bRAINstorming: Real Estate Blog: Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Weston, Cooper City

VLOG: Your To-Do List to be APPROVED for a Permanent Loan Modification

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:14:42 -0600

Are you interested in appying for the Making Home Affordable Program in efforts to saving your home? Have you been offered a Trial Period Mortgage Modification? Need help preparing the required documents your lender is requiring? Do you have questions? More information...Watch Video

Michelle Can Help! Michelle Burgos, CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert), HRC (Home Retention Consultant), and Short Sale Expert @ 954-343-3104 is standing by and ready to HELP! My services are FREE to you; I Promise! NO FEE - NO OBLIGATION - CALL NOW!

VLOG: RE/MAX Agents Help Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure with Short Sales

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:51:51 -0600

There may be another option to save you and your home from foreclosure. Short sales allow you to avoid foreclosure and salvage your credit. Watch Video

Call Michelle for a FREE One-on-One Consultation.

VLOG: Everything is a Choice!

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:10:27 -0600

In life and in my business I have learned that "Possitive Affirmations" are a Key Ingredient to a Successful Life and Inner Being. During this season, the season for giving, I would like to give you this gift. Please accept this gift with an open heart and mind and use it often as Food for Your Soul. Read more...

If I offered you $6,500 FREE & CLEAR...Would You Take It? How about $8,000...Now Would You Take It?

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 23:56:27 -0600

Claim your Tax Credit TODAY!

Move-Up/Repeat Buyers & First Time Home Buyers...

Best of All You Can Use The Credit to Purchase a Short Sale or Foreclosure

ACT NOW!

Looking to Buy or Sell?

Call Michelle Burgos, CDPE, GRI (954) 343-3104 ext. 0

Visit Us Online: www.RealEstateWish.com Email: Info@RealEstateWish.com

Condo For Sale in Miramar FL 33025 - St Andrews - $74,447 - MLS # M1327498

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:52:31 -0600

Condo For Sale in Miramar FL 33025 - - St Andrews - $74,447 - MLS # M1327498

"For more information and photos of this property, Txt M1327498 to 48696"

•1. From your mobile phone, create a new text message to the number 48696.

•2. In the body of the message enter: M1327498

•3. Press SEND. In a few seconds you will receive a reply message with a link to see all the property details.

Or contact Michelle @ Info@MichelleCanHelp.com to request an email be sent directly to your email inbox. Enter "Please send M1327498" in the subject line.

Remember, Michelle "CAN HELP" and I am here to assist you!

Condo For Sale in Coral Springs FL 33065 - $79,997 - MLS # M1330194

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:02:21 -0600

Condo For Sale in Coral Springs FL 33065 - $79,997 - MLS # M1330194

"For more information and photos of this property, Txt M1330194 to 48696"

1. From your mobile phone, create a new text message to the number 48696.

2. In the body of the message enter: M1330194

3. Press SEND. In a few seconds you will receive a reply message with a link to see all the property details.

Or contact Michelle @ Info@MichelleCanHelp.com to request an email be sent directly to your email inbox. Enter "Please send M1330194" in the subject line.

Remember, Michelle "CAN HELP" and I am here to assist you!

Condo For Sale in Miramar FL 33023 - Asking: $74,447 - MLS# M1324719

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:23:42 -0600

Condo For Sale in Miramar FL 33023 - $74,447 - MLS # M1324719

"For more information and photos of this property, Txt M1324719 to 48696"

From your mobile phone, create a new text message to the number 48696.
In the body of the message enter: M1324719
Press SEND. In a few seconds you will receive a reply message with a link to see all the property details.

Or contact Michelle @ Info@MichelleCanHelp.com to request an email be sent directly to your email inbox. Enter "Please send M1324719" in the subject line.

Remember, Michelle "CAN HELP" and I am here to assist you!

Meet My Life & Business Coaches Who Inspire Me To Thrive! Who Inspires You?

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 22:56:00 -0600

(Hover over photos for brief description)

Who Inspires You: I had someone ask me "Who inspires you?" "Do you have a life or business coach

Yes, I do. I have - not one but - many coaches that inspire me and keep me motivated, educated and enable me to thrive in life & in my business.

I want to take a moment to acknowledge them and simply say "THANK YOU" for everything you do for me as an individual but most importantly for our community as a whole. We are forever greatful. "Our world is a better place because of you!"

Remember, Michelle "CAN HELP" and I am here to assist you!

