Archive for tag The kuchta's
January 20, 2011 at 05:44 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
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Many people feel it is important to begin educating our children as early as possible. The School District of Menomonee Falls shares in this belief. On February 3rd, 2011, the Menomonee Falls School District will hold a full day registration for four-year-old kindergarten students for the 2011-2012 school year. The registration will take place at the Community Center, W152 N8645 Margaret Road, Menomonee Falls WI from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. If you have a child turning four by September 1st of this year, please plan on registering your child on this date. The Menomonee Falls School District’s Early Learning Center is located at Ben Franklin Elementary School. The Early Learning Center was constructed with the developmental needs of three-and four-year-olds, and provides learning stations and areas of exploration.
Parents who wish to learn more about the four-year-old program and the school day, the Menomonee Falls School District will be offering orientation sessions for parents. The sessions will be held at 10:00am and 6:00pm on February 3rd, 2011. All questions concerning the registration day should be directed to Ms. Kathy Marks at Ben Franklin Elementary School, 262-255-8470. If you are unable to register your child on February 3rd, you can register any time following February 3rd at the Menomonee Falls District offices, located in the Village Hall, W156N8480 Pilgrim Road. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Please pass this great information on to family & friends who are planning on registering their child(ren) for the 2011-2012 Four-Year-Old Kindergarten. Thank you! The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen
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Colleen Kuchta
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January 19, 2011 at 06:00 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Most homeowners believe that Spring is the perfect time of year to put their house on the market. It makes sense, many leases end in spring, allowing tenants to purchase a new home. Spring symbolizes a new beginning, who wouldn’t want to start fresh in new surroundings in the spring? All of the emotion surrounding the purchase of a new home, timed perfectly with the symbolism of Spring make selling a house this time of year a great idea. Or is it?
It is no secret that we are in a Buyer’s market right now. Many Buyers are writing low offers and getting low interest rates, which equals a great low payment. It is also common knowledge that banks are telling us that there are millions of properties that are about to come on the market in the form of a short-sale or foreclosure. So how will all of these distressed properties effect your ability to sell for top dollar? Well, its simple: the more distressed properties out there competing for an offer, the lower your sale price will be. Many Buyers don’t mind putting in a bit of sweat equity, they were going to make changes on their new home anyway - why not pay even less and and make a couple extra changes?
You want to make a move, but need top dollar to make it happen? Then the time to sell is today. Waiting even 2 weeks can lower the sale price of your house by $1,000 or more! This may seem a bit ridiculous to you, but trust me, it is true. I see it everyday; a Buyer writes an offer, the Seller says they want more money - and the Buyer walks away. A few weeks later, a new Buyer decides they want to write an offer, but this Buyer offers less than the previous Buyer. Why? Buyer’s believe that the longer your house sits on the market, the less money it is worth. If you are serious about selling, always act as if the first offer is the only offer you will receive, and do your best to come to terms.
Now, back to distressed properties for a moment. How are those properties going to effect you, even if a Buyer is willing to pay a bit more because your house is move-in-ready? Simple: the appraisal. Distressed properties are driving the appraised value of properties down. Let’s say a buyer offers to pay $200,000 for your house, but their lender orders an appraisal and the value comes in at $185,000. Will the bank still finance the property for the agreed upon price of $200,000? No way! You will have 2 options at this point: lower the sale price or wait and see if you get a different Buyer with a different lender that has the appraisal come in higher. Most Sellers are lowering their sale price.
So, to answer our original question: Should You Sell Now, Or Wait? If you want/need to make a move this year - then move now! Don’t wait for more distressed properties to drive your value down. If you are in no hurry to move, then stay put. Experts are telling us that values won’t be back to todays pricing until late 2012 or 2013. Who knows, if you can hold out until 2014, we might even be back in a Seller’s market by then!
If you are looking to buy or sell, contact us, we are here to help. Our clients needs and wants always surpass our own - you come first! The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen.
Posted by: Colleen Kuchta
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December 20, 2010 at 08:46 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
There are a few important dates coming up in Menomonee Falls School District for you to remember. This week is the beginning of Winter Break. Students in the district will attend a half day of classes on the 23rd, and then be dismissed until January. Classes will resume on January 3rd at their regular times.
The first meeting of the School Finance Study Group was held on December 14th. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 18th, 6:30 p.m., in Room 3344-3345 of the Village Hall. All Village residents are welcome to attend these informative and interactive meetings. You can Call Jeff Gross or Dr. Keith Marty, to get more information (262)255-8440.
