Finding Home in Utah Blog

In November of 2009, I wrote a blog post entitled Was the Tax Credit Extension a Good Idea? Here is an excerpt: In my opinion, tax credits have become subsidies distorting the real estate market. I believe that any further extension or expansion of this program, with the exception of those benefi...

Please let me know, by January 5th, if you would like to join me! I have four extra tickets available for non-Realtor® guests. If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, this event would provide much more relevant, decision making information than the news you get from any of the national...

Although it will be quiet through the week leading in to the new year, January 3rd, the first business Monday in 2011, will bring renewed activity to our real estate market. All indicators point to a January 2011 that will bring with it stabilization of home values and the quantitative beginnings...

The news contained in this report is simply that 2011 will continue to be a strong buyer's market. Sellers who have been holding off listing their homes for sale, anticipating real estate values to recover, are going to have to wait at least 12 - 18 more months to see any improvement. It is NOT g...

Update on KeyBank's 100% Financing Program: In my last post about this topic, I referred to this as a "new" program. After meeting with Kristin Shields and Will Mullin, KeyBank Mortgage Advisor and Relationship Manager respectively, I know now that Key has had this program in place for +/- four y...

VA Appraisals and Utilities Update: According to VA Denver, the utilities, furnace, water heater, etc do not need to be on for a VA appraiser to complete the appraisal. Most lenders/underwriters, such as those at Wells Fargo and KeyBank, agree that they only require the property to meet VA guidel...

I have always been under the impression that the utilities must be on and the furnace, water heater, etc must be in operating condition when a VA appraiser appraises a home. Apparently, that isn't the case. It is true for FHA appraisals, but not VA. This morning, I received a telephone call from ...

I'm looking forward to a luncheon at Key Bank on Thursday, December 16th, as they introduce their new 100% financing loan product. .25% rate add, no mortgage insurance, 620 FICO score with no lates in past 12 months, income cap at $51,000. No first time homebuyer restrictions. Hope this provides ...

Cute, west facing home on a cul de sac within walking distance of Woodward (aka Woody the Woodpecker) Park. Main Level: Formal living room, spacious kitchen with granite top island, family room with gas log fireplace, half bath and laundry. Upstairs: Master bedroom and bath with double sinks and...