"Spouses Selling Houses" Northwest Indiana Real Estate

Low Taxes and Affordable 3 Bedroom Home in Porter County Indiana

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:57:33 -0600

Affordable Portage Tri-level on 2 Lots

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$118,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
1 Unit
Interior: 1240 sqft
Lot: 0.21 acre(s)

Location

2329 Hickory Street
Portage, IN 46368

Jeff & Grace Safrin

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate
(219) 309-9930
safrin@jorsm.com
http://www.safrin.net

Listed by: F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

Our recent listings

Custom Home + Retreat Like Setting
Elegant & Spacious Home in Upscale Gated Community
Custom Home w/ Attention To Details For the Discerning Buyer!
Simplify Your Life + Enjoy this Community
Duneland Area Home is Unlike Others- Artistically Redesigned Interior!

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Portage, IN real estate for sale

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

The Re-Emergence of Private Banking?

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:10:25 -0600

Will there be a Re-Emergence of Private banking as a result of the Tightening Lending Milieu?

Many years ago, when Jeff’s Grandfather (bless his soul) was a business owner in Muncie, IN during tough economic times, banks were not giving out many loans.

…So, rather than go out of business….

HE became a private banker and carried the note for some of his customers (i.e. set up the terms &; conditions for re-payment at a certain interest rate over a certain period of time).

Recently, we closed on another Land Contract in which the seller, who owned their home outright, became the BANK for the Buyers!

....By the way… it is estimated (2008 Data) that …“_{However, 40 percent of households do not have a mortgage on their home.”}

If this is so….Private Banking may Re- emerge again, in times like these!

The process of doing a Land Contract Sale was very involved and much advance due diligence occurred (each side having attorney representation). The results were, in this case, a win-win situation for all parties involved.

With the banking industry loaning less and even HUD thinking about making FHA requirements tighter, Private Banking to facilitate Real Estate Sales by the Use of Land Contracts or Lease/Purchase Agreements is certainly a viable option for some sellers these days!

As we’ve said before “Cash is King “in Real estate sales these days, because there are less glitches to run into in the lending process without appraisals or underwriting conditions or lenders!

Can the re- emergence of Private banking be the next best thing to cash sales?

Time will tell.

It’s an option we are discussing with our sellers to investigate further, if they are in a position to carry their own papers like Jeff’s Grandpa did many moons ago.

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

How About This Home For The Holidays? For Sale in Valparaiso, IN

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:35:47 -0600

Looking to Move up and Take Advantage of The Extended and Expanded Tax Credit Before April 30th 2010 ?

How about this Home For Sale in Porter County, IN ?

Location-> Live Among Mansions! Whitethorne Woods an Upscale Gated Neighborhood in NW Indiana w/Easy Access to Major Roads like the Indiana Toll road or I 94 and South Shore Train stop nearby to connect you to Chicago. Excellent Schools (Duneland). Lovely Nature Setting -> Perched on over an Acre Wooded + Professionally Landscaped Lot. Spacious & Elegant Custom Home w/ High Ceilings * Abundance of Windows * Dramatic 2 story Entry Foyer+Great Room w/ Fireplace + Plant or Display Ledges * Fine Upgrades Include : Wide Trim * Beautiful Molding & Wainscoting * Wood Floors *6 Panel Doors * Formal and Informal Living and Dining Spaces *Cherry Wood Kitchen Cabinets * Maytag Appliances *Main Floor Guest Suite * Lavish Master w/Jetted Tub + Sitting Room + 2 Walk-in Closets * Jack & Jill Bath + walk-in closets in 3rd & 4th Bedrooms also * Finished Walk-Out LL has 5th BR w/French Doors & Private Bath *Playroom *Home Office w/lovely Built-ins * 2 Computer Desk/Study Nooks in LL Family Rm! * Watch the Deer from your Big Deck off Kitchen Overlooking the Large Backyard * This Property is Maximum Value! Low Taxes! Call Today to Schedule Your Private Showing w/advance notice please.

