There is a bunch of information on the Internet about how you can log onto a company web site to learn the current value of your home. For the most part I find this to be misleading for home owners. Online automated valuations are not appraisals and the legality of these models is being debated as I write. This is NOT a valuation, it is a automated guess at best.
Realistic valuations are typically secured one of three ways. The best way is by hiring an independent licensed appraiser to do a full appraisal overview; its a process not a guess. There is a fee but well worth it in the end.
Another way to find a fairly accurate value for your home is to have your real estate agent do a comparative market analysis (CMA) which is typically free.
Finally, look at your most recent tax statement which will provide the estimated fair market value of your property. If your property has been recently assessed that "estimated fair market value" is normally pretty accurate unless your tax assessor is especially conservative.
Work with professionals if you want accurate and truthful results!
We received a little snow last night; the ski trails are excellent and the snowmobile trails in the woods are good. Have a great weekend!
Life Is Good...Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Dev. & Realty
15617 Railroad Street
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
nathan@garynathan.com
http://www.garynathan.com/
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Planning On Building an Ark?
Noah in 2007
In the year 2007, the Lord came unto Noah, who was now living in the United States, and said, "Once again, the earth has become wicked and over-populated, and I see the end of all flesh before me. Build another Ark and save 2 of every living thing along with a few good humans." He gave Noah the blueprints, saying, "You have 6 months to build the Ark before I will start the unending rain for 40 days and 40 nights."
Six months later, the Lord looked down and saw Noah weeping in his yard - but no Ark. "Noah!" He roared, "I'm about to start the rain! Where is the Ark?" "Forgive me, Lord," begged Noah, "but things have changed. I needed a building permit. I've been arguing with the inspector about the need for a sprinkler system. My neighbors claim that I've violated the neighborhood zoning laws by building the Ark in my yard and exceeding the height limitations. We had to go to the Development Appeal Board for a decision.
Then the Department of Transportation demanded a bond be posted for the future costs of moving power lines and other overhead obstructions, to clear the passage for the Ark's move to the sea. I told them that the sea would be coming to us, but they would hear nothing of it.
Getting the wood was another problem. There's a ban on cutting local trees in order to save the spotted owl. I tried to convince the environmentalists that I needed the wood to save the owls - but no go! When I started gathering the animals, an animal rights group sued me. They insisted that I was confining wild animals against their will. They argued the accommodation was too restrictive, and it was cruel and inhumane to put so many animals in a confined space.
Then the EPA ruled that I couldn't build the Ark until they'd conducted an environmental impact study on your proposed flood.
I'm still trying to resolve a complaint with the Human Rights Commission on how many minorities I'm supposed to hire for my building crew. Immigration and Naturalization are checking the green-card status of most of the people who want to work. The trades unions say I can't use my sons. They insist I have to hire only Union workers with Ark-building experience
To make matters worse, the IRS seized all my assets, claiming I'm trying to leave the country illegally with endangered species.
So, forgive me, Lord, but it would take at least 10 years for me to finish this Ark."
Suddenly the skies cleared, the sun began to shine, and a rainbow stretched across the sky. Noah looked up in wonder and asked, "You mean you're not going to destroy the world?"
"No," said the Lord. "The government beat me to it! "
There you have it! Have a wonderful week.......Life Is Good....Enjoy!
This was given to me by Chris McGrath, a broker associate in our office...thanks Chris!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Dev. & Realty
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
nathan@garynathan.com
http://www.garynathan.com/
In the year 2007, the Lord came unto Noah, who was now living in the United States, and said, "Once again, the earth has become wicked and over-populated, and I see the end of all flesh before me. Build another Ark and save 2 of every living thing along with a few good humans." He gave Noah the blueprints, saying, "You have 6 months to build the Ark before I will start the unending rain for 40 days and 40 nights."
Six months later, the Lord looked down and saw Noah weeping in his yard - but no Ark. "Noah!" He roared, "I'm about to start the rain! Where is the Ark?" "Forgive me, Lord," begged Noah, "but things have changed. I needed a building permit. I've been arguing with the inspector about the need for a sprinkler system. My neighbors claim that I've violated the neighborhood zoning laws by building the Ark in my yard and exceeding the height limitations. We had to go to the Development Appeal Board for a decision.
