Featured Properties

Buying a Home Is Cheaper than Renting, Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:04:17 -0700

Buying a Home Is Cheaper than Renting

Buying a home is 44% cheaper than renting in America’s 100 largest metro areas, according to a recent study by Trulia.

The savings accrued when buying as opposed to renting varied upon location. Buying is less than half the cost of renting in 46 of the 100 largest metros. The lower saving rates were in California and New York and the highest were in the Midwest. The savings varied from 19% in San Francisco to 70% in Detroit.

Those areas with a higher savings rate include Memphis (62%), Kansas City (60%), and Indianapolis (58%). Those areas with a lower savings rate include Los Angeles (35%), New York (26%) and Honolulu (23%).

The report’s calculation assumes a 3.5% 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, 20% down, itemized tax deductions at the 25% bracket, and the buyer staying in the home for seven years. Trulia provides an interactive map that reveals how the savings change under alternative scenarios. For example, if a homeowner does not itemize (many homeowners do not), the average savings goes from 44% to 35%.

The report factors in many considerations, such as maintenance, insurance, taxes and the fact that the average home for sale is 47% bigger than the average rental unit. You can scroll down here to review a detailed analysis of the report’s methodology.

5 Quick Tips for Sprucing Up Your Home for Spring

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 02:33:17 -0700

5 Quick Tips for Sprucing Up Your Home for Spring

1. Start Up Front

Turn a front yard from "Blah" to "Ah" with a few key changes. Trim up bushes, plant new, colorful flowers, paint the garage door or lay new gravel in the driveway.

2. Extreme Cleaning

Steam clean carpets, tile and grout, power wash windows, and remove extra dust bunnies. By taking it one room at a time, the job will not seem so daunting.

3. Out with the Old, In with the New

Remove old, unused, unnecessary junk from the house. Have a garage sale or donate the items. This will allow the space for bringing in new more useful items.

4. DIY Projects

Browse the online website "Pinterest" for hundreds of creative ideas for potential projects. Feel a sense of accomplishment with your finished product.

5. Upcycling

Transform an old item into something new.By re-purposing vintage items, you not only save money, but you also create useful works of art.

Complimentary concierge referral service for clients to use in over 200 categories relating to home services, home improvement and home decor (pre-screened local vendors)
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How to Protect Your Frost Sensitive Trees and Plants

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 06:05:57 -0800

How To Protect Your Frost Sensitive Trees and Plants

1. Know which plants in your garden are frost sensitive.

Most common are Bougainvillea, Hibiscus, Natal Plum, Cape Honeysuckle and Red Bird of Paradise.

2. Plant sensitive plants in places that minimize frost.

Favorable planting spots include south or west sides of property, near the pool, close to block walls, rocks or concrete, under roof overhangs or patio extensions.

3. Protect plants from frost damage by covering with sheets, light blankets or burlap.

Do not place heavy blankets or plastic as these may damage the plant.

4. Remove frost covers late-morning of the next day.

Don't remove covers if it is still dark or if it is just after sunrise.

5. If frost gets to your plant, don't remove the damaged parts.

The dead branches actually help protect the parts of the plant that are still alive. You can prune the frost damaged plants in the spring.

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About iSearchDecor:

iSearchDecor provides a free referral service to homeowners by finding the perfect resources at the right price. We have pre-screened all of the vendors we refer, and our vendors offer special pricing and discounts not available to the general public. For quick, multiple quotes for the items on your home inspection report, or if you are looking to decorate or renovate after your close, we are available to assist you at any time at no charge!

Call 480-619-5505 or visit www.isearchdecor.com

The iSearchDecor Team

Before Selling Your Home

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 11:13:03 -0800

Home Decor Tip #25

Five Simple Repairs Before Selling Your Home

1. Detect all leaks and water problems.

2. Ensure all drains are clean and operational.

3. Replace dirty air filters.

4. Re-grout bathroom tiles, re-caulk around tub and shower and clean glass and mirrors .

5. Check that all gates, latches and locks are in proper working order.

Simple tasks prior to listing can simplify the process and add value to your property.

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ABOUT iSEARCHDECOR:

Call 480-619-5505 or visit www.isearchdecor.com

The iSearchDecor Team

Sage Creek Community Avondale Arizona Homes A Great place to Live

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 13:28:28 -0800

Sage Creek Community Real Estate Avondale Arizona Homes (edit/delete)

Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona {Discover the beautiful spanish style homes with their Tile roofs and Stucco exterior. Sage Creek Avondale,Arizona is perfectly situated in the heart of Avondale. Arizona's premier desert community, with comfort and convenience in mind.

The Community of Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona consists of approximately 447 single and multi story homes 2 to 4 bedrooms with several floor plans, some with 3 car garages and RV gates. Built in the mid-to-late 90's, offers affordable living with homes, ranging from 1,300 square feet to2 ,800 square feet, priced from the $80,000 to $150000. It is a family orientated neighborhood, offering green belts, walking paths, basketball courts, socer fields and playgrounds within the community.

Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona Corte Sierra Elementary school is located on site and is one of 12 schools in Litchfield Elementary District. It is a public school that serves approximately 800 students in grades PK, K-8.Corte Sierra Elementary school made AYP in 2010. Under No Child Left Behind.

Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona Corte Sierra Elementary school and Estella Community College both are within walking distance from anywhere in the community.

Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona offers plenty, this ideal location puts you just minutes away from all the best that Arizona has to offer. Less than 20 miles away from downtown Phoenix, The community of Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona is near popular retail centers. Fabulous restaurants, business parks, and cultural attractions. For Health care there are 2 hospitals near Banner Estella Hospital and West Valley Hospital.

From Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona residents are only minutes from the Arizona Cardinal stadium, the Coyote Hockey facility, or minutes away are several Golf Courses, and downtown Phoenix in as little as fifteen minutes.

Call me today! to check out the homes in Sage Creek, Avondale, Arizona , convenient location while prices are still low and before the interest rates go up. I provide Buyers and Sellers Handbooks, that have all the forms involved in a transaction and an explanation of each form.

If you are in the process of buying or needing to sell or are faced with a foreclosure or shortsale I can help sort out the best solution, So call me today! and let's get started. Call or e-mail me with the best time to return your call with your name, address, and phone number.
The best to you in your Real Estate needs!
602-507-3688 or PhoenixREbyJohn

Corte Sierra Commuity, Avondale, Arizona What a Great Place to Live

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 13:19:53 -0800

Corte Sierra Commuity, Avondale, Arizona, (edit/delete)

Corte Sierra, Avondale, Arizona, Homes for sale. Discover the beautiful homes at Corte Sierra . Perfectly situated in the heart of Avondale, Arizona's premier desert community, with comfort and convenience in mind.

The Community of Corte Sierra, Avondale, Arizona consists of approximately 813 single and multi story homes 2 to 4 bedrooms and several floor plans some with 3 car garages and RV gates. Built in the early to mid 2000 offers affordable living with homes, ranging from 1100 to 3500 square feet, priced from the $90,000 to $190,000. It is a family orientated neighborhood, offering green belts, walking paths and playgrounds within the community

Corte Sierra, Avondale, Arizona Elementary school is located on site and is one of 12 schools in Litchfield Elementary District. It is a public school that serves approximately 800 students in grades PK, K-8. Corte Sierra, Avondale, Arizona elementary school made AYP in 2010. Under No Child Left Behind, Corte sierra Elementary-School and Estella Community College are within walking distance from anywhere in the community.

Corte Sierra, Avondale, Arizona offers plenty this ideal location puts you minutes away from all the best that Arizona has to offer. Less than 20 miles away from downtown Phoenix, this close-knit community is near popular retail centers, fabulous restaurants, business parks, and cultural attractions. For health care there are 2 hospitals near by Banner Estella Hospital and West Valley Hospital,

Corte Sierra, Avondale, Arizonais conveniently located between West Thomas and Indian School Rd. north of the I-10 and minutes from the 101. This location can whisk residents to The Cardinal stadium, or the Coyote Hockey facility, or minutes away are several Golf Courses, downtown Phoenix in as little as fifteen minutes.

Call me today! to check out the homes in Corte Sierra convenient location while prices are still low and before the interest rates go up. I provide Buyers and Sellers Handbooks, that have all the forms involved in a transaction and an explanation of each form.

If you are needing to sell or are faced with a foreclosure or shortsale I can help sort out the best solution, So call me today! and let's get started. Call or e-mail me with the best time to return your call with your name, address, and phone number.

The best to you in your Real Estate needs!

602-507-3688 or PhoenixREbyJohn

Las Palmeras West Community Avondale Arizona a Great Place to Live!

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 13:10:49 -0800

Las Palmeras West Community Avondale Arizona real Estate (edit/delete)

Las Palmeras West Homes West for sale. Discover the beautiful homes at Las Palmeras Homes WestPerfectly situated in the heart of Avondale, Arizona's premier desert community, with comfort and convenience in mind.

The Community of Las Palmeras West Homes West Avondale, Arizona consists of approximately 272 single and multi story homes 2 to 4 bedrooms and several floor plans some with 3 car garages and RV gates. Built in the early to mid 2000 offers affordable living with homes, ranging from 1100 to 2100 square feet, priced from the $90,000 to $150,000. It is a family orientated neighborhood, offering green belts, walking paths and playgrounds within the community

Las Palmeras West Homes West, Avondale, Arizona Elementary school is located on site and is one of 12 schools in Litchfield Elementary District. It is a public school that serves approximately 800 students in grades PK, K-8. Las Palmeras West Homes West , Avondale, Arizona elementary school made AYP in 2010. Under No Child Left Behind, Corte sierra Elementary-School and Estella Community College are within walking distance from anywherein in the community

Las Palmeras West Homes , Avondale, Arizona offers plenty this ideal location puts you minutes away from all the best that Arizona has to offer. Less than 20 miles away from downtown Phoenix, this close-knit community is near popular retail centers, fabulous restaurants, business parks, and cultural attractions. For health care there are 2 hospitals near by Banner Estella Hospital and West Valley Hospital,

Las Palmeras Homes West, Avondale, Arizonais conveniently located between West Thomas and Indian School Rd. north of the I-10 and minutes from the 101. This location can whisk residents to The Cardinal stadium, or the Coyote Hockey facility, or minutes away are several Golf Courses, downtown Phoenix in as little as fifteen

Call me today! to check out the homes in Las Palmeras West Homes convenient location while prices are still low and before the interest rates go up. I provide Buyers and Sellers Handbooks, that have all the forms involved in a transaction and an explanation of each form.

If you are needing to sell or are faced with a foreclosure or shortsale I can help sort out the best solution, So call me today! and let's get started. Call or e-mail me with the best time to return your call with your name, address, and phone number.

The best to you in your Real Estate needs!

