By Sarah Reece
So you've decided to move to the Tidewater area of Virginia. You have your choice of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Portsmouth, or if you prefer peninsula living, Hampton or Newport News. While there are plenty of reasons to move to any of the "seven cities" in the Tidewater area, the city of Norfolk stands out above the rest in overall quality and distinctive sites. Here are just five reasons why you should live in downtown Norfolk:
Norfolk is culturally diverse.
Norfolk is a Mecca for various culturally diverse hot spots. If you're looking for live theater, then the Wells Theater in downtown Norfolk is the home to the Virginia Stage Company, known throughout the state and mid-Atlantic region for exceptional regional theater.
If you're in the mood for a bigger production, then Chrysler Hall's Broadway series fits the bill. The Virginia Symphony and the Virginia Opera are also mainstays of the Norfolk experience. The Norfolk Scope hosts a wide range of venues from hockey games, monster truck relays, and to concerts and exhibits.
There is no act too large or small for Norfolk, as The Attickus, Norva, Roper, and Ted Constant theaters cater to both large and small musical performances, holding from 1,500 from 6,000 guests.
Norfolk is home to many historical landmarks.
Another unique characteristic about Norfolk is its amount of historic sites. The Moses Myers house, located in downtown and built in 1792, is one of the oldest houses in the area. Along with its impressive age, the Moses Myers house also still has 70% of its original furniture.
Or you can take a stroll on the breathtaking grounds of the Hermitage Museum, built in 1904. The Hermitage acts as a museum, visual arts school, and a backdrop for many programs and events.
For the History enthusiast, the MacArthur Memorial celebrates one of the most distinguished generals, and one of only five men to ever reach the rank of General of the Army, General Douglas MacArthur.
There is unique dining in Norfolk.
If you want one of those chains that you see if every city in the country then Norfolk is not for you. If you want truly unique dining then Norfolk is ready to serve you.
Norfolk not only has plenty of one-of-a-kind establishments, but it also has one credited with creating the first ice cream cone. Doumar's Cones and Barbeque in downtown Norfolk, founded in 1934, is one of the oldest diners in the area and still has car-side service.
From a home cooked breakfast at Charlie's, or crepes and fabulous gourmet omelets at Baker's Crust, to a pizza lunch at Cogans, or for a Mediterranean twist at Orpax Greek Restaurant, the dining experience is not to be matched in any other city.
For a casual wallet friendly dinner with a view, choose Greenies on the beach with succulent steamed shrimp and a frosty brew. More formal, gourmet dining is everywhere.
Some of the best regional chef's have establishments in and around the downtown area. Bobbywood, Tod Urich's Bistro and 456 Fish to name of few. No matter what your taste is, we have it in Norfolk.
There are many activities available in Norfolk.
Norfolk has limitless things to do. Outdoors and indoors, Norfolk boasts many attractions that will cater to everyone.
The Virginia Zoo is located in downtown Norfolk and has over 400 different types of animals on its 53 acres. Recently adding an Africa exhibit, the Virginia Zoo now houses zebras, lions and giraffes.
If you want to learn more about the maritime community, Nauticus Maritime Museum in Norfolk is your ticket. Nauticus utilizes its location on the Norfolk harbor to educate visitors on the navy and the ways of the nautical world. If you would like to learn even more about the navy, then a trip to the Norfolk Naval Base is in order, which has daily tours available.
Convenience.
Everything in Norfolk is convenient, no matter what area you live in. Thanks to Norfolk's modest size, any activity that you want to do within the city is only 15 minutes or less away.
There are the Ocean View beaches closely available if you want some fun in the sun. The annual Ocean View Festival allows for the perfect summer carnival experience. Ocean View is also the location for the local annual St Patrick's Day parade in March, a fun time for anyone wanting a taste of "the luck of the Irish."
For shopping, unique boutiques and eclectic shops dot downtown Norfolk. Or if you prefer name brand shopping, MacArthur Center is an upscale mall and shopping center located in downtown Norfolk for your buying convenience.
This is only a small blurb of what Norfolk has to offer. No matter who you are, young or old, rich or "not-so-rich," there is something for you in downtown Norfolk.
Sarah Reece writes for Ciniva Systems, an award winning Virginia web design company. Ciniva specializes in web design and SEO. Sarah Reece is an SEO Specialist with Ciniva. Ciniva Systems is in charge of SEO for Nancy Chandler Realtors.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Reece
Real Estate Offers Quality Residential Properties
ป้ายกำกับ: Real-Estate
By Eliza Maledevic
For many individuals who are interested in Sarasota real estate, you should also know that there is a good option to check out the residential houses that are available in the city. To help you out in this, you should be able to check out the facilities and the benefits that can be experienced when you actually choose to acquire a property in the Sarasota real estate. You should be able to check these out carefully and allot an ample amount of time so that you can avoid instances when you would regret your decision. When it comes to buying property, you should not rush the decision as regretting it may be a bigger thing to deal with.
One of the most common properties bought in the Sarasota real estate market would be the single family type of houses. There are many options that a buyer can choose from and the designs and styles are also varied to make a person find the right one that fits his needs. This is the reason why there are many investors interested in this line of real estate in Sarasota both in the city and outside it.
