The new law went into effect on May 1, 2008. Section 11 of Chapter 206 of the Acts of 2007 now requires that all complaints to foreclose mortgage under the federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act must be accompanied by an affidavit showing compliance with the Act. If required by Section 11, a copy of the 90-day “notice of right to cure default” must be filed with the affidavit.

Click HERE for the approved form (mortgagee’s affidavit).

Questions about real estate in Massachusetts or Rhode Island? Start with an attorney!

Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.*
Martinelli, Caputi & Associates, Ltd.
171 Service Ave, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
401.921.5114 (x 17)
401.921.5134 (fax)
E-mail me at rbianculli@mclawri.com
*Admitted in Rhode Island and Massachusetts

REAL ESTATE TAX SAVINGS IN RHODE ISLAND

Everyone complains about real estate taxes. With the increase in municipal assessments of property values, followed by a decline in property values and foreclosures, the number of people disputing these recently declared property values is most definitely on the rise. But do you really have to pay all of your real estate taxes? The answer is NO! Well, that is, if you live in one of the following communities and you occupy the property as your primary residence:

Rhode Island Communities Offering a Homestead Tax Exemption:

- Central Falls
- East Providence
- Lincoln
- North Providence
- Providence
- West Greenwich
- Woonsocket


For more information about the Homestead Tax Exemption (a discount of property taxes up to 50%), please contact your local Tax Assessor or Tax Collector office in the Town or City Hall.

Why do communities offer these tax exemptions? One of the major concerns that gave rise to the homestead exemption was that landlords (2 and 3 family homes) are more likely to listen to the concerns of their tenants if they occupied their property as a primary residence (and less likely to operate as a slumlord). Whether you're living up to your reputation as "landlord of the year" or not (the exemption applies to single family homes too!), the homestead tax exemption is a no-brainer!!

For more information on disputing the recent assessment of property values and taxes, here are some examples on the web:

Taxes and the Providence Place Mall

A SAMPLE Property Tax Dispute Form – Charlestown, RI


As a real estate attorney, I am always available for consultation if you need help with any issue involving property (whether residential or commercial).




Interested in Real Estate? Any questions? Give me a call at 401.921.5114, extension 17.

Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.*
Martinelli, Caputi & Associates, Ltd.
171 Service Ave, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
401.921.5114 (x 17)
401.921.5134 (fax)
E-mail me at rbianculli@mclawri.com
*Admitted in Rhode Island and Massachusetts

CONTACT a Rhode Island Real Estate Attorney NOW!

Rhode Island Real Estate and Environmental Law Concerns

You want to get that gem of a new listing on the market ASAP. Only problem is that the electrical is running at 60 Amps with some old knob and tube to boot! If you're going to sell in today's market, you're going to need to upgrade! If you're looking for a quality electrician at a reasonable price, I've got the guy for you!

Paul M. Kenney, Electrician -- 774.955.8395

Paul is Licensed and Fully Insured in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He provides FREE estimates for each and every job. No job is too BIG or too small.

Have you received a quote for electrical work that is overpriced? Give Paul a call. He can beat any price quoted by the competition and provide the same (or superior) quality.

You will work directly with Paul on your electrical project (He does not subcontract his work to inferior electricians). He strives to set new standards in the electrical field by providing superior service and quality in a timely fashion. With 8 years of field experience, why pay a larger company for the same work that he will do at a lower cost?

Not sure with what you want? Paul can help. He's always available for consultations at your convenience. And best of all, he can perform the work during the day, night, or even on weekends and holidays! Paul specializes in:

· New construction and old work additions in both residential and commercial.
· Underground piping and wiring of electrical feeders and secondaries.
· Parking lot, landscape and general lighting
· Fire, Burglar (intrusion), Smoke, Heat and CM Alarms (wiring and installation)
· TV, telephone and data networking
· Swimming Pools, Jacuzzis and Hot Tub wiring
· Service Changes, Upgrades, Troubleshooting (electric wiring)
· Electric Layout and Design
· Electrical Repairs, AC & DC circuitry
· Replacement of antiquated Knob and Tube wiring

Paul has extensive knowledge of applicable code and proper installations of all electrical materials.