602-507-3688 or PhoenixREbyJohn

Posted by John E. Baldovin, New and Resale homes FHA, VA, USDA, Community programs on 03/29/2012 01:26 PM

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Homes for in Avondale Arizona in the Regional (Localism) Channel

arizona, avondale, buckeye, goodyear, glendale, homes for sale, first buyers, for sale, coyotes, cardinals

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Originally posted at: My New Outside Blog: Las Palmeras West Community Avondale Arizona real Estate

Short URL: http://actvra.in/y69

Rancho Santa Fe Commuity Arizona What a great place to live

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:58:28 -0800

Rancho Santa Fe homes for sale Avondale, Arizona (edit/delete)

Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale, Arizona, Discover the beautiful spanish style homes with their Tile roofs and Stucco exterior. Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale,Arizona is perfectly situated in the heart of Avondale. Arizona's premier desert community, with comfort and convenience in mind.

The Community of Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale, Arizona consists of approximately 2,900 single and multi story homes 2 to 4 bedrooms with several floor plans, some with 3 car garages and RV gates. Built in the mid-to-late 90's, offers affordable living with homes, ranging from 1,100 square feet to 3,500 square feet, priced from the $90,000 to $190,000.

It is a family orientated neighborhood, offering green belts, walking paths, basketball courts, socer fields and playgrounds within the community.

Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale, Arizona Rancho Santa Fe Elementary school is located on site and is one of 12 schools in Litchfield Elementary District. It is a public school that serves approximately 800 students in grades PK, K-8. Rancho Santa Fe elementary school made AYP in 2010. Under No Child Left Behind.

Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale, Arizona Elementary-School and Estella Community College both are within walking distance from anywhere in the community.

Rancho Santa Fe,Avondale, Arizona offers plenty, this ideal location puts you just minutes away from all the best that Arizona has to offer. Less than 20 miles away from downtown Phoenix, The community of Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale, Arizona is near popular retail centers. Fabulous restaurants, business parks, and cultural attractions. For Health care there are 2 hospitals near Banner Estella Hospital and West Valley Hospital.

From Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale, Arizona residents are only minutes from the Arizona Cardinal stadium, the Coyote Hockey facility, or minutes away are several Golf Courses, and downtown Phoenix in as little as fifteen minutes.

Rancho Santa Fe,Avondale Arizona is conveniently located along Dysart Road between West Thomas and McDowell roads north of the I-10 and minutes from the 101.

Call me today! to check out the homes in Rancho Santa Fe, convenient location while prices are still low and before the interest rates go up. I provide Buyers and Sellers Handbooks, that have all the forms involved in a transaction and an explanation of each form.

If you are needing to sell or are faced with a foreclosure or shortsale I can help sort out the best solution, So call me today! and let's get started. Call or e-mail me with the best time to return your call with your name, address, and phone number.

The best to you in your Real Estate needs!

602-507-3688 or PhoenixREbyJohn

Home decorating avondale goodyear litchfield park verrado san rafel

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 09:43:17 -0700

Home Decor Tip #23

8 Best Places to Add an Area Rug

A rug is more than just a place to wipe your feet; the right rug can add color, style, safety and functionality to every room in your home.

1. Front Door

Say "Welcome" with a colorful weather-resistant rug, which not only creates visual interest, but also gives your guests a place to wipe their shoes before entering your home.

2. Foyer

Show off your decorating style by laying a rug that fits the space appropriately and complements the wall color, art and accessories in the entrance.

3. Hallway

Use runners in hallways to give your home a finished look and to provide safety. Make sure to use a non-skid pad to hold rugs in place.

4. Conversation areas

Arrange furniture in conversational groups to make the space feel more cozy and inviting.

5. Dining Room

Define the space with a large area rug under your dining room table. A rug can also improve the acoustics in the room.

6. Kitchen

Place a small, washable area rug with cushioned pads in front of your oven and sink to reduce your risk of leg and back pain when standing for long periods of time.

7. Bedroom

Lay a luxurious area rug in your bedroom on either side of the bed or a larger one at the foot of the bed to add comfort and visual interest to the space.

8. Bathroom

Transform a cold tile floor by placing small, washable rugs throughout your bathroom to create a cozy oasis for your feet. Rugs should complement each other and coordinate with the room décor.

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ABOUT iSEARCHDECOR:

iSearchDecor provides a free referral service to homeowners by finding the perfect resources at the right price. We have prescreened all of the vendors we refer, and our vendors offer special pricing and discounts not available to the general public. For quick, multiple quotes for the items on your home inspection report, or if you are looking to decorate or renovate after your close, we are available to assist you at any time at no charge!

Call 480-619-5505 or visit www.isearchdecor.com

The iSearchDecor Team

Decorating tips Home Decor Tip #21

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 11:45:13 -0700

Home Decor Tip #21

5 Tips For Moving

1. Take Notes

Keep a notebook to track important dates and times relevant to your move, including utility shut off and start-up dates. Keep a tally of your moving expenses and keep copies of all your receipts.

2. Make Contacts

Call your local Utility Companies, Insurance Agents, Schools, Healthcare Professionals and Post Office to notify them of your change of address.

3. Keep Records

Make a detailed list of all your valuables (cash, jewelery, important documents and photo albums). Try to transport these items yourself rather than sending with movers.

4. Pack Well

Stock up on moving supplies such as masking tape, scissors, box-cutters, bubble wrap felt-tipped markers, boxes and storage containers. Pack an "Open Me First" box with all the essentials you'll need as you unpack including medications, toiletries, towels, linens, tool kit and pet supplies. Keep boxes under 50 lbs.

5. Remember Final Details

Do a final check of your house and property to ensure you have left nothing behind. Have payment (plus a tip) ready when you arrive at your new address.

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ABOUT iSEARCHDECOR:

Call 480-619-5505 or visit www.isearchdecor.com

5 Tips For Home Renovations, Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear Litchfield Pk

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 10:19:39 -0700

5 Tips For Home Renovations

1. Get Everything in Writing

Make sure the details of the work to be completed are clearly documented. Any changes to the original proposal should be documented as well.

