Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tax credit fuels skyrocketing Dallas-area preowned home sales
12:08 PM CST on Monday, December 7, 2009
By STEVE BROWN/ The Dallas Morning News
The North Texas housing market came roaring back in November. Preowned home sales rose by 31 percent last month from a year ago – one of the biggest such increases on record. Also Online
Interactive map: Dallas-area home sales and prices
And median home sales prices were up 5 percent.
The big jump in residential transactions came as large numbers of homebuyers rushed to take advantage of the federal home buying tax credit, which has been extended.
Real estate agents in October sold almost 5,500 preowned homes through their multiple listing service, according to statistics released Monday by the North Texas Residential Information Systems and the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University.
And condo and townhouse sales were up more than 60 percent from a year ago.
November’s robust sales activity is the latest in a string of recent indicators, which show that the North Texas home market has bottomed out and is turning the corner.
Through the first 11 months of 2009, North Texas home sales are down 12 percent from the same period of last year. And median home sales prices are unchanged year to day from 2008.
November was the second consecutive month that Dallas-Fort Worth area home sales rose from the previous year – ending more than a year of consecutive declines.
Some neighborhoods that weren’t impacted by the federal homebuying incentives saw dramatic spikes in home sales last month.
In the Park Cities, preowned home sales soared 81 percent in November from a year ago.
Sales in close in North Dallas neighborhoods rose 48 percent.
And at the end of November, the inventory of unsold homes on the market fell below 6 months which is considered a balanced market.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Expanded Version of Tax Credit Will Allow More Homebuyers to Qualify
RISMEDIA, November 9, 2009—President Obama recently signed an expanded version of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit that was set to expire on November 30. “The new version of the tax credit has the potential to stimulate the housing market even more than the old version due to the fact that more people will qualify under the new rules,” said Gibran Nicholas, Chairman of the CMPS Institute, an organization that certifies mortgage bankers and brokers. “Although the tax credit remains at $8,000 for homebuyers that have not owned a primary residence in the last three years, it has been expanded to include a $6,500 tax credit for homebuyers that have lived in their current primary residence for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight years. Under the old rules, move-up homebuyers did not qualify.” Consider these three examples:
Example 1:
Jane purchased a home in 2002, lived there for 5 years as her primary home, moved out in 2007, and turned that home into a rental property. If Jane decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she lived in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
Example 2:
Harry purchased a home in 2004, and lived there for the past 5 years as his primary home. If Harry decides to buy a new primary residence today, he would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that he lived in the same residence as his primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
Example 3:
Nicole purchased a home in 2006, and lived there for the past 3 years as her primary home. If Nicole decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would not qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she did not live in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.
The tax credit applies to homes purchased for less than $800,000 before May 1, 2010. “If you sign a binding contract to purchase a home before May 1st, you would need to close on the transaction before July 1, 2010,” Nicholas said. “It works kind of like a gift certificate that can be redeemed for cash. You simply file a form with the IRS right after you buy your home, and the IRS will send you a check for the full amount of your credit.”
The income limitation for single tax payers went up from $75,000 under the old rules to $125,000 under the new rules. For married tax payers, the income limitation went up from $150,000 to $225,000. “This means that more people will qualify for the credit – especially in parts of the country with higher costs of living,” Nicholas said. “This should help stimulate parts of the housing market that may not have been impacted by the old version of the credit.”
There are many creative ways of structuring your home purchase transaction in ways that maximize the benefits of the credit. Here are a few examples:
-The credit applies to 1-4 unit homes as long as you live in one of the units as your primary residence – you could live in one unit and rent out the others
-If two unmarried individuals buy a home, and only one of the individuals qualifies for the credit based on their income or past home ownership status, the individual who qualifies for the credit can claim the full credit. (Note: In the case of married couples, both spouses must qualify for the credit).
-The credit applies even if you have co-signers on your mortgage loan
For more information, visit www.CMPSInstitute.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-11-08/expanded-version-of-tax-credit-will-allow-more-homebuyers-to-qualify/#ixzz0WTkr6IKw
Friday, November 6, 2009
TAX CREDIT HAS BEEN EXTENDED
The $8000 tax credit for first time homebuyer's has been extended. The program was expanded to include a $6500 tax credit on the purchase of a new home to apply to people who have owned a home for at least five years.
Income restrictions will be relaxed, meaning more people could take advantage of the program.
The bill would extend it to apply to home purchases under contract before May 1, 2010
Great news! Watch for more details.
Give us a call for all of your Real Estate needs.You can reach us directly at 817-337-5169 or on the web at www.soldteam.net

Texas Sold Team Realty, LLC
CRS, e-Pro, ABR, Luxury Real Estate Expert
Information provided by Pam Taylor with WR Starkey Mortgage
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Residents near proposed assisted-living center criticize developer's plan
By LINDA TAYLOR
A proposed assisted-living center has drawn opposition from nearby residents, who say it would hurt their quality of life and property values.
Homeowners near Countryhill Drive and Rapp Road turned out in large numbers to voice their concerns to Keller’s planning advisory board on Monday. They urged members to deny developer Nisher Inc.’s request to build the center, Mustang Creek Estates.
The 4.8-acre development would house 104 assisted-living units in eight, one-story buildings on the north and northwest sides of the intersection. Plans call for each building to be 6,000 square feet.
Nearby residents said the campus would increase traffic, worsen drainage problems and drive down the value of their houses. Most residents who spoke said it would pose a safety risk to the many children who walk or ride bikes to schools.
"Country Hill Drive is a neighborhood street, not a major arterial road," Terry Leake said. "There are a number of kids who ride to school who access Country Hill to reach the marked crosswalk on Rapp Road. Having the entries to the facility on Country Hill could present some serious safety issues to those kids."
Architect Scott Roberts said the center would add fewer cars to area roads than a commercial center, which the site is currently zoned for.
"We feel this zoning and use is much less impactive than the uses possible under the [current] zoning," Roberts said. "The buildings are very residential in nature and are arranged at angles to create more interest. We will try to be the best neighbors we can."
But some residents oppose the center, citing potential harm to their home values.
"Every realtor I’ve talked to said you will narrow your prospects when potential buyers see the retirement community located at the entrance to the neighborhood," Mike Reed said. "This will definitely decrease the property value."
