Discover Your Success

736 Joes Lake Road, Cambridge (HUD HOME) - $92,000

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:38:43 -0600

736 Joes Lake Road, Cambridge is a new listing I noticed on the BEST ASSETS website. I have not seen the home come up on the MLS yet so this is a home that a lot of buyers might not know about.

The link to the info is here: http://www.tenmanagement.com/listings/property-detail.do?list=2009-11-20&code=MN&case=271-889779

The initial bidding period ends next Sunday 11/29. I have been finding a lot of good deals on HUD homes this year and this one is price below market value now. So if you or someone you know whats to take a look at it let me know.

Chuck Carstensen

RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc.

612-290-3809

chuck@thediscoveryteam.com

EXPECT what you WANT!

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:07:08 -0600

It might seem like a simple concept! Of course you should EXPECT what you WANT! However, the results most people get don't reflect what they want.

We could all debate why that is. The individual can justify and rationalize why that is, but when it comes down to it their FAITH isn't strong enough to trust that their GOOD will come forth.

Or to put it another way the person who gets things they DON'T WANT has attracted those things by spending too much time DOUBTING that their GOOD would come through or FEARING the things that might go wrong in the process.

We have all been there at some stage in our lives and if we still dwell on thoughts that are filled with doubt and fear its okay. Just become aware you have these thoughts and take some time to become quiet and imagine some of the good things you would want to happen.

As thoughts come to try to hinder these HIGHER THOUGHTS just shake them off. Say softly to yourself, "there is no doubt...there is no fear"..."I believe!"..."all things are possible for those who believe!"

EXPECTING what you WANT does take time and practice. But its really no more difficult then expecting what you don't want so why not do it this way instead.

Develop A Prosperity Consciousness

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 21:58:54 -0600

I have increased my sales and production in the last two years while putting in less hours. One of the biggest differences for me in the last couple of years is that I have developed a PROSPERITY CONSCIOUSNESS.

I used to spend more time focusing on the NOT ENOUGH or LACK and when I became aware that those LACK and POVERTY thoughts were not helping me I decide to change my thinking!

I have to tell you it took work and it is still a work in progress for me. Each day I continue to program my mind for success by thinking prosperous thoughts. I program my mind by reading uplifting materials and listening to PROSPEROUS audios. I say affirmations that build my faith and trust in the what I am doing.

The good news is it works great. I have a prosperous business! I have prosperous relationships and prosperous health!

I am amazed that so many people are unaware of the power of their thoughts! I am amazed more when I hear people mock and ridicule prosperous teachers or preachers.

Why do you do what you do?

To barely get by? To struggle? To go crazy?

Or do you do what you to to HELP others! Do you give so much service that the good you deserve gets sent out from you and comes back to you?

Do you have a prosperity consciousness? Do you know what it is? Do you embrace it? Or do you mock it?

YOU WERE BORN RICH!!!

Chuck Carstensen --- 612-290-3809 --- RE/MAX Associates Plus inc

RESOURCE for those who want to develop a prosperity consciousness: www.DiscoverYourSuccess.net

You Think You Have It Bad? Someone Else Probably Has It Worse?

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:57:06 -0600

Many of today's real estate transactions can WEAR YOU OUT. Closings can be delayed because of title issues, underwriting delays, septic issues, and a plethora of other challenges. Plus the more sales you have going on as a Realtor the more you probably have to worry about.

I tend to be someone who is able to dwell in an UPLIFTED state of mind most of the time. However, there are those moments where I catch myself thinking about what can go wrong, or why did this get delayed and whose fault is it that it was delayed!

But the reality of a transaction getting delayed or even falling apart is that ITS NOT THE END OF THE WORLD. I have had 4-5 emails in the last 24 hours of people sending prayer requests about pressing health issues or previous losses of loved ones.

One was about someone who is a single parent with a little 2 year old girl that he is raising on his own because his wife died the day after giving birth. Yet he is overcoming this obstacle and making the best of it.

Another is of someone I have worked with for a few years asking for prayer about a medical test she is having and it seems she is fearing the worst. Still another was about someone with the swine flu locally and it sounds like that person is struggling to hang on. One more was about someone who has cancer and just a few weeks to live.

