MAGNIFICANT IN MARCH WOODS!

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This home is built in the exceptional quality style that you can depend on in a home created by Dick Anderson Construction Company. Approach this stylish home located on a .81 acre cul-de-sac setting along the tree lined, curvilinear streets. Enjoy comfortable living in the open plan and master suite with sitting room. Stylish arched openings. Formal dining room with crown molding and chair rail plus breakfast room. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry and granite counter tops.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

TREMENDOUS IN TOWN AND COUNTRY!

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A quiet, peaceful, and congenial neighborhood is the setting for this home with open and versatile floor plan. Secluded patio with canopy and mature vine growth creates the ideal environment for relaxing meals and conversations any time of day. With living room, dining room, den, sunroom, and eat-in kitchen, the home is capable of handling both formal and casual gatherings. 2010: new water heater, remodeled kitchen. 2011: new roof. 2010-12: new interior paint and carpet. Neighborhood pool and tennis membership available.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Is Downsizing The Next Big Trend In Homes?

The real estate market has started to recover from the downturn over the last few years in many areas of the country, and more people are thinking about buying a new place to live.

With this new energy in home buying, an interesting trend seems to be developing.  

Instead of going for larger homes, which was an overwhelming trend in years past, many people are choosing micro-dwellings.

What is a micro-dwelling?

There are a number of different styles of micro dwellings being built.  This is a relatively new concept for homes in the United States and individual creativity abounds in this space.

The most common factor in micro-dwellings are their size. They tend to be less than 500 square feet of living space.

Some densely populated metropolitan areas like San Francisco and New York City are planning apartments as small as approximately 300 square feet!

Think this shrinking of real estate space applies only to multi-family dwellings?

Think again. You can also find tiny single-family homes — some of which are even portable.

If you're still not convinced, read on to discover a few of the factors drawing buyers to smaller living spaces.

A lower price tag - The cost of these homes can be significantly less than that of standard homes, which means you may not have a large mortgage over your head for the next 30 years.

More free time - A smaller house means less cleaning. Who isn't on board with that idea?

Less clutter - If your home is less than 500 square feet, you have to get rid of everything you don't absolutely need.

Mobility - Many of these tiny homes are equipped with wheels or built-on trailers, so moving is no longer the stressful and expensive undertaking it used to be. Simply close the door and go!

Smaller is greener - It makes sense that if your home is smaller, you will automatically reduce your energy consumption, which means more money in your pocket every month and a smaller carbon footprint.

Micro-living might not be for everyone.  It does offer an option for those who are just starting out, those who love to travel, or those nearing retirement.

And even if you don't opt for the smallest living space, reducing energy usage and saving money are ideas most anyone can take to the bank.

Photo Credit: Tumbleweed Tiny Homes

NEW PRICE ON THIS GREAT HOME!

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MARVELOUS IN MILLER POINTE! Just move in enjoy this charming & restful 1-level abode with zero-step entry. Admire the birds & colorful perennial gardens from the patio within the privacy fencing. Open floor plan with soaring ceilings in living room & dining area. Separate laundry room. A well designed neighborhood for walking among the beautiful common areas. Convenient to Sherwood Forest shopping areas & WF University.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Where is Pam this Sunday? She is planning an Open House on Sunday, March 3rd, 2013, from 2-4 pm!

Click here to view this property's website

A quiet, peaceful congenial neighborhood is the setting for this home with open & versatile floor plan. Secluded patio with canopy & mature vine growth creates the ideal environment for relaxing meals & conversations any time of day. With living room, dining room, den, sunroom & eat-in kitchen the home is capable of handling both formal & casual gatherings. 2010: new water heater, remodeled kitchen. 2011: new roof. 2010-12: new interior paint & carpet. Neighborhood pool & tennis membership available.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. If you aren’t available to visit on Sunday, we can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Where is Pam this Sunday? She is planning an Open House on Sunday, March 3rd, 2013, from 2-4 pm!

Click here to view this property's website

This home is built in the exceptional quality style that you can depend on in a home created by Dick Anderson Construction Company. Approach this stylish home located on a .81 acre cul-de-sac setting along the tree lined, curvilinear streets. Enjoy comfortable living in the open plan & master suite with sitting room. Stylish arched openings. Formal dining room with crown molding & chair rail "plus" breakfast room. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry & granite countertops.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. If you aren’t available to visit on Sunday, we can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Quick Tips For Moving To A New Home In Miserable Weather

Ideally, when you are moving to a new home, you will want to do it on a pleasant and sunny day which makes everything much easier.

