Bringing Real Estate to LIFE

3 Month Barry County Market Update

2012-01-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

This data is for all of Barry County and only includes Residential Single Family Homes. - Provided by www.swmric.com

From October 1st of 2010 - December 31st of 2010 there were 101 Homes sold at an Average Price of $101,152.

From October 1st of 2011 - December 31st of 2011 there were 144 Homes sold at an Average Price of $114,147.

* This data shows we had a fantastic end to 2011!

* While we may hear differently on the National level, Locally Barry County is in rebound mode. We see this as a slow transition, but happily, it's in the right direction.

* Miller Real Estate was astounded at the level of business we produced during this same period, with activity still continuing into 2012. This time of year is usually slow, but the above data proves otherwise. Warm Weather? More Approved Buyers? Motivated Sellers? The reasoning could be endless. Two things are for sure....
1. The data shows an increase in # of homes sold and average price.
2. 2011 was also an increase overall compared to 2010.

* With a large number of approved buyers, pending sales, and closings Miller Real Estate has had since January 1st, we feel 2012 will be a fantastic year! If you want to Buy or Sell get in touch with a Miller Real Estate Agent today!!

3 Month Market Update!

2011-10-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

The data below is for Barry County and for Single Family Residential Homes only!

From July 1st 2010 - September 30th 2010: 127 Homes were sold at an Average Sale Price of $121,867.

From July 1st 2011 - September 30th 2011: 169 Homes were sold at an Average Sale Price of $115,270.

This data shows many buyers are still purchasing homes into the Fall Season. This is great news for current sellers, as there is still activity happening within the Barry County Market.

While the Average Price has dropped from 2010 numbers, we feel that much of that is contributed by the slight increase in Foreclosure listings, with very discounted prices.

The overall Real Estate Market is still seeing a lot of active buyers. Miller Real Estate's agents have multiple pending closings going into the Fall Season. This is GREAT news as usually this time of year the Real Estate Market usually slows. There are still many homes for sale, the homes receiving the most showings and activity are usually attracting Multiple Offers. We have found that most of this activity is in the Foreclosure Market as these homes are usually deeply discounted. Price, we have found, is still the ultimate factor in buyer's behavior on buying current listings.

If you are ready to Buy or Sell, don't let the winter months ahead discourage you. Miller Real Estate is seeing a good amount of activity that is likely to last into the snow of upcoming Winter.

If you have any questions please call an agent of Miller Real Estate @ 269-945-5182.

3 Month Market Update!

2011-08-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

This data below is from all of Barry County. This only includes Residential sold properties.

From April 1st - June 30th 2010 180 Homes were sold at an Average Sale Price of $105,216.

From April 1st - June 30th 2011 157 Homes were sold at an Average Sale Price of $119,896.

This news looks very promising, and while all markets are different, Miller Real Estate tries to shed light on our specific area with real time Barry County data.

What is truly remarkable is even though the period in 2010 had a higher number of homes sold, the period of 2011 had a higher Average Sale Price with fewer homes sold.

The market is seeing a lot of active buyers and few active sellers. Most of today's buyers are looking for a great deal on a good solid home. With those "Great" homes being listed few and far between, we are seeing multiple offers on all listings; Foreclosures, Short Sales, Normal Listings, and REO's. Buyers should be prepared to make any offer knowing there could be this multiple offer situation.

Miller Real Estate still has multiple Pending sales, and is working with several buyers into the month of September. We hope this trend continues into the Winter months of 2011.

If you have any questions please call an agent of Miller Real Estate @ 269-945-5182

3 Month Market Update!

2011-04-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

This data below is from all of Barry County. This only includes Residential sold properties.

From January 1st - March 31st 2010 Barry County saw 115 homes sold. The average price of these homes was $97,061.

From January 1st - March 31st of 2011 Barry County saw 113 homes sold. The average price of these homes was $97,652.

*This data proves we are on track to have a good, if not better year than 2010. The increase in the average price, yet small, proves we are in rebound mode and we hope this continues into the latter part of 2011.

*Currently there are many buyers looking for Real Estate. Local lenders are commenting on how their traffic is up with buyers looking for Pre-Approvals.

Miller Real Estate has many sales pending at the current time, and lots of prospective buyers looking for homes as the selling season kicks in. The Spring / Summer months are usually the most active and unlike 2009, we feel the market is on an upswing with hopes this will continue. Unfortunately the price of homes has not increased much at all. Until we reduce supply, average sale prices will continue to be flat.

If you have any questions please contact an agent of Miller Real Estate at 269-945-5182.

December Market Update

2011-01-12T08:54:00.000-08:00

The overall market dropped from 2009 to 2010 in December. 2010 overall was much better than 2009, and we hope this December drop will not continue into 2011.
Below are the results!

