Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Like Our Assoication, we will be closed Thursday and Friday, and we added Monday, as well for our offices at Tommy Tucker Realty Co.


We received the following e-mail today from our local association ...


The Cedar Rapids Area Association of REALTORS® office will be closing today at
3:00 p.m.

The office will also be closed Thursday, December 23rd and
Friday, December 24th .

We want to wish everyone a safe and happy
holday!

The
Cedar Rapids Area Association of REALTORS®


*** *** ***
Good News for Downtown Cedar Rapids reported on Wednesday.

Rockwell bringing hundreds of new jobs downtown - The Gazette
UPDATE: Rockwell Collins will move 400 employees into downtown office space being restored from the June 2008 flood, giving ... More


Our office hours for the Christmas Holiday have been updated


On behalf of all us at Tommy Tucker Realty Co., we want to wish you a very Merry Christmas this Holiday Season.

Our offices will be closed for the Christmas Holiday from Thursday, December 23Rd through Monday, December 27Th. Our offices will re-open on Tuesday, December 28Th at 8:30 a.m. We have closed our offices for normal business, so our staff can enjoy the Christmas holiday with friends and family.

We would enjoy hearing from you, so if you need to contact us, please call us at 319.365.6956 and leave a message during the Holiday. If immediate service is required, we will have someone get back to you as timely as possible.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

It has felt like Winter most of December thus far, but today We welcome The First Official Day of Winter


The Season has officially arrived December 21st.

Typically, the first day of Winter is the 21st of December each year, but in 2011 it will be on the 22Nd. So, today, we welcome Winter officially to our community, though with the cold weather and snow this month already, many people already noticed the season had arrived.

Throughout the Winter months, feel free to contact Tommy Tucker Realty Co. for your real estate needs. Our company began serving the greater Cedar Rapids area in 1958 in a variety of aspects of real estate and property management. Do you have a need or want in one of the following:


  • Property Management

  • Leasing

  • Sales

  • Purchasing

  • Like-kind exchange

  • Government rental opportunities - Tommy Tucker Realty Co. is a registered government contractor and is assisting various property owners, as there agent, with government leases

  • Tommy Tucker Realty Co. is licensed to practice in real estate in the State of Iowa

  • Tommy Tucker Realty Co. is a registered landlord/operator in the City of Cedar Rapids

  • Chapter 29 questions - did you registered your property in Cedar Rapids?

  • Chapter 22 questions

  • Chapter 69 questions - Equal Opportunity and Fair Housing

  • Business brokerage

  • Multi-family

  • Subsidized and non-subsidized housing

ttrco

Our office will have Christmas Holiday hours during December 24Th to December 27Th and will be closed for staff and our agents to enjoy time with friends and family. If service is needed, please contact us and we will work to contact you by phone.

Our normal business hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. M-F or by appointment.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Merry Christmas and Season's Greetings to everyone this Holiday Week

The Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids will celebrate our Club Holiday Party today during our regular meeting.

This year's program will feature the Washington High School Madrigal Singers. We caught them at the Cocoa and Carols concert that Washington High put on earlier this month, so it should be an entertaining Rotary Club celebration this year. The Madrigal Singers also performed at this year's Fire & Ice Festival in Cedar Rapids earlier this month.

Here's a taste of The Madrigal Singers performing at Rotary West's program earlier this year.



Monday, December 6, 2010

The Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids welcomes Christopher Blake as its program for Monday, December 6Th

Rotary Monday

The Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids is the 33Rd largest Rotary Club in the world. Robin and Tommy Tucker are both members of Rotary International. Robin's grandfather, Tommy's father, was also a member of Rotary. Robin's daughter enjoyed her Rotary experience in high school, as a member of Interact, which is Rotary experienced at the high school level.

Robin is looking forward to attending Monday's meeting where:


Rotary Program:

Christopher Blake, President of the newly named Mount Mercy University


The Four-year Catholic liberal arts university in Cedar Rapids officially became an university in 2010, after it's rich history as Mt. Mercy College.

Robin attended a Jesuit Catholic university out of state, after growing up in the Cedar Rapids community, graduating from George Washington High School. After college, he worked in public accounting. He returned to Cedar Rapids at the end of 1987 and began his career at Tommy Tucker Realty Co. in 1988. Robin has a variety of work experience and enjoys his service to the community as a Realtor and as a Rotarian.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Cedar Rapids welcomes our first official Snow on Saturday, December 4Th

Allow more time to travel. Time to adjust to winter driving conditions in town and across the State of Iowa.


Winter may not officially be here, but typically December - January - February are the winter months in Iowa.

We are currently marketing a two bedroom house for rent on the NE side of Cedar Rapids. The house rents for $575.00. It includes hook ups, an unfinished basement and a one stall garage. An ad is found in the current issue of The Gazette.

We are seeking new listings for 3 or 4 bedroom properties. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers are seeking rental opportunities for Government Leases in the Cedar Rapids/Marion area. Tommy Tucker Realty Co. is an authorized government contractor. We are currently representing Cedar Rapids and Marion property owners as there management agent for government leases for executive rentals. We provide management services for a variety of property owners in the area.

