HEART TO HEART NEW JERSEY

TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND FELLOW REALTORS, MORTGAGE FRIENDS PLEASE

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 08:35:25 -0800

Valentine's Day is about honoring those who are special to us, and clients like you are very special indeed! If you or anyone you know needs our services, don't forget we're always here for you. Thanks for helping us love what we do!

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch Broker/Associate Amabile Realty LLC Phone 732-213-1159 Phone: (Fax: 732-414-1149)

HOW ABOUT THOSE YANKEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:56:01 -0800

GOING TO YANKEE PARADE......................YES....................

Happy & Safe Halloween

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:06:24 -0700

TO ALL HAPPY LABOR DAY TO ALL MONMOUTH/OCEAN AND MIDDLESEX COUNTIES

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:46:10 -0700

TO ALL HAPPY LABOR DAY TO ALL MONMOUTH/OCEAN AND MIDDLESEX COUNTIES

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:38:19 -0700

WHAT ARE YOU DOING ON SUNDAY COMING TO MY OPEN HOUSE???

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:17:27 -0700

HERE IS YOUR HOUSE NONE OTHER PRICED SO WELL AND NOT A SHORT SALE SO YOU HAVE

TO WAIT FOREVER TO BE DISAPPOINTED

COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY AUGUST 30, 2009

12:00 NOON - 4:00 PM or you can see it anytime just call

DIRECTIONS CALL 732-470-7552 OR 732-887-0271

4 SUNRISE TER

SAYREVILLE, NEW JERSEY 08859

LOVELY SPLIT LOVELY NEIGHBORHOOD, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION

OWNER TOLD ME TO TELL YOU COME MAKE ALL YOUR OFFERS !

WANT TO LIVE IN SAYREVILLE, VERY SHORT COMMUTE TO NYC, STATEN ISLAND, BROOKLYN

Middlesex, Monmouth/Ocean Counties

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:10:04 -0700

WELCOME TO MY OPEN HOUSE BACK TO SCHOOL AND LABOR DAY SALE OWNER SAYS SELL!!

HERE IS YOUR HOUSE NONE OTHER PRICED SO WELL AND NOT A SHORT SALE SO YOU HAVE

WANT TO LIVE IN SAYREVILLE, VERY SHORT COMMUTE TO NYC, STATEN ISLAND, BROOKLYN

WELCOME TO MY OPEN HOUSE BACK TO SCHOOL AND LABOR DAY SALE SELLER SAYS SELL!

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 20:56:49 -0700

Re-blogged by 0 agents

Middlesex County/Monmouth County/Ocean County MLS

WANT TO LIVE IN OLD BRIDGE SHORT COMMUTE TO NYC, STATEN ISLAND, BROOKLYN

HERE IS YOUR HOUSE NONE OTHER PRICED SO WELL AND NOT A SHORT SALE SO YOU HAVE

TO WAIT FOREVER TO BE DISAPPOINTED

COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2009

12:00 NOON - 4:00 PM or you can see it anytime just call

DIRECTIONS CALL 732-470-7552 OR 732-887-0271

5 VALLEY VALE DRIVE

OLD BRIDGE, NEW JERSEY 08857

LOVELY RANCH, INGROUND FULLY FENCED POOL

NICE SIZE LOT, LOVELY NEIGHBORHOOD, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION

OWNER TOLD ME TO TELL YOU COME MAKE ALL YOUR OFFERS WE WILL BE HAPPY MEET YOU!

WELCOME TO MY OPEN HOUSE BACK TO SCHOOL AND LABOR DAY SALE SELLER SAYS SELL!

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 19:10:08 -0700

WANT TO LIVE IN OLD BRIDGE SHORT COMMUTE TO NYC, STATEN ISLAND, BROOKLYN

HERE IS YOUR HOUSE NONE OTHER PRICED SO WELL AND NOT A SHORT SALE SO YOU HAVE

TO WAIT FOREVER TO BE DISAPPOINTED

COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2009

12:00 NOON - 4:00 PM or you can see it anytime just call

DIRECTIONS CALL 732-470-7552 OR 732-887-0271

5 VALLEY VALE DRIVE

OLD BRIDGE, NEW JERSEY 08857

LOVELY RANCH, INGROUND FULLY FENCED POOL

NICE SIZE LOT, LOVELY NEIGHBORHOOD, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION

OWNER TOLD ME TO TELL YOU COME MAKE ALL YOUR OFFERS WE WILL BE HAPPY MEET YOU!

A SHORT SALE IS ANYTHING BUT SHORT AND MAY BE VERY DISAPPOINTING

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 08:05:35 -0700

The first time I heard a buyer say they thought a short sale was someone who needed to sell quickly (in other words, they thought the sale would happen in a short period of time), I giggled a little. When I thought about it, I could totally understand the thought pattern. The reality is nearly the opposite....a short sale can be anything but short! The term actually refers to the current owners needing to sell and being "short" the funds it will take to pay off the lender. So, the current owners need to negotiate with their lender an alternate repayment plan or forgiveness of the remaining debt. In today's market, banks are doing anything to avoid foreclosures, so we are seeing more and more short sales approved; very often with full debt forgiveness to the sellers. This is truly a win for the sellers. Sure, their credit takes a hit. But, their bank accounts and immediate financial future is far better off than if they were to go through a foreclosure. And, it is expected that many of these sellers will be eligible for purchasing again in the not so distant future. Buyers, on the other hand, need to be willing

(New) problems and opportunities

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 15:27:05 -0700

This is rebloged from an expert in the mortgage industry.