Despite that concern, Roberts said, values near a similar facility in Allen have risen steadily since it was built.
Board members had their own concerns, which centered on parking. With a proposed 28 parking spaces, most members felt the number would not be adequate to accommodate staff, visitors and residents who have their own vehicles.
"The part that really jumped out at me is you only have three handicapped spaces for eight buildings," member Leslie Sagar said. "Parking is a big issue. You have 28 spaces and 16 of them are for employees."
Doug Miller agreed with Sagar, saying the proposed parking could cause visitors to park on Countryhill Drive.
"By my calculations, you could have as many as 24 employees on the premises at one time," Miller said. "The parking is woefully inadequate."
Most board members seemed to favor a zoning change but disapproved of the Mustang Creek Estates plan.
"We have a real conundrum here," Gary Reaves said, praising Nisher’s preparations. "I do applaud your efforts, but I’ve listened to the residents and they have some very real concerns. I think this project as it is proposed is too much of a strain on this neighborhood and I cannot support it."
Renee Ramsey, the would-be owner of the center, said she was willing to work with the neighbors on their concerns, possibly even reducing the number of buildings from eight to six.
The board postponed a decision until December to allow opponents, the developer and city staff to work out major sticking points.
Linda Taylor is a special contributor to The Keller Citizen.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Existing-Home Sales Ease Following 4 Monthly Gains
RISMEDIA, September 28, 2009—Existing-home sales in August 2009 gave back some of their strong gain in July but remain above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Existing-home sales- including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops- declined 2.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 million units in August from a pace of 5.24 million in July, but remain 3.4% above the 4.93 million-unit level in August 2008. In the previous four months, sales had risen a total of 15.2%.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the tax credit is working. “Home sales retrenched from a very strong improvement in July but continue to be much higher than before the stimulus. The first-time buyer tax credit is having the intended impact of bringing buyers into the market, allowing them to take advantage of very favorable affordability conditions,” he said. “Some of the give-back in closed sales appears to result from rising numbers of contracts entering the system, with some fallouts and a backlog contributing to a longer closing process, but the decline demonstrates we can’t take a housing rebound for granted.”
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to 5.19% in August from 5.22% in July; the rate was 6.48% in August 2008.
An NAR practitioner survey shows first-time buyers purchased 30% of homes in August, and that distressed homes accounted for 31% of transactions; both were unchanged from July. “The recent trend shows broad improvement in most of the country, but with an expected rise in foreclosures over the next 12 months we need to maintain a healthy level of ready buyers to absorb the inventory. An extension of the tax credit is critical to preserve incentives for financially qualified buyers to enter the market,” Yun said.
He added that many buyers had been on the sidelines during the past few years, waiting for signs of stabilization. “Now that the market is showing some momentum, we have an opportunity to achieve a more rapid and broader stabilization in home prices. Extending and expanding the tax credit also would help to keep other families from becoming upside down in their mortgages or risk foreclosure,” Yun said.
“When home prices show sustained gains, credit will become more widely available to other sectors because Wall Street will be able to price risks confidently. Stable home values will also allow more families to purchase consumer products and provide a strong boost for the broader economy.”
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, said time is running very short for the existing tax credit. “Because it’s generally taking 60 days to close on a home after a contract is offered, buyers have little time to act to complete a purchase by the November 30 deadline,” he said. “There’s no guarantee what Congress might do, so there’s really no time to waste. Since Realtors® have unparalleled knowledge of local markets, they can also advise first-time buyers on any additional state or local programs that might be able to offer them financial assistance, and help them close on a home before the tax credit expires.”
Total housing inventory at the end of August fell 10.8% to 3.62 million existing homes available for sale, which represents an 8.5-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 9.3-month supply in July. Unsold inventory totals are 16.4% lower than a year ago. The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $177,700 in August, down 12.5% from August 2008. Distressed properties continue to downwardly distort the median price because they generally sell for 15 to 20% less than traditional homes. Single-family home sales fell 2.% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.48 million in August from a level of 4.61 million in July, but are 2.55 higher than the 4.37 million-unit pace in August 2008. The median existing single-family home price was $177,500 in August, down 12.1% from a year ago. Existing condominium and co-op sales slipped 1.6% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 620,000 units in August from a spike of 630,000 in July, but are 10.1% higher than the 563,000-unit level a year ago. The median existing condo price was $179,300 in August, which is 15.7% below August 2008.
Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast declined 2.2% to an annual pace of 910,000 in August, but are 5.8% above August 2008. The median price in the Northeast was $241,100, which is 10.5% below a year ago. Existing-home sales in the Midwest fell 6.6% in August to a level of 1.14 million but are unchanged from a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $149,900, down 10.4% from August 2008. In the South, existing-home sales were down 3.1% to an annual pace of 1.89 million in August but are 1.6% above August 2008. The median price in the South was $157,400, which is 11.0% below a year ago. Existing-home sales in the West declined 2.7% to an annual rate of 1.16 million in August but are 7.4% higher than a year ago. The median price in the West was $220,500, down 12.2% from August 2008.
For more information, visit www.realtor.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-09-27/existing-home-sales-ease-following-4-monthly-gains/#ixzz0SVdAMpNc
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
First-Time Buyers Race to Beat the Clock, Qualify for $8,000 Federal Tax Credit
RISMEDIA, September 15, 2009—First-time home buyers have just 12 weeks to find and close on a home to qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit before the November 30th deadline. Those just beginning the process will have to beat the average time it takes to buy a home, a challenge smart buyers can meet even though it’s taking longer today to close most transactions.
Two significant challenges first-time buyers face today include the potential for a lengthy process related to search and closing if not managed carefully at every step, and intensified competition. On average, first-time buyers search 12 weeks to find a home, while closing can take up to 60 days, depending on individual circumstances and local regulations. Additionally, the tax credit has proved to be extremely popular this year, since taking advantage of the first-time homebuyer’s Federal tax credit and relevant state incentives is the most important reason motivating 10.8% of buyers today. In fact, approximately 1.14 million buyers have already filed for the credit. Many more are expected to file for the credit when income taxes are due April 2010.