As mentioned, the designs are varied so you can have a big chance to find the perfect fit for you. There are small houses while there are mansions so you can simply set your needs and find ones that you like. When you are ready to make the decision of buying the property, it can be readily available and you can own it in some time. Added to this, the Sarasota real estate are more desirable as the neighborhood can also be quiet if you want it to be. The waterfront is also an impeccable choice.
You should name your needs and Sarasota can provide the level of luxury that you need. Condominiums are also available and even if the price is high, these are the residential houses that get most of the market proving how much it has increased in value and worth. These condominiums can provide you with the modern way of living that you are looking for. These are also fully furnished so you would not need to think of the furniture or appliances to use. When you think of comfort, then Sarasota real estate can provide it to you.
You can also set your budget since you can see that the houses may seem to cost higher than the average. But the price is also a form of putting value to how much the property can offer an individual. Besides, you can always have the choice of applying for a mortgage loan to aid you with the payment. You can now plan on how you will be able to get the property that you need.
Eliza Maledevic Ayson
Sarasota Real Estate
Article Author Eliza Maledevic from http://www.Jump2top.com, a SEO Company.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eliza_Maledevic
For many individuals who are interested in Sarasota real estate, you should also know that there is a good option to check out the residential houses that are available in the city. To help you out in this, you should be able to check out the facilities and the benefits that can be experienced when you actually choose to acquire a property in the Sarasota real estate. You should be able to check these out carefully and allot an ample amount of time so that you can avoid instances when you would regret your decision. When it comes to buying property, you should not rush the decision as regretting it may be a bigger thing to deal with.
One of the most common properties bought in the Sarasota real estate market would be the single family type of houses. There are many options that a buyer can choose from and the designs and styles are also varied to make a person find the right one that fits his needs. This is the reason why there are many investors interested in this line of real estate in Sarasota both in the city and outside it.
As mentioned, the designs are varied so you can have a big chance to find the perfect fit for you. There are small houses while there are mansions so you can simply set your needs and find ones that you like. When you are ready to make the decision of buying the property, it can be readily available and you can own it in some time. Added to this, the Sarasota real estate are more desirable as the neighborhood can also be quiet if you want it to be. The waterfront is also an impeccable choice.
You should name your needs and Sarasota can provide the level of luxury that you need. Condominiums are also available and even if the price is high, these are the residential houses that get most of the market proving how much it has increased in value and worth. These condominiums can provide you with the modern way of living that you are looking for. These are also fully furnished so you would not need to think of the furniture or appliances to use. When you think of comfort, then Sarasota real estate can provide it to you.
You can also set your budget since you can see that the houses may seem to cost higher than the average. But the price is also a form of putting value to how much the property can offer an individual. Besides, you can always have the choice of applying for a mortgage loan to aid you with the payment. You can now plan on how you will be able to get the property that you need.
Eliza Maledevic Ayson
Sarasota Real Estate
Article Author Eliza Maledevic from http://www.Jump2top.com, a SEO Company.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eliza_Maledevic
Who Wants to Buy an Ugly House?
ป้ายกำกับ: Buy ugly-house
By M Siddique
Gudrun and I were picking up some supplies for a class in Denver. It was time for lunch, and as we walked down the street, there is a big yellow sign saying: "We Buy Ugly Houses". In smaller font, it said, "Independently owned, and operated". Of course, the last phrase means its franchise. To me, that means if you like what "We Buy Ugly Houses" does for you, complement the franchisor. If you do not like it, blame the franchisee.
Walking back from lunch, Gudrun said to me: "Did you see that sign, "We Buy Ugly Houses?" By being completely honest, I missed an opportunity to improve harmony by simply answering, "If you are referring to the sign, "We Buy Ugly Houses", yes. I did." I could have elevated harmony without lying, by saying: "Oh! Which one? The big yellow sign, that says, "We Buy Ugly Houses"? However, as Gudrun may readily point out, Tcat is digressing again. So I'll shut up and get to the point.
It turns out that a Dallas-based company by the name of HomeVestors of America Inc. owns the franchise "We Buy Ugly Houses". Hand over 46 kilo bucks (USD) and besides an exclusive territory, the franchisee gets a personal trainer, several weeks of training and proprietary software to analyze a purchase offer and the cost of renovation.
Our research quickly revealed that the average purchase price a franchisee pays for a home is less than a hundred grand. From this point, the franchisee fixes the joint up then either rents it, sells it, or flips it.
The endgame is to buy the place for $.65 on the dollar.
It turns out that an ugly house does not refer solely to its appearance. (Although it certainly can look ugly! In addition, needs rehabbing) A quick analysis of the situation reveals the old axiom, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder."
Quickly, both of us quickly saw how a very nice looking house could in fact be, an ugly house. Consider the example of a house that now has one or several owners that landed in their laps due to an inheritance. Considering the fact that the owner(s) probably became so via the death(s) of one or more loved one(s) it becomes pretty easy to see that the situation surrounding the house is in fact ugly. This does not mean that the property itself is necessarily, ugly.
Tcat can personally attest to the situation. When his father died, none of the children were thinking about getting top dollar for his home. All the siblings just wanted to close the door quickly, on this sad chapter of life. A very nice lady making a living as a registered nurse got a deal. And the family moved on. Certainly, the home was not ugly. However, for the kids' our dad's home in that specific situation the house certainly was "ugly".
When we were chatting about this, Gudrun pointed out that it may often be the case where an elderly person has let place slide, just a bit. Perhaps the slide is not to the degree of that epic novel, Withering Heights.