Quality is very important to Paul. Whether he's wiring a new home or just adding an outlet, your satisfaction is his major concern!

Paul M. Kenney, Electrician
MA License # 10207-B
RI License # B-012666

Call Paul Kenney TODAY at 774.955.8394! You'll be glad you did!

If you're looking for a great group of "Green" individuals here in Rhode Island, look no further!

The Rhode Island Environmental Network group meets each and every month to discuss environmental issues and activities here in the Ocean State.

To join the group's email list, please contact Bill Mott at bmott@theoceanproject.org

The group now has a membership of over 445 people throughout the smallest state in the nation!



Each month, the group hosts "Providence Green Drinks" on every "Thirsty Third Thursday" of the month! It's a great chance to meet with fellow environmentalists over drinks. This month, the event was held at the new Cuban Revolution location.

Cuban Revolution Restaurant & Bar is located at The Plant, a mixed-use residential, office and retail community in the revitalized Olneyville mill district (60 Valley Street) of Providence. There is plenty of free biking and car parking space in their courtyard (and free internet in case you were wanting to show off your latest Website).

If you get a chance, stop in to check out the new location!

Spread the word about Providence Green Drinks, held on "Thirsty Third Thursdays" throughout the year. Contact Bill if you're not yet directly receivling these postings and would like to be placed on the email list to receive future reminders (usually only one or two emails a month).

Cheers! - Rich



Interested in Real Estate? Any questions? Give me a call at 401.921.5114, extension 17.

Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.
Supreme Title and Escrow, Inc.
171 Service Ave, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
E-mail me at rbianculli@supremetitleri.com

CONTACT a Rhode Island Real Estate Attorney NOW!

Rhode Island Real Estate and Environmental Law Concerns

Here's a link for all the environmentally focused individuals in Rhode Island (and all over the nation - we don't discriminate):

Natural News Net

Natural News bills itself as "Rhode Island's own online magazine about your environment -- the news and info you need to explore it, have fun outside, keep up with local issues, live greener, and get involved." Amen. We needed a resource like this here in the Ocean State!

So, whether you're keeping up with wind power, green building materials, LNG terminals, or perhaps you just want to hit a local trail for an afternoon hike... it's all here. :)

This would also be a great source for advertising if you do specialize in a "green" industry!



Interested in Real Estate? Any questions? Give me a call at 401.921.5114, extension 17.

Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.
Supreme Title and Escrow, Inc.
171 Service Ave, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
E-mail me at rbianculli@supremetitleri.com

CONTACT a Rhode Island Real Estate Attorney NOW!

Rhode Island Real Estate and Environmental Law Concerns

More information: South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Website

Looking for a great group of folks in South (Washington) County? Join the South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce as the celebrate their 75 years of service to the community!!!

The South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce will host their 75th Anniverary Annual Dinner and Recognitions Celebration on Friday, January 25, from 6:00 to 10:00 pm.

The Ted Collins Band will perform music for dancing and listening enjoyment. The chamber will recognize both the outgoing and incoming Directors of the 2007-08 Chamber Board, and will also include the presentation of the Annual Recognition Awards for Business, Citizen and Educator of the Year.

Tickets are $50 per person.

Contact Lisa Roy at 783-2801 or lroy@skchamber.com

Location: The Village Inn Grand Ballroom, One Beach Street, Narragansett (catered by Amalfi's!)

Real Estate Solutions for Homeowners

Are you having trouble making that monthly mortgage payment? Would you like to avoid the dreaded “F” word (foreclosure)? Contact me today to set up a FREE consultation. There are many options available to avoid foreclosure.



