Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Housing Market Revocery - Still Rocky

Housing market in rocky recovery

The housing market is in the midst of a rocky recovery, but it’s too soon to declare the end of the worst real estate slide since the Great Depression.

Sales of existing homes picked up sharply last month and prices stabilized. But that’s because the market got a big boost from tax credits for first-time home buyers. It remains to be seen whether the momentum will carry over through next year after the program was extended through April.

One clue may lie in Wednesday’s report on new home sales for November, which took an unexpected drop. For technical reasons, the tax break didn’t give new sales the same boost as existing homes. That’s because new sales are recorded when contracts are signed, while existing sales are logged when the sale closes. To get the original $8,000 tax credit, buyers had to close before Nov. 30, so new homes purchased in November likely wouldn't have closed in time to qualify.

The housing outlook is further clouded by a big wave of foreclosures that’s expected to break in the next two years.

“We have a tsunami of foreclosures — 3.5 million people who are 60 days delinquent, seriously delinquent, and probably another 3 million after that who are going to reach that stage,” said Yale University economics professor John Geanakoplos. “All six million of those will probably be kicked out of their houses.”

The housing industry got some holiday cheer Tuesday as the latest monthly data showed the sales of existing homes in November posted the biggest gain in nearly three years. But when the impact of the Nov. 30 tax credit deadline wears off, the housing market could face something of a New Year’s hangover when the December figures are released.

“Existing-home sales are likely to plunge in December,” according to Patrick Newport, U.S. economist at IHS Global Insight.

Because it targeted first-time buyers, the impact of the tax credit was felt most heavily at the low end of the market. More than 70 percent of November sales involved houses priced under $250,000.

To keep the housing recovery going, Congress last month extended the tax credit and expanded it. Under the second round, buyers who have lived in their current homes for at least five years can claim a credit of up to $6,500 on a new home if they sign a purchase agreement by April 30.

The hope is that by next spring, the housing market and economy will begin showing sustainable growth without the help of the government. The risk is that the tax credit simply moves up future sales without creating new demand.

That risk was highlighted by a separate report Wednesday showing that sales of new single-family homes unexpectedly fell to their lowest level in seven months in November. (New home sales account for about 5 percent of the housing market.)

The Commerce Department said new home sales dropped 11.3 percent, the biggest decline since January, to a 355,000 unit annual rate. Still, there were some bright spots in the report. The median sale price for a new home rose 3.8 percent from October to $217,400, the highest level since May.

A sustained housing recovery will depend on several factors, including a recovery in the labor market. Most economists expect the unemployment rate, currently at 10 percent, to remain close to that level for through next year. Without a paycheck, those jobless workers can’t get a mortgage.

The housing market also faces a stiff headwind from the continuing high rate of foreclosures, which drives down prices and adds to the backlog of unsold homes as lenders put those properties back on the market. Foreclosure filings in the U.S. will hit another record this year, with an estimated 3.9 million notices sent to homeowners in default, according to RealtyTrac. A record 14 percent of homeowners with mortgages are either behind on payments or in foreclosure.

“It looks like builders are having a real problem trying to compete with the depressed prices in the existing home market,” said Joel Naroff, president of Naroff Economic Advisors.

Despite three government relief programs since the housing market collapsed in 2007, millions of families are expected to lose their homes over the next two years. Under the latest program launched in March, some 760,000 eligible borrowers have been offered modified loans, but only 31,000 of those trial plans had been made permanent as of last month, according to a report this week from bank regulators.

Part of the reason for the poor showing is that mortgage servicers don't have adequate staff and systems to process the increasing number of trial plans, the report said.

But lenders have also been slow to take more aggressive steps, such as cutting mortgage balances to reflect lost home values. Mortgages that were pooled and sold to investors have also created financial incentives for mortgage companies to drag out the process, according to Geanakoplos.

“They are leaving (owners) in their homes longer and longer because (mortgage servicers) realize they can continue to keep their fees coming, even as the people sit there,” he said.