I don't like delivering bad news, and I know you don't like receiving it (I get unsubscribes). At the same time I want to tell you what I see: There are some serious (additional) problems right now, directly affecting real estate. It looks to me like it's going to get a lot worse worse before it gets better. Yet, when doors close, others open - there are resulting opportunities as well (See below). Here are some of the reasons/symptoms:
- 1.5 million homes in foreclosure

Via Paul Luykx (Prospect Mortgage):

I don't like delivering bad news, and I know you don't like receiving it (I get unsubscribes). At the same time I want to tell you what I see: There are some serious (additional) problems right now, directly affecting real estate. It looks to me like it's going to get a lot worse worse before it gets better. Yet, when doors close, others open - there are resulting opportunities as well (See below). Here are some of the reasons/symptoms:
- 1.5 million homes in foreclosure

- Appraisal chaos due to new ordering rules and short sales

- High, and still increasing unemployment. Mortgage aid for unemployed

- Collapsing commercial market. Commercial paper falls most ever

- Slow implementation by lenders of loan modification iniatives. Articles

- Lack of ability or willingness to lend. What to do with the Fed

- The Case-Shiller index continues to point towards further declining markets.

What this means in practical terms

- Appraised values as much as 30-40%(!) low, especially for refi's

- Restrictive lending environment, and tightening up more

- Construction loans virtually unavailable (unless hard money)

- Hard money lenders are raising lending criteria and pricing

- Conventional financing maximum is 90%ltv

- PMI requires 680 Fico

- Higher lending standards and erratic pricing for commercial loans

Good news, opportunities

- Investments with good cash on cash returns available

- Affordable price levels - especially for first time home buyers

- First Time Homebuyer tax credit (must close by Nov 30th!)

- Rehab homes (foreclosures) can be bought with 203(k) loans

- FHA loans, including FHA rehab loans (203k), readily available

- Fannie Mae REO opps with Prospect Mortgage Homepath (rehab) loans

- Higher Fico's get lower rates

- Rates are not likely to increase (I think)

Available
- Direct lender for FHA, Fannie, Freddy, VA, USDA, Jumbo, and other loans

- Same day loan decision (pre-approvals)
- 30-day closes (45-days for FHA)
- Condo (conversion) financing services. Information

- FHA loans down to 560 Fico

- 50-70% LTV stated income loans (600-700 Fico needed)

- 95% LTV Fannie Mae condo loans

- Loans for non-residents

- Rehab and construction loans

- Non-warrantable property

- Reverse mortgages

- Commercial loans

Contact me for excellent service.

____________________________________

"To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream;
not only plan, but also believe."
Anatole France (1844-1924)

Real Estate Leads Work, When Worked

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:27:21 -0700

Via Reply.com Marketing (Reply.com):

For more information, visit www.ReplyRealEstate.com

I’ve been in the online lead generation industry for nearly five years now, and in our business, that would make me a senior citizen. I’ve worn many different hats at Reply! — from starting out on our retail real estate sales floor, selling to real estate agents, to managing our entire retail real estate sales and service departments. I’ve also worked with thousands of real estate agents from a sales and customer service standpoint. There is no doubt that over the years I’ve heard my share of both positive and negative feedback, and in all the success stories that I hear there is one common theme; Internet leads only work when they are worked.

So let’s evaluate why leads don’t close. Is it the lead buyer not properly working the leads, or is it the leads themselves? I believe the answer is, “Both.” Some of our clients tell us our leads were a waste of time, while others depend on us to hit their yearly sales targets and are very profitable. Both are right, depending on how leads are called and nurtured.

The lead provider has two responsibilities: setting the right expectations and offering controls for the buyer to segment. It is the provider’s job to communicate that on average it will take a pipeline of 40-50 Internet leads before you should expect to close your first transaction, and after 6-9 months you should be able to close anywhere between 5%-10% depending on your individual close rate. This means over a year period of time, if you purchase 100 internet leads, you realistically should expect to close anywhere between 5 deals on the low end all the way up to 10 deals on the high end. At least 90 leads, however, will never turn into anything. Once you know your close rate, you can predictably and systematically increase the volume of sales per year, simply by purchasing more leads.

It will also take work, follow-up, and persistence to close an Internet lead. Keep in mind that typically the Internet consumer is less loyal and less willing to commit than a traditional referral. Agents that do the best are focused on providing value in every step of the sales process.

Assuming the right expectations are set, and you decide to participate in a lead program you should know that follow-up can be the difference between success and failure. Our most successful clients tell us that Internet leads require time, energy and need immediate and personal attention. An immediate email to the consumer and a phone call speaks volumes about your professionalism as an agent and helps build rapport and confidence along the way. You would be shocked at the percentage of agents that wait 2 days to return a phone call, or never call for that matter.

We also need to discuss lead quality. From time-to-time, one of our customers becomes angry over “poor lead quality.” I have a rule that I follow before I call a client back. I take a snapshot of the last ten leads we’ve sent, and I call them myself. The same result happens every time; I’ll be unable to reach one lead, leave voicemails for six, and I’ll speak with two to three people that want to talk about a real estate transaction. Two to three appointments set from twenty leads should ideally result in one transaction over a period of time, and we arrive at our 5% closing ratio.

If you decide to invest in online, performance-based marketing, create a game plan regarding how you’re going to work the leads. Call the lead 3 times a day for 3 days before writing them off, and then put into your drip campaign. You never know when they may contact you back. Also keep in mind that one sale will typically cover the program for 1-2 years. We also offer a success guarantee to ensure that you get a positive Return on Investment from using our service. Visit www.replyrealestate.com for more details.

