Michigan homes for sale

I am so afraid

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:07:35 -0500

I don't know about you but I am afraid to open my retirement account statements. I had a client tell me today that his accounts were down 35%. He was a General Motors employee. I guess we will alll be working until we are 80 to make up for the latest losses.

As a self-employed person I actually did put away money for retirement. I did the right thing. Do you think I qualify for a governement bailout? I could stand to get back on track for retirement. Should I call George Bush to push the bill through? How are you doing with your retirement?

I can see me now with my walker saying isn't this a great house! Or I am going to be fighting 12 other guys to say hi to people at Wal Mart. I can see it now. All of us old guys will be lined up 12 across. "Hey its my turn you old fart. If you don't let me say hi to the next person I am going to take my teeth out and we'll be fighting."

How are you doing with your retirement accounts? Are you nervous or is it just me?

Metro Detroit Foreclosures

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 21:01:36 -0500

When you go to look at Wayne County foreclosures you need to be prepared that many of them are in disrepair. Think of it this way. The homeowners couldn't pay their mortgage bill how could they think of spending money to maintain their Wayne county Home.

Most Wayne County foreclosures are a mess. Many of them are dirty and not a place you want your kids crawling around on the carpeting. So if you have a child under five I would recommend leaving them with grandma or getting a sitter. You definitely don't want to have them fingering the walls or sitting on the carpet.

When going to look at Wayne County foreclosures bring a flashlight. Banks have the electricity shut off and shut the water off. So the toilet will be shut down, you can't use them. But once in a great while you will find a move in ready home. A Wayne County foreclosure that has updates, is in good shape, and is a good price. My advice to you on this Michigan foreclosure. Put your bid in on it, don't be a cheap skate because somebody will pay full price or abode. If the foreclosure is way below market and is in good shape it will be snapped up within a week.

Don't miss the boat and lose the home.

To search thousands of Michigan homes for sale go to my website Livonia Real estate. Search Southeastern Michigan homes for sale at your convenience

photo courtesy of http://www.freephotos.com/

Punctuality

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 06:46:12 -0500

So many real estate agents take punctuality for granted. I have seen them come to closings late. I have heard stories of other agents showing up for listing appointments late and showing appointments late.

I have this thing about being on time and even being a few minutes early. If I arrive too early I sit in the car. I make phone calls. I usually keep some sort of reading material in the car. I just feel if it a listing appointment your first impression is important. If you come late you might as well come in shorts and a tee shirt.

Be on time is the way to show respect for the other persons time. If you don't show up on time I feel you don't respect the other person.

I know there are reasons to be late. Sometimes it is unavoidable. But if you are late more times than not look at your habits and start out earlier to all your appointments and meetings. Your friends, and clients will appreciate it!

Have a great day Russ Ravary

Livonia Michigan subdivisions

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 21:36:05 -0500

What are the homes like in this Livonia subdivision? How many homes are in the sub? What are the home styles like. See the latest Livonia homes for sale, and the recent sold Livonia homes in the subdivision.

Here are some Livonia subdivisions. If you have a Michigan relocation in your future and Livonia Michigan is on your short list this information may help you.

Farmington Hills MI events and happenings

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 21:16:42 -0500

Farmington and Farmington Hills MI is a great place to live. Here is one of Farmingtons upcoming events.

Colonial Liberty Tea Oct. 14 at Historic Longacre House

With the days getting shorter and the nights getting cooler, what better way to warm the spirit than with a cup of tea? Welcome the season in the manner of Colonial America, experiencing cuisine from authentic recipes at the Colonial Liberty Tea on Tuesday, October 14 from 1 - 3 p.m. at the Longacre House, located at 24705 Farmington Road, just south of Eleven Mile in Farmington Hills.

Marlene and Mac Lipon, authorities on the Colonial Era, will dress in period costume and delight you with tales of life in 18th century America. Learn fascinating facts about taverns, coffeehouses, and how tea got to Colonial America. Tea will be served by tea specialist Linda Pudlik in the main dining room of the charming Longacre House.

Teas occur monthly at the Longacre House and each one features a special theme. The cost is $20 per guest for residents of Farmington Hills/ Farmington and $25 per non-resident guest. Reservations are required. Call 248-473-1870 to charge by phone or pay in person at the Costick Center, located at 28600 W. Eleven Mile Road in Farmington Hills.

Don't miss out, teas sell out very quickly!

I learned something new

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 21:03:00 -0500

And I wanted to share it with you. I asked a question from a fellow Active Rainer and he gave me some great information. I asked how did he was able to tell how many incoming links were going to my website. Mike Bates (Hawaii Homes) a relative newcomer has gotten into the full swing of Active Rain and shared info. That is what makes Active Rain Great.

Here is how you find out how many pages you have on your site and how many incoming links. Go to Yahoo then type in site:www.RussRavary.com so type in site:(and your website address)

Then click on links.

This is what we all strive for incoming links to our websites. So go and check out how many incoming links you still need to get.

Oakland County how to buy foreclosures panel

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:41:24 -0500

If you want to get into buying Metro Detroit foreclosed homesfor investment purposes then one of the first places you want to start is by joining Metro Detroit's premier real estate investment association. REIA of Oakland County is a great place to learn and meet fellow real estate investors.

They have monthly meetings and this month's meeting is going to be chaulk full of information on buying Wayne County foreclosures and Oakland County foreclosures.

