Work and Family
Full List: America's Top 50 U.S. Cities For Working Mothers
Meghan Casserly, 07.26.10, 09:00 AM EDT
A look at how the 50 largest cities rank for working moms, based on women's earnings, unemployment rates, crime levels, school systems, health care and cost of living.
Rank City Women's Income Living Cost Pediatricians Unemployment Violent Crimes1 Spending Per Pupil2
1 Minneapolis-St. Paul 11 34 12 2 1 13
2 Washington, D.C. 1 48 23 1 22 8
3 Boston 4 45 4 14 32 4
4 Pittsburgh 20 10 20 20 11 9
5 Baltimore-Towson, Md. 2 39 7 9 43 11
6 Denver 13 27 15 12 9 28
7 Hartford, Conn. 3 40 42 24 4 3
8 New York Metro 14 41 1 21 25 2
9 Seattle-Tacoma, Wash. 12 43 9 19 13 18
10 Buffalo-Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14 17 48 10 23 1
11 Atlanta 23 18 6 32 24 24
12 Richmond, Va. 17 32 46 10 8 23
13 Milwaukee 26 29 27 14 31 5
13 San Diego 5 46 16 34 17 26
15 Phoenix 19 24 10 21 20 47
16 San Jose-Sunnyvale, Calif. 5 49 18 42 5 29
17 Columbus, Ohio 32 14 26 21 14 19
18 Cleveland 32 26 14 27 18 12
18 Indianapolis 31 3 25 24 38 14
18 Virginia Beach-Norfolk, Va. 17 36 37 8 16 34
21 Chicago 24 38 2 38 25 17
22 Providence, R.I. 16 42 34 47 10 7
23 Dallas-Ft. Worth, Texas 37 6 11 13 21 35
23 Portland, Ore. 25 33 35 36 3 16
23 San Francisco 5 50 17 34 30 22
26 Cincinnati 32 16 21 31 12 26
27 Austin, Texas 37 11 40 4 6 31
28 Los Angeles 5 47 3 44 36 32
29 St. Louis 37 4 13 28 29 25
30 Detroit 22 28 8 48 50 10
31 Salt Lake City 36 25 32 5 7 50
32 Riverside-San Bernardino, Calif. 5 35 27 49 19 43
33 Raleigh, N.C. 37 23 22 14 2 45
34 Houston 37 9 5 17 41 38
35 Sacramento, Calif. 5 37 32 46 28 37
36 Philadelphia 20 44 41 29 42 6
37 San Antonio 37 18 29 7 33 30
38 Louisville, Ky. 49 1 43 32 15 15
39 Kansas City, Mo. 37 21 38 17 25 21
40 Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla. 27 13 24 45 39 33
41 Miami-Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. 27 31 19 42 44 20
42 New Orleans 47 22 30 5 37 44
43 Nashville, Tenn. 45 2 31 26 45 42
44 Jacksonville, Fla. 27 8 44 39 47 46
45 Oklahoma City 49 12 49 3 34 49
45 Orlando, Fla. 27 20 39 41 46 41
47 Birmingham, Ala. 48 7 47 30 35 40
48 Charlotte, N.C. 37 15 36 40 40 39
49 Memphis, Tenn. 45 5 45 36 49 48
50 Las Vegas 32 30 50 50 48 36
1Per 100,000
2Including pre-K through 12th grade
Sources: ACCRA; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Cities: Ranked & Rated, by Bert Sperling and Peter Sander, Second Edition, Frommer's (2007);
U.S. Census Bureau; U.S. Department of Justice; healthgrades.com.
Click here to read the full story.
Video: Top Three Cities For Working Moms
Your Northern Virginia New Homes Real Estate Specialist Century21 New Millennium
National Builders
Thursday, August 12, 2010
TOP 5 CITIES FOR WORK
Work and Family
Full List: America's Top 50 U.S. Cities For Working Mothers
Meghan Casserly, 07.26.10, 09:00 AM EDT
A look at how the 50 largest cities rank for working moms, based on women's earnings, unemployment rates, crime levels, school systems, health care and cost of living.