Many variables can affect your experience with Internet leads. One thing is clear—Internet leads are a predictable and measurable marketing investment, and will only work for if you go into it with correct expectations and are willing to work the leads. I’m confident if these are done, we can make it profitable for your business.

Happy selling.

Adam Carabetta

TO ALL MY FELLOW REAL ESTATE/MORTGAGE/FINANCIAL/TITLE/BUYERS/SELLERS/INVESTORS/RENTORS

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:15:09 -0700

http://monmouthoceanmls.com/(tmhawh55eft3ud55go223q45)/propertySearch.aspx

http://activerain.com/action/agents_secure/my_home

http://monmouthoceanmls.com/(tmhawh55eft3ud55go223q45)/propertySearch.aspx

I NEED HELP HERE********

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sun, 17 May 2009 09:45:16 -0700

First of All, I need to know how to change this website to make it look like the newer ones......I have not been paying attention to as many things as I once did I am a 3 job person now...........

I am going to put this very bluntly....................I was what was know as a "High Maintainence" Realtor.....thru what we knew as the "Bubble Days".........I worked for on big company they have a big blue rock for 17 years (lots of office closings here) then the the red white and blue one for the past 3 years..........many closed also.......

I never had to worry about leads always could sustain my referrals and sphere of influence did relocation and made lots of friends along the way. Many of my customers are as we say upsidedown, I hear our State is going out of business like California.....................not true! Many of us are New Yorker's and will survive.

Yes, we have learned a lesson the past year. I learned to use my degree to go back out and sub in the elementary school and also how to get a few more licenses' and do some refi closings for the Title Companies. Also, loan modifications..................we are going to come back.

In the meantime please help me with a big decision I need all comments and advise from all you professionals. I am a Broker and want to open my own/ In NJ you must have a brick and mortor office so that is extra expense.

I need to make a decision on Leads who to use.............I see so many advertised and don't know which is telling the truth...........if a lead generator is servicing so many agents how do you succeed.

I can and have designed the website myself and have had Point 2 agents since they started. I need to know if anyone has used RED X it looks wonderful..................please try to help me!!!!!!!

The Garden State will be back........................soon? I also would be open to picking a name for my office...........can't do franchise now................understand......

Kathy S.................iselluahome.com

MAKE THIS A GREAT MOTHER'S DAY

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sun, 10 May 2009 13:29:19 -0700

Read The Poem: Mother's Day Proclamation of 1870, and Share It With The Women In Your Life

Started by Alan Haggard

From Physicians for Social Responsibility:

Julia Ward Howe proposed the idea of Mother's Day for Peace over a century ago. Howe's Mother's Day Proclamation in 1870 was a call for disarmament and for women to come together to seek diplomatic ways to settle disagreements amongst nations.

Today, Physicians for Social Responsibility carries on this work by seeking an end to the use and spread of nuclear weapons, working to end global warming, and stopping the toxic degradation of the environment. We encourage you to share the story of Mother's Day with your mother and other family members and friends.

You can help us reconnect with Mother's Day's original purpose and celebrate modern-day mothers who are carrying on Howe's vision by working every day to build a safer, healthier, more peaceful world for our children and future generations.

Mother's Day Proclamation 1870
By Julia Ward Howe

Arise then...women of this day!
Arise, all women who have hearts!
Whether your baptism be of water or of tears!
Say firmly:
"We will not have questions answered by irrelevant agencies,
Our husbands will not come to us, reeking with carnage,
For caresses and applause.
Our sons shall not be taken from us to unlearn
All that we have been able to teach them of charity, mercy and patience.
We, the women of one country,
Will be too tender of those of another country
To allow our sons to be trained to injure theirs."

From the bosom of a devastated Earth a voice goes up with
Our own. It says: "Disarm! Disarm!
The sword of murder is not the balance of justice."
Blood does not wipe out dishonor,
Nor violence indicate possession.
As men have often forsaken the plough and the anvil
At the summons of war,
Let women now leave all that may be left of home
For a great and earnest day of counsel.
Let them meet first, as women, to bewail and commemorate the dead.
Let them solemnly take counsel with each other as to the means
Whereby the great human family can live in peace...
Each bearing after his own time the sacred impress,
In the name of womanhood and humanity, I earnestly ask
That a general congress of women without limit of nationality,
May be appointed and held at someplace deemed most convenient
And the earliest period consistent with its objects,
To promote the alliance of the different nationalities,
The amicable settlement of international questions,
The great and general interests of peace.

This is a one-time pledge that can be fulfilled any time

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch QSC

Amabile Realtors

Broker/Associate

732-470-7552

www.iselluahome.net

iselluahome@aol.com

THIS IS MY COME BACK BLOG

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 09:20:06 -0800

THIS IS MY COME BACK TO REALTY BLOG

I have not been ignoring what is going on in this economy...........I have been a Realtor for 20 years and had an opportunity given to me to help and also get paid, running a special program for the children K-5 for th Y it is called Aftercare................now they are the ones that really need the assurance that everything is OK for them.

