According to a survey performed by Move.com, 12.1 percent of home buyers now plan to buy a home as an investment property, compared to 5.6 percent in March 2009.  The survey found that 15.8 percent of those interested in investment property were men and 8.1 percent were women and 52.6 percent of the investment buyers were between ages 35 to 49.

Of the 25.3 percent of buyers who are focusing on foreclosure properties, 42 percent regard the purchase they are considering an investment and don’t plan to live in the property themselves; 13.2 percent plan to rent out the property; 11.3 percent are going to fix up the property and resell it; and 17.4 percent plan to house a family member until the property can be sold profitably.

Of the 9.8 percent of buyers who say that they plan to purchase and live in a property in the next two years, 5.4 percent plan to purchase in the next 12 months; 48.3 percent are first-time buyers; 52.8 percent are women, and 44.1 percent are men.

Buyers of investment and personal property say they are motivated by these factors:

• Prices are as low as they will go, 23.6 percent
• Foreclosure prices are a bargain, 18.7 percent
• Great selection of homes for sale in their target community, 21.2 percent
• Concerned interest rates will rise, 14.2 percent

To learn more about investing in Wilmington area real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.

The program that has existed for the first-time home buyers remains intact with the one exception that more people are now eligible based on an increase in the amount of income someone may now earn.  Additionally, the program now gives those who already own a residence some additional reasons to move to a new home.  This incentive comes in the form of a tax credit of up to $6500 for qualified purchases who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years. 

In order to qualify for the credit, all contracts need to be in effect no later than April 30, 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2010.  The amount of income someone can earn and qualify for the full amount of the credit has been increased.  Single tax filers who earn up to $125,000 are eligible for the total credit amount.  Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit.  However, single filers who earn $145,000 and above are ineligible.  Joint filers $who earn up to $225,000 are eligible for the total credit amount.  Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit, however, joint filers who earn $245,000 and above are ineligible.  Qualifying buyers may purchase a property with a maximum sales price of $800,000. 

To learn more about the tax credit s that are available or Wilmington Real Estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.

It looks like another fabulous week in the Wilmington area!  It looks like for the most part it will be sunny and somewhat warm enough for outdoor activities!  It will also be perfect for looking at Wilmingotn Real Estate.  To learn more about Wilmingotn Real Estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.

I am a REALTOR/Broker with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast and would be happy to discuss my marketing plan specific for your property.  To learn more about me or Wilmington area real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com. 

1.  Make rooms gender neutral.  Make universally appealing to both sexes. 

2.  Paint neutral, healthy colors.  The cheapest and easiest way to change a room!

3.  Camouflage dated paneling.  Prime walls with two coats and then a white coat of paint to give a cottage look.

4.  Modernize the kitchen.  Repaint dark cabinets with white or off white or replace existing cabinet doors.  Replace hardware with brushed chrome or stainless steel.  Change counter tops to granite or quartz.  Lay new floors, change lighting and paint!

5.  Create a spa-like bathroom.  Use same color stone, like travertine, or tile.  If desired change the size of the tile.  Keep colors neutral and limit the details.  Install a mirror from top of back splash to the ceiling or frame a mirror like a picture.  Choose over-sized, simple hardware in brushed or matte finish chrome.

6.  Hang the right window treatment properly.  Play up the shape, style, size and light and views outside.  If you don’t like curtains hang shades or blinds.

7.  Lighten up.  Buy inexpensive torchiere lamps.  Add a new window or skylight if the budget allows. 

8.  Anchor furnishings with a great floor. 

9.  Hang inexpensive but appealing art. 

10.Improve curb appeal.  Plan on 30% of your budget to be used outside.  Make front door approachable, add colors, prune, use pottery, plus plant perennials and annuals. 

This is a great plan because in this market you need to look your very best!  This along with pricing will ensure a quick sale for the most money!  To learn more about this topic or Wilmington real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.

The forecast is chilly this week which will make it perfect for looking at Wilmington area real estate.  It is hard to believe that it is November 1st today and it made me think that first time home buyers still have time to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit if they hurry!   To learn more about Wilmington weather or Wilmington area real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.

The 2009 Fall Camellia Show & Festival will be taking place through Saturday at Orton Plantation Gardens.  Orton will host presentations by regional camellia specialists; horticulturist/host of TV show “Grow Your Own,” Dr. Bruce Williams will lead a garden walk and an excellent selection of Orton live oaks and camellias will be available for purchase.  The show is open each day from 10am until 5pm.  On Saturday, October 31st, will feature the Judged Camellia Show as well as the plant sale.  These camellia experts will display hundreds of blooms representing many varieties for evaluation by American Camellia Society judges. Orton Plantation is located in Winnabow.  To learn more about the Camellia Show and Festival or Wilmington real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.

This is an affordable, 3 bed/2bath home in Alamosa Place.  Alamosa Place is located in the Ogden area of Wilmington.  It is just minutes to Ogden Park, Mayfaire Town Center and Wrightsville Beach.  This area is also eligible for USDA, 100% financing making it a perfect home for first time home buyers!  To learn more about this property or Wilmington real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.