Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group's Blog

Seller Costs Are Substantial & Need To Be Addressed Early In The Selling Process

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 05:50:44 -0800

I found this blog post very informative and educational. While many of our sales lately involve short sales, we are seeing more traditional homes coming on the market. I strive to be a Realtor who educates my clients. That makes for a smoother and happier transaction.

Via George Souto (George Souto NMLS# 65149 FHA, CHFA, VA Mortgages Connecticut):

Sellers often think that the profit on the sale of their house is the difference between the Selling Price and what they still owe on the house. It would be nice if that were the case, but unfortunately Seller's will incur Closing Costs on the sale of their property. These Seller Costs Are Substantial And Need To Be Addressed Early In The Selling Process.

Often when I meet with Borrowers that are in the process of selling their existing house they are surprised to findout that the full difference between the Selling Price, and what they still owe on the house will not be available for them to put down towards the purchase of a new house. The fact that it is me that is telling them this for the first time always surprises me, because I would expect this to be discussed with their Listing Realtor very early in the process of selling their home and purchasing a new one. In fact if the Seller's are dealing with one of the Realtors that I partner with, they already have this information, and they are not surprised when I also have this conversation with them. But if it is a part-time Real Estate Agent, or someone that is not as knowledgeable as the Realtors that I partner with, my conversation with them is always the first time that they are hearing about it.

The calculation for what the Underwriter will consider as the Net Proceeds of the sale of the exsistiong property is very simple. It is not the indebt breakdown that a Professional Realtor like those that I partner with and highly recommend, will do for them when discussing the sale of their exsiting property. The calculation that the Underwriter will use is as follows:

Deduct 8% from the Selling Price. Included in the 8% are Realtor Commission, Attorney Fees, Conveyance Fees, Meter Reading, and any other customary Seller Closing Cost.

Subtract the balance on the existing Mortgage from the remaining amount.

Subtract Second Mortgages, Home Equities, Lines of Credit, and Liens.

The remainder is the amount that will be available towards the purchase of the new home.

NOTE: Automated Underwriting is even more conservative in its calculation. Automated Underwriting will deduct 10% instead of 8%.

The Listing Realtor breakdown of what the expected Seller Closing Costs are expected to be, will be more accurate that the simple calculation that is used by the Underwriter. That is because the Underwriter is not concerned with a detailed breakdown of costs at this point. All the Underwriter is concerned with is with a CONSERVATIVE estimate of the Seller Closing Costs to make sure there will be sufficient funds to close on the new property.

The expectation of available funds needs to happen in my opinion, in the very first conversation that the Realtor and Loan Officer has with the Seller/Borrower. As you can see from the above calculation Seller Costs Are Substantial & Need To Be Addressed Early In The Selling Process to eliminate any surprises later on.

*******************************************************************************

Info about the author:

George Souto is a Loan Officer who can assist you with all your FHA, CHFA, and Conventional mortgage needs in Connecticut. George resides in Middlesex County which includes Middletown, Middlefield, Durham, Cromwell, Portland, Higganum, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester, Deep River, and Essex. George can be contacted at (860) 573-1308 or gsouto@mccuemortgage.com

The Couch Killed More Real Estate Careers Than The Great Recession

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 05:44:51 -0800

What a great post. The analogy is awesome and I believe if more agents actively took part in their office and utilized the office to set systems in place and time block their days, they would be more successful.

Via Doug Rogers- Your Pineville Louisiana Agent (Century 21 Millennium):

The Couch Killed More Real Estate Careers Than The Great Recession--

Once again, there are fewer agents in my board than in the previous year. Real estate practice has been "fun" the past few years, but one obstacle looms above the rest...

That's right, the big comfy couch! Like Jaws trolling off a popular beach, the comfy couch consumes agents with wild abandon. Got nothing in the pipeline? Then why go to the office? Hopefully someone will call to list their home, just not during The View.

Inactivity leads to inactivity. Without active prospecting FIVE DAYS a week, the real estate pipeline will soon dry. Yes, there have (read are) lean months in this business. But even as the well drys I prime the pump harder.

Prospecting has allowed me to survive, and in some months thrive in this business. Of course due to wear and kid-tear my couch is about as comfortable as a 1983 pickup truck. Perhaps that's the secret to real estate practice, owning a cheap couch!

Searching for a Top real estate agent in Alexandria Louisiana? Need help selling your Pineville, Louisiana home? Either way call Doug today!

Doug Rogers

Associate Broker

Century 21 Millennium

Century 21 Millennium

donahue Ferry Road

Pineville, La, 71360

(318) 640-2121

Each office independently owned and operated. Equal opportunity housing. Doug Rogers is a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana

Staging Without Spending -- One Key to Home Selling Success!

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 06:58:33 -0800

What a great post. I have been part of a brokerage in Atlanta that even had an in-house stager. She was able to do wonders, but was expensive.

I like the before and after pictures. When someone puts their home on the market they have to change their perception of their home, to a commodity that they are trying to sell.

This type of simple staging allows perspective buyers to see their things and where they would fit in the home.

Via Gabrielle Nemes (RE/MAX Select R.E.):

Staging Without Spending -- One Key to Home Selling Success!

Effective staging is a tremendous benefit when needing or wanting to sell a home. But professional staging can be expensive. Don't get me wrong -- professional stagers do absolutely amazing jobs! But sometimes the money's just not there to hire a stager, buy a bunch of staging materials or rent snazzy furniture. A seller and I often spend less than $250 when preparing a home for sale.

Simple clean-up and rearranging of furniture can do wonders without spending much more than the cost of soap and water, a few boxes to store extra clutter and possessions, and maybe the short-term rental of a storage unit.

Removing worn throw rugs, dingy pillows and bedspreads is a tremendously effective tool. Sometimes merely washing and ironing (yes ... that word) is sufficient. A bottle of bleach and a can of my favorite "Barkeeper's Friend" can make kitchens and bathrooms really shine. Remove all of those refrigerator magnets, canisters, coffee pots, grinders, toasters, etc. as they just look like clutter when photographed.

A visit to the local thrift store can provide a couple of big toys (scrubbed sparkling clean, of course) to add personality to an empty bedroom. A gallon or two of mis-mixed neutral-toned paint and a couple of hours can freshen up a stale entry. Don't forget the discount stores such as Big Lots!, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods when shopping for linens and impact art pieces. Check out the clearance aisles at Home Depot or Lowe's if you need to replace or update light fixtures or cabinet pulls. I've picked up small tables and then spray painted them for entry accents.

And don't forget the front door. My favorite is to paint the door a deep charcoal or black. Then put a couple of pots of live flowers near the front door. Not just greenery (of course it depends on the time of year), but some nice yellows, reds, or purples sitting on the clean front porch near that freshly painted front door -- just does wonders.

I wish I'd have taken more "before" pictures from some of the homes I've sold, but did scrounge up a few before and after photos. Maybe these few photos will give you a few ideas.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Before (nice kitchen & well kept, but look at the clutter'y fridge and the stuff above the cupboards.)

Here's the same kitchen after decluttering. Still a few necessary things on the counter ... but look at the difference! Could we have removed the wallpaper border? Yes ... but the owner really pushed back and I wanted to pick my battles.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Another before and after kitchen. Of course it helped tremendously to remove the spent roses from the room ...but even removing the extra microwave cart and adding a little breakfast table to the end made a huge difference!

-------------------------------------------------------------

Here's another before and after. One of those difficult young teen's rooms where stuff gets thrown everywhere. Tied up the curtains, removed the extra dresser and held the threat of extra chores and homework over the young owner's head should the place get cluttered again during the selling process. You can't see the posters on that were on the wall beside the bed and taped to the closet doors. Those were taken down, with the tape residue also scrubbed off.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Even outside, small organizational efforts can be amazing. Check out these before and after deck photos.

