Why Buy Now?

You may wonder whether it is worthwhile to wait to

Free MLS Property Search at:  www.SellingNorthIdaho.com

Contact:   Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
1924 Northwest Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID  838314

Free MLS Property Search at:  www.SellingNorthIdaho.com

Contact:   Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
1924 Northwest Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID  838314

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro - Pam Jank

Winners at the 67th annual Golden Globe Awards:

MOTION PICTURES

-Picture, Drama: "Avatar."

-Picture, Musical or Comedy: "The Hangover."

-Actor, Drama: Jeff Bridges, "Crazy Heart."

-Actress, Drama: Sandra Bullock, "The Blind Side."

-Director: James Cameron, "Avatar."

-Actor, Musical or Comedy: Robert Downey Jr., "Sherlock Holmes."

-Actress, Musical or Comedy: Meryl Streep, "Julie & Julia."

-Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz, "Inglourious Basterds."

-Supporting Actress: Mo'Nique, "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire."

-Foreign Language: "The White Ribbon."

-Animated Film: "Up."

-Screenplay: Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner, "Up in the Air."

-Original Score: Michael Giacchino, "Up."

-Original Song: "The Weary Kind (Theme from 'Crazy Heart')" (written by Ryan Bingham, T Bone Burnett); "Crazy Heart."

TELEVISION:

-Series, Drama: "Mad Men," AMC.

-Actor, Drama: Michael C. Hall, "Dexter."

-Actress, Drama: Julianna Margulies, "The Good Wife."

-Series, Musical or Comedy: "Glee," Fox.

-Actor, Musical or Comedy: Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock."

-Actress, Musical or Comedy: Toni Collette, "United States of Tara."

-Miniseries or Movie: "Grey Gardens," HBO.

-Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Drew Barrymore, "Grey Gardens."

-Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Kevin Bacon, "Taking Chance."

-Supporting Actress, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Chloe Sevigny, "Big Love,"

-Supporting Actor, Series, Miniseries or Movie: John Lithgow, "Dexter."

PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED

Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award: Martin Scorsese.

------------------------------

Free MLS Property Search at:  www.SellingNorthIdaho.com

Contact:   Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
1924 Northwest Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID  838314

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro - Pam Jank

Pam Jank

This Week In Coeur d'Alene, Idaho - January 15th, 2010 - January 22nd, 2010

January 15th -- Murder Mystery at the Roosevelt

Enjoy a thrilling murder mystery game with other guests as you try to solve the age old question -- Who dun it? The Murder Mystery package has become one of our most popular events. It's great for office parties or simply book a reservation and play with other guests.

Check out these great photos of our guests! Mystery Package Includes: An authentic Sherlock Holmes mystery, Hors d'oeuvres, Five-course gourmet dinner. Rates: $49.00 per person Dinner only. Call now for reservations: 208-765-5200, toll free 800-290-3358 or visit www.therooseveltinn.com   

January 15th thru February 27th -- The Art Spirit Gallery

The Art Spirit Gallery at 415 Sherman Avenue in downtown Coeur d'Alene is proud to announce a special show celebrating the artwork of a Pacific Northwest icon: Harold Balazs: My World of Differents-over 80 new works including large metal sculptures, large wood sculptures, enamels, drawings and mixed media works. The opening reception is on Friday, January 15 from 5-8pm. There will be no advance sales for this show. Sales will open at 5:00. Harold is 81 years young and still prolific! This show is sponsored by JAVA on Sherman. We thank them for their support of the arts in our region. Winter/Spring Hours through May: Open Tuesday through Saturday 11-6. Visit www.theartspiritgallery.com

January 15th -- Spread the Shred

Come and enjoy the evening with fellow snow lovers at the Garland Theater in Spokane. Visit www.silvermt.com or call 866.344.2675.

