South Florida Mortgage Advice and More

Happy Holidays From The Mortgage Oasis

The Mortgage Oasis — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:29:22 -0600

The Mortgage Oasis would like to take this time to wish everyone a Happy Holiday season. Let us continue to strive to obtain our goals in 2008 as we continue to weather the current economic climate..... This too shall pass!

Remember in 2008...When you Have A Mortgage Question.... -

Ask The Mortgage Oasis!

Happy Holidays!

HUD FHA Florida Training

The Mortgage Oasis — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 01:17:09 -0500

Single Family FHA Education Sessions, Ft. Lauderdale

Event Date: September 18, 2007 - September 19, 2007

Event Time: All Day Event

Description: The Atlanta Homeownership Center will be conducting FREE Single Family FHA Education Sessions for our industry partners in Fort Lauderdale. The sessions will provide the most recent information on FHA programs and procedures and will cover topics developed for lenders, appraisers, and other mortgage professionals.

Day 1: 9:00AM - 5:00PM Underwriting--Credit, Property, and Quality Assurance

Day 2: 9:00AM - 1:00PM Appraisal Session

This training is free but you must register online by September 14. You also must register for each session you wish to attend. Group registrations cannot be accepted. Seating is limited, so please register early.

Location: Sheraton Suites Cypress Creek, 555 NW 62nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309

HUD - FHA Florida Event

Still Here....and Hanging on For the Ride

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 15:00:03 -0500

I have not blogged in a while...but that does not mean I have not been getting questions. In fact these past couple of months have generated many questions from prospective buyers, homeowners, Realtors, etc. Even a normal service call to my phone carrier generated some questions from the customer service representative. People want to know what is really happening in the market. Everyone has their 2 cents to add and at least 10 fingers to point blame. My advice...is what it has been since day 1. Be informed consumers and work with trusted professionals and turn to trusted sources of information. Continue working on your credit and paying your bills on time and work with financial professionals that help you place your housing and associated expenses within the total context of your financial future. Do not borrow trouble. There is so much change ...Be Optimistic.

For our many clients, thank you for your continued support ! The Mortgage Oasis rocks on because of you!

Have a Question....Ask The Mortgage Oasis.

Paycheck Calculations

The Mortgage Oasis — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 22:54:03 -0500

As I was surfing through the web, I came across a pretty cool site (at least I think so!) that has many paycheck calculations. A nice tool to help you budget your money.

The site allows you to enter deductions, calculate 403bs, stock options and much more. Very easy to use. Check it out. PayCheck City. Happy calculating!

Have a Question? Just Ask the Mortgage Oasis

Loan Solicitations Annoying You?

The Mortgage Oasis — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 07:46:38 -0500

Do you own a home or have you applied for a mortgage lately? Chances are, you have been inundated with mortgage offers from other companies - everyone trying to beat their competition. Within the last year and a half or so --- often times you can point your finger back to Trigger Leads.

When your credit is pulled, the credit bureaus directly (not the vendor, mortgage company or loan officer) may sell your information to other brokers or mortgage companies. Trust that your mortgage company or mortgage professional would not sell away your information. So you may get the calls and letters and more calls and more letters-all trying to sway you to the better deal.

If you are working with somebody you trust and that person is doing a fine job - stay with that person and let them continue earning your business. Some, not all, of these offers will use "bait and switch" tactics. They lure you in with something really good and then change up the program on you. Because these leads are expensive, the persons who have purchased them, may have an aggressive approach to getting your business. Don't put yourself in this type of situation.

We personally do not cold call or solicit business through trigger leads. I mean really - who wants to be sold a mortgage by a random stranger just before dinner? Might cause a little indigestion.

How to Opt Out:

If you want this solicitation to stop - yes - you can opt out. We help our clients opt out, if they ask us to -- as well as show them how they can opt out themselves. The website to opt out is https://www.optoutprescreen.com/.

•· Opt-Out from receiving Firm Offers for Five Years - (electronically through this website).

•· Opt-Out from receiving Firm Offers permanently - (mail Permanent Opt-Out Election form available through this website).

•· Opt-In and be eligible to receive Firm Offers. This option is for consumers who have previously completed an Opt-Out request - (electronically through this website).

Before Opting Out:

Opting out will remove you from all types of offers. So if you still want to receive pre-screen credit offers (such as revolving credit or business credit) - then just get a nice shredder and be pre-pared to shred the offers that do not interest you!

Have a Question - Just Ask the Mortgage Oasis...The Stress-Free Way to Find A Mortgage!

June is Home Ownership Month

The Mortgage Oasis — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 21:52:58 -0500

June is Home Ownership Month.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everybody a Happy Home Ownership Month. That is right - June is homeownership month and celebrated across the country. If home ownership is your dream - stay encouraged and continue to working toward that dream.

As a reminder of a previous post I did - 24 months to homeownership.

Home ownership is a decision and consideration should be given in advance. You shouldn't wake up one day and say I want to buy a home tomorrow.

Save. Establish a savings pattern. There are down payment, closing costs and upfront housing expenses that you want to have funding set aside for. With the changing market, lenders are also wanting to see more "reserves" - assets still in your possession after closing. You should not leave the closing table with nothing to your name - except that deed and mortgage. While there are sill low down payment programs and 100% financing available - all effort should be made to save.

Employment. Make sure your employment is steady or increasing in the 24 month period. Lenders like consistency in employment and like to see consistency or advancement if there are job changes within the 2 year period prior to your purchase.

Credit. Establish it. Use it sparingly. Pay off balances or keep them low. Remember your credit history is important and it is used as an indicator to how you will pay your mortgage. No lender wants to pull a report and see a series of collections, judgments and pay-offs. This increases your risk level - and YOUR interest rate.

Rental History. As a first time buyer, your housing history is your rental history. If you pay rent, make sure it is documented. Have an audit trail - in other words do not pay in cash. First time buyers can have excellent rental histories with no way to show it because they paid in cash to a private landlord. For first time buyers with light credit - rental history can often be used as a compensating factor or additional trade line.

Participate in a home ownership class - These are free and housing providers can be found on HUD. Classes are free or offered at a very low cost. Learn about the true costs to own a home and make sure you are on track with budgeting.

Have a positive outlook and be realistic. Your first home -I s just that. It is a starter home and can be used as stepping stone your dream home.

Once again...Happy Home Ownership Month from The Mortgage Oasis!

Have a Question....Just Ask The Mortgage Oasis.

