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Sun, 30 Nov 2008 11:26:42 -0600

Home Buyer Service from Patrick Canavan

Below are teo links to information about a service I provide my home buyers. Please review it and register for a free account. If you have any questions, I can assist you in setting up the account and refining your criteria.

If you decide to work with me as your agent, I can upgrade the account so you'll receive additional information like area sales, price histories, tax values, and other information not available to the general public.

Search on your own personal web site just like I do!
Make an informed decision using the most efficient, effective, and satisfying home buyer search available
Easily access interactive maps, loan data, school info, photos, virtual tours, and property details for any property in the market.
Rate properties, whether favorites or rejects, save valuable time instead of constantly sifting through properties
Make personal notes on properties to easily remember important details
Stay on top of important information matching your criteria. New listings, open houses, and price changes are always delivered to you in your Morning updates.
Find out who area agents use for home related services. Get the inside scoop on the top mortgage lenders, attorneys, home inspectors, insurance agents, and others in more than 50 categories!
My expertise is only a click away using easy messaging or interactive notes.

Click the link below to view Buying a Home information:

Enter Your Dream Home
or
Search Like a Realtor see what we see

Sincerely,

Patrick Canavan

Realtor / EcoBrker

Your Chance To Win $250

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 15:40:16 -0600

Please Click to Download application form.

We are having a Thank you drawing at the Office for the Orange County Residents here in CA. We have thrown into the Pot along with other prizes a $250 Gift Certificate to the Neighborhood Grocery Store of your Choice.

To enter you will have to download a word document fill it out and Fax or email back to the numbers provided.

If you would like anymore information you can call 714.943.0444 or email me at Info@EnterYourDreamHome.com

original post

A Great Post for Everyone to Read

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 11:42:06 -0600

Not going to lie to you, the article is really long, but really well written and insightful look at how the current subprime, CDO, bailout scene all came to fruition from a former Soloman Bros. insider from the 1980's...

If you have time you'd probably enjoy it, I did...

To read the full story, please click here:

Global Papers the day after Obama became President-Elect

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 20:49:32 -0600

Someone screen captured many many many of the front-pages from global papers the day after Obama became president-elect... It's great because its vast and you can save the large images of the ones you like.

Click on the Newspaper below to preview hundreds more.....





original post

Building Permit Fees Waived for Energy Efficiency

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:38:27 -0500

Save with Energy Efficient Equipment

Anaheim Public Utilities are now waiving building permit fees for Anaheim residential who retrofit their inefficient equipment with approved energy-efficient equipment up to $1,000 per customer. There are four general building categories:

1. Building

2. Mechanical

3. Electric

4. Plumbing

How the Program Works

1. Contact Anaheim Public Utilities for the Permit Fee Waiver.

2. Only energy related equipment that comply with the Advantage Services incentive program will be eligible for the Program.

3. You will be issued the Permit Fee Waiver through mail or Fax on approved energy-efficient equipment which states the applicable permit fees to be waived.

4. You will present the Waiver coupon to the Building Division, when applying for the building permit.

5. Customer completes installation of equipment.

6. A Building Division representative will inspection and sign off on the energy-efficient equipment specified on the permit.

Savings.

While participating in the program, you can typically save from $100 to $500 per approved energy-efficient measure.

For more information, contact 714-765-4267 or by e-mail phayes@anaheim.net

or City of Anaheim

original post

List of H4H Participating Lenders

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 22:00:59 -0500

Homeowners contact your lender and ask how you may qualify for the H4H program.

The lenders attached have indicated an interest in refinancing loans under the HOPE for Homeowners program.

To view the list of lenders who are participating in the HOPE for Homeowners program click on the link below.

List of H4H Participating Lenders

Foreclosure Update

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:00:40 -0500

16,352 Notices of Default were filed in September, down from 42,790 in August, a decrease of 61.8% from August 2008, and a decrease of 36.4% from a year earlier.

Notices of Trustee Sale: Filings decreased 47.3% from August to a total of 19,116 filings. Filings increased 33.9% from September 2007.

Properties sold at auction increased 163.2% from the prior year, to 23,409 sales with a combined loan balance of $9.75 Billion.

A 12.4% drop from August 2008 Lenders took back 95% of the properties taken to auction, with a combined loan value of $9.19 Billion. 5% probably taken at the Court house Steps.

original post

How Does Debt Forgiveness Work?

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 16:19:44 -0500

Debt Forgiveness:

Banks are in the business of making money everyone would agree and they are pretty good at it, and you would again I'm sure. But to forgive a debt is the last thing a lender wants to do. A month ago executives from four of the biggest Loan providers were adamant to the core that they would exhaust all options before offering any debt consideration or "Principal Reduction" in front of the Home Financial Services Committee.

Bank of America said they would only consider forgiveness to those already in the foreclosure process. A representative from Wells Fargo said "We have found that the same affordability can be reached through a 2% - 3% interest rate reduction and term extension, as can be reached through a 25% - 30% Principal Reduction."

For example: they would alter the interest rate for a 5yr and extend a 30yr to a 40yr before they would think about forgiveness.

How Debt FORGIVENESS will work:

If a lender does partake in the Hope For Homeowners this is how it will work. The Lenders will forgive all the debt over 90% of the homes appraised value which will allow the Homeowner to refinance with an FHA - insured Mortgage.

