Many people ask me if they should sell their home now, or wait a few months or a few years for the market to recover. During uncertain times, people tend to adopt a “let’s wait and see” approach – after all, it’s human nature. Unfortunately, this instinct doesn’t serve most homeowners, who should really be asking themselves the more difficult question: What will I NET if I sell my house now versus later? (more…)

Pertinent information from Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, delivered by our Santa Barbara Multiple Listing Service: A bill likely to raise the conforming loan amount from $417,000 to $729,000 is due to be signed into law today!!!

This is even more good financial news for folks looking for an opportunity to buy a home in today’s market!!
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As you are probably aware, the US Congress is hoping to pass an emergency rebate that many of us will receive in the next few months. They are doing this to stimulate the economy. I have been listening to the pundits talk about what they “hope” people do with this extra cash. Spending it is key. They want us to spend. So, I have ideas as to what to spend it on. BUY GREEN. Buy Local, Buy organic if possible. Here are some ideas:

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Did you know that there is a way to keep your original tax base if you move from one property in Santa Barbara County to another property within Santa Barbara County?  If this sounds interesting; here are a few facts.

What Are Proposition 60 and 90?
These propositions provide a one time property tax benefit by preventing reassessment when a senior citizen (age 55 years or older) sells his/her existing residence and purchases or constructs a replacement residence worth the same or less than the original property.  This proposition either applies to the principal claimant of the original residence or a spouse who resides with the seller who must also be 55 years of age at the time of the sale.

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