NEW U.S. Plan Will Help Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 07:30:14 -0600

NEW U.S. Plan Will Help Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure

Homeowners across the United States could avoid foreclosure under a plan announced on Nov. 30 by the U.S. Treasury Department. Under the plan, millions of at-risk homeowners could be free of mortgage debt without going through foreclosure, and given $1,500 for relocation.

The Treasury plan, which applies to 75 percent of the mortgages in the U.S., including those backed by Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae, provides incentives for lenders and homeowners for completing short sales - transactions...read more

Remember, Michelle "CAN HELP" and I am here to assist you!

12,000+ Strong SuperHero CDPE Agents NATIONWIDE "CAN" HELP!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:21:24 -0600

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Michelle has on her SUPER HERO cape & is on a MISSION to SAVE 240+ Families "NATIONWIDE" from Foreclosure in 2010!

Are you or someone you know "ANYWHERE IN THE US" in need of a Home Retention or a Foreclosure Prevention Consultation? Do you need a Short Sale or considering one?

I have a network of 12,000 strong CDPE Agents "NATIONWIDE" that CAN HELP!

Contact Michelle Today @ (954) 343-3104 to learn everything you need to know about your Options and Possible Solutions.

"Remember, Michelle Can Help and I am here to assist you!"

The Truth About Mortgage Modifications

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:35:33 -0600

The Truth About Mortgage Modifications

The decisions you make as a homeowner today hold a profound impact on your financial future. However, it is important to safeguard yourself from misinformation and fraud. Get the facts regarding your situation and always have a contingency plan.

For those who qualify, a mortgage modification is the ideal remedy to their financial distress. I've prepared a FREE report on the truth about mortgage modifications to guide you through this important process. Simply click here to get this valuable information, and feel free to pass it along to anyone who may need it. One homeowner lost to foreclosure is one too many!

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I have training and experience in providing solutions to homeowners facing financial hardship. Together, we can formulate a plan to get back on track.

If you have any unanswered questions, or your circumstances are urgent, please contact me today.

Michelle Burgos, CDPE®
954-343-3104

Your Uncle Sam (IRS), 1099's, Judgments, Unsecured Notes, Insolvency and the ramifications they can have when applying for a Short Sale or when confronted with Foreclosure.

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:20:43 -0600

As a REALTOR and Short Sale Expert asisting home owners avoid foreclosure everyday, I find that home owner have valid concerns that need to be addressed.

Many home owners are not aware that they have options, solutions and most importantly they have rights as home owners. Many walk away from their homes and consequently destroy their credit for 10, 15, 20, 25 years or more without knowing that foreclosure is NOT the only solutions!

Click here to find the Options & Solutions to Foreclosure

I have attached two additional documents below that will answer most of the questions you may have regarding Your Uncle Sam (IRS), 1099;s, Judgments, Unsecured Notes and the ramifications they can have when applying for a Short Sale or when confronted with Foreclosure.

As always...fell free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Remember, Michelle "CAN HELP" and I am here to assist you!

What Is CDPE?

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:55:30 -0600

The Certified Distressed Property Expert Designation (CDPE) is an indication that a Realtor® has taken the initiative to become an educated and prepared advocate on the behalf of a homeowner in distress. Earned by completing detailed and thorough coursework via the Distressed Property Institute, real estate agents with the CDPE designation are armed with the necessary tools and information to help distressed property owners avoid foreclosure and continue their lives.

As a CDPE designated REALTOR®, I have committed myself to helping those who face foreclosures by working to find the right solution for their individual needs and seeing the issue resolved. Part of my CDPE designation coursework involved studying the process of short sales, once rarely accepted by lenders, but in today's world they are becoming an increasingly viable option. Although more common in recent years, lender's still want the right deal with the right paperwork, and most real estate agents without the CDPE designation do not know the specifics. The CDPE course has taught me how to submit the proper documents to a variety of lenders and negotiation skills, allowing for quick resolve to a short sale. A CDPE's education is continual, as CDPEs from across the county gather information to provide the Distressed Property Institute a continual flow of new information to share with other CDPE designated agents.

Preguntas Frequentes (FAQs) Sobre Ventas Cortas y Modificación Hipotecaria en Broward y Miami

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 07:59:59 -0600

Preguntas Frequentes (FAQs)

Preguntas Frequentes

Es de entender que existan muchas preguntas al tener que enfrentarse con una situación nueva y difícil, especialmente cuando su hogar está en juego. La realidad es que millones de propietarios en todo el país están cayendo en cuenta de que tienen muchas más preguntas que respuestas acerca del tema. Esperamos que la información que aparece a continuación le ayude a entender mejor las circunstancias. Si tiene preguntas que no aparecen contestadas aquí, o si quiere información acerca de recursos adicionales, por favor siéntase en la libertad de contactarnos.

