North Idaho Janna

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Independence Day, did you know?

Here's wishing you all a wonderful Independence Day celebratory weekend! 

Via Andrea Swiedler (Prudential Adams & Associates, REALTORS):

Independence Day, did you know?

Declaration of Independence

Most of the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence on July 2, 1776.

The Continental Congress ratified the document on July 4, 1776.

Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were the only 2 men to sign the Declaration of Independence and become President.


Both Adams and Jefferson died on the same day, July 4, 1826. This date happened to be the 50th anniversary of the United States.

The Bristol Rhode Island 4th of July Parade is the oldest continuous parade held in the United States, the first being in 1785.

In 1779 July 4th fell on a Sunday, it was moved to July 5th.


In 1870 congress made Independence Day an unpaid holiday for federal workers.

In 1938 congress made Independence Day a paid holiday for federal workers.

What is considered to be the most famous and quoted line of the Declaration of Independence?

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

This is truly an amazing concept. If everyone in the world lived by this tenet things would be very different. At the very least we here in the United States should live by this since it is the basis of our Constitution, the reason for our independence.

Have a wonderful Independence Day, go to the fireworks, watch the parades, play games, celebrate with friends and family, enjoy wonderful food. You will only be doing what John Adams predicted, although he was 2 days off on his prediction. On July 3, 1776, the day after most had signed the original Declaration of Independence, Mr. Adams wrote this tohis wife Abigail:

"I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival.  It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty.  It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."

Flags



Are you looking to buy a home or sell a home in the greater New Milford area? Please contact me or visit my website to find out more.

Homes for sale, greater New Milford CT.

Local area information, New Milford, Washington, Roxbury, Kent, Bridgewater, Sherman and Warren. Why you should be looking for a home here!

© 2009 Andrea Swiedler. Unless otherwise noted, the content, both written and in pictures, is the property of Andrea Swiedler. If you wish to use something you see here, please email me (andrea@andreswiedler.com) with your request. Most likely I will oblige, with a link back to my original content as well as an acknowledgment. Although imitation is the highest form of flattery, please let me know before you decide to bestow this form of flattery on me! Thank you.

 

FIRE SALE! Riverstone Auction Postponed, Starting Bids Lowered Dramatically!

There has been a lot of buzz around town about the big auction of luxury condos at the beautiful Riverstone  development.  Last month I posted the first press release about the auction.  The original date set for earlier this month was pushed back, and I just received a email flyer that announced the starting bids have been drastically reduced.  If you or someone you know would like a great investment property at fire sale prices, please give me a call.  This is an unfortunate sign of the times, and of bad timing and over-building.  Nevertheless, Riverstone is a class development in a stellar location and A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE! 

Riverstone Condo Auction Coeur d'Alene

 

Just a few days left to win a new house in The Really BIG Raffle!

I would like to put a shout out for North Idaho College's Really BIG Raffle.  I blogged  about this great charitable event several months ago.  With just a few days remaining to purchase tickets, they are about 600 short of selling out their 5000 tickets. 

Really BIG Raffle House  

Here's a YouTube Video

For just $100 you can have a 1 in 5000 chance to win a beautiful new home, while making a donation to a great cause!  There are other fabulous prizes as well, which, among other things, include a new car and a new boat! Check out the website  for more information about the house, the prizes and the NIC Charitable Foundation.      

 

Really BIG Raffle Drawing
July 8, 2009
7 p.m.
NIC Campus - Ft. Sherman Park

 The drawing for the 16th annual Really BIG Raffle takes place outdoors on the lawn of the Ft. Sherman park on campus.  Bring your lawn chairs and possibly your umbrellas as this is a rain or shine event.  Live music begins at 5:30 p.m. and food and beverage will be available for purchase at the NIC Foodservices concessions at the event.  We typically have over 2,000 people in attendance, please keep in mind you may experience delays finding parking and leaving the event.  The only prizes ticketholders need to be present at the drawing for are Bonus Prizes, all other winners not in attendance will be called the night of the drawing.