And with the graying of the baby boomers, the US market may see quite an increase in the number of "ugly houses" for sale. Given this, $.65 on the dollar might not be such a bad deal for both the buyer and the seller. It's dark, stuffy and hot inside this little box of electronics. Not only that, we cannot hear you when you talk to us. Send either of us an e-mail to tell us what topics you would like to hear about.
Siddique is real estate investor for over 22 years and President of http://www.butterflylister.com/ - Download Free How to sell your Home for Full Price in any market.
feedback@ButterflyLister.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Siddique
Gudrun and I were picking up some supplies for a class in Denver. It was time for lunch, and as we walked down the street, there is a big yellow sign saying: "We Buy Ugly Houses". In smaller font, it said, "Independently owned, and operated". Of course, the last phrase means its franchise. To me, that means if you like what "We Buy Ugly Houses" does for you, complement the franchisor. If you do not like it, blame the franchisee.
Walking back from lunch, Gudrun said to me: "Did you see that sign, "We Buy Ugly Houses?" By being completely honest, I missed an opportunity to improve harmony by simply answering, "If you are referring to the sign, "We Buy Ugly Houses", yes. I did." I could have elevated harmony without lying, by saying: "Oh! Which one? The big yellow sign, that says, "We Buy Ugly Houses"? However, as Gudrun may readily point out, Tcat is digressing again. So I'll shut up and get to the point.
It turns out that a Dallas-based company by the name of HomeVestors of America Inc. owns the franchise "We Buy Ugly Houses". Hand over 46 kilo bucks (USD) and besides an exclusive territory, the franchisee gets a personal trainer, several weeks of training and proprietary software to analyze a purchase offer and the cost of renovation.
Our research quickly revealed that the average purchase price a franchisee pays for a home is less than a hundred grand. From this point, the franchisee fixes the joint up then either rents it, sells it, or flips it.
The endgame is to buy the place for $.65 on the dollar.
It turns out that an ugly house does not refer solely to its appearance. (Although it certainly can look ugly! In addition, needs rehabbing) A quick analysis of the situation reveals the old axiom, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder."
Quickly, both of us quickly saw how a very nice looking house could in fact be, an ugly house. Consider the example of a house that now has one or several owners that landed in their laps due to an inheritance. Considering the fact that the owner(s) probably became so via the death(s) of one or more loved one(s) it becomes pretty easy to see that the situation surrounding the house is in fact ugly. This does not mean that the property itself is necessarily, ugly.
Tcat can personally attest to the situation. When his father died, none of the children were thinking about getting top dollar for his home. All the siblings just wanted to close the door quickly, on this sad chapter of life. A very nice lady making a living as a registered nurse got a deal. And the family moved on. Certainly, the home was not ugly. However, for the kids' our dad's home in that specific situation the house certainly was "ugly".
When we were chatting about this, Gudrun pointed out that it may often be the case where an elderly person has let place slide, just a bit. Perhaps the slide is not to the degree of that epic novel, Withering Heights.
And with the graying of the baby boomers, the US market may see quite an increase in the number of "ugly houses" for sale. Given this, $.65 on the dollar might not be such a bad deal for both the buyer and the seller. It's dark, stuffy and hot inside this little box of electronics. Not only that, we cannot hear you when you talk to us. Send either of us an e-mail to tell us what topics you would like to hear about.
Siddique is real estate investor for over 22 years and President of http://www.butterflylister.com/ - Download Free How to sell your Home for Full Price in any market.
feedback@ButterflyLister.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Siddique
Cellar Conversion Ideas
ป้ายกำกับ: Decor
By Sam D Goddard
If you own a home with a cellar or basement, you could gain a lot of extra living space with a cellar conversion. A cellar or basement conversion is just another term for a remodel, except for the fact that you are not just updating or changing the look; you are converting your basement or cellar to be used for something different.
The only real problem that you may come across with a cellar conversion is the dampness that is found in below ground rooms. This is easily fixed with cellar tanking, so why not make the most of your cellar or basement and convert it to additional living space.
With a cellar conversion the possibilities are endless; you could convert the space into a wine cellar, extra bedrooms, an office area or family room. Even commercial buildings with below ground space could make the most of the area by using that space as additional retail area, or storage.
Some great cellar conversion ideas include,
Additional bedrooms: This is a good idea if you find that you are in need of additional sleeping space. If you have a large family, and find that the children sharing rooms isn't working out so well, you can always convert your cellar or basement into additional bedrooms.
Separate living space: You could easily turn your basement into a separate living area. A small apartment is a good way to give a college aged child some independence, or possibly you may have parents who need to live with you, but also need a measure of independence. Aside from these uses, converting your basement into an apartment could be a means of extra income for your family if you rent it out.
A home theater room: That unused basement space could make the ideal theater room where you can enjoy the latest in high tech entertainment.
A hobby or workroom: Just about any hobby can benefit from a workroom. You can convert your basement or cellar into a photography studio, a place where you can getaway to do your scrap booking, painting, or whatever it is that you love to do. That unused room in your basement is the perfect place to create a haven for your hobby.
A fitness room: Why not take all the unused room in your basement and create a spa and fitness center right in your own home. Use part of your basement for gym equipment; plus enclose an area for a steam room and hot tub.
A game room: Many people opt to turn their cellar or basement into a game room where friends and family can get together to play some pool, video games, etc. Add a bar to one end of your basement and fill the rest with some great home games.