Still, while time is short and competition high, historically high affordability is a major factor driving first-time home buyers today, a growing group accounting for one third of all purchases in July 2009. The National Association of Realtors’ affordability index in July 2009 was 36.0 percentage points higher than July 2008. Under these conditions the typical median-income family can allocate 15.8% of their gross income to mortgage payments, well below the traditional allowance of 25%. Interest rates, which play a major factor in affordability, remain low, at 5.22% in July for a 30-year fixed rate loan.
Realtor.com President Errol Samuelson explains, “The national median home today costs approximately 174,100. By moving quickly to find and close on a home by November 30, first-time buyers qualifying for the $8,000 tax credit can actually purchase this same home for only $166,100, an almost four and a half percent discount off of the price of a typical new home. Because affordability this year is at its highest level in 28 years, and the market offers an incredible selection of homes within reach of most first-time buyers, we expect their numbers to grow as they pursue today’s once in a generation opportunity to become homeowners.”
Samuelson suggests that by combining effective use of technology and the greater access to information it delivers with expert advice from local Realtors, today’s first-time home buyers can beat the clock and use the $8,000 Federal tax credit along with any available state-level credits to purchase a home under the November 30 deadline. “By moving quickly, being prepared to make decisions in the face of increased competition, and taking the learnings from others to reduce time without cutting corners, first-time home buyers starting today can close on time and qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit,” added Samuelson. “To help this important group trying to enter today’s market, Realtor.com offers tips and expert advice that can help expedite the search, negotiation, finance and closing processes so they can beat the clock.”
Tips for the first time home buyer starting their search today:
-Searching – Search While You Sleep – Since 87% of all buyers start online, you probably will too. On Realtor.com it’s easy to sign up for email alerts and create personal portfolios for homes of interest. Soon you’ll be searching while you sleep, at the office or even while you’re at an open house. You’ll be the first to know if a home you want comes up for sale or receives a price reduction.
-Negotiating - Freshness counts. You don’t have time to look at unavailable homes. Stale data on prices, time on market, features, or property values puts you at a disadvantage when negotiating.
-Appraisals - Appraisals can be a problem today; make sure the lender can deliver the appraisal on time. Your loan will not be approved if it doesn’t appraise for the agreed price, so don’t delay. If the property doesn’t appraise for the bid price, ask for a desk appraisal; you’ll receive a second look.
-Finance - Don’t let the financing process slow you down; 35% of first-time buyers find the mortgage application and approval process more difficult than what they expected. Start saving pay stubs and bank statements now. Collect your tax returns; anything proving your income qualifies you for the home you want.
-Closing - Get your insurance company and the home owner association, if applicable, to forward a cost estimate to the escrow company early. This will make it easier for them to more accurately estimate your closing costs, which in many states must be paid in cash at closing.
For more information, visit www.realtor.com.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-09-14/first-time-buyers-race-to-beat-the-clock-qualify-for-8000-federal-tax-credit/#ixzz0RIOBnCDt
Friday, September 4, 2009
Happy Labor Day
Monday, August 31, 2009
Only 90 days left to use the $8,000 Tax Credit
Did you know it can take up to 30 days to close a home using the $8,000 Tax Credit? You have even less than 90 days to use it before the end of November!
Contact us today to get your first home before November! We can help!
Friday, August 21, 2009
What Would You Do With $8,000?
What if the government decided today that, instead of bailing out Wall Street, it was going to give every American $8,000? What would you do with the money?
For most Americans, paying off credit card debt would be a great way to use the free money. According to a Nilson Report released in April 2009, the average credit card debt per household in the US was $8,329 at the end of 2008. That money from the government would almost wipe out your debt completely. Imagine being completely debt free.
Healthcare is a big topic these days. According to the most current Census Bureau statistics, some 45.7 million Americans do not have health insurance. So, many Americans might choose to use their $8,000 to enroll their family in a healthcare program through their employer. The federal government tracks the average spending on health insurance for people with job-based coverage, and the most recent figures (from 2005!) indicate that the average individual's premiums were $3,991, while families spent an average of $10,728. Your $8,000 would go a long way in insuring your family.
Some Americans might choose to start a small business. Experts estimate that start-up costs for many new business ventures are between $10,000 - $15,000. With $8,000, a large portion of your initial investment would be covered.
If you really think about it, there are so many things you could do with $8,000. You could open a 529 college savings plan. You could add your 8 grand to the government's $4,500 Cash for Clunkers plan and buy a new car. You could take your family on an amazing once-in-a-lifetime vacation. You could open an IRA and save for retirement...
But what's the point in dreaming. The government's not giving away $8,000, right?
Wrong.
Right now, through November 30th of this year only, the government is giving qualifying first-time home buyers up to $8,000 for purchasing a home (or up to 10% of the purchase price). This is free money that you do not have to pay back. And here's the best part: if you qualify, you can get your money from the IRS this year, even if you've already filed your 2008 taxes.
There are, of course, limitations and other qualifying factors, but they are all pretty reasonable and easy to explain, and we'll be glad to discuss these with you or anyone you know who is looking to buy a home. With today's combination of lower home prices and lower interest rates, this temporary incentive from the government is really a great option for many Americans who act now to finally fulfill their dreams of owning a home.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Tax-Free Weekend
We are a week away from the back to school bell, and this weekend we will all be scrambling to get those last minute items. Shoppers can get a break this weekend from sales tax with the states annual tax holiday beginning Friday and extending through Sunday. This saves shoppers about $8 for every $100 spend. New items added to the list this year are backpacks, and most school supplies, that include binders, folders, lunch boxes, pens, pencils calculators, book bags and much more.
For more detailed information click on the link below
Texas Tax Holiday Official Page
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Pending Home Sales up for Fifth Consecutive Month
RISMEDIA, August 5, 2009-Pending home sales are up for the fifth consecutive month, the first time in six years for such a streak, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in June, rose 3.6% to 94.6 from an upwardly revised reading of 91.3 in May, and is 6.7% above June 2008 when it was 88.7. The last time there were five consecutive monthly gains was in July 2003.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said a combination of positive market factors is fueling the gains. “Historically low mortgage interest rates, affordable home prices and large selection are encouraging buyers who’ve been on the sidelines. Activity has been consistently much stronger for lower priced homes,” he said. ”Because it may take as long as two months to close on a home after signing a contract, first-time buyers must act fairly soon to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit because they must close on the sale by November 30.”
