Contra Costa California Real Estate

California Buyers Receive New Rights When Purchasing Foreclosure Properties

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 11:18:42 -0500

Everyone who has written an offer on a foreclosure property knows that when the offer is accepted, it isn't accepted using the California Residential Purchase Agreement but is accepted using the bank's contract. Why does that matter? The bank's contract is written by the bank's attorneys for the bank's best interests. Many rights afforded buyers on the California Residential Purchase Agreement are specifically excluded.

The new California law "Buyer's Choice Act", which went into effect on October 11, 2009, returns one right to buyers. The Buyer's Choice Act prohibits foreclosure sellers from requiring, either directly or indirectly, that the buyer purchase title insurance or escrow services from a particular title insurer or escrow agent as a condition of selling the property.

The law does not stop a buyer from agreeing to accept a title insurer or escrow agent recommended by the seller -- if written notice of the buyer's right to make an independent selection is first provided by the seller to the buyer.

A "seller" subject to this law can be a financial institution or and individual lender who foreclosed and acquired title to residential 1 - 4 unit property at the foreclosure sale. This law applies only to such sellers and their agents.

This law will remain in effect until January 1, 2015.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Note Modification Event - Craneway Pavillion, Richmond, October 16-20

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:37:51 -0500

NACA Save The Dream is hosting a Note Modification event in the Craneway Pavillion, Richmond from October 16 - 20.

This event is structured to try and assist homeowner's attain a Note Modification. It starts with an orientation for 500 homeowners at a time. The homeowners bring their financial and hardship documentation, meet with individual NACA counselors who determine the payment the homeowner can afford, scan the documentation and submit it to the mortgage servicer. The homeowner then goes to meet with their servicer who is right next to the counseling area. In some cases, the homeowners receive their note modification on the same day. Read the entire article.

The documentation typically required to consider a Note Modification is:

- Copies of all paystubs for the most recent two (2) months

- Copies of the last two (2) months statements - all pages - for checking, savings, investment and retirement accounts, as applicable

- Copies of your Federal Tax Returns for the last two (2) years, including W-2's. If you are self-employed, copies of your business tax returns will also be required plus a year-to-date Profit & Loss statement

- Completed Financial Statement reflecting all income, assets and liabilities

- A Hardship letter

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Open House, Sunday, 10/4 from 1 - 4: 1109 N. Thompson Rd., Lafayette, California

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:55:48 -0500

1109 N. Thompson Road, Lafayette, California

Location: Happy Valley

Yosemite-inspired custom home built in 2008. This home offers tranquil "country" living with city convenience. Walk to BART and Lafayette shops. Arts & Crafts finishes, Chef's kitchen and "green" features throughout.

Information

Contact Information

Wendy Cutrufelli

wendy@apr.com

925-917-1135

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Pricing

Price: $1,049,000

Property Location

1109 N. Thompson Road
Lafayette, CA 94549
View Map

Links

Search Lafayette Homes

Visit Lafayette, California

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 2008

Subdivision: Happy Valley

Lot Size: 7800

School District: Acalanes

Square Footage: 2100

Agent Name: Wendy Cutrufelli

Broker: Alain Pinel Realtors

MLS #: 40428242

Attributes

Appliances

Dishwasher

Microwave

Garbage disposal

Free standing Range/Oven

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Vaulted Ceilings

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (7 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 2855288

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

311 Preakness Court, Walnut Creek. Open Sunday 9/27 from 1 - 4

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:26:53 -0500

Stunning, completely remodeled Townhome!

Location: Main Chance Estates

Open House, Sunday, 9/27 from 1 - 4.

Amazing kitchen with Viking Professional range and all stainless appliances, custom cabinets, river washed granite counters and glass tile back-splash. Travertine floors on the main floor and Shaw Eccoweave wall-to-wall carpeting on the upper level.Complete home theater system! Remote control and Heat-N-Glow fireplace. New windows and much more. Stop by on Sunday 9/27/09 from 1 - 4 and view this fabulous home.

Information

Contact Information

Wendy Cutrufelli

wendy@apr.com

925-917-1135

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Price: $499,000

Property Location

311 Preakness Court
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Year Built: 1988

Subdivision: Main Chance Estates

Attached on: 2 Sides

Garage Size: 1

School District: Walnut Creek

Square Footage: 1360

Agent Name: Frank Salmen

Broker: Alain Pinel Realtors

MLS #: 40422769

Attributes

Appliances

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Viking Professional stainless steel gas stove/oven

Insta-Hot Water dispenser

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Home Theater system

Central heat and AC

Hunter-Douglas custom 3-way window coverings

Crown Molding

Extensive recessed lighting

Custom "clear maple" cabinets with self-closing drawers, European hinges and stainless steel handles

Hans Grohe faucets and shower/tub fixtures

Pantry

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Dual pane windows

Community swimming pool

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (8 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 2838449

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

When Good Homes Fail to Sell

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:14:12 -0500

Placing your house for sale and having it fail to sell may leave you feeling discouraged or frustrated. If you are committed to moving on with your life, your first experience may be nothing more than a speed bump.

Free Report: When Good Homes Fail to Sell

This 19 page report covers:
- 5 Basic Reasons Homes Fail to Sell
- Understanding Fair Market Value and List Price
- External Influences on Fair Market Value
- Conditioned to Sell
- Market Price is a Buyer Magnet
- Buyer Viewings in Relation to Price
- Real Estate Marketing
- What Went Wrong? Look for Clues

You have the opportunity to change the game plan, break the status quo and start out with a clean slate. Download my free report When Good Homes Fail to Sell.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

No FHA Financing Accepted - Buyers and Sellers Lose.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:03:29 -0500

I recently received a phone call from a frustrated mortgage lender. She has a significant backlog of pre-approved FHA first-time buyers that can't find homes that will accept FHA financing - and the deadline for the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit is looming. She asked, "What's going on?"