However, if you are moving in the winter, or an unexpected deluge shows up on your pre-arranged moving day, it can really dampen your enthusiasm and throw a wrench into your plans.

It can also make you worry about your possessions being damaged as you move them into your new home.

Don't worry; it's still possible to move your possessions in the rain, snow or cold.

All you need is a little bit of technique, forethought and planning.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you are moving on a day with terrible weather:

Dress For Success

Make sure everyone in the family is dressed warmly. You will be going back and forth from indoors to outdoors a lot, so it might be tempting to not bother with your warm clothes.

However, it's important to dress appropriately. You don't want anyone catching a cold.

Wear multiple layers that you can take off or put on accordingly. Also, remember a rainproof layer if it's pouring.

Ensure Safety

In snowy climates, clear the driveway and the front porch of snow and ice, and sprinkle them with salt.

This is very important to ensure that no one slips and falls while carrying boxes out of the old house and into your new home.

The last interruption you need on moving day is a trip to the emergency room.

Wrap Up Your Belongings

If it is raining or snowing you will need to protect your belongings from getting wet.

Wrap your furniture in waterproof plastic and seal your boxes with packing tape and plastic.

Invest in enough of these supplies before the moving day so you don't have to run to the store to buy more in the middle of your move.

Keep It Clean

At your new house, set up an area at the front door with towels so that everyone can dry off the boxes and themselves to avoid tracking rain or snow into the new house.

As these simple tips point out, packing and moving in the rain or snow is a problem that can be overcome with appropriate planning.

Plus, sometimes moving in the winter can give you an advantage because there will be a low service demand that can decrease your moving costs.

DELIGHTFUL IN DAR RIDGE!

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Imagine relaxing on your spacious deck with canopied pergola-or on the screened in patio with stamped concrete - with a view of the students training horses at Cash-Lovell Stables. The lovely home features wood flooring, vaulted ceilings & fans in all rooms. The kitchen boasts wood floors, stamped metal back splash & beaded board wainscot. The level lawn with low maintenance landscaping is enclosed with privacy fencing. 50-year architectural roof & large storage building.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Walking in George Washington’s foot-steps in the Carolinas

Today is George Washington’s birthday and did you remember that Monday was President’s Day?  What is Presidents Day?  The original federal holiday was entitled “Washington’s Birthday”, and was implemented by an Act of Congress in 1879 for the offices in the District of Columbia.  It was expanded to all federal offices in 1885.  This was the first federal holiday to honor an American citizen, and it fell on Washington’s actual birthday of February 22.

On January 1, 1971, the federal holiday was shifted to the third Monday in February and the push to recognize the office of the Presidency arose; along with the recognition of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, which falls on February 12.  So essentially the holiday was originally intended to honor President Washington, and did so for almost 100 years.

Let’s explore the stops in George Washington’s trip through the Carolinas.

In early 1791, shortly after taking office, President Washington decided to visit every state in his first term – he wanted the US citizens to see their very first President.  His tour of the southern states took 83 days.  Because N.C. had been one of the holdout states that initially refused to ratify the Constitution, he was especially interested in seeing if the citizens were weary of a new power in the centralized government.

The trip started on March 21, 1791 from Philadelphia, and after an extended stay at Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon is only a four hour drive from North Carolina and is President Washington’s home.

He proceeded from Mount Vernon through Fredericksburg and Richmond, Virginia, into North Carolina in mid-April, 1791.  His carriage tour took him through Tarboro, Greenville, New Bern, Trenton, and Wilmington before entering South Carolina.

In South Carolina he visited Georgetown and then onto Charleston, where his written thoughts recorded that the road between Georgetown to Charleston was the most beautiful in the United States.  He arrived in Charleston on May 2 and stayed until May 9, 1791 and was entertained in the Exchange building on East Bay and Broad Street. Today that building is a museum operated by the Daughters of the American Revolution and is called the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon – and you can see where the President danced in the grand ballroom.

The President rode south through the coastal regions of the Carolinas and Georgia.   In cities like Wilmington, Charleston, and Savannah he was received with cannon salutes, lavish dinners, dancing balls, and he made diary notes of the number of ladies who had danced in his honor!

Washington went along the coast to Savannah then worked his way back northward through Augusta and into South Carolina on May 21.  He reentered N.C. headed north through Charlotte on May 27 and stopped for a visit in Salisbury on May 31, 1791.  His final stop in NC was at the Guilford Court House Battlefield where his favorite General, Nathaniel Greene, fought General Cornwallis and the British Army – this battle was a turning point in the American’s victory of the Revolutionary War.  You can visit that site and see the memorial to the battle and the monument to General Greene.

