Mobile Alabama Real Estate Information

Tax credit and deduction tips for home improvement in 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:18:00 +0000

Some energy efficient home improvements can qualify for tax

credits. Check EnergyStar.gov for details

(ARA) - With the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you'll use your credit to fund them. While it's important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also consider another kind of credit - tax credits for energy efficient home improvements.

For the past few years, the federal government has offered tax credits for certain home improvements aimed at increasing a home's energy efficiency. While the most popular and generous tax credits, such as the one that allowed you to claim up to 30 percent of improvements such as a new roof or hot water heater, have expired, you can still get credit for other significant energy-efficient improvements.

According to EnergyStar.gov, you can claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost of installing a geothermal heat pump, small wind turbine or solar energy system in your home. The credit has no upper limit and applies to both existing homes and new construction, but not to rental properties. This credit is good until Dec. 31, 2016.

You can also get a credit of up to 30 percent of the cost of residential fuel cells, up to $500 per .5kW of power capacity, EnergyStar.gov says. This credit is also available until Dec. 31, 2016.

While the initial cost of these improvements may seem significant, they can dramatically decrease home energy bills in the long run.

Depending on the type of home improvement or repair you undertake, you may also be able to claim a deduction on your taxes. Before launching a significant home repair or improvement, it may pay to consult with your tax accountant to see what, if any, portion of the cost may be deductible. And, as you do home repairs throughout the year, keep receipts and discuss the improvements and possible deductions with your accountant when he or she is preparing your tax return.

Knowing ahead of time which, if any, tax credits or deductions your home improvement may qualify for can help you make a better decision about how to use credit to fund the work. Since how you use credit affects your overall credit score, knowing the cost of a project before starting it can help you better manage your credit.

If you're unsure how a home improvement project may affect your credit score, websites like freecreditscore.com can help you understand your credit. The site offers members a Credit Score Estimator that can help you understand how big financial decisions, like applying for a home improvement loan, may affect your credit score.

To learn more about tax credits for energy efficient home improvements, visit www.EnergyStar.gov. To learn more about tax deductions, visit http://www.IRS.gov. You can find a list of regional tax credits, rebates and savings at http://energy.gov/savings.

This Month in Real Estate - December 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:52:00 +0000

In this month's video, we cover the latest national real estate statistics. Jay presents this month's Top Story and covers reasons why sellers decide to move. In the
News You Can Use segment, Byron talks about the reasons to use a full service agent to sell your home.

Please click below to view this month's video.

For other real estate related videos, please check out the Keller Williams YouTube Channel.

--
Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

Alabama Housing Statistics - Mobile Alabama - November 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:08:00 +0000

Mobile Alabama Homes Sold and other Real Estate Data

The data shown in the table below represents Mobile County real estate transactions and listings as reported Mobile Area Association of Realtors/MLS for November 2011:

Number of Houses Sold	207
Average Selling Price This Month	$110,908
Average Days on Market - Solds	113
Average Days on Market - Actives	149
Number of Houses on the Market	3,140
Median Sales Price this Month	$90,000

Click on this link - Mobile County Alabama Housing Statistics October 2011 to see last month's real estate statistics and data.

Please let me know if you have any questions about the Mobile Alabama real estate market or would like real estate statistics for specific neighborhoods and areas in Mobile County. My contact information is listed below:

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Just Listed: 1200 Garland Street Mobile, AL 36618 3 BR / 1 BA

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:52:00 +0000

Steve Shaw
Gulf Region Properties Team
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.alabamabesthomes.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
http://www.steveshawrealtor.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

Mobile County Real Estate Sales by Area - October 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:30:00 +0000

Mobile Area Assoc of Realtors

We saw an uptick in activity this past month in the Springhill/USA area, Cottage Hill, West Mobile and Saraland areas, but all of the other areas in Mobile County showed a decline in number of transactions. Average prices are dropping in all areas.

