Real Estate Brokers and

Real estate brokers and sales agents Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition U.S. Department of Labor | Bureau of Labor Statistics | Bulletin 2600 Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents Nature of the Work Working Conditions Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement Employment Job Outlook Earnings Related Occupations Sources of Additional Information Significant Points Real estate brokers and sales agents often work evenings and weekends and usually are on call to suit the needs of clients. A license is required in every State and the District of Columbia. Although gaining a job may be relatively easy, beginning workers may face competition fromwell-established, more experienced agents and brokers in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Employment is sensitive to swings in the economy, especially interest rates; during periodsof declining economic activity and increasing interest rates, the volume of sales and the resultingdemand for sales workers fall. Nature of the Work [ About this section ] Back to Top One of the most complex and significant financial events in peoples lives is the purchase or sale of a home or investment property. Because of this complexity and significance, people typically seek the help of real estate brokers and sales agents when buying or selling real estate. Real estate brokers and sales agents have a thorough knowledge of the real estate market in their communities. They know which neighborhoods will best fit clients needs and budgets. They are familiar with local zoning and tax laws and know where to obtain financing. Agents and brokers also act as intermediaries in price negotiations between buyers and sellers. Real estate agents usually are independent sales workers who provide their services to a licensed real estate broker on a contract basis. In return, the broker pays the agent a portion of the commission earned from the agents sale of the property. Brokers are independent businesspeople who sell real estate owned by others; they also may rent or manage properties for a fee. When selling real estate, brokers arrange for title searches and for meetings between buyers and sellers during which the details of the transactions are agreed upon and the new owners take possession of the property. A broker may help to arrange favorable financing from a lender for the prospective buyer; often, this makes the difference between success and failure in closing a sale. In some cases, brokers and agents assume primary responsibility for closing sales; in others, lawyers or lenders do. Brokers supervise agents who may have many of the same job duties. Brokers also supervise their own offices, advertise properties, and handle other business matters. Some combine other types of work, such as selling insurance or practicing law, with their real estate business. Besides making sales, agents and brokers must have properties to sell. Consequently, they spend a significant amount of time obtaining listings—agreements by owners to place properties for sale with the firm. When listing a property for sale, agents and brokers compare the listed property with similar properties that recently sold, in order to determine a competitive market price for the property. Once the property is sold, both the agent who sold it and the agent who obtained the listing receive a portion of the commission. Thus, agents who sell a property that they themselves have listed can increase their commission. Most real estate brokers and sales agents sell residential property. A small number—usually employed in large or specialized firms—sell commercial, industrial, agricultural, or other types of real estate. Every specialty requires knowledge of that particular type of property and clientele. Selling or leasing business property requires an understanding of leasing practices, business trends, and the location of the property. Agents who sell or lease industrial properties must know about the regions transportation, utilities, and labor supply. Whatever the type of property, the agent or broker must know how to meet the clients particular requirements. Before showing residential properties to potential buyers, agents meet with them to get a feeling for the type of home the buyers would like. In this prequalifying phase, the agent determines how much the buyers can afford to spend. In addition, the agent and the buyer usually sign a loyalty contract which states that the agent will be the only one to show houses to buyers. An agent or broker then generates lists of properties for sale, their location and description, and available sources of financing. In some cases, agents and brokers use computers to give buyers a virtual tour of properties in which they are interested. With a computer, buyers can view interior and exterior images or floor plans without leaving the real estate office. Agents may meet several times with prospective buyers to discuss and visit available properties. Agents identify and emphasize the most pertinent selling points. To a young family looking for a house, they may emphasize the convenient floor plan, the areas low crime rate, and the proximity to schools and shopping centers. To a potential investor, they may point out the tax advantages of owning a rental property and the ease of finding a renter. If bargaining over price becomes necessary, agents must follow their clients instructions carefully and may have to present counteroffers in order to get the best possible price. Once both parties have signed the contract, the real estate broker or agent must make sure that all special terms of the contract are met before the closing date. For example, the agent must make sure that the mandated and agreed-upon inspections, including that of the home and termite and radon inspections, take place. Also, if the seller agrees to any repairs, the broker or agent must see that they are made. Increasingly, brokers and agents are handling environmental problems as well, by making sure that the properties they sell meet environmental regulations. For example, they may be responsible for dealing with lead paint on the walls. While loan officers, attorneys, or other persons handle many details, the agent must ensure that they are carried out. Working Conditions [ About this section ] Back to Top Advances in telecommunications and the ability to retrieve data about properties over the Internet allow many real estate brokers and sales agents to work out of their homes instead of real estate offices. Even with this convenience, much of the time of these workers is spent away from their desks—showing properties to customers, analyzing properties for sale, meeting with prospective clients, or researching the state of the market. Agents and brokers often work more than a standard 40-hour week. They usually work evenings and weekends and are always on call to suit the needs of clients. Although the hours are long and frequently irregular, most agents and brokers have the freedom to determine their own schedule. Consequently, they can arrange their work so that they can have time off when they want it. Business usually is slower during the winter season. Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement [ About this section ] Back to Top In every State and the District of Columbia, real estate brokers and sales agents must be licensed. Prospective agents must be high school graduates, be at least 18 years old, and pass a written test. The examination—more comprehensive for brokers than for agents—includes questions on basic real estate transactions and laws affecting the sale of property. Most States require candidates for the general sales license to complete between 30 and 90 hours of classroom instruction. Those seeking a brokers license need between 60 and 90 hours of formal training and a specific amount of experience selling real estate, usually 1 to 3 years. Some States waive the experience requirements for the brokers license for applicants who have a bachelors degree in real estate. State licenses typically must be renewed every 1 or 2 years; usually, no examination needs to be taken. However, many States require continuing education for license renewals. Prospective agents and brokers should contact the real estate licensing commission of the State in which they wish to work in order to verify the exact licensing requirements. As real estate transactions have become more legally complex, many firms have turned to college graduates to fill positions. A large number of agents and brokers have some college training. College courses in real estate, finance, business administration, statistics, economics, law, and English are helpful. For those who intend to start their own company, business courses such as marketing and accounting are as significant as courses in real estate or finance. Personality traits are equally as important as ones academic background. Brokers look for applicants who possess a pleasant personality, are honest, and present a neat appearance. Maturity, good judgment, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm for the job are required in order to encourage prospective customers in this highly competitive field. Agents should be well organized, be detail oriented, and have a good memory for names, faces, and business particulars. Those interested in jobs as real estate agents often begin in their own communities. Their knowledge of local neighborhoods is a clear advantage. Under the direction of an experienced agent, beginners learn the practical aspects of the job, including the use of computers to locate or list available properties and identify sources of financing. Many firms offer formal training programs for both beginners and experienced agents. Larger firms usually offer more extensive programs than smaller firms. More than a thousand universities, colleges, and junior colleges offer courses in real estate. At some, a student can earn an associates or bachelors degree with a major in real estate; several offer advanced degrees. Many local real estate associations that are members of the National Association of Realtors sponsor courses covering the fundamentals and legal aspects of the field. Advanced courses in mortgage financing, property development and management, and other subjects also are available. Advancement opportunities for agents may take the form of higher rates of commission. As agents gain knowledge and expertise, they become more efficient in closing a greater number of transactions and increase their earnings. In many large firms, experienced agents can advance to sales manager or general manager. Persons who have received their brokers license may open their own offices. Others with experience and training in estimating property value may become real estate appraisers, and people familiar with operating and maintaining rental properties may become property managers. (See the Handbook statements on property, real estate, and community association managers ; and appraisers and assessors of real estate . ) Experienced agents and brokers with a thorough knowledge of business conditions and property values in their localities may enter mortgage financing or real estate investment counseling. Employment [ About this section ] Back to Top In 2004, real estate brokers and sales agents held about 460,000 jobs; real estate sales agents held approximately 24 percent of these jobs. Many worked part time, combining their real estate activities with other careers. About 6 out of 10 real estate agents and brokers were self-employed. Real estate is sold in all areas, but employment is concentrated in large urban areas and in rapidly growing communities. Most real estate firms are relatively small; indeed, some are one-person businesses. By contrast, some large real estate firms have several hundred agents operating out of numerous branch offices. Many brokers have franchise agreements with national or regional real estate organizations. Under this type of arrangement, the broker pays a fee in exchange for the privilege of using the more widely known name of the parent organization. Although franchised brokers often receive help in training sales staff and running their offices, they bear the ultimate responsibility for the success or failure of their firms. Real estate brokers and sales agents are older, on average, than most other workers. Historically, many homemakers and retired persons were attracted to real estate sales by the flexible and part-time work schedules characteristic of the field. These individuals could enter, leave, and later return to the occupation, depending on the strength of the real estate market, their family responsibilities, or other personal circumstances. Recently, however, the attractiveness of part-time real estate work has declined, as increasingly complex legal and technological requirements are raising startup costs associated with becoming an agent. Job Outlook [ About this section ] Back to Top Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2014, because of the increasing housing needs of a growing population, as well as the perception that real estate is a good investment. Relatively low interest rates should continue to stimulate sales of real estate, resulting in the need for more agents and brokers. In addition, a large number of job openings will arise each year from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. However, job growth will be somewhat limited by the increasing use of technology, which is improving the productivity of agents and brokers. For example, prospective customers often can perform their own searches for properties that meet their criteria by accessing real estate information on the Internet. The increasing use of technology is likely to be more detrimental to part-time or temporary real estate agents than to full-time agents, because part-time agents generally are not able to compete with full-time agents who have invested in new technology. Changing legal requirements, such as disclosure laws, also may dissuade some who are not serious about practicing full time from continuing to work part time. This occupation is relatively easy to enter and is attractive because of its flexible working conditions; the high interest in, and familiarity with, local real estate markets that entrants often have; and the potential for high earnings. Therefore, although gaining a job as a real estate agent or broker may be relatively easy, beginning agents and brokers may face competition from their well-established, more experienced counterparts in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Well-trained, ambitious people who enjoy selling—particularly those with extensive social and business connections in their communities—should have the best chance for success. Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents often is sensitive to swings in the economy, especially interest rates. During periods of declining economic activity and increasing interest rates, the volume of sales and the resulting demand for sales workers falls. As a result, the earnings of agents and brokers decline, and many work fewer hours or leave the occupation altogether. Earnings [ About this section ] Back to Top The median annual earnings of salaried real estate sales agents, including commissions, were $35,670 in May 2004.The middle 50 percent earned between $23,500 and $58,110 a year.The lowest 10 percent earned less than $17,600, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,770.Median hourly earnings in the industries employing the largest number of real estate sales agents in May 2004 were as follows: Residential building construction $54,770 Offices of real estate agents and brokers 37,970 Activities related to real estate 32,460 Lessors of real estate 25,840 Median annual earnings of salaried real estate brokers, including commission, were $58,720in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $33,480 and $99,820 a year.Median annual earning of real estate brokers were $61,550 in offices of real estateagents and brokers and $44,920 in activities related to real estate. Commissions on sales are the main source of earnings of real estate agents and brokers.The rate of commission varies according to whatever the agent and broker agree on, the typeof property, and its value. The percentage paid on the sale of farm and commercialproperties or unimproved land is typically higher than the percentage paid for selling a