THE LESSON FOR ME AND MAYBE FOR SOME OF YOU IS THAT ---- YOU THINK YOU HAVE IT BAD? Try going through what some of these people are going through! Or at least don't get so worked up when someone offends you or a transaction is a bit of a challenge.

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX ASSOCIATES PLUS INC - 612-290-3809

The Time To Buy A Home In Minnesota

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 22:01:48 -0600

When it gets too cold out, most people don't want to move. When the holidays are near by people are too busy to look at houses. Year after year I find that it slows down this time of year because less people are looking for homes.

However, if you are in a position to buy a home now, use this time to find the right home! This is the BEST time to buy a home in Minnesota and here is why:

1. Less people are looking because its too cold for them to move. ( More homes for you!)

2. The holiday's are coming and the stress of moving and fitting in time for the holiday's is too much (less competition on offers for you!)

3. Interest rates are still very very low!

4. The tax credit extension means there is an extra incentive to buy. And since less people are looking now, you are less likely to run into multiple offers like you would in the Spring.

5. Going off the above point the prices are going to be lower now then they will be in the Spring.

I would strongly suggest buying a home in the next 2-3 months instead of waiting until March or April if you have everything in line now.

Chuck Carstensen

RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc.

612-290-3809

Back To Back Pick The Pros Prize Winner

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:31:43 -0600

Its been a long time coming for me to actually make good football picks, but in back to back weeks I won the Pick The Pros prize dished out by Wells Fargo in my area.

Basically you just pick the winner of each NFL game (excluding Mondays) and whoever has the best record wins a prize. I came into the office today and found that I had 2 prizes, one each for the last two weeks.

Of course now this week I actually decided to think when I was making my picks. This might be the kiss of death.

My upset special is the TEXANS beating the COLTS. (I am guessing no one will pick that one).

I also suggest taking the RAVENS over the BENGALS in my toss up pick. (Evenly matched teams).

Good Luck!

Staying Comfortable

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 10:31:16 -0500

Comfortable...sounds like such a nice fuzzy, cozy and warm word. Almost any sentence that we could use it in makes it sound like "getting comfortable" is a great thing! ...And I would agree.

Unfortunately "staying comfortable" is holding most people down. So many people are down and out because of finances or relationships or because of things that they regret not doing. However, its always OUR CHOICE what we do, and most people choose to STAY COMFORTABLE and then complain or get depressed about where they are.

If you could take a few simple steps to improve your life would you FOLLOW THROUGH on them?

Most people will go to the course, listen to cd; only to say later they tried to DO BETTER but it did not work for them.

To take yourself to a HIGHER place you have to get out of your comfort zone. It may take a little extra time. It may cause you to have to let go of some habits that are not serving you. It may mean you have to spend your money in a different way.

For the FEW that choose to go HIGHER it is well worth it. And for the others they sit back stay comfortable. Is that working for you??

Chuck Carstensen

RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc

612-290-3809

www.DiscoverYourSuccess.net (For those looking to get out of the comfort zone)

Every Day Is Another Chance

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:15:47 -0500

Its easy to think about all the "could haves" and "should haves" of yesterday and last week and wonder "why me". Often we fall into that trap.

However, its our choice to look at each day is a new adventure and a new beginning. Its a chance to do your best right now! (Even if you did not bring your best yesterday.) Its a day you can enjoy if you CHOOSE to. It doesn't matter what the weather is like or how the transactions are looking at this point. Today can be a great day!

Look for ways to make this day a great day! What can you give? Who can you bless? What can you do or not do that would help you feel good?

The Diamond Principle

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:19:20 -0500

I am going to share with you a powerful SUCCESS AFFIRMATION. I take it from Six Minutes To Success with Bob Proctor.

The Diamond Principle:

I live out the DIAMOND PRINCIPLE! It says, "Residing within me are the attributes of precious diamonds. Like the diamond I am uniquely created. There is no other diamond quite like me. Precious...I have a sense of worth. I am valuable! I am lovable and capable! Like a diamond I reflect light bringing warmth and color to all who see me!"

