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Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

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3416 Hilton Pointe, Brighton, MI

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

GATED COMMUNITY-PRIME WATERFRONT Home-WOODLAND LAKE

Looking for Waterfront Homes on Woodland Lake?  A spectacular waterfront estate consisting of a masonry built home in the exclusive gated Hilton Pointe Subdivision.  Custom Built in 2006 with only the finest of materials and craftsmanship sporting marble floors, crystal light fixtures, full gourmet kitchen, finished walkout basement, exotic trim, mechanicals, fixtures and much more.  Most rooms and floors have individual controls for temp control, bathroom floors are heated, top of the line appliances, mechanicals and air filtration etc.  Two laundry areas, 5 Bedrooms, 5 full baths and two half baths with work out room, recreation area and huge hardwood floored living or dancing area.  Setup for first floor guest or in-law suite as well with its own balcony.  Exotic lighting and landscaping throughout, this one will certainly impress and get your attention. Ask us about hidden rooms and other features too.  Watch the Video below or click here for more photos.

OUTSIDE this brick and limestone home has approx 156' of frontage on Woodland Lake extending well out into the water with dock, boat lift and professionally landscaped grounds with three balconies and two patios. Of course undergrounds sprinklers, backup generator and beach / swimming area with a western view for spectacular sunsets over the water.  Forgot to mention the Italian tile balconies with powder coated railings that are all masonry construction, no wood or trek decks here.  

You have your owned gated driveway within a gated community for even more privacy and security.  The lot is approx 159w x 276D for plenty of space to stretch out, relax and peacefully enjoy the views and water sports from your dock.  Float boat also available for sale fyi.  Additional vacant building lots are available in the community as well.  More community listings here

Adjust the gear icon on your video screen for sharper, higher resolution options

Note: Home currently does not have owner occupied homestead tax discount of approx 33%.  

Featured Property Upgrades

  • Italian Marble Flooring including balconies
  • All inside & outer railings custom designed by owner in French pattern wotj powder coated finishes
  • Most rooms/floors have multiple temp controlled zones for energy savings and targeted comfort.
  • All window treatments remote controlled except master bedroom curtains
  • All door levers custom designed by Sherle Wagner/New York in Silver Nickel ($1000 per door)
  • Stone Fireplace mantels and cooktop hood custom made for home
  • All exterior Medeco brand door locks are duplication and pick proof.  Duplicate Keys require owner signature. Deadbolt locks are also Medeco on interior and exterior doors.
  • Solid core interior doors custom designed by owner that are thicker and taller than standard
  • Reinforced safe rooms / door frames on each floor with connection to exterior cameras and hard wired phones in each
  • Closet on lower level bedroom has fingerprint lock and deadbolt
  • Lighted niche openings on both staircases for art displays
  • Wolf Stove & Hood, subzero refrigerators and freezers
  • Reed, Ribbon and Acanthus leaf custom accent trim throughout
  • Security cameras around entire home
  • Underground sprinklers and Landscape lighting
  • Gated subdivision with additional gated driveway and intercoms
  • Heat recovery HEPA air exchangers on each furnace with additional anti viral device electronic scrubbers for flu and covid.
  • All three main and junior master suites have heated bath floors and security pads.
  • Home plans available at closing.
  • AV audio/video monitors for gate and front door communication in kitchen, main and junior masters.
  • Driveway security gate with Video
  • Masonry balconies with Italian Tile and powder coated custom designed railings

Call for more info and showing information.  

 

waterfront, homes, houses, brighton, orchard lake, birmingham, walled lake, novi, michigan, lake, woodland, all sports, sailing, skiing, boating, swimming, pool, salt, water, fresh, pinckney, south lyon

4843 Hidden Brook, Ann Arbor, MI

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Sprawling Ann Arbor Home on 3 Acres

NOW SHOWING: Quiet neighborhood location,  just north Ann Arbor off Joy Road less than 2 miles west of Pontiac Trail. Great family home with surrounding acreage that provides plenty of privacy and space to roam.  This 1.5 Story home has 4 bedrooms that all have their own bathroom and direct access.  Large family style kitchen with huge breakfast bar, updated Stainless Steel Appliances and views overlooking the sprawling backyard and deck with a Gazebo.   A great room with soaring ceilings above a finished walk out basement that will give you all the livings space your family and guests will ever need.   