BONUS ENTRY 5 p.m. - 7p.m.
Ticket holders will need to bring their ticket stubs to the drawing to enter in for BONUS PRIZES.  Drop your stubs in the entry near the START HERE banner anytime between 5:00 and 7:00. 
The drawing starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. and late entries are not accepted.
 

This year's Bonus Prizes include:
Two Night Bed and Breakfast Stay with any North Idaho Bed and Breakfast Association Member
Clearwater River Co. Guided Day Fishing Trip
Full Auto Detail at Lake City Ford
Taryn Hecker Photography Family Portrait Package
Dinner for Four at Wolf Lodge Steakhouse

There are also some great DOOR PRIZES available to all who attend.  This year's Door Prizes include:

DeWalt XRP Heavy Duty 18V Cordless Drill Driver
Live Plant from Northland Nursery
GW Hunters Restaurant $25 Gift Card
Ciao Mambo Italian Restaurant $25 Gift Card and T-Shirt
MacKenzie River Pizza Company $25 Gift Card and Sports Bottle
Michael D's Eatery $25 Gift Certificate

A Coeur d'Alene Ironman Morning!

WOW!  I set out this morning around 6:00 am to watch the swimmers take off from City Beach.  Of course, Ironmanroads were blocked, closed, traffic diverted, throngs of people...  By the time I found somewhere to park, walked for several blocks, went under barricades, I got to Independence Point after the last of the swimmers had taken the plunge. The skies were gloomy and it was chilly.  But there was excitement in the air.  And, what's that in the air, too? At least there were no crowds blocking my view straight UP!

Ironman

I was finally able to infiltrate the crowd on the banks of the lake to catch a glimpse of the last wave of swimmers as they headed out. 

Pretty awesome sight.  Then then the announcer announced that the first pro swimmer was just about to finish.  He is the guy in a charcoal colored wet suit, a blur in the photo right where the water hists the sand, in front of a big orange inflatable triangle.  The crowd roared as a man from Hawaii climbed out of the water and headed for the transition area.  This was the first time of hundreds in the next few hours that I realized these guys are MOVING FASTER than my camera can keep up with!

IronmanIronman

I moved through the crowds to the transition area, where the swimmers have their wetsuits peeled off by volunteers, then race to their bikes, put on their shoes and head out for their 112 mile bike ride through the lovely scenery of North Idaho.  I realized two things - #1, I am too short to get good pictures because I can barely see over the barricades.  #2, I need to figure out how to get a Press Pass next year!  But, as always, I am able to get great views of the helicopters above!

Ironman

Ironman

Ironman

IronmanIronman

Ironman

I took about a zillion of pictures like the one above, trying to capture the bikers in my frame as they sped past!  Oops, too late!  Again, and again, and again.  Eventually I got it figured out. Get in front of them!

Ironman

Ironman

Skyline Meadows

 

I took a break and maneuvered the diverted streets to go get some pictures at two of my newest listings.  I have been waiting for pretty blue skies all week, and had no choice but to go get pictures with gray skies.  Geesh.....

Slice of Heaven

 

 

 

 

As I found a road that was open that would eventually lead to my office, I found another vantage point for a few more photos.  By this time these riders heading towards the left of the photo had already finished almost half of their 112 mile bike ride!  I loved being able to see their expressions.  Some were focused and oblivious to all of the spectators.  Others would smile as they passed by.

Ironman Ironman

 

Ironman

Ironman

Ironman

I am off to find my son Derek at the CHS Cross Country Team's aid station at Blackwell Hill.  Check back for the next installment of the Coeur d'Alene Ford Ironman Triathlon!

Seller's Loss is Your Gain on this SHORT SALE in Skyline Meadows.

