Springfield Area Blog

Are you a fan of David Letterman's stupid tricks? If so, head on down to the Branson Landing on Saturday June 27 from 11 a.m until 2 p.m. Whether you wish to  participate or are happy to sit back and watch, it should be great fun! For official rules and information please use the link below.

http://ozarksfirst.com/media/doc/OFFICIALRULES-PetHumanTricks09.doc

CB

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 offers homebuyers a tax credit of up to $8,000 for purchasing their first home. Families can only access this credit after filing their tax returns with the IRS. A recent announcement details FHA's rules allowing state Housing Finance Agencies and certain non-profits to "monetize" up to the full amount of the tax credit (depending on the amount of the mortgage) so that borrowers can immediately apply the funds toward their down payments. Home buyers using FHA-approved lenders can apply the tax credit to their down payment in excess of 3.5 percent of appraised value or their closing costs, which can help achieve a lower interest rate. To read the FHA's new mortgagee letter, visit HUD's website

On Tuesday, The Department of Housing and Urban Development's Federal Housing Administration said it will allow first-time homebuyers to use the federal tax credit of up to $8,000 for a downpayment at closing. The idea is to allow home buyers to “monetize” the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit. Right now, home buyers must wait until they file their taxes to receive the credit.

Under the plan, FHA will allow approved lenders and nonprofits, and state and local government agencies to fund short-term bridge loans buyers can use for down payments. Buyers would repay the loans after getting their tax refunds.

This could be good news for first time home buyers, which are trending to account for 53% of home purchases in 2009. Unfortunately, at this time there isn't much we can do until the details of the program are fully released, and in turn accepted by lenders.

Courtesy of Gorman and Gorman

Have you had a moment in your life that has led to positive change? May 18 and 19 at the Discovery Center, 438 E. St. Louis St. from 8 a.m to 6 p.m. the Aha Moment Tour will arrive in Springfield via a mobile television studio in an airstream bus. Mutual of Omaha is searching for commercial spots featuring real people sharing real stories. Call 678-409-8140 with additional questions.

Lights, Camera, Action!

C

The 10th annual Rock and Ribs Festival takes place Saturday, May 16 from noon to 11:30 p.m. in the Bass Pro parking lot. Advanced tickets are $5, or $10 at the gate. Proceeds benefit six local charities. 60 teams fight for the title of "Best Barbecue". Other activities include live music, a kids' play zone, a motorcycle show and a "man cave".

Bring your appetite and come on out!

CB

Tonight marks the reopening of the downtown Springfield restaurant. Riad's will boast a new look and lower prices, 20 to 30 percent on lunches and dinners. Owner Riad Matar considered closing shop, but is passionate about keeping downtown Springfield vital, so after investing over $60,000 he is hopeful for the future.

Come show your support, and try some delicious Mediterranean fare.

CB

I posted this back in December, but now that we are all ready for Spring, remember to mark your calendars.

The Thunderbirds (U.S. Air Force Demonstration Squadron) will perform at the grand opening weekend (May 9 and 10) of the Branson Airport, which is the first privately financed and operated commercial service airport in the United States. Plan ahead...tickets are available on-line at www.bransonairshow.com

CB

Come on out to sneak a peek at the newest home ideas all in one place. The Home show will run March 6-8 at the Branson Convention Center, 200 Sycamore Street. Admission is $2 with free parking (south parking lot). Visit www.tvcevents.com for more information.

Enjoy!

CB

Are any of you HGTV fans like myself? Try this quiz just for fun and see how you rate. I'm not bragging, but I did receive a perfect score!

http://www.hgtv.com/real-estate-iq/package/index.html

Enjoy,

CB