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NEW Episode DETAILS DEEP CREEK 3-26-10

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HOUSING AFFORDABILITY INDEX

You have no doubt seen or heard the press mention that the ‘Affordability’ index is at or near record levels.  The NAR’s Housing Affordability Index (HAI) rose to the range of 160-170 this year, setting record high levels.  

Housing Affordability – Whichever Index You Look at, The Value Story is Great for Buyers

      First, there are actually several indexes out there from various sources.  For example, the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) has one they call the Housing Opportunity Index or HOI and the NAR (National Association of Realtors) publishes the Housing Affordability Index or HAI.

      While both indicate we are at or near record levels, I want to focus on the NAR index as the topic of today’s note.  There are ‘hot links’ to both above in case you want to access the actual reports.

The NAR Housing Affordability Index – What is It?

      Essentially, the index is a measure of the financial ability of U.S. families to buy a house.

      In the simplest terms, an index value of 100 means that a family with the median income has exactly enough income to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home. 

      An index above 100 signifies that a family earning the median income has more than enough income to qualify for a mortgage loan on a median-priced home, assuming a 20 percent down payment.

The NAR Housing Affordability Index – Trending Higher

      The current index at the end of 2009 stood at 171.6 and you can see below that is 56 points above where it was at the end of 2007!

      What this shows is that the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income is very favorable right now. 

      The NAR has said that it is the most favorable since tracking began in 1970!

The Impact of Mortgage Rates

      While pricing is obviously important, mortgage rates drive a significant piece of the affordability puzzle.  The chart below shows the context of today’s low rates – It really tells a story and spells out the opportunity presented in the current market.

      It’s important to keep in mind that for every increase of 100 basis points (or 1% in rate); the monthly payment goes up about $63 per month for each $100,000 borrowed.  Over the life of a 30-year loan, that can add up quickly - to $22,680 for each $100k borrowed.  

Fishing Hunting License By Phone

SATURDAY IS FIRST DAY OF TROUT SEASON

Now you can purchase your fishing/hunting license by phone: 1-800-918-2870
Receive a confirmation number that will allow them to fish that day. There is a $5.00 service charge added to the cost of the license.

If you get checked by the NRP (Natural Resources Police) all you will have to do is give the Officer the Confirmation #. Or visit the website:  http://www.dnr.state.md.us/service/license.asp

EGG DYEING AT DEEP CREEK DISCOVERY CENTER

Natural Egg Dyeing at Discovery Center will be held April 3, 2010 from the hours of 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Just drop by during these hours to participate. Just remember to bring no more than 6 eggs, previously hard boiled. It also helps to wipe the eggs with vinegar. There will also be photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny.

For more information contact the Discovery Center at 301-387-7067 or visit www.discoverycenterdcl.com.

SPRING JUST ADD EQUAL PARTS DAY + NIGHT

VERNAL EQUINOX       BALANCE YOUR EGGS

I love life and playing here in Garrett County, (Some say to much) It is the first day of SPRING. Folklore has it you can balance an egg on end on the first day of spring.

It CAN be done ( any day of the year really but more fun on the equinox) This is done with an example of a Garrett County Farm Fresh Organic Egg from my neighborhood kids chicken shop. If you have never had a farm fresh egg GET ONE. Not only is the quality exceptional it supports local agriculture and does the world good. If you would like to own your very own egg farm check out my website WWW.SELLINGDEEPCREEK.COM

Cardboard Box Derby / Beachin Weekend WISP Resort Success

I had a great time at the box derby this year seeing many old friends. Even though entries were down there were some great uses of cardboard. check out the video.

Garrett County Maple Syrup Season Nearly Over

HOW DO THEY MAKE MAPLE SYRUP?

It brought back many memories to play at the old sugar camp. This is yet one more of the MANY treasures to be discovered in Garrett County. For more information on Garrett County Property check out.

WWW.SELLINGDEEPCREEK.COM

Area Mat Men "Slam Dunk" at State Championship

 Garrett County Wrestlers Trump Competition

     Of the 8 wrestlers that went to the State Championships at Cole Field House 8 placed and 5 won championships. Quite an achievement for our County. Lex Ozias, Davey Stewart, and the Scheffel brothers Bubba and Brutus for Southern. Adam Moranduzzo for my Alma Mater Northern High. Yet another example of the all around excellence of our school system. If you are interested in a home in our school districts check out my website.

