Current Mortgage Loan Rates for Jefferson City

Mortgage Loan Rates-December 5, 2008

30 year 5.375%
20 year 5.25%
15 year 5.00%
10 year 5.00%

Rates subject to change at any time

Provided by Lynne Bateman, Mid America Bank, 573-896-4790 Rates quoted above are for qualified borrowers with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. Please call for rates on mortgage loans with 95.01%-97% LTV. Rates subject to change at any time without notice Credit scores may adversely affect quoted rates.

If you're thinking of selling or buying in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!

Have Yourself a Safe Little Christmas

Keep your holidays happy by following these easy safety tips

It's that time of year again. Time to deck the halls, hang the stockings and create your very own winter wonderland. However, before you jingle your first bell, you should develop a holiday safety plan for your family and home.

Your plan should start with your tree. If its a natural Christmas tree, keep it away from heavy traffic it won't be bumped into. Make sure the tree is protected from heaters, stoves and fireplaces, and never use lighted candles to decorate a live or artificial tree. Read more ...

Online home listings don't tell whole story

The Internet has changed the way we buy and sell houses. Most listings of homes for sale can be found on the Internet. Realtor.com, the world's largest real estate database of homes for sale, carries information on more than 3 million listings.

According to the 2007 National Association Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 84 percent of home buyers used the Internet for information at some point during their home search. This is up from 37 percent in 1999.

Real estate Internet sites allow home buyers and sellers to peruse the inventory of homes for sale relatively effortlessly. Many sites allow visitors to set up a notification system that will alert them when new listings that fit their search criteria hit the market. Read more....

Tip of the Week

How to clean up your yard and leaves for fall

Cleaning up your yard after all the fall leaves have fallen can be an overwhelming job. It is important to rake, blow, mulch, or bag up your leaves though. If you let them go, your yard will be dead come Spring time. Here are some hints to making this job a little easier and maybe even a little (just a little fun)! Read more....

*** Jefferson City provides a location to drop off yard waste. The hours of operation vary with the seasons. There is No Charge to City residents who haul their own waste. Free first ground compost is available. Yard Waste (leaves, grass clippings, tree trimmings) will NOT be picked up by the trash collection company. For location and hours, Click Here ...

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Purchase offers: How low is too low?

Buyers on today's market who think every seller is desperate, or who think that every desperate seller is willing or even able to accept a lowball offer, are being unrealistic and setting themselves up for failure. Unfortunately, some buyers have to lose their dream home (or two) before they acknowledge that a buyer's market does not mean that you can buy a home for 75 percent below market value.

There are a number of important considerations that should factor into your decision of what to offer. Read more.....

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Termite Control

Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year. They primarily feed on wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Termites can injure living trees and shrubs, but more often are a secondary invader of woody plants already in decline. While buildings may become infested at any time, termites are of particular importance when buying or selling a home since a termite inspection/infestation report is normally a condition of sale. Besides the monetary impact, thousands of winged termites emerging inside one's home are an emotionally trying experience — not to mention the thought of termites silently feasting on one's largest investment. Read more....

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Tip of the Week

The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates that there are over 24,000 dryer fires each year, causing over $96 million in property damages. When lint builds up in dryer vents, the dryer motor has to labor harder, and can overheat, igniting the lint!
Do you want your appliance to work more efficiently? If it’s taking longer than usual to dry your clothes, it’s time to get your dryer vent cleaned out!

Schedule your dryer vent cleaning at the same time you clean your fireplace, furnace and air ducts.

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

REALTORS raise funds for Samaritan Center Utility Assistance Program

SIXTH ANNUAL

REALTORS & friends

"Keep the Home Fires Burning"

Chili Supper
Tuesday, October 21 • 4:00 to 8:00 P.M.
Eagles, 1411 Missouri Blvd. ~ Tickets: ONLY $7.00
Pick up from your local REALTOR® or at the door.
Sponsored by the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS®
All proceeds benefit The Samaritan Center’s Utility Assistance Program. To further assist the Samaritan Center with their need for food, we will also be collecting non-perishable food items.

Over the last five years, we have raised over $28,000 for families who are in need of utility assistance. Having a warm home during the rough winter months is something we may take for granted, but unfortunately is not a reality for some. Proceeds from the event are earmarked for the Samaritan Center utility assistance program. The Samaritan Center in Jefferson City helps the needy in Cole, Osage, Maries, Miller, Moniteau and Southern Callaway counties. Please come out and help us support this very worthy cause!!

Two types of home are selling NOW!

I thought this was a great (and accurate) quote!


Two types of homes are selling right now—houses that are great values and houses that are great. The key is to make your home both, edging out whatever competitors might be next door, in the same neighborhood or in the same community. Sellers can't change their property's location, but they do control condition and listing price. Read more...


If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

10 Tips for Fall

Since Fall is near ....or already here, I am passing along some safety and maintenance tips that you might find helpful as you say goodbye to the warm days of Summer and prepare for the cold Winter months. The crisp, cool weather make autumn the perfect time to work on these winterizing chores. Time spent now will lessen the time it could take to fix problems later.

