Scott Daniels Florida Real Estate 2.0 Views!

Why Bad Credit won`t kill you!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 07:18:18 -0500

I spoke to a friend of mine yesterday who is looking to consolidate her credit card debt.

During her entire life she`s paid her bills on time but, like most of us got caught up in a downward economy, forcing her to make tough decisions we all face when raising our families.

She was interviewing different debt counselor's. Their job is to give recommendations on how to save your credit and pay down debt.

Don`t get me wrong, the concept isn`t too far fetched, except when these so called "Experts" make outlandish and deceitful statements to gain your business.Often, their unable to do anything you couldn`t do if you made contact with these credit card companies yourself.

Bad Credit isn`t a good thing, but it`s not so bad either. Not everyone wants an American Express Platinum credit card. Having an 800 Fico score does have it`s privileges. But, what if you`re credit score is below 500? Does that mean it`s the end of the world?

We work with people from all walks of life. Many are professionals who unfortunately, got caught up in the euphoria spending these past 10 years.

In the "Good Old Days" we could apply for a credit card without any problems.All you had to do was make a few payments in a timely manner and the credit card company would automatically raise your credit limit. For some of us temptation to spend your credit limit steps in and the spending spree sometimes raises it`s ugly head.Within months, you`re caught in the maze of shifting your debt from one credit card company to the other seeking lower interest rates.In the end, you still have to face the music and pay your bills.

Many of us were caught off guard when the economy shifted. Although, you won`t be able to purchase a home or a car with bad credit there are alternatives. Contrary to what the experts tell you, you can rebuild your credit again.

It won`t occur overnight but eventually within 5 years your should see an increase in your scores.Providing you begin to live moderately again.

My friend makes fun of me because I don`t like to purchase "brand name" clothing like Tommy. In my opinion why should i pay 30-40% more for an item?!

Although, i`m not recommending you neglect your bills, i am recommending you give yourself some breathing room to live again.

The world isn`t about Beacon Scores. It`s all about adjusting to what needs to be done.

Why are Banks now "Insulting" people when it comes to Obama`s Stimulus Plan!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 07:58:15 -0500

Yesterday, a client who`s home we listed contacted me to tell us she received a letter from B of A.

Apparently, they sent her a letter indicating they`re willingness to help her "restructure her loan". She asked me for my opinion.

In all sincerity, Banks aren`t buying into President Obamas stimulus program of helping those who are trapped!

It`s easier to blame the middle class for this debacle, rather than the entire "Lending Institutions". Suddenly words like "Loan Modification" and "Short Sales" have become a "Four Letter Word"...

I asked the client to stop by my office and make the call from there.

The Conversation is as follows:

Client: Hello, I`m calling in regards to the letter that was sent to me in regards to saving my home!

B of A: Our policy is we`re here to help our clients. Let me take a look at your account.

Client: I can really use the assistance with our mortgage. I`m a single Mother with two children trying to save my home.

B of A: At BofA we don`t want you to lose you`re home either. We`re helping thousands of people like yourself everyday.

Client: I`m truly grateful for anything you can do to help us!

B of A: Humm, after reviewing your account, it seems you`re two months late on your mortgage. That's not too good. Also, you have alot of credit card debt. That's not good at all...

Client: Yes, I know, I`ve been steadily employed for 20 years now. If I can get some assistance on lowering my mortgage temporarily, than I`ll be alright. I`m looking for a second job as we speak.

B of A: Have you thought about finding a roomate?

Client: Excuse me? A Roomate? I`m calling you to see if we can adjust my mortgage payments per the letter you sent me and now you`re giving me advice on how to live my life!!??

B of A: Well we like to offer our clients advice in order to assist them. It`s part of our service.

Client: Are you joking me? You`re now telling me how to run my life and how to act? What kind of stimulus package is B ofA doing? This isn`t why i called you.

BofA: Were looking for alternative ideas to assisting our clients. Is there anything else we can do for you today?

With that the conversation ends. It actually really never took place. BofA has plenty of solutions in assisting those who seek help. Giving out tips on "How to live life" seems to be their idea of aiding clients and helping with the Stimulus program.

It`s great to know that lenders are so eager to give out ideas about "Saving one`s home" rather than doing what was intended to happen when President Obama was elected.

Amazing, how BofA took the time to send these letters to millions of people. I guess "Insulting" them is a better solution!

So much for Obama`s Stimulus program...

There is more to life than blogging. Using body building as a form of mediation.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Tue, 05 May 2009 05:56:40 -0500

Using free weights for the purpose of mediation.

I started working out several months ago when it was apparent someone dear and near to me left me.

It hurt like hell! I didn`t know what to do or who to turn to for help.

A friend of mine suggested I commence going to the gym as a form of stress relief. I`ve been in and out of gyms since I was 18 years old. Truthfully, I went to a gym more as a choir than anything else. I thought toning your body was like a job,rather than a love of the sport.

Body Building is very hard work. It requires alot preparation each day.You have to sleep a minimum of 7-8 hours per day to recoup. You can`t drink, you have to watch your diet all the time! Your friends begin to think your crazy for not wanting to hang out with them and party! Forget going out on dates,who wants to be with someone who`s worried about their "food intake!?'..

My day starts at 5:00am. I have to begin to eat, take vitamins and by 6:30 head to the gym for two hours. Your mind has to be consumed with what you`re going to do, and what body parts you wish to sculpt.

I envision what I want to accomplish before I ever reach the gym!