This is truely great way to see yourself and a great way to bring more goodness into your life and the life of those around you. Its easy to get down in tough times, but with help of mindset changing attitudes like these you can learn to quickly get feeling good again.

More great tools at www.DiscoverYourSuccess.net

Chuck Carstensen

RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc

612-290-3809

Reduced Price! 4474 Rosemary Way #4 Hugo, MN 55038

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:02:48 -0500

view all photos (6)

4474 ROSEMARY WAY #4
HUGO, MN 55038

$150,000

2 Bedrooms
1 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms
1,632 Est. Sq. Ft.

Listing # 3810988

Nice Community of Townhomes. Close to Freeway, shopping and more. Freshly painted and carpet cleaned. Immediate possession available.

Schedule a Showing

School: Elem | Mid | High

Location Information
County:	Washington	Map Code:	67A2
MLS Area:	LINO LAKES/HUGO/CENTERVILLE	MLS Area Number:	705

Interior Features
1/2 Baths:	1	Other Bathrooms Description:	Main Floor 1/2 Bath, Walk-Thru, Whirlpool
Has Dining Room:	Yes	Dining Room Description:	Informal Dining Room, Breakfast Area, Living/Dining Room
Has a Family Room:	No	Amenities:	Other
Has Fireplace:	No	Number of Fireplaces:	0
Heating:	Forced Air	Heating Fuel:	Natural Gas
Cooling:	Central	Appliances:	Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Disposal
Has Basement:	No

Exterior Features
Construction:	Previously Owned	Exterior:	Metal/Vinyl
Roof:	Asphalt Shingles	Septic Sewer:	Connected
Water:	Connected	Parking Description:	Attached Garage
Has Garage:	Yes	Number of Garage Spaces:	2
Pool Description:	Shared	Has Golf Course:	No
Lot Description:	Zero Lot Line	Lot Size (Acres):	N/A
Road Frontage:	No Outlet/Dead End	Has WaterFront:	No

School
School District:	WHITE BEAR LAKE

Additional Information
Property Type:	CND	Property SubType:	Quad/4 Corners
Year Built:	2006	Is a Foreclosure:	No
Lender Owned:	No	Potential Short Sale:	No
Unit Features:	Washer/Dryer Hookup	Fees Include:	Sanitation, Snow/Lawn Care, Outside Maintenance, Water/Sewer, Building Exterior, Shared Amenities, Other
Restrictions:	Weight/Height Limit, Mandatory Owners Association	Room Dimensions (LxW):	BR1: 20x11, BR2: 14x11, DR: 13x9, KT: 13x13, LR: 13x16

Listing Agent:
The Discovery Team

Chuck Carstensen

612-290-3809

chuck@thediscoveryteam.com

I Use Twitter Better Then Larry Johnson

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:13:59 -0500

I admit. I am not on twitter alot! I am sure the best is yet to come. My blog posts do go over to twitter. I can say this though: I USE TWITTER BETTER THEN KANSAS CITY CHIEF'S RUNNING BACK LARRY JOHNSON.

The former all pro back can no longer find space to gain many yards playing on a terrible team. So guess what he does...calls out his coach on Twitter...that gets noticed and then he calls the media and fans "fags"...come on Larry.

Its a great lesson on what not to do. So often I come on facebook, active rain, or twitter and notice people "blowing off steam" about some negativity or misfortune or even ripping on someone else.

Sure we might all be tempted to do this each day but is it really worth it? I feel a little bad for picking on Johnson to make a point in this block.

Its simply much better to mention uplifting and helpful things using social media. This is what is going to attract more business too you!

Seriously, Could We Get Some Bank Owned Listings...Now!

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:57:32 -0500

Each day I look through the new listings and run several saved search updates for buyers I am working with, and it surprises me to see almost NOTHING is getting listed. Some of the REO listing agents that I pay attention to have nearly sold out of all of there listings. Most of the sales I am putting together now for my buyers are short sale listings because that is about all that are out there that are priced correctly.