Savings and Loans.... Portofolio Lending

The Mortgage Oasis — Tue, 01 May 2007 21:17:10 -0500

Portfolio lending usually occurs among Savings and Loan institutions and banks which many mortgage companies having lending relationships with. Essentially portfolio loan are not sold on the secondary market therefore leaving the S&L or bank to offer niche products that do not mean customary underwriting guidelines. With compensating factors, a loan that seems impossible can possibly be done. For example, a sub FICO score doesn't mean a deal is dead if there are compensating factors.

Because these are sometimes referred to as a last resort because these loans can help an individual that can not qualify otherwise.

Have A Question?....Just ASK.

Florida Mortgage Fraud Clearinghouse

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 17:23:11 -0500

Every time I read something about someone using someone's SSN to purchase a home, inflated appraisals, straw-buyers, falsified documents-- on and on, I can't help wonder how greed can possess someone or a group of individuals to move forward with a Mortgage Fraud scheme. It is never worth it.

I occasionally check the clearinghouse house for mortgage information. Ms. Rachel Dollar's Mortgage Fraud Blog sheds light on the subject and the names of the companies and individuals who are being sentenced for these fraudulent transactions.

In the blog, I did a search for Florida Mortgage Fraud stories and the results went on and on. Is this the type of attention you want? Also, when you are caught -- there is nothing to enjoy. Everybody suffers from these schemes....The profession, the lenders, the community and you.

Have A Question...Just Ask.

Palm Beach County Tax Certificate Sale

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 02:10:58 -0500

Tax Collector, Palm Beach County
2007 Tax Certificate Sale

The Tax Certificate Sale of unpaid 2006 Palm Beach County real property taxes will begin at 9:00 a.m. June 1, 2007. The sale will be conducted on the County's tax certificate auction web site, http://www.bidpbtc.com/. Bidders can review the advertised list of unpaid real property taxes and begin to submit bids on the web site starting on May 16, 2007.

For More Info, please visit the Palm Beach County's Tax Collector

Have a Question?...Just Ask!

Miami Dade Tax Certificate Sale - Via the Internet.

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 01:59:57 -0500

Two years ago, Miami Dade County began conducting it's Tax Certificate Sale via the Internet.

Please visit the Miami Dade Tax Collector's Site for frequently asked questions on the County's Tax Certificate Internet Auction and to stay abreast of the 2007 Tax Certificate Sale for Miami-Dade County.

Have a Question?...Just Ask.

Tax Certificate Sale - Broward County Florida

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 01:45:56 -0500

2007 TAX CERTIFICATE SALE
FOR DELINQUENT 2006 REAL ESTATE TAXES

The sale of tax certificates for delinquent 2006 real estate taxes will be held in room 422,

Broward County Commission meeting room, Governmental Center, 115 South Andrews Avenue,

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, commencing Friday, May 25, 2007 AT 8:00 A.M.

ANY ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE FOLLOWING
SCHEDULE WILL BE ANNOUNCED

Friday May 25, 2007 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Governmental Center 422

Tuesday May 29, 2007 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Governmental Center 422

Wednesday May 30, 2007 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Governmental Center 422

Thursday May 31, 2007 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Governmental Center 422

Friday June 1, 2007 8:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Governmental Center 422

LUNCH: 12 NOON TO 1:30 P.M.

For More Information on How to Register for the Broward County Tax Certificate Sale, Please Visit: Broward County Revenue Division. Parcels will be advertised in the Broward Daily Business Review TUESDAY, MAY 8, 15, 22, 2007. Their web address is www.dailybusinessreview.com and their phone number is 954-468-2600.

Have A Question...Just Ask!

Protect Yourself Against Foreclosure Schemes

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 01:10:13 -0500

Where a large number of foreclosures are being reported, one can't help notice the amount of "HELP" out there. Bad people prey on desperate people. No matter how desperate your situation is do not run into the arms of that individual who rings your phone one evening offering to help save you from foreclosure. You see...it's not help or kindness---as many people are preying on your situation as an opportunity for investment.

Within this rescue, there's a document that transfers ownership (deed)--that is correct transfers ownership --- meaning you've sold your place and have now earned the opportunity to rent your former home.

Examples of documents that may include a transfer of interest in real property include:
Warranty deeds
Quit claim deeds
Contracts for timber, gas, oil, or mineral rights
Easements
Contracts or agreements for deed
Assignments of contract or agreement for deed
Assignments of leasehold interest
Assignments of beneficial interest in a trust
Deeds in lieu of foreclosure
Consideration generally consists of:
Money paid or to be paid
Discharge of an obligation
Mortgage or other lien encumbering the property
Exchange of property
Any other monetary consideration or consideration which has value
When the consideration paid or exchanged for real property is property other than money, the consideration is equal to the fair market value of the real property.

I hear really sad stories about people unknowingly signing documents they thought were just part of the loan documents during what they thought was a refinance. If you can not afford an attorney contact Legal Aid -- if you do not qualify for Legal Aid, the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service can refer you to an attorney who offers 1/2 an hour consultation for $25.

Imagine...thinking you were refinancing...only to find out that you have been stripped of your equity and your home. These programs have a 12 month rental period where the owner has the first option to buy back the home from the rescuing investor. (That is if you are not evicted first for missing a rent payment). If you are fortunate enough to pay your rent on time, this is what happens, the property is offered back to you at a price that often times can not be afforded.

Be an informed consumer.

Know Your Options to Avoid Foreclosure. MSN Money Central recently did a story on some of your options. You may also want to check with your local government as there are some housing programs that offer one time grant assistance to households who meet income and program criteria to avoid foreclosure.

Have A Question?...Just ASK.

Ft. Lauderdale Lofts and Townhomes

The Mortgage Oasis — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 23:19:27 -0500

My how Ft. Lauderdale has changed.....and continues to change. Ft. Lauderdale has a new development of villas priced from the $200,000's called the Tuscan Villas. If you know Ft. Lauderdale...and Las Olas...you know this is a pretty central location.

Most of the new development in downtown Ft. Lauderdale has been higher priced luxury condos starting in the $500s so it will be interesting to see how the market reacts to this latest development in the area.