Photo Gallery
Comfortable Floor Plan
Kitchen
Living room
Lovely Bath With Double Vanity
Rear Loading Garage
Neighborhood Parks
Beautiful Development
Waterfront Community
Description
Seller's loss is your gain on this wonderful short sale opportunity. Here's an affordable three bedroom Craftsman style ranch home in Skyline Meadows offered for much less than Seller paid just 3 years ago. Walk to Radiant Lake, and enjoy a peaceful setting. Imagine being surrounded by scenic vistas in an expertly planned neighborhood set in a beautiful waterfront community. Located in extremely desirable Lakeland School District. The home boasts many nice amenities including a vaulted master bedroom with a walk-in closet and an oversized garden tub. There is room for everyone with separate living and family rooms. The open kitchen features beautiful Huntwood cabinets and a walk-in pantry. The home has been pre-wired for surround sound speakers and central vac. Outside you'll find a rear-loading double garage with alley access, and a landscaped front yard with an inground sprinkler system installed. If you haven't owned a home in the past three years, UNCLE SAM will pay you $8000 to buy this one! If you are renting, you could quite possibly be able to enjoy all the financial advantages of home ownership in this great community for less than what you are paying in rent! Please call me if you would like to learn more about how the short sale process works, or how you can benefit from the $8000 tax credit. I would love to give you a personal tour of this great home, answer your questions, or assist you in any way that I can.
Features
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Year Built: 2006
Subdivision: Skyline Meadows
Lot Size: 0.21 Acre
Garage Size: 2
School District: Lakeland-272
Square Footage: 1600
Agent Name: Janna Scharf
Broker: Keller williams Realty
MLS #: 09-7639
Location
Powered by vFlyer.comvFlyer Id: 2596915

A picture perfect day in Cataldo, Idaho

It seems lately that I often find myself driving along past incredible scenery on my way here and there, to and fro.  Sometimes, like yesterday, I just have to stop the car and take a picture!  I'm not sure what this body of water is, but it is somewhere near Cataldo, Idaho, just north of I-90.  My teenage son Derek and I were taking a little day trip to Mullan and back, to take photos for a BPO.  It seemed like a good excuse for a pleasant afternoon in the mountains, seeing some touristy sights.  That's how I happened to be driving along this beautiful spot. 

I am going to go back later this summer when the gazillions of pussy willows are in bloom, or whatever it is you call what pussy willows do.  What a beautiful world we live in, and how blessed I am to call North Idaho home!

Cataldo, Idaho

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

Wordless Wednesday ~ 35 Years Ago, WOW, What a ride!

35th Anniversary

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

It's a Car d'Lane classic weekend in Coeur d'Alene!

Last night's Car d'Lane cruise was spectacular!  Click on the link for the full story in today's paper.  It's another magnificent day in beautiful Coeur d'Alene, and the fun continues with a classic car show and other activities downtown from 8:00 to 4:00.  Good times! 

 Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

Here's your chance to live on Avondale Golf Course at an AFFORDABLE price!

Photo Gallery
Nice Deck at Entrance
Front Yard Privacy
Cheerful Kitchen
Drop-Down Shelves
Spacious
Lots of Storage Including Pantry
Sliding Doors to Outdoor Living Space
Custom Built-in Cabinets
Etched Glass Window Detail
View Into Living Room
Natural Light, Beautiful Views!
Main Level Bedroom
Main Level Bath with Walk-in Shower
Lighted Closets with Organizers
Upstairs Full Bath
Attic Storage Access Doors
Back Yard Garden Shed
Garden Shed
Wonderful Outdoor Living Space
Avondale 6th Fairway
Private Back Yard
Heater in Garage
All Appliances Are Included
Breathtaking Scenic Golf Course
Lovely Avondale Lake
Description
Here's a charming and AFFORDABLE bungalow right on the 6th fairway of scenic Avondale Golf Course. Your back yard is a 6,600 yard, 18 hole course is known for its natural beauty and stunning water features! Hop on the cart path right at your property line and cruise to the club house or Avondale Lake. The best part for you is that there are NO HOA dues to pay, or membership fees required! For out-of-state golfers looking for a vacation home in beautiful north Idaho, snowbirds, or locals looking to invest in a guest house for summer visitors, here's your opportunity! This great little home is filled with charm. It's surrounded by exclusive homes and gated neighborhoods. There are three bedrooms and two full baths. All appliances are included in the purchase, including the refrigerator and washer & dryer. The oversized double garage is heated and wired for use as a year 'round workshop. There's space for parking your RV or boat on a gravel pad beside the garage. The oversized deck is piped with a gas line for your grill! A back yard garden shed and inground sprinkler system make it a pleasure to putter in the flower beds. Topped off with a low maintenance metal roof and central air, this sweet & petite home is move-in ready. Give me a call today before someone else snaps this little cutie up!
Features
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Year Built: 1988
Subdivision: Avondale on Hayden
Lot Size: .21 Acre
Garage Size: 2+ Car
School District: 271
Square Footage: 1236
Agent Name: Janna R. Scharf
Broker: Peggy Sawicki
MLS #: 09-5678
Abuts: Avondale Golf Course
Garage: Oversized & Heated
Location
Powered by vFlyer.comvFlyer Id: 2498872

