Happy New Year from Dianne Dunn & Team New Bern!

Dear Neighbors and Friends,

The holidays have come and gone and you've probably just finished cleaning up from your New Year's party! Now it is time to get started on your New Year's Resolutions! Here are a few helpful websites with tips on the 3 top New Year's Resolutions. I hope you find them helpful. Good luck!

New Year's Resolution #1 - Get In Shape

If a grip on fitness and diet is in your New Year's Resolutions, these sites might help you chart a course of action...

Nutricise: a great online health and fitness resource
Lifelines: resources for improvement of health, productivity, and effectiveness
HealthFinder: a gateway consumer health and human services information website
DietWatch: has a calculator and will help you monitor your intake.
The Mayo Clinic: has a section on healthy tips, coping with grief, and keeping stress in line.
American Dietetic Association: your link to nutrition and health information
Ask Dr. Andrew Weil: brought to you by Dr. Weil himself

New Year's Resolution #2 - Get Organized

Being organized means more than filing papers, using a daily list and knowing what time to be where. It's a habit, much the same as any other skill you master. Tips from this site will help you organize your home office, get ahead, take control of projects and maintain balance in your life.



New Year's Resolution #3 - Create a Financial Plan

How do you invest to meet your goals? There are no one-size-fits-all investments. Of course, the best investment you can make (and enjoy) is in your home. Today's interest rates are the lowest in 30 years, there are extra Tax benefits, homes are affordable, the property taxes are moderate, the cost of living is competitive, and the quality of life is excellent!

Create a Financial Plan. A personal financial plan provides strategies for dealing with periods of personal hardship and helps develop a prudent economic agenda for you and/or your family.

Chart Your Financial Future with these Top 10 Financial Resolutions from Smart Money.

Some Extra Fun Tidbits!

Celebrations!
Find out the History of the New Year from Babylon to Times Square with a soft rendition of "Auld Lang Syne". How familiar are you with the "history" of the song? This encyclopedia views various versions of the popular ballad. Yes, the celebration is still on! With over 100 celebrations for New Year's Eve in Times Square, New York City is bigger than ever. Speaking of large celebrations, the Chinese New Year is considered the longest festival. Check out Chinatown Online!

Throwing a Party?
Check out some traditional New Year's Recipes for Luck!

Calendars, Celestial and Astrology!
Have some fun visiting the Calendar Zone and Astrology.com for some fun predictions this upcoming new year.

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Dianne

Feel free to forward this page to your family and friends, and please recommend me as your Realtor for both New and Resale Properties. Thank You!

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website
Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) recently released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 4.71 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending December 3, 2009, down from last week when it averaged 4.78 percent.

Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 5.53 percent.

The 30-year has never been this low since Freddie Mac began its weekly survey in 1971. It's a great time to buy real estate!

Dianne Dunn
www.NewBernHomes.com
www.SearchNewBernHomes.com

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), November 1 through November 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

Under $99,999 = 13
$100K-$139,999 = 24
$140K-$179,999 = 26
$180K-$219,999 = 12
$220K-$259,999 = 09
$260K-$299,999 = 05
$300K-$349,999 = 02
$350K-$399,999 = 01
$400K-$499,999 = 02
$500K-$999,999 = 01
Over $1,000,000 = 00

Total November 2009 = 95
Total November 2008 = 69
Total November 2007 = 121

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", November 1 through November 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)

For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE! Email Dianne (252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

www.NewBernHomes.com

Search ALL Properties in New Bern!

Happy Holidays from Dianne Dunn & Team New Bern!

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This holiday season is a special time to reflect on the year that is nearly over, and to be thankful for those closest to our hearts. I hope that you'll enjoy the information in the web site links that follow.

Planning a Holiday Meal?

Don't have time to plan dinner? Meals.com has done all the planning for you with over 15,000 recipes!

Sill feeling overwhelmed? Here is a list of tips, and some printables to help you in planning your holiday meals.

The holidays can be a tough time for families, especially families dealing with diabetes. This site has all the help you need.

Need a cookbook? Here is access to name brand recipes and great ideas for a holiday meal.

If your idea of a holiday meal doesn't include meat, you can get some vegan holiday feast ideas from the The Low Fat Vegetarian and the Vegetarian Resource Guide. The Vegetarian Kitchen has a great selection of recipes too.

