Anthony's Blog

Get the Guide to Bankruptcy and Foreclosure Recovery for Just $5

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 18:20:20 -0600

Times are tough for many people, and if you have a bankruptcy or foreclosure in your past, you may think you are in worse shape than the average person.

Here is the positive spin; you have already faced your biggest financial challenge, and hundreds of thousands of people have yet to figure out how to put it behind them. So now that it's behind you, do you know what to do to make a complete recovery?

In the spirit of giving back, I have made The Bankruptcy Mortgage Book affordable for everyone. While I'd love to just give it away, studies have shown (and we have tested and proven it), that people are less likely to read it if they don't invest in it.

As we approach the end of another year, my prayer for each of you is a speedy financial recovery and more success than you can imagine for 2009. Visit http://www.bankruptcymortgagebook.com today to get your recovery guide for just $5. I am so sure you will enjoy it and learn from it, and if not, I will give return your hard earned money without question.

Wishing you the best for the holidays and beyond!

Anthony

Anthony Kirlew
Author, The Bankruptcy Mortgage Book
http://www.bankruptcymortgagebook.com

The New Mortgage Economy & What it Means to You

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 18:15:17 -0600

Here are the answers to some of the most pressing questions that people now have given all that has changed in the mortgage and real estate industries.

1. After all that's happened with the banks, can I still get a home mortgage? (Yes)

Yes, you can still get a home mortgage, but if you've had some major problems such as a foreclosure or a bankruptcy, you will need to wait a longer time than before. If you have had a foreclosure, you will need to take the next 3 years to restore your credit and if you have had a bankruptcy, you will need to take the next two years to restore your credit.

Do not let anyone fool you into thinking there are ways around this; there aren't any. The banks have lost too much money by taking on risk, so they aren't doing it anymore.

2. What if my credit isn't so good? (Let's take a look)

If it's not good, you need to fix it. I know that's pretty simple, but it is now more true than ever as the banks are less forgiving than they were previously. I strongly recommend registering to get your credit report and scores monthly and you can do this through this link. This way you will know your score, be notified of any changes, submit updates, and watch your score increase. Visit Credit.com for more info.

3. I've got no money to put down, can I still buy a home? (Yes)

Although the days of zero down home financing are over, you can still purchase a home without having a down payment. This is ideally done in the form of a rent-to-own or rent with an option to purchase program. These are explained in full detail in The Bankruptcy Mortgage Book.

In these scenarios, you will be dealing directly with the homeowner and normally paying a higher than market rent with the difference going to build your down payment.

Words of caution: One negative about using this type of financing is that the owners could have their own financial challenges and lose the home, which renders all of your money lost. Secondly, you will need to make sure you have a long enough rental period to allow you to be able to qualify for a home loan.

I hope that is helpful as you look forward to recovering from your losses and becoming a homeowner once again!

Loan Modification Scams to Beware of

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:41:40 -0600

As I have spoken with countless desperate homeowners and real estate agents trying to help their clients keep their homes, there are three very common scams that I have heard of people encountering. I have listed them below with a link to our loan modificaion blog detailing each.

No Job Needed. Bottom line is that a loan modification is working out a new payment plan with your mortgage lender. If you don't have a job or a source of income you have nothing to negotiate.

The Promise. No one can promise you a loan modificaion. There are just too many factors and each case is unique. A company can however offer a money back guarantee, if they have a strong enough success rate as ours does.

Over the Phone Payment Quotes. Similar to not being able to make promised, loan modification consultants cannot quote you what your new payment will be or even guarantee how much your payment will drop.

It is unfortunate that so many crooks are rearing their heads in this market, but I talk to lots of people who are looking for help and many are in desperate situations. Sadly, many of them have been taken advantage of.

Beware of Loan Modification Scams

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:25:46 -0600

While loan modifications can be a welcome relief to struggling homowners, the biggest let down would come in the form of a loan modification scam. IF you need are considering doing business with a loan modification company, here are some pointers.

