Call us at 810-229-7000 or check out our main page at The Buckley Jolley Real Estate Team

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Happy Halloween!

The Buckley Jolley Real Estate Team would like to wish you and your family a fun and safe Halloween!

The Howell Opera House

Livingston County has a rich history, and one of its finest landmarks is the Howell Opera House.

The 1,000 seat theatre opened on December 31st, 1881. People would come from all over the surrounding area to see jugglers and acrobats, speeches from presidential candidates, and see productions of varied dramatic shows and plays. It also served double duty as a civic auditorium for local events.

The opera house closed its doors in 1924. For the last 75 years, it has served as an extra storage space for the hardware store housed beneath it. During that time the building fell to disarray- its former glory hidden beneath years of non-use.

Thanks to some determined people involved with the Livingston Arts Council, the theatre will one day come alive again. Hours of man-power have already been spent in the rehabilitation of this property, and making the public aware of what a gem this building is to the city of Howell.

In 2006, the Howell Opera House was one of twenty three communities selected to receive a 2006 Cool Cities Grant or program. They received a $100,000 Neighborhoods in Progress award which they are using to revive the first floor of the Opera House.

When you are in the area, visit the Livingston Arts Council at the Opera House- there are often great programs going on there for you and your family to enjoy.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Planning a Move?

Here are a few questions to ask when interviewing your moving company to know if you are getting the right people to do the job. Knowing that your belongings are in good hands will help ease your transition into your new home.

* Do they have references?

* How long have they been in business?

* Will the company itself handle your move, or will they sub-contract part or all of it?

* Is your estimate binding or non-binding? A binding estimate offers a firm price, while a non-binding provides a general idea of what the moving costs will be. The final cost is based on actual weights and transportation charges.

* How long is the estimate valid?

* Who is responsible for packing? What is the liability for boxes you pack yourself?

* Can boxes from other places, such as a grocery store, be used?

* Are there additional surcharges for things like parking problems, road access, street accessibility, delivery time restrictions or if there are any stairs or elevators involved?

* When is payment due?

* Does the company have a gratuity policy? What will the movers will expect?

* Will the contents of my home be on one truck the entire time?

* If the company does not pickup or deliver within the promised time and it is clearly their fault, will they reimburse you for out of pocket expenses, such as lodging and meals?

* Will you be provided with information for a destination agent who will be responsible for clearance and delivery of your shipment?

* Is the insurance coverage being offered comprehensive and underwritten by a reputable Insurer?

* What is the process of filing a claim?

* When filing a claim, will you be reimbursed based on the damage and the item’s depreciated value or on your cost to replace the item?

Trick or Treat Times for Local Communities

Here are the local trick-or-treat times set for Wednesday, October 31st.

Brighton: 6-8 pm
Howell and surrounding area: 6-8 pm
Green Oak Township: 5-8 pm
Fowlerville: 6-8 pm
Unadilla Township: 5-7 pm
Putnam Township and Pinckney: 6-8 pm

The Brighton Area Fire Department will hold a Halloween Party from 6-9 pm at its central station, 615 W. Grand River Ave, in Brighton.

The Livingston County Sheriff's Department will conduct a candy check to ensure candy is free of anything dangerous: 8-10 pm Wednesday and 8 am - 8 pm Thursday at the Livingston County Jail, 150 S. Highlander Way in Howell. Call 517-546-2440 for details.

The Unadilla Township Fire Department will hold a candy check from 5-8 pm Wednesday at the fire station, 116 Main Street in Gregory.

New Listing: 3329 Dewdrop Lane

3329 Dewdrop Lane
Howell, Mi 48843

Three bedrooms, three baths
1672 Square Feet

Beautiful one and a half story Condo with great location. Enjoy neutral decor, vaulted ceilings, a large lower level, and a back patio perfect for unwinding after a long day. Kitchen has modern cherry cabinets and stainless steel appliances. Master Suites on both the first and second floors.

You'll love the care-free condo lifestyle with lawn maintenance and snow removal covered.










If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Realtor on The Run

Clockwise from top right: Todd Buckley, Kristen Flory, Natalie Buckley, Rob Dowding, Diane Dowding

Last weekend I completed my first half marathon at the Detroit Free Press/Flagstar Bank Marathon. This was not only my first half marathon, it was my first race. What a great experience. The training was time consuming and difficult, but very rewarding. I had been running for a few months before I started the actual training for the event. Beginning 20 weeks before the big day, I followed a half marathon training schedule for first-timers. In time, I found that I actually looked forward to the long runs on Sundays. Those runs consisted of running the 8+ mile paved path around Kensington Metro Park – a picturesque run.

