Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Tis The Season for Giving - Feed It Forward

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 07:53:03 -0600

I am a big proponent of a “pay-it-forward” concept. Here’s a great version you can use to make someone’s day and to stimulate the economy, too. Go for it!

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):

One of our ActiveRain members just sent me a $10.00 gift certificate to go to any restaurant of my choice in my area. What a nice gesture and what an impression it just made on me. It's not the gift so much as it was the thought that really did count. Now the fact that the gift was for food REALLY counted because I LOVE FOOD!!

Keeping with the tradition of giving during the Holidays, I want to Pay It Forward "Feed It Forward" to any of you who would like to do this for one of your favorite AR members. Maybe even a past client or family member, it's your choice. It only takes a minute and will really make someones day, at least it did mine.

Here's the deal:

You can give away up to (30) gift certificates each day up until Christmas Day. Each Gift certificate is worth up to $10.00 each. You can give them to anyone you choose. All you need to do is send them an email. The email comes from you with a personal message, and then all they have to do is register, search for a restaurant of their choice in their area, then print out their certificate and go eat! Sound to good to be true? This time it is!!

Feed It Forward is something Restaurants.com is doing during the Holiday Season and I commend them for doing this, especially in a time when the Country's economy has gone through some major changes. It's also a really nice way to keep the "giving" spirit alive and well. Check it out, send a $10.00 gift certificate to someone and then don't look back. It will "Make A Difference" in someones life, maybe yours!

This all reminds me of the time when I paid a $3.00 Bridge Toll for the car driving behind me (a complete stranger) then she ended up paying for the car behind her since she already had her money out, then they paid for the car behind them and so on and so on. This went on for about 10-15 cars before someone finally broke the chain and put their money back in their pocket, said thank you, and then drove on.

The very next day, as I drove through the toll booth again, the toll booth attendant looked at me and shouted, "Have you any idea what you caused yesterday?" For a second, I was shocked, I thought I was in trouble or something.. I had forgotten about paying for the car behind me the day before, and that's when he told me the story about all the people paying each others Bridge Tolls behind me. He said, "You really made an impression on me yesterday, it's something that will live in my heart forever!" Nothing feels better than that folks! Nothing!

It feels good to give! Give to family. Give to friends. Give to neighbors. Give to anyone who has touched your life, but most of all, just give! Who knows, you might be the next one getting an email "meal" from me!?!

Feed It Forward
Happy Holidays Friends! :-)

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6031 Fairwood Circle, Minnetonka, MN 55305... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:54:02 -0600

6031 Fairwood Circle, Minnetonka, MN 55305... by Twin Cities Homes for

Open Sunday December 6, 2009, 1-2pm

You will fall in love with this Minnetonka home. This four bedroom, three bathroom residence, priced at $400,000, offers open, light filled spaces with gorgeous views of the neighborhood. This residence was built on a prime lot in the Black Oaks neighborhood, in a cul-de-sac. Wall-to-wall windows in living area overlook beautiful trees and shrubs.

Entertaining will be easy in this Minnetonka home, whether you have a formal or informal gathering. Formal living room and dining room, and informal main level family room and dining will fit a large number of guests.

Spacious bedrooms, baths, lower level amusement room, two wood burning fireplaces are just a few features to highlight. Children living in this area attend schools in award winning Hopkins Schools District

Visit us in this Minnetonka home between 1 and 2 pm this Sunday.

Get listing details here.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Contact Marzena M. Melby, GRI, CDPE, Broker/Partner, Counselor Realty, Inc., Licensed REALTOR® in the state of Minnesota at If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on "email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is supplied by several sources and is subject to change without notice. Twin Cities Homes 4 Sale Blog does not guarantee, or is any way responsible for its accuracy, and provides said information without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Entries on Twin Cities Homes 4 Sale Blog represent the opinions and ideas of the author. Twin Cities Homes 4 Sale Blog does not express the views of Counselor Realty, Inc. or its other partners or agents.

Northern Lights Express Dilemma: do you support it?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

US Inspect Blog Re-Launched... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:48:02 -0600

US Inspect Blog Re-Launched... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

US Inspect Blog re-launched! Check out loads of article on home maintenance, safety with plenty of free tips. As a present or future homeowner you may want to subscribe to this blog and get your home maintenance questions answered in one place.

I liked the article with tips on decorating your home and safety during holidays, especially when you have small children, titled "Santa Baby: Child-Proofing Your Holiday Trimmings". Read it here.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

US Inspect Blog Re-Launched... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Twin Cities Real Estate Market Update: "The Skinny" for November 2009

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 06:37:59 -0600

Twin Cities Real Estate Market Update: "The Skinny" for November 2009

Twin Cities home sales are brisk in the lower price ranges. We are not observing a typical holiday slow down. Hopefully, sellers in higher price brackets will soon get in on the action! Watch this month's update from the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Twin Cities Real Estate Market Update: "The Skinny" for November 2009

Is It a Good Time To Move?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:44:54 -0600

Is It a Good Time To Move?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Twin Cities home owners, are you sitting on the side lines of the current market? Do you wish you could own a home that’s larger, more updated, closer to work, or in a particular school district? Perhaps you can.

Yes, the property values are down; yes, mortgage qualifying guidelines are tighter, but… there many pros to making a move:

Moving up may cost you less than you think because you will likely get a great price on the new home

Interest rates are still at historic lows, so your new payment will probably be lower than you think

Many counties and cities have reduced assessed value of homes due to market conditions so your property taxes may be lower than you think

If you have owned your current home for 5 out the last 8 years, you may qualify for the new move-up tax credit; get more details on the program in my previous post.

It’s a great idea to get more information.