Effective foreclosure relief is only one piece of the housing outlook puzzle. A sustained recovery will also depend on the cost and availability of credit.

Mortgage rates remain below 5 percent, though they’ve been inching up in recent weeks. Those low rates have been engineered largely by the Federal Reserve through its program to buy $1.25 trillion in mortgage-backed securities. About two-thirds of that has already been spent. In its latest regular policy statement, the Fed included a reminder that the program is set to end next spring. It’s not clear whether rates will begin rising after the Fed stops buying mortgage-packed paper.

Low mortgage rates have helped millions of homeowners reduce payments on their existing homes; roughly three out of four mortgage applications in the first two weeks of December were for refinancing, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. That will help household budgets and shore up consumer spending, but it hasn’t spurred home buying.

Consumer spending rose for a second straight month in November as incomes recorded their biggest gain in six months, the Commerce Department reported Wednesday.

Falling real estate prices also have helped boost demand for homes by making homes more affordable. The median price of existing homes sold in November was $172,600, down 4.3 percent from a year earlier.

The combination of cheap mortgage money and lower prices has pushed the so-called “affordability” index close to its highest level in nearly two decades, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

As prices stabilize, lenders may become more confident about writing new mortgages, helping sustain demand after government incentives expire, said Richard DeKaser an economist at Woodley Park Research. “I think that we’ll have the baton passed from the public to the private sector as lenders start to loosen up the purse strings," he said.

Tight credit — a reaction to the wave of easy money that sank the housing market in the first place — also could weigh on a sustained housing rebound. To help ease credit, President Barack Obama met this week with community bankers to seek ways to get more loans flowing to small businesses and home buyers. Lenders have argued that credit has slowed because the weak economy has cut the demand.

They have money to lend. Most banks have been steadily rebuilding their capital reserves as they profit from a favorable interest rate environment. But those reserves could take another hit next year unless the job market bounces back.

“We could see a secondary tightening of credit as the losses from 10 percent unemployment and defaults come through,” said Diane Swonk, chief economist at Mesirow Financial. “That’s is what the Fed's concerned about — averting that secondary tightening of credit.”

By John W. Schoen
Senior producer
msnbc.com

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Weekend Rates - Take look!


Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
F1RST TEAM
Real Estate
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

STATE WIDE AND LOCAL REAL ESTATE FACTS & FIGURES
http://clients.housingtrendsenewsletter.com/


"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a
referral from my friends and clients"

Thursday, December 3, 2009

I enjoy working for you - BUT,....


I needed to make sure a few things where clear for everyone.

1) I DO enjoy chatting with and working with everyone I come into contact with.

2) I do NOT mind sharing information and helpful "stuff"

3) I realize that my services are easy, simple to use and I am easy to work with and I have access and provide access to just about everything you could need in Real Estate (It's All In There!)


BUT

If you are already working with an AGENT and I am giving you information and access to homes your AGENT is not sharing - why are you doing still working with that other AGENT?

There is nothing personal here, but business is business. If you AGENT is NOT willing to share with you all the homes on the market - what do you think you are missing? A WHOLE BUNCH!


You need to take a step back and really look at your situation. If your current AGENT is your buddy, friend, family member, brother, sister or - whatever - FINE,..that is great that you can take some time out to help a friend. I think that is wonderful!

But, if this business relationship is not a good business relationship and the business part turns sour - what do you think that will do to your friendship?

One think I have learned is that business is business - period. No exceptions. If friends, family or co workers use your services - then it is business. Expect the same level of service you would from any service provider and if they cannot provide it - no harm, no foul. Stay friends and just move on.

With all of that being said. I want everyone to be sure that whomever you choose to be your Realtor/AGENT of choice - let that be your choice. If they do not provide you the service you need and you have to go to someone else to get the job done - do just that - move on.

Do the right thing and stay friends but move your business on to the person that is getting the job done for you.


Whew!