¿Califico para una venta corta?

Para calificar para una venta corta debe tener una o todas de las siguientes características:

Problemas Económicos: Cuando existe una situación que está haciendo que tenga problemas para poder pagar su hipoteca.
Déficit de Ingresos Mensuales: O dicho de otra forma: “Usted tiene más dinero que mes”. Un prestamista tiene que comprobar que usted no puede pagar, o que pronto no va a poder pagar su hipoteca.
Insolvencia: El prestamista tiene que comprobar que usted no tiene los activos necesarios que le permitan pagar su hipoteca disminuyendo su deuda.

¿Qué es una Modificación Hipotecaria?

Una modificación hipotecaria es el proceso por medio del cual su entidad de préstamo hipotecario cambia uno o más de los siguientes puntos:

Su tasa de interés
El saldo de su préstamo (a través de una reducción)
Los términos de su préstamo (por ejemplo: cambiándolo su tasa de interés de ajustable a fija).

Este proceso le permite a los prestatarios permanecer en su propiedad cuando no pueden pagar sus pagos hipotecarios actuales.

¿Por qué un prestamista modificaría mi hipoteca?

Los prestamistas se han dado cuenta que en algunos casos es mejor para ellos tratar de llegar a un acuerdo con sus prestatarios y disminuir pagos mensuales o hacer que los términos del préstamo sean más convenientes para ayudarlos a permanecer en sus propiedades. La ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure) promedio puede costarle a un prestamista entre el 35% - 50% del valor de una propiedad, así que lograr que los prestatarios permanezcan en sus hogares es una buena opción para todos los involucrados.

¿Qué tengo que hacer para calificar para una modificación de préstamo?

De acuerdo al sitio web del Programa Making Home Affordable(http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/spanish/index.htmlusted) necesitará reunir la información que aparece a continuación para que su prestatario considera la modificación:

Información acerca de su primera hipoteca, como por ejemplo su estado de cuenta mensual.
Información acerca de su segunda hipoteca o línea de crédito (equity line) sobre la residencia.
El balance sus cuentas y los pagos mensuales mínimos que debe en todas sus tarjetas de crédito.
El balance y sus pagos mensuales en todas sus otras deudas, como por ejemplo préstamos estudiantiles y de auto.
Su declaración de impuestos más reciente.
Información acerca de sus ahorros y otros bienes que posea.
Información acerca de los ingresos mensuales brutos (antes de deducir los impuestos) de todos los que viven en la residencia, incluyendo los talonarios de pago más recientes si los recibe y la documentación de ingresos que recibe de otras fuentes.

Si se aplica en su caso, también puede ayudar escribir una carta describiendo las circunstancias que hicieron que sus ingresos se redujeran o que sus gastos aumentaran (pérdida de trabajo, divorcio, enfermedades, etc.)

¿Cómo puedo calificar para una modificación hipotecaria?

Primero, tiene que llamar a su prestamista y tener toda la información que detallamos arriba disponible para poder conversar con ellos. Llame a la línea de servicio al cliente (Customer Service) y pregúnteles que opciones tienen disponibles. Si la persona con la que habla no entiende lo que usted está solicitando, puede pedir que le pasen la llamada a uno de los siguientes departamentos (los prestamistas pueden tener nombres diferentes para estos departamentos):

Mitigación de Pérdidas.
Modificación de Préstamos
H.O.P.E.

Antes de contactar a su prestamista hipotecario, usted puede tomar una prueba de elegibilidad (eligibility test) en el sitio web http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/spanish/index.htmlusted. Esta prueba le dirá si usted es elegible para una modificación a través del programa patrocinado por el gobierno Home Affordability and Stability (HASP). Para un listado de las instituciones y entidades participantes,visite www.HopeNow.org.

¿Qué pasa si no califico para una modificación hipotecaria, no puedo pagar mi casa y debo más dinero de lo que vale?

Usted no está solo y la ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure) no es la única opción. Si su prestamista hipotecario no está dispuesto a ayudarle a reducir sus mensualidades, puede que usted quiera consider la posibilidad de una venta corta. Agentes como yo, con la Designación Certified Distressed Property Expert®, hemos sido entrenados ampliamente sobre cómo procesar y negociar las ventas cortas. Una venta corta le permite vender su residencia por menos de lo que debe para poder evitar la ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure). Converse con un experto en la materia para verificar si califica.