Contact me for a FREE market analysis for your home. Let’s discuss your situation TODAY.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Northern Lights Express Dilemma: do you support it?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Northern Lights Express Dilemma: do you support it?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:06:13 -0600

Northern Lights Express Dilemma: do you support it?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

I have lived in Minnesota since 1987 and have really enjoyed it. Twin Cities are a great area, clean, with lots of parks and wildlife preserves. We have a diverse economy, excellent schools, arts and entertainment, and sports facilities. Minnesotans pay a lot of money in taxes to have great infrastructure here, but how much more are we willing to give?

Northern Lights Express rail from Minneapolis to Duluth has been in the works for a while. The idea is great: to provide a two hour high-speed rail service between the two cities, create over 13,000 new jobs, generate new developments, and provide an environmentally friendly alternative to a car commute.

However, the problem is estimated cost of the project. Estimates started at $360,000,000. One could say: not bad for 155 miles of high speed rail system. But, then… How do you go from $360 million to $615 million, to almost 1 billion, yes BILLION in about a year?!

MnDOT project manager, Dave Christianson, said to Star Tribune: “we've come up with what many might call a worst-case scenario, and after identifying some of the shortcomings in the system, the state rail plan will stick with $990 million as the high range of the cost."

MnDOT says that the federal government will cover 80% of the total cost. But, what will happen when this funding won’t come? Is it smart to commit to a project of this magnitude in today’s economy?

So, what do you do if you have to get to Duluth from the Twin Cities? Most people drive. It’ll cost of roughly $42 for a round trip (assuming mileage at 20 per gallon of gas) and it will take about 2 and a half hours to get there. Cost of a round trip plane ticket is $400-$450 (rather pricey!), but you’ll get there faster and won’t have to deal with traffic. $990,000,000,000 (a lot of zeros!) dollars would go very far subsidizing airplane tickets for those who need to fly this route. So far Minnesota hasn’t been successful at creating a profitable project. The Light Rail system has yet to make money.

So, will you support this project?

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Northern Lights Express Dilemma: do you support it?... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Happy Thanksgiving to You... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:07:53 -0600

Happy Thanksgiving to You

As I was searching for holiday cookie ideas, I found a website with very creative cookie photos by WhippedBakeshop.

Their designs are to die for! I hope you like them as much as I did. Author share many others on their Frickr page. Enjoy.

Happy and Peaceful Thanksgiving!

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Hot off the Press: SW Minneapolis Home Sales in October... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Send A Gift- Thank You Card To Our Soldiers- Xerox Let's Say Thanks Program

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:20:30 -0600

As Thanksgiving approaches, I think more about giving thanks for all I have in my life: my family and friends, coworkers, neighbors, for peace and free country in enjoy living in, and for my personal freedoms that are priceless.

I'd like to ask that you take a minute to send a card through this site. It won't cost you anything, just a little time.

I just sent a card, will you?...

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Thanks to Xerox sending out a Thank You card to our soldiers is simple, fast and free.

At this time of the year we can take some time out to teach our children about giving thanks and living in gratitude.
The best way of course to teach gratitude is by being a good example of being in a thankful state of mind.

You can gather your children around your computer right now and go to this site:

Let's Say Thanks- In Support of our Troops.

All you do is click on the card you want to send and then click on what you want the words on the text side of the card to say.
You don't even have to think to do this because it is all done for you. You just have to choose the card and the text out of the ones on the site.
Then you just click send.

Xerox prints out the postcards and then these cards go into the care packages that Givetothetroops® sends to our soldiers.
What a gift Xerox is giving to the troops. I really appreciate a company setting a great example like this.
The cards have all been designed by children and are patriotic. There are many patriotic symbols and messages to choose from.

There is a link on the site where you can read the responses from soldiers around the globe.
For some of these soldiers, your card will be the only mail they get from home.

Here are some of the comments sent back by different servicemen and women:

To all who have supported us,

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you from myself and my fellow Marines. Your packages and well wishes have lifted our spirits at a time when we are so far away from our friends and family. I wish you could have seen the bright eyed looks and utter excitement from the Marines when opening the boxes. It was a true blessing that you made happen. It makes us proud to know that our fellow Americans care as much as we do. It makes the sacrifices we and our families make worth every minute we spend here. We Americans can stand shoulder to shoulder in unison on one thing - we're all proud of our country and we're all proud of each other. The effort you make on behalf of the troops is just as important as the work we are doing here and around the world.

- A Gunnery Sergeant

As I was leaving an un-eventful Valentine's Day today, one of the mail clerks yelled "Adams!! You have a package!!" A package, I thought to myself. I'm not expecting anything. What could this be? I took the box into my office and closed the door. As I opened the box, a flood of joy came over me as I looked over the cards from you and the young ones, one of my co-workers walked in to see tears rolling down my eyes. I had never received a gift with this much love, packed into one little place from someone that I've never known.

As I thought about what the cards talked about with soldiers giving their lives and privileges up to ensure the freedom of Americans, it was nice to know that someone out there does not take it for granted. I don't know who you are, but you are truly a gift from God. The gift that gives me the drive to serve my country proudly. As you pray that the Lord keeps the soldiers here safe and brings us home, I pray to the Lord that people like you do not die off from this world. Your contributions are nowhere near inadequate. Please never forget what this means to a soldier. Thank you for your love and thoughts.

Please be kind- take a moment out of your day to send a card for free to a soldier today. Please Reblog!

Hot off the Press: SW Minneapolis MN Home Sales... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:08:44 -0600

Hot off the Press: SW Minneapolis MN Home Sales in October 2009

SW Minneapolis MN real estate market has been quite brisk this month. There have been 120 new listings during October, that’s 12.1% increase over October 2008. However, the year to date number was 0.2% lower than in 2008. That is consistent with the lower overall listing activity this year in comparison with last year in the Twin Cities area.

Low interest rates and the stimulus buyer tax credit helped boost sales, especially in lower price ranges. There were 72 closed home sales in last, a 24.1% increase over October 2008 – this is a significant number. The year-to-date numbers are also higher in SW Minneapolis MN real estate market, but only by 1.3% over the same period in 2008.