2. Keep Paint for Touch-Ups and Document

Always have your painter leave leftover paint for touch ups. Don't forget to document not only your paint color, but also the type of paint: eggshell, flat, semi-gloss, etc.

3. Request the Contractor to Clean Up Mess Everyday

Ask your Contractor to clean daily. You won't want to have dust circulating through your heating and cooling system.

4. Change your Air Filters During and After the Renovation

You will want to keep filters clean in order to not cause serious damage to your HVAC system.

5. Do Not Make Final Payment Until Everything is Completed

Wait until every item on the final punch list has been completed to your satisfaction before writing that final check.

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ABOUT iSEARCHDECOR:

Interest Rates Hover at Record Lows Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 08:03:25 -0700

Interest Rates Hover at Record Lows

Concerns about the strength of the economy have recently taken Treasury yields to new lows. This, in turn, is causing fixed-rate mortgages to remain low.

Homeowners are taking advantage of the low interest rates. The refinance index recently reached a three-year high. Also, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) projects to receive 630,000 refinance applications for fiscal year 2012, a 23% increase from the previous 12 months.

The vast majority of refinancing is going into fixed-rate mortgages. The adjustable-rate share of mortgage activity recently fell to 4.1% of all mortgage applications.

At the same time, home prices are increasing. Zillow reported a second-quarter increase nationwide for the first time since 2007. Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller housing price index is also reporting monthly price increases.

When thinking about refinancing, there are some important things to consider. For instance, if refinancing to a lower rate will save $125 a month, you should then factor in your tax rate. If you're in the 25% tax bracket, the actual savings will be $94 a month.*

Another consideration is how long it will take to recoup your refinancing costs. If the costs are $4,000, it will take 43 months ($4,000 divided by $94) to recover those costs. So even if you plan to move in five years, refinancing is a good option. If, however, your refinancing costs are $6,000, it will take 64 months ($6,000 divided by $94) to recover the costs, which, if you plan to move in five years, would not be a good option.

If you would like to learn more about the current refinancing opportunities, please contact me today.

Appraisers Good or Evil, Arizona

Sat, 28 Jul 2012 15:43:52 -0700

Appraisers Good or Evil

Help! I have been a Realtor for 20 years and can do a good job at doing a CMA.

I listed the property at $174,90, which was a little high, since I could only comp it between 168 k to 170 K. The sellers agreed that if we had no contract in 2 weeks they would drop the price $5,000.

I put the home on the market Friday, and by Monday I had 7 offers 2 Full price. Both the seller and the buyer knew that it would probably not appraise at that price. The sellers agreed to if it did appraiser at between $167,00 and $169,000 they would be ok.

The homeowner had painted inside and new flooring, plus a lot of extras, and the home inspection was minimal, which made the buyers very happy.

It took the Appraiser longer than the 10 day inspection to get it appraised and when she finaly got it done the appraisal was $150 K. The sellers could not afford to sell at that price.

I gave her comps that would justify $68 per square foot these sold properties that were not HUD, or Flips but regular sales.

She choose to use properties that where HUD or FLIPS to justify her price of $59 per square foot.Two of the comps did not sell and are back on the market.

The lender asked for my comps and he was going to try to get her to make an adjustment, since the buyers had been looking for 2 months and this was the best property they had seen.

The appraiser Rachel A Siler-Gartner sent back a statement “I have researched the information that was provided and I still stand by my appraisal and will not be changing anything.”

I know I am not the only one this is happening to, but can’t we somehow Black List these appraisers that are low balling. Maybe if we can affect their income they might under stand our situation

In the mean time the sellers have vacated the property and if I can get it sold for Cash or conventional by August 30, if not we will probably have another foreclosure.

The Hottest Landscaping Trend is Foodscaping

Sat, 28 Jul 2012 15:29:45 -0700

The Hottest Landscaping Trend is Foodscaping

More households are growing their own fruits and vegetables. While lawn and garden sales have declined since 2008, food gardening sales nationwide have risen 20%, according to the National Gardening Association. The trend is referred to as foodscaping, or ediblescaping, and involves integrating edible plants into yards, lawns and open areas in a low-maintenance and toxic-free manner.

Almost one third of American households are now growing some kind of food at home. Factors contributing to this trend include reducing the cost of groceries, the desire to eat more healthy foods, and the preferred taste of homegrown fruit and vegetables harvested immediately before eating.

A simple way to start a vegetable garden is with a single raised box bed. If you're working in a limited space, tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, basil and rosemary grow well in pots. Most vegetables should be planted after the threat of frost passes. Exceptions, such as purple cabbage, should be planted in the late winter or early spring.

Vegetables require full sun or six hours of unfiltered light. Good drainage is also important. To check the drainage of your soil, dig a 15-inch-deep hole and fill it with water. If the water drains within an hour, the soil drains well.

Most vegetables should be watered daily. For herbs, oregano, sage, bay and thyme should be allowed to dry out between watering, while mint and lemon balm should remain moist.

Tended lawns cover 1.9% of land in the continental U.S., making it the most common irrigated crop. Lawn care costs Americans $30 billion each year. Increasingly, some budget-conscious homeowners want more in return for their efforts.They're removing portions of their lawn to make way for edible plants.

Call me today! to check out the homes in Sage Creek, Rancho Santa Fe, Corte Sierra, convenient location while prices are still low and before the interest rates go up. I provide Buyers and Sellers Handbooks, that have all the forms involved in a transaction and an explanation of each form.