So enjoy and celebrate President Washington’s birthday by making some of the stops he made in the Carolinas 222 years ago! 

 By Tony Jarrett (Regional Vice President, Triad)

How To Know If You Will Need Private Mortgage Insurance on Your Mortgage Loan

 

Have you heard the term Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) when looking to finance real estate?

You may be wondering what PMI is and how you know when you need to purchase it.

These answers can be hard to find among all the real estate jargon you might be hearing lately.

Below is the short version of what you need to know.

What is Private Mortgage Insurance?

Private Mortgage Insurance is an insurance premium required by some lenders to offset the risk of a borrower defaulting on their home loan.

When you put down less than 20 percent of the real estate's purchase price, the lender will generally require that PMI is added to the loan.

It is usually added into the monthly mortgage payment until the equity position in the real estate reaches 20 percent. However, there may be other options available in your area.

Under the current law, PMI will be canceled automatically when you reach 22 percent equity in your home, if you are current on your payments.

If you aren't current, the lender may not be required to cancel the mortgage insurance because the loan is considered high-risk.

After getting caught up on your payments, the PMI will likely be cancelled. Any money that you have overpaid must be refunded to you within 45 days.

What if Your Real Estate Increases in Value?

With a conventional loan, it may take as many as 15 years of a 30-year loan to pay your balance down 20 percent making the minimum monthly payment.

But, if property values in your area rise, you might be able to cancel the PMI sooner.

Some lenders may be willing to consider the new value of your home to determine the equity in your home.

You may, however, be responsible for any fees, like an appraisal, that are incurred to assess the new value of your property.

In the end, private mortgage insurance is likely a good option if you can't afford a down payment of 20 percent of the purchase price.

Now May Be A Very Good Time To Take Action

With all of the activity happening the housing market, now may be the best time for you to purchase your new home. 

A smart next move would be speaking with a qualified home financing professional to learn which programs and down payment options are available in the area. 

The Role of a Home Warranty

One of the things we encourage our buyers (and sellers on behalf of buyers) to purchase is a home warranty. For many reasons, a warranty is a great thing. But let’s talk for a moment about what a warranty is NOT.

When you purchase a home, you must do due diligence. That means knowing, as best as you can, what maintenance and repair obligations will be required for your home, in addition to principal, interest, taxes and insurance.

We encourage you to do three things when buying a home:

1)   Order a survey to make sure that there are no encumbrances on the property or easements you need to be aware of. This is not a requirement but is encouraged.

2)   Schedule a home inspection – In an earlier blog, I spoke to what an inspection is and what it is not. Its purpose is simply to point out issues that you and I may not be immediately aware of.

3)   Purchase a home warranty – Again, not required but encouraged.

A home warranty is in place to take care of surprises that may pop up like replacing a bad water heater element, or repairing a heating system that needs a part.

A home warranty is NOT designed to replace 18-year old roofs, furnaces, etc. If you’re purchasing an older home and the appliances, systems and roof have not been updated or replaced; those considerations should be addressed in the offer upfront. A home inspector is only going to tell you that the roof is not currently leaking and the furnace is working.  What you need to estimate is how long before the roof leaks or when you are on borrowed time with your furnace.

For example, an older gas or oil furnace can develop a cracked heat exchanger over time. Before the purchase, a home inspector probably will clear the system as it is working, but he or she is not licensed to (and cannot safely) remove the inner hood. If the inspector doesn’t call for a HVAC inspection from a licensed technician before the sale closes, the new owner inherits the bill for a new furnace. In this case, the warranty company will not cover a cracked heat exchanger because it was a pre-existing condition.

Allen Tate Company proudly offers a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, which paid $827,000 in claims on behalf of our clients last year. A home warranty definitely has a valued place for unexpected repairs. But it is not, however, a safety net for house components that have come to the end of their useful life. Those expenses should be reflected in the sale price of the home, and not considered as part of the warranty.

 By Pat Riley (President and Chief Operating Officer)

3 Common Myths About Real Estate Short Sales

There is a lot of misleading and incorrect information about real estate short sales.

Many people don't have a clear understanding of the purpose of short sales or how they actually work.

Essentially, a short sale is when one sells their home for less than the balance remaining on the mortgage attached to the property.

The proceeds from the sale are used to repay a pre-negotiated portion of the balance to settle the debt.

A short sale can be a solution for homeowners who really need to sell their home but owe more on the mortgage than the home is worth.

Understanding the short sale process can help make the most out of a real estate sale.

Here are some common myths and why they are false:

A short sale damages one's credit record as much as foreclosure

In many cases a short sale is less damaging to your credit record than a foreclosure. Some lenders may think that the short seller acted in a more responsible manner than simply walking away from the property.