Then the Department of Transportation demanded a bond be posted for the future costs of moving power lines and other overhead obstructions, to clear the passage for the Ark's move to the sea. I told them that the sea would be coming to us, but they would hear nothing of it.
Getting the wood was another problem. There's a ban on cutting local trees in order to save the spotted owl. I tried to convince the environmentalists that I needed the wood to save the owls - but no go! When I started gathering the animals, an animal rights group sued me. They insisted that I was confining wild animals against their will. They argued the accommodation was too restrictive, and it was cruel and inhumane to put so many animals in a confined space.
Then the EPA ruled that I couldn't build the Ark until they'd conducted an environmental impact study on your proposed flood.
I'm still trying to resolve a complaint with the Human Rights Commission on how many minorities I'm supposed to hire for my building crew. Immigration and Naturalization are checking the green-card status of most of the people who want to work. The trades unions say I can't use my sons. They insist I have to hire only Union workers with Ark-building experience
To make matters worse, the IRS seized all my assets, claiming I'm trying to leave the country illegally with endangered species.
So, forgive me, Lord, but it would take at least 10 years for me to finish this Ark."
Suddenly the skies cleared, the sun began to shine, and a rainbow stretched across the sky. Noah looked up in wonder and asked, "You mean you're not going to destroy the world?"
"No," said the Lord. "The government beat me to it! "
There you have it! Have a wonderful week.......Life Is Good....Enjoy!
This was given to me by Chris McGrath, a broker associate in our office...thanks Chris!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Dev. & Realty
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
nathan@garynathan.com
http://www.garynathan.com/
Thursday, January 03, 2008
How’s Your Credit Score?
Credit reports have been known for containing erroneous information, due to incorrect reporting by creditors or fraud. Before you decide to buy your next home or other real estate consider ordering your free report at www.annualcreditreport.com. As soon as you get your credit report read it carefully to see if there are any errors.
You can aggressively dispute any fraudulent entries with the creditors and the credit bureaus in order to dramatically improve your FICO score. FICO is an acronym for the creators of the FICO score, Fair Isaac Credit Organization; a standard credit score which makes up a substantial portion of a credit report that credit bureaus sell to lenders so they can asses an applicant's credit risk and whether to extend them credit. In fact, there is a bunch of helpful hints online at the annual credit report site. Your goal is to make sure that your personal stats are accurate.
Shoot for a credit score of not less than 700; credit scores under 580 will usually qualify only for sub prime loans. Before you get in the mood to buy make sure you don’t have any credit lines that are over the credit limit; if so immediately pay them down below the limit. If your credit limits are fairly low and you have some surplus cash, consider paying as many bills as possible down to 30 percent or less of their limits. You will also want to have at least three month’s worth of mortgage payments available.
If you are planning on receiving some money from your rich parents, or other wealthy relatives, be sure and get the money in the bank at least two months prior to submission of your loan application.
Finally, whether you live here or away work with one of our local trustworthy loan professionals; they will help you through the myriad of mortgage programs and find the one that is most compatible for you.
Once again I want to remind you that the snow is great for all sorts of outdoor activities. Have a great week…..Life Is Good…Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Developments & Realty
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
www.garynathan.com
www.haywardwaterfront.com
You can aggressively dispute any fraudulent entries with the creditors and the credit bureaus in order to dramatically improve your FICO score. FICO is an acronym for the creators of the FICO score, Fair Isaac Credit Organization; a standard credit score which makes up a substantial portion of a credit report that credit bureaus sell to lenders so they can asses an applicant's credit risk and whether to extend them credit. In fact, there is a bunch of helpful hints online at the annual credit report site. Your goal is to make sure that your personal stats are accurate.
Shoot for a credit score of not less than 700; credit scores under 580 will usually qualify only for sub prime loans. Before you get in the mood to buy make sure you don’t have any credit lines that are over the credit limit; if so immediately pay them down below the limit. If your credit limits are fairly low and you have some surplus cash, consider paying as many bills as possible down to 30 percent or less of their limits. You will also want to have at least three month’s worth of mortgage payments available.
