Jennifer's Real Estate Blog

Do I Really Want to Know?

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:58:21 -0500

… That you spend hours and hours of every day posting and commenting on political and social posts that have no potential for advancing my home buying or selling endeavor?

… That you are sarcastic, contentious, an extremist, a know-it-all or just downright hateful? Because when I read your posts and comments to others on this forum, I am truly appalled.

… That you are not really the professional that you hold yourself up to be? Instead, you spend your day more focused upon shoving your ego into overdrive the moment a new controversy arises?

… That you will treat the potential buyer, seller, agent, or inspector of my property with total disdain and prejudice if she is gay, muslim, a republican, or fat?

The more I think about, the more I DO want to know these things about you. Before it’s too late!

I am your client, your referral source, your colleague and everyone who is looking for a Real Estate Professional. I happened upon your link while searching the internet to learn more about YOU. What I found is that you are simply one among a parade of losers who deplete the productive hours of your day in a worthless discussion about religion, politics and rag magazine banter.

I don’t mind if you engage in a healthy debate now and again, but I plan to run, not walk to the next professional who presents themselves in the manner to which I’d like to be represented. Fortunately, you have plenty of competition. Their quality posts and congenial commentary here have really impressed me.

Think about that when you next log on.

My Big Wish

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 12:27:09 -0500

Today, hundreds of posts will populate this forum, each one trumpeting the greatness of our nation. The patriotic nature of this holiday spawns a passionate fervor. And it almost never feels like prejudice. Instead, it seems befitting of our eminence, of our central position in the social universe.

Such arrogance astounds and saddens me. Not because I don’t love my country, but because I view patriotism through a broader lens. I love my country, yes. But I truly love my planet. A lovely cerulean rock suspended prettily in a lemony sunbeam… this is my home. This is where my patriotism truly lies.

Celebrating independence is fine. But we are not independent anymore. We have never been more dependent on our fellow planeteers than we are in this era. To persist in this belief that somehow we are a nation standing alone, standing above, is not only arrogant, it is an exercise in self-delusion. The intertwining of our planetary co-existence is so vast, it overpowers my imagination to even ponder. So the question is, have we evolved to a place where we can celebrate our inter-dependence?

Our nation was formed by wanderers from the beginning. Wanderers, thinkers, and fighters with a collective idea. A good idea and one I truly cherish. Let us not forget though that together, by cooperating, they were able to accomplish what each man fighting alone, could not. Working together paid off. THIS is the gift they left us. Listen carefully to the whispers of our ancestors, there is a beautiful lesson in their accomplishment: We need one another.

Shall we set aside our self-important posturing long enough to spend the gift our ancestors left us and elevate ‘freedom from oppression’ to the next level? By discovering what else is possible, by coming face to face with alternative fates, we might forge a new and grander alliance. Our nation is but one stage on this vast and glorious earth. True independence will come when all of us can share in it.

When I see images of the sparkling mote of dust our planet reveals itself to be from afar, it simply takes my breath away. Everyone I have ever known, loved, admired, feared, or even heard of, has lived out their entire lives on this lonely island in space. It is our responsibility, our soul’s collective mandate to deal more kindly with one another, and to ensure the freedom of all earth’s children, so that they too, may flourish upon the wan blueness of this precious little world. The home we share. The only home we will ever know.

Where Have all the Cowboys Gone?

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Thu, 21 May 2009 16:19:35 -0500

How well I remember the wild, wild west. That adventurous place back in time where we roped and blogged our way into the new frontier of real estate. We saddled up and settled in and found our storytelling voice. Meanwhile, others held back and circled around the campfire, perfectly content to listen awhile as we spun a few yarns under the first light of the bright western stars.

There were outlaws, gangs and gunslingers, and even a few legendary battles. Gaming, round-ups and rustlers and a few hangings to boot. Late nights in the saloon were good for drunk blogging, some spirited wrangling and if you were lucky, a new sweetheart on your arm. But more important, we had true pioneers who laid claim to the new gold of our industry. Cowboys and cowgirls with the spirit of tomorrow fearlessly plowing a new crop of writers with their inspiring guidance and expert roping skills.

Yep, those were the days. And now I wonder… where have all the cowboys gone?

It isn’t as though I awoke one morning on this hot, dry plain to find the sun hadn’t risen in it’s assigned position. Or that in the few short years since we’ve settled these hills, there haven’t been new and fresh voices. There are plenty. But the echoes in the canyons don’t reverberate with the same soul anymore. The reins have been pulled in, the stories have all been told, and things have become awfully tame on this big old dude ranch of ours.

With the rustling wind at my back, I ride into the open range and hope the old cowboys who’ve ridden off into the sunset have found their blue skies and green pastures. Their just reward for all they have given of themselves and all that we have gained from their tenure. They are missed and they are Wanted, Dead or Alive.

A Newbie Contest - Be different from the crowd - Spring into some SPRING fun!!!!

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Wed, 13 May 2009 07:14:39 -0500

Jump in here and spread the word to those you've encouraged to join ActiveRain! The deadline has been extended to May 17th, so the clock is ticking...

Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):

UPDATE : I am reblogging this again, because the original deadline was May 10th. Yet we only had 1 entry. The new deadline is May 17th. This is the fourth contest for newbies that I have held and we always got more than 7 or 8 entries. I am semi confused, because we have a lot more new members than before. I wrote this blog a few days ago, Active Rain Success Stories   Connie Harvey made an excellent comment that I think could pertain to so many, especially those new on AR. Please read Connie's comment.

On another note, I even left this as a public post, hoping that many of you will reblog this so we can get more to enter into this contest. Also, the contest rules say that you must be new and no more than 6 months on AR... and without a feature. You still can't have a feature, but if you have been on here for less than a year, please join. I know one person that joined AR 9 months ago, but didn't start to blog until a month ago. This would make perfect sense... if you aren't sure, please contact me at jbelonger@ihmci.com    thanks, jeff

Here was my original post.

I believe that each and everyone of us is different from the next. Just as I have explained that not one borrower is the same as the next. And just for the fact that each one of us blog differently. Maybe you are very new to blogging and to Active Rain. Maybe you are just afraid to put your first step out there, afraid of what others might say or think.

Well, Active Rain allows all of us to accomplish not only being different, but that it's a great platform and community to practice this on. It's a place to learn from others if we aren't sure on how to blog. Sure, there have been some bloggers from day one when joining Active Rain, they were good at what they did within their blogs. For myself, I felt that it took about 6 months, to not only find my voice, but to feel comfortable and to be good at it.