Although the amount paid may have been less than the mortgage balance outstanding, the loan was settled with the lender. Opting for foreclosure is often seen as a lack of responsibility.

To qualify for a short sale one must be behind on payments

This might have been true in the past, but it’s not anymore.

You just need to be able to prove that you are in financial hardship, which could be due to death in the family, divorce, job loss, mortgage rate hike or even loss of property value.

After a short sale you can’t buy again for five to seven years

This may be true in some cases, but not all. In certain situations the waiting period can be reduced as low as two or three years before you are allowed to purchase another home.

It would be wise to speak with licensed real estate professional or home financing specialist to get the most current options in the marketplace.

Pass it on

These are just a few examples of commonly believed short sale myths. A clear understanding of the short sale and the benefits it  can provide is important for financially strapped homeowners.

Feel free to pass this important information on to someone that you feel would benefit from it.

 

 

Builder Confidence In New Home Sales Stay Near All Time High

Many times real estate market experts point to the feelings of the nation's home builders as a bell-weather signalling the health of the housing sector.

This month's reading indicates that home builders are feeling pretty good.

The National Association of Home Builders / Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) for February changed by one point to 46 as compared to 47 for January's reading. 

Over the last four months, HMI readings have stayed within a three-point range between 45 and 47, indicating a plateau after rising from 25 to 45 in 2012.

Housing Market Index Near Highest Levels Since 2006

The good news is that February's reading remains near the HMI's highest level since April 2006, when the HMI reading reached 51.

Some builders may be taking a wait-and-see stance in their confidence as high national unemployment rates and rising costs for building materials impact home buying ability and home prices.

Regional factors influencing builder confidence include difficulties in finding building sites and labor required for building new homes.

3 Important Categories Affect The Home Builders Index

The HMI is a seasonally-adjusted index comprised of three survey categories of home builder confidence.

Readings above 50 indicate that more builders are finding conditions good than bad within each category and overall:

• Builder confidence in current new single-family home sales fell by one point to 51 in February, but sustained a positive rating.

• Builder confidence in new single-family home sales over the next six months achieved a reading of 50 in February, up from 49 in January.

• Builder confidence in foot-traffic in new single-family homes fell by four points from 36 in January to 32 in February.

February results for four regional categories consist of 3-month moving averages for new home sales: the Northeast gained 3 points to 39, The West gained 4 points to 55, the Midwest fell 2 points to 48 and the South fell by 2 points to 47.

With demand for homes increasing, home prices and mortgage rates are likely to rise during spring and summer as warmer weather brings out more potential buyers.

Check with your real estate and mortgage professional for the most updated market details in your area. 

The Reasons People Move

I love statistics, particularly when they pertain to real estate. So, of course, I was fascinated when I stumbled upon 2012 housing stats on why people move, released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

There are many reasons why people move, but here are 4 reasons that I believe will form a foundation of housing trends and activity in 2013:

1)      15.9 percent of buyers wanted a new or better home. 

• More new construction starts will happen in 2013. According to the National Home Builders Association, 2012 new home starts are 25 percent ahead of 2011’s pace.  2013’s new home start pace is expected to jump another 35 percent.
• New home builder confidence is the highest in six years.
• Existing supply of new homes in the USA was 4.8 months in October 2012 – that’s down from 12 months in 2009, which indicates a strong increaseof new home purchases.

2)      10.7 percent of buyers want to start their own household.

• Young adults (18 to 35 years old) are just as committed to home ownership as previous generations. Not to mention, we are seeing more household being created, especially with the younger homebuyers.
• Recent studies show that 43 percent of this generation owns a home; 72 percent see home ownership as part of their personal American Dream; and 93 percent of those currently renting plan to buy a home

3)      9.5 percent of buyers bought a home because of a new job.

•  Job growth brought the United States unemployment down to 7.7 percent in November, 2012, which is down from a high of 10 percent in fall 2010.
• The more job growth we see, the higher the demand for housing. It appears that job growth will continue with a slow, steady increase into 2013, and so will housing sales.

4)      8.9 percent of buyers wanted less expensive housing.

• Prices and interest rates are still low enough for you to get the “better/cheaper” home that fits your needs; meaning, whether it’s a larger home, a home on the water, a home with more upgrades, etc., you can more likely afford in today’s market.
• Rental rates for apartments are expected increase another 4.6 percent in 2013, continuing to make a home purchase a good financial opportunity.
• Existing homes had a 5.4 month supply at the end of October 2012. This indicates stronger sales, which will further stabilize prices moving into 2013.
• Interest rates have decreased to the lowest rates ever recorded in 2012. Interest rates are expected to slowly begin inching back up in 2013.
• Housing prices posted a 2-4 percent gain in 2012, convincing hesitant home buyers that the housing market has hit the bottom and it’s time to move. It is still the greatest time ever to purchase a home!!

