Hank's Blog

Do I Really Need a Home Inspection? YES!!!

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:32:20 -0800

Do I Really Need a Home Inspection? YES!!!

Lake County First Time Home Buyers are often confused about the need for a Home Inspection. Many Lake County First Time Home Buyers think that the Appraisal and the Pest Report are enough inspections and they don’t really need another inspection. The benefit is that the Home Inspection goes beyond the Appraisal and the Pest Report. The Appraisal is for the lender and the focus of that report is a determination of the home’s value. The Pest Report has a very narrow focus and the inspector’s focus is upon wood destroying pests and organisms.

The Home Inspection is for the homeowner! The Lake County First Time Home Buyer is making a huge investment in the purchase of their new home and the cost of a Home Inspection is perhaps the best investment they can make. The Home Inspector will be checking the heating and air conditioning system, the electrical panel, the hot water heater, the kitchen appliances and so much more!

When you are a Lake County First Time Home Buyer you don’t want any surprises. The worst surprises for the First Time Home Buyer are those unexpected system failures after you move into your new home. A water heater that dies on a Friday evening…a heater that stops heating on the first day of winter…and the oven that quits on Thanksgiving morning are the kinds of surprises no one wants. But, for the Lake County First Time Home Buyer these surprises can be particularly painful and traumatic.

While no Home Inspector can guarantee that you will have no surprises as a new homeowner…they can alert the prospective homeowner to issues, conditions and concerns about the home being considered. This knowledge can be used for negotiating with the seller or evaluating the wisdom of the purchase. The cost of the inspection is typically starts at $350.00 and is dependent upon factors such as square footage and the other features of the home. This is a great investment and every Lake County First Time Home Buyer should seriously consider this investment. Everyone who attends our FREE Lake County First Time Homebuyer Workshops will receive a discount coupon to use towards a Home Inspection performed by Sylvan Stenge.

Free First Time Homebuyer Workshop

Free First Time Homebuyer Workshop…Lake County - Buying a home can be an overwhelming process. Title and Escrow -Home inspections – How much to offer – Getting a mortgage…and so much more! Century 21 NorthBay Alliance is sponsoring a series of FREE First Time Homebuyer Workshops designed to assist any potential homebuyer.

The class is presented in an informal setting where you can ask questions and get answers…Join us for an information packed evening-January 10^th at the Century 21 office in Lower Lake (9960 Hwy 53) and January 17^th at the Century 21 office in Hidden Valley(18983 Hartman Rd., Suite 5) between 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm.

This information packed evening promises to have information for everyone thinking about buying a home in the future… you will learn tips and strategies for getting the best buy and the best mortgage! Mortgage professionals will be on hand to talk about your loan options.

At the class, you'll learn:

How much home can I afford?
Foreclosures…REOs…Short Sales…what’s right for me?
What government programs do I qualify for?
Are there any zero down home loan programs?
What are closing costs? How much are closing costs?
I am a Veteran…how do I use my VA benefit?
Are there any programs that will pay my closing costs?
Home inspections - do I need one?
What’s the difference between a Home Inspection and a Termite Inspection?
Who pays for the appraisal?
Can I see my credit report? Is my credit good enough?
What's the best way to find the right home?
How do home loans work?
How can I make sure that I am not paying too much for my home?
Can I get a list of Foreclosures?

Got Questions?

We Have Answers!

This and lots of other information is yours free with absolutely no obligation of any kind.

Can’t wait? Call me at 707.520.4265 for additional information

Free Credit Report for Lake County First Time Home Buyers…Really Free!

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:27:19 -0800

Free Credit Report for Lake County First Time Home Buyers…Really Free! Many Lake County First Time Home Buyers are unaware of their credit score (aka Fico score). Many more are simply afraid to find out…they know that they had a collection in the past or some other life event that they fear has negatively affected their credit score. Your credit score will affect your ability to obtain a home mortgage and can determine what interest you will be paying on that home mortgage.

There are several ways to obtain your credit score and look at your credit report. You can pay for your report or you can obtain your FREE Credit Report. AnnualCreditReport.com is the only way to obtain your truly FREE Credit Report. Everyone in the U.S. is entitled to a FREE copy of their credit report once per year from the three national credit reporting companies. You can also pay for a copy of your credit report on a one time basis or a subscription basis. If you want your FREE Credit Report you can go to: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp . If you would like more information about your FREE Credit Report you can go to: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/freereports/index.shtml

Your FREE Credit Report will not meet the needs of your lender but knowing your score and what’s contained in your report will prepare you for the home buying process. This information will let you know if there is any inaccurate information contained in your report. You can positively influence your report and score…but only if you know what is in them.

Your credit score and your credit report are among the many topics that will be covered in our FREE Lake County First Time Homebuyer Workshops.