Talk to Robin Tucker for more information on how your home could provide housing for the government or for other people seeking housing here in the Linn County area. We can also assist in marketing your property for sale. We are members of the Cedar Rapids Area, Iowa and National Association of Realtors®. Visit our local MLS.

Thank you for visiting us online and Merry Christmas this holiday season ...

ttrco

Friday, December 3, 2010

Government Affairs: Local, State, Federal issues


On Friday, December 3Rd, the Cedar Rapids Chamber of Commerce hosted a Government Affairs meeting, sponsored by Rockwell Collins. Robin Tucker, Realtor® with Tommy Tucker Realty Co. was among the attendees.

Several local state legislators were in attendance, as a room full of Chamber members, city and county elected officials had a conversation on the upcoming 2011 Legislative Session in Iowa, as well as local priorities and/or concerns.

  • A review of the 2010 election, where a new governor (GOP) was elected, 60 GOP (22 new GOP members) to 40 DEM in the House and 26 DEM/24 GOP in the Senate

  • One question asked, how should one best contact you as a member of the Legislature? Which led to an interesting conversation on the importance of building "relationships" whether discussing politics or in any aspect of life or business

  • Flood mitigation (walls/levies) and upstream retention was discussed

  • Concerns over Iowa's current property tax system, especially the impact on commercial/industrial taxes

  • Home rule and the City of Cedar Rapids' need for more revenue steams

  • Future of Vision Iowa

  • Parking garage for new Federal court house - funding sources for the City?

  • How will Cedar Rapids fund flood mitigation (walls/levies) - proposed bill and using Sales Tax revenue, similar to the City of Newton in it's recovery, after Maytag moved out

  • Raising the hotel/motel tax from 7% to 9% - goal of local visitor's bureau

  • The local visitor's bureau commented that 70% of the visitors to our area are from out of state - study concluded

  • Frustration of State Government - 99 counties, lack of accountability and/or innovation, number of school districts and reason for the outcome of the 2010 elections ...

It was an interesting 90 minutes or less. Five members of the Linn County delegation in Des Moines were present. House members: Nick Wagner, Tyler Olson, Renee Schulte and Kraig Paulsen. Senate member: Rob Hogg was present

Sen. Hogg indicated he had one priority in 2011 for upcoming session: flood mitigation and upstream retention. All five members in attendance were re-elected in 2010. It is likely Rep. Paulsen will be the next Speaker of the House in the Iowa Legislature. The house was previously 56 DEM/46 GOP prior to the 2010 elections.

After the Realtor Government Affairs breakfast on Wednesday with the same five legislators, it was interesting to view the discussion at the Chamber event.

ttrco

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Robin Tucker is attending our Realtor Legislative Breakfast as we welecome the first day of December 2010


We want to welcome the month of December to all. Busy morning, with the Realtor Legislative Breakfast for our local association. We are meeting with local legislators, ahead of the next session of the Iowa Legislature in January 2011. Then, off to a walk through with our new residents of a five bedroom executive home in NE Cedar Rapids.


If we can be of assistance to you this Holiday season, please let us know. ~ Robin Tucker


Monday, November 29, 2010

Tommy Tucker Realty Co.: Back from a Thankgiving Holiday

We hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe Thanksgiving holiday last week. As we close out November and welcome the month of December, please let us know, if we can be of assistance for your real estate and property management needs.

  • Buying

  • Selling

  • Leasing

  • Property Management

  • Like-kind exchange

Tommy Tucker Realty Co. is located in Downtown Cedar Rapids. We began business in 1958 and have enjoyed the opportunity over the years to work with a variety of clients and customers.

ttrco

Monday, November 22, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving Week from all of Us at Tommy Tucker Realty Co. of Cedar Rapids, IA USA

Last week, we enjoyed the 2010 CRAAR Realtor® Inaugural on Thursday night. It was a disappointing weekend of College Football in Iowa with all three regent institutions going down. Congratulations to the University of Northern Iowa making the 2010 FCS Playoffs.

Congratulations to our new Association President ...


Our local association is now on Facebook: Cedar Rapids Area Association of REALTORS® fan page. You can follow Tommy Tucker Realty Co., as well on Facebook and on Twitter.

Monday, the week of Thanksgiving, Robin Tucker is scheduled to attend his Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting.

Downtown Rotary will host our Rotary District Governor Roger Kuetter, District 5970. The Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids is Club 2185 and is the 33rd largest club in Rotary International.

Iowa Hawkeye basketball fans on Monday can catch online or on radio the final game of the Paradise Jam Tournament when the Hawks face the Long Beach State 49ers, who are coached by former Gonzaga/Minnesota coach Dan Monson. Tip off is 2:30 p.m. Iowa time.

On Tuesday, we begin organizing for the 2011 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration held at St. Paul's UMC in Cedar Rapids. Robin has participated with the event for many years.

Thursday, November 25, 2010 is Thanksgiving. Our offices are scheduled to be closed November 25-29, 2010 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Realtors will be working via appointment. Service calls will be followed up by calling 319.365.6956 x 102.

We are getting closer to the end of the 11Th month of 2010. The year is passing by quickly.

