THE REAL ESTATE ECOBLOG

Energy Tax Credits for Home Improvement!

 Need to make improvements to your home?  Want to bring down costs this winter?  Here is a little incentive to help you along the way!  Did you know that the federal government is offering tax credits to individuals who make certain energy efficient improvements to their home?  Here are the specifics from the US Department of Energy: "Consumers who purchase and install specific products such as energy -efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs and heating and cooling equipment in existing homes can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost up to $1,500 for improvements "placed in service" starting January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010."  This winter a little to soon?  As you see the credits are offered through December of 2010!

For more info or coupons to Lowe's to make these improvements send me an email at cherikuhn@watersrealtymn.com or give me a call at 612-865-9150!

A Bit of Good News for Minnesota

Well with all the bad news we are always hearing about the economy and unemployment.  I wanted to share with you a bit of good news!  When you think of the best places to earn a living you may think of either the three biggest cities in the United States like New York, Chicago, or LA.  But in fact Forbes just did a study and named the top 10 cities to earn a living.  According to Forbes: "These cities as places that have plenty of companies doing business in high paying, growth industries".  In addition the following factors were considered: high-quality business environment, job growth, and a low cost of living.  

Guess what!  Minneapolis was ranked 3rd, yes 3rd!  The first two cities were Dallas and Houston.  The last seven cities are listed here according to rank: Austin TX, Washington D.C., St. Louis, Seattle, Atlanta, Kansas City, and Denver.

I always like a bit of good news!  If you have comments please feel free to share them!  

Carfax Reports For Your House

Yes that's right.  You can now buy a history report for your home.  This program is brought to you by EDR.  EDR's Neighborhood Environmental Reports work much like the Carfax program.  It highlights any past issues or concerns that were recorded either with a state agency or insurance company.  With the level of seller disclosure continuing to slip away this is another way to protect yourself from unwanted and potentially large issues with a home you are purchasing.

For example: suppose the septic was installed 30+ years ago and has never been updated.  Would you want to know about this ahead of time, prior to closing?  Or the well was never capped, there was a chemical spill that was never properly cleaned up...All of these are potentially large bills to correct.  The current seller may not know of or not want to disclose these problems.  Or in today's market you are buying a property from a bank and it is sold as is with no disclosures! 

Although this program is still new, it has huge potential to protect both the buyer, seller, and REALTOR from unexpected costs and problems.  Personally I think this is a great idea.  One of the aspects of my business is representing investors who purchase foreclosed homes, do extensive remodeling and then sell the home again.  This report could take some of the guess work out of potential problems down the road...

If you would like more information feel free to give me a call or email.  You can always visit me at www.watersrealtymn.com.

What to do with Property Taxes and Returns?

Well it is under way, that dreaded time of year, when we sit down and do our taxes. Do not get me wrong, I do not mind paying taxes, it's the actually process of completing the return that drives me crazy! One question I often get from my clients this time of year is: Can I deduct my property taxes? Below is list of some common questions and answers, but as always please contact your tax professional before deducting anything you may question.

1) Can I deduct taxes on second homes? I was advised that I can deduct mortgage interest and property taxes if I itemize my deductions.

2) Are property taxes deductible on my first home? This is a little different than a second home. You can deduct all property taxes including those levied by state and local governments, and school districts.

3) How do I appeal my property taxes? If you have a disagreement on how your home was assessed, you have the right to contact your tax assessor's office to request a appeal. Most offices have certain procedures you need to follow for an appeal, but you are well within your rights to appeal!

4) How do property taxes work? It is a tax we pay for the privilege of owning real estate. One average 1.5 percent of the property's current market value is used to determine your property taxes. They help to pay for public services such as fire, police, and administration.

If you have any questions please feel free to call or email me at 612-865-9150 or cherikuhn@watersrealtymn.com or you can visit my website at Waters Realty LLC for more information on the real estate market!

THE JOURNEY TO GREEN LIVING

I have always cared about the environment but about a year and half ago I made a commitment to myself to do more. In the past I had always recycled, I drove a hybrid, but I never brought it any further and when I tried I felt so overwhelmed at all the areas I needed to pay attention to.