I work in Freehold Township Schools, a high 6 figure income area with top rated schools.........but they will be cutting all kinds of programs also...................lots of Wall Street jobs were lost and they live in our areas....................We are still going down in price but there are wonderful buys out there............We have the highest property taxes in the nation in New Jersey. Yes we are very close to NYC for employment and entertainment....................and yes years ago we were under the impression our highways would be free someday fully paid for and that Atlantic City was going to be our big savior...........well not so....................we kept growing and building bigger and more expensive houses................we have the Jersey Shore...............went from bungalows to million dollar homes....................go figure.....I wish we could stop right now saying I want to see what this President can do...............and lets give him some confidence get your Representatives names emails and also your Senators and start emailing them how you feel and what you see out here and maybe they will listen or at least acknowledge you.I have been doing this for 2 years and get first hand answers from our Senators' I didn't vote for Pres. Obama but I am behind him all the way, please help all of us Pesident Obama and Vice President Biden.................again we did not get a bailout and we cannot collect unemployment, independent contractors' who have really been virtually out of work for over a year................

Sending you some interesting links here................take an interest whether you are affected or not by this economy???????????

Get Inside the Mind of the Consumer:
Websites Every REALTOR® Needs to Know

Studies indicate that over 80% of today's home buyers visit the Internet long before seeking the professional assistance of a REALTOR®. This means that, thanks to popular realty-themed websites that compete for your business, your clients are already armed with more information than ever before.

That's why today's savviest real estate agents must change their perspective and fight back. And the best way to do this is to visit and become familiar with these kinds of sites and the features they offer. This data will not only prepare you to answer any questions your clients might have, it will allow you to provide a more complete service that your clients will want to recommend to all of their friends and family members.

Property Listings & More

1) Redfin.com: In addition to listings, this site offers information such as how long a home has been for sale, its last sales price, and its current value. It also provides virtual tours to listed homes.
2) Trulia.com: Like Zillow.com, which offers satellite views and the estimated values of each home, Trulia's "heat maps" show how hot or cold an area is based on prices, sales, and popularity among its users. Trulia.com also has free tools real estate agents can easily add to their own websites to increase functionality and traffic.
3) Maps.Google.com and Maps.Live.com: For bird's-eye view, even 360 degrees in some cases, these amazing map sites offer a virtual perspective of available homes that's truly hard to beat.
4) Walkscore.com: interesting site that rates any address based on the walking distance of its nearby stores, restaurants, schools, parks, coffee shops etc.
5) SchoolMatters.com: A Standard & Poor's company, this site offers parents (and potential homebuyers) an objective rating of public schools and public school districts by region, including test scores and demographics. GreatSchools.net offers similar info and ratings on private schools based on region.

Government Websites Government loan programs offer great opportunities for many consumers in many regions across the country, especially first-time buyers and veterans. The following websites are likely one of the first of many sites potential homebuyers visit during this process:

1) HUD.Gov is the official website for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (H.U.D.) This site lists HUD homes and provides information for home buyers, including financing options and home buying programs available through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
2) Homeloans.va.gov: This site houses information about government home loan programs specifically for veterans.

As I come across more interesting sites they will help I will send them on and continue to help my communities take care of their children so they can rest easy at their jobs.............but always a Realtor................................never going to retire............bye for now

Posted Saturday, January 31, 2009 8:44 AM by Kathy Stanavitch QSC | 0 Comments [Edit] [Edit Tags]

Just Announced - Good News For Renters and Owners of Homes That Get Foreclosed Upon That Are Freddie Related.... Freddie Mac Will Allow Renters to Stay in a Foreclosure

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 07:36:51 -0800

Via Rick Hauser ABR GRI Managing Broker/Owner (Relocation Advisors Group Inc.):

Yahoo Finance Article

On stuff like this - it pays to read more than one article - as each article has extra info... So - I've provided the articles out there thus far...

Mortgage finance company Freddie Mac said it will allow some borrowers to rent out their homes after losing them to foreclosure.

*** Comment -- the foreclosed upon owner gets to keep the rent after they officially lost the house???

It goes on to say....

The goal of the new policy is to prevent properties from becoming vacant so they won't fall into disrepair.

***Comment - now - I really don't think that renters will be kicking in anything to repair the owners property. But it would help in keeping the heat on during the winter vs. having to winterize it etc. and keeping the snow shoveled - and help prevent vandalism. Since some renters can't count on a distressed owner fixing something critical such as a furnace - my bet is that a renter in that situation might just get the fix done to have the heat and then deduct it from their rent payment... (not always authorized of course - in their rental contract) But per another article - Freddy is going to allow owners to rent back after being foreclosed upon - at market rates. Even then - it is debatible how much of a repair they would spring for. So - Freddy is now getting into the landlord business....... Wonder how much in govt money and new hires that will cost to administer...

The article goes on to say....

Freddie Mac said it will allow renters to remain in their homes even if their landlord enters foreclosure. Freddie currently has about 8,500 properties in the foreclosure process, but many of those are vacant.

"Keeping foreclosed properties occupied and in better repair will support local property values and promote a faster recovery in the housing market," said Freddie Mac Chief Executive David Moffett.

Fannie Mae said it has stopped about 20,000 foreclosure sales and halted 6,300 evictions of owners or renters this winter.

"Under Freddie Mac's new policy, tenants and former property owners need to demonstrate that they have enough income to pay the rental bill."

*** Comment -- former property owners?? They aren't paying the rental bill. I think someone mis-worded this in the release....

It goes on to say....

Freddie Mac also said it would consider reinstating a mortgage for those borrowers who can qualify for a modified loan.

Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac also said Friday they would extend a previously announced suspension of evictions through the end of February.

***Comment -- (Presumably - to keep people from having to move in the cold? More likely - perhaps they just want the heat to remain on during that time....)