Please contact Tommy Tucker Realty Co., if we can assist in your real estate needs. You can reach our offices at 319.365.6956 or by e-mail.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Wednesday, November 3, 2010: City of Cedar Rapids


The City of Cedar Rapids plans to close Second Avenue SE. Interesting Letter to the Editor in The Gazette on the issue.

Cedar Rapids City Council Approves Street Closing for Medical Mall - KCRG
By Kelli Sutterman CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Cedar Rapids will be closing a portion of Second Avenue southeast to make way for a new ...

The 2010 Midterm Election was completed yesterday. Now the real work begins in developing a community dialogue at the local level, the State level and nationally in formulating good public policy.



Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Election Day 2010: Tuesday, November 2, 2010


In Iowa, the polls are open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.



Voter Guide - The Gazette

If you need to find your polling place in the State of Iowa:




Have a great day everyone and make sure your voice is heard today!


*** *** ***

Looking for a house to buy or rent in Cedar Rapids area? Other services needed?

Give us a call at Tommy Tucker Realty Co. at 319.365.6956

Thursday, October 28, 2010

2 Bedroom Ranch coming available in NE Cedar Rapids in November

We have a two bedroom house coming available for rent in NE Cedar Rapids for $575.00 per month. We are taking applications for this nice smaller one story house near Daniels Park on the NE side of Cedar Rapids. Call today for more information at 319.365.6956

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Deadline for Landlord Licensing and Rental Property Registration is approaching in Cedar Rapids



Letter to the Editor - The Gazette

There was an article in The Gazette on the Landlord Licensing process in Cedar Rapids. The letter was published in the Thursday, October 21, 2010 edition of the paper.

http://thegazette.com/2010/10/20/landlord-licensing-process-poorly-run/

The new Chapter 29 in Cedar Rapids requires all property owners involved in rental activity of residential properties to get a local license from the City and register all properties within the City of Cedar Rapids that are being used for rental activity. The new registration and licensing requirements in Cedar Rapids should be completed by the end of October, 2010.

Tommy Tucker Realty Co. does hold a Landlord License to Lease, Rent and Manage properties under Chapter 29 of the Municipal Code in the City of Cedar Rapids. Previously property owners were not required to be licensed. We can lease, rent and manage your property under our license, if you desire to seek outside management services for your rental houses and apartments. Registration fees are required.

If you have questions about Chapter 29 of the local municipal code, please contact the City or you can talk to us at Tommy Tucker Realty Co., regarding our property management services.


Friday, October 15, 2010

Beware of the costs of an Enviornmental II study for Business Buyouts in Cedar Rapids

The challenges from the recovery from the Flood of 2008 continue in Cedar Rapids for property owners, including small business. Senator Rob Hogg was on WMT AM-600 and a flood recovery question was asked.

Second district congressional candidates spar over flood recovery - Radio Iowa
The two major party candidates who hope to represent Iowa's second congressional district are squaring off over flood recovery plans for Cedar Rapids. ...

Cedar Rapids renters to get flood assistance - Chicago Tribune
The Cedar Rapids City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved creation of a disaster recovery assistance program for renters. The program is called the ...

We received the following e-mail today concerned about Business Buyouts in Cedar Rapids:

Please make sure to read the email sent this week from the Business Long Term Recovery Team at the Chamber!!

This message is for anyone who has or plans on participating in the “voluntary” commercial property buyout process.

Background

At the 11th hour participants in this program were informed that to complete the buyout process they might be responsible for the costs of an Environmental II study and any resulting costs of cleanup of their property if contamination was found. Some people have agreed to this requirement while others have objected and not signed their agreements.

Status of the Issue

Currently the City and State are trying to come up with a plan to either reimburse those who have already paid for the testing or pay for the testing if it has not been done yet. The issue of who will pay for the cleanup has not been resolved but is also being addressed.

Our Position

It is our position that the commercial property owner should not be responsible for either the testing or the cleanup. It will be nearly impossible to prove who is responsible for contamination on your property if it is found. The flood deposited lots of stuff from lots of different locations.

Our Recommendation

Our recommendation at this time is to NOT sign any buyout agreement that holds you responsible for Environmental II testing and any resulting cleanup if required. You can ask for an extension of your buyout agreement until this issue is resolved. Do NOT feel pressured to sign the agreement at this time! If you have already signed a buyout agreement rest assured that we will insist that any decisions made will be retroactive.

Gary Ficken
Doug Schumacher

It's important to slow down, when one is dealing with contacts, including buyout agreements. It continues to be a challenging period for many small businesses and property owners impacted by the Flood of 2008, let alone the recession and challenges over the past two plus years.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Update on Housing, Licensing and Registration in the City of Cedar Rapids


We received notice from the City of Cedar Rapids that we have our License for the new Chapter 29 of the Municipal Code, which is requiring all owner / operator /landlord providers for rental housing in Cedar Rapids to obtain. Further, everyone needs to register or re-register all rental properties in the City by the end of the month. Registrations have been a requirement for some time, but the License with the City is new. Regardless, new paperwork is needed and the City's web site has the following message:


NEW LANDLORD LICENSE & REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
All Landlords must apply for a landlord license and re-register all of
their residential rental properties within the city limits by October
31st, 2010. All forms are found on this page. If you have any questions
feel free to give us a call at (319) 286-5197 or stop by our office.