Always check out the loan modification company you are going to do business with. At a minimum do a Better Business Bureau search and a Google Search on the company.
Do not make your mortgage payments to any company other than your mortgage company. Legitamate loan modification companies work with your current mortgage company to work out new terms, so you should be making your payment to the same compay in the end.
Make sure the uses a law firm to negotiate with your lender. If they are not using an attorney, the success rate will be much lower, which means you could lose money.
Ask if the company has a money back guarantee. Most likely, if you are behind on your mortgage it will be difficult to come up with the money for the loan modification, so you might be risking borrowed money.
If you are unemployed, you will not be able to get a loan modification regardless of what you are told. A loan modification company basically helps the bank understand what you are able to pey based on your currnet income. If you have no income, there is no way to negotiate a payment.
Beware of anyone who asks you to hide assets by transferring them to others so you look more “needy.” Bottom line - this is fraud, and you may end up getting to know your loan modification consultant a lot more than you want to (in jail!)

If you are behind on your mortgage, struggling to pay your mortgage on time, or facing foreclosure, contact Anthony at the Loan Modification Center today to discuss your sitatution. You can reach Anthony by phone at 800-453-9290 or by email at anthony(@)atozlnder.com. We look forward to helping you save your home.

Struggling to Pay Your Mortgage? How About a Loan Modification?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:21:31 -0500

If you are like many homewners out there, you may be struggling to pay a mortgage on a house that is worth far less than what you owe. If this sounds like you, I may have some good news for you.

Lenders are in a desperate frenzy to stop the foreclosure epidemic that as put many of them out of business. To their own detriment that are t working with distressed homeowners to help them out of their situations, but fortunately, they are working with professional loan modification advisors (most of whom use lawyers to draft the agreements). By working with a skilled mortgage negotiator, you might be able to reduce your mortgage balance, monthly payment, or both. Best of all, unlike the propsoed government mortgage reduction programs, these lender apprved modifications have no redemption clauses - meaning that you do not have to pay back future equity.

To see if you qualify for a loan modification, contact Anthony at Consumers Advantage Mortgage TODAY at anthiony(@)atozlender.com or 800-757-9704.

Join Consumers Advantage Mortgage in Fighting Diabetes

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:51:14 -0500

Dear friends, colleagues, and community members,

Today I am writing on a subject that has affected or will affect nearly every American - Diabetes. I recently flew to MD for the funeral of a family member who passed away due to complications of diabetes. I also have family members who live with this disease today.

As a way to take a stand against Diabetes and promote awareness, health, and education, we have formed a Diabetes Step Out Team, and would like to invite you to join us in a walk for diabetes on Saturday, September 27th at 8AM for a two miles walk. I know this is short notice, but I was moved to do this as a result of my family's recent loss. Registration is free, and I would love to meet you at the event, so once you join, you can expect an email from me. Simply visit the Consumers Advantage Mortgage Step Out for Diabetes website

We have also committed to raise $12,000 (or $1,000 per month) over the next year to fight this disease, so if you are unable to join us for the walk, please consider making a donation no matter how small - every little bit helps.

If you would like to give online, visit this page.

For those in the community that either join us or donate, you will receive a free mortgage analysis, where one of our consultants will show you how you can pay off your mortgage in as little as 1/3 to 1/2 of the time without refinancing (and often without changing your budget.)

For the real estate professionals that join us, you will receive a free copy of my book entitled The Market Seems Slower When you Don't Have Clients as well as recognition on our website and in our future PR related to corporate giving.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Do You Owe More on Your Mortgage than Your Home is Worth?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:24:26 -0500

Here is Arizona, this is a very common occurance, and sadly, there doesn't seem to be much hope for many homeowner that find themselves upside down, owing more than their home is worth. Many of these home owners feel stuck, unable to make a move, and feel like they are fighting a never ending uphill battle.

Here is the good news - we have a solution. Now, it doesn't work for everyone, because you have to actually be able to pay your mortgage. I know many people are in a worse situation, in that they are upside down, and they have an adjustable rate mortgage that has adjusted or will adjust soon, making their mortgage unaffordable.

If you are interested in knowing more about how this program might be able to help you or someone you know, please contact Consumers Advantage Mortgage at 800-757-9704. We serve all 50 states, but make our home in Mesa, Arizona!

