Recently in News and Updates
The Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) announced the availability of below market rate loans under the SPARC program (Sponsoring Partnerships and Revitalizing Communities) for first-time homebuyers who meet VHDA eligibility requirements. The funds, available through June 30, 2010 or until expended, are administered by the Loudoun County Department of Family Services. Sales price and income limits apply.
DAAR is working with the Loudoun Times Mirror in producing a weekly column in the Homes section and is pleased to offer members an opportunity to write for the column to showcase their expertise. Writers will be asked to produce a 350 word piece periodically on topics related to homeownership such as preparing for open houses, tips for pricing your home, mortgage lending, staging, renovation financing, budget basics, sprucing up a home's exterior, moving tips, home inspections, etc.
In response to growing consumer demand for green homes and building practices in Loudoun County and the Northern Virginia area, we are pleased to present the DAAR Green Real Estate Tool Kit comprised of resources for REALTORS® and consumers who wish to Go Green! REALTORS® will find resources on educational opportunities to work with this growing market.
Mark your calendars for the 2009 DAAR Economic Summit and Annual Meeting scheduled for Friday, October 30th from 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. at the Loudoun County School Administration Building in Ashburn. A panel of top experts will discuss national, regional and local market trends and projections for 2010 and beyond. Speakers include John McClain, Senior Fellow, George Mason University's Center for Regional Analysis, Greg Stratton, Research Economist, National Association of REALTORS® and Rosemary deButts, DAAR's Housing Market Consultant. Registration fee ($20 for members/$25 for non-members) includes breakfast. Sign-up today!
On August 20, 2009, Freddie Mac confirmed in writing that its servicers are not allowed to renegotiate short sales commissions. According to the policy, as a condition of the servicer's acceptance of a short sale offer, servicers cannot renegotiate the sales commission below the amount agreed to by the real estate broker and the seller/borrower. However, if the negotiated commission exceeds 6 percent, servicers are required to limit it to 6 percent. This Freddie policy is consistent with Fannie Mae's policy. NAR has asked Freddie to establish an appeals process for cases when servicers refuse to comply with Freddie Mac's policy.