At the class, you'll learn:

How much home can I afford?
Foreclosures…REOs…Short Sales…what’s right for me?
What government programs do I qualify for?
Are there any zero down home loan programs?
What are closing costs? How much are closing costs?
I am a Veteran…how do I use my VA benefit?
Are there any programs that will pay my closing costs?
Home inspections - do I need one?
What’s the difference between a Home Inspection and a Termite Inspection?
Who pays for the appraisal?
Can I see my credit report? Is my credit good enough?
What's the best way to find the right home?
How do home loans work?
How can I make sure that I am not paying too much for my home?
Can I get a list of Foreclosures?

Got Questions?

We Have Answers!

This and lots of other information is yours free with absolutely no obligation of any kind.

Can’t wait? Call us at 707-987-3800 or 707-994-7100 for additional information

Free First Time Homebuyer Workshop…Lake County

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:02:14 -0800

At the class, you'll learn:

How much home can I afford?
Foreclosures…REOs…Short Sales…what’s right for me?
What government programs do I qualify for?
Are there any zero down home loan programs?
What are closing costs? How much are closing costs?
I am a Veteran…how do I use my VA benefit?
Are there any programs that will pay my closing costs?
Home inspections - do I need one?
What’s the difference between a Home Inspection and a Termite Inspection?
Who pays for the appraisal?
Can I see my credit report? Is my credit good enough?
What's the best way to find the right home?
How do home loans work?
How can I make sure that I am not paying too much for my home?
Can I get a list of Foreclosures?

Got Questions?

We Have Answers!

This and lots of other information is yours free with absolutely no obligation of any kind.

Can’t wait? Call me at 707-520-4265 or 707-293-6776 for additional information

Thank You DocuSign for the extra 3 hours per week...

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:41:48 -0700

What would I do with an extra 3 hours per week in my life???

I would like to think that I would do something meaningful for my community and my world. I can see myself volunteering…maybe at the Senior Center delivering meals to homebound seniors or maybe calling seniors to see if they are okay. I could volunteer to staff the office at the Senior Center for 3 hours per week.

Or I might volunteer at the local school as a tutor to a child struggling with reading or math. I can see myself showing up three times a week and spending an hour working with struggling students. Creating meaningful relationships with students that need a mentor and a role model is something that I would love to do.

I would like to spend some time at the local nursing home. I could hang out in the Rec Room and play cards and listen to stories. There are so many older folks that never see their family and seldom have visitors. I could be that visitor for three hours per week…

But, the reality is that if I had an extra three hours per week…I would spend it sleeping. I know myself pretty well. I have the best of intentions I really do. However, when that alarm goes off all I want to do is hit that snooze alarm button and pull the covers over my head and catch a few more wonderful minutes of sleep. I find that the sweetest sleep is the sleep I get after the alarm goes off…if the truth is to be known…I have hit the snooze button several times in a single morning. I love that bonus sleep.

Now before you think I am a total slacker let me assure you that I do have my moments of meaningful community time. I am on the Board of Directors of our local Association of Realtors and I am on the local School Board. But, if I had an extra 3 hours per week …I know what I would do with it…and how I would enjoy it!

"This post is a submission to the DocuSign/ActiveRain Thankful Contest. It's possible I will win a prize for writing this post. You could win a prize too by going to the Contest Announcement and sharing your own story"

Another SHORT SALE closed in Lake County!

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 21:56:47 -0700

Another Short Sale closed! Yesterday, we closed a Spring Valley Short Sale with Citi-Mortgage. No matter how many you have been involved with...closing a Short Sale is a cause for celebration. Celebrate the avoidance of a Foreclosure!

This Short Sale allowed my clients to move on with their lives...to avoid a Foreclosure which would have followed them for 7 years. Loss of employment, permanent disability and huge medical bills created the ‘perfect storm' which changed their lives and which brought them to the brink of financial disaster.

There were a few moments when it seemed that the deal would fall apart and that foreclosure would be inevitable. However a little hard work and a lot of client advocacy resulted in a successful Short Sale. And that sale is the "silver lining" to this story. A young couple, who are in the Marine Corps, were able to buy their first home in their "Home Town" of Lake County. Thanks to today's technology one of the buyer's was able to sign documents while deployed in Afghanistan while his wife was able to sign in San Diego.

I would like to say that all Short Sales conclude as this one did but, we all know that is not true. But the truth is that Short Sales are being approved at greater numbers than ever before. If you or someone you know is worrying about that mortgage have them give me, Hank Montgomery a call. I specialize in FORECLOSURE avoidance and nothing feels better than helping someone avoid foreclosure.

Hank, I have a home in Lake County...How do I qualify for a Short Sale?

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:59:16 -0800

Hank, do I qualify for a Short Sale? This is a question that more and more people are asking?

As a Real Estate Broker specializing in Lake County Short Sales...I am often asked this question. So, let me give you the short answer by asking you the qualifying questions:

•1. Do you have a verifiable hardship, like unemployment, medical bills, or relocation?

