Posted on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
Mayor Ravenstahl sent out an email today to stakeholders, on the heels of his press release late last week, with more information on the assistance available for City of Pittsburgh homeowners wishing to appeal their assessment. RAMP Government Affairs covered this issue several weeks ago, but here are some new nuggets . . . Read the rest of entry »
Props to economist and Professor Chris Briem who writes the highly enlightening Nullspace blog, for directing my attention to this lil gem his colleagues at the Univ. of Pittsburgh Center for Social and Urban Research have assembled, including an interactive map of Allegheny County residential property sales for 2010 and 2011. "All types of residential transactions in the County, including arms-length sales, sales between family members, short sales, and Sheriff's sales. Sales of vacant residential property are also included." Read on for more information, including greater detail on Mt. Lebanon sales, and how to stay legal when it comes to CMA's . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, February 20, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
Property owners in the southern suburbs of Allegheny County can now look up their new assessment online, joining property owners in the eastern suburbs and the City of Pittsburgh. Northern and western suburban property owners should receive their new assessments somewhere between February 27th – March 2nd, and will also be available online thereafter. In the past few days Allegheny County has migrated much of their information on assessments to one online starting location, which much emphasis on the fact that it was a "court ordered reassessment." RAMP Government Affairs has already perused the new resources, and integrated it with our always updated "Reassessment Toolbox" and "Fiction vs. Fact" downloads. For frequent viewers, we even highlight what's new so you can get right to the meat of the matter . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, February 13, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
The deadline to file for an informal review for properties in Pittsburgh, Mount Oliver, and in suburbs east of Pittsburgh is this Wednesday, February 15th. If a property owner hasn't already done so, they can request the informal review online. RAMP Government Affairs reminds that when requesting an informal review, keep the following in mind . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, February 09, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
Both sides of the legislative aisle have bickered virtually nonstop about the newly draw PA legislative district over the past few months. The PA Supreme Court rejected the newly drawn districts in a 4-3 decision on January 25th, and ordered that the 2001 lines be used until a new map could be drawn and approved. Now comes worries that a plan may not be approved in time for the PA primary election on April 24th, and both voters and candidates are confused as to which districts they live in, let alone who may appear on their ballot. It's jamming up the process of obtaining the proper signatures for nominating petitions, too. Are you registered to vote? Read the rest of entry »
As RAMP Government Affairs brought forth news of last week, we are pleased to have been part of the advocacy effort to pass this significant piece of legislation in Pennsylvania, which has been signed by Governor Corbett. Let's take a look at the finer points of the legislation, and how it affects the REALTOR® community and they clients they serve . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Tuesday, February 07, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
Today the Pittsburgh City Council approved a program to help homeowners needing assistance to appeal their new assessment. Here's a short list to determine qualification . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, February 06, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
Heads are shaking and hands are bring thrown up in confusion. Examinations by multiple sources are demonstrating that reassessments in the Pittsburgh and Mount Oliver for lower-value properties are facing a greater burden of property taxes than higher-value ones. The plaintiffs' attorneys for the original lawsuit before Judge Wettick are publicly commenting on their concerns regarding fairness. RAMP Government Affairs strongly encourages members take a few minutes to peruse the Post-Gazette article that probes potential inequities and phenomena. Keep in mind, a higher valuation does not necessarily mean higher property taxes . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, February 03, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs is pleased to have been part of this effort to that will bring about positive changes for homeowners and REALTORS® . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, February 02, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
On the heels of an idea floated by Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, Pittsburgh's City Council is poised to give final approval next week to a menu of services aimed at helping residents appeal their new property reassessment. Council Members Corey O'Connor and Bill Peduto, along with City Controller Michael Lamb, have put forth a plan being rolled into the Mayor's original proposal. The expanded version comes with a pricetag of $150,000 (exceeded $100,000 the Mayor had sketched out). The highlights as of now include . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, January 30, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs is pleased to engage members with our debut of a new landing page that gathers the resources, tools, and updated information available on the Allegheny County Reassessment . . . Read the rest of entry »
Mayor Luke Ravenstahl is planning to ask Pittsburgh City Council to considering extending the deadline by which City property owners have to receive a 2% early-payment discount to March 30th. However, as of this writing, the deadline to receive the discount in the City of Pittsburgh is still February 10th. The Mayor is also seeking to put in place a program that would help residents receive financial assistance in obtaining an appraisal for challenging their assessment . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, January 26, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