Mrs. Claus has lots of great holiday recipes for you to enjoy!
Click on each image and you will go directly to her cookbook!

Stressing About the Holidays?

Worried about gaining weight this holiday season? Join WebMD's weight loss clinic and party without adding pounds. The holiday season and all that comes with it can cause a great deal of stress for you and your children. Find out how to relieve it at Parenting.org.

Check out this site for the Top Ten Holiday Lists.

Want some great ideas for keeping collected after the holidays are done? Post-Holiday Cleanup has the "Best Hints for Undecorating and Packing Away Your Christmas Decorations."

Where do you go to ship that gift last minute? Help is here! Here are some packaging tips and services:

United States Postal Service
UPS.com
FedEx.com
DHL.com

Still Don't Know What to Give?

What to get for him....still don't know? Does he love history? Give him a distinctive gift package tailored to his historical interest. Find gifts for him for all occasions.

And now for her! Want to give her something unique? These gifts ideas are loved by Courtney Cox, Renee Zellweger & more stars! Give her something to snuggle up in from PajamaGram.com, and you don't have to wrap it! Or, give her something that will make her heart and her eyes sparkle from BlueNile.com.

Giving gifts to your co-workers or your employees can be a tricky business...this site can help. Do you know picky people who only like the best.

Looking for Hanukkah gifts? FTD.com has baskets, figurines, toys and more.

Send Holiday Cheer with an e-Greeting

Send your friends and loved ones Holiday cheer with a Holiday e-card from:
123 Greetings - Hanukkah
123 Greetings - Christmas
Blue Mountain Greetings


Holidays for the Kids

To keep the kiddies occupied before and after the holidays, there are games and entertainment galore at these sites:

The Holiday Spot has crafts, games, quizzes, and tons of fun stuff for all ages.
Billy Bear makes the holidays fun for all ages.

At Santa's Countdown to Christmas, the kids can send their very own email to Santa!

In the mood for Christmas caroling? Check out this website for some popular sing-along songs!

Discover the spirit of the season as the four Theme Parks of Walt Disney World Resort present magical holiday celebrations for the entire family. Join the festivities and ring in the holiday season with millions of lights on a studio backlot, stunning Candlelight Processionals, snow at Magic Kingdom Park and, of course, holiday parades featuring Santa. Come celebrate at the "Merriest Place on Earth."

If you enjoy viewing Christmas trees in all of their splendor, then head to New York City's Rockefeller Center to see the most famous tree of all!

Best Wishes for a Wonderful Holiday!
Dianne

Feel free to forward this page to your family and friends, and please recommend me as your
Realtor for both New and Resale Properties. Thank You!

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website
Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

Breaking News - Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended and Expanded!

Earlier this week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed an extension and expansion of the homebuyer tax credit. The House of Representatives approved the agreement reached in the Senate by a vote of 403-12, and the bill was signed by the president!

Below is a summary of the new modifications in the extension and expansion of the tax credit:

1) The $8,000 tax credit will be extended and available for first-time purchases before May 1, 2010.

2) A new $6,500 tax credit will be available for repeat buyers who purchase between December 1, 2009, and May 1, 2010. To qualify for this provision, buyers must have used the home sold or being sold as a principal residence consecutively for 5 of the previous 8 years.

3) Prospective purchasers with binding contracts in place as of April 30, 2010, will be allowed an additional 60 days to complete the transaction.
4) Income limits are expanded to $125,000 on a single return and $225,000 on a joint return.

The following two links by the National Association of Realtors will explain the bill in more depth:

NAR Issue Brief
Questions and Answers

If you know anyone looking to buy their first home at a time when prices and interest rates are still down, or if you are thinking of buying another home and getting the new $6,500 credit please contact me today ... we're glad to help!


Dianne Dunn
www.NewBernHomes.com
www.SearchNewBernHomes.com

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), October 1 through October 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)
Under $99,999 = 12
$100K-$139,999 = 14
$140K-$179,999 = 28
$180K-$219,999 = 15
$220K-$259,999 = 09
$260K-$299,999 = 04
$300K-$349,999 = 02
$350K-$399,999 = 01
$400K-$499,999 = 01
$500K-$999,999 = 00
Over $1,000,000 = 01

Total October 2009 = 87
Total October 2008 = 104
Total October 2007 = 128

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", October 1 through October 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)



For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE! Email Dianne (252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

www.NewBernHomes.com

Search ALL Properties in New Bern!

