Home Foreclosures: Becoming a Thing of the Past

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Last month, the Washtenaw County Clerk released a new report on the number of Sheriff’s Deeds being processed in Washtenaw County. Only 23 Sheriff’s Deeds were recorded for the month of November, continuing the downward trend of declining foreclosures in the Ann Arbor area. It has been the lowest total of any month for the last 8 years. For homeowners and property buyers, this is a positive sign for the housing market’s recovery. Across the nation, real estate agents and homeowners are noticing a clear decline in foreclosures. According to Daily Finance, home foreclosures are on track to end at a 6-year low.

Here’s a look at the decline in recorded Sheriff’s Deeds around Washtenaw County:

Washtenaw County Sheriffs Deeds
Courtesy of Washtenaw County’s Clerk & Register of Deeds

What does Declining Home Foreclosures Mean?

Foreclosures tend to have a negative impact on home values around the area. Buyer perception coupled with home neglect usually drops home prices in that particular neighborhood. However, as we’re seeing an decline in home foreclosures, we can safely assume buyer confidence is growing. Home values are on the rise and residents are making new home purchases.

Homeowners will find this a great time to list their property for sale — as values are rising and there’s plenty of buyer activity. Buyers benefit from the decline in foreclosures, because they can trust the value of their home will stay strong for the next few years. The real estate market is making a recovery on all fronts.

To help demonstrate the decline in foreclosures around Michigan, here is compiled data on home foreclosures from RealtyTrac.com:

Ann Arbor Foreclosure Decline
Courtesy of RealtyTrac

Buying & Selling Your Home in Washtenaw County

As Michigan continues to see foreclosure activity decline to levels before the housing crash, home buyers and sellers in Washtenaw County can feel confident that their home investment will bring a return value. If you have any questions about the recent foreclosure news, feel free to contact us or start searching for your next home purchase today:

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Your Ann Arbor, MI Holiday Calendar

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Check out local festivities happening around Ann Arbor this holiday season and use our Holiday Calendar to mark down your favorite dates. You and the family can enjoy visits by Santa Claus and run in holiday 5k races. Also, be sure to check out our blog on December 6th and read our upcoming blog post: 12 tips to selling your home before the holidays!

Ann Arbor Holiday Calendar

 

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Bad Habits to Avoid while Applying for a Mortgage

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Most families save for years to buy their first home in Ann Arbor. Entering into a mortgage contract that will require several decades of payments is a process that requires smart decisions before, during, and after the application process. There are a number of simple mistakes that future homeowners tend to make during the application for a mortgage, and these errors may result in higher costs associated with home ownership.

When Things Go Wrong with Your Mortgage

The time that it takes to approve a mortgage is usually around a month and a half, and that’s a long time that a future homeowner must be on his or her best behavior. During particularly busy lending times, the wait may be even longer, and it’s imperative that a homeowner doesn’t make simple mistakes that could lead to a denial or higher interest rates.

Ann Arbor MI Homes for Sale

Bad Habits to Avoid During the Mortgage Process

1. Closing credit card accounts

One of the factors in determining an interest rate is the number of “revolving credit” cards a family has at any given time. A few credit cards with high balances that are at the limit represent a much smaller percentage of available credit than a half dozen cards with a higher available amount of credit. Don’t close credit cards while applying for a mortgage.

2. Applying for more credit

Getting a new car loan or applying for new credit cards is a terrible idea when a family has an active mortgage application. Even if the family car is a rust bucket that barely runs, it’s best to wait a few months before heading to the car dealership to get a new vehicle. Also consider holding off on any vehicle upgrades until the mortgage has been granted. Getting an SUV with a third row of seats can wait a few months.

3. Switching jobs or employers

One of the primary indicators that a borrower will be granted approval is steady work history. Lenders often have minimums in place regarding length of employment at a single employer, and switching jobs may throw off the entire mortgage process. Outside of extraordinary circumstances, employment must be maintained throughout the application process. Likewise, an application should never be made in the first place if employment history cannot be verified or isn’t consistent.