The Tax Man will always find you, right? But in Allegheny County he will find you about five weeks later than usual. The Allegheny County Treasurer's Office blames the delay on having been instructed to wait until the court-ordered reassessment was completed. In simple terms, here's what to expect . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, January 23, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
Posted on Friday, January 20, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
First there was the whiplash from the volley of watching County officials and Judge Wettick battle it out. And now you're getting dizzy from the change in dates and deadlines? You're in luck, as RAMP Government Affairs is here to help you navigate through "Reassessment Roulette." Here's the latest dates for you to take note of . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, January 16, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
“Reassessment Roulette” continues to serve up unexpected twists and developments, with the heat remaining high in Allegheny County. Over the past week we've seen contempt charges tossed about like hot potatoes, orders issued, tinkering with the schedule, re-examination of who would pay what, and the breaking news that the implementation of new values will be delayed until 2013 . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, January 09, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
After scouring the assorted media offerings all weekend, it would seem that none of our local elected officials were put in the clink over the weekend. However we did hear a rousing chorus of the "blame game" as questions have begun to be voiced regarding the company who conducted the reassessment, their methodologies, and history. And why have elected officials from surrounding counties begun to call for a statewide system, just as REALTORS® have advocated for? Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, January 06, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
If it didn't hit folks in the pocketbook, if it weren't thoroughly confusing and sometimes frightening, this week alone might be the best soap opera ever in Allegheny County. If you didn't set your DVR, let's recap the past handful of days locally, and then cover the mechanics of the matter . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Tuesday, January 03, 2012 by Jennifer Cloonan
It's impossible to avoid the volatile combination of whipped up residents, talk radio outrage, and media coverage of the reassessment firestorm, especially when accompanying the transfer of power to new County Executive Rich Fitzgerald on Tuesday. Overall, Pittsburgh's residential assessed value increased 46% in total, from $7.33 billion to $10.78 billion. What if there are error(s) on the paperwork you received, or the assessment seems way off? ... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
New property valuations (but not tax bills) were dropped in the mail today for City of Pittsburgh and Mount Oliver property owners, according to the assurances of Allegheny County Chief Property Assessment Officer Wesley Graham made to Judge Wettick. Will the County mail them for the suburban neighborhoods? Will the incoming County Executive certify the numbers? Will County Council have to take back their vote to increase millage in the same year as a reassessment? Now comes the reading of the tea leaves, and more heightened speculation on just what new valuations might be coming for certain City neighborhoods. Here are some resources to print out as you wait to see where the ball might drop on the Reassessment roulette wheel, making winners and losers . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Want to hear from the Chairman of County Council's Budget and Finance Committee on why they passed a millage increase of 21% at the County level? Click here for the Letter to the Editor he penned, along with Council Member Barbara Daly Danko. RAMP Government Affairs is a close observer and frequently testifies on budget matters before County Council. Click here to review my remarks . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
An abundance of media reports on "G" fees are causing mild panic among REALTORS® and consumers alike. In typical fashion, most media reports begin with "The Senate passed a $15 per month fee . . . " leading to incorrect assumptions or outright conclusions, failing to remind that the House hasn't concurred with a similar action. Let RAMP Government Affairs provide you with an update on just what is the scoop du jour on "G" Fees . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, December 19, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Details on the status of Allegheny County's reassessment reveals an evolving set of new twists and turns on a frequent basis, often altering previous updates by RAMP Government Affairs. The best guidance is to "check in frequently" with all of the resources RAMP Government Affairs provides, including the Advocacy Insider blog and our Facebook page. As of this writing, here are the freshest details and dates for REALTORS® to keep in mind . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Today in Harrisburg, the House will consider HB 1602 (Killion), a bill on Mechanics' Lien. HB 1602 provides for formal notice by a subcontractor to the Court of Common Pleas as to the condition precedent to beginning construction. Notice must be given within fifteen days of commencement of the construction. A petition for a claim for a lien must be filed within four months of completion of the work. REALTORS® urge state legislators to vote YES on HB 1602, and have sent a one-minute video . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, December 08, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