In my commitment I gave myself permission to make the changes gradually. After all drastic changes rarely stick. I needed to change my lifestyle. So I made a goal to improve on one thing at a time, when that items became easier I moved onto the next one. Before long I was using or bring bags to the grocery store, eating locally grown foods, and buying biodegradable detergents. I am still on the journey to living healthier and cleaner, I do not believe we are ever done; it is not a destination.

Below is list of things you can do to make your life healthier and cleaner. I am by far not an expert and would comments on what you are doing to improve your surroundings. This list is complied both from my experience and articles written in the Minnetonka Newsletter and Realtor Magazine.

1) Changing out light bulbs is big energy saver. I chose to make the change slowly; I changed out the light bulbs as the current ones burned out. I purchased Compact Florescent or LED bulbs to replace the old ones.

2) Buying Locally grown foods. Not only does this support our local economy but the pollution created in shipping is drastically reduced. In addition to buying local, you can eat foods when they are in season. Most foods are shipped from half way around the world when they are not in season in your backyard.

3) Buy biodegradable detergents. I have had great experiences with seventh generation for my cleaning supplies, and Ecos is a great laundry detergent. Downey recently came out with a biodegradable fabric softener.

This is by no means a comprehensive list and look forward to future tips on being green every month!!! If you have questions please feel free to call or email me at cherikuhn@watersrealtymn.com or 612-865-9150. You can also visit my website at www.watersrealtymn.com for up to date real estate information!

The Latest on Home Security

Home security is usually one of those things that everyone knows they need to think about but nobody wants to spend the time to figure out what to do. We can always procrastinate it with a feeling that it will not happen to us so why hurry. Unfortunately, that is exactly what most burglars are waiting for...the unsuspecting home owner who is too busy with life to worry about security. The city of Minnetonka and the cities police department gave a great list of ways to improve security in their January newsletter. Check out highlights from the list below or go to www.eminnetonka.com and check out the full list! The city is also offering free security inspections to Minnetonka residents to identify areas that need improvement. Call Nicole Nelson for an appointment at 952-939-8546.

Landscaping

1) Make sure your house number is visible at all times

2) Burglars love privacy, so consider a chain link or wrought iron fencing and make sure to trim bushes to at least six inches from windows and doors.

Locks

1) Use Deadbolts but make sure that there is not a window nearby that could be broken and the door unlocked from the inside. Check out www.eminnetonka.com for advice on the best types of locks!

Lighting

1) Motion detecting lights are very effective and save energy rather than having exterior lights on for extending periods of time.

2) Interior lights on timers give you the ability to have lights come on when no one is home. This gives the appearance that someone is at home and deters the burglar.

Hopefully this list will come in handy and provide some guidance on home security.

For more information please feel free to call or email me at 612-865-9150 or cherikuhn@watersrealtymn.com. You can also visit my website for up to date real estate info and listings at www.watersrealtymn.com.

Tax Update for Minnetonka

Every month the city of Minnetonka puts out a newsletter about the city, it's services,  new information and programs it offers.  I know it is very common for all of us in our busy lives to look at the front and quickly skim the inside.  Our lives are so busy that unless it jumps out at us it is hard to give everything the attention we want.  In reading November's newsletter I was amazed and happy to see their plan for 2008 and how it will affect homeowners and property values in the Minnetonka area.

The city council recently started budgeting for the 2008 fiscal year and it's goal is to keep taxes at 3% for basic services and additional 1.7% for new services.  What this translates into is; the average Minnetonka homeowner (roughly 7 out of 10) will see a property tax decrease in 2008.  This is great news in a time when property taxes are continually going up due to the lack of state funding for cities.  I was happy to see what is making this possible is not a cut in services but an increase in the commercial tax base and the decertification of some TIF districts in the city.  As with everyone it is always great to save money and still get the same services! This plan also has some benefits for the real estate market as well.

In real estate, generally speaking, the higher the property taxes the less affordable a neighborhood and the smaller the potential market of buyers.  With the cities committment to fiscal responsibility but also understanding the need for strong city services.  Potential buyers will see and feel an increase in affordability, and at this point in the market this is a great direction to move.  If you have questions of would like to be involved in the city's budget planning they are holding a public hearing on Monday December 3rd at 6:30pm.  It will be held at the City Council Chambers, 14600 Minnetonka Boulevard.  You can also call 952-939-8200 for directions.