For more information, visit:

http://www.tuscantownhomes.com/

Florida Mortgage Broker Continuing Education

The Mortgage Oasis — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 22:59:33 -0500

From the Florida Office of Financial Regulation: The Current List of Approved Continuing Education Schools in Florida. ORLANDO & MIAMI MORTGAGE SCHOOL 6158 SANDCREST CIRCLE ORLANDO, FL 32819 Email: ERIKSEANNELSON@GMAIL.COM Phone: 407-529-6787 FAX: 407-480-393-4135	1 ACADEMY OF MORTGAGE LENDING 5703 RED BUG LAKE RD #255 WINTER SPRINGS, FL 32708 Email: greg@MBClassNearOrlandoAirport.com Phone: 407-756-3945 FAX: 407-540-9729
360 TRAINING 13801 N MOPAC STE 100 AUSTIN, TX 78727 Email: britni@360training.com Phone: 512-441-1097 FAX: 512-441-1811	A BRIGHT FUTURE MORTGAGE INSTITUTE, INC 2510 NW 97TH AVE # 130 DORAL, FL 33172 Email: jcg_mortgage@yahoo.com Phone: (305) 559-4242 FAX: (305) 559-7498
A LANDMARK LENDING GROUP DEVELOPMENT CENTER 1327 SE 2ND AVENUE FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33316 Email: charles@landmarklendinggroup.com Phone: (954) 763-4931 FAX: (954) 524-7242	A MORTGAGE BROKER ACADEMY, LLC 805 VERONA ST KISSIMMEE, FL 34741 Email: EDDIEAFR@FLASH.NET Phone: 407-343-5900 FAX: 407-343-5905
A1 ESCUELA SUPERIOR DE MORTGAGE INC 7501 WEST OAKLAND PARK BLVD STE 303 LAUDERHILL, FL 33319 Email: Phone: 954-217-1717 FAX: 954-389-8025	ABSCISSA MORTGAGE ACADEMY, INC 950 S PINE ISLAND RD STE A-150 PLANTATION, FL 33324 Email: FSCHMIDT@ABSCISSAMORTGAGES.COM Phone: 954-903-4492 FAX: 954-903-4493
ACADEMY OF MORTGAGE EDUCATION INC 1952 SOUTH CONGRESS AVE WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33406 Email: FLORIDALICENSE@BELLSOUTH.NET Phone: 561-826-6600 FAX: 561-747-8683	ACCREDITED ACADEMY FOR PROFESSIONAL LICENSING, INC 1001 WEST CYPRESS CREEK RD STE 410 FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33309 Email: NLONDON@FDN.COM Phone: 954-214-6497 FAX: 954-938-7971
ADVANCE SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE 4011 WEST FLAGLER ST UNIT 502 MIAMI, FL 33134 Email: rorta@homewizusa.com Phone: (305) 644-6600 FAX: (305) 644-0916	ADVANCED CAREER EDUCATION INC 12179 S ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL ORLANDO, FL 32837 Email: ADVANCEDCAREEREDUCATION@YAHOO.COM Phone: 407-466-2599 FAX:
ADVANCED CONCEPTS INSTITUTE OF REAL ESTATE, INC 7811 CORAL WAY STE 120 MIAMI, FL 33155 Email: mjgob54@aol.com Phone: (305) 266-2552 FAX: (305) 267-9030	ADVANCED EDUCATION SYSTEMS, LLC PO BOX 1768 TAMPA, FL 33601 Email: cnickerson@trainingpro.com Phone: (877) 878-3600 FAX: (800) 922-9776
ADVANCED MORTGAGE BROKERS UNIVERSITY 613 CITRUS WOOD LANE VALRICO, FL 33694 Email: AHFUND@GMAIL.COM Phone: 813-661-9122 FAX: 813-3543353	ADVANTAGE MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL, INC 19900 MONA RD STE 102 TEQUESTA, FL 33469 Email: advantage8882@aol.com Phone: (877) 977-7977 FAX: (561) 748-8358
AFFORDABLE MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL, LLC PO BOX 780824 ORLANDO, FL 32878 Email: info@mbclass.com Phone: (407) 929-4811 FAX: (407) 208-1212	AGORA SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, LC 3718 ASCOT BEND COURT BONITA SPRINGS, FL 34134 Email: TOLLY@DICOSMO.COM Phone: 239-498-6700 FAX: 239-498-0199
ALL AMERICAN MORTGAGE BROKERS SCHOOL INC 3875 ISLAND WAY ST PETERSBURG, FL 33705 Email: MIKE.KEHOE@YAHOO.COM Phone: 727-481-1700 FAX: 727-490-7082	ALL FLORIDA REAL ESTATE SCHOOLS 1648 PORT ST. LUCIE BLVD PORT ST. LUCIE, FL 34952 Email: reschool@allfloridarealty.com Phone: (772) 337-1143 FAX: (772) 337-0734
ALL STAR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING INC 179 S WATSON RD STE 411 ARLINGTON, TX 76010 Email: ALLSTAR@ALLSTARTRAINING.ORG Phone: 817-259-0980 FAX: 972-606-2148	ALLIANCE SCHOOL OF MORTGAGE LENDING 9735 ST AUGUSTINE RD STE 12 JACKSONVILLE, FL 32257 Email: nealholland@bellsouth.net Phone: (904) 880-8070 FAX: (904) 268-5766
AMERICAN MORTGAGE ACADEMY 1224 MAJESTIC OAK DRIVE APOPKA, FL 32712 Email: dt@stocktonturner.com Phone: (407) 478-0900 FAX: (407) 478-0899	AMERICA'S REVERSE MORTGAGE ACADEMY, LLC 1000 SAVAGE CT STE 100 LONGWOOD, FL 32750 Email: REGISTER@REVERSEMTGACADEMY.COM Phone: 407-478-6861 FAX: 407-767-9271
ANDY GRAY SCHOOLS OF REAL ESTATE, INC 2100 CONSTITUTION BLVD SARASOTA, FL 34231 Email: andygray@andygray.com Phone: (941) 921-5327 FAX: (941) 925-9120	A-PLUS MORTGAGE BUSINESS SCHOOL LLC 1020 EAST LAFAYETTE ST STE 102 TALLAHASSEE, FL 32301 Email: CUSTOMERSERVICE@APLUSMORTGAGEBBS.COM Phone: 850-580-2220 FAX: 850-580-2224
APRENDIENDO REAL ESTATE, LLC 9200 BONITA BEACH RD #203 BONITA SPRINGS, FL 34135 Email: info@aprendiendorealestate.com Phone: 239-463-4557 FAX: 239-949-8248	ASSOCIATION OF REVERSE MORTGAGE SPECIALISTS INC 660 NW 116TH ST MIAMI, FL 33168 Email: NLOCKE@REVERSEMORTGAGEEXPERT.NET Phone: 305-951-2785 FAX: 305-688-8779
AVYLA SCHOOLS INC 6289 W SUNRISE BLVD STE 119 SUNRISE, FL 33313 Email: ANTOINEV@BELLSOUTH.NET Phone: 954-584-8045 FAX: 954-584-8075	BERT RODGERS SCHOOLS 1855 PORTER LAKE DR SARASOTA, FL 34240 Email: THARNER@BERTRODGERS.COM Phone: (941) 378-2900 FAX: (941) 342-0523