It'd be difficult to escape the news articles, heated talk radio discussions, editorials, and Facebook postings that have emerged since Tuesday evening's party-line vote by Allegheny County Council to raise the county millage rate for 2012 from 4.69 to 5.69 mills. While it was the first time in over a decade, a great deal of concern continues to be voiced by residents over the timing of it with the new valuations being handed out soon. RAMP Government Affairs was among twenty speakers at the Council meeting, and the sole speaker to urge re-examination and caution to Council Members, offer alternatives, and ask them to be mindful . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, December 02, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Whispers have abounded and some Council Members have openly suggested it may be due for some tinkering or even elimination. The Homestead Exemption has 318,803 property owners currently benefiting from the first $15,000 of assessed value of owner-occupied and certain farmstead properties being excluded from taxation. That's $22 million that Allegheny County homeowners get to keep in their hands, and out of the Tax Man's clutch. RAMP Government Affairs' numerous conversations with County Council Members, in addition to our own fact-checking of procedural processes, lead me to deduce the Homestead Exemption remains safely off the table. Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, December 01, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Before a room of REALTORS® on Friday, November 18th, eager to learn how Marcellus Shale transactions should be navigated, our expert panel agreed with a comment by David French, Vice President of Business Development for L.R. Kimball, that "Marcellus Shale is in its infancy in southwestern Pennsylvania" . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Sunday, November 27, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Allegheny County Council Members are grappling with a $20 million deficit as they craft the 2012 budget. Over the past several weeks it has become more and more clear that their preferred path involves giving serious consideration to raising the County's millage for the first time in over a decade, from 4.69 to 5.69 mills. At last week's Allegheny County Economic Development and Housing Committee meeting, RAMP Government Affairs was pleased to see a measure we have been lobbying hard for, the reauthorization of the Act 202/New Home Construction abatement, was proposed by County Council Member Robert Macey. It was voted out of the committee with a unanimous affirmative vote. . . Read the rest of entry »
City of Pittsburgh and Mount Oliver property owners should expect to find a lil' something mixed in with the holiday cards in their mailboxes soon . . . their new valuation. At a status conference held the day before Thanksgiving, the County's Chief Property Assessment Officer reported to Judge Wettick that Allegheny County is on track to meet the mid-December deadline for properties located within the Pittsburgh school district (which includes Mount Oliver). Appraiser valuations are currently being compared to mathematical formulas, also referred to as "iteration," to achieve fairness and consistency. REALTORS® should take special note that while the preliminary assessments . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, November 21, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Last Thursday Congress had a conference agreement of their minibus appropriations bill, which contained provisions significant for REALTORS®, FHA Loan Limits and NFIP . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Question time . . . what kinds of things do you want to have our panelists muse on? What questions are you dying to have asked and answered at our Marcellus Shale Panel this Friday, November 18th @ 10:00 a.m.? Click here to send them to me, and I will make sure they are covered . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, November 14, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Marcellus Shale's impact is growing in this region, both in terms of property rights and political power. As a REALTOR®, are you prepared? RAMP Government Affairs has a way for you to obtain the information you need, and the resources to gain the edge .. . . Read the rest of entry »
Budget hearings for Allegheny County's 2012 Budget commenced less than 24 hours after the election polls closed. Outgoing County Executive Dan Onorato has proposed a budget with NO increase in property taxes. Two evenings of public hearings on the budget included many members of the public that are beneficiaries of social services, who testified over their concern about funding cuts to services they consume. RAMP Government Affairs implored County Council to NOT raise property taxes, citing the genuine fear of homeowners, how property tax increase damage our local economy, and how they fall especially hard on seniors, young families, and first-time homebuyers. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, November 10, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
How much do you know about Marcellus Shale? What about as a REALTOR® . . . do you know enough about Marcellus Shale to properly handle a transaction where mineral rights and leasing are involved? Have you thought through all of the potential ramifications? Are you prepared to protect your clients, and yourself? Embrace the opportunity RAMP has arranged for you to engage, discover, and interact by attending our Marcellus Shale Panel on Friday, November 18th from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, November 07, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
There is one appointment that should be on all REALTORS® calendars for Tuesday, November 8th . . . VOTING! Voting is a privilege, one that should be handled with the utmost of care, and certainly an appointment worthy on your calendar. Local elections have the most dismal turnout of any election, with as low as 20% of all eligible voters in some places. The myth still exists that what happens at the federal level affects a person most, hence the highest turnout in a presidential cycle. As REALTORS®, you know that it's the local scene -- the municipality and the school district -- that have the most direct effect on a person's daily life and pocketbook. Now show it by carrying out your civic responsibility! Read the rest of entry »
Up, down, left, right, on, off . . . the latest not so bad news direction from Judge Wettick is that residential property owners in the City of Pittsburgh and Mount Oliver WILL be allowed to challenge their new assessments via informal appeals. (Are you cheering? Stand by . . .). But, and there's always a but, Allegheny County must still have those residential values certified by December 2nd, and then mailed to owners by December 9th. They will have until December 30th to request an informal appeal. Those informal appeals will take place between December 14th and January 20th . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, October 31, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