One of the best parts about the half marathon experience was that I was able to share it with my wife, Natalie. She trained for and completed the event also. We were also joined by Natalie’s sister, Kristen Flory, her brother, Rob Dowding, and her mother, Diane Downing (actually, this was all her idea!). All of us completed the race right about the time we had hoped for. Just in case we needed a little more excitement, we started at the very back of the 16,000 participants, having signed up under the walking category instead of running! I was happy to finish with a time of 1 hour 47 minutes and 12 seconds. Not bad for my first half marathon. The race officials, volunteers and spectators made it a spectacular day. I would highly encourage anyone who ever considered this challenge to make it a point to be there next year. What a blast to run across the Ambassador Bridge and then back through the Detroit/Windsor Tunnel.

I never thought I would enjoy running as a sport, but I actually do. Natalie and I have already signed up for the 500 Festival Mini Marathon in Indianapolis. This is the largest half marathon in the U.S. with 35,000 participants. Thanks to our friends, Jeff & Cathy Blackford, for bringing this event to our attention and also running in it. In the meantime, I’m going to continue running. Look for me out at Kensington on the weekends and in downtown Brighton on early morning weekdays.

Like running, getting a home sold or finding the right home for a buyer requires an effective plan, the right people, and proper execution. Our team is very passionate about what we do. That’s why we have already helped more families YTD than we did in the entire year 2006!

Gotta run,

Todd Buckley

Friday, October 26, 2007

Using Feng Shui to Sell Your House

Have a house to sell or looking to buy a new one? Maybe you can benefit from Feng Shui, the Chinese practice of placement and arrangement of space to achieve harmony with the environment.

1. GO OUTSIDE. Walk outside and look at your home from a short distance. In the first 2-3 minutes, what are your first impressions? Does the main entrance look fresh and hospitable? Is there a clear path to the front door? Even in a small space a friendly sign or wreath can be welcoming. Make sure your entrance area is well-lit, as this can assure comfort and safety.

2. GO GREEN. How does that landscaping look? Maybe it is time to call a professional landscaper. It may create a totally new energy around your home. Leave your front yard open and inviting, while allowing your side and back yards to become a private retreat. Create a natural embrace around the sides and back of your property with shrubs, trees or vines. Make sure you have an attractive view from every window and door.

3. DO LESS. Make an effort to avoid clutter and discard or store things you are not using. Clutter blocks and constricts positive energy in your home. Plus, the less personalized you make your space, the more buyers will be able to imagine how the space can be used.

Most importantly be aware of the "almighty" triangle when selling a home: the Kitchen, the Bedroom and the Bathrooms. Buyers need to know they will sleep well, eat well, and well, unwind well if they chose to buy your home.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

New Listing: 7607 Summer Breeze Trail

7607 Summer Breeze Trail
Howell, MI 48843

Four bedrooms, Two and a half baths
1810 square feet

Beautiful newer two-story home with country porch, large deck and finished basement. Features include wood and tile floors, new carpet in Great Room, fireplace, and a large yard. Downstairs you'll love the finished Family Room with Home Theatre and Office space. You'll love spending time in this Kitchen with 42" upper maple cabinets, wood floors, and views of the backyard. The Master Suite holds a walk-in closet, double sinks, and a jetted tub.









If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

The Legend of Sleepy Howell

Head to downtown Howell this Saturday October 27, 2007 between 5 pm and 10 pm for the 5th Annual Legend of Sleepy Howell. Activities include: trick-or-treating, a costume parade, costume contest, hayrides, storytelling at the Opera House, a pumpkin carving contest, a pumpkin glow, and live entertainment. For more information visit http://www.downtownhowell.org/

New Listing: 1858 Apple Valley Court

1858 Apple Valley Court
Howell, MI 48855

Three Bedrooms, two baths
1380 Square Feet

You won't find a better buy in Hickory Hills. This one-story home has a flowing open floor plan. So many possibilities in the daylight basement plumbed for bath. Sits near a cul-de-sac at the end of the street. All appliances are included in the sale.











If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Seller's Home Inspection

In this market it is tough enough for sellers to sign the listing agreement at such a low price, now sellers are being educated and encouraged to have a home inspection performed up front as well! Most sellers balk at this upfront expense (approx. $350) however, it can and has saved sellers thousands of dollars in the long run!

