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La Habra, CA Real Estate News

By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
Like many of us in real estate, the term buyers are liars was a mantra in 2009. Over the last 6 weeks we have seen a change of perception of a buyer. We have met and represented many buyers since the new year and have found them to be more realistic and comitted to buying a home. I hope this trend continues for the rest of the year. Let me know how buyers are thinking in your areas?
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
Two hunters (Realtors from California) got a pilot to fly them to the Canadian wilderness to hunt moose.  They manage to get two big bull moose.  As they were loading the plane to return, the pilot said the plane could only take the hunters, their gear and one moose.  The two hunters objected strongly.  "Last year we shot two.  The pilot let us take both and he had the same plane as yours."  Reluctantly, the pilot (who happened to be an ex-mortgage banker and not wanting to be outdone by another pilot) gave in and everything was loaded.  However, even on full power, the little plane couldn't handle the load and went down crashing in the woods.  Somehow, surrounded by the moose, clothing and sleeping bags, George and Mike survived the crash.  After climbing out of the wreckage, George as...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
FHA Short Sales and Short Payoffs Borrowers that were in default at the time of the short sale (or pre-foreclosure sale) of their previously owned primary residence are not eligible for a new FHA loan for three years from the date of the pre-foreclosure sale.   This means, that buyers wanting to purchase a similar or superior property within a reasonable commuting distance will not be able to obtain a new FHA loan.Borrowers are considered eligible for a new FHA loan if they were current on their mortgage and other installment debts at the time of the short sale of their previously owned property, and the proceeds from the short sale serve as payment in full.
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
FHA Short Sales and Short Payoffs Borrowers that were in default at the time of the short sale (or pre-foreclosure sale) of their previously owned primary residence are not eligible for a new FHA loan for three years from the date of the pre-foreclosure sale.   This means, that buyers wanting to purchase a similar or superior property within a reasonable commuting distance will not be able to obtain a new FHA loan.Borrowers are considered eligible for a new FHA loan if they were current on their mortgage and other installment debts at the time of the short sale of their previously owned property, and the proceeds from the short sale serve as payment in full.
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
The biggest influence on mortgage rates this week came from outside the US . Concerns about the possible default of sovereign debt in smaller nations caused investors to seek the relative safety of US fixed income securities. This week's economic data was roughly balanced in terms of positive and negative surprises. The added demand for safer investments helped mortgage rates move lower during the week. The recession has impacted countries in different ways. Some of the hardest hit have been smaller European nations, such as Greece and Spain . As members of the European Union, they must adhere to certain restrictions which limit their flexibility to adjust domestic economic policy. As a result, some countries may be at risk of defaulting on government debt. Investors responded by buying...
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By Lynda Eisenmann, Broker Associate ,CRS,GRI,SRES, Brea,CA, Orange Co
(Preferred Home Brokers)
Lynda Eisenmann | Preferred Home Brokers | 714 595-1494 168 Oxford Lane, La Habra, CA Luxury Town Home ~ The Gables in La Habrqa 3BR/2+1BA Townhouse offered at $329,000 Year Built 1979 Sq Footage 1,604 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial Floors Unspecified Parking Unspecified Lot Size 2,125 sqft HOA/Maint $245 per month DESCRIPTION 3 bedroom & 2 1/2 baths, remodeled kitchen, newer cabinets and counter tops. Large dining room/family kitchen. Built in china cabinet & french door leading to oversized patio. 2-car garage is just steps away. Be sure to see this one! see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Central A/C - Central heat - Fireplace - High/Vaulted ceiling - Tile floor - Living room - Dining room - Dishwasher - Microwave - Laundry area - inside COMMUNITY FEATURES - Gara...
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By Christine Donovan, Broker/Attorney 714-319-9751 DRE01267479 - Costa M
(Donovan Blatt Realty)
Lovely La Habra Woods Condo for Sale - 1467 W. Lambert   Have you been considering taking advantage of the $8000 First Time Tax Buyer Credit or the $6500 Current Homeowner Tax Credit and low interest rates to buy your first or next home? Would you like a lovely condo that is move in ready in a great little association? If so, you have found the perfect new home in La Habra Woods. This home is spacious, open and airy with two good sized bedrooms and nice outdoor areas. For a private showing, please contact me at 714.319.9751 and see the flyer below for more information.     Christine Donovan | 800-610-7253 Lambert, La Habra, CA Lovely La Habra Condo for Sale 2BR/2+1BA Townhouse offered at $270,000 Year Built 1980 Sq Footage 1,530 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial Floors 2 Parking 2 ...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
   FHA announced changes to its guidelines.  It will raise the minimum down payment required for borrowers with credit rating scores below 580 to 10%, while the down payment for higher-ranked borrowers would stay at 3.5%.  The upfront MI premium is also going from 1.75% to 2.25%.  HUD is seeking congressional approval to allow it to raise annual mortgage insurance premiums.  Lastly, FHA also said it was cutting the amount of seller contribution to buyers down to 3% of the purchase price from 6%; a move it said could help lessen incentives to inflate appraised home values.  Lastly, HUD has put together a list of lenders that are under investigation for excessive claims.