The reassessment news and developments keep evolving. Over the weekend came word that at the upcoming weekly status conference (held each Wednesday), Judge Wettick may further act upon his frustration with Allegheny County by ordering all City of Pittsburgh and Mt. Oliver residential properties to have their valuations completed by December 2nd, and mailed to property owners by December 9th. The proposed order would also allow for informal appeals during the month of January 2012, with the right to a formal appeal still being retained. And what is the County's tally on this task? As of last week, 79,000 of 115,000 residential properties had been completed in the City of Pittsburgh, and a handful of the more than 3,000 commercial ones completed. It doesn't take a math whiz to deduce that a lot are left to be completed. . . . Read the rest of entry »
How would you like to find yourself living in a new place without even leaving your home? Welcome to Redistricting, then! Some of the articles in the media over the past week have been rather informative, and some have made me chuckle . . . Read the rest of entry »
Have you wondered about how the deposits of Marcellus Shale in southwestern Pennsylvania might impact you as a REALTOR®? Looking for a few places on the web which you can bookmark and quickly scan for the latest news and developments on the impacts, hurdles, opportunities, challenges, and then form your own opinion? Let me highlight a few to get started with:
Posted on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Recently the Post-Gazette ran an editorial calling for Allegheny County property owners to be able to request and receive an informal appeal of their new valuation. Click here to read the P-G's editorial. They expressed concern about the "strict timetable Common Pleas Judge R. Stanton Wettick Jr. issued for county officials last month." I have to admit that calling out the Judge on matters of timing was a bit surprising, instead of pointing a finger (or at least calling into question) at the County's role in the fact that the valuations were once upon a time due in July 2011, and several delays later aren't expected to hit mailboxes until after the election February 2012. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, October 24, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Take a look at your calendar and tell me what’s on your agenda for Tuesday, November 8th . . . go ahead, I’ll wait while you check . . . did you see the notation that says “GO VOTE”? If not, why not? Voting is a privilege, not a right, and should be handled with the utmost diligence and care. But let's say you already know you will be out of town that day, or for some reason unable to make it to the polls . . . now what? Let's RAMP Government Affairs help you request the Absentee Ballot so your vote counts and your opinion expressed . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, October 20, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Maybe you're not a political junkie like I am, but you still want to catch up on the latest scoop about the candidates who seek to lead you as Allegheny County Executive next year. Let me share with you what articles and resources I found the most intriguing over the past week. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, October 13, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Posted on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs is pleased to have been contacted by State Representatives Dan Deasy and Joseph Preston, Jr., with their intent to sign on as co-sponsors to the legislation being offered by Rep. Mario Scavello. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, October 10, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
PA Representative Mario Scavello has sent a memo to colleagues seeking co-sponsors to his bill that would restore an individuals’ ability to originate, offer, negotiate, or service less than four mortgage loans per year without holding a license. Act 31 of 2009 had recently removed the ability of a person to originate, negotiate, or service any mortgage in a calendar year, unless it was to an immediate family member, without having to obtain a license. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, October 05, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
As RAMP Government Affairs has shared in anecdotes while making office visits and on the RAMP Advocacy Insider Blog, legislation rarely offers a clear cut path from points A to B, and this one was no exception. While the U.S. Senate approved the "Continuing Appropriations Act” (H.R. 2608) extending NFIP until November 18th on 09/26/11, it took a series of votes on a Continuing Resolution (CR) over the past week to make it stick in the House of Representatives. Both the Senate CR and the House CR include stop-gap legislation that extends NFIP through November 18th of this year, hence no lapse! It thus allows time for the Senate to bring their version of a 5-year reauthorization up for consideration. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, October 03, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP's Panel on Reassessment enjoyed a full audience of REALTORS® to hear directly from County Chief Executive candidates Rich Fitzgerald and Raja, County Council Member Vince Gastgeb and State Senator and REALTOR® Wayne Fontana on Friday, September 30th. Click here for a great P-G article recapping their comments, which included support for statewide reassessment instead of just Allegheny County being singled out. The feedback from those who joined us has been outstanding! I hope you were part of the group assembled to listen to their responses to REALTOR® questions, and interact with our panelists afterwards at the reception hosted by our own YPN chapter. Did you know the County has fallen dramatically behind on assessment of commercial properties? Click here to read about it. The valuation of commercial properties attracted several pertinent questions and responses during the panel. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, September 26, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP's Panel on Reassessment will kick off our celebration of Centennial Weekend at the Annual Meeting this Friday, September 30th @ 3:00 p.m.. Giving their thoughts, their musings, and reading the tea leaves on what the future holds for Allegheny County and its property taxpayers are our guests: State Senator and REALTOR® Wayne Fontana, County Council Member Vince Gastgeb, Raja, and Rich Fitzgerald. Property taxes and the reassessment are the top issue in our local general election. With only six weeks to go, the stakes keep getting raised higher and higher, and the media coverage of the campaigns updated frequently. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, September 22, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