The Pending Home Sales Index in the Northeast rose 0.4% to 81.2 in June and is 5.8% above a year ago. In the Midwest the index increased 0.8% to 89.9 and is 11.6% above June 2008. The index in the South jumped 7.1% to 100.7 in June and is 8.9% higher than a year ago. In the West the index rose 2.9% to 100.4 but is 0.2% below June 2008.
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, is hopeful that a recently elevated level of contract cancellations will ease. “Last month, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae clarified that appraisals should be done by professionals with clear local expertise,” he said. “This should mitigate the situation of many valuations done by out-of-area appraisers coming in below the price negotiated between buyers and sellers. Hopefully, in the months ahead, we’ll see an even closer relationship between contract activity and closed transactions.” McMillan said NAR is continuing to press the appraisal issue. “We have asked Congress and the Federal Housing Finance Agency to immediately implement an 18-month moratorium on the new appraisal rules to further address unintended consequences of the new guidelines,” he said.
NAR’s Housing Affordability Index (HAI) remains very favorable. The affordability index stood at 159.2 in July, down from record peaks in recent months but it remains 36.6 percentage points above a year ago. Under these conditions the typical family would devote 15.7% of gross income to mortgage principal and interest, well below the standard allowance of 25%. The HAI is a broad measure of housing affordability using consistent values and assumptions over time, which examines the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income.
“A monthly rise in home prices and somewhat higher mortgage interest rates led to a modest decline in affordability in June, but it was still the sixth highest index on record dating back to 1970,” Yun said. “Because housing is so affordable in today’s market, job security and the first-time buyer tax credit are bigger factors in influencing home sales.”
A median-income family, earning $60,700, could afford a home costing $289,100 in June with a 20% downpayment, assuming 25% of gross income is devoted to mortgage principal and interest. Affordability conditions for first-time buyers with the same income and small downpayments are roughly 80% of what a median-income family can afford. The affordable price was much higher than the median existing single-family home price in June, which was $181,600.
Yun expects existing-home sales to gradually rise over the balance of the year, with conditions varying around the country. “It appears home sales are on a sounder footing and inventory is gradually being absorbed.”
For more information, visit www.realtor.org.
Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-08-04/pending-home-sales-up-for-fifth-consecutive-month/#ixzz0NFTbnzEY
Monday, August 3, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Energy Saving Tips - Free and Low Cost Recommendations
Replace Light Bulbs
Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and save 75% off lighting costs.
Unplug Electronics
Unplug electronics, battery chargers and other equipment when not in use. Taken together, these small items can use as much power as your refrigerator.
Save Water
Installing faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads will cut water heating costs by 50% and save up to $300 per year. It will also cut water use by up to 50%. As much as 19% of California electricity is used to pump, transport and treat water.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Setting your air conditioner 5° higher will save up to 20% on cooling costs.
Buy Energy Efficient Appliances
Always buy ENERGY STAR qualified appliances and equipment - they're up to 40% more efficient. Find rebates and incentives in your area using our rebate finder.
Adjust Your Water Heater
Turn your water heater down to 120° or the "Normal" setting when home, and to the lowest setting when away. Water heating accounts for about 13% of home energy costs.
Keep Cool With Ceiling Fans
Reduce air conditioning costs by using fans, keeping windows and doors shut and closing shades during the day. Most ceiling fans use less energy than a light bulb.
Be Smart About Lighting
Turn off unnecessary lighting and use task or desktop lamps with CFLs instead of overhead lights.
Power Down Your Computer
Enable "power management" on all computers and make sure to turn them off at night. A laptop computer uses up to 90% less energy than bigger desktop models.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water
When possible, wash clothes in cold water. About 90% of the energy used in a clothes washer goes to water heating.
Load Up Your Dishwasher
Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when fully loaded. Fewer loads reduce energy and water use.
Maintain Your Clothes Dryer
Make sure your dryer's outside vent is clear and clean the lint filter after every load. When shopping for a new dryer look for one with a moisture sensor that automatically shuts off when clothes are dry.
Find and Seal Leaks
Sealing cracks, gaps, leaks and adding insulation can save up to 20% on home heating and cooling costs.
Test for air leaks by holding a lit incense stick next to windows, doors, electrical boxes, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, ceiling fixtures, attic hatches and other locations where there is a possible air path to the outside. If the smoke stream travels horizontally, you have located an air leak that may need caulking, sealing or weather stripping.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Keller ISD schools open; no confirmed Swine Flu
Keller ISD has no confirmed cases of Swine Flu, but it is diligently working to minimize risks for all students and staff.
The district has reported four Type A Influenza cases, one each in four separate KISD schools: Florence Elementary, Bear Creek Intermediate, South Keller Intermediate and Central High. Swine flu has yet to be determined in any of these cases.
Please visit Keller ISD website to get the latest information regarding this issue.
Monday, April 13, 2009
category:Restaurants
What’s the one small change that 1) instantly improves your health 2) helps the environment 3) boosts Texas’s economy and 4)helps you win the lottery (OK, so we made that last one up)? Buying more food from local sources!
Your average supermarket fare travels an average of 1,500 miles before it gets to you – and who wants a jet-lagged tomato? When you shop the farmstands or farmer’s market in the Keller area, you get fresher, better-tasting and more nutritious food for you and the family.
It also saves energy by cutting down on carbon dioxide emissions from those cross-country transports; more importantly, it puts more money back into the community. Growers who supply supermarkets only get about 18 cents on the dollar, with the rest going to various middlemen. When you choose locally-grown foods, more of that money goes directly to the farmer, who then circulates it back into the area economy.
Shopping “close to home” is easier than you think. Start here to find a list of great sources of delicious, local food!
http://www.americantowns.com/tx/keller/news/eat-local-great-resources-in-the-keller-area-18480
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
If you are interested in making your home more secure AND saving
money on your homeowner’s insurance rates, we offer another free
service to residents:
For Safety - The Security Survey is an inspection conducted on
your home by a certified Crime Prevention Officer. The officer
checks the interior and exterior of your home and discusses how
better to secure the premises. The officer draws up a plan specific to
your home, making recommendations about subjects such as locks,
lighting, landscaping, etc.