January 15th -- Spokane Symphony - Casual Classics 2: Prague

Morihiko Nakahara, conductor John Marshall, cello Helen Byrne, cello Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart,Overture to Le Nozze di Figaro Antonin Dvorak, Rondo in G minor Antonin Dvorak, Serenade in D minor, op. 44 Antonin Dvorak, Silent Woods, op. 68 (Waldesruhe, or Klid) Josef Suk, Serenade for Strings Mozart. The Prague production of "The Marriage of Figaro" was so successful that Mozart chose to premiere two other operas ("Don Giovanni" and "La clemenza di Tito"). Completing the program are two romantic serenades by the native Czech masters: one, Dvorak's folk dance inspired serenade for (mostly) wind instruments, and the other by Josef Suk, Dvorak's son-in-law, for string orchestra. The Spokane Symphony Ph:(509) 326-3136 Em: symphonymarketing@spokanesymphony.org

January 16th & 17th -- Coeur d'Alene Snowman Land (Will take place if snow allows)

Challenging all families, schools, chuches, businesses, etc. to the Downtown's 1st Annual Snowman Building Contest!

Entries can be as simple or as complex as you would like to create. Prizes will be awarded in various categories for both Adults and Under 12's. Judging will take place on Monday, January 18th (contest will take place if snow allows)

For more information, contact the Downtown Association at 415-0116 or email info@cdadowntown.com  

January 16th, 23rd & 30th -- Ski Bus from Missoula to Silver

Join us for a round trip charter to Silver Mountain Resort sponsored by Bayern Brewing in Missoula. Cost is just $59 and includes lift ticket, complimentary food and, for those over 21, two bottles of Bayern's Face Plant ale. On-line reservation system will be operational soon. Call (208) 783-1524 for information.  

January 16th -- LEGO-rama

The fifth annual LEGO-rama 1-3 p.m., in the Community Room at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. One entry per participant can be entered in the contest that is for ages 4 to 13. Judging will be in age groups 4-6, 7-10, and 11-13. Judging will be from 1-2p.m. Anyone age 14 and older may display designs, but these will not be included in judging. Complete rules are available in the Seagraves Children's Library or online at www.cdalibrary.org. The day's activities will also include a guest speaker, refreshments and building contests. LEGO-rama, like all youth programs at the library, is supported by the Friends of the Coeur d'Alene Public Library. Young builders are also invited to participate each week in LEGO Club!

 January 16th -- Face Plant Party

Send us your best video and/or still images of a wipe out on skis, snowboard, bike, surf board, feet and you'll have a chance to win fabulous prizes. The audience in Moguls at 2p will pick the winners. Send your entries by January 13 to silver@silvermt.com. Visit www.silvermt.com  or call 866.344.2675.  

January 16th -- Wham/Bam Rail Jam

Get ready to ride! Jam session competition for skiers and snowboarders. Visit www.silvermt.com or call 866.344.2675.  

January 18th -- Human Rights Education Institute - Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations

Annual Gala Event The annual Gala fund raiser for the KCTFHR features a variety of foods, fine wine, music, and both live and silent auctions. Event Info January 18, 2010 5:00pm-8:00pm Parkside Towers, 601 E. Front Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID $40 per person To purchase tickets, please send the names of attendees, address, and e-mail, along with your check payable to: KCTFHR PO Box 2725 Coeur d'Alene, ID 83816.

January 21st -- Connections to the Past History Series

North Idaho: Connections to the Past History series, Coeur d'Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave., "The Lewis and Clark Connection," 208/769-2315 or www.cdalibrary.org

January 21st -- Toyota Ski Free Day

The DRIVER of any TOYOTA vehicle can ski or board for FREE today. Visit www.silvermt.com  or call 866.344.2675.

 January 22nd -- Music Walk

Join us for the first Music Walk event on January 22nd and every fourth Friday through March, Enjoy an evening of fantastic music, fine dining, and friends in beautiful Downtown Coeur d'Alene. Visit www.artsincda.org for more information or call 208-292-1629.