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By Robert Foust, North Orange County | Fullerton Real Estate | Brea
(Foust Team Real Estate Sales, Master Certified Negotiation Expert)
La Habra Homes For Sale - Condo update January 2010   La Habra, CA has seen a run on entry-level condo sales lately as many buyers are looking to take advantage of the still low interest rates and the tail end of the federal housing stimulus package. We are seeing a big demand for condos with at least 2 bedrooms under the $200,000 mark. Here is a quick snapshot of the current market. What's on the market?There is a total of only 10 La Habra Condos under $200,000 with at least 2 Bedrooms currently for sale on the market. These 10 condos are in communities such as Mar Vista, Woodlake Village, Woodlake Villa, Stone Harbor, La Venezia, and Fashion Knolls.Of these La Habra homes for sale there are 9 short sales and 1 REO. There are 0 standard sales in this price range. The average days on th...
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By Lynda Eisenmann, Broker Associate ,CRS,GRI,SRES, Brea,CA, Orange Co
(Preferred Home Brokers)
La Habra, CA 90631,  is located in Northern Orange Co. in Southern California. It's home to a population of approximately 65,000 residents.  The city offers a wide range in home prices,  so it's good news there is something for everyone. 4th  Quarter Closings City of La Habra for 2009 vs. 2008: $327,445 Average Sales Price 2009 ~ Price Per Sq. Foot $205.95 ~ 48 Days on Market $344,425 Average Sales Price 2008 ~ Price Per Sq. Foot $197.95 ~ 76 Days on Market Types of Sales: 2009 ~  130 Total Closings~ 43%  Standard Sales ~ 26%  Bank Repos ~ 20% Short Sales ~ 11% Other 2008  ~ 154 Total Closing ~  29% Standard sales ~ 41 % Bank Repos 19% Short Sales ~ 11% Other In analyzing the data I think the numbers reflect several things: (1) Sales for the first half of 2009 were at a record low, whil...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
We have a new listing in La Habra the address is 791 Durham. This home has been totally remodeled inside, look at the pictures and be amazed. Open house will be January 23 & 24 from 12:00 to 5:00pm both days.  See it online at www.791durham.com
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By Todd Foust, North Orange County, Anaheim Real Estate Brea Rea
(FOUST Team Real Estate)
La Habra Home For Sale - Condo update January 2010   La Habra, CA has seen a run on entry-level condo sales lately as many buyers are looking to take advantage of the still low interest rates and the tail end of the federal housing stimulus package. We are seeing a big demand for condos with at least 2 bedrooms under the $200,000 mark. Here is a quick snapshot of the current market. What's on the market?There is a total of only 10 La Habra Condos under $200,000 with at least 2 Bedrooms currently for sale on the market. These 10 condos are in communities such as Mar Vista, Woodlake Village, Woodlake Villa, Stone Harbor, La Venezia, and Fashion Knolls.Of these La Habra homes for sale there are 9 short sales and 1 REO. There are 0 standard sales in this price range. The average days on th...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
   As we come to the close of 2009 we can sum the entire year up into a couple of good news and bad news comments.  The good news is that interest rates are still close to historic lows and property values have stabilized in our area and in may cases have started to increase again.  The bad news is short sales are still taking forever and financing is still very tough to get.  Most ex­perts predict interest rates to remain low through most of 2010 and home buying should remain strong with the extension of the home buying tax credit.  The government is putting increased pressure on banks and servicing lenders to not foreclose on properties and either modify the ex­isting loans or short sale them. How Does This Affect Us As Realtors?    By all accounts the next few years should be very st...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
When you see very low interest rates you will also hear whisperings of the dreaded inflation as they go hand in hand.  Low interest rates are designed to stimulate the housing market and thereby the economy as a whole.  Common sense tells us that as the "velocity" (new term many economists are using) of money increases and people borrow more money at low interest rates, demand for goods and services increases and prices go up which causes inflation.  The main function of the Federal Reserve is to manage the economy and keep inflation under control.  The Fed's main tool to combat inflation is raising interest rates.  Most of the experts feel inter­est rates will remain low through most of 2010 but if inflation begins to heat up the Fed's are expected start raising interest rates so price...