With that said, I do not mind helping you find a home or finding loans or helping you figure some next steps. But do not come to me after we have been working together on a home and tell me you already have an agent and could you please send the AGENT the information because your agent doesn't have clue as to what you are talking about.

This situation at the very least makes it pretty difficult for me want to help you further if you have already mislead me this far.

Be honest, be straight forward and have integrity. I work hard for your business - as you can tell. If mine is better -- I would be thankful if you choose me as your Realtor & Agent because of my service and work. Just think, if I have been great this far - it will continue to be so.

If you Agent is not keeping you updated on homes or property & you have to go elsewhere to find the information - why would you stay in the less then optimum situation where you do NOT have someone looking out for your best interests.

Sound fair?

Of course it does. You would expect the same respect show to yourself.

Have a GREAT weekend - and do not be shy to ask questions! If I am the Agent who takes care of you then do the right thing and choose me as your Realtor. You have already taken the steps to stay in touch and communicate. The next step to retain me as your AGENT & REALTOR is just as easy.

See you at the next Open House!

Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
F1RST TEAM
Real Estate
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate



"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a
referral from my friends and clients"

It's All In There - See For Yourself




Searching for Homes - Is it all in there?

Yes.



How Many Different Counties can you search? 10!
Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, & Ventura Counties.
I am your Southern California Real Estate Professional and your Local Area Expert. Yes, my area is a bit big, but wouldn't you want an Agent who can help you no matter where you wanted to live?

You can also search by City, School districts, Zip Codes, MLS areas (Yes, just like an agent).

You can search by Single family Home, Condo, Townhouse.

You can search by Bedrooms, Bathrooms, SqFt, Age, Acres, Lot SqFt.

You can search by Street name, Builder Tract, Price range, Remarks, and MLS number.


You can Advance Search and pinpoint the exact area(s) on a map where you want to live!

You can search by a list of Features (Appliances, Cul-De-Sac, Fireplace, Golf Course- up to 24 different features!

You can search by Pool - Private or Association - up to 4 different choices

You can search by Views-Canyon, Coastline, Ocean, Catalina, Desert, Water, City Lights or Mountain Views.


You can even search SOLD, PENDING, WITHDRAWN or OTHER to see what homes sold for or what is in the process of being sold.


Did you know,

Each Home will pull up data for Area Sales, Loan Report (you can customize this and get a very good estimate on your monthly costs).

You also get access to Community Information that will tell you stats on the what kind of neighborhood this is all the way down to the school district and that particular school's report card!


When I say

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com


I MEAN IT!

This search tool puts at your fingertips all of the information found on the MLS plus more. It also provides you much easier and faster way to really get into the details of a home and the surrounding community.

Isn't this what you had wanted in a HOME SEARCH anyway?




Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
F1RST TEAM
Real Estate
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate



"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a referral from my friends and clients"

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

30 second Update - From The Desk of Ken Webb - First Team Real Estate, KW Realtor

Do not forget to check up on your Twitter updates.

HOT BUYS - 

New Hot Buys Posted - Great Deals on South OC Homes

Check out the new updates on Rentals/Leases and Homes for Sale.  Maybe you are curious about a house down the street if it is a Short Sale or REO?

Working hard to get the tools you need.


Ken Webb - Realtor 
OCAR, NAR, CAR
KW Real Estate - First Team Estates
Email:  kenwebb@firstteam.com  
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649 
DRE Lic # 01844181



"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a 
referral from my friends and clients"


Affordability at Historic Highs in 2009

By: Sara Sutachan, Senior Research Analyst & Oscar Wei, Senior Research Analyst

Seasonally adjusted and annualized sales in the third quarter of 2009 increased to 537,690 units, up 1.7 percent from the previous quarter sales figure of 528,580 homes and up 7.7 percent from the year ago figure of 499,110 units. The size of the year-to-year percentage gains has been gradually diminishing since the beginning of this year, as sales level of 2008 continued to recover in the second half of the year. Although sales gains continue to be driven in part by large shares of deeply-discounted distressed sales in the low end of the market, the high end market has been improving. In fact, sales of million dollar homes in the last month of the quarter experienced their first year-to-year percent increase since the mid of 2007.