Tenants Beware! Over 200,000 Renters Evicted Due to Landlord Foreclosures

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:04:50 -0500

This is the least often talked about side of the foreclosure crisis. Imagine having a sheriff knock on your door and tell you that you have a week to get out of your house because it was foreclosed? Well, it's happened to over 200,000 renters this year alone according to Market Watch.

So what can you do if you are a renter?

You could ask your landlord where they stand, but I doubt most of them would be up front with you knowing that they have no intention of giving you your deposit back, and knowing that your rent payments are not being used to pay the mortgage.

Personally, I would consider whether or not it's the right time to for you to buy a home of your own. There are lots of deals out there, and although some speculate that prices will continue to fall, historically they have to recover. Not to mention you have to pay a housing expenses anyway, so you might as well have a write off.

Secondly, there is a website called RentalForeclosure.com that will allow you to check and see if your landlord is in foreclosure. I have spoken with Dave Madam, one of the principals who says that while they currently only serve a few markets (they are rapidly growing), anyone can send them a request via their contact form and they will check out the property for them.

Now is a great time to talk to your mortgage professional about whether or not you can qualify for a home. There have been many changes in the lending world, but we are still making loans.

I look forward to helping you or anyone you would like to refer in any way that I can.

Have a great weekend!

~ Anthony

Call Consumers Advantage Mortgage at 800-757-9704. Serving all 50 states.

See Les Brown for Free in Mesa, AZ - Saturday September 13th

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 19:42:59 -0500

If you have not seen or heard Les Brown speak, let me tell you this is a great opportunity. I have heard Les speak on several occasions and he always has a positive outlook onlife and will help you transform your thinking into a success mindset. I will be there and I look forward to meeting you there. I will be working at the event, but if you let me know that you are coming, I will make sure to try and connect with you.

It is free, but you need to register. If you want to lear more about Les Brown, visit his website.

There really are Scorpions in Arizona

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 11:54:02 -0500

The other day my wife and I were getting ready to go to bed and I said "hon, you're not gonna belive this, but there is a scorpion in our living room." She said "right... I'm going to bed." Again, I retirated, "hon, seriously, bring me a big shoe... I am not taking my eyes off of this thing." Now, some of you might realize why practical joking can backfire... I am known to be a joker.. .but not this night. She came out and screamed when she saw I was not kidding.

She got me a shoe and I took care of it, but it had me thinking. "Were there others?" "How did it climb to the second story to our condo?"

For the next few days, I would walk looking at the floor, but I guess I will get over it. My wife grew up here and had never seen a live scorpion, and never expected to see one in Mesa.

So Arizonans... check your shoes, hats, and gloves before putting them on!

MORTGAGE SCANDAL - Mortgage Company Giving Insider Info to Consumers!

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:48:54 -0500

We have always been committed to educating consumers and what we are now sharing with customers does not sit well with the big mortgage companies. We are sharing with consumers how to pay off their mortgages WITHOUT REFINANCING and in many cases WITHOUT SPENDING ANY MORE MONEY OUT OF POCKET.

The mortgage companies don't want you to know this stuff because the sooner you pay off your mortgage, the sooner they lose their monthly revenue stream AND they realize that you may never need them again!

If you are interested in learning what the mortgage companies have been keeping from you and specifically how you can use this information to pay off your mortgage in 1/3 to 1/2 of the time, please call Consumers Advantage Mortgage at 800-757-9704.

For those that are wondering, this is not a bi-weekly mortgage program.

Wishing you financial freedom!

New Changes at Fannie Mae RE: Using Investment Property Income to qualify

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 18:10:28 -0500

This just in from my underwriting department:

Fannie Mae announced a information regarding their policy on renting out a previous home to purchase a new home. The only way rent will be allowed (at 75%) is if that property has 30% in equity as determined by an appraisal. So, to use rental income on a property that was the borrower's previous residence, an appraisal is required on that property. If there is equity of 30% - a lease can be obtained and 75% of it will be used to help offset the payment.

I hope that helps. Probably not the news people want to hear, but it's better to know up front than after putting a deal together and sending it to an underwriter.

Let me know if I can assist you with you mortgage needs.