- December 1st to December 31st of 2009 we saw 44 homes sold in Barry County. The average sale price of these homes was $100,058.

- December 1st to December 31st of 2010 we saw 30 homes sold in Barry County. The average sale price of these homes was $91,183.
We feel that most of this was due to the First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit. While there are more and more foreclosures on the market daily, we are seeing a rise in activity over the $100,000 price range. We feel that many homes that have been listed over some time with no activity, will start to see some increase because of buyer confidence! Many buyers who could have bought over the $100,000 price range in the last 2 years, are now more secure with their financial standing and jobs to make the leap and purchase Real Estate.

Merry Christmas from Brandon Johnson, Dianne Feldpausch, Mark Hewitt, Heather Lewis and Justin Peck!

2010-11-29T11:27:00.000-08:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Merry Christmas from Larry Hayes, Ron Lewis, Larry Allerding, Connie Witzel and Tom Mohler

2010-11-29T11:22:00.000-08:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Barry County Sales (July 1st - September 30th) 2009 & 2010!!!

2010-10-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Barry County has stayed fairly stable in the economic climate we currently face! The county still has a GREAT Manufacturing presence with our service industry being quite large.

This does not change the fact that many foreclosures still hit the market on a daily basis. While these foreclosures are still a huge part of our Real Estate lives we do see a small increase in selling prices happening! The data below shows these figures...

Barry County Sold Properties.
Sold from July 1st - September 30th

2009: 159 Sold Properties / Average Sale Price of $103,500 / Average Days on Market of 128!!

2010: 120 Sold Properties / Average Sale Price of $107,450 / Average Days on Market of 110!!

This clearly shows a slight rise in Average Sale Price. You can see that the number of properties is slightly less for 2010. We feel this is attributed to the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit in 2009. Many cheap properties were bought up and this shows that in the numbers above. Cheap Foreclosures = Lower Sale Price / Many Buyers = More Sold Properties!

We hope that the end of 2010 and into 2011 we will see some great activity and stabilization on the home buying front!

Thanks!

Fall Maintenance!!

2010-09-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Value of Home Maintenance
Regular home maintenance is key to preserving the value of your house and property. Read
Essential Heating System Maintenance
Getting your home’s heating system professionally serviced every year will keep it running smoothly and help keep heating costs under control. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Events around from Aug 27th - Aug 29th!!!

2010-08-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hastings 33rd Annual Summerfest

Come on down to Hastings and join in on the FUN!

Things to do from Free Trolley Rides, Parades, Duck Race, Concessions, Classic Car & Motorcycle Shows and many Live Entertainment acts to boot! If you think it you can be sure the Summerfest will have it!

Click on link below to get a copy of the schedule!

http://mibarry.com/tourism/documents/SummerfestSchedule2010_000.pdf

NBAA 2010 1 on 1 National Championship

Miller Real Estate's own Mark Hewitt will be competing in this years event held at Gun Lake.

Mark was points leader in his division and hopefully goes on to claim the top prize! Just like in Real Estate he has been scouting Gun Lake and is on to certain "LEADS" that may help him get to the top!

Click on link below to check out additional info.
http://www.nbaa-bass.com/pages/news/1on1_gun_lake_championship.php

2010-08-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

5 Tips for Saving Energy in the Family Room

Reduce your electricity bills by systematically purging your family room of wasteful energy practices. Read
12 Tips for Saving Energy in Your Home Office

Cut your power consumption, lighting, and heating and cooling costs when you work from home. Read
7 Tips for Saving Energy with Home Lighting

Lighting eats up as much as 20% of your annual electric bill, but using energy-efficient bulbs and making other simple changes can cut lighting costs dramatically. Read
10 Tips for Saving Energy in the Kitchen

Maintain your large kitchen appliances is part of a smart home energy efficiency plan. Read
7 Tips for Saving Energy in the Laundry Room

Understanding your laundry room appliances is part of a smart plan to help you save energy in your home. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Events in Barry County Aug 20th - 22nd.

2010-08-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

Busy weekend in Barry County. Check out some of these local events!

Aug 20th: Gun Lake Art Hop
Aug 20th - 21st: Orangeville Day @ Orangeville Township Park, Clarksville Steam and Gas Engine Association.
Aug 21st: County Wide Yard Sale @ Historic Charlton Park (9:00AM-3:00PM)
Aug 21st-22nd: 4H Pleasure Horse Show @ Barry County Expo Center.

Come out and support our great community! Enjoy what Barry County has to offer!!

Relay for Life!

2010-08-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Relay for Life starts Friday August 13th @ 12PM.

