Heather's Blog

Down Payment Assistance Programs will be around a little longer

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 22:48:23 -0500

I wanted to pass on an update as to the status of the down payment
assistance industry in regards to the Housing Bill about to be signed by
Congress and President Bush. The bill will mention the elimination of DPA
programs. However, we have been granted an extension until October 1st to
continue our fight against HUD. What this means is that we are business as
usual and can continue to provide gift funds for you. Phew! Buyers if you have thought about buying now is the time. It's possible these programs could go away for ever and so will the thought of 100% financing and no money for closing costs.

If you have been thinking about purchasing a home in Seminole or Orange County contact me today.

I hope that you continue to come back to my blog or click to subscribe to my RSS feed

For information on buying, selling, or auctions in Central Florida, Orange County and Seminole County, new construction, bank owned, short sale and foreclosure properties and Relocation services contact your Lake Mary Real Estate Agent Heather Joubran @ 407-810-6304 or hjoubran@remax.net.

Seminole County consists of Lake Mary, Sanford, Heathrow, Longwood, Altamonte springs, Winter Springs, Oviedo. Orange County consists of Orlando, Downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park, Windermere, Apopka, Winter Park, Maitland, Disney, UCF, East Orlando, Lake Nona.

I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers

"Always work with a Realtor when selling a home. Would you hire a Realtor who has never sold a house before, knows nothing about real estate law, contract negotiation, or sales? Of course not – but that describes you. Don’t hire yourself – hire a real estate sales professional." ~ Ric Edelman

Renting vs Buying... Which is right for me

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 20:23:37 -0500

If you decide that you should continue renting or need to fix items in your credit there are a few things you can do. In recent conversation with a buyer I told her to ask for a Home Purchase clause in her lease when she renewed. It would allow her out of her lease in 30 days should she go under contract for a home and not have to pay a penalty. My client was succesful in doing this, so while she is fixing a few items should she be ready to purchase in less then a year she is free to do so.

Many renters feel buying a home is an impossible dream. But consider this: A landlord expects to make a profit after paying the mortgage, taxes, insurance, repairs and other expenses. His only “income” for the rental property is the rent paid by the occupants. As time goes on, and the value of the property increases, rents rise and his profit margin grows. Rents in Orlando are expected to increase by 4 percent this year and will continue to grow in the future.

If you want more control over your housing, and more importantly a share in the profits, buying is the choice for you. If you’d prefer to continue putting money in your landlords pocket and adding to his net worth, don’t make any changes and continue renting. But before you choose, please consider the following.

The basic premise of renting: Someone buys a property whether it be a single family home or a 300 unit apartment complex. They find people to pay their mortgage for them and in return they allow those people to live there. You are always buying a house, but when you are renting you are just buying it for someone else.

Lets say that you are renting an apartment with two of your friends. All three of you pay the same amount each month for the right to live there. But when you move out, what do you have to show for your time and money spent at the apartment? I will help you with the easy ones…NOTHING! Now, lets say that you owned the house and rented 2 rooms to those friends of yours. Your roommates are paying at least 2/3 of the mortgage for you (it’s quite possible that they will actually be paying more) and YOU get to deduct all of the mortgage interest from your taxes each year! So, by keeping those same roommates you were living with before and simply having them live in YOUR home, you can reduce your tax burden and save thousands of dollars each year! No to mention you’re also building equity in that home and are on the fast track to owning it!

Inventory levels are at their highest levels ever and as a result of this prices have been easing downward. Today’s buyers not only have access to a great variety of homes for sale then any other year in history but Interest Rates are still hovering around 40-year lows. There has not been a better time to buy a home in our country’s history! If rates go up, it wont matter if prices are still low, you will still pay more for that house regardless of the purchase price.

