Jabin Norris- CENTURION 08','s Blog

Surfing North Carolina

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:59:52 -0500

Famed for the Outer Banks, this 300 mile east facing coastline is almost entirely ringed by these low-level sandy islands. Possibly the best surf on the East Coast and certainly capable of holding excellent waves, the banks jut out into the sea making the most of all available swell.

Autumn's hurricane season produces the most prolific surf and winter to spring's north-easterly storms regularly track swell down from the Atlantic. Summer brings typically sloppy surf.

Water temperature varies greatly from 8C/46F to 25C/77F in winter and summer. The southern half of the state faces south-east and as such receives reduced swell, especially from the seasonal north-easterly swells. However the waves here are still of a high quality with barrels aplenty.

Lockwood Folly Golf

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:57:48 -0500

The Lockwood Folly River flows into the Intracoastal Waterway of the Atlantic Ocean on the inland side of this windswept barrier island in Brunswick County. For years, local oystermen have known that this nutrient-rich brackish water produces some of the Carolina coast's most scrumptuous shellfish.

Indeed, there are few courses in the Grand Strand that require more precision off the tee. The 14-year-old layout was routed through an old hunting plantation, and a good portion of the Live Oaks, pines and Cypress trees remain in tact.

Lockwood Folly really tightens its grip on the 380-yard par-4 ninth hole where the fairway landing area narrows to the size of a gnat's eyelash. Hit it too long or spray it right and you are in the water; pull it left and your tee shot will either find one of two fairway bunkers or the woods.

Welcome to the golf coast

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:54:57 -0500

Challenge your game, not your patience. Play the courses of North Carolina's "Golf Coast," and you'll wonder why you never have before. You'll find over 35 championship golf courses, laid out among the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. Our subtropical temperatures lure golfers back year after year, yet the crowds and traffic always manage to vacation elsewhere.

How do 600 picturesque holes remain such a well-kept secret? Maybe because those who know the peace and tranquility of our courses are reluctant to share their good fortune. After all, it isn't often one can play a challenging Byrd, Palmer, Couples or Maples course that isn't teeming with other carts and clubs. Stay in a fully equipped villa right on the fairway, or choose a beachfront rental to give your trip another perspective. For the novice and pro alike, North Carolina's Brunswick Islands will give you a game you'll never forget.

Are we seeing some mortgage success?

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:52:14 -0500

Mortgage servicers have been more successful modifying loans that are held on their own books than those that are owned by mortgage investors. Nearly half of investor loans were at least 60 days delinquent nine months after they were modified compared with about 30% of loans that are held in bank portfolios. Servicers said they have more flexibility to rework loan terms for mortgages they own than for those held by investors.

Modifications can result in higher monthly payments because, by the time loans are worked out, borrowers often are behind on their payments. Lenders frequently have been adding these past-due amounts, which can include principal, interest, taxes and insurance, driving monthly payments higher.

Servicers have stepped up their efforts to modify loans and reduce borrowers' payments in response to pressure to reduce foreclosures. The percentage of modifications that reduced loan payments by more than 10% increased to 37% in the fourth quarter from 26% in the third quarter. Still, roughly one in four borrowers saw their payments increase after their loan was modified.

Mortgage Studies

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:50:07 -0500

Cutting financially troubled borrowers' monthly mortgage payments by more than 10% reduces the chances that they will fall behind again after their loan is modified, a study found.

While modifications that result in lower payments are increasing, nearly half of all loan workouts still result in the same or higher payments, the study found.

The report, released Friday by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Office of Thrift Supervision, comes as mortgage companies are preparing to modify loans under the Obama administration's foreclosure-prevention plan, which provides financial incentives to encourage mortgage companies and investors to reduce borrowers' mortgage-related payments to 31% of income.

Cutting financially troubled borrowers' monthly mortgage payments by more than 10% reduces the chances that they will fall behind again after their loan is modified, a study found.

While modifications that result in lower payments are increasing, nearly half of all loan workouts still result in the same or higher payments, the study found.

Some borrowers fall behind again because of job loss or other problems, but whether or not the borrower gets payment relief also appears to play a role in the outcome. The redefault rate was just 26% after nine months when monthly payments were cut by more than 10%, compared with about 50% when the payment increased or remained the same.