4. Failing to pay bills

There’s a lot of work that goes into applying for a mortgage. You try to do everything right, but if you have bills that aren’t being paid on time, then you’re application is at risk of being denied. Vigilance regarding debts and payments is just as necessary after the application process has begun as it is before an application is made.

5. Keep bank accounts stable

Moving money around into different accounts, making large deposits (or withdrawals), and opening new bank accounts aren’t activities that should occur during the mortgage application process. It’s crucial to have the paperwork, receipts, or records available to document why a large deposit or withdrawal was made. Try to avoid such activities entirely until the mortgage approval is complete.

Getting a Home Mortgage in Ann Arbor, MI

Ensure your home’s mortgage approval and a successful move by avoiding bad behavior during the mortgage application process. The best behavior will always be to remain steady and consistent with all financial dealings during the application process.

See What Mortgage Loan You Qualify For

Ann Arbor Real Estate: 2405 Carlton Drive

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Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1

Square Feet: 1096

See Virtual Tour for 24o5 Carlton Drive

 

This pristine 1947 ranch is ready for you to move in to.  With an knotty pine sun room over looking an extra-large treed lot this home says come and relax. Enter this home through the front door and into a foyer, a wonderful detail usually seen in larger homes. The floors beneath the carpet are hardwood throughout the main floor are just waiting to shine.  The sun filled living room flows into the formal dining room, which leads to the charming kitchen. The entire floor plan lends itself to entertaining  The updated kitchen has an eating space counter and leads to the knotty pine sun room with wall to wall windows that could easily be heated and is counted in the square footage.

The first floor also has two nice sized bedrooms and one full bath. The lower level is complete with a finished area for extra living space.  The mechanical room and laundry are also on the lower level. The one and a half car garage matches the exterior of the home and makes this home so darling. Updates include: Kitchen 2008, Water heater 2005, Furnace and AC 2000, Roof 1999. The home is covered by a Home Warranty of America 13 Month Program. This is truly a gem in the Ann Arbor Real Estate Market!

ANN ARBOR AREA REAL ESTATE Listings

1027 Macarthur Drive

7881 Baker Heights Court

Kathy Toth and Team

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Kathy Toth and Team are Washtenaw County, Michigan real estate experts who will guide home buyers and sellers through the entire real estate process. Our extensive knowledge of Washtenaw County areas, combined with decades of expertise in the local real estate market is extremely valuable to helping you achieve your goals. For quality service and personal attention during your real estate transaction, contact Kathy Toth and Team for all your home buying and selling needs.

We want to be your real estate agents!

 

Black Friday Real Estate Deals in Ann Arbor, MI

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For many years it has been a tradition that Black Friday is a fantastic time to get great deals at the stores and malls on everything from consumer electronics to clothing to furniture. What many people may be unaware of is that Black Friday is also a fabulous opportunity to buy your new house and start a new chapter in your life. The holiday shopping season has a way of bringing seller and buyers together in order to accomplish their goals and provides an environment that is conducive to finding the best deals on real estate. Much like the special discounts in the stores on consumer goods there may also be special incentives available on real estate in Ann Arbor, MI which could reduce your closing costs or significantly reduce the price that you will pay for a new home.

Downtown Ann Arbor MI

Why should buyers buy on Black Friday?

Besides the special incentives offered by the realtor companies on Black Friday, the home sellers are also embracing the holiday season spirit and you may see some listings dropping the asking price by thousands of dollars. As the holiday season approaches people are ready to move on with their life and become eager to make a deal on their home. Some home sellers may pay all or part of your closing costs, include furniture in the deal, or be willing move out quickly so you can take possession of the home. The holiday season has a way of making people look forward to the future and can be a perfect time for buyers and sellers to get together and make a deal that will work for both parties.

Why should sellers sell their home on Black Friday?