Happy Thanksgiving from Dianne Dunn & Team New Bern

Dear Neighbors and Friends,

Fall is upon us! With the leaves beautifully turning colors, I have decided to share with you a few fall recipes that I have collected. For a tasty snack, try this toasted pumpkin seed recipe. For a hearty meal, try this flavorful baked corned beef recipe. Served with tender baked potatoes, this meal is guaranteed to be a hit!

A Great Way To Enjoy Your Thanksgiving Meal

Got your feathers ruffled worrying about having the folks over for Thanksgiving? "Stuffed" with dozens of recipes, cooking tips, with a thawling video and suggestions for leftovers Butterball talks turkey!

This Thanksgiving Feast is loaded (but no calories), with sites to prepare you for your big day, from Thanksgiving recipes to saying grace, to the scoop on diets (for after the big day!).

And to watch 30 famous chefs demonstrate their favorite Thanksgiving recipes, check out the Virtual Chef. Then check out the All Recipes for pie recipes. What do they serve in the rest of the nation? Epicurious has the menus! Reader's Digest has a Thanksgiving Guide for Entertaining, recipes and just plain fun.

If your idea of giving thanks doesn't include turkey, you can get some great holiday feast ideas. The Vegetarian Kitchen has a great selection of recipes as does the The Low Fat Vegetarian and the Vegetarian Resource Guide.

The History of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving originated with three days of prayer and feasting celebrated by the Plymouth colonists in 1621. The first national Thanksgiving Day, proclaimed by President George Washington, was celebrated on Nov 26, 1789.

The First Thanksgiving has links to a picture timeline, a virtual voyage back in time to the seventeenth century. What did the Pilgrims really eat on Thanksgiving? Think it was turkey? Find out at the History Channel's Thanksgiving page.

At Things you can say at Thanksgiving, you'll learn why turkeys gobble and just about everything you need to know about turkeys. But, just in case that's not enough, you can check out the Thanksgiving Survival Guide to help you with your planning.

Thanksgiving Music

Just for fun, download Over the River and Through the Woods at Thanksgiving Traditions. And then, if it's Over the River and Through the Woods you go RoadTrip America will help you in preparing for your holiday travel plans.

For a Feast of Songs to go with your big feast visit Nine Stones. Or if you are a high tech listener check out this MP3 site for holiday music downloads.

Let the Thanksgiving Festivities begin with a Celebration of the first Thanksgiving, with entertainment, music, stories and a virtual turkey to take home!

Thanksgiving on the Web has more turkey facts, postcards, fall colors in different states, recipes and Thanksgiving stories. And what do Pilgrims and football have in common? They're all part of the Thanksgiving tradition. Thanksgiving Trivia will tell you how well you know your Thanksgiving history.

Thanksgiving Cards to Send to Friends and Family

Send your friends and loved ones thanks with a Thanksgiving card from:

• America's Thanksgiving Cards
• 123 Greetings
• Thanksgiving Card
• Blue Mountain Greetings
  

A Kid's Thanksgiving

To keep the kiddies occupied before Thanksgiving there are games and entertainment galore at these sites.

• The Holiday Spot has crafts, games, quizzes, and tons of fun stuff for all ages.
• Kids Domain Thanksgiving Central has a complete list of animations, clip art, games, cards, and more!
• Thanksgiving Kids Safe Site - Games, History, Crafts and Thanksgiving Fun Links.
  

Kids just love watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. It's an extravaganza! Find out how they inflate these huge balloons and create the floats! The site's drop-down menu has photos and information about all of the NY attractions and buildings.

Best Wishes for a Wonderful Thanksgiving!

Feel free to forward this page to your family and friends, and please recommend me as your
Realtor for both New and Resale Properties. Thank You!

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website
Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), September 1 through September 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

Under $99,999 = 26
$100K-$139,999 = 17
$140K-$179,999 = 33
$180K-$219,999 = 19
$220K-$259,999 = 10
$260K-$299,999 = 02
$300K-$349,999 = 01
$350K-$399,999 = 02
$400K-$499,999 = 01
$500K-$999,999 = 01
Over $1,000,000 = 01

Total September 2009 = 113
Total September 2008 = 127
Total September 2007 = 150

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", September 1 through September 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)



For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE! Email Dianne (252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

www.NewBernHomes.com

Search ALL Properties in New Bern!