It was raining during the "before" photo and sunny during the "after" photo. We trimmed up the overgrown bush in the corner, rearranged the BBQ area, swept the roof overhang and rearranged the deck furniture so it looked tidy.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

In almost every house, rearranging furniture and gathering all of the collectibles into a single "themed" room also goes a long ways. Prior to listing, walk through the house and notice how many things you've gathered that are similar -- little ceramic boats, boat pictures, metal sailboats. We all tend to have things we love, but then we spread them out all over. Gather them together into a single themed bathroom or bedroom.

Many times you can Stage Without Spending -- One Key to Home Selling Success!

Your Dedicated Realtor, ActiveRain Blogger, Seller, Buyer, and Short Sale agent working the Auburn, Kent, Renton, Maple Valley, Federal Way, Covington, Puyallup, Sumner, Bonney Lake, Lake Tapps, and north/northeast Tacoma areas. Visit my Web site too!

Three Words That Can Create Failure

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 05:20:41 -0800

I found this post while reading a compilation blog, a Rainer that features blogs she finds that need sharing.

I truly believe we create our own reality and using words, like these three, can certainly limit us as we grow and strive for mastery.

Via Sheila Newton Team~Anderson & Greenville SC Real Estate/ Foreclosures/Short Sales (RE/MAX Realty Professionals):

Would you believe that your level of success is determined by the words you use on a daily basis? And if you can avoid using "failure" words, you can have more success?

It is true. The words you use every day can determine if you will achieve success or failure. There are many words that could be considered "failure" words. Below are three of the most frequently used "failure" words I hear on a daily basis.

1. Luck - If you focus your thoughts on imaginary things like luck, you will subconsciously feel that you can't change the outcome of an event. Luck is also an excuse people use to explain away failure. And if you are the glass is half empty type, it also is a way to devalue your success ( it was just good luck)

2. Hate - I don't like hearing "I hate" in conversations. Almost daily you can hear someone say, "I hate my job" or "I hate my hair" , etc.. Hate is a very strong word and if you think about how it makes you feel when you even use the word, you may use it less.

3. But - There are many people who use the word "but" after most sentences. If you think about it, what that says is "I like what you just said, but I really don't".. But is a word that takes everything you just said and makes it negative. Why not try to use "and" instead. For example, it is much better to hear: "I agree with your idea, and I...." instead of hearing; "I agree with your idea, but I......" The word and is much ore positive!





Sheila Newton, CDPE

Sheila Newton Team

RE/MAX Realty Professionals
864-225-1205 (direct)
864-225-2424 (fax)

www.SheilaNewtonTeam.com

So Many Agents Here On Active Rain Don't Care...

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 07:37:40 -0800

I found this quite informative. I have to bookmark it so that I have the details on how to do this. Always open to learning how to do things better and smarter.

Via Brian Rayl (B&B Realty Group - Keller Williams Elite):

You are here on Active Rain because you want to attract clients, draw traffic to your sites, and garner some referrals from people right? Yet many of you are helping Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com (aka ZTR) and probably not even aware of it. So many agents here on Active Rain don't care... or don't know how to stop it.

Before we begin, you have to know how Google works. Let me describe Google like this. Let's say that you have a lot of questions on a transaction you are doing and you are calling another agent for some help. Let's call him Bobby.

You: Excuse me Bobby, can you answer this question?

Bobby: Oh yes. I had this issue a week ago, and Tom helped me out.

You: (couple hours later) How about this question?

Bobby: Yup. Tom helped me out there too.

You: (couple hours later) How about this third thing?

Bobby: Tom all the way.

The fourth time you have a question, are you going to call Bobby or Tom? It seems that Tom has all the answers right? Well, in this scenario, you are Bobby. You have the answers (your blog posts/website) but you keep telling Google that Tom has all the answers because you keep linking to Tom. Google sees this, and decides why should I send them to Bobby when it is clear that Tom has all the answers?

And thus, when your clients do a search in Google, Google will send them to Tom, aka ZTR. But did you even KNOW that you are telling Google how great Tom is?

What Zillow/Trulia/Realtor.com Are Doing

ZTR create pretty little widgets and icons and shiney badges that agents like to put in their profiles and in their signatures. A quick browsing of the "Featured Posts" will reveal a number of them.

Each and every single one of these provides at least one link over to your competitor. And if you look closely, they probably have a discription in them that uses YOUR keywords. This means that you are telling Google that ZTR are IMPORTANT for THOSE KEY WORDS. And it shows up on every single page of your blog or website or here on Active Rain. The blog one to the left actually sends at least 9 different links over to Trulia! Wow, Google assumes that you think Tom is a great real estate agent...

How To Get Tom (ZTR) Out Of The Picture

I'd like to get a little techy on you to show you how you can stop this. It may be over some of your heads, but hopefully some of you will get it and correct your own mistakes and help others to correct theirs. If anyone would like some assistance but can't figure it out, please feel free to contact me.

When you add a link, you click on the little chain icon, put in the URL and done right? Wrong. Did you know that THIS LINK and THIS LINK are different? They both go to the exact same place. They both have the same anchor text. So what is the difference? Nothing to you or me or anyone who reads this blog. The only one it is different to is Google. Allow me to explain.

If you go into your editor as if you were writing a new post, have you ever noticed the HTML button on the far right of the menu bar? It is next to the Spell Check icon. (You do spell check every post, don't you?!) That HTML button opens up a screen that looks like a lot of jibberish, but this jibberish is what Google sees when it scans your posts and pages. So what is the difference between the two links above?

Link One:

<a href="http://finddallashomesforsale.com/" target="_blank">THIS LINK</a>

What this does is provides a hyperlink to another website. The href is the URL that you are sending people to. The target="_blank" means that you are opening up that URL in a new window. Google looks at this link and says "This URL that they are sending me to has something to do with THIS LINK" so let's add that to our database and give them additional credit if someone searches for THIS LINK.

Link Two:

<a href="http://finddallashomesforsale.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">THIS LINK</a>

Almost the exact same, but you see the rel="nofollow" part in there. This link looks and functions EXACTLY like the previous link, but this time Google says "Whoa! They are telling me NOT TO GIVE CREDIT to that link. I'll let people click on it, but I'm not going to give that site any bump in their search results." This means absolutely nothing to your clients and readers of your blog because it doesn't change how the link functions, but it means a LOT to Google and how it ranks the links.

These Links Hurt EVERYONE

So, you don't have any of these links on your profile. THANK YOU! But you still need to spread the word. Why? Because these links hurt EVERYONE. The person with that Trulia widget is sending 9 linkbacks to Trulia. How many external links do you have coming to YOUR website? It doesn't matter that the person with that Trulia widget is talking about oceanfront property in Arizona. It still affects your business in New York, because the more links Trulia has, they higher their overall page rank, which plays a huge factor in how websites get ranked in the search engines. The guy in California is hurting me in Texas. The lady in New York is hurting the agent in Washington. The people in Canada are hurting those in Mexico.

What Can You Do?

Remove every widget you have. If you really want to keep your 5 star agent link in or a link to your profile or your reviews, add the rel="nofollow" tag to the link using the above example as a guide on where to put it. Again, if you need assistance, contact me.

Finally, SPREAD THE WORD. If you learned ANYTHING in this blog that you were not aware of, REBLOG THIS. If you have seen any of these widgets on Active Rain today, REBLOG THIS. If you have widgets yourself, fix them and REBLOG THIS. And if you agree that this is a problem, REBLOG THIS. The only way this issue gets solved is by spreading the word.

(and if you comment on this article and have one of these widgets in place, you will be called out publicly and beated within an inch of your life with a wet noodle)

Did you like this article? Please take a moment to share it, like it, tweet it, or reblog it! I would also like to hear from you in the comments below, even if it is just a simple THANK YOU!

Brian Rayl, REALTOR®, e-PRO, SFR
B&B Realty Group - Keller Williams Elite Park Cities
214-699-1799
Brian@Rayl-Estate.com
www.FindDallasHomesForSale.com

Specializing in Highland Park real estate, University Park real estate, and homes for sale in Dallas and anywhere in the Dallas area.

