The home supply is flooded while the demand to buy remains low.  This is the perfect time to purchase a home.  Buyers now have great bargaining power.  They can state their own terms and make them stick.  It is definitely a buyer's market and buyers need to make the best of it.  Since there are so many properties available, there is no longer the pressure to move on the first property.  Buyers should take their time and look. Great deals are to be had on foreclosed properties and new construction.  There are a lot of foreclosed homes available for rock-bottom prices. Also, with so many new developments filled with empty homes, buyers can now negotiate the price of new homes.  This is something that could not be done in the past.  Now builders that are desperate are even willing to throw... 06/04/2009

Finding the right neighborhood can be challenging, but if you take the time to do your research, it is definitely not impossible.  Before you begin your search for that perfect community, make sure you follow these 5 steps. 1. Take the time to analyze exactly what you need.  Make a list with your absolute must-haves at the top and the would-like-to-haves at the bottom.  Consider the type of home you want, how far you want to commute, and whether or not you want to move to a new development or an established neighborhood.  2. Determine exactly what area you want to live in.  If you are moving within the same city, you are probably familiar with the neighborhoods.  Select the neighborhoods that match your list of must-haves.  If you are moving to a new city, you will need to research the... 06/02/2009

    Take this quiz to see how much you know about which improvements can increase buyer's interest, and discover how to have a profitable remodel project. Don't forget to use the answer key below if you need a little help.      Which of the following should you do before you start a remodeling project? Check out your neighbors' house so you can be sure that your remodeling project looks better than theirs. Do the biggest remodel project you can afford. Go to several open houses and see what is standard in your area. Visit the most expensive home in town and copy the style. Green updates appeal to buyers because they offer long-term savings on energy costs.  Which of the following updates would be the best return on investment? Energy efficient windows Recycled paper countertops Cork or... 05/28/2009

Today, Yahoo! News posted an article about the current state if the economy in respect to the foreclosure market. You can check the link out here: Record 12% behind or in foreclosure! This is truly a staggering figure! And to think....its only going to get worse!   I'd like to open a discussion about your thoughts on the economy. Here's some points I'm (and others) are interested in knowing:   What are you doing to brace yourself for the impact of a lost job/income?   How long can you survive on your savings if you were to lose your income?   What tips/tricks are you using to ease the burden of rising costs and lowered income?   or, just post your thoughts on the economic issue, where you think were headed, what you think a good "corrective" strategy would be.   Remember, we all are ind... 05/28/2009

Summer is quickly approaching and now is the time to get your home ready for summer. There are several things you can easily do to get your home in order for the hotter months. When it starts to get warm, your first instinct may be to cut on the air conditioner. Before you do this, make sure you change or clean the filter. You should also have a professional service your air conditioner unit so that you can ensure it is running properly. Checking your heating and cooling system will also help you evaluate which of the new energy tax credits you may want to apply when you upgrade. Now that the weather is warm, make sure you don't forget about your furnace. Check the filter and see if it needs to be changes. Also, now is a great time to vacuum all of the openings ad grills for the heating... 05/26/2009

The Obama administration has created new guidelines to address borrowers that have equity loans and other second mortgages. According to the Credit Suisse Group, approximately half of delinquent borrowers have a second mortgage. When the administration initially created the $75 billion program to address the housing market, they failed to address second mortgages. The revised plan requires mortgage-servicing companies that participate in the loan-modification program for secured liens to modify the second mortgage when the first mortgage is redone. The cost of reducing the interest rate on the second mortgage will be shared by the government. The government will also pay borrowers that have second mortgages to eliminate the debt. The new incentive for mortgage-servicing companies that s... 05/21/2009

Here's the truth. You've been searching for it, I'm gonna give it to you! The truth is not something you want to hear. But, I'm here to give you the facts, whether you like them or not. It's my job to tell the truth, because I know the truth! If you are experiencing problems with your mortgage, be it late payments, skyrocketing interest rates that result in payments you can no longer afford, default due to job loss, medical, divorce, or other reasons, you most likely have seen advertisements about loan modifications that can help you to save your home. Even those who are considering a modification because they have a rate adjustment coming up need to read this! This option is advertised even more than a short sale, and like a short sale, not everyone who has a mortgage issue qualifies f... 05/20/2009

