Real Estate in a Virtual World.

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) -

 Rural Development Housing and Community Facilities Program (HCFP)

A common barrier to owning a home for many individuals and families is the lack of funds to make a down payment.  The USDA offers a 100% financing options for qualified buyers who want to purchase properties in rural areas.  To be eligible for this program, you must be unable to obtain a mortgage from another source.  In most cases, this requirement will be satisfied if you do not have a down payment. 

The program is not limited to first-time home buyers.  To determine if you qualify, contact a participating lender in your area.

There is no limit on the mortgage amount or sales price however properties in the following areas are not in "rural areas" and are inelgible:

Concord, Derry, Dover, Hudson, Keene, Londonderry, Manchester, Merrimack, Nashua, Portsmouth, Rochester, Salem and parts of Goffstown and Hooksett

Property Requirements

• Single Family Homes
• Condos/Townhouses
• Mobile Homes ONLY if brand new, on own lot, not in a park, purchased from an approved dealer-contractor
• Lot value no more than 30% of total value

 The following income limits are listed for each county.

Belknap, Carroll, Cheshire, Coos, Grafton and Sullivan COUNTIES:           

1-4 PERSON                 5-8 PERSON

 $84,100                      $111,000

 Hillsborough County (Non-MSA Towns):

 1-4 PERSON                5-8 PERSON

 $88,550                       $116,900

 Merrimack County (Non-MSA Towns):         

1-4 PERSON                 5-8 PERSON

$86,100                        $113,650

 Western Rockingham County (Non-MSA towns) and Lawrence, Manchester and Nashua MSA:

1-4 PERSON                 5-8 PERSON

$92,000                         $121,450

 Portsmouth -Rochester MSA:

1-4 PERSON                 5-8 PERSON

$92,000                         $121,450

The following resources will assist you locating property, obtaining real estate related information and buyer agency services:

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Is a Salary Based Compensation in Our Future?

The current real estate agent base has not adapted to the changes necessary to meet the needs of the consumer.  Most attribute this to the generational gap between the agent (53 years old) and the average home buyer (31).

The industry needs to get younger.  An infusion of new talent that understands today's consumer and is focused on customer service.

This new generation has the communication and technology skills to connect and provide the required services.  First-time home buyers will comprise 50% of the transactions in 2009 and most will hire a buyer's agent.

Will the younger generations see opportunity in our industry?  If they do, how will they get started?  Where will their business come from?  Can they earn enough in their start-up years to survive?

Would salary based compensation (guaranteed draw) with commission overrides provide the security necessary for entry level agents?  The agent will have to be accountable to the sales process in order to receive this guaranteed income (like the corporate world).

The company that offers this compensation package must have these key elements in their value proposition to the agent:

1. Lead generation in order to "guarantee" a flow of business for the agent.  As the agent gains experience and starts to develop their own sources of business they can demand a higher commission split in exchange for reduced lead flow.  The company would then offer those leads to new agents.
2. Exceptional training and support so that the agent develops the necessary skills quickly.  Mentoring and coaching is part of this process.
3. A performance standard for the agent whereby they are accountable to a work flow.  The company is taking a "risk" with the guaranteed draw and must have a structured sales process to insure success.

If you were considering a real estate career, would this business model appeal to you?

Praxis Plus - A Sales Process for Succes

The Praxis Plus program focuses on daily, weekly and monthly activities that will lead to transactions.  Regardless of market conditions, the key to success in any market is taking market share.   

The opportunity in 2009 revolves around a shift in strategy to the buying side of the transaction as the NAR projects that 50% of all homes sold will be to first-time home buyers.  Since the traditional real estate business model focuses on the listing side of the transaction you will find less competition and greater success on the buying side.  Here are the seven key marketing elements to making more money and success in 2009:

1. The incentives to buy a home are for the first-time home buyer.  You must understand and communicate the benefits of the $8000 tax credit.  For many renters, this window of opportunity could be their only chance of owning a home in the near future.
2. The barrier for most first-time home buyers is the down payment.  Educate yourself on FHA, USDA, VA and State Housing agency programs that allow a consumer to purchase a home with a low down payment or 100% financing.  If you have a strong, working knowledge of financing options, you can communicate the appropriate information to consumers, earn their trust and eventually effect a transaction.
3. Finding first-time home buyers - the traditional method.   Communicate the benefits of homeownership, the $8000 tax credit, historically low interest rates and affordability to your sphere of influence for possible referrals.
4. Finding first-time home buyersonline.  Place ads on Craig's list regarding the tax credit, home buyer guides, buyer agency services and advertise qualifying properties.  Blog about the benefits for first-time home buyers in every possible social networking site you can think of.
5. Conduct first-time home buying seminars for local companies, towns, office complexes, networking groups and any other groups and organizations that would be interested in inviting you to speak.
6. Partner with industry related service providers.  Consumers often connect with lenders prior to starting the search for a home.  Establish strong working relationships with knowledgeable mortgage professionals who understand and offer all the necessary mortgage options.
7. Network, network, network.  Qualified home buyers are looking to take advantage of current market conditions and are excited about the process.  They prefer to work with motivated and competent agents that will provide exceptional customer service.  Let everyone you know that this is a great time to buy and that you are available to assist them in their real estate needs.