Think home prices are too high? You can buy an 3-bedroom single family house in Lake Mary for under $150,000! As mentioned supply currently far exceeds demand, which is forcing those who need to sell to make drastic price reductions! This is exacerbated by the increased number of foreclosed and short sale homes (a short sale is a sale in which the lender agrees to accept a price below what the current owner actually owes on the home and is an effort to avoid foreclosure) currently on the market. There are many options available to buyers offering payments right around, or perhaps even less than what you are currently paying in rent.

In this current market it’s not uncommon to find a $175,000 home priced $15-$20K below market value. For those holding a winning lotto ticket or looking to buy their $1,000,000 dream home, there are motivated sellers in this price point willing to sell well below market value, some as much as $200,000 or more!

So again, if you’re thinking of buying a home there has never been a better time to do so! Rates are low, inventory levels are high, sellers are anxious and prices are down but will rebound as inventory levels begin to stabilize and the market returns to a level of equilibrium.

Think before you rent. Begin the path to financial freedom now. Not sure if you are able to purchase myself and team of educators will help you determine your purchasing power and find you that perfect first home.

What Central Florida Zip Codes are selling???

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:13:17 -0500

I thought I would spend this morning doing a little market research on the areas. A lot of first time home buyers are gravitating towards the downtown area, not only for it's nightlife, but for it's green factor as well. Leave your car behind, dust off that bike or get a moped. Today's Urbanites are walking and biking to work. You can get from Thornton park area to the Church Street downtown area in as little as 15 mins by foot and 5 mins on a bike, no gas needed. Once the movie theater is finally up and running their will be no reason to leave the downtown area. Publix opens this Labor day and you cant even imagine how this will change the area.

The top zip codes I am asked to search are: 32806, 32804, 32803, 32801, 32789 (Downtown Orlando, Thornton Park, Colonial Town, Delaney Park, Winter Park, Edgewater, College park)

Here are my market findings for the time period June 17th -July 16th

In the under $250,000 price point 40 properties were sold, The month prior also saw 40 sales

In the $250,000-$300,000 price point 19 properties were sold, The month prior saw 16 sales

Want to see what sold for yourself? Then take a look at the above recent sales

More and more people are migrating towards the downtown area. With the area's elementary, middle and high schools receiving A grades.

I hope that you continue to come back to my blog or click to subscribe to my RSS feed

I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers

Answers to First Time Home Buyers Questions

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 11:23:32 -0500

I am an agent that lives the lives of most my buyers. I understand our needs for communication, education, flexibility and need for instant access and well wanting more then we can truly afford. I was a first time home buyer and now specialize working with first time home buyers in the Orlando area to help them realize their dreams of home ownership

With that being said I am contacted on a daily basis by first time home buyers who have found me via the internet on my first time home buyers site and via my blogs here on ActiveRain.

So I thought I would use some of these questions to create a blog to answer some of those questions that most first time home buyers have.

1. My husband and I are planning on buying a home next year, so we are renewing our lease. The main reason we are waiting so long is mainly because we wanted to have something saved up for closing costs and some sort of down payment, how much will we need?

Great question. First off if choosing to renew your lease talk to your apartment complex before hand, tell them you are looking for a home and should you find something you want to work out a deal where you can break your lease with 30 days notice and not pay penalties. Next with down payment programs like Nehemiah and Ameridream it's still possible to move into a home with little to no money out of pocket. The seller can gift to you through these programs your closing costs and down payment. Closing costs and prepaids run between 3.5-6% of the purchase price and FHA loans require 3% down payment, again we can generally get these funds gifted to you and do not need to be repaid.

However generally in order to be approved for a loan the bank will want to see some funds in savings generally 2-3 months worth of mortgage payments is a good rule of thumb. Contact me today to find out how much home you qualify for, hjoubran@remax.net

2. I noticed on your website that the seller would be responsible for your commission. Is that normal or are there instances where the buyer would pay the commission?

The buyers agent who works for you the buyer is paid from the seller. The only time this would not be the case is if you were to purchase a For Sale By Owner and they would not pay the buyers agent commission, however in todays market I would say that would be less then 1% of FSBOs. This is a strong arguement for why you should work with a realtor, you pay nothing out of pocket, you have someone negotiating on your behalf, lending their expertise to your transaction. They also do the leg work in finding properties and showing them. There is a much longer list of why you should use a realtor, but simply email me, hjoubran@remax.net if you have additional questions.