BILINGUAL EMPOWERMENT UNIVERSITY, LLC 7217 E COLONIAL DR #112 ORLANDO, FL 32807 Email: HJMARTE2@AOL.COM Phone: 407-447-4325 FAX: 407-447-4326	BNB SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE INC 5400 S UNIVERSITY DR #401 DAVIE, FL 33328 Email: BORISB@BNBUS.COM Phone: 305-670-4545 FAX: 305-670-7945
BOB HOGUE SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, INC 5531 DR MARTIN LUTHER KING ST N ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33703 Email: mb@hogueschool.com Phone: (800) 330-9411 FAX: (727) 525-6129	BOOKMARK EDUCATION 6203 W HOWARD ST NILES, IL 60714-3403 Email: TheRegistrar@BookmarkEducation.com Phone: (800) 716-4113 FAX: (800) 716-8968
BROKER EDUCATIONAL SALES & TRAINING, INC 7137 CONGRESS ST NEW PORT RICHEY, FL 34653 Email: DANB@BROKERED.NET Phone: 727-372-7733 FAX: 727-372-7585	CAMPUSMBA 1919 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW WASHINGTON, DC 20006 Email: dan_thoms@mbaa.org Phone: (202) 557-2916 FAX: (202) 721-0194
CAPSTONE INSTITUTE OF MORTGAGE FINANCE, INC 2000 POWERS FERRY RD STE 2-3 MARIETTA, GA 30067 Email: admin@capinst.com Phone: (770) 956-8252 FAX: (770) 952-1711	CENTRAL FLORIDA REAL ESTATE & MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL 5728 MAJOR BOULEVARD STE 700 ORLANDO, FL 32819 Email: cflreschool@aol.com Phone: (407) 999-9824 FAX: (407) 354-0111
CHARLES F. BICKNELL SCHOOL OF MORTGAGE 238 WILLOWICK DRIVE NAPLES, FL 34110 Email: CHAZBICKNELL@YAHOO.COM Phone: (239) 272-4442 FAX: (239) 354-0932	CMPS INSTITUTE, LLC 3017 WALNUT RIDGE DR ANN ARBOR, MI 48103 Email: GIBRON@CMPSINSTITUTE.ORG Phone: 734-531-0180 FAX: 734-531-0181
CNID SCHOOLS 6299 W SUNRISE BLVD SUNRISE, FL 33313 Email: EH@CNIDUSA.COM Phone: 954-327-1766 FAX: 954-891-0809	COMPLIANCE CONSULTING MORTGAGE SCHOOL 521 LAKE AVE LAKE WORTH, FL 33460 Email: ronald/lovell@yahoo.com Phone: (561) 586-3645 FAX: (561) 586-6335
CORE LEARNINGS LLC 4400 S HWY 27 STE 7 CLERMONT, FL 34711 Email: TIMGARRETT@CORELEARNINGS.COM Phone: 407-401-9329 FAX: 407-522-1686	CRC SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, INC 298 NW 172ND AVE PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33029 Email: CRC@CRCMORTGAGE.COM Phone: 954-441-4138 FAX: 954-441-4139
CREDIT RESTORATION BROKERS, LLC 12995 S CLEVELAND AVE STE 243 FORT MYERS, FL 33907 Email: SSKY@CRBCREDIT.COM Phone: 239-425-0885 FAX: 239-425-0895	ED KLOPFER SCHOOLS OF REAL ESTATE 4068 CATTLEMEN ROAD SARASOTA, FL 34233 Email: trish@edklopfer.com Phone: (941) 379-2378 FAX: (941) 379-4566
EQUILLIANCE, LLC 3501 QUADRANGLE BLVD STE 100 ORLANDO, FL 32817 Email: JEFF.GUAARINO@EQUILLIANCE.COM Phone: 407-470-1600 FAX: 407-470-1641	EQUITY CONSULTANTS UNIVERSITY 4180 HIGHLANDER PKWY RICHFIELD, OH 44286 Email: RYKO@EQUITYCONSULTANTS.COM Phone: 330-659-7600 FAX: 800-460-4186
EXECUTIVE ONE SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, LLC 10500 NW 26 ST STE G109 DORAL, FL 33172-2158 Email: EXECUTIVE_ONE@BELLSOUTH.NET Phone: 305-599-2093 FAX:	EXPRESS REAL ESTATE SCHOOL, INC 502-A WEST 49 STREET HIALEAH, FL 33012 Email: Phone: 786-205-5894 FAX: 305-823-9908
FINANCIAL INSTITUTE OF FLORIDA, LLC 7990 SW 117TH AVE STE 109 MIAMI, FL 33183 Email: zorro231@bellsouth.net Phone: (305) 412-3592 FAX: (305) 412-3634	FINANCIAL STRATEGIES MORTGAGE, INC 690 PRO MED LANE CARMEL, IN 46032 Email: alan@mymortgagetrainer.com Phone: (317) 566-0425 FAX: (317) 566-0601
FIRST CHOICE FINANCIAL TRAINING INSTITUTE INC 3101 MAGUIRE RD STE 130 ORLANDO, FL 32803 Email: LSNEED7@AOL.COM Phone: 321-278-0384 FAX: 407-264-8938	FITZPATRICK SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE 3950 RCA BLVD STE 5007 PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL 33410 Email: gobsr@msn.com Phone: (561) 622-4300 FAX: (561) 625-0804
FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF MORTGAGE BROKERS SCHOOL 1292 CEDAR CENTER DRIVE TALLAHASSEE, FL 32301 Email: famb@supernet.net Phone: (850) 942-6411 FAX: (850) 942-4654	FLORIDA FIRST REAL ESTATE INSTIUTE CORP 8180 NW 36TH ST #201 DORAL, FL 33166 Email: FFREI@EARTHLINK.NET Phone: 305-471-7746 FAX: 305-471-7877
FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES, INC 3372 EDGEWATER DRIVE ORLANDO, FL 32804 Email: info@fl-institute.com Phone: (407) 481-8015 FAX: (407) 481-8016	FLORIDA MORTGAGE ACADEMY, INC 11251 S. ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL #101 ORLANDO, FL 32837 Email: INFO@FLORIDAMORTGAGEACADEMY.COM Phone: (407) 857-6262 FAX: (407) 438-5699
FLORIDA MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL PO BOX 24202 TAMPA, FL 33623 Email: jlmontrym@hotmail.com Phone: (800) 735-8565 FAX: (813) 885-6931	FLORIDA MORTGAGE BUSINESS SCHOOL 2331 HANSEN PLACE TALLAHASSEE, FL 32301 Email: dave@floridacompliance.com Phone: (850) 942-5464 FAX: (850) 942-5111