Happy Halloween from Dianne Dunn & Team New Bern!

Dear Neighbors and Friends,

A quick reminder that November 1st is Daylight Savings! Don't forget to turn your clocks back AND change the batteries in your smoke detectors!

It's scary but according to the International Mass Retail Association, Halloween has become the second leading holiday after Christmas.

More Scary Facts: This Halloween, Americans will:

1. Consume $2 billion worth of chocolate and candy.
2. Spend $2.7 billion on pumpkins, greeting cards and party supplies.
3. Spend $1.5 billion on costumes and $756 million on decorations.
4. The Association also says that Americans will buy an estimated 20 million pounds of candy corn this year.

A Calorie-Free Way To Enjoy Halloween

Just surf on by and have fun on these sites - cool sites for Kids and Adults:

Need a Costume for that Halloween Party?

This one is dedicated to help you come up with the best! Halloween Street has costumes and accessories for all ages. Then there's spooktacular designs at Star Costumes.

Halloween Recipes and Goosebump Treats

Halloween Recipes and Ben and Jerry's Flavor Graveyard is full of fun for the kids. And don't miss Mimi's CyberKitchen is full of tasty treats.

Pumpkin Carving Sites

Pumpkin carving 101 has great tips for all ages and Halloween Web has some trivia and monster folklore for your younguns. Check out Pumpkin Masters for techniques and patterns.

Jokes and Riddles & Scary Sounds and Cool Midi Music

Halloween Central is full of Witchy Wonders and Scary Stories. Or to clear-up all those Halloween myths try Halloween-Online.com. Super Globe has lots of cool sounds and music. This site will entertain you with spooky music while you surf it!

Halloween Cards to Send to Friends and Family

Bluemountain is always a favorite and Hallmark has some great ideas too! Marlo has some great cards for kids. For extra scary cards try this site.

Halloween Safety

Halloween Online has some helpful tips to make your Halloween happy and safe. Also, be sure to check out our Halloween Safety Guide, including tips on Trick-or-Treat Safety and Costume Safety! I hope that you've enjoyed this site.

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!


Feel free to forward this page to your family and friends, and please recommend me as your Realtor for both New and Resale Properties.

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website
Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

September News From Dianne Dunn & Team New Bern!

Fall is upon us! With the leaves turning beautiful colors, I wanted to share with you a few fall recipes that I have collected.

For a hearty meal, try this flavorful baked corned beef recipe. Served with tender baked potatoes, this meal is guaranteed to be a hit! For busy families, be sure to try this easy, "no-fuss" biscuit pot pie. In about 20 minutes, it is ready to be enjoyed.

This recipe for baked chicken with apricots takes full advantage of in-season fruits. Play around with this recipe, using pineapples or cherries, and discover a new family favorite!

For a tasty snack, try this toasted pumpkin seed recipe. Indulge your sweet tooth with this delightful baked caramel corn. Melted brown sugar, butter and vanilla provides a base for a syrupy concoction guaranteed to delight the whole family. Dig in!

Fall Fun In New Bern...

New Bern is the place to be! Looking for some fall fun? Click on the links below!

• To view the events calendar, click here.
• For New Bern events, click here.

Cleaning Up!

Fall cleaning can be a hassle, but the links below have special tips to make saying your final good bye to summer a little bit easier.

• Our Garden Gang has some wonderful ideas on how to clean up your home garden.
• The Home Improvement Web offers 10 time-saving tips to give your backyard a head start on spring.
• For a guideline on seasonal cleaning, visit About.com's Seasonal Cleaning Chores.

Decorate With Style

Love the autumn, but feel stumped when it comes to decorating your home? I have found some great links that have amazing decorating ideas for the interior and exterior of your home!

About.com has a wonderful section dedicated to fall decorating. Gorgeous centerpiece designs are featured on Better Homes and Gardens. They also have a section dedicated to Outdoor Halloween Decorating. For more recipes and craft ideas, be sure to visit Happy Harvest. Get your kids involved! KidsDomain is your source for all things fall.

Enjoy your September!

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), August 1 through August 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

Under $100K = 12
$100K-$159,999 = 39
$160K-$199,999 = 15
$200K-$249,999 = 14
$250K-$299,999 = 05
$300K-$399,999 = 07
$400K-$499,999 = 00
Over $500,000 = 02

Total August 2009 = 94
Total August 2008 = 149
Total August 2007 = 191

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", August 1 through August 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)



For one of the BEST sites for New Bern information, and the Most Responsive Service:
Contact DIANNE!
www.NewBernHomes.com
Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

Only 92 Days Left!