3.Once we start looking for a home, will you only send listings for homes you or Remax are the selling agents for or will you be sending listings for homes that are represented by other agents and companies? If we were to notice a property we wanted to look at, how would we go about doing so?

To me this was not a question I have thought about but is generally the top of the list for most home buyers. As a Realtor I am part of the board of realtors, meaning that I will send you all properties that meet your housing criteria, whether it's listed by me, remax or any other realtor out there. So if it's on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service or the back end of what feeds realtor.com) I will send it to you. Also I work closely with home builders so I will provide you with new construction options as they become available. Now if you are driving around see a property that you like simply write down the address and provide this information to me and I will gladly do the leg work. Also if you see a For Sale By Owner, write down the address of the property and the telephone number and I will handle the rest.

4. Are you a full or part-time realtor, what “office hours” do you normally keep, and if you show homes on weekends?

When looking for an agent to help you in your home purchase this is an important question to ask. I am a full time realtor. This is my profession and I continually attend additional education classes throughout the year to grow my knoweldge of my industry, hone my negotiations skills and to stay abreast of programs available for my buyers. In real estate there are no true normal business hours.

I am always available via Text Messaging and email even during off peak hours unless Im sleeping. But I am generally available via phone from the hours of 9-7 pm. I do make exception for those that are out of state or work odd hours. Please note if I am with a client I will not answer my phone, I feel it's inconsiderate of my clients time when they are with me and will give you the same respect when you work with me. I will however return your call as soon as possible. Or simply send me a text for a quicker response.

Over the next few week I will add more question and answers and hope that you continue to come back to my blog or click to subscribe to my RSS feed

I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers

Bid online for this stunning Apopka Fl House

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 15:51:42 -0500

Looking for your first home or looking for a house to invest in? This could be the house for you. You can even bid online.

Heather Joubran | RE/MAX Central Realty | 407-810-6304

1261 E. Cleveland Ave, Apopka, FL

PRICED TO SELL!! Not a Short sale close quickly. Why Rent when you can own!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $145,000

Year Built	1994
Sq Footage	1,060
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	4,495 sqft
HOA/Maint	$10 per month

DESCRIPTION

Charming neighborhood minutes to excellent schools and all major roadways. Tons of shopping and restaurants close by.
This home faces the community lake. Well maintained and tastefully decorated. This home is truly a must see!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet
Hardwood floor	Family room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Laundry area - garage
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Lake

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Large Master Bedroom 11 x 15

Higher end carpet and wood floors throughout

Outstanding curb appeal frame this house

Brick layed Driveway

3 Spacious Bedrooms

2 Modern Baths

1,060 sq ft over spacious & well utilized space

Spacious partially fenced back yard

BID ONLINE http://www.reiauctions.com/ViewAuction/tabid/70/AuctionID/110332/Default.aspx

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Heather Joubran

RE/MAX Central Realty

407-810-6304

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 12, 2008, 11:45am PDT

If you have a home to sell and just arent getting the offers or showings you would hope, then contact Heather Joubran today. She can not only give your home the marketing efforts it needs, but she will also get your home setup with it's own online auction.
For information on buying, selling, or auctions in Central Florida, Orange County and Seminole County, new construction or Relocation services contact your Lake Mary Real Estate Agent Heather Joubran @ 407-810-6304 or hjoubran@remax.net. Seminole County consists of Lake Mary, Sanford, Heathrow, Longwood, Altamonte springs, Winter Springs, Oviedo. Orange County consists of Orlando, Downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park, Windermere, Apopka, Winter Park, Maitland, Disney, UCF, East Orlando, Lake Nona. I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers. "Always work with a Realtor when selling a home. Would you hire a Realtor who has never sold a house before, knows nothing about real estate law, contract negotiation, or sales? Of course not – but that describes you. Don’t hire yourself – hire a real estate sales professional." ~ Ric Edelman

How is the Real Estate Market in the Orlando area?