Even as home prices in California began to show some signs of stabilizing since hitting a recent quarterly bottom in the first quarter of 2009 at $247,800, the median price at $290,760 in the third quarter was still 15 percent below that of a year earlier. However, this was a far cry from the year-over-year price declines in the 30-40 percent range in the five consecutive quarters prior to the current quarter.

In the third quarter of 2009, lower prices across the state had sent affordability in the state to record high levels. C.A.R.’s First-time Buyer Housing Affordability Index (FTB-HAI), which measures the share of all households that can afford the entry-level home, hit 64 percent in California. That meant that nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of California’s households could afford a home at an entry-level price of $247,150 (defined as 85 percent of the median home price). While this affordability index only goes back to 2000, other affordability measures indicate that affordability has been at a historically high level in 2009 even compared to the 1980s and 1990s. In fact, the FTB-HAI reached a historic high in the first quarter of 2009 at 69. In other words, during the first three months of the year close to seven in 10 households could afford the entry-level home priced at $210,630. The index is calculated based on an entry-level home price, a 10 percent downpayment, an ARM effective composite rate, and a 40 percent debt-qualifying ratio.

The monthly mortgage payment including interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI) in the third quarter—based on a 10 percent downpayment and the prevailing mortgage rate of 4.79 percent—added up to $1,450. That is $340 less than the monthly PITI of $1,790 a year ago, when the entry-level home was priced at $290,490 and the mortgage rate was 5.30 percent. The FTB-HAI was nine points higher than the third quarter of 2008 when only 55 percent of the households were able to afford a home.

With lower prices and relatively low mortgage rates, affordability has improved dramatically in 2009, creating great opportunities for well-qualified buyers with a steady job and stable income situation. In addition, the extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit will also make buying a home more affordable to home buyers in the coming months. However, constraints on inventory as well as the tighter underwriting standards and qualifying thresholds remain to be a huge barrier today’s housing market.





Monday, November 30, 2009

New 2010 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.




Here is a new flyer for you to print out and keep at your fingertips. I already posted a updates the day this went into effect - be sure to print that out as it also has a side by side of the previous tax credit and the new one.

Rent vs Own - the age old question

A home is up for rent in my neighborhood. The home is a condo in a nice community and is about 1500 square feet. Nothing upgraded or new in the home. No stainless - nothing new except paint and carpet.

The home is asking $2400 a month in rent. - holy cow-

So I did some searching and if you just look at the numbers it is now RIGHT NOW cheaper to own a home that is the same as the one you rent or want to rent.

Seriously - it is time to maybe take back some of your life and start to own and stop the renting.

You hear all this talk about tax incentives - why are you NOT following the advice? What is it that holds you back?

Do not think I am telling the truth? No problem. Look at the facts yourself. Go to:http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com.

Make a free account and look at rentals and then look for a home that seems to be about the same.

See for yourself. Want to know more? GET IN TOUCH! I have money people who I know who will help you for free - no cost - no obligation and who are experts.

Seriously,

If you have been sitting on the fence - you will notice inventory is very very low. People have pulled homes of the market. Prices stopped dropping and in many cases the prices are going up.

Stop thinking the water cooler talk at work is the Expert Advice.

http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com


Stop putting it off. It will take you 10 minutes to have a free account and a list of available propeties for RENT or for PURCHASE in your hot hands - from me. Do it and find out what you have missed!


Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
F1RST TEAM
Real Estate
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate



"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a
referral from my friends and clients"

Monday - Weekend after Thanksgiving - Hope your holiday was great!




Greetings & Happy Monday

I hope your holiday weekend was wonderful and you had the chance to enjoy the beautiful weather.

I wanted to be sure and remind those of you that have not emailed to me your mailing address to be sure and do so. I have a nice gift I want to be sure and send it to everyone as a thank-you.