What’s interesting is that the SW Minneapolis October median sales price number is a little lower than the year-to-date: $258,000 vs. $265,000. It’s due to a large number of sales of bank-owned properties that were priced extremely low for this area. There are still many excellent investment opportunities in this area, which traditionally has been in high demand.

One thing to understand now is that sales prices in the SW Minneapolis MN real estate market are stabilizing, but active listings still have to be priced competitively to attract showings and offers.

For more detailed information on this and other Minneapolis neighborhoods, check the MAAR report.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Hot off the Press: SW Minneapolis Home Sales in October... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Hot off the Press: Richfield Home Sales in October... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:04:44 -0600

Hot off the Press: Richfield Home Sales in October 2009

Richfield MN real estate market has been very active this month. There have been 77 new listings during October, 32.8% more than in October 2008. However, the year to date number was slightly lower than in 2008. That is consistent with the lower overall listing activity this year in comparison with last year.

Low interest rates and the stimulus buyer tax credit helped boost sales, especially in lower price ranges. There were 49 closed home sales in last, a 28.9% increase over October 2008. The year-to-date numbers are also higher in Richfield MN real estate market, by 25.1% over the same period in 2008.

What’s interesting is that the Richfield October median and average sales price numbers are pretty much the same as last October: median price was $177,000 and average price was $178,047. But, the same numbers calculated as year-to-date are significantly lower over October 2008: median sales price is $164,500 (13% less) and average is $159,019 (15.1%). Richfield MN real estate market has had a large number of bank-owned homes that have been sold this year.

One thing understand now is that sales prices in the Richfield MN real estate market are stabilizing, but active listings still have to be priced competitively to attract showings and offers.

For more detailed information, check the MAAR report.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Hot off the Press: Richfield Home Sales in October... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Happy 40th Birthday to Sesame Street... by Twin Cities Homes For Sale

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 07:31:58 -0600

Can you believe Sesame Street has been in our lives for forty years? And, how it’s changed throughout the years?

Sesame Street has been educating and entertaining American children of all backgrounds since 1969. Since then, the show has been introduced to children in many countries throughout the world.

Children and adults are celebrating this anniversary in many ways, including making delicious birthday cakes like this one by Chocmocakes .

Happy Birthday!

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Twin Cities Home Buyers: Foreclosure Listing Inventory Drops 60 Percent...

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:12:05 -0600

Twin Cities Home Buyers: Foreclosure Listing Inventory Drops 60 Percent from same time last year.

Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors reports that bank-owned homes are selling about three times faster than short sales. Many buyers are cautious when making offers on short sales due to complications and delays that are characteristic of these transactions. However, an experienced and trained short sale listing agent will make a big difference in the process and a timely close.

Twin Cities area has a growing number of Realtors holding a Certified Distressed Property Expert designation. They are extensively trained to prepare such homes for the market, have a special procedure of communicating and negotiating with banks. With the new extension and expansion of the buyers’ tax credit, buyers should consider a short sale listing.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

If You Could Make an Ill Child's Day, Would You - Action Requested

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:17:05 -0600

Straight from my TweetDeck:

PLS RT HELP-By sending Christmas card for a child’s last one, expected to live 2wks Noah Biorkman 1141 Fountain View Circle, S. Lyon MI 48178

I asked for further details and found out that little Noah is in the final stages of a two and a half year battle with Neuroblastoma cancer...! His family is having Early Christmas for him and his only wish is to get a lot of Christmas cards!

Can you respond and make a child’s day?!!! I just did.

Noah Biorkman 1141 Fountain View Circle, S. Lyon MI 48178

Let’s all come together and surprise this little beyond his wildest expectations. Pay it forward. Let's show a true power of social media.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Contact Marzena M. Melby, Broker/Partner, Counselor Realty, Inc., Licensed REALTOR® in the state of Minnesota at 612-267-6798 to list your property for sale or to purchase a property in the Twin Cities Greater Metro Area.

Visit my profile to find out more about my services. Call me today at 612-267-6798. If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on ";email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Twin Cities Home Buyers: Details On The Extended and Expanded Tax Credit

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:56:22 -0600

Both houses approved the new tax credit bill, and President Obama is expected to sign it today.



The House today and the Senate yesterday passed legislation to extend the $8,000 home buyer tax credit to April 30, 2010, 
for first-time buyers and add a $6,500 tax credit for repeat buyers if they've lived in their home for five of the past eight years. 
Home prices are capped at $800,000 (no purchase price cap for first-time buyers). 

Under the bill, income limits are expanded to $125,000 for individuals and $225,000 for joint filers. Individuals with incomes up to $145,000 
and joint filers with incomes up to $245,000 qualify for reduced credits.

Households who have binding contracts in place by April 30 will be allowed until July 1, 2009 to complete their transaction. 
The deadline for members of the military serving out the U.S. for at least 90 days between Jan. 1, 2009, and May 1, 2010, has been extended one year.

Check out the NAR Issue Brief for details.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my profile to find out more about my services. Call me today at 612-267-6798. If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on ";email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Marzena Melby of Counselor Realty Earns Nationally Recognized Designation

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:11:50 -0600

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Marzena Melby of Counselor Realty Earns Nationally Recognized Designation To Help Homeowners In Danger Of Foreclosure.

DATE: November 5, 2009

For more information, please contact: Marzena Melby
Phone: 612-267-6798

MARZENA MELBY EARNS Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) Designation To Help Homeowners In Danger Of Foreclosure. CDPE Designation is Recognized Nationally.

MARZENA MELBY of COUNSELOR REALTY, INC, 7250 France Ave S, Ste. 300, Minneapolis, MN 55435 has earned the highly regarded in real estate community Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure and short sales. This invaluable knowledge and training enables Marzena Melby to offer help for homeowners in a financial hardship.