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:22:48 -0500

Glad you asked how the real estate market is in the Orlando area. We just received our numbers and I am happy to announce that we have a steady trend of flat line :) Which is good I think a jerk too quickly in either direction will be bad. I am curious to see what September brings us as this is always one of the slowest months of the year.

I have included some graphs to show you how the market has faired the past 12 months and levels for the past 3 years. If you have thought about buying or selling a home in Orange or Seminole County this chart should help show you how the market is. Buyers it's still the time to buy. As you can see some of the highest inventory and still low interests over the past 2 years. Also sellers as you can see homes are selling and the market is strong, but if you dont need to see there is no need to add your home to the inventory. For those sellers who have some equity in their homes and purchased prior to 2004 you are still in a great position to sell.

As you can see the average time on market last month was 123 up slightly from the month prior but down from the start of the year.

Overall sales closed are the highest they have been since last August 2007.

Inventory is slowly creeping down and is about the lowest it has been in 12 months. Great sign!

New contracts are going strong. Each month saw a nice increase in new contracts and June 2008 is the highest we have seen in a year.

Buyers this is your time to buy, but dont sit on the fence too long, before you know it all can change and the interest rates could make their way up into the 7% range, making homes less affordable for you.

For information on buying, selling, or auctions in Central Florida, Orange County and Seminole County, new construction or Relocation services contact your Lake Mary Real Estate Agent Heather Joubran @ 407-810-6304 or hjoubran@remax.net Seminole County consists of Lake Mary, Sanford, Heathrow, Longwood, Altamonte springs, Winter Springs, Oviedo. Orange County consists of Orlando, Downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park, Windermere, Apopka, Winter Park, Maitland, Disney, UCF, East Orlando, Lake Nona. I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers. "Always work with a Realtor when selling a home. Would you hire a Realtor who has never sold a house before, knows nothing about real estate law, contract negotiation, or sales? Of course not – but that describes you. Don’t hire yourself – hire a real estate sales professional." ~ Ric Edelman

Seminole & Orange County Public School Report Cards are in....

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:43:14 -0500

Curious to see how your childs school did? Or maybe you are relocating to the Central Florida area and need more information on public schools.

Here is a break down of how just some of the schools in the Orlando area did this past year.

Seminole County High Schools

Seminole High A

Lake Mary High B

Lake Brantley High A

Lake Howell High A

Lyman High B

Winter Springs High B

Oviedo High A

Hagarty High A

Orange County High Schools

APOPKA HIGH SCHOOL B

BOONE HIGH SCHOOL A

COLONIAL HIGH SCHOOL C

CYPRESS CREEK SENIOR D

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH SCHOOL A

EDGEWATER HIGH SCHOOL C

EVANS HIGH SCHOOL D

FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOL D

JONES HIGH SCHOOL D

OAK RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL D

OCOEE HIGH SCHOOL C

OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL A

TIMBER CREEK HIGH SCHOOL B

UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL D

WEKIVA HIGH SCHOOL C

WEST ORANGE HIGH SCHOOL C

WINTER PARK HIGH SCHOOL A

For a complete list of all schools in Orange and Seminole County please contact me.

Save Down Payment Programs like Nehemiah let your voice be heard

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:59:28 -0500

Downpayment Assistance Programs in Danger of Elimination!

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has re-issued a proposed rule that would eliminate all private downpayment assistance programs.

As you know, Nehemiah has a long history of successfully protecting and advancing homeownership opportunities for homebuyers. For over 10 years, we have worked together to help more than 290,000 families achieve their homeownership goals. Together, we can defeat HUD’s proposed rule.

Act Now! We Have One Month to Stop This Action

Speak up now! The proposed rule comment period ends on August 15, 2008. Making your voice heard is simple. Submit a comment through our website and let Federal housing officials and your congressional representatives know how you feel about preserving private downpayment assistance as an option for today’s homebuyers.