FLORIDA MORTGAGE ORIGINATION SCHOOL 11040 SALT TREE DR PORT RICHEY, FL 34668 Email: g@fmos.net Phone: 727-845-9092 FAX: (727) 845-9093	FLORIDA MORTGAGE SCHOOL 1788 ROBERT ST LONGWOOD, FL 32750 Email: DHENNON@CFL.RR.COM Phone: 407-509-6456 FAX: 407-834-9987
FLORIDA REAL ESTATE LEARNING CENTER, INC 7345 SAND LAKE RD # 308 ORLANDO, FL 32819 Email: acarioti@aol.com Phone: (407) 375-0509 FAX: (888) 824-5060	FLORIDA SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL LICENSING INC 5161 NW 87TH AVE LAUDERHILL, FL 33351 Email: FLORIDASCHOOLOPL@AOL.COM Phone: 954-968-5813 FAX: 954-968-5878
FLORIDA SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, INC 1010 W 49TH ST STE 107 HIALEAH, FL 33012 Email: danny@usamoney.com Phone: (305) 231-9600 FAX: (305) 825-2937	FLORIDA TRAINING SCHOOL INC 1460 NW 107 AVE STE O MIAMI, FL 33172 Email: RAMIROEDUARDO@YAHOO.COM Phone: 305-477-6970 FAX: 786-217-1388 #3
FREDERICK C. SEGESMAN MORTGAGE BUSINESS SCHOOL 120 E STATE ST # 101 OLDSMAR, FL 34677 Email: freds@realty-finance.com Phone: (813) 855-2106 FAX: (813) 818-0501	GIUMENTA SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE 4871 NW PALM COAST PKWY #2 PALM COAST, FL 32137 Email: RIC@RICGIUMENTA.COM Phone: 386-246-3131 FAX: 386-246-3162
GOLD COAST PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS, INC 5600 HIATUS ROAD TAMARAC, FL 33321 Email: jim@goldcoastschools.com Phone: (800) 940-7277 FAX: (954) 731-9226	GRAYSTONE MORTGAGE BUSINESS SCHOOL, INC 4 WEST LAS OLAS BLVD STE 600 FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33301 Email: crobinson@graystoneschool.com Phone: (954) 525-2935 FAX: (954) 525-2332
GULF COAST MORTGAGE INSTITUTE 8404 SOUTHWIND BAY CIRCLE FT MYERS, FL 33908 Email: DJONES4129@COMCAST.NET Phone: 877-604-7700 FAX: 239-432-2586	HOMEKEEPERS TRAINING SCHOOL 934 71 ST MIAMI BEACH, FL 33141 Email: HOMEKEEPERSMBEDU@AOL.com Phone: 305-865-4050 FAX: 305-864-7015
INFORMED, INC 4828 BLANDING BLVD STE 2 JACKSONVILLE, FL 32210 Email: mbateh@bellsouth.net Phone: (904) 354-2657 FAX: (904) 354-6051	INSTITUTE OF MORTGAGE EDUCATION, LLC THE 12555 ORANGE DRIVE, STE 250 DAVIE, FL 33330 Email: info@imefla.com Phone: (954) 255-3090 FAX: (954) 862-1746
INTERCONTINENTAL SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE LLC 2520 SW 22 ST #366 MIAMI, FL 33145 Email: GUSQUEVEDO@AOL.COM Phone: 786-262-6182 FAX: 305-675-6472	INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, INC 3800 W 12TH ST #2 HIALEAH, FL 33012 Email: ailed@isorefl.com Phone: (305) 231-0025 FAX: (305) 231-0035
IT TRAINING CENTER, INCORPORATED 12335 PEMBROKE RD PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33025 Email: crozental@ittrainingcenter.net Phone: (954) 602-2299 FAX: (954) 447-6977	KAMBUCK RESOURCES, LLC 5041 EDGEWATER DRIVE ORLANDO, FL 32810 Email: info@kambuck.com Phone: (407) 571-2449 FAX: (407) 571-2448
LATASHA DENAE GREEN-COBB 1922 SOUTHAMPTON RD JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207 Email: LDGCMORTGAGE@AOL.COM Phone: 904-294-4386 FAX: 904-306-7396	LICENSE EDUCATION AND COMPLIANCE SERVICES, INC 285 WINDSOR DRIVE REYNOLDSBURG, OH 43068 Email: LECS@LICENSEEDUCATION.COM Phone: 614-575-4669 FAX: 614-575-1741
LOAN PRACTITIONERS MORTGAGE BROKERAGE SCHOOL, INC 750 SOUTH ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL STE 120 ORLANDO, FL 32805 Email: aupontc1@aol.com Phone: 407-650-3724 FAX: 407-264-6017	LOANOFFICERSCHOOL.COM 19641 COUNTY LANE NORT TUSTIN, CA 92705 Email: OPERATIONS@LOANOFFICERSCHOOL.COM Phone: 866-623-1250 FAX:
MORTGAGE & REAL ESTATE INSTITUTE OF FLORIDA, INC 8402 S US HWY 1 PORT ST LUCIE, FL 34952 Email: FLMORTGMAN@AOL.COM Phone: 772-344-9550 FAX: 772-343-9266	MORTGAGE BOOT CAMP.NET 2722 NE 1ST STREET STE 2 POMPANO BEACH, FL 33062 Email: INFO@MORTGAGEBOOTCAMP.NET Phone: 877-684-2668 FAX: 888-244-3316
MORTGAGE BROKER ACADEMY, LLC 836 W DESOTO ST CLERMONT, FL 34711 Email: JHIMMELWRIGHT@CFL.RR.COM Phone: 352-394-2456 FAX:	MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL THE 4527 NORTHSHORE RD. LYNN HAVEN, FL 32444 Email: johnbobbytolbert@aol.com Phone: (850) 265-3504 FAX: (850) 271-5343
MORTGAGE COLLEGE, INC THE 721 US HWY 1 STE 211 NORTH PALM BEACH, FL 33408 Email: info@themortgagecollege.com Phone: (561) 881-9866 FAX: (561) 881-1632	MORTGAGE EXPERTS ACADEMY, INC 14827 TULLAMORE LOOP WINTER GARDEN, FL 34787 Email: INFO@MORTGAGEEXPERTSACADEMY.COM Phone: 407-575-3128 FAX: 407-654-7560
MORTGAGE SCHOOL AT DORAL INC 10640 NW 27TH ST A103 MIAMI, FL 33172 Email: BESTUALITYMTG@BELLSOUTH.NET Phone: 305-297-1138 FAX: 305-591-9198	MORTGAGE SCHOOL, LLC THE 1017 THOMASVILLE RD, STE A TALLAHASSEE, FL 32303 Email: info@mortgageschooltallahassee.com Phone: (850) 545-2558 FAX: (850) 562-7254
MORTGAGE TRAINING INSTITUTE 4155 E JEWELL AVE #908 DENVER, CO 80222 Email: dexley@mortgageknowledge.com Phone: (303) 758-9037 FAX: (303) 759-3925	MORTGAGE U, INC 30300 TELEGRAPH RD STE 100 BINGHAM FARMS, MI 48025 Email: KATHY@MORTGAGE-U.COM Phone: 800-278-0200 FAX: 248-290-2525