Also, for those of you who have internet access I encourage you to stay caught up on new information and other items of interest that are posted and reposted on my Blogger website as well as on Twitter.com.

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS: http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com

REAL ESTATE UPDATES ON TWITTER: http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT: http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com


I use these sites as a tool to keep everyone on the forefront of technology and to get access to Real Estate information before many others are even aware. Do not forget to take a look at all of the new upgrades that have been added to your free search tool on http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com.

I have attached this week's new numbers and am enclosing links to a couple of searches that include some amazing homes in SoCal. It doesn't matter where you live or where you want to relocate to, KW Realtor has you covered.


The following homes are found in the following communities:
Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano

3 Bedroom/3 Bath/ 2 Car Garage/ SFH/Lot Size 4,000 or larger/ - OR Larger UNDER $800,000 (copy and paste green type to browser window)
http://socallistings.marketlinx.com/SearchDetail/Scripts/PrtBuyFul/PrtBuyFulNoAddress.asp?emailGUID=a7797efa-06fb-4dde-9d52-af89efc44514&AgentId=SWEBBKEN


3 Bedroom/3 Bath/ 2 Car Garage/ SFH/Lot Size 4,000 or larger/ - OR Larger OVER $800,000 (copy and paste green type to browser window)
http://socallistings.marketlinx.com/SearchDetail/Scripts/PrtBuyFul/PrtBuyFulNoAddress.asp?emailGUID=28fdcc78-6d2c-4977-a062-2648725c202d&AgentId=SWEBBKEN


4 Bedroom/4 Bath/2700 sq. ft/3 Car/SFH/ Lot Size 6,000 or larger/ - OR Larger with Pool (copy and paste green type to browser window)
http://socallistings.marketlinx.com/SearchDetail/Scripts/PrtBuyFul/PrtBuyFulNoAddress.asp?emailGUID=46f5a815-fa2b-4e5f-bdac-74b69aa05bdc&AgentId=SWEBBKEN

Homes with 5,000 sq. ft or larger 3 Car Garage - Luxury Listings (copy and paste green type to browser window)
http://socallistings.marketlinx.com/SearchDetail/Scripts/PrtBuyFul/PrtBuyFulNoAddress.asp?emailGUID=9e6396cb-1ea1-4028-a139-7551ee7ef58a&AgentId=SWEBBKEN


Keep in mind you can do these kinds of searches fast and easy by just logging into your free customized http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com and you can search by many different choices. You can also pull up community information not always available on the internet. Try it and find out what you are missing http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

Have a great week and contact me anytime with any questions you may have. I know of lenders who are looking to lend and sellers looking to sell and buyers looking to buy. Don't forget to email me your mailing address.

Sincerely,

Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
KW Real Estate - First Team Estates
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

Monday, November 16, 2009

Rates - For The Week of 11/16/09 - Know The Facts You Need To Know


That is right! Here are this weeks rates. Check them out. Do not forget to ask questions if you have them.

Want a brand new home - I know where we can find them! Want a luxury home in LA - and be a part of one of the most luxurious neighborhoods in Los Angeles? I can get you there!

Want to be a part of the outdoor lifestyle that is Central Oregon? Want to be part of the city that Trump has designed a place to be on the look out for? I can get you there!

Sometimes we forget that a good Realtor doesn't just know your local neighborhood, they need to know more and be ready to help you with the new world wide Real Estate purchasing and ownership that is available to everyone.

Investments, Rental, Lease, Ownership, Selling or Buying.

I have you covered.

Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
F1RST TEAM
Estates
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com

UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a
referral from my friends and clients"

Sunday, November 8, 2009


Hello!

I hope your weekend has been great thus far for you and your loved ones. I wanted to just take a moment to get you an update just in-case you missed all the news this weekend.

