Gwynn Burns Realtor

Stay Humble and Kind!

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 10:00:04 -0700

https://www.searchingclevelandohiohomes.com/http/activeraincom/blogs/gburns/https://www.searchingclevelandohiohomes.com/blog-1

Giving back is among the most important thing you can do in life.

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 11:58:58 -0700

"Giving back is among the most important and valuable things an entrepreneur can do. Period." No matter how tough you think your life is there’s always someone that has it even tougher than yours. Helping others will help you too. From as early as I can remember, I have always enjoyed helping others. My inclination toward service and giving started as young as I am able to recall. I remember being around 8 or 9 and sharing my lunch every day for a period of time with a classmate who never had anything to eat and once gave my shoes to a girl who had holes in hers right on the spot as I just ran home to get another pair. Any injured animal that crossed my path I cared for as they were my pets until they were well enough to be released back to their habitat again. I had an injured goose, baby squirrels that were abandoned, a turtle with a broken leg, and when really small I made a home for a found butterfly(OK, it actually was a fly but butterfly sounds so much more beautiful and accepted) who couldn't fly. As I grew older, I would always smile and talk to the new kid in the class or play with the kid who was all by themselves on the playground. I hated when my friends talked badly about others or bullied them and spoke in their defense as I, myself, have felt that pain having to change schools a few times and was subjected to isolation being new to an area and didn't want anyone else to feel that same as I did. Later in life, I facilitated a golf outing for a few years to help a boy who was born with Quadriplegic Cerebral palsy and I was a co-founder of a group of girls that had an Irish Jig festival to raise money for the less fortunate that is still going strong in an area I no longer live. In recent years, up to present, I have been an advocate for bringing people together and asking them to collect Thanksgiving leftovers, getting donated turkeys, bread and desserts as well as warm clothing. With all in tow on our backs and wagons following we walked the city streets in Philadelphia and Cleveland together to find the homeless to give them some food and warmth and left some donated items at shelters we passed along the way. My personal attachment with helping the homeless is I feel the pain of watching someone I love very much suffer and find them not in the best of living conditions due to PTSD. The pain comes from not having control of their journey and not being able to help change their suffering as much as I try, so i channel my pain and help where I feel I am making a difference. This is where helping others helps you too. Most of the homeless out there are Vietnam Vets who suffer with PTSD as well as those who suffer with addiction which also is an adverse effect of someone suffering with PTSD. I now am working closely with The Salvation Army Emergency Shelter in Cleveland that houses families. They also will house adult victims of human trafficking. Did you know that 56% of prostitution is initially from a runaway youth?! Everyone is busy and life can be hard for everyone but you get what you give in life. In life I have given a lot. In return life hasn't come without hardships however I feel I am very blessed in life. Life has given me much needed lessons to be learned, I am loved back by those I love and have my health to name a few. We can choose to make time in our schedules for the things we deem important. Giving back or volunteering does not have to be all or nothing, and sometimes doing small things for others can be the most rewarding use of our time. It may seem like hard work, however there are countless rewards to giving back. Connecting to others, making a community better, helping someone smile one day who hasn't smiled in months or even years, and it can take your mind away from any of your own personal sadness you have no control over. My career path has always been involved in servicing others and being a Realtor continues to be the same for me. A % of my commissions for every real estate transaction goes directly to the Emergency Family Shelter in Cleveland because unfortunately some of the houses sold are hard to show due to poverty. If you like to join me in an event, donate or volunteer your time let me know in the attached form. I have to events I am a committee member on and would love for you to attend but if you are unable attend, please seek other ways you can help with in the attachments. https://www.searchingclevelandohiohomes.com/new-events/

Hosting an Open House - August 9, 2pm-4pm/Shaker Heights

Tue, 04 Apr 2017 10:31:03 -0700

Wonderful Turn Key Shaker Heights vinyl sided colonial with 2 car attached garage in the Mercer district with in ground pool, fenced yard with wooded privacy. Repainted interior March 2017. Refinished hardwood floors in both sunlit 21x13 living room with WBFP and formal dining room. Large eat in kitchen with bay window-loads of cabinet and counter space has ceramic tile flooring and newer stainless appliances in 2009-range, refrigerator and range hood. New stainless dishwasher in 2017 that's never been used! Family room attached to the kitchen. Slider from the kitchen to large cement patio with gas grill. Spacious second floor has 4 large bedrooms and 2 full baths including private master bath with newer shower in 2009. Master bedroom has 2 walk in closets. Hardwood under neutral carpeting in all bedrooms. Guest bathroom remodel in 2013 with new tub and fan. Access to walk up attic with flooring for storage in bedroom #4. Finished recreation room in basement with glass block windows, 2nd WBFP and a built in bar. Furnace and humidifier maintenance plan prepaid by seller until May 2018. Roof in 2011, Furnace and Humidifier 2014, A/C 2013, Pool pump 2016, Pool Liner 2013. Whole house attic fan! Newer front door and storm door. One year HSA home warranty including limited pool coverage ($585) offered to the buyer. Near Everything-schools, parks, shopping, RTA RAPID Line, shopping and entertainment. Easy commute to Downtown, Shaker Square, and University Circle!