Brunswick COunty: Did You Know?

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:47:22 -0500

Brunswick, established in 1745, was made a borough town in 1754, and when Brunswick County was established in 1764 it was made the county seat. In 1779 the county seat was authorized to be moved to the plantation of John Bell near Lockwood's Folly Bridge. In 1784 Walkersburg, named in honor of John Walker on whose land it was situated, was established. Provisions were made in the act for a courthouse and other public buildings to be established there. It was located near Deep Water Point. This act specified that the courts were to be held at the most convenient place until the courthouse was completed. It is doubtful that the act was put into effect because in 1808 an act was passed authorizing the removal of the courthouse from Lockwood's Folly to Smithville. Court was held at the courthouse from 1805-1858. The record does not indicate where the courthouse was. This town, established in 1792, was named in honor of Benjamin Smith, Governor of North Carolina, 1810-1811. In 1879 an effort to move the courthouse failed. In 1887 Smithville was changed to Southport. Southport served as the county seat until 1977 when the county seat was moved to Bolivia, following a referendum on the question.

Brunswick County was named in honor of the town of Brunswick, which was named for King George I, Duke of Brunswick and Lunenberg. Smithville, established in 1792, was named in honor of Benjamin Smith, Governor of North Carolina, 1810-1811.

The South Brunswick Islands

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:45:49 -0500

The Brunswick Islands offer an uncomplicated lifestyle that is hard to find today. You'll discover a vacation that feels so far away, but is truly right around the corner. The warm, soft sand and gentle waves provide just the right setting to relax away all your worries and outdoor activities like golf, boating, hiking and fishing provide ample opportunities to rejuvenate the mind and soul. Visitors enjoy our southern hospitality and the freshest seafood around when in the area, which leaves them coming back for more
year after year.

Often long time vacationers decide to move their family and their business to the area. Being one of the fastest growing counties in the nation, Brunswick County offers diverse business opportunities. Despite the growth, Brunswick County remains home to quiet communities, perfect to retire or raise a family.

Varnum's Marine Work

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:44:38 -0500

Welcome to the site of Varnum's Marine Work, we strive on professional service &
would like the opportunity to introduce ourselves to you. With twenty two years
experience we guarantee 100% satisfaction. Specializing in docks, bulkheads,
floating docks & boat lifts no job is too large or too small. Also all service & repair
work is provided through our company, free estimates daily. Proudly serving the
South Brunswick Islands please take a minute to view our site, thank you for your
time. From us at Varnum's Marine Work we look forward to serving you.

As a born native of the area our knowledge will benefit you beyond the competition. We know the tides & yearly conditions that can be a hazard to you, with that knowledge we go out of the way to assure you the best in dock & bulkhead service.

John Varnum

910-443-4246

What is the MLS?

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:22:31 -0500

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) (also Multiple Listing System or Multiple Listings Service) is a
database which allows real estate brokers representing sellers under a listing contract to widely
share information about properties with real estate brokers who may represent potential buyers
or wish to cooperate with a seller's real estate broker in finding a buyer for the property.

The purpose of the MLS is to enable the efficient distribution of information so that, when a real
estate agent is introduced to a potential home buyer, he/she may search the MLS system and
retrieve information about all homes for sale in a given area or price range, whether under a
listing contract by that agent's brokerage or by all participating brokers. The MLS combines the
listings of all available properties that are represented by brokers who are both members of that
MLS system and of NAR or CREA, (the National Association of Realtors in the US or the
Canadian Real Estate Association).

The MLS systems are governed by private entities, and the rules are set by those entities with no
state or federal oversight, beyond any individual state rules regarding real estate. MLS systems
set their own rules for membership, access, and sharing of information, and are subject to
nationwide rules laid down by NAR or CREA. An MLS may be owned and operated by a real
estate company, a county or regional real estate Board of REALTORS or Association of
REALTORS, or by a trade association. Membership to the MLS is generally considered to be
essential to the practice of real estate brokerage.

