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Page 8 • The News-Banner • WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 2012 �ouse & Home Top of the Class If For some, ‘location, location, location’ means ‘schools, schools, schools.’ Here’s how school districts play into the purchase process By MARILYN KENNEDY MELIA CTW Features What makes some homes sell quickly? Often, it’s not the amenities of the home itself; it’s the school district in which the property stands. “Some families look for a school as much as for a home,” says David Kennedy, owner of Exclusive Buyers Realty, San Antonio. Given that demand for homes in some districts is strong, it’s no surprise that home values and schools’ reputations are linked. Michael Sklarz, president of Collateral Analytics, a Honolulu firm, conducted an analysis about two years ago that found “there is a good correlation with how home prices fare and school test scores.” Sklarz analyzed school test scores and prices of homes around the country and found that top-performing schools push home prices up. These home values have been more resistant to big drops during economic downturns. But, Sklarz and other experts stress that the school/ real estate link is more complex than it appears. “There is a question as to which drives what,” Sklarz says. “These areas [with high-performing schools] tend to be wealthier, and the homeowners there were more insulated from the subprime mortgage debacle that drove prices down.” Bryan Hassel, co-director of Public Impact, an education non-profit, adds another caveat: Dazzling school scores don’t necessarily dictate that it’s the best place for your child. Here, a quick study guide on the intersection of real estate and education for buyers, sellers and parents: Buying Season and the School Calendar “I tell sellers that you need to get your home under contract by the end of July; that is the window of opportunity,” says Cheryl Bare of Century 21 Comstock Earnest, Waldorf, Md. Families like to be settled by August, ready for school, she says. Schools and Value: Conscious Buyers Top-rated schools boost property values more often in affluent suburban and urban neighborhoods, Sklarz says. “But some outlying suburbs with good test scores have seen big price drops for whatever reasons and now could be an opportunity for investors,” he adds. Indeed, anyone wanting to see prices steady or rise should consider schools, Sklarz says. Why Agents Tread Carefully If schools are important, buyers may wonder, “Why isn’t my real estate agent talking about them?” For one thing, explains Walter Molony, spokesman for the National Association of Realtors, it may be illegal for agents to offer opinions. “Regulations vary by state,” he says, “but discussing the ethnic makeup of a school would appear to violate fair housing laws.” To not run afoul of any law, many agents say they refer their clients to the many websites reporting school data. Even when touting a school in a listing, Mary Ann Hebert, president-elect of the Connecticut Association of Realtors, says she uses verbiage like “award-winning school,” and then links the listing to the school district’s own site, where viewers can see test scores and other information. A Personal Selection Schools with the top scores may not be right for your child. Visit a school first, observing things like how the teachers interact with the students, and what programs are available, Hassel suggests. Lori Collins Burgan, author of “Moving With Kids” (Harvard Common Press, 2007), agrees: “During one of our moves, my husband and I were within hours of making an offer on a ‘dream’ house when we visited the school. When the school didn’t feel like the right fit for our children, we had to begin our housing search over.” Since the top-scoring schools also correlate with high home prices, families with a limited budget could strategize to look for a school in an area with more affordable homes, says David Brasington, associate professor of economics at the University of Cincinnati. His research shows that other factors, like parental education levels and involvement, are also important to a child’s education. He points out that some desirable schools may be in less expensive areas, too. © CTW Features 6481N 75E, Uniondale •Custom built brick ranch on 6 acres •Full finished walk-out bsmt, 4 BR, 3.5 baths •5,000 sq. ft., updated interior, geothermal ‘10 •Pond, 48x58 bldg., new septic 2011 $304,000 call ... more land available Bev Grzych • 466-1822 HOUSE & HOME Your Weekly Guide to Buying, Selling, Maintaining & Improving Your Home! Featuring Listings from these Real Estate Firms: Partial payment problems QUESTION: Why is it OK for mortgage companies to reject partial payments when a borrower is behind? It seems to me that it’s bad business and not too good for