A $15,000 homebuyer tax credit, higher loan limits for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA, and government spending to lower mortgage rates are all in play as Congress and the Obama administration near agreement on an economic stimulus bill and financial stability plan for banks.
The Senate today approved an $838 billion economic stimulus bill that includes a $15,000 homebuyer tax credit, just hours after President Barack Obama's new Treasury secretary unveiled a multitrillion-dollar financial stability plan that includes $50 billion for foreclosure prevention programs.
The financial stability plan may also lead to an expansion of existing efforts by the Federal Reserve to drive down mortgage interest rates by buying mortgage-backed securities and debt issued by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae.
The version of the economic stimulus bill passed by the Senate in a 61-37 vote relies less on government spending and more on tax cuts to kick-start the economy than the version passed by the House Jan. 28 (see story). Only two Republicans voted for the bill in the Senate -- Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania and Maine's Olympia Snowe -- and all 37 "no" votes were cast by members of the Grand Old Party.
Differences between the two versions of H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, must now be ironed out in a conference committee.
The House version of the bill would restore the upper limits for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA loan guarantee programs to $729,750 in high-cost housing markets, where they stood for much of 2008 before being reduced to $625,500 -- a step endorsed by many real estate industry groups.
The House version of H.R. 1 also contains another provision backed by the housing industry -- elimination of the repayment requirement on an existing $7,500 tax credit for first-time homebuyers that is scheduled to sunset on July 1. But the Senate version of H.R. 1 would go farther, increasing the tax credit to $15,000 and allowing all homebuyers purchasing a principal residence within a year of the bill's enactment to claim it on their 2008 or 2009 returns.
The National Association of Home Builders welcomed the Senate's move, saying a $15,000 tax break for all homebuyers could generate nearly 500,000 home sales and create more than 255,000 jobs.
NAHB Chairman Joe Robson said the enhanced tax credit would be "a powerful incentive for homebuyers to get off the sidelines" and urged Congress to make sure the full $15,000 tax credit is included in the final stimulus plan.
In a separate development, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner today released details of the Obama administration's new financial stability plan, a successor to the much maligned Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP).
Geithner said the financial stability plan will include a comprehensive housing program that will provide $50 billion for foreclosure prevention programs. In order to persuade Congress to release the second half of $700 billion in TARP funding, the Obama administration had previously committed to spend $50 billion to $100 billion on a "sweeping effort" to address foreclosures (see story).
Geithner also alluded to a possible expansion of a $600 billion Federal Reserve program to drive down mortgage rates through the purchase of mortgage backed securities and debt issued by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae (see story).
Further details of the housing program will be announced in coming weeks, Geithner said. According to a fact sheet issued by the Obama administration, the Treasury and Federal Reserve "remain committed to expand as necessary the current effort by the Federal Reserve to help drive down mortgage rates."
The housing program will also establish loan modification guidelines and standards for government and private programs, and require all institutions receiving assistance through the financial stability plan to participate in foreclosure mitigation plans. The Obama administration will also build additional flexibility into the FHA's Hope for Homeowners refinance program to enable more distressed borrowers to participate.
While the main goal of the stimulus bill is to create jobs, the financial stability plan is designed to strengthen banks and restart the flow of credit to homeowners and small businesses, Geithner said. Currently, the financial system is working against recovery, even as the recession puts greater pressure on banks, he said.
"This is a dangerous dynamic, and we need to arrest it," Geithner said. The battle for economic recovery must be fought on two fronts -- by jump-starting job creation and private investment, and by getting credit flowing again to businesses and families.
As it has done under the TARP program, the Treasury will continue to invest in banks that need additional capital, but will now impose conditions to ensure "every dollar of assistance" is used to generate additional lending, Geithner said.
In addition, the Treasury, Federal Reserve and Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. will establish a $500 billion Public-Private Investment Fund to buy up toxic loans and assets. The fund could ultimately provide up to $1 trillion in financing, Geithner said, helping to create a market for real estate-related assets that are "at the center of this crisis."
The Treasury and Federal Reserve will also commit up to $1 trillion in backing for a consumer and business lending initiative, building on the Federal Reserve's Term Asset Backed Securities Loan Facility (TALF) announced in November. The program will be expanded to target markets for small business lending, student loans, consumer and auto finance, and commercial mortgages.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
"The Sweet Heart Express"
The Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s Sweetheart Express is a romantic escape and a perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day.
The train will depart at 6:00 pm from the historic Cotton Belt Depot, located at 705 S. Main St. in Grapevine. Violinists will set the mood for your trip, as they will be performing on the platform as you board the train. On board the train, enjoy a selection of hors d'oeuvres. Two cash bars will offer beer, wine and soft drinks. Violinists will stroll through the coaches as the train rolls to the Stockyards.
