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100% financing? retirement funds & benefits

Date: Jan. 17, 2008
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100% financing??? Have you heard it's gone?  Well, a few possibilities still exist. 
However, new rules now apply in California, Nevada, and Florida; loans backed by FannieMae or FreddieMac, will cover up to 95% of the property value. 
 
An additional rule will apply in areas that are determined to be declining in value; that is, the loan can generally be as high as 90%.
 
Even so, only 10% down to buy your own home! It remains a great deal.
 
There are many opportunities for loans; I’ll assist you in finding the right one for your real estate purchase or to refinance your home.  
 
State of California employees, county employees, and others:
 
Does your retirement fund offer special consideration for you, the contributing member? 
 
Check with your personnel department, or, call me - - to utilize the benefits you’ve earned!
 
Start with me for your next loan--residential or commercial.                                                            
                                                                                                                                              
A quick call or e-mail is all it takes.                                                                                              
                                                                                                                                              
bevW, Bev Willard, Loan Officer, REALTOR®                                                         (209) 601-8441
7813 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, CA                                                                  fax: 209.951.3060 
rockefeller                                                           text : 2096018441@mobile.mycingular.com
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good news in the economy, real estate, lending

Date: Jan. 2, 2008
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Here's the positive news in real estate quoted from Susan McCormick of Old Republic Title Company:

Positive news for Realtors in '08

NAR economist underlines real estate's silver lining

www.inman.com

In all the years I've been writing this column, I have never received such an
outpouring of response as I did from the two November articles on how media
coverage of negative housing news is hurting our industry.

In spite of gloom and doom of recent news reports on the state of the nation's
housing, there is plenty of good news, the most recent of which comes from the
National Association of Realtors.

Laurence Yun, the chief economist for NAR, had plenty of positive news for Realtors
at last month's conference. Yun attributed much of today's subprime mortgage
problem to greed. Wall Street wanted the 10-12 percent return that subprime
mortgages yielded as opposed to the smaller returns from more traditional mortgage
products. His take on the Wall Street types: "They gambled. They lost."

Yun's outlook for 2008 sees a shift from greedy speculators to serious homeowners.
2008 will be a year of opportunity where there will be serious, healthy business.
Furthermore, Yun predicted that the market returns to normal by 2009.

According to Yun, one of the biggest mistakes that reporters make is talking about
national trends. Nationally, 2007 was the fifth best year ever on record. Home prices
declined about 1.5 percent after a 50 percent run up in prices.

The challenge is that national numbers are pretty much irrelevant. Yun argues that
talking about national averages is about as effective as having a national weather
forecast. Like the weather, all real estate markets are local. In fact, you may have a
buyer's market and a seller's market operating within a single market area based
exclusively upon price point. Here are the other key pieces of positive news from
Yun's economic report:

1. New housing starts: Even though these are dropping, there was too much
building in recent years. The market is simply adjusting to normal supply-and demand
pressures.
The inventory is "being controlled which makes stabilization occur more quickly."
2. Foreclosures: According to Yun, the 41 percent increase in foreclosures has
resulted primarily from investor-heavy real estate purchases in Arizona, California,
Florida and Nevada. The majority of these individuals are flippers whose investments
did not payoff.
More importantly, the number of foreclosures in Utah, New Mexico,
North Carolina and South Carolina is actually declining.
3. Under-priced markets and superstar cities: Although the coastal markets are
still overpriced, Middle America is under priced. Nevertheless, Yun cites a new trend
termed, "superstar" cities. These cities will command premium prices, regardless of
what the market does. There is so much wealth concentrated in these areas, that
measurements are simply not predictive. In addition to London, Paris, Tokyo and
New York, Yun also identified San Francisco, Miami and Seattle as potential new
superstar cities.
{We're in the vicinity of S.F. so watch out when things roll there.--bev}
4. The recovery has started: Other than the three states hit heavily by job losses
in the automotive industry (Indiana, Michigan and Ohio), the states that first
experienced a downturn in the Northeast, are now in recovery. Specifically,
Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island were the first to feel the
slump and are now well into a recovery. Furthermore, there appears to be a pent-up
demand for first-time buyer properties due to a large number of Gen Ys (born 1977
to 1994) that are now buying their first homes. Falling interest rates will motivate
many of these buyers to step into the market now.

5. New jobs and corporate profits are still strong: Corporate profits are still
strong with companies as diverse as Microsoft and Jack Daniels reporting close to
record profits. Furthermore, the economy has generated 4 million net new jobs and
wages are rising.