Example: A homeowner owes $125,000 on the Loan and the home is only worth $100,000 and their mortgage has adjusted Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM), now they cannot afford the home any longer. The lender would then forgive $35,000 forgiveness in turn allowing them to refinance with another lender for the $90,000 which would be a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured loan. This loan would also have an insurance premium up front of approx $2600 and would have to be paid by the old lender including the $35,000 forgiveness totaling $37,600.

Sharing your Home with the Government:

Home owners that can be helped through the Hope for Homeowners will have to share their appreciation, not your "O My God thank you for all your Help" but your Homes appreciation when you refinance your loan or even sell your home. It could be up to half depending on how long they have the loan.

Example:

You have refinanced your home in 2008, you sell it for $140,000 in 2015, you will have to cough up or throw up which ever comes first $20,000 - half of the appreciation.

original post

J.D. Power and Associates Award!

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:30:05 -0500

original post

Streamline 203(k) Mortgages

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:24:45 -0500

Streamline 203(k) Mortgages

FHA's 203(k) streamlined rehabilitation loan. This versatile product, while not designed exclusively for energy purposes, can be used to finance up to $35,000 in energy upgrades to a property. From insulation, windows or solar panels, to a new furnace-virtually any energy feature qualifies. Environmental retrofits such as radon mitigation systems are also eligible under the 203(k) program.

The Section 203(k) program is HUD's primary program for the rehabilitation and repair of single family properties. It is an important tool for community and neighborhood revitalization and for expanding homeownership opportunities.

original post

Lenders Responding to Short-Sales

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 12:19:28 -0500

Why do Banks say they want to help troubled homeowners? but they delay the buyer that could save the Seller and the Lender themselves.

Lenders are taking much longer to react, respond - anything, Give us a "Yes" or a "No'. I have offers in on properties and still I am waiting for responses. I had a response on a property we had an offer on three months ago and the response was Yes. Guess what? My client had already moved into a new home.

What is a short sale? Basically - homeowner who cannot keep up with their loan asks the lender can they sell their home for less than what is owed on the home's mortgage, and forgive the balance of the unpaid debt.

So if a borrower has a mortgage balance of $450,000 and finds a buyer who will pay $400,000 , the lender then agrees on $400,000 and guess what? Happy Seller, Happy Buyer and Happy Lender.

In a Short-Sale, everyone wins. Sellers avoid foreclosure which destroys their credit, and lenders recoup more of their costs instead of trying to evict an owner and then sell the property.

Do we not have a fiduciary responsibility to our buyer clients, who come to us wanting a better property in a buyers market for a killer price, and less hassle. Are short sales working against getting a bargain... ??? Are lenders in denial ... ???

What concerns me more is do Agents really know what they are doing in a short sale..??? Over half that I have dealt with tell me that sending in the HARDSHIP PACKAGE IS NOT DONE UNTIL THEY GET AN OFFER. Are you kidding me.

Make sure when your clients do make an offer on a Short Sale that you still preview other homes out there. DO NOT WAIT.

Lenders Responding to Short-Sales

Green Expo LA Convention Center

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:16:33 -0500

THEIR MISSION
Their mission is to promote awareness and respect for healthy
and conscious living by becoming a nexus for industry professionals.

WHY SHOULD YOU EXHIBIT AT THE MBB EXPO?
With the rapidly growing popularity of the natural health and conscious
living lifestyles, Mind Body & Beyond Expo is the premier natural health and
conscious living expo, sought out by high-end exhibitors and consumers. It
provides an exceptional opportunity for educated consumers that lead healthy
and conscious lifestyles to learn about the latest trends and products within
the conscious living marketplace. Our audience is passionate about living a life
of quality and significance.They are searching for premium products and
services that will enable them to attain this lifestyle. Mind Body & Beyond
Expo brings these products and services together in one place to create an
atmosphere that fosters learning, exploration and growth.

WHO ARE THEIR EXHIBITORS?
Mind Body & Beyond Expo attracts exhibitors from the natural health and
conscious living industries as well as companies that are making a difference by
developing environmentally safe products.They share the same philosophy as
we do: to take the natural health and conscious living lifestyle marketplace to
consumers.We expect more than 300 exhibitors to be a part of the 5th
Annual Mind Body & Beyond Expo.

FEATURED EVENTS
Mind Body & Beyond Expo includes lectures by acclaimed authors, renowned
innovators and pioneers from the fields of natural health and conscious living
lifestyles.We will also offer yoga classes throughout the weekend, fashion
shows, product demonstrations, live entertainment and other events. Join us
as we spread the message of health and well being.

NATURAL HEALTH & CONSCIOUS LIVING MARKET
The natural health and lifestyles demographic represents a $227 billion U.S.
marketplace for goods and services that appeal to consumers who value
health, the environment, social justice, personal development and sustainable
living.These consumers are variously referred to as "cultural creative's,"
"conscious consumers," and represent a sizable group in the United States:
32.3% of adults, or 68 million consumers (Understanding the LOHAS
Consumer,The Natural Marketing Institute, 2003).