Here is the time, date, and general information

COMING October 9th, 2008 Foreclosure Realtors Panel

Some of the areas top real estate agents specializing in listing foreclosures will be answering your questions regarding how to buy Metro Detroit foreclosed homesfrom banks and mortgage companies. They are the experts at listing and selling "as is" properties. They list distressed properties investors and landlords love to purchase.

Our panelists will be sharing their strategies:

1. How to work with an REO (Real Estate Owned) agent

2. How to negotiate with the lender and how to get your offer accepted

3. "Insiders" tips Be sure to bring your questions to this informative meeting.

MEETING SCHEDULE AND LOCATION
MSU-MEC 811 W. Square Lake Rd, Troy, Mi. 48098
5:30-7:15   Vendor Session and Networking
7:15-7:30   General Membership Meeting
7:30-9:30   Main Speaker

Please visit www.reiaofoakland.comfor more information See you there! REIA of Oakland

To search Metro Detroit foreclosures go to my website Livonia real estate and Michigan homes for sale There are over 60,000 Michigan homes for sale. Or email me at Info@RussRavary for a personalized list of homes for sale. Send me you wants, your price range, and cities you like and I will email you a list today.

NORTHVILLE AND FARMINGTON HILLS MI CLASSES AND EVENTS

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 19:47:49 -0500

NORTHVILLE CLASSES AND EVENTS

Lifeguarding Class - 10/3/08 - 11/1/08

Registration has begun. Early registration will hold your spot. This class will fill to capacity! American Red Cross Lifeguarding Class Meets on:

Day/Date

Time

Location at RCH

Fri, Oct 3

6:15-8:00pm

Pool for Pre-Skills

Pre-skills testing will consist of a 300 swim (12 lengths) of both front crawl & breaststroke and a brick retrieval/swim.

Sun, Oct 5

11:00am - 2:30pm

Crow's Nest B

Tues, Oct 7

5:30pm - 8:30pm

Pool

Sat, Oct 11

10:00am - 2:00pm

Room & Pool

Sun, Oct 12

11:00am - 2:30pm

Room

Tues, Oct 21

5:30pm - 8:30pm

Crow's Nest B & Pool

Sat, Oct 25

11:00am - 2:00pm

Crow's Nest B & Pool

Tues, Oct 28

5:30pm - 8:30pm

Pool

Sat, Nov 1

10:30am - 2:00pm

Final Testing Room & Pool

Activity #: 266206.01
Class Fees: FREE
Material fee of $35 for the Lifeguarding Manual. Payable by check on the 1st day of class. Please make checks payable to Staywell.

Northville Parks & Recreation
www.northvilleparksandrec.com 248-349-0203

FARMINGTON HILLS CLASSES AND EVENTS

ART, MUSIC AND DANCE CLASSES FOR ALL AGES

As we settle into fall, consider registering for one of the high-quality, affordable classes in art, music and dance being offered by the City of Farmington Hills. These classes are taught by professionals at various locations and are open to both residents and non-residents. Go to www.fhgov.com for registration forms and to view the Special Services program brochure or call the Cultural Arts Division at 248-473-1859.

ART CLASSES FOR TEENS AND ADULTS:

Drawing Faces, ages 13+, taught by professional artist, Kari Buzewski. Learn portrait drawing skills including face proportions, features, eyes and hair. For artists at all levels. Oct. 11, 1 - 5 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

Fabric of Life: Textile Collage, ages 18+, with Judith Sheldon, whose fabric collages are on exhibit in the City Gallery (Costick Center) Sept. 8 - Oct. 31. Use fabric to create expressive portraits and images in this new workshop. Inspiration from family photographs, stories, scraps of fabric, worn out clothing, new cloth and linens will be incorporated. Mondays, Oct. 20 - Nov. 10, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

The Floral Image, ages 18+, instructor Donna Vogelheim. This one-day workshop will explore the many ways to render floral images. Innovative and traditional flower design will be discussed and illustrated. Thursday, Oct. 23, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

Sculpting with Clay, ages 18+ with artist Bernadette Zachara-Marcos.

Translate your creative ideas into sculptural reliefs or figures various techniques. Thursdays, Oct. 30 - Dec. 11, 12:30 - 3 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

Painting with Watercolor, Ages 17+, instructor Donna Vogelheim. For beginners and experienced painters. Includes individual instruction in watercolor techniques taught to your level of experience. Tuesdays, Nov. 4 - Dec. 9, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

ART CLASSES FOR YOUTH:

Step By Step Drawing, Ages 5 - 7, 8 - 12, with Mary Schmidt Learn the basics of shape using lines, curves and circles. Build skills in 3-D technique. All materials included. Thursdays, Oct. 30 - Dec. 11, ages 5 - 7, 4:10 - 5:10 p.m., ages 8 - 12, 5:15 - 6:15 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

Pottery For Kids, Ages 5 - 7, 8 - 12, with Meredith Duckworth. Basic hand-building techniques such as pinch, coil and slab will be used to create wonderful pottery pieces. Tuesdays, Nov. 4 - Dec. 9, ages 5 - 7, 5 - 6 p.m., ages 8 - 12, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

Exploring Ceramics, Ages 12+, with Meredith Duckworth. Hand-building techniques of sculpture such as pinch, coil and slab, are taught. Beginning and continuing students are welcome. Tuesdays, Nov. 4 - Dec. 9, 7:45 - 8:45 p.m., Stables Studio, Heritage Park.

MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE CLASSES: The Drum; Learning Ensembles & Drum Circle Celebration, Ages 6 - 8, 9 - 12, Family (10 - adult), instructor Baba Issa Abramaleem. Universal rhythms and hand-drum techniques are facilitated in an informal small group structure. All levels of experience are welcome. Drums provided, or bring your own. Saturdays, Oct. 18 - Nov. 15, Costick Center - call for times.

The Next Stage, Bruce Pooley and Staff. A unique program for singers of all levels to learn vocal and stage performance skills such as tone, breath control, range, music styles and performance techniques. Thursdays, Oct. 30 - Dec. 11, Ages 10 -13, 6 - 7 p.m.; Ages 14+, 7 - 8 p.m., Costick Center.

Acoustic Guitar, Group Lessons, Beginning & Intermediate, Al Rosenthal. Beginners will learn basic chords and strum patterns. Intermediate students will build on chords and play "up the neck of the guitar." Saturdays, Nov. 1 - Dec. 6, Beginning 10 - 10:50 a.m.; Intermediate 11 - 11:50 a.m., Costick Center.

Individual music lessons are also available for children and adults in piano, acoustic, electric and bass guitar. Call 248-473-1859 to schedule.

DANCE CLASSES FOR TEENS AND ADULTS:

Motown Ballroom Dance, Ages 19+, with Dr. Karyne Brantley-Johnson. A great dance style adapted to Motown music! Lots of fun for all. Fridays, Oct. 24 - Dec. 5, Ballroom 1, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.; Ballroom 2, Oct. 24 - Nov. 21, Grant Center.

PSYCHIC READINGS OFFERED AT LONGACRE HOUSE

Is there something or someone on your mind? Do you have questions about your children, your parents, your career, your future? Psychic reader Kathy Tertzag will help you find the answers in her series of readings conducted at the historic Longacre House. Tertzag is a fourth-generation psychic who is known for helping many people find assurance, acceptance and release through her insightful readings.

The 20-minute psychic readings will take place in the second floor Bride's Room at the Longacre House, a setting that Tertzag says is perfect for readings, as the room has its own spiritual history. It also provides a beautiful, relaxed atmosphere where guests have total privacy. The Longacre House is located at 24705 Farmington Road, just south of Eleven Mile in Farmington Hills.

A well-respected psychic, Tertzag teaches classes in metaphysics and psychic phenomena at Henry Ford Community College. Tertzag works through a method of "sense impressions," and says she successfully uses the presence of spirit guides to assist in her readings. She has also experienced spirits, sometimes family members of her reading guests, who have something to tell a person or answers to questions or concerns. Tertzag is very personable and readings are totally confidential.

Pre-registration is required. Appointments for readings are between 6 - 8:50 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7, Nov. 11 and Dec. 9. Cost is $45 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Call Cultural Arts at 248-473-1857/59 to book your appointment.

To Search Metro Detroit homes for sale feel free to check out my websites Metro Detroit Michigan real estate or Livonia real estate

Another beautiful day in Michigan.

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 20:19:59 -0500

The weather was gorgeous. A slight breeze, lots of sun, and not too warm. U of M pulled a huge comeback yesterday and Michigan State won big against their opponent. Plus the Lion's fired Matt Millen this week. This was the first full week of Detroit's new mayor and the old one is just a piece of history.

So it is a great week in Metro Detroit!

Even on the real estate side it has been good. I received a good short sale listing from Active Rain, got one purchase offer accepted, and another short sale offer in. And smoothed over some ruffled feathers on a home inspection and closing. It seems I am working with a lot of short sales. I think a lot of short sales are a waste of time but sometimes the banks do cooperate and make it all worthwhile. Sometimes that small percentage of completions make all the work worthwhile.

Well tomorrow's Monday and I hope the weekend was just a sampling of what is yet to come.

May the week bring an unexpected welcome surprise.

Russ Ravary

"your local neighborhood information source"

Metro Detroit Real Estate

Livonia, Canton, Northville, Plymouth, Novi Real Estate

Susan G Komen 3 day walk

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 11:33:25 -0500

They are doing the Susan G Komen 3 day cancer walk in Metro Detroit yesterday, today and ending tomorrow.

The Campsite is at Rotary Park in Livonia MI.

Thousands of Metro Detroit women and men come together, each raising money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund. Then they take their commitment to end breast cancer one step further and walk 60 miles over the course of three days.

My wife has had three bouts with cancer over the last 18 years. She is always happy to see this walk go on. She can barely walk a mile let alone the 60 miles.

In order to participate each walker has to raise $2200 in order to walk. A tremendous committment for each walker both phsically and financially. Three cheers for these women.

Eighty-five percent of the net proceeds of this event go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Every advancement in breast cancer research, treatment, education and prevention in the last 25 years has been touched by a Komen for the Cure grant.

The remaining fifteen percent of net funds goes to the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund to provide a permanent endowment for ongoing support of breast cancer initiatives.

Even the trash cans are pink.

Thousand of women and some men dressed in pink are walking the streets of Livonia Mi today and tomorrow. So cheer them on and watch out for them when turning when you are in Livonia.

For more Livonia events, Livonia real estate, or City of Livonia Data check out my websites.

Most Secure places to live in the US.

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 06:27:16 -0500

7 Michigan cities meet the standard of the most secure place to live in the US.

According to the 4th annual Most Secure U.S. Places to Live rankings from Farmers Insurance Group of Companies®, there are seven cities in the top 200. city that best meets those qualifications is Corvallis, Ore.