Four-year-old kindergarten registration is scheduled for Thursday, February 3rd, 2011 at the Community Center. Please save the date if you have children of this age, or have a future five year old kindergartener who has not been in the 4K program. Also, please remind family and friends of the registration date.
We wish you all a Blessed Holiday Season and a Safe & Happy New Year! For all of your Real Estate needs, contact the The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen. Also, check out our Facebook page at Facebook.com/the.kuchtas!
Posted by: Colleen Kuchta
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November 30, 2010 at 06:35 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Beginning December 1, 2010 Wisconsin will join 30 other states in making texting while driving illegal. The law will prohibit behind-the-wheel texting via cell phones, laptop computers plus a host of other wireless communication devices. The law does not apply to authorized emergency personnel. The use of a GPS is still allowed, but plan on entering your destination before you hit the road. Texting while driving will be a primary offense. This means that you can be pulled over and ticketed based on a text messaging offense alone. Fines will range from $20-$400. While this may seem a bit extreme to some, we should all remember that distracted driving contributes to 4,000 crashes daily in the United States. So, buckle up, put your phone away and keep your attention focused on the task of driving! The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen.
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Colleen Kuchta
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October 26, 2010 at 07:00 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
If you are thinking of purchasing lake property, or already have a lake home the Wisconsin DNR has put together a comprehensive set of guidelines regarding piers in our state. The rules for new & existing piers went into effect on April 18, 2008.
New Piers ~ a new pier placed for the first time after February 6, 2004 does not need a permit if it meets the following size requirements: - Width: not more than 6 feet wide - Length: not longer than is necessary to moor your boat or use a boat lift, or to reach a 3-foot water depth, whichever is greater - Number of boats is limited to 2 boats slips/lifts per 50 feet of frontage, and 1 additional boat slip/lift for every 50 feet thereafter - Platforms: a deck/platform up to 8 feet wide may be located at the end of the pier that projects into the lake, there is no limit on square footage.
Existing Piers ~ any pier that was originally placed prior to February 6, 2004 does not require a permit from the DNR as long as it meets these requirements: - Width: not more thatn 8 feet wide - Platforms: a platform is allowed at the end of the pier that projects into the water, the platform must be 200 square feet or less, or it cal be between 200-3– square feet as long as it is less than 10 feet wide - Neighbors: the pier cannot interfere with the riparian rights of other riparian owners (stay within your property line) - Registration: existing piers should be registered with the DNR no later than April 1, 2011. (the registration is free, and you can also record the registration with your local register of deeds office)
If an existing pier does not meet the above requirements, you can modify the pier to make it compliant, or apply for an individual permit from the DNR. There is no cost for the permit.
There are different rules for multi-family and commercial developments on lakes. Some of the rules depend on the size of the lake. You can check the the Wisconsin DNR for specific rules about your situation.
Visit the Wisconsin DNR website for more information, to apply for a permit, or to register an existing pier.
If you are thinking of purchasing lake property, or already have a lake home and are looking to make a move, give us a call (262-894-6512) we are here to help! The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen.
Posted by: Colleen Kuchta
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July 02, 2010 at 07:17 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
In response to the foreclosure surge since 2007, Fannie Mae has begun a ‘Loan Quality Initiative’. The new requirements are intended to reduce the number of bad loans. The new program shifts the responsibility of mortgage guideline compliance back to the individual banks responsible for making the loans.
The basic steps for obtaining a mortgage are:
1) Apply for the mortgage
2) Bank runs a credit check
3) The application goes through the underwriting and approval process (this is the step where an appraisal of the property takes place)
4) Credit is checked again (this is a new step in the process)
5) The loan is funded
With the new Loan Quality Initiative lenders are required to verify that the applicants credit profile has not changed since the original credit check was run. Some things to avoid while waiting for your loan to be approved and funded are: Applying for a new credit card (this includes department store cards or buying new furniture on credit), running up the balance on existing credit cards and/or financing an automobile or other major purchase.
Here are the 3 things the underwriter is checking during this 2nd credit check:
1) Recalculate your debt-to-income ratios using your minimum payment figures. If the debt-to-income ratios exceed Fannie Mae’s threshold, your loan will be denied! * don’t run up credit cards prior to closing
2) Re-check your credit score. The score will be used to asses loan-level pricing adjustments. It can also lead to a denial if your score falls below Fannie Mae’s minimum requirements! * pay your bills on time - including utility bills
3) View the Credit Inquiry section of your credit report to find ‘non-disclosed’ debts. If items are found you will need to provide documentation regarding the debt & this will be used to re-underwrite your mortgage. Many times changing your interest rate & monthly payment. * DO NOT apply for new credit until AFTER your loan is funded!