Solar Panel upgrades - don't miss out on tax credits! Buying a house!

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 08:25:30 -0700

Want to know what the only energy-efficient upgrade to your primary residence will be allowed to be as a Federal Tax Credit for 2017 and beyond? Solar Panels! https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/planning-home-solar-electric-system As of December 31, 2016 the energy-effiecient upgrades such as, window, door and skylight replacments, roofs, water heaters, insulations, bio-mass stoves, heating, air-conditioning, giothermal heat pumps and residential wind turbines will no longer be a federal tax credit if upgraded after the year 2016. If you however did renovate with any of these upgrades in 2016 you want to be sure to use https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f5695--2016.pdf to claim them on your taxes. Credit value per upgrades for 2016: -Windows, doors and skylights: Tax credit: 10 percent of the cost, up to $200 for windows and skylights, and up to $500 for doors. Does not include installation.-Roofs(metal or asphalt): Tax credit: 10 percent of the cost, not including installation, up to $500.-Water heaters:Tax credit: $300.-Insulation:Tax credit: 10 percent of the cost, up to $500. Does not include installation, but you can install the insulation/home sealing yourself and get the credit.-Bio Mass Stoves:Tax credit: $300.-Heating, Air Conditioning and Venilations:• Central air conditioning, $300 tax credit.• Air source heat pumps, $300 tax credit.• Gas, propane, or oil boiler, $150 tax credit, including installation costs.• Natural gas, propane, or oil furnace, $150 tax credit.-Geothermal Heat Pumps:Tax credit: 30 percent of cost with no upper limit (second homes qualify).-Residential Wind Turbines:Tax credit: 30 percent of cost with no upper limit (second homes qualify). -Solar Panels https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_creditsTax Credit: 30% of cost with no upper limitExpires: December 31, 2021 Tax credits for Solar Energy Systems are available at 30% through December 31, 2019. The credit decreases to 26% for tax year 2020; drops to 22% for tax year 2021 then expires December 31, 2021)Details: Existing homes and new construction qualify. Both primary residence and second homes qualify. Rentals do not qualify.

Free Market Analysis - Home buyers are busy buying in 2017

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 11:07:11 -0800

Hosting an Open House - Pepper Pike, Ohio

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 10:48:55 -0800

Are you overpaying your property taxes?

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 10:05:28 -0800

Are you paying the right real estate taxes? Do you know how much your home is worth?Real Estate Taxes in Solon Ohio are estimated as: TO ESTIMATE REAL PROPERTY TAX:Formula: Market value X annual tax as % of market valueExample: (example uses Solon School District residential rate)Market value of property is $ 100,000Residential annual tax as a percent of market value is 2.29%$ 100,000 X 2.29% = $ 2,290 annual property tax Deadline for an application for tax decrease is March 31st. Ever think about, "How much is my house worth?" OH home values are calculated from sold prices, public records of assessed value, and Ohio real estate information. While these estimates can help planning a real estate purchase or sale, you should always consult with an OH Realtor ® Need more help?Gwynn BurnsHoward Hanna Realtor, Northeast OhioDirect: 215-98-0512Email: Gwynnburns@howardhanna.comWebsite: gwynn.burns@howardhanna.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwynburns/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sellinginsolon/

Discover The Arcade, Hyatt Regency Cleveland; do not take for granted

Wed, 21 Dec 2016 10:20:56 -0800

The Arcade, Hyatt Regency in downtown, Cleveland - Ohio http://www.theclevelandarcade.com/ A Christmas party lead me to the historic Arcade building in downtown Cleveland, Ohio where we enjoyed a nights stay in it's hotel, with comfy beds, clean and high vaulted ceilings; compliments of Soprema. The beauty and history that lies in this building should not be taken for granted as it is an important part of Cleveland's affluent past. This building was one of America's greatest shopping centers back in 1890 connecting two thoroughfares; Euclid and Superior Avenues. During the planning, the design of this building was so innovative and audacious no local construction companies would bid on it. Finally, it was built by The Detroit Bridge Company, standing today and was once a landmark that was ranked one of the top 10 places in the country to make the National Register of Historic Places. In 2001 the Hyatt Regency open their hotel in The Arcade for visitors to be influenced and welcomed by Cleveland's generous spirit. The building was restored and reopened in 2011; the renovation won the highest honor of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The building consist of 5 stories of shops, a food court, restaurants and bar, coffee cafe, ballroom and hotel rooms with an 8 story skylight escalating over above. It is perhaps one of the pretties places to shop and stay, with European style influence accompanied by elegance and enchantment, ornate iron balconies, marble staircases and natural lighting from above leading your way; you are sure to be impacted by the buildings impressive statement! Guests of the Arcade will enjoy being close to many activities and popular destinations nearby. I enjoyed my stay and appreciate my hometown - Cleveland, Ohio. Gwynn Burns, RealtorNortheast OhioDirect: 215-989-0512Email: gwynnburns@howardhanna.comWebsite: http://gwynnburns.howardhanna.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwynburns/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sellinginsolon/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gwynnburns