Hey, You Are Damaging My Brand

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 07:23:10 -0800

I attended this webinar as well, took a lot of note, but since Debbie did such a great job of summarizing it, thought why re-invent the wheel.

I am going to read the book Brand Delusions and always, always take part in any training offered by Krisstina Wise and the Good Life Team.

Thanks for sharing Debbie.

Via Debbie Reynolds, "The Real Debbie Reynolds" (Prudential PenFed Realty):

Hey, You Are Damaging My Brand. I attended a fabulous webinar sponsored by Kristina Wise featuring author and branding specialist Bill Leider. In his book, Brand Delusions, Bill Leider focuses on the varied aspects that can make our brands better or damage our brands.

He shared some of the principles on branding in the real estate business and how important it is to an agent and the agent’s reputation.

As real estate agents, or frankly any other business person, developing and establishing a brand is being done even though we may not realize it. Having a good brand and image is what we strive for and there are influences out there that are undermining our brand and damaging it.

He says the brand is established by the whole experience the client has with us. So we alone are not the one creating our own brand. There are other influences. If the client meets a rude receptionist in our office, that damages our brand. If someone on our team fails to convey a willing and helpful attitude it affects our brand. If we habitually run late it will affect our brand. If we are lax on returning calls or fail to communicate enough with our client it affects our brand. The experience can be tainted all the way through the transaction with people and situations that affect our brand in a negative way.

Whether you know it or not, you have a brand and have been conveying that brand to the public.

So what are we to do about it?

Evaluate the whole process. First start with looking at yourself. Are you conveying the right attitude and competence to the client? Are your team members on board and do they have the same standard of professionalism as you? Are others in your office reflecting a less than professional image and does the client sees it? Is the company image lifting you up or tearing down your personal brand? Remember, image and brand are very similar and as my mother said, “You are affected by who you hang out with.”

Hey, You Are Damaging My Brand. Look around. You have a brand whether it is good, bad or mediocre. Most of us want a good brand and we have the power to make that happen.

If you want more information on creating a good brand, read Bill Leider’s book, Brand Delusions.

Want To Know What Debbie Has to Say?

If you are needing Real Estate services in Clarksville TN it would be my pleasure to assist you!

.

"The Real Debbie Reynolds" at DebbieReynolds.net

Prudential PenFed Realty, 2503 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., Clarksville, TN 37040

An independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliated, Inc.

Not affiliated with Prudential. Prudential watermarks used under license.

931-920-6730 (office) 931-320-6730 (cell)

California Homeowners Bill of Rights - New Law for 2013

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 05:07:44 -0800

This is a must read for all of our Tulare County folks. This makes so much sense to me given the frustration of working on short sales that ultimately went to foreclosure because two trains left the bank station going in different directions.

If you have any questions about short sales, give me a call or e-mail me.

Foreclosure Avoidance is the answer.

Via Gene Wunderlich - Realtor® & Legislative Liaison (1st Action Real Estate):

The new California Homeowner Bill of Rights becomes law today. If you're not familiar with this measure, it was a bill carried on behalf of California Attorney General Kamala Harris last year that sought to codify some of the measures set forth in the national mortgage settlement deal struck in early 2012.

Initially opposed by the California Association of Realtors as well as the California Bankers Association and the California Mortgage Bankers Association, the bill was pushed through the legislature by a closed joint committee of both houses so when the bill eventually reached the floor, it was voted on immediately and passed to the Governor. Total time in committee, floor and signature was measured in hours rather than days, months or years, as is typical for most bills.

Due to the secretive nature of the committee structure, there was little opportunity for interest groups to provide input and there was great concern that what emerged would be a very flawed effort reflecting an over reaction to purported lender wrongdoing. However, CAR did have an opportunity to work with the committee to effect some modifications to the final version that removed our opposition to the bill. CAR was not supportive of the bill in its final version but adopted a neutral position, although banking groups remained steadfast in their opposition due to to concerns about meritless litigation that the bill opens up for aggreaved homeowners.

Here's what the bill does:

Stops dual tracking. Once the process has started for either a loan modification or short sale by the lender, the foreclosure process must be stopped. This is in response to cases where the property proceeds along multiple courses at the same time only to have the foreclosure process conclude days ahead of a short sale approval by another arm of the bank. As pointed out, this frequently resulted in the bank taking the property back and ultimately receiving thousands less in the foreclosure sale than they would have in a short sale. Of course we know the banks are covered either way and really don't care but ultimately this should result in more short sales and fewer foreclosures, which is better for the recovering market.

Under the dual tracking provisions, banks must give an applicant a response to their loan modification before they can start the foreclosure process. If a homeowner has not applied for a loan modification, the bank must inform them of their right to do so before starting the foreclosure process.

No more robo signing.

Banks must provide a single point of contact to borrowers trying for a loan modification or short sale. Homeowners and Realtors are often frustrated by multiple points of contact and the handoff from one agent to another within a bank frequently resulting in the loss of paperwork sending the process back to square one while the foreclosure process continues apace in another department.

Allows the borrower to sue loan servicers if the borrower thinks they have violated any foreclosure laws. This is one of the most worrisome components of the bill in that it may open the door to frivolous lawsuits resulting in increased costs and unnecessary delays in an already costly and time consuming process.

With nearly 1 million foreclosures recorded in the state since 2007, California remains one of the hardest hit areas of the country. However, foreclosures are down in most areas by 30% or more in the past year and with prices starting to climb across the state, the hope is that fewer and fewer people will be pushed into foreclosure anyway. Some 30% of state homeowners remain underwater in their loans but the combination of improving employment statistics and home price increases has decreased that by more than 5% in the past year.

The Homeowners Bill of Rights may well provide some relief for harried homeowners and produce further delays to the process, but it will do little to change the underlying ability of a homeowner to ultimately afford their home and will, in most cases, only delay the inevitable. If Sacramento and DC don't screw it up, an improving economy will do more to aid homeowners than the HBR will ever accomplish - and ultimately that's the best news for everybody.

Read the Attorney General's summary of the measure here: California Homeowner Bill of Rights.

5 Things A Short Sale Agent Can Do To Protect Against Future Liability

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 10:23:10 -0700

Great information and advice from one of the experts in the area. While, as agents, we disclose and constantly insist we are not attorneys, it is best that we document everything that we do in these transactions. Better safe than sorry.

Via Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc:

Hi Folks. Have you ever been sued by a Seller or Buyer?? I haven't. But if I were I'd be ready to stand in front of any judge and defend myself.

It's my opinion that over the next few years there is going to be a huge increase in lawsuits against agents and brokers. Mostly related to Short Sales. That Seller you helped is going to be real pissed off, 5 years from now, when he is slapped with a deficiency judgment and his wages and assets are garnished.

Will you be prepared to defend yourself? Do you have a written record of what when down during the Short Sale process? Or did you just wing it?

Here are some things I do now to protect myself in the future. Hopefully there are a few you can implement into your business. Even better, maybe you have some ideas that I can use.

Make sure you are covered with your E &O insurance.

Use email as often as possible for communications so you have a written record of the conversations. If you do have a phone conversation with a customer/client follow up with an email and outline the points that were discussed. This also helps to eliminate confusion. "Your Honor he never told us that" Yes I did. Look here.

Have a disclosure package at time of contract (listing or BBA) that outlines the short sale process in detail and what can be expected. Have this all signed and dated. "We thought he was giving us legal advice so we didn't hire an Attorney". Sorry, but you signed 3 different times that I was NOT an Attorney and that I was NOT giving legal advice.

Have a log of every action you take related to the short sale. You can use Short Sale Commander for this. My Sellers share in this so that every time I make a notation they receive an update. A recent transaction had over 300 notations. That equates to 300 updates to my Seller. It would be very difficult for them to tell a Judge I didn't do my job properly. "Your Honor he didn't do anything and we were foreclosed on because of it". I don't think so.

After each closing*** ask your customer/client to write you a testimonial. Place this in the file. "But your Honor read this. They said I was awesome!!"

