Our Lakes are Full!!

I just wanted to share some pics I took over Memorial Weekend. Need a vacation? Call ERA Carolina Mountain Homes for Vacation Rentals. Need a Retirement place? Murphy is the perfect spot!! Beautiful Lakes, Beautiful Mountains, and 2hours from everywhere!! Call one of our Wonderful Agents to find the perfect place for you!!

7 Reasons to Own Your Home

1. Tax breaks. The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home.

2. Appreciation. Real estate has long-term, stable growth in value. While year-to-year fluctuations are normal, median existing-home sale prices have increased on average 6.5 percent each year from 1972 through 2005, and increased 88.5 percent over the last 10 years, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. In addition, the number of U.S. households is expected to rise 15 percent over the next decade, creating continued high demand for housing.

3. Equity. Money paid for rent is money that you’ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home.

4. Savings. Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. And when you sell, you can generally take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) as gain without owing any federal income tax.

5. Predictability. Unlike rent, your fixed-mortgage payments don’t rise over the years so your housing costs may actually decline as you own the home longer. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will increase.

6. Freedom. The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home.

7. Stability. Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to participate in community activities, lets you and your family establish lasting friendships, and offers your children the benefit of educational continuity. Online resources: To calculate whether buying is the best financial option for you, use the “Buy vs. Rent” calculator at www.GinnieMae.gov.

Get Off The Fence

Get off the fence – you’ll be glad you did! Already own a home? REALTORS® are your best resource to explore your options if you’re thinking about selling or refinancing. Call your REALTOR® today! Don’t already have a REALTOR® on call? Click here to locate one.Up to $8,000 First-TimeHomebuyer Tax CreditThe American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides for an $8,000 tax credit that would be available to first-time homebuyers.The credit does not require repayment, and it will be claimed on a tax return to reduce the purchaser’s income tax liability. If any credit amount remains unused, then the unused amount will be refunded as a check to the purchaser.Unprecedented Incentivesfor New HomesBuilders are offering unprecedented incentives for new homes such as flooring upgrades, new appliances, and discounted financing. Don’t just dream about purchasing a home; make your dreams a reality. Right now is the right time to “Get Off the Fence!”
It's a Buyer's MarketBuyers who are pre-approved have incredible negotiating power. Financing options are available for those with a steady income and good credit. Sellers are pricing their homes more competitively.Lower prices also mean a wider range of options from which to choose in a variety of locations.
Historically Low Interest RatesInterest rates are at historical lows – lower rates equal lower payments, or a larger home – you choose. Contrary to perceptions, conventional mortgages are available at favorable interest rates for homebuyers. Buyers with good credit, a steady income and a realistic view of what they can afford are excellent candidates for a mortgage, even in this market.
Building Wealth with HomeownershipHistorically, homes are a solid long-term investment. For the past 40 years, real estate has delivered the most consistent positive return over any investment. When you buy a home, you are building equity and adding to your assets. According to the Federal Reserve Board, the average renter’s net worth is $4,800, while the average homeowner’s net worth is $171,000. Finally, you’ll see a sizable difference each year when you claim the mortgage interest deduction on your taxes.Get Off the Fence in 2009Prices are right, rates are low and there are plenty of homes on the market NOW. As the economy improves and more people look for homes, prices will rise.If you’re playing the waiting game, remember that the market will come back around – it always does – and you could miss your opportunity for a fantastic deal. Take advantage of today’s market - you’ll be glad you did. Get off the fence and into a home!Talk to Market Experts: REALTORS®Not only can REALTORS® help you find your perfect home, they are an invaluable resource for selling your home as well.Did you know there are over 180 steps in a typical real estate transaction? It’s not worth navigating such a complex process by yourself.

REALTORS® are your best resource to explore your options if you’re thinking about selling or refinancing. Call your REALTOR® today! Don’t already have a REALTOR® on call? Click here to locate one.

Great Old Photos of Murphy

Thank you to Town of Murphy Web-Site for photos