For the next two hours we`re hitting the weights at a grueling pace.I`ve learned if you want to gain muscle mass you have to concentrate on one or two body parts the entire time you`re in the gym and forget how many sets you`re doing. It`s meaningless.

When I workout I do it for shear exhaustion. I want to leave the gym knowing I gave 100% of myself.

During these workout I`m actually meditateing.

I`m relaxed,focused and happy after I leave the gym. It carries over to my work enviroment! Working out has helped my blood pressure go back to normal without medication, my entire appearance has changed radically.

My oldest daughter and her friend gave me the ulitimate compliement yesterday. Her friend wanted to know "How old I was?"...I asked her to guess my age. Her response was I looked like I was in my mid 30`s....She told me out of all of her friends Dad`s I was by far the "best looking Dad" she knew!

My daugther than chimed in and told her "Yeah, my Dad has gotten younger, you should have seen him 3 years ago when he was an old man!"..

I don`t really know if Body Building is akin to the search for "The Fountain of Youth", I do know it sure as heck makes me feel damn good!

Back to the lost love for a second. We had dinner on Sunday, I`m attempting to clear the air with her.... Although we`re a long way off, we`re actually talking to one another which trust me is something I never dreamed would ever happen again....

I don`t care if the Property is bank approved! Please present our offer.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 05:10:12 -0500

Two weeks ago we sent an offer for a home in Cooper City,Florida which was listed for $275,000. On the MLS remarks section it stated the home was "Bank Approved @ $275,000.

That's all well and good for the lenders,but what if your client thinks otherwise?

Surely, in this hectic market of uncertainty, wouldn`t a lender want to be presented all offers?

There are many Realtors out there who have forgotten what our job as professionals are.

We "Present all offers' no matter what and allow our clients to make a decision.

It`s very simple.I called the other Realtor yesterday to find out whats happening with our offer. I was shocked to learn they had yet to present!

The Conversation is as follows:

Me: We`re confirming that our offer was sent to the lender for approval?

Realtor: OH! I haven`t presented it. I told you it`s not going to fly!

Me: Our offer is for $265,000 with 30% down. This is a no brainer!

Realtor: The lender won`t accept your offer!

Me: How do you know this? Did you actually present our offer?

Realtor: Why no! I`m waiting for an offer for $275,000 to come in!

Me: You`re waiting for an offer to arriv that's great! You have in your hands an offer which we can close in 30 days and you`ve wasted two weeks pretending to understand you`re making decisionsns for a bank! That's a fresh approach to complete disaster!Whats with you?!

Realtor: I thought that's what the lender wanted. The last offer we received 5 months ago, the bank countered at $275K. I figured they won`t take less!

Me: Would you do me and yourself a huge favor? Let the lender decide for themselves what they want to do!

With that, the light in the other agents head must have turned itself on! I think they finally realized they have nothing to lose by sending the offer in!

In our profession, no matter what we as Realtors believe we`re never in a position to make decisions for anyone! It`s not in our job description!

www.bankapprovedproperty.com

Entitlement for the F of it! Are people expecting way too much?!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:51:18 -0500

Yesterday, I had an enlightening experience. A client who`s daughter I helped with a job came into my office upset! I didn`t pay her daughter what she deserved!

To be quite honest, I gave her a job as a favor to her parents because they`re in the midst of losing their home. The daugther came to my office with the intentions of IM`ing and texting her friends, she also decided that napping in our office was a good thing as well!

She worked a total of 6 hours for which I compensated her.

When I gave the young lady her paycheck, she was enraged claiming I cheated her!

She wanted to be compensated for 10 hours worth of work! I explained to her that Im`ing and texting her friends on my time didn`t equate to working. Upset, she told her Mother who in return was upset with me!

Looking back, I began to realize, so many people nowadays believe their "Entitled" to everything without earning it!

I had an incident the other day in which I was working out in the gym, doing cable exercises. I go to the gym with one thing on my mind and that's to "workout" I don`t go to socialize, which a gym is really good for. This man wanders over to me and asks me if "He could jump in?"... I looked at him and told him "No", I would be done in 5 minutes. Visibly upset he mumbled something under his breath and walked away, clearly annoyed. When I was finished I signaled to him he could have the machine,but he was busy chatting with his friends.I guess he felt at that moment he was "Entitled" to "Jump In" because he wanted too!

Last week, we`re dealing with a client who`s looking at homes for rent. The area they want to live in is in "high demand'. We locate a 3bedroom, 2bath,Home for $1800 a month. They want to offer $1500. I explain to them the mortgage payment on this home is $2000 per month as it is. The landlord can`t afford to take a $500 a month loss on their home. They insist I call the landlord again, and explain their "hardship". They just lost their home to foreclosure, and need someone who will give them a break!?! Total "Entitlement".

I contact the landlord in front of them on the telephone, he`ll go to $1700 with a security deposit,1st, and last months rent! The tenant gets upset at this ridiculous counter and bails! Turns out they don`t have enough money to rent a home, but feel someone needs to cater to them!

I don`t understand what`s happening in the world, but I`m seeing a pattern where people expect to be rewarded on the merit of who they are! It`s getting very weird out there!

Are we as Realtors the blame for everything our clients have going wrong in their life?

Visit us @ www.browardbesthomes.com

Losing weight is a matter of mind over matter!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 06:21:51 -0500

I had a conversation yesterday with someone in regards to losing weight and staying fit. Lets face it as we get older it`s not easy to do and the temptation to splurge is always in the back of your mind!

