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North Bend Airport Discusses Need for Larger Aircraft

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 15:24:00 GMT

Why are some locals so opposed to the need for larger aircraft? Reading some of the comments posted on the World Link about this article it is clear that some feel it is Bandon Dunes to blame and that Mike Keiser should pay to accommodate their golfers.

I believe there has been quite a bit of criticism of the golf resort, mainly by those that don't feel they are benefiting from it directly. Let's not forget, people from all over the world are visiting Coos County to experience this world class links course and they are spending money in our local community, supporting local businesses and restaurants.

Is it so terrible that people get together to discuss ideas for the future of the airport or should we just continue to criticize people who are at least taking a proactive approach to accommodate for the demand of better flights and the inevitable need for larger aircraft?

Shouldn't this be a good problem to have?

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World Link News article August 6, 2009

Golf course, airport officials begin push for larger aircraft at North Bend airport.

BANDON — Southwest Oregon Regional Airport’s southbound flights are doing well enough for airport officials to begin lobbying for a larger aircraft.

In a genial “town hall” meeting between one of the top brass from SkyWest Airlines and community leaders, it was announced that flights to San Francisco from the North Bend airport have been operating largely without subsidies this year.

“We’re pushing on it,” Mike Lehman, Coos County Airport District chairman said in reference to the need for a bigger plane. “We’re talking about it.”

However, Lehman cautioned that talks are very preliminary and it’s unlikely the district will have a good economic argument for it for at least a year. He said the airport district will be in a better position to look at the possibility next year, assuming the economy has improved.

Michael Thompson, vice president of market development for SkyWest, listened to comments and suggestions from community leaders Tuesday during a luncheon at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, hosted by resort general manager Hank Hickox. The dialogue was generally upbeat, though Thompson did acknowledge the airline’s transition from Horizon Air — which dropped its North Bend service last year — hasn’t been smooth.

“We all need to admit that the first year was interesting,” said Thompson.

Among the areas for improvement is the need to better accommodate golfers and their cargo. Occasionally, golfers boarding the flight to North Bend to hit the links at Bandon Dunes are asked to offload clubs because of their potential to upset weight balance of the small aircraft.

It’s a frustration that could be resolved with a larger aircraft, Hickox said after the meeting.

Another need for improvement lies in the airline’s ridership to Portland, though Lehman noted northbound flights have been full this summer. He said the airport board is brainstorming solutions to boost northbound ridership year-round. One solution would be for the airline to establish an agreement with another airline service that offers more connecting flights, Lehman explained after the meeting.

Though none of that is likely anytime soon, he added.

“Those discussions are very complex,” he said.

Airport officials announced plans to step up marketing efforts to raise awareness about the airline and its services. The airport’s 2010 budget includes $100,000 for marketing, which came from a $400,000 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration, Lehman said.

“SkyWest has put us into a new line of business and that is marketing,” said Gary LeTellier, Southwest Oregon Regional Airport executive director.

SkyWest, however, has no money for marketing the North Bend service. Thompson said that 96 percent of SkyWest’s business comes from contracting services with United Airlines and Delta.

“The people in this community will determine the success of the airport,” he said.

A Happy Story about First Time Homebuyer Couple in Bandon

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 16:53:00 GMT

After over three years of saving, planning and 'off and on' looking for their very first home to buy, the day had finally arrived for this young Bandon couple. It's a true first time home buyer success story...and I was their realtor!

Adam and Christina Coleman had dreams of buying their very own house one day, a place they could call 'home' and really mean it. It wasn't something they 'had to do' or were pursuing with any urgency, but it was always a goal, a part of their plan to buy a home. Even before we met, they were already seeking out first time home buyer programs, taking classes in preparation of their loan and credit approval and asking questions to figure out the process.

As their realtor, I knew we had our work cut out for us, mainly to find the right home that fit their wish list and one that would fit their budget and price range. Over the last few years, we stopped looking here and there, and then every so often a house came available that sparked their interest. We had come close to making an offer on a couple houses in Bandon but each time there was something holding them back and I have to say, patience was a virtue in this case.

Obviously, the drop in values over the last year on the coast has helped make more and more first time home buyers able to make the leap. Living in a small beach town on the Oregon coast has its perks, but it can also be difficult to find good paying jobs to make enough money to qualify for a loan and prices here had made it nearly impossible for this young couple. With the help of the USDA Rural Development home loan program, lower interest rates, and a hot pursuit of a house they had been eying for the last year...it finally all came together, like peanut butter on a jelly sandwich, or hot fudge over an ice cream sundae.

We had been following a house on Lexington Ave in Bandon, a house abandoned by its owner as it was deep in foreclosure. I did attempt to find the owner to see about buying the house subject to bank approval of a short sale rather than see it be foreclosed on. That seemed like the right thing to do first. My letters went unanswered. So, we followed the foreclosure dates and upon learning of a final sale date, I headed out to the County Courthouse in Coquille to watch the foreclosure sale take place on the courthouse steps. I knew if we were going to have a shot at buying this house, we would have to beat the other local realtors to the punch.

Luck was on our side that day as I watched an investment group purchase the home for cash (which is required at this type of foreclosure sale). With the permission of the Coleman's, I immediately called the investment group and negotiated a sale within minutes of them buying the property! It was a close call, our offer was not exactly what they wanted, but with the promise that we would close escrow in less than 30 days, we got our offer accepted!

It was like we had a jigsaw puzzle with a bunch of missing pieces magically come together after so much time. The truth is, if Adam and Christina had not been prepared and pre-approved for their loan, this may never had happened. It was a big step for them to have me take the approach I did at the courthouse that day. But all good things happen for a reason and I have never felt so good about a sale as I have this one.

The Coleman's bought a house for under market value with no money down and even negotiated their closing costs be paid by the Seller! They also qualify for the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit. And the best part is they absolutely love their new house!

Sold! 435 Lexington Ave in Bandon. 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath, 1644 square feet, large corner lot (.28 acre), mature landscape, trees with a shop, in very nice condition. Actual Sales Price $162,000 less a $7,000 seller contribution to buyers closing costs, for a net sales price of $155,000.

Congratulations Adam and Christina from all of us at Beach Loop Realty!