CENTURY 21 Anne Arnold

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:16:16 -0500

When it comes to Holden Beach properties and communities, there is one name
you need to remember: CENTURY 21 Anne Arnold. CENTURY 21 Anne Arnold
and her team are committed to satisfying their customers, whether selling your
property quickly or finding a property that meets your specifications, they are
serious about their profession. CENTURY 21 Anne Arnold has a tradition of
meeting and exceeding their customer's expectations. We invite you to become
part of this tradition.

Since its founding in 1972, the CENTURY 21 System has grown into the world's
largest real estate organization. The System is comprised of over 6,300
independently owned and operated offices with 110,000 brokers and agents
worldwide, in more than 25 countries and territories.

The CENTURY 21 System is the most recognized consumer brand in the real
estate industry, and possesses the largest network and greatest global coverage
of any competing brand. It is dedicated to continually providing buyers and
sellers of real estate with the highest quality services possible.

In all of is operations, the CENTURY 21 System epitomizes not only professional
real estate knowledge, but a dedication to honesty, integrity, and responsiveness
to every customer whom we have the privilege of serving. That is what
CENTURY 21 Anne Arnold brings to Holden Beach and Brunswick County.

www.century21holdenbeach.com

How do lenders look at a loan application?

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:42:43 -0500

When a lender makes a decision about a mortgage application, they consider two basic factors, your ability and your willingness to repay the loan.

Ability to repay the mortgage is determined by verifying your current employment and analyzing your total income. Lenders prefer for you to have been employed at the same place for at least two years, or at least be in the same line of work for a few years. Your proposed monthly payment will be compared to your monthly income and debt.

Willingness to repay is influenced by how you have paid previous loans and by examining how the property will be used. Willingness can be gauged by your credit report and previous commitments to pay rent and/or utility bills. There is also a greater tendency to stick with your payments if you live in a house as opposed to a rental property or vacation home.

Are you taking advantage of Down Payment Assistance?

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:40:40 -0500

Many local and state agencies run bond programs to generate funds to help individuals and families with a down payment. Contrary to public thinking, these bond issues are not a type of welfare. The government knows that it can be tough to buy that first home, especially on a limited income.

Most agencies are income sensitive, but you may be surprised by the high level of acceptable income. The income level is especially high if you have children or dependents. Most agencies also have purchase limits, but they are adjusted to the income qualifications level.

If you are able to obtain down payment assistance, you may receive a lower interest rate. The drawback is that it often takes quite a bit of work with extra paperwork and mandatory education classes. Our advice, find a Realtor or mortgage professional who is familiar with both the local and state agencies and their policies.

Brunswick County History

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:37:59 -0500

Below is a list of Reconised historic attraction located in Brunswick County. Each is distinct in its own way & carries its own story. Brunswick County is one of the most Historic sites in North Carolina holding stories from the Civil War all the way back to Black Beard.

Bald Head Creek Boathouse (Bald Head Island) 12/1/1997
Bald Head Island Lighthouse (Bald Head Island) 4/28/1975
(former) Brunswick County Courthouse (Southport) 5/11/1979
Brunswick Town Historic District (State Historic Site) (Southport vicinity) 9/1/1978
Cape Fear Lighthouse Complex (Baldhead Island) 8/29/1978
Fort Johnston (Federal Nomination) (Southport) 6/7/1974
T.B. McClintic (Shallotte Point) 6/3/1994
Oak Island Life Saving Station (Caswell Beach) 12/28/2000
Oak Island Lighthouse (Caswell Beach) 4/5/2007
Orton Plantation (Southport vicinity) 4/11/1973
Southport Historic District (Southport) 11/25/1980
St. Philip's Church Ruins (Southport vicinity) 2/26/1970

For more information of the history of Brunswick County visit Jabin today @ www.jabinnorris.com.

Brunswick County: NC's Golf Coast

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:30:20 -0500

For more information on NC's Golf Coast visit Jabin today at www.jabinnorris.com.

Property Management Solutions of Holden Beach

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:21:52 -0500

Our company prides itself on quality. We offer services to Commerical and Residential clients. We are insured and have over 10 years experience.

Our reputation is known to be "No worry, No hassle."

We offer a wide variety of services so that your time and money are well spent. Why call 3 businesses, when you can call ONE to do it all!

When working with our company we pride ourselves in being reachable, either by phone, text, or email.