We are working with our property owners to re-register all the properties we manage for various clients here in the City of Cedar Rapids. The process is pretty straight forward, but it does require time.
The Gazette had an article in the Thursday paper titled 'Few of C.R.'s landlords in compliance with new law.'

If you own rental property in the State of Iowa, you should likely check with the municipal authority to determine what your local licensing requirement are. The City of Marion has a different system, for example, than the City of Cedar Rapids.

In other business activity, meet with fellow Brokers with the Cedar Rapids Association of Realtors this morning. Good meeting and everyone was reminded about Chapter 29 in Cedar Rapids.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Good Monday to you All on this October 4, 2010

The Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids ...

Looking forward to my Rotary Club meeting at Noon, where Terry Branstad (pictured on right), the Republican candidate for Governor will be speaking as today's program. Branstad served four terms previously in the 1980s and 90s. His Lt. Governor selection is State Senator Kim Reynolds (pictured to his left), who previously was a county treasurer, so she brings a strong amount of local government experience to the ticket.

ttrco

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Looking forward to another Iowa vs. Penn State football game at Kinnick Stadium tonight

University of Iowa football is an event in Eastern Iowa. Of course, there are friends that would also suggest Ames (Iowa State), Cedar Rapids (Coe) and Cedar Falls (UNI).

It's Homecoming on Saturday night and the Hawkeyes look to take the Penn State series on the +1 side, as both teams open Big Ten play for 2010.

We invite you to contact us regarding your real estate needs this Autumn. You can visit our web site for more information.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Horizons sponsoring Homebuying Education Workshop on November 20, 2010

We received a Press Release today from Horizons on Home Buying Education.


Home Buying

Whether you are a rookie or a seasoned veteran at homeownership, you will learn to determine how much house you can afford, how to find the right home for you, how to finance your home, and how to keep your home.


What: Headed For Home Program
When: Saturday, November 20th
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: Horizons headquarters - 819 5th Street SE, Cedar Rapids
Cost: Free


Register for this event by:
Thursday November 18th by calling 319-398-3576.

This class qualifies as HUD approved Homebuyer Education


Register Now
319-398-3576
http://www.horizonscccs.org/
Help. Hope. Horizons.

Welcome to the Month of October with awareness, education and empowerment!


We welcome in the month of October. This month is the 25Th year anniversary of celebrating awareness, education and empowerment of breast cancer. I pulled out a "pink" Breast Cancer Awareness strap to wear.

My grandmother, who was the spouse of our Tucker Manufacturing Co., Inc. founder, I.L. "Irv" Tucker was a breast cancer survivor, during her later years in life. We found out today that one of our customers is currently fighting breast cancer in California. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and all facing this challenge in life.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Celebrating 25 Years of ...
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance of early breast cancer detection.www.nbcam.org/


Breast Cancer Awareness Month: 26 Years On, Where Do We Stand?‎ - CBS
Breast cancer continues to take a heavy toll on American women, 26 years after health advocates named October National Breast Awareness Month. ...

As we head into the fourth quarter of 2010, we celebrate Homecoming at Washington High School tonight and the University of Iowa's Homecoming game is Saturday night with the Big Ten opener with Penn State. Autumn is truly upon us and Big Ten Conference football kicks off this weekend at five campuses.

We have properties for rent and for sale in Cedar Rapids-Marion area and would invite you to contact us, if you have any questions or needs in real estate, property management or just want to find out more about our services. You can reach us at Tommy Tucker Realty Co. at 319.365.6956.

Vote Early or On Tuesday, November 2Nd.

ttrco

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Can we interest you in a House for Rent or a House for Sale?

Currently, we don't have any 2 Bedroom houses that are immediately available, but we may have a couple coming available around November, pending release of Tenant Rights.

We currently have the following Houses for Rent: Immediate possession may be possible:


We may have some other possibilities in the near future, feel free to visit our web site at http://www.ttrco.com/


Are you looking for an affordable house to purchase?


As we head into the final weekend in the month of September, we invite you to contact us, if we can assist in your various real estate needs and questions:


  • Buying or Purchasing

  • Selling

  • Like-kind exchanges

  • Section 1031 exchanges

  • Leasing

  • Property Management services

  • Chapter 29

  • Chapter 22

  • Chapter 69 and Section 8 housing

  • Business Opportunities


Realtor®, Property Manager


Monday, September 27, 2010

The R&P Report for Monday, September 27, 2010 ...

http://www.nwyc.com/

Vol. 14 No. 2-28

Monday, September 27, 2010



REVIEW


Voting Day Reminder: midterm elections Nov. 2.

