• 15-year mortgage rates: averaged 4.68 percent, down from last week's 4.81 percent. Last year at this time: 5.64 percent.
• 5-year hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages: averaged 5.04 percent this week, a drop from last week's 5.23 percent. Last year at this time: 5.37 percent
• 1-year ARMs: averaged 4.8 percent, down from last week's 4.94 percent. Last year at this time: 4.98 percent

11 Markets With Highest Home Appreciations

Not all U.S. housing markets went south last year. First American CoreLogic Inc., in its latest study, identified the best-performing markets in the U.S. for 2008.

In many cases, the markets that made the list are areas that never enjoyed significant increases in value over the last decade -- but neither did they lose value over the last three years.

Nationwide, American CoreLogic, which predicts loan performance for banks, reported housing prices were down 11.1 percent last year. It predicts that home values will continue to decline through 2010.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, the report found that home price declines accelerated in some states where home values previously had been fairly stable, including Maine, Pennsylvania, Arkansas, Oregon and Rhode Island.

“The geographic breadth of price declines rapidly expanded in the second half of 2008, which means that housing wealth losses are broadening across much of the country," says Mark Fleming, Chief Economist for First American CoreLogic.

The 11 cities with the highest home price appreciation in 2008 are:

1. Cedar Rapids, Iowa: 8.83 percent
2. Binghamton, N.Y.: 7.78 percent
3. Amsterdam, N.Y.: 7.89 percent
4. Malone, N.Y.: 7.60 percent
5. Bay City, Mich.: 6.87 percent
6. College Station-Bryan: 6.78 percent
7. Rocky Mount, N.C.: 6.69 percent
8. Auburn, N.Y.: 6.51 percent
9. Lebanon, Pa.: 6.41 percent
10. Elmira, N.Y.: 6.28 percent
11. Johnstown, Pa.: 6.20 percent

This month I have both some good and bad news about those states.

Many markets in California and Florida are already showing improvement over their performance a year ago.  Although some of those markets are improving they are still not as healthy as our Tri-State area as evidenced by a chart I recently saw listing both the most risky and most stable markets in the country.

The risky chart included 6 Florida cities, 3 California cities and 1 in Nevada.

The stable chart was dominated by “Middle America” and included 2 cities in Ohio as well as Indianapolis.  (Evansville’s population was not large enough to be ranked in this particular survey)

Another interesting article I read pointed out that the median home price nationally declined 15.3% last year.  You should be relieved to know that the median price in our local market declined less than 4%.  As I pointed out last month the national media’s description of the real estate market does not necessarily apply to our market.

I hope you saw the news about last month’s merger between F.C. Tucker Emge Realtors and The Realty Group.  We now have more Realtors and more services that can help you when you are ready to buy or sell.

Give me a call 812-499-9234 if I can help you with any of your real estate needs and don’t forget to ask me about today’s mortgage interest rates, you’ll like what you hear.

We applaud Old National Bank for donating cots and blankest to the Red Cross. Every donations counts and with the help of respected Corporate Citizens a lot more can be done.

Old National Bank donating cots, blankets to Red Cross

The donation - 250 cots and 400 blankets in all - comes days after the local Red Cross wrapped up its relief efforts in the wake of an ice storm that caused widespread power outages.

That response emphasized the need for more supplies, said Red Cross spokeswoman Emily Zander

More than 900 people sought shelter at a Red Cross facility in Vanderburgh County in the week following the storm. The previous high for a single night in a past disaster was about 30 shelter residents, Zander said.

"We were inundated with so many people," she said. "The real issue was not having enough cots for everyone because we had not had a disaster response this large ... We still had a warm place for people to stay but some folks slept on the floor or in chairs."

Zander said Old National stepped forward with the donation after learning of the need. The cots and blankets are set to be unloaded Wednesday at Red Cross headquarters.

“We are so grateful to Old National Bank for realizing the need we have and responding in such a huge way,” Red Cross Executive Director Matt Bertram said in a news release. “This gift will mean we can better serve more people in our community when they need help the most.”

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/10/old-national-bank-donating-cots-blankets-red-cross/

The town of Darmstadt will also provide free storm debris pich up starting February 16^th, 2009.

Darmstadt picking up storm debris next week

The Town of Darmstadt will pick up limbs knocked down by last month's ice storm next week

To participate, residents should gather storm damage limbs and place them near the road by Feb. 16.