Of course, people move for various other reasons too; such as marriage, retirement, family, commuting distance, etc. For whatever reason you are moving, we wish you a very successful move in 2013!

 By Tony Jarrett (Regional Vice President, Triad)

Where’s the Best Place to Raise Kids?

If you are looking to raise your family in a small Southern town rather than the big city, you should take a closer look at Fort Mill, SC. This quaint town has recently been named2013’s “Best Place to Raise Kids” in the state of South Carolina, according Bloomberg Businessweek.

To determine the winner, the magazine evaluated more than 3,000 towns across the nation based on their public school performance, safety, median income, housing costs, commute time, poverty, diversity, and number of households with children. Businessweek noted that Fort Mill not only benefits from its proximity to Charlotte, NC, but also from all of the town’s own unique features. The Walter Y. Elisha Park, the South Carolina Strawberry Festival, BaxterVillage, Anne Close Springs Greenway, and their very own “Adopt-a-Steam” program are just a few great features the town has to offer. The magazine also recognized the town’s students and award-winning public school system; in fact, Fort Mill schools scored a perfect ‘10’ in their ranking system.

Fort Mill gives you the opportunity to live the best of both worlds- by offering the comforts of a small town, with the rich and exciting culture of the big city just a short drive away.

Here is a closer look at the breakdown of the survey:

Population: 10,597

Great Schools city score: 10

Median family income: $79,495

Housing costs as a percentage of income: 19.5%

County unemployment rate: 9.4%

Nearby city: Charlotte

 By Lisa Meltzner (Allen Tate Client Relations) – Guest Blogger

3 Stress-Free Packing Tips For Moving Into Your New Home

Moving everything in your house to your new Winston-Salem area home can be an overwhelming task.
You never realize how much stuff you actually own until you try to fit it all into boxes and move it somewhere new.
When you are packing up your things to relocate, here are some helpful tips to make your moving experience much easier:
Start Packing In Advance
You don't have to wait until the day before you move to start packing everything in your house!
As soon as you find out that you are moving, you can start packing the items you don’t often use, such as your seasonal decorations, photo albums and family keepsakes.
If you pack a few items per week, you’ll have almost everything packed by the time you are ready to go except for the essentials you use every day.
Establish A System
Rather than randomly throwing every item you see into a box, think ahead and create a logical plan for your packing.
Before you start, develop a simple record-keeping system.
Give every box you pack a number and write a corresponding list detailing the items in that box.
This way, when you arrive you will know exactly where to find each item.
Stay Organized
You will want to keep all of the items from each area of the house together so they can be unpacked easily.
For example, keep all of the boxes of kitchen supplies together and then put them straight into the kitchen when you arrive at your new home.
You could even designate a color for each room in the house and put colored stickers on the boxes so that the movers or anyone helping you can easily determine in which room a box belongs.
Bonus Tip: Sometimes Less Is More
One final consideration that can make your move easier is to use your move as an opportunity to pare down your unused belongings.
Plus, you won't be left wondering why you decided to move things from one home to another once you start unpacking.
As with many things, the more organized you are when packing, the less stressful it will be when you arrive and at your new house.

LOVELY ON LANCASTER!

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Enjoy the privacy of being on the corner lot at the end of the cul-de-sac in this stunning immaculate brick 1-level home. Or just relax on your private screened porch surrounded by trees on 2 sides. The porch overlooks the tranquil courtyard & gardens. Upgrades include: gas fireplace with marble surround plantation blinds; warm inviting burled wood laminate flooring. Remodeled kitchen including new countertops, stainless appliances, double sink & disposal. Neighborhood pool, gym and clubhouse.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

ITS TAX TIME

Is Your Home Office Tax Deductible?

You can deduct certain expenses if your home office is the principal place where your trade or business is conducted or where you meet and deal with clients or patients in the course of your business. Your home office will qualify as your principal place of business if you use it exclusively and regularly for the administrative or management activ- ities associated with your trade or business. There must be no other fixed place where you conduct substantial administrative or management activities.

Generally, the amount you can deduct depends on the percentage of your home used for business. Your deduction will be limited if your gross income from your business is less than your total business expenses.