Rank City Women's Income Living Cost Pediatricians Unemployment Violent Crimes1 Spending Per Pupil2
1 Minneapolis-St. Paul 11 34 12 2 1 13
2 Washington, D.C. 1 48 23 1 22 8
3 Boston 4 45 4 14 32 4
4 Pittsburgh 20 10 20 20 11 9
5 Baltimore-Towson, Md. 2 39 7 9 43 11
6 Denver 13 27 15 12 9 28
7 Hartford, Conn. 3 40 42 24 4 3
8 New York Metro 14 41 1 21 25 2
9 Seattle-Tacoma, Wash. 12 43 9 19 13 18
10 Buffalo-Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14 17 48 10 23 1
11 Atlanta 23 18 6 32 24 24
12 Richmond, Va. 17 32 46 10 8 23
13 Milwaukee 26 29 27 14 31 5
13 San Diego 5 46 16 34 17 26
15 Phoenix 19 24 10 21 20 47
16 San Jose-Sunnyvale, Calif. 5 49 18 42 5 29
17 Columbus, Ohio 32 14 26 21 14 19
18 Cleveland 32 26 14 27 18 12
18 Indianapolis 31 3 25 24 38 14
18 Virginia Beach-Norfolk, Va. 17 36 37 8 16 34
21 Chicago 24 38 2 38 25 17
22 Providence, R.I. 16 42 34 47 10 7
23 Dallas-Ft. Worth, Texas 37 6 11 13 21 35
23 Portland, Ore. 25 33 35 36 3 16
23 San Francisco 5 50 17 34 30 22
26 Cincinnati 32 16 21 31 12 26
27 Austin, Texas 37 11 40 4 6 31
28 Los Angeles 5 47 3 44 36 32
29 St. Louis 37 4 13 28 29 25
30 Detroit 22 28 8 48 50 10
31 Salt Lake City 36 25 32 5 7 50
32 Riverside-San Bernardino, Calif. 5 35 27 49 19 43
33 Raleigh, N.C. 37 23 22 14 2 45
34 Houston 37 9 5 17 41 38
35 Sacramento, Calif. 5 37 32 46 28 37
36 Philadelphia 20 44 41 29 42 6
37 San Antonio 37 18 29 7 33 30
38 Louisville, Ky. 49 1 43 32 15 15
39 Kansas City, Mo. 37 21 38 17 25 21
40 Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla. 27 13 24 45 39 33
41 Miami-Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. 27 31 19 42 44 20
42 New Orleans 47 22 30 5 37 44
43 Nashville, Tenn. 45 2 31 26 45 42
44 Jacksonville, Fla. 27 8 44 39 47 46
45 Oklahoma City 49 12 49 3 34 49
45 Orlando, Fla. 27 20 39 41 46 41
47 Birmingham, Ala. 48 7 47 30 35 40
48 Charlotte, N.C. 37 15 36 40 40 39
49 Memphis, Tenn. 45 5 45 36 49 48
50 Las Vegas 32 30 50 50 48 36
1Per 100,000
2Including pre-K through 12th grade
Sources: ACCRA; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Cities: Ranked & Rated, by Bert Sperling and Peter Sander, Second Edition, Frommer's (2007);
U.S. Census Bureau; U.S. Department of Justice; healthgrades.com.
Click here to read the full story.
Video: Top Three Cities For Working Moms
Full List: America's Top 50 U.S. Cities For Working Mothers
Meghan Casserly, 07.26.10, 09:00 AM EDT
A look at how the 50 largest cities rank for working moms, based on women's earnings, unemployment rates, crime levels, school systems, health care and cost of living.