In order to answer her question, I pulled the Active single family home listings in the $275k - $350k price range ("starter" homes in our Northern California market area) in the three cities with the most homes in this price range. The results shocked me.

Of the 43 active listings:

NO FHA

11 are short-sales, of which only 6 will accept FHA financing. Given the 3-4 month average timeframe for a short-sale decision, an offer written on these homes will not be approved and closed by the Tax Credit deadline.
3 are cash-only REOs. The properties won't qualify for any financing.
15 are REOs that will not accept FHA financing.
12 are "normal" sales that will not accept FHA financing

FHA OK

2 are "normal" sales that will accept FHA financing - a miserable 7% of the possible listings (excluding short-sales and cash-only REOs).

Is it possible that the 27 "no FHA" homes have such significant pest, health and safety issues that FHA financing would kill the deal? No. Does Conventional 10% down financing overlook all pest, health and safety issues? No.

Does the FHA financing exclusion serve the sellers? No.

Less than 5% of first-time buyers have the funds necessary for a 10% down payment ($27,500 - $35,000) plus loan costs. Limiting the financing to Conventional decreases the potential pool of buyers to 5% of the first-time buyers and bargain-hunting investors.

Let me play devil's advocate for a moment. Let's assume that an FHA Offer will cost the seller $5,000 in pest, health and safety repairs, but in exchange for that cost the pool of potential buyers will increase by 95%. This isn't a marginal increase in potential buyers, this is a huge increase! The potential cost will be offset by a higher net sales price.

I recognize that REO's are sold as-is. That being said, am I the only person who knows about the FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation loan that doesn't require any repairs prior to closing?

FHA Fix and Flip 90 Day Rule

Many of the homes in the best condition are investor fix and flips. Unfortunately, FHA will not provide financing on these properties until they have been owned by the investor for 90 days. These investors are extremely savvy. They purchase structurally sound homes that are a cosmetic mess. They fix holes in the walls, paint, put in new flooring, update the kitchens, add granite counters and new appliances. They are, for the most part, beautiful and turn-key ready for the market in 30 - 45 days. They are sold and closed by the time an FHA buyer is allowed to write an offer.

The 90 Day rule serves who? Protects who?

Are you facing the same issues in your markets?

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Fishing and Real Estate - More Similar Than I Imagined

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:52:59 -0500

Fishing requires just the right pole, the right weights, hooks, bait, bobbers, hook pullers and all sorts of nifty tools attached to your fishing vest (according to my husband). Once properly outfitted, you head off to find the best fishing spot (which requires an understanding fish psychology) and determine which combination of the toolkit items will get the fish to bite.

At the end of day 1, my well-outfitted husband returns without a single fish - and pissed. He said, "I could SEE them! They were swimming around the boat and jumping out of the water but they refused to bite. They were flipping me off with their fins!" I then asked, "Did anyone else catch any fish?". It was a dangerous question if they had, but it was an unsuccessful day for all. They did, however, all establish a comfortable sense of comraderie regarding their combined lack of results.

My husband doesn't fail well. He tossed and turned throughout the night thinking of strategies to out-smart those darn fish and woke up early the following morning to completely change all of the doo-dads on his fishing pole. As he went out the door, he pronounced that he would not return without fish.

In the middle of the day, my curiosity got the best of me so I took a hike to find out if he was accomplishing his mission. I arrived at his normal fishing spot - no husband. I hiked around a bit and saw other fisherman in their boats, talking across the water about the lack of fish. Still no sign of my husband.

I hike back around the lake wondering where the ranger station is located in case I need them to find a lost husband when - lo and behold - there he is!

No boat, standing in the water up to the top of his waders, no other fisherman within calling distance for moral support and a look of intense concentration on his face. Dare I interrupt?

At that moment he looks up, spots me, gets a smile on his face and lifts his string of fish out of the water.

By the end of the day, he had his limit and was practically a fishing hero because most ended the day empty-handed. Interestingly enough, the other fisherman didn't ask him how he chose his new fishing spot or what doo-dads he changed on his pole, they attributed his success to luck. Sound familiar?

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Old School Real Estate Experience and New School Real Estate Marketing - It's a Win-Win!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:01:49 -0500

A highly experienced associate of mine, Bill Leone, recently asked me to co-list a luxury view home on acreage with solar, septic, well (septic and well are uncommon in our area) and the plans and utilities are in place for a second home on the property.

Honestly, the seller could not have picked a more qualified person than Bill to represent this unique property. In addition to Bill's traditional real estate knowledge, he is a walking dictionary of all things pertaining to residential construction, land use issues and the permit process.

When Bill came to me and requested that I co-list the property, my first reaction was, "Huh? Why?" His response was interesting. The property is both luxury and unique. The "old school" marketing may not flush out the buyer for this property and he is too busy to upgrade his mental hard-drive and learn my internet marketing strategies from scratch. In order to provide proper representation to this seller, both skill-sets are required.

The short time we have worked together has been fascinating for me as I watch a knowledgeable 20 year veteran in action. From the initial listing appointment to his Critical Path Marketing system, he has been an open book. I have also learned how deep the average foundation pier is to bedrock for a hillside home, the clues that reflect construction quality, that a well must pump a minimum of 4 gallons per minute and that septic tanks can be constructed of different materials and not all are equal.