Overall, here is your chance to stand out from the crowd and to have fun with it. Why not, what do you have to lose.

Here is what I feel about Active Rain, about blogging, and what contests like this allow....

It's a chance for new members to show their talent. If anything, a chance to possibly find your blogging voice.

And keep in mind...The great thing about this community, in regards to AR, there are people willing to help you and help you grow.

So, you are new to Active Rain and possibly very new to blogging. You are afraid to jump out there and expose yourself. Here is a chance to be yourself, just put something out there, and to get new business, referrals, and to make new friends.

Do you know that 80% of the consumers out there shop online when looking for a home, mortgage services, or possibly the services of a stagger. That these consumers come to the internet looking for information and hoping to be educated on certain services. Have you read the many success stories here on Active Rain, proving that blogging works? Check them out here : Active Rain Block Party

We Want You !!!!   With so many new ways in regards to technology, blogging has been a great way to market yourself and your business. But how can I blog? What can I write about? What about my presentation or style of writing? It takes time and for many of us, it didn't happen over night. You must be patient.... But what a great place to try and learn how to blog other than writing on Active Rain.

Within this contest, just be yourself. Judging will be based on original content and creativity. It won't be limited to just writing, meaning that you can use videos in your blog, graphics, and or pictures. It can be on anything that you want it to be, any topic. What we want is for you to capture our interest. And keep in mind, lay-out and readability is important also, just as staging a home.... presentation.

And think of this contest as a way to prime yourself for your what you do, if you are a realtor, loan officer, title clerk, appraiser, etc, etc. Sheldon Neal just wrote about this the other day, What makes you different? Stand out from the crowd?   This is perfect timing and a must read... and fits very well with the theme of this contest.

First prize will be awarded 1000 points and be Featured on ActiveRain and in the Active Rain Newbie group.

Second Prize will be awarded 750 points

Third Prize will be awarded 500 points

*200 additional points for all that enter this contest*

You can view the entries here..... A Newbie Contest - Be diffierent from the crowd

CONTEST RULES:

1. Who is eligible? Anyone on this site less than 6 months (please read below about this ) and who has never had a feature. Yes, if you have been on here for less than 6 months, but have received a feature, you can't enter. For some of you that don't know, a feature is that little Gold Star that you get at the bottom of your post and your blog is placed on the main page of Active Rain. Those blogs being featured in the AR groups don't count as an AR feature. UPDATE : even if you have been on here for a few months longer than 6 months, please read this comment : Additon to the contest rules

2. Number of entrees per person will be limited to (2) and it must be completely original and authored by you. Any plagiarism found will be deleted and may be posted on Rich Jacobson's "wanted for plagiarism" post.

3. Submit your post to these 4 groups : A newbie contest - Be different than the crowd - 5/03/09, Dedicated Bloggers, Bloggers Choice Selections, Positive Attitude for the Weary Soul. The 5th & last group can be your group of choice.

4. Make sure that the title of your blog starts with "A newbie contest - Be different from the crowd".

5. You must include the following in your Tag words below : "A newbie contest - be different from the crowd". If you don't, you won't qualify.

6. DEADLINE for submitting entries is Sunday, May 17th at midnight.

7. Winners will be announced Tuesday, May 19th.

8. Only 200 points will be awarded per PERSON regardless of the number of entries submitted - with the exception of the Winners.

PS.... please, also link your entry in this post, in your comment......

Lastly, bribing the judges can and will be optional. But nothing under 2,000 rubles. Hence why the judges won't be mentioned until the contest ends at midnight on November 1st. Anyone wanting to judge, please e-mail me at jbelonger@ihmci.com

Here are the previous Newbie contests and contest winners :

Contest - 04/21/2008 : "Give it your Best Shot", & Winner : Winner of "Give it your Best Shot" contest

Contest - 10/25/2008 : A Chance for Newbies to Shine on Active Rain & Winner : Winner of the chance to shine contest

Contest - 01/21/2009 : A newbie contest - It's even better than American Idol & Winner : The winner of the Active Rain Newbie Contest !!!!!! - It's even Better than American Idol

GOOD LUCK TO ALL !!!!!

The Three Words That Could Delay Foreclosure.

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 12:42:14 -0600

Desperate calls are not the best calls to receive when you're a Realtor. Nonetheless, I have had a couple in the last month and sadly, the home owners tend to call me when it's too late to do anything to help them. One in particular comes to mind: a woman whose home is scheduled for auction in less than a month. I wish I had known this information during that phone call and if she's out there, here's a way to buy just a little more time until you can pull together the cash you need.

This is terrific information from my favorite beloved Mortgage Banker Boy.... (and Our Dano!):

Via Jason Sardi, Mortgage Banker (FHA-VA-USDA-Conventional-Pennsylvania Loans):

I came across a link recently on facebook that my biggest supporter, loving fan, brother from another mother, buddy of mine Dan Cummings posted.

In actually sharing it, I was a tad hesitant. As a matter of public record, I have mixed feelings on it. While the concept holds a ton of merit in my opinion and from what I've gathered from those who have been in this industry much longer than I; there is a strong part of me that doesn't particularly like loopholes. Without further ado, here's the link.

Let me add that I'm heavy on personal responsibility. Let me also throw in that all the blame that has been thrown around pointed at this reason and that reason can probably also be pointed in the mirror we look into every now and again. The tactic described in that news story of "Produce The Note" is a clever way of using the system to your advantage. God knows the system has used us to their advantage. What's fair is fair, right? Well, I don't really like to look at things like that. Actually, sometimes I do:) But let's get rational here...

Yes, there is a lot of wrongs in this world. There always will be. Yes, there are a lot of folks who will take advantage of you when you are in the confines of the fetal position. There probably always will be. And while we are still a young civilization, we have accomplished a lot. I do believe we will get through this and while I don't necessary think we will be smelling of roses after the fact... petunias aren't a bad door prize. Shoot for the roses, just don't ignore the other flowers along the way.

I certainly wish I could tell everyone that everything will be okay, because I believe it will. I don't know that as fact, though. All I do know is that WE play a larger part in our destinies than WE may think. Don't stop the negativity, just stop buying into it as if it is the all encompassing facet to these times. It isn't.

We have it pretty damn good. I dare say that we are spoiled to a large extent. Let's move forward swimming in the reality that we need to work hard, help each other, and practice ethics over instant gratification.

Hell, it sure beats one of the alternatives... which makes for a good song but a smokey neighborhood.