January 23rd -- CDA Symphony Family Matinee

NEW LOCATION Lake City Community Church, 6000 N. Ramsey Road, Coeur d'Alene (across from Lake City High School)

Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors 65 and up, and $8 for students. Advance tickets are available at the Coeur d'Alene Symphony office 208-765-3833 and Great Harvest Bread Co., 2106 N. Govt Way, Coeur d'Alene. Tickets will also be available at the door.  

January 23rd -- Parrot & Pirate Fest

Bringing you the tropics all day. It's time to warm up with live music and tropical food and drink specials. Join the party! Visit  www.silvermt.com or call 866.344.2675. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

January 23rd & 24th -- Spokane Symphony - Classics 5: Night and Day

Eckart Preu, conductor Vadim Gluzman, violin Sergei Prokofiev, Symphony No. 1 "Classical" Samuel Barber, Violin Concerto Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Symphony No. 4 During political chaos in Russia, Prokofiev looked back, meshing the tradition of clarity and formality with his renegade spirit. Written in a manner as "Haydn might have composed had he lived until the 20th century," his first Symphony is a masterpiece. His Classical symphony has truly become a "classic". Samuel Barber's most famous composition is his extraordinary Adagio for Strings. The qualities of that melodic-romantic style also carry the first two movements of his only violin concerto. Some of Mendelssohn's most successful orchestral compositions represent musical travelogues. When he traveled to Italy, he was captivated by the sights and sounds of this sunny country. The result was buoyant, sparkling, even wild music. Mendelssohn writes music full of excitement, energy and drama, with a dash of Neapolitan folk music. The Spokane Symphony P.O. Box 365 818 W. Riverside, Mezzanine level Spokane, WA 99210-0365 Ph: (509) 326-3136 Fx: (509) 326-3921 Em: symphonymarketing@spokanesymphony.org   

January 26th & 27th -- Spokane Symphony - Soiree 2

Think elegance, drinks, hors d'oeuvres, chamber music, and good company. Et voila! We cordially invite you to the eighth season of the Spokane Symphony's Soiree Series at the legendary Davenport Hotel. Relax at a table, or take a seat in the gallery of the distinguished Marie Antoinette Ballroom. Join us for these very popular performances for a unique and musically intimate experience. An assortment of baroque, classical and contemporary music performed by ensembles of our Spokane Symphony musicians goes perfectly with a glass of wine and a piece of cheese! Coffee and tea are available for those purchasing gallery seating.

Repertoire will be announced closer to concert date. The Spokane Symphony P.O. Box 365 818 W. Riverside, Mezzanine level Spokane, WA 99210-0365 Ph: (509) 326-3136 Fx: (509) 326-3921 Em: symphonymarketing@spokanesymphony.org

January 27th -- CDA Public Library Pageturners Book Club

After a short break for the holidays the Public Library Pageturners Book Club will resume meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 27, at 10:15 a.m. The club, organized and operated by volunteers, meets in the Community room at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. The title to be discussed in January is "Sailing Alone Around the Room," by Billy Collins. The discussion leader will be George Ives. Anyone interested in the book is welcome to attend. Copies of the books can be checked out at the library's Research and Information Desk or through area library collections. Participants planning to pass the book on to others or to make notes in the book should arrange to purchase it through other sources. Visit www.cdalibrary.org.   

January 28th -- Connections to the Past History Series

North Idaho: Connections to the Past History series, Coeur d'Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave., "The Fur Trade Connection," 208/769-2315 or www.cdalibrary.org .

January 30th -- Coeur d'Alene Symphony - Black & White Ball

The Coeur d'Alene Symphony Board of Directors requests the pleasure of your company at our Third Annual Black and White Ball. This Symphony benefit will be held at the elegant Coeur d'Alene Resort Hotel and features dinner and dancing to the music of the Coeur d'Alene Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are $75 and are available only at the Symphony Office. Reservations are required. Please call early! No-host cocktails at 6, dinner at 7. Call 208.765.3833 or visit http://www.cdasymphony.org/blackwhiteball.html.