If you are planning on receiving some money from your rich parents, or other wealthy relatives, be sure and get the money in the bank at least two months prior to submission of your loan application.
Finally, whether you live here or away work with one of our local trustworthy loan professionals; they will help you through the myriad of mortgage programs and find the one that is most compatible for you.
Once again I want to remind you that the snow is great for all sorts of outdoor activities. Have a great week…..Life Is Good…Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Developments & Realty
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
www.garynathan.com
www.haywardwaterfront.com
Thursday, December 27, 2007
2008 - What Can We Expect?
Is there any light at the end of the tunnel for the overall U.S. housing market? Even though we have not experienced as big a hit locally, the housing problems in parts of the U.S. affects us all.
Most forecasters agree that both existing and new home sales and prices will bottom out in the second or third quarter; that because of a relatively healthy underlying U.S. economy. The National Association of Realtors recently reported that existing home sales and prices would stabilize in the second quarter and rise throughout the second half of the year.
According to the NAR's chief economist the slowdown has never been about the fundamentals of the economy. Consumers have the means to buy but they lack the confidence; once they see sales and prices leveling out they will feel better about getting back into the market. The number of financing options helps and tighter underwriting is exactly what we need in order to restore public confidence.
Commercial real estate continues solid throughout most of the U.S. as has been the case locally. Yes, there are some empty buildings but new building continues and there is interest on the part of investors. Just like home buyers I find that commercial investors and end-users are equally cautious and willing to sit on the sideline until they get the best deal possible. The economy is still growing, businesses are still investing and consumers continue to spend - all positive for commercial property owners. I find that most commercial investors look for cash flow rather than appreciation and who can blame them?
Multifamily would seem to be a good sector in which to be invested; one in which you would benefit from the housing slump because buyers delay in taking the leap into ownership. The problem is that more home sellers are turning to renting when they can't sell so that affects apartment and multi-family unit rentals adversely. Be careful about jumping into the rental game; do your homework.
Overall I think 2008 will be a solid year; robust or spectacular no, but sufficiently positive.
We had a bunch of snow this week so all the trails are greaaaaaat! Go to the link below for trail reports and come on up and have some fun; do drive carefully....and have a very Happy New Year!!!!!
http://www.haywardareachamber.com/snowreports.html
Life Is Good...Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Developments & Realty
15617 Railroad Street
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
nathan@cheqnet.net
http://www.woodlanddevrealty.com/
http://www.haywardwaterfront.com/
Most forecasters agree that both existing and new home sales and prices will bottom out in the second or third quarter; that because of a relatively healthy underlying U.S. economy. The National Association of Realtors recently reported that existing home sales and prices would stabilize in the second quarter and rise throughout the second half of the year.
According to the NAR's chief economist the slowdown has never been about the fundamentals of the economy. Consumers have the means to buy but they lack the confidence; once they see sales and prices leveling out they will feel better about getting back into the market. The number of financing options helps and tighter underwriting is exactly what we need in order to restore public confidence.
Commercial real estate continues solid throughout most of the U.S. as has been the case locally. Yes, there are some empty buildings but new building continues and there is interest on the part of investors. Just like home buyers I find that commercial investors and end-users are equally cautious and willing to sit on the sideline until they get the best deal possible. The economy is still growing, businesses are still investing and consumers continue to spend - all positive for commercial property owners. I find that most commercial investors look for cash flow rather than appreciation and who can blame them?
Multifamily would seem to be a good sector in which to be invested; one in which you would benefit from the housing slump because buyers delay in taking the leap into ownership. The problem is that more home sellers are turning to renting when they can't sell so that affects apartment and multi-family unit rentals adversely. Be careful about jumping into the rental game; do your homework.
Overall I think 2008 will be a solid year; robust or spectacular no, but sufficiently positive.