Come out to Tyden Park to support the fighters, survivors and those lost to the disease.

For more information Google: Relay for Life Barry County.

WHERE TO BE 8/6/2010-8/8/2010 in Barry County!

2010-08-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

Live in Barry County? Visiting Barry County? Want something to do this weekend? Check these great events out listed below and see why Barry County is truly GREAT!

Friday August 6th.
- Sportsman's Expo @ Prairieville Farms.
- Middleville River Bank Music Series: 6:30 - 8:30PM. Concert on river bank, held at Stage Coach Park. Free of Charge. Bring your own lawn chair. Local restaurants will have suppers available picnic style.

Saturday August 7th.
- Barry Expo Flea Market: Located @ 1350 N. M-37 HWY., Hastings. Come to one of the largest sales in the area!
- Lake Odessa Car Show.

Sunday August 8th.
- 4-H Horse Show at the Barry Expo Center: 1350 N. M-37 HWY., Hastings.
- Summer Sunday Dinner and Hike at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute: 701 W. Cloverdale Rd., Hastings. Call (269) 721-4190 for details.

3 Month Market Snapshot!

2010-07-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

The last 3 months have seen some good activity on the home sales front!

The chart below shows sales from 04/22/2010 to 07/21/2010. These are priced from $100,000 to $250,000 in Hastings, Delton-Kellogg and Thornapple-Kellogg School Districts.

While this looks great as far as time on the market the true indicator is price. Many of these sold listings were priced correctly and made for a quicker sale.

MLS Conversion Update

2010-06-21T11:20:00.001-07:00

There are imense amounts of data being switched over in this process. Hundreds of thousands of listings with pictures will need to be transfered. This process is taking more time than normal and because of this the conversion is set to happen July 14th!

Keep on the lookout for details!

BIG NEWS FOR YOU!!

2010-06-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

Realtors working in Barry County list homes on the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors (GRAR) Multiple Listing Service (MLS). This system is used to input homes online so the public and Realtors can search for these specific listings. The GRAR system covers most of Barry, Kent, Ionia and Allegan Counties. Southern Barry County and others surrounding use the South and West Michigan Regional Information Center (SWMRIC) to list properties. THESE TWO WILL SOON COMBINE!

This integration will give you and us a massive amount of data. Not only will it show every single home for sale in our county, it will also give us a wide area to pull data from to properly list your home for sale. Whether it's size, price or location we will better be able to analyze the best price point. If you have ever heard the phrase "Let me check the other system (MLS)," this will be no more.

This larger combination will serve as far North as Manistee County, as far East as Ionia County and South to the Michigan border!

Look for this to take place within the month of June. Stay in contact with us here on the Blog for further updates!!

Thanks!

First Time Home-Buyers set RECORD in 2009!

2010-05-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

The number of First-Time Home buyers rose to 47% of all home sales. This is the highest on record since 1981. The previous high was in 1991 and was at 44%. The interesting point about this is that the last cyclical peak of First-Time home buyers was during the last noteworthy economic downturn, with First-Time buyers starting the chain reaction that led the nation out of recession.

87% of 2009 buyers consider their home a good investment, and more than half see it as a better investment than stocks. Twelve percent of buyers own two homes, while another three percent own three or more homes.

When asked where they first learned about the home purchased, 36 percent of buyers said a real estate agent; 36 percent the Internet; 12 percent from yard signs; 6 percent from a friend, neighbor or relative; 5 percent home builders; 2 percent a print or newspaper ad; 2 percent directly from the seller; and less than 1 percent a home book or magazine.

TAX CREDIT ENDING.....

2010-04-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

The government funded tax credit is ending soon. Call Miller Real Estate NOW to find your perfect home and recieve up to $8,000.

Whether your purchasing a $40,000 handyman special or $300,000 waterfront oasis you could recieve some type of credit.
Read below to find out how!

Here are the details:

1. You must have a signed Purchase Agreement (signed by Seller and Buyer) by April 30th.
* If you have a signed Purchase Agreement by April 30th you have until July 30th to close on the home.

2. The home must become your primary residence.

3. To recieve the credit you can either:
- File and ammendment to your 2009 return.
- Apply it toward your 2010 return by April 15th 2011.

4. What you will recieve?
- First Timer: 10% of Purchase Price up to $8,000.
- Existing Homeowner: 10% of Purchase Price up to $6,500.

Make sure you check with your tax professional on the filing details.
If you have any questions call Miller Real Estate @ 269-945-5182.

Click on picture at right side of this blog that is titled TAX CREDIT 2009 - 2010 for frequently asked questions on the Tax Credit.

Thanks!