It sure feels like it, doesn't it? Nearly every day we are seeing articles, quotes, pleas for relief, and even legislation bandied about. Of course the countdown to Election Day makes the issue an even more provocative water cooler topic. You will recall Judge Wettick's deep concerns over how delayed valuations will negatively affect the City of Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Public Schools, which operate budgets on a calendar year and therefore collect taxes by May. This differs from many suburban municipalities and school districts, which are more likely to pass budgets in the summer months or mid-year. Most recent numbers given by the Pittsburgh City Schools estimate nearly $2 million in borrowing costs due to the delayed valuations not being handed out until February 2012, and then certified in April 2012 or later. 70,000 property owners are expected to appeal their assessment. How is one of the County Chief Executive Candidates responding? By asking the Pittsburgh City School District to reject the new values. Click here and here to read more. County Council is considering legislation to target inequities. Click here to learn more. State Senator and REALTOR® Wayne Fontana has announced his intention to re-introduce Assessment Moratorium Legislation. Click here for his press release. . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, September 09, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
President Obama's address to a joint session of Congress last night contained the sound bite of "jobs," "pass this jobs bill" or "pass it right away" multiple times. Actually, somebody counted, and "jobs" alone was said 37 times in 34 minutes. Our local newspapers ran articles from national sources on the story. Click here for the Post-Gazette's coverage (courtesy of the NY Times), and theTribune-Review (by way of the USA Today, in a semi-surprising turn). The national unemployment rate stands at 9.1%. You can look at the state unemployment rates by clicking here and scrolling down the right side of the site. Pennsylvania's was at 7.8% for July 2011 (psst, that makes ours lower than Ohio, West Virginia, New York, and New Jersey! But Maryland beat us by 0.6%). Serious number junkies like myself can click here to view Pennsylvania's monthly numbers going back to January 2001. I promise you, it's very interesting reading . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, September 07, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
September 30th isn't just the date of RAMP's Annual Meeting and Membership Awards, it's also the day in which the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will expire unless Congress hurries up and finds a way to reauthorize it. NFIP, however important, is a cash-strapped program at time when elected officials are looking to save a buck. Candidly, the outlook is poor that a long-term fix is at hand. Here is the current legislative status of NFIP in Washington, D.C. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, August 29, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Pushing back the timeline for new property valuations might have solved a certain timing issue for Allegheny County and those running for the plum job of County Chief Executive, but one gets the feeling that Judge Wettick is not quite so keen on the idea. Judge Wettick expressed concern last week over how the delay in valuations will affect entities such as the City of Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Public Schools, which operate budgets on a calendar year and therefore collect taxes by May. This differs from many suburban municipalities and school districts, which are more likely to pass budgets in the summer months or mid-year. With certification of the new values now not being settled until April 2012, the delay may cost the city and school district hundreds of thousands of dollars for loans to cover their operating costs. . . .
Posted on Thursday, August 25, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Several interesting items spotted amongst the media offerings RAMP Goverment Affairs trolls daily. Hmmm, makes me wonder if we will see some interesting or newly reconstituted coalitions being born. . . Read the rest of entry »
REALTORS® don't need to be convinced on the importance of Mortgage Interest Deduction (MID). Yet a misconception, or a lack of full understanding, on the extraordinary value and use of MID persists among elected officials and even the public, let alone the political pundits and other media talking heads. In a recent blog entry, I covered the compelling stats on how widely used MID is, and how tinkering with it would have serious consequences nationwide for homeowners. NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun wrote a piece in the July 2010 edition of "Real Estate Insights" (psst, on pages 5 and 6) on long-term recovery, what the absence of the homebuyer tax credit has meant, and muses on what would happen if the tax code were re-written from scratch. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, August 22, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs hasn't been shy about its enthusiasm for the upcoming general election, where local races will permeate the ballot. But even for those of us who live and breathe politics, trying to learn about the candidates and decide who is worthy of our precious vote can still be a daunting task. Unlike national or even state-level candidates for office, resources may not be as available, as positions not as widely-publicized. Factor in the high level of government fragmentation in Allegheny County, and it's no wonder some voters are overwhelmed and not sure where to begin. Among the distinguished panelists for our upcoming Annual Meeting on September 30th, are the two candidates for Allegheny County Chief Executive. So let's start there . . . how do Raja and Rich Fitzgerald view issues that REALTORS® care intimately about? We can begin by taking a look at policy positions on their web sites . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, August 18, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