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By Bob Willis, Orange County & L.A. County Real Estate Agent
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving is a common thread connecting all Americans.  Prudential California Realty and The Gary Center are committed to meeting a great need.  The Gary Center’s Food Distribution Program feeds over 150 families each week!   The canned items which are most needed include pasta, rice, juice, canned tuna,  canned fruit and canned vegetables.   All food will be donated to the Food Distribution Program of the The Gary Center. We are hosting our food drive until November 15 at our Prudential California Realty office at 16218 East Whittier Blvd., Whittier, CA 90603.  Click here for a map and directions.  Here’s a bonus for you:  When you donate, you will be entered into a free drawing for a $100 gift card! _________________________________________...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
   Lots of stories out today with slightly different details but both the House and Senate have ap­proved the $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers through the middle of 2010.  The pro­gram has also been expanded to include those people who purchase an owner occupied home within the past 5 years although the tax credit in that case is reduced to $6,500.  The exact de­tails will be out later.  How Does This Affect Us As Realtors ?    This is obviously good news for the housing industry.  As the economy continues to stabilize and hopefully begins to improve it is essential that the housing market continue to improve.  As companies begin hiring again more and more buyers will jump into the housing market wanting to take advantage of low interest rates and affordable prices.  Get the ...
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By Ann Urias, Your Real Estate Concierge
(Aston Group - Orange County Real Estate)
RE/MAX Homes & Estates Pre-Foreclosure Division  (714) 588 -7676 ∙  www.orangecountyshortsalerealtor.com   If you are in a situation where: • You lost your job • Your Medical Expenses are too high • Just went through/going through a divorce • You are behind on your payments • You have no equity • You can't afford the cost of selling your home • Your income has been reduced • You are in foreclosure   WE CAN HELP YOU! It's easy and doesn't cost you any MONEY! Our services are Free!!! WHEN THE DEBT EXCEEDS YOUR HOME'S VALUE... we can help is with a SHORT SALE.   Benefits of a Short Sale: • Avoid Foreclosure • Avoid Bankruptcy • Reduced damage to your credit • Postpone your foreclosure sale date • A short sale will stay on your credit approx 3 years • BE FREE of financial and emotional burd...
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By Ann Urias, Your Real Estate Concierge
(Aston Group - Orange County Real Estate)
RE/MAX Homes & Estates Pre-Foreclosure Division  (714) 588 -7676 ∙  www.orangecountyshortsalerealtor.com   If you are in a situation where: • You lost your job • Your Medical Expenses are too high • Just went through/going through a divorce • You are behind on your payments • You have no equity • You can't afford the cost of selling your home • Your income has been reduced • You are in foreclosure   WE CAN HELP YOU! It's easy and doesn't cost you any MONEY! Our services are Free!!! WHEN THE DEBT EXCEEDS YOUR HOME'S VALUE... we can help is with a SHORT SALE.   Benefits of a Short Sale: • Avoid Foreclosure • Avoid Bankruptcy • Reduced damage to your credit • Postpone your foreclosure sale date • A short sale will stay on your credit approx 3 years • BE FREE of financial and emotional burd...
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By Joseph & Cheryl Melendez
(Coldwell Banker Excellence)
   News out of the government seems to indicate that they will be extending the temporary loan limits for conventional and FHA loans through 2010.  This is great news as right now there are very few investors buying loans over the conforming loan limit of $417,000.  As I mentioned the other day it also appears the extension of the home buying tax credit is closer to being a done deal.  No word yet on exactly how long the tax credit will last or if it will be opened up to all buyers and not just 1st timers.   How Does This Affect Us As Realtors?    This is all good news.  Remember that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac buy loans and set under­writing guidelines for loan amounts up to and including $417,000.  Loan amounts over that amount are considered "Jumbo" loans and are sold to "other" inve...
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By Robert Foust, North Orange County | Fullerton Real Estate | Brea
(Foust Team Real Estate Sales, Master Certified Negotiation Expert)
In the city of La Habra you can find a vast array of homes and neighborhoods.  Two of my favorite neighborhoods are North Hills and Country Hills.  They are on opposite sides of town, and both have home sites in the hills as well as on the flatlands.  Both communities are very well maintained and show high levels of pride of ownership.  La Habra real estateofferings provide many features and benefits for all ranges of buyers, but these two are predominately for move-up buyers or those with significant down payments.  Homes for sale in La Habra can be a very good investment of the byers time. Check for comparable neighborhood prices at www.foustonline.com, Home searches will help you to see what the market is saying.  Also review neighborhoodsto get a comparison of the areas 
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La Habra, CA Real Estate Professionals