Downtown Orlando Movie Theater still to open

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 07:07:10 -0500

You heard it hear first people. Now that Kuhn is out of the picture, his original partners are going forward with plans to open the much anticipated Downtown theater. The theater and the Urban Publix are the two big missing links in a thriving downtown enviroment. These alone I feel will help bolster the growth of this area.

Now Im not holding my breathe because we have been promised a theater for a long time, but it's slated to open this December as long as the city can help amend the incentives they are willing to offer. Now that may take more time then they think but the fact that they havent let the dream of a downtown Orlando movie theater go is all I need to keep believing.

An Apopka Home dirt cheap... come Bid On-line for this house starting bid $65,000

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:15:50 -0500

This fantastic Apopka, FL House can be all yours with a simple click of a mouse. Auction starts at $65,000.

Spacious home w/top rated schools

Online Auction - Bid Now!
	Opening Bid:	$65,000 USD
	Ending:	Jul 15, 2008 - 8:00:00 PM (Central Time)
	PropertyType:	Single Family ~ Move-In Ready
	Address:	1261 E Cleveland Ave
	City / State:	Apopka, FL
	Bedrooms:	3
	Bathrooms:	2
	Sq. Footage:	1060 (approximate)
	To View:	Call for Appointment

Click for More Information
- Or Call Heather Joubran at 407-805-0611 - Re/Max Central Realty

If you have a home to sell and just arent getting the offers or showings you would hope, then contact Heather Joubran today. She can not only give your home the marketing efforts it needs, but she will also get your home setup with it's own auction. For information on buying, selling, or auctions in Central Florida, Orange County and Seminole County, new construction or Relocation services contact your Lake Mary Real Estate Agent Heather Joubran @ 407-810-6304 or hjoubran@remax.net Seminole County consists of Lake Mary, Sanford, Heathrow, Longwood, Altamonte springs, Winter Springs, Oviedo. Orange County consists of Orlando, Downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park, Windermere, Apopka, Winter Park, Maitland, Disney, UCF, East Orlando, Lake Nona. I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers. "Always work with a Realtor when selling a home. Would you hire a Realtor who has never sold a house before, knows nothing about real estate law, contract negotiation, or sales? Of course not – but that describes you. Don’t hire yourself – hire a real estate sales professional." ~ Ric Edelman

Are you a Mosquito Magnet

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:11:03 -0500

Nothing to do about Real Estate, but with most people going to be out and about this Fourth of July weekend I find this information to be quite fitting. Especially living here in Central Florida. Now I am a proclaimed mosquito magnet and have been since I was a child. I will come out peppered in bits which I am allergic too and everyone else will maybe have a bit. Reading some of this information it now makes all the sense in the world. I never wear perfurme, but I am hot blooded and have very dark hair two things genetically I cant change. Oh well. Anyways here are some tips for your Holiday weekend

So youve probably heard the standard advice: use an insect repellent containing DEET, make sure there's no standing water on your property, etc. etc.

Yet I get a lot of questions from people who say, " My fill in the blank doesn't get bitten, but I seem to attract mosquitos like bees to honey no matter what I do. " And you know what, thats actually a true phenomenon- some people are truly mosquito magnets no matter how much they dowse themselves in DEET or other repellents.

So here are some facts to keep in mind when it comes to hungry mosquitoes... and possibly some things you can do to make yourself less tasty (although sometimes you just cant change the basic attraction.)

1. A hungry mosquito will travel more than 30 miles for a good meal- so if you hear about cases out of your area- dont get too smug.

2. Mosquitoes identify their meals by size, heat, and smell.

3. Therefore, the better you smell, the better you taste. Fragrances, lotions, and luscious shampoos can make you a bug magnet.

4. Bugs love people who wear dark solids- and pass on those who wear, say, a stripped or floral shirts. (Or maybe they just dont to be seen with them from a fashion point of view.)

