anyone get a letter from the IRS that say they "cannot allow your first time homebuyers credit because you purchased your house prior to April 9, 2008"

when in fact i purchased my home in Feb 2009

i have been on hold with IRS for 2 and half hours

8/10/2011 9:49:35 PM

Quote :

"after ~3 months of living in a construction site, and a year of using a range with only 1 working burner, we are getting close to wrapping up our kitchen / den renovation and thought i would post a couple pics."

This looks great! If you don't mind me asking, how much did it run you in the end? We're considering buying a house that has an ugly, completely unfunctional kitchen and what you did looks to be the same scale of what we're thinking of doing.

8/10/2011 9:51:49 PM

pm sent.

8/10/2011 11:12:53 PM

Stinger, just skip the bullshit and go straight to the Taxpayer's Advocate service. They are dicking over EVERYONE who applies for the FTHB Tax Credit. They literally reject everyone. Welcome to the wonderful world of government

8/10/2011 11:47:47 PM

in response to all the cabinet nonsense, we are in the process of redoing our kitchen cabinets. the whole kitchen, really. it looked like this:



we took down the cabinet doors to sand/prime/paint them and I put them back up last night because my wife thought it'd be easier for her to paint them up (not to mention the fact that they were taking up a lot of room). I had a brief moment of panic when I realized I didn't mark any of the doors, but they are pretty much all different sizes so they only fit on one specific spot. also, whoever built them did a pretty crappy job - some of them aren't square, and the two doors under the sink are about a quarter inch too tall to fit snugly.

tl;dr - cabinets can suck it

8/11/2011 8:59:04 AM

^that's pretty bad. what color are you painting them?

8/11/2011 9:25:29 AM

island is like a chocolate brown, all other cabinets are white, walls are light blue (disclaimer: i did not pick that color )

we're going to put brushed nickel hardware on the cabinets.

8/11/2011 10:18:30 AM

^how much of a pain was it to take everything down and sand it? The people i bought my house from painted cabinets an awful off white color, and I've been wanting to change it for a while...They were even so lazy as to paint over the hinges

8/11/2011 10:23:08 AM

it was time consuming more than anything. if you can get by with primer/paint and leave them up, i'd do that. since our cabinet doors were that horrible red-orange color we had to sand them down some.

8/11/2011 10:33:04 AM

fwiw you don't sand with the rustoleum kits, just scuff them up with the scotch brites and apply the deglosser. adhesion seems strong and they have a money back guarantee.

8/11/2011 10:42:36 AM

we thought about doing the rustoleum countertop transformation but that stuff is like $maine

8/11/2011 10:44:38 AM

edit: saw countertops, but was thinking cabinets.

[Edited on August 11, 2011 at 11:49 AM. Reason : ]

8/11/2011 11:48:18 AM

Quote :

"The people i bought my house from painted cabinets an awful off white color, and I've been wanting to change it for a while...They were even so lazy as to paint over the hinges"

haha my parents house was like this when they first bought it too, right down to the painted hinges. And they did a half-assed job of painting over the hinges so in spots you could still see the metal. It was really awful.

8/11/2011 3:25:43 PM

imma prolly replace the hardware. should I replace the hinges, too?

8/11/2011 3:28:03 PM

yes, it really helps tie everything together.

8/11/2011 3:57:48 PM

Quote :

"after removing all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware you basically use a scotch brite pad with some de-glosser on all surfaces. after that you use the "bond coat" which seems like paint and primer in one. I used 3+ coats on all cabinet fronts and 2 coats on all the backs. you probably wouldn't need as many if you weren't changing bright orangey oak to white. after that you can use the optional decorative glaze (which we didn't) followed by the clear coat. the hardest part was finding enough places to put the pieces while they were drying that wasn't accessible to pets. i also thought the clear coat was a bit of a pain as it would dry yellow if it was too thick."

Our cabinets were stained and it just clashed too much with the hardwood floors in the kitchen (different colors)

We sanded them down, used tack cloth to get up all the dust, and painted them.

You absolutely do NOT skimp on paint when painting the cabinets, and after a ton of research, we saw that everyone recommended oil based primer.

We wound up priming with Benjamin Moore Alkyd Primer (Oil based) and did something like 3 coats of Benjamin Moore White Satin Impervo latex self-leveling paint. (IIRC, it was like $60 per gallon). We didn't use any sort of clear coat on ours...read a bunch of 'paint forums' and a lot of folks recommended this method with these paints...so I don't think it's 100% required in all circumstances.