Two years ago I was a waist size 40, weighted somewhere near 265 and felt like pure crap.

I was unmotivated,lacked stamina and overall didn`t care about my appearance.

One day I found a picture of my Father. He was a big hulking type of a guy who died unfortunately at the age of 49.

I remember he never bothered to worry about his health and that's when it hit me.

I had to make some changes in my dietary habits and force myself to get my "fat ass" into a gym.

At first I didn`t really enjoy forcing myself to work out and start watching what i ate. In fact the first 4 months I went at it all wrong, showed no results and pretty much was content to leave well enough alone.

Instead, I decided to push myself for two weeks and see if I could shed some weight.

I designed a weight training program for myself that mixed Cardio with pumping weights. I would move rapidly between free weights and machines with a 30 second rest in between. I also decided to exhaust myself silly rather than use what I call a "Time Clock" of doing sets.

I lost 5 pounds, felt better and began to realize this might work for me!

I started buying vitamins, drank Protein Shakes, watched everything I ate, stopped soda, and bread.

Ate less food, and increased my fruit intake as well. I eat pineapples and banana`s each day.The amount of vitamins in fruits is incredible.

I went from working out 3x`s a week to going to the gym 5-6 days a week.

I also increased my workout session from 45 minutes to 1.45.

Once you realize what you`re doing the rest is easy. The weight started to come off, my blood pressure and cholesterol level dropped, and my stamina increased. I look and feel much younger.

Today, I weigh 204 and i`m proud to say am a waist size 34.

I decided that if I want to watch my girls grow up it was time to invest in myself.

I`m glad I did.

Presenting the "highest and best offer" sometimes backfires.The system needs to be changed.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 05:50:44 -0500

In the world of REO properties the new buzz word is "Highest and best" offers. Suddenly, there`s a rash of multiple offers appearing on properties that have been on the market in some instances for 280 days or longer!

Did the market suddenly change or are these Realtors representing the lenders by playing games? Some hold offers back presenting their own personal offers only. The lenders seem not to have a check and balance system in place.

Basically some Realtors are "NOT" doing their jobs, and are making decisions that can cost them their license.

It`s hard to imagine that a Realtor would risk losing their license,yet, many of you can relate to this topic.

We`re dealing with a Realtor who continues to astound us. He continues to act as if he`s doing his job properly. There seems to be no logic as to whats going on and it`s baffling!

Twice, he`s assured us he was in contact with the lenders only to be caught in a web of lies.

His refusal to present our offer and others is based on his belief that a better offer will arrive from one of his clients.

This isn`t how the lenders intended these sales to be conducted.

Worse, this particular Realtor has broken all rules of the "Code of Ethics".

If the lenders continue to not have a system of checks and balances towards the process of accepting offers, this type of irrational behavior will continue!In the end guess who pays? The taxpayers. Not good!

Greed changes people! After 3 years of dealing with Foreclosures, REO`s and Short Sales the lenders should have some sort of stream line system installed.

Many of these lenders should post a "Net Sheet" offer the Real Estate community the opportunity to see these sheets and allow the Realtors to go from there properly informing their clients the right way.

The system as it stands right now is so antiquated that it makes little or no sense. Yet, the lenders swear up and down to the media they`re doing everything in their power to change the way these properties are sold.

I`m positive each and everyone of you will agree, that isn`t the case any longer.

Mind over matter.When it comes to training,it`s all in your head.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 06:27:44 -0500

For two weeks I`ve been doing shoulder exercises for growth.I do 4 sets of 8-12 reps depending on how I feel. Normally, I can`t get past using 40 pound weights in my routine. No matter how hard I try, i hit that resistance point. Something goes off in my mind preventing me from going any further.

Yesterday, i decided to try a different approach. On my way home from work I went back to the gym and grabbed a 50 pound weight and just decided I was going to complete my exercises. I had been thinking about doing this in my mind for almost 1 hour. When I got into the gym, it was as if I was re-enacting the enter exercise in my mind! To some extent I was.

Without any hesitation I was able to lift the weight with the proper form.

The mind controls everything in your body. It`s what can prevent you from being sick or feeling depressed. It takes over the passion inside you for that special person. If used incorrectly the mind can simply shut off.

I like to keep myself as active as possible thereby keeping my mind busy with different tasks.It rewards me with a very keen memory and helps me accomplish road blocks in my daily life.
How do you keep your mind active?

Just because you`re getting older doesn`t mean you cant change your appearance!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 05:56:49 -0500

I`ve been working out at the gym for the past 120 days. I go each day without missing a beat! My average workout is 1:45. I combine cardio and free weights in my routine.

I`ve given up eating tons of carbs,cut out sugar and watch every food label for caloric intake.

I went from a size 38 to a size 32waist. Better yet I`ve added muscle mass in all the right places and feel fantastic.

My blood pressure is normal,my stamina and physical appearance has taken on a whole new direction.

I fee like Dennis Hopper in the TV commercial where he claims that "50 is the new 40", actually I feel more like 30!

Ten years ago I began toying around with "body building" at first I never gave it much thought! I went through the motions at the gym.

The more I played around with the idea of sculpting my physique the more I realized this is like running marathon.It takes years of dedication and rather than continue I stopped.

In my mind i felt i could never accomplish what I wanted.I simply gave up and discontinued my gym membership.

That changed.Two years ago I began to feel sluggish. I had arthritis in my aching fingers and went to both a chiropractor and acupuncturist to stop the swelling.