5. Heat, moisture, and movement also are powerful attractants so if youre running around working up a sweat, prepare to start swatting.

6. And if that running around made you work up a thirst, DONT reach for alcohol, especially a cold beer. When it pours out of your pores, its like a bugle call to mosquitoes.

7. Going out right after a meal makes you tastier- it's not the food but the heat generated by digestion.

8. Dark hair is more atttactive to light (see above, under clothing).

9. Size does matter- the bigger you are, the more likely a target you are. I mean put yourself in the mosquito's shoes (or stinger) , why have a kids meal when you can super-size your victim?

10. Finally, for women, midcyle is a bad time.of the month. A surge in hormones may also make you a tastier treat to a mosquito.

Wish I had better advice, but some things dont have a foolproof medical fix. I guess that why they call them "bugs."

Downtown's Paramount to hold Grand Opening Fourth of July

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 08:25:34 -0500

The Paramount on Lake Eola is holding its grand opening on Friday, Independence Day.

I cant wait for this building to open. I live less then a 4 minute walk from it. The Paramount is directly overlooking Lake Eola, the art deco inspired Paramount includes 306 luxury residences and 7 pool deck villas, as well as 35,000 square feet of retail space, and 10,000 square feet of office space.

The 853,161 square-foot 313-unit condominium tower is at Central Boulevard and Lake Avenue on the south side of the lake.

It features floor-to-ceiling glass windows with views of Lake Eola and the downtown skyline. It also includes on the ground floor a Publix grocery store, a Washington Mutual branch bank, condominium office space and some additional limited retail space.

If you are interested in registering for this event this friday or would like to purchase a unit in the Paramount contact me today. Or simply browse the available units by Searching available units in the Paramount.

Planning your High School REunion

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:22:24 -0500

Ok so this blog has nothing to do with real estate but it's been my reason why I have had no time to myself or time to visit my addiction, Active Rain.

This weekend my years worth of hard work finally came to fruation and passed. My friend and I from high school spent the past year slaving away at planning the perfect 10 year reunion for the 556 students that are the c/o ’98 for Lake Mary High School, here in Lake Mary, FL.

Now I wasn’t a student body member or really even at school much my senior year. I did the job to work program and would leave after 4th period, but when I heard our past student body didn’t want to do anything I and another classmate jumped in. We figured most people do not like the formality of most reunions and especially for our 10 year most people would rather drink and socalize. So we slaved and tracked people down like the IRS, visited venues and racked our brains.

We located 440 classmates and either had an actual address and or a phone number. Cant tell you the complete details of our original and unique invites, which my boyfriend who is part owner at a marketing agency PUSH did, but they were amazing. Anyways by thinking out of the box and putting our customer service skills behind our planning, we were able to get 200 people to pay for their tickets a head of time and attend. We hosted the event at the Hard Rock Hotel in Orlando, FL. It was a fantastic night and Im so happy we were in charge. It felt good to feel the praises of our fellow classmates, however all I can say is I am beyond happy to have my life back. I am now hoping that I can put as much energy as I did into that into my real estate career.

June Song contest..... Yes I know it's free but get out of my head

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 06:48:00 -0500

So since the announcement of this contest I have been trying to think of a song that has been stuck in my head. You know the song that you just sing the same verse over and over until you have driven everyone around you crazy. Kind of like the small world ride at Disney or for any of you that happen to remember Lamb Chops this is the song that never ends, yes it goes on and on my friend, some people started singing it not knowing what it was and they will continue singing it because it's the song that never ends.... Oh excuse me... See how quickly it gets into your head.

When you try to think of a song it seems that that song is in the deepest recesses of your brain and does not want to be easily found. I thought and thought and thought but it just wouldn't surface, until the other night. There it was, right in front of me on the tv and guess what, I was singing with the stupid commercial and not even noticing it. See it's not a top 40 radio song that gets stuck in my head. Oh no it's a commercial jingle. Must say it's a dang good one too, because even if I tried I will never forget the stupid website.