Upon arriving, at River Ranch you will enjoy dinner and romantic music. A cash bar will be available. Following dinner, there will be dancing, with music provided by a DJ. At 9:15 pm passengers will be instructed to board the train for the return trip. The train will depart River Ranch at 9:45 pm. On the return trip the two of you will receive special gifts of a rose and chocolate. The cash bars will resume and also offer complimentary coffee and water. Dress is casual.
$160 per couple
Sweetheart Express Dates & Times:
Friday, February 13, 2009
6:00 pm Load passengers Depart Grapevine Depot
7:30 pm Arrive at River Ranch
7:30 pm Music starts and Buffet line opens
8:15 pm Dancing starts
9:15 pm Announce return boarding
9:15 pm Board Train
9:45 pm Depart River Ranch
11:15 pm Arrive Grapevine Depot
Saturday, February 14, 2009
6:00 pm Load passengers Depart Grapevine Depot
7:30 pm Arrive at River Ranch
7:30 pm Music starts and Buffet line opens
8:15 pm Dancing starts
9:15 pm Announce return boarding
9:15 pm Board Train
9:45 pm Depart River Ranch
11:15 pm Arrive Grapevine Depot
The train will depart at 6:00 pm from the historic Cotton Belt Depot, located at 705 S. Main St. in Grapevine. Violinists will set the mood for your trip, as they will be performing on the platform as you board the train. On board the train, enjoy a selection of hors d'oeuvres. Two cash bars will offer beer, wine and soft drinks. Violinists will stroll through the coaches as the train rolls to the Stockyards.
Upon arriving, at River Ranch you will enjoy dinner and romantic music. A cash bar will be available. Following dinner, there will be dancing, with music provided by a DJ. At 9:15 pm passengers will be instructed to board the train for the return trip. The train will depart River Ranch at 9:45 pm. On the return trip the two of you will receive special gifts of a rose and chocolate. The cash bars will resume and also offer complimentary coffee and water. Dress is casual.
$160 per couple
Sweetheart Express Dates & Times:
Friday, February 13, 2009
6:00 pm Load passengers Depart Grapevine Depot
7:30 pm Arrive at River Ranch
7:30 pm Music starts and Buffet line opens
8:15 pm Dancing starts
9:15 pm Announce return boarding
9:15 pm Board Train
9:45 pm Depart River Ranch
11:15 pm Arrive Grapevine Depot
Saturday, February 14, 2009
6:00 pm Load passengers Depart Grapevine Depot
7:30 pm Arrive at River Ranch
7:30 pm Music starts and Buffet line opens
8:15 pm Dancing starts
9:15 pm Announce return boarding
9:15 pm Board Train
9:45 pm Depart River Ranch
11:15 pm Arrive Grapevine Depot
Monday, February 2, 2009
Real Estate Outlook: Whats in store for 2009?
What will the new year bring for housing and real estate? It's easy to look at all the negative economic news in the headlines and say - there's no sign that 2009 is going to be any better than 2008.
But here's a different perspective to consider from one of the country's veteran financial analysts -- Richard Bove of Ladenburg Thalmann, an investment banking company.
In a research report issued late in December, Bove said he sees a positive dynamic taking shape in the current cycle. The government has intervened aggressively in the markets to push interest rates down -- most notably in the home mortgage sector.
Though it takes awhile for low-cost money to begin having its effect, Bove said he expects "housing prices to stabilize and/or rise (in 2009) after a likely boom in mortgage refinancings as rates fall and loan applications increase."
Add in the expected massive economic stimulus package being put together on Capitol Hill with the incoming Obama administration -- and there's a good chance we're going to see a gradual transformation of the downward cycle into a slow rebound over the coming several quarters.
Already there are positive signs of the turnaround Bove predicts:
Mortgage applications are off the charts, mainly for refis but also to buy houses at affordable prices.
Rates continue to hover at 50-year lows - five percent and even four and three quarters percent for 30-year mortgages, and still lower for 15 and 20 year mortgage terms.
Plus we're all paying a lot less at the gas pump, and sharply discounted prices for retail goods and autos.
And guess what? Americans are actually SAVING again, the national savings rate took a nearly three percent jump last month. That might sound small, but it's hugely important if it is the start of a trend.
There are also some signs that housing prices are stabilizing in some parts of the country. The latest monthly Federal Housing Finance Agency index found home prices UP by six-tenths of a percent in the Mountain states and UP by two tenths of a percent in New England.