home. Commissions may be divided among several agents and brokers. When the property issold, the broker or agent who obtained the listing usually shares the commission with thebroker or agent who made the sale and with the firm that employs each of them. Although anagents share varies greatly from one firm to another, often it is about half of the totalamount received by the firm. Agents who both list and sell a property maximize their commission. Income usually increases as an agent gains experience, but individual motivation,economic conditions, and the type and location of the property also affect earnings.Sales workers who are active in community organizations and in local real estate associationscan broaden their contacts and increase their earnings. A beginners earnings often areirregular, because a few weeks or even months may go by without a sale. Although some brokersallow an agent to draw against future earnings from a special account, the practice is notcommon with new employees. The beginner, therefore, should have enough money to live forabout 6 months or until commissions increase. Related Occupations [ About this section ] Back to Top Selling expensive items such as homes requires maturity, tact, and a sense of responsibility.Other sales workers who find these character traits important in their workinclude insurance sales agents ; retail salespersons ; sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing ; and securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents .Although not involving sales, the work of property, real estate, and community association managers ,as well as appraisers and assessors of real estate, requires an understanding of real estate. Sources of Additional Information [ About this section ] Back to Top Disclaimer: Links to non-BLS Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Information on licensing requirements for real estate brokers and sales agents is available from most local real estate organizations or from the State real estate commission or board. More information about opportunities in real estate is available on the Internet site of the following organization: National Association of Realtors. Internet: http://www.realtor.org OOH ONET Codes [ About this section ] Back to Top 41-9021.00, 41-9022.00 Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook , 2006-07 Edition , Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents , on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ ocos120.htm (visited December 29, 2005 ). Last Modified Date: December 20, 2005 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Welcome to the Cook County Assessor's Virtual Office Cook County Assessor's Office: Property Search Please select from the following search types: Search by Property Index Number and Property Class: PIN: - - - - Choose Residential Class --> 2-02: One Story Residence, Any Age, up to 999 Sq. Ft. 2-03: One Story Residence, Any Age, 1,000 to 1,800 Sq. Ft. 2-04: One Story Residence, Any Age, 1,801 Sq Ft. and Over 2-05: Two or More Story Residence, Over 62 Years, up to 2,200 Sq. Ft. 2-06: Two or More Story Residence, Over 62 Years, 2,201 to 4,999 Sq. Ft. 2-07: Two or More Story Residence, Up to 62 Years, up to 2,000 Ft. 2-08: Two or More Story Residence, Up to 62 Years, 3,801 to 4,999 Sq. Ft. 2-09: Two or More Story Residence, Any Age, 5,000 Sq. Ft. & Over 2-10: Old Style Row House, Over 62 Years 2-11: Two to Six Apartments, Any Age 2-12: Two to Six Apartments, Up to 62 Years 2-21: Corner Store, Office with Apartments Above Six Units or Less and Building Square Foot Less Than 20,000 2-34: Split Level Residence with Lower Level Below Grade, All Ages, All Sizes 2-78: Two or More Story Residence, Up to 62 Years, 2,001 to 3,800 Sq. Ft 2-95: Individually Owned Row Houses or Townhouses, Up to 62 Years 2-99: Residential Condominium OR Choose Non-Residential Class --> 0-00: Exempt 1-00: Vacant Land 1-90: Other minor improvement which does not add value 2-00: Residential land 2-01: Residential garage 2-13: Cooperatives (must have cdu of co) 2-24: Farm buildings 2-25: Qualified single room occupancy improvements (must have cdu of sr) 2-36: Any residence located on a parcel used primarily for industrial or commercial use 2-39: Farm land under use-value pricing 2-40: Farm land under market pricing 2-41: Vacant land under common ownership with adjacent residence 2-88: Home improvement exemption 2-90: Other minor improvements 2-94: Rented modern row houses or townhouses with less than seven units 2-97: Special residential improvements 3-00: Land Used in Conjunction with Rental Apartments 3-01: Garage used in conjunction with rental apartments 3-13: 2 or 3 story building, 7 or more units, sgl. devel., one or more contig. parcels, in common ownership 3-14: Two or three story non-frprf. crt. and corridor apts or california type apts, no corridors, ex. entrance 3-15: Two or three story non-fireproof corridor apartments,or california type apartments, interior entrance 3-18: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-19: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-20: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-21: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-90: Other minor improvements 3-91: Apartment buildings over three stories 3-96: Rented mdrn row houses, 7 or more units in a single develop. or 1 or more contig. parcels in cmn. ownshp. 3-97: Special rental improvements 3-99: Rental condo units in a sngl. dvlp. of 1 or more contig. parcels w 7 or more rental units, comn ownshp 4-00: Not for profit land 4-01: Not for profit garage 4-13: Not for prof. 2 or 3 stry bldg., 7 or more units, sng develop., 1 or more contig. parcels, in comn ownshp 4-14: Not for prof. 2 or 3 stry non-frprf crt and corridor apts or ca. type apts, no corridors, ex. entrance 4-15: Not for prof 2 or 3 stry non-frprf corridor apts, or ca. type apts, inter. entrance 4-16: Not for profit non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 4-17: Not for profit One story store 4-18: Not for profit Two or three story frame stores, with apartments above 4-19: Not for profit Two or three story old style store, with apartments above 4-20: Not for profit Two or three story modern inside store with apartment above 4-21: Not for profit corner store, office with apartment above 4-22: Not for profit One story non-fireproof public garage 4-23: Not for profit gasoline station 4-26: Not for profit commercial greenhouse 4-27: Not for profit theatres 4-28: Not for profit bank buildings 4-29: Not for profit motels 4-30: Not for profit supermarket 4-31: Not for profit shopping center 4-32: Not for profit bowling alley 4-33: Not for profit quonset huts and butler type buildings 4-35: Not for profit golf course improvement 4-80: Not for profit other industrial improvements 4-83: Not for profit industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 4-87: Not for profit special industrial improvements 4-89: Not for profit industrial condominium units 4-90: Not for profit other minor improvements 4-91: Not for profit improvement over three stories 4-92: Not for profit Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 4-93: Not for profit industrial 4-96: Not for profit rent mdrn row houses, 7 or more units a sing dvlp or 1 or more contig prcls in comn ownshp 4-97: Not for profit special improvement 4-99: Not for profit condominium 5-00: Commercial land 5-01: Garage used in conjunction with commercial improvements 5-16: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 5-17: One story store 5-22: One story non-fireproof public garage 5-23: Gasoline station 5-26: Commercial greenhouse 5-27: Theatres 5-28: Bank buildings 5-29: Motels 5-30: Supermarket 5-31: Shopping center 5-32: Bowling alley 5-33: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 5-35: Golf course 5-50: Industrial land 5-80: Other industrial minor improvements 5-81: Garage used in conjunction with industrial improvements 5-83: Industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 5-87: Special industrial improvements 5-89: Industrial condominium units 5-90: Commercial minor improvements 5-91: Commercial buildings over three stories 5-92: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 5-93: Industrial 5-97: Special commercial