Rank City Women's Income Living Cost Pediatricians Unemployment Violent Crimes1 Spending Per Pupil2
1 Minneapolis-St. Paul 11 34 12 2 1 13
2 Washington, D.C. 1 48 23 1 22 8
3 Boston 4 45 4 14 32 4
4 Pittsburgh 20 10 20 20 11 9
5 Baltimore-Towson, Md. 2 39 7 9 43 11
6 Denver 13 27 15 12 9 28
7 Hartford, Conn. 3 40 42 24 4 3
8 New York Metro 14 41 1 21 25 2
9 Seattle-Tacoma, Wash. 12 43 9 19 13 18
10 Buffalo-Niagara Falls, N.Y. 14 17 48 10 23 1
11 Atlanta 23 18 6 32 24 24
12 Richmond, Va. 17 32 46 10 8 23
13 Milwaukee 26 29 27 14 31 5
13 San Diego 5 46 16 34 17 26
15 Phoenix 19 24 10 21 20 47
16 San Jose-Sunnyvale, Calif. 5 49 18 42 5 29
17 Columbus, Ohio 32 14 26 21 14 19
18 Cleveland 32 26 14 27 18 12
18 Indianapolis 31 3 25 24 38 14
18 Virginia Beach-Norfolk, Va. 17 36 37 8 16 34
21 Chicago 24 38 2 38 25 17
22 Providence, R.I. 16 42 34 47 10 7
23 Dallas-Ft. Worth, Texas 37 6 11 13 21 35
23 Portland, Ore. 25 33 35 36 3 16
23 San Francisco 5 50 17 34 30 22
26 Cincinnati 32 16 21 31 12 26
27 Austin, Texas 37 11 40 4 6 31
28 Los Angeles 5 47 3 44 36 32
29 St. Louis 37 4 13 28 29 25
30 Detroit 22 28 8 48 50 10
31 Salt Lake City 36 25 32 5 7 50
32 Riverside-San Bernardino, Calif. 5 35 27 49 19 43
33 Raleigh, N.C. 37 23 22 14 2 45
34 Houston 37 9 5 17 41 38
35 Sacramento, Calif. 5 37 32 46 28 37
36 Philadelphia 20 44 41 29 42 6
37 San Antonio 37 18 29 7 33 30
38 Louisville, Ky. 49 1 43 32 15 15
39 Kansas City, Mo. 37 21 38 17 25 21
40 Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla. 27 13 24 45 39 33
41 Miami-Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. 27 31 19 42 44 20
42 New Orleans 47 22 30 5 37 44
43 Nashville, Tenn. 45 2 31 26 45 42
44 Jacksonville, Fla. 27 8 44 39 47 46
45 Oklahoma City 49 12 49 3 34 49
45 Orlando, Fla. 27 20 39 41 46 41
47 Birmingham, Ala. 48 7 47 30 35 40
48 Charlotte, N.C. 37 15 36 40 40 39
49 Memphis, Tenn. 45 5 45 36 49 48
50 Las Vegas 32 30 50 50 48 36
1Per 100,000
2Including pre-K through 12th grade
Sources: ACCRA; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Cities: Ranked & Rated, by Bert Sperling and Peter Sander, Second Edition, Frommer's (2007);
U.S. Census Bureau; U.S. Department of Justice; healthgrades.com.
Click here to read the full story.
Video: Top Three Cities For Working Moms
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
New Homes vs. Pre- Owned
August 5, 2010 | For New Homes Guide | Cindy James REALTOR® CSP | Century21 New Millennium | New Homes Group
It’s one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make! Do you buy a “new home,” or do you select a “pre-owned” home? There are many things you should consider before making your decision. A used home is typically in an established neighborhood with mature trees, shopping centers, and can be close to schools. It is often priced lower than a new construction home, and it may have the character or charm that you are looking to purchase. Unlike an older home, a “new home” is built with the latest energy saving materials and the newest technologies, also following the current building codes. Your new home offers you a clean palette so that you may design your home just the way you want it. Here are some of the things to think about when purchasing a new home vs. purchasing a pre-owned home.
Advantages of a buying a new home:
1. Newest architectural designs provide floor plans for today’s life-styles.
2. Enhanced energy efficiency will make your home more comfortable in summer and winter while lowering your energy bills. The National Association of REALTORS® poll from June 2010 found that 70% of home buyers are looking for “green” built homes.
3. A customized home reflects your personal tastes and desires.
4. Extended builder’s warranty usually provide a 10 year structural warranty, 2 year manufacturer’s warranty on appliances, and a one year walk through with repairs done by the builder.
5. Builders’ incentives typically offer free or reduced price options and/or special financing.
6. Your choice: you select the location of a new home community, a builder, a home site, and a floor plan that best meets your housing needs.
7. It is the simplest way to get what you want because you start with a clean slate.
8. You can personalize landscaping for your life-style.
9. There are added amenities such as parks, walking trails, swimming pools, tennis courts, and golf courses that provide a great venue for socializing, exercise and more.
10. You get additional peace of mind from knowing that no one else has lived in your home before you and your family and there’s just something about moving into a brand new home!