You can ridicule small regional gains as statistically irrelevant, but here's an economic proposal to you for the New Year: Keep your eyes open for the small positive signs that are accumulating out there … because all downcycles tail off and come to an end.
The smartest players in real estate -- consumers and the industry - will make the most of the positives -- low-cost money, low prices, stabilizing local markets -- and thrive in the new year.
Written by Kenneth R. Harney
But here's a different perspective to consider from one of the country's veteran financial analysts -- Richard Bove of Ladenburg Thalmann, an investment banking company.
In a research report issued late in December, Bove said he sees a positive dynamic taking shape in the current cycle. The government has intervened aggressively in the markets to push interest rates down -- most notably in the home mortgage sector.
Though it takes awhile for low-cost money to begin having its effect, Bove said he expects "housing prices to stabilize and/or rise (in 2009) after a likely boom in mortgage refinancings as rates fall and loan applications increase."
Add in the expected massive economic stimulus package being put together on Capitol Hill with the incoming Obama administration -- and there's a good chance we're going to see a gradual transformation of the downward cycle into a slow rebound over the coming several quarters.
Already there are positive signs of the turnaround Bove predicts:
Mortgage applications are off the charts, mainly for refis but also to buy houses at affordable prices.
Rates continue to hover at 50-year lows - five percent and even four and three quarters percent for 30-year mortgages, and still lower for 15 and 20 year mortgage terms.
Plus we're all paying a lot less at the gas pump, and sharply discounted prices for retail goods and autos.
And guess what? Americans are actually SAVING again, the national savings rate took a nearly three percent jump last month. That might sound small, but it's hugely important if it is the start of a trend.
There are also some signs that housing prices are stabilizing in some parts of the country. The latest monthly Federal Housing Finance Agency index found home prices UP by six-tenths of a percent in the Mountain states and UP by two tenths of a percent in New England.
You can ridicule small regional gains as statistically irrelevant, but here's an economic proposal to you for the New Year: Keep your eyes open for the small positive signs that are accumulating out there … because all downcycles tail off and come to an end.
The smartest players in real estate -- consumers and the industry - will make the most of the positives -- low-cost money, low prices, stabilizing local markets -- and thrive in the new year.
Written by Kenneth R. Harney
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Down Payment Assistance Programs
CONGRESS INTRODUCES BILL THAT WOULD REINSTATE DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE: NEHEMIAH RESPONDS
Bill Would Broaden Opportunities for Sustainable Homeownership Without Government or Taxpayer Dollars -Sacramento, CA, January 16, 2009 --
The following statement was issued today by Scott Syphax, president and CEO of the Nehemiah Corporation of America in response to H.R. 600, a bill introduced in Congress that would reinstate seller-funded downpayment assistance (DPA). Prior to the October 1, 2008 ban on DPA, Nehemiah was the oldest and largest provider of downpayment assistance.
"There is an overlooked solution to today's housing crisis and fortunately several members of Congress recognize the role DPA plays in getting us there. We commend Congressman Al Green [and additional members of Congress] for working tirelessly to support a bill (H.R. 600) that creates opportunities for sustainable homeownership, which serves as the cornerstone to strengthening a crumbling housing market and breathing life back into the economy. With foreclosures on the rise and banks maintaining their stranglehold on credit, DPA offers a simple solution without spending a single government or taxpayer dime according to the Congressional Budget Office. Further, it enables worthy families to take advantage of depressed home prices, therefore reducing the glut of homes on the market.
We urge Congress to reach across the aisle and prioritize broadening opportunities for responsible homeownership in America by reinstating DPA."
Bill Would Broaden Opportunities for Sustainable Homeownership Without Government or Taxpayer Dollars -Sacramento, CA, January 16, 2009 --
The following statement was issued today by Scott Syphax, president and CEO of the Nehemiah Corporation of America in response to H.R. 600, a bill introduced in Congress that would reinstate seller-funded downpayment assistance (DPA). Prior to the October 1, 2008 ban on DPA, Nehemiah was the oldest and largest provider of downpayment assistance.
"There is an overlooked solution to today's housing crisis and fortunately several members of Congress recognize the role DPA plays in getting us there. We commend Congressman Al Green [and additional members of Congress] for working tirelessly to support a bill (H.R. 600) that creates opportunities for sustainable homeownership, which serves as the cornerstone to strengthening a crumbling housing market and breathing life back into the economy. With foreclosures on the rise and banks maintaining their stranglehold on credit, DPA offers a simple solution without spending a single government or taxpayer dime according to the Congressional Budget Office. Further, it enables worthy families to take advantage of depressed home prices, therefore reducing the glut of homes on the market.
We urge Congress to reach across the aisle and prioritize broadening opportunities for responsible homeownership in America by reinstating DPA."
