Towns County Farmers Market Needs Produce!!!! Opening June 15th!!!

This came today in my email from
Towns County Chamber of Commerce janeholland@brmemc.net



As the Towns County Farmers Market enters its second year, it is extending its outreach to small family gardens along with the larger farms to bring locally grown produce to its weekly market. Many small gardens end up with more produce than they can manage, and this is the perfect place to sell the extra "garden goodies" and be a part of a growing enterprise. Local Farmers Markets are sought after in our area by the huge influx of summer visitors, as well as residents who do not have gardens. The Towns Market provides an additional option for growers who are already selling at our established area markets, and have an abundance of produce to sell. The big sellers last year were early lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and a variety of other vegetables. This year, plant more than you need, and let your teenager make extra cash and learn skills of salesmanship and customer service; or bring it yourself and enjoy the beautiful setting next to the public beach on Lake Chatuge, across from the Fairgrounds. Anticipated opening date for the market is June 15, 2013 and it will remain open through the fall; actual hours of operation will be announced by May. There is NO FEE to participate in the market; the only requirement is that your produce be locally grown.

The Market is operated under the sponsorship of the Towns County Extension Office of the University of Georgia. For more information call 706.896.2024.

Blairsville Cinema Goes 3D!!!

Not only do they have the best popcorn and pretzels, but now they have movies in 3D! We saw Jack the Giant Slayer and it was spectacular. I don't know that we would have loved the movie as much if it wasn't in 3D, doesn't matter now - we're addicted and we can't wait to see The Wizard of Oz in 3D!!!

Blairsville Cinema
38 Backyard Lane, Blairsville, GA - (706) 745-1000
It's located on Hwy 515 next to the bowling alley and across the street from Aspen Fireplaces and Durfee Custom Cabinets http://durfeecustomcabinets.com/

Buyers or Sellers on the fence? Interest Rates ARE Going to Go Up!!!

I think we're good until the end of the year - 4.4% is still a very good rate. But, I think by Spring 2014 we will have another giant leap in rates. If you have cash to purchase a home, you may think you're in a good position and you would be, but is it not better to finance at a low rate and then keep your money in the bank when the rates go up? Just a thought. For Sellers, it's time to make a deal work and not hold on for a few more bucks, because the interest rate going up means prices going down for you...

Sun is shining again after the snow yesterday! And the deer are grazing!

Of course the shady spots still have the snow! I love the woods in the winter with the ground cover of snow! It's so easy to see into the woods - it lights them up! The snow has melted in the open, sunny areas. The deer came through the woods, to the corn, across the creek and out into the field. There are 13 of them - it makes my day to see them! I hope it makes yours, too!

FHA: More Expensive - PMI info you need to know about!!!

FHA: More Expensive Than Expected
by PAT ZABY on FEBRUARY 19, 2013

We are happy to post this great information from our good friend Pat Zaby’s InTouch program which is an automatic contact system creating top of mind awareness through personalized email and social networking. - The KCM Crew

The 3.5% down payment on FHA loans could be more expensive for buyers than expected. Beginning April 1, 2013, the mortgage insurance premium will go up by .1% to 1.35% which may not even be noticeable to most would-be homeowners.

The staggering increase will occur on 6/3/2013 when FHA’s policy on the duration of the required mortgage insurance will be increased for the life of the mortgage. It basically doubles the amount of total MIP if the loan is paid to term.

Below is an example with a purchase price of $175,000 with 3.5% down payment at 4% mortgage rate on 30 year term.

(Regarding the current MIP duration: When the unpaid balance reaches 78% LTV of original purchase, the MIP can be released. In any event though, the minimum time must be five years.)

Currently, the MIP is required for approximately 9 years 9 months with normal amortization. The new program would require the MIP for the life of the loan. In this example, the initial monthly MIP is $196.88 which decreases based on amortization.

There are buyers that qualify on income and credit who may not have the necessary additional down payment required for 80% and 90% conventional loans. The 3.5% FHA program has provided a great vehicle to get into a home with a minimum amount of cash.

For homeowners that expect to stay in their home for ten years or less, the new changes might not have much financial impact. Homeowners who expect to be in their home long term can refinance with a conventional loan without mortgage insurance once the equity has increased due to amortization and appreciation.

For buyers to avoid these increases, they will need to act now to get the FHA commitment issued prior to these change dates.

Original blog...

http://www.kcmblog.com/2013/02/19/fha-more-expensive-than-expected/

Deal of the Week in Blairsville, GA!

http://www.coldwellbanker.com/property?propertyId=277220553&mode=detail&brandType=CB



Only $119,900 for Two homes, paved driveway and parking! One level 2BR/1BA home with great fireplace and a guest house right behind it - two levels, living on the main and big bedroom on 2nd floor with balcony. Wooded lot.

Snow Today in Hiawassee Young Harris Blairsville GA!!!

And they said no snow! It's gorgeous and it has warmed up!!!
I LOVE FOUR MILD SEASONS!!!
Light, fluffy snow - time to make a snowman!
I would love to get out and take shots of my listings in the snow!!!