For the home sellers there are clear advantages to selling their home on Black Friday. Buyers normally have some time off of work for the holiday and sellers know this may be their one opportunity to make a deal and get their house sold. On this special date the serious buyers are more likely to make an offer because they have a break from their normal busy schedule and have the time to engage. Some sellers may be away or unavailable for the holiday, so for sellers that are available to host an open house or do showings it can be a huge benefit because of the lower competition for serious buyers. [Learn More About Selling Your Home]

Black Friday Real Estate Statistics

A survey of realtor firms showed that on Black Friday, home buyers and home sellers in the market are the most willing and able to take the necessary steps to finalize a home purchase or sale.

  • 61.4 percent of the real estate companies state that the Black Friday home buyers are serious to very serious about buying a home.
  • 67.7 percent of the real estate companies consider that the Black Friday home sellers are serious to very serious looking to sell their home.
  • Only 13.7% of realtors will be having an open house on Black Friday, which means lower competition for qualified buyers.
  • 25.8% of realtors say that potential buyers have more time to shop for their new home on Black Friday.

Black Friday Real Estate Deals in Ann Arbor, MI

Black Friday real estate deals on Black Friday in Ann Arbor, MI will be creating an opportunity for both home buyers and home sellers. It might be the best moment of the year to sell your house with fewer competitors in the market or to buy a house at a discounted price. If you are a seller or a potential buyer you should prepare yourself to find a fantastic deal on a new house and start a new chapter in your life.

Find Great Deals on Ann Arbor Homes Today

Ann Arbor, MI Charities: Giving Back This Thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends and to recognize and make note of all that we are thankful for. It is also an important time to remember and reach out to those that are less fortunate. Whether it is lack of food or a warm home to gather in or it’s due to the loss of a loved one, there are people who need us to reach out to them at Thanksgiving time. There are many different charities in the Ann Arbor area, but below are a few of the city’s best:

Ann Arbor MI Thanksgiving Charities
by U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

Ann Arbor Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

  • 2375 Hubbard StreetAnn Arbor, MI 48109.
  • Phone: (248) 437-4524

This 5K walk/run begins and ends at the North Campus of the University of Michigan on Thanksgiving Morning. Participants are asked to bring at least one non-perishable food item to benefit the Food Gatherers of Ann Arbor as well as warm clothing items to donate to the Salvation Army. Children and strollers are welcome. Post Turkey Trot events include awards, refreshments, and Santa Claus.

Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels

  • 2025 Traverwood Drive, Suite FAnn Arbor, MI 48105
  • Phone: (734) 998-6686

This wonderful company provides meals to home bound individuals in the Ann Arbor area. The meals are prepared by the University of Michigan Health System’s Patient Food and Nutrition Services and delivered by volunteers. Not only do they provide meals for those less fortunate, but they also provide dignity and fellowship. For some people, the volunteer is the only person they see all day. Donate your time or a monetary amount. Make sure those less fortunate have food and company for the Thanksgiving season.

Habitat for Humanity

  • 170 Aprill DriveAnn Arbor, MI 48103
  • Phone: (734) 677-1558

Habitat for Humanity makes home ownership possible for low-income families and individuals. There are many ways to get involved including donating to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, making a monetary donation, or donating your time helping out in the construction of new homes. Groups and families can sign up together. Help a family have a warm home to gather in next Thanksgiving.

Homefront Hugs USA

  • 1850 Brookfield DriveAnn Arbor, MI 48103
  • Phone: (734) 330-8203

Homefront Hugs USA has its headquarters in Ann Arbor and is dedicated to supporting our military, veterans, and their families. Write letters or send cards to wounded veterans. You can “Adopt” a deployed hero or heroin. Show your support and appreciation for our country’s finest. Hundreds of men and women are on the Homefront Hugs waiting list for you to come along side them. Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to show these families we are thinking of them and appreciate their sacrifice.

Putting the Giving Back in Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a bountiful time of year. Warm, cozy fires at home and hearty family meals should make us all feel grateful. Remember those in need and take stock of how you can help. Donate time, money, food, or clothing to those less fortunate and you will enable them to enjoy this holiday season as well.