This home has been recently updated to help make your transition stress free with new windows, roof, carpet, Large Water Heater and fresh paint and trim so get packing.  More Photos Here or Check out the Video below. 

Ready for your final touches watch the attached video for more information.  The home is surrounded by an invisible fence if you want pets and while its move in ready, you could always ask for a granite counter credit as part of your offer.  Country living but close to town with easy access to Maple road or US-23 for your short Ann Arbor commute.  

  • Gazebo
  • 4 Bedrooms - 4 Full Baths - 2 Half Baths
  • 1700' Walk Out Finished Basement
  • Fresh Paint & New Carpet 2021
  • Invisible Fencing
  • Zoned Gas Forced Air High Efficient Furnace
  • Zero Maintenance Decking
  • Wired for Generator backup
  • New Air Conditioning 2012
  • New High Efficient Water Heater 2021
  • New Roof and New Windows 2021
  • Refinished Hardwood Floors 2021
  • Updated SS Appliances 2021
  • Ask about other upgrades

CONTACT US TODAY TO SETUP YOUR FIRST TO VIEW APPOINTMENT.  

Life is full of Magic !

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

I wanted to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and the best of luck in the coming New Year.  Some of you know I like to travel and explore whenever I get the time and am always looking for interesting places to visit.  

The other day I came across an interesting article on the internet and just thought to share that with you here in this link providing views of some of our planets naturally magical places. Check it out .  

It is time for new year resolutions and mine is to strive to think positive and be helpful and kind to others.  There is too much anger and division presently in our communities currently and lets all hope and pray for better days going forward.  Be well!  

Buying a New Home? Get Your Debt Under Control First

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Photo by Pixabay

 

Buying a New Home? Get Your Debt Under Control First

 

Buying a home is exciting — and the largest purchase most people make. If you have debt, you might wonder if buying a home is feasible. You can buy a house while you have debt, but taking steps to reduce or eliminate it eases the process and saves you money.

 

Looking to purchase a new home in the Ann Arbor area? Be sure to contact Tom Stachler for all your home-buying needs! Call (734) 996-0000 to learn more!  Our Area’s Best Lenders and rates can be found here at www.LendAnnArbor.com 

 

Interpret Your Debt

 

Before you can make a plan to pay down your debt, you need to understand it. Start by asking yourself a few questions:

 

  • Who do you owe?
  • How much do you owe?
  • What interest rates are you paying?
  • What are your monthly payments?

 

Check your credit report if you need help answering these questions. Once you fully understand your obligations, you're ready to construct a payment plan.

 

Prioritize Debt Payment

 

It can be tough to decide what debts to pay first. Using a debt payment method can help you design a strategy that works.

 

The debt avalanche method puts debts with the highest interest rates at the top of the list. You pay the minimum amount on all debts except the one with the highest rate, which gets priority until it's paid off. This technique saves money by eliminating the highest interest rate first.

 

The debt snowball method pays off the smallest debt first. While it might not target the debt with the highest interest rate, crossing debts off your list can be very motivating.

 

Remember that utilities and Rent payments must come first. Keep these accounts in good standing to prevent them from going to collections and adversely affecting your credit score.

 

Plan to set aside money in a savings account as you pay down debts. You'll need it to prepare for emergencies, and you need to save for a down payment on your home.

 

Create a Budget That Works

 

You can find many ways to create a budget, but they all revolve around tracking your expenses. Check your credit or debit card statements for a breakdown.

 

If you don't have enough income to pay down your debts, consider ways to reduce expenses or find ways to earn extra income — even temporarily — until they're paid.

 

It can be hard to stick to a budget. But saying “no” to some things now can mean being able to purchase a new home down the road. Be realistic, though, and don't deprive yourself. Include some money each month for personal enjoyment.