The Super Committee members have been named. But Congress is on vacation, recess, until September 6th. President Obama has announced his plan to unveil a jobs plan on September 6th. RAMP Government Affairs thinks school will most definitely be back in session, ahem. So let's take this opportunity to refresh our minds on the importance of Mortgage Interest Deduction, lest any of the legislators' minds be a bit foggy from the hazy days of summer... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, August 15, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
"All politics is local" is an oft-repeated quote attributed to former U.S. Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill. REALTORS® know how important location is, the effect it has on the value of a property, the perception of the community, and the attractiveness of a school district. The decisions made by elected officials who serve at municipal level, as well as on school boards, have an enormous impact on a neighborhood. This fall, your general election ballot will be full of local races for positions representing municipalities and school boards... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, August 11, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
The excitement and anticipation are growing as the days tick closer to our Annual Meeting, during Centennial Weekend. Against the backdrop of governmental budget worries and pocketbook apprehension, local residents are anxiously watching as municipalities and school districts make decisions on what to cut, what to raise, and how to fund it. REALTORS® are wondering what the reassessment means to their clients, and themselves. Add into the recipe the biggest local election in a decade for the job of Allegheny County’s next County Chief Executive being waged. What could be more timely than being our guest on at RAMP’s Annual Meeting? RAMP REALTORS® want to hear from the local politicians and state legislators on how they read the tea leaves. RAMP Government Affairs is pleased to confirm the following elected officials will be on our Reassessment Panel . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, August 08, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Amid the worries and skepticism regarding what happens next with the American and global economies, remains (for now) the heartbeat of hope as mortgage rates reach new lows. Reassure yourself and clients by clicking here to read this quick article on "Mortgage Rates Reach Record Lows"... Read the rest of entry »
Standard & Poor's have been grabbing the financial headlines the past few days, and while the impact of the United States' debt crisis will be felt by all Americans in some capacity, REALTORS® are likely to understand and the tangible effects more readily. Even before news broke over the weekend of their downgrade of the U.S. credit rating, rumblings were afloat that S & P was in a bad mood... Read the rest of entry »
It came down to the wire, but Congress voted to raise the debt ceiling. Yet uncertainty remains a persistent feeling. While the agreement as passed has no direct impact on real estate tax rules or spending provisions, a tight timeline has been prescribed, and the makeup of the to-be-determined “Super Committee” has the political lure of a parlor game, as pundits, insiders, and even the curious onlooker wondering WHO will be chosen... Read the rest of entry »
The search for space in Pittsburgh is becoming more challenging, and that's a good thing! Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Mark Belko notes that "Aided by the Marcellus Shale boom and the growth of the local health care and banking industries, the Pittsburgh office market is tighter than ever... Read the rest of entry »
The 2010 Census also has local implications for Allegheny County residents, with shifts in resident numbers requiring the County Council districts be redrawn a bit. The greatest amount of growth was seen in seats held by Republicans, however County Council's redistricting it not expected to result any party changes on Council. Council is aiming for each of the 13 Council Districts to have between 92,000 - 96,000 people... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, July 29, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Uncertainty is as much a part of this summer as the sweltering heat. While not as refreshing as ice cream on a hot day, RAMP Government Affairs is bringing you the latest scoop on the debt ceiling, and gathers for you the resources and expert opinions aimed to help REALTORS® prepare for the future. Click here for an article in the NY Times on “How a U.S. Downgrade May Affect Consumers.” Here's one important nugget I have pulled out for you to chew on . . . .
With only the House having taken action to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program, concerns are becoming more serious on whether the Senate will take up the matter, let alone prior to the September 30th expiration date. You may recall from my prior blog entry that a lapse in June 2010 resulted in the delay or cancellation of 47,000 home sales nationwide. CLICK HERE for an issue summary from NAR on what to do should the program lapse again.... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
According to American Banker, “Fannie and Freddie could continue to operate even if the U.S. debt ceiling is not raised by August 2. But raising the ceiling alone, without a budget deal, would leave them — and a mortgage market that relies on their guarantees — vulnerable"... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Much as one frames a house, or plates an entree, so goes media coverage. Here are three media stories, all posted today, on home prices and values in the region. Within each story are favorable, positive statistics. Read on... Read the rest of entry »
It's is no surprise that school districts are always on the hunt for resources, especially financial. Auctioning off items no longer useful or needed is emerging in Allegheny County as trend worth exploring. Click here to read an article on Quaker Valley's upcoming plans, as well as how the Moon Area School District fared. Want to learn about something even more innovative, yet charmingly old-school? Learn lessons from Claremont, Ohio, superintendent Neil Leist, who reached out to the business community. He details his efforts in a short book called "$uperintendent $aving $trategies." Click here to learn about how it got started, and he earned the nickname of the "Dumpster Diving Superintendent." Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, July 15, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
The Federal Trade Commission has announced that is will not enforce the "MARS Rule" against real estate professionals...