Please check the table below for real estate sales activity for the number of sales and sales dollar amounts for month of October 2011 in Mobile County for residential sales - single family and condominiums. The table will show the following data elements: the area of the county, the number of sales, the total amount of sales, and the average sales price. This data was retrieved from the Mobile Area Association of Realtors MLS information. You can see a map of Mobile showing the MLS areas by clicking here. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information for your specific area or neighborhood in Mobile County.

Mobile MLS Area	# of Sales	Total Sales Amount	Average Sales Price
01 Downtown	0	$0	$0
02 Midtown South	2	$346,500	$173,250
03 MidTown East	5	$656,800	$131,360
04 Dauphin Island Pkwy North	7	$212,051	$30,293
07 MidTown West	7	$347,400	$49,628
09 MidCentral	1	$32,100	$32,100
10 Eight Mile/Prichard	3	$42,900	$14,300
11 Chickasaw	4	$101,500	$25,375
14 Municipal Park/West Central	14	$869,100	$62,078
15 Springhill/USA	21	$3,276,785	$156,037
16 Cottage Hill North	16	$1,963,500	$122,718
17 Cottage Hill South	19	$2,488,585	$130,978
18 West Mobile	42	$5,838,917	$139,021
19 Tillman's Corner	13	$1,418,117	$109,085
20 Western Bay Shores	5	$140,200	$28,040
21 Dauphin Island Pkwy South	16	$578,312	$36,144
22 South Mobile County/Theodore	20	$1,613,664	$80,683
23 Grand Bay North	3	$266,500	$88,833
24 West Mobile County	18	$3,151,945	$175,108
25 West Mobile/Semmes	8	$958,900	$119,862
26 Semmes/Wilmer/Lott Rd	18	$1,856,825	$103,156
27 Saraland	8	$647,125	$80,890
28 Saraland/Satsuma/Axis/Creola	12	$1,498,334	$140,125
29 NE Mobile County/Mt. Vernon	0	$0	$0
30 Dauphin Island	5	$1,290,500	$258,100
31 NW Mobile Cty/Citronelle	2	$214,000	$107,000
Total	269	$29,810,560	$110,819

Please click September 2011 Sales by Area post
to see last months data.
---------------
Steve Shaw
Gulf Region Properties Team
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.alabamabesthomes.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
http://www.steveshawrealtor.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Selected Home of the Week - Mobile Bay Waterfront Estate for Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:48:00 +0000

Mobile Bay Waterfront Estate For Sale

- 18875 SCENIC HIGHWAY 98. -

FAIRHOPE , AL 36532

Offered at $7,850,000

MLS#: 172551

This has to be one of the most premier properties in the Mobile Bay area. This Magnificent Mobile Bay front Estate is located on Approximately 2.6 Acres. Everything about this property can be considered Absolute Quality. 10'Ceils and Heart of Pine Floors Throughout. The Gallery Connects Main House to the Sun Room which Overlooks sparkling Pool. There are both 1st and 2nd Level Porches which allows Views of Bay and the gorgeous Grounds with large Moss Draped Oaks. The home has a Recreation Room, Media Room, Exercise Room and a Study. There is a 3rd Level which includes the Library and Storage. Property also has 725 Square Foot Carriage House/Guest Quarters. You have to see the Covered Pier that has Boat and JetSki Lifts with 2nd Story Loft. You will also find X-10 Lighting System and a Full Home Generator.