TOP DRIVING CHARACTERISTICS FOR THE
NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS & LIFESTYLES CONSUMER:

Choose environmentally friendly products
Protects the environment
Prefer products from recycled materials
Willing to pay 20% more for sustainably made products
Teach family / friends benefits of environmentally friendly products
Purchase decision based on effect on world
Renewable energy sources
Choose sustainable-source products over conventional ones
Are socially conscious
Prefer products manufactured in a sustainable manner
Sustainable agriculture products
Buy products from companies with like-minded values

Healthy Lifestyles
Natural, organics and nutritional products
Food and beverage
Dietary supplements
Personal care
- US Market: $27.81 billion

Ecological Lifestyles
Ecological home and office products
Organic / recycled fiber products
Environmentally friendly appliances
Eco-tourism and travel
- US Market: $81.19 billion

Alternative Healthcare
Health and wellness solutions
Acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy
Holistic disease prevention
Complementary medicine
- US Market: $30.7 billion

Sustainable Economy
Green building and industrial goods
Renewable energy
Resource-efficient products
Socially responsible investing
Alternative transportation
Environmental management
- US Market: $76.47 billion

TO BE PART OF THE 5TH ANNUAL MIND BODY BEYOND EXPO 2008
PLEASE CONTACT:

Baba Ji
CEO
Office: 323-939-9129 Cell: 310-801-9098
baba@mbbexpo.com

Dave Paul Dutt
Vice President
dave@mbbexpo.com
PO Box 480369 Los Angeles, California 90048

www.mbbexpo.com
PRESS INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT:
ROGERS & COWAN
Angelina Duran
Office: 310-854-8168
aduran@rogersandcowan.com
or
Marina Beck
Office: 310-854-8192
mbeck@rogersandcowan.com

Actual Post

Sales Rebound as Prices Fall…

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:06:53 -0500

That was the headline of the Orange County Register on Tuesday, May 20th 2008. The accompanying photo was a very crowded entry to an open house. What's happening? The bottom of this market is approaching, that's what. This is exactly what was reported in this newsletter last month. Prices have gone down so far, so fast, that it's hard for waiting buyers to resist. We saw an upward trend in open escrows as mentioned last issue, but the main ingredient is the upward swing of the affordability index which is growing every month to a higher percentage of people who can now buy a home. This correction in the market was not only inevitable, it was necessary. When the market topped out in 2006, we were down to 11% affordability. When only 11 people out of 100 can afford to buy a home, that market is in trouble. According to Dataquick sales were still off 19% from the same period last year, but that is a lot better than 36% off the mark. But still, there is a long recovery period ahead.

The OC Register reported, using Dataquick numbers, that April (the latest complete month stats available), was 46% below the average April since 1988. According to the article, "Sales for the January through April period were down 57% compared with the 20 year average." But the upward trend is significant. Both investors and homebuyers are on the hunt for the perfect deal. Certainly the raise in FHA loan limits has helped significantly as well as FNMA interest rates remaining at their near historic lows. Should you buy?

That's up to each individual to decide according to their need. But it should be mentioned that THE TODAY SHOW aired a segment on real estate the last week in May. Their conclusion: DON'T WAIT! BUY A HOUSE! This is the same morning show, viewed by millions that 2 years ago proclaimed, "Whatever you do, don't buy a house right now." So the fact that they are on board with a bottoming market, is at the very least, interesting.

FORECLOSURES ARE UP AND BANK OWNED PROPERTIES ARE HERE FOR A WHILE... The total number of foreclosures for April, the latest complete month available was 898, including houses and condominiums. That number was up 29% from March and 284% from a year ago. Now obviously all those homes did not hit the market for sale all at once. They must be processed, sometimes rehabbed, and gotten ready for sale by the asset management company. In fact, the bank owned properties are staggered into the market.

There are several ways to buy bank owned properties. One method is auctions and you have probably seen the advertisements for these. The other way is to buy a traditional listing from a listing agent where the property happens to be bank owned but otherwise you process through the transaction with a normal escrow period. You definitely need to give me a call if you are thinking of purchasing a home. You should not try to buy a bank owned, especially a short sale listing (you could be tied up for months with no foreseeable conclusion) or even a traditional sale, without representation. Today's transactions are just too complicated. It looks like foreclosures will be around a little longer as the Notices of Default; the first leg of a foreclosure hit a record in April, totaling 2,598. According to Dataquick, nearly 3 out of 10 sales in April was a bank owned property.

ACTUAL NUMBERS... The total number of sales - 2,166 for all properties including single- family resale, condominiums and new Single Family Homes. Median price $500,000 and the median price for a condo $390,000.

The Sales count - (549) sales under $400,000, $400,000 to $500,000 - (424). $600,000 to $700,000 (194) and (518) over $700,000. Not a large number for the over $700,000 which also includes coastal parts of the county. The positive on these numbers is that there will be a birth from the soon to arrive "normal" real estate market. All these entry level buyers will become move up buyers in the next Real Estate Market.