*** Yes you MUST close on your short sales. You may lose some but you need to be hitting 90%+. Much easier to defend your position if you can prove your successes.

I believe if you do these few things you will be good to go if a lawsuit comes your way. Plus the added benefit is that you will be better at what you do if you remember that everything you do needs to be defensible in a Court of Law. What say you?

Do NOT be foreclosed on! Avoid foreclosure. Short Sales DO close.

Want to find out more? www.CentralFloridaShortSales.com

***I am NOT an Attorney nor do I play one on TV. Click the button below for my Bio.

Customer Testimonials

Tutas Towne Realty, Inc handles Florida real estate sales, Florida short sales, Florida strategic short sales, Florida pre-foreclosure sales, Florida foreclosures in Kissimmee Florida Short Sales, Davenport Florida Short Sales, Haines City Florida Short Sales, Poinciana Florida Short Sales, Solivita Florida Short Sales, Orlando Florida Short Sales, Celebration Florida Short Sales, Winderemere Florida Short Sales. Serving all of Polk, Osceola and Orange Counties Florida. Florida Short Sale Broker. Short Sale Florida.

Copyright © 2011 http://www.brokerbryant.com/ | All Rights Reserved

I Am So Excited

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 15:16:53 -0700

I Am So Excited is the opening my new broker is using to announce her new Real Estate Brokerage in Visalia, Califonia.

I am using it as well because the same holds true for me.

When I decided to leave my job at the County of Tulare, and get my Real Estate License in my third market, I really wanted to be part of a team, assist some great agent or agents. I was encouraged to lead generate and do my own business instead.

I have done and will continue to take care of my friends and their Real Estate needs, but I really wanted to be part of something bigger, something greater.

The spirits aligned and the Universe delivered on August 10th of this year when I was offered the opportunity to be part of the Musgrove Real Estate Group.

The Broker/Owner is Jodi Musgrove, a talented and successful Realtor who is "Helping Families Everyday".

In the past three weeks, I have worked on marketing pieces, helped handle the files on 17-4plexes that are closing this next week and work on two short sale files, a traditional sale file and developing systems for the new company.

My broker has been in the business since 1998 and is a ultimate business woman. I am so happy to be part of the Musgrove Real Estate Group.

The brokerage represents a beautiful new homes subdivision called Sequoia Crossing, more news about that in my next post.

Big news - Freddie Mac Now Accepts Electronic Signatures

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 17:28:55 -0700

this is a great announcement and I am so happy to see it. We all need to consider being more earth friendly and less paper people. I love all the new opportunities Realtors have to be paperless.

Via Suzanne Alberti (DocuSign):

Hello ActiveRain Community, this month's DocuSign post is a re-post from the DocuSign blog. Why a re-post? Because we have big news to share and it concerns those of you who work so hard in the real estate field. Please read the post below for the big news!

Freddie Mac Now Accepts Electronic Signatures

Posted May 16, 2012

by kmoyle

The news came out this morning that Freddie Mac has outlined the list of loan documents for which it will accept electronic signatures. Home buyers can now DocuSign their Freddie Mac loan documents — putting an end to the hassle of printing, faxing/scanning, or driving across town to sign.

“Effective immediately, federally regulated Sellers are permitted to conduct Electronic Transactions using electronic versions of certain loan documents in the initial loan origination process.”

Preparing Buyers To Purchase A Home

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 05:08:41 -0700

I am a buyer's agent and suscribed to this blog because recently I have had lender's fail me and my clients in the preparation. I blindly assumed they did prepare my buyer and they didn't and two deals fell apart the week of closing.

I will learn alot and so will buyers by reading this information.

Via George Souto NMLS# 65149 FHA, CHFA, VA Mortgages Connecticut:

There are many ways that we as professionals in the Real Estate Industry bring value to our clients, but it all begins with Preparing Buyers To Purchase A Home. Being in the lending side of the industry the value that I bring to that process, starts with my first contact with each and every Borrower, but it does not end there. I bring value to my Borrowers throughout the whole Mortgage Process, from Pre-Approval, to Applying for a Loan, through the Closing, and Post Closing.

In Preparing Buyers To Purchase A Home I begin with the same process with each and every Borrower. The first step is to take a look at their credit, income, and available funds. This first step is the beginning to determining where each Borrower is in the buying process. Some Borrowers have the credit, income, and funds to begin looking for a home once I have finished going throw the Pre-Approval Process with them, but many need assistance and advice in order to get to that point. It is these Borrowers that my knowledge of the Lending Industry really becomes of value to them.

In Preparing Buyers To Purchase A Home there is not much that I can do for Borrowers when it comes to the income that they will need to purchase the home of their dreams. But my experience and knowledge of what is needed to repair credit, and mortgage programs that require the least amount of funds to purchase a home, can be a major value to them.

Many Borrowers come to me wanting to purchase a home, but there credit is not where it needs to be to be approved for a mortgage. The steps to improve credit are simple, but executing those steps can be challenging. The three major areas of credit are:

Credit History - Do they pay their bills on time? If not I impress upon them the need to do so, and which delinquencies will affect their ability to purchase the most. Credit History represents 35% of their credit score

Available Credit - The closer a Borrower is to maxing out a credit card the more the negative impact on their credit. Therefore, I will go over the balance that they have on each and every credit card, and advise them on which ones they need to pay down to produce the quickest, and best improvement on their credit. Available Credit represent 30% of their credit score.

Length of Credit - Here there is very little that they can do, because it is how long a Borrower has had credit. Length of Credit only comes with time and it represents 12% of their credit score.

In Preparing Buyers To Purchase A Home, my knowledge of the Mortgage Programs that are available to them which require little to no funds, is particularly valuable to First Time Homebuyers who generally have very little money to purchase a home. By establishing what their buying power is, by looking at their income and debts, I can advise them on what programs can best assist them in achieving the purchase of a home. It maybe a program that does not require any downpayment, or it maybe one that requires a downpayment, but provides an option to borrow it as well. If they have enough funds for a loan program that only requires a small downpayment, then I can help them determine how to best use those funds.

Closing Costs are also a Major issue for most First Time Homebuyers. Here I can also be of value, by showing them the options that are available to obtain the necessary funds for Closing Costs.

In Preparing Buyers To Purchase A Home, borrowers need to know the options that are available to them so that they can make informed wise decisions. My knowledge of the Lending Industry can provide them with the information that they will need not only to make those decisions, but to also be in the position to apply for a mortgage to purchase their dream home

The time that it takes to Prepare A Buyer To Purchase A Home, can vary for a couple of months to more than a year, but whatever the time period I am always available to answer their questions, and provide the information to help them make each decision along the way.

Other Blogs In This Series:

Obtaining A Mortgage

Meeting Conditions On Commitment Letter

The Closing

The Post Closing Years

*************************************************************************************

Who To Call For Your Mortgage Needs In Connecticut:

George Souto NMLS# 65149 is a Loan Officer who can assist you with all your FHA, CHFA, and Conventional mortgage needs in Connecticut. George resides in Middlesex County which includes Middletown, Middlefield, Durham, Cromwell, Portland, Higganum, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester, Deep River, and Essex. George can be contacted at (860) 573-1308 gsouto@mccuemortgage.com, or visit my McCue Mortgage Homepage.

Selling Your Phoenix Home? Look Up

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 09:33:31 -0700

This was written by my colleague, Anna Kruchten about purchasing a home in Phoenix. This, most certainly, can also be true for all markets in the country.

I always tell my clients that by looking at the way upkeep was done on the house can make you feel comfortable or uncomfortable about what might lie in the systems etc.

Look up, great idea.

Via Anna 'Banana' Kruchten - Phoenix Real Estate Broker,CRS 602-380-4886 (Phoenix Property Shoppe):

Selling Your Phoenix Home? Look Up

When preparing to sell a Phoenix Area Home there is one thing many home sellers forget to do. What's that you say? I did everything my agent told me to do including de-cluttering and putting stuff in storage. The house looks so bare and hardly lived-in anymore What more could I possibly do?