My entire body was off kilt! Approaching the age of 50, i decided I needed to slow down the aging process.

I began to consult a nutritionist, joined a gym and took up free weights.

I started buying magazines like "Muscles and Fitness and Flex" to fully understand what type of a workout regime I needed to be on.

I toyed around with pushing heavy weights because I believed I needed to see "fast results",I miscalculated and hurt my shoulder from the heavy lifting.

Defeated again, I was determined to get this right!

I have a Realtor in my office who is a personal trainer, he`s in fantastic physical shape! Rather than continue hurting myself I asked him for some advice.

He took me under his wing and i`m finally seeing the results of my hard labor. I`m doing things i would never do beatingike eatting "Protein Shakes, eggs,fruits,vegetables and a having a good night sleep each night",combined these changes have helped me tremendously.

I take a slew of different vitamins, have seen muscle growth and my abs are starting to show once again.

It`s never to late to admit to yourself ,it`s time for a change!

Take command of your health!

Banks still don`t "GET IT" in regards to Foreclosures!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 05:46:05 -0500

Turn off the TV, stop listening to the media in regards to the Lenders attempting to quell the housing market fiasco!

It`s not true. The Lenders are still in denial and no matter what the media or Washington proclaims it`s alot of BS!

We just closed a $55,000 condo in Hollywood.The seller had to evict a tenant prior to closing, the buyer was playing games, which is typical and the Lender placed a GUN to our heads in regards to a $500 water bill.

No matter what was done the lender decided they wouldn`t pay the water bill. We couldn`t close until this matter was resolved. You would figure with all the money being handed to the lenders they would cooperate?! Heck no! They flat out refused to deal with us and expected the Realtors to ante up!

It`s a matter of principal, but we refused.

Up until the 12th hour nobody blinked, it looked grim.

Finally, the attorney`s asked everyone to split the difference of $80 per person. Talk about disgusting. The lenders are clueless to what`s going on in the world as long as they have their way it`s business as usual!

It`s not good!

Why do some Realtors insist on speaking for the lenders, the attorney`s and worse their clients?

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 06:25:40 -0500

For two days I`ve been dealing with a Realtor who believes his job is to speak for everyone without presenting our offer. Called to the carpet yesterday he finally admits he never presented our offer because he felt our offer was too low!

Rule #1 in Real Estate is to "Present all offers'..Hard to believe that this agent was so out of touch with reality and the amount of trouble he could be in!

I`m a firm believer in not speaking for the clients I represent. I present all ofers, give our clients the facts and allow them the right to make decisions for themselves.After all isn`t that our job?

I don`t make decisions for them, I can`t read minds, nor do I pretend to.

The Conversation is as follows:

Super Realtor: I didn`t present your offer to the lender because it was too low. They would reject it.

Me: Really: It`s an all "Cash Offer" we can close in two weeks. This property has been on the market for 9 months vacant and rotting away. Do you have any other offers on the table?

Super Realtor: Why no! I know what the lenders want.

Me: When was the last time you spoke to anyone from the bank?

Super Realtor: Aah, hum, OH! It`s been 6 months!

Me: So you`re deciding what the lenders should do with our offer without consulting the lender is that it?

Super Realtor: I can show you a denial letter of another offer the lender turned downed. It was a VA loan.

Me: What the heck do we care what was turned down!? Present our offer now and stop playing games.

Super Realtor: I`m only doing the job "I think" the lenders want me to.

Me: I pray you`re kidding around. Please fax them our offer as well as any correspondence the lenders send you. If our offer isn`t presented, I will contact the local board and commence with a Code of Ethics complaint!

This isn`t how we do business as Realtors and it`s hard to believe you`re allowed to operate like this!

With that i hang up the telephone, shaking my head in complete disbelief.

I`m wondering how this Super Realtor can stay in business and curious to know if anyone in his office realizes this Realtor shouldn`t be handling REO properties!

www.browardbesthomes.com

In a short sale let the lender decide for themselves which offer they`ll accept.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 04:54:22 -0600

We`ve been going back and forth with another Realtor who refused to notify the lender about our "cash offer" for a condominium they were listing.

Apparently, advised by their Broker they felt the offer they had sent to the lender was sufficient.

They believed the lender would only consider one offer at a time, guess what? The lenders want to entertain as many offers as you send them!

They believed the lenders wouldn`t entertain an "All Cash Offer" .

After two days of going back and forth with the agent they finally agreed to send in our offer.

Two weeks went by and we received notice from the agent that the lender had in fact decided to go with our cash offer providing we can close within the next two weeks.

The other Realtor is ecstatic as well because they`ve been trying to sell this property for 9 months.

Had they not sent in our offer, we would have advised our client to look for another home.

Quite honestly, the rules of dealing with "Short Sales" change every day. In fact there are no rules, each lender has a different criteria.

It`s wise to send all offers to the lenders until they decide which offer is suitable for them!

Homeowner is confused as to who does repairs! "Who`s going to fix my A/C now that it`s broken?"

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:49:19 -0600

The call of the year arrived yesterday. We sold a home to a client 7 months ago. They seemed happy enough when they became "Homeowners" yet didn`t quite grasp the fact they were the "owners" of the property.

Simply put they seemed confused as to who maintains the home.

It happens to some, who`ve been used to living in a rental all of their adult lives.

Anyway, we wished them the very best and have kept in touch with them from time to time to see if everything is alright.