improvements 5-99: Commercial condominium units 6-37: Industrial brownfield land 6-38: Industrial brownfield 6-50: Industrial land 6-51: Industrial land 6-54: Other industrial brownfield minor improvements 6-55: Garage used in conjunction with industrial brownfield incentive improvements 6-63: Industrial 6-66: Industrial brownfield quonset huts and butler type buildings 6-68: Special improvements 6-69: Industrial brownfield condominium units 6-70: Other industrial minor improvements 6-71: Garage used in conjunction with industrial incentive improvements 6-73: Industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 6-77: Special improvements 6-79: Industrial condominium units 6-80: Other industrial minor improvements 6-81: Garage used in conjunction with industrial incentive improvements 6-83: Industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 6-87: Special industrial improvements 6-89: Industrial condominium units 6-93: Industrial 7-00: Commercial incentive land 7-01: Garage used in conjunction with commercial incentive improvements 7-16: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 7-17: One story retail, restaurant, or banquet hall, medical building, miscellaneous commercial use 7-22: Garage, public/service 7-23: Gasoline station, with/without bays, store 7-26: Commercial greenhouse 7-27: Theatres 7-28: Bank buildings 7-29: Motels 7-30: Supermarket 7-31: Shopping center (regional, community, neighborhood, promotional, specialty) 7-32: Bowling alley 7-33: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 7-35: Golf course 7-42: Commercial incentive land 7-43: Garage used in conjunction with commercial incentive improvements 7-45: Golf course 7-46: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 7-47: One story retail, rstrnt, or bnqt hall, med. blding, miscellaneous commercial use 7-48: Motels 7-52: Garage, public/service 7-53: Gasoline station, with/without bays, store 7-56: Commercial greenhouse 7-57: Theatres 7-58: Bank buildings 7-60: Supermarket 7-61: Shopping center (regional, community, neighborhood, promotional, specialty) 7-62: Bowling alley 7-64: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 7-65: Other minor improvements 7-67: Facilities (tennis, rqtball, hlth club), (nursing, retirement home), auto. dlrshp, comm. structure 7-72: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 7-74: office building (One story, low rise, mid rise, high rise) 7-90: Other minor improvements 7-91: Office building (one story, low rise, mid rise, high rise) 7-92: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 7-97: Facilities (tennis, rqtbll, hlth club), (nursing, rtrmnt home), auto dlrshp, comm. structure 7-98: Commercial/industrial-condominium units/garage 7-99: Commercial/industrial-condominium units/garage 8-01: Garage in conjunction with commercial incentive improvements 8-16: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 8-17: One story retail, restaurant, (banquet hall, fast food), medical, miscellaneous commercial use 8-22: Garage (public/service) 8-23: Gasoline station with/without bay, store 8-26: Commercial greenhouse 8-27: Theatres 8-28: Bank building 8-29: Motels 8-30: Supermarket 8-31: Shopping center (regional, community, neighborhood, promotional, specialty) 8-32: Bowling alley 8-33: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 8-35: Golf course 8-50: Industrial incentive land 8-80: Other industrial minor improvements 8-81: Garage used in conjunction with industrial incentive improvements 8-83: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 8-87: Special industrial improvements 8-89: Industrial condominium units 8-90: Other minor improvements 8-91: Office building, (One story, low rise, midrise, high rise) 8-92: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 8-93: Industrial buildings 8-97: Facilities, (tennis, rqtball, hlth club), (nursing, retirement home), auto. dlrshp, misc. comm. structure 8-99: Commercial/industrial condominium units/Garage 9-00: Land used in conjunction with incentive rental apartments 9-01: Garage used in conjunction with incentive rental apartments 9-13: 2 or 3 story bldng, 7 or more units, sngle devel., 1 or more contig. parcels, in common ownership 9-14: 2 or 3 story non-freprf crt and corridor apts or california type apts, no corridors, ex. entrance 9-15: 2 or 3 story non-frprf corridor apts, or california type apts, interior entrance 9-18: 2 or 3 story frame stores, with apts above (must be split coded with another class) 9-19: 2 or 3 story old style store, with apts above (must be split coded with another class) 9-20: 2 or 3 story modern inside store with apts above (must be split coded with another class) 9-21: Corner store, office with apartments above (must be split coded with another class) 9-59: Rental condo unts in a sing. dvlp. of 1 or more contiprcls w/ 7 or more rent units, commn ownrshp 9-90: Other minor improvements 9-91: Apartment buildings over three stories 9-96: Rental mdrn row houses, 7 or more unts in a sing. dvlpment or 1 or more contig. prcls in comm. ownrshp 9-97: Special rental improvements Enter Permanent Index Number (P.I.N.)Search by entering your 14 digit Property Index Number PIN in the corresponding boxes in the Search by Property Index Number function. Your PIN can be found on your Notice of Proposed Assessed Valuation, or on your tax bill. The first 2 digits should be entered into the first box, the second 2 in the second box, 3 digits in each of the third and fourth boxes, and the remaining 4 digits in the last box. Once you have entered your PIN, click once on the Search button. This will bring up a page with your desired PIN, corresponding address, class code, neighborhood, assessed value, and city. View Instructions Close Instructions Search by Address : House Number (from): (to:) Direction: Street: Note: For more accurate results, do NOT include labels such as St., Ave. Dr.,etc. City: Property Class: (optional) Choose Residential Class --> 2-02: One Story Residence, Any Age, up to 999 Sq. Ft. 2-03: One Story Residence, Any Age, 1,000 to 1,800 Sq. Ft. 2-04: One Story Residence, Any Age, 1,801 Sq Ft. and Over 2-05: Two or More Story Residence, Over 62 Years, up to 2,200 Sq. Ft. 2-06: Two or More Story Residence, Over 62 Years, 2,201 to 4,999 Sq. Ft. 2-07: Two or More Story Residence, Up to 62 Years, up to 2,000 Ft. 2-08: Two or More Story Residence, Up to 62 Years, 3,801 to 4,999 Sq. Ft. 2-09: Two or More Story Residence, Any Age, 5,000 Sq. Ft. & Over 2-10: Old Style Row House, Over 62 Years 2-11: Two to Six Apartments, Any Age 2-12: Two to Six Apartments, Up to 62 Years 2-21: Corner Store, Office with Apartments Above Six Units or Less and Building Square Foot Less Than 20,000 2-34: Split Level Residence with Lower Level Below Grade, All Ages, All Sizes 2-78: Two or More Story Residence, Up to 62 Years, 2,001 to 3,800 Sq. Ft 2-95: Individually Owned Row Houses or Townhouses, Up to 62 Years 2-99: Residential Condominium OR Choose Non-Residential Class --> 0-00: Exempt 1-00: Vacant Land 1-90: Other minor improvement which does not add value 2-00: Residential land 2-01: Residential garage 2-13: Cooperatives (must have cdu of co) 2-24: Farm buildings 2-25: Qualified single room occupancy improvements (must have cdu of sr) 2-36: Any residence located on a parcel used primarily for industrial or commercial use 2-39: Farm land under use-value pricing 2-40: Farm land under market pricing 2-41: Vacant land under common ownership with adjacent residence 2-88: Home improvement exemption 2-90: Other minor improvements 2-94: Rented modern row houses or townhouses with less than seven units 2-97: Special residential improvements 3-00: Land Used in Conjunction with Rental Apartments 3-01: Garage used in conjunction with rental apartments 3-13: 2 or 3 story building, 7 or more units, sgl. devel., one or more contig. parcels, in common ownership 3-14: Two or three story non-frprf. crt. and corridor apts or california type apts, no corridors, ex. entrance 3-15: Two or three story non-fireproof corridor apartments,or california type apartments, interior entrance 3-18: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-19: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-20: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-21: Mixed use commercial/residential with apts. above seven units or more or building sq. ft. over 20,000 3-90: Other minor improvements 3-91: Apartment buildings over three stories 3-96: Rented mdrn row houses, 7 or more units in a single develop. or 1 or more contig. parcels in cmn. ownshp. 