Your home or office is a investment not to be neglected. We have the resources, the equipment, and the knowledge to complete most any job to protect that investment. When it comes to finding hard working people for your next project, think of us. We offer FREE ESTIMATES!

Below is a list of services offered, however if you require a service that isn't listed please let us know what it is and maybe we can help you.

General Maintenance & Renovation
24-Hour Disaster Response
Concrete & Stone Work
Tree Work
Landscape Installation
Excavator / Bobcat Services
Flooring
Plumbing Repair
Painting
Deck Installation and Repair
Roofing
Dump Truck Services
Fencing Installation or Repairs
Irrigation Repairs

The Gray Gull Motel, Holden Beach's ONLY Motel

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:17:09 -0500

Holden Beach is a small family oriented beach known for its relaxed atmosphere, excellent fishing conditions, and numerous surrounding golf courses. The Gray Gull is located only 3/4 a mile from the Holden Beach Bridge and is in walking distance to many restaurants and shops. The Robinson Family has owned this 17 room motel with a nondiving pool for over 20 years. The clean, quiet, and relaxed
atmosphere keeps people coming back to Holden Beach and The Gray Gull Motel year after year.

At the Gray Gull we strive to keep our rooms spotless to make your stay more comfortable. All
rooms include Cable TV, Air Conditioning and a Refrigerator. The non-diving pool and picnic
area provide a great place to sit back and relax.

All reservations must arrive before 10:00 PM and by 5:00 PM on Saturdays.

The maximum people allowed by Health Dept. is two people per bed. NO
EXCEPTION.

Sorry- No pets allowed.

Two night minimum for reservations. (Rooms are rented for one day if you
come without a reservation.) One night deposit required on all reservations.

Cancellation Policy: The reservation must be cancelled before 5:00 PM the
day before arrival. Your deposit will be refunded if cancellation is made 24
hours in advance.

Summer rates apply to reservations taken for the "Festival by the Sea"
weekend in October.

We reserve the right to adjust room rates as needed.

Is Your REALTOR SRS Certified?

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:13:40 -0500

SRS - Seller Representative Specialist - is the premiere seller agency designation, conferred by the SRS Council, recognizing real estate professionals who have completed special education in seller representation.

The SRS designation and SRS Council, LLP have been independently operating since early 2006 and have already conducted many courses to rave reviews by students and administrators. Take a look at what our students are saying on our page of some of the many testimonials we have received.

SRS designees are members of an elite group of trained seller client advocates that know the importance of their client's specific needs by using Seller Counseling Sessions to insure all needs are addressed.

Why use a e-Pro REALTOR

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:09:07 -0500

The e-PRO Certification Course is an educational program unlike any other professional certification or designation course available, comprehensive and Interactive. It is sponsored by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® and is specifically designed to help real estate professionals thrive in the competitive world of online real estate.

Are you reluctant to give out contact information through the Web for fear of being pestered or spammed? e-PROs understand. They've learned the Web isn't just a place to do business; you need information from someone you can trust.

That's why e-PROs respect your privacy. They respond quickly to your questions, but don't send you unwanted communication. And they protect your personal information.

For a certified e-Pro REALTOR contact Jabin today @ www.jabinnorris.com.

ABR

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:05:35 -0500

The Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®) designation is the benchmark of excellence in buyer repre-
sentation. This coveted designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate BUYER'S AGENT Council (REBAC) of the National Association of REALTORS® who meet the specified educational and
practical experience criteria.

Buying a home is no small matter. Besides being the largest financial transaction you may ever undertake, it's probably also the most complex. There are many good reasons to work with a qualified real estate professional-especially a trained professional who has earned the Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) designation, representing best-in-class buyer services.

For a Certified ABR REALTOR contact Jabin today @ www.jabinnorris.com.

108 Wood Duck

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:59:38 -0500

Holden Beach- Wood Duck Retreat-Superior deal priced $16.27 less per sq. ft. than comp. solds for 08'. NEW 2000sq/ft home on over 1/3ac lot minutes from HB. Open floor plan, 4d/2bh, formal dining w/ bar, large master bed/bath w/ 7x12 walk-in closet. Out side storage, County water available, large front yard, privacy woods in back. Separate utility room, dishwasher, stand-up ref. Manuf. warranty included, all located in a quiet well known community. New sign is being placed at community entrance.