But a Marketwatch article - states that is is March - not Feb (like the Yahoo Finance article) - in the headline - but not in the body of the article. Go figure!

Marketwatch Article

And that article states:

"It may be that a borrower can afford a market rent price but can't afford all the ancillary costs of maintenance," said Freddie Mac spokesman Brad German.

*** Comment - Which is precisely my point. Why would they kick in for maintenance?

It goes on to say..

"This would get them a smoother transition to find a new home or until Freddie Mac sells the home."

*** Comment -- Well - they sure won't be buying a new home after that! Renting one? Perhaps - if they have more than a few months deposit to put down.. since their credit will be trashed. "Place to live" would have been better words to use (such as in a USA Today article)

"Fannie Mae will also provide financial assistance for a "transition" to individuals that decide to vacate the property."

*** Comment - I wonder how the owner will know about this. A mailing by Fannie to them?

However, he argues that program will have costs. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will likely need to hire property managers to collect rent. "Fannie Mae is not set up to be a landlord," he said.

*** Comment - exactly my point from above....

USA Today Article

Details of the program:

•Leases will be on a month-to-month basis.

•Tenants and homeowners will only have to pay market-value or existing lease rents, not the mortgage payments. Freddie Mac will hire a property management company to determine that amount.

•Tenants and homeowners must be able to show proof that they have enough income to pay the monthly rental amount.

•Freddie Mac will also explore loan-modification options that might be available for some borrowers.

In mid-December, Fannie Mae also rolled out a policy that allows renters in a property that is being foreclosed on to rent that home rather than be evicted. It does not include homeowners. Up to 10,000 families are expected to be helped by Fannie's rental policy; Freddie expects about a 30% acceptance rate.

The Federal Reserve this week announced a policy to help some distressed homeowners avoid foreclosure. The Fed said it would work with companies servicing mortgages now owned by the Fed to modify qualifying mortgages of homeowners that are 60 days or more delinquent on payments.

Fannie and Freddie combined own or guarantee about half of the $10.6 trillion in outstanding U.S. home loan debt.

THIS IS FROM NJAR........VERY IMPORTANT........

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 21:17:25 -0800

THIS IS FROM NJAR..........

New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR)

THIS IS IMPORTANT AND TRUE FOR MANY MARKETS....................

THREE REASONS NEW JERSEY HOME BUYERS CAN'T AFFORD TO WAIT (EDISON, NJ) - New Jersey residents might have heard a lot about waiting for the real estate market to "bottom out" lately from real estate speculators and financial pundits, but before deciding to wait on the sidelines, home buyers need to first consider three timely reasons why waiting can end up costing them.

"No one can time the market perfectly," said 2008 New Jersey Association of REALTORS® (NJAR®) President, Drew Fishman. "We really won't know when home prices have officially 'bottomed out' until they start to go up. That's why interested home buyers who are financially capable can't afford to let these opportunities pass them by."

1. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will require a higher down payment percentage after January 1, 2009. The Housing and Economic Recovery Act passed by Congress in July raised the down payment requirement on FHA loans to 3.5 percent, up from the current requirement of 3 percent.

2. FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage loan limits will drop after January 1, 2009. The February 2008 Economic Stimulus Package temporarily raised the FHA loan limit to $729,750 in high cost areas through December 31, 2008. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), beginning January 1, 2009, FHA will insure single-family home mortgages in New Jersey up to $417,000 in low cost areas and up to a maximum of $625,500 in high cost areas. Buyers purchasing homes in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex and Union counties will be affected by the new lower maximum loan limit. Loan limits in the remaining New Jersey counties will vary based on the median home price indicator used by FHA. Depending on the area, some buyers in these counties may also face lower limits.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac insured loans will also drop down to the lower limits as of January 1, 2009, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). More information is available at www.fha.gov and www.fhfa.gov.

3. First-time home buyers can only take advantage of a $7,500 tax credit until July 1, 2009. The 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act (HERA) became law last July and included a new, temporary tax credit for buyers who have not owned a home in the past three years. To qualify, buyers must purchase a principal residence on or after April 9, 2008 and before July 1, 2009 to qualify for the tax credit when filing their federal tax returns. Individual buyers with an adjusted gross income of less than $75,000 and joint filers with income no more than $150,000 are eligible. Individual buyers with income of up to $95,000 and couples with income up to $170,000 are eligible for a partial credit. The credit is repaid in 6.67% increments over 15 years making it, essentially, an interest-free loan. For an overview of the tax credit, visit
http://www.njar.com/government_affairs/issues/federal/pdf/tcchart.pdf.
NJAR® is encouraging New Jersey residents to Get the REAL StorySM on real estate in New Jersey with a public education campaign that features an informational website and advertising campaign that also features real stories from recent buyers and sellers. For more information on the campaign, or simply to Get the REAL StorySM on real estate in New Jersey, visit
www.REALstoryNJ.com.

The New Jersey Association of REALTORS®, with approximately 53,000 REALTOR® and REALTOR-ASSOCIATE® members, is one of the largest trade organizations in the state. NJAR®'s membership is comprised of real estate professionals who subscribe to a strict code of ethics and are members of the national and local REALTOR® organizations. As the leading advocate for the real estate industry and private property rights in New Jersey, NJAR® is committed to protecting the dream of homeownership. For more information, please visit www.njar.com.

The Real Victims of this Mess

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:09:08 -0800

Via Eric McGowan, Alabama Mortgage Expert:

Look in the mirror! Now, What do you see?