Herein ends my "Gary Woltal" moment;)

Jason Sardi

Mortgage Consultant

Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc

610-439-2166 ext. 229

jsardi@ihmci.com

http://activerain.com/blogs/shears76

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/

A House Remembered

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:34:41 -0600

I don’t know what made me think a house was forever. Perhaps I’ve imagined that only I am temporary. Death aside, I always seem to be. Remember that adage that says ‘you can never go home again’ ? Well it’s true. Tonight I learned that my grandmother’s house burned down. I can barely swallow this charred truth.

Even though she has long since recycled back into the dust from which she came, I’d still return to visit Grandma back in tornado alley. Her soul danced among the flowers and cattails that graced the streambed that ran through her property. As a little girl, we used to rise long before the sun and sit beside the water awaiting it’s golden arrival. But first we did her hair.

She had the longest, blackest hair I have ever seen. All the way down to her calves, it took 17 tortoise shell combs to mount her single braid into the Eiffel tower she wore for a hundred years. On hot nights, we caught lightening bugs - each delicately pushed into her hair to form her sparkly tiara. The rest went into our own braids, transforming each of us girls into her fairy maids. That’s what she called us.

Her castle was little more than a whitewashed shack. She alone had no cellar, though her house stood for more than a century while the resident mansions lost limbs to twisters. Somehow her humble little abode always managed to survive.

Until today.

What is it that imbues a house with such magic? The tenacity to weather storms, both external and internal? The irreverence to stand up against forces both seen and unseen that threaten to tear down the walls? God knows, I can barely remain standing when the winds of change threaten.

It’s the foundation, I’ve learned. And not the 12 inches on center post and beam, but the kind we build with love. The lasting kind. The kind that gives structure to who we are and stands as a monument to those who made us.

Forever will remain. Her house isn’t really gone after all.

"Dear Diary, My Passion is..."

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:35:26 -0600

I want to touch things. To leave them beautifully different from before I was ever there. To give. To nurture.

Even as I am unaware, there is a stark difference between simply baking a cake, holding someone’s hand or just doing my job. When I do these things with passion, the difference is visible. A shimmering radiance that sets the merely inanimate apart from those things I have nurtured and loved. Becoming more like me. Someplace my soul can remain long after I have departed. Some would call it making a difference, but I am selfish and I know I will take so much more with me.

And yet my passion is a two way street. I put things inside myself and become the repository of beautiful ideas, experiences and accomplishments. Relentlessly evolving as a composite of all those things melded seamlessly into my own interpretation, with so much Jennifer as their binding force. It will BE me. Some of it will be wrong, but so much more will be exactly right. And I can live with that and I can comfortably die with that too.

Passion drives me to care more. To live outside myself. And to live inside myself more richly. It pilots this odyssey we share along a common timeline, under the same sun - and yet it defines us as unique, as memorable and valuable. My passion underlies the hallmark of who I am and who I am meant to become. Even if I only make part of the journey for which I was intended, I will touch things. And because I did so passionately, I will remain.

No Hesitation

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 22:49:04 -0600

I refute clichés and fight them at every turn. (Perhaps it’s the writer in me?) But this Monday morning shaped up to be simply awful! It began with a less than shining example of relationship bliss, unhappy news and… what’s this? Not another meme tag! Thanks Susan!! If they hadn’t all been tossed on the floor, I would have crawled back under the blankets rather than face this miserable Monday.

Suffocating under morning traffic and fighting back tears, I barely gave a thought to what I might want for Christmas. After all, I’m in the midst of shedding possessions and the definitions that encumber them. I already know what I want – and it isn’t a thing – all I want resides within the soul of one particular man. That’s it. Nothing more. So employing my lavish imagination won’t yield the treasure expected from this Christmas Meme. It simply isn’t in me this time. I'm sorry.

My telepathic plaintive cries were heard. I was given marching orders to call off the day midstream and head up to Timberline. I didn’t give it a moment’s hesitation. Trapped in gunmetal shades of black, white and grim, I hurried my escape. Little by little, stress and hopelessness began to fall back with the rising elevation. Then a slice of sun landed in my lap like a golden trinket. Rising above it all, I felt the shimmering weightlessness of separation. Light and light. That in-between place that exists between land and sky. It was perfect. And suddenly I knew.

All I want for Christmas is my very own mountain!

It requires no assembly, leaves no carbon footprint, there's no packaging to dispose of, no shipping fees, children weren’t exploited in it’s manufacture and no animals were harmed in testing. My sweetheart won’t need to spend the requisite two years’ income to purchase it, and it will never, ever go out of style. What gift could be more perfect?

(I know! NOT tagging anyone!!)

Something to be Thankful For

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 15:17:28 -0600

All around me today it seems the world has checked out. Empty seems like company compared to the barren corridors in my office. Calls skate over to voicemail when I try to reach a lender, a broker, even a seller. Even people I love seem to be a little absent today. Where has everyone gone?

Well I’m giving my clients something to be thankful for as we slide into this Thanksgiving week holiday. I am answering my phone on the first ring. I am running errands to deliver docs so you don’t have to. I am previewing homes in outlying areas to make the most of your time. I’m making YOU – my valued clients – my number one priority.

Why? Because I am thankful for YOU!

Portland's Little Black Dress or Good News for Pdx!

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:19:08 -0600

It always seems to happen like this: You receive the invitation. You have the perfect party dress in mind, a little extra money in your wallet, and you’re feeling in the mood to spoil yourself with a fabulous day of shopping. You spend the entire day searching, but nothing you find fits the bill. Discouraged, you discover you aren’t quite as rich or thin as you’d imagined. It’s not such a party after all.

I can relate in more ways than I’d care to admit. As it happens, I’ve been doing a little shopping of my own. With all the negative media portraying last season's bad news about the housing market here in Portland, I’ve been searching for a little good news – news with sequins, if you will - and I’ve felt exactly the same way. Discouraged. All this negativity hasn’t left me in much of a party mood.

Just because you hear bad news, read bad news or believe bad news… it simply doesn’t make it true. As with any worthwhile pursuit, keep up your search and you WILL find it! And I have!

Today… I bring you a sweet little black dress in the form of GOOD NEWS!

According to a group known as Greenlight Greater Portland, a consortium of private sector leaders dedicated to growing a sustainable and vibrant economic future for the seven-county metropolitan area, the current and future economic outlook for the greater Portland area is terrific!