The average home buyer is 30-32 years old and utilizes the Internet to research and obtain information about the home buying process.  If a consumer connects with you online through your ads, web site or blog, it is critical that you follow up immediately and often until you connect with them.  Internet marketing statistics indicate that the first responder will usually earn the business. 

Respond with "customer service" in mind and you will have great success in 2009!

Virtual Homes real estate provides real estate information and related information for the home buying and selling process.

Derry,  New Hampshire MLS Map Search

Working with industry professionals that provide accurate information and proper advice facilitates the home buying process.  Recommended professionals include mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once you determine the price range, style, and personal criteria the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLS map search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood and commuting options.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Derry NH MLS Map Search

Let Derry, NH real estate assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), country properties, land, condominiums and equine facilities -- all through the NH MLS. Request relocation, school home buying, selling and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Manchester,  New Hampshire MLS Map - Direct MLS Access

Industry professionals provide accurate information and proper advice that facilitates the home buying process.  We recommend you consult with mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once you determine the price range, style, and personal criteria the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLS map search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood, commuting options, price range and personal criteria.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Manchester NH MLS Map Search

Manchester NH real estate web site will assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), multi-families, and condominiums -- all through the NH Multiple Listing Service(MLS). request relocation, school and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Brookline, New Hampshire MLS Map - Direct MLS Access

Industry professionals provide accurate information and proper advice that facilitates the home buying process.  Recommended professionals include mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once you determine the price range, style, and personal criteria the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLS map search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood and commuting options.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Brookline NH MLS Map Search

Let Brookline, NH real estate assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), country properties, land, condominiums and equine facilities -- all through the NH Multiple Listing Service (MLS). request relocation, school and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Hudson, New Hampshire MLS Map Search - Direct MLS Access

Industry professionals provide accurate information and proper advice that facilitates the home buying process.  Recommended professionals include mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once you determine the price range, style, and personal criteria the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLS map search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood and commuting options.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Hudson NH MLS Map Search

Let Hudson, NH real estate assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), country properties, land, condominiums and equine facilities -- all through the NH Multiple Listing Service (MLS). request relocation, school and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Plaistow New Hampshire MLS Map Search

Working with industry professionals that provide accurate information and proper advice facilitates the home buying process.  Recommended professionals include mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once you determine the price range, style, and personal criteria the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLS map search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood and commuting options.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Plaistow NH MLS Map Search

Let Plaistow, NH real estate assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), country properties, land, condominiums and equine facilities -- all through the NH Multiple Listing Service (MLS). request relocation, school and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Bedford New Hampshire MLS Map Search

Working with industry professionals that provide accurate information and proper advice facilitates the home buying process.  Recommended professionals include mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once you determine the price range, style, and personal criteria the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLS map search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood and commuting options.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Bedford NH MLS Map Search

Let Bedford, NH real estate assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), country properties, land, condominiums and equine facilities -- all through the NH Multiple Listing Service (MLS). request relocation, school and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.

Amherst New Hampshire MLS Map Search

The process of buying a home can be very complicated if you do not work with industry professionals that provide accurate information and advise you. The recommended professionals include mortgage lenders, Realtors, attorneys, home inspectors and accountants. If you are a first-time home buyer, you may qualify for a tax credit ($8000 in 2009) and could be eligible for special financing programs.

Once the price range, style, and personal criteria are determined the property search begins.  Virtual Homes NH MLSmap search is a great tool that provides mapping of all properties in the MLS.  Search by location, neighborhood and commuting options.

For a map based search of all properties listed in the NH MLS go to

Amherst NH MLS Map Search

Let Amherst, NH real estate assist you in finding the right property to meet your needs from local area homes for sale, foreclosure listings (bank-owned), country properties, land, condominiums and equine facilities -- all through the NH Multiple Listing Service (MLS). request relocation, school and demographic information.

The Virtual Homes MLS Map Search provides all MLS listings plotted in each town on a map in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. RE/MAX Country Properties real estate agents can assist you in your search for the perfect home (800) 222-2829.

New Hampshire Multiple Listing Service- Search the MLS for all NH property listings. Go to MA MLS for Massachusetts listings.

New Hampshire Foreclosures and Bank Owned Homes - Register to receive New Hampshire foreclosure (bank-owned) listings and short sale opportunities. Go To MA Bank Owned for Massachusetts foreclosed property.

Home Search Service- Home search is a web-based real estate software tool (MLSpulse) that keeps you continually informed of your local real estate market. Virtual Homes real estate provides access to real estate, relocation and town information in New England states.