•2. Do you have a monthly income shortfall? (Increased expenses and/or decreased income)

•3. Is your home worth less than your current mortgage and you are unable to pay your mortgage? (or soon will be)

If you can answer yes to all of the above questions you should definitely evaluate a Short Sale, as you are presumptively eligible for Short Sale consideration. You should contact me or one of my Lake County Short Sale Team Members. We can assist you in analyzing your specific circumstances and organizing your information to present to your lender.

If you can't answer yes to all of the above questions...there may be circumstances in which you could qualify for a Short Sale utilizing other criteria/guidelines. The Lake County Short Sale Team can assist you in evaluating the many options that are available as you move through the decision making process.

We encourage all of our clients to consult with their attorney and their accountant. If you need the names of attorneys or accountants with whom to consult...we can provide you with that information as well. A Lake County Short Sale requires a team of professionals working for you give us a call at 707-520-4265 and let us help you get control of your financial future.

How do I get a FREE Lake County Foreclosure List?

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 20:20:53 -0800

How do I get a FREE Lake County Foreclosure List?

This is a question that I am often asked and it is the easiest question to answer...simply give me your email address or your mailing address and I'll make sure you receive one absolutely free! I promise that your information will only be used by me...never sold and never shared! I have been providing a FREE Lake County Foreclosure List for over three years. I am now happy to offer a FREE Lake County Short Sale List simply for the asking.

Does your FREE Lake County Foreclosure List include the addresses so that I can go look at these houses?

Of Course! In addition, you will receive additional details such as bedroom count, number of bathrooms and the approximate square footage. You can also receive detailed information on any house in my FREE Lake County Foreclosure List or my FREE Lake County Short Sale List...all you have to do is ask...no cost/no obligation.

What makes the FREE Lake County Foreclosure List so special?

Your FREE Lake County Foreclosure List is based upon information gathered from a number of different sources so that we can assure you that our information is complete! So after checking and cross-checking our data we are confident that the information we provide to you is as good as or better than any of those paid subscription sites. Try it...it's free!

What about pre-foreclosures...does your FREE Lake County Short Sale List contain pre-foreclosure property?

Yes, by definition a "short sale" is a pre-foreclosure sale. Now if what you are asking me is there a pre-foreclosure list of properties that are not listed for sale. This is a SPECIAL list which I make available to a select group of pre-screened investors. The list is still FREE but, I want to make sure that I am not providing information to scam artists and other unscrupulous types. If you want my investor list give me a call at 707-520-4265 and lets talk.

You can also reach me at www.LakeCountyForeclosureInfo.com or www.LakeCountyShortSaleInfo.com

Does Spring Valley have a HOA (Home Owner's Association)?

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 14:54:25 -0800

Hank is there an HOA (Home Owner's Association) in Spring Valley? I am often asked this question as I am a Long Time Spring Valley Resident and as a Real Estate Broker...people expect that I know the answer. Spring Valley is a rural sub-division in Lake County, California. We are situated between I-5 and Hwy 101 in the Coast Range set of mountains and home to the LARGEST natural lake in California...Clear Lake.

Okay, back to the question: Does Spring Valley have a HOA (Home Owner's Association)?

The answer: NO!!!!

There is no Home Owner's Association in Spring Valley Lake subdivision. There are CC&R's and there is an $18.00 per year fee to maintain the Campground and the 200 acre Greenbelt/Park. When our sub-division was created a Home Owner's Association was not created in the CC&R's...instead it was left to individual home owners to talk to neighbors about issues of concern and ultimately seek redress in the courts if necessary. In my almost 30 years as a property owner in Spring Valley, I have never heard of a property owner taking a fellow property owner to court for a violation of the CC&R's.

The residents in Spring Valley instead rely upon the Lake County Code Enforcement Division of Community Planning Department and the Lake County Planning Code as a way of resolving issues of junk cars, trash and debris. Lake County Animal Control handles issues involving barking dogs. And we rely upon personal choice rather than a group of homeowners to determine house color.

Our CC&R's do call for an Architectural Review Committee and a version of that committee does exist today. It wisely restricts itself to limiting its scope to the residential design (RD) standards contained in the Lake County Planning Code which covers the Spring Valley subdivision.

We do have a Property Owners Association which is a private non-profit corporation whose goal is the Improvement of Spring Valley. The hold fundraising events, they sponsor Sunday Breakfasts, Bar-B-Ques and they also maintain the Community Center. This organization is voluntary and has no authority under the terms of the CC&R's.

Spring Valley has a "live and let live" philosophy...a philosophy that I have enjoyed for almost thirty years. If I can provide you with any additional information please let me know...call me at 707-520-4265.

Hank...I'm afraid they are going to Foreclose on my house, can you help me?