Bandon Oregon 'At a Glance' Market Statistics (April-June 2009)

Beach Loop Realty — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:09:00 GMT

Bandon Oregon (April - June 2009) At a Glance Market Statistics

Active Listings	#
Residential	173
Land & Lots	167
Commercial & Business Opportunities	21

Pending Sales	#
Residential	10
Land & Lots	5
Commercial & Business Opportunities	1

Closed Sales	#
Residential	14
Land & Lots	3
Commercial & Business Opportunities	1

Closed Sales Summary-Residential
Average Days on Market	144
Average List Price	$210,629
Average Sold Price	$188,921
% SP/LP	90%
% SP/Original LP	76%
Average Square Footage	1447

Closed Sales Summary-Land & Lots
Average Days on Market	407
Average List Price	$84,300
Average Sold Price	$72,333
% SP/LP	86%
% SP/Original LP	62%

This time last year (April-June 2008) there were a total of 16 Residential closed sales with an average of 216 days on the market, average list price $318,271 and an average sales price of $284,313. The average sales price for homes this year compared to last year has declined by 34%.

This time last year (April-June 2008) there were a total of 7 Land & Lot closed sales with an average of 410 days on the market, average list pice $138,000 and an average sales price of $121,286. The average sales price for land this year compared to last year has declined by 40%.

Year to Date (January - June 2009) we have had a total of 34 closed sales in Bandon of which 26 were homes, 7 land, and 1 home with commercial zoning.

A Great Day for the Coquille Indian Tribe in Bandon

Beach Loop Realty — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:30:00 GMT

Article written June 29, 2009 by Jessica Musicar, Staff Writer for The World News

BANDON - In the same city where they first rejoiced the federal recognition and reformation of their tribe, members of the Coquille Indian Tribe reopened their arms to the community they've grown in since 1989 in celebration of 20 years of restoration.

"We're part of this community. What happens to the community happens to us," said tribal member Cassie Ross, who serves as a member of the tribal council. "It's a good opportunity for our tribe to celebrate a milestone in our journey."

Ross, who grew up in Coos Bay, recalls what life was like before restoration, after the federal government dispersed it and other tribes. They were no longer Native American people. They lost their language. They forgot their traditions and customs.

"We have to go to other tribes to regain our (customs)," the Woodburn resident said.

The weekend-long celebration, held at Bandon City Park and the Port of Bandon Boat Basin, was the first time the restoration celebration has been open to the public in years.

To Ed Metcalf, the chairman of the Coquille Tribal Council, the 20th anniversary of restoration is momentous. Picking at a plate of stick roasted salmon, he described the event as a great day for the tribe. Metcalf has served on the council since the tribe regained its federal status in 1989.

"We're our own entity, our own tribe again," he said. "Our elders and all the people who struggled over the years ... and all the sacrifices they made, all makes it worthwhile."

He added that as a younger man he'd always felt the tribe would one day be restored, as his father and grandfather believed it would.

"I wish they'd been here to see it," Metcalf said.

According to a proclamation from Gov. Ted Kulongoski, the tribe has survived racism, epidemic disease, displacement, forced relocation, attempted cultural eradication, loss of lands and termination of its recognition as a tribal government, "yet perseveres as a cohesive and critical part of Oregon's history, environment, society and economy."

"The Coquille Indian Tribe has devoted itself to the welfare of its members and has made an unquestionably positive impact within its five-county service area," Kulongoski wrote.

Activities and Events Coordinator Denise Hunter, who also is a tribal elder, said the tribe decided to open Restoration Day to the public because Bandon was so welcoming and members felt the experience should be shared.

"We're still natives, we're still here and we feel very blessed," Hunter said. "We wanted to come back here where everything began."

During the celebration, which moved to the park following canoe ceremonies with other local tribes, community members came to listen to speeches from anthropologists and others associated with the tribe, and to view information booths, exhibits and cultural demonstrations. They also came for the food. The tribe prepared approximately 3,000 pounds of salmon, along with fry bread and salad for Restoration Day.

"The salmon was wonderful and the fry bread was wonderful," said Karen Zeck, a visitor from Eureka, Calif.

Zeck said she came to the event because she has an American Indian friend, who she'd thought would like to participate.

"It's a celebration of what their life is. I think it's wonderful, as it should be," Zeck said.

It's definitely a different celebration from the one in 1989, where tribal members gathered in a tent, said Annette Sandberg, a tribal member and volunteer. Then 38, Sandberg said she recalled standing with her siblings, cousins and aunts.

"It was much more home grown and I remember there were photographers. They wanted to know where the Indians were because we are all so light-skinned," Sandberg said.

Until that time, it wasn't popular to be Indian, said Sandberg, who descends from Coos and Coquille Indians. Now, the community is more aware of the tribe's presence, even though social prejudices haven't completely died away. She said that's part of opening the celebration to others - to share tribal traditions and show who the Coquille are.

As Ross put it, "We've been here forever and we will always be here."

CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO

Steve "Pre" Prefontaine Track Legend continues to inspire in home town of Coos Bay

Beach Loop Realty — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 01:00:00 GMT

This past Monday, Linda Prefontaine, sister of the legendary and late great runner Steve Prefontaine, returned to Blossom Gulch Elementary School, to fulfill a promise made to the students a year ago.

According to the Oregon Daily Emerald, an author by the name of Bree Donovan from New Jersey was inspired to write a children's book about the track legend and got in touch with Steve's sister, Linda, to learn more about him as a man and an athlete and foremost, to get the blessing from the Prefontaine family to write the book. She told the family she wanted to donate the proceeds to a charity of their choice. Linda asked that the proceeds go to their former elementary school, Blossum Gulch. The book is titled "Steve Prefontaine: Rocketman" of which the book royalties will pay for music, arts and athletic programs at the school.

So far, book sales have generated enough money for a $3,892 donation to the school. You can purchase the book through an independent company called Lulu found on line at Lulu.com.

Just last year I represented a client buying a home in the historic Marshfield district of Coos Bay. Heather and I were meeting at her soon-to-be new home, an adorable 1924 vintage bungalow to go over some details of the sale, when she shared with me that she had just learned that Steve Prefontaine grew up in a little house just around the corner on Elrod Street, maybe a half a block away. I had heard that he was an inspiration to runners in Eugene Oregon, but had no idea he was born and raised in Coos Bay. I remember looking down the streets and sidewalks of this old neighborhood and all the early 1900's era homes a little differently that day.

His child hood home is only 2 blocks from the Marshfield High School and track where "Pre" first began cross country running and overall set 19 National High School Track records during his tenure there (1966 - 1969). The Pete Susick Stadium at Marshfield high school dedicated their track in 2001 in his honor by appropriately naming it "The Steve Prefontaine Track". Each year, on the 3rd Saturday of September, over 1000 runners engage in the Prefontaine Memorial Run, a 10k run honoring his accomplishments that is laid along his former running training grounds and ends in a run past his child hood home on Elrod up to the high school stadium in Coos Bay.