the economy. ANSWER: Many mortgage servicers (but not all) are reluctant to accept partial payments from delinquent borrowers because they worry that by taking less than the full monthly amount, they may be seen as waiving their right to foreclose and even opening the door to a suit for wrongful foreclosure. Also, loan program rules sometimes prohibit the acceptance of partial payments. For instance, borrowers BKM REAL ESTATE • BKM Real Estate Ask Our Broker Q&A with Peter G. Miller participating in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Loan Guarantee program can prepay their loans in whole or in part without penalty. The catch is that, according to the VA, the term “in part” means “partial payments may not be less than 1 monthly installment or $100, whichever is less.” If mortgage servicers – the companies that collect payments for mortgage investors – do accept a partial payment, they must credit the oldest missing payments first. They also need to ensure the borrower understands that the lender is not giving up its rights to foreclose. The ability to foreclose varies by state, so a partial 709 Heatherwood Ln, Ossian •3 BR, 2 bath ranch in Country Meadows •Easy to clean windows, Norwell •Master BR w/large shower and closet •Sunny LR/kitchen w/lots of counter space $115,500 Cyndee Fiechter • 827-8991 824-3982 622-1000 payment from a delinquent borrower may be something a mortgage servicer would like to accept but can’t because of investor agreements, mortgage rules and court cases. For details, speak with a local attorney who handles foreclosures. © CTW Features The agents of BKM Real Estate will be contributing a portion of each home sale to HABITAT FOR HUMANITY. Price Reduced! IMMEDIATE POSSESSION 115 Conifer Ct., Markle •Newer roomy 3 BR, 2 BA, split BR floor plan •Great room w/10’ ceilings, newer appliances •Plus size 2.5 car garage •Quiet neighborhood on a cul-de-sac $169,900 Deidre Licht • 273-0893 New Price! 128 N. Bond St. •3 bedrooms, 2 full baths •Spacious and move-in ready •Newer replacement windows •1 1 ⁄2 car garage •Dog kennel, playset, rock wall stays $83,900 Deidre Licht • 273-0893 Who’s Who in Real Estate Your ad could be here! Call 824-0224 New Listing! 1548 Kensington •1 owner custom built home in Bell Brook •2 BR, 2 full baths, unfinished daylight basement •6 panel doors, cabinets by Ver-Lyd •Nice decor, tasteful landscaping $235,800 Naoma Halsey • 437-3561 209 Hickory Knoll, Bluffton •4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths •Woodburning fireplace •Updates: Windows, doors, plastered ceilings •3 season room, GFA heat, CA $139,500 Barb Sheets • 417-2968 Price Reduced! 410 Linwood Dr., Bluffton •3 bedroom, 1 bath ranch •Eat-in kitchen, all appliances stay •Low utility costs •Walk-in closet in MBR $74,500 Jean Moser • 827-8991 HOME LOANS ◆ USDA 100% Financing for most residential properties in Wells and Adams Counties ◆ Conventional, FHA/VA ◆ Construction Loans ◆ Farm Loans ◆ Homes with acreage ◆ Home Equity Lines of Credit ◆ Great Rates Ossian State Bank a trusted name for 100 Years 6063 W. St. Rd. 124, Decatur •Excellent yard with mature trees •Full basement w/kitchen, lots of storage •Geothermal heat, propane tank owned •Newer outbuilding with heat & loft $220,000 Steve Abbett • 402-6202 Newer Windows 5974 Market Street, Poneto •3 BR plus upstairs landing •2 living rooms on the main floor •New: Pressure tank, well pump, plumbing, breaker box $59,000 Blake Fiechter • 827-8755 www.ossianstatebank.com 1423 Evergreen Ct., Ossian •Beautiful villa in Northern Wells •3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, open floor plan •10 ft. ceilings, crown molding in great room •4 season room, maintenance free, on cul-de-sac $199,900 Sam Haiflich • 740-7299 415 S. Jefferson, Ossian •Nice older home with double lot •Solid hardwood floors, CA, newer windows •2 full baths, 3 bedrooms, 1,548 sq. ft. •Fenced in backyard, insulated det. garage $102,500 Dixie Moore • 515-3748 Loads of Storage you fail to get your copy of the News-Banner and can’t contact your carrier, please phone: 824-0224 Between 5:00 & 6:30 p.m. ——————— SATURDAYS before 9:30 a.m. Call Tad Hunter 260-622-4141 Ext. 37 Cell 260-307-1040 NMLS #869729 What’s Your Home Worth? Get a FREE Market Analysis from Stacey Wilson Realtor 1085 North Main, Bluffton Office: 260-824-3982 Home: 260-543-2826 Cell: 260-413-5132 Price Reduced! 211 S. Morgan St., Bluffton •Within walking distance to downtown •Open kitchen and dining area •Great home, small price $53,900 Deidre Licht • 273-0893 1-800-953-6359 www.bkmrealestate.com