Things to consider in purchasing a pre-owned home:
1. Your home will have the previous owner’s design choices to include flooring, lighting, wall covering, appliances, plumbing, counter tops and finishes.
2. You might be lucky and not need to worry about the cost of window coverings, landscaping, etc., but they may not be what you would have chosen.
3. Some home owners are not conscientious about maintaining their homes, so maintenance issues may be costly.
4. Unlike some new construction choices, in an established neighborhood, you most likely will not be living with ongoing construction.
5. Many established neighborhoods have mature trees, so you won’t have to wait 20 years for your new home’s trees to grow. However, large trees overhanging the home may cause their own set of problems.
6. Typically a “pre-owned” home is priced lower then a new construction home, so you can use the savings to renovate.
7. You can consider buying a short sale or foreclosure home. The saving may be substantial; however, you are buying “as-is” with many unknowns.
8. Typically “pre-owned” homes are closer to town , which may mean less commuting time. New communities tend to be farther out but have more and newer community amenities.
The choice is yours, but do your research! Learn how builders today use the most current building designs, follow current building codes and offer modern design features. You can make your new home not only the best value compared to a used home, but also maintenance and worry free for years to come!
It’s one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make! Do you buy a “new home,” or do you select a “pre-owned” home? There are many things you should consider before making your decision. A used home is typically in an established neighborhood with mature trees, shopping centers, and can be close to schools. It is often priced lower than a new construction home, and it may have the character or charm that you are looking to purchase. Unlike an older home, a “new home” is built with the latest energy saving materials and the newest technologies, also following the current building codes. Your new home offers you a clean palette so that you may design your home just the way you want it. Here are some of the things to think about when purchasing a new home vs. purchasing a pre-owned home.
Advantages of a buying a new home:
1. Newest architectural designs provide floor plans for today’s life-styles.
2. Enhanced energy efficiency will make your home more comfortable in summer and winter while lowering your energy bills. The National Association of REALTORS® poll from June 2010 found that 70% of home buyers are looking for “green” built homes.
3. A customized home reflects your personal tastes and desires.
4. Extended builder’s warranty usually provide a 10 year structural warranty, 2 year manufacturer’s warranty on appliances, and a one year walk through with repairs done by the builder.
5. Builders’ incentives typically offer free or reduced price options and/or special financing.
6. Your choice: you select the location of a new home community, a builder, a home site, and a floor plan that best meets your housing needs.
7. It is the simplest way to get what you want because you start with a clean slate.
8. You can personalize landscaping for your life-style.
9. There are added amenities such as parks, walking trails, swimming pools, tennis courts, and golf courses that provide a great venue for socializing, exercise and more.
10. You get additional peace of mind from knowing that no one else has lived in your home before you and your family and there’s just something about moving into a brand new home!
Things to consider in purchasing a pre-owned home:
1. Your home will have the previous owner’s design choices to include flooring, lighting, wall covering, appliances, plumbing, counter tops and finishes.
2. You might be lucky and not need to worry about the cost of window coverings, landscaping, etc., but they may not be what you would have chosen.
3. Some home owners are not conscientious about maintaining their homes, so maintenance issues may be costly.
4. Unlike some new construction choices, in an established neighborhood, you most likely will not be living with ongoing construction.
5. Many established neighborhoods have mature trees, so you won’t have to wait 20 years for your new home’s trees to grow. However, large trees overhanging the home may cause their own set of problems.
6. Typically a “pre-owned” home is priced lower then a new construction home, so you can use the savings to renovate.
7. You can consider buying a short sale or foreclosure home. The saving may be substantial; however, you are buying “as-is” with many unknowns.
8. Typically “pre-owned” homes are closer to town , which may mean less commuting time. New communities tend to be farther out but have more and newer community amenities.
The choice is yours, but do your research! Learn how builders today use the most current building designs, follow current building codes and offer modern design features. You can make your new home not only the best value compared to a used home, but also maintenance and worry free for years to come!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
http://www.mytolldreamhome.com
TOLL BROTHERS HUGE DREAM HOME SAVING! PLEASE CHECK OUT THERE SPECIAL WESITE: www.mytolldreamhome.com This is the best time to buy a Toll Home, offer ends Aug 1, 2010 so hurry!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
NEW RECORD LOW FOR MORTGAGE RATES
Mortgage rates hit new record low
Source: Associated Press/AP Online
Publication date: July 22, 2010
NEW YORK - Mortgage rates fell to a new record low for the fourth time in five weeks. But low rates haven't been enough to lift a struggling housing market.
