James Hill at Ross Bridge

HomeTown Fair at Ross Bridge Oct 25th

2009-10-04T21:10:00.000-05:00

Arts and Music on the Green at Ross Bridge

2009-10-04T21:09:00.001-05:00

Uncorked on the Green this Saturday!!

2009-10-04T21:07:00.001-05:00

1st Annual Ross Bridge 8k Run/Walk

2009-09-10T16:43:00.006-05:00

About four hundred people took part in an 8-k Run/Walk Health Expo at Ross Bridge this Labor Day Weekend!The event raised money for an addiction recovery program called the Alabama Teen Challenge. Organizers say it was an overwhelming show of support for the program which helps mend broken lives. Even though runners got rained on, they had a really good time and raised close to ten thousand dollars for the program.

Goat Meat For Sale: A lesson in creating a successful new home community

2009-08-17T10:03:00.005-05:00

Thursday, August 13, 2009

GOAT MEAT FOR SALE: A lesson in creating a successful new home community
A few years ago I inspected a vacant tract of ground in a remote location in the western suburbs of Birmingham, Alabama. Although situated within the city limits of Hoover, an upscale suburb which is considered to contain one of the better school districts in the metropolitan area, this property is and would naturally be perceived as for all intents and purposes physically within Bessemer, a lower income and socio-economic city in the process of decline.The growth in Birmingham had historically followed four major traffic arteries to the south. This property, unfortunately, was not proximate to any of those routes and instead was accessed only from surface roads after what seemed to be a long and arduous journey, remote from other development and services. In fact, when I first went to visit the site I wondered how we would attract prospective purchasers, especially as the most visible landmark along the way and very near to the property was a hand painted sign nailed to a tree that read Goat Meat for Sale.

Now I have come across a number of signs in my life that were puzzling. Last week in a restaurant restroom I noticed a sign next to the soap dispenser that read for washing hands only. I am still uncertain what the management was hoping to avoid by posting that sign, perhaps someone deciding to shampoo their hair? But I had no doubt what the goat meat sign meant and what it suggested about the perception of the neighborhood in which the property was located.
The developers behind the community were two experienced and successful real estate development companies in the area who had commissioned a market study by a national research firm before entering into their joint venture. And prior to finalizing the community plan and just to be certain that they were on the right track, they commissioned a second study to be certain that market conditions had not changed and to consider necessary adjustments to the development strategy prior to starting. I had the pleasure of performing that second study and commented to my client that their action reminded me of the first rule I learned in this business, taught to me by a carpenter during my month-long field indoctrination into the homebuilding process measure twice, cut once.
My report recommendations contained relatively minor changes from the original concept adjusting density and pricing within the parcels, changing the sequence of the development, revising some of the housing product positioning to reduce internal competition, and reducing the size of the Village Center property which required a TND housing component. This last recommendation was due to the local markets less than overly enthusiastic response to the TND concept in several existing developments. These recommendations were all implemented as were my specific suggestions for the community positioning and sales and marketing implementation. While there certainly are a number of successful new home communities across the country that opened in 2005, I believe that Ross Bridge is arguably unique in that its success has continued even through the current economic and housing downturn.
The original absorption estimates for the community had forecast home sales averaging 150 annually. The results achieved have met or exceeded that goal even though the local housing market has seen substantial deterioration. In 2006, the first full year of sales, 194 homes were sold; in 2007, 204 homes were sold; in 2008, 177 homes were sold (and in that year the lower priced home segments within the community were already sold out) and it appears that for 2009 they will sell 130 homes.
On an absolute basis those numbers may seem respectable but from a market share standpoint, they are exceptional. The 2006 absorption equaled a 2.5% share of the total new home production for the metro area, an outstanding accomplishment for a single community. And as the overall market declined by 30% in 2007, an additional 37% in 2008 and a projected additional 60% for 2009, Ross Bridges share of market increased to 3.6% in 2007, 5.7% in 2008 and to an amazing 14.2% in 2009.

What has made Ross Bridge so successful and what lessons can be learned for future residential development?1. They selected a location where their markets wished to live. That may sound simple, almost an absolute, but it was a concept that was often forgotten in the recent boom years.2. They created a true community, not just a subdivision, wherein the individual villages are sized for a reasonable sellout and are separated from each other to preserve values and allow for changes if market conditions require.3. They provided amenities that were appropriate to and desired by the target markets yet did not burden the development or the purchasers with undue cost.4. They selected professional builders and carefully segmented the product and pricing of the homes so that three full pricing quintiles were covered, maximizing the market appeal, while minimizing direct competition within the community.5. They regularly update their market evaluation including analysis of each builders performance and positioning to determine opportunities for their builders to increase sales.6. They required centralized sales and marketing by the developer to insure a cohesive and professional presentation to the market and they provided what I believe is the best sales operation in the market under the direction of my personal choice for one of the best new home sales directors in the business.7. They promote and market the community professionally, recognizing early the paradigm shift to web-based advertising and they spent their advertising dollars intelligently and effectively.
I would recommend taking a look at the community, with a physical visit if possible but, if not, at least a visit on-line http://www.rossbridge.com/
Posted by DanielLevitan at 11:12 AM

Labels: new home marketing, new home sales, new homes, residential development

http://daniellevitan.blogspot.com/2009/08/goat-meat-for-salea-lesson-in-creating.html

Wine Tasting at James Hill this Thursday from 6-8pm

2009-08-16T14:08:00.000-05:00

Unique Homes at James Hill

2009-08-08T12:43:00.001-05:00

Included amenities such as GRANITE, HARDWOODS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES and many more. James Hill is the newest community in Ross Bridge! Some of the exciting amenities include natural areas, walking trails, open park areas, and its very own future pool! All homes in James Hill back up to TREES! James Hill features Antique Reproduction floor plans, Great Outdoor Living Areas, Wonderful Wooded Home Sites, Designs With Classic Curb Appeal of the 1920s, and Wonderful Modern Living Spaces. As a part of Ross Bridge you will enjoy the many cool amenities pool, parks, shops and restaurants, Robert Trent Jones golf course, and the Renaissance Resort and Spa.

www.signaturehomes.netPlease visit our model home to see what life at James Hill is all about!