~ Anthony

Details about the Real Estate, Tax Planning, and Legal Strategies Seminar this Saturday in Scottsdale

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 18:06:45 -0500

Here are the details regarding the seminar my real estate investment group is sponsoring this Saturday, August 23rd in Scottsdale, AZ. We are sponsoring this, so it is free, but seating is limited. I've got a few tickets left, so please contact me to get registered if you are interested.

Our guest speaker with be Mark Kohler (Attorney, CPA, and Author) who wrote the best selling book, "Lawyers are Liars: The Truth About Protecting Your Assets" and he will be discussing tax planning and legal strategies for real estate investors. No matter what you know about real estate or tax planning, you are sure to learn something that can save or make you lots of money over the long haul.

Here is a snap shot of what you will learn:

Why Multiple 6-Figure Income earners pay less taxes than individuals earning $50,000 per year.
How different legal entities can benefit you as an individual, real estate investor, or business owner.
How to earn money in the real estate market - regardless of what the market is doing!

I look forward to hearing from you and I hope you soon before the tickets are all gone. Even if you don't live in town, it's worth the cost of driving or flying out.

Wishing you success!

Anthony

P.S. - You need to register by Tomorrow at noon so I can get you in the system and have your ticket emailed to you. Contact me at 800-453-9290 or anthony(@)atozlender.com

The Loss of an AMAZING musician - LeRoi Moore

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:10:17 -0500

I normally don't write non-real estate blog posts, but the more I hear about people dying, I guess I get more sentimental. As a fan and follower of the Dave Matthews Band, I had the honor or hearing LeRoi Moore live on several occasions. He was one of the best saxophonists in the business and he will be missed. Join me in keeping his close friends and family in prayer.

Here is a video tribute to LeRoi:

FREE Real Estate Investing Seminar - August 23rd, Scottsdale, AZ

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 11:47:39 -0500

Who says you can't get something valuable for free? We are holding a free all day real estate investing seminar in Scottsdale, AZ. Space is limited and it is by invitation only. You MUST pre-register as you must have a voucher to attend, so get a hold of me as soon as possible (my contact info is at the end of the post).

So why free? First, becasue it is a great way to give back to the community. Second, anyone who knows me or had read my blog posts knows that I am a 100% beleiver in real estate investing to create long term wealth and I want the chance to prove it to you. People have come from these one day events and made money just from what they learned, so it's the real deal, not just a teaser to get you to buy something.

Even if you don't live in the area, it is well worth the trip to fly out for this (and if you fly out, I will buy you dinner).

Contact me ASAP as the spaces are limited. I can be reached at 800-453-9290 or anthony@azrebsi.com.

See you there!

Anthony

Why the Real Estate Guru Programs Don't Work (and What Does Work!)

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 19:25:08 -0500

We've all seen them, the late night real estate gurus showing you how to make money in tax liens, foreclosures, brokering notes and the like. I know I have and I have even spend money just to see if there was something there that I didn't know. As a real estate and mortgage professional, I often found something of value which expanded my knowledge and put me in a better position as a real estate investor. But what about the average person who has no experience, can they succeed?

During these shows, you will hear success stories from seemingly average people who have above average success. There is always a disclaimer saying that the results are not typical however. Here is why they don't work:

1. We all have different learning styles. If you buy a video and your learning style is a reader, you might have some trouble absorbing the materials (and vice versa).

2. People are often skeptical of the upsells. Most of these companies will try to offer you coaching or hand holding services, but you called on the $39 offer, right? Not wanting to be sold, you decline all of the offers - but what you don't realize is that the odds dramatically decrease for your success without a coach or someone to walk through the process with you.

3. It's nearly impossible to go it alone. Most of your friends and family will give you a hard time about your purchase and you will very likely become quickly discouraged unless you find others to help you stay motivated. If you haven't done anything before it's always much harder and the success rate is always much lower.

4. You Don't Have the Resources. Investing in real estate takes lots of resources. You need attorneys to do title searches, appraisers to help you find value, contractors to estimate and repair properties, agents to help you sell your properties, mortgage lenders to help you finance your purchasers, property managers to help you screen tenants, and the list goes on.

Here is the Good News!

I am a part of a local real estate community that addresses each of the challenges above and then some, and gives you the best chance for becoming a successful real estate investor and entrepreneur. Here is what we've got:

1. Solid Training. You can learn the A to Z's of real estate from people who are currently investing in your local market.

