Exactly 2 months until tax day.  Don't wait until the last minute to scramble to find what your deductions may be. As a homeowner you may be able to deduct many home-related expenses. Use these tips to maximize your potential deductions.

Capital Gains with No Income Taxes - Once every two years, single homeowners can realize a tax-exempt profit of up to $250,000 or married homeowners who file jointly on their tax returns do not have to pay taxes on up to $500,000 of gains when they sell their primary residence. The seller must have owned and occupied the home as a principal residence during any two of the last five years.

Federal Tax Credits for Consumer Energy Efficiency - If you purchase an energy-efficient product or renewable energy system for your home, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. This credit equals 30 percent of what a homeowner spends on eligible energy-saving improvements, up to a maximum tax credit of $1,500 for the combined 2009 and 2010 tax years. By spending as little as $5,000 before the end of the year on eligible energy-saving improvements, a homeowner can save as much as $1,500 on his or her 2009 federal income tax return. Due to limits based on tax liability, other credits claimed by a particular taxpayer and other factors, actual tax savings will vary. These tax savings are on top of any energy savings that may result.  Visit the IRS website for more information and specifics.

First-time home buyer credit - An $8000 tax credit is available to eligible taxpayers that have bought, are buying, or have entered into a binding contract to buy, a principal residence on or before April 30, 2010 and close on the home by June 30, 2010. You are considered a first-time home buyer as long as you did not own a home during the three years leading up to the purchase of your new home. Let The Evelo help you in buying your first home!

Moving expenses - If a move is connected with taking a new job that is at least 50 miles farther from your old home than your old job was, you can deduct travel and lodging expenses for you and your family and the cost of moving your household goods.

Deducting Real Estate Taxes - Real estate taxes are deductible in the year paid. They are generally reported on Form 1098, Mortgage Interest Statement, the annual statement from the financial institution holding your mortgage, or on your county real estate tax assessment statement. You should also deduct any prorated taxes collected from you at closing. These amounts are not always included on Form 1098, but may be itemized on your real estate
closing statement.

You should always consult a professional tax advisor for details on which deductions apply to you.

Contact The Evelo Team for your home buying/selling needs at 317-863-4663 or by email at Team@EveloTeam.com.

1.  Disassociate Yourself With Your Home.

• Make the mental decision to "let go" of your emotions and focus on the fact that soon this house will no longer be yours.
• Say goodbye to every room.
• Don't look backwards -- look toward the future.

2.  De-Personalize.

Pack up your personal items like pictures family heirlooms. Buyers can't see past your personal touches, and you don't want them to be distracted. You don't want to make any buyer ask, "I wonder what kind of people live in this home?" You want buyers to say, "I can see myself living here."  

3.  De-Clutter!

People collect an amazing quantity of junk. Consider this: if you haven't used it in over a year, you probably don't need it.

• If you don't need it, why not donate it or throw it away?
• Pack up those knickknacks.
• Clean off everything on kitchen counters.
• Put essential items used daily in a small box that can be stored in a closet when not in use.
• Think of this process as a head-start on the packing you will eventually need to do anyway.

4.  Rearrange Bedroom Closets and Kitchen Cabinets.

Buyers love to snoop and will open closets, drawers and cabinet doors. Think of the message it sends if items fall out or look messy. Now imagine what a buyer must think about you if they see everything organized. It means you probably take good care of the rest of the house as well.

• Organize the pantry.
• Clean out those junk drawers.
• Make sure you can actually walk into the walk-in closet. Line up shoes. Hang shirts together facing the same direction.

5.  Rent a Storage Unit.

Your home will show much better with less furniture. Remove pieces of furniture that block paths and walkways. Remove extra leaves from your dining room table to make the room appear larger. Leave just enough furniture in each room to showcase the room's purpose and plenty of room to move around. You don't want buyers scratching their heads and asking, "What is this room used for?"

6. Remove/Replace Favorite Items.

If you want to take window coverings, appliances or fixtures with you, remove them now. If the chandelier in your entryway is a family heirloom and is priceless to you, take it down. If a buyer never sees it, they won't want it. Once you tell a buyer they can't have an item, they will want it, and it could cost you your deal. Pack up those items and replace them, if necessary.