Enjoy the Music Slide Show and Happy Holidays :)

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

New Carlisle, IN 46552 - Grand Custom Home, Retreat Like Setting of 4 + Acres, Lake Michigan, South Bend & Chicago all commuting Distances!

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:05:25 -0600

Now we've Blogged about the attractions and beauty of La Porte County, Indiana Before.....

There is so much to do and see in the corridor between Michigan and NW Indiana like:

Lake Michigan Beaches.....

The Michigan City Zoo.....

The Lighthouse Premium Outlet Mall......

South Bend and Notre Dame Games :)

Some of Our Favorite Eateries i.e. Ruth Chris Steak House or BoneFish Grill

With The South Shore Train Line connecting La Porte County, IN easily with Chicago - land....AND

excellent NEW Schools....this beautiful Home and Property we just listed is worth your careful consideration!

Custom Home + Retreat Like Setting

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood

$440,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1 Unit
Interior: 4287 sqft
Lot: 4.37 acre(s)

Location

5232 N. Colsen Court
New Carlisle, IN 46552

Jeff & Grace Safrin

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate
(219) 309-9930
safrin@jorsm.com
http://www.safrin.net

Listed by: Jeff Safrin of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

Our recent listings

Custom Home + Retreat Like Setting
Simplify Your Life + Enjoy this Community
Duneland Area Home is Unlike Others- Artistically Redesigned Interior!
Look No More - This Bungalow will surprise you!
Affordable Portage Tri-level on 2 Lots

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more New Carlisle, IN real estate for sale

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

From All of Us @ F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Serving Northwest Indiana.....Wishing You & Your Family a Healthy, Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving Holiday !

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:09:09 -0600

Contact Our Experienced REALTORS

Click on the name of any of our Professional Real Estate Agents to visit their websites for more information!

Ty Gammon ->

Neighborhood Matchmaker

Olga Kwolek ->

Hablo Espanol

Irene Tron ->

The IJ Team

Jess Tron ->

Linda Littlejohn ->

Real Estate Broker Associate

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Our Listings of REO or Bank Owned Properties For Sale are selling Quickly in NW Indiana once Priced right and ready for Market!

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:57:20 -0600

Our Listings of REO or Bank Owned Properties For Sale are selling quickly in Northwest Indiana.

Recently we had a listing which was under contract in only 14 days on the market, and closed 27 days later.

However - there was much time, energy and effort by us behind the scenes working collaboratively with the REO specialist at the bank which took months PRIOR to this happening!

This included:

Doing Broker Price Opinion's in both an "as-is" condition AND another BPO with repair estimates included.

This required meeting multiple licensed contractors at the property in order to provide detailed written quotes on any Repairs or Mold remediation.

Submitting these to the REO Manager (on Bank Forms) and awaiting the file to be returned from committee for decision on what work will actually be doneand the decision on listing price, takes persistent follow up skills.

Detailed Photos (before and after) and invoicingmust be kept & shared with the bank contact.

Also, the REO department has specific Bank Contracts and Addendum's that differ from our State or Local Board Real Estate agreements and these must be reviewed carefully.

Sometimes, customary fee's like Title Insurance, are NOT customary , but negotiable!

Financing REO Properties is another topic in and of itself these days :)

Mortgage departments familiar with this ever growing trend of Real Estate sales are sharing their specific requirements for internal financing of REO properties which may or may not differ from their Local lending branches for conventional home sales.

All in all, in our opinion here are the keys to a quick REO sale ->

Competitive Market Price- a Real Estate Broker experienced in BPO's can help set this!
Decent Property Condition - a home in which health or safety concerns have been addressed & corrected sells quicker!
Mass Marketing efforts / Internet sydication of the listing from day one of going on the market- multiple showings and competition among qualified buyers yields better offers (a Certified Residential Specialist can help with this :)
Excellent communication,attention to details, and meticulous follow through by the Listing Agent (s) of Record are needed in this current market to get deals to the closing table!