Wine cellar: If you are a lover of fine wines, you may want to do a cellar conversion to create a wine cellar. Basement tanking is important with wine cellars, as you have to ensure that the cellar does not become damp; aside from this you will also want to control the temperature of the wine cellar.
Office space: If you run a home based business, the basement area is a great place to convert to office space. In most cases the basement is at least partially separate from the rest of the home, which provides a peaceful working environment. In the case of office space, where computer equipment may be placed in the area, cellar tanking is extremely important. A damp or wet basement can ruin electronics and computer equipment.
Food Storage: If you need extra room for food storage, a cellar conversion that includes basement tanking is a great idea for added food storage space. As long as you can keep the room dry, you can store canned goods, as well as dried goods in your cellar.
With a basement conversion there are many things you may have to take into consideration that you wouldn't for a basic remodel. Some factors that you may have to think about when doing a cellar or basement conversion include, plumbing, electrical wiring, heating and cooling, telephone, cable TV, and lighting.
For many basements or cellars there is another important factor to converting the area to living space, and that is dampness. Below ground rooms often tend to have a problem with dampness, which is why you should consider waterproofing your cellar if you would like to convert it to living space. Cellar tanking will ensure that your new living space remains dry and free from water damage, or possible mold.
There are a couple different methods of basement tanking, or waterproofing your cellar. One of the best methods of basement tanking is tanking slurry. When you use a multi coat tanking treatments, you can rest easy that your basement or cellar will remain dry, as this is the perfect solution to waterproofing below ground rooms. Another advantage of the tanking slurry method of waterproofing is that it is useful in situations where damp proof course treatment may not be possible.
Slurry tanking treatments are composed of a mixture that provides great water resistance, flexibility, salt resistance, and good adhesion. Tanking slurry is easy to use; all that is necessary is adding water to the mixture and a brush to apply to the surface you wish to waterproof.
If you are in need of extra living or storage space, there is no need to purchase another house, all you have to do is make use of the space you already have available to you with a cellar conversion, but don't forget to protect your investment with basement tanking to keep everything nice and dry.
Sam D Goddard has many years of experience working in the Construction Chemicals industry and enjoys writing articles on the subject.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_D_Goddard
If you own a home with a cellar or basement, you could gain a lot of extra living space with a cellar conversion. A cellar or basement conversion is just another term for a remodel, except for the fact that you are not just updating or changing the look; you are converting your basement or cellar to be used for something different.
The only real problem that you may come across with a cellar conversion is the dampness that is found in below ground rooms. This is easily fixed with cellar tanking, so why not make the most of your cellar or basement and convert it to additional living space.
With a cellar conversion the possibilities are endless; you could convert the space into a wine cellar, extra bedrooms, an office area or family room. Even commercial buildings with below ground space could make the most of the area by using that space as additional retail area, or storage.
Some great cellar conversion ideas include,
Additional bedrooms: This is a good idea if you find that you are in need of additional sleeping space. If you have a large family, and find that the children sharing rooms isn't working out so well, you can always convert your cellar or basement into additional bedrooms.
Separate living space: You could easily turn your basement into a separate living area. A small apartment is a good way to give a college aged child some independence, or possibly you may have parents who need to live with you, but also need a measure of independence. Aside from these uses, converting your basement into an apartment could be a means of extra income for your family if you rent it out.
A home theater room: That unused basement space could make the ideal theater room where you can enjoy the latest in high tech entertainment.
A hobby or workroom: Just about any hobby can benefit from a workroom. You can convert your basement or cellar into a photography studio, a place where you can getaway to do your scrap booking, painting, or whatever it is that you love to do. That unused room in your basement is the perfect place to create a haven for your hobby.
A fitness room: Why not take all the unused room in your basement and create a spa and fitness center right in your own home. Use part of your basement for gym equipment; plus enclose an area for a steam room and hot tub.
A game room: Many people opt to turn their cellar or basement into a game room where friends and family can get together to play some pool, video games, etc. Add a bar to one end of your basement and fill the rest with some great home games.
Wine cellar: If you are a lover of fine wines, you may want to do a cellar conversion to create a wine cellar. Basement tanking is important with wine cellars, as you have to ensure that the cellar does not become damp; aside from this you will also want to control the temperature of the wine cellar.
Office space: If you run a home based business, the basement area is a great place to convert to office space. In most cases the basement is at least partially separate from the rest of the home, which provides a peaceful working environment. In the case of office space, where computer equipment may be placed in the area, cellar tanking is extremely important. A damp or wet basement can ruin electronics and computer equipment.
Food Storage: If you need extra room for food storage, a cellar conversion that includes basement tanking is a great idea for added food storage space. As long as you can keep the room dry, you can store canned goods, as well as dried goods in your cellar.
With a basement conversion there are many things you may have to take into consideration that you wouldn't for a basic remodel. Some factors that you may have to think about when doing a cellar or basement conversion include, plumbing, electrical wiring, heating and cooling, telephone, cable TV, and lighting.
For many basements or cellars there is another important factor to converting the area to living space, and that is dampness. Below ground rooms often tend to have a problem with dampness, which is why you should consider waterproofing your cellar if you would like to convert it to living space. Cellar tanking will ensure that your new living space remains dry and free from water damage, or possible mold.