LOOK UP!

Look at the light fixtures, ceiling fans, tops of cabinets, shelves, pictures, AC vents etc. Are they sparkling clean or so full of dust it looks like they haven't been cleaned in years? Some Phoenix home sellers don't think buyers will notice these dirty items.

Phoenix Home Buyers Notice Dirt & Dust & Filth - Yes They Do!

The other day we toured a home that looked so nice from the outside. The buyers were very excited about the possibility that this home could be the 'one'. At first all looked good but once the buyers saw the master bath room - and looked up - they were taken back. The light fixtures were layered with dust and dirt and it looked like it hadn't been cleaned in years.

And do you know what these home buyers said to me? "The house looks good at first but when we take a deeper look sure they cleaned the house - BUT -it is filthy when we look up. And that says to us what more will we find underneath? They really didn't take good care of this home.

Seriously how much does it cost to clean your Phoenix home from top to bottom? Not much. Get out that step ladder and get busy cleaning! And if you can't do it yourself hire somebody to do it for you. Did you know that a squeaky clean home can boost your profit line up? If you didn't, you do now!

Selling Your Phoenix Home? Look Up

What's selling in your Phoenix Neighborhood - Search Here

*******************************************************

Real Estate and Working with my Clients is my Passion!



I take my clients trust in me very seriously. I'm known for 'telling' it like it is, not what folks might want to hear or think it should look like. Now that may sound kind of tough, but think about it, in the long run if you want to buy or sell a home you need to know the real facts in order to make a wise choice.

If you want the truth and the whole truth, I am the Phoenix Real Estate Broker for You.



When you are ready to buy or sell a Phoenix Area Home, I will be your advocate, guide, and fierce negotiator. I will work hard to make your buying or selling a home as smooth and stress-free as I possibly can - even if it's a short sale. Guaranteed.

Call me and we'll create a plan of action to buy a home or sell your home!

Sincerely,



Anna 'Banana' Kruchten

Broker/Owner CRB, CRS, CDPE, GRI SFR

602-380-4886

Search the MLS -Phoenix Metro Area

Search for a Brand New Home in Phoenix

"I Know What I'm Doing, I Watch The HGTV Real Estate Show!"

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 05:16:33 -0700

There is a reason that Realtors are good at their profession. They do the work, they take advantage of training and coaching, they know their market. The television real estate shows, for the most part, are for entertainment.

Via Century 21 First Realty:

So a friend of ours says "I watch the HGTV real estate show, I know what I'm doing!"

It just cracked me up, so I thought I would share a simple story that portrays a common misconception about how to buy a home.

First of all, I do not watch the HGTV real estate show, so I might not appear qualified to be so opinionated about what they represent on their real estate shows. But I received this story second-hand from somebody familiar with their programming.

Anyway, this friend of ours has been referred to a top real estate professional in the Northeast. He is helping her buy a second home and she has been super-pleased with his professionalism, market knowledge, and ability to work within her time parameters.

It's important to understand that she knows he was hand-picked by me to take great care of her, and her experience thus far has supported the fact that he is "all that and more."

Watch The HGTV Real Estate Show For Entertainment

After viewing and previewing many homes over many months, our friend has found a favorite (you don't have to watch the HGTV real estate show to know when you've found the right home for you!).

So she asks her agent (who she thinks is the top real estate expert in the whole region ... and he is) what he thinks about its value. He tells her.

She asks him what he thinks she should offer on the home. He tells her.

And that's when the "I watch the HGTV real estate show" factor kicked in.

She says (me paraphrasing) they teach you how to make a low ball offer in order to not overpay for a home.

To put this comment into perspective, that's like saying ...

To an Accountant: "I know what I'm doing, I have Turbo-Tax"

To A Parent: "I'm good with kids, I'd make a great parent"

To A Psychiatrist: "I'm fixed, I watched Dr. Phil"

To A Marriage Counselor: "We're OK, we watched Jerry Springer"

To a Doctor: "I've already diagnosed it with Web MD"

To a Lawyer: "I've got it covered, I watched Perry Mason for 6 seasons"

If you can think of any other good ones, add them in the comments section below this blog post!

The funny thing is that she asked to be referred to the best real estate agent because she wanted to make sure she got an exceptional value when she bought the home.

Watch The HGTV Real Estate Show For Style Ideas

When I watch any show on television, I always remind myself that they have to sell advertising to stay alive. And that means they need to be entertaining.

Not factual. Not Experts. Just entertaining.

We've all heard somebody say in gest ... "I'm not a Doctor, but I play one on TV."

Well, these TV personalities are not real estate experts in your market area, even if they play one on TV.

I mean, do you really think somebody can do what I spend 60+ hours per week doing and also film a hit TV show? Have these people really been involved in thousands of home sales? I doubt it.

But that doesn't mean they aren't entertaining. And it doesn't mean that don't make some valid points. It only means that when you watch the HGTV real estate show or any other "reality TV show," take everything you see from "TV Experts" with a grain of salt.

If you trust that your real estate agent is a top expert (as is the case with our friend), then trust the advice you receive when it comes to buying a home. You'll be happy you did.

Then you can watch the HGTV real estate show from your new home.

A NEW Fire Extinguisher that could Save Your Family

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Fri, 18 May 2012 05:30:51 -0700

I am always looking for innovative and quality products to recommend to my friends, family and clients. Going to order some of these to have in my goody box for home buyers.

Via Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate-720-231-6373 (Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate):

A NEW Fire Extinguisher that could Save Your Family

It is best to always have a fire extinguisher near the kitchen in the event cooking gets out of hand.     Grease fires are by far the most scary of all!      A normal reaction to a fire, is to spray water to put the fire out, but with grease fires, it makes the fire explode!

If you should experience a grease fire, the best way to put it out, is to get a lid and smother the flames in the pan for 20+ minutes until it is completely out.    If no lid is available, a cookie sheet, or any other metal will do to cover the fire.    DO NOT spray water on a grease fire, as using one cup of water creates 1700 cups of steam and creates enough heat & flames and will send a kitchen up in flames in minutes.

There is a new product on the market that detects fires, and is hidden until you need it!   StoveTop FireStop is a canister with a magnet that can be put under a hood or a microwave and be out of sight.      This product can be ordered through Lowe’s Commercial desk and will be delivered within 5 days.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Metro Brokers - House to Home, Inc.

GRI, ABR, CRS, CNE, e-Pro

Joan@JoanCox.com

    Denver Real Estate

  A Denver Metropolitan Realtor

Can buyers see they have to be bold and aggressive when writing an offer in this market?

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sun, 13 May 2012 05:46:18 -0700

The answer to the question posed in line 3 of this blog post is, no it isn't just in Alameda, Oakland or Piedmont Ca. My belief is it's in most areas of the country and very true in Tulare, Fresno and Kings County.

It's an everyday occurance in our office to see agents searching for homes for their buyers and knowing that it may take 3 or 4 offers and disappointment to finally be able to find that home.

As buyer's agents we need to try to impress upon our clients the urgency of this market.

Via Pacita Dimacali - ePRO, SRES, CDPE, MBA Alain Pinel in Alameda County CA (Alain Pinel):

Can buyers see they have to be bold and aggressive when writing an offer in this market?

How can the real estate market have changed so drastically? And it isn’t just in Alameda , Oakland or Piedmont CA.

Last year, my buyers were able to negotiate price, terms and conditions...
Last year, my buyers didn’t have to compete against other buyers.
Last year, there were more properties to choose from because buyers weren’t motivated enough to buy.

But that was last year.

Lickety-split, the real estate market turned. And buyers need to be aware that writing an offer for less than list price is insane, especially when we know that price is at less than market value.

