Preparation time:  15 minutes

Makes 6 servings

1 bunch kale (de-stemmed, cut into very small pieces)      1/3 c. currants

1 teaspoon salt                                                              ¾ c. apple, diced (1/2 apple)

¼ c. good quality olive oil                                                ¼ c. diced red onion

2 teaspoons truffle oil                                                     1/3 c. sunflower seeds, toasted

2 T. apple cider vinegar                                                   1/3 c. gorgonzola cheese, crumbled

Put kale in a large mixing bowl.  Add salt, massage salt into kale for 2 minutes.  Gently stir in remaining ingredients except for cheese.  Taste and add more salt or vinegar if needed.  When at desired flavor, gently stir in cheese.

Salsa Chicken

(Winner of the 1998 Pillsbury Bake-Off)

1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil

¼ cup slivered, dry toasted almonds

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 small onion, chopped

2 chicken breasts, cut in small chunks

1 cup Chunky Salsa (Trader Joe’s brand works well)

¼ cup chicken stock

2 tablespoons dried currants

1 tablespoon honey

¾ teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon cinnamon

Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.  Add garlic and onion to skillet; cook 30 seconds. Add chicken, cook 4 to 5 minutes or until browned, turning once. In medium bowl, combine salsa and all remaining ingredients; mix well. Add to chicken; mix well. Reduce heat to medium; cover, and cook 30 minutes or until chicken is fork-tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in almonds.

Serves 4

1) Reclaim the Yard

2) Let the Foyer Flourish

3) Back Off Beige

4) Cure Kitchen Craziness

5) Denude the Dining Room

6) Avoid Focal Point Faux-Pas

7) Perk Up the Patio

8) Master the Master Suite

9) Cure Bathroom Blues

10) Repurpose Extra Rooms

Full Story: http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20100415_staging.htm

Broderick Perkins, award-winning consumer journalist, originally from Wilmington, DE, is founder, publisher and executive editor of the bootstrap DeadlineNews Group, a Silicon Valley-based content provider specializing in residential real estate, consumer news and consulting.

And more important tips at http://www.hgtv.com/real-estate/staging-secrets-top-10-ways-to-wow-potential-buyers-at-every-showing/index.html

For more real estate tips, visit www.robsellsknoxville.com.

For that reason, when helping buyers evaluate homes – and when marketing properties – the roof material and its condition should be part of the conversation.  “You should always refer the buyer or seller to a roofing expert for an analysis or necessary repairs,” Patterson says. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of eight roofing materials.

Asphalt or composite shingles.  The most widely used choice, shingles meld with almost any style of house and can be installed by most contractors.  The lower-end three-tab shingles last 15-20 years, while heavier and costlier “architectural” shingles with a three-dimensional look can survive 40 years.  But it may be hard to find replacement shingles that match perfectly with older faded ones.  Also, less expensive choices may devalue a high-end home.

Clay tiles and concrete.  Stylish and more unusual than asphalt, these choices – particularly tiles – look best on certain types of homes, such as Spanish or Mediterranean, and are found more often in warmer-weather regions (clay heats up slowly so it can have a moderating effect on hot temperatures).  Tiles are lighter-weight than concrete, but tend to be more fragile.  These materials may last 50 to 100 years.  They’re more expensive than asphalt, take longer to install, and require a seasoned contractor.

Metal.  A unique choice that can look modern or ruggedly farmhouse-chic, metal roofs come in many colors and weather handsomely.  They’re often manufactured in shapes, from shingles to panels, and in various thicknesses and textures – some even resembling dragon scales.  On the downside: Metal can be noisy when it rains unless a sound-abatement material is installed.  It’s also among the more expensive choices, with copper at the upper reaches. A life span of 50 to 100 years is typical.

Synthetic.  Many new polymer products have come on the market in the recent years, promoted for their durability, light weight, and fire resistance.  Composite products can resemble a rand of roofing materials, from slate to cedar shake.  Even though they’re not the real thing, high-quality synthetics are still on the pricey side.  Also, many haven’t been around long enough to stand the test of time.

Slate.  Among the most expensive choices, slate demands a time-consuming installation process.  Yet its natural gradations in color and texture making it tough to beat aesthetically, and it’s de rigueur on some of the best built high-end homes.  It can last 50-plus years.

Planted “green” materials.  Used more today in commercial than in residential properties, planted roofs offer ecological promise.  They work best on flat roofs, can be expensive to installed maintain, and are heavy once all the plants and dirt are in place.  An engineer should check for a quality waterproof membrane and make sure that the roof can withstand the greenery’s weight.

Wood shakes and shingles.  These natural materials look terrific on most homes, whether traditional or contemporary.  On the plus side: They can last up to 50 years.  But they must be treated to withstand fire, and some state building codes don’t permit them.  Also, they can be pricey – as much as the best slate.