2. Coaching. You will also have people that have "been there" who will eagerly help you, or even partner with you on your first few deals to help you achieve success.

3. Resources. Not only do we have the real estate professionals, but we have access to the properties that are ready for our students to move on.

4. A Proven System. Our system is hands down the best on the market. You won't find it sold on late night TV, but your neighbor just might beat you to it.

You will learn multiple real estate investment strategies, including:
- How to buy real estate with bad credit
- How to buy real estate without having any money
- Creating financing strategies
- How to earn short term profits in real estate
- How to creating passive income through real estate
- How to retire wealthy by investing in the right kinds of real estate
- How to help people facing foreclosure
- So much more!

If you are interested in learning the A to Z's of real estate investing to to take advantage of the rock bottom prices accross the valley AND learning how to help your friends, family, and neighbors that are facing foreclosures (and earning some money in the process), then call me ASAP at 800-453-9290. Our team has limited availability for the amount of people was can train at any given time. One last thought. Keep in mind that since 1963 the median price of real estate has increased every years except for two. Sure, we have seen some lows in the valley, but in real estate what goes down, must come up over time. Now is the time to get in the game.

I look forward to hearing from you and I wish you success!

Anthony

Are you Having a Hard Time Paying Your Mortgage?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:58:11 -0500

I have spoken with far too many people that have not only had problems paying their mortgage, but have waited too long to do anything about it. There are many reasons that people can start to struggle with their finances, and it doesn't mean that are bad people. Your bank is not the evil landlord who is looking to foreclose on your home either, but they do want to hear from you when you are having trouble. Many times they can work out a repayment plan with you BUT you need to talk to them BEFORE they contact you. By then, they may feel that you have just neglected your responsibilities.

Life Happens
People lose jobs, people get sick, people lose investments, people have tenants that don't pay thier rent, and the list goes on. Sometimes the answer is selling your home, sometimes it is walking away, but it does not always mean you have to lose it all.

What to Do
As soon as you see a problem arising with your finances, you need to think about your mortgage first as it is your most critical debt if you own a home. Contact your mortgage company and tell them your situation and see if they are willing to work something out with you. Contact your mortgage lender, provided that they aren't the reason you are in the situation you are in, and let them know you need some help. Call your real estate agent and find out what your home is really worth and what the market looks like. These professionals can be a huge help to you, so don't try to go it alone.

What If You Have Waited Too Long?
If your bank has contacted you and told you that are facing an imminent foreclosure, it's now too late to call your lender or your realtor. You now need to contact a foreclosure specialist. Let me clarify the two types of foreclosure specialists that exists. The first can help you negotiate with your bank and keep your home, and the second can help you sell your home even if you owe more than your home if worth (they are also called short sale specialists). Do your homework, get referrals, and make sure you are dealing with a reputable person here because I have personally seen greedy people jump into this market space in the name of helping people, but they are actually preying on desperate people.

My company currently offers foreclosure assistance. We have a team that includes both bank negotiators and investor buyers that have a sincere desire to help you, not matter what the circumstance.

One Way to Improve Short Sale Successes

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:58:15 -0500

I have heard lots of people talk about the problems of getting short sales approved. We all understand the banks position - they made a bad loan (often), followed by a market decline, and they want to minimize their losses. Let's look at the two most common reasons your short sale did not get approved:

1. The package was incomplete. The lender will tell you exactly what they need and you need to provide everything they ask for, or you will end up jockeying papers forever - or until they get a clean offer.

2. Your offer wasn't any good. The bank isn't looking to do charity work here. They want the highest offer from a reasonable buyer. Ideally, they want cash so looking to investors is a great idea (if you need one in the Phoenix area call me). If you are submitting an offer and it is subject to the sale of an existing home... well... ah.. you shouldn't be doing short sales.

Let's look at how you can get better at the short sale game:

1. Partner with an agent who has done them.

2. Find investors to partner with (I was serious about buying short sales in the Phoenix area)

3. Take a course in short sales. The truth is a few years ago, you didn't have to know what a short sale was (and likely didn't) and you could have made a killing. Today, it's a different story. Agenta and investors are making huge profits in the short sale market - you just got to know how to do it.