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 10:41:59 -0800

Hank...I'm afraid they are going to Foreclose on my house, can you help me? This is the number one question that we at the Lake County Short Sale Team receive. And when we hear that question our immediate inclination is to say yes...we want to help!

We have learned over the years to answer..."let's sit down and talk". Each homeowner's situation is unique and requires a careful analysis of the homeowner's situation. We can help most homeowner's deal with their situation. We can help with Loan Modifications, Short Sales and negotiated Deed in Lieu solutions. We have postponed many foreclosure auctions and that has allowed many homeowners a little breathing room to put a plan into place.

We offer all this consultation and assistance without charge, in other words FREE! All we ask of our clients is that they provide us with all the information necessary to evaluate their situation. Each homeowners dilema is different and only through a candid conversation can we find the solution to their distress.

However, we can't help if you don't call. The longer you wait the less options are available to you. Call the Lake County Short Sale Team at 707-520-4265...we want to help!

ANOTHER LOAN MODIFICATION REQUEST SENT

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 11:56:00 -0800

Another Loan Modification Request completed andsent to the Bank. As a Real Estate Broker...I spend alot of time working with homeowners in financial distress. We always ask and always encourage homeowners who are having difficulty with their mortgage payments to apply for a Loan Modification.

Our Foreclosure Prevention Project offers FREE Loan Modification consultation and assistance to any homeowner experiencing difficulty making their home mortgage payments. We also offer FREE mailing and faxing service for those hefty application packages. Yes, this is a free service!

The Foreclosure Prevention Projectis an information/education community outreach effort of Century21 NorthBay Alliance and the Lake County Short Sale Team.

One of the saddest pieces of information I have heard recently...approximately 80% of the foreclosed homeowners in America never spoke with a Realtor. That is tragic! There is help available! Call a local Realtor who specializes in working with people in Financial Distress.

If you are having trouble locating a professional to assist you...give me a call at 707-520-4265 and I'll help you find the assistance you need. No cost and no obligation.

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION PROJECT

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 02:23:59 -0800

Hank...I don't get it...How can you offer FREE Loan Modification Workshops? Nobody works for FREE!

This was the theme of a phone call recently from a potential client. My answer is in two parts.

Part One: I have developed a systematic process for my LAKE COUNTY SHORT SALE TEAM and I realized that much of the guides and forms are the same for both Short Sales and Loan Modification were the same. I also found some great Hand Books on the internet that are designed to assist home owners in distress do their own Loan Modification Application. We decided that we could help this group of Homeowners with minimal investment of time...so why not! We also realized that many of our Short Sale clients were homeowners that had previously had an unsuccessful Loan Modification experience.

Part Two: Perhaps even more importantly...we feel that it is our responsibility to be part of the solution. I feel that the "Housing Crisis" is like a natural disaster...it's no time to stand around and talk about the problem...it's time to roll up your sleeves and help.

And so, help is what we offer. Free handouts, tip sheets, sample hardship letters, checklists and information guides. We also offer free photocopying, scanning, faxing and proofreading. We also offer free consultation and someone who will listen in a non-judgmental environment. The end of the Housing Crisis is a benefit for all of us and like a natural disaster...if it is not brought to an end, it will continue to spread.

If you or someone you know is having trouble making their mortgage payment...give us a call 707-520-4265. We are in the business of PREVENTING FORECLOSURES...One Home at a Time!

Go for the Gold...in Beautiful Lake County!

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 11:43:22 -0700

A new look in Lower Lake, California! GOLD is the Century 21 color...who doesn't remember those Gold jackets from the beginning of the Century 21 franchise?

But this post is not about the brand it's about the people!

The Agents at the Lower Lake office of Century 21 NorthBay Alliance decided that our building was in need of a "face lift". We are a hands on group and we are aware of how financially challenging these times are for both Realtors and Broker/Owners. So we asked the Broker to pay for the paint and the agents volunteered their Wednesday and we painted the building. It's amazing what a difference $75.00 and a days worth of labor can do to your office and the office morale.

So, come on by and meet a group of the hardest working Realtors you'll ever find. We would love to help you with your Real Estate needs and show you what a "hard-working" team can do for you! We are located in the historic town of Lower Lake California where Hwy 29 meets Hwy 53. You can reach us at 707-994-7100 or stop by at 9960 Highway 53.

Clearlake Oaks Market Report...Home Prices

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:08:47 -0700

Clearlake Oaks Market Report...Home Prices

The chart below shows the Median Home Prices and the Median For Sale Prices in the Greater Clearlake Oaks area. Listing Prices continue their downward trend as many people come to grips with the reality of home values. You will also note that the Median Sold Prices continue to be quite volatile...many "fixer properties" have sold recently and they are reflected in the Median Sold Prices.