Miller Real Estate "Market Update"

2010-03-02T13:27:00.001-08:00

CLICK ON PICTURE TO VIEW IN A BIGGER FORMAT!!

PRE - APPROVAL IS NECESSARY!

2010-02-27T07:38:00.000-08:00

Many listings in the market today include Foreclosures, Bank Owned Homes, Homeowner Owned Homes, Short Sales, Hud Homes and Auction's it is important to understand what type of financing will approve the right type of home.

I hope this guide will help you in the process of being ready to make an offer on your potential new purchase!!

There are several Mortgage Products available to the able home buyer. It is important to be knowledgeable of what product will fit you and what Lender will be most able to assist and guide you easily through the process.

1. The Call

-It takes a simple phone call to set up the beginning process for purchasing your home. The best place to start is your local bank. See what products they offer, what services they provide and most importantly feel comfortable enough to know that in giving your most secured information, you will be handled most effectively and safely through the process.
- Your Lender of choice will set up a meeting to determine what price range you are able to buy within and what product will best suite your financial needs.

2. The Meet

- Your Lender should be prompt in meeting you at the time that was set. If they are late, confused or hard to understand...it may be time to look elsewhere.
- When coming to the meeting you should be able to present valuable information (W-2's, tax returns, bank statements, identification and any other needed information that is required to start the process. There may be things you will have to bring back in and when those are needed be prompt in doing so to speed up the process!

3. The Product

- The bank of your choice will most certainly have many loan products available. This is MOST IMPORTANT because it will determine what type of house you will be looking into!
- Product Types (These are a few products that are most widely used.)

* FHA / Rural Development: This product is most widely used for first time home buyers. It requires less of a down payment and can be approved to someone with a lower credit rating. This product can be used to purchase any available property (Hud Home, Foreclosure, Homeowner Owned, etc).
* MSHDA: This product is great for someone needed help with a down payment and also helps in repairing a run down home. This product is available to any buyer with a lower credit score, less cash on hand or a buyer wanting to renovate parts of a home. This product can be used only on FORECLOSURE properties in certain areas (be sure to check with your Realtor or Lender to determine which locations are available).
* Conventional: This product is most used by a buyer with a great credit score and has 20% to put down towards the purchase price. In instances with a buyer having a lower credit score, the Lender may require Mortgage Insurance which requires a higher monthly payment. If this Mortgage Insurance is purchased in some instances the Lender may only require 3-5% down toward the purchase price. This product can be used for purchase on any available property (Hud Home, Foreclosure, Homeowner Owned, etc).

There are many other products available to buyers. These few are most widely used and most available.

4. The Result
- At this stage of the process you should know what product you are using and at what price the home can be purchased at. This is valuable information that is useful in making an offer to purchase a home. Your Lender should present you with a PRE-APPROVAL LETTER that should also be given to your Realtor.
- You and your Realtor will be able to narrow the choices and then determine which homes are most attractive to go through.

$$ When starting the home buying process you should already be looking at what is currently available. Speak to a Realtor on the current market and what type of homes are out there. The PRE-APPROVAL LETTER will then determine which houses you should narrow down to and which homes you will then want to view.

$$ The viewing process takes time out of your busy life. This also creates time for your Realtor, the listing Realtor and the owner of the home. Make sure that when you are about to view homes that you have a PRE-APPROVAL LETTER ready. You may fall in love with a house and it's never fun to find out that it sold the next day. Your PRE-APPROVAL LETTER will be crucial in the fact that if you find the home of your dreams...you can make an offer ON THE SPOT!

Thanks Again

Miller Real Estate
149 West State Street
Hastings, MI 49058

What Your Home May Need This YEAR!!

2010-01-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

- The best way to protect the value of your abode: Keep it well - maintained. Below is a quick list on some ideas of how to do that! -

Your home is likely to have issues throughout the years. If the minor issues or yearly checkups are overlooked these could turn into costly fixes later on down the road.

WINTER:
1. Clean vents behind your dryer: As you are now drying heaver cloths these cloths generate more lint. Clean vents will help dry them quicker and lower your risk of fires. (Stores carry kits for this and can cost from $15 -$45 dollars.)

2. Replace old windows: Furnace running often? House still seem cold? Replace old windows with storm windows and make sure they fit properly. This can be somewhat costly but in the long run a payoff for better insulation....not to mention easier to open and close!!

3. Check your furnace filter: Once a month during heating season you will want to check for cleanliness. If it is excessively dirty change it. This change is usually done 2 times a year to help the furnace run more efficiently. (Each filter costs $6 - $20 a piece.)