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
What's In, What's Out with Home Buyers in 2009?
Mark Nash, author of four real estate books, has completed his annual survey of 839 real estate agents in all fifty states in the US and the eight provinces of Canada.
What's in, what's out with Homebuyers illuminates what's popular or what sours homebuyers in both the home purchase or sale transaction and home decor. Compiled annually from-the-trenches, it offers a spectrum of tips that cover reality of buying a home and design no-no's for home sellers and buyer must-haves.
What's In
Sidelined home buyers
Family or lifestyle additions or changes made in buyers households in the last three years are forcing those waiting out the market transition to finally get off the fence and say, it's time for our family to buy the new home that suits our new needs.
Home uplifts
Not a big renovation, but some new finishes that can visually holdover stay-put home sellers. Not a gut rehab to the studs new kitchen, but new flooring, countertops and appliances.
Collaborative home pricing
The old days of home sellers configuring a homes price are out. What's new is that the seller with their agent look at closed comparables, set a price, then the buyer and their agent agree or disagree, but in the end, a mortgage lender and their appraiser will set the price, as they are assuming the most risk in the transaction.
Balanced reporting by real estate and personal finance journalists
Consumers learned in 2008 that the 'doom and gloom' residential real estate market headlines don't apply to all markets. What's been lost in the foreclosure hype is that there are still stories of homes selling in short market times (in as little as 3 days), homes selling at full price and some selling with multiple contracts on the table. Existing home sales will be 5.02 million versus 5.652 million for 2007, a decrease of just over eleven percent, considerably less that the recent correction in the U.S. stock market, plus a realistic view that over five million people purchased a home despite the headlines in 2008.
Creative home seller financing
Exhausted home sellers are turning to self-financing to move properties. Installment sale contracts and lease to own are the most popular and effective ways for sellers to begin to receive income from a property that has languished on the market in 2008.
Property tax appeals
With home prices dropping, many savvy home owners are appealing their property taxes. This is especially attractive to those looking to sell their home in 2009. With a competitive marketplace, those with the most realistic taxes are more likely to offer buyers an overall lower expense in home ownership.
House therapists
Divided partners in a home are increasingly relying on an independent third party (house therapist or coach) to bring household relationships to common ground on such prickly issues such as to stay or move, how much to spend on remodeling or decorating, or spending nothing at all. Third parties can outline the benefits and pitfalls of over-spending on a new larger home or weighing in on a spouses desire to over-improve for the neighborhood. With less equity and with the financial stakes higher smart couples hire a home therapist to wrangle concessions and agreements out with their significant other instead of doing damage to their relationship by going head-to-head with them.
Architectural overhead garage doors
After years of bland vanilla garage doors, the architecture has permeated the door most people look at the most. Traditional styling has arrived with mullioned windows, faux wrought iron hinges and latches that provide the original non-overhead garage door look. Contemporary looks now include the adjacent siding applied over the door for a seamless look, much like the panels installed on refrigerator doors to complement cabinets in a kitchen.
Loveseats
A pair or trio is gaining acceptance as the functional way to rearrange a living or family room. Consumers appreciate the ease at which they can rearrange them, move an extra one to another room, or provide long-term furniture flexibility in future homes. Plus, they're tired of sitting miles away from others on over-sized sectional sofas.
The master bed as a throne
With consumer spending down and more nesting at home, home owners are focusing on making their bed like an at-home luxury hotel experience. Posh linens, pillows and mattresses create a getaway without leaving home.
Older war-horse appliances
Collectable, working appliances form the 1940's through the late 1980's have found a new niche among homeowners who appreciate their rock-solid construction and durability. Harvest gold double ovens from the 1970's have been repainted a metallic red and go from boring to bold. Cold spot refrigerators from the 1950's refinished in sky blue perks up the butler's pantry in suburban home. And, the early 1960's dryer that looks like it's from a Jet son house painted pink to match punches up the in-unit laundry room in a condominium.
Dining chairs that don't match
With consumers watching their non-essential spending closely and electing to stay home to entertain friends, many have found a quick pick-me-up for their dining room suite, mismatched pairs or single chairs. Feedback from friends or family has been favorable to this easy and cost effective way to say welcome to my cutting edge table.
What's OUT
Fixer-upper homes
With larger down payments required by mortgage lenders and consumer credit cards mixed out, home buyers want a home in move-in condition. The DIY days are on the wane as buyers want to inherit new kitchens and bathrooms.
Foreclosure fluff
The foreclosure rate nationally in 2008 was just under 3 percent. In the Great Depression it was just over forty-percent.