1. Run all gas-powered lawn equipment until the fuel tank is empty.
By doing this, you are removing flammable liquid storage from your garage. At the same time, make sure you aren't storing dirty, oily rags in a pile. They can ignite spontaneously.

2. Have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the flues and check your fireplace damper.
Soot and creosote, which build up inside the chimney, can ignite when a fire is lit in the fireplace.

3. Make sure the caulking or weather stripping around doors and windows is adequate to reduce heat/cooling loss.
Check glazing for loose or missing putty or glazing compound. Make sure weather stripping is not brittle and breaking. This will reduce heating costs as well as help reduce water damage to the windows and door frames.

4. Remove bird nests from chimney flues and outdoor electrical fixtures.
Bird nests on top of light fixtures are a fire hazard. Bird nests in chimney flues can prevent a proper venting of combustion gases and can catch fire from sparks.

5. Clean out gutters and downspouts.
Cleaning debris and fallen leaves reduces the chances of an ice dam forming. One good step is to spray water down the downspouts to wash away leaves and other debris. A good tip is to place gutter screens over gutters.

6. Roof: If you have a sloped roof, look for shingles that are cracked, curled, loose, damaged, or missing and repair or replace them. If you have a flat roof, clean off leaves and branches, and cut back overhanging tree limbs.

7. Grading: Any and all surfaces next to the exterior walls should be sloped to shed water away from the house. This is most important on warm winter days, as melting snow runs quickly across the surface of frozen ground. If the grading is incorrect, water will potentially flow into the house, causing basement leakage. Now is the time to use a shovel to re-slope the grass, or call a paving contractor to correct a negatively sloped walkway or driveway.

8. Turn Off Outside Taps: Unless they are frost-proof, drain and turn off taps and external pipes to prevent bursting due to freezing. Drain garden hoses and store inside to prevent from getting brittle from freezing temperatures.

9. Lawn Care: Tender plants need protection from the cold, foundation plantings need approximately four inches of mulch. Be sure to change wood mulch often and/or treat it with insect repellant ....you dont want a termite problem! You could use rubber mulch instead, it may be more expensive but it lasts longer. Rake leaves from yard and prune shrubs and trees, making sure limbs do not touch your home.

10. Misc: Start to put away tools and equipment left outdoors during the summer such as play equipment, lawn mowers, barbecues, patio furniture, flower bed ornaments, and gardening tools. It may be time to winterize your pool and outdoor hot tub, too.

If you're thinking of selling or buying in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Jefferson City Mortgage Rates

Mortgage Loan Rates-September 29, 2008

30 year 6.00%
20 year 5.875%
15 year 5.625%
10 year 5.625%


Provided by Lynne Bateman, Mid America Bank, 573-896-4790 Rates quoted above are for qualified borrowers with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. Please call for rates on mortgage loans with 95.01%-97% LTV. Rates subject to change at any time without notice Credit scores may adversely affect quoted rates

If you're thinking of selling or buying in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Jefferson City Multicultural Fall Festival

Realtors: Building a Nation of Neighbors

The Jefferson City Multicultural Forum is hosting the 7th Annual fall festival at Memorial Park on Saturday, October 4th 11 am - 4 pm. This is a one day event featuring food, music, dance, booths and community information celebrating diversity in our area. The Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors will again be staffing a booth at the festival. Our goal is to promote home ownership and provide information to all cultural groups. Be sure to stop by, say hello, pick up some "goodies" provided by our affiliate members, and learn about various cultures found throughout Central Missouri.

If you're thinking of selling or buying in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Need a good contractor? - Contact me for my "Preferred Contractor" list

As a Realtor I have the good fortune to meet great contractors whom I can turn to for tips, advice, repairs, and remodeling work. If you need the name of a good contractor, don’t hesitate to ask. I can refer someone to you from my list of preferred contractors. This list consists of contractors I’ve used personally and professionally or other agents or past clients have recommended.

I will be happy to forward my list, usually with more than one professional for each type of work for you to choose from. I also have a list of general "handy-persons". Email or call today!

If you're thinking of selling or buying in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Tip of the week

Inspect and/or change your furnace filters monthly: Clogged filters decrease furnace efficiency and can cause breakdowns of your system. If you are afraid to do this yourself, contact any heating/cooling company, many of them will do this during a service call.

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Jefferson City Missouri Links to Local Websites

Don't forget to check out the local community websites found at the lower right area of my blog page. I have linked to several organizations, including, schools, government, Chamber of Commerce, lenders, home improvement sites, local arts and charitable organizations, hotels, local points of interest, news organizations and much more!!

If you have suggestions for links, don't hesitate to contact me, I will be happy to research the site and add them as a link here.

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Don't wait until selling to make repairs

Home maintenance ranks low on many homeowners' priority lists. When the washing machine breaks, you might fix it to keep from having to go to the Laundromat. But, if there's no pressing need, home maintenance chores are often put off.

In the current soft real estate market, homeowners may be less inclined to pay money to make repairs around the house. However, the key to preserving the value of your home is keeping it in good condition. Read more.......