Short sales allow a cash-strapped seller to sell their home for its current market value and payoff the mortgage even though it maybe lees than the current balance. With property values being significantly down, around 20-25%, this can save many people from foreclosure. Lenders nationwide are willing to negotiate short sales because that makes financial sense. Acquiring a property, maintaining it and having to resell it at a deep discount is a lot more costly. Twin Cities area has seen a slight drop in foreclosures due to lender, SEVERAL THOUSAND homes are in danger of foreclosing. It is happening in all price ranges.

"I have helped several homeowners in a foreclosure situation to successfully sell their home and move on in their lives. The additional knowledge and resources that come with this designation have enabled me to be more efficient and creative in looking for available options, therefore to help more families" said Melby. "Expertise I acquired through this course allows me better understand changing market conditions and help families get through this emotionally charged difficult process."

The Distressed Property Institute provides extensive training and resources for real estate professionals nationwide through live and online training.

Alex Chafren, the Institute founder said: "Certified Distressed Property Experts fully understand that saving a home can save a life, which can save a family, which can save a future." They are helping America get through the crisis one family at a time.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Marzena Melby of Counselor Realty Earns Nationally Recognized Designation

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:10:15 -0600

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Marzena Melby of Counselor Realty Earns Nationally Recognized Designation To Help Homeowners In Danger Of Foreclosure.

DATE: November 5, 2009

For more information, please contact: Marzena Melby
Phone: 612-267-6798

MARZENA MELBY EARNS Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) Designation To Help Homeowners In Danger Of Foreclosure. CDPE Designation is Recognized Nationally.

The Distressed Property Institute provides extensive training and resources for real estate professionals nationwide through live and online training.

Local Elections November 3: Vote! Vote! Vote!

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:54:17 -0600

Full general election information on the League of Women Voters

Local elections do not get much attention from voters, however it is important for us to contribute to electing the right people for any and all available city council and school board seats.

Several Hennepin county cities are electing council members, board or commission members, and mayors.

For a full list click here.

In Richfield, there five candidates running for three open school board seats. To see the names and how to vote, check out the city's voting information page.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

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Visit my profile to find out more about my services. Call me today at 612-267-6798. If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on ";email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

A completely new proposal to save the real estate market. It's not as crazy as you might think!

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:28:44 -0500

I like this idea! What do you think?

Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate ERA United Realty:

A lot of real estate agents are speaking as if the door on real estate sales will be slammed shut if the federal tax credit for first-time homebuyers is not extended. And while this opportunity to collect cash has had a very positive effect on sales in the lower price ranges, it really hasn't meant much to sellers with homes valued in excess of $200,000.

My preference is to let this credit just go away. The expiration of the credit could actually lead us back to a true fair market, where buyers buy because they need a house rather than just trying snag a great deal with future profit potential.

I would like to propose an alternative remedy to help sale in all price ranges. My proposal would really create interest in buyers that could really stimulate the market, and it is the only remedy that I have even seen proposed that would actually correct the mistakes of the past.

The solution I am proposing is to make all down payment monies for a personal residence up to and including a cash sale an income tax deduction. Not a refundable credit, just a deduction against income.

This also would encourage buyers with both cash and significant incomes to get back into the market. It would lead us back to the days when more down payment was better, and smaller mortgages would prevent the short position debacle that we are experiencing today.

The higher end market would see an extensive boost in sales, and prices would stabilize. And once again, homeowners will be encouraged to have equity in their homes to cushion them against negative market forces.

So what do you think? A dollar for dollar tax deduction for down payments on a house sounds like a good idea to me!
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate of ERA United Realty Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Get the latest GA Foreclosure List Updated Daily! We Do HUD bids in Georgia! 770-827-6225

Good Faith Estimates - Knowing & Understanding the Power of paper!!!

Tue, 19 May 2009 11:22:36 -0500

Working with the right business partner has always been important to me. Loan officers I have worked with have been knowledgeable, ETHICAL and EXTREMELY GOOD at what they do. That's why appreciate the wealth of information Jeff is willing to provide to the public, and he takes time to do it.

So, please use it for your benefit, no matter who you are working with on a purchase or a refinance.

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

Good Faith Estimates - Extremely important message below!!!

If you are a consumer looking to purchase or refinance, this is a must read. It could cost you thousands if you don't pay attention. This is not a threat, but a warning from someone that has over 16 years of experience in the mortgage industry.

When shopping for a mortgage, even if shopping with more than 2 lenders, you want to get a good faith estimate from everyone that you speak to.

So, here is my pet peeve. This is a major red flag - if you speak to a loan officer, on the phone or in person, and they didn't offer you a good faith estimate, don't walk, Run!!!

The Good Faith Estimate is an over abused term and can be misleading. If the loan officer qualifies you for a mortgage, no matter if its a FHA loan or a conventional loan, you should receive one in a few hours. In reality, if the loan officer qualifies you and tells you a rate, a payment, and your total costs, they should be able to give you that good faith estimate in a matter of minutes. Think about it, they had to do this already in order to give you those figures. There is no excuse. Sure, things happen, but just being busy is not good enough. Unless they specifically tell you that they will give it to you the next day. This can happen, but other than that, if they dont communicate this with you, no excuse. And this could be indicative to how your loan process will go.

Let me ask you this. If you are shopping for a car, don't you want to see your payment, interest rate, and total costs? I know I would. If you have to keep asking for a good faith estimate and it's been 3 days, major red flag.

Overall, it doesn't matter if you are applying for a FHA loan, a conventional loan, or any other type of mortgage. If you have to beg for a good faith estimate, you are just asking for trouble in most cases.

THE GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE

So, what is a good faith estimate? Its an estimate of all your costs associated with buying or refinancing your home. But here is the catch. There are some costs that are known costs and not just estimates. These would be the lenders fees. The lender fees are all fees that are under lines 801 to 823. I enlarged this section below for you.