Part of what sucked is that you had to buy really expensive brushes for the oil based primer then more really expensive brushes for the latex based paint.

We have a lot of cabinets. It took forever...looks great, though



[Edited on August 11, 2011 at 8:41 PM. Reason : ]

8/11/2011 8:33:51 PM

Refinancing question:

Basically, my wife and I have been paying our house for 2 years and have a 5.125% FHA loan...

are the rates low enough for us to even bother refinancing?

how do we even start? How much does it usually cost out of pocket to refinance?

Thanks

8/13/2011 11:05:52 PM

If that rate is fixed, then it likely wouldn't be beneficial. (Keep reading, and I'd recommend at least exploring it. Quotes are always free!)

Another thing to consider is that if you're paying PMI, it's about tripled in price over the last few years, so any money you'd save on interest, you'd might pay back in PMI. PMI=Private Mortgage Insurance, if you're not famililar...usually required with less than 20% equity

Some places give you no closing costs to refinance these days, but I think generally, the cost is about 1-2% of the loan (Someone who has actually done LATELY it might be able to tell you for sure?)

If you want to go to a 15 year loan it might be worth your time...never hurts to call and get an estimate.

The basic math is 1) How long are you going to be in the house? 2) How much $$$$ will it save per month? 3) How much will it cost to refinance?

Take your refi cost, divide it by how much you save each month. This gives you the number of months it will take you to recoup your closing costs in your new monthly savings. If you plan on being in the house that long..... refinance

I think the best way to do it would just be to go through a mortgage broker (google them). If you like your bank, then call them....or call other banks/credit unions. Mortgage brokers basically take your info and bid it out to lenders and give you the best rate....but you can just call any bank and set up an appointment to get a refi quote. No strings attached.



[Edited on August 14, 2011 at 5:11 PM. Reason : ]

8/14/2011 5:04:02 PM

Anyone have an attic fan installed in your home before? How much did it cost?

8/14/2011 6:19:23 PM

Just got my first home! However, I need some electric work done.

I need 4 fan boxes put in (1st floor attic access).
a little wiring in the breaker box
ground faults put in.

I'm looking for a good and reasonably priced electrician.

Does anyone have any recommendations? Any basic knowledge I should have in this whole process?

8/14/2011 6:25:18 PM

and finally tackled my living room. now i just need to figure out what to do with the short hallway between my bedroom and the rest of the place.

8/14/2011 7:05:20 PM

Quote :

"Anyone have an attic fan installed in your home before? How much did it cost?"

Is it already pre-wired/set up for a fan?

It's actually a simple job if so.

8/14/2011 10:30:15 PM

Packbacker, thanks for the info.

I did some more research and our current mortgage is through Wells Fargo. On their website, they advertise a "FHA streamlined refinance" that is available for existing customers. It basically says there is no appraisal required, no closing costs, etc... and it is much easier and requires less paperwork and shorter amount of time.
I will probably give them a call and see what it is all about.
It lists the current rate on their website as 4.25. We currently have 5.125

My dad said he heard that unless you are changing your rate by 1-2% or more, then it isn't worth it.
Opinion?

8/14/2011 10:42:41 PM

If there's really no closing cost, I don't understand how it would be a bad move.

I mean even if you're only saving $100-$150 per month going from 5.125 to 4.25 (Or whatever you qualify for)...if it's truly free, why not?

If there is some type of cost involved...to easily find out if it's worth it...do the math.

Assume it'll take you $1,500 to refinance/buy an appraisal/buy gas to the bank/etc.
Lets say you'll save $100 per month with the lower interest payment

$1500/$100 = 15 months. It'll take you 15 months to recoup your theoretical closing costs in your new monthly savings from refinancing

In other words, as long as you plan on staying in the house longer than 15 months to recoup what it will cost you in interest savings, then it absolutely makes sense. I think your dad is telling you that "it's usually not worth it" thinking that you will have to pay closing costs. If it costs you nothing, then you can't lose really. Just make sure you quiz them on any stipulations regarding the refinance....I'm guessing you'll have to agree not to refi for at least 2-3 more years or something. Otherwise, if it's free why not go back next week if the rates drop again?