For months we have been hearing about the 2ND WAVE OF FORECLOSURES that are coming. I look in the paper and see a lot of notices, but where are all the listings? Are people getting loan modifications? Did a lot of those foreclosures sell as short sales thus reducing the bank owned listings?

There are still a lot of good buyers looking for homes, but they need something worthwhile to purchase otherwise they will stay put. So if BANKS are withholding any listings its time to get what they can on the market...NOW! Seriously!

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc. - 612-290-3809

Malachi 3:3

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:05:04 -0500

I had a message forwarded to me today that I really enjoyed so I wanted to share it.

Malachi 3:3 says:

"He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities...

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says:

"He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver."

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.

The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered,
"Oh, that's easy -
- when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

Pass this on right now.. This very moment, someone needs to know that God is watching over them. And whatever they're going through, they'll be a better person in the end.

"Life is a coin.
You can spend it anyway you wish,
but you can only spend it once."

For we walk by faith, not by sight. (II Corinthians 5:7)

Tax Credit Idea: Extend $8000 Tax Credit To Buyers Who Buy 'Market Worn' Listing

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:22:39 -0500

I keep reading about the possibility of the $8000 tax credit being extended and different pushes to open it up to more people. Of course I hear the naysayers who think it will be throwing money away and only temporarily keep market prices up.

They say that most of the people will buy a home anyway so why give them the tax credit. I know that I have probably gotten 7-10 more sales in the recent 3-4 months because buyer wanted the tax credit. That was there motivation. These are people who would have stayed on the fence and perhaps waited until next spring if it weren't for the tax credit. I know it has helped!

However, I like to come up with ideas that work for all people involved. How about this:

EXTEND THE $8000 TAX CREDIT TO BUYERS WHO BUY A 'MARKET WORN' HOUSE!

What I mean by 'market worn' is a house that has been on the market a defined amount of days without selling. That could be 50 or more, 100 or more, maybe 150 or more days. We know many house are coming on the market and selling right away and tax credit or not they will sell, so why throw $8000 at those.

The houses that are 'market worn' are a big part of the problem. They sit on the market and people do a search and say, "wow there are so many houses out there." The truth is there are many that sell fast and then a large number that linger on the market.

Guess what? A lot of buyers would search this market and go after the 'market worn" houses and at least consider them and even throw some offer at them. Perhaps eventually the seller would come to reality on the price and the buyer would be happy because they would get a tax credit for buying the house.

We all probably have 1 or 2 listings that are right on the fringe of selling if only there was a there was motivation that pointed the buyer to the house over some others that are out there. I am not suggesting people over pay for bad houses. I do believe that most sellers will look at reasonable offers. As days on the market increases sellers can become more flexible. And a TAX CREDIT for the buyers taking one of these homes of the market is something worth extending!

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc. - Elk River, MN - 612-290-3809 - chuck@thediscoveryteam.com

Have You Been Creating Your Problems?

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 08:19:44 -0500

Often we CREATE OUR PROBLEM through our thoughts. We also continue to EXPAND OUR PROBLEMS by talking about them. Certainly it can be healthy to get things off your chest, but shortly after its time to let go.

Most people don't realize the power of their thoughts and words. Your thoughts and words attract many of the situations and circumstances of your life. If things are problematic its time to look back at what you have been thinking and talking about.

People get caught up in a negative mindset. Many people are also pessimistic. The thinking is that if you don't think anything good will happen, at least you will not be disappointed when it does not happen. This way of thinking creates a habit of doubt and fear which in turn keeps you stuck to stress filled mediocre results.

NO FUN AT ALL! I would always like to enjoy whole, harmonious and complete results. GOOD results. Can I say that everything works out perfectly the way I want? No I can't -but I have trouble finding anything that has not worked out for the GOOD and many things work out better then expected.

Its OUR CHOICE...do we want to create more problems with our thinking? Or would we like to think and speak our way to GOOD results?

Sounds like a no-brainer, but why are there so many people that choose thoughts and speak words that attract more problems?