My real estate investment group here in Arizonao offers A to Z training in real estate and we have produced some of our areas most profitable and successful investors. We have affiliates in most states, so if you are serious about your real estate career and want to take the next step in your professional development contact me at 800-453-9290 or anthony(@)atozlender.com

Wisihng you success!

Are We Seeing Signs of an Improving Economy?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:23:23 -0500

Today, I noticed several economic indicators which bode well for our industry. Oil is down once again, and subsequently gas is coming down - let's pray it stays there. A day following the preseidents signing of the newest "bailout bill" Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac stocks are up (as are stocks on the whole).

I believe these are the signs that we want to see. We just need to see them consistently.

Keep the faith!

What Role Does Real Estate Play in Where you Choose to Live?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:52:50 -0500

It's pretty huge actually, and something people often fail to see until it's too late. for most people, your housing expense is most likely your largest part of your budget. When I lived in Maryland, I used to encourage people to consider other areas to live in when they couldn't qualify for a loan in the costly suburbs of Washington DC. Some people thought that was extreme, and it was. I eventually put my money where my mouth was and moved to a suburb of Phoenix, Arizona. Granted, my move was not solely based on finances (my wife had become very ill), but we very quickly appreciated a 62.5% reduction in our housing expenses, without giving up much space. This was a breath of fresh air to us because mot only was the real estate market much slower, but my wife had gone on unpaid disability due to an acute hormonal disorder stemming from a neuro-toxin which rendered her incapable or working (or doing any of life's daily functions).

Now I was in a position to experience what I had encouraged others to do, and you know what? I wish I had done it sooner. I did a calulcation and saw where I would have been ahead by nearly $100,000 if I had moved just two years sooner. Most of this was due to paying a higher housing payment, taking out equity loans instead of cashing out, and taking huge real estate losses. While I did enjoy much of the DC life, I realized that because I worked so much, I didn't have the time I desired to enjoy my family and friends. I also hate cold weather. I still work a pretty intense schedule, but the difference is that now we are working much more agressively towards our goals of financial freedom, rather than just working to pay bills. If it sounds strange to hear someone in the real estate business talk like that, guess what? We are normal every day people and we've got bills too. In fact, there are fewer of us in the (mortgage / real estate) business becuase of the radical shift over the past few years. Also, many of us who own businesses carry more financial responsibilities that the average person, so it's all relative.

Recently, I spoke with two people considering changing locations for the purposes of a better life. One is leaving the DC area for New England, where he has a network of family and friends. Another person I spoke with is considering moving because the job market where he is (Florida) is not so great.

So if you are stuggling to make ends meet, facing a foreclosure, or just want a better quality of life, consider making a (seemingly) radical move to another area, where the real estate isn't as costly. Contact me and I will be glad to help you put together a game plan.

Wishing you success, and a lifestyle that few can dare to dream!

~ Anthony

Extreme Home Makeover has it's first Foreclosure

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:04:55 -0500

It was very sad news to hear that a family who was blessed ot be chosen to receive a new home from ABC's Extreme Home Makeover, made a series of poor decisions resulting in a pending foreclosure.

I don't beleive that they should have been allowed to take out such a large mortgage against a home that was given to them. Perhaps Extreme Home Makeover will now put some sort of deed restriction on the homes - and they should be able to do this.

I sincerely pray that this is not going to be an epidemic. Those folks so such great work, and most of the people I do not beleive would ever squander their finances the way this family has.

You can read the full story here.

How did You Get Such a Great Rate Quote?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:00:02 -0500

I talk to people very often who are always in search of the best mortgage rate. I understand the sentiment, but what consumers need to know is that rates change all the time - as in throughout the day. The worst thing you can do to youself is trash the relationship with your current mortgage lender because someone quoted you a better rate.

Keep in mind that for the most part, the money costs the same, it just depends on where you put the fees. some lenders hide fees in origination fees, others in discount points, and other don't hide them at all.