Posted on Wednesday, July 13, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs has received a request from a doctoral candidate to assist in gathering confidential responses for his research project "Examining Realtors as a Source of Neighborhood Context." In his own words, Joshua Battin shares that "this project recognizes the expertise of REALTORS® and will use that knowledge to better understand the social environment and networks in urban communities." He is specifically seeking responses for his dissertation research from REALTORS® who have knowledge of, are active in, or live in, the following Pittsburgh neighborhoods... Read the rest of entry »
The Allegheny County Department of Real Estate has notified RAMP Government Affairs that the new Common Level Ratio Factor for Allegheny County, as of July 1, 2011, is 1.17. Click here for the notice, and to view the rates for all counties throughout Pennsylvania... Read the rest of entry »
Efforts to change the definition of the "QRM Rule" (Qualified Residential Mortgage), that would require a 20% down payment resulted in an extension of the comment period by federal regulators until August 1, 2011. Click here to review a prior blog entry on the role RAMP Government Affairs has had in these efforts. Recently, local associations were asked to submit a comment letter directly to the United States Federal Reserve Bank, one of the six regulatory agencies with oversight responsibilities for QRM. Click here to read the letter submitted by RAMP's 2011 President R. Kevin Brown, Jr... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, July 11, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Last week came news from Allegheny County that the new valuations of properties had been given yet another stay of execution, delaying them until February 2012. This was on the heel of news that a bill in PA Legislature aimed at giving neighboring Washington County a reprieve was passed. Allegheny County elected officials then whipped into high gear exploring legal and political options seeking the same exemption. Then on Friday came word that Governor Corbett nixed the Washington County reprieve with the stroke of his veto pen. Click here for a fresh article on the confusion, logistical challenges, and budget anxiety this building storm is causing for taxpayers, school districts, and municipalities... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, July 06, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
The biggest local issue in this fall's contest to win the job of Allegheny County's Chief Executive was slated to be the implementation of reassessment values. It appears the new valuations are getting an even longer reprieve... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, July 01, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Breaking with an eight-year tradition of passing the PA budget later than the June 30th deadline, the PA Legislature presented Governor Corbett with a budget he signed into law minutes before midnight... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, June 30, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Budget issues are dominating the news at the local, state, and federal level. REALTORS® are acutely aware of the school property tax burden in Allegheny County, where the highest millages do not necessarily translate into the best-performing schools... Read the rest of entry »
In recent weeks RAMP Government Affairs tipped you off that NAR would launch a Call for Action regarding the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The time is now... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Sunday, June 26, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Unless Congress acts by September 30th, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will lapse for the 10th time in two years. Shaking your head? You're not alone. NFIP provides affordable flood insurance options for more than 21,000 American communities, serving over 5.6 million home and business owners... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, June 24, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Great news heading into the weekend . . . Governor Corbett has signed legislation passed by the PA Senate and PA House prohibiting Private Transfer Fees in Pennsylvania... Read the rest of entry »
Make sure everyone in your office has taken part in this week's Call for Action that urges Congress to make the loan limits for FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac permanent. The loan limits are due to expire on 09/30/11, thereby generating a very real fear it could result in lending being affected as early as the end of June... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, June 20, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
On Tuesday, June 21st NAR is planning a Call for Action to members on the FHA Loan Limits. Those currently in place are due to expire on 09/30/11, but concerns exist that it could begin to affect lending as early as late June... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, June 17, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Yesterday afternoon the PA House concurred with Senate amendments on HB 442 prohibiting Private Transfer Fees (PTF’s) in PA...