Prefontaine died at the early age of 24 in a car crash just before he was suppose to compete in the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. He was the inspiration of the "running boom" of the 1970's and his death was said to have been the "End of an Era" by the Eugene Register Guard . His college coach at the University of Oregon, Bill Bowerman, co-founded the 1964 Blue Ribbon Sports, later known as Nike shoe company. Click here to WATCH THE NIKE 30TH MEMORIAL VIDEO.

You can learn more about Steve Prefontaine at the Coos Bay Visitor Center and Coos Art Museum in Coos Bay.

Puffins on Bandon's Elephant Rock not seen since 2001

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 31 May 2009 18:39:00 GMT

The World Link News May 31, 2009
BANDON - Grab your spotting scope. Bring along that camera with a big lens. Tufted puffins are back on Bandon's Elephant Rock.

For the first time since 2001, a pair is nesting on the big rock just off Coquille Point. It's one of numerous rocks, reefs and islands in the Coquille Point Unit of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

"Local puffin watchers are really excited to see these birds return," said Dave Ledig, South Coast refuge manager for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The compact, jet-black birds with dark orange bills and golden tufted feathers on the sides of their heads are quite striking during spring and summer. The puffins spend most of the year at sea, but for up to 12 weeks in the spring, they're here.

More than a dozen pairs regularly nested on the rock formation in the 1970s and '80s. Biologists believe foxes may be partly to blame for the disappearance of the breeding pairs of puffins at Elephant Rock.

"Table Rock and Face Rock had greater populations of puffins back then, too," Ledig said.

USFWS studies indicate Oregon's tufted puffin population has declined by about 75 percent over the past 20 years. Other seabirds declined, too.

Predators gobble many. Biologists also say there's less food due to changing ocean conditions. City lights might scare some off, but Bandon's worked to lessen light impacts.

Something's working, because some local seabird populations have rebounded.

Want to see the new pair of puffins? Get up early.

"They are most active around their breeding burrows then, and the morning sun from the east provides the best lighting for observation and photography," Ledig said.

But remember to stay off the rocks, reefs and islands.

Port Orford OR In Coastal Living Magazine!

Beach Loop Realty — Sat, 02 May 2009 03:12:00 GMT

YES! It was so exciting to be thumbing through the recent Coast Living magazine and happen to stumble across a photograph I took of one of my Beach Loop Realty featured properties as a Market Watch home noted in an article titled 'Coastal Dream Towns". Port Orford OR was one of three coastal towns in the Pacific Northwest chosen for this article.

The Pacific Northwest 'Coastal Living magazine' winners for Coastal Dream Towns are... (drum roll)

SCENIC WONDER
Victoria, British Columbia

CULTURAL GEM
Bellingham, Washington

MOST FOR YOUR MONEY
Port Orford, Oregon

Although they did not get the specs exactly right on the market watch description, I think I can forgive them just this once! However, please note that not only is this Port Orford home overlooking the lake, it has direct access to the lake from the backyard and has an Ocean and sea stack view. Oh and did I mention it is on over half an acre on a private end of road location? There is a reason this home was noticed and I am so pleased to share with you the write up on Port Orford.

Click the link below to view Coastal Living magazine's 'Most for your Money' Pick for the Pacific Northwest!

May 2009 Coastal Living Page 61
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MOST FOR YOUR MONEY
Port Orford, Oregon

Allure Factor The westernmost incorporated city in the lower 48, Port Orford enjoys the warmest climate on the Oregon coast. Downtown-a bend in the road along U.S. 101-is minutes from two parks, beaches, and rain forest-swathed Humbug Mountain, which rises directly from the ocean floor to reach 1,756 feet above sea level.

Locals Love Port Orford's Paradise Point Beach, a popular spot for finding agates, semiprecious, gemstones formed of brightly colored bands of quartz.

Home Prices Cottages within a block of the beach have listed for $250,000 and up.

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Market Watch

3 bedrooms, 1 bath,
1950's home on bluff,
overlooking lake
near state park.
$329,000; realtor.com

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For more information on the Port Orford OR Market Watch property, click here for a photo slideshow and details.

Bandon Cranberry Festival 2009 September 11-13th

Beach Loop Realty — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:28:00 GMT

This year marks the 63rd year for Bandon's Cranberry Festival, 3 full days of events to celebrate the harvest of the cranberries. For such a small town, this festival is no small celebration. Festivities include a blessing of the harvest, an annually "themed" town parade, Cranberry Bowl football game, Cranberry Festival Court and Princess Competition, Live Music, Tractor Show, Food, and over 65 Vendors in Old Town. Many people travel each year to be a part of the Cranberry Festival so book your hotel rooms and vacation rentals now if you are planning to come. There is nothing more special than the Cranberry Festival in Bandon.

Here are two websites that will continue to be updated as the 2009 festival nears:

Chamber of Commerce Schedule of Events

BandonCranberryFest.com

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Welcome to the Cranberry Capital
For many years, cranberries have been one of the area's top agricultural crops, and Bandon has long been known as the "Cranberry Capital of Oregon."

According to the USDA, Oregon is expected to harvest about 500,000 barrels of the hardy, tart red fruit this year, about 8 percent above the 2006 crop, which was 465,000 barrels. That amount was up 14 percent from the 2005 crop of 440,000 barrels (a barrel is 100 pounds of berries). Nationwide, the crop is forecast at 6.90 million barrels. Of that total, Coos and Curry counties produce 4 percent.

Each acre of cranberries yields roughly 175 barrels. Bandon is one of four cranberry-producing areas on the West Coast, representing approximately one-third of the total West Coast crop. There are approximately 175 growers in Coos and Curry counties, representing 2,500-plus acres of berries.

Ninety-nine percent of the berries harvested in Coos and Curry counties are sent to plants where they are either frozen or processed into juice concentrate to be used for juice products.

A small amount, about 3,000 barrels, is sold as fresh fruit. Bandon cranberries are prized for their rich color and tart taste - perfect for making juice. The annual harvest usually starts in mid-September and ends around Thanksgiving.

Growers from Coos and Curry counties deliver to Ocean Spray, Cape Blanco Cranberries, Faber Farms and other plants in the area.

Most growers "wet harvest" their crops by flooding the bogs with water.