We had a bunch of snow this week so all the trails are greaaaaaat! Go to the link below for trail reports and come on up and have some fun; do drive carefully....and have a very Happy New Year!!!!!
http://www.haywardareachamber.com/snowreports.html
Life Is Good...Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Developments & Realty
15617 Railroad Street
Hayward, WI 54843
715-699-4040
nathan@cheqnet.net
http://www.woodlanddevrealty.com/
http://www.haywardwaterfront.com/
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Tis The Season!
This is the time of year most of us get in the mood to purchase gifts for others. And make no mistake about it, women lead men in almost every category when it comes to buying.; they control 80% of household spending. Women buy more tech, online travel, food, books, clothing, mobile phone games, home furnishings, web products....well they lead in just about every category imaginable.
And why not, they feel more pain, are more romantic, better organized, live longer, read more, talk.....OK we won't go there. Anyway most of us men like the fact that women take charge when it comes to shopping whether it's for Christmas or for any other occasion.
In my line of work women are definitely in control of the purchasing decision when it comes to homes...now I didn't say every time but certainly the majority of the time. A guy looks at a property and if the garage is big enough and he can hang a 72" plasma screen somewhere in the house he will probably buy!
Women on the other hand are looking for top-of the line kitchen finishes and appliances, dual mater suites, spacious closets, classic architecture and high-end finishes. They want that open room concept design that will promote family connection and a "tech center" that is easily accessible....like a nook in the kitchen area. Maintenance free, secure, efficient, customized for multi-use design and places in the home they can call their own. Women like to be able to see and touch; it has to feel right emotionally and yet be functional.
But for you men who are reading this; Christmas gifts should not be confused with home buying. Do Not, I repeat, Do Not buy a functional gift for her this Christmas....keep it on the emotional side and you will be just fine.
Have a blessed Christmas and drive safe....Life Is Good....Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Developments & Realty
Hayward, WI
866-634-2884
nathan@cheqnet.net
http://www.woodlanddevrealty.com/
http://www.haywardwaterfront.com/
And why not, they feel more pain, are more romantic, better organized, live longer, read more, talk.....OK we won't go there. Anyway most of us men like the fact that women take charge when it comes to shopping whether it's for Christmas or for any other occasion.
In my line of work women are definitely in control of the purchasing decision when it comes to homes...now I didn't say every time but certainly the majority of the time. A guy looks at a property and if the garage is big enough and he can hang a 72" plasma screen somewhere in the house he will probably buy!
Women on the other hand are looking for top-of the line kitchen finishes and appliances, dual mater suites, spacious closets, classic architecture and high-end finishes. They want that open room concept design that will promote family connection and a "tech center" that is easily accessible....like a nook in the kitchen area. Maintenance free, secure, efficient, customized for multi-use design and places in the home they can call their own. Women like to be able to see and touch; it has to feel right emotionally and yet be functional.
But for you men who are reading this; Christmas gifts should not be confused with home buying. Do Not, I repeat, Do Not buy a functional gift for her this Christmas....keep it on the emotional side and you will be just fine.
Have a blessed Christmas and drive safe....Life Is Good....Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
Woodland Developments & Realty
Hayward, WI
866-634-2884
nathan@cheqnet.net
http://www.woodlanddevrealty.com/
http://www.haywardwaterfront.com/
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Home Gift Ideas That Are High Tech
Need some gift ideas that will bring your home into the twenty-first century? Here are a few of the latest gadgets that are guaranteed to thrill the receiver. These products will improve safety, energy efficiency, and overall quality of life, and are just plain fun.
A Watchdog Robot for $300 called "Spygee"; it's 18" tall and battery-operated. Keeps an eye on the home while you are away. From a web site you can direct the robot's movements and see what is going on in your home through it's digital eyes. It will snap still photos and records videos with sound which you can view and hear online. It sounds an alarm if anything comes into its line of sight and emails you a photo. You might be surprised to find out what goes on when you are away! Meccano at 800-77-NIKKO.
For about $200 you can put in an alarm sensor that will call you and tell you that your garage door is open, the pipes are nearly frozen, your power has been off for over an hour or if there is some unusual movement in your home plus a "bunch" more. It will text message or email you as well. Go to alarm.com
For under $700 there is a SmartSense Ventilation System that can be installed in your HVAC that will improve indoor air quality by automatically turning a network of fans on to boost fresh air. It removes pollutants and minimizes mold and mildew growth. Go to Broan-NuTone.