Farmington Hills MI, Warren, Troy 167th place

Ann Arbor, MI 139th place

Bay City, MI 96th place

Holland - Grand Haven, MI 112th place

These ranking were determined using the following factors

crime statistics
extreme weather
risk of natural disasters
environmental hazards
terrorism threats
air quality
life expectancy
job loss numbers

They looked at 379 U.S. municipalities. The study divided the communities into three groups: large metropolitan areas, mid-size cities and small towns.

The city that was number one was Corvallis, Oregon.

Farmington and Farmington Hills Mi are great places to live. To search Farmington Hills real estate or Southeastern Michigan homes for sale (over 60,000 homes) on my websites.

Politics and us

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:14:12 -0500

I'M SITTING HERE WATCHING THE DEBATES. AND HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS. I'm from Detroit area. For many years it has been racially divided. Only in the last few years have many neighborhoods become racially mixed. It is a good thing brought about many things including the sub-prime mess.

Just like the sub-prime mess good things sometimes come out of bad things. Just like this political mess we are in, something good is coming out of it. We are going to have somebody other than a white man in the white house or as a vice president. It is good for us as a nation.

Whether it is Obama, McCain, Palin or Biden it is a great thing. We are changing in the United States. We aren't going to have a non- good- ole-boy person in Washington. Whether we have a woman or a minority in Washington is one of the greatest things that we are witnessing in our lifetime.

We have witnessed the Berlin wall come down and we are now going to be witnessing another great barrier to come down. It is a great day, a great year for all of us.

Whoever wins, America wins. We are crossing race and gender barriers never known before. Let's hear it for America. It may be baby steps but slowly we are becoming a nation that all races, genders can reach their full potential.

Congratulations to all of us. Vote for who you like. God Bless America. God bless you and your family.

Northville restaurant's George's Senate Coney Island

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 19:59:18 -0500

Whether you live in Northville, Livonia or Plymouth MI George's Senate Coney Island is a great place to eat.

Located on the west side of Haggerty Rd just south of Six Mile in Northville MI. George's Senate Coney Islandis a reasonably priced restaurant for the family. I won't go over board and say the George's is the best coney island in Wayne County.

The best part of George's is the atmosphere. Sure it is a coney island that sell's liquor, beer, and wine. Sure they have a great breakfast menu. But it is the atmosphere of George's patio is what makes the place.

My wife and I went there tonight. It was a beautiful September day in Metro Detroit. The temperature went up to 80 degrees. Tomorrow it is going to cool off. So I thought we would go out and enjoy one last night on the patio.

It is beautiful there. There are a couple of shade trees. Flowering baskets all over. And the view of the little golf course is great. The fountains in the ponds makes a great backdrop while you are eating dinner. It is so relaxing there.

But if you go on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night the atmosphere gets a little kick. George has hired a guitar player/ singer that softly plays in the background.

When the sun goes down some of the trees are wrapped in Christmas lights. So if you have no where to go and you want a quiet relaxing reasonable meal stop by George's Coney Island Northville MI.

So if you are out looking at Northville Real estateand need a break. Try out one of our local non-chain restaurants. Have a great night.................. Russ Ravary

Quit whining!

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 18:39:17 -0500

I am hearing a lot of whining from real estate agents in Detroit. We are hard hit here. But do you think those agents will change their habits? Will they do something that they haven't done? Or will they sit by the phone and wait for that call?

I have an agent in our office. They have no listings, they have no buyers.

Are they calling expireds? ................NO
Are they knocking on doors? ...................... NO
Are they putting out fliers or advertising .................... NO
Are they blogging? ...............................NO
Do they have a good website? ....................NO
Are they working harder or working more than 40 hours? ...................NO
Are they complaining Heck Yes!!!!

Do I feel sorry for this person? Unfortunately no. I have talked to them about blogging. Have they taken the step. NO. It is easier to complain about no business. Easier to talk to others about how hard the business is. Easier to scour for news about other Realtors that are failing.

But Metro Detroit homes are selling! Sure the commissions are smaller. Sure it is tougher to put a deal together. Sure there are less buyers.

Are you going to wait for the wind to change? Or are you going to change your course. The wind is there. The business is there.

GRAB THAT BUSINESS!

HOMES ARE BEING BOUGHT AND SOLD ACROSS THE COUNTRY

PEOPLE ARE MOVING!

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO GET YOUR PIECE OF THE PIE? Don't sit around and work yourself out of the real estate business.

photo courtesy of http://www.freephotos.com

Laurel Park subdivision real estate update Livonia MI

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:45:53 -0500

Livonia MI real estate

Laurel Park South subdivision is actually 2 subdivisions with one homeowners association. Laurel Park South has approximately 336 homes in it. The homes were built during the years of 1979 - 1985.
The homes are mostly Colonial, ranch, and Cape Cod style. Most of the homes have brick exteriors, 2 car garages, 3-4 bedrooms, 2 + bathrooms, basements.

Here is the Square footage of the

colonial homes range from 1800 - 2400 square ft.
ranch homes range from 1300 - 2200 square ft.

The school district is Livonia Public Schools

The location of the subdivision is between 5 and 6 mile roads and between Newburgh and I-275 Roads.

The streets that are in the Laurel Park South subdivision are:

Mallory Dr
Bloomfield Dr
S. Laurel Park Dr
Blue Skies Dr
Munger St
Bristol St
Bristol Ct
Nola Ct
Nola Dr
Marsha St
Huff St

Here is the latest Livonia real estate market update for Laurel Park Subdivision Neighborhood as of September 2, 2008.

There are 7 Livonia homes for sale currently in the sub. The average list price is $248,514 and on the average has been on the market for 163 days.