Three things that you want to look for when you first look at your GFE.

Look at the loan program and make sure this is the program that you want. If it was an adjustable, it would say differently. This would fall under the term of the loan.

Look at the mortgage rate. Make sure this is what you discussed when speaking to your loan officer. (Up top, middle of page, yellow highlight)

The 3rd issue are the fees. As I mentioned above, everything in section 801 to 823 would be the lenders fees or anything the lender is going to charge you. (left hand column with highlighted items) Don't ever be fooled if one lenders fee is higher than the other. You still need to compare the mortgage rate.

(Speak to your tax accountant to make sure what can be written off and what cant. But typically just the points can be written off)

What not to do when comparing good faith estimates.

Don't compare total fees at bottom of the GFE, which I will explain why below.

Just dont compare the APR of the loan. (explained here)

Conclusion: Again, don't always shop and ask for total fees. Compare the lenders fees the most. In regards to your escrows, each state is different. I highlighted this in red. Your property taxes are paid either quarterly, twice a year, or once a year. I have seen some loan officers sometimes not show enough for your escrows in regards to the property taxes. Its very easy for a loan officer to say at closing, ˜these aren't my fees, so all I can do is give an estimate. Word of advice, yes, its an estimate. But I have seen some loan officers estimate less to make the overall cost look cheaper. And just be careful, because some of these figures are not worth the paper that they are written on. It's just that, an estimate based on good faith. Make sure that you always speak with a Mortgage Professional. And don't shop yourself right out of the market.

One other thing, if you have 3 good faith estimates in front of you, always go back to the person that you had the best feeling with, that you are comfortable the most with, and share the other 2 with them. Just don't run to the person with the best rate and or fees. I always like my clients to come back to me no matter what. I might be able to point something out to them. And this next topic must be discussed when receiving a GFE, otherwise this Good Faith doesn't mean squat. Locking or floating my mortgage rate !!!!

Lastly... if you are going to shop rate & costs, ALWAYS shop on the same day !!! Rates change daily...

UPDATE : The laws in some states are different, when a good faith estimate must be given. In Paul McFadden's example, comment #15, they have 3 days from the day they pull credit. According to RESPA, the lender has 3 days from the time of application. When just casually shopping, there is no time period or law.

In regards to my example, with the rate and points, this is just an example. Besides, not all rates or good faith estimates come with points. And I don't charge fees. But there is a cost of doing business with any lender or bank out there.

- FHA Loans - USDA Loans - VA Loans -

- Energy Efficient Mortgages -

- Conventional Loans - 203 k loans -

- Mortgages -

Experience & Knowledge at its BEST !!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information on FHA loans, please go to this link. The FHA Expert

For more information about the 2009 Tax Credit for First Time Homebuyers : 2009 Tax Credit

For important mortgage insight to watch for, please read : Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags !!!!

Copyright © 2009 by Jeff Belonger

The $8,000 tax credit for First Time Homebuyers - How & when to get it legally

Mon, 18 May 2009 06:41:49 -0500

Here's another timely article from the expert. Follow the rules, stay out of trouble.

If you are just starting to think about a home purchase, this information will help you plan.

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

Topic : $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers - And no, I am not trying to beat a dead horse. This post is timely and very important because of the comments and e-mails that I have been receiving. I want to share with you a list, the legal ways that the borrower can receive these monies.

As many of us know, you can't use the actual $8,000 tax credit for your downpayment. The IRS even lists this in their instructions. Please read what happened to the Tax Credit : The $8,000 tax credit as a downpayment - GONE -

The second issue? It is fraud to use the tax credit monies as your downpayment. Please read : FRAUD ALERT : Advice on the $8,000 first time homebuyers tax credit.

Here is the basic issue about whether or not you can use the tax credit as your down payment. You can't get the money ahead of time from the IRS to use it for your downpayment. You can get other monies ahead of time from other sources to use as your downpayment, and then apply for the $8,000 tax credit. But you can only apply for the credit after you buy the house. The IRS states this on their web site and in their instructions. The instructions and form 5405 for the IRS Tax Credit Here is what the IRS says in a questions & answers section :

Q. I am in the process of buying a home. I expect to close the deal before December 1, 2009. Can I claim the first-time homebuyer credit now? That would allow me to use the refund for a down payment.

A. No. You may not claim the credit in anticipation of a purchase that has yet to happen. Until you have finalized the purchase of your home, which for most purchasers occurs at the time of the closing, you do not qualify for the credit.  IRS news release 2009-27, First-Time Homebuyers Have Several Options to Maximize New Tax Credit, contains details for filing options if the home is purchased after April 15, 2009.

So, how can I get the monies before I purchase the home? Here is a list of your legal options. And keep in mind, the IRS says that you can't claim the tax credit before you buy your home. But read below, there is one way to get part of your tax credit monies before you buy, LEGALLY.

Saving monies to purchase

up to 100% of a gift from a relative/family member (FHA loans only)

From the Federal, state, and local governmental agencies and nonprofit instrumentalities of government (I will spell this out more below. This is about those certain states that will give loans upfront, to be used as your downpayment. This has been the main confusion of discussion.)

FHA approved non-profits

monies from their employer in a form of employee contribution (for FHA loans only)

monies from secured borrowed funds... IE. borrowing equity from your home to buy another home or borrowing against your car that is free and clear or borrowing from your 401-k, etc, etc

Reducing your tax withholdings which will allow you more monies back in your pay check. (please read more about this below.) But this is the only way to legally get some of your tax credit upfront.

(please consult a CPA, tax accountant, or real estate laywer with further questions & specifics)

Are you in the blues, because you are still so confused? Here is the breakdown of two main issues that people have been confused about.