Contact Us to Learn More About the Ann Arbor Area

Ann Arbor, MI Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Dinner

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Thanksgiving dinner is one of those meals where many prefer to out to eat and thus leave all of the preparation, cooking, and cleaning to others. There are a few top choices in the Ann Arbor area for those who want to get out for their Thanksgiving meal this year.

Ann Arbor Thanksgiving Restaurants
by Vxla

Weber’s Restaurant and Boutique Hotel

Weber’s is perhaps the most well known place to grab Thanksgiving dinner in the Ann Arbor area. There are various options in this classy restaurant that include choices such as traditional roast turkey, prime rib, seafood or even roasted duckling. It’s all served with traditional trimmings to complete the meal.

Gandy Dancer

Gandy Dancer is another Ann Arbor restaurant that is open for business on Thanksgiving. Options include traditional turkey or duck with all of the trimmings or anything else off of the varied menu that has specialties such as fish, pasta, and even vegetarian entrees.

Haab’s Restaurant

Haab’s Restaurant is a great restaurant if you’re looking for something with a more casual feel. The Thanksgiving offering includes traditional turkey dinners, but also includes the favorites of this establishment.

Eating Out in Ann Arbor for Thanksgiving

Whether you want a fine dining experience such as Weber’s or something in between at Gandy Dancer or more laid back at Haab’s, you can put down that frozen turkey and find a great place to head out for Thanksgiving dinner this year.

Click Here to Explore Ann Arbor Homes for Sale

Why People are Moving to Ann Arbor, MI

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When we hear about Ann Arbor, we often think about the University of Michigan. For those who have lived in the area, they’ve probably had ample time to explore the local shops around historic downtown or even wrap their minds around new innovations at some of the city’s high-tech communities. For all the attractions and activities, Ann Arbor has continually stood out as a must-live destination in Michigan. But with all these words, you’re probably wondering how we can boast so much of this little town — and the answer is simple: Lists.

At one point or another, we’ve all come across a ranked list explaining why this city is better than all others in the nation. Here are all the lists broken down in their categories, and subsequently why people love living in Ann Arbor:

1. Best College Town

University of Michigan in Ann Arbor

As mentioned before, Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan. The Wolverines make year-long pushes in football rankings while the students continue to make huge strives in new innovations (which may be reason enough that Ann Arbor is home to a heavy start-up tech industry). More than 6 different travel websites and magazines have named Ann Arbor as one of the best college towns in America, which include: Forbes Magazine, the American Institute for Economic Research, U.S. News, Livability.com, and the Princeton Review.

If you’ve been looking for a college atmosphere with plenty of activities to do around town (while still getting a quality education), Ann Arbor should have you sold on your next moving destination.

2. The Geekiest Town in America

Ann Arbor Technology
by Wikimania2006

With Ann Arbor ranked as one of the best college towns in America, how does it reflect on our intelligence? Well, Forbes rated Ann Arbor as one of the geekiest towns in the country while U.S. News ranked us as the 2nd most educated town in the nation. Amazon later praised us as being the 4th most well-read group. We’ve even been named the 4th smartest college town in existence. If your head isn’t inflating just yet, think about the future.

If you’re a parent looking for the right educational setting for your child, Ann Arbor is your destination!

3. Best Town to Live & Be Raised In

Ann Arbor Hills Real Estate

It’s great being the best college town and most educated city in America, but is it still a great place to live in? MSN Real Estate has already named us as one of the most affordable places to live in while Forbes has listed us again as one of the best places to retire in. If you’re more interested in raising a family in Ann Arbor, Parenting Magazine has already put us near the top of their list. Raising a family, getting a quality education, and growing old is all apart of Ann Arbor’s charm. Houses are affordable and you never get bored within the city. From winter sports to live entertainment venues, you can find something that suits your tastes.