As always if you have question or would like to find out more information you can email me at cherikuhn@watersrealtymn.com or visit Waters Realty on the web at www.watersrealtymn.com.

Minnetonka Values!

I have just recieved the newest addition of the Minnetonka Memo as I am sure many of you have as well.  I loved the side bar with Minnetonka's values listed.  Both as a resident and as a Realtor this is a great way to get a feel for the community and what is important to the citizens who live there!  I am often asked by clients what a community or neighborhood is like. 

One of the main reasons that the City is listing these values is the Comprehesive Guide Plan process is underway in the city and it needs input from the residents!  I encourage people to attend and help shape the future of our city.  Below is a list of the values that have been created and are representative of the city of Minnetonka for those of you who do not live in this community.

Minnetonka's Community Values:

The Natural Environment especially protecting our water resources and woodlands, preserving open space, and respecting the environment.

Public Safety pertaining to community involvement, personal and business safety, and ensuring a hometown security.

Transportation and the enhancement of mobility and roads, meeting local and regional needs, and expanding use of trails and sidewalks

Development and making sure it is guided, balanced, promoting green technologies, and affordable housing.

Building Community and fostering open communication, promoting activities, and embracing our history.

If you have questions please feel free to call or email me and don't forget to attend the Comprehensive Guide Plan open house on November 8th from 5pm to 7pm at the Community Center.  You can always visit my website at www.watersrealtymn.com to get up to date information on real estate in our community!

Around the Twin Cities with Team in Training

Many of you are probably not aware of my involvement with Team in Training or even know what Team in Training is.  Team in Training is a program through the Lukemia and Lymphoma Society that trains participants to either run a marathon, do a century ride, or a triathalon, and in exchange the participants raise money for a good cause.  I joined up with Team in Training this summer as a tribute to my father and agreed to run a marathon this December in Honolulu Hawaii. 

I am really excited for this event and fulfilling a dream of mine, but even more so I am excited about the new friends I have met and the places I have visited.  part of the training program is to run with a group twice a week in various locations.  Now as a Realtor I figured I would recognize where we were running.  I did not expect to find so many gems in the Twin Cities.  There is something to being on foot rather than in the car and being able to see your surroundings! 

Many of the places I had kind of heard of but had never taken the time to visit.  Below are three of the highlights of my training locations!

We have trained along Minnehaha creek.  which many of you have heard of Minnehaha falls but there is a beautiful trail which runs along the creek all the way to lake Harriet.  It is down below the road and easy to miss by car.  I would recommend this walk for everyone including the kids! 

Another spot we have trained is from Minnehaha falls to the river and along the river to below Fort Snelling!  Another great spot, especially this time of year with the leaves changing color. 

The last spot I wanted to mention was the Kennilworth trail in uptown.  I have used the portion that goes from around 394 to just past Hwy 7 or Lake Street.  You can bike, run, or walk any of these trails and it is a beautiful way to get outdoors before winter chases many of us in!!!

Please feel free to call or email with any questions.  You can visit my Team in Training website at www.active.com/donate/tntmn/tntmnCKuhn.  Any donations are greatly appreciated.  On a professional note please feel free to visit my website at www.watersrealtymn.com for up to date real estate information!

Minnehaha Creek

Recently the Sun Sailer ran a segment on Minnehaha Creek it was a great little spot about a little used resource we have in our backyards!   Minnehaha Creek runs from Lake Minnetonka all the way to the Mississippi.  In our area it runs next to Minnetonka Boulevard by the Burwell House.  I love this area for everything from biking to running.  There is a trail which runs between Cedar Lake Road and Minnetonka Boulevard which is great for my marathon training.  I often take the dog and let him have a dip in the creek!  The other great thing about this trail is at the end you follow the road to St. Davids and it joins the Minnetonka Trail System.  This system can take you into downtown Hopkins or all the way out the Carver Park depending on the direction you wish to go!

I was also very happy to hear that the city council is working on developing a plan with Hennepin County to make the creek more accessible to us.  The idea is to create more canoe landings and trails which run parallel to the creek.  If you would like more information on this project visit www.eminnetonka.com.  Or you can call or email Cheri Kuhn at 612-865-9150 or cherikuhn@watersrealtymn.com.  Also for open houses, listings, and market info visit www.watersrealtymn.com.