On-Market Residential
Price	Address	Bed	Bath
$199,900	1661 LAUREL PARK DR	3	2
$209,900	3823 MALLORY DR	4	2.1
$245,000	1634 HOUGHTON DR	3	2.1
$259,900	1640 BLUE SKIES DR	3	2.1
$265,000	3826 MALLORY DR	3	3.1
$270,000	1650 MARSHA	4	2.1
$289,900	3820 MALLORY DR	3	2.1

IF YOU OR ONE OF YOUR FRIENDS, OR CHILDREN WOULD LIKE TO SEE ONE OF THESE LOVELY LIVONIA HOMES FOR SALE OR GET MORE INFORMATION ON THESE HOMES EMAIL ME AT INFO@RUSSRAVARY.COM OR CALL ME ON MY CELL AT 313-310-9855

Here are all the Livonia homes that have sold in Laurel Park, Livonia, MI in the last year as of 9/2/2008.

Off-Market Residential
Status	Price	Address	Bed	Bath	OffMktDt
LEASED	$1,500	16690 BLUE SKIES DR	3	2.1	4/22/2008
LEASED	$1,500	37745 BLOOMFIELD DR	3	3	8/1/2008
LEASED	$1,600	37610 BRISTOL CT	3	2.1	10/31/2007
LEASED	$2,000	16536 NOLA CT	3	2.1	4/22/2008
PEND	$184,900	16504 MARSHA ST.	3	3.1	8/15/2008
SOLD	$275,000	38254 BRISTOL ST	4	2.1	8/24/2007
SOLD	$275,000	16252 MARSHA ST	4	2.1	8/27/2007

2 Livonia homes have sold in the Laurel Park Subdivision last year with an average price of $275,000 after being on the market an average of 70 days.

You will notice the trend in Metro Detroit real estate when looking at several of these subdivision updates. Livonia real estate home values are continuing to fall, but the time on market for Livonia homes for sale is about the same. Even though Livonia real estate home values are falling they are falling about the same as the rest of Wayne County home values. The City of Detroit home values are falling faster than Livonia´s.

For more Livonia subdivision real estate updates or Plymouth Subdivisions real estate updates check out my websites. You can search over 60,000 Michigan homes for sale on my sites.

How far do you go?

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:33:40 -0500

I believe as a parent you need to support your kids as much as possible. But it is a fine line of teaching them, and grooming them to be independent adults with the tools necessary to be sucessful. The reason I am writing this is because I sometime see instances where parents are failing their children.

As a Michigan loan officer and Michigan RealtorI learn a lot about a persons financial well being when they come to see me. I know their assets, their income, their expenses when they come to me about a mortgage. As a Michigan Realtor I don't get into all of the personal financial information. But we can deduct from talking to our clients their lifestyle and their theory of money. We can even tell things about our clients by their credit report. Where they spend their money and how much they spend at certain stores.

One of the biggest downfalls I am seeing lately is where the parents are putting their financial future in jeopardy to help their kids. It is a great thing to give everything you can to help your kids. BUT Some of my clients have gone over board and have their finances in turmoil. All because they were supporting their kids and their overspending lifestyles. You have to teach your kids to live within their income. By bailing them out and ruining your credit doesn't help the family. It only creates more problems.

Maybe I am not one to talk. We support our son Ryan to the fullest. A couple of weeks ago we moved him from the suburbs of Chicage into the city of Chicago. It was 3 flights down and 4 flights up. My wife was exhausted and needed a day of rest after working herself to death for three days. When he first moved out there my wife Marianne bought him everything he needed. I think she fully furnished the apartment all the way down to the blender. So I may not one to talk. I want to give Ryan everything I can.

But I don't want him to live beyond his means. I want to retire someday. I want to take some trips. I want him to have a great life but like all of us he too will have to work for it. We were not born rich. We are just average Americans. Working hard to get by.

At some point as parents we have to cut back the purse strings. The exception I believe is if you can financially afford it. If you have the money by all means give freely when ever you want to. But if you have to borrow the money or refinance your home to support your kids free wheeling live style. You need to step back. Think about carefully before you do it.

Again I believe you need to help your kids out when they lose their job, or have medical problems if you can. But I'm not saying pay for their mortgage when they are sitting on the couch at home.

When you go to help your kids out of a mess. Step back and think about it. Sometimes the best thing we can do is let them learn on their own. I have had clients pay for their kid's apartments after they graduated from college ( three years after). I have had clients pay for their kids foreclosures (twice) and there were not special circumstances other than the kid living beyond their means. I have parents paying for their kids homes when the kids are in the forties. And the kid is pushy about demanding the money.

At some point they need to grow up financially. Cutting the purse string will make them learn the basics. I believe it is ok to help them out if you can afford it financially. But remember you have to have the money to retire. You should have the money to help the kids out. To bankrupt yourself or to go into foreclosure yourself for your kids may not be the best move.

But who am I to say. It is your life and your kids. What ever you do think before you refinance your home. Think before you take the cash out to give to your kids.

PS I am still getting over those flights of stairs.

photo courtesty of http://www.freephotos.com

Metro Detroit foreclosures -ranchs, colonials, or bungalows

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:33:25 -0500

What is the best bargain in Metro Detroit homes? Is it ranches, is it colonials, or is it bungalows.