The pick-up service is free.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/09/darmstadt-picking-storm-debris-next-week/

The Freedom Festival 2009 is starting to take shape. This year’s events will be suited better to families with more live entertainment.

2009 Freedom Festival tailored toward families

The Freedom Festival is returning in 2009 as an event better suited to families, organizers say.

Among the main changes will be a ban on coolers and free admission during lunch time on the first two days, Thursday and Friday. Those steps were taken in the interest of making families feel comfortable at the 2009 Freedom Festival, which will take place from June 18-21. Mick Conati, the Director of Downtown Development for the Growth Alliance of Greater Evansville, said, “This festival will be geared toward the community and giving back to the community.”

GAGE took over the festival last year after the previous organizers, a group of volunteers, found they couldn’t cover its cost. The 2008 event had left them with tens of thousands of dollars in debt.

Conati said the planning of the 2009 Freedom Festival has gone well so far, even though the announcement of it was supposed to come months earlier. The delay was largely a result of the difficulties involved in scheduling a large number of entertainers, Conati said.

In choosing the acts, GAGE tried hard to appeal to a wide variety of tastes, he said. The two main attractions will be performances by a country band and a rock band, on separate nights and on the riverfront.

“I think this is something that will become a staple of the event for Evansville,” he said.

Conati declined to identify either band, only saying he had been talking to famous groups such as Styx and REO Speedwagon but hadn’t been able to hire either.

Other attractions will include:

n Typhoon Tommy — A stuntman who performs tricks while on Jet Skis and other types of watercraft. For more information, go to www.jetskishows.com.

n F1 Champboats — These will replace boats which had run in the Thunder on the Ohio event during past Freedom Festivals. The event will be broadcast on the Speed Channel. Meanwhile the American Boat Racing Association plans to hold Thunder on the Ohio in August.

n East Versus West Fest — Schools and other organizations from Evansville’s East and West sides will compete against each other in sand volleyball and other games. The winner’s prize will be a trophy which the losers can win back the following year.

n Lake St. Louis Water Ski Show — A ski team that has been competing in tournaments since 2001. For more information, go to www.lslski.com.

n DockDogs — Dogs that compete against one another to see which can jump the farthest, as well as perform a number of other trips. For more information, www.dockDogs.com.

Also among the attractions will be carnival rides, portrayers of World War II soldier, a laser light show, an air show and the Junior Achievement Grand Prix.

In organizing the festival, Conati traveled to watch air shows in other cities, Houston and Las Vegas being among them. GAGE also distributed surveys, asking what the public most wanted in the event. The two answers most returned were that it be suitable for families and that there be live music.

The 2009 Freedom Festival will be held a week earlier than it was in many earlier years. That was done in order to accommodate Carnival Midway, which had a commitment elsewhere on the usual weekend.

Conati estimated the 2009 Freedom Festival will cost about $700,000. Helping to pay for it will be corporate sponsors such as Old National Bank, whose support was enough to ensure that anyone 15 or younger can attend the even for free.

“We view this as good for economic development and it’s going to support nonprofits,” said Bob Jones, Old National president and chief executive officer. “And given the challenging economy, we think people need to have a little bit of fun. We’re happy to assist with that.”

Those older than 15 can attend every day of the festival by buying a $15 button, sold by various nonprofit organizations. From every one sold, $2 will go support the organization’s charitable causes.

In another change from previous years, the only food sellers at the event will be nonprofit organizations. They will keep any money they bring in and put it toward charitable causes.

Conati said GAGE will need between 1,000 and 1,500 volunteers to put on the Freedom Festival. Those who would like to help out should call him at (812) 424-2986.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/05/05web-FreedomFestival/

The current tax law provides for a $ 7,500 tax break for first time buyers. The new proposal, which still needs to be voted on, would allow a tax credit for home buyers of 10 percent of the value of new or existing residences, up to a $ 15,000 limit. Although this legislation alone will not cure the ills of our economy, it certainly is a move in the right direction.

Senate OKs $15,000 Bonus for Home Buyers

Housing could get a big boost from the latest addition to the mammoth stimulus bill working its way through Congress.

Senate legislators unanimously approved a proposal Wednesday that would allow a tax credit for home buyers of 10 percent of the value of new or existing residences, up to a $15,000 limit. Current law provides for a $7,500 tax break but only for first-time homebuyers.