1. Federal/State/Local programs- My state that I live in is offering a loan or monies for my downpayment. Yes, this is perfectly legal, because it is coming from a State or Local agency. You can also get this money upfront from a non-profit organization. No, not AmeriDream or Nehemiah, yet I am sure they are working on this. But there are other non-profit agencies out there that is not tied to the seller funded DPA's.

       How does this work? Very simple..... you have to follow the state guidelines and use their financing programs. Yes, some lenders and banks are set up to do these state bond programs, in which the state has attached a second soft lien per se. Meaning if you sell or refinance the home in a certain period, that monies needs to be paid back. But keeping in mind, once in the house, you can then actually apply for the $8,000 tax credit, or what you are allowed to receive.

2. Partial Tax Credit monies upfront - You can actually reduce your tax withholdings with the IRS. This enables you to receive more monies in your pay check, because you are paying less taxes. You will just owe more at the end of the year. But wait, it can be applied towards the $8,000 tax credit that you can file for. Example :

       You do qualify for the $8,000 tax credit. If you didn't reduce your tax withholdings, you would have had to pay $1,000 to the IRS. But now you do reduce your tax withholdings and you were able to save an additional $3,000 up until the day you bought your house, the day that you settled on it. But now you will owe the IRS $3,000, plus your normal $1,000. That equals $4,000. Hey, but you can apply that towards the $8,000, which means that you will still get $4,000 back when you do next years taxes. And keep in mind, you can amend your taxes to receive the monies sooner. Again, speak to a CPA or tax accountant.

CONCLUSION : So there you have it. In my first blog, you know that HUD rescinded the mortgagee letter, ML 09-15, which stated that some entities could do a bridge loan and give you your tax creditupfront, that you could use it for your downpayment. In my 2nd blog, I tell you that it's actually fraud to use any part of the tax credit as your downpayment, not unless you get it as I explained above. These are the basics and you need to be careful on who gives you what professional advice. Just because they say they are an expert or professional, doesn't always mean that they know what they are doing. Sorry, but it's the truth.

PS... and for those that say builders in their states are offering this and or that...??. Unless they are using a non-profit setup, it's illegal. Please read what Ken Cook had to say about this. Ken Cook's Comment

My Series on the First time homebuyers $8,000 tax credit - Everything you need to now, from start to finish:

The $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers - The basics - What to know about it - Understanding what the tax credit is all about.

Use a 6 month gift from a relative to buy a home, thanks to the Tax Credit - How to get creative in using the tax credit and some FHA mortgage guidelines in helping you use this tax credit to your advantage.

Using First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credits for the Downpayment - It's GONE !!!! - The story of the $8,000 tax credit - The bottom line, you can't use the actual tax credit as your downpayment.. for your downpayment, unless you get it from other sources prior to buying the house and receiving the tax credit.

FRAUD ALERT - Advice on the $8,000 first time homebuyers Tax Credit - Do you chance it??? - This explains to you that it's fraud if you directly obtain the money from the IRS before you actually purchase the house. Even HUD and many lenders/investors acknowledge this also.

- FHA Loans - USDA Loans - VA Loans -

- Energy Efficient Mortgages -

- Conventional Loans - 203 k loans -

- Mortgages -

Experience & Knowledge at its BEST !!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information on FHA loans, please go to this link. The FHA Expert

For more information about the 2009 Tax Credit for First Time Homebuyers : 2009 Tax Credit

For important mortgage insight to watch for, please read : Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags !!!!

Copyright © 2009 by Jeff Belonger

Wordless Sunday: Bumble Bee in Crabapple Tree... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:38:01 -0500

Inspired by beautiful spring photo by Teri Eckholm, I brought my camera with me today. Before I started my open house, I looked around for nature photo opps. This is what I found:

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Visit my profile to find out more about my services. Call me today at 612-267-6798. If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on ";email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search homes for sale in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

FRAUD ALERT - Advice on the $8,000 first time homebuyers Tax Credit - Do you chance it???

Sun, 17 May 2009 08:16:01 -0500

Extremely important for all interested buyers to read this information. Too much is out there that is misleading and leads to great confusion, and even perhaps to unintentional FRAUD.

BUYER BEWARE!!!

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

Clarification before you read : Yes, you can use the tax credit as part of your downpayment. I have stated this before. If it comes from non-profit organizations or Federal, local, or state agencies. I mentioned this in my other blog, in the bullet points . But just from the few comments and some on facebook, you are missing the POINT. It’s fraud to apply for this tax credit through the IRS, prior to actually buying your home, if you receive the monies from the IRS DIRECTLY. Please stop reading into HUD, downpayments, etc, etc and understand what is considered FRAUD by HUD and many lenders.

2^nd UPDATE – 9:01 pm 5/16/09 : I am not here to throw people under the bus. But I am getting comments and e-mails telling me that this is allowed or that some clients have done this, one who even works for the IRS, and that they would never do anything illegal. Two things on that…

1^st – You assume this. Do you know how many people that have worked for the IRS, the trade commission, stock brokers, lenders, and loan officers that have a huge responsibility & should be ethical… yet these same people in these industries that have committed fraud.

2^nd – I never said that it’s FRAUD in the eyes of the IRS. But Lawrence Bland, comment #6, makes this statement. FRAUD - I said that HUD and many investors, lenders, and underwriters have stated that this is fraud. And if you think about it, this is what matters most, because without them, the deal doesn’t close anyhow. I know my blog is long, but Ken Cook summarizes it well in his comment. Ken Cook’s Comment

Do you take the plunge, possibly jeopardizing your career? If a loan officer told you to jump off a bridge, would you? You'll see my point below.

Who do you listen to? Where do you get your information from? It's worse now than ever before. I once was able to tell a borrower or a realtor, if you didn't believe me, go call up 5 other loan officers. I would say this, because you would think that you would get at least 3 to 4 people giving you the same answer. PEOPLE.... this is not true anymore. I had two separate examples that took place that 3 out of 4 loan officers gave the same information that was 110% incorrect. Rut row... there goes my theory out the door.