Each fall, Bandon celebrates its annual Cranberry Festival to honor the industry that has provided a livelihood for hundreds of residents for many years.

Ocean Trails Subdivision, Vacant Land only $58,000!

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 03:25:00 GMT

Don't be fooled by this low price! It is true. For $58,000 you can buy a large corner lot in a stellar beach town, Bandon Oregon! Beach access is within the neighborhood and world class golf only a few minutes away. Ocean Trails subdivision is located just to the east of Beach Loop Drive off of Seabird. This lot is approximately 3-4 blocks from the Pacific Ocean.

Newer area of upscale beach homes with all underground utilities including high speed internet and cable to the property, just need to pay city to connect. No deadlines or requirement to build right away. Invest now and build later!

This is the lowest priced lot in Ocean Trails and certainly one of the best! Other lots are available and priced from $79,000 - $120,000.

This is a no brainer! Call Gina @ (541) 347-1800 and I will be glad to provide sales comparables and neighborhood information.

The map shown here only marks houses that were built by Abercarn LTD. There are additional homes in the neighborhood.

Bandon Oregon 'At a Glance' Market Statistics (January-March 2009)

Beach Loop Realty — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:09:00 GMT

Bandon Oregon (January-March 2009) At a Glance Market Statistics

Active Listings	#
Residential	167
Land & Lots	157
Commercial and Business Opportunities	23

Pending Sales	#
Residential	5
Land & Lots	2

Closed Sales	#
Residential	12
Land & Lots	4
Commercial	1

Closed Sales Summary
Average Days on Market	210
Average List Price	$335,715
Average Sold Price	$299,000
% SP/LP	89%
% SP/Old LP	67%

This time last year (January - March 2008) there were at total of 17 closed sales (same as this year) with an average of 172 days on market, average list price $324,235 and an average sales price of $289,700.

The information used in this report was retrieved from data provided by the Regional Multiple Listing Service (RMLS).

Official $8,000 Home Buyer Tax Credit Frequently Asked Questions

Beach Loop Realty — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 02:48:00 GMT

Read closely...the $8,000 tax credit is for 'first time home buyers' purchasing a principal residence, however, the IRS definition of a 'first time home buyer' may still apply to you, even if you have owned a home before! Also, the current 2009 tax credit does not require re-payment like the 2008 tax credit program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to claim the tax credit?
First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home—new or resale—are eligible for the tax credit. To qualify for the tax credit, a home purchase must occur on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. For the purposes of the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when closing occurs and the title to the property transfers to the home owner
What is the definition of a first-time home buyer?
The law defines "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the homeownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.

For example, if you have not owned a home in the past three years but your spouse has owned a principal residence, neither you nor your spouse qualifies for the first-time home buyer tax credit. However, unmarried joint purchasers may allocate the credit amount to any buyer who qualifies as a first-time buyer, such as may occur if a parent jointly purchases a home with a son or daughter. Ownership of a vacation home or rental property not used as a principal residence does not disqualify a buyer as a first-time home buyer.
How is the amount of the tax credit determined?
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit?
Yes. The income limit for single taxpayers is $75,000; the limit is $150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return. The tax credit amount is reduced for buyers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of more than $75,000 for single taxpayers and $150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return. The phaseout range for the tax credit program is equal to $20,000. That is, the tax credit amount is reduced to zero for taxpayers with MAGI of more than $95,000 (single) or $170,000 (married) and is reduced proportionally for taxpayers with MAGIs between these amounts.
What is "modified adjusted gross income"?
Modified adjusted gross income or MAGI is defined by the IRS. To find it, a taxpayer must first determine "adjusted gross income" or AGI. AGI is total income for a year minus certain deductions (known as "adjustments" or "above-the-line deductions"), but before itemized deductions from Schedule A or personal exemptions are subtracted. On Forms 1040 and 1040A, AGI is the last number on page 1 and first number on page 2 of the form. For Form 1040-EZ, AGI appears on line 4 (as of 2007). Note that AGI includes all forms of income including wages, salaries, interest income, dividends and capital gains.

To determine modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), add to AGI certain amounts such as foreign income, foreign-housing deductions, student-loan deductions, IRA-contribution deductions and deductions for higher-education costs.
If my modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above the limit, do I qualify for any tax credit?
Possibly. It depends on your income. Partial credits of less than $8,000 are available for some taxpayers whose MAGI exceeds the phaseout limits.
Can you give me an example of how the partial tax credit is determined?
Just as an example, assume that a married couple has a modified adjusted gross income of $160,000. The applicable phaseout to qualify for the tax credit is $150,000, and the couple is $10,000 over this amount. Dividing $10,000 by the phaseout range of $20,000 yields 0.5. When you subtract 0.5 from 1.0, the result is 0.5. To determine the amount of the partial first-time home buyer tax credit that is available to this couple, multiply $8,000 by 0.5. The result is $4,000.

Here’s another example: assume that an individual home buyer has a modified adjusted gross income of $88,000. The buyer’s income exceeds $75,000 by $13,000. Dividing $13,000 by the phaseout range of $20,000 yields 0.65. When you subtract 0.65 from 1.0, the result is 0.35. Multiplying $8,000 by 0.35 shows that the buyer is eligible for a partial tax credit of $2,800.

Please remember that these examples are intended to provide a general idea of how the tax credit might be applied in different circumstances. You should always consult your tax advisor for information relating to your specific circumstances.
How is this home buyer tax credit different from the tax credit that Congress enacted in July of 2008?
The most significant difference is that this tax credit does not have to be repaid. Because it had to be repaid, the previous "credit" was essentially an interest-free loan. This tax incentive is a true tax credit. However, home buyers must use the residence as a principal residence for at least three years or face recapture of the tax credit amount. Certain exceptions apply.
How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application?
Participating in the tax credit program is easy. You claim the tax credit on your federal income tax return. Specifically, home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and then claim this amount on Line 69 of their 1040 income tax return. No other applications or forms are required, and no pre-approval is necessary. However, you will want to be sure that you qualify for the credit under the income limits and first-time home buyer tests. Note that you cannot claim the credit on Form 5405 for an intended purchase for some future date; it must be a completed purchase.
What types of homes will qualify for the tax credit?
Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit. This includes single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. The definition of principal residence is identical to the one used to determine whether you may qualify for the $250,000 / $500,000 capital gain tax exclusion for principal residences.
I read that the tax credit is "refundable." What does that mean?
The fact that the credit is refundable means that the home buyer credit can be claimed even if the taxpayer has little or no federal income tax liability to offset. Typically this involves the government sending the taxpayer a check for a portion or even all of the amount of the refundable tax credit.