¿Qué significa el Refinanciamiento Home Affordable?

Si Fannie Mae o Freddie Mac son dueños de su hipoteca, usted puede ser elegible para un Refinanciamiento Home Affordable. Esto le permitirá refinanciar su hogar y muchas veces la disminución de sus mensualidades hipotecarias.

¿Cuáles son los requisitos para el Refinanciamiento Home Affordable?

De acuerdo a la información que ha sido divulgada por el gobierno federal, los siguientes son los requisitos que necesita para calificar:

Usted es el propietario y vive en una casa que sea de una a cuatro unidades.
El préstamo sobre la residencia es propiedad o está asegurado por Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (vea Enlaces Útiles)
Cuando aplica, debe estar al día en sus pagos hipotecarios (no debe haber retrasado más de treinta días en su pago en los últimos doce meses, o si su préstamo tiene menos de doce meses, no debe haber omitido ningún pago).
Piensa que la cantidad de dinero que debe en su primera hipoteca es aproximadamente igual o un poco menor que el valor actual de su residencia.
Tiene los ingresos suficientes para poder pagar las nuevas mensualidades hipotecarias, y el refinanciamiento mejora la posibilidad de que pueda seguirlos pagando a largo plazo aumentando la estabilidad de su préstamo.

Homeowner Resources

Get Your FREE Report!

What is a CDPE?

Learn how agents with theCertified Distressed Property Expert® designation are best suited to help distressed homeowners.

Contact Michelle Burgos, CDPE®

Michelle Burgos, CDPE®

RE/MAX PowerPro

4301 Flamingo RD.

Suite 101

Davie, FL 33330

954-343-3104

www.MichelleCanHelp.com

Soluciones a la Ejecución Hipotecaria (Foreclosure)

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:58:55 -0600

Soluciones a la Ejecución Hipotecaria (Foreclosure)

El estado del Mercado inmobiliario actual y la crisis económica que se viven en los Estados Unidos han causado incalculables preocupaciones y angustia a muchas familias americanas. La ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure) es uno de los desafíos económicos más devastadores que una familia puede enfrentar y muchas veces puede ser evitada. Las opciones disponibles para los residentes de los Condados de Florida en lugar de la ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure) son muchas. A continuación, le presentamos una breve explicación de estas soluciones, incluyendo sus beneficios e inconvenientes.

Reposición

La reposición (Reinstatement) es la forma más simple de evitar una ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure), pero usualmente es la más difícil de cumplir. El propietario simplemente pregunta la cantidad total que le debe a la compañía hipotecaria a la fecha, y la paga. Esta solución no requiere de la aprobación del prestamista y “restablece” la hipoteca hasta el día anterior de la venta final de ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure).

Beneficios: No requiere de la aprobación de la compañía hipotecaria o del prestamista.
Inconvenientes:  Requiere que el propietario pueda pagar todas las mensualidades atrasadas, multas y cuotas que debe.

Tolerancia o Plan de Pago

La Tolerancia (Forbearance) o el Plan de Pago (Repayment Plan) implican que el propietario negocie con la compañía hipotecaria para que le permitan pagarles las mensualidades atrasadas a través de un periodo de tiempo. El propietario usualmente tiene que pagar sus mensualidades actuales además de una porción de dinero adicional por los pagos atrasados que debe.

Beneficios: Le permite al propietario pagar lo que debe dentro de un periodo de tiempo determinado.
Inconvenientes: Requiere que el propietario se encuentre en una posición económica en la que pueda pagar no sólo sus mensualidades hipotecarias actuales sino que también pueda pagar una parte del dinero retrasado que debe. Algunas compañías hipotecarias requieren que el propietario “califique” para la Tolerancia (Forbearance).

Modificación Hipotecaria

La Modificación Hipotecaria implica la reducción de uno de los siguientes: la tasa de interés del préstamo (interest rate), el balance a principal (principal balance) que se debe en el préstamo, los términos (terms) del préstamo o cualquier combinación de todas las opciones anteriores. Usualmente resultan en pagos más bajos y por lo tanto, en una hipoteca más asequible.

Beneficios: Reduce el pago que el propietario tiene que hacer mensualmente y puede reducir el balance a principal del préstamo.
Inconvenientes:  El propietario tiene que “calificar” para lograr una nueva mensualidad y usualmente requiere que tenga la documentación completa del caso. El prestamista debe estar activamente involucrado en realizar modificaciones de préstamos.