Consider the following highlights from their report:

* The projected population growth for the Portland metropolitan area is 8.0% by 2013.

* The workforce is projected to grow by 6.9%. The increase from Salem North to Vancouver alone is expected to exceed 2 million.

That’s 50,000 more families for the Portland metropolitan area!

* From 2000 – 2008, our population grew by 33.8%!

* 6 of the 25 Most Innovative companies in the world are located right here according to Business Week Magazine.

This is fantastic news for the Portland area real estate market! With all the new arrivals on the horizon, I recommend shopping for the good deals while they last.

Now that I've found the perfect dress, I have a little shoe shopping to do!

If you're in need of a home shopping expert, I'm here to help you find the perfect fit!

Jennifer Bukaty

Real Estate Broker

RE/MAX equity group, inc.

Sellwood/Moreland Office

7886 SE 13th Avenue

Portland, OR 97202

503.495.4824

JennifersPdxHomes.com

The Palin Puppet

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 11:48:56 -0500

This is not about the politics of this election. I’m not concerned with Palin’s political slant because I don’t believe she’ll ever hold an office where her staunch anti-woman imprinting will impact my life. Rather, this reflects my fury over her doormat willingness to further demean the cause of sexual equality by playing puppet. I am deeply distraught by her passive conduct.

Sarah is not her own woman. Not anymore. She is invented. Prepped. Plucked – no, over-plucked, and plucky. Here is a woman, poorly hastily engineered, then dispatched to masquerade as a woman in a position of power. Custom designed to pacify and gain support from women seeking female representation. Yet this woman, judiciously subordinated, is strictly forbidden to grant an interview. Oh, she speaks out all right. Waging a juicy little smear campaign with the spirit of an original Mean Girl. But she isn’t speaking for herself. Instead, she is standing by her man – a highly prized misogynistic value if there ever was one. She viciously fights his battles (just as I would - and have) for my own man. But what is she saying about her? And what is she saying about all women when she willfully acquiesces to such blatant exploitation?

Sarah Palin is hanging by a carefully orchestrated set of strings. Permitted to display her dominant, aggressive and masculine tendencies while carting a baby at her breast. A not-so-subtle reminder to her band of the faithful that she presents no danger, unlike women of genuine strength. But she doesn’t fool me. Her subservience and lack of demonstrable affection for other women illuminates her rejection of our equivalent value. And that frightens me.

If keeping women at bay was part of the grand McCain design, then it was a stroke of genius to prop up a girl like Sarah – someone incapable of articulating a clear idea of her own. Because if she has any, and I suspect she may – I am still waiting to hear them.

I want to hear Sarah. Unplugged.

Evolution

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 22:16:53 -0500

I want to be more. I want to truly shine. My desire for refinement inspires me to brave the treacherous journey into the frontiers of my dark interior. The ways in which unknown possibilities haunt, illuminate and seduce me have evoked a mental travel diary of my hopes and desires - a vision if you will. The cinnamon toast of my existence cries out for new experiences. A new direction… spiritual evolution.

So I’ve been rethinking my life in small and large ways, painful but ultimately fruitful. What journey do we undertake that does not bring to light unwanted stowaways – long ignored out of habit? Owning up to the dead ends in our private lives, our business approach – even our relationship with ourselves – is the ultimate enlightenment. Yet we face our demons reluctantly. I certainly do. I realize that unless I undress my flaws, see them for exactly what they are - I’ll never dance at the edge – find no reason to push the envelope.

If only the path were easier. Risk free. We all want the sure thing. But the payoff truly comes in the taking of risks. A single roll of the dice can change our lives in ways we might never dream possible. Even our dreams have boundaries. So why not throw out our limitations and pre-conceptions? Take that chance?

Wouldn’t it be great if we could just stop things at pivotal moments, stand back, and write our own ending? How would it be different? What price would we pay for safety?

We have to risk something. We just do.

I am aware that I’ve made mistakes in this life. Big ones and I own them. But they are mine because taking chances not only nets terrific results and fantastic rewards, but miscalculations and losses as well. Because of this, and this alone – my ultimate gains taste even sweeter.

I am not here on this earth as a mere visitor. I am not content to be seated in the audience either. I want to be the star. So I’ll gather my courage and unleash my adventuresome spirit. I’ll take my chances. Because I know exactly what I want. And simply by making the effort, I will shine brighter.

Your right to privacy (Or Not)

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:30:46 -0500

This is great information! MAKE CERTAIN YOU OBSERVE THE SEPTEMBER 24TH DEADLINE TO REGISTER!

Via Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker:

*This is some interesting stuff, you must register by tomorrow. Read on...*

Our friends over at one of the three major Credit Reporting Agencies (TransUnion) ran into a bit of trouble recently. It has been alleged that TransUnion improperly sold consumers' personal data. That could mean that your information was sold to various companies who could then overview your information and solicit you for such things as Mortgage Loans, Credit Card Offers, heck... credit of any kind. If you applied for credit in the past twenty years or so, this could apply to you. If you pay for everything via cash or have Mafioso ties, this may not apply;-) Here's the link.

Imagine that, Credit Reporting Agencies making money on the side selling leads. This is good news for consumers though, and free credit monitoring is key in this. Typically, one must pay for this type of monitoring service. Due to this ruling, you have several options and having your credit monitored for free is one of those options. There seems to be a possibility that you could receive cash via a settlement, but I wouldn't count those hens just yet. Here is the link to register.

**Remember, you must register by September 24, 2008 to receive these benefits.**

Please visit the above links for more information and to register.

Lose The Umbrella

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:02:01 -0500

It’s just another rainy day. Not even fish rain, but you might think so with all the umbrellas clouding up the sky. Tourists on their maiden voyage. They flare up like neon in the Oregon rain. We love them. We really do. And they were everywhere this morning with their umbrellas sailing high along the footpaths and hiking trails at Multnomah Falls.

But it didn’t start out that way. I awoke to the drumming pelt of rain at an unreasonable hour and felt such a ridiculously strong pull to hike up the Wahkeena trail that it seemed to me as if gravity was playing an ornery little trick. I set out with a solitary vision of me and the trees and the pungent smell of the mossy spray. At first it seemed as if I’d have my perfect morning.

I tucked my hat into the crook of a tree to retrieve on my way back down, knowing it would be safe and waiting for me. How lovely it was with no people in sight and only the soft Oregon rain for company.

My boots got wet and before long, my pants were soaked through. It was glorious. Exhilarating. And suddenly, … crowded. Umbrellas sprouting everywhere like gardenias at moonrise. All these visitors who don’t understand the old cliché, When In Rome.