This may seem like consumers are being targeted, and it will be nearly impossible to get a loan. In the end, these are things that should have been monitored all along. If these new standards had been upheld from the beginning, we would not find ourselves in the mess we are in right now. Property values would not be declining because of an surge in foreclosures. So remember, 
don’t use your existing credit cards, don’t apply for new credit and pay all of your bills on time! If you would like more help understanding the mortgage approval process, or are looking for help in finding a home or financing a loan, please give us a call, visit http://www.thekuchtas.shorewest.com or send us an email! The Kuchta’s, Kelly & Colleen
Posted by: Colleen Kuchta
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February 04, 2010 at 03:57 PM
Luxury can be defined as very rich, pleasant and comfortable surroundings. Luxury can also be defined as The Glen at Blackstone Creek in Germantown. This magnificent community offers a private clubhouse, outdoor pool, a fitness room, open air amphitheater, a putting green and walking trails among tranquil ponds.
The Glen at Blackstone Creek condominium development features ranch homes situated on the Blackstone Creek Golf Course. These luxury ranch homes can be free standing or side by side units with private patios. Home features include open floor plans with dramatic ceiling heights, hardwood floors, granite counters, 6 panel doors and custom millwork throughout.
There are currently 9 homes available for immediate move-in. All available homes feature 2 bedrooms and a minimum of 2 full bathrooms.
These luxury homes range in square footage from 1,570 - 2,623 and offer full basements, all plumbed for a full bath, some with full size windows and walk-outs.
Future homes will also feature open floor plans with dramatic ceiling heights, hardwood floors, granite counters, 6 panel doors and custom millwork throughout. These upcoming luxury homes will range in square footage from 1,594 - 2,008 and offer full basements, all plumbed for a full bath, some with full size windows and walk-outs or can be built as slab on grade.
The Glen at Blackstone Creek is an Epcon Community, featuring quality built homes that are distinguished by visually exciting interior and exterior design elements and superior construction materials. There are choice lot and home packages available for you to customize. Call The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen (262-894-6512) for more information, or check out our website: thekuchtas.shorewest.com today! More information is just a ‘click’ away.
Isn’t it time to stop shoveling and cutting the grass and start living your life? Make the move to a luxury condo at The Glen at Blackstone Creek - your new life awaits!
Posted by:Colleen Kuchta
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December 16, 2009 at 10:12 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
As you may well know, the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit has been extended and expanded. The IRS has also issued a few guidelines for you to follow. Number one on the list: if you have purchased a new home since November 6, 2009 and you qualify for the tax rebate, you will need to wait until a revised Form 5405 is issued by the IRS later this month. The IRS has made changes to the old form and added instructions on claiming your Tax Rebate check. If you purchased after November 6th, and sent in your request for the Tax Rebate, it will be in vain. The IRS issued a bulletin before Thanksgiving that clearly states all rebate request must be made on the NEW Form 5405 - which will be coming out later this month.
Not sure if you qualify for the credit? Here it is in a nutshell:
You must be a first time home buyer (haven’t owned a home in the past 5 years) OR if you have owned a home for 5 of the past 8 years, and are buying a new home, the new home must be used as your principal residence.
The tax credit is equal to 10% of the purchase price with first time buyers receiving a credit up to $8,000, and current home owners receiving up to $6,500.
The new home must be under contract by April 30, 2011 and the transaction must be closed by June 30, 2011.
Members of the Armed Forces and diplomatic personnel serving in foreign countries will get an extra year to purchase a home. They will be given until April 30, 2011 to have a home under contract and until June 30, 2011 to close the transaction.
The new home cannot cost more than $800,000.
Single family homes, multi-family homes and condominiums are included in the credit, provided the purchaser occupies the property.
No one under 18 can qualify for the credit.
If you are able to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s taxes, you will not qualify for the credit.
There are income restrictions, $125,000 for a single person and $225,000 for persons filing jointly. A single person making between $125,000-$145,000 and joint filers making between $225,000-$245,000 may qualify for phased down credit amounts.
Finally, if you are thinking of co-signing, but are unsure if this will effect the eligibility of a first time buyer. The IRS states that the ineligible co-purchaser does not effect the tax credit for the first time buyer, as long as none of the credit goes to that person.