While its discouraging to see, it affects the borrowers more than it affect the lender that loses the business. I have also heard this one "they quoted this rate in writing, and then when I got to settlement, it was all different." Here is the sad part. At that point, I can't really help. Most likely that rate that was quoted is gone AND it would take a few weeks to start and process the loan. Oh yeah, now your deposit money is at risk if you don't settle, so what happens? The lending industry gets another bad rap. But they put it in writing? well, that is true and you can pursue them legally - AFTER you settle on your home for the higher rate which is now in front of you.

So you close the deal and call your lawyeronly to find out... the lender is now out of business. It's time to call Anthony to refinance.

Words to remember the next time that rate seems just too good to be true.

What About Commercial Real Estate?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:49:14 -0500

As I was walking across the parking lot today I saw two vacant commercial properties. Here is Arizona, that is not uncommon at all. Being a perpetual marketer, I started to ask myself if I wanted to delve more in to the Commercial Real Estate Market. The answer is "NO", but I thought I would share some ideas that may help others find a new means of doing business, launch a new division to an existing business,or create a new revenue stream.

Here are a few ideas that you can use to make a dent in the Commerical Real Estate Market.

1. Be a Local Market Expert. Not unlike residential real estate, there is somethig to be said for being the "go to" person when it comes to knowing what businesses are moving in, moving, out, or going under - making way for new commercial real estate.

2. Specialize. There are several opportuinities to specialize in commercial real estate such as apartment buildings, high rises, strip malls, raw land, or serving a niche market such as automotive shops or dry cleaners, both of whom have unique environmental needs.

3. Join CCIM. Back in the day (1994?) I was a member of a local CCIM Chapter because I was trying to find my niche in the business and someone recommended commercial real estate to me. If you don't know much about them, check then out.

4. Be an Information Provider. One of the problems people often have with those who sell ebooks and information is that they think it is too much of a capitalist maneuver. I venture to say that the real underlying concern is jealousy that they didn't come up with a way to sell the information first. I know of people who compile available commericial properties in a region by either selling listings to those trying to lease or sell or charging brokers and prospective tenants fees to access the list (or both).

And if you need a commercial lender in the process. Call me!

Good luck. Send me your success stories!

Houses Aren't the Only Things Left Behind in a Foreclosure

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 20:18:11 -0500

Thankfully more and more news stations are doing reports on this, but a sad and alarming trend in the foreclosure world is peolpe abandoning not only their homes, but their pets. I think people just get so scrambled and desperate that they lose their senses. Also, pets are another mouth to feed so when money gets tight, the pets get left out of the equation. What's worse is that these pets are dying in these homes because they obviously can't live without food and water.

I am not sure what the solution is, but perhaps as real estate agents working with sellers facing foreclosure, if you see pets in the home make a point to ask them if they have made arrangement for thier pets.

Are you Missing Out on Revenue from your Website?

Consumers Advantage Mortgage — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 20:02:09 -0500

Do you ever get people visiting your webiste that aren't from your local market? Chances are if you have any traffic at all, you probably do. Many real estate and mortgage professionals disregard these visitors and miss out on a huge source of revenue from their website in the process.

So how can you make money from these people?

The first is obvious - REFERRALS! Active Rain makes it so simple for you to send referrals so you don't have any excuse. I have sent two referrals within the past two weeks already (and I am a loan officer). I learned early on that I cannot serve every client, so I have a real estate license for the purpose of making referrals (lenders that's a bonus tip for you).

The second is affiliate marketing. Your visitors have obviously come to your website looking for information, so why not sell it to them? Lots of people will buy a "how to save thousands" on real estate or "how to get a home after a bankruptcy" type product and YOU can sell it to them - and you can do it without ever talking to them. How, you ask? Through the power of affiliate marketing.

Affiliate marketing is one of the best revenue generating secrets of all time in my opinion. You can make money while you sleep from your website and it is a blast to get checks in the mail out of the blue. And best of all, becoming an affiliate doesn't cost any money.

To learn more about affiliate marketing, I strongly recommend reading the Super Affiliate Handbook by Rosalind Gardner. She is at the top of the game, and I am happy to say she is one of my colleagues.

I hope that helps. If you need hands on expertise to help you implement affiliate marketing, lead capture, or any other online business development related service, feel free to contact my Internet Marketing firm, Web Traffic Team.