Alquilar la Propiedad

El propietario que tiene un pago hipotecario lo suficientemente bajo como para que el alquiler cubra el mismo puede alquilar su propiedad y usar los ingresos que reciba para pagar su hipoteca.

Beneficios: Le permite al propietario quedarse con su propiedad indefinidamente.
Inconvenientes: Los problemas que pueden ocurrir al tener una propiedad de alquiler son muchos, y el alquiler usualmente no cubre el costo total de la hipoteca y el mantenimiento de la propiedad.

Entregar la Escritura de la Propiedad antes de que la Hipoteca sea Ejecutada

También conocida como la “ejecución hipotecaria amistosa” entregar la escritura de la propiedad antes de que ocurra la ejecución hipotecaria (deed in lieu) le permite al propietario devolver la propiedad al prestamista en lugar de atravesar por el proceso de una ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure). En esta opción se requiere de la aprobación del prestamista y el propietario debe desocupar la propiedad.

Beneficios: Muchas veces cuando ocurre una entrega de la escritura (deed in lieu) exitosa, el prestatario no hace uso de su derecho a exigir el pago de la deuda hipotecaria no cubierta por el dinero que se obtuvo de la venta de la residencia (Deficiency judgment).
Inconvenientes:  Requiere que el propietario desaloje la propiedad y la entrega de la escritura (deed in lieu) puede ser reportada a las oficinas de crédito de igual forma que una ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure).

Bancarrota

Muchas personas consideran y mercadean la bancarrota como una “solución para la ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure)”, pero esto es cierto solamente en algunos estados y bajo situaciones específicas. Si un propietario tiene deudas que no son hipotecarias y que ocasionan que se atrase en el pago de su hipoteca y al declarase en bancarrota elimina estas deudas, entonces puede que sea una solución viable para él.

Beneficios: No requiere de la aprobación de su prestamista.
Inconvenientes: Si el propietario no puede pagar su mensualidad hipotecaria la bancarrota únicamente va a demorar – no a detener – el proceso de ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure). La bancarrota puede ser muy costosa, daña su índice crediticio y solamente puede ser usada una vez cada siete años.

Refinanciamiento:

Si un propietario tiene suficiente capital (equity) en su propiedad y todavía tiene buen crédito, puede que le sea posible refinanciar su hipoteca.

Beneficios: En algunos casos puede reducir sus mensualidades.
Inconvenientes: En el mercado actual, el refinanciamiento casi siempre incrementa los pagos hipotecarios mensuales y es un proceso costoso.

Ley de Ayuda Civil para Miembros de las Fuerzas Armadas (sólo para militares)

Si un miembro de las fuerzas armadas está sufriendo problemas económicos por participar en un despliegue militar (deployment) y puede demostrar que su deuda es producto de un despliegue anterior, puede que califique para recibir ayuda bajo la Ley de Ayuda Civil para Miembros de las Fuerzas Armadas (Servicemember’s Civil Relief Act). La Asociación Americana de Abogados (American Bar Association) tiene una red de abogados que ayudan a los miembros de las fuerzas armadas a tramitar éste tipo de situaciones.

Beneficios: Si la persona califica, los pagos de todas sus deudas como consumidor bajarán, no solamente sus pagos hipotecarios.
Inconvenientes: Se debe ser un miembro activo de las fuerzas armadas para poder calificar.

Vender la Propiedad

Los propietarios que tienen suficiente capital (equity) en su propiedad pueden poner a la venta su propiedad con un agente calificado que sea versado en el proceso de ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure) en su área.

Beneficios: Le permite a los propietarios evitar el proceso de ejecución hipotecaria (foreclosure) y colectar parte del capital de su propiedad (equity).
Inconvenientes: En nuestros días, en muchas ocasiones los propietarios no tienen suficiente capital (equity) en su propiedad como para poder vender sin tener que negociar una venta corta (short sale) (vea la siguiente solución)

Homeowner Resources

Get Your FREE Report!

What is a CDPE?

Learn how agents with theCertified Distressed Property Expert® designation are best suited to help distressed homeowners.

Contact Michelle Burgos, CDPE®

Michelle Burgos, CDPE®

RE/MAX PowerPro

4301 Flamingo RD.

Suite 101

Davie, FL 33330

954-343-3104

www.MichelleCanHelp.com

FREE Loan Modification ~ Avoid Foreclosure!