 7.  Make Minor Repairs.

• Paint your walls neutral colors. It is an inexpensive fix to really spruce up your home. (Don't give buyers any reason to remember your home as "the house with the ugly orange bathroom.")
• Replace cracked floor or counter tiles.
• Patch holes in walls.
• Fix leaky faucets.
• Replace burned-out light bulbs.
• If you've considered replacing a worn comforter, do so now!

 8.  Make the House Sparkle!

• Wash windows inside and out.
• Use a pressure washer and spray down sidewalks and exterior.
• Clean out cobwebs.
• Re-caulk tubs, showers and sinks.
• Polish chrome faucets and mirrors.
• Clean out the refrigerator.
• Vacuum daily.  
• Dust furniture, ceiling fan blades and light fixtures.
• Replace worn rugs.
• Hang fresh towels.
• Odors are a no-no! Clean out those litter boxes. Clean and air out any musty smelling areas.

 9.  Scrutinize.

• Go outside and open your front door. Stand there. Do you want to go inside? Does the house welcome you?
• Linger in the doorway of every single room and imagine how your house will look to a buyer.
• Examine carefully how furniture is arranged and move pieces around until it makes sense.
• Make sure window coverings hang level.
• Tune in to the room's statement and its emotional pull. Does it have impact and pizzazz?
• Does it look like nobody lives in this house? You're almost finished.

10.  Check Curb Appeal.

If a buyer won't get out of their agent's car because they doesn't like the exterior of your home, then you probably won't even get them inside.

• Keep the sidewalks and driveway clear.
• Mow the lawn.
• Paint faded window trim.
• Plant yellow flowers in flower beds or pots. Yellow evokes a buying emotion.
• Trim your bushes.
• Hang a wreath on the front door.

11.  Hire The Evelo Team ASAP!

And the Evelo Team with Keller Williams Realty wants to be the first to invite to join us at what we think will be the biggest event of the year in our real estate industry!

It's official ... STAR POWER is being re-launched under new leadership! We, Derek and Stephanie Evelo, as STAR POWER Stars are incredibly excited to be involved in the continuation of STAR POWER into a new era of industry leadership. 

Since you are a part of OUR database you automatically get $100 discount to this event!

YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE! 

We feel it's going to be the biggest event of the year in our real estate industry! 

The 2010 Conference has been booked and this years key note speaker is Dave Ramsey . I do not personally profit if you sign up on my recommendation, but if you try to sign up without going through me it is going to cost you extra money.  Us the link below to get the discount.

http://www.gostarpower.com/go?w=conference&p=a512

STAR POWER also has a new saying that fits perfectly with the organization's goals:

STAR POWER is ... Success Shared™.

I'm proud to be a part of this extraordinary organization helping thousands of agents across the country learn how to be more successful, both professionally and personally.

Agents interested in elevating their business should definitely look into going to STAR POWER Conference. Again, the site is:  http://www.gostarpower.com/go?w=conference&p=a512

To learn more, visit:    http://www.gostarpower.com/go?w=gostar&p=a512

or simply go to: https://www.gostarpower.com/join 

I'm proud to be a part of this extraordinary organization helping thousands of agents across the country learn how to be more successful, both professionally and personally.

Agents interested in elevating their business should definitely look into joining STAR POWER Club.

Again, the site is:  http://www.gostarpower.com/go?w=gostar&p=a512

STAR POWER is ... Success Shared™.

For more information, call: 317-863-4663 or email: Team@EveloTeam.com

It seems everyone these days are looking to save money and cut corners any way they can and The Evelo Team is helping you and your family achieve this. Looking for new appliances? Looking for landscaping contractors, painters, plumbers, etc?. Let The Evelo Team help you.

Through our affiliation with Pin Point Perks, The Evelo Team can help you save money with all of these examples.  Please visit www.pinpointperks.com/eveloteam to view all savings that are being offered. Make sure you check back often for new savings. Be sure to check out our "personal" offer. If you list your home with The Evelo Team the processing fee will be waived. A $295 value! 

Plus as an added bonus, you don't have to pay to be included to receive these offers. IT'S FREE!!

Helping you "pinch every penny"!

P.S. Restaurant savings coming soon!!

   In addition to the first time home buyer, the government added a move-up/repeat home buyer tax credit.  To see if you would qualify for the move-up tax credit, click here.

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/faq2.php#1

http://www.indianapolishomeshow.com/ME2/Sites/Default.asp?SiteID=C613314058014988BC94300D9B039E6C

   Specializing in Hamilton County real estate, we helped over 95 families make a move in 2009.  Whether you are looking to sell your home, buy a home, or invest in real estate, put The Evelo Team to work for you.  We produce results and will get your home sold! 