Questions or concerns about the credit OR just want some help and guidance with your new home purchase? Contact The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen at 262-894-6512 or send us an email to ckuchta@shorewest.com. We are both Accredited Buyer’s Agents and are happy to go the extra mile to help you find the home that is right for you. Visit us online at thekuchtas.shorewest.com
Posted by:Colleen Kuchta
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November 16, 2009 at 04:35 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
As we go about our holiday shopping, all too often we forget that there are people right here where we live that don’t have enough food to eat, let alone buy a bunch of presents. This year has been very tough financially for many families. While you are out shopping for your weekly groceries, remember those in need. Grab a few items to donate to your local food pantry. Many grocery stores have a large barrel at the entrance for you to drop your donation. The items you donate don’t necessarily need to be food, either. Many food pantries are in need of toiletries and paper products, as well.
In Menomonee Falls, the Community Chamber Office is collecting food during the annual Christmas Parade on Sunday, November 29th, at 4:30 pm.
They will have people walking along the parade route collecting food items. The Greater Menomonee Falls Foundation has provided a Challenge Grant for this Food Drive. They will donate $1 to the food pantry for every 1 food item donated by the Chamber up to $1,000!
So let’s get out there and help a neighbor in need! Need more ideas on ways you can help? Contact The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen at 262-894-6512 or drop us an email at ckuchta@shorewest.com
Posted by:Colleen Kuchta
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October 12, 2009 at 11:40 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
As the winter weather approaches, it is very tempting to turn up the thermostat to stay warm. Although this may be a quick fix, it is not always good for your pocket book. Here are a few tips to help save you some money this winter:
- Wash your clothes in cold water. You can save money with every load. There are detergents available that will help you get the same results as washing in higher temperatures.
- Set the thermostat on your hot water heater 120 degrees. It doesn’t make sense to heat the water to a temperature hotter than your skin can tolerate.
- Check for leaks around windows and doors. Eliminate the gaps by applying caulk, weather stripping and/or insulation.
- Check your attic and crawl spaces for the correct level of insulation. R-30 is the minimum recommendation for Wisconsin winters.
- Replace your light bulbs with ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent bulbs. They are better & brighter than when they first became available.
- Have your furnace cleaned & tuned by a HVAC technician. Remember to change the filter - a dirty filter costs you money!
- Turn down the thermostat by just one degree. This will help reduce home heating costs by as much as 4%.
Looking for more practical tips? Send us an email to ckuchta@shorewest.com OR give us a call; 262-894-6512. We will direct you where to go for more money saving advice. Try to stay warm & remember, spring is coming soon! The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen thekuchtas.shorewest.com
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June 01, 2009 at 04:14 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
As I am sure you are aware, first time home buyers qualify for an $8,000 tax credit if they purchase a new home between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009. The credit can be applied to their 2008 return, by filing a simple amendment. What you may not know is this: First time buyers can now use that $8,000 tax credit as their down payment!
The National Association of Realtors has been urging the Federal Housing Administration to allow the down payment option. On Tuesday, May 12, 2009 it was decided that the down 
payment option would be allowed. Many buyers have taken advantage of the $8,000 tax credit, but still others have put off buying a new home because they didn’t have enough money for a down payment. This is great news for buyers using FHA financing, which only requires a 3.5% down payment!
Qualified home buyers will need to use a lender approved by the Federal Housing Association to take advantage of the down payment option. Using an approved lender will allow buyers to have the funds available on the day of closing. Need help finding a qualified lender? We are happy to connect you. The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen 262-894-6512 or ckuchta@shorewest.com 
Final approval for the down payment option was given May 29, 2009. There are 2 ways to use the tax credit as your down payment. The first way is called Secondary Financing; you would secure a loan and a 2nd lien in order to get the money, and use it as your down payment. The second way to use the tax credit as your down payment is called Purchase of Tax Credit. Your lender ‘purchases the tax credit’, and it is used towards your down payment. There are several conditions to be met for each of these options. FHA will also be tracking the monetization activities.
For all the rules or help finding a qualified lender, contact The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen 262-894-6512 or ckuchta@shorewest.com.
Posted by:Colleen Kuchta
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June 01, 2009 at 10:05 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta, Fair Housing
As if the state of our economy and the rising number of foreclosures is not enough, homeowners now need to be aware of scam artists looking for new ways to cheat you. Here are the 5 most common scams homeowners are facing:
- The Obama Rescue Plan Scam
Some rescue companies are charging distressed home owners thousands of dollars to modify their mortgage under the new Obama housing relief plan. There is no need to pay for this help. You can find out all that you need to know, and if you are eligible at MakingHomeAffordable.gov or by calling 888-995-HOPE.