Benefits of an up-front inspection:
1. no more re-negotiations
2. no more dead deals because and inspector finds an issue and scares the buyer away
3. no more inflated repair estimates provided by the buyers contractors
4. no more worry for sellers on that dreaded inspection day

Knowing what defects are present at the beginning of the listing will offer many benefits:
1. agents and sellers can decide up front what items need to be addressed and fixed and which ones don’t
2. there is full disclosure protection for both the seller and the agent
3. it allows the seller to shop around for the best price for repairs… not the typical inflated estimates given by the buyer

As a Buyer’s Agent, I tell my clients that getting an inspection is the best money they can spend! When we see a home where a full inspection report is on the table for our review, I know and can assure them that we are dealing with informed and upfront Sellers. We, as buyers, already have a good feeling about the quality and condition of the home. Sellers are nervous when their home gets inspected but rest assured that Buyers are just as nervous and don’t want issues either…. why not give them that peace of mind up front?

- Andrea Stanaway, Senior Buyer Specialist, The Buckley Jolley Real Estate Team Andrea can be reached at 810-229-7000

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

A Missed Showing is a Missed Opportunity

If your house is on the market, keep in mind the importance of keeping your home accessible and easy to show. Please let any Realtor who would like to show your home do so, even when they give little notice, or if it is difficult time for you. We have found in the office that if a homeowner turns down a showing, more often than not the agent will not reschedule another showing. It would be unfortunate to lose a chance at a great buyer because your house was just a little more difficult to see than another home on the market.

If an agent can’t get into your home, they can’t sell it.

Here are 10 quick clean-up tips to prepare for your showing:

1. Put dishes in the dishwasher, or quickly wash them.
2. Wipe the counters.
3. Empty the garbage.
4. Hide dirty clothes in the washer.
5. Hide clean but not folded clothes in the dryer.
6. Make beds.
7. Run a quick vacuum.
8. Turn on the lights.
9. Be absent during the showing, and take any pets with you.
10. Take a deep breath... and smile... you did it!

Zillow- How Accurate is Your "Zestimate"?

Have you been using http://www.zillow.com/ to try to guess at your home’s value?

Zillow, based in Seattle, is a web site that offers free estimates and other tools for real-estate buyers and sellers. It uses an algorithm to estimate home values based on sales of nearby homes and tax assessment information.


However, a recent Wall Street Journal survey found that Zillow is only accurate within 7.8% of the actual sales price. And when Zillow is off, it can be way off, by 25% on one in ten homes.
Zillow tends to work best for midrange homes in areas where there are a lot of comparable houses. However, it can be less accurate for low and high-end homes. There are often fewer of these, and less data can be available to show comparable sales or "comps". Values of rural homes are hard to determine for the same reason. By it's own calculations, Zillow says it can only provide estimates on about 57% of all homes.

Even where there are many "comps," computer programs like Zillow's can stumble when vital information is missing. Data may not show that a house has just been remodeled, sold through a relocation company, or gone into foreclosure. Reported prices can be misleading, too. Sometimes sellers offer incentives to buyers, such as help with closing costs, that aren't reflected in the recorded price.

Also keep in mind that the numbers you are seeing are consistently six to eight months behind the current market. In a market that is changing as quickly as our own, those numbers become quickly inaccurate as new homes come on the market and sell.

Zillow can be a good starting point to getting a larger picture of the value of your home. It can also be useful for getting an idea of how a neighborhood might have changed over the course of a few years.

If you are looking to sell and are interested in finding out how much your home is worth on today's market, based on “comps” in your area, we can provide a free market analysis of your home. Call us at 810-229-7000 or visit http://www.buckleyjolley.com/home_value.html for more information.

Green Oak Village Place Boo! Festival

Head on over to Green Oak Village Place on Friday, October, 26th for their Boo! Festival beginning at 5 pm. The event is free to the public, and will feature Trick or Treating at the stores, pumpkin painting, games, prizes and refreshments at participating merchants. Call 810-225-0337 or visit http://www.shopsatgreenoak.com/events.php for more details.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

New Listing: 7754 Hammel

7754 Hammel Road
Brighton, MI 48116

Six bedrooms, two and a half baths
2218 square feet with an additional
420 on the lower level

Beautiful house, in a beautiful setting. You'll love the cathedral ceilings in this home, the open floor plan, the wood and tile floors, and large two and a half car garage. Great upstairs Bonus Room with so many possibilities. Three finished bedrooms in daylight basement and plumbed for bath.