SPRING:

1. Inspect homes exterior: Look for loose siding or trim, cracks, and crumbling mortar caused by harsh winter conditions, and examine your attic for signs of leaks. The hour or so this may take could save thousands in new roofing, siding, or new foundations.

2. Look at your lawn: Now that you can see it again cut down the thatch, or the layer of dead crass. If the thatch is thick look into de-thatching the lawn. (Professional charges $30 - $100 for the service. Rent a power thatcher yourself for around $65 a day.)

3. Inspect your air-conditioning system: Get your system checked professionally. They will clean, inspect, and adjust before the temp hits 90 degrees. (They will charge $75 - $175 a year for a HVAC contract.)

4. Look for termites and ants: They love getting out in spring weather too. Have your home checked for these wood destroying insects on a yearly basis. (Professional will charge $75 - $100. Pick up a can of insect killer and spray around foundation of home for $5 - $10.)

SUMMER:

1. Check your hot water heater: Since it is much warmer out chances are you can go a few hours without the hot water. Drain and refill your water heater to remove sediment. While your at it, test the heater's pressure valve according to manufacturers instructions.

2. Inspect your roof: Take some binoculars and look for loose shingles, mold, mildew, or cracked chimney mortar. If you can catch these problems early you can avoid spending $2,000 - $12,000 for a roof replacement.

3. Rainy Spring: Check for leaks throughout home. Standing water should be removed and taken care of. These problems can cause major problems and mold to grow. If you can't find where a leak is coming from get an inspector to check it out. (Professional inspections costs $100 - $200.)

FALL:

1. Water will freeze: Take down garden hoses, drain and store, and put insulation around spouts. If you have a sprinkler system have it professionally blown out. Water in those pipes can cause serious damage. ($100 - $200 for this to be done.)

2. Check and clean gutters: Keep gutters free from debris. This debris can get caught up in downspouts and when water then freezes to it during winter these gutters and downspouts could break or fall out.

3. Prune and cut back trees: Once the trees have dropped the leaves prune them back. This will prevent the closest trees from scraping and destroying your siding and contribute to greater curb appeal of your home.

MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL: ENJOY YOURSELF!!!

Justin Peck
Miller Real Estate
149 West State Street
Hastings, MI 49058

Cell: 269-760-4965
Email: jpeck@grar.com

Your Credit Concerns on a Home Purchase!

2009-12-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

With concerns over debt, job losses, and if there is food on the table we are all worried in someway about or financial standing. While we wonder how much we saved and what our next paycheck is, what we should really be checking is our true worth....CREDIT!!

Most of our large purchases are done through some type of loan. This loan is given to us based upon our credit: confidence in a purchaser's ability and intention to pay, displayed by entrusting the buyer with goods or services without immediate payment.

In simpler terms...if you keep up on your payments, you have a better score and with that better score you can secure more moneys through various loan types.

We got into this financial mess because we all were more concerned about what we "had" and never focused on what we "truly had"!! Banks gave loans to people who could not pay, people took out loans on things they could not afford, bets were hedged on properties that were over priced and in the end we were over our heads in debt: an obligation or liability to pay or render something to someone else.

Now how does this affect a home purchase?

Well if not already known it affects it greatly. That credit we talked about earlier is crucial for receiving a Home Mortgage: a conveyance of an interest in property as security for the repayment of money borrowed. This issue is that the bets on over priced properties were these home mortgages. These mortgages were then given to people who couldn't afford them. The properties were then sold to these folks at a price much higher than the market could truly bear.

What Happened?

The homeowners then lost their jobs or stopped paying the mortgage payments because they truly couldn't afford them in the first place. These mortgaged homes were then took back by the banks who basically had an overpriced mortgage.....TO MUCH WAS BET ON A PROPERTY NOW WORTH 20% LESS THAN THE MORTGAGE HAD OUTSTANDING!

In today's Real Estate Market we are seeing large numbers of distressed properties. GREAT FOR BUYERS.....but remember your credit is at stake. Keep these valuable things in mind....

1. Ask yourself if you can truly afford these monthly payments.

2. Ask your Lender what the true costs will be (They are required by law to do so!!)

3. Look 2-5 years ahead and make sure you can still afford these monthly payments.

4. Don't forget other household expenses.

5. USE EQUITY WISELY!!!! - This is very important and another reason why so many homes have foreclosed. Don't take out an equity loan to go on a date or buy that new 4 wheeler. KEEP IT IN THE HOME!!

Stay focused and ask questions! The market will recover and we will be financially stable to make better decisions in 2010!

Justin Peck

Miller Real Estate

149 W. State Street

Hastings, MI 49058

Cell: 269-760-4965

Email: jpeck@grar.com

DOES THE INCREASE IN SALES INDICATE MARKET STIMULATION?