There are a couple different methods of basement tanking, or waterproofing your cellar. One of the best methods of basement tanking is tanking slurry. When you use a multi coat tanking treatments, you can rest easy that your basement or cellar will remain dry, as this is the perfect solution to waterproofing below ground rooms. Another advantage of the tanking slurry method of waterproofing is that it is useful in situations where damp proof course treatment may not be possible.
Slurry tanking treatments are composed of a mixture that provides great water resistance, flexibility, salt resistance, and good adhesion. Tanking slurry is easy to use; all that is necessary is adding water to the mixture and a brush to apply to the surface you wish to waterproof.
If you are in need of extra living or storage space, there is no need to purchase another house, all you have to do is make use of the space you already have available to you with a cellar conversion, but don't forget to protect your investment with basement tanking to keep everything nice and dry.
Sam D Goddard has many years of experience working in the Construction Chemicals industry and enjoys writing articles on the subject.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_D_Goddard
Real Estate Agents - Two Sides to the Business
ป้ายกำกับ: Real-EstateBy Thomas McGiveron
There's two sides to the real estate business. There's the emotional side where the person is buying [or selling] and then there's the business side, the non-emotional, logical and rational side. The emotional side is made up of the excitement, frustration, euphoria, fear, etc. that the buyer feels when they're going through the process of looking at houses, making offers, arranging furniture in their minds as they look at homes, etc.
The business side is the side that most homeowners and prospective homeowners don't look at. Homeowners and prospective homeowners do not pay attention to this important side.
Therefore, they get involved with real estate agents who are like them. They don't pay attention to the business aspect of real estate and thus, do not (can not) consult their clients accordingly. These real estate agents know about the market and homes in general. They can tell you alot about a home, type of construction, the heating system, the history of the neighborhood, local home values, etc. But on the business side is the most vital because in the transaction of real estate, is a business transaction. We're talking about a financial transaction of over $375,000 on the average in the Long Island real estate market.
That is a major business and financial transaction that is cut throat and perfectly rational. It is based on municipal regulations, real estate laws, appraisals, and thorough analysis of the conveyance of title. It requires insurance policies to be executed and title insurance to issued in order to assure clear conveyance of ownership.
The business side of the transaction is where the turkey is talked about. In this market, with changes in the mortgage markets from day to day, if an agent is not thoroughly entrenched in the business side of real estate, they could certainly cost a homeowner and prospective homeowner thousands upon thousands of dollars.
A real estate agent must be empathetic to the emotional needs of his/her clients, while at the same time proficient in representing their business interests which includes helping their bottom line.
I know for me, personally, I pride myself on being "in the know" about mortgage markets, where they're going and how it will effect both my selling clients as well as my buying clients. For example, higher interest rates will effect my sellers by shrinking the already small buyer pool. Higher interest rates combined with a banking industry that has tightened it's lending practices so much already, will only make things more challenging for my selling clients because these two important aspects will drive the buyer pool down.
Higher interest rates for my current buying clients/customers means one thing - find a home now, while prices are still down and interest rates are still low because with higher rates comes higher monthly interest payments, which translates to thousands of dollars leaving their income column and going into their expense column. Sure they will get to "write off" the interest at the end of the year, but high cash outlays during the month of say August, totally overshadows the fact that sometime in the future you'll get a "write off" in taxes.
I consider myself a counselor, consultant, and businessman. While I am human and very much enjoy helping people find a home to buy or help them sell the one they have and buy a new home, I also am a businessman who takes the responsibility of representing my clients business interests very seriously (that's why my website features such good information and analysis).
I welcome the opportunity to do business with you - call me at 631.831.9048.
(c) Copyright 2008 http://www.tommcgiveron.comBy Tom McGiveron, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Visit TOMMCGIVERON.COM for Long Island real estate market information and updates.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_McGiveron
Record Loans Slump Helps to Trigger Rescue Plan From the Bank of England
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage
By Phil Benson
March 2008 saw the lowest ever number of people taking out mortgages to buy homes with the amount falling by 46 per cent over a year to 35,417 house buyers wanting loans.
At there peak, banks were handing out over 3,000 mortgages a day; however that number has slumped to just 1,100 per day, the smallest number since records began.
The figures released by the British Bankers Association reveal the remarkable evidence of a mortgage meltdown in Britain according to chief UK economist at the consultancy group, Global Insight, Howard Archer.
He said, "Mortgage activity is being pummelled by a toxic combination of stretched affordability and very tight lending conditions."
Around 75 per cent of the loans available to consumers in the summer of 2007 disappeared, leaving just 4,000 mortgages for home buyers to choose from.
The Bank of England confirmed that the number of people deciding not to pursue a house purchase had risen as a result of being turned down for a loan. Just 129,300 mortgage applications were successful in March 2008, the lowest number since September 2000.
Mr Archer said, "The low level of mortgage activity is not only a consequence of slowing demand for houses due to the elevated affordability pressures facing potential house buyers, but also increasingly due to very tight credit conditions leading to markedly fewer and more expensive mortgages being available."
The data highlighted a need for 'concerted, sustained action' to try and persuade banks to lend to each other, allowing for more liquidity to become available to fund mortgage lending and help rates come down.
Bank bosses met with Chancellor Alistair Darling and warned him that even a £50 billion rescue plan from the Bank of England may not have the desired effect on home loans for several months. The idea was to help banks lend money to homeowners at an affordable rate, whilst also allowing them to swap mortgage backed securities for up to three years for Treasury bills.