That's right ... the last date for a purchase/close on a property is November 30, 2009, for the Federal Housing Tax Credit up to $8,000!

You, or a member of your family may be eligible. Here's a helpful link with guidelines to find answers about the government program:

Federal Housing Tax Credit


Feel free to give us a call if you would like more information: Toll Free 888-781-8800.

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website:

Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), July 1 through July 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)
Under $100K = 06
$100K-$159,999 = 33
$160K-$199,999 = 26
$200K-$249,999 = 18
$250K-$299,999 = 04
$300K-$399,999 = 06
$400K-$499,999 = 03
Over $500,000 = 01

Total July 2009 = 97
Total July 2008 = 144
Total July 2007 = 183

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD", July 1 through July 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE" (from NRRAR MLS Service)

For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE!
Email Dianne
(252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

www.NewBernHomes.com
Search ALL Properties in New Bern!

Catching up with a Laugh! ;-)

After taking a few days off and spending time with visiting family, I've been catching up on reading the latest real estate news and information from several sources which I subscribe to on a daily and weekly basis.

One of the articles that caught my eye is from the ActiveRain site, where real estate agents, lenders, instructors and coaches post their thoughts and suggestions. The following is titled: Top 10 Seller Sins, by Clint Miller from Missoula, MT.

While some of us have taken certification courses on "Home Staging" to help sellers understand how to show their property in the best condition for prospective buyers, Clint actually describes his thoughts "as a buyer" as he and his wife preview different properties.

Some of his descriptions are hilarious ... and also true, so enjoy! ;-)

Dianne

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website:

Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

Only 143 Days Left!

143 days is the "Countdown" to close on a home, and be eligible to receive the 1st-time buyer tax credit!

First-time buyers are those who have not owned a home within the last three years, and who are in a specific income bracket.

Are YOU eligible? ... Why not find out! Here are the Basic comparisons from last year's program to the current 2009 program, and here's a link to the IRS.gov website for a more detailed explanation.

Here's the link to the Federal Government site which describes Refinancing and Making Homes affordable:
http://makinghomeaffordable.gov/

My team and I will be glad to help you, so please feel free to contact us with any questions!

Dianne Dunn and Team New Bern
Keller Williams Realty
New Bern, NC

Email Dianne!
Visit our Website:

Search All Properties in the New Bern area.

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), June 1 through June 30 (from NRRAR MLS Service)
Under $100K = 22
$100K-$159,999 = 37
$160K-$199,999 = 25
$200K-$249,999 = 18
$250K-$299,999 = 06
$300K-$399,999 = 06
$400K-$499,999 = 05
Over $500,000 = 03

Total June 2009 = 122
Total June 2008 = 162
Total June 2007 = 223

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD" LAST MONTH

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE"

For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE!
Email Dianne
(252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

More Help for 1st-Time Home Buyers!

Are YOU a first-time buyer? ... Do you have children, grandchildren or friends who are first-time buyers? If so, this is an excellent opportunity for them with the new Tax Credit and the very recent changes in FHA loan guidelines. (Approximately 25% of all new loans are FHA).

HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan announced on May 29, 2009, a program that will allow first-time buyers who use FHA financing to apply the $8,000 federal first-time buyer tax credit towards loan closing costs.

Per the IRS.gov website, you may qualify to receive this credit if you meet the following qualifications:

"... qualifying taxpayers who buy a home before Dec. 1, 2009, can claim the credit on either their 2008 or 2009 tax returns. They do not have to repay the credit, provided the home remains their main home for 36 months after the purchase date. They can claim 10 percent of the purchase price up to $8,000, or $4,000 for married individuals filing separately.

The amount of the credit begins to phase out for taxpayers whose adjusted gross income is more than $75,000, or $150,000 for joint filers.

For purposes of the credit, you are considered to be a first-time homebuyer if you, and your spouse if you are married, did not own any other main home during the three-year period ending on the date of purchase."

The credit itself:
 Applies to purchases that close after April 8, 2008, and before Dec. 1, 2009.
 Applies only to homes used as a taxpayer's principal residence.
 Reduces a taxpayer's tax bill or increases his or her refund, dollar for dollar.
 Is fully refundable, meaning the credit will be paid out to eligible taxpayers, even if they owe no tax, or the credit is more than the tax owed.