2009-11-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

We have seen somewhat of an upswing in the Real Estate market within the past month. While the First Time Home Buyer Credit is nearing its end this may have pushed the stimulus we are seeing today!

The normal property sale can take 1 month to close. With lower property prices and multiple foreclosures, these "bank owned" homes can be taking upwards of 2 months to finalize. We feel that because of this many properties did go pending (offers were made) in October.

There were 89 properties that were pending in October. The bulk of these went pending in the month while some have been pending since September. Out of the 89 properties pending 54 of them were $100,000 or less.

60% of property sales pending in October were less than $100,000.

While we can clearly see that the market has buyers, many of them are investors or landlords taking advantage of the lower prices. The market is going strong for properties under $60,000! The properties that are above that mark may have a more troubled time.

There are buyers in the $100,000 and up price range, but these buyers have many products to choose from. You must make yours stand out, capture their attention, be clean and polished, have manicured landscaping, and most important be clutter free. Buyers get their eyes caught in the jam. If they see more than what can be registered in their brain they will forget or loose interest in your property. Price is another factor in these buyers eyes. If your property is not correctly priced it may go unnoticed.

Speak to your realtor or Miller Real Estate to help you handle this current situation.

Remember at Miller "WE MEAN SOLD!"

PLAYOFFS!!

2009-10-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

Hastings secured their playoff spot 2 weeks ago in their 2nd to last regular season game.

The Saxons then battled illness with school being canceled for half the week, then went to face Ottawa Hills. The Saxons did just about everything right in the first half which secured them a strong lead of 36-14 going into half time.

The Saxons came back to win it with a score of 52-42 and an amazing 530 yards rushing. With this win the Saxons became OK Gold Conference Runner-Up while the Conference crown went to Caledonia.

The Saxons will go to the playoffs and face Byron Center who is overall 8-1.

The game time will be announced Monday.

GOOD LUCK TO OUR HASTINGS SAXONS.

Current Conditions include LONG DELAYS!!

2009-10-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

In Barry County today more than ever home sales are taking an average of 2-3 months to close. In September alone there were 45 properties sold in Barry County. Of those 45 properties there were 22 that were either short sales or foreclosures.

In September 49% of property sold in Barry County took on average 2-3 months to close.

It is imparative that if trying to recieve the First Time Home-Buyer Credit that you have a home picked, financing ready, and an offer submitted by the end of this week. While Miller Real Estate can't guarantee you will recieve the credit, we can assure you that we will work our hardest at closing the deal by November 30th.

If you are in the process of buying now or are soon going to dive into submitting an offer please remember that on a short sale or foreclosure the banks are controlling our closing date. They usually have multiple parties approving offers and that alone could take up the bulk of our 2-3 month window.

While this can be frustrating we do understand your concern. The Federal Government is changing their regulations with Banks daily and the Banks are struggling to keep up with those changes.

Thanks and Let Miller Real Estate solve your real estate needs!

Justin Peck
Miller Real Estate
149 West State Street
Hastings, MI 49058
Cell: 269-760-4965

BARRY COUNTY'S GOOD NUMBER

2009-09-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

Recent unemployment numbers were released showing that in West Michigan, Barry County had the lowest rate of unemployment.

Check out this link for the news article from WBCH. (http://www.ask4direct.com/InfoRead.asp?id=WBCH&InfoID=567982)

This is great news for current and future home owners in Barry County. We can prove that we will weather the storm and our local community has put together many programs that keep us residents on the right side.

Whether it is a hot meal, a needed toiletry, utility payment assistance, or just a friendly helping hand Barry County offers it all.

Great Job Barry County for keeping us intact and moving in the right direction!!

Marketing Ideas from YOU!!

2009-09-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

What is it that sells a particular product you own or promote?

The fact is that Marketing is what introduces your product, your products market area, your products features, and the features of your follow up business with the customer purchasing the product! It is crucial to understand exactly how to market something to give it value.

What I am asking is that you provide ideas for Marketing Ideas on selling a property. Most agents wont include the client in that process and that is what can burden the property's potential. YOU know the property, YOU know the area, YOU know your neighbors, and YOU are in fact the Employer of the agent.

Give me ideas:

- What you think would work best?

- What media outlets work best for your area?

- Is there a particular new idea that no one has tried?

Comment back with these ideas and we will go through and post the best brought forward.

I'm looking for your input!! Please click on comment link at the bottom of this post.

Thanks,

Justin Peck

Cell: 269-760-4965

MILLER REAL ESTATE

149 West State Street

Hastings, MI 49058

Marketing FIRST!

2009-08-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

You will see it day in and day out.....REAL ESTATE! Everywhere you turn there is Real Estate for sale.