Build your North Idaho Dream Home Under the Timbers with VIEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Coeur d'Alene 1.8 Acres CLOSE IN with STUNNING Lake Views
Main Photo
Location: Dalton Gardens, ID
No need to go out to the boonies for privacy and beauty! This lovely wooded parcel has million dollar views, yet it is convenient to everywhere you need to be. It's one of just a handful of homesites on Canfield Mountain, where the views go on forever. A well maintained private, gated road is the only access to the mountain. This provides you with the seclusion you desire. It's rare to find a beautiful parcel set in the tall timbers, with breathtaking views and southern exposure, but so close to schools and shopping. The well, cable, septic and electricity are in. This exceptional acreage stands ready to receive the home of your dreams. You knew something better was out there. You were right. Here it is! Call me today to get the ball rolling. Here's an opportunity to own the best North Idaho has to offer. Live your dream!
Information
Contact Information
Pricing
Price: $175,000.00
Additional Pricing Information: Additional parcels are available, call for more information.
Property Location
E Erickson Drive
Dalton Gardens, ID 83815
View Map
Features
Acreage: 1.82
Zoning: Residential
Sewerage: Yes
Water: Yes
School District: Coeur d'Alene 271
Agent Name: Janna Rankin Scharf
Broker: Keller Williams Realty
MLS #: 09-3284
Photo Gallery

How will you choose between your FISHING POLE and your GOLF CLUBS?

Avondale Lake out your back door, golf course out your front!
Main Photo
Location: Avondale
Live the north Idaho lifestyle in this daylight rancher with Avondale Golf Course out your front door and Avondale Lake out your back! Some of the best water views on the lake, and 125 feet of water frontage. Designed for gracious living with beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings and stunning views from EVERY ROOM. Spend your mornings on the golf course and your afternoons on the lake, and never get in your car!

The Main level features a dramatic vaulted entry with big windows overlooking the golf course. A large Living area affords incredible views of the lake. A gas fireplace will warm you on chilly nights. Even the kitchen window frames a golf course view! Enjoy lovely stainless appliances, including a gas range. Custom cabinetry with Lazy Susans in the corners and base cabinet pull-outs. There is a formal dining room which could also serve as a study or sitting room. The master suite is located on the main level and features a slider to the deck. The shower is huge and the double vanity has his & hers sinks and storage cabinets with roll up doors. You'll have a hard time filling the oversized walk-in closet. A main level laundry has beautiful cabinetry on three walls, including two pantry closets with pull-out shelves. Choose either gas or electricity for your dryer, and look out to the golf course as you fold your clothes!

Downstairs, there's a big family room with full sized wet bar. Your party can overflow through sliding doors out onto the big covered patio overlooking the lake. A second gas fireplace will take the chill out of those winter nights. Two more bedrooms and a full bath round out this living area.

A double garage is oversized, at 900+ sq. ft. The home is wired to run on a generator if need be. There is a security system and central air. You may install a dock, and may operate any type of non-motorized boat on the lake. The fishing is awesome! Membership in semi-private Avondale Golf Club is available. No HOA dues, and LOW TAXES. Please call me for a tour of this one-of-a-kind North Idaho Lifestyle home!