* Style: TRADITIONAL
* 4 Bedrooms

* 4 Full Baths
* 4 Half Baths
* Approximately 9,380 Square Feet Heating and Cooled Space
* Parking: 3 Car Garage Side Entry Detached
* Construction: WOOD

View of Pier, Boat house and Mobile Bay

Boathouse, Covered Deck at the end of pier

courtesy of
Remax by the Bay

Click for Additional Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com
Homes for Sale Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Selected Foreclosure of the Week - 6437 Sugar Creek Drive N

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 21:50:00 +0000

Sugar Creek Home for Sale

- 6437 SUGAR CREEK DRIVE, N. -

MOBILE , AL 36695

Offered at $175,000

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MLS#: 231671

Thats right. Popular Sugar Creek subdivision pool home for under $180,000. This very nice home is move in ready. There are 4 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. Some of the many features include hardwood flooring in both formal living and dining rooms, a separate large family room with fireplace and built in bookcases. The backyard is perfect for entertaining with large patio and pool area. Alabama One Year Right of Redemption Foreclosure law may apply. Purchase this property for as little as 3% down. Contact real estate agent for details.

* Style: TRADITIONAL
* 4 Bedrooms

* 2 Full Baths
* 1 Half Bath
* Approximately 2,628 Square Feet Heating and Cooled Space
* Parking: 2 Car Carport Attached
* Construction: BRICK, HARDBOARD

Click for Additional Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com
Homes for Sale Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

The Decline of Home Prices in Mobile Among Nation's Highest

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:11:00 +0000

There was a story in this morning's Bloomberg Business Week that says that Home Prices Decline in Almost Three-Fourths of U.S. Metro Markets. It was not a suprise that Mobile was listed as one of the markets with declining home prices. Statiscal analysis done on Gulf Region Properties websites and blogs has reported the decline of home prices in Mobile County on a monthly basis. What is a suprise is that Mobile is listed in the Top 3 of Declining Home Prices in the U.S. Here is link to the Bloomberg Business Week news article - http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-11-10/home-prices-decline-in-almost-three-fourths-of-u-s-metro-areas.html.

Click on this link to see link to the National Association of Realtors Median Sales Price Quarterly Report for U.S. Metro Markets

The Bloomberg Business News story says that home prices in Mobile tumble 18%. Data from the Mobile Association of Realtors includes all of Mobile County shows a median sales price drop of 14%. Median Sales prices of homes sold in Mobile County in the third quarter of 2010 was $115,000. For the same period this year, the median sales price was $99,900.

The new story talks about people not buying homes because of the uncertainity of the economy. That is probably true in Mobile. The Unemployement rate in Mobile County is close to 11%. Recent news that UPS distribution center leaving the Mobile area, the Carnival cruise ship leaving Mobile, and other similar stories have had negative effects on the local economy.

But the difference in the Mobile Real Estate Market is that the number of sales of existing homes actually increased 15% during this third quarter period. The news story talks about declining number of existing home sales as being a factor in declining prices. Declining sales numbers is not the factor in declining prices in Mobile. There was 917 homes sold in Mobile County during the July - September time period in 2011 comared to 798 last year. Insteadm the decline in prices in Mobile County could be do to the number of foreclosures that are being purchased in the area. There was a 25% increase in the number of sold foreclosures in the third quarter of 2011 compared to third quarter of 2010.

What does this news mean to you? Well if you are thinking of buying a home, it is a very good time to be in the market. Prices are at the year 2000 levels. Unfortunately what is good news for buyers is bad news for sellers. In order to increase the odds of their homes to sell, sellers are encouraged to make their homes as attractive as possible - painting, updating kitchens and bathrooms, declutter, etc. Sellers should also think about offering incentives to buyers such as paying closing costs to get those buyers to view their homes. Sellers should remember that homes are being sold in Mobile, in fact as stastistics show there was a 15% increase in the number of buyers this past third quarter.

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

This Month in Real Estate - November 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:50:00 +0000

This Month Jay and Byron concentrate on First Time Home Buyers. Jay discusses what type home and location of the home when First Time Home Buyers purchase that first home. Byron shares 3 reasons to purchase a home as compared to renting. Click below to watch..