The first problem is our dwindleing economy. The state is in a recession and Michigan is hurting for jobs. The largest identifying factor to see this first hand is Property for sale.

I am sure that 45-60 % of the properties you are driving by are abandon and the grass as high as corn stalks. This may be a community eyesore but it truly is an economic indicator. People are loosing their jobs and when there is no money to give there are no assets to take.

Barry County has been somewhat fortunate in the last 1-2 years. Local economy is booming. Restaraunts are busy, items are being bought and sold and our local manufacturing market is holding steady. These are all great things for a win in the end. Sure we will suffer now and more will loose their jobs but Barry County is truly a great place to live.

With surrounding retail stores, service industries, manufacturing plants and others hiring we have a lot to look forward too. We each live but not 5 miles in any direction from some sort of water body, have bountless acres of farm land, enchanted forests and clean roadways. Barry County is less than an hour from 4 major metropolitan cities which are also hiring! I truly feel that things may get worst but what we have to look forward to is the future. The future seems bright and when things are down they can only get better!

The local Real Estate market is rising which is a great indicator of things getting somewhat back to normal. While the many great leaders, directors and residents of Barry County look forward I feel that they too will feel a sense of pride about our truly "American" way of life.

Thanks and let that glass always be half full.

Justin Peck w/ MILLER REAL ESTATE
Cell: 269-760-4965
Office: 269-945-5182

BARRY COUNTY AA RATING

2009-07-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

Recently Barry County's Investment Bond rating went from A to AA! With this rating creditors have confidence in Barry County paying debts on time.

Residents can be proud of the rating and it goes to show that Barry County is a GREAT COMMUNITY. With many water bodies, activities, shopping districts, homes, farms, business and the fine residents, Barry County can celebrate!!

Read article on WBCH!! (http://www.ask4direct.com/InfoRead.asp?id=WBCH&InfoID=550136)

ENJOY!!

Home : Your Lifestyle Investment

2009-07-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

While we Americans are always striving for the "ALL AMERICAN DREAM" are we truly investing in our LIFE'S?? While we must answer questions like this on a daily basis, your questions will differ from the next...

- Will this Healthcare Plan be a good investment?
- Will this lawn mower be a good product for my lawn?
- My bathroom needs a new tub. Will this be a good investment for me?

Most of our largest investments will be our home purchase. While we will determine price, layout, size, and features as part of our investment, in our life we must also determine our deeper desires and our lifestyle investment in our home.

The lifestyle we enjoy will be determined in our home purchase. While we may love the location, size and price of our new purchase will we have fully invested in our lifestyle wanted to live there?

- Do we enjoy being close to neighbors?
- Do we enjoy entertaining friends and family?
- The lawn needs upkeep, is that something I want to do?
- Is collecting a hobby of mine?
- Do I enjoy hunting on my own property?

These are only a small amount of the questions we will ask ourselves about our lifestyle. When determining an answer to these types of questions we must look at what needs to be invested to determine our answer. The better able we are at determining our lifestyles, the easier it will be to determine the most accurate home investment.

INVEST HAPPILY!!

Justin Peck

Cell: 269-760-4965

MILLER REAL ESTATE

149 West State Street

Hastings, MI 49058

Office: 269-945-5182

First Time Winning Incentives

2009-06-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

Recently I closed on my first home. Not only was the process fluid and simple, I ended the day with first time buyer incentives that were OUT OF THIS WORLD!!

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) (http://www.michigan.gov/mshda) holds many programs available to first time buyers. Depending on your area the deals are endless. Recently passed legislation has also included monetary grants to all areas of the state.

$ Down Payment Assistance (http://www.michigan.gov/mshda/0,1607,7-141-45866_45870-175332--,00.html)

- This program is available to low-to-moderate income buyers. The household income limits vary depending on location and family size.
- Buyer must complete a short home buyer education class. (GREAT INFO)
- 0% Interest / 0 Payments!! Full amount due upon sale or transfer of property or when the first mortgage is paid in full.
- The max assistance for this program is $7,500.00.
- CHECK ABOVE LINK FOR MORE INFO!

$ FHA Loan (http://www.michigan.gov/mshda/0,1607,7-141-45866_47903-165004--,00.html#FHA)

- 30 Year Fixed Rate Loan available to low-to-moderate income borrowers who meet the MSHDA sales price and income limits.
- Non - Traditional credit score allowed. (Low credit score)
- CHECK ABOVE LINK FOR MORE INFO!

These are the two main programs that are offered by the MSHDA. Check with your local Loan Officer for details.