First off I have posted 4 new HOT BUYS - that are homes that are lower than typical and offer a good price. To see these homes - the fastest way is to follow me on Twitter - and you can actually get these updates sent right to your cell phone. This gives you an amazing tool that allows you to respond very, very fast to fantastic Real Estate Deals. Go to: http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

Secondly, you also need to be aware of the updated news for the extended tax credit that was signed into effect. I had posted this information on Twitter and on my BLOG page with side-by-side comparisons of the previous tax credit and the new one. This BLOG website is simple and easy to use. You can also “click” on any of the publications and view them in full size and print them out. Go to: http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com

Lastly, in-case you forget to check your inbox - be sure and do so - as I have been emailing to you updated property searches - every day, first thing in the morning. I have recently purchased some new programing that also allows for in-depth information like AREA SALES, LOAN REPORT, & COMMUNITY INFORMATION. I am currently working to also include TAX INFORMATION as well. This search tool for buyers, sellers or anyone looking to lease is the best, most Up-To-Date Real Estate Search Tool you can find. You can search by any number of ideals you want in a home as well as search by a map and narrow down exactly where you want to live the exact corner or street area you want. Go To: http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

I understand that with all the news and information friends, family and business friends share, sometimes it is hard to know what is up and what is down. I understand that and feel your frustration when I have people tell me what they think Real Estate is doing - yet many times they could not be any further from the truth.

My job is to help you in any way I can and to be sure you have at your fingertips all the best tools and support you can have. I provide this with the upgraded Search Engine for Real Estate, keeping you updated on Twitter with awesome HOT BUYS, as well as new laws, legal matters and other important information that applies to all of us who are looking to buy, sell or lease.

Please feel free to text/call me anytime. I will get back to you as soon as I am able.

Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
KW Real Estate - First Team Estates
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

Friday, November 6, 2009

Weekend Rates & Interest Rates - Nov 7, 2009



Here is it, your weekend rates. Take some time to go over the information enclosed. There is some awesome news for this weekend. We all should be jumping for joy!

Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
F1RST TEAM
Estates
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

New Tax Credit Approved - October 6, 2009



Wow!

Did you see all the good news with the new EXPANDED tax credits?

Here is a simple side-by-side comparison of the previous tax credits and the newly expanded version that will be taking effect.

NOW is the time to get off the sidelines - no more excuses! This is for just about everyone!

Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com

UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate




Wednesday, October 28, 2009

75 Acres in Malibu - HOT BUY! AMAZING DEAL!

75 acres of unobstructed ocean views. This property features all utilities onsite and above ground. Most of all diligence is done on property including topo, partial geo, and renderings for this beautiful homesite. Appraised for 10 million







Monday, October 26, 2009

Some Shots From Laguna Beach, CA - From My Open House






Here is something fun, just some shots taken with an iPhone at my Open House last weekend.

Monday Updates - Are You Ready for the "Good Stuff"?




Good Morning!

Wow, what a busy weekend!

We had the Real Estate numbers come in on Friday and we were up 9.4%! This was posted last week - Associated Press had the news at about 7 a.m. on Friday.

That's not the only good news, there is more.

Home sales up 42% in the OC.

We also have some so-so good news on interest rates for home loans. Although the rates are low they have gone up this week.

I manage and keep an updated list of important news regarding Real Estate in Orange County and across the globe on this website---> http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

So for those of you who have mailboxes that are stuffed with files this gives you an option to easily link up and open items without having to download large files.

Drop in to: http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate and click through my last few postings and stay on top of important information. You can even choose to follow my updates and you can have them sent directly to your cell phone for INSTANT access. This allows you to see some of the best HOT BUYS and other important news.

Top Ten - Coolest Beach Properties

Weekly Mortgage Update

Home Sales Up 42% in The OC.


Also, be sure you check into your email if you are still looking at properties around Southern California. I send many of you updated lists every morning - 1st thing.

There are two ways to easily search properties. One of the ways is to have your very own MLS account and be able to search by cities and even by neighborhoods and you can even pinpoint specific areas on a map and choose any number of items you do or do not like age of home, mellos roos, HOA fees, appliances, etc.

