Moving CAN be stress free

This article is by HGTV’s FrontDoor.com

When it comes to moving, a little preparation goes a long way. Tons of time and energy can be saved by planning ahead, staying organized and focusing on details.

1. Make a moving schedule. Starting 60 days before the move, use a week-by-week checklist to keep the process on track. The tasks to accomplish further from moving day might seem trivial at first, but staying on schedule will prevent last-minute headaches. Time will be at a premium on the days leading up to the move, so be diligent in checking off each task.
2. Hire a quality moving company. Resist the temptation to hire a company that offers a too-good-to-be-true rate. An unreliable mover will cost time and money in the long run if items are lost or broken. Check out moving company credentials with the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
3. Pare down your possessions. If an item won’t be used in the new home, don’t waste time packing it. Notorious clutter items- unread books, unfinished projects and half-empty cleaning products- are prime targets to leave behind. Hold a garage sale or give away the unwanted stuff.
4. Pack like a pro. Come up with a packing system so all boxes end up in the right rooms when they get to the new home. One option is to buy a box of magic markers and create a “color code” system for the movers- red-labeled boxes for the living room, blue for the kitchen, etc. On moving day, draw a floor plan of the new place with each room labeled and give it to the movers.
5. Make the house move-out ready. Most movers won’t disconnect anything that’s hard-wired, so unplug all the appliances and lighting fixtures that go. Make sure all paths are clear from the house to the moving truck. Speed up the process by knowing the ground rules for what movers will and won’t do- most won’t touch flammable items, perishable foods or plants.
6. Stock up on packing supplies. Don’t run out of packing tape the morning of the move; have plenty of supplies on hand. Early on in the moving process, start gathering boxes, tape, bubble wrap, newsprint, box cutters and markers. Try to save time and the environment by packing with materials you already have. Load up suitcases and plastic containers and use pillows, scarves and towels to “wrap” fragile items.
7. Pack a moving survival kit. Don’t throw everyday essentials like ID and medicine in with other belongings, only to have to dig through boxes later. Instead, pack a “last-to-go” box with all of the necessities-toiletries, snacks, important documents-and keep it with you instead of packing it in moving truck.
8. Spruce up the new home before moving in belongings. It’s easier to clean, paint and make improvements while the new home is still empty. Before hauling in all the furniture and boxes, be sure to vacuum, dust baseboards, and wash the kitchen and bathroom floors.
9. Map out the new floor plan. Decide how to arrange the furniture before moving it into the new place. The best way to do this is to make paper cutouts of the furniture. Measure the dimensions of the piece and tape together newspaper pages to match the “footprint” of the furniture. It’s much easier to reshuffle newspaper than all that heavy furniture.
10. Change the address and notify companies before the move. Completing a change-of-address form before you head out can prevent hassles such as past-due bills, service lapses and even identity theft. Schedule dates in advance to discontinue utilities, phone, cable and Internet and arrange for these services at the new address. Several services even allow utilities hookups online.

6:26 PM - Jul. 3, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Don't ignore these warning signs!

Homeowners might be tempted to put off fixing their home until the economy rebounds. But Consumer Reports warns that some problems, if left unchecked, can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs and might even compromise your family’s health. The trouble signs are easy to spot, provided homeowners know what to look for. What’s more, contractors aren’t as busy now, so they’re likely to be more flexible on price.

The following are the five biggest red flags of home maintenance:

Runaway rainwater. Gutters, downspouts, and leader pipes collect rainwater and channel it away from the house. In very wet regions, leaders should extend at least five feet from the house. Check the entire gutter system seasonally for proper pitch and for clogs, corrosion, broken fasteners, and separation between connections and where gutters meet the fascia board.

Roof and siding. Roofs are the most vulnerable to water infiltration, given their exposure to the elements and the laws of gravity. On a sunny day, use binoculars to spot cracked, curled, or missing shingles, which are signs that the roof is near its end of life. Also check flashing around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys, and the rubber boots around vents for cracks. Siding is also susceptible to leaks, especially where it meets windows and doors.

Pest infestations. Termites and carpenter ants gravitate to moist soil and rotting wood, another reason to make sure your gutters are in good shape and soil around your foundation is graded properly. Keep mulch, firewood, and dense shrubbery away from your foundation. Once termites infiltrate a home, they can bore through the structure in a few short years.

Mold and mildew. Even houses in arid climates aren’t immune. Hot outdoor temperatures can drive even small amounts of water trapped in the structure to condense on colder interior surfaces, leading to mold. Musty odors, dank air, and family members with chronic runny noses are warning signs. Check under carpets and around windows for visible mold or mildew. Remove cover plates for cable-TV, phone, and Internet connections, and use a flashlight to peer behind walls and wallpaper for mold.