Even if there is a cost, tell them to give you an exact monthly payment (Principle + interest + PMI if applicable...taxes and insurance won't change). Compare that to your current payment (Principle+interest+PMI only) and see how much you save per month...then do the math above.



[Edited on August 15, 2011 at 1:06 AM. Reason : ]

8/15/2011 12:50:28 AM

awesome! thanks....and this is a dumb question probably, but it will extend the loan back out to 30 years again, correct?

8/15/2011 7:20:23 AM

Yes, your amortization schedule will start back over to 30 years

One thing you could do to kickstart your equity in the first year (Or just keep doing it to build equity faster) is to keep making the same payment you are now...it'll apply the overpayment to principle. If you can comfortably make the payment you have now, then making that same payment after the refinance will only pay off the loan much quicker.

I, personally, wouldn't because borrowing at money 4.25 (or whatever) is incredibly cheap and your interest is tax deductible anyways. Some people just hate debt and hate owing that much money, so I guess to each his own. If you also don't have a lot of equity in the house, making the same payment you have now (overpaying) will ensure that you build it a lot faster and may help you sleep better at night.

[Edited on August 15, 2011 at 8:53 AM. Reason : ]

8/15/2011 8:52:36 AM

Just so my post gets re-mentioned - anyone know a good electrician.

8/15/2011 9:08:25 AM

I am going to introduce some of you to dnjmortgage.com. I have refinanced with them 2 times, and am about to do it for a 3rd time in a couple of weeks.

Why are they awesome? There are ZERO costs to refinance the house. The catch? Slightly higher rate.

I am refinancing for a 15 year mortgage at a rate of 3.85, which is only .10 higher than Bank of America offered me with $2000+ in closing costs.

For you guys in the 5+% range, you should consider going 15. I have 22.5 years left on my 30 year loan at something like 5.6%. At my current spot in the amortization chart, I am paying about $275 a month and about $940 in P/I. Switching to a 15 year loan, shortening the term by over 7 years, my payment only increases $100 a month, and I am paying down about $600+ a month (double the 30 year loan). Its like paying yourself extra money.

If you are going to call dnj, or make an inquiry, PM me. I get nothing from it, but I value my relationship with them, and I'd like them to know I sent some more people their way.

8/15/2011 9:46:29 AM

probably important on this board to mention that chris corchiani is one of the partners at DNJ and i think austin herbert (former pack kicker/punter) is one of their brokers.

8/15/2011 10:05:32 AM

Funny that you mention DNJ mortgage. That is who we went with 2.5 years ago and it was an absolutely horrible experience.
I'm not saying every experience with them is that way, but the particular guy we worked with was a nightmare.

Since you mention how easy it was to refinance, I may be willing to give them another try, but I definitely do not want to go with the same person.

Could you PM me and tell me who you recommend dealing with over there? Thanks

8/15/2011 12:32:50 PM

Well, when I first financed years ago, it was with Glenn Astofi. He is now the president of Gateway Bank and DNJ. Last year when my wife and I were considering buying a much bigger house, he personally took under the qualification as it was a complex situation, and wanted to make sure it was handled correctly. The house we wanted sold before we could get our house taken care of, so that never happened.

When I approached him this time, I dealt with Sherry Riano, which I have also worked with in the past. She has always been very responsive to my emails (it can take her a day to get back on some), and really easy to deal with.

Sorry you had a bad time with them. I wonder who you used? And what did they do poorly?

I have sent probably 3 other people to them, and they have been thrilled each time, but stuff happens.

[Edited on August 15, 2011 at 2:25 PM. Reason : .]

8/15/2011 2:23:12 PM

repairing the wall damage done by my dog. grrrr. looks like the area damaged is painted-over wallpaper, so that makes it even more annoying. Here's to hoping that some spackle will do the trick. He's gnawed a little on the baseboard in the same area. It's not terribly noticeable, but should I replace those two small boards? I could probably paint over it and never have anyone notice, as long as the wall repair looks decent

8/16/2011 5:15:09 PM

any suggestions as to how to repair/spackle a corner into something that doesn't look like ass? it's an outside corner, too >.<

fudge it, I'm getting tape

[Edited on August 16, 2011 at 7:48 PM. Reason : ]

8/16/2011 7:42:23 PM

Quote :

" Is it already pre-wired/set up for a fan? It's actually a simple job if so."

Nope. Need to cut a hole in the hallway ceiling and wire it.

8/16/2011 10:03:25 PM

Can you access the ceiling joists from above (attic)? That simplifies things a great deal.