You won't find Bill Leone on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, a blog or a social network (yet) - he is a successful, old school, referral kind of guy. For my part, I can't wait to show him that the internet isn't difficult, doesn't cost a fortune, reaches local, national and international buyers and is a new venue for his current, successful strategies.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Separating Personal and Business on Facebook

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 10:21:49 -0500

Facing an increasing number of Friend requests from business associates, I had to ask myself "Do I really want to blur the lines between personal and business to that extent?" Do I want business associates to read my mother's comments about her second bout with Melanoma? Do I want them to see my daughters' college pictures and comments? Do they really care about my nieces and nephews in Minnesota? The answer to my question was "No".

The good news is that Facebook has the answer to my dilemma - a Facebook Page. A Facebook Page is basically the equivalent of a Facebook Profile for business. Anything I post on my business Page forwards to my Friends' news feeds (rather than their Wall) but, more importantly, the items posted on my personal Wall don't forward to the Page. Another nice feature of the Facebook Page is that I was also able to set up an auto-feed to Twitter so my posts get double exposure.

Learn about Facebook Pages.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Thinking of Selling Your House? FREE REPORT: Understanding Fair Market Value and List Price

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 11:46:42 -0500

When selling a house, it is important to understand that the market determines the sold price, not the real estate agent.

Download the FREE REPORT: Understanding Fair Market Value and List Price to learn the basics of real estate valuation and pricing. This information will be invaluable when you interview real estate agents to sell your home and review their Competitive Market Analysis.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

2717 Erb Court, Walnut Creek - Open Sunday 8/23 from 1 - 4

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 12:33:33 -0500

Photo Gallery

Gourmet Kitchen		Living Room
Family Room, Slider and Windows face the Back Yard		Master Bath - steps away from Hot Tub
Remodeled Bathrooms	Back Yard Paradise

Description

A back yard paradise awaits you in this private retreat on over 1/2 acre with pool and a wrap-around deck. Views from custom kitchen, charming family room, formal "light and bright" living room and a quiet master suite. The interior is a WOW!! Updated throughout with custom fit and finish. Travertine in baths, granite, solid cherry cabinets and gorgeous hardwood floors.

Open Sunday, August 23rd from 1:00 - 4:00

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2.5
Year Built:	1980
Lot Size:	25,500
Garage Size:	2
Square Footage:	3000
Agent Name:	Wendy Cutrufelli
Broker:	Alain Pinel Realtors
MLS #:	40419466

Location

2717 Erb Court Walnut Creek CA 94598

vFlyer Id: 2725976

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Johnny's International Deli opens In Clayton

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:21:10 -0500

Johhny Sandhu and his wife, Amarinder Kaur, have opened Johnny’s International Deli in downtown Clayton.

As soon as you walk in the door and the delicious scents hit your nose, you realize this is no ordinary deli. Yes, they offer high quality Boar’s Head meats and cheeses, deli sandwiches prepared to order and all natural gourmet salads……..but their international dishes will make your mouth water.

Clay Oven Creations
Chicken or Lamb Seekh Kabob laminated in ginger garlic and herb
Tandori Chicken or Prawns marinated in a mild spiced sauce
Paneer Tandoori – soft, juicy chunks of home-made cheese marinated in tandoori masala and then baked in the clay oven

Curries and Vegetable Dishes
If you have only had curry from the grocery store, do yourself a favor and try a real curry dish! There are 18 Curry and Vegetable Dish options so I will only mention a few:

Chicken Dhan Saag – Milk masala spiced chicken tossed with fresh spinach
Fish Tikka Masala – Ginger lemon marinated fish cooked in a tart curry sauce
Roghan Gosht – Tender cubes of lamb cooked in a spicy curry
Matter Paneer – Home-made cottage cheese blended with peas in a spiced sauce

Freshly Baked Flat Breads
Plain Naan – white flour tandoori bread
Garlic Naan – garnished with freshly roasted garlic
Keema Naan – Naan stuffed with mildly seasoned lamb
Tandori Roti – Full whole wheat bread baked in the clay oven

Rejuvenating Rice
Vegetable Biryani – a medley of vegetables and rice, cooked with nuts and raisins
Murg Biryani – Richly flavored rice with chicken, nuts and raisins.
Lamb Biryani – Basmati rice and mildly spiced lamb cubes, garnished with nuts and raisins

This doesn’t represent the entire menu but it is certainly enough to encourage your visit to Johnny’s International Deli. Consider stopping by for a bite to eat before the Free Concert in the Grove on Saturday night, August 22^nd.

For more information about Clayton events or Clayton businesses, please visit Everything Clayton.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

If I was paying you $100 per hour, I would feel bitter right now. Instead, I feel bad.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:44:51 -0500

This is a fun story about my wonderful buyer clients who I will call Mark and Joan (not their real names).

Mark and Joan are first time home buyers who have saved for years in order to have a 20% down payment. I met them at an Open House and quickly discovered that they are the exact buyer clients I love to work with. In addition to being interesting people, they:

spent time educating themselves about their target area
are preapproved for a mortgage
have realistic expectations for their price point
are technologically savvy and use internet tools to research and preview (via Google Maps) the neighborhood surrounding the homes they want to view
met with me for an initial consultation during which we reviewed their requirements, the home buying process and the legal documents
requested references and actually checked them

We started working together a couple of months ago at the exact point that the inventory of homes for sale in Walnut Creek in their price range started dropping every month (it is now at the lowest point since May, 2007).