For example, if a qualified home buyer expected, notwithstanding the tax credit, federal income tax liability of $5,000 and had tax withholding of $4,000 for the year, then without the tax credit the taxpayer would owe the IRS $1,000 on April 15th. Suppose now that the taxpayer qualified for the $8,000 home buyer tax credit. As a result, the taxpayer would receive a check for $7,000 ($8,000 minus the $1,000 owed).
I purchased a home in early 2009 and have already filed to receive the $7,500 tax credit on my 2008 tax returns. How can I claim the new $8,000 tax credit instead?
Home buyers in this situation may file an amended 2008 tax return with a 1040X form. You should consult with a tax advisor to ensure you file this return properly.
Instead of buying a new home from a home builder, I hired a contractor to construct a home on a lot that I already own. Do I still qualify for the tax credit?
Yes. For the purposes of the home buyer tax credit, a principal residence that is constructed by the home owner is treated by the tax code as having been "purchased" on the date the owner first occupies the house. In this situation, the date of first occupancy must be on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

In contrast, for newly-constructed homes bought from a home builder, eligibility for the tax credit is determined by the settlement date.
Can I claim the tax credit if I finance the purchase of my home under a mortgage revenue bond MR program?
Yes. The tax credit can be combined with the MRB home buyer program. Note that first-time home buyers who purchased a home in 2008 may not claim the tax credit if they are participating in an MRB program.
I live in the District of Columbia. Can I claim both the Washington, D.C. first-time home buyer credit and this new credit?
No. You can claim only one.
I am not a U.S. citizen. Can I claim the tax credit?
Maybe. Anyone who is not a nonresident alien (as defined by the IRS), who has not owned a principal residence in the previous three years and who meets the income limits test may claim the tax credit for a qualified home purchase. The IRS provides a definition of "nonresident alien" in IRS Publication 519.
Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction?
No. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in what the taxpayer owes. That means that a taxpayer who owes $8,000 in income taxes and who receives an $8,000 tax credit would owe nothing to the IRS.

A tax deduction is subtracted from the amount of income that is taxed. Using the same example, assume the taxpayer is in the 15 percent tax bracket and owes $8,000 in income taxes. If the taxpayer receives an $8,000 deduction, the taxpayer’s tax liability would be reduced by $1,200 (15 percent of $8,000), or lowered from $8,000 to $6,800.
I bought a home in 2008. Do I qualify for this credit?
No, but if you purchased your first home between April 9, 2008 and January 1, 2009, you may qualify for a different tax credit.
Is there any way for a home buyer to access the money allocable to the credit sooner than waiting to file their 2009 tax return?
Yes. Prospective home buyers who believe they qualify for the tax credit are permitted to reduce their income tax withholding. Reducing tax withholding (up to the amount of the credit) will enable the buyer to accumulate cash by raising his/her take home pay. This money can then be applied to the down payment.

Buyers should adjust their withholding amount on their W-4 via their employer or through their quarterly estimated tax payment. IRS Publication 919 contains rules and guidelines for income tax withholding. Prospective home buyers should note that if income tax withholding is reduced and the tax credit qualified purchase does not occur, then the individual would be liable for repayment to the IRS of income tax and possible interest charges and penalties.

Further, rule changes made as part of the economic stimulus legislation allow home buyers to claim the tax credit and participate in a program financed by tax-exempt bonds. Some state housing finance agencies, such as the Missouri Housing Development Commission, have introduced programs that provide short-term credit acceleration loans that may be used to fund a down payment. Prospective home buyers should inquire with their state housing finance agency to determine the availability of such a program in their community.
If I’m qualified for the tax credit and buy a home in 2009, can I apply the tax credit against my 2008 tax return?
Yes. The law allows taxpayers to choose ("elect") to treat qualified home purchases in 2009 as if the purchase occurred on December 31, 2008. This means that the 2008 income limit (MAGI) applies and the election accelerates when the credit can be claimed (tax filing for 2008 returns instead of for 2009 returns). A benefit of this election is that a home buyer in 2009 will know their 2008 MAGI with certainty, thereby helping the buyer know whether the income limit will reduce their credit amount.

Taxpayers buying a home who wish to claim it on their 2008 tax return, but who have already submitted their 2008 return to the IRS, may file an amended 2008 return claiming the tax credit. You should consult with a tax professional to determine how to arrange this.
For a home purchase in 2009, can I choose whether to treat the purchase as occurring in 2008 or 2009, depending on in which year my credit amount is the largest?
Yes. If the applicable income phaseout would reduce your home buyer tax credit amount in 2009 and a larger credit would be available using the 2008 MAGI amounts, then you can choose the year that yields the largest credit amount.

New 'Old Bandon Golf Links' Course

Beach Loop Realty — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:11:00 GMT

The grand opening of the new "Old Bandon Golf Links" course is here! After more than a year of being closed, Troy and Kim Russell, a Bandon local couple, have worked hard to re-open the former Face Rock Golf Course. Troy Russell and his wife, Kim, have leased the golf course from Margaret Miller and Jerry Brown, after being on the market for the last few years.

It is a happy time for Bandon locals. The 9 hole golf course has a history here going back to the 1920's when it was known as "Bandon Westmost Golf Course". According to a recent article in Bandon's Western World, longtime local resident, Don Goddard remembers it closing for a short time during World War II and re-opening as "Face Rock Golf Course" after the war.

The Russell's have been working hard to prepare the golf course for play. Although not an easy task, Troy Russell is certainly not short of experience. Graduating with a degree in horticulture with emphasis in turf management, Troy was eagerly recruited by Bandon Dunes Golf Resort where he worked as grounds superintendent for 10 years. In 2007, he helped open a new golf course in Bend Oregon and another in Walla Walla, Washington.

Although this is not a new golf course to Bandon, the Russell's say the local players "won't recognize it as quite the same course".

Regular rates for non-members is a reasonable $18 for 9 holes and $28 for 18 (twice around the 9).

If you are interested in coming more often, a 'weekday only' annual membership is available for $900 and an annual 'seven day pass' is available for $1200. Membership fees for 2009 are being offered at a pro-rated discount; $675 for a weekday only and $900 for a seven day pass.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Makes Headline News!

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 22:21:00 GMT

Here is some exciting news for you golf lovers out there...

Old Macdonald Golf Course at Bandon Dunes set to open for limited play

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort announced today that its much anticipated fourth course, Old Macdonald, is now taking reservations for limited preview play from April 1 to October 1, 2009.

