in the U.P. As you drive around town on any given Friday, you will see most restaurants featuring a fish fry. However, my very favorite is at the Bayou Restaurant on Main St. in Chocolay Township (previously, The Harvey Inn). This is not a fancy restaurant, but the service is great and the food is hot and delicious. The fried trout is prepared just exactly like my Mom did it in her kitchen. I feel like I'm at camp with my Mom at the stove with a big cast-iron skillet frying the catch of the day. They also serve cod and whitefish and will fry, bake or do it cajun, so there's something for everyone.

We go out to dinner every Friday nite with our "gang" and as a group we are pretty seasoned judges. There are fancier restaurants to be sure, but we keep returning to the Bayou, for a good old fashioned fish fry.

For variety, also check out the Cozy Inn (Nestoria - beyond Champion to the West), the Thunder Bay Inn (Big Bay), the Vierling (downtown Marquette), and Stuccos (Third St., Mqt.).

Happy Friday! ~ Liz

Third Quarter Report

2007-10-17T18:11:00.000-04:00

North Central MLS Sold Report

Third Quarter 2007

RE/MAX ROCKS!

RE/Max 1st Realty remains the number 1 company in sales so far this year! We've sold 487 properties (representing 29% of all sales), and over $56 million dollars in sales volume. The next closest company to RE/Max 1st, has sold approximately 1/2 as many units (245) so far this year. WOW - RE/Max 1st remains the company you should be doing business with!!

Year-to-date Sales Comparison

We just received our 3rd Quarter report of sales. Here is a look at how this year compares to last year.

Every day we get another news report of the spiralling "down" real estate market - but not here. Don't be fooled by generalizations of the national statistics. The market here is just fine. We actually have sold MORE homes this year, and have a greater sales volume in dollars too. We have however tilted into a Buyers Market. There are more homes on the market, meaning that there's more for Buyers to choose from. Sellers need to be "right on" with their pricing. As a Seller you have more competition now than in past years, so your home should be the BEST one in your price range, in order for Buyers to choose yours over the others. YOUR HOME needs to be the "shiny penny"! We are seeing many price reductions coming through, as we have winter looming, and Sellers want Buyers to choose theirs and do it now! That means that it's a GREAT TIME TO BUY!

Here's a look at numbers comparing Sept. of 2006 and Sept. of 2007, for the stat friendly people out there:

Total Units Sold Year-to-Date: 1,540 to 1676 -- (up 136 units).
Total Dollars Year-to-Date: $205,405,608. to $206,021,324. -- (up $615,716.)
RE/Max 1st is up in '07 by 99 units (kind of cool that we represent 99 of the 136 increase in units sold for the entire MLS).
RE/Max 1st is up by over 7 million in dollar volume this year over last! (49 million to 56 million. Note that the entire MLS is up only $615,000. Wow!)
Yours Truly is ranked #5 agent in total sales, and #2 in residential sales. :}
Number of units, and total dollar volume, are both up for 2007.
Average selling price has dropped from $133,380. to $122,924.
# Listings -up.
Days-on-Market -up.

So.... go out there and buy a house today. You might get the best deal in a long time!! ~ Liz

National Popcorn Month Giveaway

2007-10-15T20:42:00.000-04:00

Don't miss out! Evidently October is National Popcorn Month. (Do you think some legislature voted on this??) In honor, Dale and Thomas Popcorn is offering its farm-fresh chef-crafted popcorn FREE of charge. They want the entire country to sample a fresh bowl of their mouth-watering popcorn. Simply visit www.daleandthomas.com/free this month, and you can order two bags of unique and delicious popcorn. Shipping and handling will cost you $5.90.

In the event you havent heard of Dale and Thomas Popcorn, let me tell you it is very wonderful. You'll see why once you visit the website. I ordered a lot of this specialty popcorn as Christmas gifts last year. My popcorn loving kid got some, and some business associates too. As a business gift Im sure it was more fun than getting another traditional gift basket full of cheese and crackers.

Check it out and enjoy! ~ Liz

Welcome to RE/Max 1st!

2007-10-08T21:30:00.000-04:00

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome - to Chris Cosco, Paula Lutey and Tracy Henriksen!

RE/Max 1st Realty would like to welcome these three new agents to our office. Each of these agents is experienced and successful in their own right. It's pretty nice that, in what most consider a competitive career such as real estate, we can have new agents move to our office and that we are all so excited to have them -- we may throw a party!! Anyway, welcome to you all!

You've joined a successful group of top producing agents, with a great supportive franchise that provides us with TONS of resources, and educational opportunities -- and a really fun, energetic office to boot.

Welcome to the number ONE agency in our Market.... much success to you! ~ Liz

Favorite Coffee Shop

2007-10-05T11:22:00.000-04:00

O.K. -- it's a woman's prerogative to have more than one favorite. One of the wonderful things about Marquette, is that we have a whole bunch of great coffee shops. They are each unique in their own right. Just think, if we all tried to go to the same one, we might never get a cup of coffee!!

Babycakes is a classic -- right downtown -- exceptional bakery goods -- casual atmosphere with a variety of artists' work on display. The screen door swinging like at your summer house.

The Coffee Cup (a.k.a. Peggy's, also downtown, behind Getz's) is like being at home -- walk in, they know your name, they take care of you as if you pulled up a chair at your gram's kitchen table. Matter of fact, the table's are just like gram's in the 50's. Charming, comfy, and the chicken dumpling soup is to-die-for.

Gophers on Third St. is fun, whimsical, and has incredible food, period.

Third St. Bagel, is Bagel Heaven. (And thank you for the drive-thru!)

Oh - we have two Starbucks now too. God bless drive-thru coffee!! I raise my cup of java to progress!!

So here's to Saturday Mornings.... see you around town. ~ Liz

First Post

2007-10-04T16:06:00.000-04:00

The all important "first post". It's a little like a first date, except no kisses to tell how it went. I am excited like a first date -- can't wait to start this relationship with others. I love what I do for a living, and believe I have a good deal of helpful knowledge to impart -- plus a few good stories -- and I'm naturally a little bit "gabby", so I am looking forward to having a BLOG. Besides meeting and helping people is what I'm all about.

I understand that bloggers should have some sort of a plan. Though I believe this will take twists and turns, I do have some ideas to start. You can expect: "Favorite Fridays", where I discuss my favorite everything. Realtors get asked by their clients all the time, "where is the best italian restaurant?" or "who is a good hairdresser?" or "where should I go to buy a new couch?" etc. Newcomers need to find a new favorite everything! So, that's what we'll do on Fridays. Related to that, I think I'll tell you about what's "New to Marquette" and acquaint even the locals with new businesses as they arise. I of course will feature pertinent local Real Estate information on the "Marquette Market". I'll also answer "FAREQ" or frequently asked real estate questions. As I used to be the City Treasurer for Marquette, I'll offer insight into Property Tax related issues and how they affect you and your home. To lighten things up, I'll add in "The Adventures of Bing", my incredibly spoiled, deaf and adorable French Bulldog. And, so you will continue to check in, I'll have "Guest Columnists". That's the plan so far...

I'm not a writer, but I am passionate about what I do, and about where I live, and sincerely have a desire to share. I think I will very much enjoy this experience. I'd love to hear from my visitors, so please say hello, offer comments, suggestions or ask questions. Stay tuned.....