One of my favorites - Help in the Kitchen! No need to wait at the grill or oven to see if dinner is ready. A two-part thermometer beeps or speaks when your food is ready or almost ready. One part goes into the food and the other wireless part stays with you...it works up to 330 feet away. The Grill Right Wireless Talking BBQ/Oven Thermometer is just $60 from Oregon Scientific at 800-853-8883. OK for those who really know me this is a great gift for Shari since I don't really cook much.....still one of my favorites!
For a couple of great ideas check out the Weather-Sensitive Sprinkler System from Cyber-Rain or the Aura Wireless Lighting Controls from Lutron Electonics Co. And finally for you serious wine lovers...go to CellarTracker (314-667-5328) for the ultimate in Ultra-Organized Wine Cellars.
We have enjoyed winter-wonderland weather this past week; may you enjoy your weekend with loved ones and friends!
Life Is Good....Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
866-634-2884
nathan@cheqnet.net
www.woodlanddevrealty.com
www.haywardwaterfront.com
A Watchdog Robot for $300 called "Spygee"; it's 18" tall and battery-operated. Keeps an eye on the home while you are away. From a web site you can direct the robot's movements and see what is going on in your home through it's digital eyes. It will snap still photos and records videos with sound which you can view and hear online. It sounds an alarm if anything comes into its line of sight and emails you a photo. You might be surprised to find out what goes on when you are away! Meccano at 800-77-NIKKO.
For about $200 you can put in an alarm sensor that will call you and tell you that your garage door is open, the pipes are nearly frozen, your power has been off for over an hour or if there is some unusual movement in your home plus a "bunch" more. It will text message or email you as well. Go to alarm.com
For under $700 there is a SmartSense Ventilation System that can be installed in your HVAC that will improve indoor air quality by automatically turning a network of fans on to boost fresh air. It removes pollutants and minimizes mold and mildew growth. Go to Broan-NuTone.
One of my favorites - Help in the Kitchen! No need to wait at the grill or oven to see if dinner is ready. A two-part thermometer beeps or speaks when your food is ready or almost ready. One part goes into the food and the other wireless part stays with you...it works up to 330 feet away. The Grill Right Wireless Talking BBQ/Oven Thermometer is just $60 from Oregon Scientific at 800-853-8883. OK for those who really know me this is a great gift for Shari since I don't really cook much.....still one of my favorites!
For a couple of great ideas check out the Weather-Sensitive Sprinkler System from Cyber-Rain or the Aura Wireless Lighting Controls from Lutron Electonics Co. And finally for you serious wine lovers...go to CellarTracker (314-667-5328) for the ultimate in Ultra-Organized Wine Cellars.
We have enjoyed winter-wonderland weather this past week; may you enjoy your weekend with loved ones and friends!
Life Is Good....Enjoy!
Gary Nathan and
Amanda Mavis
866-634-2884
nathan@cheqnet.net
www.woodlanddevrealty.com
www.haywardwaterfront.com
Friday, December 07, 2007
THANKS FOR THE EXPERIENCE!
One of the true joys of working in real estate is the opportunity to meet people and to help sellers and buyers reach their desired goal. The end result is always great but the journey is equally rewarding. Well, two of my friends from Hayward went the extra mile and provided me with a wonderful gift after a successful close on a real estate transaction. It has taken awhile for me to take advantage of this marvelous gift but yesterday Shari and I spent the night at the Rittenhouse Inn, a
B & B in Bayfield; many of you are probably familiar with it. No, we did not get to see innkeepers, Jerry and Mary Phillips, but we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the 117 year-old mansion and were treated to a sumptuous dinner and a relaxing evening by the fireplace in our room.
This escape for a day was a lifetime experience and a real value. For those of us who are fortunate enough to live full or part time in this great north woods we need to count our blessings. Real estate here is a real good value and can provide that great escape experience. Thanks H & D!
The fresh snow is refreshing and my friends tell me skiing is wonderful. Have a great weekend!
Life is Good….Enjoy!