This is a great time to buy, so pass the word!

Dianne Dunn
Email: DDunn@NewBernHomes.com

www.NewBernHomes.com
Search all property listings in the New Bern area: www.SearchNewBernHomes.com

Local New Bern News - Market Update

This column is customized each month so that I can share with you, the current monthly statistics. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Or, visit my website at www.NewBernHomes.com.

HOMES SOLD (Closed), May 1 through May 31 (from NRRAR MLS Service)
Under $100K = 15
$100K-$159,999 = 36
$160K-$199,999 = 22
$200K-$249,999 = 11
$250K-$299,999 = 06
$300K-$399,999 = 04
$400K - $499,999 = 01
Over $500,000 = 01

Total May 2009 = 96
Total May 2008 = 151
Total May 2007 = 196

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "SOLD" LAST MONTH

NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTIES "FOR SALE"

For the BEST Internet Marketing, and the Most Responsive Service in New Bern, Contact DIANNE!
Email Dianne
(252) 636-3301 or Toll Free: (888) 781-8800

Are Homes Selling in New Bern?...Yes!

When people approach me with a "doom and gloom" face about the condition of our real estate market, I share my honest opinion: All real estate is LOCAL! You don't watch the weather in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to decide what to wear tomorrow in New Bern, NC, so why watch the national news to make your local real estate decisions.

While some states like CA, AZ, NV, FL and parts of the northeast have seen appreciation and depreciation rates as high as 40%, North Carolina and some of our LOCAL markets had not experienced the "bubble and burst" as dramatically. However, one of the key factors that DOES affect our local market here in Eastern NC, is that many prospective buyers coming here need to sell their existing homes in some of these other states. Fortunately for us, some of these other markets are starting to turn around because people are getting realistic about the market.

The statistics show that while our LOCAL market peaked between the end of 2006 and early 2007, most people did not recognize the actual effect of the downturn here until the latter part of 2008 and early 2009.

Are homes still selling in the New Bern area? . . . YES! While the majority of activity is in the lower price range ($200K and under), there are homes selling in ALL neighborhoods if sellers consider these factors:

1) Price it RIGHT, and consider "Supply and Demand": If there's only 6 properties for sale and it's a high-demand neighborhood, then sellers will probably get a better price. If there are 50+ for sale, then your price needs to be extremely attractive to even get showings.

2) Condition is CRITICAL: With more competition than ever experienced in our area, sellers need to "stage" the property so it stands out above ALL the competition.
This is not a market to "test" or dabble in: If you REALLY want or need to sell, then give it your best with #'s 1 and 2 above. If you don't need or really want to sell, then don't frustrate yourself . . . wait for a better market!

Dianne Dunn

http://www.newbernhomes.com/

Email: DDunn@NewBernHomes.com

Assistance for Military Homeowners

I just learned today from a very astute Realtor friend in Hawaii (John Riggins), that the original HAP program (Homeowner's Assistance Program) under the US Army Corps of Engineers and Base Closure Act, has been extended under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Click on this link to see if you are eligible: http://hap.usace.army.mil/

This may help military and federal employees who are upside down with their homes (owe more than current market value).

Dianne Dunn
www.NewBernHomes.com
www.SearchNewBernMLS.com
Toll Free: 888-781-8800
Email: DDunn@NewBernHomes.com

New Mortgage?...Refinancing?... 8 Tips to AVOID!

With a large inventory to select from, many buyers are taking advantage of the current mortgage rates, which are near all-time lows, so that's good news for New Bern real estate market!

Also, with mortgage rates near all-time lows, many homeowners are taking advantage of these great rates by refinancing their current mortgages.

You should be aware that it's taking longer to get to closing. Why? . . . because many lenders are currently ill-equipped for the rush of new business, and the process of underwriting and approving new loans is taking some conforming lenders as long as 2 months to complete. This is nearly double the time needs as recently as six month ago.

Because there may be 60 days between the application date and the closing date, it’s important for applicants to remember that mortgage approvals can be revoked at any time prior to funding. As mortgage applicants, there are many events that are out of our control — job security and health matters, for example. But there are also events that are within our control.

Knowing that mortgage approvals can be fragile, here are 8 things you should absolutely not do while your home loan is in process. It may be the difference between being approved by the bank, and being turned down.