Home buyers endless "circling" prospective short-list properties
Overly optimistic thinking by buyers to circle a preferred property indefinitely, often for months, waiting for further price reductions or to wear out long weary sellers. This practice has backfired for buyers who practice this style of pre-negotiating. They often loose their short-list dream home and frustrate savvy price-right sellers. Ditto the bottom-feeder buyers.
Home staging
A recently over-used low cost marketing band-aid for vacant or occupied homes with longer than normal market times. Buyers have said enough of the non-professional usage of assorted leftover props placed around a for-sale home to make it supposedly homey. Buyers say, market it as it is and clear out the tired silk flowers and stale potpourri.
Indoor-outdoor carpet
The staples of quick-fix home sellers for basements, balconies, screened porches and lanai's, buyers have said enough. Many have told agents that inexpensive indoor-outdoor carpet is visual pollution and often masks flaws in a home.
Track lighting
Thought of by homeowners to be a quick way to get an art gallery look, many prospective buyers usually take them out and discount their appeal. As one Gen-X home buyer said to me "Why do sellers install them up when they don't really have any interesting artwork or architectural features to spotlight? They bring undue attention to nothing."
Written by Mark Nash
What's in, what's out with Homebuyers illuminates what's popular or what sours homebuyers in both the home purchase or sale transaction and home decor. Compiled annually from-the-trenches, it offers a spectrum of tips that cover reality of buying a home and design no-no's for home sellers and buyer must-haves.
What's In
Sidelined home buyers
Family or lifestyle additions or changes made in buyers households in the last three years are forcing those waiting out the market transition to finally get off the fence and say, it's time for our family to buy the new home that suits our new needs.
Home uplifts
Not a big renovation, but some new finishes that can visually holdover stay-put home sellers. Not a gut rehab to the studs new kitchen, but new flooring, countertops and appliances.
Collaborative home pricing
The old days of home sellers configuring a homes price are out. What's new is that the seller with their agent look at closed comparables, set a price, then the buyer and their agent agree or disagree, but in the end, a mortgage lender and their appraiser will set the price, as they are assuming the most risk in the transaction.
Balanced reporting by real estate and personal finance journalists
Consumers learned in 2008 that the 'doom and gloom' residential real estate market headlines don't apply to all markets. What's been lost in the foreclosure hype is that there are still stories of homes selling in short market times (in as little as 3 days), homes selling at full price and some selling with multiple contracts on the table. Existing home sales will be 5.02 million versus 5.652 million for 2007, a decrease of just over eleven percent, considerably less that the recent correction in the U.S. stock market, plus a realistic view that over five million people purchased a home despite the headlines in 2008.
Creative home seller financing
Exhausted home sellers are turning to self-financing to move properties. Installment sale contracts and lease to own are the most popular and effective ways for sellers to begin to receive income from a property that has languished on the market in 2008.
Property tax appeals
With home prices dropping, many savvy home owners are appealing their property taxes. This is especially attractive to those looking to sell their home in 2009. With a competitive marketplace, those with the most realistic taxes are more likely to offer buyers an overall lower expense in home ownership.
House therapists
Divided partners in a home are increasingly relying on an independent third party (house therapist or coach) to bring household relationships to common ground on such prickly issues such as to stay or move, how much to spend on remodeling or decorating, or spending nothing at all. Third parties can outline the benefits and pitfalls of over-spending on a new larger home or weighing in on a spouses desire to over-improve for the neighborhood. With less equity and with the financial stakes higher smart couples hire a home therapist to wrangle concessions and agreements out with their significant other instead of doing damage to their relationship by going head-to-head with them.
Architectural overhead garage doors
After years of bland vanilla garage doors, the architecture has permeated the door most people look at the most. Traditional styling has arrived with mullioned windows, faux wrought iron hinges and latches that provide the original non-overhead garage door look. Contemporary looks now include the adjacent siding applied over the door for a seamless look, much like the panels installed on refrigerator doors to complement cabinets in a kitchen.
Loveseats
A pair or trio is gaining acceptance as the functional way to rearrange a living or family room. Consumers appreciate the ease at which they can rearrange them, move an extra one to another room, or provide long-term furniture flexibility in future homes. Plus, they're tired of sitting miles away from others on over-sized sectional sofas.
The master bed as a throne
With consumer spending down and more nesting at home, home owners are focusing on making their bed like an at-home luxury hotel experience. Posh linens, pillows and mattresses create a getaway without leaving home.
Older war-horse appliances
Collectable, working appliances form the 1940's through the late 1980's have found a new niche among homeowners who appreciate their rock-solid construction and durability. Harvest gold double ovens from the 1970's have been repainted a metallic red and go from boring to bold. Cold spot refrigerators from the 1950's refinished in sky blue perks up the butler's pantry in suburban home. And, the early 1960's dryer that looks like it's from a Jet son house painted pink to match punches up the in-unit laundry room in a condominium.
