The bad news is that homes sales decreased 12% in 2010 (compared to 2009).  But, there is some good news…the median sales price increased 1.2% to $163,900 in 2010.  That may seem like an insignificant increase to some however it’s a sign that home values are stabilizing and we’re on our way to recovery. 

Imagine living in Detroit where the average home value as of June 2010 was $67,090 with 16,925 foreclosures!!  All of a sudden, living in Central PA doesn’t seem so bad.

For more information regarding home sales in the Greater Harrisburg Area, please read the attached article.

Central_Penn_Business_Journal_January_13_2011

As always, if you want to know the current market value of your home or the market conditions at your price point, please contact me at (717)623-8508.

Over 2,200 square feet of living space in Camp Hill borough for under $185,000?  Yes, it’s true!

This home has it all…formal Living Room and Dining Room, eat-in Kitchen, 4 Bedrooms, 2 full Baths, partially finished walk-out lower level, 1-car garage and more!   Priced at $82 per square foot, this is the best value in the borough that’s not a short sale or foreclosure.

For more information or a private showing, please contact Michelle at (717)623-8508 or Michelle@HarrisburgHouses.net.

Without a doubt, buying a home can be a daunting and emotional process.  Afterall, it’s most likely the most expensive asset that  you’ll ever purchase.  How do you know which home is the “right one”?  Am I buying a money pit?  What can I do to protect myself from buying a lemon? 

The Buyer’s Agent you select plays a vital role in answering the above questions.  A true Buyer’s Agent is looking out to protect YOUR best interest (not their own interest or the seller’s interest).  I attached an informative handout that lists numerous issues that a Buyer should consider when selecting a home.  Some of these issues will be addressed in the Seller’s Disclosure, however the best protection you can have as a Buyer is to get a home inspection.  A home inspection provides the Buyer more detailed information about the overall condition of the home prior to purchase.  In a home inspection, a qualified inspector takes an in-depth, unbiased look at your potential new home. 

It’s YOUR responisbility to be an informed Buyer.  There’s so much information available that you need to use it to your advantage.  If you are looking for a strong Buyer’s Agent to be YOUR advocate, please contact me at (717)623-8508. 

What to Consider When Purchasing a Home

I’ve successfully completed the first major step towards receiving my Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) designation.  What does this mean?  I’ll compare it to a college graduate with a general business degree who then goes to graduate school to receive their Masters of Business Administration (MBA).  Only 4% of Realtors have this designation and I’ll soon join the ranks of this elite group.

If you are looking to buy or build a home, do yourself a favor and hire a Buyer’s Agent who is working for YOU and only YOU (not the Seller or their own self interest).  Everyone’s needs and situation is unique so feel free to contact me to discuss your goals.  I’m available to meet so we can discuss the process, the current real estate market, and to answer any questions you may have.

Picking the “right” Realtor is just as important as selecting the “right” surgeon or attorney.  Your home is most likely your single most expensive asset, right?

Only $79,900…this semi-detached home offers over 1,000 square feet of living space with 3 spacious Bedrooms and 1 full Bath.  Formal Living Room and Dining Room are graced with hardwood floors and provide generous space for entertaining.  The eat-in Kitchen with pantry offers access to fenced rear yard.  Walk-up attic provides additional unfinished living space.  Full basement, off-street parking, newer windows and roof are just some of the highlights of this wonderful home. 

For more information or to schedule a private showing, please contact me at Michelle@HarrisburgHouses.net or 623-8508.

Interest on a 30-year fixed loan reached a new low of 4.49%, compared to 4.54 % last week.  One year ago rates were hovering around 5.22%.  

If you’re looking for a 15-year fixed loan, the current interest rate is 3.95%, down from 4% last week and 4.63% one year ago. 

If you’re interested in buying a property, please contact me today so you can get pre-approved and under contract while the rates are historically low.

Military who served overseas between January 2009 and May 2010 are still eligible for the tax credit.  Service members have until April 30, 2011 to sign an Agreement of Sale and must close by June 30, 2011.  Both the $8,000 first time hombuyer and $6,500 repeat buyer tax credits apply.  

Please contact me for more information at Michelle@HarrisburgHouses.net.

Exceptional at $189,900!

Adorable Colonial Cape Cod in Northern School District with over 1,650 square feet of living space, and two detached garages.  If you’re looking for “room” in a quiet country setting, this is the property for you!   Highlights include:

- Spacious eat-in Kitchen with beautiful millwork and generous countertop space.

- Formal Living Room with stone wood fireplace.

- Formal Dining Room centrally located from Kitchen, Living Room and First Floor Master.

- 3 Bedrooms (First Floor Master)

- First Floor Master would also make a great home office or den.

- 1.5 Baths

- Full basement with laundry

- One single bay garage with additional storage

- One 2-car garage with additional storage

- 2 Bedroom mobile home resides in back of lot (rental opportunity?)

- New roof over main house in 2009

The possibilities are endless with this property.  Schedule a showing today or give me a call for more information.

If you’re looking for privacy and acreage but want to be close to shopping and restaurants, this is the property for you!  Come see this private oasis with a stream, mature landscaping and trees, horseshoe pits and a new (2007) 27′ round above ground pool with deck surround. 

There’s plenty of room to spread out in the 2,100+ home with 3 Bedrooms, 3 full Baths, formal Living Room and Dining Room, spacious lower level Family Room with fireplace (propane).  The generous Country Kitchen can accommodate large gatherings and offers all modern amenities for the family chef.   Between the Garage and Family Room, you’ll find a space that offers endless possibilities, such as:  home office, playroom, hobby room, etc. 

Storage is abundant throughout the home and in the oversized 2-car Garage.  The outside shed (14′ x 16′) can easily store all your outdoor equipment. 

For more information or to schedule a private showing,  please contact me at 717-623-8508. 

If you’re looking to buy a home but need up to 100% financing, I can help!   This program is geared toward, but not limited to, first time home buyers. 

There are specific requirements that the property and borrower must meet.  Some include:

- Property must be located in a rural area.

- Property must be HUD approved (meaning, a HUD appraisal will be required)

- Income limits apply.

For more information, please give me a call at 717-623-8508.  I can assist you in securing a FREE pre-approval to see if you qualify for this program.