3-97: Special rental improvements 3-99: Rental condo units in a sngl. dvlp. of 1 or more contig. parcels w 7 or more rental units, comn ownshp 4-00: Not for profit land 4-01: Not for profit garage 4-13: Not for prof. 2 or 3 stry bldg., 7 or more units, sng develop., 1 or more contig. parcels, in comn ownshp 4-14: Not for prof. 2 or 3 stry non-frprf crt and corridor apts or ca. type apts, no corridors, ex. entrance 4-15: Not for prof 2 or 3 stry non-frprf corridor apts, or ca. type apts, inter. entrance 4-16: Not for profit non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 4-17: Not for profit One story store 4-18: Not for profit Two or three story frame stores, with apartments above 4-19: Not for profit Two or three story old style store, with apartments above 4-20: Not for profit Two or three story modern inside store with apartment above 4-21: Not for profit corner store, office with apartment above 4-22: Not for profit One story non-fireproof public garage 4-23: Not for profit gasoline station 4-26: Not for profit commercial greenhouse 4-27: Not for profit theatres 4-28: Not for profit bank buildings 4-29: Not for profit motels 4-30: Not for profit supermarket 4-31: Not for profit shopping center 4-32: Not for profit bowling alley 4-33: Not for profit quonset huts and butler type buildings 4-35: Not for profit golf course improvement 4-80: Not for profit other industrial improvements 4-83: Not for profit industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 4-87: Not for profit special industrial improvements 4-89: Not for profit industrial condominium units 4-90: Not for profit other minor improvements 4-91: Not for profit improvement over three stories 4-92: Not for profit Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 4-93: Not for profit industrial 4-96: Not for profit rent mdrn row houses, 7 or more units a sing dvlp or 1 or more contig prcls in comn ownshp 4-97: Not for profit special improvement 4-99: Not for profit condominium 5-00: Commercial land 5-01: Garage used in conjunction with commercial improvements 5-16: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 5-17: One story store 5-22: One story non-fireproof public garage 5-23: Gasoline station 5-26: Commercial greenhouse 5-27: Theatres 5-28: Bank buildings 5-29: Motels 5-30: Supermarket 5-31: Shopping center 5-32: Bowling alley 5-33: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 5-35: Golf course 5-50: Industrial land 5-80: Other industrial minor improvements 5-81: Garage used in conjunction with industrial improvements 5-83: Industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 5-87: Special industrial improvements 5-89: Industrial condominium units 5-90: Commercial minor improvements 5-91: Commercial buildings over three stories 5-92: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 5-93: Industrial 5-97: Special commercial improvements 5-99: Commercial condominium units 6-37: Industrial brownfield land 6-38: Industrial brownfield 6-50: Industrial land 6-51: Industrial land 6-54: Other industrial brownfield minor improvements 6-55: Garage used in conjunction with industrial brownfield incentive improvements 6-63: Industrial 6-66: Industrial brownfield quonset huts and butler type buildings 6-68: Special improvements 6-69: Industrial brownfield condominium units 6-70: Other industrial minor improvements 6-71: Garage used in conjunction with industrial incentive improvements 6-73: Industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 6-77: Special improvements 6-79: Industrial condominium units 6-80: Other industrial minor improvements 6-81: Garage used in conjunction with industrial incentive improvements 6-83: Industrial quonset huts and butler type buildings 6-87: Special industrial improvements 6-89: Industrial condominium units 6-93: Industrial 7-00: Commercial incentive land 7-01: Garage used in conjunction with commercial incentive improvements 7-16: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 7-17: One story retail, restaurant, or banquet hall, medical building, miscellaneous commercial use 7-22: Garage, public/service 7-23: Gasoline station, with/without bays, store 7-26: Commercial greenhouse 7-27: Theatres 7-28: Bank buildings 7-29: Motels 7-30: Supermarket 7-31: Shopping center (regional, community, neighborhood, promotional, specialty) 7-32: Bowling alley 7-33: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 7-35: Golf course 7-42: Commercial incentive land 7-43: Garage used in conjunction with commercial incentive improvements 7-45: Golf course 7-46: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 7-47: One story retail, rstrnt, or bnqt hall, med. blding, miscellaneous commercial use 7-48: Motels 7-52: Garage, public/service 7-53: Gasoline station, with/without bays, store 7-56: Commercial greenhouse 7-57: Theatres 7-58: Bank buildings 7-60: Supermarket 7-61: Shopping center (regional, community, neighborhood, promotional, specialty) 7-62: Bowling alley 7-64: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 7-65: Other minor improvements 7-67: Facilities (tennis, rqtball, hlth club), (nursing, retirement home), auto. dlrshp, comm. structure 7-72: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 7-74: office building (One story, low rise, mid rise, high rise) 7-90: Other minor improvements 7-91: Office building (one story, low rise, mid rise, high rise) 7-92: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 7-97: Facilities (tennis, rqtbll, hlth club), (nursing, rtrmnt home), auto dlrshp, comm. structure 7-98: Commercial/industrial-condominium units/garage 7-99: Commercial/industrial-condominium units/garage 8-01: Garage in conjunction with commercial incentive improvements 8-16: Non-fireproof hotel or rooming house (apartment hotel) 8-17: One story retail, restaurant, (banquet hall, fast food), medical, miscellaneous commercial use 8-22: Garage (public/service) 8-23: Gasoline station with/without bay, store 8-26: Commercial greenhouse 8-27: Theatres 8-28: Bank building 8-29: Motels 8-30: Supermarket 8-31: Shopping center (regional, community, neighborhood, promotional, specialty) 8-32: Bowling alley 8-33: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 8-35: Golf course 8-50: Industrial incentive land 8-80: Other industrial minor improvements 8-81: Garage used in conjunction with industrial incentive improvements 8-83: Quonset huts and butler type buildings 8-87: Special industrial improvements 8-89: Industrial condominium units 8-90: Other minor improvements 8-91: Office building, (One story, low rise, midrise, high rise) 8-92: Two or three story building containing part or all retail and/or commercial space 8-93: Industrial buildings 8-97: Facilities, (tennis, rqtball, hlth club), (nursing, retirement home), auto. dlrshp, misc. comm. structure 8-99: Commercial/industrial condominium units/Garage 9-00: Land used in conjunction with incentive rental apartments 9-01: Garage used in conjunction with incentive rental apartments 9-13: 2 or 3 story bldng, 7 or more units, sngle devel., 1 or more contig. parcels, in common ownership 9-14: 2 or 3 story non-freprf crt and corridor apts or california type apts, no corridors, ex. entrance 9-15: 2 or 3 story non-frprf corridor apts, or california type apts, interior entrance 9-18: 2 or 3 story frame stores, with apts above (must be split coded with another class) 9-19: 2 or 3 story old style store, with apts above (must be split coded with another class) 9-20: 2 or 3 story modern inside store with apts above (must be split coded with another class) 9-21: Corner store, office with apartments above (must be split coded with another class) 9-59: Rental condo unts in a sing. dvlp. of 1 or more contiprcls w/ 7 or more rent units, commn ownrshp 9-90: Other minor improvements 9-91: Apartment buildings over three stories 9-96: Rental mdrn row houses, 7 or more unts in a sing. dvlpment or 1 or more contig. prcls in comm. ownrshp 9-97: Special rental improvements If you wish to