The Harvard Floor Plan

2009-08-08T12:39:00.002-05:00

The Harvard floor plan is a 3 bedroom/2 bath home with over 2000 sq ft.

Check out James Hill: http://jameshillatrossbridge.signaturehomes.net

The Arden Floor Plan

2009-08-08T12:35:00.002-05:00

The Arden Floor Plan is a cute bungalow featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 baths all on the main level. James Hill is located in the Hottest Community in Birmingham, Ross Bridge. Home prices range from 230's-330's! Come for a visit today!

Bunco Princess

2009-08-08T10:50:00.004-05:00

And the Bunco Winner is....

2009-08-08T10:46:00.003-05:00

Allie Floyd!

On Thursday night we hosted the first Bunco night at the James Hill Model Home. It was a fun evening for the Girls in the hood. Once a month we will be playing Bunco.

Let me know if you are interested in playing with us.

tcomer@e-signaturehomes.com

Lookie Loo!!!

2009-07-23T19:34:00.004-05:00

Lookie Loo! We have BRAND NEW Floor plans, Amenities and a New Website here at James Hill.

http://jameshillatrossbridge.signaturehomes.net/index.php

$8,000 Home Buyer Tax Credit

2009-07-14T21:17:00.002-05:00

$8,000 Home Buyer Tax Credit at a Glance
The information on this page pertains to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The tax credit is for first-time home buyers only. For the tax credit program, the IRS defines a first-time home buyer as someone who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase.
The tax credit does not have to be repaid.
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
The credit is available for homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
Single taxpayers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000 qualify for the full tax credit.

1. Who is eligible to claim the tax credit?First-time home buyers purchasing any kind of home—new or resale—are eligible for the tax credit. To qualify for the tax credit, a home purchase must occur on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. For the purposes of the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when closing occurs and the title to the property transfers to the home owner.

2. What is the definition of a first-time home buyer? The law defines "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase. For married taxpayers, the law tests the homeownership history of both the home buyer and his/her spouse.For example, if you have not owned a home in the past three years but your spouse has owned a principal residence, neither you nor your spouse qualifies for the first-time home buyer tax credit. However, unmarried joint purchasers may allocate the credit amount to any buyer who qualifies as a first-time buyer, such as may occur if a parent jointly purchases a home with a son or daughter. Ownership of a vacation home or rental property not used as a principal residence does not disqualify a buyer as a first-time home buyer.

3. How is the amount of the tax credit determined? The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.

4. Are there any income limits for claiming the tax credit? Yes. The income limit for single taxpayers is $75,000; the limit is $150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return. The tax credit amount is reduced for buyers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of more than $75,000 for single taxpayers and $150,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return. The phaseout range for the tax credit program is equal to $20,000. That is, the tax credit amount is reduced to zero for taxpayers with MAGI of more than $95,000 (single) or $170,000 (married) and is reduced proportionally for taxpayers with MAGIs between these amounts.

5. What is "modified adjusted gross income"? Modified adjusted gross income or MAGI is defined by the IRS. To find it, a taxpayer must first determine "adjusted gross income" or AGI. AGI is total income for a year minus certain deductions (known as "adjustments" or "above-the-line deductions"), but before itemized deductions from Schedule A or personal exemptions are subtracted. On Forms 1040 and 1040A, AGI is the last number on page 1 and first number on page 2 of the form. For Form 1040-EZ, AGI appears on line 4 (as of 2007). Note that AGI includes all forms of income including wages, salaries, interest income, dividends and capital gains.To determine modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), add to AGI certain amounts of foreign-earned income. See IRS Form 5405 for more details.
If my modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above the limit, do I qualify for any tax credit?Possibly. It depends on your income. Partial credits of less than $8,000 are available for some taxpayers whose MAGI exceeds the phaseout limits.

6. Can you give me an example of how the partial tax credit is determined? Just as an example, assume that a married couple has a modified adjusted gross income of $160,000. The applicable phaseout to qualify for the tax credit is $150,000, and the couple is $10,000 over this amount. Dividing $10,000 by the phaseout range of $20,000 yields 0.5. When you subtract 0.5 from 1.0, the result is 0.5. To determine the amount of the partial first-time home buyer tax credit that is available to this couple, multiply $8,000 by 0.5. The result is $4,000.Here’s another example: assume that an individual home buyer has a modified adjusted gross income of $88,000. The buyer’s income exceeds $75,000 by $13,000. Dividing $13,000 by the phaseout range of $20,000 yields 0.65. When you subtract 0.65 from 1.0, the result is 0.35. Multiplying $8,000 by 0.35 shows that the buyer is eligible for a partial tax credit of $2,800.Please remember that these examples are intended to provide a general idea of how the tax credit might be applied in different circumstances. You should always consult your tax advisor for information relating to your specific circumstances.

7. How is this home buyer tax credit different from the tax credit that Congress enacted in July of 2008? The most significant difference is that this tax credit does not have to be repaid. Because it had to be repaid, the previous "credit" was essentially an interest-free loan. This tax incentive is a true tax credit. However, home buyers must use the residence as a principal residence for at least three years or face recapture of the tax credit amount. Certain exceptions apply.

8. How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application?Participating in the tax credit program is easy. You claim the tax credit on your federal income tax return. Specifically, home buyers should complete IRS Form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and then claim this amount on line 67 of the 1040 income tax form for 2009 returns (line 69 of the 1040 income tax form for 2008 returns). No other applications or forms are required, and no pre-approval is necessary. However, you will want to be sure that you qualify for the credit under the income limits and first-time home buyer tests. Note that you cannot claim the credit on Form 5405 for an intended purchase for some future date; it must be a completed purchase.

9. What types of homes will qualify for the tax credit? Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit. This includes single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. The definition of principal residence is identical to the one used to determine whether you may qualify for the $250,000 / $500,000 capital gain tax exclusion for principal residences.It is important to note that you cannot purchase a home from your ancestors (parents, grandparents, etc.), your lineal descendants (children, grandchildren, etc.) or your spouse. Please consult with your tax advisor for more information. Also see IRS Form 5405.