Be sure to check out everything that is going on this month in the Coeur d'Alene area, www.coeurdalene.org

Music Walk  -  January 22nd - March, 2010 - On 4th Friday of the Month - 208.292.1629 www.artsincda.org

High Tea at The Roosevelt - 1pm -3pm Tuesdays & Saturdays, October 31st - March 30th - 105 Wallace Ave. Cd'A, ID 800.290.3358 or 208.765.5200 www.therooseveltinn.com

Coeur d' Alene Public Library -  Programs throughout the week! Check them out at: www.cdalibrary.org    208.769.2315

The Art Spirit Gallery - Harold Balazs: My World of Differents -January 15th - February 27th, 2010 - Tuesday - Saturday 11am-6pm www.theartspiritgallery.com 208.765.6006

Kids Draw Architecture Exhibit - Coeur d'Alene Public Library - January 4th - 29th, 2010 - www.cdalibrary.org  208.292.1629

Free MLS Search at:  www.SellingNorthIdaho.com

Contact:   Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
1924 Northwest Blvd, Coeur d'Alene, ID  838314

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro - Pam Jank

- Buyers and Sellers Benefit from REALTOR^® Expertise in Distressed Sales -

Pam Jank Earns the NAR Short Sales and Foreclosure Certification

Coeur d'Alene, ID, January 1, 2010 - Pam Jank with Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty has earned the nationally recognized Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource certification. The National Association of REALTORS® offers the SFR certification to REALTORS® who want to help both buyers and sellers navigate these complicated transactions, as demand for professional expertise with distressed sales grows.

According to a recent NAR survey, nearly one-third of all existing homes sold recently were either short sales or foreclosures.  For many real estate professionals, short sales and foreclosures are the new "traditional" transaction.  REALTORS® who have earned the SFR certification know how to help sellers maneuver the complexities of short sales as well as help buyers pursue short sale and foreclosure opportunities.

"As leading advocates for homeownership, REALTORS® believe that any family that loses its home to foreclosure is one family too many, but unfortunately, there are situations in which people just cannot afford to keep their homes, and a foreclosure or a short sale results," said 2009 NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth. "Foreclosures and short sales can offer opportunities for home buyers and benefit the larger community, as well, but it's extremely important to have the help of a real estate professional like a REALTOR® who has earned the SFR certification for these kinds of purchases."

• Contact Person - Pam Jank, GRI, ABR, CRS, RRS, SFR
• Company Name - Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty
• Telephone Number - 208-661-2282  - Toll Free: 800-829-2555 ext. 1275
• Email Address - pamjank@hotmail.com
• Web site address: www.SellingNorthIdaho.com

Mortgages rates currently under 5%.  What a great opportunity to buy a home at some of the lowest interest rates we have seen in many years!

Current Mortgage Rates

Please contact me to find your North Idaho Dream Home.  Be sure to ask me about your free customized MLS home search "Portal."  Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

Energy & Cost Saving HEATING TIPS:

• Set your thermostat as low as you can find comfortable.

• Make sure that warm air registers, baseboard heaters, or radiators are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.

• Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and the radiators.

• Turn off kitchen, bath, and ventilating fans as soon as they have done their job (so they don't remove any more heated or cooled air than is necessary).

• Keep draperies and shades open on south-facing windows during the heating season to allow sunlight in.  Close them at night to reduce heat losses.

• Close off unoccupied rooms, and turn down the heating for these rooms.

• Add insulation to heating system ductwork that is in cold basements or attic spaces.

• Use duct tape to seal ductwork that leaks hot air at joints, etc. (use UL approved tape that will last longer).

• Add insulation above the ceiling, inside walls, and beneath floors.

• Add caulking and weather-stripping.