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Common disputes between home buyers, sellers

One of the best ways to avoid getting into an ugly dispute involving a home purchase or sale is to be proactive. In order to do this, you need to be aware of the sorts of issues that can lead to disputes. By knowing what could possibly go wrong, you can prepare yourself to recognize a potential problem if it arises.

A common complaint that can end in a dispute is that the agent didn't act in the best interests of the party being represented; that is, the buyer or seller. Real estate agents who represent buyers or sellers in a transaction owe their client a fiduciary duty to put their client's interests above others in the transaction.

Buyers and sellers might be entitled to take legal action against agents who breached their fiduciary duty. But, why put yourself in a situation where you need to engage in a legal battle if you don't have to? Read more.......

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Tip of the week

Stinky sink drain? Solution: Run some hot water and throw a few orange peels down the disposal and turn it on. Lemon, lime and grapefruit rinds also do the trick of removing odors.

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Staging home for sale worth the cost

If you're selling your home, you obviously want to get it sold quickly and for the highest amount possible. One very important strategy to keep in mind is staging, which is simply the process of arranging the inside of your home so that it shows off to its full potential.

Staging plays up your home's good features, such as enhancing a great view or drawing the buyer's eye to some spectacular wood floors. It also helps to minimize some of the home's drawbacks, such as making a small bedroom look larger. But also understand that staging does not in any way mean concealing structural defects, such as hanging a picture over a water stain or putting curtains over a broken window!

Staging allows a potential buyer to visualize what can be done with the home, which is especially important with a house that's currently vacant. For example, some carefully arranged furniture in a room that would otherwise be empty can really help the buyer see the room's potential. And if you're in a neighborhood of tract houses that all look pretty much the same inside, good staging will set your home apart from the others for sale in the neighborhood.

Finally, good staging makes buyers feel at home. It lets them really imagine themselves in the kitchen with friends, or relaxing in front of the living room fire, or even working on their car in the garage. Read More....

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Curb appeal tips that pay off

Imagine going on a job interview looking shabby, or trying to sell your car for a good price when it's filthy and loaded with stuff. In a competitive market, you wouldn't do well.
The same can be said about selling your home. If it looks neglected and in need of work, some buyers won't even take a look. This is particularly the case in today's market where, in many parts of the country, there are far more homeowners anxious to sell than there are buyers interested in buying.

In a business where emotions and pride of ownership play a big role, first impressions can have a lasting effect. Most buyers lack the ability to imagine what a house might look like with a different exterior paint color or a landscaped yard. When there is a lot of inventory on the market, you may have only one chance to catch a buyer's attention. Make sure it's not lost before he or she walks through the front door. Read more....

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Current Mortgage Loan Rates

Mortgage Loan Rates-July 16, 2008

30 year 6.375%
20 year 6.375%
15 year 5.875%
10 year 5.75%

Rates subject to change at any time


Provided by Lynne Bateman, Mid America Bank, 573-896-4790 Rates quoted above are for qualified borrowers with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. Please call for rates on mortgage loans with 95.01%-97% LTV. Rates subject to change at any time without notice Credit scores may adversely affect quoted rates


If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

In recognition of "Home Ownership Month" - Help build a house!

June is "Home Ownership Month" -- Along with Habitat for Humanity, The Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors is sponsoring a "build day" on a Habitat project. You can help us celebrate by Joining us on June 14th. Spend this Father's day weeknd doing something to help others!! Call the Board of Realtor's office @ 636-6721 for location and details.

Don't forget to put your flag out before coming to help as it is "Flag Day"!

REALTORS Raise over $3500 for Council for Drug Free Youth

On May 3, the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. held the 2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo 10K Run and 5K Run/Walk. Thanks to the overwhelming support of our contributors and sponsors and the 84 runners and walkers, we raised over $3,500.00 for the Council for Drug Free Youth.