If you are in the process of buying or needing to sell or are faced with a foreclosure or shortsale I can help sort out the best solution, So call me today! and let's get started. Call or e-mail me with the best time to return your call with your name, address, and phone number.
The best to you in your Real Estate needs!
602-507-3688 or PhoenixREbyJohn@aol.com

Short Sale Assistance for Miltary Homeowners

Sat, 30 Jun 2012 05:43:54 -0700

Federal Housing Finance Agency

Federal Housing Finance Agency

Fact Sheet:

FHFAShort Sale Assistance for MilitaryHomeowners with Fannie Mae andFreddie Mac Loans

Overview :

The Federal Housing Finance Agency is announcing changes to short sale policies that will make it easier for military homeowners with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgages to honor their financial commitments when they are issued a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order.

Currently, military homeowners with PCS orders are required to move to a new duty station under short, strict timelines. However, service members still remain bound to their financial obligations, including their mortgages. If their homes have declined in value, they may be unable to sell the home and obtain sufficient funds to pay off the mortgage debt obligating them to continue making monthly payments after relocating to a new duty station.

Changes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac short sale policies for military homeowners will alleviate some of the issues faced when a member of the armed forces receives a PCS order including the burden of having to sell their home in a difficult housing market. These changes dovetail with guidance issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to servicers last year establishing PCS orders as a qualifying hardship for forbearance and loan modifications.

Effective Date

FHFA will issue guidance by September 30, 2012, and it will be effective 60 days later.

Is Your Mortgage Owned or Guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac?

Homeowners can determine if they have a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan by going to:

• www.FannieMae.com/loanlookup or calling 800-7Fannie (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST)

• www.FreddieMac.com/corporate/ or 800-Freddie (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST)

Resources

• www.KnowYourOptions.com/Military or call 877-MIL-4566 (Fannie Mae)

• www.FreddieMac.com/avoidforeclosure or call 800-Freddie (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST)

What Is a Short Sale?

A short sale, also known as a preforeclosure sale, is when you sell your home for less than the balance remaining on your mortgage. If your mortgage company agrees to a short sale, you can sell your home and pay off all (or a portion of) your mortgage balance with the proceeds.

Details

Service members with PCS orders will be:

• eligible for a short sale immediately, even when they are current on their existing mortgage (the PCS order is treated as a hardship to deem them eligible);

• exempt from deficiency judgments from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac when receiving permission for a short sale; and

• relieved of any request or requirement for a cash contribution or promissory note so long as the property was purchased on or before June 30, 2012, (to apply personal assets to cover the shortfall after outstanding unpaid principal balance and sales price).

EligibilityRequirements

• The person must be in the military and have a PCS order.

• The existing mortgage must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

• The service member can be current or delinquent on their mortgage to apply for a short sale.

• The property must have been purchased on or before June 30, 2012.

Housing Affordability Index Reaches Record High,Avondale, Goodyear

Sat, 30 Jun 2012 05:17:43 -0700

Housing Affordability Index Reaches Record High

The Housing Affordability Index rose to a record high of 205.9 in the first quarter of 2012, breaking the 200 mark for the first time since recordkeeping began in 1970.

According to NAR, a household earning the median family income of just under $61,000 could afford a home costing $325,500 in the first quarter. That's remarkable purchasing power when you consider that the median cost of an existing home nationwide is $158,100.

Currently, the median monthly mortgage principal and interest payment for a median-priced home would take only 13.5% of gross income.

Commenting on the report, NAR's president Moe Veissi said, "We've never seen better housing affordability conditions or market opportunities than we see at present."

Housing affordability is based on a combination of factors, including the median home price, median family income and the average mortgage interest rate. A composite Housing Affordability Index of 100 is defined as the point where a median-income family household has exactly enough income to qualify for the purchase of a median-priced existing single-family home, assuming a down payment of 20% and 25% of gross income devoted to mortgage principal and interest payments.

Also, conditions for first-time homebuyers have never been better. A companion index measuring the ability of first-time homebuyers to purchase a home rose to a record high of 135.8 in the first quarter. The index is configured differently for first-time homebuyers: an income of 65% median ($39,632), a starter home of 85% median ($134,400), and a down payment of 10%.

According to NAR, first-time homebuyers could afford a home costing $182,500, an amount well above the overall median-price home.

For the year, the Housing Affordability Index is projected to set a record high average of 191. For more information about the favorable home-buying environment as well as record low interest rates, call today.