Open House From 1-3 PM Saturday at 2601 Frontage Rd N - Waite Park, MN 56387

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 07:08:14 -0500

Open House on Saturday, Oct 17, 2009 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Open Home Info) (Close Open Home Info)

Directions: Hwy 75 in Waite Park to 28th Ave (across from Fleet Farm) go North to Frontage Rd and home on L

Remarks: Great Location, Nice sized lot w/ this Waite Park Home. Home is daycare ready w/ recent updates. New Water Heater '09- Roof '07 Flooring in most rooms. Tax assesments will be paid at closing. Lg LL Family Room-Open Layout w/vault ceilings Lg deck & more

view all photos (10)

2601 FRONTAGE RD N
WAITE PARK, MN 56387

$125,000

3 Bedrooms
1 Bathrooms
1,728 Est. Sq. Ft.

Listing # 3689525

Great Location, Nice sized lot w/ this Waite Park Home. Home is daycare ready w/ recent updates. New Water Heater '09- Roof '07 Flooring in most rooms. Tax assesments will be paid at closing. Lg LL Family Room-Open Layout w/vault ceilings Lg deck & more

Schedule a Showing

School: Elem | Mid | High

Location Information
County:	Stearns	Map Code:	999A1
MLS Area:	Waite Park & Vicinity	MLS Area Number:	408

Interior Features
Other Bathrooms Description:	Main Floor Full Bath, Rough In	Has Dining Room:	Yes
Dining Room Description:	Kitchen/Dining Room	Has a Family Room:	Yes
Family Room Description:	Lower Level	Has Fireplace:	No
Number of Fireplaces:	0	Heating:	Baseboard, Hot Water
Heating Fuel:	Natural Gas	Appliances:	Range, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Owned
Basement Description:	Finished (Livable), Drain Tiled, Sump Pump	Has Basement:	Yes

Exterior Features
Construction:	Previously Owned	Roof:	Asphalt Shingles, Pitched, Age 8 Years or Less
Septic Sewer:	Connected	Water:	Connected
Parking Description:	Detached Garage, Garage Door Opener	Has Garage:	Yes
Number of Garage Spaces:	2	Has Golf Course:	No
Lot Description:	Light	Lot Size (Acres):	0.48
Has WaterFront:	No

School
School District:	ST. CLOUD

Additional Information
Property Type:	SFR	Property SubType:	One Story
Year Built:	1976	Is a Foreclosure:	No
Lender Owned:	No	Potential Short Sale:	No
Unit Features:	Kitchen Window, Vaulted Ceiling(s), Hardwood Floors	Room Dimensions (LxW):	BR1: 15x12, BR2: 10x12, BR3: 15x11, DR: 9x7, KT: 9x11, LR: 15x16, FR: 26x16

Listing Agent:
Chuck Carstensen
763-635-7228
chuck@thediscoveryteam.com

Short Sales Will Need To Come Through

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:45:24 -0500

At this point in the year it seems the best way to get an offer accepted is by finding a short sale that is priced well enough and making a solid offer that a seller will sign off on so the BANK can review it for acceptance.

My end of the year is looking like its going to depend on buyers getting their short sales approved. I have one closing tomorrow with a buyer who is purchasing a short sale and at least 7 other offers that are waiting bank approval.

The BANK OWNED homes have been selling so fast and so much over the asking price that the short sales have been the way to go for most buyers. The pressure is on for some of these to close by November 30th for the first time buyer tax credit, but then again I am feeling an extension coming on anyway.

To get a short sale offer accepted you want to write a clean offer NOT asking for repairs, and normally offering the asking price (assuming that is fair market price) with no more then 3% seller paid closing costs. It also helps to have an approval from a trusted mortgage person.

Some short sale homes are getting multiple offers so you may have to go slightly above asking price in some instances. Also, you will have to be patient because it might take 60-90 days for the bank to approve your offer and then another 30 days to close.

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc - 612-290-3809

Fuzzy Vision (could not see for an hour or so)

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:26:51 -0500

Today I was overdue for an eye exam. I needed to get more contact lenses and its required to get an exam every year, so I went to do that today.

I went through the normal tests. My vision seemed the same but after about 4 years of the same prescription I think they decided they better adjust one of the eyes a bit just to make it seem worth while to do the appointment.