One-of-a-kind location within walking distance to Huron Meadows Metropark. Enjoy all the recreation activities this park has to offer!












If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Is Now a Good Time To Invest in Michigan?

It seems everywhere you turn in the media, we are faced with yet another reason Michigan’s economy is suffering. Automakers are laying off workers. Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer is closing up shop in Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo. The state ranks among the top three in the country for home foreclosures and mortgage delinquencies.

Despite all that, Michigan still has much to offer in the positive. The unemployment rate is the best it has been in two years. Google has moved into Ann Arbor, bringing along 1,000 jobs in the next five years. Strides are being made in the economic development of our state in the alternative energy, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing fields. And most importantly, those of us who live and vacation here know that our state has a natural beauty and history that can’t be beat.

But what does that mean to you? Should you be putting your money in our state? Is now the time to buy?

There are great opportunities for buyers being offered in today's market. If you are a first time homebuyer or looking to move up this is a great time for you. Buyers are definitely in the driver's seat. With so much to choose from sellers are offering lower prices and incentives.

As with any other commodity it is natural for investors to flood the market when they believe it is at its bottom. If you are thinking purchasing a home in the next couple of years, consider moving your timeline up a little bit to take advantage of the current market. You may not get as much for your current domicile, but if you’re moving up, you will more than make up that difference on your purchase.

Not only have homes become more affordable with prices correcting themselves but, with historic low interest rates, buying a home in Michigan is now more affordable than ever. Inventory of homes is at an all-time high, so there are more homes to choose from also.

In terms of investment properties, numerous clubs and networks are forming around our state to take advantage on what they see as low prices and good opportunities. With prices at a low, some investors are buying and rehabbing property to hold for long-term appreciation and cash flow.

That second vacation home or lake home you have been saving for may not be as far out of reach as it was in the past. The Grand Rapids Press reported not long ago that “Vacation Homes are Growing Market”. Despite the number of vacation homes for sale increasing, there are definitely buyers out there still seeking their dream.

Money Magazine recently published their list of top real estate markets for 2007 in terms of expected home price increase. The magazine pinpoints two Michigan metropolitan areas, Grand Rapids (expected 2008 increase of 2.6%) and the Troy-Farmington Hills area (.6% increase expected) for their anticipated growth.

We still believe that Michigan is a great place to live, and despite some of the negative forecasting, there are still many good reasons to put your money into real estate here.

New Listing: 7851 Pamalane

7851 Pamalane Court
Brighton, MI 48116

Three bedrooms; three and a half baths
2200 square feet with an additional
400 on the lower level

Beautiful one and a half story Cape Cod with an amazing Great Room at the rear of the home. This 25 x 20 focal point boasts cathedral ceilings, and two fireplaces- one with a stone surround. Other features include a heated garage, partially finished lower level with third full bath. This home has zoned heating for energy efficiency. A great neighborhood only three minutes from expressways.












If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

New Listing: 1400 Four Seasons

1400 Four Seasons Drive
Hartland, MI 48843


Four Bedrooms; two and a half baths
2750 square feet with an additional
900 in the lower level

Beautiful two story with a newly finished lower level. You will be bowled ver by this immaculate home with wood floors, two-way staircase, 9' ceilings on the first floor, walk-in pantry, huge Family room with fireplace, and custom patio with walkway. The finished lower level is a great space with theater area, play area, and room for crafts. You'll love the huge Master Suite with walk-in closet and sitting area. Close proximity to everything.












If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Monday, October 15, 2007

Preparing Your Yard For Winter

With the arrival of fall and cooler weather, now is the time to keep your yard and garden protected through the dormant months. Prepare your shrubs, trees and grass now will help to ensure a healthy return in the spring, as well as a neat, well tended yard through winter.


Lawn
Although grass appears to stop growing in the fall, the roots are growing deeper to prepare for winter. Now is the best time to fertilize and reseed your lawn. Feeding the lawn early in autumn will give the roots a boost before winter arrives. A second feeding in late October will keep it winterized and strong through the freezing weather. Sod If your lawn has some bare patches, early autumn is a perfect time to sod or reseed.