Information
Pricing
Price: $675,000
Property Location
10846 N. Avondale Loop Road
Hayden Lake, ID 83835
View Map
Features
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.5
Year Built: 2006
Subdivision: Avondale
Garage Size: 2+
School District: 271
Square Footage: 3394
Agent Name: Janna Rankin Scharf
Broker: Peggy Sawicki
MLS #: 09-6534
Lake Frontage: 125 Feet
Abuts: Avondale Lake
Attributes
Appliances
Range/Oven
Dishwasher
Sink Disposal
Microwave
Interior Amenities
Fireplace
Hardwood Floors
Wet Bar
Security System
Vaulted Ceilings
Basement
Breakfast Bar
Exterior Amenities
Patio
Grass Lawn
Deck
Sprinklers
Photo Gallery

Here's a Bonners Ferry Square Log BEAUTY!

Hand-wrought Timber Frame Square Log BEAUTY!
Main Photo
Location: Bonners Ferry, ID
You will think you have come to the end of the world, but you are just 3 miles from downtown Bonners Ferry! This upscale creative retreat gives new meaning to peace and serenity. No sight or sound of civilization, just the call of the wild and views that will knock your socks off!

Located at the end of a private, gated road, this beautiful home was constructed of square, blue pine logs in the Appalachian style. Foam insulation has been placed between the logs for superior insulation. The timber frame detail with tongue & groove vaulted ceilings is truly awe inspiring. The entire upstairs is the master suite with incredible views a large covered deck for outdoor creative repose.

Constructed with impeccable attention to detail, this is a wonderful creative retreat. Your eleven acres are surrounded by rugged, snow-capped mountain peaks in every direction. Several acres have been cleared, and it seems as if you are living in a wonderful park at the edge of the wilderness.

Acreage can be split if desired, and is eligible for a timber tax exemption. This exceptional property is the canvas on which to paint your dreams. It stands ready for your vision. Give me a call for your personal tour today!
Information
Pricing
Price: $529,000.00
Property Location
343 Lightning Lane
Bonners Ferry, ID 83805
View Map
Features
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
Year Built: 2005
Lot Size: 11 Acres
Garage Size: 30x30
School District: Bonners Ferry
Square Footage: 1580
Agent Name: Janna Scharf
Broker: Peggy Sawicki
MLS #: 09-6336
Attributes
Appliances
Range/Oven
Full Refrigerator
Washer/Dryer
Dishwasher
Sink Disposal
Microwave
Pantry
Interior Amenities
Hardwood Floors
Kitchen Island
Vaulted Ceilings
Square Log Construction
Timber Frame Construction
Exterior Amenities
Grass Lawn
Secluded setting
Deck
30x30 Heated Garage/Shop
Photo Gallery

Wordless Wednesday, Just a Little Late!

20 Acre Slice of Heaven

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com  

A Blast From the Past - 10% Interest Rates!

This past week I have been in the process of moving across town.  I have found that something interesting happens during a move - things surface that I haven't seen for years!  The other day I was sifting through books, and came across a paperback with interest rates and mortgage payment tables.

A blast from the past in general, because nowadays we just get online to a quick mortgage calculator and plug in your numbers, click, and there is your 30 year amortization table as quick as a wink. 

I did a double take as I checked out this book that had been my handy resource in the past.  It contained interest rate tables with the LOWEST interest rate of 10%, all the way up to 22%! It stunned me for a minute, and my mind went back to those good old days. 

When we bought our first house in 1979, a friend of mind commented that he was going to wait until the rates went down before buying.  I thought of him often over the next few years as rates soared up to 20%. 

The thought that struck me was that we are infinitely better off today than when we were in a period of interest rates approaching 20%, while doing business with paper back loan tables instead of efficient high tech resources.

I have recently heard grumblings and warnings about interest rates rising above (GASP!) 6%.  Come on, let's put things in perspective! I'll even loan you my old paperback for a quick reality check. This REALLY is a great time to be a home buyer.  Historically low interest rates and market-adjusted home prices make for great values.  Give me a call if I can help you obtain your piece of the American Dream!