They called me yesterday complaining about the A/C needing repair.

The conversation is as follows:

Buyer: Hey, how are you doing we have a problem we need you to fix!

Me: Really! What`s the matter?!

Buyer: Our A/C seems to be broken. Can you send someone over to fix it?

Me: OH! You want us to recommend a good A/C company, sure no problem at all!

Buyer: Humm, no, actually we thought as our Realtor who sold us the house you`d fix it for us!

Me: Excuse me? I don`t own your home,you do! Why should I repair it?

Buyer: Because you`re our Realtor,right?!

I had to laugh! I`m thinking this is a joke or something, they`re serious!

For another 15 minutes i`m on the phone explaining to this client what "pride of ownership" means. They don`t want to hear anything i`m saying and continue to believe since i sold them the house, it`s my job to do all repairs long after they`ve moved in.

Wishful thinking at best! I guess!

www.browardbesthomes.com

Patrick J. Buchanan is a wealth of misinformation! Why does MSNBC continue to allow him on the air?

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 06:01:07 -0600

The New Deal was the name that Franklin D. Roosevelt gave to a sequence of central economic planning and economic stimulus programs he initiated between 1933 and 1938 with the goal of giving work (relief) to the unemployed, reform of business and financial practices, and recovery of the economy during The Great Depression. The enactment of New Deal policies lasted from 1933 through 1938.

When Franklin D. Roosevelt took office, the nation was in deep economic trouble. State governors had shut down every bank and every bank account was frozen--no one could get a bank loan or cash checks or get at their deposits. Unemployment was 25% and higher in major industrial and mining centers. The agricultural sector, with a fourth of the nation's population, was in worse shape than industrial areas. Deflation was raging--prices were falling, making future planning difficult and raising the burden of existing debts. Mortgages were being foreclosed by tens of thousands. Worst of all, many people seemed to have given up hope for a better future and were desperately holding on.^[3] Unemployment was still high in 1939, with the tide only turning in 1941.^[4]

Sound Familiar?

President Obama is attempting to boost the country just as Roosevelt did.Yet, people like Pat Buchanan refuse to believe the "New Deal" worked back than or even now...

Pat has a habit of distorting reality and the truth!

Pat also refuses to believe the eight of that President Bush was in office the country raamokck.

Under the Bush Administration the following happened.

From January 2008, through January 2009, the U.S. economy lost 3.5 million jobs. The private sector loss of 3.65 million jobs was slightly offset by 148,000 jobs created by federal, state and local governments. Say what you will, the Bush years were boom times for Big Government.

And the private sector? Beginning and ending in recession, the Bush presidency added a net of 407,000 private sector jobs over eight years, less than 51,000 a year, the worst eight-year record since 1927-35, which includes the first six years of the Great Depression.

By January 2009, the average workweek had fallen to 33.3 hours, the lowest since record keeping began in 1964.

From Jan. 31, 2001, through Jan. 31, 2009, 4.4 million manufacturing jobs, 26 percent of all of the manufacturing jobs in the United States, disappeared. I guess Pat doesn`t seem to think anything is really wrong here...

Pat rejects this as well...

Semiconductors and electronic component producers lost 42 percent of their jobs. Communications equipment producers lost 48 percent of their jobs. Textile and apparel producers lost, respectively, 63 percent and 61 percent of their jobs.

As a source of American jobs, manufacturing, for the first time in our history, fell below health care and education in 2001, below retail sales in 2002, below local government in 2006, below leisure and hospitality, i.e., restaurants and bars, in 2008.

Nice, huh?

How is Pat able to continue spewing misinformation each day on "The Morning Joe Show?"..

Since 1982, the United States has run $5.7 trillion in trade deficits in manufactured goods, and $2.1 trillion in trade deficits in auto parts, trucks and automobiles. In the Bush years alone, the United States ran more than $1 trillion in trade deficits in auto parts, trucks and cars.

These statistics, these realities - factories closing in the United States, manufacturing jobs being outsourced in the millions to China and Asia, enormous, endless trade deficits in goods - testify to a painful truth: America is a receding and declining world power.

I don`t quite get it! MSNBC needs to place a disclaimer on anything and everything Pat has to say!

Turn off the Morning Joe Show and Fire Pat Buchanan part 2!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 10:16:53 -0600

Turn off the Morning Joe Show and Fire Pat Buchanan part 2!

Very confusing watching this horrid show each morning. As i watch Pat Buchanan and Rick Santelli ( who is on the trading floor screaming F the middle class, greed is good I guess)spew total hatred for their fellow Americans i have to wonder what the heck is happening to our nation. It`s a nation of discontent! It`s dysfunctional at best!

In the end,everyone will loose! The Housing Crisis is bigger than most people believe.

All the bantering back and forth about the Stimulus package and the housing crisis bail out plan.

People are concerned and rightfully so. Some don`t believe we should help those who are losing their homes..

What do you say to those who have lost their jobs and are now facing Foreclosure?

How do you look someone in the eye and say "Tough Luck". This country wasn`t built this way although many conservatives would make you believe so...

This was once a nation of people who helped one another in times of crisis.

Not anymore! Its like the 3rd Reich has suddenly taken over and rather than call themselves the Nazi party they call themselves conservatives.

I deal with so many people who are on the verge of losing everything each day. Is it their fault? In some cases yes, but majority of the time it`s not so...