Designed by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina, Old Macdonald will be open first to past and current resort guests wishing to preview the golf course on a 10-hole loop for a rate of $110. Only 32 players per day will be allowed on the course.

The full 18-hole course is set to open on June 1, 2010. The design and strategies of each hole can be linked to the design attributes by the course's namesake and the grandfather of golf course architecture in America, Charles Blair Macdonald.

Golfers interested in previewing Old Macdonald or visiting Bandon Dunes Golf Resort should call 888-345-6008.

Golf Channel posted this article on Feb 19, 2009

Lets Get Personal

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:29:00 GMT

When was the last time you spoke to your real estate agent in person, face to face? You heard me...not over the telephone and not in a typed email... actually face to face. It's not that common anymore that people meet each other face to face to do business. Business deals take place through emails, fax machines and Fed Ex! Don't get me wrong, I love technology. There is no arguing how much faster we can get things done and reach out to people all over the world like never before. The funny thing is technology offers so many distractions that sometimes I wonder, are we really accomplishing more?

This morning I caught the last half of a movie, The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith. I have not seen the whole movie yet, but what I did see gave me inspiration. Based on a true story, it was about a struggling salesman and his young son who eventually end up evicted and living on the streets and homeless shelters. He lands an unpaid internship in a brutally competitive stock-broker training program, where only one in twenty interns will make the cut.

The part of this movie that struck a chord with me this morning was watching Chris Gardner's (Will Smith's character) determination so strong that he never once complained or let anyone know he was in trouble. His approach to his eventual success was simple. He studied his training book diligently and found a way to make more sales calls than everyone else in less time. He had no time to waste so he didn't waste it. The most important scene was when he missed his very first sales appointment (at no fault of his own) he went in person to meet his failed prospect at his home to apologize and asked to reschedule a new meeting. It was this personal, face to face contact that lead to his eventual success in the story.

I feel fortunate to be living in a small town in today's fast paced society. It is common place for our clients to simply "stop by" the office and say hello or talk real estate with us. Living in the small town of Bandon and like many of of our small neighboring towns, we seem to get to know our clients on a more personal level because we run into each other frequently whether it be at a friend's dinner party, at the grocery store, at the coffee shop or just passing each other by driving around town.

Our website allows for online searches for homes, but we want to welcome you to a more personal level of service. It still exists with our team at Beach Loop Realty. We don't want to get in the way of your internet hunt for information, but why not put down the computer and lets get together in person before you make your final decision to buy or sell your next home, whether you are in town or not, lets talk, one on one. You deserve personal service, the kind that leads to success. I believe we can accomplish more by getting to know you and what it is you need from us.

Real estate doesn't have to have technical difficulties, if you would just allow yourself to get personal with your real estate agent!

Give Your Feet a Break at Bandon Crossings!

Beach Loop Realty — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 01:50:00 GMT

I am learning that Bandon Crossings is a welcomed alternative to many golfers who come play the links courses at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. Not only is it affordable with additional savings to locals with special season rate packages, but you can have your very own golf cart. An ideal plan would be to "sandwich a round of Bandon Crossings between your Bandon Dunes walking marathon" as said in a first hand experience golfer blog by Brandon Tucker.

Bandon Crossings is new to Bandon and has proved yet another success story of spectacular golf on the Southern Oregon Coast. Its grand opening was in July 2007 and it took no time at all to receive award winning attention! It all makes sense, now that I know the course was shaped by Tony Russell and his crew who shaped Bandon Dunes and designed by Dan Hixson, an Oregon native and his dog Milo. A man and his dog...that may just be the secret ingredient to any great idea!

Named one of the 10 best new courses of 2007 by GOLF Magazine

Ranked #7 in Golfweek’s Best State-by-State 2008 for all public access courses in Oregon

In their March 2008 issue, GOLF Magazine featured Bandon Crossings as a worthy alternative, delivering the same drama and challenge as the Bandon Trails course at the Bandon Dunes Resort.

“Majestic coastal trees, classically sculpted bunkers and uneven terrain provide the main challenges” says GOLF Magazine about Dan Hixson’s scenic 6,855 yard design. Hixson is now in the company of designers such as Tom Fazio, Bob Cupp, and Nick Faldo, who all had a course earn a spot on the 2007 “Top Ten” List by GOLF Magazine.

Bandon Crossings adds additional variety and flavor to the already renown golf destination of Bandon, Oregon. “The Crossings” offers a great complement to the highly regarded Bandon Dunes trio of courses. According to Golfweek’s rankings, the charming town of Bandon-by-the-Sea now has four golf courses on Oregon’s Top Ten.

Quick Fun Facts about Bandon!

Beach Loop Realty — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 00:09:00 GMT

Did you know that Bandon Oregon is located on the Oregon coast just 90 miles north of the California border? Did you know that Bandon is a center of Cranberry production in the United States?

Here are some more quick fun facts about Bandon just in case you didn't know...

Did you know?

1. Bandon only has 3 Traffic Lights

2. Population as of Dec 5, 2008 is 3,300 people

3. Annual growth since last year (Dec 2007) was 65 people

4. Bandon has an annual Crab Derby, Salmon Derby, Windfest and Cheese & Wine Extravaganza among other events

5. The only fast food in Bandon is Dairy Queen and a Subway (is that even considered fast food?)

6. Bandon's first settlers established the present town site in 1853

7. Bandon was formerly "Averille" and was renamed in 1874 by George Bennett after his home town Bandon in Ireland

8. George Bennett brought Gorse to Bandon from Ireland which ultimately lead to the Great Fire of 1936, destroying the town

10. Bandon's waterfront district burnt down in 1914

11. The commercial district of Bandon burnt down in 1936 due to embers blown by a slash fire of a logging crew that inflamed gorse growing in the town

12. Cranberries have been grown in Bandon since 1885 from vines brought by Charles McFarlin from Cape Cod Massachusetts

13. Bandon has a new sports bar (opened this summer 2008) located in Old Town named "McFarlin's Bar & Grill"

13. There are over 900 acres of cranberry bogs in Bandon

14. 2009 will mark the 63rd year of the Annual Cranberry Festival which takes place over the first or second weekend of September, celebrating the cranberry harvest

15. Is home to three of the world's premier golf courses; Bandon Dunes, Bandon Trails and Pacific Dunes at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

16. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is in the midst of construction on a fourth golf course "Old Macdonald", a tribute to Charles Blair Macdonald, founder of the U.S. Golf Association

17. Gold was discovered in 1851 at Whiskey Run

18. Coquille Indians lived here before 1850

19. Beach Loop Realty is named after the popular and scenic "Beach Loop" road tour that runs along the Pacific Coastline hugging magnificent sea stacks including Garden of the Gods, Table Rock, Cats and Kittens, Elephant Rock and Face Rock

20. Bandon's cheese making began in 1880

21. The Bandon Historical Society Museum is housed in the second building constructed after the 1936 fire

22. Bandon has two parades each year; the 4th of July parade and the Cranberry Festival parade

23. Bandon's Lighthouse was built in 1896

24. Bandon has great seafood located on the boardwalk at Tony's Crabshack and Bandon Fish Market in Old Town

25. Bandon's Average Sold Price for Residential homes (Jan08-Jan09) is $294,341 (source of data RMLS, Regional Multiple Listing Service)

We love Beechers Cheese!