Whether you want to admit it or not you can even see it in your child's face! 2008 can and most definitely will be one for the record books.

We have had

Gas prices at all time highs

Layoffs

Bank failures

Stock Market rollercoaster rides

Automakers reducing production

The virtual death of home equity products

Stores closing

What kind of Christmas and Holiday season will this be for you? How are you and your family planning to celebrate?

This year I am personally cutting back. I won't be buying that "big family gift" as I normally do.

If nothing else be thankful for what is there---your family.

I am extremely grateful to be here and to have what I do. Life is a journey and I am just riding along with it.

*Image complements of flickr.com

This is a Real Heart To Heart

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:20:37 -0800

I HOPE YOU MISSED ME; I AM STILL A REAL ESTATE BROKER IN NEW JERSEY AND I AM TRULY IN IT TO WIN IT............................BUT HOWEVER, NO MATTER WHAT THEY TELL YOU ON THE NEWS AND THE THE TV, WE ARE NOT COMING BACK FOR A WHILE...

I ORIGINALLY THOUGHT WE WOULD BE MOVING A LITTLE BY THIS PAST SUMMER BUT THEN WE HAD THE BAILOUTS AND THE STOCK MARKET................WELL WE MAY AS WELL CAMP OUT UNTIL NEXT YEAR.

WE ARE SO FAR DOWN WE MUST LOOK UP TO THE SIDEWALKS.............YES HOUSES ARE SELLING AND NEED TO BE SOLD BUT CONTRACTS ARE ALSO IN THE MINORITY IN COMPLETING THE DEAL. MORTGAGE BANKS ARE BACKING OUT AT THE LAST MINUTE FOR SOME REASON OR ANOTHER, LIKE THEY GOT SOLD OVERNIGHT TO WHO KNOWS? NOW THE LOAN CRITERIA HAS TO BE REWORKED, NOT FAIR GUYS, NOT FAIR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WE WANT TO BE BAILED OUT ALSO.................

WE CANNOT COLLECT UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN OUR GOLDEN PARACHUTES LANDED!! WE ARE INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS

Ok now here is the Mortgage Information for this Last week as of today:

"NOBODY LIKES THE BRINGER OF BAD NEWS." Ancient Greek playwright Sophocles. Last week may have been a holiday-shortened week as the Bond market was closed on Tuesday in honor of Veterans Day, but it was far from quiet as financial markets reacted to several pieces of bad economic news brought throughout the week.

The week began with the news that Circuit City filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, and will be closing 150 stores - and this in advance of the holiday season, when most retailers make a larger portion of their profits for the year. Department store Nordstrom reported its growth rate is down 16%, where they were expecting an increase of 10%. Poor economic reports from Best Buy and Macy's followed a few days later, as well as lower future earnings guidance from Wal-Mart and Intel. As if the headlines of the week weren't enough, Friday's Retail Sales report showed that overall retail sales fell for the fourth straight month and plunged to their worst level since record keeping began in 1992. Looks like a pretty dismal holiday shopping season ahead...probably the worst that retailers will have seen in a long, long time.

In addition, there was bad news for the automobile industry as Deutsche Bank downgraded shares of General Motors from hold to sell, giving a price target of $0...yes, $0. As a result, General Motors stock fell below $3 for the first time since April 13, 1943. Interestingly enough, the automaker was not even making cars at that time but producing only military equipment for WWII.

And the bad news continued on the job front as well, as the Initial Jobless Claims report revealed the highest number of first time unemployment claim since 2001. In addition, Continuing Jobless Claims reached their highest level in 25 years. Remember, poor economic news and a weak labor market usually cause Bonds and home loan rates to improve. This is because fewer jobs and lower confidence about keeping or finding work causes people to spend less. In turn, businesses and retailers lose pricing power, and this is a cycle that keeps inflation - the arch enemy of Bonds and home loan rates - at low levels, especially if oil remains near present reasonable prices.

However, despite all the bad economic news of the week, Bonds and home loan rates were unable to make significant improvements this week as they fought to defeat and move convincingly above a very important technical level called the 200-Day Moving Average. Read on, to understand more about the significance of this technical indicator.

LOSING A JOB IS ALWAYS A TOUGH EXPERIENCE, BUT IT PAYS TO FOLLOW GOOD ADVICE IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW RUNS INTO THIS SITUATION. CHECK OUT THIS WEEK'S MORTGAGE MARKET VIEW FOR JOB SEARCH TIPS THAT CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN TOUGH MARKETS.

This Week

There are several important economic reports ahead this week...is more bad economic news on the way? Tuesday and Wednesday will be big days on the inflation front as Tuesday brings the wholesale measuring Producer Price Index while Wednesday's Consumer Price Index (CPI) report will show us inflation at the consumer level - that is, how much more expensive goods and services are for consumers this month over last month, as well as year over year. Given the Fed's recent rate cuts (which can trigger inflation), it will be important to see what these reports show.

Wednesday will also bring a read on the new construction housing market with the Housing Starts and Building Permits Report, and Thursday is another important day to note as the Philadelphia Fed Report will be released. This monthly survey of manufacturing purchasing managers conducting business around the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware is one of the most-watched manufacturing reports. Given both the poor Jobs and Retail Sales reports of late, this is likely to be somewhat negative as well. Weak economic news normally helps Bonds and home loan rates improve, as money flows out of Stocks and into Bonds, so I will be watching very closely for improvement during the coming week.