"It is time to fix housing first," said Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-G.

Isakson's office said the proposal would cost the government an estimated $19 billion. In all, the stimulus is now topping an estimated $920 billion.

In an op-ed that appears in Thursday’s Washington Post, President Barack Obama painted a dire picture if Congress fails to move quickly to pass the stimulus bill.

"This recession might linger for years. Our economy will lose 5 million more jobs. Unemployment will approach double digits. Our nation will sink deeper into a crisis that, at some point, we may not be able to reverse," Obama wrote in the op-ed titled, "The Action Americans Need."

Source: The Associated Press, David Espo (02/05/09)

Evansville EMA Director Sherman Greer has put in a request for federal aid to help with clean up costs. It is not clear yet if this request will be accepted.

Evansville EMA Asks For Federal Aid

EVANSVILLE - The Evansville Emergency Management Agency announced it has put in a request for federal aid to help clean up from last week's winter storm. NEWS 25 learns that it could take as long as three weeks before the city sees any money.

Authorities said in order to get federal money; all of Indiana must have $8 million worth of damage.  Evansville EMA Director Sherman Greer told us that so far they haven't hit that number.  Greer said everything from cleaning up debris to police overtime counts toward the total amount.

We asked if Vanderburgh County could get federal money, and Greer said he doesn't know.

"I've been doing this for 19 years and I've seen times that I've thought we were going to get it and we haven't," Greer said.

The EMA Director told us it takes a little over $500,000 worth of damage to be eligible as a county. He said Vanderburgh County will most likely make that.

Source: http://www.abc25.com/dsp_story.cfm?storyid=11099&RequestTimeout=500

All Vanderburgh County students who want to attend the University of Evansville have a new incentive. A new scholarship, the William L. Ridgway Award, will offer $18,000 per year to all Vanderburgh County students entering UE in Fall 2009. In order to maintain the scholarship all four years, students must live in university housing, perform at least 10 hours of community service per semester and maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.5.

New Scholarship Offered to All Vanderburgh County Students

All Vanderburgh County students looking to enter the University of Evansville in the coming academic year received a $72,000 incentive today, with the announcement of the University’s William L. Ridgway Award.

The Ridgway Award will offer $18,000 per year (up to four years) to all Vanderburgh County students entering UE in Fall 2009, enhancing the University’s place as one of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Value” institutions. The goal, as envisioned by Dr. Ridgway, is to make the cost of UE comparable to that of tuition and housing at Indiana’s two nationally-recognized public institutions.

"The Ridgway Award was created in collaboration with Dr. William L. Ridgway, embodying his desire to ensure Vanderburgh County students have access to the University of Evansville," said Thomas Bear, UE's vice president for enrollment services. "With this award, any student who has graduated from a high school in Vanderburgh County, or whose parents' permanent address is in Vanderburgh County, will be able to receive a quality, private, personal education at a price comparable to what they would encounter at the state's largest four-year public institutions."

As part of the award, Dr. Ridgway also expressed the need for recipients to be involved in the Vanderburgh County community and University campus. Thus, in order to receive (and maintain) the award, students must satisfy three stipulations annually:

- live in University housing

- perform at least 10 hours of community service per semester

- maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.5, on UE's 4.0 scale

The Ridgway Award will first be available to incoming freshman and transfer students during the 2009-10 academic year. In order to be eligible, students must be accepted to UE, meet all listed criteria, and visit campus on or before April 18.

“When I envisioned this award, I wanted to ensure more than student access to UE,” Ridgway said. “I also wanted to make sure that our community grows and retains the talent it will need to prosper in markets that span the globe. The Ridgway Award embodies my vision."

All students meeting the criteria established by Dr. Ridgway are eligible to receive the award. Accepted UE students and their families looking for more information on the Ridgway Award should contact the UE Office of Admission at (812) 488-2468 or admission@evansville.edu.

Source: University of Evansville & Inside INdiana Business

The National Association of Home Builders has published this report. Buyers are rethinking home-buying priorities. In short buyers want Wii-sized rooms, a home office, and energy efficiency in their next home. Storage is also a priority.

We hope you enjoy reading this article.

Consumers Rethink Home-Buying Priorities

Buyers want ‘Wii-sized’ rooms, a home office, and energy efficiency in their next house, according to research done by the NAHB and Better Homes & Gardens magazine.