That's right it's the free credit report.com commercial.

FHA has a temporary release on anti-flipping

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 06:37:40 -0500

The temporary waiver of the property flipping rule will permit lenders to more easily sell properties acquired as a result of foreclosure to homebuyers who use FHA financing. Both lenders and the property disposition firms they hire (or with whom they are affiliated) are now exempt from the 90-day lock-out period that once prevented homebuyers from using FHA financing to purchase properties that were owned by an individual/entity that held the property for less than 90 days. Under the new waiver, homes that were foreclosed on and are being sold by the mortgage holder or on its behalf may be purchased by FHA borrowers without regard for the 90-day seasoning period. To prevent future flipping of any properties purchased through the foreclosure sales, the subsequent sales of the properties will continue to be subject to the standard regulatory requirements - lockout for the first 90 days and two appraisals required to justify any increase in value of 100% or more for sales that occur within 90 to 180 days.

The waiver is effective for all FHA mortgage insurance endorsement requests on or after June 9, 2008 and expires for all loans for which the sales agreements were signed by the seller and buyer prior to June 8, 2009. Again, the exemption applies only to the initial sale of a foreclosed property and does not extend to a subsequent sale of that property.

Great new 3d website

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 20:50:40 -0500

Stumbled upon a new 3d designing website. It's a great place to plan the layout of a room choice wall colors you name it. And it doesnt seem like every other site out there. It's a great recommendation for clients who dont have vision. Go check out mydeco.com After you have checked it out come let everyone know what you thought about it.

1261 E Cleveland Ave Apopka FL WOW what a steal move in with no money down

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 20:45:22 -0500

Thought you couldnt afford to buy a home, or maybe you can handle the monthly payments just dont have any money up front? No problem, this seller with the right offer is willing to pay your closing costs and contribute to your down payment. Meaning you could move in with no money down. This home has all the bells and whistles and is waiting for a new home owner? Is this you. Give me a call for a private tour of this great Apopka home.

Heather Joubran | RE/MAX Central Realty | 407-810-6304

1261 E. Cleveland Ave, Apopka, FL

PRICED TO SELL!! Not a Short sale close quickly. Why Rent when you can own!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $155,000

Year Built	1994
Sq Footage	1,060
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	4,495 sqft
HOA/Maint	$10 per month

DESCRIPTION

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet
Hardwood floor	Family room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Laundry area - garage
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Lake

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Large Master Bedroom 11 x 15

Higher end carpet and wood floors throughout

Outstanding curb appeal frame this house

Brick layed Driveway

3 Spacious Bedrooms

2 Modern Baths

1,060 sq ft over spacious & well utilized space

Spacious partially fenced back yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Heather Joubran

RE/MAX Central Realty

407-810-6304

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 17, 2008, 5:56pm PDT

461 Dewars Ct Winter Springs FL Move in w/no money down

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 20:39:16 -0500

Yes folks it's still possible to purchase a home and this home with no money down. Seller is offering Nehemiah & Closing cost assistance and is still highly motivated. It's a great home with a great location!! Call me today to set an appointment.

Heather Joubran | RE/MAX Central Realty | 407-810-6304

461 Dewars Ct, Winter Springs, FL

Impeccable home w/great views, excellent schools and all the amenities

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $285,000

Year Built	1996
Sq Footage	2,222
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This spacious and bright floor plan boost 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The home has a very open and large kitchen that overlooks the pond and fireplace and is sure to be the gathering point. Formal living and dining room welcome you into the home with a wet bar too! Hardwood floors can be found in the family room. This home has so many wonderful features that you must truly see this house to appreciate. New a/c. Excellent A rated schools, private Audbun Park and playground for the residents with boat dock for lake. Located near all major roadways and shopping. Sellers will entertain offers or help with closing costs.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard	Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking

Lake

Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

A Rated Schools

Specially tinted windows - You can see out but they cant see in

Pond Frontage - great place to watch the wildlife

Gas Fireplace

Gas Appliance - A must for any cook or hurricane season

Wet Bar

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Heather Joubran

RE/MAX Central Realty

407-810-6304

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 15, 2008, 4:33pm PDT

The worst is yet to come...