Moving to Ann Arbor, MI

With all these lists, it showcases one thing about Ann Arbor: It’s a great town to live in. Blending together the perfect mix of urban and suburban, families and young professionals can all find their niche here. Children will have a top-of-the-line education while jobs are plentiful. Finding the right home is only the next logical decision — which we can help you with. Contact us about moving to Ann Arbor or start searching our available home listings today:

Click Here to See All Ann Arbor Homes for Sale

Ann Arbor Area Real Estate: 4970 Arkona Road, Saline, MI 48176

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Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2 Square Feet: 1,740

 

See Virtual Tour for 4790 Arkona Road

Cozy, move-in ready and waiting for you! This home has it all with a living room, private study and family room complete with a stunning floor to ceiling stone fire place and built-ins. The spacious kitchen makes entertaining easy with an eating area, ample counter tops and open floor plan. Retreat to your master suite and unwind in the large bedroom. The master bathroom has plenty of room with dual sinks, large vanity and spa-like tub. Don’t worry about storage when there is a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, laundry room and full basement. Relax and enjoy the views of the expansive property knowing you are only minutes from downtown Saline and Ann Arbor. This Ann Arbor area real estate is worth a visit!

Seller says:

“My place is located between Tecumseh and Saline. Close enough to both to be a quick trip in to town. Close enough to Ann Arbor that I can get access to anything that I might need without having to make a big trip “to the city”.

While I don’t live in a subdivision the neighbors are quiet without being off putting. They’re friendly. They’ve checked on me a once or twice when my car hadn’t moved in a while (was on vacation) to make sure I was ok!

There are a few nice restaurants in the area Olive Garden, Outback, Marks Midtown Coney Island, Applebee’s. Ann Arbor has the full spectrum from cozy mom and pop style places up to upscale places.

There are a few options for groceries around this area. Kroger is where I usually go but there is Meijers, Foodland, Costco, Sam’s Club, and Walmart.

There were a few things I liked about this property when I bought it. The fact that it’s located outside of town for lower property taxes and a quieter area. Came from living in apartments so I liked having a bit more elbow room. Enough land to give space to grow without being too much to take care of on my own. The house is a nice open floor plan.

Being just a few minute outside of a town with UofM along with a couple other smaller colleges gives you access to just about anything you could want just due to the amount of diversity involved with a large student population.

Not too far of a drive to Detroit so you can get access to any of the major sports leagues, football, baseball, basketball. Couple larger museums in Detroit and Ann Arbor as well.

Local interests or Hobbies? You name it and it’s probably a fairly short drive. Softball leagues, basketball leagues, hockey, discgolf, golf, biking, hiking, walking. There are a couple game shops in Ann Arbor for RPGs, warhammer, Magic, boardgames. Woodcarvers, historical societies.

I get both Gas and Electric on one bill from DTE. It usually runs around $50 or $60 during the summer. $100-200 during the winder depending on how high I have the furnace and how cold it is outside.”

ANN ARBOR AREA REAL ESTATE Listings

1710 S. Lima Center Road

8829 Redstone Drive

Kathy Toth and Team

Your Ann Arbor Real Estate Experts

Keller Williams Realty

View Our Listings

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Kathy Toth and Team are Washtenaw County, Michigan real estate experts who will guide home buyers and sellers through the entire real estate process. Our extensive knowledge of Washtenaw County areas, combined with decades of expertise in the local real estate market is extremely valuable to helping you achieve your goals. For quality service and personal attention during your real estate transaction, contact Kathy Toth and Team for all your home buying and selling needs.

We want to be your real estate agents!

 

 

 

 

Ann Arbor Real Estate: 2030 Miller, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

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Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1.5

Square Feet: 988

See Virtual Tour for 2030 Miller

This classic Ann Arbor ranch is ready for you to enjoy!  Immediate access to the expressway and downtown Ann Arbor with all it has to offer; dining, culture and the University!

The open floor plan makes the most of this darling ranch, with a living room open to the dining area, and a breakfast bar open to the kitchen. The sun filled kitchen features all wood cabinets. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms make this house perfect! A large, partially finished basement is ready for all your entertaining needs.

The lovely yard is partially fenced.  This home could be for you or a tenant, you don’t want to miss this piece of Ann Arbor Real Estate! A home warranty is included.

ANN ARBOR AREA REAL ESTATE Listings

10702 N. Platt

7881 Baker Heights Court

Kathy Toth and Team