By: Alison Rice Related Articles

The American consumer is starting to think that bigger is not always better, at least where houses are concerned, according to experts presenting at the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas on Wednesday.

“Either by necessity or choice, they are ready to take a step back from the McMansions or trophy homes,” said Gayle Butler, editor-in-chief of Better Homes & Gardens magazine, who was joined by Gopal Ahluwalia, staff vice president of research for the NAHB in their annual session on consumer home-buying preferences.

Consumers in 2009 want to live in a home that is cozier, more organized, and more economical in terms of operating costs than perhaps they would have wanted in the past, according to Butler. That includes “Wii-sized” and media-centric family gathering rooms with enough floor space for playing the popular and physically interactive Nintendo video games. Consumers also want more storage to keep clutter under control in these supposedly smaller homes, which could include anything from built-in shelving to a pantry that allows families to save money on groceries by stocking up on food staples.

Concerned about unpredictable and often-rising energy costs, today’s buyers also want homes that are more economical to operate. Ninety-one percent of respondents to a Better Homes & Gardens online survey of readers anticipating a move to a new home said they wanted an energy-efficient heating and air-conditioning system in their next home. An NAHB survey received similar results, with 91 percent of respondents preferring an energy-efficient home with lower utility bills versus a cheaper home (with a sales price 2% to 3% lower) without energy-efficient features.

Even more significant, Americans are starting to actually be willing to spend money to live in a greener home. According to Ahluwalia’s research, home buyers said they would pay an average of $6,000 more for their new home to save $1,000 annually on energy costs. “More and more consumer realize it’s in their long-term interests” to invest in energy-efficiency features, explained Butler, who also thinks that federal tax incentives for homeowners who upgrade their homes to be more energy-efficient are having an impact.

Other things are also growing in importance to today’s home buyers, according to both the NAHB’s and Better Homes & Gardens’ research. “There is tremendous interest in outdoor features,” Ahluwalia said, who found that 65% of buyers said they wanted a front porch. A home office proved to be another top priority, with 71 percent of all buyers saying a home office was “desirable” or “essential,” in the NAHB’s survey. That trend emerged as well in the shelter magazine’s data, with three-fifths of its reader-respondents saying they wanted a home office in their next home. Within that group, two-thirds wanted a dedicated home office, which Butler said reflects the increasingly common scenario of women, often with children, choosing to work at home.

Such information could become critically important to builders as the housing market eventually begins to recover. “Every time we come through a cycle, the consumer is looking for something different,” building consultant Chuck Shinn told attendees during the session. “This time, it’s going to be a double whammy” because of this housing recession’s length and the demographic power shift from the baby boomers to Generation Y. “That means that there probably will be fairly substantial chance in what builders will need to do to satisfy customers’ needs.”

Source: http://www.builderonline.com/housing-trends/consumers-rethink-home-buying-priorities.aspx?cid=BLDR090203004

City of Evansville

One N.W. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

Evansville, Indiana 47708

Office of the Mayor

Jonathan Weinzapfel

February 2, 2009                                                                    Contact: Audra Levy

For Immediate Release                                                                        (812) 436-4969

                                                                                                               alevy@evansvillegis.com

Special Storm Debris Program

(EVANSVILLE, IN) - Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel, the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility and Allied Waste announce plans to help residents dispose of large debris that fell from trees during last week's ice storm.  Starting Monday, February 16^th, Allied Waste will conduct a special storm debris curbside collection program.

"Several city departments have been busy removing trees that have fallen on city streets and sidewalks," said Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel.  "We also realize that people have a lot of larger tree limbs on their own property and there needs to be a way to help them dispose of that debris."

Allied will follow the grid pattern normally used for Heavy Trash Pick Up to collect storm debris.  Pick up will start on the east side and work its way west (please see attached map).  Allied will collect storm debris from two grids each day, starting with grids 1 and 2 on Monday, February 16^th; 3 and 4 on Tuesday, February 17^th, etc.  Debris pick up will not occur on Saturdays or Sundays.

Allied will pick up larger pieces of debris that are no longer than four feet long and six inches in diameter.  Storm debris must be placed curbside and does not need to be in any specific container, but it should be stacked to minimize safety hazards.  The storm debris should be separate from other waste. 