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

So You Think You Know The Mortgage Industry

I love Ken "Yes You Can" Cook's tag line, but I also loved this post he wrote about the mortgage industry and interest rates in general.  Very wise advice in this post, so I am reblogging it for your enlightenment!

Via Novation Mortgage:

Mortgage Interest Rates - the rideAnyone who thinks they know the mortgage industry - especially well enough to predict it - is like someone saying they know which star has a planet in orbit that can support human life. Seriously, everything anyone knew about the mortgage industry just six months ago is completely different today.

Yesterday, May 27, 2009, interest rates at par went from about 4.75% to a par at about 5.25% between lunch and five PM eastern. Did anyone see it coming? Well, the indicators were there that's for sure so some people did call it. Many completely blew it like Dan Green who wrote on his blog on May 14, and I quote, "I am predicting that rates will decrease over the next 30 days." Oops.

Not to make an example of Dan but if you read his blog you would think he is a pretty sharp individual and his website certainly gives the impression that he is a consummate professional worthy of trust.

Well - he missed it. Either way I would have never predicted rates decreasing over the 30 day period between May 14 and June 14 and I don't know of anyone in my national mortgage professionals groups who would have. But this is an example to show you that even people who look, sound and act like they know exactly what they are talking about. (Insert big honking buzzer sound here.)

Recently there was a big flap over some things Lenn Harley wrote about pre-qualifying her customers. I can see how she riled a few and ruffled a few feathers but I still believe what she was saying was she doesn't want to waste her time with people she believes to not be qualified. On the broad spectrum that may be okay but when it gets down to actually getting an approval from a lender there are multiple factors examined and weighted algorithms applied. In fact I am often surprised when certain borrowers are approved and flabbergasted when others are not approved.

Every day, literally every day, something changes in underwriting guidelines or lender overlays. Even the underwriting engines, the automated decisions making software, are tweaked and changed every day. Nobody - not one person - whether they have 3 days or 30 years in the mortgage industry can know for certain if an apparently qualified median borrower will be approved or denied until they have exhausted the correct protocol. Just having 800 plus credit scores is not all you need, just having the right income or reserves is not all you need. Even combining 800+ scores, good income and good assets is not all you need.

Now you can even factor in the HVCC and the wild results overstressed, underpaid appraisers are likely to bring to the table. And who knows when that will change? Not me and not you.

Follow Novation Mortgage on Twitter

 

Patriotic Retirement Plan Would Solve the Nation's Woes

This Email forward is making it's rounds.  Cute, but actually it makes so much more sense than anything we've seen happening with the bail out plan....  Which is why it would never, ever come to pass!

flag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Call it the Patriotic Retirement Plan:

There are about 40 million people over 50 in the work force.

Pay them $1 million apiece tax-free severance for early retirement with the following
stipulations:

1) They MUST retire.  Forty million job openings - Unemployment fixed.

2) They MUST buy a new American CAR.  Forty million cars ordered - Auto Industry fixed.

3 They MUST either buy a house or pay off their mortgage - Housing Crisis fixed.

It can't get any easier than that!

If more money is needed, have all members of Congress pay taxes...

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

Speechless Sunday ~ I live in a post card!

Coeur d'Alene River

I took a topless Sunday drive this perfect spring afternoon with my husband Rick, south along the Coeur d'Alene River down to Saint Maries.  At one point I just had to stop my convertible to take this picture!

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

Look for her

I was intrigued by the title of this post from my home building, short sale buying, blogging friend Kevin Robinson in Twin Falls.  I decided to see who he said to look for, and I couldn't believe who I found!  I knew there must have been a good reason I liked him so much!

Via Kevin Robinson ~I buy short sales (Crownline Home Builders):

As I slowly make my way up the ladder in my home state of Idaho, I like to read both the profiles and blogs by my competitors. It makes for some good reading and I have found that most of the top people in each state are pretty accomplished in their lives. I am a home builder and not an agent so I am kind of an anomaly on AR. Most of my top competitors are real estate agents.