We have made three very strong offers. We were out-bid in multiple-offer situations on two of them and had a seller with an unrealistic belief in their home's value on the third.

As we sat down and reviewed the homes we toured last Saturday, Mark and Joan apologized profusely for taking so much of my time and not yet buying a home. Mark said, "If we were paying you $100 per hour in this tough market, we would probably feel bitter. Instead, we just feel bad. I think we would prefer to feel bitter."

When I got over my shock, I assured them that they should not feel bad, I truly enjoy the time we spend together, they are respectful of my time and I will get paid for my work and time when we find the right home for them. I want to clone them!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Short-Sale and Foreclosure Advice: Urban Legends versus FACTS

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 09:43:52 -0500

I have received dozens of phone calls from California home owners as a result of my post Clarification Regarding California Non-Recourse mortgages.

Based on these phone conversations, I have come to the conclusion that there is a very frightening trend: real estate professionals (both loan officers and real estate agents) are offering advice based on "real estate urban legends" i.e. information that has been passed from person to person and is treated FACT but is completely unsubstantiated.

Three examples of these calls are:

A homeowner has lost 60% of the value on his investment property which has negative cash flow. The mortgages (a 1st and 2nd) were refinanced so they are no longer non-recourse. He doesn't have a hardship situation. His loan officer told him to to stop making the payments and let the home go to foreclosure to get out from under the mortgage debt. Urban legend advice. Foreclosure will release him from the obligation to repay on the 1st mortgage only (assumed to be the foreclosing lender) but the 2nd lienholder will have the right to collect a whopping $180k for up to four years - and they are pursuing these collections.

A homeowner with a valid hardship is selling his home as a short-sale. The home had been refinanced multiple times with some level of cash-out each time. His real estate agent told him not to worry about income taxes on the deficiency because "there is a federal law that says he doesn't have to pay". Again, urban legend advice. The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act very clearly states that income taxes don't have to be paid on the "acquisition indebtedness" for a primary home. Income taxes DO have to be paid for the unpaid balance above the original purchase mortgage. In this case, the amount of phantom income will be over $250k.

Another homeowner with a short-sale. The approval clearly states that the 2nd lienholder retains their right to collect the balance due. The real estate agent told him not to worry about it. If the lender tries to collect, he can always file bankruptcy. Urban legend advice. In California, you must pass a "means test" to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy if you earn in excess of approx. $75k per year. Most people will not pass the means test without their mortgage and will be forced in to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy (repayment plan).

To be treated as professionals, we must act as professionals. Due dilligence and research on the information we offer as fact should be the bare minimum standard of conduct. Equally important, clients making these crucial decisions should be emphatically urged to consult with the appropriate legal and tax professionals or the financial repurcussions could be devasting.

Wendy Cutrufelli
Your Real Estate Advocate

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Clarification regarding California non-recourse mortgages

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:32:07 -0500

I shudder when I read blanket statements that California mortgages are Non-Recourse. Why do I shudder? Because people BELIEVE IT and are making decisions about whether to let their home go to foreclosure based on an incomplete understanding of the facts.

So what ARE the facts?

Under California law, a mortgage debt is considered "non-recourse" when the mortgage was made under the following two circumstances:

- The mortgage was made to purchase a 1 - 4 unit property and the borrower occupies at least one of the units.

- The Seller financing for all or a portion of the purchase price of the property.

A mortgage with Recourse is one in which neither of the above two exemptions applies. Examples of recourse debt are:

Refinanced mortgages
Home equity lines of credit and/or 2nd mortgages obtained after purchase
Mortgages for non-primary properties (including vacation homes and investment properties)

Given the previous run-up of property values combined with low interest rates, the number of people who DIDN'T refinance their homes and, in many cases, add a Home Equity Line of Credit is extremely low. Only those owner-ocuppant homeowners who retained their purchase money mortgage(s) on their primary residence have non-recourse debt, everyone else has recourse debt.

The second important part of this recourse equation:

the foreclosing lender waives their right to recourse unless they choose to pursue a Judicial Foreclosure instead of a Trustee Sale. Given that the homeowner has a Right to Redemption in a judicial foreclosure, lenders rarely pursue this option.
the non-foreclosing lender - typically the 2nd or Home Equity lienholder - still has the right to pursue the deficiency for up to four years.

Homeowners should always consult with an attorney regarding their personal situation.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Community website for Clayton, California is launched!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:37:12 -0500

As a proud Clayton, California resident and a Realtor, I am pleased to announce the new Clayton community website: EverythingClayton.com

This website was designed as a centralized internet site to bring all of the community resources together:

Community calendar of events
Clayton Business pages
Clayton Groups, Clubs and Recreation
FREE Classified Ads
Local phone numbers
Volunteer opportunities
Clayton Schools
Links to Clayton government and services
Clayton real estate

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

8000 Reasons Get Your Butt In Gear: Deadline for First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Looms

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:33:10 -0500

Via Janet Guilbault California Mortgage Banker/Broker:

First time home buyers: Are you still at the computer, doing endless "research" on how to snag the $8000 TAX CREDIT for buying a house this year?

Does the November 30th deadline seem like a million years away as you think about fireworks (not turkey leftovers)?

First time home buyers: Get your butts in gear. NOW.

This is the wrong time to claim you only get motivated when a deadline looms.

This is the wrong time to tell everyone you are a "last minute kinda person" who pulls an all nighter when you have a term paper, and shops for Christmas presents on December 24th.