10. I read that the tax credit is "refundable." What does that mean? The fact that the credit is refundable means that the home buyer credit can be claimed even if the taxpayer has little or no federal income tax liability to offset. Typically this involves the government sending the taxpayer a check for a portion or even all of the amount of the refundable tax credit.For example, if a qualified home buyer expected, notwithstanding the tax credit, federal income tax liability of $5,000 and had tax withholding of $4,000 for the year, then without the tax credit the taxpayer would owe the IRS $1,000 on April 15th. Suppose now that the taxpayer qualified for the $8,000 home buyer tax credit. As a result, the taxpayer would receive a check for $7,000 ($8,000 minus the $1,000 owed).

11. I purchased a home in early 2009 and have already filed to receive the $7,500 tax credit on my 2008 tax returns. How can I claim the new $8,000 tax credit instead? Home buyers in this situation may file an amended 2008 tax return with a 1040X form. You should consult with a tax advisor to ensure you file this return properly.

12. Instead of buying a new home from a home builder, I hired a contractor to construct a home on a lot that I already own. Do I still qualify for the tax credit? Yes. For the purposes of the home buyer tax credit, a principal residence that is constructed by the home owner is treated by the tax code as having been "purchased" on the date the owner first occupies the house. In this situation, the date of first occupancy must be on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.In contrast, for newly-constructed homes bought from a home builder, eligibility for the tax credit is determined by the settlement date.

13. Can I claim the tax credit if I finance the purchase of my home under a mortgage revenue bond (MRB) program? Yes. The tax credit can be combined with the MRB home buyer program. Note that first-time home buyers who purchased a home in 2008 may not claim the tax credit if they are participating in an MRB program.

14. I live in the District of Columbia. Can I claim both the Washington, D.C. first-time home buyer credit and this new credit? No. You can claim only one.

15. I am not a U.S. citizen. Can I claim the tax credit? Maybe. Anyone who is not a nonresident alien (as defined by the IRS), who has not owned a principal residence in the previous three years and who meets the income limits test may claim the tax credit for a qualified home purchase. The IRS provides a definition of "nonresident alien" in IRS Publication 519.

16. Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction? No. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in what the taxpayer owes. That means that a taxpayer who owes $8,000 in income taxes and who receives an $8,000 tax credit would owe nothing to the IRS.A tax deduction is subtracted from the amount of income that is taxed. Using the same example, assume the taxpayer is in the 15 percent tax bracket and owes $8,000 in income taxes. If the taxpayer receives an $8,000 deduction, the taxpayer’s tax liability would be reduced by $1,200 (15 percent of $8,000), or lowered from $8,000 to $6,800.

17. I bought a home in 2008. Do I qualify for this credit? No, but if you purchased your first home between April 9, 2008 and January 1, 2009, you may qualify for a different tax credit. Please consult with your tax advisor for more information.

18. Is there any way for a home buyer to access the money allocable to the credit sooner than waiting to file their 2009 tax return? Yes. Prospective home buyers who believe they qualify for the tax credit are permitted to reduce their income tax withholding. Reducing tax withholding (up to the amount of the credit) will enable the buyer to accumulate cash by raising his/her take home pay. This money can then be applied to the downpayment.Buyers should adjust their withholding amount on their W-4 via their employer or through their quarterly estimated tax payment. IRS Publication 919 contains rules and guidelines for income tax withholding. Prospective home buyers should note that if income tax withholding is reduced and the tax credit qualified purchase does not occur, then the individual would be liable for repayment to the IRS of income tax and possible interest charges and penalties.In addition, rule changes made as part of the economic stimulus legislation allow home buyers to claim the tax credit and participate in a program financed by tax-exempt bonds. As a result, some state housing finance agencies have introduced programs that provide short-term second mortgage loans that may be used to fund a downpayment. Prospective home buyers should check with their state housing finance agency to see if such a program is available in their community. To date, 14 state agencies have announced tax credit assistance programs, and more are expected to follow suit. The National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA) has compiled a list of such programs, which can be found here.

19. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development has announced that HUD will allow
"monetization" of the tax credit. What does that mean? It means that HUD will allow buyers using FHA-insured mortgages to apply their anticipated tax credit toward their home purchase immediately rather than waiting until they file their 2009 income taxes to receive a refund. These funds may be used for certain downpayment and closing cost expenses.Under the guidelines announced by HUD, non-profits and FHA-approved lenders will be allowed to give home buyers short-term loans of up to $8,000.The guidelines also allow government agencies, such as state housing finance agencies, to facilitate home sales by providing longer term loans secured by second mortgages.Housing finance agencies and other government entities may also issue tax credit loans, which home buyers may use to satisfy the FHA 3.5 percent downpayment requirement.In addition, approved FHA lenders will also be able to purchase a home buyer’s anticipated tax credit to pay closing costs and downpayment costs above the 3.5 percent downpayment that is required for FHA-insured homes.More information about the guidelines is available on the NAHB web site. Read the HUD mortgagee letter (pdf) and an explanation of the FHA Mortgagee Letter on Tax Credit Monetization (pdf). An FAQ about monetization (pdf) is available at the NAHB web site.

20. If I’m qualified for the tax credit and buy a home in 2009, can I apply the tax credit against my 2008 tax return?Yes. The law allows taxpayers to choose ("elect") to treat qualified home purchases in 2009 as if the purchase occurred on December 31, 2008. This means that the 2008 income limit (MAGI) applies and the election accelerates when the credit can be claimed (tax filing for 2008 returns instead of for 2009 returns). A benefit of this election is that a home buyer in 2009 will know their 2008 MAGI with certainty, thereby helping the buyer know whether the income limit will reduce their credit amount.Taxpayers buying a home who wish to claim it on their 2008 tax return, but who have already submitted their 2008 return to the IRS, may file an amended 2008 return claiming the tax credit. You should consult with a tax professional to determine how to arrange this.