Here are some basic facts to consider if you work at home:

• A home office may qualify for deductions if you use it for administrative or management activities of your trade or business if there is no other fixed location to conduct such activities.
• The home office deduction is available to you whether you rent or own.
• If you rent, figuring your home office deduction is relatively simple. Just multiply your annual rent payment by the percentage of the total space occupied by the office. That prorated portion can also be applied to utilities, insurance, repairs and maintenance.
• There are limitations to home office deductions based on your income. The taxpayer must be able to itemize deductions, using Schedule A. The home office deductions - along with other miscellaneous deductions - must exceed 2% of your adjusted gross income.
• If home office deductions exceed net self-employment income, those deductions may be carried forward to the next year, again, only if the self-employed has sufficient net income.
• For telecommuters, the business use of an employee's home must be for the convenience of the employer, and the employee must not be renting the office space to the employer.

5 Tips on Understanding Home-Office Deductions Take advantage of every legal opportunity to reduce your taxes. Recent changes in the law benefit business owners who use their homes as an administrative and management base but work at other locations. Ask your tax professional to analyze your business regularly so you don't miss important deductions. Document deductible items. These usually include such costs as computers and other equipment, telephone charges, furnishings, and prorated portions of rent, utilities and home insurance. You may not deduct expenses for lawn care or those related to rooms not used for business. If you are a homeowner, discuss with your tax advisor whether or not to take a depreciation deduction for the office space. For detailed information, go to the Internal Revenue Service website, and download IRS Publication 587, Business Use of Your Home. Back to the Top

If You've Got It, Deduct It... Maybe Running a home-based business can offer many beneficial tax deductions that other businesses sometimes may not claim. Unfortunately, too many small business owners end up paying extra taxes every year because they are unaware of several small business deductions that are available. Each business may be different, however, so be sure to discuss any possible deductions with your tax advisor or accountant. If you join any business or purchase into any franchise, the expenses, such as kits or franchise fees, may be claimed as deductions. Be sure to save all receipts for any supplies you purchase for your business use. Computer paper, business cards, pens, catalogs, or any other items you purchase and use for your business. Most advertising and giveaways can be claimed on your taxes. Keep all receipts for any newspaper ads or any advertising you do online. If you have a phone line or internet connection for business use, save all receipts for each bill paid. If you incur fees from customers' bounced checks, those amounts may be deductible. Be sure to keep the returned check, the letter from your bank and your bank statement to show the fees you were charged. Keep receipts for all shipping supplies and postage. Computers, copiers and fax machines may also be deductible.

CASUAL ELEGANCE IN PALMERS RIDGE!

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Casual elegance best describes this exceptional home located on the golf course in Palmers Ridge. Indoor and outdoor spaces are perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The top of the line finishes include Travertine tile flooring, multi-piece moldings, Pella vinyl clad windows and doors, stone fireplaces, custom cabinetry, wet bar with granite top and Bose surround sound system. The gourmet kitchen features gorgeous granite countertops, island, exceptional cabinetry (some with glass fronts for displays), built-in refrigerator, Asko dishwasher and DCS commercial grade double oven and six burner/griddle cook top. The fine quality of the upper level continues to the lower level of the home with trey ceilings and steam shower. Enjoy the golf course setting from the 6-person Jacuzzi hot tub under a covered cypress trellis, the covered back porch with speakers and ceiling fans or the lower level patio. The mature landscaping is gorgeous with landscape lighting and is easily maintained by the irrigation system.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

DYNAMITE IN DAR RIDGE!

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Enjoy a quiet, rural neighborhood (horse stables nearby) that is only 15 minutes from medical centers. A great neighborhood for walking visiting with other medical residents that live in the neighborhood Enjoy a cookout on the spacious & well maintained deck overlooking level back lawn. Stunning hardwood floors, open floor plan, lots of natural light, surround sound in living room, vaulted ceilings & lovely decor. Garden tub & separate shower in master bath. All appliances remain including refrigerator, range, washer & dryer -- just move right in and enjoy.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

PERFECT ON POPE LANE!

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Enjoy a beautiful Sedge Garden home tucked among the hardwood trees. Updates include: fresh interior paint; new carpet; ceramic tile in all baths & entry foyer; laminate flooring in kitchen & dining room; replacement windows. Main level bedroom & adjacent full bath is perfect for guests. Both upper level bedrooms have en-suite baths & walk-in closets. Large living room with wood burning fireplace. The kitchen has been updated in the French Country style. Quiet cul-de-sac only 4 miles to I40 & Caterpillar.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Why Buying Real Estate Can Be A Smart Financial Move

Buying real estate doesn't just give you a place to live; it can also be a very smart financial move.

This is because owning a home can be like having a forced savings account, which you are committed to for the long term.