Beautiul 3 bd, 2bt, Patio Home, North Phx 3, 2, $79,900

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 07:25:36 -0700

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<tr><td style="text-align: right;"><div style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif,Tahoma; color: #FFFEFD; font-weight: bold; font-size: 18px;">14035 N 30th Drive</div></td><td><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="1" width="20"></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: right;"><div style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif,Tahoma; color: #FFFEFD; font-size: 11px;">Patio Home, Territorial/Santa Fe - Phoenix, AZ</div></td><td><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="1" width="20"></td></tr>
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<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="20" width="1"><br>
<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/usr/12/89/49/55/92/1289495592.jpg" border="1"><br>
<b>John E. Baldovin</b><br>
<div style="font-size: 10px;">Associate Broker</div><br>
<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="5" width="1"><br>
<table cellspacing="1" border="0" cellpadding="0">
<tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="text-align: right; font-size: 10px;">Office:</td><td style="text-align: left; font-size: 10px;">602-507-3688</td></tr>
<tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="text-align: right; font-size: 10px;">Mobile:</td><td style="text-align: left; font-size: 10px;">623-521-1570</td></tr>
<tr><td style="text-align: right; font-size: 10px;">Website:</td><td style="text-align: left; font-size: 10px;"><a href="http://www.BuyOrSellAsEasyAs123.com">Visit Website</a></td></tr>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Price</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>$75,900</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Bedrooms</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>3</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Bathrooms</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>2</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Square Foot</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>1,340</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>County</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>Maricopa</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Property Type</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>Detached</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>Year Built</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>1975</td>
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<td style="text-align: right;"><b>MLS Number</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>:</td>
<td>4780380</td>
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<td><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="1" width="5"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="8" width="1"><br>
<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/thumbnail.php?im=12894955921340887743&prop=1340887719&w=300" border="1" width="300"><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="1" width="1"><br>
<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="3" width="1"><br>
<a href="http://14035n30thdrive.ePropertySites.com">click for more information and pictures</a><br>
<img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="3" width="1"><br>
</td>
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<table cellspacing="12" border="0" cellpadding="0" style="background-color: #FFFEFD; text-align: left; width: 100%;">
<tr><td><b>Property Description</b></td></tr>
<tr><td style="background-color: #17526B;"><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="1" width="1"></td></tr>
<tr>
<td>
JUST BEAUTIFUL VERY NICE 3 BEDROOM PATIO HOME WITH 2 CAR CARPORT,UPDATED KITCHEN AND BATHROOMS, LOTS OF TILE, PRIVATE PATIO, WITH STONE BAR, FIREPIT AND PUTTING COURSE WITH SEPERATE STORAGE SHED.LOTS OF STORAGE INSDE AS WELL.INDOOR LAUNDRY ROOM WITH PANTRY.VERY WELL MAINTAINED COMMUNITY WITH POOL AND PARK AREA. LOCATION IS GREAT WITH I-17 ACCESS JUST 3 MINUTES FROM YOUR DOOR.ASU WEST CAMPUS 8 MINUTES WEST ON THUNDERBIRD
</td>
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<tr><td><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="10" width="1"></td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Features List</b></td></tr>
<tr><td style="background-color: #999999;"><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="1" width="1"></td></tr>
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<td>
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<td><li>Block home</td>
<td><li>New A/C</td>
<td><li>Great Patio</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><li>Remodeled Kitchen</td>
<td><li>All Tile Flooring</td>
<td><li>Refrigerator include</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><li>Washer and Dryer</td>
<td><li>Dishwasher</td>
<td><li>2-baths</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><li>Block Fencing</td>
<td><li>Security doors</td>
<td><li>2 Car carport</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><li>Storage</td>
<td><li>Move-in Ready</td>
<td><li>Much Much More</td>
</tr>
</table>
</td>
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<td><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/blank.gif" border="0" height="5" width="1"></td>
</tr>
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<td style="text-align: center; background-color: #EBE6CF;">
<table cellspacing="0" border="0" cellpadding="0" style="font-family: verdana,geneva,ms sans serif,arial; text-align: center;">
<tr>
<td><img src="http://www.epropertysites.com/images/eh.gif" border="0"></td>
<td style="font-size: 10px; color: #4C4C4C;">Equal Housing Opportunity.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</td>
<td style="">
Home Smart Real Estate :
17235 N. 75th Ave F110 -
Glendale
AZ
85308
: 602-507-3688
</td>
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</table>
</div>

88 Things That Might Go Wrong During Your Transaction

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 12:52:37 -0700

4br 3bth 3Car Garage Coldwater Springs Golf Community Avondale AZ.

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:06:47 -0700

Type in your SEO text here...

12371 W. Jackson
Avondale, az 85323
Golf community

John E. Baldovin

Associate Broker

Office:	602-507-3688
Mobile:	623-521-1570
Website:	Visit Website

Price	:	$172500
Bedrooms	:	4
Bathrooms	:	3
Square Foot	:	2,494
Lot Size	:	7,095
County	:	mariicopa
Property Type	:	Detached
Year Built	:	2001
MLS Number	:	4767364

click for more information and pictures

Property Description

TRADITIONAL SALE: this home is a ready move-in, with new interior paint, Custom porcelain tile in Kitchen and Family room, large kitchen with Island. Whole house water filtration system New Carpet on lower Level Also has wood flooring upstairs, new cork flooring in master bathroom. With large master bath and walk in closet. All the Interior Hardware has been replaced with brushed nickel, 9 foot ceilings, all window coverings and ceiling fans convey, 2 patios, One raised with fire pit. Sprinkler system in front and back yards, 3 car garage, New Air conditioner a year ago, all appliances stay. This home will not last long so get your buyer there now.

Features List

Large Kitchen	Kitchen Island	Water filtration sys
New flooring	New Paint	Ceiling Fans
Familyroom	9 foot ceilings	Dual Pane Windows
Block Walls	3 Car Garage

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Home Smart Real Estate : 17235 N. 75th Ave F110 - Glendale AZ 85308 : 602-507-3688

IN HONOR OF THOSE WHO HAVE DIED IN OUR NATIONS SERVICE

Mon, 28 May 2012 06:09:38 -0700

Did you know:

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day. Major General John A. Logan led the campaign in 1868 that proposed a day be set aside to decorate the graves of the Civil War soldiers with flowers.

Logan chose May 30 as the day because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. In 1971, the Monday Holiday Law shifted Memorial Day from May 30 to the last Monday of the month.

The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for one minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.

Mid Month Pricing Update and Forecast for Maricopa/Pinal County

Wed, 23 May 2012 13:10:08 -0700

Mid Month Pricing Update and Forecast for Maricopa/Pinal County

Each month about this time we look back at the previous month, analyze how pricing has behaved and report on how well our forecasting techniques performed. We also give a forecast for how pricing will move over the next 30 days.