8/17/2011 11:28:31 AM

Posted in the HVAC thread, but I got a new wireless thermostat setup today. Unrelated, but unfortunately I'll probably be replacing the evaporator coil in that unit soon. Bummer.

8/17/2011 2:34:48 PM

well, got it spackled, sanded, primed, and 1st coat down. gonna do a second coat, probably. and it doesn't look like complete ass. I consider that a victory. It aint Bob Vila, but it aint Dr. Nick. unfortunately, I didn't get it sanded down perfectly, so there is a slight ridge on the top and bottom of the repair area. DOH. I'll post pics when it's done and you can all make fun of me, lol

[Edited on August 17, 2011 at 4:36 PM. Reason : ]

8/17/2011 4:36:27 PM

yeah, what optimusprimer asked would be my next question re: ceiling fan


[Edited on August 17, 2011 at 8:59 PM. Reason : why the hell can't i hotlink your name with /user?]

8/17/2011 8:57:20 PM

optmusprimer

[Edited on August 17, 2011 at 11:26 PM. Reason : ]

8/17/2011 11:26:15 PM

how annoying is it to paint textured walls? anything i should know?

doing some research before getting my house ready for the rental market and might need to do a little painting to spruce the place up

8/18/2011 12:55:32 AM

You'll need roller covers with a deep nap. Or maybe a power painter (sprayer)? What kind of texture we talking about here?

8/18/2011 2:47:59 AM

I closed on June 30. My bank required flood insurance so I got that. Yesterday I got a call from my insurance agent saying they're not going to take the policy because they think I'm in a worse flood zone than I told them (the one the bank appraisal found), unless I pay more or get an elevation certificate. I'm not surprised that I'm in the worse zone but I'm not happy that it took them almost two months to decide that. I thought the policy had been active for six weeks now. Seems like a shitty business practice, especially in the middle of hurricane season. Is this standard?

8/18/2011 8:10:20 AM

Quote :

"Can you access the ceiling joists from above (attic)? That simplifies things a great deal."

Haven't gone up into the attic yet (currently trying to close on the house) but it does have access to the attic so I'd imagine we can access the joists.

8/18/2011 12:45:06 PM

^ Should be able to get into the attic and put a support joist to hang the box. Never done it, but you just need to make it stable enough to handle the vibration and weight of the fan. Attach an electrical fan box to your new joist, run a wire, cut a hole in the ceiling, and i'd think that would be all there is to it.

I'm not great with electricity, but you'll also have to wire a new switch if one doesn't already exist.

Quote :

"optmusprimer "

Aaahh...

I was putting an 'i' in there as 'optimusprimer' and it was auto correcting to OptimusPrime

[Edited on August 18, 2011 at 12:57 PM. Reason : ]

8/18/2011 12:55:05 PM

the texture isnt too crazy or deep but its there. i dont know how to describe it.

it looks like this:

8/18/2011 10:07:11 PM

I just replaced the cast iron pipes in the both bathrooms. I'm also adding two flood lights on the side of the house and working in a crawlspace sized attic while I did the wiring has left my body all sore. Then I find out that my crawlspace is taking on moisture through the foundation, thanks to a a couple clogged underground gutter drains and a nearby Magnolia tree. Fortunately, the heavy duty dehumidifier is holding the moisture at bay from settling underneath the house, but it's still destroying the foundation blocks/brick.



Oh and in the middle of about 5 azalea bushes there's a wicked amount of poison ivy. My house hates me.



[Edited on August 19, 2011 at 2:09 AM. Reason : .]

[Edited on August 19, 2011 at 2:12 AM. Reason : .]

8/19/2011 2:05:24 AM

ohhhhwwrr Hirrrrrooooo [/bad fake japanese accent]

8/19/2011 7:35:07 AM

I have sensitive skin. I take my epidermal irritants seriously.

8/19/2011 9:08:56 PM

ceiling is finished and we are finally wrapping things up. i still need to paint 3 doors, the trim, caulk the molding, and paint the toe-kick and install shoe molding. hoping to be done this weekend but my motivation is weaning.

here is a picture journey!

started with this


then got it to this


then this


followed by this


took out the wall to get to here


then the ceiling fell resulting in this


after hanging new drywall we found ourselves here


and here we are today

8/25/2011 10:27:51 AM

8/25/2011 10:30:54 AM