 

Evaluate Loan Options

 

Home loans generally fall into three categories:

 

  • Conventional loan: This loan has lower interest rates, but you may not be eligible if you have poor credit.
  • FHA loan: Regulated by the Federal Housing Administration, this loan requires smaller down payments and may be available to applicants with lower credit scores.
  • Special programs: These include USDA, VA, and local loans with options for low- to middle-income borrowers in certain categories.

 

You can also find ways to reduce your loan's interest rate. One method involves paying points on a mortgage. Also known as buying down the rate, you pay the lender a fee at closing in exchange for the lower rate. Paying points can be a good option if you plan to stay in your home for a while, but it depends on your current finances and type of loan. You can use a mortgage calculator to help you decide if this option is right for you.

 

Paying down debt is a worthwhile endeavor if you plan to buy a home. When you're able to purchase the home of your dreams with a mortgage you can afford, you'll know your hard work paid off.

 

Tom Stachler is a state of Michigan Licensed Broker working in and around the Saline, Ann Arbor, Dexter, Ypsilanti, Milan, Brighton and surround communities.  Stop by his website for more information and resources at www.TheRealtyTour.com

Waterfront Home for Sale on Brighton's Woodland Lake

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

GATED COMMUNITY-PRIME WATERFRONT Home-WOODLAND LAKE

Looking for Waterfront Homes on Woodland Lake?  A spectacular waterfront estate consisting of a masonry built home in the exclusive gated Hilton Pointe Subdivision.  Custom Built in 2006 with only the finest of materials and craftsmanship sporting marble floors, crystal light fixtures, full gourmet kitchen, finished walkout basement, exotic trim, mechanicals, fixtures and much more.  Most rooms and floors have individual controls for temp control, bathroom floors are heated, top of the line appliances, mechanicals and air filtration etc.  Two laundry areas, 5 Bedrooms, 5 full baths and two half baths with work out room, recreation area and huge hardwood floored living or dancing area.  Setup for first floor guest or in-law suite as well with its own balcony.  Exotic lighting and landscaping throughout, this one will certainly impress and get your attention. Ask us about hidden rooms and other features too.  

OUTSIDE this brick and limestone home has approx 156' of frontage on Woodland Lake extending well out into the water with dock, boat lift and professionally landscaped grounds with three balconies and two patios. Of course undergrounds sprinklers, backup generator and beach / swimming area with a western view for spectacular sunsets over the water.  Forgot to mention the Italian tile balconies with powder coated railings that are all masonry construction, no wood or trek decks here.  More Photos and Hilton Pointe Building Lots for Sale Here

You have your owned gated driveway within a gated community for even more privacy and security.  The lot is approx 159w x 276D for plenty of space to stretch out, relax and peacefully enjoy the views and water sports from your dock.  Float boat also available for sale fyi.  Additional vacant building lots are available in the community as well.  More community listings here

Adjust the gear icon on your video screen for sharper, higher resolution options

Note: Home currently does not have owner occupied homestead tax discount of approx 33%.  

Featured Property Upgrades

  • Italian Marble Flooring including balconies
  • All inside & outer railings custom designed by owner in French pattern wotj powder coated finishes
  • Most rooms/floors have multiple temp controlled zones for energy savings and targeted comfort.
  • All window treatments remote controlled except master bedroom curtains
  • All door levers custom designed by Sherle Wagner/New York in Silver Nickel ($1000 per door)
  • Stone Fireplace mantels and cooktop hood custom made for home
  • All exterior Medeco brand door locks are duplication and pick proof.  Duplicate Keys require owner signature. Deadbolt locks are also Medeco on interior and exterior doors.
  • Solid core interior doors custom designed by owner that are thicker and taller than standard
  • Reinforced safe rooms / door frames on each floor with connection to exterior cameras and hard wired phones in each
  • Closet on lower level bedroom has fingerprint lock and deadbolt
  • Lighted niche openings on both staircases for art displays
  • Wolf Stove & Hood, subzero refrigerators and freezers
  • Reed, Ribbon and Acanthus leaf custom accent trim throughout
  • Security cameras around entire home
  • Underground sprinklers and Landscape lighting
  • Gated subdivision with additional gated driveway and intercoms
  • Heat recovery HEPA air exchangers on each furnace with additional anti viral device electronic scrubbers for flu and covid.
  • All three main and junior master suites have heated bath floors and security pads.
  • Home plans available at closing.
  • AV audio/video monitors for gate and front door communication in kitchen, main and junior masters.
  • Driveway security gate with Video
  • Masonry balconies with Italian Tile and powder coated custom designed railings

Call for more info and showing information.  