REALTORs give buyers as much information as we can

Yes..there are other offers expected

Yes...multiple offers on short sales and bank-owned properties, too

Yes...offers will be at over list price

Yes...this property is listed at less than market value (and our CMA proves it)

Yes...it’s happening everywhere. Properties don’t stay long on the market. So don’t wait until the weekend to see it

Yes...interest rates are still the lowest they've been in forty years

Yes....home prices are still much lower than where they were at the peak of the market.

No....it’s not a buyer’s market

Can buyers see they need to be bold and aggressive when writing an offer?

RELATED POSTS

It’s a seller’s market in zip code 94611: Oakland and Piedmont CA

ALAMEDA CA: Believe it. It's a SELLER'S MARKET!

What Happens if There is a Problem with the House I Bought AFTER Settlement?

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Thu, 03 May 2012 05:21:06 -0700

As a Buyer's Agent I always insist that a home inspection be done and include a home warranty to my buyers as my gift to them.

As Chris states in this blog, the buyers are given every opportunity to throughly inspect the home before they purchase.

Via Chris Ann Cleland, Associate Broker, Northern VA (Long & Foster REALTORS®, Gainesville, VA):

What Happens if There is a Problem with the House I Bought AFTER Settlement?

The amount of misinformation in the world of real estate, passed from friend to friend, or relative to relative is astonishing. I was out with a buyer that had just found a great home. The home inspection is coming up and this buyer, a first time buyer, is nervous about what happens if something goes wrong AFTER settlement, that the home inspector didn't catch. Wisely, he put a good amount of energy finding a well qualified home inspector. Not so wise, he started conferring with acquaintances about what might happen if the inspector didn't catch an issue, or something broke down after he bought the home.

In yet another chronicle of MY FRIEND TOLD ME...this buyer came to me to find out exactly how much money from the sale the bank would set aside from his explanation of the process, I think he meant the seller's bank) to repair issues AFTER settlement. Apparently, his friend said what was typical in Virginia was 10%-20% of the sale price.

WHERE DO PEOPLE COME UP WITH THIS STUFF?

When you buy a home, you buy a home. You deliver your funds at settlement and sign the necessary documentation and the hosue is yours. There is no return line, or fixing issues that crop up on the seller's dime AFTER settlement. As a buyer, you are given every opportunity to inspect for issues, so hiring a well qualified home inspector is critical to the process.

Another area where a buyer can protect themselves is by purchasing a home warranty. In the event something does go wrong, it's nice to have a warranty in place to keep repair costs down and have the piece of mind that comes with that coverage.

Chris Ann Cleland, Associate Broker- Licensed in Virginia, GRI, SFR, Northern Virginia Short Sale Specialist. Affiliated with Long & Foster, 7526 Limestone Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155. To contact Chris Ann, call 703-402-0037 or email chrisann@LNF.com. Or you can visit her website: www.nvarealestate.net.

Header is a combination of photos from the Bristow, Gainesville & Haymarket areas, taken by Chris Ann Cleland.

2043 Buckingham Avenue, Clovis, Ca.

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:26:49 -0700

2043 Buckingham Avenue Clovis, , CA

Quick Links

	Free List of Foreclosed Homes For Sale

	Avoid Foreclosure

	What is your home worth?

	Short Sale Homes For Sale

	Visalia Homes for Sale

	Tulare Country Homes for Sale

	Fresno Country Homes for Sale

	Search All Homes For Sale

See Property Details

Call: 559-972-3103 for more information on this or any other property.

Information valid for the date of this posting only. Please contact us for the most current information and status of this property.

Visit Property Website

Courtesy :
Virginia Dean
ginnydean@kw.com
559-972-3103

2043 Buckingham Avenue Clovis,
, CA 93611
3 Bedrooms
Bathrooms: 2 full
List Price : Get Current Price
Living Area Approx : 2476

I want to see this property.

10 Great Things To Do When you Move Into Your New Home

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:28:07 -0700

This is a great post regarding moving into your new home. Some of it would also apply to all moves.

None of this is very difficult, but very important.

Via Chrissy Doremus ~ U.S. Inspect ~ Home Inspections (U.S. Inspect):

Congratulations! You’ve purchased a new home and are all moved in! There’s been a lot to take care of, like emptying boxes, loading up cabinets and drawers, and maybe even painting and decorating, but here are 10 around-the-house tasks you may not have thought of that are essential to starting things off on the right foot when it comes to caring for your new home.

The secret to a well maintained home is to start your maintenance early, ahem, that means now. Now, don't get nervous, it's not all work, work, work. Doing your home maintenance bit by bit is a great way to accomplish it all, but over time so that there's plenty of room for relaxing too. Also, preventative maintenance now, will reduce the liklihood of unwlecome (many times costly) surprises down the road.

Here are ten great things to do when you first move in!

Change the locks, reprogram garage door opener codes, and check that all window locks operate properly. If there's a security system, learn how it operates and sign up for any maintenance or monitoring plans that that yours requires.

Locate emergency shut offs. Know how to shut off the power, water, and gas in your home. Also, know the location of your main and any sub electrical panel boxes.

Create a "fix it" kit. If you don't have one already, buy a toolbox and stock it with all your frequently used home repair tools and supplies. Click here for ideas about what you should include in your kit. Not only is it a good idea to have tools gathered together for home repairs, but it's also important to have first aid supplies on hand too. We think it's a great idea to combine the two and have a small first aid kit within your toolbox--that way, if injuries do occur, you won't have far to go in order to properly tend to them.

Service smoke alarms and CO monitors. Smoke alarms and CO monitors need fresh batteries twice annually and full replacement regularly in order to function properly. (Replace smoke alarms, minimum every 8-10 years, and CO monitors minimum every 5 years) Since you may not know the exact age of the devices and batteries in your new home, it's a great idea to start fresh. Learn more about how often batteries and devices should be change (as well as some additional fire prevention tips) here.

Perform necessary seasonal maintenance. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, there are tasks around the home that, when completed, help the whole season run more smoothly. Get your checklists here, and be off to a great start no matter what time of year you move.

Change filters in your HVAC system. This will not only help clear out all the dust that’s been kicked up during the move, but a clean filter also helps your system function more efficiently and extends its lifespan.

Check pilot lights. Check pilot lights on stove, water heater, gas fireplace, and furnace.

Be sure that hazardous items are stowed away safely (that includes cans of paint). Flammable substances should be kept away from pilot lights, stoves, or water heaters (don’t forget gas dryers). Also, be sure that you are aware of and have identified any substances left behind by the previous owner.

Learn how to operate and properly maintain any items in the home that are new to you like appliances, fireplaces, the septic tank, garbage disposal, hot tub, etc. You may be unaware of vitally important operation or care instructions that are necessary for proper function and safety. If you don’t have manufacturer owner’s manuals, look them up. Virtually any product manual out there can be downloaded right from the Internet.

Address the items mentioned in your home inspection report. You may have already addressed big issues, but did your inspector mention any necessary maintenance or smaller repairs that would be necessary upon moving in? That's now! Remember that proactively caring for your home with maintenance and service is the primary way to prevent unwelcome surprises down the road. Reread your report and don’t hesitate to call your inspector to clarify his recommendations or to answer any questions you may have.

Posted By: Chrissy Doremus, U.S Inspect Blog

2750 North Duke Ct., Visalia, CA.

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 15:37:28 -0700

Schedule a Showing/Request Info

Visalia Homes for Sale

Search All Homes For Sale

Tulare Country Homes for Sale

Fresno Country Homes for Sale

Free List of Foreclosed Homes For Sale

Avoid Foreclosure

What is your home worth?

Short Sale Homes For Sale

Virginia Dean

Keller Williams Tulare County

559-972-3103

Questions?
Schedule a Showing!

Information valid for the date of this posting only. Please contact us for the most current information and status of this property.

2750 North Duke Court Visalia

, CA

Scan with your smartphone & take me with you.

$ Click for current price

3 BEDROOMS

2 BATHROOMS (2 full)

1720 Square Feet

L2L Property Websites AR

Today is "National Puppy Day"

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:30:16 -0700

Most of my friends and clients are "Dog Lovers" so it is entirely appropriate to celebrate "Puppy Day, will mark in my calendar for recognition next year.