The average rate for 30-year fixed loans this week was 4.56 percent, down from 4.57 last week, mortgage company Freddie Mac said Thursday. That's the lowest since Freddie Mac began tracking rates in 1971.
The last time home loan rates were lower was during the 1950s, when most mortgages lasted just 20 or 25 years.
The rate on the 15-year fixed loan dropped to 4.03 percent, down from 4.06 percent last week and the lowest on records dating back to 1991.
Rates have fallen since the spring. Investors worried about the European debt crisis have shifted money into the safety of Treasury bonds. That has forced those yields down. Mortgage rates tend to track yields on Treasury debt.
However, low rates have yet to spark home sales and refinancing activity remains moderate.
Sales of previously occupied homes fell in June and are expected to keep sinking. The National Association of Realtors said Thursday that last month's sales fell 5.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.37 million.
The housing market stalled after federal tax credits for homebuyers expired at the end of April. Home sales have dropped off, homebuilder confidence has waned and consumer sentiment is in the dumps.
It's unlikely low mortgage rates will bolster housing. Rates have hovered near historic lows for more than a year, so many people have already taken advantage of them to buy or refinance a home.
And many of those who haven't wouldn't qualify for a loan. They either owe more than their homes are worth, have shaky credit or have lost their jobs.
To calculate the national average, Freddie Mac collects mortgage rates on Monday through Wednesday of each week from lenders around the country. Rates often fluctuate significantly, even within a given day.
Rates on five-year adjustable-rate mortgages averaged 3.79 percent, down from 3.85 percent a week earlier. Rates on one-year adjustable-rate mortgages fell to an average of 3.70 percent from 3.74 percent.
The rates do not include add-on fees known as points. One point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount. The nationwide fee for loans in Freddie Mac's survey averaged 0.7 a point for 30-year, 15-year and 1-year loans. The average fee for 5-year loans was 0.6 of a point.
Source: Associated Press/AP Online
Publication date: July 22, 2010
NEW YORK - Mortgage rates fell to a new record low for the fourth time in five weeks. But low rates haven't been enough to lift a struggling housing market.
The average rate for 30-year fixed loans this week was 4.56 percent, down from 4.57 last week, mortgage company Freddie Mac said Thursday. That's the lowest since Freddie Mac began tracking rates in 1971.
The last time home loan rates were lower was during the 1950s, when most mortgages lasted just 20 or 25 years.
The rate on the 15-year fixed loan dropped to 4.03 percent, down from 4.06 percent last week and the lowest on records dating back to 1991.
Rates have fallen since the spring. Investors worried about the European debt crisis have shifted money into the safety of Treasury bonds. That has forced those yields down. Mortgage rates tend to track yields on Treasury debt.
However, low rates have yet to spark home sales and refinancing activity remains moderate.
Sales of previously occupied homes fell in June and are expected to keep sinking. The National Association of Realtors said Thursday that last month's sales fell 5.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.37 million.
The housing market stalled after federal tax credits for homebuyers expired at the end of April. Home sales have dropped off, homebuilder confidence has waned and consumer sentiment is in the dumps.
It's unlikely low mortgage rates will bolster housing. Rates have hovered near historic lows for more than a year, so many people have already taken advantage of them to buy or refinance a home.
And many of those who haven't wouldn't qualify for a loan. They either owe more than their homes are worth, have shaky credit or have lost their jobs.
To calculate the national average, Freddie Mac collects mortgage rates on Monday through Wednesday of each week from lenders around the country. Rates often fluctuate significantly, even within a given day.
Rates on five-year adjustable-rate mortgages averaged 3.79 percent, down from 3.85 percent a week earlier. Rates on one-year adjustable-rate mortgages fell to an average of 3.70 percent from 3.74 percent.
The rates do not include add-on fees known as points. One point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount. The nationwide fee for loans in Freddie Mac's survey averaged 0.7 a point for 30-year, 15-year and 1-year loans. The average fee for 5-year loans was 0.6 of a point.