One senior City source spoke of how Mr Darling had been told at the meeting that the rescue plan wouldn't make a difference for 'quite some time'. The source said, "For now, mortgage pricing will remain high. If anything, it will increase in the short term." This he blamed on the 'stubbornly high' costs of raising money in the money markets, which banks used to lend to customers.
Banks warned that people wanting to take out a fixed rate loan will end up being the biggest losers. Some fixed rate deals on home loans were already at their highest average rate since 2000, and these deals could continue to climb Mr Darling was told.
Executives from major lenders, Nationwide, Halifax, Abbey and Cheltenham & Gloucester were present at the meeting, as were a number of politicians including housing minister Caroline Flint and director general of the Council of Mortgage Lenders, Michael Coogan.
Mr Coogan said, "In the short term the trend of increasing prices and products being removed from the market is not going to be reversed. As and when the banks start lending to each other, the rate for lending will go down and that means that that will start to bring the price down but it is not going to be a dramatic reversal. It is going to be a slow process at best."
Former member of the Bank of England's monetary policy committee, Professor Charles Goodhart warned, "The likelihood of getting the mortgage market going again is slim. This just prevents things from getting worse. It is a backstop."
Professor Goldhart predicts the Bank of England's plan will aid the economy. He said, "The credit crunch will still hit the economy but it might have hurt more if it weren't for these measures. The measures prevent the risk of a possible recession becoming a depression."
Phil is an author of several articles pertaining to Mortgages. He is known for his expertise on the subject and on other Business and Finance related articles.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Benson
March 2008 saw the lowest ever number of people taking out mortgages to buy homes with the amount falling by 46 per cent over a year to 35,417 house buyers wanting loans.
At there peak, banks were handing out over 3,000 mortgages a day; however that number has slumped to just 1,100 per day, the smallest number since records began.
The figures released by the British Bankers Association reveal the remarkable evidence of a mortgage meltdown in Britain according to chief UK economist at the consultancy group, Global Insight, Howard Archer.
He said, "Mortgage activity is being pummelled by a toxic combination of stretched affordability and very tight lending conditions."
Around 75 per cent of the loans available to consumers in the summer of 2007 disappeared, leaving just 4,000 mortgages for home buyers to choose from.
The Bank of England confirmed that the number of people deciding not to pursue a house purchase had risen as a result of being turned down for a loan. Just 129,300 mortgage applications were successful in March 2008, the lowest number since September 2000.
Mr Archer said, "The low level of mortgage activity is not only a consequence of slowing demand for houses due to the elevated affordability pressures facing potential house buyers, but also increasingly due to very tight credit conditions leading to markedly fewer and more expensive mortgages being available."
The data highlighted a need for 'concerted, sustained action' to try and persuade banks to lend to each other, allowing for more liquidity to become available to fund mortgage lending and help rates come down.
Bank bosses met with Chancellor Alistair Darling and warned him that even a £50 billion rescue plan from the Bank of England may not have the desired effect on home loans for several months. The idea was to help banks lend money to homeowners at an affordable rate, whilst also allowing them to swap mortgage backed securities for up to three years for Treasury bills.
One senior City source spoke of how Mr Darling had been told at the meeting that the rescue plan wouldn't make a difference for 'quite some time'. The source said, "For now, mortgage pricing will remain high. If anything, it will increase in the short term." This he blamed on the 'stubbornly high' costs of raising money in the money markets, which banks used to lend to customers.
Banks warned that people wanting to take out a fixed rate loan will end up being the biggest losers. Some fixed rate deals on home loans were already at their highest average rate since 2000, and these deals could continue to climb Mr Darling was told.
Executives from major lenders, Nationwide, Halifax, Abbey and Cheltenham & Gloucester were present at the meeting, as were a number of politicians including housing minister Caroline Flint and director general of the Council of Mortgage Lenders, Michael Coogan.
Mr Coogan said, "In the short term the trend of increasing prices and products being removed from the market is not going to be reversed. As and when the banks start lending to each other, the rate for lending will go down and that means that that will start to bring the price down but it is not going to be a dramatic reversal. It is going to be a slow process at best."
Former member of the Bank of England's monetary policy committee, Professor Charles Goodhart warned, "The likelihood of getting the mortgage market going again is slim. This just prevents things from getting worse. It is a backstop."
Professor Goldhart predicts the Bank of England's plan will aid the economy. He said, "The credit crunch will still hit the economy but it might have hurt more if it weren't for these measures. The measures prevent the risk of a possible recession becoming a depression."
Phil is an author of several articles pertaining to Mortgages. He is known for his expertise on the subject and on other Business and Finance related articles.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Benson
Conservation Suggestions to Destination Clubs From the Veras Group
By Levi Moe
"Greening" businesses have been a popular topic for many years, and a recent conversation on the DestinationClubForums led us to compile some of those suggestions into an article on destination clubs and the environment.
Visit The Veras Group website and you see two short words at the bottom of every page: "Wind Powered." Much like many of our destination club partners, The Veras Group strives to limit our impact on the environment and designed and power our website using local wind power.
Quintess, Leading Residences of the World absorbs the costs of the energy consumption for each of their properties, factoring in a plethora of factors.
Electricity consumed on a month to month basis for each home
Square footage of common areas Total number of rooms Average occupancy rates Estimated total number of guests per year
Abercrombie & Kent planted a tree for every client that traveled in 2007, totaling over 30,000 new trees. Select Abercrombie & Kent journeys even allow clients to personally help save the Earth while they travel. We are eagerly looking forward to learning more about how the new Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club will continue and further these initiatives in the future.