Over the River and Through the Woods to Open Houses We Will Go

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 11:51:24 -0800

December 11, 2016Open Houses in Solon, Ohio Hosting an Open House 35532 Nightshade Lane, Solon Ohio December 11th from 11:00-1:00$479,000 This outstanding five bedroom home is situated on a beautiful lot in the prestigious Preserve Development. As you enter the two story foyer with gleaming hardwood flooring the formal living and dining rooms are nearby. The first floor bedroom with a private bath and walk in closet are tucked away in a private corner of this wonderful home. The two story family room is freshly painted and has newer carpeting, the fireplace is the highlight of this room. The gourmet kitchen is a cooks delight with loads of cabinetry and counter space. The first floor laundry is close by. The second story master has an expansive glamour bath and huge walk in closet. The three additional bedrooms and two full baths complete the second story. Don't miss the finished basement and three car garage. The lush landscaping and in ground pool create an oasis in the back yard. Freshly painted throughout and newer carpeting on the first and second stories, this home is ready to move in. Hosting Open House #25650 Elm Hill Drive, Solon OH 44139December 11th from 1:30pm-3:30pmPrice Reduction$221,000 This lovely three bedroom split level home is situated on a wooded lot in the heart of North Solon. The spacious, vaulted living and dining rooms are perfect for entertaining. Ample counter space and cabinetry in the kitchen make cooking a breeze. The roomy family room boasts a brick fireplace and sliders to the back covered patio. Three bedrooms (with hardwood under carpeting) and a full bath complete the upstairs. The finished basement with a wet bar provides great additional living space. The hot water tank was replaced in November 2016. Close to the highway and award winning Solon Schools, this is the perfect location to call home! Gwynn Burns, RealtorHoward Hanna Real Estate ServicesServicing OhioDirect: 215-989-0512Email: gwynnburns@howardhanna.comWebsite: www.gwynnburns.howardhanna.com

Open House - 5 bedroom - 5 baths - Solon, Ohio $479,000

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 12:16:17 -0800

Hosting an Open House 35532 Nightshade Lane, Solon Ohio December 11th -11:00-1:00 This outstanding five bedroom home is situated on a beautiful lot in the prestigious Preserve Development. As you enter the two story foyer with gleaming hardwood flooring the formal living and dining rooms are nearby. The first floor bedroom with a private bath and walk in closet are tucked away in a private corner of this wonderful home. The two story family room is freshly painted and has newer carpeting, the fireplace is the highlight of this room. The gourmet kitchen is a cooks delight with loads of cabinetry and counter space. The first floor laundry is close by. The second story master has an expansive glamour bath and huge walk in closet. The three additional bedrooms and two full baths complete the second story. Don't miss the finished basement and three car garage. The lush landscaping and in ground pool create an oasis in the back yard. Freshly painted throughout and newer carpeting on the first and second stories, this home is ready to move in.Gwynn Burns, RealtorHoward Hanna Real Estate ServicesServicing OhioDirect: 215-989-0512Email: gwynnburns@howardhanna.comWebsite: www.gwynnburns.howardhanna.com

Open House - 3 bedrooms - 2 baths - Solon, Ohio

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 11:50:31 -0800

Open House - December 11th - 1:30pm-3:30pm Price Reduction Hosting an open house at 5650 Elm Hill Dr, Solon, OH 44139 3 Bedrooms, 2bath(1:1) This lovely three bedroom split level home is situated on a wooded lot in the heart of North Solon. The spacious, vaulted living and dining rooms are perfect for entertaining. Ample counter space and cabinetry in the kitchen make cooking a breeze. The roomy family room boasts a brick fireplace and sliders to the back covered patio. Three bedrooms (with hardwood under carpeting) and a full bath complete the upstairs. The finished basement with a wet bar provides great additional living space. The hot water tank was replaced in November 2016. Close to the highway and award winning Solon Schools, this is the perfect location to call home! Gwynn Burns, Realtor Howard Hanna Real Estate Services Servicing Ohio Direct: 215-989-0512 Email: gwynnburns@howardhanna.com Website: www.gwynnburns.howardhanna.com

Congratulations Graduate! A program that will give you money!