WWW.SELLINGDEEPCREEK.COM

SAVE THE LIBRARIES

THIS JUST IN... ACT NOW

 I just came across this and strongly believe that Garrett County Libraries are crucial to the everyone. Please take a moment and do your part to let your voice be heard. The dog has nothing to do with this but my BLOG research shows people like pictures.

To take action, please take the following steps:
1.  Please go to http://capwiz.com/ala/ or click on the “Take Action!” button in the upper right hand corner of this e-mail.
2.  Customize the sample letter as you see fit – remember, a personal story on how your library uses LSTA and ILTSL funding to benefit their constituents is VERY effective.
3.  Enter your contact information.
4.  Press Send.
5.  If you would prefer to telephone your representative’s office, please call the Capitol switchboard at 202.224.3121 and ask for your representative.  The switchboard will transfer you to their office.  If you need to locate your members of Congress, go to http://capwiz.com/ala/.

Garrett County Flooding? Grab Your Paddle & Helmet Cam

Helmet Cam Float Trip Down Casselman 3-12-10

WHY DO I PAY A FLUSH TAX?

www.sellingdeepcreek.com

NEW Episode DETAILS DEEP CREEK

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NO Snowboarding at WISP

WHEN I WAS A BOY WE WALKED THROUGH WAIST DEEP SNOW TO RIDE OUR BOARDS

Get on board Get Google Ultra Fiber for Garrett County

Garrett Google Fiber Network

Google is looking for guinea pigs and we should be jumping at the chance.

For More Info Click Here

Deep Creek Lake Snowmobile Races

The skies were clear and 35 degrees felt like 50. The snowmobile's  drivers, and fans were out in force. Parking was at a premium as attendance was much larger than expected. The State Police were not happy about the number of cars along Sand Flat Rd. One food vendor was out of hamburgers one out of buns? But if you were there for the racing it was fast and furious. I didn't count the sleds but there were many. I could only stay for the kids and vintage but they were great as the smell of fuel wafted in the breeze. Stay tuned to this BLOG for future sled racing updates.

Planning & Zoning Meeting Held

Garrett County Planning & Zoning Meeting

It was advertised and has the potential to impact everyone with a real estate interest in Garrett County. Less than 30 people were in attendance at the latest public forum. I saw only one other REALTOR. The comments were all favorable with a few minor suggestions. You can view the entire revisions to the ordinances by clicking.

CLICK FOR REVISIONS 

Below is a clip of what you missed.

Of course please visit my site WWW.SELLINGDEEPCREEK.COM
or contact me directly to speak about any issues regarding Garret County/Deep Creek Lake Real Estate

SPRING PANIC 2010 FLOODS, WATER LEVELS, DISASTER DU JOUR

   Spring is coming and with it the next round of news media produced hysteria. The wave of worry and panic is spreading faster then the supposed H1N1 Epidemic over FLOODAGEDDON 2010. I know I am going to do what I can to get ready.... Paddle equipment ready. Rather than spur this madness I encourage you to enjoy the gifts of spring and the bountiful waterways. There should be no complaining about water tables this year. Here are some links to resources concerning our waterways.

 CLICK HEADING TO VISIT SITE

Deep Creek Hydro        

Deep Creek Hydro Whitewater Report

American Whitewater River Database      

DNR Fish Stocking Schedule


Stay tuned for my spin on the spin. I heard that it was going to be the springiest spring in history.
 

NEW Episode DETAILS DEEP CREEK

Snow Shovels.... Time to buy

SNOW SHOVEL FOR SALE

  

This was the sight from my front door Saturday morning, Door Knob Deep. The shovel is at the bottom of the stairs, (BAD Idea) believe it or not, there is a huge red barn out there. I love that shovel I use a grain scoop for maximum throw. It was my Great Grandfathers so pushing 50-60 years old. 

Spring will soon be here and sales on shovels upon us. If replacing yours or stocking up for next year. Choose the one that is right for you. Metal is heavy and snow sticks. Although a spritz of cooking spray helps. It bends but does not break and usually has a better handle. Plastic is plastic but does a decent job. Whatever you decide Lift with the legs.

If you need help finding or selling your snow paradise feel free to contact me or check out my website 

WWW.SELLINGDEEPCREEK.COM