Small-Business Bill: The House cleared a small-business measure sending it to the President to sign into law. The bill would establish a $30 billion lending fund to provide community banks with capital for small business loans. The measure includes $12 billion in tax incentives aimed at small businesses. It would revive an expired bonus-depreciation provision and allow all capital gains from certain small-business stock to be excluded from taxation. (
H.R. 5297)

National Defense Bill: The bill is on hold after Democrats amended it with a provision that would extend legal status and a path to citizenship for certain children of illegal aliens. It also included language that would eliminate the ban on gays serving openly in the military. Lawmakers voted not to bring the measure to the floor for a vote. (S.3454)

Expiring Tax Cuts: Senate Democrats signaled that they are unlikely to schedule a vote on extending the expiring 2001 and 2003 (Bush) tax cuts before Congress leaves Capitol Hill for the campaign trail this week. (S.3816)

Cyber-security: The leader of the Pentagon’s Cyber Command asked lawmakers to continue to provide funding to the new unit as it works to find ways to combat threats to computer networks. (S.773) (S.3480)

Food Safety: A Senate Committee approved a measure to strengthen criminal penalties for companies and individuals that knowingly violate food safety standards. The bill would increase penalties for distributing tainted food products and establish fines and prison sentences of up to 10 years for violations. Under the measure, such an offense would be a felony. (S 3767)

“Fair Elections Fund”: A House panel approved a bill that would provide public financing of congressional elections to the House. It would provide primary and general election candidates who abide by certain restrictions with federal financial support from a newly created “Fair Elections Fund” and would receive 400 percent matching payments for certain small-dollar contributions. The bill would use proceeds from spectrum (electromagnetic wavelengths) auctions to help finance political campaigns. (H.R.6116)

Click here to express your opinion or go to www.nwyc.com


Campaign Finance Bill: The Senate again rejected (59-39) an effort by Majority Leader Harry Reid to call up a campaign finance disclosure measure. GOP members united against the bill. (S.3628)

Prescription Drug Monitoring: The House passed a bill aimed at preventing drug abuse. It would reauthorize a program to assist states in monitoring prescription drug use and would authorize $15 million for fiscal 2011 and $10 million annually from fiscal 2012-2013. (H.R.5710)
Autism Grant: The House passed a measure to expand aid to those with autism and their families. The bill would authorize $17 million annually for fiscal 2012-16 for grants for services rendered to children and adults with autism. (
H.R. 5756)

PREVIEW

Continuing Resolution (CR): The Senate is expected to pass a short-term CR to fund most government operations past the end of the 2010 fiscal year. It may contain extra funding for the Pell Grant program for low-income college students.

Child Nutrition: The House is expected to consider legislation that would authorize the first increase in decades for per-meal reimbursement to schools. (S.3307) (H.R.5504)

China Currency: The House is expected to advance a bill aimed at China’s currency practices. Many experts say that China maintains the yuan at an artificially low value to keep Chinese exports cheap and imports expensive. (H.R.2378)

The Week Ahead: Before Oct. recess, lawmakers in both chambers will address a CR to keep the government funded. The House is expected to address a loan guarantee program for home construction and a child nutrition measure. The Senate will address a Social Security payroll tax bill.

Click here to view the R&P Report as a PDF

Early voting has begun for the 2010 General Election on November 2, 2010 in the State of Iowa.

Both parties pushing the early vote - The Des Moines Register

ttrco

Friday, September 24, 2010

We welcome new residents to three of our 2 Bedroom houses in Cedar Rapids

We have rented the following three NE side houses near Daniels Park this month:

  • 828 14Th Street NE

  • 866 14Th Street NE

  • 886 14Th Street NE

Currently, we don't have any 2 Bedroom houses that are immediately available, but we may have a couple coming available around November, pending release of Tenant Rights.

We currently have the following Houses for Rent: Immediate possession may be possible:


We may have some other possibilities in the near future, feel free to visit our web site at http://www.ttrco.com/


Are you looking for an affordable house to purchase?


As we head into the final weekend in the month of September, we invite you to contact us, if we can assist in your various real estate needs and questions:


  • Buying or Purchasing

  • Selling

  • Like-kind exchanges

  • Section 1031 exchanges

  • Leasing

  • Property Management services

  • Chapter 29

  • Chapter 22

  • Chapter 69 and Section 8 housing

  • Business Opportunities


Realtor®, Property Manager


Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Are New Parking Meters headed for Downtown Cedar Rapids?



CONTACT:
Cedar Rapids Parking
319-365-7275
Crparking@republicparking.com

Community Invited to Review Proposed Parking Meter Technology
Chamber Expo and Downtown Demonstration Scheduled Week of September 20

Cedar Rapids, IA-September 20, 2010 – The Cedar Rapids Downtown District and Cedar Rapids Parking invite the community to preview a new type of “multi space” parking meter technology proposed for downtown Cedar Rapids.

A primary recommendation of the Parking Strategic Action Plan that was unanimously approved by the City Council in April 2010, upgrading to multi space or credit/debit card enabled single space meters will provide added convenience to downtown patrons while helping to rebuild parking system revenues.

There will be two opportunities for the community to view the proposed multi space meters:
  • 1) Cedar Rapids Downtown District / Cedar Rapids Parking booth at the Chamber of Commerce Business Expo next Thursday, September 23rd from 2–5 p.m. (Cedar Rapids Kernels stadium).
  • 2) A special encore demonstration will be held at Armstrong Food Court (210 3rd Avenue SE) on Friday September 24Th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The multi space meters on display will feature credit and debit card payment options, pay by cell phone technology, environmentally friendly solar powered systems, enhanced customer features and much more. The meters were donated by two companies, Digital and Cale, who have other Midwestern clients like Iowa City and Chicago.