However, to gain improvement, Bonds would have to convincingly defeat and move above a technical level called the 200-Day Moving Average. A moving average is the average closing price of a financial instrument over a given time period. In this case, the 200-Day Moving Average can act as a "ceiling of resistance", preventing Bond pricing from moving higher and helping home loan rates improve, or a "floor of support" that can keep Bond prices from moving lower and causing home loan rates to worsen.

You can see in the chart below how Bonds danced around this level all last week, so I will be watching closely during the coming week to see if Bonds and home loan rates can breakthrough this resistance and move in an improving direction.

Chart: Fannie Mae 6.0% Mortgage Bond (Friday Nov 14, 2008)

Mortgage Market View

Tips for Finding a Job in Tough Markets
Finding a job during tough economic times doesn't have to be tough...if you know which strategies work. Here are some tips for beating the odds:

Take Networking to the Next Level: Networking is always a great job strategy, but in the current economic climate, you need to go a step beyond letting your contacts know you are looking for a job, since many other people may be doing the same thing. Instead, develop a compelling business idea for your field or the field you would like to enter. Then, when you call or email your contacts, let them know you are researching your idea and would like to meet with industry insiders to discuss its viability. With this strategy, people will see you as someone with something to offer them, rather than as someone who needs something. And if the people you meet with like your idea, your meetings could lead to a job offer even though you never asked for a job.

Focus on Sectors That Are Hiring: No matter what industry your background is in, the skills or experience you possess may qualify you for a position in a new field. For instance, sales and customer relations are skills needed in a variety of industries. To begin, make a list of your experiences and skills that could help you find a job in a sector that is currently hiring. Then, gear your resume and cover letter to focus on these particular skills and experiences.

Aim for Your Dream Job: Many job seekers begin to panic and apply for any job that's available. This is a mistake for several reasons. First, passion and enthusiasm are your best weapons for succeeding in your job search. Employers can tell the difference between someone who really wants to work for them...and someone who will take any job. Second, when you are focused on finding a specific job versus any job, you make it easier for friends and colleagues to help you because they will have a clearer idea of who they could contact for you. Third, if you're in the middle of a job transition, why not use the opportunity to enter the profession you have always wanted to try?

Be Creative About How You Start: During tough markets, many businesses are hesitant to add new employees and increase their level of fixed costs. You can offer to begin as an independent contractor for a period of time before receiving a review and possibly a future permanent job. This would give you a chance to earn an income while demonstrating your skills and value to the company. In turn, it lets the company evaluate your performance in a less costly way, because you would not receive benefits during this time; and with less risk for the company than having to make the decision to hire a permanent employee. You could also volunteer your way to a paid job. Many nonprofit organizations have powerful executives on their boards. By demonstrating your skills and work ethic as a volunteer, you could meet important connections that could lead to your next position.

The bottom line is this: Losing a job is tough during any market, but finding a job doesn't have to be tough when you are willing to be creative and use strategies that work!

Have a great week!

WOW I'M A NEW YORKER

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 07:15:18 -0700

DURING THESE TRYING TIMES HERE AND ALL OVER THE WORLD LET'S NOT FORGET THE LOSSES AND SACRIFICE'S ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

I WILL PUBLISH THIS EVERY YEAR AS LONG AS I AM HERE, I LIVE IN NEW JERSEY NATIVE

NEW YORKER

GOD BLESS AMERICA

I am a New Yorker
I do not live in the five boroughs or on the Island or Upstate
I may live hundreds or thousands of miles away
Or I may live just over the GW Bridge or the Outerbridge Crossing
But I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker
Whatever took me out of New York:
Business, family or hating the cold did not take New York out of me.
My accent may have faded (maybe) and my pace may have slowed (no way)
But I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker
I was raised on Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Rockefeller Plaza, or Coney Island or Reis Park or
Jones Beach, Rye Beach, Rockaway Beach or one of the beaches on the sound
The Yankees or the Mets (Giants or Dodgers)
I know that "THE END" means Montauk " The Island"
Because I am a New Yorker '

I am a New Yorker
When I go on vacation, I never never look up Skyscrapers are something I take for granted
The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty are part of me and the Verrazano Bridge
Taxis and noise and subways and "get outa heah" don't rattle me
Because I am a New Yorker

I am a New Yorker
I was raised on cultural diversity before it was politically correct
I eat Greek food and Italian food, Jewish and Middle Eastern food and
Chinese food
Because they are all American food to me.
I don't get mad when people speak other languages in my presence
Because my relatives got to this country via Ellis Island and chose to stay
They were New Yorkers

People who have never been to New York have misunderstood me
My friends and family work in the industries, professions and businesses that benefit all Americans
The firefighters died trying to save New Yorkers and non-New Yorkers
They died trying to save Americans and non-Americans
Because they were New Yorkers.