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:20:43 -0600

For those who qualify, a mortgage modification is the ideal remedy to their financial distress. I've prepared a FREE report on the truth about mortgage modifications to guide you through this important process. Simply request your report below to get this valuable information, and feel free to pass it along to anyone who may need it. One homeowner lost to foreclosure is one too many!

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I have training and experience in providing solutions to homeowners facing financial hardship. Together, we can formulate a plan to get back on track.

If you have any unanswered questions, or your circumstances are urgent, please call me today.

Michelle Burgos, CDPE®
954-343-3104

Do I Qualify for a Loan Modification/Short Sale? (FAQs)

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:03:37 -0600

Frequently Asked Questions - www.FLAvoidForeclosre.com

It is understandable to have questions when coping with a new and challenging situation, especially when a home is at stake. The reality is that millions of homeowners across the country are finding out that they have more questions than answers. We hope that the following information will help you better understand the circumstances. If you have further questions not addressed below, or would like additional information resources, feel free to Contact Us.

Do I qualify for a short sale?

The qualifications for a short sale include any or all of the following:

Financial Hardship - There is a situation causing you to have trouble affording your mortgage.
Monthly Income Shortfall - In other words: "You have more month than money." A lender will want to see that you cannot afford, or soon will not be able to afford your mortgage.
Insolvency - The lender will want to see that you do not have significant liquid assets that would allow you to pay down your mortgage.

What is a mortgage modification?

A mortgage modification is a process through which your mortgage lender changes any or all of the following:

Your interest rate
Your principal balance (through a reduction)
Your loan terms (example: from an adjustable to a fixed rate)

This process can allow borrowers to stay in their property when they can no longer afford their current mortgage payments.

Why would a lender modify my mortgage?

Lenders have realized that in some cases it is better for them to work with current borrowers to lower payments or possibly improve terms in order to keep homeowners in their properties. The average foreclosure can cost a lender from 35-50% of the value of a property, so keeping borrowers in their homes is a good option for everyone.

What do I need to qualify for a mortgage modification?

According to the Making Home Affordable Web site (www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov), you will need the following information for your lender to consider a modification:

Information about your first mortgage, such as your monthly mortgage statement
Information about any second mortgage or home equity line of credit on the house
Account balances and minimum monthly payments due on all of your credit cards
Account balances and monthly payments on all your other debts such as student loans and car loans
Your most recent income tax return
Information about your savings and other assets
Information about the monthly gross (before tax) income of your household, including recent pay stubs if you receive them or documentation of income you receive from other sources

If applicable, it may also be helpful to have a letter describing any circumstances that caused your income to reduce or expenses to increase (job loss, divorce, illness, etc.)

How do I qualify for a mortgage modification?

The first call you make should be to your lender, have the information above ready to discuss with them and call your customer service line to ask them what options you have available. If the person you speak with does not understand what you are asking, you can ask to be referred to one of the following departments (different lenders have different names for these departments):

Loss Mitigation
Mortgage Modification
H.O.P.E.

Prior to contacting your mortgage lender you can quickly complete an eligibility test at www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov. This test will let you know if you are eligible for a modification through the government-sponsored Home Affordability and Stability Program (HASP). For a list of mortgage lenders and servicers, visit www.HopeNow.com.

What if I don't qualify for a mortgage modification, can't afford my home, and owe more than it's worth?

You are not alone and foreclosure is not the only option. If your mortgage lender or servicer will not work with you to reduce your payment, you may want to consider a short sale. Agents like me, with the Certified Distressed Property Expert® Designation, have undergone extensive training in how to process and negotiate short sales. A short sale allows you to sell your home for less than what you owe and avoid foreclosure. Speak to your market expert to see if you may qualify.

What is a Home Affordable Refinance?

If Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac owns your mortgage, you may be eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance. This will allow you to refinance your home and often lower your payments.

What are the qualifications for a Home Affordable Refinance?