The attitude some folks have in regards to this crisis is truly astounding. You want to lay blame on someone than direct it at the lenders, the Fed, and the huge Brokerage Houses who packaged these Sub-Prime Loans...Why doesn`t Pat ever mention this tidbit of information? Why do they want to blame the one`s who were suckered in? It`s much easier thats why!

Blame them, not the little guy! Look at it from a different point of view "it could have been you" rather than attack your fellow neighbor!

In the end it affects everyone! Housing prices will spiral lower and than where will you be???

Time to become one as Americans and act like it once again!

www.browardbesthomes.com

Who does Pat Buchanan really speak for and why? Why is he allowed on the Morning Joe show each day?

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 06:08:56 -0600

Pat Buchanan, is one of America's leading conservative voices, a political analyst and regular contributor on MSNBC Morning Joe Show!

He is also out of touch with reality and doesn`t quite understanding what transpired in the housing market.

Pat believes the public is responsible for their actions in regards to the "Housing Crisis" he uses the term "Risk" as if everything should be pointed directly at the poor schmuck who purchased a home. Millions of people are underwater with their homes and Pat wants the public to accept the entire blame and be done with it!

It`s always amazing when the pundits of conservatism speak without knowing all sides of a disgusting story.

He forgets to mention the lenders who gave these loans to the public, the "teaser rates" they encouraged the unsuspecting homeowners to take advantage of. It`s scary, when I used to deal with buyers and we were looking at homes in their price range only to contact a Mortgage Broker who would tell them "Great News" you can actually afford to purchase a home $100,000 more than originally thought!

Naturally, these home buyers would immediately listen to the professionals guide them! Why not! Isn`t that the job of the lenders to give an honest and open opinion and not steer the public towards purchasing a home they couldn`t afford in the first place?!

How does Pat forget to mention this tidbit of info?

Shall we discuss the "Home Builders" such as KB Homes,Toll Brothers, Engle and DR Horton who would run huge ads on "preconstruction homes". Homes that were get this "affordable to the public". Who can forget the inflated appraisals these builders were able to get the lenders to approve on site!

I remember the days of the preconstruction era because i was smack in the middle of the frenzy. We would take potential buyers to these model homes. Speak with the builders representatives and they in turn would introduce them to the on-site lenders such as Wells Fargo or Countrywide Bank. Guess what would transpire next? The buyer would be told they could afford a home with 100% financing,the builders would throw in a free upgrade or three in order to get these home buyers to sign on the dotted line that day!

Pat doesn`t understand it`s not the public`s fault.Than again,why should he? He gets paid a hefty salary for consulting jobs he does for these people so quite naturally, he`ll say anything to defend his croonies.

What`s up with that Pat? Why don`t you come clean to the general public?

I`m truly sorry for people like Pat who can just shrug their massive shoulders and go on TV , lay blame on the "Little Guy".. Wonder why Pat doesn`t disclose who he gets paid by and why he goes on the "Morning Joe" show each day spewing a conservative opinion that benefits his rich banker friends...

I guess it`s all in a days work for him, who knows!!

Somethings are better if they remain Frozen in time.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 06:17:36 -0600

I spoke to a friend yesterday who truly made me aware the actual power of "Facebook" and what it means to so many.

Facebook is a social network which brings people together from different chapters of our lives.

I look at it as a giant life reunion of sorts which friends reconnect with one another.

My friend was curious about my whereabouts these past 31years. The last time she saw me was in 1978 at Stonybrook University.

I was a totally different person than i am today,yet my friend had a hard time visualizing this fact.

For the record, I was pretty wild during this period of time. I had no real responsibilities,nor did i demonstrate i would become a productive citizen.She had a hard time believing I had three children and was a great Father to these girls.

During my youth I lived my life to the edge.Stayed up late, and missed more classes than I ever care to admit!

Se told me she figured I would continue this pattern in life and remain frozen in time!

Interesting,yet that`s how people perceive one another.

I made a decision in 1979 that I had to move forward, place all of my exuberant habits aside and "Grow Up"...

It wasn`t easy! I had to remove myself from many of my former friends and admit the truth about myself.

I moved back home. Changed my attitude, went to school,located a job and became a responsible person who slowly made an effort to contribute to society.

I`ve used facebook for the past 18 months mainly for my Real Estate business. It`s been a great tool for me as a social and business network. I write alot of Real Estate related articles and have been published a few times.

Several weeks ago i encouraged my best friend to join facebook and we slowly began to "Hook Up" with people from our past!

It`s been a blast. i`m open minded and take things for face value.

Some of my former friends have a hard time believing I actually can remember things from the dark recesses of my mind. I can vividly recall things from the past as if it was yesterday. My memory has always been a huge asset for me.

In truth many of my old friends never really knew me. Had no idea about me, nor the fact that I`ve always demonstrated a keen sense for business and operating one. I`ve always been a "mover and a shaker"...

In my youth I was extremely aggressive and had a true passion for being organized and able to start a business from the ground up.

This pattern has followed me throughout life. Where ever i went and whatever I did, I had the skills to operate a business. I`ve never really worked for anyone my entire life, nor did i ever have a 9-5 job.

I`ve somehow incorporated my life with my job to the point that I don`t really know if I`d consider it work. The hours are long and sometimes tedious,but in truth I don`t really care. If you enjoy something you`re doing, who cares?

My friends were able to focus on one dimension of me,which is all i showed them.

Life is funny, it really is what you make it.Some friends do remain frozen in time and never grow up, others change radically for different reasons, some of us continue to search for the challenges life has to offer and change as society evolves.