NVR POSTS PROFITS
NVR Reports $71 Million Profit
Source: BIG BUILDER News
Publication date: July 22, 2010
By BB Staff
NVR Inc., Reston, Va. (NYSE:NVR) early Thursday reported a profit of $71.2 million for the second quarter ended June 30, of $71.3 million ($11.13 per diluted share), an increase of 72% over last year's second quarter, beating handily the consensus Wall Street estimate of $8.62.
Revenues for the quarter totaled $964.5 million, a 54% increase from the comparable 2009 quarter.
NVR was the first public builder to report this earnings season, and although the company neither provides earnings commentary nor guidance to investors, the news, along with a general updraft in the markets, appeared to touch off a small rally in the builder stocks pre-open. NVR shares were up 2.6% at $650.18 in early trading on the NYSE.
Closings skyrocketed 63% from last year's quarter to 3,345 units as buyers got in under the June 30 deadline for qualification for the home-buyer tax credit. The average settlement price fell 5.2% to $283,000.
New orders decreased 6% from last year's second quarter to 2,559 units this quarter. The average new-order price, however, increased 5% to $309,600.
Backlog was down 16% to 3,766 units and backlog value down 11% to $1.19 billion when compared to the same period last year. The average backlog price also increased, from $296,200 last year to $315,300 at quarter's end 2010.
Community count increased to 373 from 356 at the same time last year. Lot count also increased, from 44,300 at June's end, 2009 to 47,500 at the close of this year's quarter.
Home building revenues totaled $947 million, 55% ahead of the year-earlier period. Gross profit margins decreased to 18.5% in the 2010 second quarter compared to 19.3% for the same period in 2009. SG&A was up 26.3% to$69.1 million.
Source: BIG BUILDER News
Publication date: July 22, 2010
By BB Staff
NVR Inc., Reston, Va. (NYSE:NVR) early Thursday reported a profit of $71.2 million for the second quarter ended June 30, of $71.3 million ($11.13 per diluted share), an increase of 72% over last year's second quarter, beating handily the consensus Wall Street estimate of $8.62.
Revenues for the quarter totaled $964.5 million, a 54% increase from the comparable 2009 quarter.
NVR was the first public builder to report this earnings season, and although the company neither provides earnings commentary nor guidance to investors, the news, along with a general updraft in the markets, appeared to touch off a small rally in the builder stocks pre-open. NVR shares were up 2.6% at $650.18 in early trading on the NYSE.
Closings skyrocketed 63% from last year's quarter to 3,345 units as buyers got in under the June 30 deadline for qualification for the home-buyer tax credit. The average settlement price fell 5.2% to $283,000.
New orders decreased 6% from last year's second quarter to 2,559 units this quarter. The average new-order price, however, increased 5% to $309,600.
Backlog was down 16% to 3,766 units and backlog value down 11% to $1.19 billion when compared to the same period last year. The average backlog price also increased, from $296,200 last year to $315,300 at quarter's end 2010.
Community count increased to 373 from 356 at the same time last year. Lot count also increased, from 44,300 at June's end, 2009 to 47,500 at the close of this year's quarter.
Home building revenues totaled $947 million, 55% ahead of the year-earlier period. Gross profit margins decreased to 18.5% in the 2010 second quarter compared to 19.3% for the same period in 2009. SG&A was up 26.3% to$69.1 million.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Fulgor Milano Launches Italian Appliance Line In The United States
Backed by Parent Company Meneghetti, Fulgor Milano Introduces Sexy Line of Designer Cooktops and Wall Ovens to U.S. Market. You now have a new choice for adding beauty and cooking prowess to the kitchen, with the inauguration of the Fulgor Milano line of genuine Italian-designed cooktops and wall ovens built specifically for the American market. Italy is famed for its traditions of family, cooking, and design, and all of these elements are harmoniously united in the elegant and beautiful Fulgor Milano products—and all backed by the quality and reputation of parent company Meneghetti S.p.A., which brings over 50 years of experience as the maker of more than 1,000 high-end kitchen appliances for the world's top brands.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Current News from NAR...
With these issues addressed, I asked NAR Chief Lobbyist, Jerry Giovaniello, what Congress is likely to do when it returns from recess later this month. He mentioned three issues that we are watching closely.