- Bait and Switch Scam
Con artists pose as legitimate housing counselors ready to help you refinance. They present you with what appears to be an application for re-financing. What it ends up to be is a transfer of title, and you lose your home.
- Rent-to-Buy Scheme
You are approached by someone stating that they know you are having difficulties making your mortgage payment. They offer to help you out by purchasing the home from you, and allowing you to rent it from them. They tell you that once your finances are in order, you can buy it back from them. Once they purchase the home from you, your equity is gone. The lease terms they give you are less than fair, and you are quickly evicted.
- The Middleman Scam
A self-proclaimed rescuer promises to negotiate with your bank, on your behalf. They ask for the fee up front; some even charge thousands of dollars. They tell you that you don’t need to contact your lender, lawyer or credit counselor. You make your payments to this middleman while he negotiates with your lender, eventually he disappears with your money.
- The Bankruptcy Scam
A con-artist promises to negotiate with your lender, or work out re-financing on your behalf - again there is an up front fee. They never contact your lender, instead they file for your bankruptcy and pocket the money. You don’t know anything until the expensive bankruptcy goes through and ruins your credit for the next 10 years.
Remember - if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is! The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen 262-894-6512 or ckuchta@shorewest.com
Posted by:Colleen Kuchta
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April 17, 2009 at 02:48 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Negotiating skills are key to achieving successful outcomes for clients.
That’s why The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen, took the time to become Certified Real Estate Negotiators (CREN). The CREN certification gives us the professional negotiation techniques and skills we need to gain a competitive advantage for our clients. The right negotiation strategies and tactics help us make deals happen for you. thekuchtas.shorewest.com
Key steps to successful negotiation include:
1) contact the other party right away
2) keep the door of communication open at all times
3) supply comparable properties to support your price
4) always remain professional & ethical
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, we would welcome the opportunity to represent you. Call The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen at 262-894-6512, to learn the advantages of using a CREN professional, if you prefer email - ckuchta@shorewest.com.
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April 17, 2009 at 11:56 AM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
Looking for a great place to build your new home? Look no further! The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen, know the perfect place. Lot 8, Indian Head Drive, in the town of Lisbon, WI. The level lot measures 0.957 acres, and has a soil test on file stating it can serve a 3-4 bedroom home. Building restrictions are non-strict in the Mountain Shadows Subdivision, they use the guidelines set forth by the Town of Lisbon. Contact Colleen Kuchta at ckuchta@shorewest.com or 262-894-6512 for more details on building restrictions.
Lot 8, Indian Head Drive, within the Mountain Shadows Subdivision is served by the Arrowhead School District. It is right around the corner from Richmond Elementary School, which serves grades K4 through grade 8. Just North of the Mountain Shadows Subdivision, you will find Ironwood Golf Course. This outstanding golf course offers 27 holes, and breathtaking views along the way.
Lot 8 is minutes from shopping, restaurants, parks and more! The Kuchta’s- Kelly & Colleen are happy to gather more information for you and answer any questions you may have. Call 262-894-6512 or visit thekuchtas.shorewest.com.
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April 16, 2009 at 03:29 PM · Posted under Colleen Kuchta
A short sale in Real Estate happens when the owner of the property owes more on the property than what it sells for. This can happen when a home owner sells after property values have dropped drastically, or when an owner has taken out equity loans on top of the mortgage loans and the loans equal more than the value of the home.
Generally speaking, it will depend on your lender. Before you proceed with a short sale, you would be well advised to call them to find out how they structure and release the short sale.
As well as, how are they going to report the payoff? A short sale can reduce your credit score between 60-100 points, but there have been times when the short sale does not affect your credit score negatively at all. (A foreclosure would be a minimum of a 150 point deduction) This of course will depend on your specific situation. For example, a seller that has missed recent payments and is doing the short sale to avoid a foreclosure would take a bigger hit than the seller that is current on their mortgage, but property values have decreased so they are unable to sell the property for what they owe.
If you decide to sell, and are facing a short sale/foreclosure situation, be sure that the agent you select to list your home has experience in dealing with short sales. Each bank has their own requirements. The Kuchta’s - Kelly & Colleen are very familiar with the short sale process/foreclosure process and have helped many sellers, as well as buyers with their transaction. Feel free to contact us for a no obligation, consultation 262-894-6512, or ckuchta@shorewest.com. We are here to help.
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