What about all of this hype over the $8,000 first time homebuyers tax credit? It's gotten way out of hand. I wrote this blog, Tax Credit for downpayment, it's GONE, the story of the $8,000 tax credit. You need to read many of the comments. Here is a great example of what I am talking about.

Here are 2 examples from comments that I received by a realtor. Keeping in mind, I am not trying to throw them under the bus, but to help educate and bring awareness. How else do we learn and possibly not make mistakes that could be so costly.

Example 1 -

"From my understanding from 2 CPA's and mortgage lender that it CAN be done by applying for the credit prior to the closing with an accepted contract. There are risks like not closing before November 30th. But this can happen."

OUCH - No, double ouch. Okay, so she was able to talk to 2 CPA's and a loan officer that both confirmed this. Okay, so it might be legal from their standpoint. But what about HUD's standpoint and from many lenders and underwriters. Don't they actually have the final say in all of this? YES, they do !!!

Example 2 -

"I just wrote up an offer and the loan officer told me that my buyer would be using some of the tax credit for the down payment. So I'm not rescinding my blog post just yet."

My question to this realtor... What about your fiduciary responsibility to the buyer? I received an e-mail from this person after asking the same question. Their response? They know the letter was taken down, but they are looking for an official statement. Huh? You think HUD or the NAR is going to say, "we screwed up." ??? Why not call HUD yourself, be proactive.

In any case, let's study what the IRS says. Here is Form 5405 - The first time homebuyers tax credit form

As you can see, letter be asks for the date aquired, but tells you to read the instructions. So let's go to that part of the instructions.

Wow... enter the date that you acquired the home. Acquired? Wouldn't that mean when you bought it and not when you are going to buy it? It states this right under the first sentence. So why are some CPA's, accountants, and loan officers stating that you can get the money before you buy, while still submitting this form. ??? Inquiring minds want to know.

Here is my opinion and some facts. And you can ask such loan officers as Tom Burris, Ken Cook, and Gerry Suarez, because they have checked also with HUD and with several underwriters with different lenders. Who says what....

HUD says that it's illegal and they recognize this. But wait, some lenders have allowed this and my buyer has already closed. Keep in mind that HUD still has to insure these loans, so maybe the "shit" will hit the fan in 6 months or so, since this is all still new.

Underwriters - Gerry and myself have spoken to several underwriters at major lending institutions that have said they will not do this type of loan, if the buyer had received the monies from the IRS, if prior to closing on the home. Not unless it falls into another category. Those categories I have listed in the middle of this blog. Tax Credit - what is allowed prior to closing - Please go to my bullet points in this blog. This is what is legal and how.

LINK for - TAX CREDIT FORM 5405 and instructions

We need to stop the bad press. As you can see, this has gotten out of hand and everyone seems to be an expert. Yet, nobody is speaking to the correct experts. Be proactive. If not sure, call HUD yourself. Call a trusted loan officer/expert and not one that claims to be. Again, keep in mind that you can use the $8,000 tax credit for the downpayment and get these monies before you apply for the tax credit with the IRS.... BUT... this in regards to specific circumstances that I have mentioned. And if you get the money the correct way from other sources. This blog is not about this. Please read the other blog. What this blog is about is that if you don't get the money from other sounrces prior to closing, and that you just apply for the money itself, prior to closing, this is the FRAUD part. Please understand the difference. Many of the commenters below have confused themselves on these issues.

Since I was trying to clarify several things, Tom Burris made this comment, which details what I was trying to convey. Please read : Tom Burris's comment -

Lastly, I want to share this which comes directly from the IRS site in regards to the $8,000 tax credit : This was supplied by Matt Stigliano - The IRS questions & answers :

Q. I am in the process of buying a home. I expect to close the deal before December 1, 2009. Can I claim the first-time homebuyer credit now? That would allow me to use the refund for a down payment.

A. No. You may not claim the credit in anticipation of a purchase that has yet to happen. Until you have finalized the purchase of your home, which for most purchasers occurs at the time of the closing, you do not qualify for the credit. IRS news release 2009-27, First-Time Homebuyers Have Several Options to Maximize New Tax Credit, contains details for filing options if the home is purchased after April 15, 2009.

Lesson of the Day : When you hear real estate related news stories, maybe you should check the sources and double check the stories. I could give you 10 examples of this just from what I have read in the last 5 months. As we say, "Buyer Beware".... how about we say, Realtor/loan officer Beware !!!

LEGAL WAY of obtaining your tax credit before settlement. Please read : $8,000 First time homebuyers tax credit informartion. Please go down about 1/2 way, next to the 1st picture with the calculator and the money showing. It talks about reducing your deductions.

- FHA Loans - USDA Loans - VA Loans -

- Energy Efficient Mortgages -

- Conventional Loans - 203 k loans -

- Mortgages -

Experience & Knowledge at its BEST !!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information on FHA loans, please go to this link. The FHA Expert

For more information about the 2009 Tax Credit for First Time Homebuyers : 2009 Tax Credit

For important mortgage insight to watch for, please read : Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags !!!!

Copyright © 2009 by Jeff Belonger

Using First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credits for the Downpayment - It's GONE !!!! - The story of the $8,000 tax credit

Fri, 15 May 2009 10:20:25 -0500

The reality check: confused government. Maybe many of us jumped the gun spreading the news about this. This would have been very good to the real estate and new construction industries as it would enable more first-time buyers to get into their home.

Oh, well... Life goes on...

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

The $8,000 first time homebuyers TAX CREDIT - HUD has saved the day. Well, okay, it saved it for a day. It's gone now, recinded, at least for now. Everything that you have been reading about yesterday, about FHA/HUD putting out mortgagee letter 2009-15, it's no longer there. Tom Burris had noticed this yesterday and I just got off the phone this morning with the HUD office. For reasons unknown, this letter, ML 09-15, has been taken off the self. Besides, I have my reasons to this and also felt that many of the blogs posted yesterday were incorrect. Here is why....