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Alabama Housing Statistics - Mobile County - October 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:43:00 +0000

Mobile County Sold Homes Real Estate Statistics

The data shown in the table below represents Mobile County real estate transactions and listings as reported Mobile Area Association of Realtors/MLS for October 2011:

Number of Houses Sold	269
Average Selling Price This Month	$110,819
Average Days on Market - Solds	106
Average Days on Market - Actives	171
Number of Houses on the Market	3,247
Median Sales Price this Month	$91,000

Click on this link - Mobile County Alabama Housing Statistics September 2011 to see last month's data.

Please let me know if you have any questions or would like real estate statistics for specific neighborhoods in Mobile County

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Pace of Sold Million Dollar Homes picks up

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 15:59:00 +0000

This Ono Island Home sold for $2,050,000 in August

So far in 2011, there have been 19 homes sold in Mobile and Baldwin County along the coastal Alabama area where the sales price of the home has exceeded $1,000,000. The number of homes sold this year already exceeds the number of sold million dollar plus homes for all of 2010 which was 14. Sales in this price range are down from from 2007 and 2008 where the number of sales of over million homes were double of what it is today.

Historically, Baldwin County has had more sales of such homes as compared to Mobile County . Sales of homes on Ono Island and Mobile Bay Frontage in Baldwin County is where these home prices are predominantly found in our area. In Mobile County, for the most part, the homes in this price range are in the Mobile Country Club area.

It does take a little bit longer to sell a home at this price range. For example, this past August a Ono Island Home with over 2 acres of property with its own private beach sold for $2,050,000. The home was on the market for over 3 years. It was listed at one time for over $6,500,000.

There are currently around 120 homes for sale in Mobile and Baldwin County where list price is at or greater than $1,000,000. Use the links below to see details:

Mobile County Million Dollar Homes for Sale

Baldwin County Million Dollar Homes for Sale

Please let me know if you have any questions. My contact information is listed below.

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget
(251) 215-9382

Selected Foreclosure Home of the Week - 4093 Lloyd Station Road Mobile, AL 36693

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:19:00 +0000

- 4093 LLOYD STATION ROAD-

MOBILE , AL 36693

Offered at $165,000

MLS#: 232008

This move in ready home features a formal and informal dining areas, large family room, a screened back porch and a large bonus room that could be used as a 4th bedroom. Alabama One Year Right of Redemption Foreclosure law may apply. Purchase this property for as little as 3% down. Contact real estate agent for details.

* Style: CONTEMPORARY
* 3 Bedrooms

* 2 Full Baths
* 1 Half Bath
* Approximately 2,478 Square Feet
* Parking: 2 Car Garage Attached
* Construction: BRICK,

Click for Additional Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget
(251) 215-9382

Foreclosed Waterfront Homes in Mobile and Baldwin County

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:37:00 +0000

There are a number of available Foreclosed Waterfront Homes and Condominiums in Mobile and Baldwin County in South Alabama. These foreclosed properties are located on such waterfront locales as Mobile Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, Little Lagoon, Ole River, private lakes and ponds.

Click this link to view current Foreclosed Waterfront Homes in Mobile and Baldwin County for Sale

View from back porch of Foreclosed Waterfront Home located on Mobile Bay has 2 Piers and about 5 acres

This is view from Foreclosed Waterfront Property in Gulf Shores in Baldwin County

View from balcony of foreclosed condominium in Orange Beach in Baldwin County

If you are thinking about buying a foreclosed waterfront property in Mobile or Baldwin County, please contact me. My contact information is listed below. I will be happy to discuss what is available for purchase and design a plan to view these properties in person.

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget
Steve@GulfRegionProperties.com
(251) 215-9382

Building Permits Recorded in Mobile and Baldwin County

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:04:00 +0000

Sample Home Builder Spec Home

Below you will see a chart that displays the number of building permits recorded in Mobile County and Baldwin County for period of October 2009 - September 2011. A building permit is recorded at the local county courthouse by a home builder that is either building a pre-sold home or spec home. There are many more building permits recorded for Spec Homes than for Pre-Sold Homes.