Here's why: Buying a house takes longer than you think. There are 8000 reasons you DO NOT want to miss this deadline.

Let's back things up. Do you think OTHER first time home buyers might wait until the last minute? Lenders could very likely experience an overwhelming amount of applications this fall.

With applications already taking 45 days, it could easily take 60 days to close your loan. Or more. Lenders are already ridicuously understaffed.

This means you will need to be in contract no later than the end of September.

If you have not already done so, you will need to accomplish this during the months of July, August and September:

Find a Mortgage person

Find a Real Estate Agent

Find a House

Make an Offer, negotiate terms. Find another house if first offer is rejected. Get new offer accepted.

Get financing completed and loan closed.

Some likely time lines and what to expect:

1. Apply for a mortgage. Provide the required documents and ask for a pre-approval. This will uncover any glitches standing in the way of your approval. This will make certain you have the right amount of funds in your account, or lined up as a gift. This will let you know your price range before you begin shopping for a house. This will let the Realtor know you have done your homework and are serious. ESTIMATED TIME REQUIRED: 1-2 weeks

2. Figure out where you want to live and find a Realtor. Look for a Realtor that knows the neighborhood where you would like to buy. Communicate openly and be on the same page if you are buying with another person. ESTIMATED TIME REQUIRED: 2-3 weeks

3. Shop for a house with your Realtor. ESTIMATED TIME LINE: 3-4 weeks.

4. Make an offer, negotiate terms, get in contract. Ask your Realtor about timing before making an offer on a short sale or a lender owned property. ESTIMATED TIME LINE: 1-2 weeks or more...depending on how many offers it will take to get a house. Market could become highly competitive as the deadline looms.

5. Secure financing with lender, and close the loan. Inspections and appraisal will occur during the time as well. ESTIMATED TIME LINE: 6 weeks to 8 weeks

Worst case estimated time line: 19 weeks.

Weeks until November 30th? 22 weeks, beginning next week.

Can you do this in less time? Yes you can.

Just like when you gave your Mom that lame ceramic unicorn for Christmas (purchased in a panic on Christmas Eve, thrown in an obviously used gift bag, then sneakily placed under the Christmas tree minutes before gift opening).

Written by Janet Guilbault, Mortgage Banker/Broker Based Out of the San Francisco Bay Area

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Mortgage Lenders - what is the current procedure for challenging appraisals?

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 21:12:16 -0500

Calling all mortgage lenders! In the new world of appraisals - in which you are no longer allowed to actually speak to the appraiser - what is the procedure for challenging erroneous information or erroneous values?

As if mortgage lending wasn't crazy enough in today's market, here we are dealing with another flawed law to address lenders and appraisers who "conspired" to inflate values. Loan officers and their managers are no longer allowed to have direct contact with appraisers in order to prevent any "undue influence" on the appraised value. While protecting consumers is unquestionably important, the question of the day is what is the procedure to challenge a clearly erroneous appraisal - erroneous in the information or the market value? Let me provide a recent example:

A property was on the market for less than 10 days and received multiple offers. Multiple, multiple offers. The lowest offer was $725k and the highest offer was $750k. The lender for the accepted buyer ordered the appraisal through their centralized appraisal system as required. The appraised value of the property per the out-of-area appraiser was $600k. Seriously, if you were an idiot and did nothing but search the MLS by square footage, bedroom and bathroom count - completely ignoring location and amenities - it would be impossible to derive a value less than $715k. When the lender was contacted, the response was, "We're sorry and terribly frustrated too."

What is the procedure allowed by the current law to challenge inaccurate appraisals?

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

The California Foreclosure Prevention Act

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 18:54:36 -0500

I read the entire California Foreclosure Prevention Act, every section, paragraph and sub-paragraph. Who will this really help?

Existing California law requires mortgage lenders to file a Notice of Default as the first step in the foreclosure process. After the Notice of Default has been filed and a time period of not less than 3 months has elapsed, the mortgage lender may post a Notice of Sale specifying the time and place of the foreclosure sale.

The California Foreclosure Prevention Act adds an additional 90 days to the timeframe between Notice of Default and Notice of Sale....

If the loan:

is a first mortgage
was recorded between January 1, 2003 and January 1, 2008
is serviced by a loan servicer that has not implemented a "comprehensive loan modification program"
is not made, purchased or serviced by a California state, or local public housing agency or authority and the loan is not collatreral for securities purchased by any such agency

and If the borrower:

occuppied the property as their principal residence at the time the loan became delinquent
has not surrendered the property as evidenced by a letter confirming the surrender or the delivery of the keys to the lender
is willing and able to pay under the modification agreement
is not currently in bankruptcy (court mandated foreclosure delays apply in the case of bankruptcy)
has not contracted with "an organization, person or entity whose primary business is advising people who have decided to leave their homes regarding how to extend the foreclosure process and avoid their contractual obligations to mortgagees or beneficiaries."

and If the 90 day moratorium won't "require a servicer to violate contractual agreements for investor-owned loans."

So what are the significant loopholes that I see?

The first loophole is that the loan is not serviced by a lender offering a "comprehensive loan modification program" defined as one that includes some combination of the following features:

An interest rate reduction for a fixed term of at least 5 years
An extension of the amortized period for the loan term, to no more than 40 years from the original date of the loan
Deferral of some portion of the principal amount of the unpaid balance until maturity of the loan
Reduction of principal
Compliance with a federally mandated loan modification program

Most lenders are currently offering note modifications to homeowners in distress that meet the "combination of features" requirement.  They provide an interest rate reduction for a fixed period of 5 years with an extension of the amortization period (from 30 to 35 years, for instance).  I have yet to see a lender offer a principal reduction but they aren't required to if they offer the combination of the first two items. While encouraging these note modifications is the entire intent of the law, does this combination of features really help California homeowners or just delay the pain?