Sneekpeak at the Cromford Tool

For the monthly period ending May 15, we are currently recording a sales $/SF of $98.31 averaged for all areas and types across the ARMLS database. This is 5.1% higher than the $93.50 we now measure for April 15. Our forecast range was $95.68 to $99.58 with a mid-point of $97.63. This month the actual value was within 0.7% of the mid point of the forecast range, so we count ourselves once again content with that result. We have also justified our prediction that positive annual appreciation would be reported from November 29 onwards. Yesterday's price level was 17.7% higher than last year on May 15. We reiterate our forecast that positive annual appreciation will be recorded throughout 2012 and is likely to easily exceed 25% by September 2012.

On May 15 REO sales across Greater Phoenix (all types) averaged $73.99 per sq. ft. (up 4.4% from April 15). Pre-foreclosures and short sales averaged $74.33 (up 0.9%) while normal sales averaged $115.36 (up 4.2%). Normal sales again gained substantial market share, moving from 53.5% to 57.0% of sales. REOs dropped again from 21.1% to 18.4% and we expect REO sales to continue to lose market share over the rest of this year. Short sales and pre-foreclosures also lost market share, moving from 25.4% to 24.5%.

On May 15 the pending listings for all areas & types showed an average list $/SF of $94.29, 1.6% above the reading for April 15 - so pending $/SF has moved upwards again and is now at its highest level since February 4, 2009. Among those pending listings we have 41.2% normal, down from 42.4% last month, a slightly greater 17.7% in REOs and a slightly higher 41.1% in short sales and pre-foreclosures. The average pricing for pending listings on May 15 in each category was: $122.31 normal, $71.75 short sales & pre-foreclosures and $70.34 for REOs. The slight change in the mix and lower increase in pending $/SF suggest that the rate of increase for monthly sales $/SF will slow down over the next month from the rapid pace between April and May.

Our new mid-point forecast for the average monthly sales $/SF on June 15 is $99.98, which is 1.2% above the May 15 reading, and we have a 90% confidence that it will fall within ± 2% of this mid point, i.e. in the range $97.98 to $101.98. Our mid point forecast implies an annual appreciation of 18.7%.

September 15, 2011 - now measured at $78.84 per sq. ft. - remains the $/SF pricing bottom. The lowest monthly average sales price is $151,072 and this was measured on September 5. However the record low monthly median sales price is still standing at $107,000 and this record low point was set 15 months ago on February 24, 2011. Our current monthly median sales price has moved up to $140,000 (30.8% above the low point) and it looks probable that we will hit $145,000 during June.

Brought to you by;

The source of my new updates: Mike Orr, the author and creator of The Cromford Report, has allowed me to give you a sneak peak every week of his work and commentary. Industry leaders regard The Cromford Report to be the best cumulation of data of our local markets in Maricopa and Pinal County. In 2012 Mike Orr was appointed Director of the Real Estate Center at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. Website is www.cromfordreport.com

Get a Cool Roof

Tue, 22 May 2012 16:27:43 -0700

Get a Cool Roof

With traditional dark-colored roofs, light is not reflected and the roof absorbs heat. This heat then penetrates through to the interior building, increasing cooling costs.

Dark roofs absorb and hold more than 80% of solar energy, while white roofs can reflect 75% of solar energy. That makes a white-roofed building cooler and cheaper to air-condition.

With advances in roofing materials, cool roofs no longer need to be white. New technologies in cool roofing have two important physical properties: Solar reflectance and thermal emittance. Solar reflectance is a measure of the solar radiation that is immediately reflected off the roof surface back into the atmosphere without heating the roof itself. Thermal emittance is a measure of solar energy that the roof bounces back into the atmosphere as infrared light after being initially absorbed.

Cool roofing is now available in many different colors, including darker-colored pigments that are highly reflective. Also, cool roofs are manufactured for virtually any type of roof — hip, square, flat, or pointed — in many different forms, including shingles, tiles, modified bitumen, single-ply membrane and field-applied coatings.

It is estimated that 90% of roofs in the U.S. are dark colored. A study conducted by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that installing a cool roof could reduce the energy cost of cooling equipment up to 52%. Implementing cool roofs nationwide could result in an annual savings of $1 billion in cooling costs.

For more information on cool roofing, visit the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC). The CRRC is an independent, non-profit rating entity that measures roofing product surfaces for radiative properties through Accredited Independent Testing Laboratories (AITL). They also provide an online Rated Products Directory and other helpful resources

Maricopa & Pinal County Real Estate Commentary

Wed, 16 May 2012 11:21:34 -0700

Maricopa & Pinal County Real Estate Commentary

May 15 - A milestone was passed today. For the first time since we began counting them in 2008, we had fewer than 1,000 Greater Phoenix lender owned homes listed for sale and without a contract on ARMLS. The peak count was 14,237 on January 16, 2009. Today we have 992, down 16% since the beginning of May. Lender-owned homes are rapidly becoming an insignificant part of the overall supply.

Sneekpeak at the Cromford Tool

May 14 - I think it's fair to say that supply is no longer falling at the moment. We have 20,927 active listings across ARMLS for all areas and types, including those in AWC status. On May 1 we had 20,781. If we confine ourselves to Greater Phoenix and exclude AWC listings, we have 11,662 and we had 11,610 on May 3. REOs are still falling, but short sales and normal listings are inching up. The rapid rise in market prices has been enough to stop the fall that started 18 months ago at the end of November 2010. However this does not mean that prices will stop increasing. The current level of inventory is way below what would be considered normal. We would need a major increase in inventory to get to a balanced market again. We will get there at some point but not any time soon. In the meantime prices will continue to head north. What it does mean is that some of the upward pressure on prices has been reduced, so we may see occasional pauses in the upward trend, almost as if the market is waiting for the rest of us to catch up..

