First time buyers and others who have not owned a primary residence in the past three years are being offered a tax credit of $7500 on thir tax return. A lot of misunderstanding surrounds this tax credit. This credit is actually a loan from the government that must be paid back in annual payments. Before taking advantage of this credit, buyers need to understand the complete picture by talking with a CPA or tax adviser. A fact sheet is available from the National Associaton of Realtors that explains the basics of this tax credit including the income limitations. For a copy of this fact sheet, email us at info@ChetandBethSmith.com and put the words "Tax Credit Fact Sheet" in your email.

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As of July 31, homes sales in the Greater Greenville MLS showed a decline of 15.8% over the same period in 2008. New home sales declined by 14% and resales by 16%. On the flip side, resale home prices appear to be stable while new construction shows a slight decline in pricing. Now, more than ever, Sellers need an aggressive agent who will be creative and spend the necessary marketing dollars to make their home stand out in the crowd. With over 7,000 homes on the market, Buyers have a lot to choose from. It is not unusual for Buyers to look around awhile before making a final decision. However,homes that are in good condition and priced according to the market are still selling quickly and for top dollar!

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The market continues to hold its own in Greenville compared to areas like Atlanta where home sales are down 50% over the prior year's sales. What keeps the Grenville home market so stable? Because Greenville never experienced the "Big Boom" and quick escalation in prices, we have been spared the "Big Bust". We have a strong economy with lots of opportunity and the prospect of new jobs with alternative energy exploration on the front burner. Companies like Flour, GE and BMA continue to expand. The only thing slowing the Greenville Real Estate market is the inability of those wishing to move to Greenville to sell their homes in declining markets they are leaving behind. It's a great time for investors to purchase rental properties in good school districts since some of these folks may choose to rent until their homes sell.

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One of the toughest things about selling a home is getting the home ready to sell. We are fortunate here in Greenville, SC to have some savvy home stagers as well as other services that can make this job of preparing your home for sale easier. We can offer suggestions and discounts for some of these services so be sure to send us an email or call our office at 864 458-SOLD (7653). One of my favorite services is 1-800 Got Junk. They will haul away your old unwanted items for a nominal fee.They will also haul off yard debris and construction or renovation debris. We have a limited number of $10.00 discount coupons available for this service, first come first serve.

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Greenville is soon to be added to the list of cities on the Google Street View application. The search will feature 360 degree still photo images taken from the roof of a car. Greenville is one of only two cities in South Carolina to be added to the Street View coverage. Faces and licensed plates are blurred on the view but, otherwise, you get a fell for what driving down a street in Greenville would be like. THere have been mixed reviews of this service. Some feel it is too invasive but it is great for relocating buyers who are trying to get a taste of what the area is like before coming to visit. Of course Greenville is so special, it would be hard to capture it all even on street view.

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Welcome to our blog regarding real estate and interesting happenings that affect the housing market in Greenville and Upstate South Carolina.

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While the national real estate market may lag, the real estate market here in Greenville remains strong. Newcomers to the area will find a good selection of new homes and resale homes in inventory but home prices are not declining and multiple offers are still being received on homes that are priced to sell and in good condition. There are some attractive incentives from builders on new homes that can close within thirty days. Now is a great time to take advantage of these savings on new homes.

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