Dining chairs that don't match
With consumers watching their non-essential spending closely and electing to stay home to entertain friends, many have found a quick pick-me-up for their dining room suite, mismatched pairs or single chairs. Feedback from friends or family has been favorable to this easy and cost effective way to say welcome to my cutting edge table.
What's OUT
Fixer-upper homes
With larger down payments required by mortgage lenders and consumer credit cards mixed out, home buyers want a home in move-in condition. The DIY days are on the wane as buyers want to inherit new kitchens and bathrooms.
Foreclosure fluff
The foreclosure rate nationally in 2008 was just under 3 percent. In the Great Depression it was just over forty-percent.
Home buyers endless "circling" prospective short-list properties
Overly optimistic thinking by buyers to circle a preferred property indefinitely, often for months, waiting for further price reductions or to wear out long weary sellers. This practice has backfired for buyers who practice this style of pre-negotiating. They often loose their short-list dream home and frustrate savvy price-right sellers. Ditto the bottom-feeder buyers.
Home staging
A recently over-used low cost marketing band-aid for vacant or occupied homes with longer than normal market times. Buyers have said enough of the non-professional usage of assorted leftover props placed around a for-sale home to make it supposedly homey. Buyers say, market it as it is and clear out the tired silk flowers and stale potpourri.
Indoor-outdoor carpet
The staples of quick-fix home sellers for basements, balconies, screened porches and lanai's, buyers have said enough. Many have told agents that inexpensive indoor-outdoor carpet is visual pollution and often masks flaws in a home.
Track lighting
Thought of by homeowners to be a quick way to get an art gallery look, many prospective buyers usually take them out and discount their appeal. As one Gen-X home buyer said to me "Why do sellers install them up when they don't really have any interesting artwork or architectural features to spotlight? They bring undue attention to nothing."
Written by Mark Nash
Friday, December 26, 2008
In Texas Things Are Different!
Thankfully, better
National media reports about real estate have been gloom-and-doom for many months now, painting a bleak picture for prospective homesellers and buyers alike.
Texas REALTOR® Michael Scudder thinks those reports should end in three words … “except in Texas.” Scudder, 2008 president of the New Braunfels/Canyon Lake Board of REALTORS®, says the mortgage and housing crises affecting other parts of the country have left Texas nearly unscathed.
“The market (here) is a lot better than many believe.” With low housing prices, low interest rates, high employment levels, and a strong economy, Texas real estate has weathered the national storm fairly well, confirms Brooke Hunt, 2009 chairman of the Texas Association of REALTORS®.
“The national news media likes to talk about what’s happening in New York, Washington D.C., Florida, and L.A. – and they’re probably pretty accurate about what’s going on there,” Scudder says. “But they don’t ever talk about Texas unless we have a hurricane or something. We’re doing pretty well.”
Source: New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung
National media reports about real estate have been gloom-and-doom for many months now, painting a bleak picture for prospective homesellers and buyers alike.
Texas REALTOR® Michael Scudder thinks those reports should end in three words … “except in Texas.” Scudder, 2008 president of the New Braunfels/Canyon Lake Board of REALTORS®, says the mortgage and housing crises affecting other parts of the country have left Texas nearly unscathed.
“The market (here) is a lot better than many believe.” With low housing prices, low interest rates, high employment levels, and a strong economy, Texas real estate has weathered the national storm fairly well, confirms Brooke Hunt, 2009 chairman of the Texas Association of REALTORS®.
“The national news media likes to talk about what’s happening in New York, Washington D.C., Florida, and L.A. – and they’re probably pretty accurate about what’s going on there,” Scudder says. “But they don’t ever talk about Texas unless we have a hurricane or something. We’re doing pretty well.”
Source: New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Euless is right next door to the Christmas Capitol of Texas
Euless is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from all these Activities Around Town
Winter Escape at Great Wolf Lodge
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Breakfast with Santa
The Annual Firehouse Pancake Breakfast with Santa in his helicopter! Saturday, December 6, 20087:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.Fire Station 1601 Boyd DriveSanta arrives in his helicopter at 8:00 a.m.Donations will benefit the Grapevine Honor Guard and Buckets' Safety Brigade (Clowns). Bring the kids for a fun morning!!