Actual Post

Green Living Market Data

Fri, 30 May 2008 16:36:30 -0500

Solarbuzz states that "solar energy demand has grown about 25 percent per annum over the last 15 years" and "the United States market showed a 33 percent growth in 2006". (Napa Valley Register, March 2008)

Research firm Clean Edge sites that "worldwidesales specializing in biofuels, wind farms, solar panels and fuel cells grew 40 percent in 2007." (San Francisco Chronicle, March 2008)

"5 to 10 percent of all housing starts by 2010 will be of green certified construction." (Napa Valley Register, March 2008)

Sales of existing single-family homes are on the rise, modestly. Sales rose by 0.5 percent in January, compared to the previous month. This would translate to an adjusted annual rate of 4.34 million homes in January - up from 4.32 million in December, according to a report from the National Association of Realtors. (Ventura County Star, March 2008)

The value of green building construction starts was expected to exceed $12 billion in 2007, according to a national study by McGraw-Hill Construction Analytics. (Battle Creek Enquirer, April 2008)

In 2006, approximately 2 percent of U.S. homes were built using green components, according to the McGraw Hill Construction SmartMarket Residential Report 2006, accounting for $7.8 billion in housing spending. That statistic is expected to increase to 10 percent of the market by 2010. (Des Moines Register, March 2008)

Retail sales in green buildings are 20 percent higher, and their value is increased by 7.5 percent, according to Ashley Katz, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Green Building Council. (Ft. Collins Coloradoan, March 2008)

According to a 2007 National Association of Home Builders survey, 63 percent of buyers are motivated by the lower operating and maintenance costs that come with energy and resource-efficient homes. (Environment News Service, March 2007)
Energy Star appliances use ten to fifty percent less energy and water than standard models. (Energy Star, 2008)
A study prepared for the Massachusetts Technology Council found that buildings credited with "LEED" status (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)--a designation given by the U.S. Green Building Council based on how well a green building reduces its energy use and environmental impact--uses on average 25% to 30% less energy than conventional buildings and cost, on average, only 2% more to build. (Forbes April 20, 2007)

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is an incredible nonprofit resource for architects, designers, engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, and others committed to expanding sustainable building practices. USGBC's mission is to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially

responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves quality of life. (Canvas Magazine, February 2008)

Overall costs for new green construction vary based on the type and amount of green features, but are typically about 2% higher than conventional buildings, according to cost-benefit studies by Capital E, a Washington-based energy -efficiency consultant. (Wall Street Journal, May 2007

Using an energy-efficient furnace or boiler could save you $570 annually, according to the Department of Energy. (Smart Money, January 2008)

While the average U.S. home lost 5.7% of its value in 2007, eco-friendly homes have held their value, even appreciating in price. Come sale time, a green property typically appraises for 10% to 15% higher than comparable conventional homes according to Jim Amorin, vice president for the Appraisal Institute, a professional trade organization. (Smart Money, January 2008)

Green homes are expected to account for 10% of new home construction in 2010, up from 5% in 2005, according to McGraw-Hill Construction, a market researcher. (Smart Money, January 2008)

Almost 9 out of 10 consumers surveyed in 2004 by the National Association of Home Builders said they have some degree of concern about theenvironmental impact of building their home. Seventeen percent said they'd pay more for an environmentally friendly home, and 46 percent-up from 35 percent in 2003-want an environmentally friendly home but aren't willing to pay more. (Realtor Magazine, October 2005)

Buildings account for nearly 40 percent of total U.S. energy consumption and 12 percent of water use. U.S. Green Building Council, September 2007 (Energy Star, Spring 2008)

Membership at the Association of Energy and Environmental Real Estate Professionals has also grown enormously according to John Stovall, vice president of business development for the nonprofit group. (Money and Investing Magazine, August 2006)

In 2005, the number of home builders focusing on green building in the U.S. rose 20% and those ranks are expected to swell by another 30% this year, according to a recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders an McGraw Hill Construction. (Money and Investing Magazine, August 2006)

The value of the residential green building market is estimated between $19 billion and $38 billion by 2010, up from $7.4 billion in 2005, according to the National Association of Home Builders. (Money and Investing Magazine, August 2006)

More than 10 percent of new homes last year were labeled Energy Star, says Steve Baden, head of the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). (Newsweek, December 2006)

The average U.S. household with four people generates between 30 and 40 tons of carbon dioxide a year, depending on elements such as its type of heating fuel, according to the federal Environmental Protection Agency's carbon calculator. (Denver Post, August 2007)

Producing homes that are 30 percent more "green" or energy-efficient than elsewhere in the nation, California's home builders are putting up homes that are also 70 percent more energy-efficient than homes built in the 1970s and 1980s, according to the California Building Industry Association. (Realty Times, September 2007)

Demand for green housing has been growing - 46 percent of buyers would like a green home, according to an August report by the National Association of Realtors on home buyers' preferences - but supplies are limited. (New York Times, November 2007)

In a nationwide survey of Certified EcoBrokers, 20% reported working with a client to complete a major cost-effective retrofit that significantly reduced energy bills. (Times Herald-Record, April 2008)

According to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), there are more than 70 of these local or regional green home building programs in America. (EcoBroker International, Inc., February 2008)

An ENERGY STAR qualified light [bulb or fixture] prevents more than 400 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions over its lifetime, the equivalent of keeping nearly 200 pounds of coal from being burned. (Energy Star, 2008)

The market for green homes is expected to boom from $7.4 billion to $38 billion by 2010, according to the National Home Builders Association. (Times Herald-Record, April 2008)

Green friendly home improvements will likely yield a solid return on investment come selling time as almost three quarters of Canadians (72%) say they will look for a green-improved property in their next home purchase, and 63 per cent will be willing to pay more for an environmentally friendly home, according to the Royal LePage Eco Home Survey released today. The joint Royal LePage National Association of Green Agents and Brokers Eco Home Survey, which examines the attitudes and opinions of Canadians with respect to green living, found that Canadians are willing to pony up cash for greener home features. In fact, 62 per cent of respondents are willing to pay between $5,000 and $20,000, for green features, while eight per cent (8%) of respondents are willing to spend $20,000 or more on a home deemed green. (www.foodshedplanet.com, April 2008)

According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry survey, 46 percent of American homeowners claim they would be eager to incorporate green principles into their homes, especially if it would save them money. Experts estimate one can generally save 20 to 30 percent on energy costs with $4,000 to $8,000 worth of improvements.