Questions on any parking related issues may be directed to the Cedar Rapids Parking Office by calling 319-365-7275 or by emailing crparking@republicparking.com.

##

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Homebuyer Tax Credit: nearly half of all Americans who claimed it in 2009 must repay


Homebuyer tax credit: 950,000 must repay - CNNMoney.com
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Nearly half of all Americans who claimed the first-time homebuyer tax credit on their 2009 tax returns will have to repay the government ...

ttrco


Monday, September 20, 2010

Rotary Club Meeting for Monday, September 20, 2010



Today's Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting ...





Realtors® Robin Tucker and Tommy Tucker are members of
Rotary International and are each Paul Harris Fellows ...

Celebrate Rotary's 105 years of service by contributing to The Rotary Foundation

Robin Tucker is planning to attend his Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting ...

Monday, September 20, 2010

Crowne Plaza Hotel at Noon

Today's Program:

General Ron Dardis, Rebuild Iowa
Status of Cedar Rapids
Since the Flood of 2008

Friday, September 10, 2010

New Listing: House for Sale in SE Cedar Rapids for $112,900

1930 Park Avenue SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403

For Sale

  • Price $112,900
  • Four Bedroom
  • 1 Full and 2 half baths
  • Two Stories with 1,447 above ground
  • 40 x 140 Lot
  • Formal Dining Room
  • Attic can be finished
  • Fenced Yard


Joel T. Lahey, CRS - GRI
Listing Agent
(319) 365-6956
Tommy Tucker Realty Co., Realtors®

ttrco

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

New Listing: 3 Bedroom Rental House in Marion for $830 per month



Just Listed in Marion, Iowa: House for Rent
1205 Parkview Drive
$830.00 per month
Call Tommy Tucker Realty at 365-6956 for information
  • 3 Bedroom Walkout Ranch
  • 1 Stall Garage with auto opener
  • Front Deck
  • Rear Patio walkout
  • Rec Room with 3rd bedroom in lower level
  • Laundry
  • Gas Stove and Refrigerator
  • Carpeting

ttrco

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Back in the Saddle, after the Labor Day holiday here in Eastern Iowa

We hope you enjoyed your Labor Day holiday weekend!

We are reviewing paperwork received today by the City of Cedar Rapids, regarding the new registration form for licensing and property permits. The City of Cedar Rapids enacted a new Chapter 29 ordinance this Summer for all property owners in Cedar Rapids. Whether you are big or small, renting multi-family, single-family or one room, you may want to learn more about the Chapter 29, which impacts all property owners who are involved in any form of tenant-landlord (i.e. - charging rent).

We have houses for rent in the Cedar Rapids-Marion, Iowa area.


Current Properties being marketed:

We are currently accepting applications for Houses For Rent in our area:




You can contact Robin Tucker at 1.319.365.6956 or by e-mail at Tommy Tucker Realty Co, if you are interested in one of these properties or have a tenant-landlord question? We may have a couple of new properties in the coming weeks.


ttrco

Friday, September 3, 2010

Welcome to Tommy Tucker Realty Co. of Cedar Rapids, Iowa USA


Our offices will be closed from Saturday, September 4Th, 2010 to Labor Day, with is Monday, September 6Th. However, we do check our voicemail and do try to assist in servicing over the Holiday, when time permits.

If you need to mail a payment or an application, our postal address is P.O. Box 848, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52406-0848.

Here is a link to housing information on Houses for Rent in Cedar Rapids or Marion, Iowa.

We are currently accepting applications for Houses For Rent in Cedar Rapids, Iowa...

  • Two bedroom Ranch at 886 14Th Street NE for $500.00 per month

  • Two Bedroom Ranch at 828 14Th Street NE for $575.00 per month

  • Two Bedroom Ranch at 866 14Th Street NE for $525.00 per month

  • Three Bedroom Ranch at 2140 Pike Court in Marion for $1,730 to $1,950 per month

  • Five bedroom two story at 7806 Thorndale Road NE for $2,200 per month

    Please let us know, if we can assist you with any of these properties. Our e-mail is info@ttrco.com or you can phone us at 1.319.365.6956. Please leave a message, if we are helping someone else or away from our phone.

    We want to wish you a very Happy Labor Day weekend from all of us at Tommy Tucker Realty Co.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Rotary Today: Tommy Tucker Realty Co. are members of the BBB of Iowa



Today's Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting ...





Realtors® Robin Tucker and Tommy Tucker are members of
Rotary International and are each Paul Harris Fellows ...

Celebrate Rotary's 105 years of service by contributing to The Rotary Foundation

Robin Tucker is planning to attend his Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting...

Monday, August 30, 2010

Crowne Plaza Hotel at Noon

Today's Program:

Chris Coleman, Better Business Bureau

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Cedar Rapids: City’s New Landlord Licensing Program in Effect


Housing News in the City of Cedar Rapids, the week of August 23, 2010:



The City of Cedar Rapids Code Enforcement Division has begun
implementing the new landlord licensing and rental housing registration program
as part of the new Chapter 29 of the Municipal Code. This program includes new
requirements for landlord licenses, rental housing registration and tenant
agreements.