1. Don't buy a new car or trade-up to a bigger lease.
2. Don't quit your job to change industries.
3. Don't switch from a salaried job to a heavily-commissioned job.
4. Don't transfer large sums of money between bank accounts.
5. Don't forget to pay your bills - even the ones in dispute.
6. Don't open new credit cards - even if you're getting 20% off.
7. Don't accept a cash gift without filing the proper "gift" paperwork.
8. Don't make random undocumented deposits into your bank accounts.

Now, avoiding these items may not be practical for everyone. For example, if your car lease is expiring and you need a larger vehicle, it doesn’t mean you can’t buy the car — just check with your loan officer first to be sure the new payments won’t “break” your approval.

The same goes for accepting cash gifts from parents. There’s a right way and a wrong way to accept gifts, and doing it the wrong way may prevent you from using the gift as a source of downpayment.

Mortgage lending is full of “gotchas”, and with underwriting times stretching to 60 days, it’s a lot more likely that a mortgage applicant will trip into one of these. However, following these 8 rules is a good start!

My suggestion for New Bern Sellers refinancing their current homes, or New Bern Buyers who are buying a home: Contact a good lender and make sure everything is in order, so you can get to a smooth closing.

If you have any questions or need any help in the process, please feel free to call me at 252-636-3301 or Toll Free 888-781-8800, or email DDunn@NewBernHomes.com

Dianne Dunn
www.NewBernHomes.com
www.SearchNewBernMLS.com

Team New Bern Going Green?

Wow, . . . what an incredible class I attended yesterday! "Going Green" was sponsored by the Carteret County Association of REALTORS - an accredited CRS course (Council of Residential Specialists) and conducted by Senior CRS Instructor, MarkGiven.

The all-day session focused on energy-saving tips for existing homes and buildings, as well as new "green" materials for new-home construction, . . . how to save money, while helping the environment! The information shared covered areas as simple as energy-saving light bulbs and cost-efficient tankless water heaters, to innovative new ideas and systems on Wind power, Wave and Tidal Power and construction of a "green roof". I found it fascinating to learn about all the ways to improve conservation costs on my own home, which was constructed several years ago.

The following are just some of the websites that offer tons of information:
http://www.energystar.com/
http://www.energystar.gov/
http://www.greenhomeguide.org/
http://www.greenhome.com/
http://www.nuclearmoose.com/
http://www.usgbc.org/
http://www.desireusa.org/
http://www.treehugger.com/
http://www.epa.gov/
http://www.furnature.com/
http://www.earth911.com/

Mark's final quote "The Aim of Education is Not Knowledge, . . . but ACTION!" encouraged me to post this blog, and add a page on my current website about ways to GO Green to save energy, save money and help the environment - coming soon!

Dianne Dunn
www.NewBernHomes.com
www.SearchNewBernMLS.com

Recessionary Times? - How should we deal with it?

I just read an article which was passed along to me from a friend, Kathy Drewien, in Atlanta, GA.
The article was written by Tom Peters, a management consultant and speaker. The following are just some of the highlights that really inspired me on how to deal with this current economy and recessionary times:

• You work longer, harder, and you may work for less, . . . but adapt to these circumstances with a smile!
• Bring an upbeat attitude to work and to your life, even if you have to fake it.
• Surround yourself with positive people and good things happen . . . just like the "Law of Attraction".
• Forget about the "Good old days" . . . especially in the real estate business . . . nostalgia is for wimps.
• Shrug off your losses, and get back on your horse and try Again!
• Shoot for standards of excellence, develop a thirst for education to upgrade your career, and evaluate your own performance.
• Offer thanks and gratitude to others when good things happen, . . . and take the heat yourself when bad things happen.
• Volunteer more, help others with issues, and give new meaning to the word "thoughtful".
• Be kind to mankind.

Lots to think about this weekend ;-)

Dianne

http://www.newbernhomes.com/

Tax Credit Comparison - 2009 Stimulus Pkg

Hi Folks,

I just returned from a wonderful 6-day vacation . . . (we ALL need a recharge - especially in this challanging market! ;-)

Here's a great and simple comparison chart on the 2009 Tax Credit, which is part of the government Stimulus Package. Just click on the hotlink.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need help, and hope you all enjoy your week!

Dianne Dunn
www.NewBernHomes.com
www.SearchNewBernMLS.com