Since many homes have lost 40% - 50% of their value, it would require an appreciation rate of more than 10% per year starting immediately to have viable options to refinance or sell in 5 years when the modified payment ends.  Given the fact historical appreciation is 8% per year, it is fairly clear that the 5 year fixed period for the payment reduction simply delays the pain in many cases.

The second loophole is that the 90 day moratorium won't be enforced if it requires a servicer to violate contractual agreements for investor-owned loans. Perhaps it is my lending background that made this particular item jump off the page for me. A large percentage of California mortgages were securitized and sold to investors with the originating company/bank acting only as the Servicer (i.e. they are paid for the accounting functions on the mortgage such as collecting the monthly payments and paying the property taxes from impound accounts).

The Servicers ability to offer note modifications on those loans is limited by the contractual agreement with the investor. Some investor contracts prohibit note modifications and some allow note modifications only to a certain percentage of the loans sold with that specific "pool" of mortgages.  Even if the Servicer wants to offer a note modification, they are often limited or prohibited by their contractual agreement.

And then there is an important item that isn't even addressed.............

Extending the timeframe from 3 months to 6 months between the Notice of Default to Notice of Sale doesn't guarantee a modification.  During that time, the homeowner is increasing the balance on which they could ultimately pay State and Federal income taxes unless they qualify for the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act or are Insolvent per IRS guidelines.

To answer my original question "Who will this Act help?". In my opinion, the Act will help homeowners who have:

A lender that retained the mortgage in their portfolio versus selling it in a pool to investors
Been struggling to reach the Note Modification department to no avail OR
Submitted their Note Modification paperwork and have been waiting for an answer
Willingness and ability to pay the monthly mortgage payment at 38% of their Gross Income
Current property value that has declined 20% or less

A link to the Foreclosure Prevention Act in its entirety can be found on my website.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Clayton Community Events - June

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 10:02:40 -0500

If you are from out of the area and would like to view a visual tour of our wonderful Clayton community, click here.

Events in The Grove park and Downtown

Saturday, June 6:
Farmers Market, 8:00 a.m - noon

Saturday, June 13:
     Farmers Market, 8:00 a.m. - noon
     Concert In The Grove, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
          Mamaluke: Classic Rock Dance Band
          This is a FREE community concert!

Saturday, June 20:
Farmers Market, 8:00 a.m. - noon

Saturday, June 27:
     Farmers Market, 8:00 a.m. - noon
     Concert In The Grove, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
          The Sun Kings: Beatles songs
          This is a FREE community concert!

Events at the Clayton Community Library

Monday, June 8 (through August 17):
Summer Reading Program

Thursday, June 11, 11:00 - 12:00 p.m.:
Z-Man's Paper Airplane Workshop
Ages 6 and up, please sign up in advance

Thursday, June 18:
Father's Day Stories and Crafts
Ages 3 - 8, please sign up in advance

Thursday, June 25, 11:00 a.m. (through August 13):
Picture Book Time! Ages 3 - 5 years
Child may attend without caregiver

Saturday, June 27

Tip a Cop Fundraiser to benefit
Special Olympics!

Location: Ed's Mudville Grill

City of Clayon Events

Tuesday, June 2, 7:00 - 10:00:
City Council meeting, Clayton Community Library

Tuesday, June 9, 7:00 - 10:00:
Planning Commission meeting, Clayton
Community Library

Tuesday, June 16, 7:00 - 10:00:
City Council meeting, Clayton Community Library

Friday, June 19 - Monday, June 22:
     Fourth of July Parade Entries are due!
     The Parade Entry Forms must be postmarked
     by June 19th or faxed by June 22nd.

Tuesday, June 23, 7:00 - 10:00:
Planning Commission meeting, Clayton
Community Library

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Visit Clayton, California

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:28:11 -0500

Clayton, California is a small but wonderful city located just 7.5 miles east of Walnut Creek. Please enjoy this visual tour of Clayton which also includes several additional community links.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

3111 Sugarberry Ct., Walnut Creek, CA 94598 OPEN SUNDAY, 4/26

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:47:59 -0500

Photo Gallery

Kitchen	Dining room with French Doors	Living room
Family room with French Doors to Patio	Master bath	Master bedroom
Rear of home	Park-like backyard

Description

OPEN SUNDAY, 4/26, 1:00 - 4:00

From the moment you enter this home, you will fall in love. Nestled in the redwoods and situated at the end of a cul-de-sac, this immaculate 4 bedroom home is perfect for creating a lifetime of memories.

3 large bedrooms upstairs and 1 small bedroom downstairs, currently used as an office. The family room has beamed ceiling and Anderson french doors to a trellised patio. An additional set of french doors leads from the dining room to the back yard. The living room has a beautiful fireplace with a cherry mantle.

The large park-like yard offers plenty of room for fun and entertainment. The side yard has RV/Boat storage area.

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2.5
Year Built:	1964
Subdivision:	Woodlands
Lot Size:	12,100
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Walnut Creek
Square Footage:	1931
Agent Name:	Wendy Cutrufelli
Broker:	Alain Pinel Realtors
MLS #:	40403512

Location

3111 Sugarberry Ct Walnut Creek CA 94598

vFlyer Id: 2449354

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Read this BEFORE you sell your home as a short-sale!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:50:58 -0500

Note: This blog pertains to the state of California. Lending laws and regulations may differ in other states.

