Archive for June 23rd, 2009

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Tuesday Tour Show-Stoppers XIII

June 23, 2009

It’s the lucky number 13 edition of Tuesday Tour Show-Stoppers, and what a glorious day it was.  Can I just say that we live in the most beautiful city in the US?  Seriously… touring amazing residences all around the city on a day like today is a privilege, and one of the many reasons I love my job.  The neighborhoods come alive, the homes glow inside and out, and the yards may be experienced in all their glory.

Speaking of yards, there were quite a few doozies out there this week.  The sounds of birds chirping, water trickling from fountains, and the scent of flowers seemed to be the theme of the day.  Sound cheesy?  Maybe so, but I’ll take it.  Beats the mound of paperwork and disclosure packages sitting on my desk, that’s for sure.  Impressionable yards this week included 200 Locust, 3418 Scott, 3648 22nd, and 3870 25th.  But the winner of the “Backyard of the Week Award” goes to… 456 Belvedere in Cole Valley.  This home’s yard features a patio and two worn brick walkways that take you through lush gardens that reach towards the back of the lot.  You’re likely to see a huge variety of perennials, catch whiffs of sweet blossoms, and spot a few hummingbirds.

May look like chaos from the photo, but is amazing in person (especially on a gorgeous day)

May look like chaos from the photo, but is amazing in person (especially on a gorgeous day)

View of the week goes to 366 Liberty, which is of course located on Liberty Hill.  This unsuspecting home starts  with a humble exterior, but once you set foot inside, prepare to be wowed.  It is truly an impressive house and just gets better and better as you make your way around.  Step out to one of the huge rear decks and enjoy a view of the entire City skyline, bay, and mountains.

366 Liberty wins view of the week

366 Liberty wins view of the week

Time for the 4 star (great) and 5 star (superb) homes of the week.  Keep in mind we are not judging prices and these are our opinions only.  Click the bold address on any listing for more details, and if you have no idea what a “Tuesday Tour Show-Stopper” is, click HERE.

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Tax Credit for Buyers May Expand

June 23, 2009

According to an article published on USAToday.com, lawmakers have proposed some fairly significant changes to the existing $8,000 tax credit available to first time home-buyers. Currently, the $8,000 credit is available to first time buyers (anyone who has not purchased a home within the past 3 years).  Single people making less than $95,000 per year and married couples making less than $170,000 per year combined are eligible for a partial credit.  Single people making less than $75,000 per year and married couples making less than $150,000 per year are eligible for the full credit.  Buyers do not have to repay the credit if they own and occupy the home for three years or more.

The new legislative proposals include:

  • Proposal 1:  Tax credit to rise to $15,000.  Eligibility no longer restricted to first time buyers.  Income restrictions lifted.
  • Proposal 2:  The $8,000 tax credit would be extended until June 2010 and apply to all buyers.  A $3,000 tax credit would be extended to those refinancing.
  • Proposal 3:  The $8,000 tax credit would be extended to all buyers through 2010.

No word on how realistic these proposals are, but they are floating around out there.  The full article is available by clicking HERE.

Will new legislation save housing or create more problems?

Will new legislation save housing or create more problems?

*Always consult an accountant for tax advice.

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