Lose the umbrella people. We don’t use them – we don’t need them.

After spending the past several weeks working with buyers who plan to relocate here, it occured to me that they, too, need to lose their umbrellas. Things are different here in Oregon. While sales have slowed a bit, overall, purchasing real estate here is still an excellent investment. That’s a fact worth staking your bank balance upon. And yet, my buyers have all expressed one reservation after another about the unlikely prospect of getting wet in this market. Each has found the perfect home and yet instead of throwing off their galoshes, they’ve gone inside to wait out the storm.

Well here’s a friendly little weather report for those looking to relocate to my beautiful Pdx: It’s just a little drizzle.

Real estate is not a short-term investment. Now IS the perfect time to buy. Don’t let a little precipitation cause you to throw up an umbrella that will only obscure your long-range view. After all, real estate is a big picture investment. When you find your perfect home – buy it. You won’t regret it.

It’s always possible to go back and reconsider the path not taken. But what you might find is a lost opportunity. So when you come to Oregon, leave your umbrella behind.... come play in the rain.

If you’re considering relocating to our beautiful Pdx, I’ll be happy to provide you with all of your real estate and relocation needs to support you and your family with your transition into Portland.

Jennifer Bukaty

RE/MAX equity group, inc.

Portland, Oregon 97202

503.495.4824

JennifersPdxHomes.com

Local Support for Local Women - The Equity Group Foundation Proudly Supports the Komen Race for the Cure.

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:32:10 -0500

To All of my Friends here on Active Rain and those in my Beautiful Pdx... I am reblogging this in hopes that you might consider helping us raise our donations for our local Race for the Cure. Even the smallest donation makes a big difference!!

Via The 2-OH-2! Your Portland Oregon 97202 Experts:

The Equity Group Foundation is the charitable branch of RE/MAX Equity Group. I'm the representative for my branch at the foundation meetings and it breaks my heart that we can't give to everyone who comes in and presents their case to us.

We all wish there was more money to spread around. There are so many causes out there. How do we choose what to support? Unfortunately we don't have unlimited resources and we do have to choose.

One of the causes the Foundation supports whole heartedly is the local branch of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and their Race for the Cure. By donating to the cause, we are supporting local women in need of cancer treatment, screenings, women's health checks, and other immediate needs of women in our community. And it fits the Equity Group Foundation's criteria for donations by providing direct help to local women in our community.

Personally, I am proud to support this cause. Oregon and Washington have the highest breast cancer rates in the country, and people don't know exactly why. Ask those around you to see how many of them have been affected in some way by breast cancer. You may be shocked. Our branch office has a goal to raise just $720 this year to go toward the company's total $25,000 target. We encourage anyone in the community to help out, even if they are not affiliated with our office.

The other thing I love is that while it can be a sad subject, the event itself is so happy and uplifiting. Anyone who has ever participated in a Race for the Cure event will tell you that it's such a celebration of life. This year it takes place in Portland on September 21st and I hope the RE/MAX team is stronger than ever.

Me? I'm hoping that participating in the event will be a labor-inducing action. - I'm due on the 23rd with my second child. A boy. Maybe I could name him Susan. - How great it would be to introduce a new life at a celebration of saved and remembered lives. Plus, they say that breastfeeding reduces your future risk for breast cancer. Appropriate, no?

~Amy Seaholt

To donate to the Sellwood/Moreland branch fundraising efforts for the Susan G. Komen Foundation please contact me by September 15th, 2008. amy.s@remax.net

To join the RE/MAX Equity Group team on the day of the event please sign up online HERE. Look for the big RE/MAX balloon prior to the start of the race to connect with other runners and walkers.

Zip It

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:53:24 -0500

Her words, not mine. Though I should be as direct as she is if I want to make the kind of splash she does. And for all her 90 lbs or so, she really IS a big fish. I spent my day sitting next to her in class and about fell off my chair when she casually mentioned that while she’s not as busy as she has been, she does have 40 quality listings at the moment. Yes people – I said FORTY! It turns out she is the top producer (for our company) in our area and among the top 30 in the nation. So when she peeps – I listen.

The truth is, I barely heard a word anyone else said. I was daydreaming about the beach at Sauvie Island – yes, that one – we’re enjoying a long stretch of glorious weather and I know it’s only a matter of time before it turns to rain. And I look good with a tan. So there I am daydreaming again – stepping eagerly into fairytales where anything is possible – even 40 listings. I call it my ‘zone’, because if anyone belongs there, it’s me. You might never know it, but I make most of my best calls from that capricious perch. To some it’s pure genius,… to me it’s often comedy. Nonetheless…

She said it. In response to a comment about counseling a buyer as to the wisdom of a particular purchase, she asserted that that we simply need to keep our mouths shut. House on a busy street? So what! Barking dog next door? Who knows what matters to your buyer and what doesn’t. She thinks this is absolutely none of our business.

I was astounded.

This is not to say that I didn’t grasp her meaning. Make the sale. Stop feeling responsible for the stupid choices others make. After all, taste is subjective. When we talk ourselves out of a particular property – we most certainly talk our clients out of that sale as well. And it may be the last we ever see of them.

But I do have one question: Where do we draw the line? Anyone who follows me knows that loverboy and I both live and breathe by the belief that nothing is more sacred than the protection of our clients. Is it enough to write a tight contract on their behalf? When and why should we look ahead at the wisdom of a particular purchase? When it comes time to sell, everything will sell if the price is right. Even Bernanke can’t predict the state of the housing market in five, maybe ten years from now. Is it arrogant to imagine that WE can? I admit it, she does has a point.

But I don’t like it.

Mortgage Pro Week in Review -- 06/23/08 through 06/29/08

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:41:15 -0500

I was genuinely honored when Jeff Belonger asked me to write this review. I read so many mortgage posts that I figured I'd be a natural for this. You'll find as many mortgage writers among my subscription list as Realtors. How that happened is easy to see - the best Mortgage Pros seem to have a way of Romancing the Realtor in me. We all know that to survive in this business, we need each other. It's a natural pairing. When Realtors and Lenders get together, we make dreams come true.

We all need a little review now and then, so for this weeks featured posts, I present to you

Romance 101:

When it comes to romancing the girl in me, there's no question about it - only one person has the power to do that! Since you all expect it anyway, I won't disappoint you and neither will he. In true Sardi fashion, he teaches us what really makes the difference in the art of wooing a client with...