The date reflected in the chart shows the overall market. However, every sale is unique...if you would like to know what your specific home is worth, give me a call at 707.520.4265

Clearlake Oaks Market Report

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:57:54 -0700

Clear Lake Oaks Real Estate Market Report

Sales are up in the Clear Lake Oaks area!

Is it the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit? We won't really know for a few months...It could also have been influenced by the Historically Low interest rates or the number of bargain priced Foreclosure Homes.

What we do know is that there are tremendous buying opportunities out there!

Tomorrow I will talk about Home Prices in the Clear Lake area.

'My LIFE! By DESIGN' or Finding the Grand Plan in a Series of Seemingly Random Life Experiences

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:32:51 -0700

My earliest memories as a child involved moving across the country. We had been living in Maryland and my little brother had asthma. He was quite sickly and had to be hospitalized on several occasions. My parents were told by the family physician to take their baby to Southern California for the clean air!

My folks, who were never afraid to pick up and move, packed the car and we moved from Silver Springs, Maryland to Sunland, California.

In many ways, moving has been one of the themes in my life. My mom was born in England and came to the United States after she and my father were married in the post World War II marriage frenzy. My dad grew up in Alabama and during the depression he ‘rode the rails' and worked where he could find it. My dad worked on commission my entire life and if there was no work there was no money...plain and simple. And so, we moved!

Some might look at so much moving as negative, I went to three different schools before I completed kindergarten, but it wasn't so bad. I learned to make friends quickly and to adjust to a new situation quickly.

My folks were renters and this contributed to a lack permanency, in my life, as a child. We never knew when we would be moving or what we could take with us. Attachments and possessions were all tenuous, at best. As a result, I am not a collector and I am not sentimental about stuff. Yet, I'm reluctant to throw anything away...I guess that I'm a little insecure and having things just makes me feel more comfortable.

As I think back on all of this I can see how woven these experiences are in the fabric of my life. As a young pre-teen I found myself intrigued by houses. I would study House Plan Books and discuss with my mom the merits of two stories vs. split level homes. I didn't really want to be an architect but I was fascinated by homes.

Twenty years later this fascination re-emerged and I became consumed with house building and owner-built homes in particular. Much like my folks, my wife and I picked and moved to Clearlake Oaks...to build a house! And build a house we did.

But along the way it became a home where we raised our two children. There would be no tenuous relationships for my kids...they graduated high school with the same kids they went to kindergarten with. Theirs was a life of constancy and predictability.

This owner built house became much more that simply a house building project for me. It became my life. Through a series of twists and turns I became a General Contractor specializing in working with Owner-Builders. Later, I became a custom home builder and ultimately a realtor.

I don't think I have looked at this fabric before today. I can see, for the first time in my life, that what I had previously believed to be merely a series of random and unrelated events is actually a part of a lifelong pursuit. My parents taught me to work hard, to love and depend on family and to recognize how important and fundamental home is for human happiness. Thanks Mom and Dad!

This post is to help promote Tom Ferry's upcoming book, LIFE! By DESIGN. The contents of my post are the result of some self reflection the preview chapter of the book asks us to do about ourselves.

You can Pre-Order the book now by visiting TomFerryBook.com. You can also participate in the promotion being done by ActiveRain for a chance to win some great prizes and 2500 points by visiting the promotional post here.

Everyone that orders a copy of the book between now and April 23rd, 2010 will also receive one ticket to attend Tom's Success Summit, August 24-26th and the MP3 audio role play program: Objection Handling for Buyers, Sellers and Short Sales.

In exchange for writing this post, I could win an iPad or other cool prizes, and this is to let you know so the FTC doesn't fine me.

I PASSED the BROKER's EXAM! by Hank Montgomery Realtor & General Contractor

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 15:34:04 -0700

Lumbleau Real Estate Schools is the oldest Real Estate School in California and today I send a great big THANK YOU to John Lumbleau!

The reason for my thank you is today I received notice that I passed the California Department of Real Estate BROKER's EXAM! And I am thanking John, for preparing me to take and pass the exam. I first met John back in 1976 in Southern California. The real estate market was HOT! And I took my prep class through the Lumbleau Real Estate Schools. This was in the days of live instruction and paper/pencil prep materials. I passed the exam first time!

Fast forward, 34 years later (yes I took my first exam while in Pre-School) and I have decided to go for my Broker's Exam. Who do I turn to...John Lumbleau...of course! I had recently completed all of my qualifying courses through the Lumbleau Real Estate Schools. The prep program was both thorough and demanding. And finally...it was test day and I was nervous!

But, as I was seated and waiting for the exam...a sense of calm came over me. As the exam progressed, I could hear the distinctive voice of John Lumbleau. You see...John knows more about the Department of Real Estate exams than just about anybody in California. There were no surprises on the exam and I felt well prepared...nervous, but well prepared!

Thank You...JOHN LUMBLEAU! You're the man...