For an Insurance Discount - Texas law allows for a 5% insurance
rate discount if the residence meets certain basic requirements. If
your home meets these requirements, the Crime Prevention Officer
submits a report to the Texas Insurance Board for your rate reduction.
If your home fails to meet the requirements, the officer gives you a
report indicating how to bring it up to the insurance standards.
That same Texas law allows for a 15% discount if the residence
meets the basic requirements as well as certain advanced requirements.
This level requires a monitored alarm system connected to specific
windows and doors in the home.
For further information on this service, contact Corporal Mike
Bedrich at 817.748.8137. Corporal Bedrich will get forms to you
to fill out in advance and set an appointment to meet at your home
for the inspection. Please be aware that the insurance discount is not
immediate - this is one government entity dealing with another!
Colleyville Police Department can also provide this service.
Please contact Officer Bill Hudgins at (817) 503-1230 or by email
at hudginsb@ci.colleyville.tx.us
Best regards,
Rhonda Moore
Lieutenant, Community Initiatives Unit
871.748.8349
Southlake DPS
http://www.kencemedia.org/www.peelinc.com/newsletters/0704TM.pdf
Monday, April 6, 2009
News from The Keller Independent School District
Special Reminders!
Friday, April 10
Holiday, No School
Monday, April 13
Bad Weather Make-Up Day
Due to inclement weather, the district was closed Wednesday, January 28. The district will make up that bad weather day Monday, April 13. The day has long been posted on the district's calendar as a possible make-up day. In an effort to avoid re-scheduling end-of-year high school exams and to allow for summer school staff development, April 13 was selected as the best of all options.
District News
TAKS TESTING DATE CHANGE FOR HIGH SCHOOL
Due to conflicts with state/national competitions, Keller ISD has slightly modified the TAKS schedule for Grades 10 and 11 only.
Sophomores and juniors were originally scheduled to take the Social Studies portion of the TAKS test on Friday, May 1. That date has been moved to Monday, April 27.
No other TAKS administration dates have been modified. Below is the summary of the assessment dates for all students with the recent change:
Monday, April 27
Grade 10 Social Studies
Grade 11 Social Studies
Tuesday, April 28
Grade 10 Math
Wednesday, April 29
Grade 11 Math
Thursday, April 30
Grade 9 Math
Grade 10 Science
Grade 11 Science
Please contact your campus if you have any questions.
CENTRAL AND FOSSIL RIDGE UIL ONE-ACT PLAY DISTRICT CHAMPS
Central High School's production of "The Rivers and Ravines" and Fossil Ridge High School's production of "Gint" were named the two advancing plays in District 5-5A competition. Keller High's production of Bad Seed was named the alternate play at the contest. Central and Fossil Ridge will compete in the Area contest held at Fossil Ridge High School on Friday, April 10, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Individual awards were:
Central High School
All-Star Cast - Matt McPherson, Porcia Bartholomae, Anthony Cervantes
Honorable Mention - Katelyn Johnson, Cody Hallford
Outstanding Technician - Ryne Easen
Fossil Ridge High School
Best Actor - Creytn Crosby
All-Star Cast - Trevor Bynum, London Powers
Honorable Mention - Veronica Perry, Melissa Rondon
Outstanding Technician - Olivia Bates
Keller High School
Best Actress - Autumn Teague
All-Star Cast - Stephanie Grilo
Honorable Mention - Emily Burke, Katie Folger, Zach Danz
Outstanding Technician - Alec Danz
At the Zone Competition the week prior, the following individual awards were given:
Central High School
All-Star Cast - Katelyn Johnson, Matt McPherson, Porcia Barthlomae
Honorable Mention All-Star Cast - Anthony Cervantes and Michaela Heidemann
Outstanding Technician - Stephanie Warnick
Fossil Ridge High School
Best Actor - Creytn Crosby
All-Star Cast - Trevor Bynum, London Powers
Honorable Mention All-Star Cast - Veronica Perry, Melissa Rondon
Outstanding Technician: Camilla Bates. In addition, the best technical crew was awarded to Fossil Ridge's crew of Camilla Bates, Olivia Bates, Paul Vyakulin, and Ryan Guillory.
Keller High School
Best Actress - Autumn Teague
All-Star Cast: Emily Burke, Zach Danz
Honorable Mention All-Star Cast - Katie Folger, Stephanie Grillo
Outstanding Technician: Kaitlyn Kimble
KISD BOYS SOCCER - DISTRICT 5-5A 2009 ALL-DISTRICT HONORS
Most Valuable Player
Keller - Joel Oldham - SR
Central - Chad Asher - JR
Goalkeeper of the Year
Keller - Ryan Smith - SR
Defender of the Year
Keller - Ryan Epperson - SR
Coach of the Year
Keller - Jason Bates
1st Team Forward
Keller - Evan Perkins - SR
Central - Nathan Reyes - SR
1st Team Midfield
Keller - Grant Beck - SR
1st Team All-District Defender
Central - Chandler Elder - JR
2nd Team Forward
Ridge - Parker Banks - JR
Central - Justin Duprist - JR
Keller - Karson Lofink - JR
2nd Team Midfield
Ridge - Jordan Shea - SR
Central - Derek McCormick - SR
Keller - John Rock - SR
2nd Team All-District Defender
Keller - Eric Fiscus - SR
Central - Blake Howard - SR
Ridge - Beau Breckenridge - JR
2nd Team All-District Goalkeeper
Ridge - Ozzie Ruiz - JR
KISD SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEE CANDIDATES FORUM NIGHT
The Keller Council of PTAs is hosting a School Board Trustee Candidates Forum Night on Tuesday, April 28 from 7 - 8 p.m. in the Boardroom of the KISD Administration Building (350 Keller Pkwy).
All of the Board of Trustees Candidates will speak to the community, with a Question & Answer session to follow. The event will be moderated by the League of Women Voters of Tarrant County and is sponsored by the Keller Council of PTAs.
Early Voting will be held Monday, April 27 - Tuesday, May 5. Election Day is Saturday, May 9.
For more information, please contact Stephanie Bryce, Legislative Chairman/Keller Council of PTAs at 817-454-6423.
UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY FORUM
Any student interested in enrolling at a U.S. Service Academy sometime in the future is strongly encouraged to attend a forum taking place at the TCC Southeast campus on Saturday, April 4, from 8 a.m. -12 p.m.