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 03:47:00 GMT

It's been quite a few years since I was introduced to my first Beecher's cheese platter. It was in my parents kitchen over a glass of red wine where I first tasted Beecher's Cheese, at least 5 years ago. I was given quite an introduction as my stepbrother, Danny had traveled to Seattle Washington quite a few times that year for business and had never left without visiting the famous Pike Place Market. Danny loves to cook and the farmers market there is more than impressive as many of you may know. My parents told me that Danny was able to convince his neighborhood grocery store to start stocking Beecher's cheese regularly he liked it so much. I enjoyed hearing the stories as this began a more frequent invitation for cheese and crackers and wine, of course!

So what does this have to do with Beach Loop Realty? or real estate for that matter?!

Our very own Karen Sinko, of Beach Loop Realty is the mother of Brad Sinko, the talented and famous cheese maker of Beecher's Cheese in Seattle! Trained by his father, Joe Sinko, Brad learned the craft of cheese making right here in Bandon Oregon at Bandon Cheese Factory. Joe and Karen Sinko were part owners of the former and popular Bandon Cheese Factory of Bandon.

Lately, I've seen and heard more and more about Brad Sinko and his award winning cheeses. One day he was on the Martha Stewart show, an episode where they took you to Seattle's Pike Place Market and aired Brad making the cheese and just the other day my mom called me up to tell me Karen's son was mentioned in the recent William Sonoma catalog!

Beechers Cheese is a big hit in Bandon, and now I know why!

Don't forget to call Karen Sinko for your next real estate transaction and if you are lucky, maybe she'll share some of her sons famous aged cheeses with you Karen can be reached at the office (541) 347-1800 or on her cellular (541) 290-4639.

Seller Financing-10 Negotiating Tips for Buyers

Beach Loop Realty — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 05:29:00 GMT

Seller Financing is not for everybody, however it can be a way to sell your property or buy one in a challenging real estate market such as the one we are in today. Let's face it...interest rates may be low, but there are not as many lenders out there funding loans, loan programs are now very limited and it is harder to qualify than ever before!

If you are not familiar with seller financing, it can certainly be very intimidating for all parties involved. So I thought it might be nice to begin by taking a very simple approach and looking at Seller Financing from a Buyers point of view.

What is Seller Financing?

Rather than applying for a traditional loan with a bank, think of the Seller as the "bank". The Buyer signs a promissory note (promise to repay the loan) and a mortgage or deed of trust (allowing the Seller to foreclose if the Buyer does not pay). The Seller signs a deed transferring title to the Buyer and the Buyer makes payments to the Seller as per the terms of the note.

It doesn't matter if the Seller has an existing loan or not as there are many variations of Seller Financing. To keep it simple, we will be discussing (in my opinion) a "best case scenario" example of Seller Financing where the Seller owns the property free and clear, meaning the Seller owns the property free of any loans. In this case, the Seller can carry all the financing for the Buyer. And yes, there are plenty of homeowners that do own their property free and clear, so don't worry!

Why would a Seller offer to Finance the Buyer?

1. Some Sellers like the idea of receiving monthly payments including interest rather than investing in the stock market which can be a higher risk or into CD's or money market accounts which are now paying lower interest.

2. The Seller is usually in a position to be able to command a higher sales price when offering Seller Financing terms to a Buyer.

3. The Seller might pay less in taxes on an installment sale as they are only reporting the income earned that year versus if they received it all in one lump sum.

4. In hard to sell markets, offering seller financing opens up their property to more Buyers. This increases their chances of selling a property that might have otherwise not sold.

Certainly, if the Seller is in need of cash, they will most likely not be interested in financing the Buyer! So this only works when the Seller has enough money in the bank or plenty of other investments to cash in on when it is needed.

Lets say you are the Buyer...You decide that you would like to purchase some vacant land in a small beach town on the Oregon Coast. Lets say that town is Bandon Oregon. You find a lovely subdivision named "Ocean Trails" that is just a stones throw to the beach! There are some large lots available and the Seller happens to own them free and clear. You have your heart set on one that is listed for $98,500. You would like to buy it but you cannot find a lender that is willing to finance you for longer than 2 years and they are requiring you to build a home within a 2 year time frame and they want a higher interest rate than if you were to buy a single family home. You aren't ready to build quite that fast, in fact, you are thinking of this as an investment and are planning to hold on to it for 5 years before building.

You are sitting with your Realtor in their office writing your offer. You are a little concerned as this your first time asking a Seller to finance you rather than a traditional bank. You have good credit, in fact, you have great credit, but the lenders are not offering a long enough term for you to feel comfortable. You don't want to get stuck in 2 years having to find a new bank to refinance your lot loan if there is anyone out there willing??? You doubt it and do not want the risk.

What should I consider when constructing an offer for Seller Financing?

1. Down Payment-How much can you afford to put down? It is recommended you have a considerable down payment, somewhere in the range of 20-25%. There are some sellers that may consider less, however they usually will need enough down payment money to cover their own closing costs, including the broker commission and enough left over to put in the bank. The Seller will want to know that you are serious and willing to deposit a sizable cash down payment up front in exchange for the Sellers risk associated in the event that you fail to make payments.

2. Interest Rate-As the Buyer, the lower the interest rate the better! However, the Seller will want a fair interest rate...justifiably higher than what a bank may offer you. Todays Buyers market may be a possible exception due to the high inventory of homes and land available to Buyers and motivation of the Seller, so it is possible that a Buyer may be able to negotiate a comparable rate to what a Lender might offer. Beware of adjustable, variable and inflated interest rates, unless you are a higher risk Buyer with poor credit or no proof of income. The word "fixed rate" should be noted in your offer.

