Real Estate

Existing-home sales surge 10.1% in October

existing-home sales

Home sales far exceeded expectations last month, surging to the highest level in 2 1/2 years as first-time buyers rushed to take advantage of an expiring tax credit.

The National Association of Realtors said Monday that home resales rose 10.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.1 million in October, from a downwardly revised pace of 5.54 million in September.

The tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time owners was originally set to run out on Nov. 30, but Congress renewed it earlier this month and broadened its reach. People who have owned their current homes for at least five years can now claim a tax credit of up to $6,500 for a home purchase. To qualify, buyers must sign a purchase agreement by April 30.

The Realtors report on October home sales reflect offers made before buyers knew the tax credit would be extended. “There was a lot of rush and hurry to complete sales” before the deadline, said Lawrence Yun, the trade group’s chief economist.

But sales are likely to drop over the winter as buyers hibernate for a few months without the looming tax credit deadline.

The new deadline means that “we’re going to see some good activity coming out of the spring,” said Pat Lashinsky, chief executive of online real estate brokerage ZipRealty Inc.

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Slower sales, Falling prices, More foreclosures

housing-market-forces-slower-sales-more-foreclosures-price-declinesThe housing market dropped off a cliff in October, as the original Nov. 30th expiration date for the first-time home buyers tax credit approached, according to the Housing Market Monitor of the Center for Economic and Policy Research. Add to that the 6.25% 60-day delinquency rate in the third quarter — 58% above the level of one year ago — and you’ve got a recipe for housing disaster: more foreclosures, slower sales and ultimately a greater decline in house prices.

“With unemployment virtually certain to remain high well into next year, there is little prospect for any sizable drop in foreclosures,” Dean Baker wrote in the Nov. 18 issue of the Housing Market Monitor. “As a result, foreclosures will be putting homes on the market at an annual rate of close to 2 million. This is guaranteed to depress prices in a market with total demand of close to 5 million. In short, house prices will almost certainly resume their decline. The only questions are how soon and how fast.”

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Beware of foreclosure scams

Beware of Foreclosure Rescue Scams – Help Is Free!

  • Beware of anyone who asks you to pay a fee in exchange for a counseling service or modification of a delinquent loan.
  • Scam artists often target homeowners who are struggling to meet their mortgage commitment or anxious to sell their homes. Recognize and avoid common scams.     
  • Assistance from a HUD-approved housing counselor is FREE.
  • Beware of people who pressure you to sign papers immediately, or who try to convince you that they can “save” your home if you sign or transfer over the deed to your house.
  • Do not sign over the deed to your property to any organization or individual unless you are working directly with your mortgage company to forgive your debt.
  • Never make a mortgage payment to anyone other than your mortgage company without their approval.
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Welcome to the Gold Coast Leader section of Gold Coast B2B!!

Amazing Grace!

Grace Mancini has become a real estate SUPERSTAR in a very short time. Her dedication to her customers reflects her character and commitment to service. Her product knowledge, professionalism and 24/7 work ethic is an unbeatable combination.

For over 45 years the Mancini family has resided in Weehawken, raising their families and participating in organizations to serve the community. As she has for the past three years, Grace continues to volunteer her services as the President of the Roosevelt School, Weehawken PTO (Parent Teacher Organization). She has served the Weehawken community volunteering in community groups serving children and participating in local events and municipal activities.

She serves her customers with the same commitment and enthusiasm. For your real estate needs, Grace knows the community best. Nothing is a higher endorsement for a family than to know your Realtor® can boast,

“For 40 years my family has lived on the Gold Coast. It is a great place to raise a family and only getting better.”

Please contact Grace Mancini of Smart Realty direct at 201-566-8999, or via e-mail for more information on Gold Coast Properties.

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