obtain information on a specific residential property but you do not know the PIN, simply enter the address in the "Search by Address" function. It should be noted that due to the transitory nature of addresses, our address file might contain errors or omissions. If you experience difficulties, please call the Cook County Assessors Office Taxpayer Information Department at 312-443-7550. When entering the street name of your desired property, to aid in your search, please do not enter the street suffix, such as St., Dr., Ave., etc. You will then need to enter the city name in the box on the third line of the section. Please note that you do not need to select a class to conduct a search.Once the required fields of information are entered, click once on the "Search by Address" button to submit your search. This will bring up a page with your desired PIN, corresponding address, city, neighborhood, class code, township, age, description of class code, assessed value, and a description of the propertys characteristics. To compare your propertys assessed value to other similar properties on your block or in your neighborhood, you may enter a range of addresses on the search page. For example, you may enter 400 500 N Main in Chicago. This may be useful if you are considering an appeal based on lack of uniformity. View Instructions Close Instructions Search by Neighborhood: Township: <SELECT> Barrington Berwyn Bloom Bremen Calumet Cicero Elk Grove Evanston Hanover Hyde Park Jefferson Lake Lake View Lemont Leyden Lyons Maine New Trier Niles North Chicago Northfield Norwood Park Oak Park Orland Palatine Palos Proviso Rich River Forest Riverside Rogers Park Schaumburg South Chicago Stickney Thornton West Chicago Wheeling Worth To search by neighborhood, simply use the drop-down box under the "Search by Neighborhood" section to select your township. If you do not know what township you are in, please check your "Notice of Proposed Assessed Valuation" or your tax bill. Once you have selected your township, click once on the "Search by Neighborhood" button. This will bring you to a page with a drop-down box with a list of neighborhood codes. If you do not know your neighborhood code, simply check your "Notice of Proposed Assessed Valuation" or click on the highlighted "Show Me Borders" for a listing of each neighborhood code and its street boundaries.Once you have selected your neighborhood code click once on the "Search by Neighborhood" button and you will see multiple pages of properties. If you wish to refine your search for similar properties click on the "Choose Class" drop-down box and select a specific class of property. This function is useful when comparing assessed value, although it is still important to look at each individual propertys characteristics. Properties in the same class with like characteristics are considered "comparables" and can be used in a residential appeal. View Instructions Close Instructions The most current assessment information will only be available for properties in triennial reassessment townships that have been mailed their "Notice of Proposed Assessed Valuation." For a listing of available townships and mailing dates click here. Please read the following instructions for information on how to best conduct an assessment search for non-residential property. Search Help : If you are having difficulty finding a property or wish to expand your search, try entering less information. For instance, in the "Search by Address" function leave the direction box blank, or only enter the first few letters of the street or city. In the "Search by PIN" function, if you enter only the first seven numbers of your PIN (i.eif your index number is 01-01-123-456-0000, and you only insert 01-01-123) this will expand your search to include all the properties that share those seven digits in ascending PIN order. This will widen the parameters for the database and improve the possibility that a record is found. Cook County Assessor's Office (Main) County Building, Third Floor 118 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 443-7550 2003- 2004 Cook County Assessors Office All rights reserved Disclaimer. Comments,Questions or Suggestions : Contact Us

Texas Landowners - Public

TPWD: Private Lands Management Maincontent Local Navigation Supplemental Information print friendly search Regulations Publications Outdoor Learning Kids Game Warden Grants Get Involved Shop FAQ Calendar Español Experience Texas Fishing & Boating State Parks & Destinations Hunting & Wildlife Land & Water Doing Business Home Land & Water Land Private Private Lands Management Landowner Request For Technical Guidance ( PDF 29.9 KB ) Wildlife Management MLDP : Managed Lands Deer Permits ADCP : Antlerless Deer and Spike Control Permits LAMPS : Landowner Assisted Management Permitting System Fisheries Management Find Your Local Game Warden Resource Protection Frequently Asked Questions Workshops and Field Days Find details on the following and other landowner events on the TPWD Calendar page under Special Calendars . Partner-Sponsored Events: The Academy for Ranch Management Workshops for 2006 Prescribed Burning Advanced Prescribed Burning Restore and Manage Deer Habitat Grazing to Meet Your Objectives Rangeland Restoration and Management More details on landowner events... Private Landowners Managing Natural Resources Our intent is to provide useful information to individuals interested in managing natural resources on their property. We hope this site will answer your questions regarding wildlife management in Texas, from producing quality whitetails to increasing songbird diversity. Please give us feedback so we can provide the information you need to manage your land for wildlife. Guides, Programs and Publications about the Conservation of Private Lands and Habitat Private Lands and Habitat Program Program description Wildlife Management Plan ( Word 278.5 KB ) (Fillable Form) Wildlife Management Plan ( PDF 30.1 KB ) (Blank Form) Wildlife Management Plan ( PDF 41.4 KB ) (Form With Guidelines) Potential Income for Texas Landowners - Public Hunting Leases ( PDF 286.7 KB ) Lone Star Land Steward Award Program description Texas Water References valuable resources regarding water issues in Texas Agriculture Property Tax Conversion for Wildlife Management Downloadable wildlife management guidelines based on ecological regions Landowner Incentive Program Program Overview Farm Bill Programs for Wildlife Habitat Improvement Farm bill provisions and contact information for the Farm Bill coordinator Texas Land Trusts Overview of Texas Land Trusts Nature Tourism Information for landowners and communities Publications Agriculture Property Tax Conversion for Wildlife Management ( PDF 237.4 KB ) Using wildlife management as a qualifying agricultural practice A Place in the Country: Guidance for New Landowners ( PDF 226.4 KB ) Information about being a good neighbor, what to consider when purchasing land, property taxes, and help available to landowners. Conservation Easements ( PDF 1.6 MB ) A Guide for Texas Landowners Creating Wildlife Management Co-ops ( PDF 647.2 KB ) A guide to help facilitate the formation of wildlife management associations Prescribed Burning Associations in Texas ( PDF 199.9 KB ) Description of Prescribed Burns, Prescribed Burning Associations and a listing of Agencies and Organizations providing Technical/Financial Assistance and Training. Contact Us | Help | Accessibility | Media | Site Policies | Complaints | Intranet | State of Texas | TRAILS Search | TexasOnline | Compact with Texans Texas Parks and Wildlife Department , 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744 Toll Free: (800) 792-1112, Austin: (512) 389-4800 Content of this site © Texas Parks and Wildlife Department unless otherwise noted. Last modified: November 2, 2005, 7:58 am

Colorado Real Estate -