The average household spends some $1,500 each year on energy bills. By choosing ENERGY STAR certified products, consumers can cut this by 30%, saving about $400 each year. (Energy Star).

Energy cost increases is the number one trigger cited by home builders when considering building green homes. (McGraw Hill, 2006)

More than half a million U.S. families, 40% more than 2004, now live in Energy Star qualified homes and are saving about $110 million annually on their energy bills. (Energy Star, 2005)

According to the McGraw Hill SmartMarket Report 2006, 2% of homes built in the U.S. were built green. The value of this marketplace is approximately $7.8 billion. Given forecasts of the housing market and other trends, the green homes market is expected to increase to 10% by 2010. (McGraw Hill, 2006) McGraw Hill 2008 Press Release

Americans purchased more than 300 million ENERGY STAR qualified products in 2006 (Energy Star, 2007).

According to the National Association of Home Builders, when 800 registered voters were given a list of motives for either purchasing a new green home or remodeling their current home to make it greener, nearly two-thirds (64%) identified "reduced energy costs" as an important factor, followed by "because it would be healthier," and it's "the right thing to do for the environment." (http://www.nbnnews.com/, November 2007)

Green homes are gaining in popularity and can make a property more desirable in a slow housing market. According to a new report released from Carbon Free, "Stemming from growing concerns among the public, governments and businesses, there has been a steep increase in demand recently for knowledge about green building practices, and as more light is shed on the heavy impact buildings have on the climate, Carbon Free expects the green building to push forward and grow despite the cooling of the rest of the housing market."

Green home building products are gaining ground, according to a report produced jointly by McGraw-Hill Construction and the National Association of Home Builders.

The major findings of the report conclude:

The market for green homes is expected to rise from $2 billion to up to $20 billion over the next five years.
Standard homes are becoming increasingly green, with home owners using green products for 40 percent of their remodeling work.
Most Americans find out about green homes through word-of-mouth, followed by television and the Internet.
Green home owners are happy with their homes and are recommending them at rates significantly higher than recommendation levels of other industries.
Home owners are buying green homes because they are concerned about the health of their families, as well as to reduce energy and other home operating costs.
Education and awareness of green ranks as the most important obstacles, slightly higher even than the additional first costs associated with building green.

Lets Keep it Clean

Memorial Day

Sun, 25 May 2008 13:36:00 -0500

Have a

GREAT Weekend

Original Post

Orange County Foreclosures

Sat, 24 May 2008 16:19:39 -0500

The Market in Orange County is chaotic right now. Activity is huge, especially Foreclosed properties. The Banks are pricing properties to sell which is causing multiple offers. I previewed a Foreclosed property with a Client who loved it and wanted to put in an offer. Called the Listing agent and was informed that there were multiple offers on it. How many? I asked, "60 he says"

The property wasn't on the market a day and it had 60 offers on it. Of course I asked what the highest price was knowing theres no way he will give me the exact $$$ amount. Well over the asking "he replies".

Properties are being priced so well, by the end of the day the banks are getting pretty much what they are looking for.

" Sellers, Note to self

I Should Price My Home to SELL "

You never know you might even get more than you thought.

A Foreclosed property in Stanton, CA, the bank dropped it's price from $469,000 to $319,900. I caught it, phoned my client and we rushed over. They absolutely loved it, put in an offer that night, called the agent the next morning who sent it into the Bank, got back a counter offer a couple of hours later, signed the counter and bank Addendums (Bank Addendums override the original Purchase Offer).

Now, while all this is going on, offers were coming in all over the place on this property. In only one day the Listing agent had over 40 offers. From all cash offers to well well over asking price.

Rubbish you might say, but let me tell you how you can be ahead of the rest when in the Market for a Foreclosure. And let me tell you Why and How we got the best deal in Orange County.

1. Get a Realtor you are completely comfortable with and know he / she will have your best interests, if not call me - (714) 943-0444

2. Call me.

3. Shop around at least 3 Different Lenders. Pick one that meets your needs best. And make sure he / she works only within your comfort Zone. What I mean regarding your comfort zone, your monthly payments. Get that Pre-Approval letter.

4. (714) 943-0444

5. Photo copy of the Good Faith Deposit which is normally 1% of the asking price.

6. Photo Copy of your Credit Scores.

7. This one will help you to get your offers accepted that much quicker, " PROOF OF FUNDS " a copy of your account statement showing that you actually have funds to close Escrow. Ask your lender to estimate (approx) the closing costs to close Escrow. And show that in your bank account.