• Install storm windows, insulating shutters, or drapes.

• Install storm or insulating doors.

• If you use electricity for heating, consider installing a heat pump.

• Install an air-tight wood stove.

• Convert to an energy-efficient oil or gas furnace.

• Consider a solar heating system.

Please contact me to find your North Idaho Dream Home.  Be sure to ask me about your free customized MLS home search "Portal."  Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

Notice!
An urban legendhas circulated since 2002 claiming that motorists can dial #77 or *77 to reach the police, or to determine if the unmarked police car behind them is a real "Officer of the Law" or .... etc. As you can see from the map at http://www.911dispatch.com/911/mobilenumbers.html , #77/*77 is NOT the universal number for the police. Law enforcement recommends you either dial 911 or determine your state's local highway emergency or special circumstance number.

So, if you encounter an unmarked vehicle with flahing lights trying to pull you over, call 911 or your local Highway Notification Number (see below) to determine if it is an officer of the law, before you pull over. 

http://www.911dispatch.com/911/mobilenumbers.html Highway Notification Numbers Original source: Missouri Highway Patrol, Dispatch Magazine on-line Updated 9/12/2008

Although 911 has been designated as the "official" number for reporting emergencies in the United States, manyother numbers have been implemented for reporting highway situations: accidents, intoxicated drivers (DUIs), or disabled vehicles. In most cases, dialing these special numbers routes the call to the agency with jurisdiction over the state highways or Interstates, rather than to the local law enforcement agency.

This map does not depict which states allow 911 dialing from wireless phones to report an emergency. Instead, this map show other telephone numbers established by the states to reach a state-level law enforcement agency to report highway situations, some of which could be considered "urgent."

Confusingly, calls to these numbers may also be routed to the same agency that handles emergencies for the highway, resulting in their use by motorists for actual emergencies.

Take Kansas: they have 911 service that reaches local or county agencies, but the Kansas Highway Patrol advertises three numbers: 911, *HP (to reach the Highway Patrol directly) and *KTA (to reach the Highway Patrol for turnpike-related matters).

And continuing the confusion, if you're traveling adjacent to a state boundary such as Virginia, Maryland and DC, dialing one of these special numbers could connect you with... well, who knows which state or agency you'd hear on the phone? That's the disadvantage of non-standard numbers, and of wireless phones whose signal can go in all directions.

This map was originally developed by the Missouri Highway Patrol, and has been periodically updated by DISPATCH Magazine On-Line. Let us know of any errors or changes.

Some of the alternate uses for the above numbers include:

• The Iowa State Patrol Web site for a list of mobile emergency numbers.
• Nextel has a list of # and * associated numbers for highway assistance.
• We have a report that Colorado also has the number *CSP for reaching the State Patrol from wireless phones.
• In Kansas, motorists can dial *KTA while on the turnpike.
• In Illinois, the number *999 number is operated jointly by the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority and the state's DOT, and is intended for "emergencies," which the Authority defines generally as being "stranded" on the tollway.
• On the Indiana toll-road, *11 reaches the state police
• In Louisiana, *24 reaches the Coast Guard
• Dialing *555 in Prince George's and Montgomery County (Md.) reaches the Park Police
• Dialing *11 reaches Emergency Operations for the Pennsylvania Turnpike
• Dialing *ISP in Idaho is intended to report DUI drivers.

I would love to help you find your North Idaho Dream!  Please contact me to find your next home.  Use my free MLS home search "Portal."  Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

You may be able to benefit from additional housing related provisions, including the following:

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Tax Incentives to Spur Energy Savings and Green Jobs

This provision is designed to help promote energy-efficient investments in homes by extending and expanding tax credits through 2010 for purchases such as new furnaces, energy-efficient windows and doors, or insulation.

Landmark Energy Savings

This provision provides $5 Billion for energy efficient improvements for more than one million modest-income homes through weatherization. According to some estimates, this can help modest-income families save an average of $350 a year on heating and air conditioning bills.