  The opening date for Sands Casino, at the old Bethlehem Steel site in Bethlehem, is coming up fast.  The big day is set for Friday, May 22nd.   This week, a certain few area residents were invited to test the slot machines.  This way, any glitches or problems were corrected before the grand opening.  The winnings, though, were donated to area charities.   In addition to the Casino opening its doors, Emeril will be opening his restaurant in the Casino.  He has been in the Lehigh Valley this week preparing for the big day.  He has also taken time out to do some book signing at a book store at the Promenade Shops in Saucon Valley.   Emeril plans on opening 2 more restaurants at the Casino in the near future.   The Lehigh Valley is expecting a big boost to the area's economy with the Sand... 05/20/2009

Existing homeowners may not be eligible for the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit, but they can take can take advantage of the current market by upgrading their home. Now is the time to purchase a new home that is bigger and better for less than they could have a couple of years ago. This is the perfect time for any family that is looking to upgrade their home to one that is more suited to their current and future needs. Potential buyers can get more home for their money and have the ability to negotiate because of the excessive number of new homes and existing homes that are currently on the market. Current homeowners should upgrade now because the interest rates are so low that they may be able to purchase a larger home for essentially the same amount they are currently paying f... 05/19/2009

As the economy does its thing to correct itself, we are all very much aware of the number of unemployed out there. Good folks who lost their jobs do to downsizing, bankruptcy, and other such actions that corporations are utilizing to try to stay afloat. But are these companies making good decisions? Chrysler is one of the larger companies who have seen loads of media attention in regards to their restructure. From selling off assets, to attempting to negotiate new deals with creditors, to asking the government for help, this company has seemingly done it all to stay alive. The link below, however, shows (in my opinion) how simply stupid some of these companies can be. Choices and decisions they are making are not making sense. This article posted by CNN puts some much needed attention o... 05/18/2009

With all the negative attention that loan mod companies and representatives have been getting, I have to admit that I have been becoming increasingly frustrated. Everyone who is NOT a modification consultant has nearly NOTHING positive to say about loan modification companies, and it is my perception that most realtors believe the best thing for every homeowner who faces foreclosure is a short sale. I have been pondering this negativity issue for a while, and while I have not and an "aha!" idea on how to make more positive news appear in our media, I have stumbled across a blog that very near perfectly states what I believe, and what my companies principles are built upon. So, you nay-sayers out there, please do me a favor and read this: Why Scam Artists Thrive in the Loan Modification ... 05/17/2009

If you've been reading about foreclosures and loan modifications on the internet, its very likely you've come across some "warnings" regarding rescue scams. The cold hard truth is that there are people out there who are willing to take advantage. Homeowners who have nowhere else to turn will often fall prey to unrealistic promises made by "foreclosure resolution consultants". I have spoken to many homeowners who have paid anywhere from $3,000 to more than $10,000 to have a company represent them in their foreclosure matter, hoping to earn that much prayed for loan modification to save their home, their family, their way of life, and the American Dream they worked so hard to achieve. What really gets my blood boiling is that I do represent homeowners, do provide solutions to their mortga... 05/16/2009

When it comes time to find a solution to your mortgage default matter, do you do it alone, hire an attorney, or try to find some other type of help? As it has been proven time and time again, doing it alone is not the best option. Kudo's to those of you who make a go of it, but unless you understand the mathematics of foreclosures, you most assuredly will not be able to get the best plan to resolve your mortgage matter. But that's not our focus today.... Many of you consider and hire an attorney to find the solution for you. Many attorneys recommend bankruptcy, Chapter 7 for those of you who don't wish to keep the property, and Chapter 13 for those of you who want to keep your home. While bankruptcy can be a viable solution for some, it is not a fix all solution. Yes, it will delay the ... 05/16/2009

It is hard enough to deal with the stress of dealing with a foreclosure. Compounded with the stressful situations that create the situation in the first place, its NO WONDER homeowners make rash decisions and poor choices when it comes to attempting to resolve their mortgage crises. If you do nothing else right, don't make THIS mistake!: Do NOT abandon your property!! Many homeowners assume that if they abandon the property the bank will just take it back. While this is true, it closes many doors that provide viable and realistic options for you when it comes time to discussing a resolution. If your primary residence is being foreclosed on, do not leave! Stay in the home up to and even beyond they posted sale date, so you are in the best position to take advantage of any "workout" oppor... 05/16/2009