I`m thankful my friend pointed this out to me and reflect about what I should have done differently back than and how to right what was wrong.

Thank You Lisa..

Message to Pres. Obama: What will you stimulate if the lenders won`t cooperate?

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 10:34:58 -0600

The real question now is what President Obama must say in his speech Wednesday to help stimulate the housing crisis.

So many people need assistance in our country that often we have to wonder if this housing crisis will continue to spiral downward.

Speak to your neighbors and you begin to see this is all too common.
Many are in fear of losing their homes, others are wondering what the next step is.

Loan Modifications can be an alternative, but are they a solution.

Short Sales don`t seem to be working as some of the lenders still have no clear cut idea just how to implement this plan.

Forget REO`s and Foreclosures. The condition of some of this homes is an abomination. Try making an offer on a home that`s been trashed. The lenders refuse to make the proper adjustments and the Realtors handling these properties refuse to point out these issues to the lenders.So homes sit fallow for months on end,which if left unattended can cause serve damage to a home. Mold issues come to mind immediately.

The next step is to focusing on keeping as many people in their homes as possible. That means the lines of communication between the lenders and the consumers needs to be in effect in order for this plan to succeed.

There is a new wave of homeowners facing issues that we haven`t seen. Without help from the lenders these issues will affect our nation for years to come.

www.browardbesthomes.com

Lenders suspend Foreclosures for now! The Calvary has arrived!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 05:59:23 -0600

It seems that President Obama has sent a message to 4 of the major lenders. Citigroup,JP Morgan,Bank of America,Chase, and Morgan Stanley each said they would suspend foreclosures for the next few weeks.It`s a sign of things to come!

The Bama administration will outline a plan on Wednesday to revive the housing market.

How did this suddenly happen?

Apparently these executives for these lenders have been taken to the carpet from members of the House Financial Services Committee who have demanded to know how these lenders have spent $165billion in rescue cash without any accountability.It`s unconscionable what`s really going on behind closed doors. One thing is certain, if and when the news comes out i`m positive the American public will be up in arms!

The question is can Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner map out a successful plan to avoid foreclosures to the masses?

As foreclosures continue to rise something needs to be done in order to prevent Americans who have worked their entire lives from losing their homes.

www.browardbesthomes.com

"Daddy are you really that old?"...Kids want to know how I feel on my B-day!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 06:46:05 -0600

Today is my birthday. Emily and Jill just asked me the proverbial question we all must face as we celebrate our Birthdays.

In truth I don`t feel old. I`m in great shape for an old man as my kids say.

I`ve had the fortune of being blessed with almost everything I`ve ever wanted. I`m a fighter, a modern day warrior. I had to work for everything I`ve received in life. There were no easy steps to take. It`s been a great ride and am Thankful that I can continue to play the game of life by my rules.

I`ve been lucky. In life timing is everything.I`ve been in the right places at the right times.. A man can`t ask for more.

I`ve learned one thing about age. The old adage " Age is just a number", is really correct.

Age is about how you feel physically and mentally. it`s all about setting goals, accomplishing what you planned and having a balanced social and personal life.

It`s about being there for your friends and family.. It`s having to sacrifice for others,who may need your help. It`s about learning how to love and be loved in return.

It`s about doing those little things for that special someone and watching them smile.

It`s knowing that you`re willing to give 100% of yourself no matter what!

It`s knowing that sometimes you have to dig deep down and pull a rabbitt out of your hat in order to survive!

It`s about not asking someone to do something, unless of course you`ve done it yourself.

It`s about having that special ability to "give someone the shirt off your back if they need it"...

Strange as it seems I feel better about myself now than any time in my life. I don`t know why. Like so many I`ve seen my 401 go up in smoke! I`m dealing with issues that I never imangined i would be involved in at this juncture of life.

Life is harder now than it was 10 years ago, yet I`m willing to fight on!

The will to survive has never been greater, I guess I`m still the same "Thrill Seeker" i was in my youth! Who the heck knows!

I`m still in the ring of life ready to go toe to toe with any obstacle that stands in my way for another 50 freakin years!

Search Ocean Front Condo`s in Miami Florida.

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:51:20 -0600

Miami Florida Ocean Front Condo
Biscayne Blvd

Scott Daniels
(954) 680-4404

click image to zoom in

Active Properties - Basic Features
List Price:	$740,000	List Date:	02/12/2009	Location	Miami, FL 33132
Status:	Active

Additional Information

Unsurpassed Direct Bay and Downtown views from your extraordinary 2 level home in the sky. An open State of the Art kitchen creates a perfect place to entertain. This unit includes customized Italian flooring & closets. Take the private elevator to the renown Clinique La Prairie Spa, the luxurious pool deck w/5 pools, high tech gym, security, valet & concierge.
For Additional Information Please Contact The Scott Daniels Real Estate Group Florida List For Less Realty,Inc.
At 954-275-0200 Visit Us At www.browardbesthomes.com

Realtor Advocates becoming a disturbing trend. Legal opinions aren`t for you to decide!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 06:17:50 -0600

I guess it had to come to this! Realtors who are involved with Short Sales,Foreclosures and REO`s are convinced they should be able to render legal opinion quoting make believe law.

Recently, I`ve seen Realtors place insane prices on homes justifying what they`re doing by saying they can convince the lenders to agree to a sales price, assist in negotiating the sale,and advise their clients to offer commissions that the lenders would never agree to!