Landlord Licenses
Landlords, property owners and rental property operators
are now required to be licensed in order to rent residential properties in Cedar
Rapids. This license is only required one time per landlord/owner/operator. The
license fee is $50.00. License applications are available at the Code
Enforcement Division’s office in the Public Works building at 1201 6Th Street
SW. In addition, applicants must submit a list of all rental unit housing to be
associated with the license. There is a $1,000 penalty for each month of a
delinquent license or rental unit registrations after October 31, 2010.

Rental Housing Registration
All rental housing must be registered annually. The registration fees range from
$30.00 for single family dwellings or duplexes to $25.00 for multi-family
dwellings plus $8.00 for individual apartments or units. All rental units
transferred or purchased after July 19, 2010 must be registered within 30 days
of the transaction. There is a $1,000 penalty for each month of a delinquent
license or rental unit registrations after October 31, 2010.

Tenant Agreements
All landlords must use a Crime Free Lease Addendum/Agreement with tenants. This addendum must be incorporated into all new and renewal leases and made available for review during the compliance inspection by City inspectors. The addendum is available on the City’s Web site at
www.Cedar-Rapids.org and at
the Code Enforcement Division’s office in the Public Works building at 1201 6Th
Street SW.

All aspects of the new program are expected to be implemented by October 2010. For more information about this program, please visit the Housing Inspections section of the City’s Web site at
http://www.cedar-rapids.org/government/departments/code-enforcement/housing-inspections/Pages/default.aspx.

PR Date: 8/23/2010 Title: City’s New Landlord Licensing Program
in Effect

City Contact: Cassie Wilils, (319) 286-5055


Tommy Tucker Realty Co. provides property management services in the Linn County area to various clients. We can assist in Tenant-Landlord management services, if you are seeking a Realtor-Property Manager for your single family house or investment property. Please feel free to contact Tommy Tucker Realty Co. to discuss our services in more detail. Tommy Tucker Realty Co. has been serving the greater Cedar Rapids area, since 1958.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Executive Home in NE Cedar Rapids for Rent (Bowman Woods - Linn-Mar Schools)


Tommy Tucker Realty Co. - Facebook

Great Listing ...
Executive House at 7806 Thorndale Drive NE (map) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa for $2,200 per month! This 5 bedroom two story was built in 1997 and has three full baths, one half bath and a three stall garage. A beautiful house for rent in Bowman Woods in the Linn-Mar Community Schools. First floor office and plenty more ...

Call us at 319.365.6956 to discuss this lovely home ...




Health Care Reform will impact Small Business America with increased IRS 1099 reporting

Today's hot political affairs topic, from a meeting we attended this morning is HR. 5297. Here's the update we received:


Update on IRS 1099 Reporting Requirement

Many of you may have seen an email from ASAE on the IRS 1099 Reporting Requirement. NAR (National Association or Realtors) has been working on this issue and wanted to provide you with a legislative update.

The health care legislation enacted earlier this year included a controversial and burdensome new requirement, effective in 2012, that would require all businesses to provide IRS 1099 information returns to any vendor (and to the IRS) when the business makes payments of more than $600 to the vendor in any calendar year. This 1099 reporting provision came out of nowhere in the final days of the health care debate.

No sooner was the ink dry on the bill itself than efforts began to repeal the new 1099 rule. Many REALTOR organizations are aware that ASAE is among the groups opposing the new rule. NAR has signed on to the ASAE letter to signal its opposition to the 1099 reporting requirement. When Congress reconvenes in mid-September, among the pending bills is a small business bill (HR 5297) that includes a modest tax title. (The bill has several non-tax provisions that NAR fully supports.) HR 5297 is expected to be brought up some time during the week of September 13.

When the Senate considers
HR 5297, there will be a two-part amendment procedure related to the 1099 requirement. The first part will be an amendment that would completely repeal the 1099 requirement. That effort is expected to fail. The second will be an amendment offered by Majority Leader Reid (D-NV) and Finance Chairman Baucus (D-MT) and others. That amendment would limit the application of the 1099 reporting requirement so that only employers with more than 25 employees would be subject to the 1099 reporting requirement. Further, only payments of more than $5000 would have to be reported. That amendment is expected to pass.

While the full repeal has broad support among ASAE members and in the small business community, we would anticipate that the 25 employee threshold would mean that most local boards and many state associations would be exempt from the reporting requirement. Similarly, the 25 employees threshold should provide adequate relief for most of our members. (Real estate sales agents are independent contractors, and so would not be included as employees of their respective brokers.) The $5000 threshold for reporting will also provide substantial relief to members and to associations.

At such time as HR 5297 (with some sort of 1099 amendment) achieves final passage in the Senate, it will have to go back to the House. The House version of the bill is substantially different from the Senate version. The House will then have two choices: It may simply pass the Senate version of the bill and send it on to the President, or it may request a conference between the House and Senate to reconcile their different versions of the bill. (Note that a conference would involve at least 4 different committees, so could be a cumbersome process.) We presently have no prediction of which option the House would choose. Congress plans to adjourn for the election on October 8. A post-election lame duck session has already been announced, so this 1099 issue may remain unresolved for a few months.