With the help of our friends at DestinationClubForums, we have created a short list of ways destination clubs can help the environment.
Provide An Easy Way To Recycle While Traveling
The easiest and one of the most effective tools available to destination clubs and their members, providing recycling bins in each home can vastly reduce the amount of waste produced during a member's trip. High Country Club has already begun offering this service to their members.
Use Lower Wattage Bulbs/Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
If every American home replaced one light bulb with an Energy Star qualified bulb, enough energy would be saved to light more than 3,000,000 homes for a year and prevent the greenhouse gases equivalent to 800,000 cars. For the destination club finance departments, each bulb saves an average of approximately $30 over its lifetime. The average home has approximately 45 light bulbs each. Now with over 750 total homes, the industry could save over $1,000,000 for this simple, environmentally friendly fix.
Use Energy Efficient, Low Water Use Appliances
Many appliances, including dishwashers, washers and dryers, are now readily available and use less than half of the energy and water consumption used by their counterparts. Have High Efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems
Between the warm climates of each club's beach properties and the cold ski properties, 69% of the industry's homes (21% in alpine destinations and 48% in beach locations) are in climates requiring either heating or cooling systems. Traditionally, 45 percent of most family's utility bill goes towards heating and cooling. As a nation, the United States emits 150 million tons of carbon dioxide each year from these systems. Just like light bulbs and appliances, heating and cooling units are quickly becoming more cost effective and energy saving options, but until then, there are many smaller fixes that can help lower heating and cooling costs.
Furnace Maintenance
Prior to the furnace being turned on each year, The Veras Group suggests that a technician come and service the unit. This can save over $400 each year in heating costs. In addition, furnace filters should be routinely changed. Not only are there health ramifications for dirty furnace filters, but a clean filter can save over $60 in heating bills and maximize the heating unit's productivity.
Home Furnishings
Destination club homes are built for large parties. Couches and chairs often are placed in areas to maximize seating space, not considering air flow. Make sure that air vents are exposed and not covered by beds, couches and other furniture throughout the house. For another simple fix, pull couches and chairs slightly away from exterior walls when you are traveling to ski properties. Exterior walls are the coldest areas of the home and positioning seating away from the walls keeps you more comfortable. Likewise, large furniture pieces such as entertainment centers and bookcases should be positioned next to exterior walls to provide for greater insulation.
Reverse The Spin of Ceiling Fans During Winter
Most fans have a toggle switch that changes the direction of the blades rotation. In winter, rotating the blades so they rotate clockwise will gather the warm air that collects near the ceiling and pull it down into the heart of the room. Set the fan at its lowest level and you won't even know it's on.
Buy and Build Responsibly
As destination clubs continue to build their presence in the luxury travel industry, they gain more buying power in resort areas. Not only can destination clubs seek out these luxury resorts but can using their own pull in current resorts and push for increased eco-friendly initiatives.
Secure Agreements with Rental Car Companies Offering Hybrids
Between Enterprise, Hertz and Avis, there are over 10,000 hybrid vehicles available for rental throughout the United States. Destination clubs can secure and expand partnerships with other luxury travel accommodations and airlines. Working with car rental agencies to acquire preferred rates on hybrid vehicles to members is yet another way that clubs can help satisfy their members.
Limit The Number of Lights Used For Guest Arrival
Destination clubs all want to make strong impressions on their members. To welcome members to a home, clubs typically turn on all the lights prior to a member's arrival. Clubs can limit the number of lights turned on before members arrive, and still make a great impression.
Alternative Power Sources
Wind, solar and hydropower are all less polluting than coal energy. We advocate for more destination clubs to work these alternative energy sources into both new and existing homes, and also building/purchasing in areas where alternative energy sources are readily available.
Concierge Services
Training the on-site concierges how to complete the above mentioned items like changing furnace filters and to limit light consumption prior to a member arrival will do wonders in the long run. Not only that, but hiring knowledgeable local hosts who can suggest environmentally friendly options can also greatly impact the amount of energy spent while traveling.
Margaret Mead said "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Destination clubs and destination club members alike have begun to dedicate more time to energy conservation. The Veras Group applauds these initiatives and looks forward to assisting clubs and club members in any way possible to further these goals.
To learn more about destination club travel and green initiatives put into place by these clubs, please feel free to contact The Veras Group.
The Veras Group is the only unbiased destination club news, consulting and brokerage firm. As our client, we accompany you on your destination club purchase from start to finish: customized reviews of your travel needs, unrestricted access to our expert advisors, insiders' advice from industry veterans, insightful due diligence support, thorough club comparisons and points of difference, and the best available terms & pricing on your membership, all at no cost to you.
Please reach one of our destination club advisors at 877-VERAS-07 or 970-449-4680 to learn more about the industry, specific clubs, and our service, or visit our website http://www.TheVerasGroup.com
Join us: we know the way.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Moe
"Greening" businesses have been a popular topic for many years, and a recent conversation on the DestinationClubForums led us to compile some of those suggestions into an article on destination clubs and the environment.
Visit The Veras Group website and you see two short words at the bottom of every page: "Wind Powered." Much like many of our destination club partners, The Veras Group strives to limit our impact on the environment and designed and power our website using local wind power.