 

waterfront, homes, houses, brighton, orchard lake, birmingham, walled lake, novi, michigan, lake, woodland, all sports, sailing, skiing, boating, swimming, pool, salt, water, fresh, pinckney, south lyon

 

Tom Stachler is a state of michigan licensed realtor and broker, builder and his marketing this secure and prestigious subdivision.  Call us today for more info or access information.  

Homes for sale on Woodland Lake in Brighton Michigan, Livingston County.  Gated subdivision that currently has two homes for sale plus three vacant lots.  Two of the parcels have waterfront access and views along with this home providing your own dock and beach front access.  

STUMP REMOVAL: HOW TO GET RID OF TREE STUMPS

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

After the recent storm damage over these past few weeks, I thought this information might be helpful.  

 

Stump Removal: 4 Ways to Get Rid of Tree Stumps

A tree in your landscape can be a thing of beauty. But after it’s gone, the stump left behind is not so beautiful. It’s a tripping hazard, can damage your lawn mower as you try to mow around it, attract insects, and let’s face it — sawn-off trunks just don’t look great! Stump removal is your only option.

But unfortunately, removing that stub of a tree that’s left is more difficult than you might think. It’s connected to a root system that once anchored a tree, keeping it upright in all kinds of wind and weather. In fact, the root system of most trees roughly mirrors the size and height of the tree itself, spreading as far out and down as the branches reached out and up.

After the tree is gone, those roots are still attached to the stump, clamping it firmly in place in the ground. The roots will eventually decay, returning nutrients to the soil, but the stump itself can take as long as 10 years to break down. Do you really want to work around that eyesore for the next decade?

Unless you lead with your checkbook, there’s nothing “easy” about stump removal.  But if your willing to trade-off waiting time for expense, there’s a number of ways to eliminate the stumps for very little cost. Here are a few different methods to choose from.

stump removal

Stump Grinder

The most common method of stump removal is grinding, but that job is about as far from DIY as you can get. You’ll need to hire a tree service who’ll use a specialized stump grinder, a machine resembling a torture machine from the scariest horror movie you can imagine.  The toll features a spinning circular grinding blade that is plunged into the ground again and again to chew up the stump and reduce it to sawdust.

It happens fast, but the average cost for having a stump ground is $300, and prices can go as high as $900. If you have several stumps to deal with, you can pay an hourly rate, but at $150 or more an hour that can add up quickly.

stump removal

Manual Tree Stump Removal

For the hearty do-it-yourselfer, digging out a medium-to-small sized stump can be done in an afternoon. Here are the steps.

 

  1. Dig around the stump with a pointed shovel to expose the roots. Extend the hole a few feet out from the stump to give yourself room to maneuver.
  2. Cut through the exposed roots. It helps to have a variety of tools on hand, to get through compacted soil and different sizes of roots. Good tools for this part of the project include a lopper, pruning saw, ax, and digging bar.
  3. Continue to work your way through roots and soil until you can rock the stump back and forth.
  4. Push the trunk to one side with a pry bar and cut through the exposed roots. Repeat, making your way around the trunk to get at the roots on all sides.
  5. Continue until the root ball is cut free. Remove and fill the hole with soil.
stump removal, chemical stump removal

Chemical Tree Stump Removal

Stump removal chemicals are sold online and in Home improvement stores. They generally contain potassium nitrate, which speeds up the microbial process of decomposition. They may be in liquid form or a powder, to which you add water. You will want to keep kids and pets away while the chemical is doing its work.