Pre-Sold homes are where a customer owns the lot and has selected the builder and plans to build a home on the customer's lot. Spec homes permits are primarily recorded by a local home builder for homes that have not been sold but will be marketed during the construction process. Many times the consumer that is purchasing a spec home can choose their desired finishing touches such as choice of cabinets, style of carpet, tile or other floor coverings, paint colors, etc. Please click Mobile and Baldwin County Spec Homes for Sale to see an example list of current spec homes for sale in Mobile and Baldwin County. On the list, click the the MLS number for details of the spec home for sale.

Here is the chart that shows the number of builder permits issued from October 2009 - September 2011.

Housing Starts Charts - Mobile and Baldwin County (click to enlarge)

As you can tell from the chart, Baldwin County has more building permits recorded than Mobile County. From April 2011 until September 2001, both counties showed increases in building permits. Increase in builder permits or builder starts is a sign of a real estate market recovery. But both counties showed a drop in September 2011 for building permits. Hopefully September's numbers of building permits are a blip.

Please let me know if you have any questions about Building Permits - which home builders have the most, location etc. My contact information is listed below.

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Use a mortgage calculator and know the amount you can borrow

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 21:25:00 +0000

Buying a house of your own is one of the most important economic decisions that you have to take. You cannot afford to go wrong in this; otherwise the consequences can be quite grave. Your mortgage is a secured loan. Which means it is protected against collateral which is your house itself. If you cannot make your mortgage payments on time and default on your mortgage, then your house will go into foreclosure. Thus you will lose both your house and the amount of monthly mortgage payments you had made till date on your house. Thus the question, how much can I borrow is of utmost importance to your economic stability.

What are the factors you should keep in mind?

As a first time home buyer, you tend to get swayed by the concept of your dream house. You want your house to be like what you have read in your favorite novel or like what you had seen in your favorite movie. However, this is next to impossible in practical. It is very important that you borrow the amount of mortgage that you can surely return. Going overboard on the cost of your house will do nothing except push you towards deeper debt. It is quite difficult for you to decide on an amount that would be ideal to borrow as mortgage. As a result, it is advisable that you use a mortgage calculator in deciding the amount of mortgage that you can borrow. You can get such mortgage calculators in many websites. However, it is better that you choose a reputed website to use the calculator in order to get accurate results.

How can you use a mortgage calculator?

A mortgage calculator can help you decide the amount of mortgage that you can borrow. All you need to do is feed certain information into the calculator and find the result. First you need to feed the information how much salary you get and your other income or wages. This is your total income. Then you should give your monthly housing expenses such as property taxes and hazard insurance. You would also need to provide other monthly expenses such as monthly car payments and credit card payments. You are then required to provide information on the number of years you would borrow the mortgage loan for and the rate of interest on the loan. After feeding all these parameters you will be provided with two results, the amount of monthly mortgage payment you have to make which includes your principal and interest and the total amount of mortgage you can borrow.

Thus you can see how by using a mortgage calculator you can answer the question “mortgage how much can I borrow”.

Selected Home of the Week - Cameron Place Subdivision

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:06:00 +0000

- 7691 Bedford Court -

MOBILE , AL 36695

Offered at $270,000

MLS#: 229127

Careful - Its loaded! Seller will consider offers between $250000 and $270000. Just the right amenities make this home the BEST VALUE on the market in premium Cameron Place subdivision in West Mobile. All new stainless appliances, granite countertops, wide open spaces - perfect for entertaining in style. Exceptional deck overlooking a wonderful fenced in backyard. Large bedrooms with split floorplan. Superb master suite with huge closets and glamour vanity. Both the front yard and back yard are wonderful, but make sure to click on link below to see the interior photos. You will see that this house will not be on the market for very long! There are many gorgeous comfortable rooms.