I am seeing Metro Detroit area colonial homes going for some great prices. A 900 - 1000 square foot ranch in many Wayne County and Oakland county cities are still fetching $125,000 -150,000. They have dropped in price but not as drastically as other types of hones. You can find some real bargain ranch in cities like Dearborn Heights, Garden City, Redford, Garden City and Westland MI. In fact in some cities you can find bargain Metro Detroit ranch homes 900 -1000 square foot as cheap as $70,000.

Colonial homes in many cities are a tremendous bargain. When choosing between a big ranch at $170,000 versus a colonial at $190,000 I think the bargain will be in the colonial home. The question for you is can you afford to move up to a higher price range. Remember you have to be able to afford to heat and maintain the bigger colonial home. But if you can afford the bigger home I believe you will get better appreciation on the colonial home when the market comes back.

Many Metro Detroit colonials start in the 1700 square foot range. I am seeing bargains all the way up to the 3500 square foot colonial homes. Today I was doing a comparative market analysis on a client's home. I was looking through recently sold Farmington Hills colonial homes. I was looking at was 2600 -3000 square feet range. Here are some of the recent bargain Farmington Hills colonials I saw:

2900 sq ft Farmington Hills foreclosure that sold for $220,000
2868 sq ft Farmington Hills foreclosure that sold for $207,000
2793 sq ft fully updated Farmington Hills colonial home for $270,000

That 2793 square footFarmington Hills colonial home had an updated kitchen, updated bathrooms. A beautiful Farmington Hills colonial. A colonial that was completely updated and ready to move in for less than a $100 a square foot! Now that is a Metro Detroit real estate bargain! Who wouldn't like a home like that.

You can find bargain colonial homes in Canton, Livonia real estate, and even in Plymouth Michigan. But you can find great deals in Wayne County bungalows, and Wayne county ranches. Lots of homes to chose from. Call me to get started.

Feel free to search over 60,000 Michigan homes for sale or call me to get your personalized list of Metro Detroit Foreclosures cell 313-310-9855

Not the Death star but the death spiral

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 18:02:12 -0500

I don't know if many people realized how close we were to slipping into a depression of the 1930's. We were like a plane falling from the sky or a skydiver spinning out of control. That is where our economy is at this point.

Some of the reasons are:

The housing market now has excess supply of homes for the amount of buyers that are qualified to buy. Harder bank guidelines, no stated loans, no 100% loans, and people that can't get a loan because they have a foreclosure has reduced the amount of potential home buyers pool.
The loss of jobs in the housing industry is huge. The amount of income gone from our economy is huge. Mortgage loan officers are out of jobs, real estate agents are looking for side jobs, contractors have had their income cut in half or more. Builders, developers, title companies are on the ropes.
This loss of spending from all of these people has an effect on the economy. Less retail sales, less dinners out. People are cutting back.
States that have property tax based on home values are going to loss income to run their cities, counties, and schools. More public sector layoffs.
Home values and the cycle won't turn around until we have enough new population growth to replace all of those buyers that are sitting on the sidelines.
Americans have used credit and their homes as a bank to finance their lifestyle. That can no longer happen. For all of those people that we spending $10,000 a year more than they made it is over. They have to live within their means, So the economy is losing that spending money.
If everybody across the nation is cutting back. Less new jobs, more people out of work. Just a big cycle until it corrects. Never since the 1930's has the whole nation taken a beating like this.

Like a snowball going down hill this disaster was just picking up speed. And taking peoples lives, retirement plans, and lifestyles down with it. By the US Government stepping in, the economy won't be righted, but the snowball will be slowed and broken up.

There still will be many sad stories of personal failures and companies going out of business. But the government, the legislators are trying everything they can to preserve the nation's wealth. Our 401K, our homes, our jobs.

If they didn't do the bank bailout you would be complaining a lot worse.

Government Bank bailout

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 21:11:17 -0500

I am sure every REO department, short sale personnel and bank personnel having to do with foreclosures went home early Friday or got the day off.

I don't think there will be many banks making many decisions in the next few days until their superiors can sort out what the Government is going to do. Why should they do anything if the government is going to pony up and pay for this mess.

Do you really think some bank official that was in charge of this mess is going to continue on with a short sale offer until they know what is going to happen. There are a hundred different ways the government can go with this. Though I think that people that are not in foreclosure and trying to sell their home via a short sale are going to be out of luck.

The next question I have is how long will this bailout be good for? Will there be a rush of foreclosures?

Short sale experiences

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:51:33 -0500

Hey I am looking for feedback and experiences on Short sales.

Here are questions for all of you real estate agents out there.

What is your percentage of closing versus putting in an offer on a short sale?
What would you say is the average time it has taken a bank to accept or deny an offer?
Do you like doing short sales? Or are you only doing them as a last resort?
If it was a personal friend,co-worker, or family member would you do a short sale or recommend a short sale to them?

