K.M. Minemier & Associates is a certified Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) engaged in full service real estate asset management and marketing.

HUD Articles

Real Estate Practices Changing For the Better in July – If NAR Settlement Is Approved By Courts

June 16, 2024

In March, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) announced it had entered into a settlement agreement with class action plaintiffs in what is known as the Sitzer Burnett case, pending approval by the court. The basis of the suit is rooted in the most common way in which residential real estate is transacted in the country, which is sellers ...

Read The Full Article


Dream of Homeownership

June 16, 2024

The dream of homeownership can often feel out of reach for many families. The biggest obstacle? The down payment.  Think about how often you still hear the media talk about “20% down”.  There are so many misconceptions about accessibility to an affordable mortgage.  Numerous options are availalbe to buyers to buy a home they want!...

Read The Full Article


Fed holds rates steady, indicates only one cut coming this year

June 16, 2024

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday kept its key interest rate unchanged and signaled that just one cut is expected before the end of the year.The Federal Open Market Committee also indicated that it believes the long-run interest rate is higher than previously indicated.“In recent months, there has been modest further progress toward the Committee’s 2 ...

Read The Full Article


Don't Get Duped! How to Avoid the Latest Real Estate Scams

June 15, 2024

The housing market is hot, and unfortunately, so are scam artists looking to take advantage of eager renters and buyers. Here's a rundown of the latest tricks to watch out for, so you can steer clear of trouble and find your dream home (or renter) the safe way.Rental Reds: When "Great Deals" Turn into Big HeadachesFake ...

Read The Full Article


Jackson adds 6 news lots for use by ‘100 Homes’ housing initiative

June 15, 2024

Updated: May. 30, 2024, 8:55 a.m.|Published: May. 30, 2024, 8:55 a.m.By   Mitchell KukulkaJACKSON, MI - A program aimed at providing new homes for low- and middle-income families in Jackson just got more real estate to work with.Jackson City Council members unanimously approved a resolution to exercise the city’s right of first refusal ...

Read The Full Article


Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

June 14, 2024

Here are some helpful items that are often overlooked during home maintenance.Switch your ceiling fan blade direction to counterclockwise.When trying to cool spaces down the blade spinning counterclockwise will help cool the air by providing a downdraft.Clean refrigerator coilsThe coils tend to collect dust & pet hair.  Cleaning them will help your fridge run more ...

Read The Full Article


First-time homebuyers in Michigan have a new tool to help realize the dream of homeownership! Open a First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account today.

June 14, 2024

First-time homebuyers in Michigan have a new tool to help realize the dream of homeownership! Open a First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account today.Michiganders can now save for the first purchase of a home through a new dedicated savings vehicle! The Michigan First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account (“FHSA”) Program allows account holders to deduct most, if not all, of ...

Read The Full Article


Successfully Buying HUD Homes

June 14, 2024

There are currently 36 HUD Homes for sale in Michigan as of today.  This inventory has something for everyone! From small 2 bedroom ranch style homes to spacious colonial and/or a great condo! All with affordable price ranges and great locations!Buying a HUD Home can be a stressful experience if you do not know what to expect....

Read The Full Article


Woodstock Farmer’s Market

June 13, 2024

Located in Woodstock, Illinois.Open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from May through October, and Saturdays from November through April.Offers a variety of produce, hand-spun yarn, desserts, and seedlings for your garden.Named the #1 farmers market in Illinois by the American Farmland Trust and #1 in McHenry County by the Best of the Fox1.Pearl Street Market:Located in ...

Read The Full Article


Summertime Home Selling Tips

June 12, 2024

Summertime Home Selling Tips:1) Keep Lawn mowed and manicured.2) Have your bushes and landscaping trimmed.3) Add fresh mulch to landcaping beds.4) Decorate with summertime flowers.5) Remove cobwebs and powerwash exterior.6) Replace any burnt out light bulbs.7) Put away Trash cans, toys and outside debris so out of sight....

Read The Full Article


Mortgage Rates Seesaw Below 7% Once Again

June 10, 2024

June 7, 2024                                                        By: Melissa TraceyFreddie Mac says rates could decline modestly throughout the remainder of the year.Borrowing costs are on the decline again, with mortgage rates falling slightly this week ...

Read The Full Article


Maximize Your Chances to Sell!

June 10, 2024

When it comes to selling your home, there are various factors that can significantly impact your chances of attracting potential buyers. Making small repairs and improvements can go a long way in increasing your home's appeal, especially if you are targeting FHA buyers. In this blog, we will discuss a few key aspects that sellers should consider to ...