Repairing Public Housing and Making Key Energy Efficiency Retrofits To HUD-Assisted Housing

This provision provides a total of $6.3 Billion for increasing energy efficiency in federally supported housing programs. Specifically, it establishes a new program to upgrade HUD-sponsored low-income housing (for elderly, disabled, and Section 8) to increase energy efficiency, including new insulation, windows, and frames.

Expanding Housing Assistance

This provision increases support for several critical housing programs. It includes $2 Billion for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to help communities purchase and rehabilitate foreclosed, vacant properties.

-------------------

I would love to help you find your North Idaho Dream!  Please contact me to find your next home.  Use my free MLS home search "Portal."  Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

Homebuyer Tax Credit Update!

On November 6, 2009, President Obama signed a bill to extend the tax credit for first-time homebuyers (FTHBs) through June 30, 2010. The bill also opens up opportunities for others who are not buying a home for the first time.

Tax Credit for Homebuyers

First-Time Homebuyers (FTHBs): First-time homebuyers (that is, people who have not owned a home within the last three years) may be eligible for the tax credit. The credit for FTHBs is 10% of the purchase price of the home, with a maximum available credit of $8,000.

Single taxpayers and married couples filing a joint return may qualify for the full tax credit amount.

Current Owners: The tax credit 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 $6,500 for qualified purchasers who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years.

Single taxpayers and married couples filing a joint return may qualify for the full tax credit amount.

What are the New Deadlines?

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.

Tax Credit Versus Tax Deduction

It's important to remember that the tax credit is just that... a tax credit. The benefit of a tax credit is that it's a dollar-for-dollar tax reduction, rather than a reduction in a tax liability that would only save you $1,000 to $1,500 when all was said and done. So, if a first-time homebuyer were to owe $8,000 in income taxes and would qualify for a tax credit of $8,000, she would owe nothing.

Better still, the tax credit is refundable, which means the homebuyer can receive a check for the credit if he or she has little income tax liability. For example, if a first-time homebuyer is eligible for a tax credit of $8,000 but is liable for $4,000 in income tax, she can still receive a check for the remaining $4,000!

Higher Income Caps

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.

Maximum Purchase Price

Qualifying buyers may purchase a property with a maximum sale price of $800,000.

------------------------

I would love to help you find your North Idaho Dream!  Please contact me to find your next home.  Use my free MLS home search "Portal."  Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

NOTICE: Today, November 6th, President Obama signed the Extension, expanded the Eligibilty requirements, Income limits and included NON first time Homebuyers up to $800,000.

--------------

House Approved on Tuesday Nov 3rd and Senate May Pass Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension Today  (Update2)

It appears the  House and the Senate may approve the extension of the tax credit today.  They must have a home under contract by April 30th and it must close by June 30th.  It remained at $8000 for first time home buyers.  They also included a $6,500 tax credit for non first time home buyers.  

It is a $45 billion plan to expand a tax credit for first- time homebuyers, extend jobless benefits and provide tax refunds to money-losing companies.

The Senate voted 97-1 to end debate on the measure and clear the way for final approval. The Senate is likely to pass the legislation and send it to the House, where Democratic leaders predicted it would be quickly forwarded to President Barack Obama to be signed into law.

I'll keep you posted.

Here are links to 2 recent reports: 

House Approved:  http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2009/11/03/House-OKs-homebuyer-tax-credit-extension/UPI-47461257303761/

AND: 

Senate May Pass:  http://bit.ly/2keoYs 

Please contact me to find your next home.  Use my free MLS home search "Portal."  I would love to help you find your North Idaho Dream!

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

Daylight Savings Time is November 1st at 2:00 A.M.

Please move your Clocks BACKWARD 1-Hour at 2:00 a.m.  This change will be in effect until March 8th, 2010. 