According to the resources released by the government, following are a list of qualifications:

You are the owner occupant of a one- to four-unit home
The loan on your property is owned or securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (see Useful Links)
At the time you apply, you are current on your mortgage payments (you haven't been more than 30 days late on your mortgage payment in the last 12 months, or if you have had the loan for less than 12 months, you have never missed a payment)
You believe that the amount you owe on your first mortgage is about the same or slightly less than the current value of your house
You have income sufficient to support the new mortgage payments, and the refinance improves the long-term affordability or stability of your loan

Contact Michelle Burgos, CDPE® Michelle Burgos, CDPE®

RE/MAX PowerPro 4301 Flamingo RD. Suite 101 Davie, FL 33330
954-343-3104 www.MichelleCanHelp.com

Breve Explicación de las Ventas Cortas (Short Sales)

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:17:28 -0600

Breve Explicación de las Ventas Cortas (Short Sales)

Una venta corta (short sale) puede ser una excelente solución para los propietarios que tienen que vender su residencia y quienes deben más dinero que lo que su propiedad vale. En el pasado, era muy poco común que los bancos o prestamistas aceptaran una venta corta (short sale). En nuestros días, debido a los cambios abrumadores del mercado inmobiliario, los bancos y prestamistas se han vuelto mucho más abiertos a la negociación en lo que tiene que ver con este tipo de transacciones. Los cambios recientes a la política corporativa de la administración del Presidente Obama también han mejorado las posibilidades de obtener la aprobación de una venta corta (short sale).

Pero para ser un poco más técnicos, aquí tiene una definición un poco más oficial:

Un propietario se encuentra "corto" cuando la cantidad de dinero que debe por su propiedad es mayor que su valor en el mercado actual.
Una venta corta (short sale) ocurre cuando se presenta una solicitud ante la compañía hipotecaria del prestatario (o compañías) para que acepten una cantidad de dinero menor al balance total del préstamo cuando se complete la venta. Un comprador compra la propiedad y la propiedad es entonces "vendida por menos" (sold short) del valor total de la hipoteca.

Para que los propietarios puedan califican para una venta corta (short sale), tienen que tener una o todas de las siguientes circunstancias:

Problemas Económicos: Situación que causa que usted tenga problemas para poder pagar su hipoteca.

Déficit de Ingresos Mensuales: O dicho de otra forma: "Usted tiene más dinero que mes". Un prestamista tiene que comprobar que usted no puede pagar, o que pronto no va a poder pagar su hipoteca.

Insolvencia: El prestamista tiene que comprobar que usted no tiene los activos necesarios que le permitan pagar su hipoteca disminuyendo su deuda.

Esto parece ser bastante simple, pero es un proceso complicado que necesita de la experiencia de profesionales calificados. Contamos con la Designación CDPE® y estamos listos para identificar todas las opciones posibles disponibles para usted y para ayudarle a ejecutar rápidamente la transacción de una venta corta (short sale).

Si tiene preguntas o cree que puede calificar para una venta corta, por favor contáctenos para una consulta gratuita.

Entender cuáles son sus opciones ahora puede hacer una gran diferencia en el futuro.

Michelle Burgos, CDPE - www.FLAvoidForeclosure.com

7 Most Dangerous Short Sale Myths

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 00:08:47 -0600

There are millions of homeowners just like you who are looking for answers and don't know what to do. You're not alone and you're in the right place.

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I have training and experience in providing solutions to homeowners facing financial hardship. Despite my best efforts, there's still an overwhelming amount of misinformation about the options available, especially short sales.

To give you a better idea of the short sale option, and to set straight some of the myths you may have heard, I've prepared a free report just for you - please fill out the information below to receive your free report. This report will clarify the following myths:

The Bank Would Rather Foreclose Than Bother With A Short Sale
You Must Be Behind On Your Mortgage To Negotiate A Short Sale
There Is Not Enough Time To Negotiate A Short Sale Before My Foreclosure
Listing My Home As A Short Sale Is An Embarrassment
Short Sales Are Impossible And Never Get Approved
Banks Are Waiting On A Bailout And Not Accepting Short Sales
Buyers Are Not Interested In Short Sale Properties

These ideas are potentially harmful to homeowners seeking real solutions. I hope you'll review this information for yourself or share it with a homeowner in need.

In these times, we all need to know the truth to know how to get back on track.

If you have any additional concerns about this issue, or your circumstances are urgent, please give me a call.

Michelle Burgos, CDPE®
954-343-3104

www.FLAvoidForeclosure.com

The Truth About Mortgage Modifications

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:30:01 -0600

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I have training and experience in providing solutions to homeowners facing financial hardship. Together, we can formulate a plan to get back on track.

If you have any unanswered questions, or your circumstances are urgent, please call or email me today at Info@MichelleCanHelp.com.

Michelle Burgos, CDPE®
954-343-3104

Don't Believer Everything You Hear: Foreclosure Vs. Short Sale

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:55:32 -0500

Don't Believer Everything You Hear!

You need to have the CORRECT information. That's why I'm glad you're here. To help, I've prepared a free report-just for you-that compares the realities of foreclosures and short sales side-by-side. Simply provide your information below, and I'll send you this report.