Pruning
Pruning is very important to encourage healthy growth in spring. Most pruning should be done after the leaves turn, indicating that the plant is dormant. A good rule of thumb is to prune spring blooming shrubs immediately after flowering and to prune summer blooming shrubs in the dormant season. Pruning late in the growing season will encourage new growth that will be damaged by frost. When pruning, use caution to make a good cut at a slight angle about 1/4 inch from the branch. Some shrubs need to be wrapped with burlap to protect them from frost. If you have experienced frost damage in the past, make sure to protect these plants before the temperature dips down. Spread a layer of mulch around the base of plants to provide insulation for the winter. Wait until spring to fertilize shrubs and trees.

Trees
Trees need special care like all the plants in your yard. It is important to keep tree limbs away from power lines and away from the roof of your house. Branches can easily pull down gutters or cause other costly damage if they are hanging over your house. Typically, pruning should be done in early autumn or late spring.

Landscaping
Walkways and patios can take a beating in cold weather. Shifts in temperature and humidity can cause concrete and brick to heave and settle unevenly. Keeping them free of water build up and debris will reduce the chances of winter damage. If you noticed water or ice accumulation last winter, take steps now to provide proper drainage. This can be as simple as adding a small gravel drainage channel next to a walkway, or fixing a gutter that drips onto steps.

Pools and Spas
Having a professional pool cleaning company winterize your pool is essential. Drain the water and cover the pool to keep out leaves and animals. Hot tubs and spas will be a welcome treat in the cool weather. Make sure the heater and pump are functioning properly. Water could freeze in the pump, pipes or hot tub itself, causing irreparable damage.

Livingston County Hazardous Waste Collection

The Livingston County Solid Waste Department will be holding household hazardous waste collections at their center located in the Livingston County West Complex on Highlander Way in Howell (located next to the Livingston County Animal Shelter) this Saturday. Appointments are necessary and proof of county residency, by tax receipt or voters registration card, is required.

Please call 517.545.9609 to schedule an appointment for drop off.

Also, visit www.co.livingston.mi.us/SolidWaste/householdHazardousWaste.htm for a list of acceptable materials.

New Listing: 2392 Chestnut Bend

2392 Chestnut Bend
Howell, MI 48855

Three Bedrooms, Two Baths
1452 Square Feet, with an additional 1200
in the finished walk-out basement

Here is your beautiful ranch in move-in condition, with a newly finished walk-out lower level! This home has tremendous value in it's great upgrades and decor. You'll love the wood floors, covered front porch, and the huge deck with access from both the nook and master bedroom. Outside relax and entertain on the lower level paver patio. Just two minutes from downtown Howell restaurants, shopping and more













If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Livingston County Fall Fun

Here is a peek at some of the great Fall activites you can participate in this month around Livingston County.



Farms
Chambers Farm: 6820 Farley Road, Pinckney, MI Pumpkin Patch, Petting Zoo, and baked goods, mums and corn stalks available for purchase.

Corn Mazes
Grand River Corn Maze: Near Grand River and Owosso Rds. 5-11 pm Fridays, 1-11 pm Saturdays, and 1 - 7 pm Sundays. Admission: $6, free for kids ages 4 and under.

Spicer Orchards Corn Maze: Just east of Clyde Road and US 23 in Hartland Township. Daily from 9 am- 6 pm. $5 per person; free for ages 4 and under.

Haunted Houses
Terrorfied Forest and Manor: On Swarthout Rd in Putnam Township. Sunset to midnight Fridays and Saturdays through the month, additional days as Halloween gets closer. $15 for Terrified Forest, $7 for Terrorfied Manor; combo ticket for $20.

Slaughterhouse Haunted Adventure: Near Grand River Avenue and Owosso Rds. Starts at Dusk Fridays & Saturdays in Octobers.

Cider Mills
Spicer Orchards: 101411 Clyde Road, Hartland Township. 9 am - 7pm daily.

Historic Parshallville Cider Mill: 8507 Parshallville Road, Parshallville. 9 am to 6 pm weekdays and 8 am to 6 pm weekends.
Graingers Orchard and Cider Mill: 2588 Pinckney Road in Marion Township. 10 am to 5 pm Mondays - Saturdays, and 11 am to 5 pm Sundays.

New Listing: 1135 Curzon Court # 204

1135 Curzon Court #2004

Howell, MI 48843

Two bedrooms, two baths
1100 square feet

Beautifully decorated second floor ranch unlike any of the competition! You will be blown away by the custom colors and decor. Enjoy the sunny enclosed porch, gas fireplace, and large master suite. Other features include a large laundry/pantry area, vaulted ceilings, and a formal dining/office area. Includes a one car garage with storage loft. Walk to downtown for dining, shopping, & entertainment. Near schools, hospitals and freeways.