Puppies are so cute, gotta love em, just sayin

Via Kristin Hamilton CDPE, SFR, CHS Realtor Redlands/ Loma Linda Homes for Sale, CA (Keller Williams Realty):

March 23^rd is National Puppy Day

I woke up this morning and the local television network said today is National Puppy Day. They were talking about real estate, local news, what I call the Enquirer news, and then they mentioned National Puppy Day! Oh, happy day as I love my puppies.

This celebration National Puppy Day started on March 23, 2006. Please go to the web site and check it out.

I just wanted to take a moment to be thankful for all the dogs and cats I have had in the past and the wonderful pets I have now. Please stop by and comment and leave a picture of your dog, cat or even bird.

Join me in the Active Rain Real Estate Community!

Realtors®, Inspectors, Title Reps, Escrow Officers, Home Waranty Reps, Stagers, Investors, Lenders, Marketing Specialists, & Other Real Estate Professionals plus Homeowners, Buyers and Investors.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you like my article, push this button and sign up for my daily posts.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Need a Great Realtor in San Bernardino & Riverside? Google me here...Kristin Hamilton 909.557.6966.

Kristin Hamilton CDPE, SFR, CHS, BA
Keller Williams Realty

DRE-01492138

909.557.6966

CALL ME AT (909) 557-6966.

LOCALISM. COM BLOG

We Need More People Like Joan McGovern

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 10:53:18 -0800

The Real Estate community is always quite willing to reach out and help, even if we don't know the organization first hand. I did a little volunteering in Atlanta, bringing food in home bound HIV patients, and I must say it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

If you feel so inclined, reach out to this organization, it certainly does wonderful work.

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip R.E. LLC) Westchester County NY:

Late last week, a short obituary ran for Joan McGovern. She was 86 years old and a 50-year resident of White Plains. The Westchester-Putnam Association of Realtors also also ran a short tribute to her, as she was a former licensee with Century 21 Wolff in White Plains. A mother to 13 children, that her loss would be felt in numerous circles would be understandable. But that is not the end of the story.

Simple math tells us that a mother who raises 13 children will serve about 85,000 meals in their collective first 18 years.

Joan served 2 million.

In 1991, Joan's son Tommy died of complications from AIDS. As she states in "A Mother's Story" on her website:

the night he was inducted into the National Honor Society—he informed me that he was gay.

It never changed our relationship; he was still my son and I loved him.

After Tommy's death, Joan started to feed homebound HIV and AIDS patients in a project that soon became her new life's work, a project known as The Lord's Pantry. Based in White Plains and with the initial help of two other surviving mothers, the charity grew to 150 volunteers and serves 13 Westchester County communities.

Joan did all of this after the age of 65. Her work started before Magic Johnson or many of the advances in treatment. One can only imagine how difficult this must have been- to grieve your son and push a project uphill that would not have the popular support then that it has today. One can only imagine the single minded need to do something to make a difference with no money and your own kitchen to have it grow to make such a huge impact.

Like most mothers, Ms. McGovern sought no attention for herself, only the organization. She just wanted to feed people in need and give them some comfort. Earlier this year, the Ryan White foundation ceased funding the charity and they had to find alternate resources. Their website says that they need $40,000. I'd encourage you to log on and do what you can. While all of us can't be just like her, we sure do need more people like Joan McGovern.

______________________________________________________________________________

Subscribe to J. Philip's Real Estate Blog by Email

NY, NJ and PA Rainers: How About a Triple Play Meetup?

Memorial Day 2011: Giving Back to a Veteran in Need

We Are Westchester County & Metro New York Real Estate. Reach Phil at (914) 723-8900.

J. Philip Faranda, Broker-owner, J. Philip Real Estate, LLC. Vice President, Empire Access Multiple Listing Service.

I am one of New York's premier short sale REALTORS, serving Westchester, the Hudson Valley & Metropolitan New York.

Free MLS Search! Register for a Free Listingbook account and search the MLS like an agent.

I am hiring agents. We offer outstanding support, marketing resources, and pasta.

All content/images, unless noted, are the property of J. Philip Faranda & may not be used without permission

Dear Mom and Dad, Please Love This House

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 08:47:12 -0800

What a great blog. As an agent we often have extended family involved in the selection of the home. As a parent, i understand wanting to keep my children out of harm's way, but sometimes we need to let them make their own decisions.

Via Margaret Woda, Maryland Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., Crofton, MD):

Dear Mom and Dad -

Your kids are so excited! They found a home in the exact neighborhood they want. They have enough savings for the down payment and closing, their lender says they qualify for $40,000 more than this, and the home is in great condition. They can move right in and live here without any fix-up expenses, and it's large enough so they can live in the home even after they have a couple of kids. That will save them a bundle of selling and buying costs down the road, compared to starting out smaller now and moving later to accommodate a growing family.

The home has a finished basement with full bath, two car garage, new HVAC... It has hardwood floors and a first floor master bedroom... There's a fireplace and a porch... The kitchen and baths need updating, but they're usable and clean - your kids will enjoy doing those update later, just like you did in your home.

They know you'll be so proud of them, and they can't wait to show it to you!

What? You're not proud of them? You think this home is too expensive? You don't think their first house should be their dream house? You think they should get a cheap fixer-upper that you can help them re-build in your vision, not theirs?

Just for the record, speaking as their real estate agent, your adult kids have done their homework. The first thing they did was contact a lender you recommended to find out how much they could spend on a home. They drove around neighborhoods and visited open houses before they even contacted me.

You have been with them at every step along the way, whether you know it or not... they have learned from you and your experiences and taken those lessons to heart. Your influence has colored their taste in homes and neighborhoods - and their choice of this home.

They did carefully consider every little thing they thought you might say. That's why they expected you to be proud of them.

They are crushed at your reaction!

They are struggling with what to do next. Pass on this house and find another you will approve? But they don't know where to start because they were so sure you'd be proud of them with this choice.

They don't know it yet, but I do... I've seen this happen many times before with other first-time buyers. Next time they find a home, they won't expect your support. In fact, they probably won't ask for it or even tell you about it until AFTER they find and buy a home without any input from you.

They really do want to share with you this milestone in their lives. If only you could find it in your heart to be supportive and provide constructive feedback instead of ruining this moment for them. They would listen to you... they really do want your input.

Yes, they want you to love this house as much as they do. Most of all, however, they want you to be proud of them.

Sincerely,

Your children's real estate agent

Originally posted to Focus On Crofton 10/31/2007

Copyright 2006-11. All rights reserved.

DISCLAIMER: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice.
________________________________________________________________________________________

For information about communities, homes, and real estate in the D.C. - Baltimore - Annapolis triangle, contact:

Margaret Woda, REALTOR and Associate Broker
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. (410) 721-1500 Office
Direct: (301)346-2923 or EMAIL

FREE home search online (No registration required)
FREE home search APP for your iPhone/iPad (demo)

The Power of Active Rain....Compassion for The Loss of a Loved One..Jamie Caulk

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 19:11:25 -0700

Active Rainers have more than a talent to share their words and ideas in the blog format. They also care for one another, and share both joys and sorrows.

Please keep the family of Jamie Caulk in your thoughts and prayers.