8. Not sure if I gave you my number (714) 943-0444

9. Get your Realtor (excuse me) me to write up an offer before you preview.

10. Be the first to preview that property, don't be the 3rd, 4th or 5th be the first.

Be Prepared, Below is the Receipy

A " Realtor " (714) 943-0444

Approval Letter

Photo copy of " Good Faith Deposit "

Photo copy of " Credit Scores "

MOST IMPORTANT " PROOF OF FUNDS " print out a copy of your account

Write up the OFFER before you get there

Be the FIRST to catch that deal, be the FIRST to preview the property

FORECLOSED PROPERTIES

Be Careful when buying Foreclosed properties. Always get advice from experienced Realtors who have represented the Buying side of a Transaction. (714) 943-0444

Buying Foreclosed properties is a completely different animal. It is normally one sided, Banks of course. Their Addendums override the Purchase Contract. They do not have to disclose anything to the buyer. Why you ask? Simply the Bank has never lived there. They are exempt from disclosing anything. They do not have to do any repairs, so if you think you might be getting a deal, think twice.

NEVER EVER EVER waive your rights to get a Home Inspection on a foreclosure it could be your ruin. When you do get a Home Inspection it will have to be IMMEDIATELY the day you go into Escrow. On a Foreclosure property your Request For Repairs have to be done within 7 Days and submitted of course to the Bank for review.

My Clients and I have been 100% successful on getting all repairs done and getting termite work done also. And getting Home warranties for one year.

If you have any questions regarding Foreclosures please do not hesitate to contact me. I will be happy to help whether you need to buy or not.

Need more information regarding the buyers market in Orange County?

My original Post.

Mothers Day

Sun, 11 May 2008 14:21:18 -0500

For all you GREAT Mothers out there

Have a wonderful Day!

Going Green Can Help YOU

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 13:04:38 -0500

EcoBrokers® EcoBrokers are equipped with additional energy and environmental information and tools. I provide added value to all of your real estate transactions. Being a qualified EcoBroker allows me to address the newest topics in real estate, such as green home certification programs like Energy Star Qualified Homes, energy-efficiency, and sustainable design. Having an EcoBroker designation will also assist you in working through issues that may arise in real estate transactions, such as mold, radon, and poor indoor air quality, providing real solution.

How I as an ECOBroker can help YOU?

Buyer Benefits

Know more about the potential monthly savings or costs of a home: EcoBrokers® have an understanding of energy efficiency and the costs or savings associated with insulation, windows, appliances, heating and cooling systems, and other features of your home that affect your monthly bottom line.

Know more about indoor air quality and healthy environments: EcoBrokers® can help you address environmental issues including: indoor air quality, ventilation, use of low VOC paints, quality radon testing, and reliable water testing.

Consider building orientation and natural landscaping features: EcoBrokers® understand energy savings that can be derived from proper building orientation and delighting, overhangs, and placement of trees (for shading and windbreaks).

Seller Benefits

LOOKING FOR A REALTOR THAT STANDS OUT? Get the most from your home or property sale: EcoBrokers® understand energy efficiency and environmental features of homes. Working with your local EcoBrokerTM ensures you are working with someone who can highlight these attributes and their value.

Communicate the energy cost savings of your home: EcoBrokers® help you highlight energy efficient features in your home that may help you get the best price for your property.

Communicate to buyers the indoor air quality and health benefits of your property or building: EcoBrokers® can help you highlight healthy features of your home's indoor environment.

Emphasize building orientation and landscaping features: Your EcoBroker® understands how to properly highlight favorable building orientation and landscaping, when marketing your home.

Differentiate Your Listing: Working with an EcoBroker® helps you market your property to the growing number of green-minded consumers and gets your listing the attention it deserves!

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Realtors That Complain

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 18:49:16 -0500

If You Can't Stand The Heat Get Out Of The Kitchen. "REALTORS" If you can't stand the market get out of the business. I am tired of other Realtors and agents complaining to me about the market. You guys are worse than the media. Most of you don't know what your doing or saying. I would hate to know what your saying to your clients. Hmmmm, let me think on that. If you complain you obviously have no clients and you obviously have no idea how to go back to the basics. And if you do have clients you dislike them. You moan and groan how bad your clients are. Making you work, previewing homes, having to run searches, O my God and having to email those searches. All I hear from you guys is its just going to get worse. The media are saying this, they are saying that, this much % is down, foreclosures are going to raid, pilage and plunder our Nation. WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE WORLD?

I had an agent ask me to open up escrow and she would fax me the signed purchase offer in a day or two. I was Gob Smacked. Your asking me to open escrow with no signed (executed) contract. Yes she says. I then asked her "If it takes an Elephant two weeks to walk a week how many banana's in a bunch of grapes? WHAT?

Yes, exactly what are you talking about.

What is the difference between a Buyers market and a Sellers Market? Nothing. This market is an excellent market. It is an amazing market. It is a market you can shine in. It is a market you can represent buyers that can finally afford a home. That can finally purchase their Dream Home. It is a market where the Sellers do not have buyers over a barrel.

Why can't you be as motivated as buyers are right now. Imagine what that would be like? Imagine what that would be like? a Realtor to be as motivated as their client. What a TEAM that would be. Why not create a TEAM. A team of buyers. O Wait I forgot, you have to work for it. Lets forget that notion. Your job is to complain. Your Job is to annoy, bother all around you with your nonsense talk.

You should be the most excited you have ever been. And all you do is complain. Have you ever door knocked. Have you tried to door knock?

And instead of asking them do they want to buy or sell? Instead have a conversation. Have a conversation. Do you have the nerve to. Probably not. TO MUCH WORK. Or you don't have any idea of the market and all its benefits when buying now. Which should be done in the next 6 months.