Gary Nathan
B & B in Bayfield; many of you are probably familiar with it. No, we did not get to see innkeepers, Jerry and Mary Phillips, but we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the 117 year-old mansion and were treated to a sumptuous dinner and a relaxing evening by the fireplace in our room.
This escape for a day was a lifetime experience and a real value. For those of us who are fortunate enough to live full or part time in this great north woods we need to count our blessings. Real estate here is a real good value and can provide that great escape experience. Thanks H & D!
The fresh snow is refreshing and my friends tell me skiing is wonderful. Have a great weekend!
Life is Good….Enjoy!
Gary Nathan
Friday, November 30, 2007
Show Me
SHOW ME
If you have been in the habit of reading my blog you know that I am a pretty optimistic person when it comes to real estate…. and life in general. Some folks get a little annoyed because they don’t see the glass half full, half empty or may not think there is any water in the glass at all. So if you are one of those that say “show me” or “give me some proof” that there is anything to be positive about please read on.
Wisconsin home sales have outperformed most states through the last three quarters; our local markets, as I have said in the past, are less volatile than markets elsewhere in the country. We don’t get the big upswings nor do we suffer the big falls. Other regions of the country had declines in the median price of homes while Wisconsin homes actually increased about 2.4%. Since sales peaked in 2005 statewide median prices have continued to rise, an increase of about 7.5% since the first quarter of 2006 according to the Wisconsin Realtors Assn.
Sawyer County home sales for Quarter 3 of 2007 tallied 101 which is sixteen more than the same quarter last year; the median sales price rose from $165,000 to $180,000 in the same period. It’s also important to point out that median prices have grown 32.2% since we came out of the last recession in late 2001. Housing and real estate in general continues to be a solid investment. Keep the faith!
Yahoo…We are expecting 8 to 16 inches of snow over the weekend so strap on your snowshoes, oil and gas up the blower and snowmobile and get ready to RUMBLE. Have a great weekend everyone………….Life is Good, Enjoy!
Gary A. Nathan
Amanda Mavis, personal assistant
If you have been in the habit of reading my blog you know that I am a pretty optimistic person when it comes to real estate…. and life in general. Some folks get a little annoyed because they don’t see the glass half full, half empty or may not think there is any water in the glass at all. So if you are one of those that say “show me” or “give me some proof” that there is anything to be positive about please read on.
Wisconsin home sales have outperformed most states through the last three quarters; our local markets, as I have said in the past, are less volatile than markets elsewhere in the country. We don’t get the big upswings nor do we suffer the big falls. Other regions of the country had declines in the median price of homes while Wisconsin homes actually increased about 2.4%. Since sales peaked in 2005 statewide median prices have continued to rise, an increase of about 7.5% since the first quarter of 2006 according to the Wisconsin Realtors Assn.
Sawyer County home sales for Quarter 3 of 2007 tallied 101 which is sixteen more than the same quarter last year; the median sales price rose from $165,000 to $180,000 in the same period. It’s also important to point out that median prices have grown 32.2% since we came out of the last recession in late 2001. Housing and real estate in general continues to be a solid investment. Keep the faith!
Yahoo…We are expecting 8 to 16 inches of snow over the weekend so strap on your snowshoes, oil and gas up the blower and snowmobile and get ready to RUMBLE. Have a great weekend everyone………….Life is Good, Enjoy!
Gary A. Nathan
Amanda Mavis, personal assistant
Monday, November 19, 2007
Dire Predictions!
The media is really good at grabbing us with dire negative predictions whether it is in real estate, oil prices, stock market moves, the weather or what have you. Locally we are not immune to the trouble that faces others in the real estate market, or anything else for that matter, but we need to consider the following.
First and foremost who said life should always be easy and a big picnic….ok I just had to get the philosophical stuff out first. In the nearly 30 years that I have lived in this area the majority of the time, year in and year out, real estate sales have boomed, there has been steadily rising price appreciation on property, or at least value has held, and there has always been strong demand for our up-north escape lifestyle.