Tue, 08 Nov 2016 02:39:36 -0800

Wine country is worth an afternoon visit; easy drive from Solon Ohio

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 00:09:19 -0800

When my girlfriends decided to come visit me for a weekend I wanted to share with them some of Ohio's beauty. I decided to head over to wine country to enjoy a fall day with lush farmland and bountiful vineyards. I picked out a few of my favorite places there and off we went. We headed out from my hometown, Solon, Oh around 3pm on a Saturday afternoon and continued on for about 35 minutes to a place in Madison, Ohio called Laurentia Vineyard. Laurentia Vineyard was our first visit of the day.http://www.laurentiawinery.com/index.htmlLaurentia has an exquisite setting and is a winery that houses the only concrete tanks in the area for aging wine. It's on an ancient land mass in North America, and named after the Laurentide Glacier. Next, 5 minutes down the road we stopped at a place called Debonne' Vineyardshttps://www.debonne.com/ Debonne Vineyards is the largest estate winery in Ohio, consisting of 175 acres of vines. Not only do you taste their award wining wines but for the craft beer connoisseur there is an attached microbrewery as well. Next, another 5 minutes down the road is M Cellarshttp://www.mcellars.com/ M Cellars is a place that does not do a lot of marketing because they rely on word of mouth. This winery was started by the owner tinkering with wine making in his garage. It's a passion project of wining wines, producing mostly dry reds; pinot noirs to meritage blends. Next, we walked across the street to the Red Eagle Distillery http://www.redeaglespirits.com/ Red Eagle distillery is crafting spirits that equate to Ohio Bourbon, Vodka, Rye, Brandy and also making ten individual craft beers. They distill their spirits in a barn that dates back to the 1800's. While drinking a fall cocktail, pumpkin spice martini we had beautiful views of surrounding agriculture that emitted history as far back as prohibition time. Last, a 10 minute drive to Harpersfield Vineyard https://www.harpersfield.com/ Harpersfield Vineyard is a farm and destination of it's own and one you need to explore for yourself. It lies in the heart of Northeast Ohio in the Grand River Valley. Yesterday led to a short drive from Solon, to Ohio wineries and distillers in the Great Valley River region. Winery's that most certainly progressed into the 21st century for your enjoyment of award winning wines to discover, distilled spirits and craft beers. Our day made for an engaging adventure of great estate wines, spirits, craft beers, cozy fireplaces, cheese plates, music and picturesque views that I would recommend you try when considering an adventure with loved ones and friends, near and far.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 30th 1:30-3:30

Sat, 29 Oct 2016 02:54:20 -0700

*********OPEN HOUSE********** Sunday, October 30th 1:30pm-3:30pm Come visit and see this beautiful home in Liberty Ledges #openhouse #twinsburg#libertyLedges http://gwynnburns.kw.com/property/oh/44087/twinsburg/liberty-ledges-sub-ph-3/10328-flagstone-dr/57c9e9531c740b7ec000004f/

How important is knowing your "why" in the world? Introspective

Tue, 25 Oct 2016 05:56:44 -0700

Everything that is important to me, I need to define my why for why I do what I do and why it's important to me. Without knowing your "why" you do not know your purpose or have a belief that inspires you enough to continue when it gets tough to. At times it is unclear what your purpose is because you limit yourself with what you think the expectation should be apposed to what you actually feel it should be. In order to find true purpose you need to feel it and not think it. Everyday you make a choice in how you are going to show up in this world; at work, at home, your job, and life. What better way to show up in the world then by waking up and understanding your true why, proceeding with true feelings and sensations. Life doesn't get any better than the sensation of feeling you're living your truth and being real in living.Understanding my why for getting up early in the morning to exercise at 5:30am before starting my day as a Realtor, especially when it's dark and frigid makes the process for me ongoing and purposeful.My Why: 1. I feel healthier.2. I am better equipped to handle stress.3. I have more energy throughout my day.4. I sleep better at night. 5. I am more creative and more productive.6. I am liberated and feel empowered.7. My relationships are positive and healthier. 8. It makes me better in all that I do in the world. “Having a purpose is the difference between making a living and making a life.” ~ Tom Thiss“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” ~ John F. Kennedy Gwynn Burns - Realtor/Sales Partner with The Ez Sales Team @Keller Williams GCWServicing Northeast Ohiohttp://gwynnburns.kw.com/Cell: 215-989-0512

Ohio and Solon Real Estate - Lakes - Tow Path - Hawthorne Parkway

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 07:08:01 -0700

Living in Solon and working as a Realtor here brings some added bonuses to my day, especially in fall. Being able to take a break and walk a mile up the road to Hawthorne Parkway makes for some beautiful nature walks to clear the mind and re-energize the spirit. This Picture was taken today at an area in Solon called Shadow Lake. It's a great little spot to escape to, always a beautiful view, plenty of picnic tables, a few nearby trails and an area to go fishing in. Shadow Lake is one of 1565 lakes in Ohio and is 3.74 acres of impediment created from the damming of two streams in the South Chagrin Reservation in 1968.Other nearby lakes in Solon are: Briar Hill Lake Additional Lakes in Nearby Towns: Village of Bentleyville, Village of Reminderville, Village of Orange, Twinsburg, Village of Chagrin FallsResourceful Nature Maphttps://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/upload/CUVAmap1_2012_for-web.pdf For Ohio and Solon Ohio Real Estate visit: http://gwynn.searchohiohomesforsale.com/To speak directly: Gwynn Burns215-989-0512(cell)gwynn@ezsalesteam.com(email)