MORTGAGE-EDUCATION.COM 2959 CHEROKEE ST STE 202 KENNESAW, GA 30144 Email: dan.johnson@mortgage-education.com Phone: (888) 557-6770 FAX: (770) 792-6775	MORTRAIN, CORP 3030 LASSITER ROAD MARIETTA, GA 30062 Email: LEN@MORTRAIN.COM Phone: (800) 617-4476 FAX: (770) 642-9376
MY CITY SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE, INC 2711 EXECUTIVE PARK DR STE #1 WESTON, FL 33331 Email: IRVIN@MYCITYREALTY.NET Phone: 954-659-8222 FAX: 954-659-2246	NATIONAL ACADEMY OF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE UNDERWRITING PO BOX 971015 BOCA RATON, FL 33497 Email: info@nacru.com Phone: (561) 218-3035 FAX: (561) 218-2160
NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE SCHOOL INC 2 MIRACLE STRIP LOOP PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32407 Email: CERTIFIEDSIGN@YAHOO.COM Phone: 850-625-0021 FAX: 850-250-1229	NATURE COAST MORTGAGE SCHOOL PO BOX 10144 BROOKSVILLE, FL 34603 Email: jmgavish@aol.com Phone: (800) 964-4999 FAX: (352) 686-3634
OCEAN VIEW REAL ESTATE AND MORTGAGE UNIVERSITY, INC 11900 BISCAYNE BLVD. #200 MIAMI, FL 33181 Email: ZOILA@OCEANVIEWINTL.COM Phone: (305) 981-0409 FAX: (305) 981-3101	ORIGINATIONPRO MORTGAGE SCHOOL PO BOX 932 CENTREVILLE, VA 20120 Email: SUCCESS@HERSHMANGROUP.COM Phone: 301-933-3559 FAX: 301-933-7517
PANHANDLE REAL ESTATE SCHOOL PO BOX 9287 PANAMA CITY, FL 32417 Email: ROY@PANHANDLESCHOOL.COM Phone: 850-271-1961 FAX: 850-562-7685	PAUL DONOHUE PRESENTS, LLC P O BOX 7804527 US HWY 220, NORTH SUMMERFIELD, NC 27358 Email: education@pauldonohuepresents.com Phone: (888) 341-7767 FAX: (800) 773-4187
PINES SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE 7932 PINES BLVD PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33024 Email: tonymesa@cambridgers.com Phone: (954) 967-0277 FAX: (954) 967-2560	PREMIER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, INC. 3350 SW 148 AVE MIRAMAR, FL 33027 Email: WALTERV@PMGSFL.COM Phone: (954)874-1670 FAX: (954)874-1695
PRESIDENTIAL SCHOOL OF MORTGAGE 6849 TAFT ST HOLLYWOOD, FL 33024 Email: AMEXMORTGAGE@BELLSOUTH.NET Phone: 954-965-9793 FAX: 954-374-0450	PROFESSIONAL MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL LLC 1851 NW 125TH AVE STE 110 PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33028 Email: CARL@GREAT-AMERICAN.NET Phone: 954-620-0080 FAX: 954-620-0081
RAY SUAREZ MORTGAGE BROKER SCHOOL 6401 SW 23 ST MIAMI, FL 33155 Email: RAYSUARE@AOL.COM Phone: (305) 761-2993 FAX: (305) 248-5112	REAL ESTATE ACADEMY OF HIALEAH THE 2083 W 76 ST HIALEAH, FL 33016 Email: info@therealestateacademyofhialeah.com Phone: 305-362-2200 FAX: 305-362-0212
REAL ESTATE INSTITUTE THE 1633 E VINE ST STE 202 KISSIMMEE, FL 34744 Email: info@trei.info Phone: (407) 935-0465 FAX: (407) 935-0787	RED MAGNET TRAINING 6110 PINEMONT HOUSTON, TX 77092 Email: SWILEY@ALLIEDHOMENET.COM Phone: 903-454-1401 FAX: 713-332-0560
ROYAL MORTGAGE SCHOOL 8382 BAYMEADOWS RD., STE 4 JACKSONVILLE, FL 32256 Email: mortgagejax@aol.com Phone: (904) 448-5335 FAX: (904) 448-5371	SALES INSTITUTE OF ORLANDO IN 7575 KINGSPOINTE #15 ORLANDO, FL 32819 Email: HBCOLLEGE@HOTMAIL.COM Phone: 407-370-6666 FAX: 407-370-9245
SCHOOL OF MORTGAGE LENDING INC 800 BELLEVUE WAY NE (4TH FLOOR) BELLEVUE, WA 98004 Email: SUSANW@SCHOOLOFMORTGAGELENDING.COM Phone: 800-724-8582 FAX: 206-701-0532	SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE CAREERS 1326 S RIDGEWOOD AVE, STE 12 DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32114 Email: clifinser@aol.com Phone: (386) 255-4777 FAX: (386) 255-5234
SCORE 120 S. SEMORAN BLVD ORLANDO, FL 32807 Email: rgar753776@aol.com Phone: (407) 482-1711 FAX: (407) 482-7711	SOUTH FLORIDA SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE INC 10899 SUNSET DR STE #202 MIAMI, FL 33173 Email: SOFLSCHOOL@AOL.COM Phone: 305-412-2711 FAX: 305-412-0070
SUCCESS IN KNOWLEDGE 7876 W FLAGLER ST MIAMI, FL 33144 Email: Phone: 305-266-7585 FAX: 305-748-4363	SUCCESS MORTGAGE SCHOOL 401 WEST 14TH ST STE 1B LYNN HAVEN, FL 32444 Email: SUCCESSMORTGAGESCHOOL@YAHOO.COM Phone: 850-596-8726 FAX: 850-265-0284
SUNSHINE REAL ESTATE SCHOOL, LLC 6910 STIRLING RD DAVIE, FL 33024 Email: INFO@SUNSHINEREALESTATESCHOOL.COM Phone: 954-963-9797 FAX:	TEACHING YOU REAL ESTATE SCHOOL, LLC 10661 N KENDALL DRIVE STE 101 MIAMI, FL 33176 Email: nenaosorio7@hotmail.com Phone: (305) 598-8502 FAX: (305) 275-0533
USA REAL ESTATE AND MORTGAGE SCHOOL, INC 1705 COLONIAL BLVD B-4 FORT MYERS, FL 33907 Email: INFO@USAREALESTATEANDMORTGAGESCHOOL.COM Phone: 239-278-3222 FAX: 239-278-3251	VERITAS REAL ESTATE GROUP, INC THE 2881 EAST OAKLAND PARK BLVD FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33306 Email: POCONNOR@VERITASREALESTATEGROUP.COM Phone: 954-554-4881 FAX: 954-315-1764
VICTORY MORTGAGE ACADEMY, INC 12289 PEMBROKE RD PMB #80 PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33025 Email: info@victorymortgageacademy.net Phone: (954) 441-2811 FAX: (954) 447-7722	WESTON SCHOOL OF REAL ESTATE 12565 ORANGE DRIVE STE 402 DAVIE, FL 33330 Email: registrar@westonschool.com Phone: (954) 382-2170 FAX: (954) 337-5818