Not only do we have a great supply of real estate to choose from but we have more financial products available at our disposal today than we have had in history. So you might be saying that is why we have sub-prime mortgage problems, truth is approximately 1% of borrowers are affected by the sub-prime situation. Call any local lender and ask them if they are bullish on our local real estate market; tell them I put you up to it! Don’t expect any “dire predictions”.
Yuk, Mother Nature teased us with a little snow last week and yet I know we need it for winter tourism. Make it a great week; for the fun of it since I am going away over Thanksgiving why don’t you call Amanda and give her some good advice on how I might improve my BLOG. Be gentle! Happy Thanksgiving to everyone………
Life is Good….Enjoy!
Gary A. Nathan and Amanda Mavis
First and foremost who said life should always be easy and a big picnic….ok I just had to get the philosophical stuff out first. In the nearly 30 years that I have lived in this area the majority of the time, year in and year out, real estate sales have boomed, there has been steadily rising price appreciation on property, or at least value has held, and there has always been strong demand for our up-north escape lifestyle.
Not only do we have a great supply of real estate to choose from but we have more financial products available at our disposal today than we have had in history. So you might be saying that is why we have sub-prime mortgage problems, truth is approximately 1% of borrowers are affected by the sub-prime situation. Call any local lender and ask them if they are bullish on our local real estate market; tell them I put you up to it! Don’t expect any “dire predictions”.
Yuk, Mother Nature teased us with a little snow last week and yet I know we need it for winter tourism. Make it a great week; for the fun of it since I am going away over Thanksgiving why don’t you call Amanda and give her some good advice on how I might improve my BLOG. Be gentle! Happy Thanksgiving to everyone………
Life is Good….Enjoy!
Gary A. Nathan and Amanda Mavis
Thursday, November 08, 2007
CHRISTMAS ISN'T THAT CLOSE!!!!
CHRISTMAS ISN'T THAT CLOSE!!!!
Go Green??
My daughter came home from college and was telling how all the stores had Christmas decorations up the day after Halloween; I don’t mean to one-up her but I noticed the holiday shopping season in many stores got under way before the pumpkins were ready to pick. By the way, why was she in the stores and not in class???
Americans will spend about $4-5 billion this year; wow that is a lot of lead painted, or should I say tainted, toys. How about some Eco-friendly ideas? There are some local stores as well as some “green” web sites that you can consider this year. Try www.newdream.org/holiday/ which is a group that helps consumers choose “responsible” giving instead of just loading up on stuff. There are some pretty creative and inspirational gift ideas and a holiday help book.
I pick on tree huggers sometimes but there is a neat site at http://www.treehugger.com/ that you can find anything from shoes to compost toilets to lighting to creating renewable energy and pretty good discussions on food…my favorite sport.
If you need a dose of social justice, and we can all use some, try http://www.coopamerica.org/.
No happy holidays from me yet…..but do have a good time shopping!
Come up and see us but drive with caution; our own national holiday season, “The Great Deer Hunt”, has begun.
Life is Good, Enjoy!
Gary A. Nathan and Amanda Mavis
Go Green??
My daughter came home from college and was telling how all the stores had Christmas decorations up the day after Halloween; I don’t mean to one-up her but I noticed the holiday shopping season in many stores got under way before the pumpkins were ready to pick. By the way, why was she in the stores and not in class???
Americans will spend about $4-5 billion this year; wow that is a lot of lead painted, or should I say tainted, toys. How about some Eco-friendly ideas? There are some local stores as well as some “green” web sites that you can consider this year. Try www.newdream.org/holiday/ which is a group that helps consumers choose “responsible” giving instead of just loading up on stuff. There are some pretty creative and inspirational gift ideas and a holiday help book.
I pick on tree huggers sometimes but there is a neat site at http://www.treehugger.com/ that you can find anything from shoes to compost toilets to lighting to creating renewable energy and pretty good discussions on food…my favorite sport.
If you need a dose of social justice, and we can all use some, try http://www.coopamerica.org/.
No happy holidays from me yet…..but do have a good time shopping!
Come up and see us but drive with caution; our own national holiday season, “The Great Deer Hunt”, has begun.
Life is Good, Enjoy!
Gary A. Nathan and Amanda Mavis
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