Twinsburg Ohio - 4 bedroom - 2bath - $339,900 - for sale

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 05:45:05 -0700

Welcome home to this gorgeous move-in ready home in sought after Liberty Ledges. This home is only a year old and shows like a true model home! Located on the corner of a cul-de-sac, it is situated on one of the largest lot size configurations in the neighborhood. The massive backyard has private panoramic views of Tinker's Creek, a protected wetland area that cannot be developed. The smartly designed Milan layout features approx 2,800 sq ft of functional, open-concept space w/ $80,000 in upgrades. The main level features a private front office w/ French doors, formal dining rm, sizable family rm w/ cozy fireplace and a half bath. The large kitchen features stainless steel appliances, upgraded cabinets, fixtures and granite countertops and flows into the sun splashed morning room. The newly built deck off the morning room offers spectacular elevated views, with a staircase leading to the backyard. 4 bdrms and 2 full baths complete the upstairs including the gigantic master bdrm w/ two walk-in closets, Jacuzzi tub, large shower & dual sinks. Convenient 2nd flr laundry. The finished basement offers multiple HDMI mounts, and has two separate large storage areas. It also features a four-piece basement plumbing rough in. The attached two car garage has a floor drain & added length extension. Nearby amenities include: neighborhood walking path leads to the Ledges Metropark/Nature Center, Gleneagles Golf Course, Heinen's, & the brand new Reminderville Rec Center.http://gwynnburns.kw.com/property/oh/44087/twinsburg/liberty-ledges-sub-ph-3/10328-flagstone-dr/57c9e9531c740b7ec000004f/ Gwynn Burns215-989-0512gwynn@ezsalesteam.comhttp://gwynnburns.kw.com/

Facebook Fridays - Are You Shooting Blanks or Magic Bullets?

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 02:54:24 -0700

~ Facebook Marketing Tips ~ I get asked often what is my #1 tip for generating leads via FB. I wish it was as easy as providing one magic bullet tip so everyone could quickly and easily prosper. What I have found is it takes a combination of things to consistently generate FB leads. They include:Develop content readers want to see Create actionable posts Engage with everyone who visits Mix up your approach (all biz all the time gets boring) Be active in local FB groups, occasionally sharing your content Share engaging photos/video Advertise via FBPretty much the same 7 things you hear me talk about week after week. It is a method that works but you must be consistent or the leads will dry up quickly. Hey now...time for you to actively participate in this weeks article by heading over to biz pages below. Don't be shy, Rainers! ;-) PLEASE stop by the 5 Rainer Facebook Fan Pages below, LIKE their page, and leave a comment. It is always nice to reciprocate, so if you are visited, please return the favor. ;-) As always, enjoy Rainers!

	The Roman Lopez Real Estate Team The Roman Lopez Real Estate Team
	Rick San Vicente Rick San Vicente, NMLS# 647335
	Jocelyn Hernandez Irizarry, REALTOR®, RSPS, CIPS® Punta Cana Lifestyles Real Estate
	Matt Mulder Matt Mulder Home Selling Team
	Noah Seidenberg Evanston IL Downtown Condos

Happy Facebook Fridays, Rainers! More great tips and tidbits again this week for you to peruse and try out. I am excited about the coming soon feature if FB decides to turn it on for the masses. Yet another reason to have social media icons (FB in particular) on our own website blog pages. If you find a new(er) Facebook article you think is worth sharing, email me the URL and the article may find its way into a future FB Fridays post. The more good content we share, the better opportunities we all have to improve our FB presence. Happy FB Friday! ;-) 26 Ways To Get Better FB Engagement How To Setup Facebook Instant Articles On Wordpress Coming Soon...New Way to Capture Your Content Sharers How To Make The Perfect Real Estate FB Post 6 Ways To Use FB 360 Photos For Your Biz Bonus: Real Estate Digital Marketing Stats Worth Knowing Happy Facebook Fridays!Facebook Fridays Information If you enjoy these weekly Facebook tips, and want to help promote other Rainers, please consider joining the AR Facebook Fridays Group. We can all benefit from learning and growing our business through Facebook and other social media sites. FREE Offer...If you have not already been featured, please leave the URL to your FB Fan Page in the comments below and I will make sure you are recognized on a future Facebook Fridays post. It really is that easy! ~ Anita ~ Anita Clark | Cell: (478) 960-8055 | E-Mail Homes for Sale in Warner Robins | Warner Robins Real Estate Blog Subdivisions in Warner Robins GA | Communities in Houston County Coldwell Banker SSK Realtors in Warner Robins GA - (478) 953-8595 Call Anita Clark, She is a HouseSOLD Name! All original text, video, and photo content is the exclusive property of Anita Clark Realtor and may not be used without expressed written permission. The information contained herein has been obtained through sources deemed reliable but cannot be guaranteed for its accuracy. We recommend to all buyers and sellers that any information of special interest be obtained through independent verification. All measurements are approximate. Information contained in this blog does not constitute legal advice or opinions. Contact a licensed real estate attorney if you have legal concerns.