The other way is very simple as well - you do not have to be computer savvy. I can email to you daily a link to a list of properties here in Southern California that have the bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, lot size and price. These are sent daily and all you have to do is take a few moments to look at them and decide if you like them or not and if you want to go with me to look at these homes.

Many people have had great success easily finding the homes in these 2 ways and have even placed winning offers on these homes and now own their very own dream home.

I also get asked this question many times and thought I would just remind us all about it. "I was told I can get a better deal if I just work with the Listing Agent"

First thing - any Agent/Realtor who tells you that they will give you a better deal (or they do not work with Buyer's Agents) if you work with them and that you do not get and Realtor (to represent you and your best interests) is unethical and illegal. Think of it this way - if you where making an offer on a home and you lost the deal because the Listing Agent made deals and paid people to work with them - even though it is banned by law - would you be a bit angry? Of course you would. You could have a legal case against that Agent.

Second thing - a Listing Agent who already is representing the Seller - is already committed to get the Seller the best deal they can, the highest and best offer and get paid the highest and best fee. With that in mind who do you think they will be looking out for? We imagine that they will be working hard to get the Seller the best deal they can - because if the Seller finds out they (the Agent or Realtor) cut a special deal with a Buyer and did not share the savings with them - they have a very strong case against the Realtor for them not doing what they had contracted themselves to do.

I understand this is a lot to think of but - there are as many questionable Realtors or Agents out there as there are good and honest ones and you want to be sure you always choose a Realtor who is looking out for your best interests, not someone else.

Remember, I can help you every step of the way and will work hard to answer any questions you may have.




Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
First Team Real Estate & KW, Realtor
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181



"The finest compliment I could ever receive is a referral from my friends and clients"

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Simply Amazing- Ocean View - Laguna Beach - For Sale




Stunning, Spectacular & Amazing - Open House This Weekend

Open House This Weekend- Saturday & Sunday from 1:30-4:30pm

Drop in and find out whats new in Real Estate in Laguna Beach.

VIDEO->View the YouTube Video of this Home--> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rCN6kn9ZHM

For starter this home you will be previewing is sitting on OVER 1/3 AN ACRE - IN LAGUNA BEACH! Flooded with light from Ocean Views from every Room in the house.

This home boats 3 good sized bedrooms and a Grand Master Bedroom.

The Grand Master Bedroom has a full Spa Styled Master Bath with Jacuzzi style Hot Tub. This glorious Master Bedroom Suite also has 2 Walk In Closets.

The Master Bedroom isn't the only stunning thing here.

Check out the Kitchen with Granite and Sub-Zero Fridge/Freezer.

Stroll around you Outdoor Entertainment Area with Grill Burners, Sink and Fridge with seating for All Your Friends. All this plus Ocean Views and the cool breezes of the Pacific Ocean.

But don’t stop there!

This place is Stunning, Spectacular, & Amazing! Walk up to the roof top deck with room to entertain! Yes! Even more outdoor spaces!

There is More, More, MORE!

Did you see that this home sits on over 1/3 an acre! Yes! Come explore the pathways and walk ways around your private, secluded park right in Laguna Beach!

PRIVATE AND SECLUDED ! IN LAGUNA BEACH!

Okay, Now that you are curious - you really should drop by.
If a million $ home is not what you are looking for - you can get the option to search the entire MLS like an agent. No more need for multiple sights with inaccurate or old outdated INFORMATION. Get it all in one spot, free and easy to use. Search by county, city and street! Search by neighborhoods, Search by freeway locations.

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com


Did you know First Team Real Estate is #1? Number one in Sales Number 1 in Units sold. This means is you want to list your home - there is no better place than First Team. This also means if you want to buy a home there Is no better equipped Broker than First Team.

Come by and visit with Ken Webb - Realtor with First Team Estates.

What else is happening in Real Estate?