One of the agents who is moving up on me very quickly is Janna Rankin Scharf. She is one of the best agents in Northern Idaho and at the rate she is gaining on me, she will quickly be at the top in our state. For any agents out there who are looking for an agent in Northern Idaho, please consider her. Here is a link to her site on AR: http://activerain.com/jscharf.

 

36 luxury condos in swanky Village at Riverstone to hit the auction block

A sign of the times for sure.  Tough times aren't just for the little guys.  The high end developers are struggling too, and here's a good example.  But it's also a good example of not retreating during the downturn, but instead using a creative and realistic approach to marketing.  I wish them well, and hope that they sell enough units to keep their project moving along, because it is truely a beautiful asset to the community.

COEUR D'ALENE'S VILLAGE AT RIVERSTONE ENTICES AUCTION BIDDERS WITH HUGE POTENTIAL SAVINGS ON 36 LUXURIOUS CONDOS

 COEUR D'ALENE, ID. - Excitement over Coeur d'Alene's first major condo auction is reaching its peak! Beverly Hills-based Kennedy Wilson gears up for a highly anticipated inventory closeout auction of 36 prime condominium residences at the Village at Riverstone. The auction scheduled for June 14 is expected to bring realtors, investors and potential homebuyers from far and wide to CoeurD'Alene, a delightfully trendy town that boasts fresh mountain air, glorious scenic vistas and quality of life most of us can only imagine.

 Minimum Selling Prices begin at an incredibly low $180,000 to $490,000 on brand new, quality built condominiums previously priced from $329,000 to $899,900. The potential savings bidders can realize are exceptional to say the least! Best of all, Kennedy Wilson's proven & popular auction concept gives registered bidders a golden opportunity to land their dream home at a price lower then anyone could expect only one year ago.   All homes will be offered with published reserve prices and without any buyer's premium.  There are also no hidden reserves.

 The June 14 inventory closeout auction at the Village at Riverstone is the first large condominium auction in Coeur D'Alene. The prospect of purchasing designer condos here at reduced pricing has sparked a wave of interest from across the Pacific Northwest and further afield. Rhett Winchell, President of Kennedy Wilson's Auction Group, isn't surprised by the many calls already coming in regarding the Village at Riverstone. "Coeur D'Alene is a recreational paradise attracting skiers, golfers, hikers, anyone who loves nature," says Winchell. "The area represents a new frontier for homebuyers put off by high prices on the west coast - Coeur D'Alene is just 31 miles from Spokane via I-90." Winchell also pointed out that the Village at Riverstone features a people-friendly European Village design, saying "The Coeur D'Alene area is a nice place to visit and you WOULD want to live here!"

 The Village at Riverstone is set within an area of truly spectacular natural beauty. Lake Coeur d'Alene is about a mile away, the Spokane River is within easy walking distance and the entire master-planned community has been constructed around a four acre park and six acre pond. At the same time, residents of the Village at Riverstone enjoy living in what many consider to be the "new downtown" of Coeur d'Alene. Shopping, entertainment and dining options are just steps from residents' doors and convenient highway access is a boon to commuters.

 As for the condominiums themselves, these 1-, 2- and 3- bedroom luxury homes feature six different floor plans that range in size from approximately 792 square feet to 2,002 square feet. Every brand new, solidly constructed unit features 9 foot ceilings, granite counter tops, solid wood cabinetry and premium appliances. Residents also enjoy the safety and convenience of underground parking.

 The Village at Riverstone offers successful bidders an enviable lifestyle at potentially huge savings but it doesn't stop there - the seller, Riverstone Center East LLC, has arranged with Met Life Home Mortgage to offer a wide range of excellent financing programs. Buyers who arrange financing from Met Life and who close escrow within thirty calendar days of the auction are eligible to receive a "Special Incentive": up to $3,000 credited by the seller toward non-recurring closing costs or to buy down interest rates at the close of escrow.