Mortgage Credit Certificate - First Time Home Buyers - Tips

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 01:44:01 -0700

First Time Home-Buyers$2000.00/year tax credit Did you know when buying a house in the state of OHIO for the first time, using a lender working with OFHA products you could receive a $2000.00/year maximum federal income tax credit with a MCC?Do you know you CANNOT ask for this after the loan has been processed?Did you know this can be coupled with other OHFA products like the Grants for Grads, military veterans program, and sometimes available for those who buy homes in targeted census tracts; not a first-time home buyer?"What is a MCC," you ask?"The Mortgage Credit Certificate Program (MCC), authorized by Congress in the Tax Reform Act of 1984, is an alternative to mortgage revenue bond-backed financing and is a means of providing financial assistance to “first time home-buyers” for the purchase of new or existing single-family housing."-A MCC is a federal income tax credit certificate. -The MCC value is based on mortgage interest paid each year.-The amount of credit is programed by HFA(housing financing agencies) and can range from 10% to 50% of annual mortgage interest per year; not to exceed $2000.00/yearly. The tax credit is for the life of the loan and not to be transferable. -This credit reduces the amount of federal income taxes paid by the buyer saving the MCC holder thousands of dollars over the years of the lifetime of the loan.When you are the buyers agent you need to inform your client they need to ask for this certificate at the time of the application of the loan. This MCC credit is NOT available after the loan has been processed. Need help buying your first home and tips on how to save money buying your home: Gwynn Burns - REALTORKeller Williams - The Ez Sales Team215-989-0512Gwynn@Ezsalesteam.comhttp://gwynnburns.kw.com http://ezsalesteam.com/gwynn_burns

The Real Cost of Renting. You Probably Can Afford to Own.

Tue, 04 Oct 2016 05:10:44 -0700

In most cases owning will have an advantage over renting. You will be gaining equity rather than paying a substantial amount of your money to increase your landlords home-equity. Within a 10 year period of paying monthly rent of $700.00/month will have you paying $110,719.00 in that time and paying $1200.00/month will have you paying $189,618.00 in the same 10 year period. Even with the continuous debate of renting vs buying being good or bad and it being a pointless one, it still comes down to $189,618.00 is a lot of money to be contributing somewhere with nothing to show in return for amount paid. Even if homes prices have grown at an annual compound rate of .3%(adjusted for inflation) it's still a .3% increase in addition to the building of your payback mortgage equity that you wouldn't have if paying rent. Sometimes, finding the right home at the right price could have you paying equal or lower back in a mortgage with interest then the rent your paying. A home should never be your main investment, but it is a major financial decision that can give you peace of mind and a lovely place to live that is yours. If you are going to pay rent why not invest in a home that at least gives you equity in time with each payment made. Ofcourse, there are many factors that go in to being sure you are investing and not making a dumb money move that just sounds smart. A knowledgeable Realtor coupled with a good loan officer can help you. There are many programs out there to help with interest rates and assistance, however one I like is the Grants for Grads program. It is a program that within a 5 year home ownership is a 0% payback on the 2nd note. Until the 5 years are up, it is considered a silent 2nd note that rapidly declines in a percentage payback within the 5 years if you decide to sell prior to the 5 years. Grants for Grads is a 2.5% - 5% on purchasing agreement assistance that is available for qualifying graduates that have graduated with a degree in the past 4 years. Certain income requirements are needed per county and a credit rating of 640 or higher is necessary to qualify. You do not need to be a first time buyer for Grants for Grads to be approved. If you have not owned in the last three years you may also qualify for this Grant too.If you would like to know more on programs that can help assist you in making the step from renting to buying; I am here to help. Gwynn Burns, Keller Williams - Sales Partner with The Ez Sales TeamNortheast OhioCell: (215)989-0512 Website: http://gwynnburns.kw.com/

"Have you heard about the boy and the dog?" Ohio Fair Housing

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 08:30:48 -0700

Have you heard of the shy boy, Owen and the three-legged dog, Haatchi? Owen has Schwartz-Jampel syndrome. He has a rare condition that causes muscles to be permanently tense. He is in constant pain making him afraid to go outside or interact with others outside his family. Owen relentlessly worried about strangers pointing at him, starring and laughing at him in his wheelchair. Haatchi is a three-legged, Anatolian Sheppard Dog who at five months old was left tied to a railway track. Before he was rescued he was hit by a train and ended up needing his leg and tail to be amputated as a result.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIXoYHYEnkg When Owen met Haatchi for the first time it was magical, electrical and there was a communication level between that only these two could understand. Haatchi was due to be euthanized but because of his rescue he was able to choose Owen to live with instead. Owen says, Haatchi has changed his life, he is his best friend, and Haatchi acts like it is his duty to protect him. A dogs soul is pure, and a friend. Dogs are friends that do not judge and that is exactly what Owen needed in his life. Haatchi has opened up Owen, he likes talking to strangers now and tells him about his life and his dogs life. Owen who is in constant pain from his muscles tensing up feels at ease when he lays on Haatchi and Owen has given a forever home to Haatchi that is full of love and nurture. A perfect duo. Did you know there are were 27, 528 complaints to the FHA and 51% being about disability. Race 22% and familial status 11%. We need to protect those with disabilities and help them find homes that will enhance their lives, be sure their rights are met if a service animal is needed.Would you know how to handle if the buyers were Owen and Haatchi's family and the unit they want to buy restricts pets?

Pre-qualified vs Pre-approved - do you know the difference?