When offers are sent to some Realtors they seem to decide for themselves which offer is worthy for the seller, not quite understanding "Present all offers"..

We sent in a cash offer on a condo located in Sunrise,Florida the other day. The offer was $10K below the asking price. The agent called us telling us the offer won`t fly for the lender, why? Because the Realtor not the lender said so!

Upon further questioning I realized this Realtor was way over their head in rendering any opinion.

The Conversation is as Follows:

Realtor Advocate: The offer you sent us isn`t going to fly!?!

Me: Really, why is that? The property has been listed for a year.

Realtor Advocate: I`m assuming the bank will reject this offer, so why waste time?

Me: Waste time? Weren`t you ever told to "Present all offers"?

Realtor Advocate: That doesn`t matter anymore.Either increase your offer or i will not send it!

Me: It`s an all cash offer. If you don`t send this in the next 20 minutes I will lodge a complaint to your board.

Realtor Advocate: I`m doing nothing wrong. I`m protecting my client from losing more money!

Me: You and your client haven`t a clue. What`s your Brokers name?

With that I immediately notified the agents Broker informing them of the misdeeds of this insane Agent`s rendering legal opinion.

All rules an regulations were not adhered too, nor did this Realtor seem to grasp what they were doing.

The offer was sent to the lender. We`ll see what happens now!

www.browardbesthomes.com

Will Stimulus Plan curve the divorce rate? Couples are fighting to save their homes!

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 06:18:01 -0600

Yesterday, I went on two listing appointments. Normally, doing a presentation to a family who are selling their home is a fun time! The hard work and effort a couple put into benefiting their lives together used to mean moving up to a "Bigger House". I can vividly remember the joy and happiness these couples had for one another and the love they shared.

I miss those days. My job has changed so much!

Couple #1:

As I arive i`m told they refuse to sit in the same room together. They openly admitt the contempt they have for each other and the reasons they need to sell their home.

The husband`s job responsibilities have shifted, so has his hours. His earnings have decreased.The wife is attacking her man and calling him a "Loser"... he`s screaming at her, not wanting to shoulder the responsibility and starts accusing her of being unfaithful.

It`s not pleasant,they`re already well on their way to divorce only neither one can afford to move out of the house.

They are prisoners of love and instead of being lovers they`ve become roommates.

Couple #2: This couple purchased a home from me in 2004. They had just relocated from New York. Both left their first marriages and wanted to start fresh! They couldn`t stop holding hands when we viewed houses. Every third house it seemed they would sneak away for a kiss in private. I had to pretend to "get lost".. It was joyful and fun selling them a home. The day we closed. She cried telling the attorney and myself "How happy she is to be married to the greatest guy on the earth"..

Well, between 2004 and now the "Greatest" is now the "Worst". He doesn`t want to work,sits at home all day playing with his Avatar, and second life.

She`s very upset, he`s gained 40 pounds since I last saw him and very despondent.

The beautiful home we sold them is now in Dire need of repair!

All is not well, and she`s moving back to New York with her kids right after school ends.

Can`t get much worse?! Think again! Both are upside down on their "Home Sweet Homes". In spite of what the stimulus package is supposed to do for people both couples can`t get a "Loan Mod" because the lenders refuse.

They will be facing Foreclosure somewhere down the line. It`s a bad situation that will only get worse.

As I watch President Obama try to sell this package to the American public I like many in the profession realize the stimulus program will never help those who need it the most. Which in turn will continue to set records on the divorce rate in this country..

www.browardbesthomes.com

Decision time who does the Financial Stability and Rescue Plan really help!?

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 06:22:31 -0600

Talk about a stimulus plan that appears to be going in the wrong direction! Change? What Change? This is pure waste of spending and worse, it`s not going to help those who need the help, namely the Middle Class!

President Obama said the plan is needed to avert a deeper recession and commence with economic recovery.

I don`t know about you, i`m worried.

I don`t really know if the stimulus package is a great idea unless you`re looking for "Green Jobs"! Do I want someone to train me to install solar panels.Is the middle class considered?Where do most Americans fit into this plan? The plan seems to be helping the poor and the super rich.There is no accountability in this plan, there are no guarantees that jobs will actually go out to Americans. There are so many holes in this Stimulus package,it`s ponderous!

I`m concerned Administration officials said the new bailout was likely to depend on private investors to purchase the toxic assets that wiped out the capital of many banks.Why? We just gave these lenders billions, what have they done with the money? Well, they`ve paid off debt, gave out bonuses and in some cases attempted to slide a 12 seater Jet worth $50Mill, saying it was desperately needed.

Americans are paying for it, now and in the next 50 years!

www.browardbesthomes.com

Take me to your lender? What do you do when a seller vanishes?

Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 10:44:42 -0600

We have a short sale situation in Davie,Florida where we our buyer hired our company to sell their property and disappeared into the abyss.

It`s a shame we have the buyer and could close within 45 days providing the lender agrees to the sales price.

The seller knows there`s an offer,receives calls from the lenders daily and is too lazy to sign any paperwork. It`s a new twist to an old saga of "Short Sales"! Hard to imagine, can`t seem to comprehend, yet this is all true.

When you`re in a position to sell, don`t think just sign! You`re not alone! There are many people who are involved in similar situations.

Having spoken to this person several times, i realize there are other issues involved and have expressed my concern to the lenders. Hopefully, the lenders will advise me what our next step is...In the meantime I keep asking " Take me to your lender"....

Nothing comes easy in this business anymore!