Note that the IRS has made public statements that it does not have adequate capacity to process all of the 1099s that would be filed if the health care bill's reporting requirement remains in the law as originally enacted. The IRS public statement should bolster the effort to eliminate or significantly narrow the application of the new reporting provision before it comes into effect in 2012


*** *** ***

HR 5297 Hits Turbulence in Senate‎ - National Underwriter Life and Health Insurance News
Backers of HR 5297, the Small Business Jobs Act bill, today had trouble getting the bill to the Senate floor. Members of the Senate voted ...
This bill will increase paperwork on the backs of an economy that is witnessing poor job growth, high unemployment and increasing strains on the American Dream and on Main Street.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Working on a couple Jumpstart inspections for a Client today


The Flood of 2008 impacted neighbors, clients, customers, vendors, friends and family in Cedar Rapids and other areas of Eastern Iowa. Folks are still on the recovery track.

One of our clients called this week about the need to have a couple of Jumpstart inspections performed. So, our office got them scheduled.

Corridor Recovery Jumpstart
The Jumpstart Iowa initiative contains two new programs – one to address housing ...

The next 50 years is going to be challenging in Iowa, with the continued flooding throughout different parts of the State. It's not just Iowa either, look at other parts of the country. such as Nashville and Memphis earlier this year.

The floor at Hilton Coliseum, Iowa State's basketball arena, was covered with ...



Monday, August 9, 2010

The 2010-11 RI motto is "Building Communities - Bridging Continents"



We welcome the second week of August, with a little Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids news ...

Realtors® Robin Tucker and Tommy Tucker are members of
Rotary International and are each Paul Harris Fellows ...

Robin Tucker is planning to attend this week's Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting...

Monday, August 9, 2010

Crowne Plaza Hotel at Noon


Today's Program:

Joan Hackbarth
  • The mission of Tanager Place is "to successfully serve children and families challanged by social and pychological needs."
  • Tanager Place has served children and families since 1879

ttrco

Friday, August 6, 2010

We invite you to take a closer look at these Houses for Rent in NE Cedar Rapids

Tommy Tucker Realty Co. invites you to consider these houses for Rent:



Looking to rent a executive rental house in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?

Please contact Robin Tucker, Realtor® at 319.365.6956 x 103 to further discuss these properties or other property for Rent for Sale in the Cedar Rapids area.

ttrco

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Will the City Council close Second Avenue SE between 10Th and 12Th street for Medical Mall?

Skywalks an Alternative to Closing Second Avenue Won’t Work for PCI - KCRG-TV
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - Closing a stretch of Second Avenue SE is necessary to facilitate patient flow through the Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa’s proposed new medical “mall” at 10th Street SE and Second Avenue SE, the physicians group has said ...

The group and other representatives of the new Cedar Rapids Medical District are holding open houses: to discuss the Medical District as well as PCI’s plans to build the mall inside the district.

  • Wednesday, August 4Th from 4 to 7 p.m.
  • Thursday, August 5Th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Open Houses are in The Ballroom at the Crowne Plaza Five Seasons Hotel

Our business will be impacted, since we are located at 613 Second Avenue SE. For example, driving from Daniels Park neighorhood down Central Point Road NE to 13Th Street SE, we often cut down Second Avenue SE to return to our offices.

The ideal of cutting off vehicle, walking and bike traffic should always be carefully discussed, since it often has negative impacts on quality of life and functionality of neighborhoods and the habits of people.

ttrco

Monday, August 2, 2010

It's August 2010: what's up on the first monday of the month?




We welcome the first full week of August today, with a little Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids news ...

Realtors® Robin Tucker and Tommy Tucker are members of
Rotary International and are each Paul Harris Fellows ...

Robin Tucker is planning to attend his Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids meeting...

Monday, August 2, 2010

Crowne Plaza Hotel at Noon



Today's Program:


Kay Fisk & Mike Barnhart of


  • One of the important elements of Building Communities is a connection to transportation
  • As Realtors, we require the building of functioning cities ...

Other Events this week in the City of Cedar Rapids ...

  • City Housing Boards of Appeals on the 4Th
  • City Medical District Open House on the 4Th and 5Th
  • Downtown Farmer's Market on the 7Th
  • More Upcoming Events in our area can be found on the Cultural Corridor web site

ttrco

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Transition Weekend: Out with July and In with August this weekend ...


It is hard to believe that Saturday marks the end of the July 2010 and August
begins on Sunday. We have had a busy year thus far. For Carole and I, we
celebrate our 23Rd wedding anniversary this weekend.
- Robin Tucker, Realtor®
We welcome you to our blog and invite you to take a look at our Real Estate Brokerage and Property Management services for the greater Cedar Rapids area.

Are you looking for a property to purchase? Link to our local MLS


  • Tommy Tucker Realty Co. on Facebook
  • Buying
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  • Property Management
  • Leasing
  • Chapter 29 questions or issues?
  • Like-kind exchange
  • Business brokerage
Our offices are open typically 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or otherwise, by appointment. My office number is 319-365-6956 ext. 103. We invite you to let us know, how we can be of service.

ttrco