   We recently rolled out a new website that is very user friendly.  This site has all the information from current market trends in you neighborhood, homes for sale, and bank owned and foreclosure properties.

   Stay tuned for blogs to come and let us know how The Evelo Team can help you get your home sold or how we can help you with buying your next home.  Also, if you have questions regarding the first time home buyer and move up buyer credit, we are the experts!

The boxes were packed, but computer and mouse

The SOLD sign was hung in the front yard with care

In hopes that our payoff soon would be there!

The children were nestled all snug in their beds

While visions of moving day danced in their heads!

And Mom in her nightshirt and I in my shorts

Had just settled down to watch us some sports!

When out on the lawn, there arose such a clatter

I dropped the remote to see what was the matter!

Down the hallway I flew and flipped on the light

Swung open the door and gasped in delight!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear

But The Evelo Team full of good cheer!

When I chose these professionals, they were the best pick

I knew all along the sale would be quick!

More listings than most, more closings by far

When you choose The Evelo Team you'll feel like a star!

Thanks to our team of agents,Brokers, lenders & more

With insight and skill and offers galore!

Hoping you experienced a Merry Christmas...

May you all experience a joyous and wonderous 2010!

Sincerely,  The Evelo Team 2009

Special discussion of the extension of the tax credits.

  http://bit.ly/6BDQh4

Real Estate Franchises: Most Recognizable Brands for 2009

by Stefan Swanepoel

11,000+ Agents Cast 390,000 Votes to Select the Top 10

It’s been almost 40 years since franchising entered the residential real estate industry; a move that has shaped the industry like few other concepts or strategies before or since. The impact of franchising ranks with MLS and the Internet as the top three game changing strategies in real estate since WW II.

Today there are a growing number of agents questioning the value proposition of real estate franchising.  They point to some of the “older models” that seem to offer little more than a brand; a brand of questioned value in today’s online world.  A franchise company’s long term success (or failure) is therefore dependent upon both its model standing the test of time and its implementation systems supporting the local franchisee in successfully putting those models into operation. 

In the 2010 Swanepoel TRENDS Report, scheduled for publication on February 8th, 2010 — reserve a copy now at www.RETrends.com) — a whole trend is dedicated to analyzing real estate franchising. The trend discusses the changes that have occurred during the last year including bankruptcies, acquisitions, large mergers, the re-introduction of previously dormant franchise brands and the launch of several new ones.

The Report details the Top 20 largest franchises based on agent count as of December 2009, inclusive of recent changes and acquisitions up and including that date.

However, as an additional test RealSure (www.realsure.com), the publishers of the Swanepoel TRENDS Report and the Swanepoel SOCIAL MEDIA Report, decided that it would be interesting to compare agent count rankings with the perception and recognizability of franchise brands by the industry itself.

So on Thursday December 3rd a nationwide online survey was launched to determine the “Most Recognizable Franchise Brand in Real Estate.”

With real estate agents being independent contractors and fiercely loyal to their respective brand the vote quickly garnished huge attention.  It went viral through various social media networks, blogs and emails encouraging agents to vote.

In the end an astonishing 11,355 agents voted, casting just over 390,000 votes for 33 different real estate franchise brands making this — according to knowledge — the largest survey of its kind in the industry.  The survey required real estate professionals to vote for a franchise on a scale from 0 – 5; starting from “Never heard of the brand” all the way up to “Excellent brand.” The brand’s scores in all categories were taken into consideration to determine the overall rankings. In the end there was a significant difference in the vote count between most of the top 10, thereby solidifying the placement of the brands.

Although another survey can produce different results and rankings, we are confident that this is a very good reflection of the real estate brokerage industry’s current opinion and awareness of the franchise brands that serve them.

The Top 10 real estate franchises, most recognized by the real estate industry as quality national brands are:

The franchises that made it to the Top 5 were to be expected and are also the five largest real estate franchises in the country. The Top 5 also comfortably attracted more votes than the second five on the list, strongly pointing to the industry’s own internal belief  that these are the top five franchise brands that agents would like to work for.

Keller Williams Realty’s surprising #1 ranking was most likely due to the strong, above average online and social media presence of their agents and the fact that during 2009 KW surpassed RE/MAX in agent count according to a widely published REAL Trends survey..