Solar shingles.  Dow Chemical Co. will soon release the PowerHouse Solar Shingle, which can be incorporated into home roofing systems along with standard asphalt shingles.  The product will cost less than solar panels and be easier to install.

By Barbara Ballinger

KIRKLAND, WA, January 5, 2010 – "Home for the holidays" took on special meaning for 4,399 buyers whose purchase offers were accepted during December, according to the latest report from Northwest Multiple Listing Service. That volume of pending sales was up more than 35 percent from a year ago and marked the best December since 2006.

Brokers say it's a tough market, but point to several indicators for good activity during this year's first quarter. "The distance seems great, but the direction is a good one," observed NWMLS director Dick Beeson.

"With what our agents already have in the pipeline, I'm optimistic about a positive first quarter," said NWMLS director Meribeth Hutchings, the broker at Windermere RE/Lake Stevens. "We had a very strong December and the momentum seems to be there to keep things moving," she remarked, noting three agents were in the office on New Year's Eve writing offers.

Shrinking inventory, the extension of the first-time home buyer tax credit, and favorable interest rates are among factors brokers believe will sustain activity.

"Affordability has never been better," said Dick Fulton, a past chairman of the NWMLS board of directors whose career spans more than two decades. Fulton, the executive vice president at Coldwell Banker Bain, suggests would-be sellers list their property soon, rather than wait until spring, to take advantage of favorable conditions. With inventory much smaller than a year ago, sellers should benefit from more exposure to a good pool of buyers, he suggests.

Inventory area-wide is down about 15.6 percent from a year ago. At the end of December, brokers reported 32,152 active listings of single family homes and condominiums. For the four-county Puget Sound region, the number of active listings is down more than 18 percent, with Kitsap County reporting the biggest drop at 25.4 percent.

NWMLS members reported 4,711 closed sales during December, up 54.7 percent from the year-ago total of 3,045 when the holiday slowdown was compounded by record low temperatures and snow.

The median price for last month's completed transactions, including single family homes and condominiums, was $265,000. That compares to a year-ago sales price of $285,000 (down about 7 percent). Compared to January, prices are down about 2.9 percent.

For single family homes (excluding condominiums), last month's median sales price was $273,000. Twelve months ago it was $290,000, a difference of about 5.9 percent. Condo prices have dropped about 14.6 percent, from $263,475 to last month's figure of $225,000.

Dick Beeson, owner/broker of Windermere Commencement Assoc. in Tacoma, said the market is "chugging along," despite hurdles associated with the lending market, appraisals and foreclosures. "The hardest part of the process still remains the uncertainty of the lending market as banks continue to ratchet up the qualifications and criteria for borrowers. Appraisals are difficult because even if the value comes in at the purchase price many lenders do a second review of the appraisal and find fault with the outcome, therefore creating a problem for buyers and sellers." He also noted the large volume of foreclosures has driven down prices – something he believes will persist throughout much of this year.

Beeson also said he does not expect much sales action as a result of expanding the tax credit to qualifying repeat buyers because many owners have little or no equity in the homes to use to move up. "First time buyers will still lead the charge in sales," he suggests.

Northwest Multiple Listing Service, owned by its member brokers, is the largest full-service MLS in the Northwest. Its membership includes more than 24,000 brokers and agents. The organization, based in Kirkland, currently serves 21 counties in western and central Washington. Ferry and Clallam counties are now included in the monthly statistical reports.

Thoughts and plans of change always accompany the New Year. Focusing more on personal health and becoming more organized are among the ever-present resolutions. This year, why not extend the theme of renewal to your home, where small, strategic updates can make a big impact? You don't have to gut the kitchen, knock down walls or rip up flooring - simple changes or additions can make a big difference without requiring a huge financial investment. The following are some of our favorite examples, with potential updates ranging in price from under $100 to over $1,000.

For the Heart of the Home

In the kitchen, cabinetry and drawers can be modified to great effect without wholesale renovations. While updating cabinets or adding stone countertops is an obvious solution, why not take it to the next level and add glass cabinet doors for a completely different look? Another common update - replacing hardware - can be done with a unique twist. Urban Archaeology's hardware recalls the company's history in architectural salvage, while focusing on the highest standards of detail and craftsmanship. Their attractive pointed bin pull was inspired by an 1880s era home in the Gothic Revival style and is available in several finishes.

If modern is more your style, a simple and elegant contemporary look can be achieved by adding luxury accessories from Ontario-based Neff Kitchens, which provide the perfect combination of form and function. The hanging midway spice jars create space on your countertop or in your cabinets while keeping spices accessible and adding more than a dash of design flair.

Lighting helps set the mood in any room, from the automatic dimmer in the home theater to the glowing hallway sconces. Changing a fixture can help create a desired look with a minimal amount of effort.

Illuminating in more ways than one, the fixtures designed by Peter Carlson of Cl Sterling & Son are handmade in Portugal using recycled lead crystal. The Rock Crystal Collection of hanging bowls, pendants and more are one-of-a-kind pieces sure to spark conversation.           