6. A weak dollar may harbinger more foreign investment in U.S. real estate
Although the decline of the U.S. dollar will end up costing us more when we go
overseas or purchase imports, it has resulted in more manufacturing jobs returning
to the U.S. It also may mean more foreign investment in U.S. properties as well. Just
a few years ago, the Canadian dollar was only worth 70 cents in U.S. currency.
Today, the Canadian dollar has been hovering at about $1.05 to $1.10 U.S. What
this means is that we can expect more Canadians and Europeans to be purchasing
U.S. property, because our prices are approximately 50 percent cheaper than they were just three years ago.
7. Real estate: Still the best shelter: For those agents who represent reluctant
first-time buyers, Yun points to some interesting research from the Federal Reserve.
Between 1995 and 2004, the average renter accumulated $4,000 in wealth. In
contrast, the average homeowner accumulated $184,400.
Furthermore, the typical
homeowner holds their property for six years. Within this period of time, NAR's
research shows that approximately 97 percent of the homeowners will have a
positive equity position after that period of time.
Bottom line: 2008 represents the best window that buyers will have to find
excellent deals with excellent financing. Get the word out there. If they
wait, prices and interest rates will be higher and the reluctant buyer may be
forced out of the market.

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Okay folks, you've read it.  Today may be the time to act on your property purchase.  Call me at 209.601.8441 with your questions OR send a quick e-mail to bevwillard@sbcglobal.net to get started on your loan approval--bevW

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foreclosures--opportunities galore!

Date: Dec. 5, 2007
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Foreclosures are still making the news. Wondering what the overall impact is? Here's an article from a leading economist: FRONT LINES: Economy
Sensational, Yes; Accurate, No BY LAWRENCE YUN

"How much have real estate investors lost due to the housing market bust?"
That was the question posed to me by a major evening news producer, who wanted to depict the pains in the housing market during a nationally broadcast show.

Hmm. An investor who bought a property in Las Vegas five years ago would be ahead by $150,000 today. The gain would be $200,000 in Miami, and $54,000 on average in the United States as a whole.

Only people who bought in a few markets that experienced extreme overheating during the boom and who are trying to sell quickly face a potential loss. And that loss on average would be 1 percent to 2 percent.
Lenders and hedge funds with large exposure to subprime loans have lost big. Investors in homebuilder stocks also have lost.

But real estate investors who plan to hold for a reasonable period of time are doing fine.

To be sure, buyers who entered the market during the height of the boom might see a modest retreat in appreciation as a loss. That's the nature of the human mind. A gain of $190,000 in Miami will feel like a loss if two years ago their property could have fetched a gain of $200,000.

Yes, there is pain out there. Foreclosures are rising and construction workers are getting laid off. Income of the typical real estate professional has been falling as transaction volume slows.

But consumers who are in housing for the long term are poised to come out well ahead. That $10,000 they invested as a down payment on their typically priced home for the typical 5 percent annual appreciation will net them $110,000 over 10 years. That's what the power of leveraging means to them.
That same $10,000 invested in stocks appreciating 10 percent annually will return $23,600. No wonder the Federal Reserve Board consistently finds a staggering difference in average net worth between home owners and renters: $184,400 vs. $4,000.

As it has always been, housing is our bedrock investment. It will continue to generate a nest egg for us long after we've turned off the television and forgotten what was said in the sensation-seeking story of the moment.

Yun is chief economist and senior vice president of research for the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. From REALTOR® Magazine, December 2007.
Maybe we need to take a deep breath, consider the opportunities of the moment, and purchase the property we've always wanted, now, when prices are relatively low.
Just remember to call me about the loan you'll need. (209) 601-8441
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If you're considering remodeling or upgrading your home, the article, "Cost vs Value Report 2007" may be helpful. Check it out at www.costvsvalue.com , discuss your plans with your trusted REALTOR® , and call me to arrange your loan or line of credit.
BevW
Bev Willard, Loan Officer, REALTOR® (209)601-8441 cell phone
Rockefeller, Stockton, CA
Start with a quick call OR e-mail for your next loan ---
I have time for you, your family, and friends.
Even when you just need information, contact me-
I'll be glad to hear from you, and, to help out whenever I can.
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Positive News, Short Sales, Loans to Family / Friends, Reverse Mortgages