If you are a Bank or Lender who has Inventory of Foreclosed Homes in NW Indiana and are looking? to move them quickly, please call us for a confidential consultation. References available on request.

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

VU Team rallies to Win Home Opener After Miserable Start...

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:14:37 -0600

After the first 20 minutes of the V.U. Crusaders vs IU South Bend Titans game, I sat wondering how was it even remotely possible that the Crusaders came within 11 points of 6th Ranked North Carolina only a few days earlier? They were missing shots, they were sluggish, they were out rebounded, outplayed, & out scored in every area of the game. (Let's give some credit to the Titans).

In my previous years of watching Valpo play, they had times as a slow starting 2nd half team. After a 10-4 spurt, the Crusaders were down 43-34 and I was thinking "uh-oh". During a time out, I turned to the friends behind me and my wife and said "McPherson is a 5th Year Senior, he needs to step up & take control of this game and team with leadership" .....and he did!!!

Valpo went on a 21-0 run! It all started with Howard Little and Eric Buggs defense to start the 2nd half ! This combined with one of the most impressive 3 point shooting bonanza I have ever seen by Brandon McPherson. Having season tickets in the front row, it was an absolute treat to see him right in front of me knocking down 3pointers... 4 in a row! It was as though the basket was 10ft wide:) Whatever he threw-up, WENT IN! Brandon ended the game with a career high of 25pts.

Valpo won the game final score = 78-56.

This is a young team and there are 2 players that, in my opinion, will need to step it up and be the Leaders - McPherson and Little. Both these guys are very solid players and with their leadership and hard play as examples, Valpo may just have a pretty good year !

Editorial By Jeff Safrin

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Experienced REALTORS each Bring something of Value to the Table.....

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:39:01 -0600

This week some of our Experienced REALTORS of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate got together for several events!

One was Virtual REBar Camp - some attended online from the comfort of their home, while a few of us went to our local Board of REALTORS in Merrillville, IN ( GNIAR ) and watched the informative break out sessions hosted there!

The information shared at this event was awesome. We all learned much to implement into business building that will benefit our clients! I am refreshed by the willingness of our TEAM to learn, grow and change with the times and embrace the new social media avenues!

The very next day we held our monthly F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Round Table Event locally in the conference room @ Evelyn Bay Coffee Co. in Valpo. This is an event we look forward to montly as everyone brings something of value to the table!

If you remember last month - we all got LinkedIn :) feel free to link to us!

This month beside discussing the many of the latest REal Estate Topics i.e. The Local Market Statistics in Lake, Porter and La Porte Counties in NW Indiana, The Expanded and Extended Home Buyer Tax credits and local development issues and much more, - we also each wanted to share our Facebook Pages - so feel free to befriend us - just click on the name below to go to their Facebook Page!

pictured here :

Olga Kwolek

Ty Gammon - Your Neighborhood Matchmaker

Linda Littlejohn

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Serving NW Indiana

Not Pictured

Jeff Safrin

Irene Tron

Jess Tron

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Valparaiso University Men's Basketball Season Opens this Week with Home Game at the ARC 11/19/09 @ 7:05 pm

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:34:53 -0600

If you follow our Blog, you know we are Local Fans of Valpo Crusader's Basketball.

This week the 1st regular season home game is on Thursday, November 19th at the ARC - tip off 7:05 pm.

With alot of new team members on the Roster, this should be an interesting year!

It's already off to an exciting start as the Valparaiso University Crusaders men's Basketball Team came within 11 points of the ranked #6 University of North Carolina@ Chapel Hill Tar -Heels team yesterday in a pre-season game!!!

so....

Come out and Be BOLD - wear GOLD - support your local college basketball team and bring your family and friends!

Tickets start @ just $7.00 and children under 2 are free.