There are many other smaller programs available to your specific area. For instance in Hastings there is Down Payment Assistance of up to $10,000 and Repair Assistance of up to $20,000 available. This program is truly amazing and I am currently reaping in the benefits. The Down Payment Assistance and Repair Assistance are considered a second loan. This loan is 0% Interest / 0 Payments and if you live in the house for 10 years or more the loan is forgiven. This program is currently available in specific areas so call me for details.

These MSHDA programs are great for beginners. There are also options for current homeowners. Any questions on these great incentives drop me an email, text, phone call or stop in and say hi.

Justin Peck and Miller Real Estate....
....ALL REAL ESTATE / ALL THE TIME!!

Miller Real Estate
149 West State Street
Hastings, MI 49058
269-945-5182

Justin Peck
Cell : 269-760-4965
Email : bigjay1585@hotmail.com

REAL ESTATE ENTRANCE

2009-05-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hello to all who are viewing this blog. I would like to introduce myself first...

My name is Justin Peck and I am currently working through Miller Real Estate! (http://www.millerrealestate.net/)

I have 6 years of sales experience and 20 + years of getting to know beautiful BARRY COUNTY! (http://www.barrycounty.org/)

I find that a personal touch should be added to everything I do in life. In this line of work staying personal helps me help you!! While I can't promise several years of Real Estate experience I can promise high energy, solid reliable information, trust, quicker response times, and results. I have 50+ years of Real Estate experience backing me at Miller Real Estate. I work on the premise of "ALL REAL ESTATE ALL THE TIME!"

I have recently went through the home buying process and it was much easier than I thought. I can say that going from renting to buying was very simple and cheaper than I believed. I was able to secure financing through a government loan. I put less that 3% down on the home (which for a 100,000 home is less than $3,000). The payments are $200 less than renting and I have something to add value to my future! Cheap financing, 10% cash back for those who qualify, and low payments ... NOW IS THE TIME TO PURCHASE!

Working with a Real Estate Agent was easy and they knew what I needed and wanted. They truly work hard for your personal success. I did try to complete the process on my own but going through an agent was much easier. They did the work while I supervised. I was able to meet with the agent on weekends, call at all hours of the day, and they explained the "hard to read" fine print in ways in which I understood!!

I have to say that because of my experience and by going through the process myself I am fully ready to serve you in your Real Estate needs. Let me help you work through the process quickly and efficiently to secure your desired outcome. With the boom in technology I will bring new age ways of effectively advertising your home or finding your future.

Whether you are ...

Selling : Let me bring your Real Estate to LIFE!!
Buying: I'm EVERYWHERE You WANT to BE!!

I will be there to help throughout the process. Call today to secure a better future....THE RIGHT WAY!

Justin Peck
Cell: 269-760-4965

Miller Real Estate MEANS SOLD
149 W. State Street
Hastings, MI 49058

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR UPDATES, Q and A sessions, and Real Estate Facts and Info!

Bringing Real Estate to LIFE

3 Month Barry County Market Update

3 Month Market Update!

3 Month Market Update!

3 Month Market Update!

December Market Update

Merry Christmas from Brandon Johnson, Dianne Feldpausch, Mark Hewitt, Heather Lewis and Justin Peck!

Merry Christmas from Larry Hayes, Ron Lewis, Larry Allerding, Connie Witzel and Tom Mohler

Barry County Sales (July 1st - September 30th) 2009 & 2010!!!

Fall Maintenance!!

The Value of Home Maintenance

Essential Heating System Maintenance

Events around from Aug 27th - Aug 29th!!!

5 Tips for Saving Energy in the Family Room

12 Tips for Saving Energy in Your Home Office

7 Tips for Saving Energy with Home Lighting

10 Tips for Saving Energy in the Kitchen

7 Tips for Saving Energy in the Laundry Room

Events in Barry County Aug 20th - 22nd.

Relay for Life!

WHERE TO BE 8/6/2010-8/8/2010 in Barry County!

3 Month Market Snapshot!

MLS Conversion Update

BIG NEWS FOR YOU!!

First Time Home-Buyers set RECORD in 2009!

TAX CREDIT ENDING.....

Miller Real Estate "Market Update"

PRE - APPROVAL IS NECESSARY!

What Your Home May Need This YEAR!!

Your Credit Concerns on a Home Purchase!

DOES THE INCREASE IN SALES INDICATE MARKET STIMULATION?

PLAYOFFS!!

Current Conditions include LONG DELAYS!!

BARRY COUNTY'S GOOD NUMBER

Marketing Ideas from YOU!!

Marketing FIRST!

BARRY COUNTY AA RATING

Home : Your Lifestyle Investment

First Time Winning Incentives

REAL ESTATE ENTRANCE