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley...an Owner-Builder story

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 15:05:17 -0700

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley...28 Years and Counting...by Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor

28 years ago today my wife Jocelyn and I became Spring Valley Residents! We had come to Spring Valley to begin our first ‘Owner-Builder' project and we began our project like most Owner-Builders...under capitalized and way under experienced! Fortunately for us Spring Valley, was and is a great place for an Owner-Builder to build a home.

People adopted us...gave us encouragement when we needed it...gave us advice-which we always needed...gave us what we needed-when we needed it. The stories are many and heart warming and over these past 28 years there have been many that have followed in our footsteps. There is nothing so ageless or as satisfying as providing shelter for yourself and your family. And that is what we did...with the help of family, friends and neighbors. Many hands...many BBQ's...and many a cold beverage was shared as we built a house in Spring Valley!

But a funny thing happened to this young and naïve couple from the city who came to Spring Valley to build a house...instead we built a home! We built a home where we raised two wonderful kids (now grown)! We've become involved with our community...we've fallen more in love with each other and with this wonderful little piece of Northern California than we could have ever thought possible...28 years ago!

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley is a small community and a part of the larger community of Clearlake Oaks. Spring Valley is a rural sub-division with lots averaging over ½ acres. Spring Valley is known in Lake County for having some of the most affordable developed acreage in the county. This rural sub-division features paved roads, water system, power, phone lines and unlimited recreational opportunities.

If you need help finding a home or a piece of ground give me a call at 707.293.6776 or send me an email at HankMontgomery@Century21.com

Clearlake Oaks Homes…Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes…Spring Valley Homes

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 01:37:58 -0700

Clearlake Oaks Homes...Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Spring Valley Homes by Hank Montgomery, Realtor/General Contractor

Clearlake Oaks is a small community along the shores of Clear Lake...California's largest natural lake. Clearlake Oaks is actually three smaller communities; Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Spring Valley Homes...and Clearlake Oaks.

In the interests of full disclosure...I love Clearlake Oaks! I also live in Clearlake Oaks, specifically the little community of Spring Valley. I have lived here for 28 years and I love it!

Each of the three communities is different and charming in their own way. What they have in common is Eastlake Elementary School. This is a neighborhood school built in the 1950's and recently remodeled and upgraded. They also built a new Library which was desperately needed by both the school and the community. The school is in many ways the "hub or center" of the community. Next door to Eastlake School is the Grange Hall which was the previous elementary school. In a small community nothing is more important than their local school.

Another important landmark in the Clearlake Oaks Homes...Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Spring Valley Homes community is the Strawberry Stand. Each year depending on the weather "the stand" opens to the joy and the relief of many. Joy that the stand is open featuring lush and juicy strawberries and relief that the strawberry season has returned. The goal is to eat as many strawberries as possible because the season is short...some might say too short!

Clearlake Oaks Homes...Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Spring Valley Homes are communities that are worth your time, energy and consideration. I would love to show you around and share with you some of the magical places that we call home. Give me a call at 707.293.6776 or send me an email at HankMontgomery@Century21.com

I must warn you however, I came to Lake County in 1982 to spend a summer building a house and I never left. Clearlake Oaks Homes...Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Spring Valley Homes...a great place to live!

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley Homes...by Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 22:53:22 -0700

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley is a small community and a part of the larger community of Clearlake Oaks. Spring Valley is a rural sub-division with lots averaging over ½ acres. Spring Valley is known in Lake County for having some of the most affordable developed acreage in the county. This rural sub-division features paved roads, water system, power, phone lines and unlimited recreational opportunities.

Increasingly, one of the more significant features of Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley Homes is its affordability. The dramatic decline in Real Estate values has made the Spring Valley area a true Real Estate bargain. Sold prices have been relatively stable over the past year or so. Yet, these prices are anywhere from 50% to 33% of what they often sold for just 3 or 4 years ago. In Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley many of these homes sit on ½ acre.

Below, you will find a Market Report for the Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley area. This report covers the First Quarter of 2010 and all Four Quarters of 2009.

My purpose here is to give you the numbers associated with the Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley real estate market. The most important thing to note is that homes are selling! There are buyers in the market place and they want to buy homes...but they want a good deal. Homes must be priced competitively and if they are...they will sell.