PMI

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:49:28 -0500

Mortgage insurance is a policy that protects lenders against some or most of the losses that result from defaults on home mortgages. It's required primarily for borrowers making a down payment of less than 20%.

Like home or auto insurance, mortgage insurance requires payment of a premium, is for protection against loss, and is used in the event of an emergency. If a borrower can't repay an insured mortgage loan as agreed, the lender may foreclose on the property and file a claim with the mortgage insurer for some or most of the total losses.

You need mortgage insurance only if you plan to make a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price of the home. The FHA offers several loan programs that may meet your needs. Ask your lender for details.

Additional FHA Information

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:48:15 -0500

Keep living in your home to qualify for assistance.

HUD has a number of special loss mitigation programs available to help you:

Special Forbearance: Your lender will arrange for a revised repayment plan which may Include temporary reduction or suspension of payments; you can qualify by having an Involuntary reduction in your Income or Increase In living expenses.

Mortgage Modification: Allows refinance debt and/or extend the term of the your mortgage loan which may reduce your monthly payments; you can qualify if you have recovered from financial problems, but net Income Is less than before.

Partial Claim: Your lender maybe able to help you obtain an interest-free loan from HUD to bring your mortgage current.

Pre-foreclosure Sale: Allows you to sell your property and pay off your mortgage loan ,to avoid foreclosure.

Deed-in lieu of Foreclosure: Lets you voluntarily "give back" your property to the lender; it won't save your house but will help you avoid the costs, time, and effort of the foreclosure process.

If you are having difficulty with an-uncooperative lender or feel your loan servicer is not providing you with the most effective loss mitigation options, call the FHA Loss Mitigation Center at 1-888-297-8685 for additional help.

FHA Credit Information

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:45:59 -0500

The FHA is generally more flexible than conventional lenders in its qualifying guidelines. In fact, the FHA allows you to re-establish credit if you can proceed one of the following.

two years have passed since a bankruptcy has been discharged

all judgments have been paid

any outstanding tax liens have been satisfied or appropriate arrangements have been made to establish a repayment plan with the IRS or state Department of Revenue

three years have passed since a foreclosure or a deed-in-lieu has been resolved

Except for the addition of an FHA mortgage insurance premium, FHA closing costs are similar to those of a conventional loan outlined in Question 63. The FHA requires a single, upfront mortgage insurance premium equal to 2.25% of the mortgage to be paid at closing (or 1.75% if you complete the HELP program- see Question 91).

This initial premium may be partially refunded if the loan is paid in full during the first seven years of the loan term. After closing, you will then be responsible for an annual premium - paid monthly - if your mortgage is over 15 years or if you have a 15-year loan with an LTV greater than 90%.

Ways to exceed the normal loan debt ratio

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:43:13 -0500

You may qualify to exceed if you have the normal loan debt ratio by one of the following.

a large down payment

a demonstrated ability to pay more toward your housing expenses

substantial cash reserves

net worth enough to repay the mortgage regardless of income

evidence of acceptable credit history or limited credit use

less-than-maximum mortgage terms

funds provided by an organization

a decrease in monthly housing expenses

Even if you can exceed the ratio always take your comfort level into concideration of how much you want to owe.

What will happen on your closing day?

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:39:53 -0500

Normally as your REALTOR & you enter into the closing room you will present your paid homeowner's insurance policy or a binder and receipt showing that the premium has been paid. The closing agent will then list the money you owe the seller (remainder of down payment, prepaid taxes, etc.) and then the money the seller owes you (unpaid taxes and prepaid rent, if applicable). The seller will provide proofs of any inspection, warranties, etc.

Once you're sure you understand all the documentation, you'll sign the mortgage, agreeing that if you don't make payments the lender is entitled to sell your property and apply the sale price against the amount you owe plus expenses. You'll also sign a mortgage note, promising to repay the loan. The seller will give you the title to the house in the form of a signed deed.

You'll pay the lender's agent all closing costs and, in turn,he or she will provide you with a settlement statement of all the items for which you have paid. The deed and mortgage will then be recorded in the state Registry of Deeds, and you will be a homeowner.