* Style: CONTEMPORARY, SPANISH MEDITERREAN

* 4 Bedrooms

* 2 Full Baths
* 1 Half Bath

* Approximately 2,721 Square feet living area

* Year Built: 2000

* 2 Car Side Entry Garage

* Construction: BRICK, STUCCO

Click for Additional Home Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Ensuring a successful short sale – Valuable tips to follow to complete the process

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 22:28:00 +0000

With the present housing market conditions and the unemployment rate in the US, an increasingly large number of people are defaulting on their mortgages. As the market is declining in the nation, short sales are becoming the hottest topic for most struggling homeowners. Short sales are done by those homeowners who have overfinanced on their mortgage and are having a bad term on their loan that is keeping them from making timely payments on the loan. While it is certainly disconcerting to receive collection letters from the collection agencies and be threatened for an imminent foreclosure, those who are falling back on their monthly payments can rather choose some option that can help them get rid of the debt issues. Short sale is a viable option that the homeowners may choose to resolve their secured loan debt issues and deal with their home that is unaffordable according to their budget. Have a look at some steps to ensure a successful short sale.

1. Stay equipped with pieces of evidence: Make a list of the necessary repairs accompanied by the contractor bids that have been made on those repairs. While you prepare the report, make sure you present the highest quotes in your report. The second information that you need is a list of the homes that are recently sold homes that can be compared to the home that you're going to purchase.

2. Get the approval of your mortgage company: If possible, you must always get the approval of the mortgage company before you list the house for less an amount that you owe on your mortgage. Not all lenders may agree to do this but they often need an offer before approving your short sale process.

3.Stay prepared to contribute to the loss of the mortgage lender: You must stay financially prepared to contribute towards the losses of the mortgage company. As you're not being able to repay the loan, it is most likely that the mortgage lender will suffer a loss and this will require extensive documentation of your personal financial documents like income proof, employment verification and other income from all other sources. You must also list assets including the investments, bank accounts and others.

4.Offers and approvals can alter later: Although you may have submitted your short sale application to your mortgage loan lender, the buyers may still request an inspection of the home so that they can come to know whether the house needs any repairs. They may request that the repairs are all done at the seller's expense and the home seller credits the buyers with specific amount of cash for the repair at closing.

5.The loss amounts may also change: Your mortgage lender may distribute the payments for hazard insurance, mortgage insurance premiums and property taxes in between the time he short sale offer is received, and between approving and closing.

While a foreclosure may trash your credit score, it is always better to go for a short sale as it is just like settling your credit card debt where you pay an amount that is less than what you owe the lender. Make sure you repay your mortgage loans on time so that you can easily repay the loan without going through the hassles of a short sale or a foreclosure.

Contributed by:

Gloria Agnello

gloria.agnello@gmail.com

Mobile County Alabama Real Estate Sales by Area - September 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:22:00 +0000

Mobile Area Assoc of Realtors

We saw an uptick in activity this past month in the Semmes Alabama area - Areas 25 and 26 shown below. Please check the table below for real estate sales activity for the number of sales and sales dollar amounts for month of September 2011 in Mobile County for residential sales - single family and condominiums. The table will show the following data elements: the area of the county, the number of sales, the total amount of sales, and the average sales price. This data was retrieved from the Mobile Area Association of Realtors MLS information. You can see a map of Mobile showing the MLS areas by clicking here. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information for your specific area or neighborhood in Mobile County.