If you need help finding a home or pricing your home to be competitive in today's market give me a call at 707.293.6776 or send me an email at HankMontgomery@Century21.com

MARKET REPORT	SPRING VALLEY
First Quarter 2009
January 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009
Number of homes sold	FOUR
Average Sold Price	$105,250
Low Sold Price	$67,000
High Sold Price	$150,000

Second Quarter 2009
April 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009
Number of homes sold	ONE
Average Sold Price	$125,000
Low Sold Price	$125,000
High Sold Price	$125,000

Third Quarter 2009
July 1, 2009 to September 31, 2009
Number of homes sold	FIVE
Average Sold Price	$157,094
Low Sold Price	$119,000
High Sold Price	$189,000

Fourth Quarter 2009
October 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009
Number of homes sold	FOUR
Average Sold Price	$111,250
Low Sold Price	$ 68,000
High Sold Price	$144,000

First Quarter 2010
January 1, 2010 to March 31, 2010
Number of homes sold	THREE
Average Sold Price	$114,967
Low Sold Price	$ 75,000
High Sold Price	$135,000

While, this information is deemed reliable...it's accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

Clearlake Oaks…Spring Valley Homes…Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 23:50:19 -0700

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley is a small community and a part of the larger community of Clearlake Oaks. Spring Valley is actually a rural sub-division neighboring another small area known as Long Valley. These communities have about 1000 people living and enjoying life is this rural area along with Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, Wild Turkeys and Tule Elk. Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley has two significant physical features; the North Fork of Cache Creek and Chalk Mountain.

The North Fork of Cache Creek is a year round creek which is feed by Indian Valley Reservoir...this creek has been known to produce some amazing Brown Trout. Opening day on this creek can be pretty exciting as adventurous fishermen have been known to race up the creek looking to liberate one of those big trout from its winter pool.

While Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley is a rural sub-division and several miles from town...it boasts features that are more reminiscent of in-town neighborhoods. Paved Roads, Newspaper & Mail Delivery, School Bus Transportation, Metered Water and weekly Garbage and Recycling pick-up are all a part of the services that make life easy in Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley. We also have a "little Store" for our shopping needs.

The jewel in the Spring Valley Crown has to be the Campground, Park and 200 acre Green Belt. The Campground sits on the banks of the North Fork of Cache Creek as does much of our park. This body of water attracts much of the wildlife that Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley residents have come to love. We also have a small lake with a dam and spillway. Our lake often has wintering ducks and it makes a great resting spot for wayward migratory birds. The spillway and the resulting pool make an excellent fishing spot and rewards many young fisher men and women with their first fish! This little fishing spot provides many with lifetime memories.

Clearlake Oaks...Spring Valley Homes features Large Lots with room for horses. This is an area that is perfect for the four-wheel and dirt-bike enthusiast. This is a community of hunters, hikers, bird watchers and fisher people. I would love to show you this area that I have called home for 28 years. Give me a call at 707.293.6776 or send me an email at hankmontgomery@century21.com

Clear Lake Keys Water Front Homes Market Report by Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 23:28:10 -0700

How much is my Clear Lake Keys Water Front Home worth? How much did the house down the street sell for? Do you know what they are asking for that house across the street? These are the most asked questions in Real Estate...these are the questions that all of us want to know. A market report won't answer those questions you'll need to consult with a local realtor. A market report is more of a community view or a neighborhood report card.

My purpose here is to give you the numbers associated with the Clear Lake Keys Water Front Homes real estate market. The most important thing to note is that homes are selling! There are buyers in the market place and they want to buy homes...but they want a good deal. Homes must be priced competitively and if they are...they will sell. If you need help pricing your home to be competitive in today's market give me a call at 707.293.6776 or send me an email at HankMontgomery@Century21.com

The purpose of the Clear Lake Keys Water Front Homes Market Report is to give you an idea of what the market is doing over time.

Market Report

First Quarter

Jan 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009

Number of homes sold: Four

Median Sold Price: $179.000

Low Sold Price: $110,000

High Sold Price: $239,000

Second Quarter

April 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009

Number of homes sold: Nine

Median Sold Price: $225,000

Low Sold Price: $ 55,000

High Sold Price: $270,000

Third Quarter

July 1, 2009 to September 30, 2009

Number of homes sold: Eight

Median Sold Price: $182,000

Low Sold Price: $ 85,000

High Sold Price: $379,000

Fourth Quarter

October 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009

Number of homes sold: One

Median Sold Price: $155,000

Low Sold Price: $155,000

High Sold Price: $155,000

First Quarter

January 1, 2010 to March 31, 2010

Number of homes sold: Three

Median Sold Price: $153,000

Low Sold Price: $100,000

High Sold Price: $300,000

I would love to help you find that ‘place at the lake'...whether you are looking for that summer place...that fishing cabin...or that retirement dream home on the water...You need to give Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor a call at 707.293.6776. Let me show you all that Clearlake Keys Waterfront homes have to offer.

Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Priced like a foreclosure...

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:24:57 -0700

Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Priced like a foreclosure...by Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor

Several years ago I wrote a blog post titled..."Priced to Sell or Priced to Sit?" The point of the post was that you can price your home to sell in today's market or you can price your home for yesterday's market...and let it sit. All too often we see homes priced to sit and sit they do!