They did do one thing different, and that was put some drops in my eyes which apparently would help them see what kind of shape my eyes are in.

While sitting there waiting to go back in for the final prescription I noticed I could not see anything close up. My phone was getting calls and emails and I could not read it... I got sort of worried, but when I went back in they explained that your close vision is blurred for a couple hours with the drops. So it was...

I stopped by the office to see if I could read the computer emails better and sat about 4 feet from the screen but I really could not read my messages. Sort of annoying for someone like me who likes to respond to messages fast.

Then I got to thinking that our VISION is a gift from God. Some people cannot see at all. So I am truely thankful that I have eyesight and now I can see just normal again.

So remember to be thankful for the things we take for granted, like your eyesight, hearing, shelter, health, business, spouse, kids and so on!

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX ASSOCIATES PLUS inc. - 612-290-3809

Extending the Tax Credit

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:10:31 -0500

The $8000 tax credit has been successful getting more buyers into the market. Its been so successful in the lower price range that most homes are getting multiple offers and bid up. So should it get extended?

A loan officer I work with suggested to me yesterday that it might get extended to those who are under contract by November 30th. I LOVE this idea for a couple reasons:

1) There are a few late arrivers to the incentive that have just now decided to buy a house. Its not likely though to actually secure a home right now and close by November 30th. So their motivation may be a bid waste of time for ALL involved unless they extend the credit a bit.

2) A potentially more explosive situation: What about those who go around contract now or are currently under contract and expecting to close by Nov. 30. But thanks to various scenarios that are out of their control like title issues, short sales taking too long, underwriting changes to their loan. All the sudden get their closing bumped back a few days into December. Imagine the frustration, the lawsuits, the stress this will cause?!?!

Just based on those two points I think the tax credit should be for fully executed purchase agreements by November 30 or even October 30th if they want to limited a bit to those who were proactive enough to potentially close by November 30th.

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX ASSOCIATES PLUS Inc.

Serving: Isanti, Sherburne, Wright, Washington, Hennepin, Chisago, Anoka, Mille Lacs, and Kanabec Counties in Minnesota. 612-290-3809

Go Twins!

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:03:42 -0500

I took a break from work yesterday afternoon and went to the Metrodome to see the tie breaker game between the Minnesota Twins and the Detroit Tigers. On the way to the game my brother called to let me know that he got a free upgrade to one of the suites and once I got in I could stop over. Traffic was horrible at that time of day. My friend dropped me and his wife and 2 year old off one block away during the first inning eventhough we left in plenty of time. She is 8 month pregnant so I carried their daughter. The crowd was massive going in and I managed to lose her...she then found me and I thought she was going to kill me for losing her...she didn't.

Once we got in all was well. I headed over to my brother suite to take in the game. What an amazing game. It was back and forth and went extra innings. Heart stopping and stressful much of the time. My voice was nearly gone at the end, but thankfully they pulled it out.

The Twins lost former league MVP Justin Morneau to injury with 21 games to go in the season and they trailed the Tigers by 6.5 games. They went 17-4 to end the year...made up three games in the last four days of the season and now will play the Yankees tonight in the playoffs. Most people have counted the Twins out, but I wont. They are going to make this series close and who knows...maybe they can keep the magic going!

How the Twins NEVER GAVE UP is a good reminder for all of us to NEVER GIVE UP. Even when your down and out and the odds are against you if you show up and do your best you can still come out victorious!

Chuck Carstensen

RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc

612-290-3809

My Email is Down (Hotmail)

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:07:13 -0500

For about 24 hours my hotmail has been down. Most of that time I have been able to get emails on my Blackberry. But I wanted to get this out there in case I am missing some important emails from anyone.

As you can imagine when your email goes down you feel sort of helpless. I am relearning how to use the fax as oppose to scanning and emailing every file.

Its very annoying when this happens. I am doing the best I can with it. Thankfully I have the Blackberry! But please call me if you need me!

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc. - 763-635-7228

Minnesota HUD Homes for $100 Down with an FHA Loan (Revisited)

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:49:08 -0500

You can buy a HUD home in Minnesota for as low as $100 down! The FHA loan options even allows you to use the FHA 203k loan to get the "fix ups" needed financed in the home. Or you can simply escrow smaller repairs as part of the FHA 203e loan.