SPECIAL THANKS to the following generous sponsors, contributors and volunteers for making this event a success! START AND FINISH LINE SPONSORS: Central Bank, Fechtel Beverage and Sales. T-SHIRT SPONSORS: Action Realty, Appraisal Associates, Nunn & Young, Associated Real Estate Group, Custom Screen Printing, Coldwell Banker Gordon Company, Jefferson Bank, Luebbering Insurance Agency, Mehmert Group REALTORS®, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Realty Executives of Mid Missouri, Reasonable Realty, Vaughan Hughes & Co. ROUTE MARKER SPONSORS: Accord Financial, Carlene Bax, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Joyce Bremer Group, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Fields of Legends Sports Complex, Helen Lange, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Mid America Wireless (Gary Wilbers), Missouri Credit Union, Resource Home Loans, Julie Shiery, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Lyla Stark, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Wallstreet Financial (Lee Wilbers). CONTRIBUTORS: Central Bank, Cole County Abstract & Title Company, John Conrad Insurance/State Farm, Dairy Queen, El Jimador, Hawthorn Bank, HyVee, LandChoice Co., LLC/Guaranty Land Title Insurance, Lee’s Chicken, McAlister’s Deli, McDonald’s, Mid America Bank, Panera Bread, Regions Bank, River Region Credit Union, Sav-A-Lot, Schrimpf Management, VOLUNTEERS: Judy Brooks, Council for Drug Free Youth, Carolyn Brown, Coldwell Banker Gordon Co., Amanda Christian, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Gerardo Cornejo, Realty Executives of Mid-MO, Joanie Forck, Associated Real Estate Group, Tamela Frank, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Matt Glaser, Jefferson Bank, Cathy Hennessy, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Donnie Mehmert, The Mehmert Group, Josh & Emily Kampeter, Council for Drug Free Youth, Letha Moeckli, Council for Drug Free Youth, Lisa Pittman, Council for Drug Free Youth, Kim Prenger, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Carol Reichard, Council for Drug Free Youth, Donna Stone, JC Area Board of REALTORS, Sarah Stroesser, Council for Drug Free Youth, Jaclyn Teeple, Reasonable Realty, Bunnie Trickey Cotten, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Hank Vogt, RE/MAX Jefferson City, Michael VanGundy, Council for Drug Free Youth, John Weghorst, JC Roadrunners, Jami Wenzel, Vaughan Hughes & Co., Alan Wheat, Coldwell Banker Gordon Co., Dana Wildhaber, Associated Real Estate Group, Chris Wood, Jefferson Bank, Darlene Backes-Wildhaber, Associated R.E. Group.

If you're thinking of selling or buying real estate in the Jefferson City Missouri Area, contact Hank Vogt direct at (573)761-3485 or online at www.hankshouses.com . “I want to be your Jefferson City Real Estate Resource ~ I am at your service!”

Capital City Conference Center

It looks as though the city might be getting closer to having a convention center (finally) maybe, hopefully, possibly.....who knows!? If so, it will be great for the entire area, let's keep our fingers crossed.

Current Mortgage Rates

Mortgage loan rates Monday, May 19, 2008 at Mid America Bank

30 year fixed 6.0%
20 year fixed 5.875%
15 year fixed 5.50%
10 year fixed 5.375%

Rates quoted above are for qualified borrowers with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. Please call for rates on mortgage loans with 95.01%-97% LTV. Rates subject to change at any time without notice. Credit scores may adversely affect quoted rates

Provided by Lynne Bateman, Mid Amreica Bank, Holts Summt 573-896-4139

Price it right when selling in today's market

High inventory lets home buyers be pickier, demand more
By Dian Hymer

We're in the midst of a challenging home-sale market in many areas. However, soft markets can provide opportunities for some home sellers. The trick is to price your home right for today's market.
The most difficult reality for most sellers to face is that prices in their neighborhood may have dropped during the last year or two. Some sellers will find that it may not make sense to sell if the probable sale price is too low.
If you have the luxury of waiting for a better market, stay put for now. Be sure to check with a knowledgeable real estate agent before you make a decision to move forward -- one who knows the local market well.
HOUSE HUNTING TIP: It is an advantageous time for move-up buyers, who may have to sell for less than they would have a few years ago. But, they may also pay a lot less for the home they buy.
A seller usually has an advantage selling when there isn't much competition from other listings. Even though the listing inventory was low in some areas at the end of 2007 and the beginning of 2008, anticipate that there will be more listings coming on the market in April and May -- the traditional home-selling season.
Today's home buyers are extremely price-conscious. If there is a lot to choose from, price will certainly be a big factor. A price that's too high for the market won't bring the desired result.
More... http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66296

Sellers, don't be difficult when showing home

Tips on decluttering, accommodating buyers, staying sane
By Dian Hymer

Selling a home while you're living in it can be trying during any market. Today's sellers are generally looking at a longer marketing time than was the case a few years ago. Appropriate pricing for this changing market can shorten the misery. So can taking a few precautions.
The houses that look the best are the ones that get serious attention from buyers. Preparing a house for sale is more important than ever. Keeping it in pristine condition can be a challenge, particularly for sellers with small children and pets. More... http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66298

Contest Winners!!

As I posted in an earlier blog, April has been "Fair Housing Month". It is the month the National Association of Realtors has chosen to focus on diversity awareness. This month The Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors sponsored a poster contest for all area 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. The theme of the contest was America, A Nation of Neighbors. On April 12 the winners were announced, The City of Jefferson Administrator read a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Landwehr, and the students were presented with prizes. A special thank you to local banks for supplying savings bonds for the prizes! Congratulations to all the winners. If you would like to see this fantastic art work, go by the Capital Mall Community Room and check out the display windows.

Jefferson City Real Estate Monthly Newsletter

If you would like to receive a monthly news letter from me via email, You can go to my website at http://www.hankshouses.com/, sign up as a customer, and you will be placed on the list. You will NOT receive endless promotions or junk mail from me. You will get a letter thanking you for signing up, and a "welcome to my website". After that unless you request additional information, you will just receive the monthly newsletter. There are a wide variety of topics covered in the news letters:

Buying / Selling Tips
Pricing
Inspections
Staging your home to sell
Maintenance / updating / improvement info
Investing
Market Conditions
Mortgage , tax, and insurance info
MUCH MORE!!

