Brenda Carsey's Blog

What is Loan Modification?

Brenda Carsey (Keller Williams Cornelius) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:38:00 -0700

Obama's administration recently announced that 500,000 homeowners should get loan modifications by the end of 2009. Now the questions are coming in...What is a loan modification? Changes lenders make to an existing loan when the borrowers have a long-term inability to keep up with loan payments. Could include reduced interest rates, different type of loan, extension of loan term or all of the above. Am I eligible? If your home is a primary residence and the mortgage was taken out before 1/1/2009 OR your payment is 31% or more of your gross income, you might be eligible for a LM through the Home Affordable initiative. Your loan servicer will be able to tell you if you're eligible. When is a LM good for me? If you can no longer afford your payments but you could if your loan was modified. How to I do it? PREPARE!!! A detailed spreadsheet of your financial obligations that you can provide to your lender is a must. Calculate the average cost of every item - utility or service - you spend money on. Do this for the past three months. Write a hardship letter and include the necessary documentation. Send this to your lender and if you qualify work with them to fill out the paperwork.

What is a Loan Modification

Brenda Carsey (Keller Williams Cornelius) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:36:39 -0700

The Care & Keeping of a Holiday Favorite - Poinsettias

Brenda Carsey (Keller Williams Cornelius) — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:17:06 -0800

Recently I chaired a committee to sell Poinsettias through the Lake Norman Kiwanis. Little did I know what this undertaking would entail nor how these plants evolved.

They come in more than 100 varieties including pink, white, variegated and salmon. Native to Mexico and Central America, they were first introduced to the US in the 1800s by Joel Poinsett, a US Ambassador to Mexico. It is now the best selling plant in the US!

Keeping it healthy:

They like space. Look for plants that are not crowded or packed together and transport them in large, roomy bags.
Poinsettias need at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight per day and prefer moderate temps around 70 degrees. Excess heat or cold below 50 degrees will cause the leaves to yellow and fall off.
Most important, don't allow your plant to dry out - but don't over-water (don't you love this one!). Finding a balance by checking every few days to make sure the soil is moise will help keep your plants lively through the Holidays and beyond.
Fertilize after the blooming season with a well-balanced, all purpose fertlilizer every two or three weeks.

These are just a few tips. I purchased several plants from the Kiwanis and delivered them to all my clients this year. What a great way to lead generate and show gratitude for their business and, hopefully, their referrals!

Brenda Carsey

www.brendacarsey.com

brendacarsey@kw.com

Winterizing Your Vehicle

Brenda Carsey (Keller Williams Cornelius) — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:07:41 -0800

'Tis the season for winter travel! Be safe on the road this holiday by winterizing your vehicle before you go!

Check tires (including spare) and belts for wear and tear.
Get an oil change. A thinner grade of engine oil provides better performance in colder temperatures.
Inspect wipers and wiper fluid level to ensure optimum visibility.
Pack an emergency kit with flares, antifreeze, bottled water, flashlights, blanket, jumper cables, energy or snack bars, tire iron and jack, tire sealant, cell phone with a booster and your car owner's manual.
Slow down and brake before turning a corner in icy conditions. In a skid situation, turn your wheels INTO THE SKID and accelerate slightly to regain control.
An abundance of travel-weary and intoxicated drivers are on the roadways this time of year. Be alert, be defensive and stay safe!

This would be great information to pass along to your family, friends and clients!

Brenda Carsey

www.brendacarsey.com

brendacarsey@kw.com