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

New Listing-Hammond, IN 46323 Brick Home For Sale near Purdue Calumet Campus

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:03:14 -0600

Look No More - This Bungalow will surprise you!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$145,500

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Unit
Interior: 2322 sqft
Lot: 7,500 sqft

Location

7020 Olcott Avenue
Hammond, IN 46323

Jeff & Grace Safrin

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate
(219) 309-9930
safrin@jorsm.com
http://www.safrin.net

Listed by: Jeff Safrin of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

Our recent listings

Look No More - This Bungalow will surprise you!
Affordable Portage Tri-level on 2 Lots
Cozy Cape Cod Lovingly update & Move in Ready!
Immaculate & Affordable Condo - great In Town VALPO location!
Custom Home w/ Attention To Details For the Discerning Buyer!

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Hammond, IN real estate for sale

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

New Listing, Portage, IN 46368 Affordable Tri - Level Home For Sale on 2 Lots!

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:33:43 -0600

Affordable Tri-level in Portage, IN on 2 Lots! - $118,000

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 1965

Subdivision: Cooley's

Lot Size: 75 x 125

Garage Size: 2.5 Car

School District: Portage

Square Footage: 1240

Agent Name: Jeff Safrin

Broker: F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

MLS #: 252403

Price: $118,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: Convenient Location !

2329 Hickory Street

Portage, IN 46368

View Map

View More Photos

Range/Oven
Full Refrigerator
Washer/Dryer
Microwave

Hardwood Floors
Kitchen Island
Vaulted Ceilings

Patio
Fenced Yard
Swimming Pool
Grass Lawn

Perched on a double lot, this 3 bedroom tri-level home has a detached 2.5 car garage with side drive and a large fenced backyard with patio & 24' round above ground pool with newer filter(2008) and wood swing/ play set stays. Open concept living room with volume beamed ceiling. Country kitchen with beautiful newer wood cabinets, small prep island, pergo wood floor, all appliances stay. Large updated main bath off kitchen as well as spacious master bedroom with ceiling fan. Other 2 bedrooms are in the lower level along with utility room. Washer & Dryer stay. Windows and interior doors replaced within the last year. 2 window a/c units included. 1st time home buyers opportunity knocks at this affordable price. You may qualify for an $8,000 tax credit if offer accepted by 4/30/10. Call to schedule a private showing with advance notice please. Talk To Jeff & Grace Safrin Real Estate Broker/Owners of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Serving NW Indiana call 219-309-9930.
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Jeff & Grace Safrin - Broker/Owners

1stTeamRealEstate@Sprint.Blackberry.Net

219-309-9930

Independently Owned and Operated.

Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 2935233

All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

NorthWest Indiana Real Estate - Opportunity Knocks - Buying or Selling A Home - Talk To Tucker !

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:49:23 -0600

With the extension AND expansion of the 1st time Home Buyer tax credit until April 30th of 2010.

NOW may be the time to Buy a Home if you are a 1st Time Home Buyer with good credit.

Sell Your Home if you are an existing Homeowner (for the last 5 consecutive years) and successfully MOVE UP or Downsize and simplify !

Northwest Indiana has plenty of affordable Housing options!

and even Short Sales are getting easier to sell and close thanks to new 2009 Indiana Laws.

So if you've been sitting on the fence ( which can get painful after awhile :)

Give us a call to talk about your options....

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Griffith, IN Charming Cape Cod Home For Sale - Lovingly Updated + easy Commute to Chicago

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:16:17 -0600

Cozy Cape Cod Lovingly update & Move in Ready!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$149,900

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Unit
Interior: 1635 sqft
Lot: 0.41 acre(s)

Location

1111 E. 40 th Place
Griffith, IN 46319

Jeff & Grace Safrin

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate
(219) 309-9930
safrin@jorsm.com
http://www.safrin.net

Listed by: JeffSafrin of F.C.tucker 1st Team Real Estate

Our recent listings

Cozy Cape Cod Lovingly update & Move in Ready!
Immaculate & Affordable Condo - great In Town VALPO location!
Custom Home w/ Attention To Details For the Discerning Buyer!
Looking to Downsize ?
Affordable Newer Home in Town Location

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Griffith, IN real estate for sale

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Valparaiso, IN New Listing - CONDO For Sale - Simplify Your Lifestyle - Great in Town Location!