The United States Military Academy at Westpoint, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Coast Guard Academy, The United States Merchant Marine Academy, and the United States Air Force Academy all have a complex process for application that goes well beyond the traditional college application process.
Come to learn what you need to know to navigate the process, how to improve your chances for admission, and the benefits of an unparalleled post-secondary education at this special event open to any high school student.
Members of Congress, academy liaison officers, and current cadets will all be on hand to assist Tarrant county families with creating a greater understanding of the process!
For more information http://www.kellerisd.net/kellerisd/
Thursday, April 2, 2009
RISMEDIA, April 2, 2009-While the new year is a time for many to start over, a report released yesterday on U.S. housing prices may encourage many to start house shopping. Prices of single-family homes in the U.S. dropped a drastic 19% for the year from January 2008 through January 2009, according to Standard & Poor’s S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, one of the leading measures of U.S. home prices.
According to the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, 13 out of the 20 metro areas across the U.S. saw record rates of annual decline, while 14 areas reported declines in excess of 10%, compared with the rates in January 2008. Following the lead of the 14 metro areas, the 10-City Composite and the 20-City Composite also set new records, with annual declines of 19.4% and 19.0% respectively.
“Home prices, which peaked in mid-2006, continued their decline in 2009,” says David M. Blitzer, chairman of the Index committee at Standard and Poor’s. “There are very few bright spots that one can see in the data. Most of the nation appears to remain on a downward path, with all of the 20 metro areas reporting annual declines, and nine of the MSA’s falling more than 20 percent in the last year. Indeed, the two composites are very close to that rate and have been reporting consecutive annual declines since October 2007. The monthly data follows a similar trend, with the 10-City and 20-City Composite showing thirty consecutive months of negative returns.”
As of January 2009, average home prices across the U.S. are at similar levels to what they were in late 2003. From the peak in the second quarter of 2006, the 10-City Composite is down 30.2% and the 20-City Composite is down 29.1%.
While all 20 metro areas reported negative monthly and annual rates of change in average home prices, seven metro areas and the 20-City Composite recorded a record monthly decline in January. Seven metro areas reported declines in excess of 4% in January, with Phoenix leading at -5.5%. On a somewhat positive note, Cleveland, Los Angeles and Las Vegas reported a relative improvement in home prices in year-over-year returns, in terms of lesser rates of decline than the previous month’s values.
In terms of annual declines, the three worst performing cities are Phoenix (down 35%), Las Vegas (down 32.5%) and San Francisco (down 32.4%), while Dallas, Denver and Cleveland had the best results in terms of annual decline: 4.9%, 5.1% and 5.2%, respectively.
Looking at the data from peak-thru-January 2009, Dallas is the least hurt (down 10.8%), while Phoenix is down 48.5% from its peak in June 2006. The rate of decline from the individual heights of each marketplace show how much each market has taken back in terms of the gains they earned within the past 10-15 years. All 20 metro areas are in double digit declines from their peaks, with nine of the MSA’s reporting declines greater than 30% and five of those (Las Vegas, Miami, Phoenix, San Francisco, San Diego) in excess of 40%.
For more information, visit http://rismedia.com/2009-04-01/a-new-year-a-new-statistic-home-prices-plunge-19/#
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
March 10, 2009
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Name of product: Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand refrigerators.
Hazard: An electrical failure in the relay, the component that turns on the refrigerator's compressor, can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard. Description: The recall includes certain Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley® brand side by side and top freezer refrigerators. The affected refrigerators were manufactured in black, bisque, white and stainless steel.
Sold at: Department and appliance stores and by homebuilders nationwide from January 2001 through January 2004.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MODELS AND SERIAL #'S - CLICK LINK BELOW
Maytag Recalls Refrigerators
provided by
Tammi Burgee * Senior Account Manager * 214 -732- 5999 * tammi.burgee@fnf.com www.homewarranty.com * 1-800-862-6837
Monday, February 23, 2009
Welcome to the February 20th edition of Keller Independent School District E-News.
District News
2009 NATIONAL MERIT® SCHOLARSHIP FINALISTS
The National Merit® Scholarship Program has determined that the following students have met all requirements to advance to Finalists standing in the 2009 Competition for National Merit® Scholarships. All finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships to be offered in 2009. The selection of some 8,200 Merit Scholarships® winners from the group of more than 15,000 Finalists is now in progress. In March, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation will begin mailing scholarship offers to winners. Major news media announcements of Merit Scholar® designees will be made by NMSC in April, May, and July.
Congratulations to these outstanding students:
Central High School:
Myung Hun Choi
Jason D. John
Harold Westin King
Fossil Ridge High School:
Pamela Dobberstein
Melissa Rondon
Keller High School:
Gaurav M. Chattree
Stephen A. Cline
Hannah J. Corning
Grace E. Goble
Soo Lee
Christopher W. Miller
2009 NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT® SCHOLARSHIP FINALIST
Central High School senior Joseph C. Washington has advanced to Finalist standings in the 2009 National Achievement® Scholarship Program by demonstrating through outstanding performance potential for future academic success. All finalists will be considered for National Achievement Scholarships to be offered to outstanding Black American students in 2009. The selection of some 800 Achievement Scholarship® winners from the Finalist group is now in progress. In late February, the National Achievement Program will begin mailing scholarship offers to winners. The names of the Achievement Scholar® designees will be sent to news media for announcement in early April.
KELLER ISD HOSTS UIL DISTRICT ELEMENTARY, INTERMEDIATE, AND MIDDLE SCHOOL CONTESTS
1,716 Keller ISD students participated over two weekends in district-wide UIL Academic Contests. All 21 elementary campuses competed, divided into three divisions by school size. Each intermediate and middle school competed in their school divisions. Students competed in math, science, writing, social studies, spelling, speaking, art, and music competitions. Students placing first through sixth place were awarded medals and accumulated sweepstakes points for their school.
The Keller ISD UIL Academic Sweepstakes Champion Schools in each division are:
Elementary Small School:
Eagle Ridge Elementary
Elementary Medium School:
Park Glen Elementary
Elementary Large School:
Bette Perot Elementary
Intermediate School:
Parkwood Hill Intermediate
Middle School:
Indian Springs Middle
Keller ISD high schools will compete in UIL District 5-5A competition on April 4.