The Mayor's Office has been hearing of unscrupulous people who are offering to help residents with downed trees.  Please note:   it is illegal to trim trees within the City of Evansville without a tree trimming license.  For this reason, it is best to ask to see a license before you hire anyone.  Dishonest crews may damage your property.  Many also don't carry insurance, so you will be liable for damage to your home or your neighbor's.  If one of these workers injures themselves on the job, you will be responsible for bills.  To find a list of licensed tree trimmers, go to: www.evansvillegov.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=2921.

Please click here for map of areas for pick up- Please note the numbers on the map DO NOT correspond with the days for pick up

Source: http://www.evansvillegov.org/Index.aspx?page=9&recordid=636&returnURL=%2findex.aspx

A tree ordinance seminar is being offered on Friday February 6^th at 6.00PM in Room 301 of the Civic Center. The class is free. For registration please call either the Urban Forestry office at (812) 475-1426 or the Purdue Extension office at (812) 435-5287.

Tree Ordinance seminar offered Friday in Evansville

Because of the influx of people descending on the Evansville area to help clear trees damaged by last week’s ice storm, a Tree Ordinance Compliance Seminar will be held at 6 p.m. Friday in Room 301 of the Civic Center. The class is free.

According to a news release from Larry Caplan, extension horticulture educator, it is against Evansville’s Tree Ordinance to prune or remove trees within the city limits of Evansville without a tree trimmer’s license. No license is required for crews or volunteers dealing with storm debris already on the ground. Tree workers caught working without a license can be fined from $300 to $1,000 per incident.

The class will concentrate on safety issues, proper pruning techniques, and the ins and outs of the ordinance. Workers who successfully complete the class will be licensed to work within the city.

All tree workers planning on attending must bring their proof of insurance (liability and workman’s compensation) with them.

The class is free, but those planning to attend should call either the Urban Forestry office at (812) 475-1426 or the Purdue Extension office at (812) 435-5287.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/03/tree-ordinance-seminar-offered-friday-evansville/

Abuelo’s restaurant on North Green River Road will change its name and concept. The Evansville restaurant was selected to test a new concept by the owners. The new restaurant will be called Nieto’s and will become a division of Abuelo’s. The menu will remain Mexican with an emphasis on casual and value-priced items. We wish the new owners all the best.

Abuelo's getting new name, concept

Officials of Lubbock, Texas-based Food Concepts International, parent company of Abuelo’s, said the local restaurant will launch the concept Feb. 9.

Abuelo’s is closed until then for renovations, which will include the addition of a more casual look and a salad bar.

Nieto’s becomes a division of Abuelo’s.

“Evansville was selected as the test market because of its central, Midwestern location and its hardworking, dynamic residents who manage the demands of their lives by balancing their love of quality with exceedingly good value and adherence to budget,” said Bob Lin, president of Food Concepts International.

“The new concept is designed to deliver the same great Mexican food associated with Abuelo’s, but at an appealing fast-casual pace, with counter service and value-priced menu items — and no tipping required.”

Mexican food fans can expect Nieto’s to feature a variety of Mexican platters and entrees, including quesadillas, nachos, enchiladas, tacos, chimichangas, burritos and fajitas.

Prices are expected to range from $4.99 to $9.99.

The restaurant will also serve “bottomless” tortilla chips for 99 cents and taco salad.

Fast-casual restaurants, where consumers can get quick, affordably priced meals in a nice, casual atmosphere, are one of the nation’s hottest dining trends, according to a report by Technomic, a Chicago-based food industry consulting and research company.

“We are very excited to introduce this exciting new concept in Evansville,” said Arshia Bahrolumi, Abuelo’s Evansville general manager.

Designed to be “the next generation” of the Abuelo’s family, the Nieto’s name was selected because it means “grandson” or “descendant” in Spanish.

Abuelo is Spanish for “grandfather.”

“Our traditional Abuelo’s restaurants have earned a reputation for delicious Mexican specialties that raise the bar of Mexican food,” said Lin.

“Nieto’s Mexican Express offers us a way to further express our passion for food in a distinctively different way while at the same time giving our guests the same quality they have come to expect from Abuelo’s.”

Nieto’s will honor Abuelo’s gift cards and coupons, Lin said.

A grand opening is planned for Feb. 16 through 21.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/03/abuelos-getting-new-name-concept/

We suggest to any one with property damage to contact their insurance agent as soon as possible and file the claim. This way you can find out first hand what claims your insurance policy covers.