First, we have been keeping an eye on financial reform legislation. We succeeded in getting a more flexible option for seller financing in that bill. Additionally, the bill would effectively end the Home Valuation Code of Conduct, opening the door for new regulations for appraisals.
Rest assured that NAR would have a seat at the table on those discussions.
Currently lawmakers are trying to resolve other differences in the financial reform legislation. We hope to see a final bill when Congress returns from the break.
Second, NAR is still working on restoring the 502 single-family rural housing loan guarantee program. There is a bill that is currently in conference between the House and Senate that would provide funding. When that bill passes, the program will be restored through the end of the fiscal year.
Third, we are monitoring the debate on carried interest, which affects commercial real estate. There was a proposal in a recent bill that would tax carried interest at a regular income tax rate, instead of its present capital gains tax rate. Now is NOT the time to raise taxes on real estate, and especially not on commercial real estate, which continues to struggle.
We’re making great progress, but we have a lot left to do.
I ask all of you to visit the Government Affairs page on Realtor.org and stay on top of the issues that are important to your businesses.
First, we have been keeping an eye on financial reform legislation. We succeeded in getting a more flexible option for seller financing in that bill. Additionally, the bill would effectively end the Home Valuation Code of Conduct, opening the door for new regulations for appraisals.
Rest assured that NAR would have a seat at the table on those discussions.
Currently lawmakers are trying to resolve other differences in the financial reform legislation. We hope to see a final bill when Congress returns from the break.
Second, NAR is still working on restoring the 502 single-family rural housing loan guarantee program. There is a bill that is currently in conference between the House and Senate that would provide funding. When that bill passes, the program will be restored through the end of the fiscal year.
Third, we are monitoring the debate on carried interest, which affects commercial real estate. There was a proposal in a recent bill that would tax carried interest at a regular income tax rate, instead of its present capital gains tax rate. Now is NOT the time to raise taxes on real estate, and especially not on commercial real estate, which continues to struggle.
We’re making great progress, but we have a lot left to do.
I ask all of you to visit the Government Affairs page on Realtor.org and stay on top of the issues that are important to your businesses.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Conserve Energy, Save Money...
Saturday, July 10, 2010
New Comunities in Northern Virginia
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
8 FREE Ways to get more referrals.....
Here are eight ways to elicit (not solicit) referrals:
1. Offer a service that is unique. Think about your specialty -- what type of report or article could you write that would help you stand out? What type of signature piece could you develop that is unique to you? Take the time to write it -- and then put it on your website, hand it out at open houses, and e-mail it to your clients. Show them that what you do is "one step ahead" of everyone else.
2. Be reliable, even if you can't be unique. Make it your mission to be the most reliable person you know. You call people back and answer e-mails quickly, you go above and beyond by passing on leads to others (what goes around comes around), you are always on time (better yet, early), and, most important, you do what you say you are going to do!
3. Truly understand and convey your specialty to potential referrers, such as current clients, colleagues and others in complementary businesses, and even competitors with whom you are friendly. They will be aware of the very specific problems that you aim to solve.
4. Build relationships with industry colleagues. This is a no-brainer, but make sure it is part of your marketing plan to attend one face-to-face networking event each month. Mixing that in with a strong social media plan is a great way to network and build referrals. Once you get a new contact, treat that person like gold! Send a personal note or e-mail -- do something to help them before you ask for help. Make your contact with them 95 percent about building rapport and 5 percent or less about "pitch."
5. Be easy to find and contact. Do the obvious: Have business cards handy for customers, run a search engine-friendly website, and engage in social media. Put your e-mail and phone number all over your website -- not just a "contact me" form! List contact information prominently on every social network, on your e-mail signature and your website, making it simple and fast for customers to get in touch with your business.
6. Be an approachable expert. Stay on top of industry trends, but spend just as much effort talking with potential clients, learning about their needs, and gaining new insights from others. Make it a point to attend a few training events a year. Look to your local and state associations for this!
7. Find ways of doing business with those outside of your original client target. Expanding your horizons may mean adding service options that you provide for a client or going outside your regular community for a listing.
8. Thank everyone who attempts to make referrals (not just the ones who produce them), and let them know how much a referral base really means to the success of your business. Showing gratitude will encourage referrers to keep spreading the word. Send a personal note -- not an e-mail.