In regards to FHA loans, a borrower can only obtain monies for their actual downpayment of 3.5% by the following :

Their own funds

up to 100% of a gift from a relative/family member

From the Federal, state, and local governmental agencies and nonprofit instrumentalities of government

FHA approved non-profits

monies from their employer in a form of employee contribution

monies from secured borrowed funds... IE. borrowing equity from your home to buy another home or borrowing against your car that is free and clear or borrowing from your 401-k, etc, etc

Here is the major confusion that was put out yesterday both HUD, NAR, and many realtors and loan officers that wrote about this. In the body of the mortgagee letter, ML 09-15, at the bottom, it stated :

The Tax Credit: Short-Term Loan:

Entities that can offer the tax credit advance with short-term loans:

Federal, state, and local governmental agencies and nonprofit instrumentalities of government, FHA-approved nonprofits, and FHA-approved mortgagees may provide short-term or "bridge loans" secured only by the anticipated tax credit due the homebuyer as collateral.

The confusion : It states, As collateral and not as a secured lien against the home, but as a secured loan against the collateral. Which in this case would be the $8,000 tax credit, which would be secured against.

Because of this, HUD does not allow for monies to be borrowed or given to in any form that I did not mention above, to be used for the down payment. The reality of it all, basically everything that was stated in the mortgagee letter, that has been revoked for now, is old school FHA. When it comes to FHA loans / FHA mortgages, you could get monies for your down payment from the items that mentioned above, which is mentioned in the mortgagee letter. Well, was mentioned... One caveat to all of this is that HUD was going to allow for lenders to secure a short term loan or bridge loan against the $8,000 to be used to purchase a home. But again, that can't be used for the actual down payment, because it goes against the basic FHA guidelines of downpayment monies of 3.5%. Now, unless HUD changed this, it does not clearly state this in the mortgagee letter, even though that letter is no longer valid.

Summary : When I read the ML 09-15 the other day, all of this jumped into my head. But I didn't have time to dissect all of this, yet I wanted to get this out to the public. After seeing many blogs written with inaccurate information, because NAR stated certain things from a HUD spokesperson, it was never clear, in which this gave me large goose bumps. My advice, consult an FHA Expert, even if you hear it from others that are high up, such as the NAR. And be careful on those that call themselves Experts also. I personally think that this was immature of several agencies for putting this information out there without verifying it's accuracy and intentions. And I would have to assume that HUD feels the same way since they took this mortgagee letter off their site and off the HUD clips site. Thanks

EXTREMELY IMPORTANT REMINDER : Just because HUD or any other source puts information out there, doesn't mean it will happen. Keep in mind that most lenders have overlays and can add to certain rules and or guidelines.

And just for the fact that HUD says it's fraud to obtain the tax credit prior to closing. This question has been asked to HUD by many of us and their response is FRAUD. Why? You are receiving the monies before you are buying the house. Yes, you can give the IRS the address prior and a potential closing date. But I smell shit hitting the fan very soon, since a lot of this is still new. And remember those lender overlays? I know some lenders and underwriters that won't allow this type of loan to go to closing.

Ken Cook wrote a very short and brief blog about all of this. It's very clear. FALSE info flying around about the first time tax credit used as a downpayment.

For real, updated information on the First time Homebuyer's Tax Credit, please read : $8,000 first time homebuyers tax credit.

- FHA Loans - USDA Loans - VA Loans -

- Energy Efficient Mortgages -

- Conventional Loans - 203 k loans -

- Mortgages -

Experience & Knowledge at its BEST !!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information on FHA loans, please go to this link. The FHA Expert

For more information about the 2009 Tax Credit for First Time Homebuyers : 2009 Tax Credit

For important mortgage insight to watch for, please read : Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags !!!!

Copyright © 2009 by Jeff Belonger

Happy Mother's Day... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Sun, 10 May 2009 10:47:18 -0500

Happy Mother's Day...

I dedicate this poem to all moms: may your day be filled with sunshine and plenty of smiles.

Before I was a Mom

Author - Unknown,

Before I was a Mom I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.
Before I was a Mom - I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.
Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.

Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.

I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.
Before I was a Mom I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put them down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.

I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.
Before I was a Mom - I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.

I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom - I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

Poem borrowed from nannydeprived.com

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Visit my profile to find out more about my services. Call me today at 612-267-6798. If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on ";email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search Twin Cities homes for sale.

Edina Gem: Centennial Lakes Park... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:28:49 -0500

Edina Gem: Centennial Lakes Park... by Twin Cities Homes for Sale

Centennial Lakes Park near Southdale is one of my most favorite parks. It’s a very popular park year around as it offers many wonderful activity for adults and children of all ages. Dog owners and those who love walks can enjoy more than 1.5 miles of beautiful paved paths and beautiful landscaping.

Some of the most popular summer activities include paddle boating, fishing, watching remote control sailboat races (by members of the Edina Model Yacht Club), golfing, croquet, or lawn bowling.

This Edina complex offers many arts and entertainment events throughout the year, both indoors and outdoors. The lakeside amphitheater seat a thousand people and can be full during popular concerts and performances.

Park Centrum building, located in the center of the complex, offers banquet space available for rent and it hosts many weddings, reunions, business meetings and other events.

Winter activities include outdoor skating and sledding, or relaxing inside with a cup of hot chocolate while enjoying a glow of fireplace.

If you are relocating to the Twin Cities, contact me for a FREE comprehensive

RELOCATION PACKET.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Visit my profile to find out more about my services. Call me today at 612-267-6798. If you prefer, contact me by email, by clicking on ";email me"; link of this page under my profile.

Visit my website to search Twin Cities homes for sale.