20. For a home purchase in 2009, can I choose whether to treat the purchase as occurring in 2008 or 2009, depending on in which year my credit amount is the largest?Yes. If the applicable income phaseout would reduce your home buyer tax credit amount in 2009 and a larger credit would be available using the 2008 MAGI amounts, then you can choose the year that yields the largest credit amount.

New Baby Swings at the James Hill Park!

2009-07-12T11:48:00.003-05:00

Hey James Hill neighbors!!!

We are so excited it's summer time here in James Hill. If you haven't been up to the park lately you should. The baby swings are installed!

If you take the kiddos up to the park please take some pictures and send to me at

tcomer@e-signaturehomes.com to upload!

HAPPY SUMMER!

Ross Bridge Fresh Market

2009-07-11T15:13:00.000-05:00

Ross Bridge 8K Run/Walk & Health Expo

2009-06-22T09:00:00.003-05:00

The Ross Bridge 8K is a race experience like no other! Our aim is to create a family friendly atmosphere, while at the same time conduct a competitive 8K run. A band will be featured at the start/finish line and delicious Chick-Fil-A biscuts will be available as part of your race registration. Medals will be given away for the top 3 finishers in each age category, plus grand prizes for the top male and female.

The professionally certified course includes a scenic route starting in the Ross Bridge Village Center, carefully patterned after historic resort style living of early America, crossing through the six distinctive neighborhoods of the classic American resort town. The route also takes advantage of just some of the five miles of activity trails that criss cross a slice of Civil War era history, with a grand finish at the vintage train station and welcome center!

Please join us on September 5th for the Ross Bridge 8K Run/Walk & Health Expo! Proceeds from the events will benefit Alabama Teen Challenge. For more than 50 years Teen Challenge has been providing quality residential, low cost drug and alcohol recovery programs for individuals of all ages. Although many have benefited from their association with the Teen Challenge program, this run is not about those from its 50 year past - It is about the 19 million Americans who need help with their addiction today.

Click here for race registration info!

Night View of James Hill

2009-06-21T14:00:00.002-05:00

James Hill is beautiful at night too!

Everyday is Eventful at Ross Bridge

2009-06-20T08:06:00.003-05:00

We kicked off our 1st Annual "SMOKE ON THE HILL" Barbeque Cookoff on Saturday, June 6th! With over 10 entries we had a hard time deciding. Winners were judged on Overall Presentation and Taste.

And the Winners are:

Kevin, Ann Marie and Avery Konochek took 1st place!
Charles, Angela and Ebony Williams took 2nd place!
Kenny and Katherine Worley took 3rd place!

Come visit us soon! We would love to have you as a neighbor in James Hill just ask our homeowners.

Welcome New Neighbors!

2009-06-16T14:33:00.004-05:00

We were able to catch a few of our proud homeowners showing off their SOLD signs on their brand new homes! Congratulations to Kendra!

And congratulations to Lauren and Eric!

We can't wait for you to be our neighbors!

Movie in the Park - Madagascar 2

2009-06-09T11:20:00.002-05:00

Bring your chairs and a blanket and enjoy an evening of family fun! Popcorn and sodas are provided by Ross Bridge. You may just spot some James Hill bubbles!

Smoke on the Hill

2009-06-01T11:18:00.000-05:00

All the cool people are coming...

It's a Sunshiny Day!

2009-05-30T11:51:00.003-05:00

Our newest family enjoying the James Hill Park!

Ross Bridge Crawfish Boil

2009-04-30T17:25:00.002-05:00

Get Your Green On!!!

2009-04-23T10:47:00.002-05:00

Ross Bridge Movies in the Park Season Opening!!

2009-04-23T10:46:00.001-05:00

Historic Ross Bridge Park Picnic for Residents!

2009-04-17T12:15:00.001-05:00

What's in your backyard?

2009-04-15T12:23:00.004-05:00

The Newest Addition to James Hill! Look outside and you will see a nature trail and green open park ready for your enjoyment! Looking forward to seeing you all enjoying nature here at James Hill!

Ross Bridge Easter Eggstravaganza!

2009-04-15T12:15:00.002-05:00

EXTRA EXTRA! Read All About It!

2009-04-15T09:41:00.006-05:00

We have the best housing affordability in at least 38 years, and the worst economy in 51 years. Hmm....

The monthly cost of homeownership has fallen 43% from the peak in this cycle, with more than half of that due to the decline in price, and the remainder due to the decline in mortgage rates and increase in incomes. The median-income household, which earns $52,800 per year, only needs 25% of their income to buy the median-priced single-family home of $164,600. In July 2006, that ratio was 44%.

Those of us who are in the housing business know that the monthly payment is far more important than the price for entry-level buyers. Entry-level buyers compare the cost of homeownership to the cost of renting and have no idea what a Case-Shiller index means. Once the word gets out that homeownership is less expensive than renting, which is now also true in 54 of the 88 markets where we track this information, we expect buying activity to increase substantially (even in a horrible economy).

With the media so focused on price, we thought it would be appropriate to share the change in payment. We calculate the housing-cost-to-income ratio for major metro areas across the country assuming a 20% down payment, a fixed-rate conforming mortgage, and full amortization of the down payment over 7 years (the typical length of homeownership). In the Oakland, CA MSA, housing costs in this cycle have plummeted from 84% of income to 28%, a decline in monthly payment of 67%. The California and Southwest markets have shown the greatest correction, while the Texas markets, with consistently low housing-cost-to-income ratios, have shown less improvement.

Ross Bridge Easter Eggstravaganza this weekend!!!