You will recieve the newsletter early each month at the email address you provide. You can cancel at any time, and I do not give your address to other vendors.

2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo 5 / 10 k

Next Saturday (May 3rd) The Jefferson City area Board of Realtors is sponsoring the 2nd annual Cinco de Mayo 10k / 5k run walk. This event was started to raise money for the Council For Drug Free Youth. It was attended by approximately 100 participants last year and we raised over $3000 for this great cause. We are hoping for an even better turnout this year. For more information, or if you would like to run or walk, you can print a registration form at http://www.jeffersoncityareaboardofrealtors.com/. Please come out say hi, run, walk, or volunteer. Free t-shirts, and a nice gift bag for the first 125 registrants!! Awards will be given to the top male and female winners in each age group. A huge THANKS to the many community sponsors and volunteers that take the time and donate to make this a success!!



Saturday, May 3

McClung Park, Jefferson City

Registration begin 7:00 a.m.

All age groups, teams, runners, and walkers, fast and not as fast welcome!

Jefferson City Realtor Honor Society Recipients

On Tuesday of this past week, the Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors held its general membership meeting. At this meeting awards were given out to those people earning the Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors Honor Society. ONLY 4% of local Realtors qualified for this award. It is an award given to those individuals who are committed to service and active within the board's committees, continued education, seminars, attend sponsored event and so on. It is an honor to receive this inaugural award. With 10 years of receiving this award, the Realtor then becomes a lifetime member of the honor society.

Those recognized are: Front row left to right ; Bunnie Cotten, Beth McGeorge, Tamela Frank, Debbie Rodriguez, Gwynn Ready. Back Row; Pam Barkhaus, Allen Wheat, Stephanie Biggs, Connie Nussbaum, HANK VOGT, Carolyn Brown, and Cathie Hirschvogel.

**************

Speaking of awards, I want to pat myself on the back, toot my own horn etc... Last month I received the RE/MAX Cooperative Spirit Award. This award is given to the Realtor who shows a positive attitude and a willingness to help fellow Realtors. It is given to one agent and is voted on by their colleagues. It was an honor for me to receive this award this year. In other words its my "nice guy award" :)

Mortgage Rates

Mortgage loan rates Monday, April 21, 2008 at Mid America Bank

30 year fixed 6.125%
20 year fixed 6.125%
15 year fixed 5.625%
10 year fixed 5.50%

Provided by Lynne Bateman, Mid America Bank, 573-896-4790

Rates quoted above are for qualified borrowers with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. Please call for rates on mortgage loans with 95.01%-97% LTV. Rates subject to change at any time without notice Credit scores may adversely affect quoted rates

40 Years Later, Realtors® Remain Vigilant to Ensure Fair Housing for All Americans

As America celebrates the 40th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act this month, Realtors® continue to be outspoken advocates for fair housing, working with home buyers and sellers to ensure they receive equal access to affordable housing and homeownership.

Realtors® build communities and play a vital role in advancing fair housing laws and improving access to affordable housing,” said NAR President Dick Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif. “NAR and its 1.3 million members pledge to continue our work educating home buyers and homeowners in our communities about fair housing laws, discrimination and predatory lending practices, making the dream of homeownership viable for all Americans.”

Read more.... http://www.realtor.org/press_room/news_releases/2008/40_years_later_realtors_remain_vigilant.html

How buyers, sellers are closing deals in today's market

"Being flexible is the name of the game"

By Dian Hymer

Negotiation is back in style, and is likely to remain a necessary part of buying or selling a home in today's beleaguered residential housing market. Other key elements to a satisfactory closing are flexibility, perseverance, creativity and diligence.

Needless to say, you need to work with the best real estate professionals you can find in your area. In most cases, it takes a team effort to put a home-sale transaction together and see it through to fruition. Read More .....http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66285

Jefferson City Area Property Taxes Too High? File an appeal

It's the time of year when you always wonder why you didn't pay your property taxes along with your monthly mortgage payment. The idea of keeping the money in the bank and earning interest sounds great, but actually doing it is another matter.

That huge figure at the bottom of the assessor's coupon statement adjacent to the bold-face words "KEEP THIS PORTION" could have been chopped into 12 pieces that now sound affordable, and whisked away each month with your principal and interest, taxes and insurance payment, commonly known as "PITI."