Testimonials Kick A$$! by Jason Sardi

On the other hand, if you really want to know how NOT to woo a Realtor, (and we all know a Realtor + Mortgage Lender = True Love!), you won't want to miss this no holds barred tutorial...

Ten Things To Do To Screw Up Your Presentation To A Realtor. by Chris Johnson

If Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus, then making heads or tails out of 'He said' 'She said' keeps us all guessing. Especially when it comes to figuring out what a pick-up line really means. Guess no further (and be prepared to laugh) with this handy little primer..

What it Really Means! by Jim Crawford

Now you're an expert. The flirting is working and you know exactly what you want. You go confidently in search of "the one", but try as you might, he/she is nowhere to be found. Maybe your standards are too high. Maybe you just want it all. Well who doesn't? Don't dispair any longer because you CAN have everything you've always dreamed of right here with the guy who has it all...

100% LTV, NO FICO, NO DOC - Worldwide, Commercial, Land, Residential Development by Rod Tinsley

If all is fair in Love and War, then what about Real Estate? What is acceptable when it comes to telling all? Is there really such thing as too much information? If you think you know the answer, you might need to rethink your strategy. Before you do though, don't miss...

What is fair game for a lender to share with a listing agent???? by Olan Carder

Ok, so now you've got 'em right where you want them. You've sealed the deal, so to speak. What happens next? We all know it doesn't take long before you both begin to lay down the law. Every relationship depends on them to survive. (If only my beloved would simply learn to follow them!) If you find yourself in doubt about what's expected from you, it's all right here...

My expectations for a realtor by Paul McFadden

You fell in love, you knew it was right, you worked at it even when the passion was gone. If there is one thing you didn't plan on, it was this. Still, we all make mistakes. Divorce is never easy, but when it happens, you'd do well to follow this advice from Active Rain's very own Sage of Mortgages...

Divorce / Real Estate / Money by William J Archambault Jr (or Uncle Bill!)

It's inevitable, after it's all said and done, the vultures will find the carnage - they always do. Let's face it... it IS a jungle out there and we'd all be wise to better understand how to survive it. All the rules have changed since you were last in the game. No one lays it out better than this...

Freshly Killed Mortgages and Jungle Economics by Janet Guibault

How did it all go so wrong? After the tears have dried, we try to find a little solace in understanding. It isn't easy sometimes, but if you really look hard you'll find the answers. For a in-depth look at how it all went awry, you'll find it here...

A Very Simple View of Our Sub prime Crisis. Chap 3. Wall Steet Investment Banks. by Alan 'AJ' Nisen

Thanks for reading these terrific selections and until next week, I wish each and every one of you

all the love in the world!

MWA!

Up next week... Alan 'AJ' Nisen 06/30/2008 through 07/06/2008

Mortgage blogs by loan officers Here is a list of Loan Officers. If you are not listed, please email Jeff Belonger to be added. This way the person doing the Mortgage Pro week in review can try and find most mortgage related posts in one section. ActiveRain is growing rapidly and it is difficult to keep up.... If you think you have been ignored, you have not. This is open to all!!!

MORTGAGE PRO Week in Review A repository for the Mortgage Week in Review. Please don’t hesitate in joining this group.

I'm Calling Your Bluff... Yes YOU Blog Stalker!

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 23:42:10 -0500

I don't know know who you are.

I don't know why you're stalking my blog. But I think you should just give yourself up.

Let's face it: if you like the content, then simply subscribe....

though I notice you haven't.

If you want to engage in meaningful conversation, then initiate one....

but you haven't. Not really.

If you want to talk to me, but you're afraid because you're really strange...

then I understand.

But please, will you LOG IN and stop freaking me out????

Another Rainy Day

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 07:37:00 -0500

I have been observed, on one or two occasions, sitting on a mound of inky compost in my own sentient garden, whispering sweet nothings to my peonies and gentle enticements to the wallflowers. I know why I do this and so do they. A handmade poem, a bit of encouragement, or the telling of a titillating secret all contribute to our co-creative effort. Esthetic encouragement to their growth. A bit of practice for me.

I begin humming a soft lament from Les Mis - a spontaneous act that begins the dance of nature. Black as night, my kitty Sirius alights in the corner of my eye. Just there, he stalks me from between the razor blades of emerging crocosmia. Honeybees swirl about my sunburned shoulders and promise their allegiance. Sirius keeps them on their toes. The rare afternoon heat radiates the scent of lavender, rich earth and… a burning cigarette.

It is my neighbor Don. Just short of a century in age, he joins the growing cacophony and chides me with a lame joke. He points out the need for more judicious pruning. My garden, it seems, has entered middle age. Woody stalks produce fewer flowers, less robust flora. Here and there it seems I have allowed starry-eyed wildflowers to wend their fanciful ways among the disciplined hellebores. I am an easy touch, he says.

For many seasons he brought me the perfect cuttings, confessed his love for a long forgotten bartendress, regaled me with stories from a grander era of engineering. His bony hands gently shook as he paid respect to my late tomcat buried beneath the too blue forget-me-nots. His stooped frame throwing exaggerated shadows while his stories took their places among the contented foliage. Here in my imperfect utopia, my little bit of heaven – time stood still for him.

But there are predators in every garden. They have come and gathered him up like so many weeds … disenchanted by one who no longer produces flowers, but instead, requires staking and special care. Out with the old and in with the new. Such is the vanity of the human garden.

I watch as they roll him away. My tears are quiet so as not to disturb the emerging daphne. I keep them well hidden beneath the shade of my straw brim, careful not to let them to dry too soon. My garden needed him, and he it. Lest this relationship be misunderstood, there is a secret to the well-integrated garden. A sense of unity, homage to the passing of time – a reminder that we all require a bit of sacred ground.

Clouds advance and before I can collect my tools, my hair is soaked. I run for cover as the rain drenches the fragile new starts. Heavy drops of glitter settle upon their tender green leaves. But they are young and agile, and I know they’ll be just fine. It is in this moment that I struggle to find hope. And it is there, just where it should be… in my garden filled with the sweet scent of summer night rain on roses.

A Long Night

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Tue, 06 May 2008 22:57:14 -0500

It’s about thirty minutes past the darkest hour and I’m lying in bed wide-awake,

Hurt and afraid.

Recycling the same old thoughts, hoping to find a new interpretation...

One I can live with.

[baby what have you done?]

I wander aimlessly down the blue path, worn and familiar, and recognize my footprints by the devious shoes I wear.