3. Term of the Loan-This is the number of years you have to pay off the entire balance. You can ask the Seller for 5 years, 6 years, 7 years or longer. Whatever the term, the entire balance of your loan will be due, so choose carefully. If you are thinking of building in 5 years, you may want to ask for an 8 year term so you have a cushion of time for unexpected delays. If you are not ready to build by the time your loan term is due, you will either need to refinance you loan with a bank, pay off the balance in cash, or sell the property prior to the due date.

4. Interest Only vs. Amortized Payments-Sticking to my "simple" approach, we will be discussing two ways to make your payment;

Interest only payments are best for short term loans such as a 2, 3 or possibly a 5 year term. An interest only payment does not reduce your principal balance, meaning your payment is all interest. Since an interest only payment does not contain principal, your monthly payment will be less than an amortized payment. Just keep in mind, when you make a payment, the principal balance of your loan never changes. When your note is due and payable, you will have to pay off the entire loan.

An amortized payment includes interest and principal in every payment. Every payment you make reduces the principal balance of your loan. Take a look at an amortization schedule to understand how much of your payment is applied towards interest and principal based on your loan terms. You can use an amortization calculator on line, or better yet, ask your Lender. A 15 year or 30 year amortization schedule are most common.

5. Pre-Payment Penalty-Make sure you specify there will be no penalty if you choose to pay off the loan prior to the due date.

6. Contract Servicing Account-Specify who will handle the collection and management of your payments. A professional collection servicing company is worth paying for. Ask your local escrow or title company and they will refer one to you. It is important to appoint who will handle your payments and who will pay for the fees associated with the account. As an example, if you are the Buyer and feel as though you are asking a lot of the Seller, you may want to offer to pay the set up fee and monthly service fee associated with the handling of your payments. A collection service company also keeps some distance between you and the Seller allowing you more privacy.

7. Late Fees-As a Buyer, you may want to be up front and negotiate your own late fee. Traditionally late fees are calculated as a percentage of your payment. However, as a Buyer, you can negotiate a flat fee to keep it simple. Hopefully you have no intentions of being late,but just in case, you may want to write in your offer that you are willing to pay a $50 late fee if your payment is not received within 10 days of the due date.

8. Appraisal-Unless you are thinking on your feet, this may be forgotten! Banks require a certified and licensed appraiser to give an opinion of market value or highest and best use value before funding a loan. Not all Buyers ask for an appraisal when negotiating with the Seller to finance, and it may very well be overlooked by a real estate agent. Regardless of what you may think you know about the real estate market, at least ask to see recent sales comparables before deciding whether or not you would like to include an appraisal contingency in your offer. It may be a negotiating tactic for you to agree to no appraisal contingency.

9. Credit Approval-As a Buyer, you may not want to include any credit approval terms in your offer. This may be something best to leave up to a Seller. However, it might work to your advantage to be up front and offer to provide a copy of your credit report and financial statement to the Seller to assure them you are credit worthy.

10. Principal Reduction Payment with Re-Amortization Option-This would allow you to have the option of making a large lump sum payment to reduce your principal balance and to have your payment re-amortized based upon the same interest rate and terms originally agreed to with the Seller. This may reduce your payment and should save you a significant amount paid to interest. If you have negotiated a long term amortized loan with the Seller and you have been paying on your note for a few years or more, be sure to check with a professional such as an attorney or a lender to decide if a re-amortization makes sense! It is possible that the reduction payment may be best without the re-amortization. Specify how many principal reduction payments you are allowed to make! A "one time" principal reduction payment may be the most reasonable to ask of a Seller.

Beach Loop Realty always recommends that you consult with an attorney for advice in any real estate transaction and any tips or advice we give in this article may not be suited for your individual circumstances. Please consult with your attorney before entering into a contract with Seller Financing terms and to review your note before signing!

Brilliant Light Show at Shores Acres Almost Over!

Beach Loop Realty — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:25:02 GMT

Don't miss this year's holiday light show at Shore Acres State Park. With over 250,000 lights, this may be the most vibrant and largest holiday light spectacle you will ever see. Well, at least it is on the Oregon Coast! I have had the pleasure of visiting this 5 acre garden on a few occasions and it is beautiful, but seeing it in the evening decorated in "ocean theme" holiday lights is just a special treat.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this garden blooms all year long with seasonal peak bloom periods. There is an awesome Japanese style garden in back with a 100 ft lily pond and every time I have visited there is also an open garden house where they serve hot coffee, cider and cookies. Yum!

There is a fully enclosed observation building where you can watch the ocean waves as they crash onto the massive rocks below you or for a closer look you walk right up to the wall which is an amazing stretch of concrete that thankfully separates you from the Pacific Ocean. If you listen closely, you can hear the seal lions barking from Simpson Reef just to the South of the garden.

The light show is open every night Thanksgiving through New Years Eve from 4 pm to 10 pm. Bundle up, it will be cold, but worth it!

Watch this Video

For directions view Shore Acres google map

Sneaky Deal During the Holidays!

Beach Loop Realty — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 03:06:00 GMT

We reduced the price of this home during the holiday season! I wonder, are you off doing your holiday shopping and forgot to check for this month's Best Buy? In less than 5 months on the market, we have reduced this home from $289,000 down to $199,900. You won't find a better deal on the Southern Oregon Coast!

What does $199,900 buy you in Port Orford today?

A brand new, 2008 Palm Harbor manufactured home with all the upgrades on a 1.17 wooded acres on a private end of road location with a view of Humbug Mountain! It has a warm southern exposure and is located in Cedar Terrace, a desirable neighborhood out of the wind. This home has all the upgrades including a bay window seat living room with notched architectural exterior and master bath option with jetted oval tub, separate shower, and dual sink vanity. GE kitchen appliances are included. It is Energy Star certified and has a 6 foot concrete slab foundation with tie downs. The front side faces West towards Humbug Mountain and in the direction of the Pacific Ocean with a short staired entry and deck. The East side has a ramp access with a landing at the rear door entering into the utility room and kitchen.

It is located in Port Orford Oregon, just 1 mile (practically an arms throw) from Battle Rock State Park which is an historic site and surf spot on one of the many beaches in this quaint Southern Oregon coastal town.

And...this home qualifies for a USDA rural development loan program! 100% financing, ZERO down payment!

Call Beach Loop Realty at (541) 347-1800 to view this home before somebody beats you to the punch!

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