Florida Mortgage Professionals

The Mortgage Oasis — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 22:49:53 -0500

Why Not Work With Your Local Florida Mortgage Professional?

While the Refi Boom and Housing Boom days are gone, many people are still making a decision to make mortgage brokering their career of choice. Rightfully so, as it is a rewarding business to help people achieve their financial goals. The mortgage industry is going through some changes but true mortgage professionals and companies will adapt and continue giving you the superior service you deserve. There are honest and hardworking mortgage professionals who do right by the consumer. My Company is one of them. When what you have to offer is your name and service---you better do right by the consumer. My Company is always looking for new mortgage who have a true desire to help people achieve their residential and commercial financing needs. I am a bit of information buff, which means our brokers stay informed!

As a mortgage brokerage business with an exceptional relationship with our clients and lenders for whom we broker loans for, The Mortgage Oasis, works only with mortgage brokers who embrace the company's principles of providing sound and honest financial concepts to our clients. We are looking for career oriented broker associates who are interested in full or part-time positions. All associates are licensed Florida Mortgage Brokers who have taken the Florida Mortgage Broker Exam.

To our neighbors throughout Florida, we encourage to do business local and to verify who are you are working with by contacting The State of Florida. Be a Smart Consumer!

Have a Question...Just ASK

Mortgages and HMDA

The Mortgage Oasis — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 00:09:26 -0500

Turn to the last page of your standard loan application (The 1003). In the very last section you will it is titled "Government Monitoring". The data collected on this application is gathered and released as part of the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA), pronounced Hum-Da.

The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA), enacted by Congress in 1975 and implemented by the Federal Reserve Board's Regulation C, requires lending institutions to report public loan data. HMDA allows the government to analyze trends and disparities in lending practices. This data is released every year and summarized by Metropolitan Statistical Area.

More than 7 years after its publication,Unequal Burden: Income and Racial Disparities in Subprime Lending in America, still remains an interesting document as to disparities in lending. To read the full report please visit the link below.

http://www.huduser.org/publications/fairhsg/unequal.html

This information is to be collected for the sole purpose of monitoring.

Have a Question...Just Ask.

One Benefit of Using a Mortgage Broker

The Mortgage Oasis — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:18:24 -0500

There are many benefits for using a mortgage broker. One such benefit is that a mortgage broker only need to pull your credit report ONCE from all three bureaus and can work with many lenders with this one-time pull of your report. We do not have to submit multiple times and generate inquiries for each mortgage program we consider. We are provided with underwriting guidelines for mortgage programs from lenders we have lending relationships with and even those we do not. We do preliminary underwriting of your loan before official submission, compare interest rates and terms and make recommendation for you. We are not limited to one bank or one lender. An experienced mortgage broker will submit your loan for an approval based on work done prior to submission although a true mortgage professionals know...there are no guarantees and the process is not over until you sign on the dotted line at closing.

There is nothing worse then pulling a credit report only to find out the consumer has pulled the credit report 25 times in an effort to "shop" their loan. While looking for the best terms and programs are expected, the way you shop for your loan is just as important.

Have a Question...Just Ask.

Florida in 2060

The Mortgage Oasis — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 22:25:31 -0500

I know it is only 2007 - but you know time does fly. *smile* 1000 Friends of Florida shares with you what Florida will look like in the future if growth continues on the same path it is occurring today. If you are interested in getting a glimpse into what the future could look like...and how you as a citizen planner can encourage sustainable development in our state, please visit:

http://www.1000friendsofflorida.org/planning/main.asp

Have a Question?....Just Ask

Florida Home Buyer Fairs

The Mortgage Oasis — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 23:41:30 -0500

Homebuyer fairs are a great resource for first time homebuyers. I can not stress enough the importance of understanding the process before beginning the process. Home Buyer Fairs can provide you with some basic information that will assist you in the process. Various groups conduct these fairs such as your local lenders, local government, HUD, state housing agencies, universities!

As a matter of fact one such fair that will be taking place the USF Sun Dome (GO BULLS) is the 13th annual Home Buyers Fair Sponsored by the Tampa Chapter of the Florida Credit Union League.