Mon, 19 Sep 2016 01:56:46 -0700

Answer: There is a huge difference that could be a significant benefit to you. Being pre-qualified is pretty simple and can be an initial step in your purchase of your first home. You supply a lendor online or via telephone your income, assets and debt for an evaluation of your financial canvas. They in return, after their assesment give a "pre-qualified" letter of a mortgage amount you could qualify for. The optimal word being here is..."could." It's based on verbal conversation and at times a review of your credit report but limited to what the buyer offers verbally only.Being pre-approved is based on all income and belongings(assets) documentations and can be very pararell in receiving the underwriting approval from a bank. You will back up your verbal information with W-2's, paystubs, tax returns, child support, etc... Many people have complicated financial profiles involving investments, bonuses, owning a business, and debt that can be multiplexed, having an intriticate position in your loan process approval. Having a pre-approved letter from a reputable lendor will offer you a position above the others if ever you are in a multiple offer scenerio too and not aside cash buyers. Some will suggest they are of the same meaning but knowing the difference will help you in being a better realtor for your clients and a buyer to the seller. Buyers can be lulled into a mistaken notion that pre-qualified means they will receive a loan - the mistake can cost them a new home. I have been in a position where the buyer was pre-qualified however it was the pre-approval phase that cost her a new home as her debt to ratio was not going to allow her to move forward within the status her pre-qualification letter was alluding to. Neither are a 100% approval that you will receive the loan as other facets come in to play, like home appraisol, however being pre-approved gives you a conditional written commitment of an exact loan amount due to intense evaluation of supported documents. It also gives the seller you are working with confirmation you are one step closer to obtaining that mortgage and inflates your level of commitment in buying their home to the proposed seller. I find a pre-qualification to be a conversation where a pre-approval is a confirmation . Everything starts with an idea and I am not saying starting with a pre-qualified letter is a waste of time however go from the idea to the next step and besure to be pre-approved, lessoning your chances of being denied a loan and of your new home.

More important than any points I've achieved at ActiveRain

Thu, 01 Sep 2016 01:29:52 -0700

I loved this blog so much I needed to reblog it. I just read a post about posts and routines on AR by Thomas J. Nelson, Realtor , you should read it if you haven't. Achieving 1,000,000 or More Active Rain Points He talks about the points looking like a "show of dedication" and I guess they are a little. What the points mean and have meant to me have changed over the years. In the beginning I strove to be #1 in my market. And believe me back in the day getting that first 30,000 was tough. No log in points, no post like points, not sure if you got points for a feature. I am also not sure sure channels were required or that I used channels and got those points. I got to #1 in my county and forgot about it. Then later on I got a post written "about" me by the person that was playing leap frog with for the #5 spot in the state. He's fallen off the grid, but when he wrote that post and challenged me I was determined. When I got to the #2 spot in the state I was done with thinking about points. I was sitting next to Richard Weisser and that was pretty cool. He posted every day and I had no thoughts of catching him. In fact, I went to visit him and wrote a post about "sitting next to him". He's a lot of fun. Richard has since stopped posting daily, in fact just rarely now and I still miss his wit and humor. And by the time I'd made it to #1 in my state I'd made page 1 of the entire site's leader board. Today I really couldn't tell you if I'm still there or not. I have a different attitude toward life and business than I did a few months ago. Life is fleeting and short and no one will remember if I was a blogger with points or even a really good real estate broker who sold them their first house when I'm gone. What will matter when I'm gone, what I want for my life to have meant .... is more on my mind these days. And I want to talk about the friends I've made here. The people that I've met that I have some kind of meaningful interaction with on a regular basis. I'm not going to name names because I want to cause zero hurt feelings. But there is someone I met because of ActiveRain that I think of when the clock is 11:11 and another when the clock is 10:10. There are grand babies all over the country that I have prayed for and watched grow up. There are children who were playing soccer who are off at their second year of college who's blogging mom opened my eyes and heart to being more open minded about opposing political views. There are people who have had family crisis after family crisis from personal health struggles to the most difficult decision a mother could ever have to make to protect their grandchildren. There are those who I feel free to ask to pray for my family when we have a "thing" that nothing but prayer can help to ease. I've talked with members about so many personal things. I know what's in the heart of so many people here. I have some "activerain" peeps secrets that I'll take to my grave. I've been invited into the homes and lives of so many people across this country. I've "broke bread" with more than 100 members. They have all been gifts in my life. Then there are those friends that I have given my password when I couldn't fix an issue on my phone or iPad and the logged into my account and fixed them for me. There are folks that have passed away that I cried about for days and still today cry again when I remember the impact they had in my life. The day I met Russell Lewis in Atlanta at a conference I met one of the best people you could ever hope to know. There are those who influenced how I do business and helped me have confidence in a time when business really could have sucked. There are so many answers to so many problems that I've solved with the help of the people in these pages. If you new to ActiveRain and you don't think that real and genuine friendships are born here, you have not embraced all that this community can be. I have achieved much at ActiveRain. And I hope to get back into the swing of things here soon and meet more folks and continue to pay forward the goodness and love I've found here. So Thomas... my best piece of advice after reading your post.... The best points.... are those made when you are connecting with other people at ActiveRain. Blogging for business is great! But embracing the people in this community and learning from them is priceless. The friendships that will last a lifetime are of even greater value.706-485-9668 us on facebook Tammy@Lake-Sinclair.com Follow me on Google Plus for more information about Lake Sinclair and surrounding area news and events (Click on Lane Realty Logo for web site) Tammy Lankford, Broker/Owner Broker License # 169695 Lane Realty License # H-11420 Call me today for all your Lake Sinclair real estate needs. Subscribe to my Blog here! We always have water at lake sinclair Lake Sinclair stays full even during droughts. Click to read why and how. Search for homes on Lake Sinclair now For readers who are not members of ActiveRain feel free to also add your comments or you can click on the EMAIL me link to the right of this blog and email me. Thanks for reading. All content belongs to me unless otherwise stated. Do not use without permission. Logos and photographs may also be copyright registered. Please do not use without my express written permission.