I am noticing Minnesota HUD listings starting to hit the market in heavier amounts now. There are good options for HUD home purchases for both first time buyers and investors in Sherburne, Washington, Hennepin, Anoka, Isanti, Wright, Ramsey and Mille Lacs county.

Remember you must use a HUD Registered agent for a purchase of a Minnesota HUD home. There is still time for the $8000 tax credit but you would need to get a bid accepted in the next few days for that!

If you want a list of Minnesota HUD homes in your area just email me at chuck@thediscoveryteam.com or call 612-290-3809.

Chuck Carstensen - RE/MAX Associates Plus Ins.

Sherburne County, Isanti County, Anoka County -Minnesota Housing Market

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:33:35 -0500

I am working with several buyers who are looking for a house trying to get into one before the $8000 tax credit expires. Right now in Sherburne, Isanti, Anoka and Wright counties there simply is not much out there. I have not been seeing many new listings. The ones that do come on the market are getting multiple offers and selling fast. A few of the homes that are lasting are because they are in terrible condition and really need a cash or rehab loan buyer.

So what do you do if your a buyer?

1. Be patient but persistent- You can't get too worked about what is NOT available. You just need to keep looking and trying and be ready when one comes up.

2. Plan NOT to get the tax credit (sort of) - I always like to hope for the best and preach that you must stay in an uplifted state of mind and that your thoughts become things. However, at this point your going to need to find a house with in a couple of weeks and have everything go near perfect to close in time.

3. Factor in the flood of closings in November - If you get an offer accepted soon chance are that there may be an underwriting flood that could slow final approvals done, so get all your documentation to your loan officer NOW!

4. Buyer in December and January - if your frustrated with the amount of competition out there when you make an offer then buy a home when less people are buying and in Minnesota that is in the COLD winter months!

Chuck Carstensen - Re/max Associates Plus inc - 612-290-3809 - chuck@thediscoveryteam.com

Reminder: Six Minutes to Success

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:15:52 -0500

Its important to begin the day RIGHT! I do my best to spend time reading something UPLIFTING in the morning. Along with that I spend time in meditation and prayer. On top of both of those I do SIX MINUTES TO SUCCESS.

The results have been great! My sales are up. I will close 10-16 more homes this year over last year. My income should be up some as well! I have had much more time available to spend with loved ones as well. These things are important to me as well as most others.

Any time I get away from doing the reading, meditating or daily SIX MINUTES LESSONS I seem to lose an edge. Then of course I quickly get back to doing them. Sure it takes about 30 minutes or more of time to do this but I have figured out that its the best time I spend all day and results follow with more agreement and ease.

I encourage everyone to early in their day read something uplifting, and spend time in meditation. I am referring you to this link to get the SIX MINUTES TO SUCCESS LESSON. Your first one is FREE.

Chuck Carstensen

RE/MAX Associates Plus Inc

612-290-3809

Big Week For Minnesota Sports Fans

Chuck Carstensen (Re/max Associates Plus/The Discovery Coach) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 08:51:41 -0500

I am a big sports fan! This stands to be a big week for MINNESOTA sports fans!

First, the Minnesota Vikings are coming off an amazing come from behind win! I am the type to never give up hope until its over and watching the game Sunday I can't say that I knew they would win, but sure was excited when they did win!

Brett Farve seems a little out of shape and somewhat rusty at times but give that guy the ball with 1 minute left and no timeouts; he is DIALED IN! He took his game up a notch, from rifling fast balls to the receivers, to stepping up in the pocket to buy time and avoid the rush to throw the game winning touchdown!!

Now we face Green Bay next Monday! That will be interesting to see how it plays out as Farve will face his old team.

Also the Minnesota Twins are 2 games out of first place and today start a four game series with division leaders - Detroit Tigers at Detroit. The Twins have been scrappy as of late and if they can take 3 of 4 in Detroit it will be an interesting week for Baseball fans as well!

Go Twins and Vikings!