Historically Low Interest Rate

Did you know that on November 11, 2010 mortgage interest rates hit a historic low of 4.17% ! Interest rates still hovering around that historic low, combined with lower prices, have created the return of housing affordability in Washington.
The First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit boosted the real estate industry in 2010 with first time homebuyers rising to over 50% of all homes purchased in the first quarter.
Read my Buyer tips to learn more about the purchasing process, Contact Me with questions or comments or Search For Homes.

Housing is Vital for Economy

The Housing Industry Is Vital to Our Economy
“Fact: For every additional 1,000 home sales, about 500 jobs are added to the economy. Those are real jobs that give our families, friends and neighbors a chance to work.

Fact: Every home purchase pumps $60,000 into the economy.

Fact: Housing accounts for more than 15 percent of the national gross domestic product.

Fact: Home owners pay 80 to 90 percent of ALL federal income taxes.

We need to change the dialog. Critics say housing is a drain on federal resources. We know better. Housing is the engine that drives our national economy. Eight of the last ten recessions have ended as a result of robust housing markets. The other two ended as a result of war spending. The choice is easy. America needs a healthy housing market to thrive.”
Information courtesy of Ron Phipps, 2011 NAR President, Realtor.org

Lifetime Achievement Award

Jerry’s father, Pete Blankers, was honored by being awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Whatcom County Association of Realtors at a banquet on Friday, February 4. His son Rod Blankers gave his induction speech, particularly noting Pete’s work ethic learned by growing up on a dairy farm, and also Pete’s giving spirit.
Congratulations Pete on an award well deserved!

Mortgage Interest Tax Deduction

The Mortgage Interest Deduction (MID) for deducting on your income tax the interest you pay on your mortgage, is a long standing deduction used by homeowners. This “reward” for home ownership helps to foster and promote the goal of homeownership as part of many Americans Dream. For 234 years our country has promoted property ownership as a core value. Home ownership leads to more tight knit communities, financial benefits and family ties.
Recently, there have been discussions about eliminating this significant tax deduction.
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