 

  1. Purchase stump removal product.
  2. With a chainsaw, cut off the stump as close to the ground as possible.
  3. Drill multiple 1′ holes 10″ deep in the top of the stump. Drill a few more holes slanting inward from the side of the trunk. These will provide air to help fuel decomposition.
  4. Pour the chemical in the top holes, according to directions.
  5. Cover the stump with a tarp and wait 4-6 weeks. The wood will become spongy.
  6. Chop out the softened wood with an ax and fill the hole with soil. Depending on the size of the stump, you may need to repeat the steps.

Stump removal

Burning Tree Stump Removal

This is particularly effective when used as a second step after the chemical removal method. Instead of chopping out the remaining wood, burn it! If you’re starting your removal with fire, you’ll find that it works best on older, drier stumps. If yours was cut very recently or it is still putting out shoots then it’s still fairly green and won’t burn as well. For obvious reasons, follow all safety precautions, have a properly rate fire extinguisher handy, and  keep kids and pets away from the stump as it smolders.  The process is as follows:

 

  1. Check with local authorities for fire burn restrictions.
  2. With a chainsaw, cut off the stump as close to the ground as possible.
  3. Drill multiple 1′ holes 10′ deep in the top of the stump. Drill a few more holes slanting inward from the side of the trunk to intersect with the holes drilled down from the top.
  4. Pour kerosene or fuel oil into the holes. Do NOT use gasoline! Wait 2 weeks to let it soak through the wood. For a large trunk, repeat and wait another 2 weeks.
  5. Clear away debris from around the trunk and lay down bricks or rock to create a fire ring. Have a hose at the ready, as well as a large fire extinguisher rated to work on fuel oil and wood.  (An ABC rated extinguisher covers all types of fires).
  6. Using sticks and kindling, build a fire on top of the trunk. Once lit, the fire will burn out as the sticks are consumed, but the trunk will ignite and start to smolder.
  7. The trunk will continue to smolder for days. Check on it a couple of times a day, and stir up the embers if needed.
  8. Once the fire is completely burned out and the area is cool, rake out the ashes and fill the hole with soil.

 

There’s no reason you have to trip over an ugly stump in your yard for the next decade. Just pick your plan of attack and evict that memory of a tree gone by.

 

 

 

Tom Stachler is a state of Michigan licensed real estate broker and builder working in Ann Arbor, Saline, Ypsilanti, Brighton and their surrounding communities.  Call us today to put our 30 plus years of experience to work for you.  

3455 Hilton Pointe Ct, Brighton Michigan For Sale-4866sf Beautiful Home

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

NEWER BRIGHTON Home FOR SALE - HIGH QUALITY THROUGHOUT - WOODED VIEWS

Located in a secure gated community of beautiful homes, this upgraded brick home has higher ceilings throughout with plenty of features making this the one for you.  WATCH THE HD WALK THROUGH VIDEO BELOW - High quality cabinets and granite counters throughout, multiple high efficient furnaces, recirculating quick access hot water with high efficient water heaters, home built 2015 with a 2019 new no maintenance "trek" brand deck, a brand new whole house backup generator along with a 4 car heated garage are only a few of the upgrades you will truly appreciate.  The home is wired for sound and backs to woods with a fire pit within a secure gated community on a quiet cul de sac across the street from Woodland Lake.  Easy access to Grand River and I96 for commuters!  

The second floor features large walk in closets in all bedrooms with two of them being the popular Jack and Jill style.  There is a huge second floor laundry room across from  a separate electronics closet for better wifi reception and house music installations and of course the sprawling master suite that sports the quality windows & trim displayed throughout this wonderful home.  More Photos and Info here

Adjust your screen gear icon for higher resolution of your Video

On the First floor you have a stylish study across from a formal dining room with butlers service area, wonderful and spacious gourmet kitchen with a huge pantry and prep room and solid core doors throughout.  All doors are oversize especially the sliding door wall to the rambling "trek brand" no maintenance deck.  The larger yard has been professionally landscaped with inground sprinklers, a new 24kw whole house backup generator and public sewer.  