Our news media bombarded us with several pieces of information that sound negative. Let's consider, however, what's happening that is positive:
+ Homes are now available to purchase at the be$t price$ in several years.
+ Commercial real estate continues to flourish. Business folks must be positive about the future!
+ Loan rates are still LOW. Really, near 6% is, simply, EXCELLENT.
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short sales
Short sales occur when the bank is owed more money than that particular property is valued on the current market. These properties CAN be excellent opportunities to upgrade to a larger / nicer home, OR, to purchase investment properties. Go ahead, call your REALTOR® , arrange to have lists of properties sent to you, and contact me to start your prequalification process. Then, you'll be ready to write an offer when you find that "just right" property.
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Ever loan money to friend or family member? . . . repayment plans are often neglected. Third party arrangements CAN be made. For those times when you want to help out someone special to you check this service:
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reverse mortgage
Folks who are 62 years or older and interested in utilizing your home equity may want to check out details about the reverse mortgage. It can be a useful tool. You can find out more at the sites below.
AARP information is here:
NAR also has some excellent information:
HUD info. is at this site:
Have a great
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Protect your credit report, your financial future, & yourself

Expecting home loan rates to drop with the Federal Reserve rate reduction? No. As occurred the last time, lenders reduced rates over the past two weeks, but raised them an eighth to a quarter percent this afternoon. Still, home loan rates are historically low.
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We all know we can better control our future when we think ahead about what disasters could occur. Here are a few things to protect your future:
Protect your credit report--be sure your vehicle title is transferred. Credit reports may include negative comments regarding vehicles that were sold, but the title transfer was not completed by the new owner. To make certain ownership IS transferred, you may utilize this official (California) change of auto ownership document: www.dmv.ca.gov/forms/reg/reg135.pdf
­ Protect your financial future - prepare for disaster- The recent southern California fires remind us that we're usually ill-prepared for disaster. Here are some actions we can all take, actions that will make the recuperation process easier. (This is a simple reminder, and, not intended to cover everything.)
Keep copies of your insurance policies in a safe place / places. You may want to enter policy numbers and contact information in your contact list on a PDA or cell phone.
Create an inventory of your belongings. Do this soon. It will be useful if you need to make a claim in the future. Yes, I know, it's tough to take the time to make an inventory, but just do it. And, remember to keep it updated.
Determine in advance what items to have ready to take with you-those things that cannot be replaced, and, that can be easily carried with you. Remember items like cell phone chargers, jackets, blankets, pet food, prescription drugs. There will be other useful items, but whenever possible, only take what you can carry or keep in your vehicle. Be sure kids consider what they want to take, too.
You may need money, so figure out which checking / credit accounts would be available in an urgent situation. You may want to keep a little cash with you, too.
This is the toughest action: make a plan for escape, where to meet your family if you are separated, where you might be able to stay for a few days. When your family members know you have a plan, they may be less upset because they know what to expect.
Should you need temporary housing, remember that your local REALTOR may be able to help find a place. Just call to find out.
- lots more readiness information at: www.ready.gov/
Protect yourself--be prepared for road dangers.
Keep roadside breakdown essentials in the trunk: flares, a tire-inflation canister, basic hand tools, spare belts & hoses, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Have your vehicle inspected regularly, keep it well maintained and learn how to change a flat tire.
--NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS'® 2007 REALTORSafety Week
bevW 209.601.8441 bevwillard@sbcglobal.net
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Rates AND prices are low, low, low--for homes, that is!

Date: Oct. 24, 2007
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Great news! Today most of our mortgage lenders (that's where we mortgage brokers actually "get the money") reduced rates---YES! For folks who can remember 14-16% home loan rates, the low 6%'s seems extremely low.

Yes, if not personal experience, history confirms that home loans are historically low right now.

For those who worry about today's housing market, some interesting points follow:

The Long View, by Lawrence Yun, Vice President, NAR Research

"How much have real estate investors lost due to the housing market bust?" . . . Hmm. Well, exactly how much real pain are we talking about? Let's look at a couple of examples. An investor who bought a property in Las Vegas five years ago would be ahead by $150,000; up $200,000 in Miami. The average investor nationwide - up $54,000. Only the recent buyers (flippers) who bought last year in few specific markets would have encountered a loss.
Not All Losses Are Created Equal
I'm not discounting the discomfort of those who lost big, especially lenders and hedge funds who had large exposures to subprime loans. Investors in homebuilder stocks have certainly experienced pains. But nearly all real estate investors who have a reasonable holding period are doing quite fine. Some of these fortunate buyers who got into the market several years ago will still consider a modest give back as a loss without considering the large gains reaped during the housing boom. That's the nature of the human mind. A gain of $190,000 in Miami feels like a $10,000 loss considering that the gain had been $200,000.

