Friday, January 15, 2010
Tucson Real Estate and Homes - January 2010
Over 600 Homes Sold
Gregory Maul, ABR, CRS, GRI
Senior Associate Broker
May a resolution to redeem your home-buying potential
Dear Friend,
If you're looking to buy a house within the next 12 months, why not make your resolution one that will improve your financial situation and position you as an ideal home buyer? That's right - we're talking about your credit score.
The lending world has changed considerably since the boom days and so has the credit score required to qualify for a loan, not to mention a low interest rate. "About two years ago, you could have had a score of about 620 or so to get a lender's best rate on something. Now, lenders are really looking at a rate of 760 at the least," said Kelli Grant with SmartMoney.com. First-time home buyers fare much better, needing a credit score of at least 660 unless they try for an FHA loan. The truth is, to be a "good" buyer in the eyes of lenders you need to keep a close watch on the state of your credit score. Here are several tips to maintain and improve upon your current number.
Get Copies of your credit report -- then make sure the information is correct.
Go to www.annualcreditreport.com. This is the only authorized online source for a free credit report. Under federal law, you can get a free report from each of the three national credit reporting companies every 12 months.
Pay your bills on time.
One of the most important and easiest things you can do to improve your credit score is pay your bills by the due date. You can set up automatic payments from your bank account to help you pay on time, but be sure you have enough month in your account to avoid overdraft fees.
Understand how your credit score is determined.
- Do you pay your bills on time? The answer to this question is very important. If you have paid your bills late, have had an account referred to a collection agency, or have ever declared bankruptcy, this history will show up in your credit report.
- What is your outstanding debt? Many scoring models compare the amount of debt you have and your credit limits. If the amount you own is close to your credit limit, it is likely to have a negative effect on your score.
- How long is your credit history? A short credit history may have a negative effect on your score, but a short history can be offset by other factors, such as timely payments and low balances.
- Have you applied for new credit recently? If you have applied for too many new accounts recently that may negatively affect your score. However, if you request a copy of your own credit report, or if creditors are monitoring your account or looking at credit reports to make pre-screened credit offers, these inquiries about your credit history are not counted as applications for credit.
How many and what types of credit accounts do you have?
Many credit-scoring models consider the number and type of credit accounts you have. A mix of installment loans and credit cards may improve your score. However, too many finance company accounts or credit cards might hurt your score. To learn more about credit scoring, see the Federal Trade Commission's website, Facts for Consumers.
Beware of credit-repair scams.
Sometimes doing it yourself is the best way to repair your credit. The Federal Trade Commission's, "Credit Repair: How to Help Yourself" explains how you can improve your creditworthiness and lists legitimate resources for low-cost or no-cost help.
Your credit score is just one piece of the home buying process. Start your search by utilizing the experience and knowledge of a qualified Real Estate Professional. Call me today to get started towards making your home-buying resolution come true.
Sincerely,
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Labels: buy a home, credit repair, first-time home buyers, sell a home, tucson real estate, tucson realtor
Monday, November 16, 2009
Tucson Real Estate and Homes - November 2009
Over 600 Homes Sold
Gregory Maul, ABR, CRS, GRI
Senior Associate Broker
Ready to buy a home?
Ask yourself a few key questions first.
Dear Friend,
Can you afford to own a home?Whether it's a sellers market or in our case today, a buyers market, knowing what and IF you can afford a home is critical.
The National Association of REALTORS notes correctly that homes and financing are closely intertwined and describes financing as the difference between the purchase price and the down payment, commonly referred to as debt or the mortgage.
The best case scenario is to have some money saved for a down payment and additional money set aside for closing costs. In some cases, though, closing costs can be worked into the price of the home.
Here's a great exercise to help you save!
Roughly determine how much of a monthly mortgage payment you can afford. In addition to your monthly rent or current mortgage payment, take the rest of the money it would take to pay the new mortgage and put it into a savings account. Do this for six months.
There are two good things about this exercise:
- You get a feel for what it would be like paying the new mortgage, and
- You now have some money saved for potential closing costs or even a down payment on the house!
Do you know what you want?