Tom Stachler is a licensed broker and builder working in Michigan in the Brighton, Ann Arbor, Saline and their surrounding communities.  Beat other competing buyers.... Call today to setup a showing appointment at 734-996-0000

10130 Ridgeline Drive, York Township MI FOR SALE

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

BACKS TO WOODS - HUGE YARD - FOUR CAR GARAGE

OPEN house SUNDAY 2-4PM JULY 25th: TIMBER RIDGE SUB - This is one of Salines Most Popular communities allowing commuters to reach I-94 and US-23 in just five minutes while avoiding the heavier Ann Arbor traffic backups.  This lovely Home features a walk-out basement with full bath and bedroom, a first floor master suite, covered porch, huge 2 acre yard and a 4 car attached garage. WATCH ATTACHED VIDEO BELOW

The home takes in wooded private views that you might even be able to hunt upon.  The sloping yard accommodates a finished walk-out basement providing 1500' of additional living and rec space that features a guest or teen suite with its own landscaped patio.  

The bright and airy second floor has two loft spaces that are ideal for home studies or play areas that look down upon the first floor and its soaring ceilings.  Additionally there are two large bedrooms with huge walk in closets and a compartment style full bath some one party can privately use the shower or throne room while the other brushes their teeth

The first floor has a large useable mud and laundry area with half bath that is just inside the heated 4 car attached garage.  The double side fieldstone fireplace adds just the right touch of warmth and coziness while surrounded by the soaring ceilings that really open up this level.  Of course the first floor master bedroom suite is easy to get to while avoiding stairs and has a huge walk through closet and master bath with garden tub and separate shower.

  • Field stone double sided Fireplace
  • Covered Porch
  • High Efficient mechanicals
  • Walk Out Basement
  • Heated 4 Car Attached Garage
  • Two Shops with compressor
  • Two Second floor Loft spaces along with two additional bedrooms
  • First Floor Master Suite
  • New Carpet
  • 4BR/3.5 Baths
  • Granite Kitchen with SS Appliances 
  • Huge Yard - Double 2 Acre Lot

Please contact us for more showing information, features or other information requests.  More photos and other information can be found by clicking here.  

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How Much Will Benefits Increase Next Year?

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Social Security COLA 2022: How Much Will Benefits Increase Next Year?

Due to rising inflation, beneficiaries could get their biggest raise in over a decade

 
 
social security cards and hundred dollar bills

ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES

En español | Social Security beneficiaries could get a 5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2022, the highest since 2008, due to the recent burst of inflation.

"The COLA will no doubt be higher than it has been for the last decade, probably in the 5 percent or higher neighborhood because of rising prices,” says David Certner, legislative counsel and director of legislative policy for government affairs at AARP.

Any estimates are preliminary, and the actual COLA will depend on changes in prices between July and the end of September. The Social Security Administration typically announces the amount of the annual adjustment, if any, in October. The increase in benefits typically goes into effect in January.

Rising prices

Estimates for the 2022 COLA range from 4.5 percent from Moody's Analytics to 6.1 percent from The Senior Citizens League. Economist Bill McBride, who writes the finance and economics blog Calculated Risk, estimates the 2022 COLA at 5.5 percent.

In contrast, the increase that went into effect in January 2021 was 1.3 percent, or an average of about $20 a month for individuals. A 5 percent increase would boost the average monthly benefit by about $77.

Rising prices in 2021 are the driving force behind the higher COLA estimates. “It's the energy prices that are causing havoc,” says Mary Johnson, Social Security and Medicare policy analyst for The Senior Citizens League. A gallon of unleaded gasoline costs an average of $3.16, up from around $2.20 a year earlier. Oil demand collapsed last year at the onset of the pandemic, and it takes time to ramp up production again. Now, with businesses reopening and people traveling more, demand is growing. Supply just hasn't caught up yet.

"Higher prices reflect the disarray caused by the pandemic,” says Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody's Analytics. The price of airline tickets, for example, has surged 24.6 percent in the past 12 months ending June 30, as travelers scramble to get seats on flights that had been cut back by COVID-19 restrictions. Used car prices have jumped 45.2 percent in the past year, because the supply of new cars fell sharply during the pandemic. Zandi expects the inflation rate will decline to about 2 percent in 2022 as supply and demand even out.