A Home is Not a Stock Certificate -- Thank God!
Foreclosures are rising and construction workers are being laid off. REALTORS® are feeling the pinch as well. . . However, consumers and homeowners who are in it for the long-term are once again coming out well ahead.

Because of the power of leveraging, $10,000 used for a down payment on a typically priced home in the United States at a typical appreciation rate of 5 percent will return $110,000 after 10 years. The same $10,000 invested in the stock market appreciating 10 percent annually will result in $23,600. No wonder the data from the Federal Reserve show consistent results year-after-year of the staggering difference in net worth between homeowners and renters. A typical homeowner had $184,400 in net worth versus only $4,000 for a typical renter.

The Spooky Thing
The lack of buyer confidence to enter the market has been the one principal reason in holding back home sales. Many would-be buyers are spooked of a possible home price decline. And the media is fueling that fear. . . . Caution is in order, however. . . .


Opportunities to Seize
It's also important to point out that times of crisis often turn out to have been times of opportunity in hindsight. With over four million net new job additions in the past two years- the time frame during which home sales have steadily fallen - a significant pent-up demand has developed. Home sales and home prices will be higher in 2008 compared to 2007. And, as with any investment, look longer term. Those investing in a home and keeping it for a typical holding period of six to ten years will likely see their investment pay off; those homes will have been a good investment. . . .


Of course, with housing figures down, all eyes at looking to the stock market. Indeed, the stock market is at an all-time high. That's terrific in and of itself and reflects confidence in the U.S. economic outlook. Just be careful about taking specific advice from any hyper-emotional TV personality. . . - from real estate insights, October 2007

- - - - - - So, what's a person to do?

1. If you're considering purchasing a home, call your REALTOR® to discuss the possibilities. The right place may be out there waiting for you.

2. Borrowing money to purchase your new home is very reasonable. Be sure to get the right loan for your financial situation. For example, an adjustable rate loan will work for some, but be disaster for others.

3. Call or e-mail me with what you want to do. We can review the possibilities and find what loan product is best for you. bevW 209.601.8441 bevwillard@sbcglobal.net

safety tip #4: Dial before danger.

Be prepared for emergencies in advance: pre-program important numbers into your cell phone.

These may include your office, your roadside assistance service or garage, and even 911.
- from NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®' 2007 REALTOR® Safety Week Kit
Thanks for visiting "Lender's Saga" -bevW Your comments are welcome.
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Self-employed folks can still find loans, rates inch up

Date: Oct. 10, 2007
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- If you're worried about the sub-prime loan situation, this quote may allay your fears.
In 43 states, foreclosures have fallen in 2007 from 2006. Only 9% of all mortgages are subprime and 75% of all subprime mortgages are performing.
. . . 98 % of all mortgages in the U.S. are performing and 35% of the homes in the country don't have a mortgage at all. Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (09/26/07)
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- On Tuesday lenders informed us that rates increased 0.125 to 0.250%, depending on the lender / program. No changes today, the 10th. However, rates are still historically low-anything under 10% is excellent.
Now may be a great time to refinance OR purchase that move-up property you've had your eye on. Keep your current home for a rental OR set up a lease option.
Consult your REALTOR before you decide.
Call me for your loan: 209.601.8441.
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- Self-employed folks will likely be required to provide more financial information to refinance or purchase a new home. This article explains what's different.
from Daily Real Estate News | October 3, 2007
Self-Employed Workers Struggle to Get a Mortgage
It is growing increasingly difficult for the self-employed to get a mortgage.

Some lenders that specialized in home loans to self-employed workers and small-business owners have gone out of business. And many lenders that still offer such loans have tightened their standards, making it harder for self-employed borrowers to qualify.

Here's what self-employed borrowers need in order to qualify for a mortgage in this new environment, according to Marc Savitt, president of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.
  • More documentation. Along with two years of tax returns, self-employed borrowers might be asked to provide a profit-and-loss statement, bank statements, and proof that they've been in business for at least two years. A letter from their accountant probably won't be good enough.
  • Fewer tax deductions. Savitt says self-employed workers who plan to buy a home in the next year or two might want to forgo some deductions. "Make sure you can show as much income as possible," he says.
  • Larger down payments. An old-fashioned 20 percent down is very persuasive.
  • Excellent credit. A credit score of 720 or higher will give self-employed borrowers some choices.
  • Patience. Even for well-off business owners, qualifying for a mortgage is "not that smooth, easy no-brainer like it used to be," Savitt says. "If you want it to be quick, you're paying a higher price."
    Source: USA Today, Sandra Block (10/02/07
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- Take 2 seconds when you arrive at your destination to check out potential dangers:
• Is there any questionable activity in the area?
• Are you parked in a well-lit, visible location?
• Can you be blocked in the driveway by [another] a prospect's vehicle?
Thanks for visiting Lender's Saga--bevW
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When You Refinance Your Home Loan, take advantage of competition