The 103-year old Coldwell Banker franchise has been the beneficiary of many NRT, Inc. acquisitions that have allowed the brand to remain at the forefront of many agents in a positive way.  RE/MAX with their powerful consumer portal has also enjoyed the highest profile on national television of all the brands, thereby probably contributing to their high ranking.

Most interesting was the strong showing of Sotheby’s International Realty at #6, ahead of ERA Real Estate (a more established brand in real estate) and EXIT Realty (a more bolder promoter).  The ranking was most likely attributed to the luxury homes image that many agents attach to the brand.

Long standing independent and northeast-based regional Weichert REALTORS converted to a franchise seven years ago and has steadily grown.  Impressively it was able to break into the top 10 as a recognizable national brand.

Also surprising was the fact that newcomer Better Homes & Gardens squeezed out companies like Realty Executives, John L Scott and Windermere (both still regional players) to claim the last spot in the Top 10. This was most likely attributable to the recent news that 2,000-agent Metro Brokers switched from GMAC to BH&G as well as a few other key acquisitions.

The housing market is smaller than it was three years ago, yet we have more franchisors today than we did back then. Clearly the market is over saturated and yet the franchises reflected on this list are, according to thousands of agents that work for them and for their competitors, the best of the best.

At the end of the day, real estate brokers and agents want and need different kinds of support and thus different franchisors will attract different brokers and agents. For a detailed discussion on franchising, what the 7 key different types of real estate franchises are and which of the strategies currently work the best, read the 2010 Swanepoel TRENDS Report. Secure your copy at a special pre-publication discount of 34% when ordering at http://www.realestatebooks.org/items/Swanepoel_TRENDS_Report_2010.htm

Survey methodology:

The poll was conducted online within the United States between December 3rd and December 11th, 2009 among 11,355 real estate professionals.

All surveys and polls are subject to multiple sources of error that are not possible to quantify. Especially with online polls the errors associated with wording, selection, exposure and attempts to manipulate the vote make it very difficult to guarantee results. Post-survey weighting and adjustments are made to adjust for irregularities found in the voting but we avoid using the term “margin of error” as we feel it is still misleading.

Due to the very large number of real estate professionals that voted it is felt that the results closely reflect the opinion of the majority in the industry.

Under new management, and with the support of the top-producing agents in North America, StarPower continues its 20-year tradition of elevating the standard of care in the real estate industry.

Fishers, IN - December 14, 2009 – StarPower, the number-one brand in real estate education, announced a transition of leadership to Alex Charfen, a leading trainer, author, coach, speaker and StarPower Star. The announcement was made at Star Advance, the organization’s annual leadership meeting at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Nevada.

“StarPower will remain the most relevant, recognized leader in real estate education,” Charfen said. “With the dedicated involvement of our StarPower Stars, the contributions to the advancement of the real estate industry and our success as an organization are assured.”

Founded by industry icon Howard Brinton, StarPower is an organization focused on elevating the standard of care in the real estate industry. Each month a new StarPower Star is selected based upon achievements in sales, leadership, business acumen and a willingness to share the lessons of their success with others. This has helped StarPower Stars typically average more than $35 million in annual sales volume and more than 200 transactions per year. Less than 300 real estate agents have achieved the distinction of StarPower Star, making it the most exclusive designation in the industry.

After news of the transition was presented at Star Advance, StarPower Stars Stephanie & Derek Evelo of Keller Williams Realty announced support of the new management and strategic direction of the StarPower brand.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the future of StarPower, and to increase our positive impact upon the real estate community,” Evelo said.

“In the current economic climate, I have the opportunity to make a real difference in the personal and professional lives of countless real estate professionals,” Evelo added. “As a StarPower Star and leader in my market, there is a responsibility to share the lessons of my success with others. In this way, StarPower Stars are actively improving the industry we have chosen to be a part of.”

On a monthly basis, StarPower Club members receive the strategies, tools, insights and perspectives that have helped StarPower Stars realize success. The StarPower Annual Conference, one of the best-attended conferences in the industry each year, will continue its presence on the real estate calendar. Details on the conference will be announced in the near future, Charfen said.

For more information, contact:

Stephanie & Derek Evelo

The Evelo Team ( www.EveloTeam.com )

Keller Williams Realty

317-863-4663

Team@EveloTeam.com

www.EveloTeam.com

The Evelo Team's 12th Annual "Pictures with Santa" was held today at the Keller Williams Realty Fishers / Geist Office located at 11800 Exit 5 Parkway, Suite 102, Fishers, IN  46037. 