Read The Full Article


4-Step Guide to Replacing an HVAC Air Filter

June 09, 2024

Is your home not heating or cooling as it used to? You may need to install a new HVAC filter. HVAC filters play a crucial role in the efficiency and longevity of your heating and air conditioning system and in improving your home’s air quality. Regular replacements can significantly benefit your family’s comfort, health, and energy bill....

Read The Full Article


7 Principles for Homebuying Success

June 07, 2024

Following these 7 principles will improve the homebuying experience. 1. Accept that no house is ever perfect.The yard may be smaller than you had hoped. The kitchen may be imperfect. The roof may need repair. But if the home is in the right location and fulfills your shelter needs, don't immediately discount it. Make a list ...

Read The Full Article


"Zombie" Foreclosures Shrink in Second Quarter

June 07, 2024

‘Zombie’ Foreclosures Shrink in Second QuarterForeclosure activity is down nearly 25% YOY,following a surge that hit after a nationwide Covid moratorium on lenders pursuing delinquent homeowners.Learn How Fair Housing Impacts EveryoneLearn more about fair housing at the Be the Change - Fair Housing and You education session featuring Neil Bridgers on Wednesday, Aug, 21.Participants also ...

Read The Full Article


5 WAYS To conserve Water at Home

June 06, 2024

Do you really know how much water you use? Your water footprint may reveal some surprises. Save the environment and your wallet with these five home improvement projects and lifestyle modifications to reduce water usage in your household.Repair Leaks PromptlyAccording to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), leaky faucets and pipes in the average household can result in a ...

Read The Full Article


The Emotional Benefits of Homeownership: Beyond the Brick and Mortar

June 04, 2024

Owning a home transcends mere property ownership; it encapsulates a profound sense of satisfaction, stability, community, and the liberty to craft one's sanctuary. Beyond the financial investment, homeownership offers a plethora of emotional rewards that enrich lives and foster personal well-being.(1)  Satisfaction:There's an unparalleled sense of accomplishment in owning a home. It's more than just ...

Read The Full Article


Better weather brings more buyers

June 04, 2024

Spring and summer usually brings more buyers into the market.  School is out, and maybe schools will be switched.Families want to settle in to their new home and get adjusted before the start of school.  also, lets be honest, who wants to look at houses during a blizzard or ice storm?  The days are longer ...

Read The Full Article


Ask Richard Stewart: Can you Secure a Mortgage After Foreclosure?

June 02, 2024

...

Read The Full Article


SELLER TIP

May 29, 2024

The current market is still a Seller's market with low inventory.  Do you want to be a head of those competing listings?  Consider having a Home Inspection prior to listing.  This way you can repair anything that is noted, save time negotiating what the Buyer thinks is wrong with your home, and give the Buyer ...

Read The Full Article


### The Impact of Staging vs. Not Staging in Real Estate: A Comparative Analysis

May 28, 2024

 ### The Impact of Staging vs. Not Staging in Real Estate: A Comparative AnalysisWhen it comes to selling a home, first impressions are paramount. This is where the art of staging comes into play. Staging is the process of strategically arranging furniture and decor to highlight a home's best features, making it more appealing to potential buyers. ...

Read The Full Article


HUD Counter-Offers ~ an explanation

May 28, 2024

This note will clarify, HUD’s “counter offer” to a bid.  In this process, HUD informs you of the “net” required and give you a chance (but not an exclusive one) to make a new offer along with any other bidders.  This is not the same as traditional real estate, as HUD is accepting other ...

Read The Full Article


I have a friend in real estate

May 26, 2024

...

Read The Full Article


Current MI Mortgage Rates

May 23, 2024

Current Mortgage RatesThe average APR for the benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 7.46% today from 7.44% yesterday. Last week, the 30-year fixed APR was 7.37%. Meanwhile, the average APR on a 15-year fixed mortgage sits at 6.76%. At this same time last week, the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage APR was at 6.57%. And the ...

Read The Full Article


VACANT PROPERTY TIPS FOR SUMMER!

May 22, 2024

Summer is upon us in Michigan! Here are some tips for maintaining vacant properties during the summer months...-Keep the lawn manicured for curb appeal and to avoid fines from the city or township-BUZZZZ Watch for bees nests near entry points to keep buyers and agents safe- Run a dehumidifier in homes without Air Conditioning to avoid mold and ...

Read The Full Article





top