Betraying imprints left carelessly on your smashed heart.

I turn my eyes and look away.

I didn’t do that.

I just wouldn’t.

Back in my room…dark, shadowy and electric, I am safe now.

But I’m NOT here. I’m with you. Someplace I’ve never been before and never want to leave.

I’ve always been free to catch the wind and fly off...

I’ve left plenty behind, and easily.

But I just can’t walk away from you baby.

So here I stay, looking out a window with bars on it.

I’m not sure about this view.

I wonder some days why I even bother to open my eyes.

And then I hear you breathing. And I know I don’t have to see at all.

Is Anybody Home?

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 13:25:37 -0500

It isn’t supposed to happen this way. And I was unprepared for it.

It was later than usual on Friday evening and this was the last house on our tour. The property was vacant, so the late hour didn’t pose a problem. Even in the last light of day, everything about this house was lovely – it was painted a pretty red hue, the yard had been lovingly tended, wisteria draped it’s long arms across the front porch like an old friend. A single electric candle burned in the attic window. It felt welcoming. The listing indicated it was bank-owned and had been on the market for several months. A bit unusual for our market, especially in this neighborhood. And it didn’t make sense.

My client stood back while I unlocked the front door. He waited for a proper invitation like the gentleman he is. The old and worn porch boards hadn’t been painted in years. I stepped softly in high heels to avoid catching my heel and tripping. In the quiet of the moment, the sudden click of the lockbox release nearly startled me. It was then that my eye caught the slightest movement through the beveled leaded glass door. There again, in the barest of light, stood a child inside, and then another, both quickly darting out of sight. Before I could even surmise the why of it, there was a young woman from around the corner. Our eyes made contact but for a moment and then she was gone. As though they were never there.

My heart was pounding as I turned and walked back toward my client. I took him by the arm, though I couldn’t say a thing. He seemed to know the words I couldn’t find. An entire story unfolding in my eyes.

Twilight is the saddest light there is. But for her, the woman who lost her home, it surely arrived as welcome relief. The time of day when she and her boys could finally return safely to the place they called home. That they are sleeping in the attic in what was once truly their home… well, what does she tell them? Their bedrooms now stripped of toys, blankets and beds… do they dare ask? She knows she is marking time until…

Alone now and barely a block from my office, I park my car under a tree. My phone begs for attention with a dozen missed calls and texts. I am breathing hard to stop the flood of tears, but they insist. I want to go back, tell her a thousand things to make it better. Present them hot nourishing food. Apologize for the abuses in our industry that may have played a role in their misfortune.

But I don’t really know. It dawns on me that I don’t hold a single answer. Was she at fault? Is she a victim? Whatever the truth, her children certainly are. This isn’t how it should be. Homeownership is the American Dream. And it isn’t supposed to happen this way.

Mortgage Creative Writing Challenge: And the Winners are....

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:41:10 -0500

Whatever you may have thought about mortgage posts, chances are, you didn't expect them to have much in the way of panache. With very few exceptions, I thought the same thing. Until I was inspired recently by a post by Jason Sardi - the never boring Mortgage Stud of ActiveRain - to issue a challenge to anyone willing to break the mold on this typically dry topic. And let me tell you, we were astounded by the creativity and genuinely useful information that came out of these terrific entries. There was nothing easy about arriving at our three winners.

Entries were judged in three categories: Creativity and Originality of Content, Actual Mortgage Information, and Lay-out and Staging.

I am excited to present the winners of the Mortgage Creative Writing Challenge!

1st Place for 1000 points, a pretty Gold Star and a Localism Feature

is awarded to

Janet Guilbault

for

One McMortgage, Please, With A Side of Lies

CONGRATULATIONS to Janet for telling it like it is in a way that absolutely everyone can understand. She cleverly relates the perils of getting our mortgages cheap and on the run. If you haven't been reading Janet's blog, you've definitely been missing out. Her analogies are consistently on target and her writing is eloquent and understated.

2nd Place for 750 well-deserved points

is awarded to

Joey Asterbaum

for

The Mortgage Rap - Sing along! It's educational, it's fun, and it's fo' rizzle, yo.

A most entertaining and original presentation of mortgage information in a format that will stick in your head for days! Go ahead and turn it up... I dare ya! Congratulations Joey! This was out of the box if a mortgage post ever was!

3rd Place for 500 points

is awarded to

Brian Brady

for

Queer Eye For The Straight Borrower: How Mortgage Planners and Wardbrobe Consultants Are Similar

The man in braces, Mr. Brian Brady, shows us how to obtain a smart mortgage and what NOT to wear in his clever and fashionable piece about what to consider when obtaining a mortgage.

CONGRATULATIONS WINNERS!

By unanimous agreement, the judges hereby award a well-deserved Honorable Mention to Mike Mueller for his very original and beautiful series of 17 Mortgage Haiku's, Zen and the Art of Mortgage Haiku. He accomplished the very purpose of this contest by achieving notice in two publications, The San Jose Mercury News and Redfin Blog. Mike, the spirit and enthusiasm you showed for this writing challenge is deeply appreciated!

And for sheer comedy, we wish to recognize Bill Engleman for his witty and downright hilarious post,The Mortgage Market and Pop Culture

Finally, a nod goes out to Angelina Jolie for her unexpected guest appearance in two of the entries. Sorry - no Angie pics on my post!

* * *

Thank you to all who met this challenge with your wonderful entries. Please don't miss a single one!

In no particular order...

mortgage creative writing challenge: A Tale of the Seven Dwarfs from Snow "Mortgage" White's perspective - 03/31/08 11:14 AM

While we all know that life is no fairytale, we often proceed through our decisions with the proverbial rose colored glasses. With each less than the best decision that we make, there needs to be one who comes in and handles the messes left behind. Sometimes it is our spouse, sometimes, ...
mortgage creative writing challenge: Mortgage Creative Writing Challenge : What a consumer should know first.... - 03/30/08 06:48 PM

mortgage creative writing challenge: So You Want a Mortgage........ - 03/28/08 12:53 PM
YOU WANT MONEY?
Well, it's not as simple as it would appear. More so today, than ever before you'll need a mortgage professional to guide you from the point of application. Through the programs you may (or may not) qualify for and the documentation you'll need to supply. To the actual closing ...
mortgage creative writing challenge: The Real Estate Gods Are Laughing - 03/29/08 11:43 PM
I have often wondered why it is we believe we can "own" real estate. Somewhere, there are Real Estate Gods, and they are laughing their heads off. They know the truth: we don't own real estate. It owns us.
Saying you own real estate is like saying you own your child. You nurture...

mortgage creative writing challenge: The pros and cons of a mortgage broker - 03/29/08 09:42 AM
I work for a mortgage broker but I am going to give you an insight into the difference between a bank and a mortgage broker.
A bank usually has different loan programs and rates for all of those programs. Many banks have a set rate for each particular program. A few banks allow ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: A Consumers View on Things - 03/27/08 05:37 PM
I've been watching as the housing and mortgage industry has been in "crisis" It has brought a few questions to mind that I'd like to ask.
I feel as if Andy Rooney is my muse.

