Interest Rates Drop Again!

Ok, home loan interest rates have dropped again to like 4.19% (I saw that posted in a recent Virginian-Pilot article)so why aren't homebuyers snapping up homes? In my opinion, they are not confident in the economy, their current jobs or that the real estate market is done falling in value. If I didn't already own a home and rental property I would be seriouslsy considering getting in on a 4% mortgage myself! It's a scary thought to get into a 30 year mortgage, I know. The sad part about it is, anyone who rents is already paying a mortgage, just somebody elses. Why not pay your own? Even if you only stay in that home for say 10 of those 30 years, at the end of the 10 years you have "something tangible" to sell. Unlike a renter who has nothing but a shoebox full of reciepts. For all those years you got to live like you wanted in your own space with your own rules, no landlords. If the property has not increased in value well, then you still did better than if you had rented for 10 years! Bonus: It might be possible to "sell" your mortgage interest rate as part of the sale, do you think that a 4% interest rate will be valuable to buyers 10 years from now? Or maybe you would like to let someone else pay your mortgage ... rent out that home! Home ownership offers so many benefits and solutions, if you need assitance with any matter of real estate, please contact me.

Virginia Tax FREE Holiday

Virginia will be having another "tax holiday", October 8-11, this time on "Energy Star and Water Sense" labeled products. What does that mean? If you have been thinking about or putting off replacing or upgrading these items in your home, why not do it while there is no tax! Following is a general list, please see the website for more details and terms: Air conditioners, ceiling fans, compact flourescent light bulbs, dehumidifiers, dishwashers, programmable thermostats, refrigerators, washing machines/clothes washers, bathroom sink faucets, faucet accessories, showerheads, toilets and urinals. Of course these items must have the "EnergyStar or WaterSense" labels, be less than $2,500 and be for personal or noncommercial use. Hey, if you were going to have to replace it anyway, consider the "EnergyStar or WaterSense" replacement during this tax free holiday weekend. Save yourself some money and do some good for the environment. Saving our resources is good for the future. Besides, then you will have a clear conscience to reprimand anyone who doesn't! www.tax.virginia.gov