Consistent Saving On Autopilot

Sometimes saving money on our own each month is difficult. It takes a lot of discipline to maintain a consistent savings plan.

However, paying your mortgage every month means that you are paying down the principal and working toward eventually owning the property outright.

In the early years of the mortgage, the payments will go primarily to the interest on the loan.

But over time, the portion of your payment dedicated to principle increases, which accelerates paying off the entire mortgage.

Make Yourself Wealthy Instead Of Your Landlord

In the long term, owning your own home may be a much better financial arrangement than renting a home. No matter how long you pay monthly rent, you will never own the real estate that you are living in.

When you are renting your home, it may also be possible for your landlord to increase your rent every year.

On the other hand, paying a mortgage on your real estate means that every month you get closer to owning the home.

In fact, most home mortgage lenders offer a fixed interest rate mortgage. This gives you a sense of control over how much you are paying every month, year to year. 

In a fixed rate mortgage, every mortgage payment pays down a portion of the principle on your mortgage loan.  In many cases this builds equity in your property and increases your net worth.

It's a good idea to check with a professional mortgage lender to get an idea of the most up-to-date programs available.

Real Estate May Increase In Value Over Time

Over the years, your home might appreciate in value. Many experts say that the average home value increase each year over longer stretches of time, although this will vary according to the area you live in, the current economy and other factors.

Your home’s value may very well fluctuate throughout the years, but history has shown that over the long term, buying a home can be a very beneficial financial decision.

Understanding the benefits of home ownership, including the potential financial upside of purchasing your own home, can be an excellent way to further your overall personal financial plan. 

 

Where is Pam this Sunday? She is planning an Open House on Sunday February 17th 2013 from 2-4 pm!

Click here to view this property's website

This exceptional home is beautifully appointed and features 2 main level master suites & private guest quarters on the upper level. Gourmet kitchen with 2-drawer dishwasher, microwave drawer, 5-burner gas cook top & dining bar. Stunning Charleston style courtyard with covered porch, fountain, outdoor kitchen, brick & wrought iron privacy fencing & landscape lighting offering a whole new dimension to outdoor living! Membership initiation fee ($4834) is included in price. Heated and cooled 3-bay garage.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. If you aren’t available to visit on Sunday, we can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Over 70% Of US Metro Market Housing Markets Improve In February

The National Association of Homebuilders recently released its Improving Markets Index for the month of February.

The report attempts to identify U.S. metropolitan areas in which the economy is improving, demonstrating "measurable and sustained growth".

259 U.S. markets are qualified as "improving" this month, a 17-market jump from the month prior and includes participants from all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia.

Experts point to improving market conditions in at least one market in all 50 states as a strong indication that the housing recovery is gaining substantial momentum.

This increasing momentum may suggest that now may be a very good time to purchase a home.

Compared to September 2011, when there were just 12 improving metro market areas, the widespread positive movement indicates how conditions are steadily improving nationwide.

So what qualifies a market as "improving"? The NAHB uses strict criteria.

First, the group gathers data from the three separate, independent sources :

1. Employment growth from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Housing price appreciation from Freddie Mac
3. Single-family housing permits growth from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Next, for each of the above data sets, the National Association of Homebuilders separates for local data in each U.S. major metropolitan area.

And, lastly, armed with data, the NAHB looks for areas in which growth has occurred for all three data points for six consecutive months; and for which the most recent "bottom" is at least six months in the past.

In this way, the Improving Market Index doesn't just measure housing market strength -- it measures general economic strength.

Of the 22 markets added to the Improving Market Index in November, the following cities were included : Chico, California; Columbus, Georgia; Fort Wayne, Indiana; Topeka, Kansas; and Wenatchee, Washington.

Several markets dropped off the list, too, including Champaign, Illinois; Lebanon, Pennsylvania; and Amarillo, Texas.

The complete list of 259 metropolitan areas on February's IMI, plus breakouts of the metropolitan areas newly added and dropped is available online at http://www.nahb.org/imi.

Why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day?

 

There are a few different legends about the origin of Valentine’s Day, though they seem to agree it started with a man named Valentine or Valentinos.

 According to one legend he was arrested for helping Christians escape from the persecution of the Romans.  He was in love with a girl, who may have been his jailer’s daughter.  While in prison, he sent her a letter signed “from your Valentine”.

 In another legend, he was a priest during the third century in Rome.  At the time the emperor thought single soldiers were better than married ones.  So he outlawed marriage for young men.  The priest, Valentine, continued to marry young lovers in secret.

 Regardless of his true past, the one thing all the legends agree on is that he was a Christian martyr, who was later named a saint.  He is basically considered the patron saint of love.  Valentine’s Day is his feast day. 