If there are "Prime" loans and "Sub-Prime" loans, why would anyone loan to a person or persons ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: Refinancing, bank, and the crazy rules - 03/28/08 10:26 AM
Well I have another great story to tell about how crazy lenders are getting with their rules. The lenders, and banks are not making many exceptions any more and sticking to the rules no matter how stupid they are.
The mortgage loan is for a Metro Detroit home in Grosse Pointe which is ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: Views From The FBIs Padded Room - 03/27/08 03:30 PM
I've tried writting ths 5 times for Jason Sardi and Jennifer Bukaty's Creative Writing Challenge. Not as cool as Joey Aszterbaum, Joe Adams or Mike Mueller - as it's not not fiction and it's not a funny subject - but the people who targeted us for fraud (over 3 million dollars) were DEFINATELY Creative! ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: I Want to Buy a Home. Where Do I Go From Here? - Part 2 - 03/27/08 09:05 AM
From the Desk of Don Draughn, Mortgage Professional
Website: http://ahfmortgage.elliemae.net/ddraughn
In Part One of this series, we looked at how important it is to Find Out What is on Your Credit Report. Once you know what is there, you can either move to the next step - obtaining mortgage pre-approval or working on ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: An old book and an old man in the Mortgage business - 03/26/08 10:08 AM
Call NOW and for only $199.95 we will send you this wonderful blog called "Welcome to Mortgage Terms for Dummies", otherwise known as plain talk. With this handy dandy reference guide you can be talking like a mortgage geek within hours. Amaze and stun your Realtor friends when you toss out ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: Daytona Beach Homebuyer's Financing Advice From Your Real Estate Professional! - 03/26/08 08:32 AM
Life seems to roll by faster...faster than ever before, heck microwaves and computers sometimes are not fast enough. Because our lives move so rapidly we sometime make quick decisions and in the long run end up costing us our time, energy and money. It's those occasions where you wish that you ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: I Want to Buy a Home. Where Do I Go From Here? - Part 1 - 03/26/08 08:27 AM
From the Desk of Don Draughn, Mortgage Professional
Website: http://ahfmortgage.elliemae.net/ddraughn
Alright, you've decided you want to purchase your first home and you find yourself asking this question, "Where do I go from here?" This post is Part One of an eight part series to give you the direction you need to get on ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: The History of the subprime implosion.......... - 03/22/08 07:39 AM
After a long week, I decided to take a break and watch a mindless DVD. I took one of my favorites from the shelf and popped it in. "The history of the world...part I" was my selection. It was typical Mel Brooks humor. Fact delightfully spun from a different perspective. After ...

mortgage creative writing challenge: Ask The Underwriter: Appraisal Review Part 1 - 02/11/08 12:49 PM
Appraisals are under UNDER ATTACK! Okay, I may be exaggerating but I've been blog searching for the last week and I think I can probably get a few high fives when I say they are being scrutinized!
As an Underwriter I understand why my fellow underwriter is asking for the extra comps, comments ...

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Entries were judged in three categories: Creativity and Originality of Content, Actual Mortgage Information, and Lay-out and Staging.

Our five judges were Myself, Jason Sardi, Bill Archambault, Marc Grossman and guest appearance by Andrew Lenza. A hearty thanks to each of them for their hard work and thoughtful consideration of each entry!

Ask and Ye Shall Receive: Mortgage Creative Writing Challenge Extension...

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 17:24:17 -0500

Asking nicely almost always works with me. And begging is an almost surefire pass to getting about anything your heart may desire. So when several potential entrants into the Mortgage Creative Writing Contest approached Jason Sardi and myself with a request for a short extension of our contest deadline, we agreed.

Why? Because it's the end of the month and many of you have closing deadlines tomorrow. Something we can both understand. After all, business is why we're here in the first place. Ok, some of us anyway!

CONTEST ENTRY DEADLINE IS EXTENDED TO NOON ON SUNDAY, MARCH 30TH

WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED MONDAY EVENING, MARCH 31ST

All other rules remain unchanged:

First prize will be awarded 1000 points and be Featured on ActiveRain and in Localism!

Second Prize will be awarded 750 points

Third Prize will be awarded 500 points

All other entries will receive 200 points*

Give us your best, most dazzlingly creative, and most informative mortgage post ever! You don't need to be in the mortgage business to enter, as evidenced by some of the terrific posts that have been entered so far.

See them here:

Mortgage Creative Writing Challenge Entries

Entries will be scored on the following elements with each category weighted equally:

Category 1 - Creativity/Originality of Content & Subject Matter

Category 2 - Actual Mortgage Info helping Customers & Realtors alike; Relevance to Today's Market.

Category 3 - Readability/Lay-out, alas the Staging of the Post.

And finally, keep in mind the following rules....

1. You may enter as many posts as you like, but it must be completely original and authored by you.

2. Submit your post to Localism and any other groups you choose.

3. You must include the following Tag: Mortgage Creative Writing Challenge.... if you don't, you haven't entered the contest.

4. Bribing the judges will disqualify your entry - unless it's some serious cash! :)

5. DEADLINE for submitting entries is Friday, March 28th.

6. Winners will be announced Sunday, March 30th and the winning post will be re-presented here.

7. Only 200 points will be awarded per PERSON regardless of the number of entries submitted - with the exception of the Winners.

If you have any questions at all or simply wish to send chocolate our way, feel free to email Jason or myself!

For Your Eyes Only

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 22:28:34 -0600

Just For YOU Baby...

You will whisper to me in the darkness.
I will do what you tell me,
Do it all night long,
Go down on my knees and do it the way
You like it.
Let it last an eternity,
There is no turning back.
Let the dogs bark,
Let the hours pass.
Because I wont stop until the
Light breaks through the sky.

Love,

Your JS

Wash-n-Wear

Allentown PA Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Monroe * — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 19:59:57 -0600