If you have any additional concerns about this issue, or your circumstances are urgent, please feel free to give me a call. I can help you evaluate your options and get you back on track to a secure financial future.

Michelle Burgos, CDPE® 954-343-3104

Options and Solutions for South Florida Home Owners in Foreclosure

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:31:04 -0500

As a real estate agent, what I often see in troubled homeowners is a belief that they are alone with their challenges. Regrettably, over 70% of homeowners in foreclosure proceed without ANY visible assistance. This is not acceptable for the communities I serve.

That's why I've developed this site: to ensure you get the valuable resources that can reduce your financial strain and change your life for the better. As a CDPE I know the options for homeowners in foreclosure or delinquent on their mortgages, and I can send you a report detailing this information, prepared just for you.

Let me help you evaluate your options and get back on track to a solid, stable future.

If you have questions or feel you may qualify for a short sale, please call me at (954) 343-3104 or Email me at Info@MichelleCanHelp.com for a free consultation.

"Understanding your options now could mean all the difference in the world!"

South Florida Short Sales Explained

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:22:10 -0500

A short sale can be an excellent solution for homeowners who need to sell, and who owe more on their homes than they are worth. In the past, it was rare for a bank or lender to accept a short sale. Today, however, due to overwhelming market changes, banks and lenders have become much more negotiable when it comes to these transactions. Recent changes in corporate policy and the Obama administration have also improved the chances of getting a short sale approved.

For homeowners to qualify for a short sale, they must fall into any or all of the following circumstances:

Financial Hardship
Monthly Income Shortfall.
Insolvency

Local Agent Provides Free Information Resources to Broward and Miami-Dade County Homeowners Facing Financial Hardships

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:06:40 -0500

Local Agent Provides Free Information Resources to Broward and Miami-Dade County Homeowners Facing Financial Hardships

New web sites present options for homeowners confronted with the possibility of foreclosure in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. www.MichelleCanHelp.com & www.FLAvoidForeclosure.com are two easy-to-use web sites providing vital information on the facts and issues affecting struggling homeowners. The information and materials located on these sites are regularly updated to reflect market changes, trends, new lender requirements, and industry updates to help homeowners make educated decisions about their financial future.

"I developed these sites with my community in mind," Burgos said. "When faced with the possibility of foreclosure, I've seen too many homeowners make poor choices, even walking away from their homes without calling their lender or a real estate agent. Most homeowners don't know the options available, or even how to find any information on their situation. Read more

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Local Agent Provides Free Information Resource to Miami-Dade & Broward County Homeowners Facing Financial Hardships

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 19:13:43 -0500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information, please contact:

Michelle Burgos, CDPE^®

C: 954-343-3104

Info@MichelleCanHelp.com

Local Agent Provides Free Information Resource to Miami-Dade & Broward County Homeowners Facing Financial Hardships

New Web site presents options for homeowners confronted

with the possibility of foreclosure.

Miramar, FL - August 11, 2009 - Local real estate agent and community advocate, Michelle Burgos of RE/MAX PowerPro Realty, today announced the creation of a new information Web site for Miami & Broward County area homeowners in distress. www.FLAvoidForeclosure.com contains vital facts about the options available to these homeowners, to help them make the educated decisions about their future.

"I developed this site with my community in mind," Burgos said. "When faced with the possibility of foreclosure, I've seen too many homeowners make poor choices, even walking away from their homes without calling their lender or a real estate agent. These people didn't know the options available, or even how to find any information on their situation.

"I want more for the people of Miami & Broward Counties, and more comes with making informed decisions."

www.FLAvoidForeclosure.com acts as a hub for information on the facts and issues for struggling homeowners, putting all the necessary information in one, easy-to-use location. The information and materials located on the site are regularly updated to reflect market changes, trends, new lender requirements, and industry updates.

Alex Charfen, co-founder and CEO of the Distressed Property Institute in Austin, Texas, said that more than seven out of 10 homeowners in foreclosure proceed without any visible assistance.

"Agents with the Certified Distressed Property Expert^® designation are helping distressed homeowners understand that there may be options available to them," Charfen said. "Burgos has been trained to help homeowners avoid foreclosure, and this web site resource to educate the community is a commendable public service."

The CDPE designation provides real estate professionals with specific understanding of the complex issues confronting the real estate industry. Through comprehensive training and experience, CDPEs are able to provide solutions for homeowners facing hardships in today's market.

For more information about CDPE Designation, visit www.cdpe.com.