 

Happy Valentine's Day from Pam Boyle & Associates

5 Power Saving Ideas That Can Lower Your Energy Bill

How to Save Money on Energy Costs in Your Home

Many communities in US are seeing their energy costs increase; sometimes dramatically.

Whether you are energy conscious or just trying to save money, there are many steps you can take to lower your home bills while helping the environment at the same time.

Below are several energy-saving measures to help you save money either in your current house or future residence. 

Heating and cooling

Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature uses more energy than anything else.

To save energy, install a programmable thermostat to adjust the inside temperature when you are not there for long periods of time.

Seal windows and doors to prevent air leaks, and close doors and air vents to rooms that are not often used.

Changing filters in your heating system monthly can also help it run more efficiently, with the added bonus of increasing the air quality in your home.

Water heaters

Heating water is usually the second highest energy expense. To cut costs, set the hot water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Wrap older hot water heaters with an insulation jacket and insulate the piping leaving the water heater to prevent heat loss.

Appliances

Invest in appliances with the ENERGY STAR® rating. These appliances use less energy to run and will save money.

Cleaning the coils on the back of your refrigerator will help it run more efficiently.

Washing full loads of clothes on cooler settings and keeping your dryer vent clean will also save on energy costs.

Lighting

Besides turning lights out when leaving a room, use compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). These bulbs use less energy and can last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

Insulation

Improperly insulated houses mean high energy costs. If the attic is easily accessible, check and replace insufficient insulation to keep your living space at a more comfortable temperature.

By making energy-efficient choices you can save electricity without giving up the comforts of home.  Plus, with a little extra effort these simple tips might add more money to your month as well!

Why Pinterest? Why not?

Are you on Pinterest?  Almost 12 million people are.  Although it was created in 2010, Pinterest really didn’t grow in popularity until early 2012.  Then it virtually exploded!  Today Pinterest is the number three social media site behind Facebook and Twitter.  And, although 80 percent of the fans are women and the largest demographic is the 23 to 45 age group, new personal and business users are joining every day.

So what is Pinterest?  Pinterest has been defined as a virtual pinboard.  On this social networking site you as a user can collect photos as well as link to products.  You can browse boards created by other people to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests.  You’re able to organize and share everything you find on the web.  The collections of photos or videos can be interesting, informative, beautiful, funny, helpful or inspiring.  It’s a simple and easy way to collect things you are interested in, categorize them and save them all in one place – or on one board.

Most people use Pinterest to find inspiration, whether getting married, decorating their home, seeking household tips and DIY ideas or just looking for a recipe for dinner.  In my case, for example, a friend encouraged me to try Pinterest because I was thinking of remodeling my kitchen.  I was looking for ideas and a place to keep pictures of kitchens and kitchen components that I really liked.  Hence my first board was created, “My New Kitchen”.

The biggest appeal for Pinterest is obviously the visuals and they’re the reason for the site’s rapid popularity.  A picture remains worth a thousand words! Photos with little or no text are a great way to catch a person’s attention, inform, share and provide viral content.  This has proven perfect for both personal and professional use.

Today, more and more businesses both big and small, have embraced Pinterest.   They discovered that Pinterest can be used for marketing products and services that are very different from other social media sites.  Because Pinterest provides both a picture and the ability to link to a website, its uses for commerce are innovative and exciting.  It is a way to continue to build brand identity and develop relationships.  Pinterest actually generates more referral traffic to websites than YouTube, Google+ and LinkedIn combined.  Just check out a few of the brands you’ll find on Pinterest:  GAP, Whole Foods, HGTV, ABC, Disney World, Volvo, Pillsbury, Lowe’s, IKEA, Gucci, Golf Galaxy, Martha Stewart and Allen Tate Company.

So whether you are looking for a simple centerpiece for your next dinner party or the newest way to market your business, you may want to try Pinterest.

Check out our Pinterest boards for ideas and inspiration on home decorating, design, regional attractions and more.

 By Judy Kendall – Guest Blogger

LOVELY IN LEWISVILLE!

Click here to view this property's website

Immaculate amazing Southern Living style home in Dryden Park. Incredible open floor plan with 18' ceilings & stone fireplace in living room. Impressive kitchen with custom cabinets. Double tray ceiling and sitting room in master suite. Large dining room with columns. Gorgeous, terraced back yard with screened room and patio--the perfect, peaceful spot for that cup of morning coffee or a great place to unwind in the evening. Fabulous schools.

If you want to take a tour, just let me know at 336-682-7653 or sold@pamboyle. We can schedule an appointment at your convenience.