May 13 - Trustee deeds have been recorded at relatively low levels for 2012 - only 9,574 for 2012 to date in Maricopa County. Compare this with the 21,107 in 2011 by May 13. Since the increase in notices mentioned yesterday started in February it makes sense to expect a noticeable increase in trustee deeds starting this month, due to the 91 day foreclosure cycle. Fewer than half of the notices will result in an actual foreclosure, with the rest being resolved by short sale, loan modification, forbearance, etc. Nevertheless we should see an increase in trustee deeds over the next 3 months, probably back over the 2,000 a month mark after the unusually low figure of 1,733 in April. Please do not get excited. This will NOT result in a "flood" of REOs. For one thing, less than half of trustee deeds are being granted to the beneficiary. The majority are granted to third parties. For another, even a 25% increase in deeds will only take us back to the level of February 2012. While we may see a slight increase in REOs coming onto the market this will probably be nowhere near enough to satisfy the current appetite of buyers. The likely effect on the overall market can be described as somewhere between zero and negligible. What is likely to have more of an effect on the market is the increase in pricing that has occurred between August 2011 and May 2012. In 9 months we have seen monthly average sales price per sq ft increase by 24% and monthly median sales prices increase by 31%. These price movements would normally be expected to slow down demand and encourage more sellers, so applying some brakes to the price increases. We now wait to see if this braking effect is substantial or not.

May 12 - We have seen 2,087 notices of trustee sale recorded so far in the month of May for Maricopa County, 2,064 of which are for residential parcels. This is after 9 of the 22 working days in the month. If the trustees continuing recording notices at a similar rate for the rest of May we should see about 5,100 in total. The last 3 months have seen rates of close to 4,500 per month, so this represents an increase of about 15%. It means more foreclosure notice will probably be issued in May 2012 than May 2011, which will probably be treated as newsworthy by the media. The last time we saw over 5,000 notices in a calendar month was August 2011 (5,315) and before that March 2011 (5,690). It is certainly the case that foreclosure notices have picked up after a distinct lull in December 2011 (3,528) and January 2012 (3,479). However we should put these higher numbers into context. Our peak level was 10,712 in March 2009, over twice our expected total this month, and between March 2008 and January 2011 every month was significantly higher than 5,100. My interpretation is that lenders have lost any shyness they once had about issuing notices, probably because they no longer have as much concern about litigation after the legal settlement earlier this year. This was suggested as likely in my observation for February 12. The open question is how long this elevated level of notices will continue before we get pre-foreclosure 30+ day delinquent loans (currently at 6.1% of outstanding first home loans according to LPS) back to or below the historic norm of 4.5%.

May 11 - Sales volumes are significantly down in most locations due to the shortage of homes for sale and higher prices. For example, Phoenix single family sales are down 18%, Mesa is down 10% and Glendale is down 15% compared with this time last year. Scottsdale is an exception. Here the monthly sales rate is up 5% compared with 2011. Since Scottsdale pricing is far higher than most of the valley this changes the mix in favor of higher priced homes and adds yet more fuel to the acceleration of the median and average sales prices. It's looking so far as if May's pricing numbers are likely to be 4-6% higher than April's.

May 10 - It looks like the large rise in prices over the last three months may be finally stopping the decline in inventory. We have almost the same number of active listings (excluding AWC) today as we had this time last week. If we can at least get stability in inventory levels this will improve the situation for over-stressed buyers. Normal listings and short sales increased over the week but REOs declined to just 1,069. This compares with the 14,246 REOs we had available on January 9, 2009, a decline of 92%.

Brought to you by;

FHA Streamline Refinancing Fees Reduced

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 07:07:24 -0700

FHA Streamline Refinancing
Fees Reduced

A new program could save qualified borrowers $3,000 a year, even those who owe more than their home is worth.

The White House recently announced significant changes that will reduce the fees charged for the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) Streamline Refinance Program.

Beginning June 11, 2012, the Streamline Refinance upfront fee of 1%* will be reduced to 0.01% of the total loan amount. And the annual fee will be lowered from 1.15% to 0.55% of the total loan amount.

By refinancing through this streamlined process, the average qualified FHA-insured borrower will save approximately $3,000 a year or $250 per month, on top of any savings from refinancing to a lower mortgage rate.

The "streamline" refers to the minimal amount of documentation and underwriting that needs to be performed. Streamline refinancing can be done without an appraisal or income verification, providing the person(s) on the loan hasn't changed.

There are no loan-to-value (LTV) restrictions on streamline refinancing. This is significant for underwater borrowers whose loan amount may exceed the current value of their home. However, second liens must subordinate with a maximum combined LTV ratio of 115% based on the original appraised value of the property.

The basic requirements of a streamline refinance are:

The loan must already be FHA insured and endorsed on or before May 31, 2009.
Borrowers must be current on their mortgage payments with no late payment in the previous 12 months.
The refinance must result in a lowering of the borrower's monthly principal and interest payments.

Currently, 3.4 million households with loans endorsed on or before May 31, 2009, pay more than a 5% annual interest rate on their FHA-insured mortgages.

If you would like more information about the changes to the FHA's Streamline Refinance Program and what these lower fees could mean for you, please contact me today. And I will put you in touch with one of my preferred lenders

Sage Creek Real Estate Community Avondale Arizona HOA

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:13:14 -0700

HOA & Property Mgmt. Information

HOA Name: Sage Creek HOA

HOA Telephone: 480-759-4945