KISD STUDENTS TAKE 1ST AND 2ND PLACE IN AREA SPELLING BEE
Bear Creek Intermediate 5th Grader Chase Sanford won the Area 13 Spelling Bee on Feb. 2nd. The bee brought together all campus winners from Keller ISD and Northwest ISD.
Chase spelled "bradycardia" and "cayenne" correctly in succession to win the beat and edge out fellow KISD speller Michael Lee of Parkwood Hill who was named runner-up. Michael was awarded a $250 savings bond, and Chase received a $500 savings bond for winning the bee. Savings bonds were provided by KISD parents, Samuel Carr and Richard Rambo.
Chase will represent KISD at the Fort Worth Regional Spelling Bee on March 24 at Will Rogers Coliseum. The winner of that bee will advance to the National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C.
Keller ISD
Friday, February 20, 2009
Open House - 8949 Glendara Court, North Richland Hils, Texas - Come and see this great house this weekend with me!

Open House: Satuday, Feb. 21st - 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Open House: Sunday, Feb. 22nd - 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Won't Last Long
Act quickly and check out this new 4-bedroom/3.5-bath 4143-SF home, gameroom and only a short drive to Southlake Town Square and Northeaast Mall. Offers a formal living room with hardwood floors, distinguished family room with gas fireplace. Guaranteed to average $199 or less per month to heat and cool this gorgeous home. BISD.
Don't have time to come this weekend, no problem call me and we can set up a personal showing!
Joana Sweney
817-501-7309
Open House - 8109 Belmont Court, North Richland Hills, Texas --- Come and join me

Open House: Satuday, Feb. 21st - 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Open House: Sunday, Feb. 22nd - 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Open House
Come Get The Keys!
Everything is new and ready at this traditional 4-bedroom/3.5-bath home, gameroom and only an easy drive to Northeast Mall and Southlake Town Square. Guaranteed to average less than $199 per month to heat and cool! BISD
Can't make the open house this weekend - no problem call me and I will set up a personal showing
Joana Sweney
817-501-7309
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Enhanced Tax Credit Provides Outstanding Opportunity for Home Buyers
In its efforts to stimulate the economy and revive the housing market, Congress has enacted legislation providing a tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers.
But time is of the essence for buyers who want to take advantage of this opportunity. Only homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009 are eligible. Use the links below to find out more about the tax credit.
$8,000 Home Buyer Tax Credit at a Glance
The tax credit is for first-time home buyers only.
The tax credit does not have to be repaid.
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
The credit is available for homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
Single taxpayers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000 qualify for the full tax credit.
http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/
For more information call Joana Sweney @ 817-501-7309
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Mortgages would be modified before they become delinquent
By Ronald D. Orol, MarketWatch
Last update: 5:48 p.m. EST Feb. 12, 2009Comments: 504WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- A program that would subsidize mortgage payments for troubled homeowners subject to an affordability test is being considered by the Obama administration, according to a media report.
This approach would be different from other assistance programs, according to Reuters news service, because borrowers would go through a standard eligibility test and could be approved before their mortgage becomes delinquent.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average recovered from a more than 250-point drop to end 6.77 points lower at 7,932.76, in part, on news of the possible program.
Most other mortgage-modification programs under consideration, such as legislation that would allow bankruptcy judges alter home loans, require a default to take place before modifications are made.
The program could employ Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in a supporting role, the report said.
Henry Sommer, a director at the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys in Philadelphia, said he believes that the approach makes sense for homeowners who receive a significant payment increase but aren't able to pay it.
"With such an approach, a borrower could work out a modification with their lender before they went delinquent," he commented.
Sommer also said he hoped the modifications are sustainable over the long term.
Geithner hasn't received details about his mortgage modification plan, which is part of a $350 billion bank-bailout program for mortgage modification.
Some regulatory observers have argued that mortgage modification may cause problems for Geithner to sell another aspect of his plan, which would use a public-private fund to buy illiquid mortgage securities. Investors may be less likely to buy mortgage securities if they are uncertain about whether mortgages can be modified.
However, Sommer contends that private investors should be supportive of modifications because it means the underlying mortgages they own are less likely to default. Without modifications, he said, housing prices will continue to drop.
"Other mortgages in their portfolio are likely to be helped by modification," according to Sommer.
Ronald D. Orol is a MarketWatch reporter, based in Washington.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/mortgage-alteration-plan-under-consideration-white/story.aspx?guid=38457737-2A06-4067-82A0-E7D24F9E70D4
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Closings due to weather conditions
http://media.myfoxdfw.com/closings/
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
January 27, 2009
Dear Keller ISD Parents and Patrons,
Due to worsening weather conditions, the New Direction High School Graduation for Tuesday, January 27, 2009 has been postponed and will take place Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 7 p.m. at the Education Center in the Rock Gym (350 Keller Parkway). If you need more information, please call 817-744-4465.
Thank you,
Keller ISD Department of Communications
email: e-news@kellerisd.net
phone: 817-744-1000
web: http://www.kellerisd.net
January 27, 2009
Dear Keller ISD Parents and Patrons,
Keller ISD schools will be in session at normal times today, January 27.
Thank you,
Keller ISD Department of Communications
email: e-news@kellerisd.net
phone: 817-744-1000
web: http://www.kellerisd.net
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Documenting the greatest building boom's inglorious finale.
Here ia a list of builders that have imploded!