Colorado HomeFinder | Lyons Real Estate, Search Lyons Homes for Sale in the MLS Call 800.231.9153 | Contact Us If you already have an account, sign in here Lyons Colorado Real Estate - find out first about the newest Lyons real estate listings! You learn about Lyons homes for sale the day they hit the market - before other buyers. Automated HomeAlert emails you new listings that fit your personal home search criteria and gives you access to all the Lyons Colorado real estate listings. It's easy - Just submit your email address and home search criteria. Your email is not shared or sold to anyone. You incur no obligation or cost for this free Lyons real estate service. Our Privacy Policy: We respect your privacy. All information provided is strictly confidential and you can unsubscribe at any time. Colorado HomeFinder will never sell or share your information with any outside parties. Click here to review our Privacy Policy . Your Automated HomeAlert Search Criteria * Required information Property Type: * Please select... Single Family Condominium or Townhome Any Property Price Range: * From Price.. 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000 160,000 170,000 180,000 190,000 200,000 210,000 220,000 230,000 240,000 250,000 275,000 300,000 325,000 350,000 375,000 400,000 425,000 450,000 475,000 500,000 525,000 550,000 575,000 600,000 625,000 650,000 675,000 700,000 750,000 800,000 850,000 900,000 950,000 1,000,000 2,000,000 5,000,000 - To Price.. 100,000 125,000 150,000 175,000 200,000 225,000 250,000 260,000 270,000 280,000 290,000 300,000 310,000 320,000 330,000 340,000 350,000 375,000 400,000 425,000 450,000 475,000 500,000 525,000 550,000 575,000 600,000 625,000 650,000 675,000 700,000 750,000 800,000 850,000 900,000 950,000 1,000,000 2,000,000 5,000,000 10,000,000 Min Bedrooms: 1 2 3 4 5 Min Bathrooms: 1 2 3 4 Min Square Feet: No Preference 500 600 700 800 900 1,000 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400 1,500 1,600 1,700 1,800 1,900 2,000 2,100 2,200 2,300 2,400 2,500 2,600 2,700 2,800 2,900 3,000 3,250 3,500 3,750 4,000 4,500 5,000 6,000 Age of Home: No Age Preference New Construction Only 5 years or less 10 years or less 20 years or less Older than 50 years City Preferences: * Lyons Select at least one city... Arvada Aurora Berthoud Boulder Broomfield Castle Rock Denver Englewood Erie Estes Park Evans Evergreen Firestone Fort Collins Fort Lupton Fort Morgan Frederick Golden Highlands Ranch Johnstown Lakewood Lafayette Littleton Longmont Louisville Loveland Lyons Nederland Niwot Parker Severance Superior Thornton Wellington Westminster Windsor Please select if necessary Arvada Aurora Berthoud Boulder Broomfield Castle Rock Denver Englewood Erie Estes Park Evans Evergreen Firestone Fort Collins Fort Lupton Fort Morgan Frederick Golden Highlands Ranch Johnstown Lakewood Lafayette Littleton Longmont Louisville Loveland Lyons Nederland Niwot Parker Severance Superior Thornton Wellington Westminster Windsor Please select if necessary Arvada Aurora Berthoud Boulder Broomfield Castle Rock Denver Englewood Erie Estes Park Evans Evergreen Firestone Fort Collins Fort Lupton Fort Morgan Frederick Golden Highlands Ranch Johnstown Lakewood Lafayette Littleton Longmont Louisville Loveland Lyons Nederland Niwot Parker Severance Superior Thornton Wellington Westminster Windsor Contact Information Name: * First Name: Last Name: E-mail: * (Valid email address is required to receive listings) Re-enter E-mail: * Phone Contact: * Home Phone: Work Phone: Information that will help us serve you better Your level of Interest: * I have a HIGH interest in buying a home and am ready to start visiting homes now. (Please provide your phone number) I have a MEDIUM interest in buying a home, but I just started my search and need to become more familiar with the market. I do not have any definite plans to move at this time. I am just curious about the listings that are currently on the market. I currently: * live in Colorado plan to move to Colorado Your Comments Any additional information that will help us better understand your needs I agree with Colorado HomeFinder Terms & Conditions Just getting familiar with Lyons Colorado real estate? Or, do you know the exact street where you want to live? No matter what stage you are in your Lyons home search, Automated HomeAlert is for you! The latest technology makes finding Lyons homes for sale easier than ever ! Automatic email notification of new listings and access to all the Lyons real estate listings from all the brokerages saves you time - and makes searching for homes fun. You are in control! Colorado HomeFinder lets you search for Lyons real estate at your own pace. If you are just thinking about a buying a home, no problem...the Automated HomeAlert System is a great way to get familiar with the Lyons Colorado real estate market. If you are ready to start seeing Lyons homes in person, just let us know. Our local, licensed Lyons REALTORs can show you any property on the market. Get matched with a great Lyons REALTOR When you're ready for the assistance of a Lyons REALTOR, we will match you with the Colorado HomeFinder REALTOR that knows your target market best. Colorado HomeFinder agents are hand-picked REMAX professionals that average over 15 years of experience. We're a Colorado company, not a national referral service with a "list of agents." Our REALTORs are some of the best in the business and are true Lyons Colorado real estate market experts! Colorado HomeFinder, RE/MAX Alliance 4770 Baseline Road, Suite 200 Boulder, CO 80303 Lyons HomeFinder | Buy a Lyons Home | Sell a Lyons Home | Lyons Homes for Sale | Browse Lyons Listings | Lyons Realtors | Lyons Mortgage | Lyons Relocation Call toll free (800) 231-9153 or local (303) 543-3083 to be connected with a local expert Lyons RE/MAX REALTOR. New listing emails: Lyons Colorado Real Estate Denver Real Estate | Boulder Real Estate | Fort Collins Real Estate | Colorado Real Estate Broomfield Real Estate | Castle Rock Real Estate | Evergreen Real Estate | Highlands Ranch Real Estate | Littleton Real Estate We're a Colorado company with a network of hand picked RE/MAX REALTORS in 17 local offices across the state. 2005, Colorado HomeFinder , all rights reserved. Each office independently owned and operated. Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

real estate professionals,and the

RISMedia - Residential Real Estate's Largest Independent News & Information Service - Immediate access to industry news,top real estate professionals,and the nation's most respected product and service firms real estate referral,real estate training,real estate education,real estate news articles information consulting expertise real estate professionals reference resources industry worldwide database national regional state real estate referral,real estate training,real estate education,real estate news articles information consulting expertise real estate professionals articles information consulting expertise real estate professionals reference resources industry worldwide database national regional state real estate referral,real estate training,real estate education,real estate news reference resources industry worldwide database national regional state real estate referral,real estate training,real estate education,real estate news Today's News Products/Services Article Search Events Feedback Login Real Estate Magazine Realtors/Services Power Broker Report Real Estate Leadership Power Broker Event Realestate Magazine Feedback Daily News Feedback Advertising Opportunities Feedback Other Feedback Today's Real Estate News Get our free News Feed Existing-Home Sales Trend Lower in November Sales eased 1.