 The Village at Riverstone has got a lot to offer eager home buyers who have been searching for the perfect combination of lifestyle and convenience at an affordable price. The inventory closeout auction on June 14 provides buyers with a stepping stone to savings and much, much more - it's a golden ticket to the good life in one of America's most scenic locations.

 Kennedy Wilson's inventory closeout auction for 36 luxury condominiums at the Village at Riverstone begins at 1:00 pm on Sunday, June 14, 2009 at The Coeur D'Alene Resort, 115 South 2nd St.,Coeur D'Alene, ID 83814. Kennedy Wilson will be hosting a "How to Buy" informational seminar beginning at 12 Noon on Sunday, June 7 at the Village at Riverstone Auction Information Office. Registered bidders can familiarize themselves with the auction process, terms & conditions and registration procedures, closing with a live practice auction. 

An auction web site has been set up for registered bidders who may be unable to attend in person but still want to bid online. To learn more about Kennedy Wilson's online auction access and the auction itself, please visit the Village at Riverstone Auction Information Office, open daily from 10AM to 5PM at 2362 Old Mill Loop, Coeur D'Alene, ID 83813.   Further information is available via the auction website at www.riverstonecdaauction.com

Janna Rankin Scharf provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County, Idaho. Visit www.JannaScharf.com to search for homes in the Coeur d'Alene MLS for anywhere in spectacular North Idaho.

No matter how grand or modest your real estate dreams may be, you can turn to me in confidence.  Give me a call today and let me know what I can do to be of service to you!

Janna Rankin Scharf, AB, GRI, CSP, CNS, CLHMS  208.651.9700  NorthIdahoJanna@gmail.com   

According to.... who? what?

Here's a great post from my farm girl Realtor friend Andrea.  I have personally found that sellers are more realistic in general about the current market conditions.  In fact I saw a report somewhere this weekend that said more than 50% of home owners believe that their home has decreased in value this past year.  But last week I had a seller attempt to justify a too-high price with a 3 year old appraisal....

Via Andrea Swiedler (Prudential Adams & Associates, REALTORS):

question markPrice is accordingly, it should be the new catch phrase. 



Yes, there are a glut of homes that aren't moving. However there are homes that are moving, homes that are well priced are being sold. What does that mean? These homes are priced accordingly.

 



According to condition. If your find a home that sold that is very similar in many ways to your except one, condition, you need to price your home accordingly. If you are in better shape, you have done recent upgrades, you are clean, neat, ready to move in, you are on top of the heap. If you home requires work you need to be priced lower. Take for instance you know you need a new roof. You know what that is going to cost. What is your best option? Price it accordingly if you can't replace the roof yourself.  Price it accordingly if you can't put in that new septic.

according to what

According to location. Are you on a busy road? Is there a half mile long dirt driveway to your house? Is your driveway steep up or down? These affect the pricing of your home too. You must consider these when pricing your home to sell. Finding the right buyer can be hampered by a severely compromised driveway, however pricing accordingly can help to get that offer.

According to the latest market stats. You have to take a good long look at the comparables that have sold. It is very difficult to be objective about somet

hing we not only have so many memories tied into, but debt certainly plays a part in our ideas about what a house should sell for.

according to who

NOT according to your debt. Debts are never to be considered in the pricing of your home. A buyer is not going to care what your mortgage obligation is or what your credit card obligation is. An appraiser will certainly not take your debt into consideration when giving an opinion of value to your home. Contact a real estate professional to help you price your home. A Realtor® will have the ability to show you current market trends, show you what has sold that is relevant to your home and what will be your competition if you should decide to place your home on the market.


My strongest advice on pricing your home these days? You guessed it.

Price it accordingly!

© 2009 Andrea Swiedler. Unless otherwise noted, the content, both written and in pictures, is the property of Andrea Swiedler. If you wish to use something you see here, please email me (andrea@andreswiedler.com) with your request. Most likely I will oblige, with a link back to my original content as well as an acknowledgment. Although imitation is the highest form of flattery, please let me know before you decide to bestow this form of flattery on me! Thank you.

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