Mobile MLS Area

# of
Sales

Total Sales
Amount

Average
Sales
Price

01 Downtown

02 Midtown South

$494,001

$164,667

03 MidTown East

$2,215,225

$170,401

04 Dauphin Island Pkwy North

$428,505

$28,567

07 MidTown West

$395,070

$33,320

09 MidCentral

$56,400

$18,800

10 Eight Mile/Prichard

$201,700

$33,616

11 Chickasaw

$392,500

$43,611

14 Municipal Park/West Central

$1,364,600

$64,980

15 Springhill/USA

$3,118,000

$283,454

16 Cottage Hill North

$1,443,900

$111,069

17 Cottage Hill South

$1,887,200

$134,800

18 West Mobile

$4,682,961

$151,063

19 Tillman's Corner

$1,352,650

$96,617

20 Western Bay Shores

$1,588,900

$158,890

21 Dauphin Island Pkwy South

$349,313

$38,812

22 South Mobile County/Theodore

$1,899,291

$90,442

23 Grand Bay North

$975,890

$139,412

24 West Mobile County

$3,266,450

$142,019

25 West Mobile/Semmes

$2,766,847

$125,765

26 Semmes/Wilmer/Lott Rd

$1,388,645

$86,790

27 Saraland

$1,418,705

$109,131

28 Saraland/Satsuma/Axis/Creola

$1,121,000

$140,125

29 NE Mobile County/Mt. Vernon

$164,500

$54,833

30 Dauphin Island

$474,000

$237,000

31 NW Mobile Cty/Citronelle

$216,000

$72,780

Total

297

$33,662,253

$113,340

Please click here for last month's Mobile County Real Estate Sales By Area report.

---------------
Steve Shaw
Gulf Region Properties Team
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.alabamabesthomes.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
http://www.steveshawrealtor.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Selected New Construction of the Week - Madison Place Daphne

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 23:07:00 +0000

- 7712 Avery Lane-

DAPHNE , AL 36526

Offered at $159,900

MLS#: 229950

*** BEAUTIFUL NEW COTTAGE WITH SPACIOUS INTERIOR DESIGN ***
This quality home is highlighted by its lovely kitchen with granite breakfast bar and loaded with features: large eating area, rich wainscot trim, deluxe cabinetry, Stainless appliances, stone backsplash, Beautiful master suite w/granite vanity, oil rubbed bronze fixtures, blinds, gutters, Sprinkler System and fenced in back yard. Home is located in Madison Place in Daphne in highly desirable school district and near the YMCA, parks, shopping, etc.

* Style: RANCH

* 3 Bedrooms
* 2 Full Baths
* Approximately 1,407 Square Feet
* Parking: 2 Car Carport Attached
* Construction: BRICK, HARDBOARD

courtesy of
COLONY HOMES, LLC
Click for Additional Home Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.HomeSearchGadget.com/

(251) 215-9382

This Month in Real Estate - October 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:30:00 +0000

In this month in real estate video by Keller Williams Realty, Jay talks about what buyers look for in their next home purchase is price, which sometimes even overides location as the main factor in determing which home to purchase. Byron talks about news you can use. Now is a good time to winterize your home and he gives step by step tips,

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
http://www.MobileRealEstateWebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Alabama Housing Statistics - Mobile County - September 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:13:00 +0000

The data shown in the table below represents Mobile County real estate transactions and listings as reported Mobile Area Association of Realtors/MLS for September 2011:

Number of Houses Sold	297
Average Selling Price This Month	$ 113,340
Average Days on Market - Solds	106
Average Days on Market - Actives	114
Number of Houses on the Market	3,327
Median Sales Price this Month	$ 93,000

Click on this link - Mobile County Alabama Housing Statistics August 2011 to see last month's data.

Please let me know if you have any questions or would like real estate statistics for specific neighborhoods in Mobile County

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.gulfregionproperties.com/
http://www.mobilerealestatewebsite.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382

Selected Foreclosure Home of the Week - Regency Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:19:00 +0000

- 901 W. REGENTS DRIVE-

MOBILE , AL 36609

Offered at $184,900

MLS#: 231171

*** LARGE HOME IN REGENCY PARK *** NICE COLONIAL STYLE HOME FEATURES FOUR ROOMY BEDROOMS, THREE AND A HALF BATHS, RECESSED LIGHTING AND PLENTY OF STORAGE. ALL SITTING ON A BEAUTIFUL CORNER LOT. Alabama 1 year Right of Redemption may apply. Square foot from tax records and must be verified by the buyer.