Nevertheless, higher prices take a significant toll on retirees. Social Security benefits rise only once a year; inflation rose 1.1 percent in June alone. “Those with modest Social Security benefits are the ones who really have trouble,” Johnson says. Other retirees have had to tap more of their savings than they had planned because the Social Security benefit didn't keep up with 2021's hot inflation, she says.

 

How the COLA is calculated

The actual COLA will depend on the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, or the CPI-W, an official measure of the monthly price change in a market basket of goods and services, including food, energy and medical care. The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks both the CPI-W and its better-known cousin, the CPI-U — the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers — which is a broader measure of retail prices.

The CPI-W rose 6.1 percent over the 12 months ended in June. In October, the Social Security Administration will compare the CPI-W for July, August and September 2021 with the CPI-W for the same period in 2020. The percentage change from last year's third quarter to this year's third quarter will be the COLA amount for the following year.

The COLAs for the past 10 years have averaged 1.7 percent, with increases ranging from zero in 2015 to 3.6 percent in 2011. The most recent year beneficiaries received a COLA of more than 5 percent was in 2008, when there was 5.8 percent increase.

Since Congress initiated automatic annual COLAs in 1975, there have been three years — 2009, 2010 and 2015 — in which benefits didn't increase at all. There is no COLA if inflation stays the same or declines year-over-year. The single biggest increase was 14.3 percent in 1980, which went into effect in January 1981.

History of Social Security COLA Increases, 1975-2020

chart showing the history of social security cost of living increase adjustments for every year between nineteen seventy five and twenty twenty

Cost-of-living adjustments go into effect in January of the following year. Social Security publishes a complete chart of annual COLA increases.

Social Security is funded by a payroll tax of 12.4 percent on eligible wages — employees pay 6.2 percent and employers pay the other 6.2 percent (self-employed workers pay the entire 12.4 percent). Next year, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax, currently capped at $142,800, will also be adjusted for inflation. The money paid in by today's workers goes to cover current benefits, with any excess going into the Social Security trust fund.

You might not see all of the increase in your benefit payment. If your Medicare Part B premiums are deducted from your Social Security (as is the case with 70 percent of Part B enrollees), a Medicare rate increase could offset all or part of the COLA.

 

 

Tom Stachler is a licensed real estate broker working in Ann Arbor and the surrounding communities of Saline, Dexter, Ypsilanti, Milan, Brighton and more.  Please click on the informational Links above for further assistance with homes and condo for sale, commercial real estate and residential income property.  

7995 Secretariat - Saline Home for Sale

by Tom Stachler,ABR,CDPE - Group One Realty Team

Wonderful Saline Home - Close to Schools & Shopping

COMING SOON: Behold this 3400' Toll Brothers home located close to Saline Schools and shopping.

This beautiful house has 4 Bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms for comfortable living. You will enjoy the dual staircases, soaring ceilings and generous dose of hardwood flooring.

The kitchen is updated with granite counters and stainless steel appliances and overlooks a large deck with hot tub and a large yard with its own fire pit for use with the family or friends on those warm summer nights.

Click Photo For More Images

The basement is nicely finished with a full bath, wonderful bar with dual refrigeration, sink and dishwasher and you will also appreciate the built in cabinets for flat panel TV viewing or reading etc.

The Location is a commuters joy being close to shopping with easy access to US-23 or Michigan Ave and less than a mile from the top rated Saline Schools.

Please contact us for more info or showing instructions.  Click video settings to select HD resolution. 

  • Finished Basement with Built n cabinets
  • Basement Entertainment Wet Bar & Wine storage
  • High Efficient Mechanicals
  • Stainless Steel Kitchen
  • Granite Counters
  • Soaring ceilings
  • Large Deck with hot tub and firepit
  • 3 Car Attached Garage
  • 2 Baths Upstairs
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • Basement Full Bath

 

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