2009-04-09T11:38:00.000-05:00

Ross Bridge Yard Sale

2009-04-09T11:35:00.002-05:00

Home Affordability Hits Record

2009-04-09T11:16:00.000-05:00

Home affordability hits record
If you can afford to do so, now may be time to buy that house. Not only are prices significantly down from their housing-boom peaks, but home affordability is at an all-time high, according to trade group, the National Association of Realtors.
The group has recently released its Housing Affordability Index, which shows that in February, the index increased 0.9 percentage points from January to 173.5, a record high since NAR began tracking the index in 1970. February's level is 36.3 percentage points than that of February 2008, according to NAR.
The index, which measures housing affordability, examines the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income. February data shows that a median-income family earning $59,700 a year can now afford a $285,600 home by putting down a 20 percent down payment (assuming 25 percent of their gross income is put toward mortgage principal and interest), NAR says. The home such a family could afford is now much greater than the median existing single-family home price, which was $164,600 in February.
Last year, the same family could only afford a home priced at $265,600, NAR says.
"If you have a good job and long-term plans, it's unlikely that you'll find a much better time to buy a home. This is especially true for first-time buyers who can qualify for an $8,000 tax credit this year, have a great selection of homes to choose from, and are in a favorable negotiating position," says NAR President Charles McMillan.
http://www.cyberhomes.com/content/blog/09-04-09/Home_affordability_hits_record.aspx

The Saga of the Falling Interest Rate

2009-03-22T13:00:00.006-05:00

Click here to see how Signature Homes helps Chris and Jessica purchase their dream home...

Join us at The Ross Bridge Community Yard Sale

2009-03-21T18:02:00.002-05:00

Good news!

2009-03-20T16:47:00.005-05:00

Check out this link for good news!

http://www.cnbc.com/id/29757411/

3.75% Fixed Interest Rate for 30 Years!

2009-03-11T10:28:00.005-05:00

Looking for a new home in James Hill? If you are able to move by April 30, 2009, you MUST take advantage of an incredible interest rate buydown through Signature Home Mortgage! For qualified buyers, we are able to buy down your interest rate from around 5% to around 3.75% for 30 years! You must meet mortgage qualifications through Signature Home Mortgage (which include a 720 credit score and 10% down).

For a home with a purchase price of $300,000, this rate buydown equates to a savings of more than $200 every single month!

Please contact Jack and Jodi, our mortgage consultants to see if you qualify for this mortgage program!

The homes in James Hill that will be move-in-ready by April 30th range in price from around $250,000 to around $380,000. Contact one of the sales representatives for a complete list of available homes!

(Contact info for sales and mortgage representatives is found in the column to the right.)

We are looking forward to having you as our new neighbor!

Spa Winter Feast

2009-03-09T15:10:00.002-05:00

To all of our residents: Take advantage of these fun spa specials at the resort! Click on the image to enlarge!

The Nail Spa Testimony

2009-03-08T15:36:00.002-05:00

As we announced last month, the Nail Spa at Ross Bridge is now open! Below is an e-mail sent by one of our Village Center residents telling her friends about her experience. Whether you're a resident, or just passing through, we'd love your support of our local Ross Bridge town center!

"Hey girls! Just wanted to let you know that the nail salon in Ross Bridge is awesome! I went there this weekend for a mani/pedi and, oh my gosh, they are GREAT! It is sooo clean and nice. They have awesome chairs and let you hang out in them for as long as you want before they start. They use the parrafin wax on you and it makes your feet soooo soft! They even offer you wine while you are there! It was awesome and it was only 44 bucks for both! If your toes are looking anything like mine were....I think you should make a trip out here! Just wanted to share with you......see ya soon!"

The Nail Spa is offering a 15% off discount through the month of March, so hurry and take advantage of this special!

On A Winter's Day... in Ross Bridge

2009-03-02T16:55:00.005-06:00

Many were skeptical about the possiblity of snow, but when Sunday morning arrived, there was no doubt that we would be enjoying a beautiful white morning in Alabama! We don't get many of these days around here! Here are a few shots of beautiful Ross Bridge in the snow...

Although the snow was all melted by early afternoon, I think everyone enjoyed the snowy morning.

Community Yard Sale Registration

2009-02-27T09:32:00.000-06:00

Click on the image to enlarge.

Severe Weather Threat Today

2009-02-27T09:15:00.002-06:00

Richard Jacks, one of our Ross Bridge residents is a meteorologist with NBC 13 here in Birmingham. Below is a memo he sent this morning regarding the severe weather threat for the surrounding area.

Severe storms are now moving into western Alabama. A tornado warning is effect for Pickens county until 9:30, no damage reported with this storm so far. Tree damage has been reported in Fayette County from a different storms. The storms are moving eastward toward the Birmingham metro area. Severe weather is possible through today and tonight. Damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes are possible. This will be very slow moving.

A very strong upper level low will cross over Alabama tomorrow night. This will bring the threat of some snow. There could be light accumulations Sunday morning-temperatures will recover to near 40 by Sunday afternoon-so any travel problems that develop should not last very long.

For more updates follow Richard on Twitter - RJacks@NBC13HD.

The Sweet Stop Official Grand Opening

2009-02-26T10:10:00.003-06:00

Click on the image to enlarge.

Ross Bridge Community in Hoover, Alabama Gets Its First Commercial Tenant

2009-02-25T09:24:00.004-06:00

As published by The Birmingham News on February 25, 2009 by News staff writer Liz Ellaby:

Richelle and D. J. Davis say their decision to move south from Michigan to start their own businesses was a wise one.

The Trussville couple's new ice cream parlor and pastry shop, The Sweet Stop, is the first retailer open at Hoover's Ross Bridge mixed-use community, and traffic has been steady among moms and the after-school and weekend lunch and coffee crowd, they say.

The Davises are partners with D.J.'s sister, Staci Davis, and her husband, Nick Sims, who live in the Ross Bridge Village Center neighborhood.

"We'd always wanted to try and do a restaurant on our own," Richelle Davis said. "We had this idea and didn't feel it would be a successful venture in Michigan."

The couple moved from Michigan two years ago and opened their first business, Gatherings Cafe, in Trussville, 10 months ago.

The Sweet Stop provides a social connection for the Ross Bridge community, which now has more than 600 households. It also provides Blue Bell ice cream, banana splits, milkshakes, coffee, scones and muffins, candy, lunch items and box lunches to go. Salads, prepared by D. J. at Gatherings, are catered to the Ross Bridge business.