Is Your Storm Damage Covered by Insurance?

From roofs caving in, to trees crashing through windows, storm damage throughout the Tri-state is abundant.

When it comes to repairing the damage, you might not know where to start.

The easiest way to find out what's covered and what's not, is to call your insurance company.

Many policies cover more than you may think.

The ice on homes, cars and roads is melting, only to unveil more damage. A pull barn off Old State Road suffered three major gashes in the roof that the owner wasn't able to detect until now. State farm agent, Matt Pereboom, received a call from the barn owner, as well as dozens of others.

At least 30 claims were filed at his office alone and 60 calls for questions.

Pereboom: "It hasn't been as bad as we expected but with some of the melting snow, could get worse."

When you notice damage, it's important to report it to your carrier immediately. When an adjuster shows up, have evidence of your loss, including lists, appraisals, videos, pictures or receipts; whatever you can gather to prove what's damaged and how much it's worth. It's also in your best interest to make some temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Pereboom: "Don't be afraid to ask questions and don't put yourself at risk trying to take a tree down."

An insurance company's top priority is tending to unlivable homes, then they get to the minor problems. Agencies, like State Farm, cover the removal of tree limbs.

It's important to read over a hard copy of your policy as well as taking advice from your insurance agent.

The more you know about your policy, the better off you are.

The City of Evansville engaged Allied Waste to help home owners to dispose of their tree debris. The details are available below.

Special storm debris curbside collection program starts Feb. 16

“Several city departments have been busy removing trees that have fallen on city streets and sidewalks,” Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel said in a written statement. “We also realize that people have a lot of larger tree limbs on their own property and there needs to be a way to help them dispose of that debris.”

Allied Waste will follow the grid pattern normally used for heavy trash pick up to collect storm debris. A statement from Weinzapfel's office says pick up will start on the East Side and move westward over the days to follow. Debris pick up will not proceed on Saturdays or Sundays.

Allied Waste will pick up larger debris no longer than four feet and no more than six inches in diameter. Storm debris must be placed curbside. There is no requirement that it be in any specific container, but it should be stacked to minimize safety hazards. It should be separate from other waste.

"The Mayor’s Office has been hearing of unscrupulous people who are offering to help residents with downed trees," the statement said. "Please note: It is illegal to trim trees within the City of Evansville without a tree trimming license. For this reason, it is best to ask to see a license before you hire anyone. Dishonest crews may damage your property. Many also don’t carry insurance, so you will be liable for damage to your home or your neighbor’s. If one of these workers injures themselves on the job, you will be responsible for bills."

To find a list of licensed tree trimmers, go to: www.evansvillegov.org/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=2921.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/02/special-storm-debris-curbside-collection-program-s/

Here we have the sold statistics for our Multi List System for the month of January 2009. The average day on the market has increased to about 118 days where as the months inventory has seen a decline from 12.59 months in January of 2008 to 9.70 months at the end of December 2008. This in effect is seen as positive as it shows that homes are still selling. These statistics are as of Fenruary 01, 2009.

Please feel free to call me at 812-499-9234 or email me at Rolando@TheTrentiniTeam.com if you have any questions or if I can assist you with your real estate needs.

Sold Terms and Days on Market Statistics

Category - Single Family
Statistics for Entire MLS from 01/01/2009 to 01/31/2009

Homeowners need to be careful of “fly-by-night” scam artists taking advantage of the situation and charging residents more than they should. The article below contains a link to approved contractors.

Homeowners Should Be Careful When Hiring Help

EVANSVILLE - Homeowners across the Tri-State are dealing with downed trees and branches, and officials on both sides of the Ohio River want to make sure people don't get scammed.

The Vanderburgh County Purdue Extension Office is urging Evansville residents to not hire any tree trimming company from out of town.  Coordinators tell us many "fly-by-night" companies will try to take advantage of people in an emergency situation.  They say these companies often make matters worse, or simply take your money and leave town.  For a list of approved tree trimmers in Evansville click here.

The Kentucky Better Business Bureau is warning residents about the same thing.  The BBB wants to remind people that they need to ask to see the license & insurance of a business before they hire anyone to help clean up their property.

They say so-called "storm chasers" will drive through devastated neighborhoods offering help, and then ask for money to go purchase supplies.  The BBB says that's a sure sign they aren't coming back to finish the job.

