Fauntlee Hills Open House today

Looking for something fun and free to do this afternoon? Come visit me at my Open House in the Fauntlee Hills neighborhood of West Seattle. This mid-century brick rambler with full daylight basement is solidly built with plenty of living space and awaiting your cosmetic updates. The address is 9114 40th Ave SW (corner of Barton and 40th) and I will be there from 1-4 today. Listed at just $459,950 by my Prudential colleagues, the Johnson Team.

Do you qualify for the new tax credit?

In 2009, Congress approved an $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers. That probably didn’t help you much, since you already own a home.

As of Dec. 1, 2009, you may qualify for a tax credit of up to $6,500 when you purchase another home… and you don’t need to sell your current home!

Following are some of the restrictions. This information is neither exhaustive, nor guaranteed.

· Must purchase before April 30, 2010
· Income cap of $125K for individuals or $225K for married couples
· Purchase price of home cannot exceed $800K
· Must have lived in current home for at least 5 of the past 8 years

The politicians call it a tax credit. You will call it CASH IN YOUR POCKET!

Here’s how a tax credit works. When you file your annual income tax return, you deduct up to $6,500 from the amount of tax you owe. If you do not owe any tax, you receive a check for up to $6,500 from the Federal Government!

Want to know more? Give me a call today. 206-708-9800

Should you hire a home inspector?

Not Moving? A professional home inspection might be a good idea anyway.

So you’ve been in your home for years and you plan to stay there for quite a few more. You have no need for a professional home inspection, right? Well, maybe, but consider this. As your home ages and you become comfortable in your surroundings, it’s easy to let maintenance of the big ticket items slide a bit. e.g. How old IS the hot water tank now? Is the foundation holding up? Is the electrical system still adequate for our needs? These are questions an inspector can help you answer.

Here are some questions to ask if you want to hire an inspector:
1. Do you have a current Washington State Home Inspector License?
2. Are you a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors?
3. How many inspections of similar properties do you do each year? References?
4. What specifically will the inspection cover? What is excluded?
5. Do you carry errors & omissions insurance? Do you guarantee your work?
6. What type of report will I receive after the inspection?
7. How long will the inspection take & how soon will I receive the report?
8. How much will the inspection cost? Do you offer any discounts?

Questions about this topic? Give me a call. 206-708-9800.