Recent Blog Posts by Debra Lynn Schirmer

MAAR Convention

The MAAR convention at the Amway Grand in Grand Rapids has been a fabulous event this year.  Many great speakers and classes to keep up in the ever changing real estate market.  Always able to get your CE (continuing ed) classes.

Happy Birthday Coldwell Banker

August 27th marks the 105th birthday of Coldwell Banker. It is amazing to think that back in 1906 a young man by the name of Colbert Coldwell would start a company that would continue to grow and succeed over the course of a century. From economic ups & downs to world changing events to the birth of a new millenium, the Coldwell Banker brand has seen it all. So we are celebrating, we hope you’ll ...

Is Home Ownership Right For You

For the most part, the "Rent vs Buy" decision has been up for discussion in most households at some point in time.  With these uncertain times it is even more in question.  It is a big decision and requires homework on your part, open discussions and planning out your life goals.  What is your financial situation, your plans and what kind of lifestyle do you want to live. Both ...

Homebuyer Tax Relief Bill Passes Legislature

Great News from MAR (Michigan Association of REALTORS) Homebuyer Tax Relief Bill Passes Legislature on last day of 2010 Session   ? ? MAR-supported legislation to allow foreclosed properties to retain their principal residence exemption for a period of up to 3 years has passed both the House and Senate, and is expected to be signed by the Governor in the coming days.   Senate Bill ...

Energy Credits

Energy creditsCongress expanded these for energy-conscious homeowners. For 2009 and this year, claim a credit worth up to 30% of the cost—not to exceed $1,500 over the two years—of adding energy-efficient windows, doors, heaters, air conditioners, water heaters and heating systems. Add a solar water heater, wind turbine, geothermal heat pump, solar electric systems, and the credit is worth ...

Short Sales and Foreclosure Certification

I have received notice:The Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certification application you submitted has been APPROVED!  You are welcome to immediately begin using the SFR letters after your name and in your marketing material. This is a certification I have taken through the National Association of Realtors and have been approved.  This is a great class to help homeowners sell ...

What is a REALTORĀ® and why should you use one?

  Only real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR) can call   themselves REALTORS®.  All REALTORS® adhere to NAR's strict Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. That’s why all real estate licensees are NOT the same. Dedicated to serving America’s property owners ...

Domain Names Redirected

Have updated my domain names to lead to my Coldwell Banker Schmidt site, try HarborSpringsAgent.com (may not work for a few days just uploaded today). Now there are more ways than ever to keep in touch!

Land Contracts and First Time Home Buyers.

Land Contracts and First Time Home Buyers.   As you know, First-time home buyers purchasing a home are eligible for a tax credit. To qualify for the (up to) $8000.00 tax credit, a home must be purchased on or after January 1, 2009, have a binding contract on or before April 30, 2010 and close on or before July 1, 2010. For the purposes of the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when closing ...

$8,000 Tax Advantage for First Time Home Buyers

With the stimulus package President O'bama has passed First Time Home Buyers can now take advantage of an $8,000 tax credit when purchasing a home.