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:20:37 -0600

Immaculate & Affordable Condo - great In Town VALPO location!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$99,900

Condominium
For Sale

Main Features

2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Unit
Interior: 915 sqft

Location

3601 Timberbridge
F
Valparaiso, IN 46383

Jeff & Grace Safrin

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate
(219) 309-9930
safrin@jorsm.com
http://www.safrin.net

Listed by: Jeff Safrin of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

Our recent listings

Immaculate & Affordable Condo - great In Town VALPO location!
Custom Home w/ Attention To Details For the Discerning Buyer!
Looking to Downsize ?
Affordable Newer Home in Town Location
Subject To Short Sale Approval

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Valparaiso, IN real estate for sale

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

F. C. Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Round Table - Everyone Bring's Something of Value to The Table

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:25:11 -0500

Yesterday, we had our 2nd F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Round Table Conference.

These informational monthly gatherings at different local spots are for the purpose of our Experienced REALTORS to come together and be updated on the latest Real Estate Market happenings AND share each others business building tips!

We place value on the fact that every individual comes to the table with unique insights and experiences in life and we all can benefit from each others knowledge, backgrounds, or niche's :)

This is a valuable asset in serving our current and future clients-> striving to stay current with continual quality improvement always in mind.

Our discussion included seasonal service tips, real estate lending changes, social media policy, examples of actual in the field issues encountered by others, local MLS board updates, IDX links, and chance for questions and discussion by all.

The last part of our round table was a hands on working / learning opportunity to share what we know.

Here we are gathered around our laptops discussing LinkedIn

We Invite you to Link with us all on linked in - click names below to invite us!

Pictured : Ty Gammon, Grace Safrin, Irene Tron, Jessica Tron, Linda Littlejohn

not pictured Olga Kwolek and Jeff Safrin.

As Always we appreciate your business and referrals!

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - experienced REALTORS serving Northwest Indiana

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Some Short Sales in Northwest Indiana Real Estate Are Getting Done Quicker & Easier !

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:35:43 -0500

It's been several years now since we have taken and sold listings of homes for sale that are

" Subject to Lenders Approval of a Short Sale" .

The process of getting these to close successfully has been, for the most part, becoming easier.

Perhaps it is from lessons learned along the way & doing the footwork and homework upfront before even agreeing to accept the listing and put a 'short sale' home on the market.

Lately, however, articles in major publications i.e 'Fewer Short Sales Come Up Short', point out that the part of the short sale process we do not control - the loss mitigation departments of lenders - are being more cooperative and responsive about getting short sales done.

In Indiana this year, a new law...HB1359 has helped bring answers to short sale offers within a 30 day time frame.

Since we've noticed this change in NW Indiana short sales....we are even accepting short sale referrals in our market area now from other Real Estate Brokers as a result. Just last week we closed on a short sale that was a referral from another REALTOR.

The lender complied with the new state law and the home closed 29 days after the offer was accepted by the lender! (59 days total from day of written offer).

Total Market Time on this Home = From For Sale Sign Up to signing the closing documents = 81 days in all. This is a relatively short market time for any home in NW Indiana, let alone a short sale property (where 3rd party negotiations, communications and many requirements above and beyond the usual and customary offer to purchase can lengthen the process of getting the deal closed :)

With cooperative sellers, saleable property and reasonable lenders, short sales in NW Indiana are closing easier & quicker than in years past :)

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

New Listing - Brick Ranch Home w/Full Basement & Privacy Fenced Yard in La Porte, IN- Subject To Short Sale Approval

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:01:22 -0500

Well Maintained BRICK Ranch w/ Full Basement & Fenced Yard in La Porte, IN ( Subject To Short Sale Approval) - $144,000.00