Short sales are a popular option to homeowners who find themselves in a tight situation. If you owe more on your home (mortgage) than it's actually worth, you may be able to get the lender (mortgage company) to accept less than it is owed by negotiating a “short sale.” You then sell the house for whatever you can get, and the lender can agree to accept the proceeds and not go after you for the remainder.

There are many aspects to consider in this situation. A short sale can damage your credit scores, often showing up as a "settlement" that indicates you paid less than you owed. However, the Short Sale is almost always better than foreclosure. You may also face an IRS bill on the unpaid debt, which is generally considered income to you. As a skilled negotiator, an attorney can often avoid many of these negative consequences or at least minimize them, so give me a call today!



Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.
171 Service Avenue, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
P – 401.921.5114
F – 401.921.5134
e – rich@biancullilaw.com

Other options for avoiding foreclosure:

- Loan Modification (Richard can negotiate with your mortgage company to extend the loan period to decrease payment amounts)

- Refinance options (If you still have equity in your home, Richard can put you in touch with qualified lenders who offer great rates)

- Selling your home (Richard can help you sell quickly by getting you in touch with a qualified real estate agent)

- Deed in lieu of foreclosure - Can't sell the house for what you owe? Not over your head with your current mortgage? This option involves handing over your deed to the property to the mortgage company. You will be released from your mortgage, you can avoid paying any deficit that might be owed on the property, and the lender avoids further legal costs related to a foreclosure.

Mark those calendars everyone! Get the new year started right with networking in 2008! Members of the public are WELCOME!

LIVE WIRE NETWORKING GROUP

Announces the following meeting:

THURSDAY JANUARY 3, 2008 - Noon to 1 PM - Regular Meeting - Come meet with Live Wire for lunch at Lemongrass. Exchange business cards and referrals over a delicious chinese meal.

Central Rhode Island's premier networking group proudly announces the following categories open for qualified individuals to apply (let us know if you know anyone who might be interested!):

- Home Improvement Contractor
- Accountant
- Printer
- IT/web Consultant
- Photographer
- Painter
- Commercial Real Estate Agent
- Commercial Lender
- Commercial Insurance Representative
- Home Stager
- Plumber
- Electrician
- Event Planner (Wedding Planner)
- Disc Jockey



Live Wire is a non-profit business networking group consisting of several like-minded professionals who help each other grow their respective businesses. We meet at noon every Thursday for lunch at Lemongrass Restaurant (1138 Post Road, Warwick, RI) to discuss business ideas and to share referrals.

Please feel free to join us every Thursday! If you have any questions, you can check out our website at www.livewireri.org

Any questions? Give me a call at 401.921.5114, extension 17.
Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.
Supreme Title and Escrow, Inc.
171 Service Ave, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
E-mail me at rbianculli@supremetitleri.com

CONTACT a Rhode Island Real Estate Attorney NOW!

Rhode Island Real Estate and Environmental Law Concerns

This will be a quick post. Have you ever: (a) typed out a lengthy blog; (b) clicked on the "Post Blog Entry" button; and (c) find that your blog is completely lost?



In the past, I have sworn that I would never let it happen to me. It's so easy to preserve your blog post. Type the blog out in Microsoft Word. Or, after typing the blog on AR... copy it to your clipboard before clicking on the Post Blog Entry button. SO easy!!!

I've learned my lesson for the last time. I wrote up a nice blog about the Fair Housing Act and went to post it quick-like-a-bunny. BAM. An empty blog was posted. I even got a comment on the empty blog congratulating me for my effort. Grrrrr.......

How does it happen? Where did my blog post go? Well, sometimes a domain server gets overloaded and is unable to process a blog post request. Other times, the server is completely down (see: offline). Another cause of blogger meltdown is your internet service provider. Network down. Great! Super! Fantastic!

lol. Don't let it happen to you folks. Save those blogs before you click the button. True, you may never need to rely on this protective measure... but if you do, you will thank your lucky stars!!