* Style: CREOLE

* 4 Bedrooms
* 3 Full Baths
* 1 Half Bath
* Approximately 2,350 Square Feet
* Parking: 2 Car Carport Attached
* Construction: BRICK, WOOD

Click for Additional Home Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget
(251) 215-9382

Selected Home of the Week - Summerlake Subdivision - West Mobile

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 12:22:00 +0000

- 10186 SUMMERLAKE PLACE -
MOBILE , AL 36608

Offered at $185,000

MLS#: 213632

This home has much to offer! Great west Mobile Alabama neighborhood home for sale offers access to the community lake for canoeing, catching 'trophy bass', and picnicing in the shade of a beautiful, sprawling Oak tree. O'Rourke, Causey, & Baker school districts. Move in ready!! This home offers 4 BR (split design) and 2 full baths. 3 of 4 BRs have walk in closets. The eat in kitchen is spacious,with built in appliances (the refrigerator will remain) lots of beautiful wood stained cabinetry, and ceramic flooring. There is a security system. On the rear of the home is a delightful glassed in sunroom for year 'round enjoyment and is included in square footage. The back yard is privacy fenced and the garage has a side entry.

* Style: TRADITIONAL, RANCH

* 4 Bedrooms

* 2 Full Baths

* Approximately 2,278 Sqft

* Year Built: 2000

* 2 Car Side Entry Garage

* Construction: BRICK

Click for Additional Home Information and photos

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget
(251) 215-9382

Selected Foreclosure Home of the Week - Riviere Du Chien area

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 16:25:00 +0000

- 3531 SPANISH ALLEY -

MOBILE , AL 36693

Offered at $149,000

MLS#: 229591

*** TAKE A LOOK AT THIS ONE! LARGE HOME IN RIVIERE DU CHIEN AREA *** Custom Built home in very nice neighborhood. Great priced house in a Great Location! House is Corporate Owned and being sold As Is. Redemption Laws apply to this property. All information included in the listing should be confirmed by the buyer or the buyer's agent. The listing brokerage does not warrant the accuracy of the listing information.

* Style: CREOLE

* 4 Bedrooms
* 3 FullBaths
* Approximately 2,350 Square Feet
* Year Built: 2000
* Construction: WOOD

Click for Additional Home Information and photos

Courtesy of DUMAS REALTY

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget
(251) 215-9382

Selected Home of The Week - Greek Revival Beauty in Midtown Mobile

noreply@blogger.com (Steve Shaw) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:00:00 +0000

- 1004 GOVERNMENT ST -
MOBILE , AL 36604

Offered at $250,000

MLS#: 230513

***MAJOR PRICE REDUCTION!!!*** The beautiful Kearney House, circa approximately 1896, Greek revival with Corinthian columns in the Oakleigh Historic District. This home has endless possibilities to restore it back to its Residential splendor or turn it into a 1st class corporate headquarter or law office. Hardwood floors throughout with high ceiling height throughout most of the home. 6 or 7 bedrooms. Kitchen up and down - Multi living room, Dining, Parlors and a huge banquet room. Numerous fireplaces up and down with breath-taking mirrors and mantels. Leaded front door with beveled glass opens out to the oversized front porch and overhead balcony. Privacy fenced back yard with lots of beautiful landscaping, private courtyard, and wine cellar. A cottage for storage. The possibilities are endless for this fabulous turn of the century estate home.

* Style: COLONIAL
* 6 Bedrooms
* 4 FullBaths
* 1 Half Baths
* Approximately 5,730 Sqft
* Year Built: 1896
* 2 Car Carport
* Construction: BRICK

Click for Additional Home Information and photos

Courtesy of PRUDENTIAL COOPER CO., AZALEA

Steve Shaw
Keller Williams Realty
http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com/
http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com/
Mobile Alabama Home Search Gadget

(251) 215-9382