Mortgage Assistance for Grads / Ohio helps students become homebuyers

Thu, 01 Sep 2016 01:03:14 -0700

A"Grants for Grads" will help with a down payment or closing costs for recent graduates in the past 48 months of graduating with their degree; decling to a 0% payback. Free money to a recent graduate is possible. Having a buyer contact me about wishing to buy her first home by the end of the year turned out to be rewarding and a reminder of why I love my career. It brings such elation in bringing happiness to another. My buyer stated she wanted to liquefy some of her assets for a better down payment. After talking with her I realized she graduated with her master's degree in 2013. I was excited to let her know there is a program Grants for Grads we should consider to help her with a down payment. Grants for Grads is a program that if qualified gives 2.5-5% assistance on a down payment of offering price. If the graduate qualifies and chooses to live in the state of Ohio for 5+ years this grant is free money to the graduate. It's a great program and opportunity for recent grads that graduated within the past 48 months, who have a credit score of 640+ and meet the income and price point guidelines. The payback is a declining 20% rate per year with the increase of years owning their home. If the buyer chooses to sell after 5 years and moves within the state of Ohio, the buyer does not pay anything back, it's a 0% payback. If the buyer sells prior to 5 years there will be a 20%/year breakdown per years owned with a declining % in increased years owned.Student loan debt can not only make it harder to save for a down payment, but those monthly payments can increase your debt-to-income ratio to levels that can disqualify you from taking out a mortgage or receiving a grant. My buyer did qualify, however there is a 45% debt-to-income ratio limit and she is at 44.6%, so we are taking some precautions. We are close but working with the lender, clarifying we are staying within the limits before an offer is made is keeping the process exciting and rewarding for both. Real Estate is truly a "helping" Profession and why I chose this career. Real Estate transactions are often complex. Guiding a buyer on a path to closing day requires time and effort that is all worth it to me; rewards are limitelss on multiple levels! It is truly rewarding to see someone else be happy because of an effort I made just to see a smile on their face.

Home inspection tip - sellers protection - agents responsibiltiy

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 05:26:33 -0700

A home inspection isn't just about identifying problems with the house and diligence is necessary before suggesting preferred vendors to your clients as an agent. Protect your sellers and help fearful first time or any home buyers by knowing the vendors you suggest. A client was informed her fireplace needed a complete overhaul as well as some major repairs to her heater chimney by a recommended vendor of the buyers agent after the home inspection. The home inspection marked deficient for the fireplace/stove stating "the hearth should extend 16" and it was 10" deep with carpet at the edge." With this information the "first-time" home buyers wanted to have an additional fireplace chimney inspection completed by a local company of their choice as the home inspector did not fully inspect the fireplace chimney. Both the fireplace and heater chimneys failed inspections by a local chimney service suggested by the buyers agent. Notification was, 'the paper backed insulation inside the chase cavity is beginning to fall away and lean against the pipe." Also noted it was visible from the attic that a complete lack of required fire stops were at each floor. They further went on to say due to the lack of replacement parts as well as framing/clearance issues and fire stops, a full replacement of the unit would be needed for safe operation. All this costing $6500-6800. The heater chimney was not part of the inspection, however the company claimed it was clear to see the heating chimney had many issues as well and does need replacement too; costing an additional $2500-2900. They said, "the pipe above the roof line is rusted and the original cap is no longer in place" (what pipe above the roof line does not have rust on it - it's in the elements all year round) and this was reason for replacement. The seller was confused and concerned as she used her fireplace multiple times a year for additional heat. After conversation it was understood, the seller was apprehensive about the safety of her family and would have yearly inspections and cleanings completed by a local company. It was important to be sure the company she used was doing their job properly, despite their good reputation. Suggestion was made to have another inspection and a list of preferred vendors where given by the listing agent. The inspection returned documentation with the fireplace needing a cleaning(the house went up for sale shortly after winter season and this was needed.) It was stated in the first inspection by the buyers vendor choice "the chase cavity is beginning to fall away" however the later inspector informed both the seller and the buyer's agent there was no chase in the fireplace. He said, "your neighbor has a chase, you do not." Oh my! Again, the heater chimney that wasn't part of the inspection was reinspected as well and it did need a cap yet all else passed. This information backed up the yearly documented inspections conducted by the seller in past years. Cost totaling $256 not $9700 Best practices - research your vendors, know your vendors well, and reevaluate your vendors often to be sure they are of professional and reputable standards. Preferred vendors are a reflection and extension of you as a real estate agent. Integrity and pride in what you are will provide success and excellence.