NOTE:  Also, be Sure to change the batteries in all of your devices such as carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, as well as flashlights, clocks, remote controls and other battery operated devices. 

Please contact me with any of your Real Estate / Relocation / New Construction and/or Referral needs:

Pam Jank, Realtor, GRI, CRS, ABR, RRS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro

FREE MLS Listings Search at:
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-446-0660  Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
1924 Northwest Blvd
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838314

Just announced! 

Oct. 29--A Senate committee reached a compromise to extend the $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers, a boost the housing industry expects will help it pull out of its two-year-old downturn.

• The compromise measure expands the tax credit to non first-time buyers and also raises income ceilings, while also extending the deadline to to April 30, 2010.
• Under the new proposal, people who have lived in a primary residence for five consecutive years would be eligible for a $6,500 credit when purchasing a new property.
• Incomes limits will be raised to $125,000 for individuals and $225,000 for couples, vs. $75,000 and $150,000 previously.
• The maximum house value rises to $800,000.

There are a lot of details not yet released.  However, it is my understanding that:

• Home buyers would not have to repay the credit, provided the home remains their principal residence for at least 36 months.
• The amendment includes a military waiver provision, meaning the recapture provision would not apply in the case of a member of the Armed Forces, military intelligence or Foreign Service who is on qualified official extended duty. In addition, members of the military who have been deployed overseas for 90 days or more in 2008 or 2009 would have until April 30, 2011, to claim the home buyer tax credit.
  
• The amendment also includes anti-fraud language that provides math authority to the IRS to do greater oversight during the processing of the return rather than waiting for an audit situation. The amendment requires the taxpayer claiming the credit to be 18 or older as well as requiring a HUD-1 settlement statement to be attached when claiming the credit.

Click here for the CNBC News Article

Click here for the The Philadelphia Inquirer

Please contact me to find your next home.  Use my free MLS home search "Portal."  I would love to help you find your North Idaho Dream!

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

Many banks have tightened up standards on their mortgage loans in the current lending enviorment.   Many Homebuyers are being turned away becasue their Bank does not offer FHA financing options.

FHA  is a great way to go if the borrower is putting down less than 20%, even if the borrower has an excellent credit score.   Today, many banks are not offering conventional loans with private mortgage insurance for borrowers under 740 with less than 20% available for the down payment.  This makes FHA Insured loans loans the only alternative for a homebuyer to obtain financing.

APR based on 3.50% down payment on a $300,000 sale price

 FHA Rate Updates for: 
10/21/2009 

An FHA loan can be obtained with a credit score as low as 640.  Many banks are not lending borrowers with a credit score under 680 and some even require a 740 credit score, certainly for the best terms.  FHA offers great rates with reduced monthly mortgage insurance, more liberal debt to income allowance, only a 3.50% down payment requirement and up to a 6.0% seller contribution toward your buyers closing costs.

Below is a comparison of FHA and Conventional financing requirements for a $300,000 sale price on a single family residence in Orange County, California. 

All of the the above information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.  Please verify through your local FHA Lender.

See my earlier Blog regarding USDA 102% Financing Loans. Click on the following Link:

USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing Program - 102% Financing - No Mortgage Insurance

Please feel free to contact me to find a local FHA lender.   I would also love to help you find your North Idaho Dream home!

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

House Extends Tax Credit to Active Military for One More Year

Yesterday the House of Representatives unanimously voted to extend the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit to active military personnel, foreign service and intelligence officers.  HR 3590 extends the existing tax credit to this group until November 30th, 2010.  The bill now goes to the Senate, and is expected to pass with the same ease.

The bill was introduced by Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) because it was thought that military personel serving oversees this year did not have the same opportunity to take advantage of the tax credit.  If the original qualifications are met, the extension applies to military personnel who spent at least 90 days of the current calendar year oversees.  It also does not require borrowers to payback the tax credit if they are deployed after receiving it.  The current tax credit requires borrowers payback the tax credit if they do not occupy the home within three years of receiving the tax credit.