So come on and let me know what you think about short sales. Honest opinions only. Looking for that agent that portrays themselves as a short sale expert. I haven't found one in Michigan that is very good yet at them. (On the seller side)

Livingston County real estate market

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:33:10 -0500

Livingston County real estate update for sold homes
South Easterm Michigan Real Estate Market statistics

Home Sales Statistics for LIVINGSTON County MI
08/21/2008

Livingston CountySingle Family Residence
Time Period	Number of Sales	Median Sale Price
Jul 2008	180	$156,327
Jul 2007	121	$179,000
Jun 2008	103	$154,900
Jun 2007	111	$191,000
2008 YTD	835	$167,500
2007	1,467	$186,500

Livingston County Home Price Statistics

Livingston County Home Price Range	Number of Listings	Days on Market

25,000 to 75,000	183	126
75,001 to 125,000	516	140
125,001 to 175,000	1149	158
175,001 to 225,000	1069	188
225,001 to 275,000	859	194
275,001 to 325,000	565	226
325,001 to 375,000	369	229
375,001 to 425,000	255	233
425,001 to 475,000	124	256
475,001 to 525,000	113	243
525,001 to 575,000	70	227
575,001 to 625,000	69	270
625,001 to 675,000	35	277
675,001 to 725,000	34	221
725,001 to 775,000	26	310
775,001 to 800,000	18	281

For the 5454 Livingston County home listings:	For the 891 Livingston County Sold Home listings:
$248,218.00	Average Sold Price	$201,004.00
$219,900.00	Median Sold Price	$180,000.00
$848,000.00	Highest Sold Price	$784,000.00
$24,900.00	Lowest Sold Price	$25,000.00
$1,353,778,000.00	Sales Volume	$179,811,800.00
191	Livingston County Homes Average Days On Market	141

Livingston County is in Southeastern Michigan. The City of Detroit is located in Wayne county. Some of the Livingston County facts

Population, 2006 estimate

184,511

Population, percent change, April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2006 17.6%

Persons per household, 2000 2.80

Median household income, 2004 $71,683

Persons below poverty, percent, 2004 5.1%

Land area, 2000 (square miles) 568.40

Persons per square mile, 2000 276.3

The cities below are in Livingston County. Click on the city for the Livingston real estate update for each city. Included is the Media home sales prices and average time on the market.

Livingston County Real Estate

Brighton
Brighton Twp
Genoa Twp
Hamburg Twp
Hartland
Hartland Twp

Howell
Howell Twp
Oceola
Pinckney
Whitemore Lake

Whether you are selling or buying a Livingston County home here are some real estate articles.

Livingston County First time home buyers tips

* 10 questions to ask yourself before you buy a Livingston County home
* Livingston County house or Livingston County condo? what should I buy?
* Pros and cons of Livingston County home ownership
* Getting your finances in order so you are ready to buy a home
* First time Livingston County home buyer, what to do

Livingston County home sales tips

* 13 mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars when selling your Livingston County Home
* How much is your Livingston county home really worth?
* Key exterior tips to improve curb appeal
* Key Interior tips to improve curb appeal
* 9 steps to maximize your profit when selling your Livingston County home

Blue Grass Farms Subdivision Livonia Michigan

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:29:37 -0500

Livonia Michigan real estate

Blue Grass Farms subdivision. Blue Grass Farms has approximately 214 homes in it. The homes were built during the years of 1964 - 1969.
The homes are mostly Colonial, split level, and ranch style. Most of the homes have brick exteriors, 2 car garages, 3-4 bedrooms, 1 & 2 + bathrooms, basements.

Square footage of the colonial homes range from 1800 - 2500 square ft.
Square footage of the ranch homes range from 1400 - 1800 square ft
Square footage of the split level homes range from 1600 - 2100 square ft

All of the above information is general information. We do not guarantee the information. This is to give a guide to the subdivision.

The school district is Livonia Public Schools

The location of the subdivision is between 5 Mile rd and 6 mile roads and between Newburgh and I-275.

The streets that are in the Blue Grass Farms subdivision are:

Hix St
Hix Ct
Ladywood Ct
Nola Circle
Lancaster St
Roycroft Ct
5 Mile Rd
Knolson St
Kingsbury St

Here is the latest Livonia real estate market update for Blue Grass Farms Subdivision Neighborhood as of September 1, 2008.

There are 4 Livonia homes for sale currently in the sub. The average list price is $200,200 and on the average has been on the market for 325 days.

On-Market Residential
Price	Address	Bed	Bath
$196,999	3880 ROYCROFT ST	3	1.1
$198,900	3819 LANCASTER ST	3	2.1
$200,000	3860 KINGSBURY ST	4	2.1
$204,900	1561 NOLA CIR	3	2.1

IF YOU OR ONE OF YOUR FRIENDS, OR CHILDREN WOULD LIKE TO SEE ONE OF THESE LOVELY LIVONIA HOMES FOR SALE OR GET MORE INFORMATION ON THESE HOMES EMAIL ME AT INFO@RUSSRAVARY.COM OR CALL ME ON MY CELL AT 313-310-9855

Here are all the Livonia homes that have sold in Blue Grass Farms, Livonia, MI in the last year as of 9/1/2008.

Off-Market Residential
Price	Address	Bed	Bath	OffMktDt
$173,000	38113 LANCASTER ST	4	2.1	6/12/2008
$179,000	38451 LANCASTER ST S	3	2.1	2/6/2008
$180,500	38141 LANCASTER ST	4	2.1	7/21/2008

3 Livonia homes have sold in the Blue Grass Farms Subdivision last year with an average price of $177,500 after being on the market an average of 155 days.

You will notice the trend in Metro Detroit real estate if you look at several of these subdivision updates. Livonia real estate home values are continuing to fall, but the time on market for Livonia homes for sale is about the same. Even though Livonia real estate home values are falling they are falling about the same as the rest of Wayne County home values. The City of Detroit home values are falling faster than Livonia´s

Local Metro Detroit happenings

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 16:14:46 -0500

Northville Michigan events

American Red Cross Family Caregiving

Northville Parks and Recreation is offering this Family Caregiving program to help prepare families to take on the responsibility and challenges of caring for a loved one at home. Topics may include but are not limited to: Home Safety, general Caregiving Skills, Positioning & Helping a Loved One Move, Assisting with Personal Care, Healthy Eating, Legal & Financial Issues

Join us Saturday, September 27 from 9:00am - 10:30am at the Northville Community Senior Center and gain the confidence to provide better care and learn how to approach key concerns. Fee is $35 per Northville Resident, however additional non-resident fees apply. Participants MUST pre-register and can do so by contacting the Northville Parks & Recreation office.