Interested in Real Estate? Start with an Attorney. Call me at 401.921.5114, extension 17.
Richard M. Bianculli Jr., Esq.
Supreme Title and Escrow, Inc.
171 Service Ave, Bldg 2, Suite 302A
Warwick, RI 02886
E-mail me at rbianculli@supremetitleri.com
CONTACT a Rhode Island Real Estate Attorney NOW!

Rhode Island Real Estate and Environmental Law Concerns

Lido Key, Florida (Sarasota County)

Lido Key is a barrier island (a common feature along the coast of the “Sunshine State”) on the southwest coast of Florida. The key is directly west of Sarasota and south of St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay. Lido Key is commonly accessed via the John Ringling Causeway bridge from downtown Sarasota. It may also be accessed from the north via Longboat Key. Its location (between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico) and temperate climate, combined with the area amenities (shopping, beaches, laid-back nightlife) make it a popular attraction for visitors around the world.


Shopping

East of Lido Beach is St. Armands Circle. John Ringling purchased the property in 1917 and planned the general layout of the shops and homes. The circle is an upscale shopping area with small boutiques, gift shops, galleries, restaurants and famous chocolate, fudge, and homemade ice-cream shops. The circle is located at the intersection of North and South Boulevard of the Presidents and John Ringling Boulevard. With more than 130 stores in such a small area, there is something for everyone! This famed Circle has been compared to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. The Circle contains some of the most sought-after real estate in Sarasota County with price tags well over a million dollars.



Real Estate

There are numerous vacation rentals on Lido Key. You can choose luxurious resort hotels, rental condominiums, apartment efficiencies or motel rooms. Most have views of the Gulf of Mexico, private beaches or beach access. Visitors come from all over the world...so book early and enjoy your stay in this island paradise. There are also a small selection of single-family homes and condominiums in the area. While the housing stock is rather small, the location is perfect!


The Beach

The most popular beach in Lido Key, Lido Beach (public), has plenty of free parking (over 400 cars), lifeguards, concessions, large swimming pool, picnic tables, playground, observation deck, gift shop, showers and restrooms. It is often frequented by the locals and is a great beach for a stroll at sunset. This beach is the central beach on the Key. Sorry Sisqo, due to the conservative residents of Lido Key, no thongs are allowed on these beaches!

North Lido Beach is a secluded beach to the North of Lido Beach. The beach area is lined with tall Australian pine trees. Because of its residential location, it is the least populated beach. There is a nice sidewalk running along Benjamin Franklin Drive which is a popular walking and rollerblading area. While it does offer the benefits of peace and seclusion, the beach isn’t the best for recreation with its fast currents and lack of lifeguards.

South Lido Beach and Park is located at the southern tip of Lido Key and is bordered by four bodies of water (Gulf of Mexico, Big Pass, Sarasota Bay and Brushy Bayou). A nature trail, including picturesque overlooks and boardwalks, is located at the north end of the park area. South Lido Beach has a picnic area with restrooms nearby, a playground area, and a recreation area (volleyball court and canoe trail). Lifeguards are present on weekends only.



Nearby Attractions

Siesta Key, Longboat Key and St. Armands Key are also part of the Lido area. Siesta Key is mostly residential with its famous white beaches (at Crescent Beach, 99% of the sand is pure quartz and has a finer texture than sugar). Siesta Village is a laid-back beach hangout with many more shops, boutiques, and restaurants. This area has a bit more nightlife that the St. Armands area. To the north, Longboat Key is an 11-mile stretch between the Gulf and Sarasota Bay. Longboat has 2 premier golf courses and a 10-mile bike path along the Gulf. Mote Marine Aquarium is also nearby with a marine research center, 30-foot touch tank, and a 135,000-gallon shark tank. If you need more culture and activities, downtown Sarasota is a short drive away.


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