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.97 million units in November from a pace of 7.09 million in October More. Inverted Yield Curve Influences Mortgage Rates Fixed mortgage rates fell slightly this week, as long-term interest rates declined following a large decrease in new home sales More. NAR Provides Access to Updated Study of Emerging Legal Issues in Real Estate Study tracks historical data regarding more than 90 different legal liability issues faced by real estate professionals More. Pitching Property in the Blogosphere Real estate blogs rising in popularity at a time when the Internet is becoming more important in home-buying process More. Todays HOME Spun Wisdom New Years resolution: Adopting a healthy diet More. November Illinois Home Sales Nearly Even with Last Year Median Price at $202,000 Total home sales down less than 200 from the prior year More. 2005 California Housing Market Eclipses Previous Records Sales of detached, existing single-family homes are expected to reach 635,000 this year More. Housing Costs Up in Western Massachusetts Prices outside of the city are up much faster this year than in the Boston area More. NAR PULSE: NAR Welcomes Federal Guidelines on Specialty Mortgages The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS on Dec. 20 welcomed proposed guidelines from the federal financial regulatory agencies on specialty mortgage products that allow consumers to defer repayment of the home mortgage principal and interest. More. NAR PULSE: Terrorism Insurance Readied for President The U.S. House and Senate have reached agreement on extension of federal terrorism re-insurance for an additional two years, setting the stage for signing by President George W. Bush. The legislation increases the point at which federal backstop assistance kicks in from $5 million this year to $50 million in 2006 and $100 million in 2007, and creates the President's Working Group on Financial Markets (which includes the Treasury secretary and the Chairs of the Fed and SEC). NAR supported extension to ensure the availability and affordability of terrorism coverage, vital to the financing of commercial properties. More. NAR PULSE: New Resort Certification to Serve Growing Second-Home and Resort Market To better serve the growing second-home and resort real estate sector, a new certification for REALTORS called the Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) will be offered by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS. The new certification program was announced at the 2005 NAR Conference & Expo in San Francisco last October. More. Sedgwick CMS Holdings Agrees to Acquisition by Fidelity National Financial FNF will acquire company for $635 million More. RE/MAX Moves to No. 8 in Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Study Company moves up in ranking More. W.C. & A.N. Miller to Help Build a Town Town of Haymount will be new venture for Miller More. Millionaires Bank on Orange County, Calif., Homes At a time when half of all county homes sell for more than $600,000, one out of six crosses into seven-figure territory More. Todays HOME Spun Wisdom Looking for a good quote to add to your New Years toast? Here are some thoughts on ringing in the New Year from some of historys most notable quotable. More. Online Marketing: New Years Resolutions for Your Web Site Commentary by Israel Rothman More. Sharp Increase in Average Time Needed to Sell a Home: Survey 75% of respondents say homes in U.S. now taking more than 30 days to sell, up from 39% in second quarter; new sales data suggests more balanced market emerging More. Floridas Lake Worth Favors Industrial Park over Building Affordable Townhomes Leaders want seven-acre mobile home park to become part of growing industrial area More. Top Mistakes of Home Buyers and Sellers in 2005 Mistakes made in 2005 may help those looking to buy or sell in 2006 More. Home Buyers Put Faith in Concrete Recent hurricanes, higher energy costs cause for more concrete structures More. California Median Home Cost Up 16.2% But sales are down 11.2% compared with last year More. Training & Business Development: Final Four Days for $125,000 Deadline for Real Estate Apprentice is approaching fast More. Todays HOME Spun Wisdom For 2006, make one resolution as a couple. Here are some guidelines. More. State Home Sales Slide For the first time in 47 months, the median price of a home in two Santa Barbara County, California markets declined from its prior annual level More. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Author Launch the Great American Homeowner Challenge New Year's Eve Times Square 2006 celebration to kick-off campaign to inspire long-term financial success through homeownership More. List of Real Estate Training Courses for Real Estate Designations Updated Prominent real estate designations and certifications that are managed by an equally long list of real estate associations, institutes, councils and societies are now available for review in one spot More. MLSSoftware.com, RealBird Partner to Provide Map-Based Searching Services MLSSoftware to resell a branded version of RealBirds service to its clients More. Training & Business Development: The Magnificent 12 Four more industry leaders now in official judges lineup for Real Estate Apprentice More. Training & Business Development: Profiles in CourageThe Entrepreneur Agent The short cut to fearlessness More. Training & Business Development: Becoming 100% Invested in the Present Making the customer feel as though they are the only one is key More. Real Estate Continues as Prime Investment for 2006 Second consecutive year that industry has been one of the top investment choices in the survey More. Action Against Fraud Urged Jury calls for new $2 deed-filing fee to fund a new real-estate fraud prosecution unit More. Houston Home Sales Near Record Single-family home sales increased by 8.7% to 4,735 in November, up from last year's 4,357 More. Number of Homes for Sale Hits Nine-Year High in Orlando However, existing-home sales through November remained on pace to set a 13th consecutive annual record More. Todays HOME Spun Wisdom Hosting a New Years party? Here are some resolutions to think about to help you enjoy your own bash. More. Nations Strong Housing Market Seen Simmering Down in 2006 Economists: production will ease back next year to 2004s historically healthy levels More. Bankrate: Mortgage Rates in a Holiday Holding Pattern Average 30-year fixed rate mortgage dipped from 6.34 percent to 6.33 percent More. Most Homeowners Oppose Proposal to Replace Home Mortgage Interest Deduction Presidents tax reform panel would eliminate other consumer deductions More. ABN AMRO Mortgage Ranks Highest Among Primary Mortgage Lenders Highly satisfied customers refer their loan originator to others more than twice as often More. Todays HOME Spun Wisdom Regifting and exchanging 101some tips on the dos and donts of regifting More. Builders Take Steps to Curb Homes Sales Backlog of units becoming a problem for some companies More. Foreclosure.com Adds Content That Helps Subscribers Make Smart Property Decisions State-specific Foreclosure Laws and How to Buy Foreclosures offer helpful tips More. Weichert, Realtors Expands with Four New Franchises in New York and Massachusetts Company now has 31 opened affiliated offices and 11 company-owned offices in New York More. Prudential California Realty Launches Architectural Collection Division 15-year architecture and design expert to spearhead new division More. NAR PULSE: Historically Strong Home Sales Expected in 2006 The housing market for 2005 is headed for a fifth consecutive annual record, and sales activity in 2006 is expected to be the second best year in history. For more information, click here . More. NAR PULSE: NAR Launches RESPA Compliance Tools as Part of Awareness Campaign The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS has launched four new tools to help real estate professionals better understand and comply with the requirements of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) as part of NARs RESPA Awareness Campaign. For more information, click here . More. NAR PULSE: New Resort Certification to Serve Growing Second-Home and Resort Market To better serve the growing second-home and resort real estate sector, a new certification for REALTORS called the Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) will be offered by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS. The new certification program was announced at the 2005 NAR Conference & Expo in San Francisco last October. For more information, click here . More. Wealthy Americans Remain Confident Home Values Will Increase PNC survey finds fewer than one in 10 expect decline in value of their primary homes More. Housing Market Strengthens in November Record year for single-family home construction expected More. -- Current Issue Previous Issue Past Issues Reprints Realtor Solutions CURRENT ISSUE April, 2005 Past Issues -- Daily News Email Submit your email address to receive a daily news email from rismedia.com SITE SPONSORS Today's Profile Barbara Reynolds A Smooth Transition Poll Has your market become a buyer's market? Yes No Don't know Results Polls