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 07:04:58 -0500

I read a great article in the Bizjournal and thought I would repost it for you guys to read.

Florida has not "even begun to see the end of the foreclosure issue," state Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink warned.

Speaking to a group of 450 business leaders in Orlando on Friday, Sink said most experts believe that foreclosures will continue to rise sharply through August and September.

"This mortgage mess is more sophisticated than anything we've ever seen before," Sink said.

Florida was No. 4 in April foreclosure activity in the U.S., with a nearly 150 percent increase from the same period a year ago. RealtyTrac reported there were 35,264 properties in some state of foreclosure, or one for every 242 properties. April's numbers were nearly 17 percent higher than March and 146 percent greater than April 2007.

However, Sink noted that Florida has seen its share of real estate boom-and-bust cycles. Quoting from Frederick Lewis Allen's "Only Yesterday" -- a history of the 1920s -- Sink noted that, in the 1920s, speculators were buying properties after seeing only blueprints and putting as little as 10 percent down.

She said Florida must continue to reinvent itself by recruiting high-tech, high-paying jobs to the state and building on the state's tourism assets.

"We have to be in Europe and Asia and encouraging people to come to Florida," Sink said. "If we're not, we're not being very smart."

The state must also focus on reforming its hurricane insurance coverage, Sink said, noting that businesses subsidize 40 percent of the state's coverage.

And she encouraged business leaders to stay engaged with local and state governments.

"We need your help to establish priorities in these difficult budget times. We need to hold hands instead of being on opposite sides of table," Sink said.

Why should I work with a Realtor to buy my house. I can search on the internet....

Orlando & Lake Mary Real Estate Expert, Heather Joubran (RE/MAX Central Realty) — Sat, 31 May 2008 19:02:27 -0500

A Realtor brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the business of buying a home. In fact, a licensed real estate professional provides much more than the service of helping you find the home of your dreams. Realtors are not just sales agents. They are expert negotiators, seasoned financial advisors, and superb navigators around the local neighborhood. They are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and must abide by a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice enforced by the NAR. A professional Realtor is your best resource when approaching to buy a home

Let Me Be Your Guide —

•    Working with me can save you endless amounts of time, money and frustration.
•    I know the housing market inside and out and can help you avoid many a “wild goose chase.”
•    I can help you with any house even if it is listed elsewhere, new construction with a builder or is being sold by the owner directly.
•    I know the best lenders in the area; I can help you get pre-qualified for a mortgage; and discuss down payments, assistance programs, closing costs, and monthly payment options.
•    I am an excellent source for general information about the community, specific information about schools, churches, shopping, transportation, plus tips on house inspections and pricing.
•    I am experienced at presenting your offer to the homeowner and can help you through the process of negotiating the best deal. I bring objectivity to the buying transaction, and can point out advantages and disadvantages of a particular property.

And the BEST thing is that all this help won’t cost you a cent. The seller pays the commission to Realtors®.

For information on buying or selling in Central Florida, Orange County and Seminole County, new construction or Relocation services contact your Lake Mary Real Estate Agent Heather Joubran @ 407-810-6304 or hjoubran@remax.net Seminole County consists of Lake Mary, Sanford, Heathrow, Longwood, Altamonte springs, Winter Springs, Oviedo. Orange County consists of Orlando, Downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park, Windermere, Apopka, Winter Park, Maitland, Disney, UCF, East Orlando, Lake Nona. I can help you with all your housing needs from Luxury Homes to First Time Home Buyers.

"Always work with a Realtor when selling a home. Would you hire a Realtor who has never sold a house before, knows nothing
about real estate law, contract negotiation, or sales? Of course not – but that describes you. Don’t hire yourself – hire a real estate sales professional."
~ Ric Edelman