If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

2007 Profile of Buyers Home Feature Preferences

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has released its 2007 Profile of Buyers Home Feature Preferences. The survey measures national trends in buyer preferences.

Here are a few highlights, or click on the photo above to read the full report.

* When searching for a home, the most desired features were central air conditioning, an over-sized garage, a walk-in closet, and a backyard or play area.

* The typical home purchased during the survey was 12 years old, 1,840 square feet in size, and had three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

* Over 90 percent of recent home buyers thught energy effciency was an important consideration when searching for a home to purchase.

Client Testimonials

After completing a transaction with our clients, we always request they complete a "Client Satisfaction Survey" so that we can learn a little bit about how they feel about the service we provided. We value the insights from our past customers, and are glad to share a few we have received in last month with you here.

"You all went above and beyond my expectations...I have sung your praises before my home was even sold... All of you were just so pleasant and polite anytime I called. Each of you did your part during the entire process... I'm suffering with "withdrawals". I so miss talking with Tricia, Sara, Emily- all of you. I'm just going to call you up soon to say "Hello". You all were just so special and you never made me feel I was in "pain" but just the opposite." -Mrs. T. Nicholas (San Marino seller)

"You delivered more than you promised... You covered every detail with professional knowledge. You were prompt in returning calls... I have told all our friends about how well you helped me... Thanks for all you have done and use of the truck!!" - S. and E. Seizert

Foreclosure Relief Bill

You may have read in the papers that Livingston County foreclosures are at an all time high. Short sales are also on the rise.

A short sale means a homeowner sells his/her house for less than what is owed. If the seller can prove hardship with no way of bringing the balance owed to the closing table, the bank will waive the deficiency and the seller walks away with bruised credit. For more information on Short Sales, read our blog post "What Is A Short Sale"

A homeowner is required to pay taxes on this “forgiven” debt. The Foreclosure Relief Bill will eliminate this requirement.

The legislation, passed by a 386-27 House vote, would give a tax break to homeowners who have mortgage debt forgiven as part of a foreclosure or renegotiation of a loan. No taxes would be owed on the value of any debt forgiven or written off. Currently, such debt forgiveness is taxable income.

The next step for the bill is Congress. Stay posted.

Friday, October 5, 2007

New Listing: 533 W. Main Street

533 W. Main Street
Brighton, MI 48116

One bedroom, one and a half baths
1460 square feet

You can't get closer to downtown than this. Live/Work unit at an unbelievable price! Perfect for a small business with main level commercial space and second level loft. Extensive updating in '05 includes wood floors and light fixtures on loft level. Street level has large open area, half bath and a one car garage. Huge master with walk-in closet. Subject to bank approval of short sale.









If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Thursday, October 4, 2007

New Listing: 9771 Oak Grove

9771 Oak Grove Road
Howell, MI 48855

Three bedrooms, two baths
1328 square feet, and additional 1300 on the lower level

Nestled within the mature pine and fruit trees on 9.5 acres, is this brick ranch home. Enjoy the view from one of two three-season porches. Large country kitchen, beautiful wood floors in the bedroom, and a second small kitchen in the finished basement with wood stove. Detached two-car brick garage. All appliances and the John Deere tractor included. Dining room could be third bedroom. Great opportunity, great price!

If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

23rd Annual Pumpkinfest in South Lyon This Weekend

The 23rd annual Pumpkinfest returns to South Lyon this Friday, October 5th and runs through Sunday, October 7th. There will movies in the park Friday night at 5:30pm, a Pumpkinfest Run on Saturday followed by the parade and tons of other great activities. For more information visit http://www.southlyonpumpkinfest.com/

New Listing: 433 Haze

433 Haze
Pinckney, MI 48169

Three bedrooms, one bath
1000 square feet

We are excited to offer this great affordable home in the Village of Pinckney. This ranch would be perfect for a starter or retiring home. Situated right at the end of a quiet street, this makes for an ideal location. Low heating and cooling costs, all appliances included, new laminate flooring, new light fixtures, updated AC & softener. End of street accesses Lakeland Trail. Easy access to Ann Arbor, Lansing and expressways.



















If you are interested in previewing this home or any of our other exceptional listings, call us today at 810.229.7000. We'd be happy to provide you with more information.