Via Sally & David Hanson WI Realtors Luxury\Short Sale\CDPE\ABR\e-Pro\REDS (Keller Williams 414-525-0563):

Lots of blogs talk about the POWER of Active Rain....the potential to learn, share ideas, promote properties, understand technology, stay on top of your real estate game....and there are all kinds of ways that agents, lenders, suppliers, title companies, lawyers and other allied professionals find different reasons to blog...to read, to share opinions and ideas. Different is what makes the world go 'round...different view points politically, religiously, socially....in every aspect of our lives, we respect the right to have another or different opinion. Last night we checked in to Facebook to find that the world had been diminished by one...one of our own has lost a loved one with the passing of Jamie Caulk, son of Missy Caulk....a veteran ...icon ....leader....teacher in Active Rain. The tears fall freely....we prayed for the best possible result...we sent the comfort and all the prayers we could say to Jamie and his family....to Missy knowing that the pain of losing a child is one of the worst one can experience in a lifetime. Active Rain means a little something different to everyone. I am saddened by the loss for Missy and her family....the burden of their grief is heavy and all of us want to make it lighter and lessen the pain. The tears flow freely as I write this....and know that the Active Rain family...in every spirit reaches out with comfort, positive thoughts and healing prayers. Active Rain is more than housing statistics....there is the Pay it Forward that has taught us all to share what we have with others who "have not". Right now it is the overwhelming feeling of wanting to do something positive for a fellow member of Active Rain as her spirit needs support in this, her hour of pain and loss....we share it...we want to make her burden lighter.

I ask you to re-blog this blog... Add this sentiment to your Facebook page....to let people know that Jamie Caulk has passed...that his family welcomes your kind thoughts and prayers....and to know that Active Rain is more than the brick and mortar we talk and blog about...it is a caring community that offers a hand up and a heart out to the members of this site. For whatever higher power each of believes in....Missy and Family, Please know that you have all the support, love and outreaching of sympathy we all have to offer you at this difficult time. Take our Strength, find comfort in our compassion and know that the many memories he has left you are yours for a lifetime.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Take Shabby to Sheek with an FHA 203k Rehab Loan

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 20:58:16 -0700

This is very good information and a positive description of 203k loans.

It is a very good product for home buyers and we need the knowledge to present it in the right way.

Good job.

Via Rebekah Radice Colorado Springs FHA Loan 203k, VA Mortgage, Loan Pre-Approval (Benchmark Mortgage, Colorado Springs FHA, VA, Pre-Approval):

With a record number of short sales and foreclosures on the Colorado market today, many homebuyers are clamoring to take advantage of what could be a tremendous investment opportunity. The challenge is that many of these properties are distressed and in desperate need of repair.

So how does a cash poor buyer purchase a home in Colorado that needs more than just a little TLC? The answer is a little known rehabilitation loan from the Federal Housing Administration called the FHA 203k renovation loan. The FHA 203k can take shabby to sheek and turn a fixer upper into your dream home!

The beauty in this program is the borrower’s ability to finance the repairs and close on the home prior to any work being done. Simply put, the FHA 203k loan allows a borrower to purchase a home with a minimal down payment of just 3.5% and finance the cost to perform all repairs, both necessary and desired, within their new FHA mortgage.

According to the National Association of Realtors®, 36% of existing home sales across the country are distressed properties and of those sales 29% are purchased by cash buyers. In Colorado alone it is estimated that there are over 32,000 properties in “shadow inventory” waiting to hit our market. You can bet that many of those properties will need a fresh coat of paint, new windows, new carpet and maybe even an updated kitchen or bathroom. For those buyers wishing to purchase these homes as their primary residence, the FHA 203k loan provides a solution.

Benefits of the FHA 203k:

One loan and one closing with only one set of closing costs then you begin repairs

Only one appraisal that is based on the value of the home after the repairs are complete

A low down payment of 3.5% and just like an FHA 203b the money can be a gift from a family member

The FHA 203k has flexible credit options with a 620 minimum FICO required

The seller can contribute up to 6% of the closing costs

For more information on the benefits of an FHA 203k loan and how you can purchase and design you dream home; call, email or Apply Online today!

Take Shabby to Sheek with an FHA 203k Rehab Loan was written by Rebekah Radice.

Want to know more about me? Just Google Me!

T: 719.387.1368 | Email: rebekah@rebekahradice.com | Website: http://rebekahradice.com |CO & NMLS Licensee: LMB100010938 & 288596 | Benchmark Mortgage dba Ark-La-Tek Financial Services, LLC | 12 E. Kiowa |Colorado Springs, CO 80903

FREE Marketing, Sales & Success Strategies for Colorado Real Estate Agents:

Find Me Online!

Recent Articles from Rebekah's Blog

You Can Be a Referral Magnet

6 Ways to Drive Traffic to Your Website or Blog

How to Use LinkedIn to Generate Real Estate Business

What Happened to My Loan Approval

Top 5 Reasons You Should Blog on Active Rain

3 Easy Ways to Customize Your Active Rain Blog

Get the Itemized List of Posts!

Am I Ready to Buy My First Home

Virginia Dean- Realtor Musgrove Real Estate Group (Musgrove Real Estate Group) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 21:33:55 -0700

This is very good information for the first time buyer. I also have a great book to share for First Time Home Buyers, let me know if you would like a copy.

Via Rebekah Radice Colorado Springs FHA Loan 203k, VA Mortgage, Loan Pre-Approval (Benchmark Mortgage, Colorado Springs FHA, VA, Pre-Approval):

Buying your first home is an exciting but often overwhelming undertaking. Whether you have been renting or living with friends and family, taking the leap into home ownership requires education and commitment. While buying a home beats renting in most circumstances, it's not right for everyone. Before diving in, be equipped to answer several important questions.

The first time home buyer checklist below is designed to assist in answering important financial questions as well as clearly define what qualities in a home are critical to you and your family. Taking the time to devise a step by step action plan will allow you to determine whether or not now is the time for you to buy your first home.

First Time Home Buyer Checklist:

Are you employed full time? If so, how are you paid? Hourly, Salary or Commission. Commission or 1099 employees income must be calculated based on an average of your last 2 years tax returns. There are many variables that might affect your net or qualifying income. It is important to discuss your income with a mortgage professional prior to writing an offer on a home. All other employees will need to provide your most recent 30 days’ pay stubs.

Have you been employed within the same line of work for the last 2 years? If not, have you recently graduated with a degree within your current field? A 2 year consistent work history will be required.

Have you filed your last 2 years tax returns? It is now necessary for lenders to request transcripts directly from the IRS. This quality control verification allows your lender to verify that what you have supplied at loan application is the same documentation filed with the IRS. If you have not filed yet, this will create a major delay within the process.

Do you have money in checking or savings that is set aside for the down payment and closing costs? Depending on the type of loan you are qualifying for you may be required to put anywhere from 3.5 – 5% down. Understand the difference between an FHA and VA loan, two loans used frequently by first time home buyers.

Any money used for down payment or closing costs must be verified. You will be required to provide the last 60 days bank or asset statements.

Have you checked your credit recently and are you aware of any negative marks that might impact your qualification? You can order a copy of your free credit report at Annual Credit Report before meeting with a loan professional.

Develop a family budget and determine the monthly mortgage payment you can afford. Having a budget clarifies your mortgage payment comfort level instead of someone else determining that for you.

Familiarize yourself with common mortgage terms before you buy a home

Be prepared and pull together all of the documents required for mortgage pre-approval before meeting with a loan officer.

Work with a Real Estate Agent that understands the Colorado Springs area and is familiar with the particular neighborhood you are interested in.

Your final and most important piece in the home buying process is loan pre-approval. Meet with a local mortgage professional and determine eligibility before you set your sights and your heart on your first home.

PreQualify for Your Colorado Home Now!

Am I Ready to Buy My First Home was written by Rebekah Radice.

Want to know more about me? Just Google Me!

T: 719.387.1368 | Email: rebekah@rebekahradice.com | Website: http://rebekahradice.com |CO & NMLS Licensee: LMB100010938 & 288596 | Benchmark Mortgage dba Ark-La-Tek Financial Services, LLC | 12 E. Kiowa |Colorado Springs, CO 80903

FREE Marketing, Sales & Success Strategies for Colorado Real Estate Agents:

Find Me Online!

Recent Articles from Rebekah's Blog

You Can Be a Referral Magnet

6 Ways to Drive Traffic to Your Website or Blog

How to Use LinkedIn to Generate Real Estate Business

What Happened to My Loan Approval

Top 5 Reasons You Should Blog on Active Rain

3 Easy Ways to Customize Your Active Rain Blog

Get the Itemized List of Posts!