Guys, you can stand out like a migraine. Like you do already. But for the wrong reason. Stand out as a Realtor, stand out for knowing your market. Over load your clients with information. Its what they are looking for.

I have clients say, that one of the main reasons they enjoy the buying process with me and come back again and again is that I have been the only Realtor who has helped and has given so much information. Everyone else has not been as helpful. This I do not understand. Giving your clients information they do not want. Why are you not giving your clients what they are asking for?

Do you even listen to what your Clients want? WHY NOT? ARE THEY BOTHERING YOU?

If your clients ask for 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms and no Pool, do not give them 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a pool. If your clients ask for information give it to them. If you have a website and a buyer needs to sign up before any information is given, PLEASE keep doing so. Because when they get to my website they get everything with no registration. So when they need information they will know where to go. Won't think twice about it. So again PLEASE keep it up. I'll help those people even if you won't. SO

Take advatage of the Buyers Market like you would a Sellers Market. Be as Motivated as a First Time Buyer. It's a no Brainer. It's a match made in Heaven.

How about this for all you Agent Moaners, I will help you, I promise. This is what I will do. All your clients that are bothering you and asking you to work for them (How dare they) give them my number 1-714-943-0444 and ask for Patrick Canavan and I will give them exactly what they are looking for, the HELP and INFORMATION they deserve.

OR, Be as Motivated as a FIRST TIME BUYER the feeling is great. It feels alot better than complaining.

Remember this if you ever open a Restuarant, it is all about the customer. If you lose sight of that concept your Restuarant will go down in Flames.

It is no different in Real Estate. "IT IS ALL ABOUT THE CLIENT" They pay your wage. Only for them you would not have a career. OR DO YOU ?

Is The Worst Of The Worst Market In 30 Years Behind Us?

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 20:11:27 -0500

The answer to that question, in my opinion is, in a word.....YES!

You will not hear this from the media for another 6 months. It will take that long for today's sales going into escrow to show up in Dataquicks reporting of closed transactions. Even then, it will be showing sales down over the previous year, but it will show a steady increase of sales month over month of the previous month. This simply means that beginning in January of 2008, sales have increased every single month. I believe this to be much more than just a seasonal surge that we usually experience every Spring. We are seeing evidence of a pent up demand of buyers that are now being lured into the market by prices not seen in many years. In Moreno Valley and Riverside, you will find MANY homes priced under $200,000! In Corona (Corona's Eagle Glen) area where we've held many sales rallies. Homes in this market that were priced in the 900s a few years ago are now selling in the 600s, with some even in the 500s. In Rancho Cucamonga and other parts of San Bernardino we are seeing much greater activity due to sales price adjustments. Orange County does not have much of a foreclosure market but nevertheless, buyers, listening to the media have been on the sidelines for a year or so. As you will see in my comments below, these Orange County buyers are coming back into the market as well.

Let me give you some specifics. Our Moreno Valley Office are working with more buyers right now than they have had combined in the past two years. Think about that statement. This office is seeing more buyers in the past few months than in the past few years total! I have wrote countless of offers for buyer clients. Why countless offers? Because the market is hot and with multiple offers everywhere, usually on foreclosed properties, I am competing with anywhere from 7 to 30 offers on the properties my clients selected. I and other REO listing agents in the office are routinely getting 8 to 12 to 25 offers on properties which are in good shape and aggressively priced. It is back to the market of a few years ago....with buyers having to lose two or three or more properties before they believe me.....that if they want the house, they have to offer above full price.

So, let me go back to the beginning and tell you why I think the worst is behind us. When you see the prices at levels that bring out hoards of buyers making multiple offers...you have seen the end of the downward price spiral. In the Inland markets, foreclosures will still dominate the scene for the next year and will drive the prices, but the prices will not be at lower levels than they are selling for today. Even though there are thousands of foreclosures in the Inland Empire, there are more buyers who are attracted to the best ones. These will set the floor for pricing for other banks and other homeowners. There is no reason to believe house prices will go down further in the face of multiple offers at todays pricing. In Orange County the market is not driven by foreclosures but prices have adjusted nevertheless and well priced properties bring out the multiple offers in this market too. And don't forget the Fine Homes buyers, they are out and they are buying.

So, what does this mean. It means it is time for you to call every friend, relative and email them this blog and tell them you have seen the bottom of the market in terms of prices. Short of some financial calamity on Wall Street making mortgage money unavailable, I believe that we are at the bottom of the pricing challenges. The federal government has already proved, with the last minute rescue of Bear Stearns, that is will not let anything happen to endanger the economy further. The government is working daily to solve the housing issues with increases in loan limits, help for builders and help for people who are in or about to be in foreclosure. With this type of government involvement it just does not make any sense that prices will continue to decline. This means, you need to get the message out to the people you know. All of the people you know....know people sitting on the sidelines waiting to buy. Waiting for what? They continue to wait for prices to decline. You need to get into your car, into the market and see the reality. You probably won't believe me at first because the press is still telling you prices are going down. You need to get into the market and see how to get ahead of the market by buying now at the bottom. In six months when the press begins writing positive articles, an avalanche of buyers will descend on the market and that will be the beginning of price increases. You need to buy now in the calm before the new buyer storm. Today you have lots of choices and good prices. In six months they will have fewer choices and more buyers to compete with for those choices.