Source: http://www.abc25.com/dsp_story.cfm?storyid=11043&RequestTimeout=500

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a warning for users of portable generators. Generators need to be kept well away from the home. Below are some additional safety tips.

Users of portable generators warned of poisoning risks

Users of portable generators warned of poisoning risks

Generators must be used outside only, well away from house

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is issuing a warning to consumers confronted with severe winter weather: When there’s a power outage, exercise caution when using portable generators.

Just in the past week there have been four deaths related to carbon monoxide in Kentucky.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You can’t see or smell it. A generator’s exhaust contains poisonous CO which can kill you in a matter of minutes.

Dozens of people die each year from generator-related CO poisoning. Many of the deaths occurred after winter storms knocked out power.

The commission urges people to follow these important generator safety tips:

* Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open.

* Use portable generators outside only, far away from the home. And keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows and vents.

* Read the label on the generator and the owner’s manual, and follow the instructions.

* Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area.

* Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death.

CPSC mandated a new danger label on generators manufactured after May 2007. The label states that, “Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.”

CPSC has additional rulemaking underway on generators. The commission directed staff to investigate various strategies to reduce consumers’ exposure to CO and to enable and encourage them to use generators outdoors only. Those strategies include generator engines with substantially reduced CO emissions, interlocking or automatic shutoff devices, weatherization requirements, theft deterrence and noise reduction.

In addition to safe generator use, CPSC suggests consumers follow these safety tips after a storm:

* Never use charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal in an enclosed space can produce lethal carbon monoxide.

* Use caution when burning candles. Use flashlights instead. If you must use candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish candles when you leave the room.

* Do not use portable heaters or lanterns while sleeping in enclosed areas such as tents, campers, and other vehicles. This is especially important at high altitudes, where the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is increased.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/02/users-portable-generators-warned-poisoning-risks/

As per Vectren, the power outages to area homes have fallen to 13,000 homes. With the ice and snow melting crews have been able to accelerate the pace and connect more homes.

Vectren outages fall to 13,000

“This past weekend went a lot better than expected,” said spokeswoman Chase Kelley. “Conditions dramatically improved.”

She said the number of customers without power stands at 13,000, down from 20,000 Sunday and 75,000 at the peak of the outage Wednesday.

“The ice melted quickly and there were fewer (repeat outages) than we expected,” Kelley added.

Vectren had feared when the ice melted trees and limbs that were bent would snap back and cause lines to come down.

She said what the utility is encountering now are small pockets of outages, perhaps four or five homes in clusters near the University of Evansville, the East Side, the southeast Side and in Boonville.

Kelley said 1,000 people are working to restore power, more than 700 of them contract crews brought in from as far away as Wisconsin.

“We couldn’t have made it without them,” she said, noting the crews are working 16-hour days.

Vectren sends out what it calls a “bird dog,” or scout, to check an area without power and report back on what crews need to bring. “This speeds up the process,” said Kelley.

But even as line crews from Vectren and other utilities make progress throughout the area, officials said serious obstacles remain before life returns to normal.

While Vectren is confident most of its power will be restored this week, Kenergy said some of its 34,000 customers in Western Kentucky would stay that way for up to a month. Meanwhile, the Indiana National Guard locally was preparing to send Humvees into Kentucky for rescue and transportation efforts there.

Source: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/feb/02/vectren-outages-fall-13000/

Here we have an interesting article by Melissa Dittman in this month’s edition of the Realtor magazine published by the National Association of Realtors. This article lists the life expectancy of various appliances and components in your home. The full report can be accessed via a link at the bottom of this blog.

Appliance Longevity: How Long Should It Last?

Find out how long those kitchen appliances, flooring, fixtures, and more should really last.

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey | February 2009

Replacing a home’s windows, appliances, or roofing can be pricey. So knowing approximately how long before the refrigerator is likely to stop working or the roof might spring a leak can have value to buyers and home owners.

 Buyers may want to factor in replacement costs for aging components when they make an offer. Owners can use the information to decide whether to replace a component before a move. Now, a new study by the National Association of Home Builders provides some insight that can help your clients estimate the average useful life of more than 100 household appliances and building materials.

 The true longevity of any household material depends on maintenance, use, quality of installation, and climate conditions, so use these averages as a general guide. The NAHB report still beats asking handy Uncle Fred.