Many sellers proceed with a short-sale prior to consulting a CPA and attorney. Don't make this mistake! There is a significant amount of erroneous information about short-sales and the ultimate impact on you, the seller.

There are three major items to consider before listing your home as a short-sale:

Recourse or Non-Recourse mortgage(s)
Income Tax Liability
Personal Liability after the sale

Recourse or Non-Recourse mortgage -

Recourse is the lender's right to collect the mortgage deficiency for up to four years. If your current mortgage(s) were the loans obtained when you purchased your home, then it is a Non-Recourse mortgage. If you refinanced your original loan (even if you didn't take cash-out) or obtained a 2nd mortgage / Home Equity line of credit after the purchase, they are now Recourse loans.

Let me walk you through an example -

Mr. and Mrs. Seller purchased their home with a $600,000 original mortgage. They later refinanced the mortgage and obtained a Home Equity Line of Credit for $150,000. Total combined finanncing = $750,000. The current fair market value of the home is $525,000.

In a typical short-sale transaction, the 1st lender pays the 2nd lender 10% of the 2nd lender's balance to release the lien and allow the sale to close.

Sales Price:     $525,000
Selling costs:   $ 32,970
Payoff to 1st lender: $477,030 ($122,970 short)
Payoff to 2nd lender:   $15,000 ($135,000 short)

Since these are not the purchase loans, both lenders have the right to Recourse (the right to collect on the unpaid balance) for up to four years unless they waive that right.

Potential outcome #1: Both lenders waive their right to Recourse

Each lender will send you a Form 1099 (Miscl Income) for the portion of the mortgage that was "forgiven" (i.e. unpaid). In this case, the sellers will have an additional $257,970 "income" on which they will have to pay State and Federal income taxes. Assume they are in a 25% effective Federal tax bracket, this will represent an additional Federal income tax bill of $64,500 +/- plus an additional State tax bill of $23,00- +/- for a total additional income tax liability of $87,500.

Important note: the requirement for lenders to issue Form 1099 for the forgiven debt occurs whether the home is a short-sale or a foreclosure, but in the case of foreclosure the seller has no control over the price and ultimate loss.

I know of two methods allowed by the IRS (there could be more) to legally avoid paying Federal income tax on the forgiven debt: if you are Insolvent at the time of the sale OR if you qualify under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act. It is important to discuss your potential personal income tax liability with your CPA in advance.

Potential outcome #2: The 1st lender waives their right to Recourse but the 2nd lender doesn't.

The 1st lender will issue Form 1099 for $122,970. Using the same effective tax bracket as the previous example, this will result in additional Federal taxes of $31,000 +/- plus an additional $11,000 +/- State taxes for a total additional tax liability of $42,000.

The 2nd lender retains their right to collect on the balance due of $120,000 ($135,000 less $15,000 paid from the short-sale). Remember, unless the lender waivees their right to recourse, they retain that right and typically utlize the services of a collection agency or a deficiency judgment.

When faced with the potential post-sale Recourse, sellers have said, "If they try to collect the balance, I will file bankrutpcy." BUT due to changes in the bankruptcy laws, sellers may not have the option to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy after selling the home because they no longer pass the "means test" and will be forced in to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy (5 year repayment plan).

There are numerous other "potential outcomes" but, in the end, this is the truth: Regardless of our "short-sale expertise", Realtors' are not attorneys. For some sellers already dealing with a serious financial hardship, a bankruptcy or foreclosure may be the better option than a short-sale. The only individual qualified to help you evaluate your options is an attorney who specializes in Bankruptcy, Short-Sales and Foreclosures. Many attorneys offer a free half-hour consultation.

Please, take the time to meet with a CPA and attorney. Learn your options and potential ramifications in order to make educated decisions for your future.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

The Press is WRONG – plenty of Jumbo financing IS available

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:25:27 -0500

I recently attended a meeting with 30 experienced Realtors who were bemoaning the lack of Jumbo financing and the negative impact on real estate sales over $1 million. Soon thereafter I went on Broker Tour and heard much of the same conversation.

Since I have not run into the same problem and wondered why this was such a common belief, I started asking questions. I received two primary answers: 1) This is consistently reported in the press and 2) is proven by the fact that their preferred loan officer now offers only one and maybe two Jumbo programs compared to the huge array they previously offered.

Since I used to be a mortgage lender and maintain my lending contacts, I decided to devote a day to "financing homework" and give my associates a gift of the truth: the Press is WRONG and plenty of Jumbo financing is available.

Every lender has a specific level of risk they are willing to take and evaluate that risk differently. In order to minimize their risk, lenders have pared down their jumbo products to the bare minimum. Each lender appears to have chosen different products which they consider the lowest risk.

At the end of my "financing homework" research day, I had two full pages of Jumbo loans listed by company, loan officer, product, downpayment, credit score and interest rate. Every single product previously available to our clients is still available, just not with a single lender.

Survival Strategy - expand your network of qualified, professional Loan Officers in order to get the full array of financing options available.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

FREE Mortgage Protection Insurance for 1st Time Buyers!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Contra Costa Realtor (Alain Pinel Realtors) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:05:04 -0500

California Association of Realtors now offers FREE Mortgage Protection Insurance to 1st Time Buyers through the Housing Affordability Fund!