HOUSE & HOME Order your house plan now To build this house, order a complete set of construction documents at www.houseoftheweek.com or call toll free (866) 772-1013 and reference the plan number. At www.houseoftheweek.com, you can browse more than 1,500 other designs, or download a free Study Plan of this design and many others. The Study Plan is a helpful tool for decision-making and estimation; it includes valuable coupons to use on the purchase of complete construction documents and modifications. You can also order a paper copy of the Study Plan by calling (866) 772-1013. ‘NET SURFING GUIDE Check out these websites of local and area firms! thetimberridge.com meadowvalerehab.com hollowayauction.com unitedremc.com Have a Web site? Tell the World! Meadowvale Health and Rehabilitation Center A kindred community B luffton T ire blufftontire.com Bluffton Plumbing, Heating & Electric blufftonheating.com REED’S reedsdoitbest.com Get your Web site seen by more people! We can set up links from the News-Banner’s popular site (www.news-banner.com) and re-inforce it with regular exposure in The News-Banner, The Echo and Sunriser News. Ask for our latest Web site visitor statistics! Put the power of print and the Internet to work for you! Call 824-0224 or 622-4108 for more information. standby@onlyinternet.net Wabash Valley Prospectors LLC R eimschisel FORD Dr. Taylor & Associates BlufftonFord.com the gmcfamily.com taylordental.net innovativeconceptsav.com daniels-jewelers.net caylornickelclinic.com unitedwaywells.org ossianstatebank.com gerberinterior.com Cozy Country Plan With a full wraparound porch that's made for fine days, this plan allows all the comfort of home in a smaller square footage. T he irresistible appeal of this home, Plan HMAFAPW00766 from Homeplans.com, comes from the remarkable porch that wraps all the way around. With this much outdoor living space, there's always a spot to watch The entire second floor of this home is a master retreat. With it’s large bedroom, fabulous bath, outdoor balcony and indoor loft, it’s truly a special place to get away. the sunset, sip iced tea, or simply enjoy a beautiful day. Inside, 1,673 square feet of welcoming living spaces await. By mail: For a paper copy, mail the attached order form with a check or money order for $10 payable to House of the Week. Be sure to reference the plan number. Mail to: Hanley Wood 3275 W. Ina Rd., Suite 260 Tucson, AZ 85741 hidaymotors.com Covington Financial Services legendgroup.com adifferentlight.com The Great Room opens to the kitchen and breakfast nook to maximize interaction across the spaces. A warm fireplace lends its glow, and windows offer great views of the porch. There's room for three at the snack bar, making it a handy spot for a quick breakfast. Family bedrooms on this floor share a full bath and are separated from the master suite on the second floor. Featuring its own private balcony and walk-in closet, the master bedroom also has a complete bath with a separate shower and tub. A loft or study area that overlooks the great room completes this retreat. HMAFAPW00766 details Bedrooms: 3 Baths: 2 Upper floor: 580 sq. ft. Main floor: 1,093 sq. ft. Total Living Area: 1,673 sq. ft. Dimensions: 52-0 x 56-0 Exterior Wall Framing: 2x6 Is your home air conditioner ready for spring and summer? (StatePoint) Temperatures are on the rise, but that doesn’t mean your energy bill needs to increase too. There are a number of ways you can keep your home cool and your energy bills in check this season. Is your air conditioner operating optimally? If you have a central air conditioning system, it’s important to get it checked by an HVAC/R professional. Do some comparison shopping -- special deals are easy to come by on seasonal preventative maintenance. Be advised, however, that the expertise of HVAC/R technicians can vary widely. Though the HVAC/R industry does not require technicians to take mandatory competency tests, you can help ensure a job well done by opting for a technician certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nation’s largest independent, non-profit certification body for HVAC/R technicians. NATE-certified technicians are qualified to properly install and service equipment, which translates to maximum home comfort and energy savings. Once you know your air conditioning system is running efficiently, there are several things you can do to keep energy bills to a minimum: • Keep air conditioner units clear of plants and debris. Obstructing airflow will reduce the unit’s efficiency. • Raise the thermostat. Each degree saves a percentage off your cooling energy bill. • Check air filters every couple of weeks and change them at least twice during the season, or as directed by the manufacturer. • Review last year’s energy bills. If your cooling costs are drastically higher this year, a qualified HVAC/R technician can help diagnose any problems. • Don’t forget, even the most eco-friendly, high-efficiency products and appliances can waste money and energy if they are not installed, serviced and maintained