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 1969

Subdivision: Center Township

Lot Size: 0.23

Garage Size: 2 Car

School District: La Porte

Square Footage: 2700

Agent Name: Jeff Safrin

Broker: F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

MLS #: 251112

Price: $144,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: All Offers are Subject To Lenders Approval of a Short Sale

703 W. 13th Street

La Porte, IN 45650

View Map

View More Photos

Range/Oven
Full Refrigerator
Washer/Dryer
Dishwasher
Microwave

Hardwood Floors
Kitchen Island
Basement
Attic

Patio
Fenced Yard
Hot Tub
Grass Lawn
Tool Shed

Welcome Home - Red Brick Beauty in La Porte, IN -Lovingly maintained Ranch Home w/Full Basement & Attached 2 car garage offers 3 Bedrooms + 1.5 Baths. Beautiful Hardwood Flooring & newer wood 6 panel doors. Anderson Windows. Updated Kitchen w/Island. Privacy Fenced Backyard w/patio off dining room. Gazebo w/Hot tub ! Handy storage shed. Many Perennials &even a blueberry bush. Pedestal Sink & newer Tub/surrond in main bath. 1/2 Bath off MBR. Mirrored Closet doors. Large finished rec room in LL + plenty of unfinished storage area & laundry room. All Offers are subject to lenders approval of a short sale. Please allow ample response time for offers. Showings with advance notice please. Talk to Tucker - Indiana's Largest Real Estate Company (est.1918).

Jeff & Grace Safrin - Broker/Owners

1stTeamRealEstate@Sprint.Blackberry.Net

219-309-9930

Independently Owned and Operated.

Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 2884618

All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Townhome For Sale Lowell, IN - Freshly Painted & Clean - Possession Day of Closing!

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:30:09 -0500

$129,900. Freshly Painted, Carpets Cleaned - Ready For You to Move in & Enjoy Day Of Closing- see photos! Located in South Lake County, NW IN Town of Lowell. 2Story Townhome on quiet tree-lined street w/wooded backyard courtyard close to Library! Short walk to Main St.shopping & businesses=convenient location. Open concept floor plan(see additional documents)w/Formal + Informal Living & Dining Areas. Cathedral Ceiling w/Fan + Corner Fireplace in the LR. Lshaped FLR/FDR. Country Kitchen w/Appliances Included & Breakfast Nook. Family Rm off Kitchen w/sliding doors to patio. Guest 1/2 Bath, Guest Coat Closet, Laundry closet (washer & dryer stay) + utility closet complete the Main Floor. 2 BR's Upstairs share full bath ->pass thru doors to MBR has 2 closets. Window Blinds Stay. 2 Car Garage Parking in rear as well as street parking in front. 1st Time Home Buyers may qualify for an $8000. Tax Credit with the recent Stimulus Package if property closes by 11/30/09.

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See all our Company Listings @ F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate serving Norhtwest Indiana -> click here

Call one of Our Professional Experienced REALTORS Today - > Click here

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

REO - BANK OWNED Home For Sale in Crown Point, IN

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:01:25 -0500

Lakes of the Four Seasons is a Recreational Community in Northwest Indiana. Their website is http://www.lofs.org

A New Listing this week is a bank owned fixer upper sold as is.

With over 4000 square feet of living space on a corner 1/2 acre lot with golf course fairway views in the backyard, this home has potential for those handy investors with vision, as it is priced well below assessed value.

photo slide show of home & community along with map and information below

REO-bank owned=sold as is

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$189,500

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
1 Unit
Interior: 4372 sqft
Lot: 0.53 acre(s)

Location

3607 kingsway
crown point, IN 46307

Jeff & Grace Safrin

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate
(219) 309-9930
safrin@jorsm.com
http://www.safrin.net

Listed by: F.C.TUCKER 1ST TEAM REAL ESTATE

Our recent listings

REO-bank owned=sold as is
Custom Home w/ Attention To Details For the Discerning Buyer!
For Mr. or Ms. Fix it->Affordable Home, Country Setting.
Prime Location Building For Sale on Acre Lot
Ideal for Related Living or Big Family->

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more crown point, IN real estate for sale

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Valparaiso University Homecoming Football Game Saturday, 10/10/09

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:21:42 -0500

Are ya ready for some football ?