As I was previewing homes the other day I found a couple of Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...priced like a foreclosure but they weren't. Some people are listening to their realtor or paying attention to the market in their area. One home in particular stood out to me as an exceptional value...this home is priced to sell. $124,900 for a home on the water...2 bedroom...1 ½ bath with a deck overlooking the water for only $124,900. And it is in move in condition. In the world of waterfront property in Northern California...it simply does not get any cheaper than this!

This Clearlake Keys Waterfront Home for only $124,900 also features a fireplace and a fully equip kitchen. The living room has a generous amount of glass so you can enjoy the water while warming by the fire in the fireplace.

If you can't live on the water the next best thing is living next to the water. It is essential for a Clearlake Keys Waterfront Home to have a nice large deck. You will find that the deck will become an extension of both your kitchen and your living room. You will cook on the deck, entertain on the deck and simply sit and relax on the deck. Our featured home has a new, large deck ready for you and all your friends!

I would love to help you find that ‘place at the lake'...whether you are looking for that summer place...that fishing cabin...or that retirement dream home on the water...You need to give Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor a call at 707.293.6776. Let me show you all that Clearlake Keys Waterfront homes have to offer.

Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes Foreclosure Bargains

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 23:54:54 -0700

Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes...Foreclosure Bargains are available for immediate purchase. Not a week goes by without someone coming into the office and asking me about waterfront foreclosures...and yes, I have Waterfront Homes in foreclosure. As both a Realtor and a General Contractor...I seem to attract people looking for distressed properties...all those years of building and remodeling are finally paying off! There are currently 5 waterfront foreclosures for sale in Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes and another 4 Short Sale (pre-foreclosure) homes on the market.

Having a Contractor friend is important when buying distressed properties...there is little to no information available and an experienced/trained set of eyes can help you find that diamond in the rough and avoid those properties that will drain your bank account. I bring that level of expertise to the buying experience for all of my clients!

And, today's theme is foreclosed properties. Specifically Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes in Foreclosure are today's topic. I specialize in foreclosure properties and I believe there is no greater value in today's real estate market than Waterfront Homes in foreclosure or pre-foreclosure.

Spring is in the air and Spring Fever is alive and well in Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes. Clear Lake is beautiful right now and spring makes everything look even better.Today, while previewing Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes I saw geese, ducks, snowy egrets and great blue herons. And the poppies...the California poppy is in full bloom at the lakes shore and they are as spectacular...as always.

I would love to help you find that ‘place at the lake'...whether you are looking for that summer place...that fishing cabin...or that retirement dream home on the water...You need to give Hank Montgomery Realtor/General Contractor a call at 707.293.6776 or email HankMontgomery@Century21.com . Let me show you all that Clearlake Keys Waterfront homes have to offer.

Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 20:15:29 -0700

Within the small lakefront community of Clearlake Oaks is an even smaller community...Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes. On the shores of Clear Lake, California's largest natural lake, Clearlake Keys is a waterfront community which is comprised of a system of channels, lagoons, creek and lakefront properties.

"The Keys" as Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes is affectionately called is home to a large number bass fishermen and fisherwomen. Clear Lake has become known as the Bass Fishing capital of the West. There are Bass Fishing tournaments virtually every weekend during the season and the Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes is homeport to many professional and amateur Bass Fishermen.

Of course, there is so much more to the Keys and Clear Lake than just Bass Fishing! Clearlake Keys Waterfront homes also boasts jet ski, wake board and water skiing enthusiast galore. Clear Lake is also a amazing body of water for sailing. These waters can put the most experienced sailor to the test and the numerous regattas draw sailors from throughout the west.

As a General Contractor and a Realtor I have lived and worked in this Clearlake Oaks area since 1982. One of the features that I appreciate most about Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes is the eclectic array of homes. This is not some ‘cookie cutter' subdivision where every fourth home is the same. This is a community with both charm and character...a place where individual taste and creative expression is celebrated. But more than that, this is a community that celebrates the fact that Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes has some of the most affordable waterfront real estate in all of California.

The dream of a "place at the lake" is now within the reach of more people than ever before. Today as I was previewing Clearlake Keys Waterfront Homes for a client I found a 3 bedroom 2 bath home on the water for only $117,500...no that's not a typo...$117,500!!!

Give me a call (707.293.6776) or send me an email (HankMontgomery@Century21.com ) and let me help you find "that place at the lake".

10 minutes and counting...

Hank Montgomery | Lake County Broker | CDPE (Century 21 NorthBay Alliance) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 09:05:22 -0800

In less than 10 minutes Lake County Association of Realtors will switch over from Paragon to the new CalRedd MLS system. The goal is to eventually have a single MLS for California.

The CalREDD folks are working hard to minimize the chaos which goes with the adoption of a new operating system and our local association has lots of "hand-holding" sessions scheduled to shorten the learning curve.

Hats off to all the Association members who have contributed countless hours so that the CalREDD system will meet the needs of our local members.

Well it's launch time...I've got to go! Wish us luck...