A grand opening is scheduled for Saturday.

"It's going very well," Richelle said. "We've been impressed. The kids in the area drive the business to us."

The shop is part of the Village Flats, a convenience center on Grand Avenue that includes 10 retail spaces in two buildings, each topped by a residential loft. Other businesses in line to open are the Ross Bridge Nail Spa, the Ross Bridge Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, and Drake Fitness, a gym and personal training service that will take several spaces.

All but two spaces are leased.

"From what I've heard, residents want somewhere else to go and something to eat beside going to the resort," said Miller Terry, an agent for The Shopping Center Group, which is handling the commercial leasing. Owner Signature Homes is handling loft sales.

"As soon as the building started going up, we got a lot of responses."

Ross Bridge, a joint venture of Daniel Corp. and U.S. Steel Corp., is a resort community off Alabama 150 surrounding the $70 million Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, which opened in 2005. As of last week, there were 616 occupied residences, about a third of the 1,800 planned, with 950 units expected to be filled by mid-summer.

The commercial segments of the subdivision, which also include an undeveloped 15 acres owned by another developer, were to be built according to demand.

Demand apparently grew along with construction delays at Village Flats. The development, scheduled to open last summer, was completed in late December.

"You can see how the neighborhood has been waiting for this by the amount of activity," said Jonathan Belcher, president of Signature Homes and a Ross Bridge resident. "People are coming here all the time. It's right by our offices, and we're always sneaking over to grab a milkshake."

The shop is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends.

Click here to read the article on al.com.

Fat Tuesday

2009-02-24T22:50:00.004-06:00

Happy Mardi Gras from James Hill!

Did you know that the first recorded celebration of Mardi Gras in what is now the United States occurred in 1699? Well, now you do!

What would you do with $8000?

2009-02-21T16:31:00.009-06:00

Please contact the James Hill agents who can e-mail you more info to help "clear up" any confusion you may have about the new tax credit!

Also, re-read last week's post about how the stimulus plan could affect your new home purchase!

To learn more, visit FederalHousingTaxCredit.com.

The Nail Spa

2009-02-19T14:42:00.001-06:00

Residents and future residents of Ross Bridge are excited about how the retail space in the Village Center is shaping up.

Today is the grand opening of the Nail Spa at Ross Bridge, our second retail shop!

We are excited to welcome this new shop, and can't wait to experience our first manicure and pedicure treat!

Love is in the Air at James Hill!

2009-02-18T16:24:00.011-06:00

Valentine's Day in James Hill was extra-special for soon-to-be residents Jason Fill and Emily McManus!

Just after lunch on Valentine's Day, Emily had planned a couple's massage for her and Jason at the Ross Bridge Spa. After their royal treatment at the spa, they headed over to James Hill to take some pictures of the appliances in their almost finished home.

Emily noticed a few lights on in the home when they pulled up, but just assumed they had been left on after their orientation walk-through the day before. When Jason and Emily walked into the front door of their future home together, Emily noticed a dozen red roses, a bucket of champagne, and two champagne flutes on the kitchen counter. Jason turned to her and wished her a Happy Valentine's Day, and on the way to the kitchen, they stopped in the middle of the living room and embraced each other, talking about how much they love each other. Emily wanted to see the roses, but Jason wanted to savor the moment, so they stood there just a little longer.

Finally making their way to the kitchen, Jason held Emily, kissed her and told her again how much he loves her. As he dropped to one knee (or as Emily sees it, knelt down in slow motion :-)), she asked if he was serious, and when he said yes, she immediately grabbed him around the neck and knelt down on the floor with him before he could even ask. Together in their new kitchen, Jason asked Emily if she would marry him, and Emily replied "YES!" as tears of joy ran down her face!

Below is an excerpt from Emily about the proposal:

"Being that we had been together all day, I wondered how/who put the beautiful flowers and champagne in the house. Chrissy, the Customer Care coordinator with Signature had been working with Jason as to how to get everything in line for the proposal. Allen, one of the builders, had purchased the flowers, and Tarayn and Whitney from the James Hill Sales Center were so sweet to bring in the champagne and glasses and set everything up. What a wonderful day in a wonderful place! We LOVE James Hill!"
Congratulations, Jason and Emily! We are glad that we could be a part of your special day!

Jason and Emily close on their new home this Friday and plan to get married sometime this year!

Tax Credit for First Time Purchasers

2009-02-17T18:19:00.002-06:00

Whether you support President Obama's economic stimulus plan or not, if you are a first time homebuyer, there may be something in it for you!

Here are a few bullet points summarizing the new legislation:

The tax credit is for first-time homebuyers only.
This is a true credit, and does not have to be repaid to the government.
The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.
The credit is available for homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
Single taxpayers with incomes up to $75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $150,000 qualify for the full tax credit.

If you think you may qualify, click here to see frequently asked questions and answers about the homebuyer tax credit.

You may also find useful info on this link about other provisions in the stimulus plan that relate to the housing market.

Need a Sitter for Your Pet?

2009-02-16T12:55:00.000-06:00

Are you looking for someone to take care of your pet while you leave for a vacation, work trip, or long day trip?

With Spring Break right around the corner, we wanted to inform our residents of a pet-sitting service being offered to Ross Bridge residents by one of our Village Center home owners, Rebel Gregory.

She can be contacted at (859) 750-0789 or at rebel1031@bellsouth.net.

2009 Event Calendar

2009-02-15T11:16:00.000-06:00

The Ross Bridge community has successfully re-created the traditional American home town.

In addition to regular activities planned by the residents and parties planned by the builders and marketing teams in each community, developer Daniel Homes sponsors several big community events every year!

Click here to see photos of a few of our past events.

And click here to view our 2009 calendar of events.

We are looking forward to seeing you at the next neighborhood event!

The Sweet Stop Ribbon Cutting

2009-02-14T21:56:00.000-06:00

Please make plans to attend!

What: The Sweet Stop Ribbon Cutting with the Hoover Chamber of Commerce.