I am a New Yorker
I feel the pain of my fellow New Yorkers
I mourn the loss of my beautiful city
I feel and dread that New York will never be the same
But then I remember:
I am a New Yorker

And New Yorkers have:
Tenacity, strength and courage way above the norm
They have compassion and care for their fellow citizens
Love and pride in their city, in their state, in their country

Intelligence, experience and education par excellence
Ability, dedication and energy above and beyond
Faith--no matter what religion is practiced

Terrorists hit America in its heart
But America's heart still beats strong

Demolish the steel in our buildings, but it doesn't touch the steel
in our souls
Hit us in the pocketbook; but we'll parlay what we have left into a
fortune
End innocent lives leaving widows and orphans, but we'll take care of
them
Because they are New Yorkers

Wherever we live, whatever we do, whoever we are
There are New Yorkers in every state and every city of this nation
We will not abandon our city
We will not abandon our brothers and sisters
We will not abandon the beauty, creativity and diversity that New York represents
Because we are New Yorkers
And we are proud to be New Yorkers

REMEMBER THE WTC
Author - Vincent Pasquale, Maspeth, NY
Thank you Vincent for allowing us to share this with our fellow New Yorkers all around the world.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION AND FUN ALSO******

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:45:03 -0700

FYI...
Advice from Snopes.com

1) Any time you see an E-Mail that says forward this on to '10' of your friends sign this petition, or you'll get bad luck, or whatever, it has either an E-Mail tracker program attached that tracks the cookies and
E-Mails of those folks you forward. The host sender is getting a copy each time it gets forwarded and then is able to get lists of 'active' E-Mails to use in SPAM E-Mails, or sell to o thers that do.

2) Almost all E-Mails that ask you to add your name and forward on to others are similar to that mass letter years ago that asked people to send business cards to the little kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most cards. All it was, and all any of this type of E-Mail is, is a way to get names and 'cookie' tracking information for telemarketers and spammers - - to validate active E-Mail accounts for their own purposes.

You can do your friends and family members a GREAT favor by sending this information to them; you will be providing a service to your friends, and will be rewarded by not getting thousands of Spam E-Mails in the future!

If you have been sending out (FORWARDING) the above kinds of E-Mail, now you know why you get so much SPAM!

Do yourself a favor and STOP adding your name(S) to those type listings regardless how inviting they might sound!

You think you are supporting a GREAT cause, but you are NOT in the long run. Instead,you will be getting tons of junk mail later!

Also: E-Mail petitions are NOT acceptable to Congress or any other organization. To be acceptable, petitions must have a signed signature and full address of the person signing the petition. Read the full story here:
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/petition/Internet.

AND NOW THE FUN.........DARE YOU!!!

I AM 0/20...................This is neat! Try not to spend all day at this...

Click here: PARACHUTE JUMP

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 08:51:18 -0700

Have a Great Holiday

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch QSC
Broker/Associate
Certified Relocation Specialist
Blue Realty-GMAC Real Estate
Monmouth/Ocean, Middlesex, Garden State, Trend, Mercer-MLS
www.iselluahome.net
Cell-732-470-7552

My Cousin Again

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Mon, 19 May 2008 07:12:16 -0700

I think we have to go back, I love this.........................although I was from Brooklyn this is awesome

my first car is in it, it got me up this morning in a good mood, please cut and past in your browser........

http://oldfortyfives.com/DYRT.htm

REGARDING VIRUS

Kathleen "Kathy" Stanavitch (RARITAN BAY REALTY LLC) — Sat, 17 May 2008 08:58:52 -0700

This was passed to me by a guy with a big firm in NYC................I have received many comments that it won't be that dangerous.

Well 2 days ago I got an email telling look at the new selection that they have on 123 Greetings, I ignored it because I am tired of all the junk coming in my business email. So I apam it and maybe read it or delete it.

I just wanted to warn, I also have protection on all my computers, I am connected directly to a generator for my business so it is more important. I got that Mona dona rona i think it was a couple months ago on a fairly new laptop, I call McAfree who was the virus protection on it. They said it was not covered for that and switched me one to the other all day into the next day they will call back.

Well I couldn't take any more almost 2 days off the laptop................I refused to pay them so I went to Cnet and asked what to do............................they sugested a different program it was gone in 5 minutes and i kept that on here and just ran it. It was very inexpensive and got my money back from McAfree boy did they fowl up.

Just be careful I always get things that say free POSTCARDS and that stuff I have warned all i have on my list.

HEART TO HEART NEW JERSEY

TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND FELLOW REALTORS, MORTGAGE FRIENDS PLEASE

HOW ABOUT THOSE YANKEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

Happy & Safe Halloween

TO ALL HAPPY LABOR DAY TO ALL MONMOUTH/OCEAN AND MIDDLESEX COUNTIES

TO ALL HAPPY LABOR DAY TO ALL MONMOUTH/OCEAN AND MIDDLESEX COUNTIES

WHAT ARE YOU DOING ON SUNDAY COMING TO MY OPEN HOUSE???

Middlesex, Monmouth/Ocean Counties

WELCOME TO MY OPEN HOUSE BACK TO SCHOOL AND LABOR DAY SALE SELLER SAYS SELL!

WELCOME TO MY OPEN HOUSE BACK TO SCHOOL AND LABOR DAY SALE SELLER SAYS SELL!

A SHORT SALE IS ANYTHING BUT SHORT AND MAY BE VERY DISAPPOINTING

(New) problems and opportunities

Real Estate Leads Work, When Worked

TO ALL MY FELLOW REAL ESTATE/MORTGAGE/FINANCIAL/TITLE/BUYERS/SELLERS/INVESTORS/RENTORS

I NEED HELP HERE********

MAKE THIS A GREAT MOTHER'S DAY

THIS IS MY COME BACK BLOG

Just Announced - Good News For Renters and Owners of Homes That Get Foreclosed Upon That Are Freddie Related.... Freddie Mac Will Allow Renters to Stay in a Foreclosure

THIS IS FROM NJAR........VERY IMPORTANT........

The Real Victims of this Mess

This is a Real Heart To Heart

WOW I'M A NEW YORKER

********FOR YOUR INFORMATION AND FUN ALSO**************

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

My Cousin Again

REGARDING VIRUS

FOR YOUR INFORMATION AND FUN ALSO******