If you follow me on Twitter you get access to ultra HOT BUYS! First access to properties considered really good deals - from all over SoCal.

UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate

If you are missing updates you can follow my Blog and have access to past Twitter postings and any news or information you may have missed as well as publications you can print out at home and read at your leisure.

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Open House This Weekend!




Open House Notice - From The Desk of Ken Webb & First Team Estates/KW Real Estate

Hello! - It is going to be a fantastic weekend! I hope you are going to have a chance to go outdoors and enjoy this fall sunshine. I will be working all weekend in Laguna Beach and I encourage you to drop by and say, HI. A reminder - I DO NOT expect you to make an offer on the house, I just would like a chance to see you and visit and help you with any questions you may have about Laguna Beach. Just drop by and shoot the breeze and enjoy the views.

Here is a copy of this week's Open House Ad

OPEN HOUSE - STEPS TO THE BEACH!

Today and Sunday from 1:30 pm 4:30pm Stop by for some cold drinks and current Laguna Beach Real Estate information. Find out how you can search just like an agent does - right from the MLS - no cost and no fees!
444 Ashton Drive. Take a right off of PCH onto Hinkle, go up Hinkle and take a right on Rousevel Terrace, follow Rousevel and take a right on Ashton Dr.

View the YouTube Video of this Home--> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rCN6kn9ZHM

Your local Real Estate Expert is now Global.

Ken Webb - Realtor

SEARCH JUST LIKE AN AGENT
www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com

CURRENT REAL ESTATE NEWS
http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


UP TO THE MINUTE UPDATES ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate


View the YouTube Video of this Home--> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rCN6kn9ZHM










Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
KW Real Estate - First Team Estates
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

Friday, October 16, 2009

Open House - Laguna Beach - Absolutly Stunning!




Greetings!

I hope you have had a good week and are prepared for the weekend! It is supposed to be beautiful! I am excited because I will be back at my Open House this weekend from 1pm to 4:30pm. This is a great chance to see a beautiful home with stunning views from just about every place in the house. Please stop by and get a cold drink and find out what is new in the land of Real Estate.

Video of Home--> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rCN6kn9ZHM


My schedule is pretty much the same except for the last weekend of October. I will be heading out of state to help some clients and be on a short work weekend in Oregon and Washington. I will be leaving on the 28th and will be back on the first Tuesday in November.


For those of you who are serious about a purchase - NOW is the time to get an offer in and get it accepted to take advantage of any tax savings you can get. The FHA $8000 tax credit means you have to have your offer in and the sale completed before the 29th of November.


I am attaching the Open House flyer for Laguna Beach this weekend and am also attaching the new Mortgage Watch newsletter.

As a side note, please remember to check your daily emails on the properties that I send to you in the early am. One of those properties is nearly a brand new house and is at 302,000 in Aliso Viejo! If that is not enough of a deal, be sure and join me on TWITTER! I post on twitter as soon as I can HOT BUYS that are homes that have price per square footage that is much lower than the rest. These updates are also posted to my Blogger page as well.

Bookmark these webpages and add them to your favorites!

http://www.kwrealestate.listingbook.com


http://kenwebbkwrealestate.blogspot.com


http://twitter.com/KW_Real_Estate


These simple steps give you access to information and properties many folks are missing. This means that because you are a cash buyer we can go in with proof of funds and make an offer right away. If you are not a cash buyer we have to have proof that you are pre-qualified for a loan and have the necessary funds for the down payment.

Buying a home is not as complicated as it seems. It is just a series of steps, one after the other until we reach the end of the road and you unlock the door to your new home!

I look forward to talking with you soon,


Ken Webb - Realtor
OCAR, NAR, CAR
KW Real Estate - First Team Estates
Email: kenwebb@firstteam.com
Phone/Text: (949) 243-6649
DRE Lic # 01844181

p.s. Remember, it does not matter if you want to buy, lease, sell, rent, invest. It does not matter where you want to do it, any city, any county, any state, any country- I have you covered!