When: Wednesday, February 18th
11:00am - noon

Where: The Sweet Stop
2301 Grand Avenue, #109
Hoover, AL 35226

Want more info?
Call (205) 290-9295
or
E-mail thesweetstop.rossbridge@gmail.com

I ♥ James Hill

2009-02-13T17:42:00.002-06:00

This is why you should ♥ James Hill, too!

♥ Ross Bridge is a community matched by none other in Alabama—friendly home town atmosphere, walking and biking trails, active parks and pools,
budding retail space in the Village Center.

♥ James Hill boasts of diverse home styles that take you back to the days of visiting with your neighbors on your front porch swing, sipping sweet tea.

♥ Affordable homes with a custom feel priced from the 230’s to the 320’s.

♥ James Hill is offering the following incentives if you purchase a home under construction between now and March 15, 2009, close before April 15, 2009, and meet credit approval through Signature Home Mortgage.

4.5% interest rate (4.875 APR, or equivalent to .25% rate buydown)
No closing costs or prepaids
Up to $1500 toward moving expenses

♥ Please contact the James Hill agents for details.

♥ Whitney Hardy (205) 585-2001

♥ Tarayn Comer (205) 966-2162

Canvas Creations

2009-02-12T20:28:00.005-06:00

Mark your calendars for March 3rd and/or March 5th at 6:30pm.

Artist Kenneth French will be at the Ross Bridge Town Hall to teach YOU how to paint a unique piece of artwork. The cost of this event is just $25 and you leave with your own painting to display!

Space is limited, so please RSVP by February 25th to Jill Seals at (205)443-4809.

James Hill Google Group

2009-02-11T19:24:00.004-06:00

One of our James Hill residents, Ryan Simms, has created a Google Group for our residents. If you are a resident or soon-to-be-resident, please e-mail Ryan at ryanmsimms@gmail.com and he will invite you to join.

Cupcakes & Cocktails Photos

2009-02-10T19:53:00.002-06:00

Signature Homes always looks for ways to make the holidays special! Last year, our Cupcakes & Cocktails event in the Village Center was so much fun, we decided to celebrate it again this year at James Hill!

We were blessed with a beautiful Sunday afternoon for our event! It's not often that we dance around 70 degrees in February... even in Alabama, and we couldn't have special-ordered a more perfect day.

The cupcakes were delicious! Most everyone was able to sample all three flavors - Strawberry, Chocolate and Buttercream. Which was your favorite?

The Sweet Stop

2009-02-06T12:40:00.001-06:00

We are so excited to announce the opening of The Sweet Stop, Ross Bridge's first retail shop! Please stop by to support your community businesses and pick up a sandwich and ice cream (we highly recommend the chicken salad and a chocolate milk shake), or coffee and a baked yummy (the pecan bars are excellent), or just a colorful piece of candy!

If you are on Facebook, please join the Facebook group "The Sweet Stop at Ross Bridge Village Center." While you're there, join "James Hill at Ross Bridge" for the latest updates through Facebook.

Signature Homes Grew Market Share in '08

2009-02-04T15:34:00.000-06:00

As posted by the Birmingham Business Journal on February 4, 2009 by staff writer Lauren B. Cooper:

Birmingham home builder Signature Homes said it saw growth last year, despite the down economy.

Signature said its market share grew by 78 percent in new homes sold between 2007 and 2008 in Birmingham, according to data compiled from the Birmingham Area Multiple Listing Service.

In Hoover, where the builder has developed several subdivisions, Signature said it had a 65 percent market share of new homes sold and sold 59 percent of all new homes priced between $180,000 and $400,000, said a news release.

Also in that price range, the company said it built in four of the top five residential new home communities last year – Ross Bridge Village Center, Edenton, Beaumont and Chapel Creek.

Annual Cupcakes & Cocktails at James Hill!

2009-02-03T14:59:00.002-06:00

Since last year's Cupcakes & Cocktails event was such a success, we decided to do it again! Join us on February 8th from 2-4pm for Cupcakes & Cocktails at the James Hill Model home at 1592 James Hill Drive. This model home is now under contract, and we will be moving in just a few short weeks! If you haven't been out to see us yet, now is your chance!

Making dinner plans for Valentine's Day? Check out the link below!

http://www.birminghamrestaurants.com/menus.asp?action=form&recordID=341142

We are looking forward to seeing you Sunday afternoon!

Six More Weeks of Winter!

2009-02-02T14:29:00.000-06:00

Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous groundhog emerged Monday, February 2, 2009 at sunrise at Gobbler's Knob and proclaimed the following "official forecast."

Hear Ye, Hear Ye!

On Gobbler's Knob this glorious Groundhog Day, February 2nd, 2009

Punxsutawney Phil, Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of all Prognosticators

Awoke to the call of President Bill Cooper

And greeted his handlers, Ben Hughes and John Griffiths

After casting a joyful eye towards thousands of his faithful followers,

Phil proclaimed that his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers were World Champions one more time

And a bright sky above me

Showed a shadow beside me.

So 6 more weeks of Winter it will be.

Although the forecast is bleak for the country, the sun is shining brightly on James Hill! Two more families decided to call James Hill home this week end! These two families will be moving into the furnished model home on home site 101 and the Radford home on 102 by the end of February.

Super Bowl XLIII

2009-02-02T01:56:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Steelers on their win over the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL Super Bowl 2009! Although the Steelers dominated most of the game, the 4th quarter was certainly a nail-biter.
In the Birmingham/Hoover area, James Hill is considered to be the Pittsburgh Steelers of the real estate market! Although there are some nice places to live outside of Ross Bridge, James Hill ultimately brings home the Vince Lombardi trophy. :-)

Think we're kidding? Builder Magazine doesn't think so! Click here to see what this national magazine has to say about how James Hill is defying all odds.

Two Grand Neighbors

2008-02-29T15:41:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to two lucky families who will soon be moving into their new homes on Grand Avenue! The three families already living on the most prestigous street in Hoover look forward to welcoming their new neighbors. Congratulations to Matthew Calhoun, the sales representative who sold these two homes. He's been working hard for several months to bring more life to Grand Avenue!