Since late 2006
62 major builders have imploded*
(plus 48 additional tiny implosions) "Imploded*" Builders:62. Tarragon Corp
61. Hacienda Builders
60. Jim Walter Homes
59. Avenue Communities
58. Innovative Communities
57. Barratt American
56. MBD Inc.
55. Land Resource
54. Wensmann Homes
53. Village Homes of Colorado
52. Brown Family Communities
51. Concordia Homes
50. Pacific Lifestyle Homes
49. Pathway Developments
48. Renaissance Homes
47. The Macauley Companies
46. Oriole Homes
45. Woodside Homes
44. Pacific Century Homes
43. Royce Homes
42. Taro Properties
41. Pierce Homes
40. WCI Communities
39. Sullivan Homes
38. Davis Homes
37. Lafferty Homes
36. Robert Harris Homes
35. Caruso Homes
34. M.W. Johnson Construction Inc.
33. LandSource Communities Development
32. Legend Homes
31. Taylor-Morley Homes, Inc.
30. Obra Homes
29. EnCap Golf Holdings
28. Denmark Homes
27. Empire Land
26. Regency
25. Kimball Hill
24. Reynen & Bardis Communities Inc.
23. American Standard Building Systems
22. Kennedy Homes
21. Buescher Homes
20. Goff Homes
19. Trend Homes
18. Technical Olympic USA (TOUSA), Inc.
17. Colonnade Homes
16. Henson Homes
15. Dunmore Homes, Inc.
14. C.V. Perry
13. Levitt and Sons
12. Neumann Homes
11. Matthews Brothers Builders LLC
10. Elliot Building Group
9. Meyer-Sutton Homes, Inc.
8. Burcaw Development Group
7. Townsend Construction
6. Panitz Signature Homes
5. Construction Compliance Inc. (CCI)
4. Avalon Homes
3. Kara Homes, Inc.
2. Turner-Dunn
1. Jade Homes
"Tiny" Implosions:
48. Wall Homes
47. John Vratsinas Commercial Builders
46. Classic Stellar Homes
45. "Stratland" companies (James Bovino)
44. Ameri-Camp
43. Tripp Trademark
42. Namwest, LLC
41. Bridgeport Development
40. Legacy Homes
39. Classic Southern Homes
38. Homes by Ken Butera Inc.
37. Quantum Homes
36. Creative Customs LLC
35. Copacali Homes Inc.
34. Sheridan Homes
33. Charlevoix Homes LLC
32. Tailor Made Homes
31. STH 6,8,10,11,13 Inc.
30. SimDag-RoBEL LLC
29. Smith Family Homes
28. Bill Mace Home Builders
27. Whitney Lake LLC
26. Heritage Homes
25. T.F. Robertson Cos.
24. Sierra Pacific Homes LLC
23. Barclays North
22. Oakridge Homes LLC
21. Mayer-Luce Development
20. Sixells LLC
19. Adam Stearns Homes
18. Tony Marnella, Inc. et al
17. Nohl Crest Homes
16. Kurlemann Builders Inc.
15. Randall Martin Home
14. Ollanik Construction Co.
13. Corinthian Custom Homes, Inc.
12. Gateway Homes Inc.
11. Turner & Associates
10. First Dartmouth Homes
9. Nouveau Homes, Inc.
8. Ralph Angelucci Builder, Inc.
7. British American Homes
6. Prime Development Inc.
5. McDonald Homes
4. Ideal Homes
3. Evergreen Homes LLC
2. Calumet Homes
1. Americabuilt Communities, Inc.
http://builder-implode.com/
Saturday, January 17, 2009
DPA - Downpayment Assistance Program
Reformed DPA will help stimulate the housing market by providing working-class Americans with a path to homeownership and generate $150 billion in home sales this year. Purchasing a home now puts homebuyers in a position to build equity as markets recover.
CONGRESS INTRODUCES BILL THAT WOULD REINSTATE DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE: NEHEMIAH RESPONDS
- Bill Would Broaden Opportunities for Sustainable Homeownership Without Government or Taxpayer Dollars -
Sacramento, CA, January 16, 2009 -- The following statement was issued today by Scott Syphax, president and CEO of the Nehemiah Corporation of America in response to H.R. 600, a bill introduced in Congress that would reinstate seller-funded downpayment assistance (DPA). Prior to the October 1, 2008 ban on DPA, Nehemiah was the oldest and largest provider of downpayment assistance.
"There is an overlooked solution to today's housing crisis and fortunately several members of Congress recognize the role DPA plays in getting us there. We commend Congressman Al Green [and additional members of Congress] for working tirelessly to support a bill (H.R. 600) that creates opportunities for sustainable homeownership, which serves as the cornerstone to strengthening a crumbling housing market and breathing life back into the economy. With foreclosures on the rise and banks maintaining their stranglehold on credit, DPA offers a simple solution without spending a single government or taxpayer dime according to the Congressional Budget Office. Further, it enables worthy families to take advantage of depressed home prices, therefore reducing the glut of homes on the market. We urge Congress to reach across the aisle and prioritize broadening opportunities for responsible homeownership in America by reinstating DPA."
http://www.nehemiahcorp.org/
Copyright © 2008 Nehemiah Corporation of America. All Rights Reserved
Broker of Texas Sold Team Realty, Cindy Stewart, talks about DPS:
This program alone will really kick off the market!
By losing the DPA, it is likely to be one of the biggest reason that people are not buying. They don't have enough cash to make the down payment.
I would say that 99.9 percent of our clients that used this help are still in their homes.
1- Because they had a good job and credit, just not cash. If we lend smart we will keep our people in homes and buying homes.
2- This will help investors the most.
3- This will bring back the under 200K buyers by the droves.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Keller News
The Keller City Council on Tuesday:
Issued a notice of intent to issue $8.45 million in certificates of obligation, bonds that do not require a vote, to pay for previously committed projects including a fire station, drainage improvements, park land acquisition, and parking lot improvements for Johnson Park.
Updated an interlocal agreement with Tarrant County to begin the third phase of Rufe Snow Drive improvements, which are scheduled to begin construction this summer. The council approved a resolution expressing intent to reimburse cost for this project with future bond proceeds.
Approved a bid for traffic signals to be installed at the Keller-Smithfield Road intersection with Bear Creek Parkway East and emergency signals on Bear Creek Parkway at Fire Station No. 4.
from http://www.kellercitizen.com/
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Now, no matter where you live in the United States, owning your own home may be more affordable than you think!
If you are currently renting or wanting to move up, HomeSteps would like to help you on your way to homeownership.
We will pay up to 3.5%* of your purchase price in closing costs for all offers presented on HomeSteps homes between October 23, 2008 – January 31, 2009.
To qualify for this great money-saving offer, just ask your real estate agent to show you the available HomeSteps homes in your area and to include this closing cost offer at the time of your initial offer on a HomeSteps home.
If you want more information please give me a call at 817-501-7309.
This was provided by HomeSteps, a Freddie Mac Unit.HomeSteps® 2008 Ask An Agent Sales Promotion