No word yet on whether the $8,000 tax credit will be extended for all eligible borrowers.

Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

$295,000 Hayden Lake Waterfront Lot for Sale  - Located at Yellowstone Point on Hayden Lake  -  6544 E. Sunset Beach Road - Hayden Lake, ID 83835  -  Distress Sale, Foreclosure, Bank Owned price!  Nothing can beat this on the lake! 

6544 E Sunset Beach Rd  -  Hayden Lake, Idaho  - www.SunsetBeach.CanBYours.com   Offered at: $295,000 See Website: www.SunsetBeach.CanBYours.com For more pictures instantly: Text "53902" To 79564 MLS Nbr: 09-10774   P r o p e r t y   I n f o r m a t i o n Lot Size: .81 acres)       Community: Hayden Lake       Property type: Vacant Land Waterfront   County: Kootenai Property Description This has to be the best buy on Hayden Lake! It is priced like a Distress, Foreclosure and/or Bank Owned property. This waterfront lot is .81 acres with 109 ft of frontage. Deep Water and Beautiful Views from this Southern End of Yellowstone Point setting on Sunset Beach Road. This is an area of high-end waterfront homes and waterfront vacation cabins. Good access road and a path to beach. Property had septic approval in 2007. Sunset Beach Road is located on the Southern Exposure side of Yellowstone Point.(Yellowbank Road is on the North Side). Take Hayden Lake Road to just past Mile Post 8, turn left onto Sunset Beach Road at the Sunset Beach Sign. Features List Priced to Sell NOW! Yellowstone Point End of Point Setting 109 ft frontage .81 acres Deep Water Southern Exposure Septic Approval Gate to Property A g e n t   I n f o r m a t i o n Pam Jank, GRI, CRS, AGR, RSS, PPS Pam Jank Realtor, GRI, CRS, ABR, RRS, PPS Office Coeur d'Alene Idaho Mobile 208-661-2282 Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty 1924 Northwest Blvd Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814 Web Site: www.sellingnorthidaho.com Email: pamjank@hotmail.com Web Site: www.sellingnorthidaho.com Office: Coeur d'Alene Idaho   Mobile: 208-661-2282

It was a another great day on the Lake in Hayden Lake, Idaho.   We picked up the Lawrence's at their dock and cruised around the lake visiting our lake neighbors enjoying their docks, beaches and water toys.  Afterword we enjoyed a fabulous dinner of Rib-eye Steaks and fine wine on our deck.

Ahhh, living here is like being on vacation!

Please contact me with any of your Real Estate / Relocation / Referral needs:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315 

I'm sitting on my deck working at my computer while watching a lovely wedding take place on the 18th tee box of the Avondale Golf Club.  When to my surprise...........

As the ceremony ended each Groomsmen, all dressed in Black Tux, took turns Teeing off over the Waterfall and Pond of 18.  There was alot of cheering going on, however I couldn't tell if the all made it over the water.  It sounded like the Groom did!  What a fun idea. 

During the ceremony this young deer strolled over to the creek on 11 to have a drink.  It wasn't in the least bit bothered by the Wedding Ceremony going on less than 100 feet away.

It's days like this that remind me just how fortunate we are to live in one of the most beautiful places on earth!! North Idaho, Hayden Lake, Coeur d'Alene... Truly God's footprint!

Please contact me with any of your Real Estate / Relocation / Referral needs:

Pam Jank, Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS, RSPS, PPS
Previews Property Specialist
Your North Idaho Real Estate Pro
Web:  Coeur d'Alene Idaho Homes for Sale
email to:pamjank@hotmail.com
Phone:  208-661-2282
Fax:  208-772-628 Toll Free:  800-829-2555 EXT.1275
COLDWELL BANKER SCHNEIDMILLER REALTY
435 W. Hanley Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID  838315