2921 Grand Avenue

2960 Grand Avenue

Cupcakes & Cocktails

2008-02-14T10:18:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Emily Haygood for providing the delectible treats for our Cupcakes & Cocktails party at the Village Center model home! Sponsored by Signature Homes, residents of Greenside, Freestone Ridge and the Village Center were invited to drop by for Cupcakes & Cocktails from 1 to 6 on February 13th. It was our little neighborhood tribute to Valentine's Day. Although guests were sparse the first hour or two, by the time the bus dropped the kids off after school, the model home was crawling with people! We were so pleased with the turnout, and everyone loved the miniature chocolate, strawberry and buttercream cupcakes. Looks like we may have to make this an annual event... only next year, we'll be in our new James Hill model! Because the camera battery died, the only photo we were able to take was of adorable Lauren and Emma Hines... who both preferred the chocolate cupcakes. For the record, the model home favorite was strawberry! :-)

Flop, Turn, River

2008-02-12T22:04:00.002-06:00

It's always funny to watch men plan get-togethers. Girls plan major events like the Mad Hatter Tea Party. The men get together, each chips and salsa/queso/guacamole, and play cards. Difficult to get a picture of the group because there are no girls allowed, and let's admit that it's sometimes hard to get a man to corral a bunch of other men for a group photo. ;-)

Looks like Daniel Pittman left the big winner, followed by John Haygood and Justin Hardy. I think the biggest loser award goes to Steve Davis... sorry Steve, maybe next time!

It also looks like there is another team of poker-playing men who get together once a month in the Village Center. These two groups, now aware of each other, are going to combine forces for a mean poker night in March. Maybe we can bribe one of them to take a photo for us so we can all get a glimpse of what goes on during the super-secret poker nights!

Glad the men can have just as much fun as the ladies! If you are a man interested in playing (sorry ladies), please let us know and we'll tell you who to contact!

Girls Night Out

2008-02-08T21:30:00.001-06:00

By order of the queen, all Ross Bridge Ladies were asked to attend a Mad Hatter Tea party on Friday night hosted by the Ladies of the Village Center. There is usually a Girls Night Out about 5 or 6 times a year hosted by a different community in Ross Bridge. In December, Butler Springs hosted an Ornament Exchange. In May, Greenside and Freestone Ridge will be hosting a Cinqo de Mayo party! And I'm so excited to see what the rest of the year will bring.

Dawn Ey, Rebel Gregory, Lauren Nickels, Rachel Leader and the other ladies in the Village Center did such a great job transforming the Town Hall into an English garden for our party. The food was fantastic. Thanks to Diggscape for loaning the beautiful plants for our garden, Birmingham Home Theater for providing the music and speakers, Ross Bridge Spa for donating the door prizes, Louise's Cakes and Things for the fun Mad Hatter cake, and Signature Homes for the delicious edible fruit arrangement!

I was so impressed with the creativity of all the Ross Bridge ladies. I had no idea that everyone would participate so enthusiastically in the hat contest! The votes came pouring in throughout the evening.

And the winners are....

The Ugliest Hat award goes to this lady who was adorned in University of Tennessee garb from head to toe!

The Most Useful Hat was created using shot glasses and Christmas lights.

Elizabeth Bennett and Valerie Hughen won Most Creative Hat for their Ross Bridge heartbreaker theme!

Bobbie Bowman took home the Best Homemade Hat award with this gigantic headpiece full of flowers and blow-up bunnies. Believe me, this thing was HUGE!

Maybe we should take a few tips from this lady who won Most Stylish Hat.

And the grand prize winner is the Village Center's own Shah Hines for Best Overall Hat!

Congratulations to all the winners, but we can't overlook these three who all received lots and lots of votes for their fabulous hats... so they all received an Honorable Mention award.

Here are some other pictures of some of the ladies who came. We had such a fun time visiting with everyone and getting to know our Ross Bridge neighbors. :-)

Mary Jim Blackerby, Whitney Hardy and Dana Pittman

Julie Kent, Emily Haygood, and Whitney Hardy

Rebel Gregory and Vicki Davis

Rachel Leader and Pam Ashworth

Lanier O'Hare, Kate Giffin, and Leslie Jackson

Debbie Calvert, Emily Haygood, Marta Self, and Julie Kent

Rebel Gregory, Ashlie Grubb and Shah Hines

Wendy Rohrer and Brandi Belcher

Jane Lewis, Allison Licht-Brown, Sandy King, Rachel Leader

Kathy Cawley and Theresa Tate

Sandy King, Liz Darby, Leanne Ruffin, Amy Alford, Stacey Spears, Kathy Cawley, Sharon Blair

I'm quite sure the Town Hall will not be so beautiful ever again!

Ross Bridge or Breckenridge?

2008-01-19T18:30:00.001-06:00

Saturday morning brought Ross Bridge a beautiful treat! I think we had all hoped to see a little of the white stuff... after all, it had been almost a decade since Birmingham has had any snow to speak of. Ross Bridge was absolutely beautiful covered in white. Neighbors gathered in the street to sled down hills, have snowball fights, and build little snowmen. Even the slopes on the golf course were covered with families trying to find the perfect place to sled.

Using creative homemade sleds... Tip: plain cardboard covered in a big black garbage sack works pretty darn well!

Ross Bridge Golf Course (there were actually people playing golf in the snow!)

Village Center residents/Snow Bunnies Amy Anderson and Whitney Hardy just trying to stay warm!

If you have any pictures to share of how you spent your snowy Saturday, e-mail whardy@danielhomes.net, and we'll be happy to post them!

Ross Bridge enters the Blog World!

2007-12-14T15:07:00.001-06:00

The first post of what is sure to be a great blogging relationship!

The purpose of this site is to have a place for Ross Bridge residents to catch up on what's going on in our "hometown," and for newcomers to get an idea of what it's like to live here.

For more information on living in Ross Bridge, specifically the Village Center and James Hill, please e-mail us at CMS-SignatureHomes@infomedia.com. We would love to welcome you as a new neighbor in Ross Bridge!