Posted on Monday, June 13, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Last week RAMP Government Affairs attended the Joint Legislative Hearing on Congressional Redistricting convened in Cranberry Township last week. A packed room of interested parties included county commissioners from western Pennsylvania, interested citizens, and members of the media. With a population that has not risen at the pace of other dramatic gainers such as states in the south and west, the results of the 2010 Census means that Pennsylvania will drop from having 19 members serving in Congress to 18... Read the rest of entry »
On June 22nd the PA Real Estate Commission will have a public meeting from 2:00-4:00 p.m. During this session licensees are encouraged to attend and ask questions of the Commissioners and Counsel. RAMP is proud to have one of its own members, Annie Hanna Cestra, serving on the Real Estate Commission... Read the rest of entry »
In addition to the Pittsburgh region's stable residential real estate market, we are receiving accolades and attention for our commercial real estate sector, too. As featured in RAMP's "The Right Choice" media campaign, we have been ranked #1 in commercial real estate by Moody's Investor Service. Click here to view an ad discussing the good news... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, June 02, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs is thrilled to share word that all of the Congressman who represent Allegheny County have signed on: Congressman Mike Doyle, Congressman Tim Murphy, and Congressman Jason Altmire. Additionally, Senator Robert Casey has signed onto the Senate version... Read the rest of entry »
RAMP Government Affairs thanks State Senator Wayne Fontana for sending a letter to the Senate leadership on Tuesday asking them to move on the bill he introduced, SB 158. Click here to read his letter. SB 158 amends Act 202, the New Home Construction Local Tax Abatement Act, by changing the deadline for which homeowners must apply for the property tax exemption. RAMP Government Affairs has also sent a request to Senate Democratic Floor Leader Jay Costa asking that this bill be considered for a full vote by the PA Senate... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, May 26, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs received word from our office of State Senator Wayne Fontana that SB 353 has come out of the House Urban Affairs Committee as amended. SB 353 calls for the prohibition on new Private Transfer Fees (PTF's) statewide.... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
On Wednesday afternoon RAMP Government Affairs was notified directly by the office of Congressman Jason Altmire (D-4th) that he has signed on to Campbell-Sherman Letter that asks Federal Regulators to follow the intent and language of the QRM exemption provision contained in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Friday, May 20, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP Government Affairs recently had the pleasure of meeting with Congressman Tim Murphy while he was in his district. Held at the request of Congressman Murphy, covered issues such as GSE Reform, the definition of a Qualified Residential Mortgage (QRM), and preservation of the Mortgage Interest Deduction (MID)... Read the rest of entry »
RAMP will be in Harrisburg from May 23-25 to represent our members at the statewide PAR Spring Business meetings. In addition to hearing remarks from House Majority Leader Mike Turzai at the Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, attendees will hear presentations about social media, Swanepoel Trends, and attend to important committee work. . . Read the rest of entry »
NAR's Research Department maintains a presence on Facebook that has been knocking my socks off! Several times a day they link to new articles or provide quantitative research on the marketplace and consumers. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, May 19, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
Can your clients can afford to put 20% down? Can you afford it? Tell your Member of Congress and Senators that otherwise creditworthy Americans will be denied the American Dream. . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Saturday, May 14, 2011 by Jeffery Zirngibl
At NAR’s Board of Directors meeting today, the majority of directors voted to pass a motion to raise NAR’s portion of dues by $40.00 for 2012 and 2013 to fund the REALTOR® Party Political Survival Initiative. Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Thursday, May 12, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
In a busy day of advocacy, RAMP Government Affairs was also active on the local scene in addition to our lobbying in Washington, D.C.. RAMP President R. Kevin Brown, Jr. and RAMP Government Affairs Committee member Libby Sosinski were invited to appear at the Government Reform Committee meeting convened by Allegheny County Council on Thursday afternoon... Read the rest of entry »
RAMP is in Washington, D.C. this week for the NAR Mid-Year Meetings. Visits with our members of Congress are a key part of making sure issues important to REALTORS® are forefront on the federal legislative agenda. Advocacy is especially critical at a time when our nation tries to regain its' economic footing... Read the rest of entry »
Two members of the RAMP Family were inducted into the REALTORS® RPAC Hall of Fame. Janice Smarto and Victoria Lowry were honored for having invested more than $25,000+ in the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC). Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, May 09, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
This week RAMP is journeying to Washington, D.C. to meet with thousands of other REALTORS® from all over the country to participate in NAR’s Mid-Year meetings. In addition to committee meetings and visits on Capitol Hill with our Congressmen and Senators, there will also be a critically important NAR Board of Director meeting on Saturday where a vote will occur on the proposed $40 dues increase on NAR dues for the "REALTOR® Party Political Survival Initiative." During our meetings on Capitol Hill on Thursday, May 12th, RAMP will be educating Legislators and advocating for action on... Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, April 25, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
RAMP is thrilled to announce our own Ron Croushore has been named to serve as the Federal Political Coordinator to Congressman Jason Altmire (D-4th). Wondering what the Federal Political Coordinator (FPC ) position means as a REALTOR® . . . . Read the rest of entry »
Posted on Monday, April 18, 2011 by Jennifer Cloonan
A bill offered by Allegheny County Council Member Ed Kress seeks to offer a solution for senior citizens who have fallen behind on their property taxes. Council Member Kress reached out to RAMP prior to offering this bill at County Council, and met with members of our Government Affairs Committee to receive their feedback on practical matters relating to sheriff’s sale, and ways to strengthen his idea. Read the rest of entry »
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