Quintess, Leading Residences of the World absorbs the costs of the energy consumption for each of their properties, factoring in a plethora of factors.
Electricity consumed on a month to month basis for each home
Square footage of common areas Total number of rooms Average occupancy rates Estimated total number of guests per year
Abercrombie & Kent planted a tree for every client that traveled in 2007, totaling over 30,000 new trees. Select Abercrombie & Kent journeys even allow clients to personally help save the Earth while they travel. We are eagerly looking forward to learning more about how the new Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club will continue and further these initiatives in the future.
With the help of our friends at DestinationClubForums, we have created a short list of ways destination clubs can help the environment.
Provide An Easy Way To Recycle While Traveling
The easiest and one of the most effective tools available to destination clubs and their members, providing recycling bins in each home can vastly reduce the amount of waste produced during a member's trip. High Country Club has already begun offering this service to their members.
Use Lower Wattage Bulbs/Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
If every American home replaced one light bulb with an Energy Star qualified bulb, enough energy would be saved to light more than 3,000,000 homes for a year and prevent the greenhouse gases equivalent to 800,000 cars. For the destination club finance departments, each bulb saves an average of approximately $30 over its lifetime. The average home has approximately 45 light bulbs each. Now with over 750 total homes, the industry could save over $1,000,000 for this simple, environmentally friendly fix.
Use Energy Efficient, Low Water Use Appliances
Many appliances, including dishwashers, washers and dryers, are now readily available and use less than half of the energy and water consumption used by their counterparts. Have High Efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems
Between the warm climates of each club's beach properties and the cold ski properties, 69% of the industry's homes (21% in alpine destinations and 48% in beach locations) are in climates requiring either heating or cooling systems. Traditionally, 45 percent of most family's utility bill goes towards heating and cooling. As a nation, the United States emits 150 million tons of carbon dioxide each year from these systems. Just like light bulbs and appliances, heating and cooling units are quickly becoming more cost effective and energy saving options, but until then, there are many smaller fixes that can help lower heating and cooling costs.
Furnace Maintenance
Prior to the furnace being turned on each year, The Veras Group suggests that a technician come and service the unit. This can save over $400 each year in heating costs. In addition, furnace filters should be routinely changed. Not only are there health ramifications for dirty furnace filters, but a clean filter can save over $60 in heating bills and maximize the heating unit's productivity.
Home Furnishings
Destination club homes are built for large parties. Couches and chairs often are placed in areas to maximize seating space, not considering air flow. Make sure that air vents are exposed and not covered by beds, couches and other furniture throughout the house. For another simple fix, pull couches and chairs slightly away from exterior walls when you are traveling to ski properties. Exterior walls are the coldest areas of the home and positioning seating away from the walls keeps you more comfortable. Likewise, large furniture pieces such as entertainment centers and bookcases should be positioned next to exterior walls to provide for greater insulation.
Reverse The Spin of Ceiling Fans During Winter
Most fans have a toggle switch that changes the direction of the blades rotation. In winter, rotating the blades so they rotate clockwise will gather the warm air that collects near the ceiling and pull it down into the heart of the room. Set the fan at its lowest level and you won't even know it's on.
Buy and Build Responsibly
As destination clubs continue to build their presence in the luxury travel industry, they gain more buying power in resort areas. Not only can destination clubs seek out these luxury resorts but can using their own pull in current resorts and push for increased eco-friendly initiatives.
Secure Agreements with Rental Car Companies Offering Hybrids
Between Enterprise, Hertz and Avis, there are over 10,000 hybrid vehicles available for rental throughout the United States. Destination clubs can secure and expand partnerships with other luxury travel accommodations and airlines. Working with car rental agencies to acquire preferred rates on hybrid vehicles to members is yet another way that clubs can help satisfy their members.
Limit The Number of Lights Used For Guest Arrival
Destination clubs all want to make strong impressions on their members. To welcome members to a home, clubs typically turn on all the lights prior to a member's arrival. Clubs can limit the number of lights turned on before members arrive, and still make a great impression.
Alternative Power Sources
Wind, solar and hydropower are all less polluting than coal energy. We advocate for more destination clubs to work these alternative energy sources into both new and existing homes, and also building/purchasing in areas where alternative energy sources are readily available.
Concierge Services
Training the on-site concierges how to complete the above mentioned items like changing furnace filters and to limit light consumption prior to a member arrival will do wonders in the long run. Not only that, but hiring knowledgeable local hosts who can suggest environmentally friendly options can also greatly impact the amount of energy spent while traveling.
Margaret Mead said "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Destination clubs and destination club members alike have begun to dedicate more time to energy conservation. The Veras Group applauds these initiatives and looks forward to assisting clubs and club members in any way possible to further these goals.
To learn more about destination club travel and green initiatives put into place by these clubs, please feel free to contact The Veras Group.
The Veras Group is the only unbiased destination club news, consulting and brokerage firm. As our client, we accompany you on your destination club purchase from start to finish: customized reviews of your travel needs, unrestricted access to our expert advisors, insiders' advice from industry veterans, insightful due diligence support, thorough club comparisons and points of difference, and the best available terms & pricing on your membership, all at no cost to you.
Please reach one of our destination club advisors at 877-VERAS-07 or 970-449-4680 to learn more about the industry, specific clubs, and our service, or visit our website http://www.TheVerasGroup.com
Join us: we know the way.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Moe
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