I am not predicting here some large increase in sales prices in the near term. I am simply saying that the best deals to be had will be out there now and over the next six months. If you miss that window, you will pay more than you will have to pay today. With the incredible low mortgage rates today, why would you let this opportunity slip away?

So please consider this: The market is getting up off the floor....are you?Get off the sidelines and get into the game. The worst of the market is behind us. We are returning to a stable market. Buyers will have to be prepared to pay fair prices and sellers will have to accept fair offers to get their homes sold. It is no longer a buyers market with the sellers on the ropes. Nor is it the sellers market of a few years ago where they could and did hold buyers hostage for every last dollar possible. So, if it is not a buyers market and it is not a sellers market, what kind of market is it? It is an agents market! This is where I will shine. I will use my skills to find good deals for buyers in this bottom of the market. As a Listing agent I will be able to use my skills to help sellers price their property so it will sell. Neither side has the other side over a barrel.

To be successful you must have ME on Your team, to see the market ahead that I see and hopefully you will take advantage of the opportunities and make your BUYING NOW !!!

Another reason to List with me

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:50:09 -0600

If you notice when looking closely at the photo the Realtor took a photo of the photo on his computer and then had to upload that photo to his computer and then post it in the MLS.

I can imagine the Realtors Listing Presentation

What would you think the Realtors Listing Presentation would entail?

Love to hear everyones comments!!

Best Deal in Anaheim, Orange County, CA

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:36:59 -0600

$500,000 Best Deal in Anaheim, Orange County, CA

Location: Anaheim, CA

Desirable Location, Very Quiet Neighborhood, next to golf course, Fantastic Home newly Painted in and out, Back yard ideal for Kids, Central Air/ Heat, Remodeled Kitchen/Tile Flooring, Granite Counter tops and more, Bonus room is an actual bedroom also could be converted in to an Office, Sliding Doors, Double Pane Windows thru out. FABULOUS CUSTOM FIREPLACE. HUGE RV Parking, Convenient Access to Shopping & Freeways. DEFINITE MUST SEE FOR ALL BUYERS!!

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Patrick Canavan

714-943-0444

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Asking Price: $500,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: All offers will be looked at seriously

Property Location

229 N Siesta St
Anaheim, CA 92801
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Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2

Parking: 2

Year Built: 1957

Lot Size: 7214 sq.ft

School District: Anaheim Unified

Square Footage: 1437

Agent Name: Patrick Canavan

Broker: Prudential California Realty

MLS #: P620469

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Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

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Fireplace

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VFLYER ID: 1469875

Vol. 2 FREE Foreclosure Magazine

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:31:37 -0600

Free Foreclosure Magazine is now available

This magazine offers the latest foreclosure properties in Orange County and the Inland Empire. This is a valuable resource for anyone searching for a new home.

I am happy to assist you in your home search. For a copy of this magazine, please email me or contact me and I will mail you your free copy.

This is a great time to buy a property.

Be a step ahead of the rest and contact me now!!

SAFETY REMINDER FROM THE PWR: SCAM ARTISTS ARE ACTIVE!

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 20:52:18 -0600

SAFETY REMINDER: SCAM ARTISTS ARE ACTIVE!

A member has reported to the Association that two women driving a new small black BMW SUV with paper plates "McKenna" came to her open house in the Seal Beach area and while one woman occupied the agent?s attention, the other woman went to another room and attempted to take a handful of jewelry out of a jewelry box. Here is a description of the two women:
Age late 50´s, 5´ tall, 150 lbs, ear length wavy red colored hair, olive skin, wide nose, full lips, slight accent, shabbily dressed in mostly black, flat fabric shoes by SODA; knowledgeable about fine art.
Age mid 30´s, 5.5´ tall, 150 lbs, very long straight dark hair, olive skin, no accent shabbily dressed, in mostly black, sweater with large V neck, small black knitted gloves, used the name Michelle.
Other schemes involved a couple who pretended to be wealthy potential buyers from out of town who would purchase for all cash without financing (to avoid background check). They drove an expensive new vehicle (actually rented for the scam). Once inside the house the "wife" occupied the agent and the "husband" went to another room and copied down personal financial information on the homeowners to steal their identities. A lawsuit against the agent followed.

Agents should always be on guard for their personal safety and mindful of the importance of monitoring the visitors to their clients´ homes. Some tips in the California REALTOR® magazine article on REALTOR® safety are:

* Meet a new client at your office first, not at the property.
* Be sure your office staff has up–to–date information on the make, model, year, and license number of your vehicle, and that they know where you are and who you are with.
* Let the client know that your office knows your whereabouts.
* Take separate vehicles and put your briefcase and purse in the trunk, rather than riding in the client´s vehicle.
* If you are suspicious about a client or feel uncomfortable, listen to your instincts.
* Take another agent with you to show the property.
* Have another person with you during an open house.
* Tell the homeowner to put valuables away.
* Plan ahead for an exit from the home and park where you will not be blocked in by another vehicle.
*Always keep your cell phone and car keys on your person, not in a purse or briefcase in another room.
Books, videos, brochures, research reports and articles on protecting your own personal safety and protecting your clients´ property and personal information can be found on both the California Association of REALTORS® and National Association of REALTORS® websites.

Emailed from PWR.