Whether you are moving up to a larger home, are a first-time home buyer or are purchasing a second house, knowing what you want will simplify your home search process. Talk honestly and openly about details such as:
- square footage
- floor plans
- neighborhoods
- nearby schools
- style of home
Do you have a particular timeframe to buy?
By answering these questions honestly, you'll have a more realistic view of what you really want in your future home.
How's your credit?
The best way to ensure your loan is approved by the lender is to keep your credit in check. The best advise? For at least one year prior to purchasing a home make absolutely sure you pay your rent, credit card bill, car payment or any other debt in full and on time.
Not sure if you're credit score is in a good spot? Ask Gregg Maul to recommend a lender or mortgage professional who can answer all your home financing questions.
Careful planning and preparation will help you throughout the entire home buying process. Once you have these questions answered, call Gregg Maul to get started. Once you have a REALTOR, like Gregg Maul, that's right for you, then you will be on your way to making the dream of home ownership a reality!
Sincerely,
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Thursday, October 01, 2009
Tucson Real Estate and Homes - October 2009
Over 600 Homes Sold
Gregory Maul, ABR, CRS, GRI
Senior Associate Broker
PRICE: an underlying factor that makes or breaks a sale
Dear Friend,
While each client's situation is unique, and we all think our homes are special, there is one underlying factor that makes or breaks a buyer's decision to settle on your home: PRICE.
Pricing your home correctly
Pricing your home correctly in this market is one of the most critical actions you can take to sell your home faster - it's also one of the most difficult decisions you'll have to make as a seller. Which is why so many people won't do it.
What sellers have to realize is that by making the decision to price correctly from the beginning they may be staving off further financial damage. For some, that means getting creative about finances, for others, it can sometimes translate to taking a small loss. In some cases, taking a small loss may be the best scenario.
Let's look at it another way.
A closer look: Scenario Number 1
John Seller paid $300,000 on his home that is now worth $ 250,000. Many REALTORS would tell him to come down on his price at the beginning by say, $20,000. Now his asking price is $280,000.
A buyer comes along after one month on the market. They know, based on the CMA, that Mr. Seller's house is worth $ 250,000, so they put in an offer for $245,000. Mr. Seller decides to counter with $255,000, and SOLD! Now Mr. Seller can move on knowing that he is lucky not to have lost any more on his home.
Scenario Number 2:
Mr. Seller actually decides not to come down on his price at all. As a result, his home sits on the market for the first month with only a few bites from buyers but no official offers. An experienced REALTOR would recommend that Mr. Seller come down 10 percent each month that his home doesn't sell. He does it. Two months later, Mr. Seller's home is now at $243,000.
Finally, in the third month, a buyer comes along and offers $237,000. At this point Mr. Seller is considering, but feels it's too low, so his home sits another month. Frustrated, Mr. Seller decides not to come down on his price anymore.
At this point Mr. Seller is in trouble. He is underwater on his mortgage and every additional dollar he loses on the home sale must come out of his pocket to pay off the loan. By starting at a higher value than the market will support, he stands to lose more than if he had factored in a small loss up front.
Team up with an experienced Real Estate Agent.
These two scenarios demonstrate the increasingly critical point of pricing your home correctly from the moment you decide to sell. While it may seem exaggerated, there truly are sellers experiencing situations similar to the ones described above. The good news is that by teaming up with an experienced real estate agent, who knows your market well, you have a far greater chance of making informed decisions about the price of your home. Your REALTOR wants you to get the most money possible out of the sale of your home - and these days - that means reducing FROM THE START.
Whether you are selling or buying, I can help determine the fair market value of your home to make sure it reflects the current market as well as your individual needs. Give me a call to get started today.
Sincerely,
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Friday, August 28, 2009
Tucson Real Estate and Homes - September 2009 Item of Value
Over 600 Homes Sold
Gregory Maul, ABR, CRS, GRI
Senior Associate Broker
Tax Credit due to expire November 31, 2009
Dear Friend,
1. Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer?
The law defines "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the home ownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.
2. How is the amount of tax-credit determined
The tax credit is equal to 10 % of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $ 8,000.
3. Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit?