Do you have tips on generating referrals? Leave us a comment below!
Katie Lance is the marketing manager for Inman News. Future of Real Estate Marketing is a part of Inman News.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Real Estate Licensing Classes, which typically cost $350-$400 are FREE; students pay only $80 for books!Classes are M,W,F evenings 6:30 - 9:30 in our office (at Hoadly and the Parkway) starting Monday, June 28th and running through the first week in August. There are a couple of holidays along the way. Students can miss up to 4 classes if necessary.
Excellent Instructor is real estate attorney Mr. Ed Quinto.
If interested, call 703-491-9570 and ask for Sandi Dawkins C21NM Office Manager
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The Age of Facebook
My broker forwarded the below link of a YouTube video on the power of Facebook and how it is out pacing Google in the number of hits and placement on the web.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFZ0z5Fm-Ng
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Tax Credit......
Effort to Extend Tax Credit Closing Deadline Gains
The U.S. Senate voted Wednesday to extend the home buyer tax credit closing deadline to Sept. 30, giving an estimated 180,000 buyers who met the contract deadline of April 30 extra time to close the transaction. The extension was added to a bill to pay for jobless benefits, which still must pass.
The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® estimates that one-third of qualified applicants have been notified that they will be unable to close by the deadline. The Mortgage Bankers Association says delays are caused largely by the volume of transactions.
The overall bill, once it passes the Senate, must be approved by the House.
Source: Associated Press, Andrew Taylor (06/16/2010)
The U.S. Senate voted Wednesday to extend the home buyer tax credit closing deadline to Sept. 30, giving an estimated 180,000 buyers who met the contract deadline of April 30 extra time to close the transaction. The extension was added to a bill to pay for jobless benefits, which still must pass.
The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® estimates that one-third of qualified applicants have been notified that they will be unable to close by the deadline. The Mortgage Bankers Association says delays are caused largely by the volume of transactions.
The overall bill, once it passes the Senate, must be approved by the House.
Source: Associated Press, Andrew Taylor (06/16/2010)
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Our Craigslist Job Posting - Please pass along
Century 21 New Millennium team is looking for a land specialist to assist new home builders in locating land with developmental potential.
The ideal candidate will have an active Virginia Real Estate license and experience with the new homes industry.
Sales experience will be a plus.
We are looking for a knowledgable individual to join our team, which is dedicated to specilizing in
New Homes Sales. Our website: www.new-homes-group.com
Please email your resume to: cindy.james@c21nm.com for consideration. The New Team member would start
at the begining of July 2010. Office is located in Woodbridge, Va 22192
The ideal candidate will have an active Virginia Real Estate license and experience with the new homes industry.
Sales experience will be a plus.
We are looking for a knowledgable individual to join our team, which is dedicated to specilizing in
New Homes Sales. Our website: www.new-homes-group.com
Please email your resume to: cindy.james@c21nm.com for consideration. The New Team member would start
at the begining of July 2010. Office is located in Woodbridge, Va 22192
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
We visited Stanley Martin's Newest Neighborhood located in Woodbridge, Virginia just off of Rt 234 and Spriggs Road. This communities offers 4 collection of homes (311 total homes) a community center with an outdoor pool, walking trails, and sports courts. The model homes show very well (all four), many floor plans to choose from, and a full staff on hand to answer all your questions. If your interested in a New Home, please contact Your Northern Virgina New Home Real Estate Specialists, we are here for you. Check out the photo's to the right -----
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Current New Homes Market...
Having many colleagues in the industry of New Home Sale in Northern Virginia, everyone is selling! With the first time tax credit over, the business has actually picked up. Currently covering for Bryton Homes in The City of Fredericksburg Virginia, I sold 3 homes in May, with June having just as much traffic as May. Many buyers are wanting homes built with the newest codes, appliances, energy efficiency, and as much green as possible. So yes traffic is up, and the buyers are out looking for New Homes.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Century21 New Millennium ~ New Homes Group
We Are Your Northern Virginia New Homes Real Estate Specialists. We have been in the New Homes industry for over 20 years, we have sold for National Builders, Regional Builders and local builders. We represent "You" the buyer, and not the builder so your best interests are our goal. Check out our website for more information. www.new-homes-group.com
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