This event was free and open to the public to children of all ages! Many friends who have been buyers or sellers of The Evelo Team in recent past and over the past 14 years came to celebrate together in this Merry Christmas season!

Many friends, neighbors and family came to enjoy this annual Christmas celebration and festivities where every child was given an opportunity to sit on Santa's lap! As you can see from the shared photos on www.facebook.com/eveloteam , some children enjoyed their visit with Santa...while others were not so happy to sit on his lap!  Others enjoyed tugging at his beard while even 'furry friends' came by to put in their "Wish Lists" too!

Each child was able to decorate a Christmas ornament to hang on their own tree, color a Christmas page or write their own letter to Santa! And, of course, who can forget all the cookies and goodies shared! Some guests even got lucky enough to win the door prize drawings! Congratulations to the Cahills, Christmans, Scobles and all others! As an added bonus, this year each parent was given opportunity to have the digital photo taken emailed to them directly!

The Evelo Team always looks forward to seeing all of our friends, current sellers and buyers, past clients, and all future clients at this annual event each year! This gives us the opportunity to reconnect with each family and catch up on eachothers' lives. Plus, we get to all share together in some good holiday cheer while all the children laugh and play together!

Life is moving by so quickly - it's important that we take the time to share in special times together and special moments as this with family and friends.  Remember to always 'Make Each Moment Count!'

We want to thank each and every one of you for coming out today to make this event a complete success!  It's because of you, that we do this each year! We appreciate you sharing your family time with us so that we can share in eachothers' lives and reconnect on a deeper personal level!

Your friendship and family's connection to our team is invaluable to us! We appreciate you sharing your time with us....so that we can share in the holiday memories with you and your family too!

Don't forget to stop by and see the pictures posted on our team's FACEBOOK PAGE:  www.Facebook.com/EveloTeam (and of course - you can always become a 'fan' too so that you too can make sure you're invited to our next fun client party/event!)

May you and your famliy have a Merry Christmas and May God Bless You Throughout the New Year!

Blessing to all,

The Evelo Team

Stephanie & Derek Evelo, Sarah Gilliate, Justin Strange, Victoria Getman, Lori Edwards, Alexandra Manwarren

This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! We want to send out a special invite to those children that you know who may not have the opportunity to visit with Santa any other time or place.  If you know of someone that would benefit in this way, please pass along this personal invitation! 

We want as many people to come and enjoy in the Christmas celebration and festivities!  In order for us to best plan for this big event, would you mind dropping us a quick email to just say how many you might be bringing or coming with?  Team@EveloTeam.comor call the Evelo Team direct: 317-863-4663 or text your RSVP to: 317-506-4663 ...whichever is easiest for you.  The EveloTeam is ALWAYS available and easy to communicate with!

This year will prove to be another fun event while guests enjoy meeting and greeting Santa Claus in person! And, you'll have the opportunity to sit on Santa's lap and share what you've added to your Christmas list this year! Children young and old are invited to come!  We'll have a "Write a Letter to Santa' table or you can decorate an ornament for your tree!

We'll be taking a "Picture with Santa" of you and your family or children or group in digital format that will be emailed to you. You can also bring your own camera to take as many photos as you like so that you too can share the memories and moments with YOUR family!

We look forward to sharing in this holiday spirit with each and every one of our Evelo Team's Past Clients, Family, Friends, Current Clients, Future Clients...and just those who want to come and enjoy two hours of Christmas JOY and Celebration!  See You Saturday, December 12th at 10am - 12noon!

Merry Christmas and May God Bless You Throughout the New Year!

     The Business Tent is open from Saturday from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. and again on Sunday with just free games for the kids from 10 A.M. to 2:30 P.M.  Arts & Crafts vendors are open from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Saturday and from 10 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Sunday.  Food vendors open at 10 A.M. on Saturday and 9 A.M. on Sunday for all day both days. 

     Speaking of the business tent, stop by and say "HI" to members of The Evelo Team.  This will be a great time to interact with some of the best real estate agents in Fishers.  This too would be a great time to pick up info on buying a home, selling a home, and getting hooked up on a great tool to track the value of your home!

     Fireworks will conclude this fun-filled weekend at dusk on Sunday evening.  Please keep in mind that portions of 116th Street will be closed - please click here to be directed to a map of road closures.