The Mortgage Protection Program provides a combination of involuntary unemployment, accidental disabillity and accidental death protection for qualilfied 1st Time Buyers. Through this program, 1st time buyers who lose their jobs or become accidentally disabled may be eligible to receive $1,500 per month for up to six (6) months to help make their mortgage payments.

Mortgage Protection Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Mortgage Protection Program Application

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

These positions on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent Alain Pinel Realtors' positions, strategies or opinions.

Contra Costa California Real Estate

California Buyers Receive New Rights When Purchasing Foreclosure Properties

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Note Modification Event - Craneway Pavillion, Richmond, October 16-20

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Open House, Sunday, 10/4 from 1 - 4: 1109 N. Thompson Rd., Lafayette, California

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

311 Preakness Court, Walnut Creek. Open Sunday 9/27 from 1 - 4

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

When Good Homes Fail to Sell

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

No FHA Financing Accepted - Buyers and Sellers Lose.

Are you facing the same issues in your markets?

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Fishing and Real Estate - More Similar Than I Imagined

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Old School Real Estate Experience and New School Real Estate Marketing - It's a Win-Win!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Separating Personal and Business on Facebook

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Thinking of Selling Your House? FREE REPORT: Understanding Fair Market Value and List Price

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

2717 Erb Court, Walnut Creek - Open Sunday 8/23 from 1 - 4

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Johnny's International Deli opens In Clayton

Johhny Sandhu and his wife, Amarinder Kaur, have opened Johnny’s International Deli in downtown Clayton.

Clay Oven Creations Chicken or Lamb Seekh Kabob laminated in ginger garlic and herb Tandori Chicken or Prawns marinated in a mild spiced sauce Paneer Tandoori – soft, juicy chunks of home-made cheese marinated in tandoori masala and then baked in the clay oven

Curries and Vegetable Dishes If you have only had curry from the grocery store, do yourself a favor and try a real curry dish! There are 18 Curry and Vegetable Dish options so I will only mention a few:

Chicken Dhan Saag – Milk masala spiced chicken tossed with fresh spinach Fish Tikka Masala – Ginger lemon marinated fish cooked in a tart curry sauce Roghan Gosht – Tender cubes of lamb cooked in a spicy curry Matter Paneer – Home-made cottage cheese blended with peas in a spiced sauce

Freshly Baked Flat Breads Plain Naan – white flour tandoori bread Garlic Naan – garnished with freshly roasted garlic Keema Naan – Naan stuffed with mildly seasoned lamb Tandori Roti – Full whole wheat bread baked in the clay oven

Rejuvenating Rice Vegetable Biryani – a medley of vegetables and rice, cooked with nuts and raisins Murg Biryani – Richly flavored rice with chicken, nuts and raisins. Lamb Biryani – Basmati rice and mildly spiced lamb cubes, garnished with nuts and raisins

This doesn’t represent the entire menu but it is certainly enough to encourage your visit to Johnny’s International Deli. Consider stopping by for a bite to eat before the Free Concert in the Grove on Saturday night, August 22nd.

For more information about Clayton events or Clayton businesses, please visit Everything Clayton.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

If I was paying you $100 per hour, I would feel bitter right now. Instead, I feel bad.

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Short-Sale and Foreclosure Advice: Urban Legends versus FACTS

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Clarification regarding California non-recourse mortgages

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Community website for Clayton, California is launched!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

8000 Reasons Get Your Butt In Gear: Deadline for First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Looms

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Mortgage Lenders - what is the current procedure for challenging appraisals?

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

The California Foreclosure Prevention Act

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Clayton Community Events - June

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Visit Clayton, California

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

3111 Sugarberry Ct., Walnut Creek, CA 94598 OPEN SUNDAY, 4/26

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Read this BEFORE you sell your home as a short-sale!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

The Press is WRONG – plenty of Jumbo financing IS available

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

FREE Mortgage Protection Insurance for 1st Time Buyers!

Wendy Cutrufelli, Your Real Estate Advocate

Clay Oven Creations
Chicken or Lamb Seekh Kabob laminated in ginger garlic and herb
Tandori Chicken or Prawns marinated in a mild spiced sauce
Paneer Tandoori – soft, juicy chunks of home-made cheese marinated in tandoori masala and then baked in the clay oven

Curries and Vegetable Dishes
If you have only had curry from the grocery store, do yourself a favor and try a real curry dish! There are 18 Curry and Vegetable Dish options so I will only mention a few:

Chicken Dhan Saag – Milk masala spiced chicken tossed with fresh spinach
Fish Tikka Masala – Ginger lemon marinated fish cooked in a tart curry sauce
Roghan Gosht – Tender cubes of lamb cooked in a spicy curry
Matter Paneer – Home-made cottage cheese blended with peas in a spiced sauce

Freshly Baked Flat Breads
Plain Naan – white flour tandoori bread
Garlic Naan – garnished with freshly roasted garlic
Keema Naan – Naan stuffed with mildly seasoned lamb
Tandori Roti – Full whole wheat bread baked in the clay oven

Rejuvenating Rice
Vegetable Biryani – a medley of vegetables and rice, cooked with nuts and raisins
Murg Biryani – Richly flavored rice with chicken, nuts and raisins.
Lamb Biryani – Basmati rice and mildly spiced lamb cubes, garnished with nuts and raisins

This doesn’t represent the entire menu but it is certainly enough to encourage your visit to Johnny’s International Deli. Consider stopping by for a bite to eat before the Free Concert in the Grove on Saturday night, August 22^nd.