The government launched its Making Home Affordable plan this spring, with news that lenders were clammering to sign up. Problem is, only 14 lenders have active contracts to participate in this program. Signing up for this program is by choice. The head haunchos at the banks/lending institutions/mortgage companies have to decide that the program is worthwhile for them to join up. While this may save tax payers money, its certainly not showing the effectiveness of the program. Many of my clients have tried themselves to qualify for this program, completed the necessary documents and filed them with their mortgage company, only to be denied a modification. There are currently over 250 financial institutions that have recieved funds from the EESA (Emergency Economic Stablity Act), and still... 05/16/2009

The value of a home can be increased by almost 20 percent by having mature trees in a well-landscaped yard. Nationwide surveys showed that mature trees can increase the value of a home by 7 to 19 percent, while a nice yard with flowers does not add value to the home. Buyers love a well-landscaped yard with trees because it provides privacy and curb appeal. Homeowners that take the time to invest in a beautiful landscape will definitely reap the benefits. They can expect to receive a higher price for their home and a quicker sell compared to homes that have little or no landscaping. Homeowners should seek the help of a professional landscaper. The landscaper will review the property prior to planning and help the homeowner select the best plants. It typically takes 5 to 7 years for plant... 05/14/2009

The current real estate market is very tough and competitive. With so many homes on the market, attempting to sell a home without an agent can be very difficult and challenging. A real estate agent can provide a homeowner with the necessary expertise and assistance to successfully sell their home. Below are five reasons why homeowners should consider using a real estate agent to sell their home. 1. An agent has experience in selling homes. They have the expertise to recommend improvements, such as painting or repairs, which can quickly sell a home. Most homeowners don't have the skills or the ability to subjectively look at their home and decide what improvements need to be made. Agents have the ability to give the property more exposure in the market by listing it on realtor.com, an MS... 05/12/2009

  New Listings 108   Back on Market 11   Price Increases 3   Price Reductions 55   Contingents 12   Pendings 67   Solds 31   Expireds 19   Inactives 20   Check out our No Cash Down program. or call 24/7 (877) 735-3527  ID # 1074 Don Wenner The Don Wenner Home Selling TeamKeller Williams Real Estate 2901 Emrick Blvd. Suite 100 Bethlehem PA 18020PA RE License #RS300485 (C) 484-542-2868 (O) 610-867-8888(F) 610-867-8889 http://www.donwenner.com    email: don@donwenner.com "Your Home Sold Guaranteed, Or I'll Buy It" "Buy A home with our Team and Receive up to a $10,000 Cash Reward!" Chris HoffmanPa Re License #RS298340Theresa BarlowPa Re License #RS281312Barb MiersPa Re License #RS278138   05/11/2009

Mortgage rates are definitely at an all-time low, but now more people are faced with the challenge of getting through the approval process. In the past, lenders have easily approved buyers with no cash down payment and often with no documentation. Now, even buyers with a high credit score, low debt-to-income ratio, and a significant down payment are having difficulty being approved for the loan. The problem that borrowers are facing is that their income is coming from several sources. Income verification would be a lot easier if the underwriter only had to verify one W-2. This is making it harder for self-employed borrowers to get approved. Those that are self-employed should be prepared for a longer loan approval process. This process will require borrowers to document everything. It m... 05/07/2009

  Bethlehem's "Tunes at Twilight" will kick off it's 3rd season this Thursday, May 7th, with acoustic rockers Steve Brosky and Jimmy Meyer.    The FREE music will be held in Bethlehem's historic Sun Inn's courtyard.   All the concerts wil be held from 6PM until 8PM on Thursdays.  Bring a lawn chair or a blanket.  You may even have a picnic while listening to the music.  Several restaurants and the Sun Inn Preservation Association will sell food.  Wine and beer will also be available.   The Downtown Bethlehen Association will validate parking tickets from the Walnut St. and North St. garages.  Donations are welcome.   The concert schedule is as follows: May 14th  -  Fellowswoop (bluegrass) May 21st  -  Trouble City All Stars (reggae) May 28th  -  The Skulldiggers (jam) June 4th  -  Dan C... 05/07/2009