Friday, February 13, 2009

Interest Rate Update

Interest Rate Update for The Westwoodian for Friday February 13th. Rates have dropped since last week, particularly the conforming loan. Here are the approximate interest rates for this week of February 13, 2009 for 30 year fixed loans for residential properties (single family homes and condominiums):



Conforming Loan (loan amount up to $417,525) - 4.75%



Agency Jumbo Loan (loan amount $417,000-$625,00) -5.5%



Jumbo Loan (over $625,000) - 6.25%


(in addition there is a 5-1 ARM available at 5.257%)


This information has been provided by Jim Greenwald of First Capital Mortgage at 310-434-1703.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Senate approves $15,000 tax credit for homebuyers

The Senate recently passed a bill allowing a $15,000 tax credit (actually an increase from the existing $7,500 tax credit) to home buyers that purchase a home in 2009. This bill was passed in an effort to jump-start the real estate market. Passage of this bill is seen as a victory for Republicans eager to leave their mark on the mammoth economic stimulus bill at the heart of President Barack Obama's recovery plan. The tax break was adopted without dissent.


Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., who advanced the home buyers tax break bill, said it was intended to help revive the housing industry, which has virtually collapsed in the wake of a credit crisis that began last fall. The proposal would allow a tax credit of 10 percent of the value of new or existing residences, up to a $15,000 limit. Current law provides for a $7,500 tax break for the purchase of new homes only. Isakson's office said the proposal would cost the government an estimated $19 billion. You can click here to view the actual bill.
For additional information, Q and A and discussion about this bill you may refer to the following links posted by: the Associated Press , Boston Globe , Zillow Blog , Yahoo Answers
What do you think about this bill? Do you think it will accomplish what it is designed to address?
Do you think it will have a significant impact on the Westside real estate market?

Monday, February 09, 2009

Two New Listings Open Tuesday In Westwood

Back on the Market: Same Home, Different Broker, New Price
253 Conway Avenue
Open Tuesday 11-2
This 6 bedroom, 5.5 Bath home was previously listed for $3,800,000 and is now back on the market for $3,495,000. It is a Stately English Tudor home in Little Holmby. Living room spans front to back with a romantic fireplace, tall pitched beamed ceilings, a swanky bar and a Juliet balcony.

The adjacent den has another fireplace and a third graces the master bedroom. Original paned and leaded windows, heavy wooden doors and wood floors. There is an updated cook’s kitchen with Viking appliances and updated baths, a formal entry hall, sizable formal dining room and housekeeper's quarters. The rear yard features a pool and this home is located in the Warner Avenue School district. For more information or to see this listing please contact For more information please contact Mickey and Jamie at the Westwoodian at 310-442-1398, 310-339-3525 or mkessler@veriszon.net or jtheis@camoves.com



New On Market

10513 Homman Avenue

Open Tuesday 11-2 PM

This 5 bedroom, 3 bath 1920's Tudor Style home is new on the market for $1,850,000. It has many original features, including hardwood floors and vaulted ceilings. Beautiful kitchen with Viking stove. Newly land/hardscaped backyard with sparkling solar heated pool and hot tub, pergola covered outdoor living room area, built -in BBQ and refrig.

Huge master suite with wood built-in closets and space for office or sitting room. Great flow, with family room and dinning room off kitchen. New AC. Move right in and enjoy!

For more information please contact Mickey and Jamie at the Westwoodian at 310-442-1398, 310-339-3525 or mkessler@veriszon.net or jtheis@camoves.com

Friday, February 06, 2009

Interest Rate Update

Interest Rate Update for The Westwoodian for Friday February 6th. There has not been much change in interest rates since last week. Here are the approximate interest rates for this week of January 16, 2009 for 30 year fixed loans for residential properties (single family homes and condominiums):

Conforming Loan (loan amount up to $417,525) - 5.25%

Agency Jumbo Loan (loan amount $417,000-$625,00) -5.75%

Jumbo Loan (over $625,000) - 6.5% (in addition there is a 5-1 ARM available at 5.125%)

This information has been provided by Jim Greenwald of First Capital Mortgage at 310-434-1703.