For cutting edge style that is also energy efficient, consider the sleek new L'ale sconce from Ivalo Lighting. Developed in partnership with architect William Pedersen, the custom fixture was designed to complement most decors while adding a sense of intimacy and warmth to the home. Made to work with LED light sources, the stylish sconce is also ADA-compliant and is available in a number of finishes and custom colors.

On the Walls

Art and wall hangings also help define a space and display your personal style. Simply hanging a mirror can add natural light reflected from the windows, creating virtual space for a small room or widening a narrow hallway.

Artist Scott Grove has produced a mirror that satisfies in both utility and aesthetics. Hand-crafted of wood carved with a chain saw, finished with copper and sealed to prevent oxidation, the beautiful mirror has a unique look making some wonder whether it is metal or wood.

Several upscale mirror options are also available through Made Goods, a boutique line popular with designers including Michael S. Smith, interior designer of the current U.S. President's White House. One piece that we find exceptionally striking is the Beatrice, which has a simple metal frame surrounding soldered antique mirror tiles. Upscale mirror options are also available through Made Goods, a boutique line popular with designers including Michael S. Smith, interior designer of the current U.S. President's White House. One piece that we find exceptionally striking is the Beatrice, which has a simple metal frame surrounding soldered antique mirror tiles.

*Please be sure to talk to yor recommnded lenders regarging their regulatory and operational timelines.

**Saturday is a business day for purpose of disclosures

***Closing refers to the signing of the loan documents

The Effect upon Transaction Timelines:

• Closing Dates:

The earliest any home purchase transaction can close is seven business days* after the initial mortgage disclosures are received by the borrower.

• Initial Disclosures:

These must now be received by the borrower before upfront fees can be collected by the lender. Credit Report Fee is an exception.

• Appraisal:

Homebuyer must be provided with a copy of their appraisal at least three business days prior to closing**.

• Truth In Lending (TIL):

Homebuyers must receive a revised TIL disclosure at least three business days before closing** should there be  an increase of more than 0.125% in the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) from the initial TIL. This provides the homebuyer with the time required to decide if they are comfortable with their loan choice.

• Potential APR Impacts:
  • Unlocked rate
  • Product change
  • Change in closing date
  • Change in loan amount
  • Rate re-lock due to market improvement
  • Changes to fees, inclusive of settlement agent fees

*Saturday is a business day for purpose of disclosures 

**Closing refers to the signing of the loan documents

Home Buyer Tax Credits

First-time home buyers are eligible for up to an $8,000 tax credit. Current home owners may be eligible for a tax credit up to $6,500. The IRS has issued new regulations saying that under certain circumstances, even if a parent co-signs on the home loan, the buyer can collect the credit.

Low Interest Rates

We continue to see historically low interest rates. While the Red has pledged to keep them as low as possible, it is inevitable that rates will creep up over the next several months. Low interest rates give you and your child greater purchasing power. When interest rates go up a percentage point or two, purchasing power is decreased by as much  a $100,000.

Great Selection of Homes

As 2020 gets underway, pent up inventory will enter the market, creating a wiser selection of affordable homes to choose from.

No Tax Consequences for You

Under current tax law, an individual can gift up to $13,000 each year to any individual with no taxable consequences to anyone. If you and your spouse gift to your child and his or her spouse, that gift can total $52,000 - a sizeable down payment.

For more information abut helping your child become a homeowner, please contact me anytime.

Here are some books that discuss energy-efficient renovations and building guidelines.

•      Green Remodeling:  Changing the World One Room at a Time, by David R. Johnston and Kim Master.

•      Green Building & Remodeling for Dummies, by Eric Corey Freed.

•      The Homeowner’s Handbook to Energy Efficiency:  A Guide to Big and Small Improvements, by John Krigger and Chris Dorsi.

If you plan to replace appliances, investigate Energy Star qualified products.  While they may cost more, the group’s website says they use 10% to 50% less energy.

An Energy Star certified washing machine, for example, can $550 over its life.  Your local utility may offer additional incentives for replacing old appliances.  Energy Star appliances include dishwashers, refrigerators, cordless telephones and televisions.  For more information visit: http://www.energystar.gov.

If you lost your home to foreclosure or a short sale (the lender agreeing to accept sales proceeds that are short of owed mortgage), That unpaid debt is technically considered income to you.  For the tax years of 2007 through 2012, the government is waiving any tax liability on that phantom income.  The lender will send you and the IRS a copy of Form 1099-C, “Cancellation of Debt” reporting that forgiven debt as income.  To make sure you are not taxed on the amount, you will need to file Form 982, “Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to Discharge of Indebtedness.” Download FREE forms from www.IRS.gov.  If you’ve lost a home to foreclosure, be sure the bank and IRS have your current address (notify the IRS by mailing in Form 8822) so you receive important notices promptly.  Forgiven debt on vacation homes and rental properties is still taxable as if were income.