properly. By working with certified technicians, homeowners can have confidence that their HVAC/R equipment is delivering on the energy efficiency promised. By making sure your air conditioning system is operating efficiently and by adopting a few energyfriendly habits, you can maintain a cool home while keeping energy costs down. Thoma/Rich, Chaney & Lemler Funeral Home thomarich.com woodcrestofdecatur.com Mary Palmer Independent Home Consultant bodyfitandtan.com pakasak.com WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 2012 • The News-Banner • Page 9 Green Building: What’s next? The latest report on the residential market shows greater emphasis on green features by both consumers and construction pros alike They’re of higher quality, and they save consumers money. Those are the two key factors contributing to the green-home market growth, according to the latest “SmartMarket Report” from McGraw-Hill Construction, released at the recent National Association of Home Builders’ National Green Building Conference in Nashville, Tenn., held April 29 to May 1. The report, “New and Remodeled Green Homes: Transforming the Residential Market,” estimates that green homes accounted for 17 percent (or $17 billion) of the construction market in 2011. Those numbers are expected to rise to anywhere from 29 percent to 38 percent by 2016, with a potential opportunity of $87 billion to $114 billion, based on the five-year forecast for overall construction. Factors driving the green-home market growth include: • Higher quality for both new-home builders and remodelers. Ninety percent of those who build green homes for at least 60 percent of their business regard higher quality as an important factor for building green, compared to 72 percent of overall builders. • Customers are strongly value-driven. About twothirds of builders and remodelers say customers request green homes or remodeling projects to lower their energy use or save money, more than double any other factor. The shift toward green also is resulting in key practices and technologies taking over the residential marketplace. • More than 80 percent of builders and remodelers report that energy efficiency is making today’s home greener compared to two years ago. Increasing energy efficiency is the top green practice used by nearly all Services Roofing, siding, all types of remodeling, pole barns, & steel buildings Marv’s CONSTRUCTION Call Marv Schwartz 260-525-8877 2012 New 2012 Mowers in stock! Since 1978 References furnished upon request. ST. RD. 301 • DOWNTOWN CRAIGVILLE 260-565-3166 • www.cappliance.com CJ’s Flooring, Inc. All we do is flooring Carpet - Ceramic Tile Laminate - Hardwood - Vinyl 947 N. Main St., Bluffton 824-5440 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:00-5:00 or by appt. www.cjsflooring.com Owners: Todd & Michelle Gerber Kryder Concrete C o n s tr u c tio n “Specializing in Driveways, Breakouts, & Replacements” Commercial & Residential •Pole Barns •Driveways •Parking Lots •New Home Construction •Foundations •Garage & Room Additions •Wall Repair •Basement Waterproofing & Drainage 260-622-7368 Cell: 260-466-2240 or 260-466-2255 2603 Hamilton Rd. • Yoder builders and remodelers. • Indoor air quality is growing in importance, with 95 percent of high-volume green builders reporting that they include features that impact air quality. • More than half of construction pros also consider durable materials one of the most important features in today’s home – another Country Clipper & Simplicity Zero Turn Mowers & Lawn Tractors Stihl Outdoor Power Equipment 824-1293 1124 S.E. St. Rd. 116, Bluffton (Murray) SALES & SERVICE S&H Your Source for Quality Lawn & Garden Equipment Since 1981 G&R Sales & Service key reason green homes and remodeling projects are considered higher quality. © CTW Features FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! twitter.com/newsbanner R oofing & C onstruction New Roofs • Tear Offs • Repairs CONSTRUCTION Residential and Commercial John Competitive Rates Smith Fully Insured CELL: 820-0256 OFFICE: 597-7430 24 hour emergency services We know that plumbing and heating problems don’t just happen from 8 am - 5 pm so Bluffton Plumbing and Heating offers 24 Hour Emergency Services. Our qualified service technicians will come out and help take care of any problem that you may have with your plumbing, heating, air conditioning or electrical. To contact us with your emergency needs please call! No job is too small or too large for our service professionals Bluffton Plumbing, Heating & Electric 2095 Commerce Dr. (Behind Lowe’s) Bluffton Licensed Plumbers PC 88800252 (260)565-4300 • 888-824-3332 www.blufftonheating.com www.grsalesservice.co m 11044 N. Marzane Rd., MARKLE (260) 638-4903 Mon-Fri 8:30-6; Sat 8-Noon
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