While I was mulling over the thought of how I was going to produce my first-half tax payment, we were contacted by ........read more.....http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66288

Jefferson City Mortgage Interest Rates 03/31

Mortgage loan rates Monday, March 31, 2008

30 year fixed 5.875
20 year fixed 5.875
15 year fixed 5.375
10 year fixed 5.25

Provided by Lynne Bateman, Mid America Bank, 573-896-4790

Rates quoted above are for qualified borrowers with a 95% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. Please call for rates on mortgage loans with 95.01%-97% LTV. Rates subject to change at any time without notice Credit scores may adversely affect quoted rates

Jefferson City Area Real Estate Statistics

Taken from the Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service.
February 2008

Average List Price -------$ 131,278
Average Sales Price ------$ 127,347
Median List Price --------- $ 124,900
Median Sales Price --------$ 122,500
Average Days on Market --91
# of Units Sold -------------128
List / Sale Ratio -----------97%

“The territorial jurisdiction of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. includes Cole, Callaway, Moniteau, and Osage Counties . This representation is based in whole or part on data supplied by the Multiple Listing Service of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. Neither the Board nor its MLS guarantees or is any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the Board or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.”

Jefferson City Sellers: Don't withhold bad inspection report

Hiding unfavorable information can backfire and spark lawsuits

Inspections are an important part of home buying, but the inspection process can be nerve-racking for both buyers and sellers. Both parties want the deal to go through without a hitch. However, sometimes problems surface that the buyers weren't aware of when they entered into contract.

All houses have defects, even new ones. So it should come as no surprise when defects are discovered. The pertinent issues are: Is there a problem? How serious is the problem? How much will it cost to repair? Read more... http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66264

What happened to mail order homes?

Over the course of the 20th century, there have been many attempts to bring mass-production methods to the building industry. The Aladdin Co. began selling precut houses in 1906, and two years later, retailing giant Sears Roebuck began offering houses by mail order. Each Sears Modern Home came in a 25-ton kit consisting of precut lumber and virtually all the other materials required to complete the building. Prices ranged from $650 to $2,500, and 22 styles were offered. Precutting the lumber not only made the houses cheaper, but also reduced onsite construction time by some 40 percent. More than 70,000 Sears Modern Homes were sold before the program ended in 1940, a victim of the Depression economy and vexing differences in local building codes. Read more here http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66278

Jefferson City Area Mortgage Reality Check - Quiz for Homeowners

In recent weeks, you may have seen or heard about a mortgage crisis, as roughly two million homeowners now face possible increases in their mortgage payments throughout the remainder of 2007 and 2008.

As a homeowner, you may be concerned about your own ability to meet your mortgage payments, either now or in the near future. You may be frightened or feeling pressure from your mortgage company or other creditors. You may be at risk of foreclosing. Or, you may just be curious about your financial well-being if you have an adjustable mortgage rate that is likely to increase soon.

Homeownership is the American Dream - a dream everyone wants to preserve. But what's your financial reality in light of a rising mortgage payment that may be hundreds of dollars more a month? What can you do to make things better if you are in trouble or think you will be?

Take the Mortgage Reality Check -- A Quiz for Homeowners, click below
http://www.housinghelpnow.org/MortgageRealityCheck.cfm

JEFFERSON CITY AREA BOARD OF REALTORS EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY

NEWS RELEASE FROM THE JC AREA BOARD OF REALTORS:

JCABOR Receives Excellence in Diversity Award
The Board has received notification that we are a recipient of the Jefferson City Multicultural Forum (JCMCF) "Excellence in Diversity" award for its support of the Forum and our efforts to ensure harmony between everyone in our community. The Diversity Awareness Committee (formerly the Equal Opportunity Committee) of the Board has taken a more active role in the activities of the JCMCF. We are proud of this recognition and accomplishment!

POSTER CONTEST

Poster Contest for 4th, 5th & 6th Grade Students. April is Fair Housing Month and the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS®, Inc. is recognizing this event with a poster contest. For more details and a complete set of rules, visit our website.

First, second and third place winners will be selected from each age group. First place— $100.00 savings bond, Second place—$75.00 savings bond, and
Third place—$50.00 savings bond.

This event is sponsored by:

Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS®, Inc.

Central Bank

Community Bank of Russellville

Hawthorn Bank

Home Savings Bank

Jefferson Bank

Premier Bank

River Region Credit Union

Get rid of 'popcorn' ceilings all at once

Despite disruption, it will lower overall cost and improve home's resale value. Read more http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66261

$596 Per Square Foot!!

This house, located near the intersection of Dufferin Street and Rogers Road is believed to be Toronto 's smallest house. Occupying what usedto be a driveway, it's a one bedroom, one bathroom home that sits on aparcel of land 7.25 feet wide and 113.67 feet long and has an interior
area of just under 300 square feet.

Here are the home's "Listed Features": * Completely re-done top-to-bottom, front-to-back!* Tumbled stone entrance walk* Renovated Bath* Renovated Kitchen with newer stove, new cabinets and new stacked washer/dryer* Bedroom with Murphy Bed + "Built-Ins" ... (doubles as a den)!* Walk-out to fenced patio* 100 Amp service* 2 Satellite Dishes and Receiver * Window Air Conditioner Available THE PRICE ? ? ? You get all this for $179,900.00!

Watch What You Heat

Did you know?

Three out of every 10 reported home fires start in the kitchen? (That's more than any other place in the home.)

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires.

Two out of three reported home cooking fires start at the range or stove.