Hyatt Regency DFW North Pole Express Exhibit
A culinary display made entirely out of gingerbread, chocolate and other holiday candies. Santa Claus is riding on the front of the candy-adorned North Pole Express as it exits a gingerbread-bricked tunnel. The North Pole Express display is constructed of 530 pounds of chocolate and gingerbread, 200 pounds of rock candy, rice krispies treats and nearly 50 pounds of Royal icing. Exhibit starts December 2 in the lobby. Seasonal Duck Rides aboard the Duck Boat Spend some quality time with friends, family or treat your employees to a seasonal Christmas light duck ride. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of the season with a duck boat tour in the "Christmas Capital of Texas". This is a great way to see the spectacular light displays and get right into the Christmas spirit.Your duck trip will make a short trip to the Gaylord Texan to enjoy the holiday lights and festivities at the fourth annual Lone Star Christmas event. While aboard the duck boat you will get Free hot chocolate, and candy canes for the children and plenty of Christmas carols for all the jolly folks aboard. Light tours operate by reservation only and book up quickly. So don't miss out on this uniquely festive experience with a wonderful new Christmas memory for all aboard the decked out duck boat. More info and reservations call Tammy on the Duck Line or visit www.DuckRiders.com/carols.html and make your online reservations. Also, seats are still available for the Dec 4, Christmas parade on Main Street and the Dec 6 parade of lights on Lake Grapevine.
3rd Annual Grapevine Township Holiday Decoration Contest
Tis the season to get into the holiday spirit -- Deck your house with Christmas decor! The Grapevine Township Revitalization Program and the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau will recognize decorated homes within the Township.Applications for the 3rd Annual Grapevine Township Holiday Decoration Contest are being accepted until Dec. 5. Judging will take place on Dec. 8, 9 & 10. All decorated homes within the Grapevine Towhship will be reviewed on design, number of lights, coordination/theme, color, and variety.The top three winners will receive a stocking stuffer of $1,000, $500, or $250!To register, please call 817-410-3585 or visit http://www.grapevineheritagefoundation.org/
Delaney's "Holiday in the Vineyard"
The public is invited to enjoy a picturesque Holiday in the Vineyard at Delaney Vineyards, Saturday, December 6, 11am-4pm. Guests will help light the 40-foot Christmas Tree during the 2pm Tree Lighting Ceremony and sip on toasty mulled wine and warm apple cider. Local choirs will be on-hand singing festive carols of the season, sure to warm everyone’s spirits and usher in the holiday season. Bring the cameras! Delaney Vineyards is the perfect setting to capture those family holiday photos. Special holiday- and wine- themed areas will be set up for families to take photos in, free of charge. Also, the public is encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toys that will be donated to families of the U.S. troops. In addition, guests can enjoy a fun-filled day of wine tasting (extra cost, must be 21) and complimentary tours of the vineyard.If your group is interested in performing during Holiday in the Vineyard, please call 817.481.5668.
Grapevine Mills
On Black Friday Grapevine Mills will be giving away $1,000.00 Simon Visa Gift Cards every hour on the hour starting at 1am - noon. Registration starts at Midnight. There will be registration tables throughout the mall including the food court where KSCS will be hosting the event and giving away a package of Six Flags Holiday in the Park tickets . Santas arrives Saturday, November 15. His hours are Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. He feeds his reindeer from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. - 6 p.m.On Sunday he'll be there from 12 p.m - 6:00 p.m. reindeer feeding is from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. He will be located in Entry 1 near Sun & Ski Sports. He will depart December 24 to go deliver toys.
A COLD HEARTED CHRISTMAS
The Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center and Lagniappe Productions are pleased to announce the return of our yuletide Lone Star Murder Mystery "A Cold Hearted Christmas" on Friday, November 14, 2008. This will be the fourth and final year this much-loved holiday production will be presented. Lone Star Murder Mysteries' performances are every Friday & Saturday evening in the Riverwalk Cafe of the Gaylord Texan located at 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, Texas 76051. Tickets are $55 and include dinner at the all-you-can-eat market style eatery, show, tax, gratuity, and self parking. Early show seating begins at 4:30 p.m. with the show starting at 5 p.m. Late show seating begins at 7:45 p.m. and the show begins at &1,5 p.m. Due to frequent sell-outs during the holiday season, reservations are strongly recommended. Call (817) 778-2215 for reservations. Additional information is available online at www.lonestarmurdermysteries.com. Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau * One Liberty Park Plaza * Grapevine, Texas 76051 * 800-457-6338 * GrapevineTexasUSA.com
Winter Escape at Great Wolf Lodge
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Breakfast with Santa
The Annual Firehouse Pancake Breakfast with Santa in his helicopter! Saturday, December 6, 20087:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.Fire Station 1601 Boyd DriveSanta arrives in his helicopter at 8:00 a.m.Donations will benefit the Grapevine Honor Guard and Buckets' Safety Brigade (Clowns). Bring the kids for a fun morning!!