Yes. The income limit for single taxpayers is $ 75,000; the limit is $ 150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return.
4. What is the difference between this home buyer tax credit and the tax credit that Congress enacted in July 2008?
The most significant difference is that this tax credit does not have to be repaid. This tax incentive is a true tax credit. However, home buyers must use the residence as a principal residence for at least three years or face recapture of the tax credit amount.
5. How do I claim the tax credit?
Participation is easy. You claim the tax credit on your federal income tax return. Specifically, home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and then claim this amount on line 67 of the 1040 income tax form for 2009 returns.
6. What types of homes qualify?
Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit.
7. Are some buyers eligible to use the loan toward closing costs?
Yes. Buyers applying for FHA-backed financing with an FHA-approved lender that offers a bridge-loan program can get a bridge loan to bring down the upfront costs of buying a home. Those, these same buyers will still have to come up with the minimum 3.5 % down payment.
Advantages like this are hard to beat. If you are seriously considering owning your first home - let's talk. I'll go over the basics and answer any questions you may have about the home buying process. I also have contacts within the mortgage industry and can put you in contact with a lender who will determine if you financially qualify.
Sincerely,
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Monday, August 10, 2009
4 Ways to Beat The Summer Heat- August 2009 Item

Nothing says summer like a swimming pool. Hit up public pools around your neighborhood; join the local YMCA or gym with a large pool. Or if you have a little more money to splurge, join your community’s country club. While weekend trips to the pool are essential, an after dinner dip is always a great way to end the day.
2. Hit The Golf Course
Click here for a listing of Tucson's golf courses.
3. See Summer's biggest blockbusters
Another way to ensure you stay cool is to hit up the movie theater! Summer blockbusters are some of the year’s best movies. Don’t forget the popcorn!
4. Arts & Crafts
Remember that room you’ve been meaning to repaint or redecorate- make it your summer project! Start a scrapbook to preserve your summertime memories. If you have younger ones to entertain- choose a fun arts & crafts project for all ages. Visit websites such as FamilyFun.com or Parenting.com for super summer craft ideas.
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Tucson Real Estate and Homes - May 2009 Item
Over 600 Homes Sold
Gregory Maul, ABR, CRS, GRI
Senior Associate Broker
“Design can have such a positive impact on the way people live and on their relationships and moods.”
– Genevieve Gorder
Dear Friend,
For example, many buyers are seeking homes with hardwood, composite or travertine tile flooring because they require less maintenance than carpet and give a home a beautiful and natural feel. Replacing carpeted areas with these contemporary flooring options can give your home a worthwhile face-lift.
This month’s Item of Value is dedicated to new design trends around the home. You will find innovative and affordable tips that can dramatically improve your home’s look and value, such as adding accent lighting and replacing outdated plumbing fixtures.
Specific ways you can stage your home successfully for an open house or merely to entertain friends and family are also included.
My hope is to keep you informed of the latest trends in home improvement and design.
Sincerely,
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Click Here to view this month's item of value...
Friday, April 24, 2009
Tucson Real Estate and Homes - April 2009 Item Of Value
Over 600 Homes Sold
Gregory Maul, ABR, CRS, GRI
Senior Associate Broker
“Improve your business, your life, your relationships, your finances and your health. When you do the whole world improves.”
– Mark Victor Hansen
Dear Friend,
Your credit score is determined by several factors, including your payment history, number of open credit cards and even the amount of recent loan applications. There are also many ways to improve your credit score, such as routinely paying more than the minimum due on your credit cards or closing unused credit card accounts.
For this month’s Item of Value, you will find a crash course in credit scores. I’ve listed several tips to raise or maintain your credit score, as well as a worksheet to help keep your finances in order.
Making a concerted effort to improve your credit score will enable you to secure the best possible terms on a future mortgage, car loan or student loan, and I am here to help!
Sincerely,
Gregg Maul
(520) 471-8088
Gregg@TucsonRealEstate-golf.com
Oh by the way...if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number and I will be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
http://www.funintucson.com
http://www.tucsonrealestate-golf.com
Realty Executives
Click Here to view this month's item of value...