You can prevent these and other fires by following these safety measures:

1. Keep the handles of pots and pans turned toward the rear of the range, out of reach of children.


2. Never leave cooking food unattended on stovetops or ovens.
   Make Fire Prevention Week the time to replace the batteries in all your smoke home's smoke alarms.


3. Sit and discuss home escape planning as a family to prevent injuries in the event of a home fire.

For more fire-safety advice, visit the National Fire Protection Association website.

Jefferson City Area Real Estate Market Statistics

Taken from the Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service.

January 2008
Average Sales Price ------$ 133,607
Median List Price --------- $ 127,900
Median Sales Price --------$ 124,000
Average Days on Market --105
# of Units Sold -------------47
List / Sale Ratio -----------94%


“The territorial jurisdiction of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. includes Cole, Callaway, Moniteau, and Osage Counties . This representation is based in whole or part on data supplied by the Multiple Listing Service of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. Neither the Board nor its MLS guarantees or is any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the Board or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.”

Kitchen is no place to skimp on lighting

When it comes to lighting, few places in the home are more important than the kitchen. From general lighting to specific task lighting, a well-designed lighting plan makes the use and enjoyment of any kitchen a much brighter undertaking. More... http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66112

Energy audit helps save on heating, cooling bills

All of us are concerned about our energy bills and are looking for ways to save money, especially during the cold winter months. One of the best places you can start is by having an energy audit done on your home. Energy audits analyze all of the areas of your home where you might be wasting energy -- and, obviously, your hard-earned dollars -- and provide solutions both large and small.

During the course of an energy audit, the auditors will make a site visit to your home and conduct a very thorough inspection of a number of different areas. They take measurements of everything from square footage to window sizes, all of which goes into determining the amount of heat your home is losing. In warmer climates, the same process is used to calculate ways to save on cooling costs. More.... http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=story&id=66182

Prevent Identity Theft

How do I Prevent Identity Theft

• Don't give out your Social Security Number unless you initiate the contact.


• Leave your Social Security number off checks and driver license.


• Shred documents with sensitive information before throwing in the trash.


• Send/receive sensitive mail using post office boxes.


• Carry only the cards and documents you need on a daily basis.


• Do not carry your social security card.


• Use virus protections, a firewall, and spyware detection on your computer.

For more info go to the Attorney General of Missouri website www.ago.mo.gov

Jefferson City Area REALTORS Impact the Community

In 2007, the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS® made a positive impact with their community service efforts, raising $17,221.94 for area organizations. These members, REALTORS® and Affiliates, recognize the importance of strengthening the community and making it a better place for everyone.

* Sponsored the 1st Annual "Cinco de Mayo 5K Run/Walk". Over 90 runners and walkers participated - $3,012.00 raised for the Council for Drug Free Youth.

* Sponsored the 5th Annual Chili Supper REALTORS® & Friends Keep the Home Fires Burning chili supper, raffle and food drive. Over 600 people attended this event. This event raised $5,670.94 for the Samaritan Center utility assistance program and 5,793 pounds of food for the Samaritan Center pantry.

* Sponsored a WILDflower for the Art in the Park event. This $3,500.00 sponsorship supported art in the community. The WILDflower is currently on display on the West Edgewood greenway, but will be shared with local schools this spring, giving area children and their families the opportunity to enjoy this art.

* Provided eight scholarships at a total cost of $4,000 for students to attend Missouri Business Week. This summer entrepreneurial camp is for high school sophomores and juniors and teaches them about marketing and business.
* Provided three schools with the “It’s Your Move” materials for their classroom, totaling $289.00. This course provides practical information for high school students to prepare them for their futures as housing consumers. Students from Fatima, Russellville and South Callaway benefited from this program in 2007.
* Purchased $750 worth of school supplies to help "Pack the Bus" providing school supplies to children in need. REACT (REALTOR® Educating and Challenging Teens) continued its partnership with Jefferson City High School (JCHS), by mentoring students at-risk and also assisting with school supplies.

Members of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS® are professionals who enhance and better our communities through their active involvement in the many facets of real estate.

Understanding Purchase Points

Not only do you have to understand what type of mortgage you should choose, you have to understand the costs associated with your mortgage. All of these costs will be paid upon closing your mortgage.
Purchase Points
Purchase points, also known as a "buy-down" or "discount points," are an up-front fee paid to the lender at closing to buy-down or lower your interest rate over the life of the loan. Each point is equal to one percent of your total loan amount. If you have a $100,000 loan, one point would equal $1,000. The more points you buy, the lower your interest rate, but the more money you'll need at closing.
How do you decide whether you should buy points and if so, how many? Well, the decision should be based on how long you plan on living in your home and what you can afford to pay each month toward your mortgage. If you plan on living in your home for more than five years, it's probably a good idea to purchase points. The longer you live in your home, the more you can save on interest over the life of the loan.

Jefferson City appears to be safe from housing slump!

News release from Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors courtesy of KRCG and News Tribune

http://www.krcg.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=95097

http://www.newstribune.com/articles/2008/02/12/business/323biz01.txt

Current Market Conditions

Taken from the December Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service.