Hyatt Regency DFW North Pole Express Exhibit
A culinary display made entirely out of gingerbread, chocolate and other holiday candies. Santa Claus is riding on the front of the candy-adorned North Pole Express as it exits a gingerbread-bricked tunnel. The North Pole Express display is constructed of 530 pounds of chocolate and gingerbread, 200 pounds of rock candy, rice krispies treats and nearly 50 pounds of Royal icing. Exhibit starts December 2 in the lobby. Seasonal Duck Rides aboard the Duck Boat Spend some quality time with friends, family or treat your employees to a seasonal Christmas light duck ride. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of the season with a duck boat tour in the "Christmas Capital of Texas". This is a great way to see the spectacular light displays and get right into the Christmas spirit.Your duck trip will make a short trip to the Gaylord Texan to enjoy the holiday lights and festivities at the fourth annual Lone Star Christmas event. While aboard the duck boat you will get Free hot chocolate, and candy canes for the children and plenty of Christmas carols for all the jolly folks aboard. Light tours operate by reservation only and book up quickly. So don't miss out on this uniquely festive experience with a wonderful new Christmas memory for all aboard the decked out duck boat. More info and reservations call Tammy on the Duck Line or visit www.DuckRiders.com/carols.html and make your online reservations. Also, seats are still available for the Dec 4, Christmas parade on Main Street and the Dec 6 parade of lights on Lake Grapevine.
3rd Annual Grapevine Township Holiday Decoration Contest
Tis the season to get into the holiday spirit -- Deck your house with Christmas decor! The Grapevine Township Revitalization Program and the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau will recognize decorated homes within the Township.Applications for the 3rd Annual Grapevine Township Holiday Decoration Contest are being accepted until Dec. 5. Judging will take place on Dec. 8, 9 & 10. All decorated homes within the Grapevine Towhship will be reviewed on design, number of lights, coordination/theme, color, and variety.The top three winners will receive a stocking stuffer of $1,000, $500, or $250!To register, please call 817-410-3585 or visit http://www.grapevineheritagefoundation.org/
Delaney's "Holiday in the Vineyard"
The public is invited to enjoy a picturesque Holiday in the Vineyard at Delaney Vineyards, Saturday, December 6, 11am-4pm. Guests will help light the 40-foot Christmas Tree during the 2pm Tree Lighting Ceremony and sip on toasty mulled wine and warm apple cider. Local choirs will be on-hand singing festive carols of the season, sure to warm everyone’s spirits and usher in the holiday season. Bring the cameras! Delaney Vineyards is the perfect setting to capture those family holiday photos. Special holiday- and wine- themed areas will be set up for families to take photos in, free of charge. Also, the public is encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toys that will be donated to families of the U.S. troops. In addition, guests can enjoy a fun-filled day of wine tasting (extra cost, must be 21) and complimentary tours of the vineyard.If your group is interested in performing during Holiday in the Vineyard, please call 817.481.5668.
Grapevine Mills
On Black Friday Grapevine Mills will be giving away $1,000.00 Simon Visa Gift Cards every hour on the hour starting at 1am - noon. Registration starts at Midnight. There will be registration tables throughout the mall including the food court where KSCS will be hosting the event and giving away a package of Six Flags Holiday in the Park tickets . Santas arrives Saturday, November 15. His hours are Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. He feeds his reindeer from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. - 6 p.m.On Sunday he'll be there from 12 p.m - 6:00 p.m. reindeer feeding is from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. He will be located in Entry 1 near Sun & Ski Sports. He will depart December 24 to go deliver toys.
A COLD HEARTED CHRISTMAS
The Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center and Lagniappe Productions are pleased to announce the return of our yuletide Lone Star Murder Mystery "A Cold Hearted Christmas" on Friday, November 14, 2008. This will be the fourth and final year this much-loved holiday production will be presented. Lone Star Murder Mysteries' performances are every Friday & Saturday evening in the Riverwalk Cafe of the Gaylord Texan located at 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, Texas 76051. Tickets are $55 and include dinner at the all-you-can-eat market style eatery, show, tax, gratuity, and self parking. Early show seating begins at 4:30 p.m. with the show starting at 5 p.m. Late show seating begins at 7:45 p.m. and the show begins at &1,5 p.m. Due to frequent sell-outs during the holiday season, reservations are strongly recommended. Call (817) 778-2215 for reservations. Additional information is available online at www.lonestarmurdermysteries.com. Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau * One Liberty Park Plaza * Grapevine, Texas 76051 * 800-457-6338 * GrapevineTexasUSA.com
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