On Friday, 10-28-07, mortgage bankers increased rates.
Our company's most used programs were upped 0.125 to 0.375!
Have you received calls about unbelievably low home loan refinance rates?
Yes, these "teaser rates" that sound too good to be true likely ARE just that--too good to be true!
You can easily find how sincere the offer is by requesting a "Good Faith Estimate" (GFE) be sent to you.
Look for the GFE to state all fees, rates and any terms; it should include many items like: closing costs, points paid to the lender, prepaid insurance and taxes, impound account information, Private Mortgage Insurance (if needed), loan origination fees, and processing fees. There may be other fees, too. With the GFE you can compare loans; without the GFE, it's just an empty promise.
Just send me your GFE. Then, I'll find you the best deal I can, with both RATE and TERMS.
You can reach me at (209.601.8441), e-mail ( loans@bevwillard.com ), or fax (209.473.7956).
So, you'll have the best all-around deal.
Then, you'll be ready to find that new home or rental property with your REALTOR® .
FYI: Freddie Mac just released this week's average interest rates. You can review the results with this link:
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Safety Tip #2 : Rely on your mobile phone.
Always carry a charged mobile phone. Clip your phone on and make it part of your everyday apparel;wear it where you'll have immediate accessibility.
You can set up important phone numbers so they're at the top of your list by just placing a zero and space in front the of name. (example: "0 office")
-- from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS'® 2007. www.REALTOR.org/Safety
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- What! home loan rates are HIGHER?????

Date: Sep. 20, 2007
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Acting now may save you money.
Folks are excited about the Federal Reserve decision to reduce rates by 0.5 percent this past Tuesday.  Many expected a similar drop in home loan rates. Well, Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) did fall, along with credit card rates and auto loans.  
So, what happened with home loans?  
Last week lenders reduced rates; today all fixed rate loans are increased as of 1:30 pm PDT. That's because home loan rates, on fixed rate loans, reflect changes in the ten-year bond rates.  THOSE bond rates are rising; so rates are rising.  So you may want to lock your loan rates as soon as possible.
 
Here's an interesting quote:
The Fed's goal wasn't to send mortgage rates lower. Among other things, the central bank wanted to induce lenders to say yes more often -- especially to jumbo borrowers, who have applied for mortgages greater than the conforming limit of $417,000. In the past month, lenders have become more reluctant to extend jumbo mortgages, because investors are scared of buying packages of jumbo loans. Investors are not sure about the quality of the loans out there. That's what has frozen up the jumbo market, and observers believe the Fed was trying to thaw it out.
 
from Mortgage rates rise
By Holden Lewis at Bankrate.com
 
 
 Still, rates remain historically low; it IS a GREAT time to refinance your present home, or to purchase another home. If you have been considering purchasing a move-up home, why not keep your present property as a rental?  Also, if you have considerable equity in your current home, consider arranging a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to be available when you need it.
Your tax professional can explain the possible tax advantages of a HELOC and/or purchasing a rental property. The results can be startling.
 
Call me to get started with your prequalification for a loan, you'll need a letter from me to accompany your offer, OR, call for refinance information. 
Then, check with your REALTOR for the best values in your area. 
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Agents, now is the time to call your potential buyers; this may be the right time for them to get in on what is still a great rate for their loan. 
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SAFETY TIP: Choose flight over fight.
The primary goal in any threatening situation is to escape from immediate danger and call for help.  Run if you must. And, we all need to take a self-defense course, for those times when we can't run.  
 --from National Association of REALTOrs Safety 2007 recommendations  
                                 (Visit http://www.realtor.org/about_nar/safety_week/index.html for more information.)
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It's a buyer's market!

Date: Sep. 11, 2007
Tags: None

Some news at the Lodi Association of REALTORs  this morning, 9-11-07, really caught my attention.  It was an announcement that current listings in the area indicate there's a two year supply of homes--definitely a market for buyers.