Local, that is.

t's gonna be a cool fall day tomorrow so bundle up and come out and see the Valparaiso University Crusaders play San Diego at Brown Field @ 1:00pm kickoff time!

Go VU !

Hopefully the Victory Bell will ring in a win for Valpo's bold wearing GOLD team :)

See you at the game ( twittering updates perhaps :)

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Fall is a Great Time to List Your Home For Sale.....

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 11:40:11 -0500

Serious Buyers Relocate Year Round !

Many people have the idea to "wait" until spring again to put their home on the market.

With that in mind, the competition for homes priced well and staged to sell is less in Fall than in Spring when many more come on the market.

If you are having thoughts about selling your home - why wait and risk Interest rates to go up ? (less people will be able to afford your home if that happens).

Give us a call today or click this link to schedule a Free Comparable Market Analysis.

Have a wonderful Fall Season!

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Clock is Ticking To Find That Home if You'd Like the 1st Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:02:42 -0500

Considering Buying a home in NW Indiana to take advantage of the 1st Time Home Buyer tax credit ?

Did you know this ? ......

By law, your loan cannot be completed and funded until the 8^th day after your application for your mortgage has been completed and executed. Taking into consideration Sundays and Holidays (that are excluded from the 8 day count), the last day upon which your Purchase Agreement and mortgage application can be completed is November 19, 2009.

That means it's crunch time!

Factor in the time to shop for a home and put together an offer ( which may go back n forth in negotiations, schedule and respond to inspections, appraisals, titlework, etc...)

Combine that with busy closing schedules by both lenders and title company's expected the last week of Novemeber.

Now's the time to look or risk the loss of this tax credit opportunity!

(It's not certain at the time of writing this post that the deadline for this tax credit will be extended by congress.)

Call us today for any questions or concerns!

We look forward to serving you.

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

The Bible Came to Life Last Night @ Valparaiso, Indiana's Christ Lutheran Church with A Musical Dramatization of Queen Esther performed by Keri Burman

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:37:20 -0500

Have you ever heard an Angel sing?

I did, last night!

Keri Burman ( a Valpo resident ) has a full time Christian Drama ministry-> Yadah Praise Productions and travels cross country performing at churches re-inacting Women of The Bible in song and story!

Last night our Church's Womens Fellowship group experienced her performance of the story of Queen Esther.

Words do not even do justice to describe what one feels watching this talented young lady sing and act the story.

If your church is looking for a wonderful performer for a future fellowship event. please consider the spirit filled presentations that Ms. Burman has to offer.

She does not charge (only free-will offerings are accepted at the end of her program).

She certainly has a God gifted calling to spread the gospel!

She also does programs for teens.

Please visit her website for more information.

We will most certainly invite Keri Burman back to Christ Lutheran Church, perhaps next Spring when our new Sanctuary is complete!

You can find her on Facebook as well :)

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

F.C. TUCKER 1st Team Real Estate serving Northwest Indiana->visit our Facebook Page !

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 21:09:50 -0500

GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING @ F.C TUCKER 1ST TEAM REAL ESTATE IN NW INDIANA.

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR PERIODIC UPDATES ABOUT NEW AGENTS on board, EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS, Real Estate Listings, Just SOLD properties, AND MORE!

If you are looking for experienced REALTORS to represent you when buying or selling a home in Lake, Porter or La Porte County, give one of our professional agents a call.

xxF.C.Tucker 1st Team Team Real Estate serving NW Indiana | Promote Your Page Too
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Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930

Wordless Wednesday - Notre Dame vs. Michigan State Football Game Day Photos & Video

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:12:39 -0500

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Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin, Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate - Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Office # 219-309-9930