Farmington Hills Events

FALL BRINGS SPECIAL TEAS TO THE LONGACRE HOUSE

Visitors are invited to take a break from their usual routine to go back in time and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the charming surroundings of the historic Longacre House, located at 24705 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills. Each tea has its own special theme, and is accompanied by entertaining and educational presentations. Patrons also enjoy a lovely luncheon of three specially prepared, dainty courses.

The next tea presentation will take place on Tuesday, September 23 and will feature Ann Pettersson of "All Things Victorian," who will tell tea tales of the past. The tea begins at 1:00 p.m. and pre-registration is required. Fee for the teas is $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents. To register, please call the Cultural Arts Division at 248-473-1870. Groups are welcome.

Other upcoming teas include:

Oct. 14 - Marlene Lipon on the colonial era, with tea specialist Linda Pudlik

Nov. 11 - Russian Tea with Ann Pettersson

Dec. 5 & 9 - Holiday Tea with Linda Pudlik

For more on Canton MI Real estate or Northville MI real estate feel free to check out m websites. Southeastern Michigan no#1 Real estate website.

Feel Free to bother me.

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 16:02:37 -0500

This blog post came about from a client. I recently sold her house. It wasn't a big house so she knew I didn't make a lot of money. My client was nervous through the whole process. She called me a lot. She might have even called me every other day for 3 months. A lot of calls but I understood that she was nervous.

She and her husband were selling their Livonia colonial home to down size into a Metro Detroit condo. They weren't sure where they wanted to live. They just knew that the Livonia colonial home was too big. She was nervous about the lifestyle change. So she called.

Sometimes that's what we do as realtors.

We explain the process.
We explain why the other realtor didn't give feedback. It wasn't because they hated the house.
We explain the negotiation process why they aren't getting back to us quickly
We explain ins and outs of a home inspection and what they look for.
We talk what should be important to the buyer
We explain what to expect at closing
We go over the final paper work

To me whether you call once or twenty times it's my job to help you. To help you feel comfortable, to help make the process smoother for you.

So she felt she was bothering me to buy a $45,000 Livonia Condo. She thought I was going to be making too little money to be bothered.

I told IT'S NOT A BOTHER. IT'S MY JOB. BIG OR SMALL HOME I'M HAPPY TO SHOW IT TO YOU AND HELP YOU GET INTO A HOME.

Whether it is about Farmington Real estate, or Michigan taxes, or about Metro Detroit foreclosures feel free to call me. My cell phone is 313-310-9855

Or if you just want a list of Metro Detroit foreclosures or just want a personalized list of homes for sale in your area. Email me at info@RussRavary.com

Or just check out my websites to search over 60,000 Metro Detroit homes for sale.

IT'S NOT A BOTHER

Should I be mad?

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:27:09 -0500

The GOVERNMENT BANK BAILOUT.

I have worked hard in my life, lived within my means, and didn't run up my credit cards. If I needed more money I did side work and I saved. I paid down my mortgage over the years. So should I be upset with the government bailing out all these people that over bought and have huge houses. Should we as taxpayers be funding somebodies big house and OVERSPENDING.

After October 1 many people will be looking at the FHA program to refinance at 90% of what their house is worth. What is the government going to give the people who have lived within their means, that paid their bills. They are going to give them a budget deficit. A higher tax bill sooner or later.

I know we have to fix this mess but what about the people that did the right thing. The people that are still living in the $250,000 and not the $450,000 home. Where is fairness of all of this. But I guess life isn't fair. Sometime we reward those that act irresponsibly. Those CEO's of those banks that gave all those loans out are still receiving millions of dollars in salary. That $450,000 is going to gain more in appreciation than the $250,000 house even if they both gain just 10%.

If the government bank bailout comes back and refinances all of those people for less money how is it fair for those who have already lost their homes. Those people have bad credit, can't buy a house for 3 -4 years, have their lives wiped out. But now all of a sudden we might be giving a certain segment of people a free ride. Should Ed McMahon or the sports stars be able to get a free ride at the expense of the people that lived within their means.

I have no problem with some of the bank foreclosures. Some people have medical problems, some have lost their jobs. But how can anybody differentiate who really needs help or who doesn't. It is like giving money to a street person. Who is going to buy food with it or who is going to buy a bottle and get drunk. You give it anyway and hope for the best.

Maybe I am jumping the gun on what is going to happen with the government bank bailout, but I want it to be known that I don't want to pay for somebody else's lifestyle. I don't want my kids to be saddled with the debt either.

Either way it should be interesting to see how the government is going to handle the foreclosure mess from here on. I may not like it but if they can get the economy, the banking system, and the real estate market righted it will be a good thing.

HOW ABOUT YOU WHAT DO YOU THINK SHOULD HAPPEN. DO YOU LIKE IT? DO YOU WORK HARD TO PAY YOUR MORTGAGE ON TIME

The bottom line is: get it fixed and get this nation back on track. Let's hope the government bank bailout works. Let's hope the government bank bailout keeps us out of a depression. Just my opinion. May your day get better. Russ Ravary Michigan Realtor