Folks, this may be the time you've waited for, a time when you, the buyer, have power.  We hear about the sellers who are in trouble; what about buyers who had closing costs paid by the seller?  Plus, they negotiated an unbelieveable price!  I'm hearing this story more and more.

And, many homes look better than model homes.

If NOW is the time for you to buy . . . call or e-mail me to get started on your loan.

Also, contact your local REALTOR to get started looking for properties; you may request an e-mail message a link to available properties, OR, request printed copies.  Remember, the REALTOR who assists you has already earned your business, so, be sure to have that person write up your purchase agreement--it's only fair.

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Be sure you have records of your rent / housing payments.

Date: Sep. 6, 2007
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Rent receipts are very important

Folks who want to take advantage of the current market adjustments, may be looking for their first home.  Please note:  Lenders almost always require proof of housing (rent or otherwise) payments.  Folks who don't have these records usually cannot obtain a home loan.  Or, they may have to pay an excessively high interest rate.  You can take action now to avoid discouragement later.

Here's what to do:

Even if you live at home with parents, or with someone else . . . Pay a fee every month, get a receipt OR cancelled check.  Just do it!

Then, when you want to purchase a home, the lender will see your record of regular housing payments.  It is paramount in this changing market that records of housing payments for a full year or more are available.

Agents:  Keep your upcoming buyers aware that a record of housing payments is of utmose importance in the future.

Parents:  Do have your adult children pay rent; give them receipts OR take their checks so they have a record of payments.

It's worth the effort and will save a lot of disappointment.

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Having Trouble Making Your House Payment?

Date: Sep. 4, 2007
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Foreclosure Worries?

First of all, we know lots of people are worried--now is the time to act! 

          Do all you can to avoid following your emotions; keep thinking clearly.

Okay, now here's where to start:

Call your lender!

You may find your lender to be cooperative in offering some sort of relief.  Lenders do not want to foreclose; they DO want you to make regular payments.  So, talk to them.

Always respond to letters from your lender.  Our tendency to avoid the lender when we're in trouble only makes the situation worse.  So, call or write.

Communicate so your lender knows you want to work with them.

Keep detailed records on all your communications.

Research your loan details, state, and federal laws so you'll know what is right.

For more details and assistance use the following resources:

          http://www.fha.gov/foreclosure/index.cfm 

          and/or call 1-800-569-4287 for counseling agencies in your area

I checked out the website and it's full of valuable information.  Also, I phoned the 800 number above; you just enter your zip code and are provided with a local counseling service that may be able to assist you.

Remember, unsolicited calls or letters that offer to purchase your home, but SAY you can keep it are most likely scams.

Report suspected scams to your local police at the regular office number (NOT "911").

Check with your local, trusted REALTOR or lender for assistance.  If you don't have a REALTOR, get recommendations from friends and neighbors, your lender, or local REALTOR association. 

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Real Estate Success includes Getting that Loan: Honesty Helps

Date: Aug. 17, 2007
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Real estate is the talk of the town, the state, the nation.  Hey, it's been good to many folks, but tough on others.

What's happening right now?  Folks who thought they'd be able to keep up their payments, simply, can't.  That's why you're hearing about foreclosures and short sales, even from homeowners who thought they were doing fine.

The misfortune of some may offer an opportunity to others who do not yet own a home of their own, or, who want to purchase a rental property.  If you've decided this IS the time for you to purchase a property, please carefully consider your loan decision.  It's usually better to be a bit conservative with your payment plan.

Question is: How do we make certain WE can make those payments?

Nothing is guaranteed, of course, however, when you work with a great REALTOR® and a reputable lender your success is more likely.  Your REALTOR® will help you sort through the huge inventory; your lender will provide information to assist in choosing the right loan for you and your family.  When you determine the payment amount that is comfortable for you, budget a bit on the low side so IF a budget crisis occurs, you won't have immediate disaster.  Remember to keep a savings account to cushion unexpected problems.

Avoid risks that seem like too much of a gamble.

Maybe you can qualify for a loan for that huge home, but will you really want to forego your vacations or other fun, pricy experiences?  If not, maybe a smaller place will be great, and a lot easier to pay for!  Keep your payments sensible.

Many of the folks who are trying to sell their homes now really thought they would be able to refinance this year.  Refinancing is a strategy to utilize your equity, not to finance living beyond your means.  (Equity is what you have when you owe LESS that your property is worth on the market.)

So, be smart, a little conservative, and ready for the unexpected.

The American Dream can be your reality, just utilize the many fine professionals who can help you make wise decisions, to make your dreams . . . come true.

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