The event will be held May 12 and we be in the USF Sun Dome in Tampa, Florida.

Another fair coming up is the Florida Housing Finance Corporation's Housing Expo 2007 in June in Orlando, Florida! I will be there and hope to see you there...so be sure to visit my booth -Contact me directly for more information on these and others.

Have a Question...Just Ask

Buy Downs

The Mortgage Oasis — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:49:49 -0500

Buy-downs - Buy Downs have been around for more than 25 years. A buy down literally means - buying down the interest rate over a period of time to gradually step you up into your payments for the first 3 years of the mortgage. Sellers, builders, Realtors and Lenders can pay the cost of buy downs. They can buy the rate down by as much as 3% on most programs. This allows the buyer to have more manageable payments in years 1, 2 and 3. In a buy down scenario you are still qualified at the normal rate.

Keep the Questions Coming!

Have A Question....Just Ask.

I Need to Lock My Rate

The Mortgage Oasis — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 19:14:53 -0500

A lot of times clients say they want to lock their rate. Do you know as a consumer locking a rate for extended period of time can actually costs you more. Guess what it can also cost the lender...which is why they pass the expense along to you.

In a volatile market - yes it make sense to lock a rate for an extended period of time if your closing is further down the road. However, a 15 to 30 day lock is usually sufficient to get the job done. Your mortgage professional can assist you with determining the appropriate time to lock your mortgage interest rate when completing your transaction.

Have a Question...Just Ask!

Active Adult Communities and Fair Housing

The Mortgage Oasis — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 23:30:43 -0500

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a discussion about the 39^th anniversary of fair housing...a law enacted partially in remembrance of MLK! You know every day I learn something new....and today I learned something about 55 and up communities and some of the issues that were arising due to the "levels" of activity "required" in the active adult communities. Some of the older participants in the audience had acknowledged that they knew, had heard, or experienced places that didn't want them there because they used a cane or walker....They didn't fit the image of the seniors on the brochure who were playing tennis and golf. Other issues included unreasonable accomodations or walkways made of cobblestone which prevented people with wheelchairs and canes to move around freely.

Well the Attorney General's Office has taken notice of these cases as the complaints come in. I think it is just crazy and will be following the outcome of some of these cases.

I will also say...we watched a video prior to the keynote speaker. It was the story of a woman who was an attorney, a college professor, and a black woman who had earned everything she had achieved. One day she went to look at a place near the campus she had taught at for years....and she was told by the landlord that she does not rent to blacks. This video is a personal narrative of how one woman turned a feeling of being discredited to the need to stand up for all the persons who have been treated as such and never found the voice to speak up.

While discrimination may not be so blatant as this today-it does exist and we need to be aware of this and recognize it...and stand up against it.

Have a Question...Just Ask.

Repairs and Refinancing

The Mortgage Oasis — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 22:52:02 -0500

It is always a good idea to complete repairs before of after you set out to complete a refinance transaction. Simply because...contractors will place a notice of commencement on your property before they start to work. When doing a title search, this Notice will come up and can often times present problems from a title stand point. Proof that contractors and subcontractors have been paid may be requested and so forth....so just plan your repairs accordingly.

...In order to protect the owner and mandate notice to the owner of potential lien claimants, the notice of commencement must be prepared and filed before the project commences.

Have a Question...Just ASK.

My Safe Florida Hurricane Grant Assistance

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 15:51:28 -0500

Gearing Up For Hurricane Season

If you are a Florida Homeowner, you can still qualify for a MySafe Florida grant which provides a matching grant of up to $5,000.

2. How much is available?
Individual homes will be eligible for matching grants of up to $5,000 each to make specific home improvements as recommended in the inspection report. A "matching grant" means that for every dollar of the homeowner's own money spent on a wind resistance upgrade recommended in the official inspection report, the Program will provide an additional dollar to help pay for the upgrade, up to a maximum grant of $5,000.

For example:

If the recommended improvements you have done cost $3,000, the state would pay $1,500 and you would pay $1,500.
If the recommended improvements you have done cost $20,000, the state would pay $5,000 and you would pay the other $15,000.

Low-income homeowners will be eligible for $5,000 grants with no match required. The My Safe Florida Home program is working with local governments and the Volunteer Florida Foundation to offer low-income homeowners the opportunity to strengthen their homes against natural disasters.

3. What must the money be used for?

Matching grant funds are available only for wind-resistance improvements in seven specific categories, as follows:

Improving the strength of your roof deck attachment. For example, if your roof consists of shingles nailed to plywood sheets, the inspection may reveal that the plywood sheets are not adequately nailed to your roof trusses, and that additional nails and/or longer nails need to be added to prevent the plywood from being blown off in a hurricane.
Creating a secondary water barrier to prevent water intrusion. For example, using strips of "peel and stick-on" material that cover the joints between the plywood sheets on your roof to reduce leakage until repairs can be made if a hurricane blows off your roof shingles.
Improving the survivability of your roof covering. For example, upgrading to thicker and stronger hurricane-resistant roof shingles, attached with properly sized and properly applied roofing nails, to reduce the susceptibility of your roof shingles blowing off in a hurricane.
Bracing gable-ends in your roof framing. This is usually done inside your attic to decrease chances that your roof will collapse under hurricane wind loads.
Reinforcing roof-to-wall connections. For example, installing metal tie-down straps that attach roof rafters to wall studs to decrease chances that all or a portion of your roof will simply lift your house during a hurricane.
Upgrading exterior wall opening protections. For example, installing hurricane-rated window shutters.
Upgrading exterior doors. For example, replacing a standard garage door with a hurricane-rated garage door.

Have a Question?...Just Ask.

Financial Literacy Month

The Mortgage Oasis — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 14:43:59 -0500

While April celebrates fair housing month, national community development week and Earth Day-this month also marks financial literacy month.

As a mortgage professional where everyday I must assess people's ability to purchase a home or refinance - I find there is a great need for people to improve their financial literacy. As a mortgage professional, we must review not only credit, but assets as well. I know basic concepts can go a long way and put you in a much better financial situation. It does not matter how much you earn....but how much you can keep and how much you can make that money grow. It is time we move away from being a nation of consumers with negative savings rates.

One such site promoting financial literacy is the http://www.themint.org/. It is designed to provide tips and tools to families, teachers and kids on how to become more financially literate!

As you know must people tend to obtain their knowledge from home. This information is not taught in schools.

Have a Question?...Just Ask.