December 2007
Average Sales Price - $ 127,061
Median Sales Price - $115,000
Average Days on Market - 110
# of Units Sold - 85
# of Active Listings - 760
# of New Listings - 137

“The territorial jurisdiction of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. includes Cole, Callaway, Moniteau, and Osage Counties . This representation is based in whole or part on data supplied by the Multiple Listing Service of the Jefferson City Area Board of REALTORS, Inc. Neither the Board nor its MLS guarantees or is any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the Board or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.”

How can I increase the value of my property

Specific home improvements can increase your property value above the cost of the improvements themselves, such as remodeling a kitchen, adding a bathroom, finishing a basement or upgrading landscaping. Just be sure that quality pays with remodeling. A bad remodeling job will do little to boost your property value.
If you live in a high-crime area, an organized community watch program not only will lower the crime rate but can enhance property values, too. It also helps to live in an area where other homeowners are upgrading their homes, which can help pull up your property value, too.
The bottom line is to measure the cost of any improvements you want to make against the overall values in your neighborhood. If you over improve for the neighborhood, you may not necessarily recover your costs or boost your property value significantly

Basic Principles of all Mortgage Loans

The home is used as security to back up the loan. A lender can force sale of the home if the borrower defaults by failing to make scheduled payments.
The larger the loan compared to the value of the home, the more risky for the lender and, often, the more expensive the loan will be.
Interest earned by the lender always is equal to the periodic interest rate times the outstanding principle balance of the loan. The periodic interest rate is the annual interest rate divided by the number of payments in the year (usually one per month).
The required payment usually is a bit larger than the interest due so that some of the loan principal is repaid with each payment. This process is called Amortization and is why most mortgage loans can be retired when all the monthly payments have been made.
All mortgage loans have one of the following features:
Fixed payment and fixed interest rate - fixed rate mortgages
Fixed rate but variable payment - graduated payment mortgages
Variable rate and variable payment - adjustable rate mortgages
As you learn more about the types of financing available, you will notice that some loans appear to have more favorable terms. That may indicate that those loans are, indeed, bargains (and it does pay to shop around), but usually it means that those loans could have some feature that is less appealing to borrowers. For example, shorter-term loans often have slightly lower interest rates compared to longer-term loans. However, the monthly payment for the same amount of principal may be higher because of the shorter term. Variable rate loans usually have much lower interest rates to compensate for the risk the borrower accepts that interest rates will rise in the future.

Are forclosures a wise investment?

A foreclosure property is a home that has been repossessed by the lender because the owners failed to pay the mortgage. Thousands of homes end up in foreclosure every year. Economic conditions affect the number of foreclosures, too. Many people lose their homes due to job loss, credit problems or unexpected expenses.
It is wise to be cautious when considering a foreclosure. Many experts, in fact, advise inexperienced buyers to hire an expert to take them through the process. It is important to have the house thoroughly inspected and to be sure that any liens, undisclosed mortgages or court judgments are cleared or at least disclosed. Learn more.....click here
http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=pagecontent.asp&nav=1&pid=441

10 tips to buying a home

Top 10 Tips to Successful Home Buying
Tip #1: Research Is The Key To Discovery
Home sellers won't call you with an offer to buy a maintenance-free home with a wonderful mortgage. You have to find the gems yourself! Only by reading available materials, talking to friends and experts, and spending time looking at different homes, schools, and neighborhoods will you end up with your American dream. Avoid the nightmares by learning how best to buy and maintain a home.
Tip #2: Make A Plan And Get Pre-Qualified
Every important decision needs to be clearly thought out. Developing a home buying plan can help you focus on the important factors and organize the entire process. You may even want to use a binder with sections on house hunting, home financing, service providers, etc. Loan pre-qualifying helps you determine the home price you can afford and presents you as a genuine prospect to the seller. A lender typically uses the 28% formula (your monthly mortgage can't exceed 28% of your monthly income) in approving your loan. Planning your actions and getting pre-qualified will keep you out of the panic mode and allow you to take advantage of opportunities. A thorough plan will save both time and money!
Tip #3: Value, Value, Value
The days of 10-30% annual appreciation have passed. Homebuyers in the 1970's benefited tremendously from what seemed like ever appreciating home prices. Nowadays, you're looking at slow growth while guarding against the possibilities of falling prices, skyrocketing ARM rates and corporate layoffs that can dramatically affect your home values. The classic rule of buying the worst house in the best neighborhood still applies. If you buy with an eye towards improvement, you can customize the home to fit your needs. The saying, "make money buying a home, not selling one," should keep you focused on the long-term importance of the purchasing price.
Tip #4: Create A Top 10 List Of Amenities
When shopping for a home, list the features (fireplace, fenced-in yard, new appliances, etc.) that are most important to you in deciding on which home to buy. Establishing "your criteria" early on will save time shopping for inappropriate homes and may keep you from buying a home on a
more........ click here http://www.hankv4979.remax-midstates.com/remaxmidstates/modules/agent/agent.asp?p=pagecontent.asp&nav=1&pid=437