100 Years or More

Brick siding: Lifetime of the home

All wooden floors: Lifetime of the home

Cellulose insulation material: 100-plus years

 50-100 Years

Slate, copper, and clay and concrete roofs: 50+ years

Copper gutters: 50+ years

Kitchen cabinets: Up to 50 years

Modified acrylic kitchen sinks: 50 years

Vinyl floors: 50 years

 30-50 Years

Thermostats: 35 years

Wooden windows: 30 years

Wood shake roofs: 30 years

French interior doors: 30–50 years

 10-20 Years

Built-in audio system: 20 years

Aluminum windows: 15–20 years

Asphalt shingle roofs: 20 years

Faucets, kitchen sinks: 15 years

Gas ranges: 15 years

Cultured marble countertops: 20 years

Dryers and refrigerators: 13 years

Air conditioning units: 10–15 years

Lighting controls: 10+ years

Interior and exterior paints: 15+ years

Electric or gas water heaters: 10 years

Air conditioners: 10–15 years

Furnaces: 15–20 years

 5-10 Years

Security systems: 5–10 years

Heat and smoke detectors: 5–10 years

Dishwashers: 9 years

Microwave ovens: 9 years

Carpet: 8–10 years

Access the full report (PDF) and view a complete list of products reviewed in the study.

Source: http://www.realtor.org/rmohome_and_design/articles/2009/0902_househome_appliancelongevity

Vectren has issued an explanation for the Electric Reconnection Explanation. If the is any damage to the weather head or rise, the damage must be repaired by the home owner before power companies can restore electricity. The repair needs to be done by a licensed contractor.

Electric Reconnection Explanation

Vectren says it continues to receive numerous questions about what home owners must do before crews can restore electric service to a house.

According to Vectren any damage to the weather head -- or riser -- must be repaired by the home owner before power companies can restore electricity.

Vectren says the weather head is the point where the service line meets the customer's premises.

Vectren says in most cases the repairs must be inspected before service can be restored -- but Vanderburgh County says under current circumstances it will inspect the work after  service has been reconnected.

Source: http://tristatehomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=52871

Here we have the latest numbers of homes without electricity. These numbers should change today as the warm up will allow for faster progress than previous days.

Power Outage Numbers for Saturday

Crews have been working tirelessly to get the Tri-State back on-line.

Thousands are now five days without power.

Right now 33,000 Vectren customers are still without power.

That's down 13,000 from Friday.

Vectren is asking that customers just be patient, saying crews are working as quickly as they can.

There are now 39,000 Kenergy customers without power.

That number is up 5,000 from last night's estimate.

According to a spokesperson, the additional outages have been caused by more falling trees.

OMU is reporting 10,500 customers without power.

They expect to have that down to 10,000 by the end of the night.

And Southern Indiana Power still has 1,800 customers without power.

Source: http://tristatehomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=52991

This has been the largest disaster relief effort undertaken by the Southwestern Red Cross. More than 500 people have stayed in Red Cross Shelters, 2,000 meals and 1,500 were served. With temperatures warming up Vectren should be able to make a progress in getting all homes connected back to the grid.

Largest Disaster Relief in Southwestern Red Cross History

Red Cross workers have been working around the clock to coordinate and execute the largest disaster relief operation in Southwestern Indiana history.

Over the past three days, hundreds of Tri-State residents have been served by the Red Cross.

More than 500 people have stayed in Red Cross shelters. Red Cross workers have served more than 2,000 meals as well as 1,500 snacks. In addition to food and shelter, the Red Cross has distributed about 1,300 comfort kits that contain personal hygiene items for shelter residents.

The work of the Red Cross is only possible because of the selfless volunteers that have been staffing our shelters for countless hours. We would like to thank all Vanderburgh County residents that volunteered their time and resources to care for our neighbors during this difficult time.

Three shelters remain open to residents at 29 S. Stockwell Road, Washington Avenue Church of Christ, and the U.S. Army Reserve. Indiana National Guard men and women continue to work 24 hours a day, providing transportation for those needing shelter. The Red Cross will continue to serve residents until all power is restored and there is no longer a need for emergency shelter.

For more information about Red Cross shelters, transportation to shelters provided by the National Guard, and volunteering, call 471-7200.

Source: http://tristatehomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=52901