Foundation cracks. Some cracks are harmless, but others can mean trouble. Monitor them using a ruler. Cracks wider than 3/16 inch, even vertical ones, can be a problem. Mark smaller cracks with tape and monitor their progress over the coming months. Be on the lookout for horizontal cracks or bulging or buckling. Along with expanding cracks, those conditions require the attention of a structural engineer.

6:41 PM - Jun. 25, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Tips to negotiate a loan modification

This article is by Caleb Groos at findlaw.com

For some small business owners, trouble on the home front (as in home mortgage front) threatens already precarious business conditions. Home mortgages that once seemed a good source of money for the business now could result in the need to layoff workers or even close. Homeowners with trouble making mortgage payments often hear that their best bet is to contact their lender about a loan modification, but they should be well prepared when they do so.

Whether the problem making mortgage payments is short term or long term, the best option for homeowners often is to contact their lender to try to work out a new payment agreement. Lenders are not obligated to make mortgage modifications, however it is often in their interest to work out a feasible payment plan for the homeowner rather than foreclose and sell the property.

The Obama Administration’s Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan included refinancing of qualifying mortgages owned or securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac to a lower fixed interest rate. As reported by the Washington Post, the Obama Administration announced that the program will apply to previously excluded second mortgages.

In part to help those outside this program, the Obama plan also included $75 billion in matching cash to encourage lenders to agree to mortgage modifications.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when seeking a mortgage loan modification:

1. Don’t fall for any mortgage modification scams (such as advanced fee scams).
2. To learn how to best make your case for a loan modification, contact one of the HUD Approved Foreclosure Avoidance Counselors in your area. They can also inform you about any federal, state or local programs that may assist you.
3. Get an accurate picture of your finances. Your best chance at getting a modification is to demonstrate the ability to repay and a thorough understanding of the costs and income you face going forward.
4. If the problem making payments is short-term, ask your lender about forbearance or postponement of payments for a limited period. Be prepared to demonstrate when you’ll be able to start making payments again.
5. If the problem is long term, and what you need is modification, be prepared to make an offer and demonstrate how you could repay the modified loan. Be sure your lender is up to speed on incentive programs that may be available to help.
6. When negotiating a modification, make sure to understand how it will deal with any fees or penalties that may have accrued. Know what fees are in play and whether the modification will eliminate, reduce or tack them on for repayment.
7. If the lender won’t modify and foreclosure looms, consider asking the creditor to “produce the note,” (particularly when a creditor other than the original lender seeks foreclosure). It’s a stalling tactic, but can sometimes encourage creditors to negotiate.

2:51 PM - Jun. 15, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Know your shut offs

This article is courtesy of Front Range Inspection.

Everyone should know where and how to turn off all utilities to their home. We will often see these shut off locations inaccessible. Never block a gas meter shutoff valve, water shutoff or breaker panel! In an emergency you must be able to shut these off or risk fire, explosion, electrocution, serious water damage or personal injury..

		Water The main shutoff for most homes is sometimes hard to find. Since these valves are rarely used they will often leak when you turn them off. For these reasons, we recommend that you locate your main shutoff at your water meter. This valve is usually under a cover near the sidewalk or at the edge of the road. Open this cover and look for the valve, you will need a tool to turn this off. There are a couple types of valves, so it is important to look at yours and make sure you have the proper tool to turn off the water. Most of them can be turned with an adjustable wrench, similar to the valve on a gas line. Others may require a special tool available at your local hardware store. If you are on a well, familiarize yourself with the equipment in your pump house so you know how to turn off the pump and water valves.
		Natural Gas These shutoffs are located at the meter. It is best to have a wrench that is tethered to the meter, so you know it is there when you need it. If you have propane the tanks have shut off valves at the lines connecting them to the home or appliance. If you ever smell a strong odor of gas (rotten egg smell) shut off the gas immediately, turn off the electricity (this can prevent explosions or fire) and open all the doors and windows. Call 911 for the fire department and the gas company to locate and isolate the gas leak. Electricity You should know how to turn off the power to your home. Usually there is a main shut off in the breaker panel or at the power meter. Occasionally there is no single main shutoff, in this case, turn off every breaker in the panel. If your home has a fuse box there will sometimes be a shut off above or beside the box. If there is no shut off, then unscrew each fuse and lay them out in the same pattern as they were in the box. This is so you can replace each fuse in the proper location and not mix up the amperages of the circuits. Most older homes also have 2 or more pull out fuse holders, so remove these also.

2:37 PM - Jun. 11, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Feng shui tips for prosperity

This article is by Debra Duneier, president of Living Home By Debra and Senior Associate Manhattan Real Estate Broker for Corcoran.

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese energy practice over 6,000 years old based on the knowledge that there is both good energy (Sheng Qi) and negative energy (Sha Qi). As a Feng Shui practitioner, Debra Duneier, president of Living Home By Debra, Duneier focuses on balancing the energy in living and working environments. Her objective is to enhance and increase Sheng Qi and eliminate or minimize the Sha Qi.

During this financial crisis, Duneier has been called upon by both individuals and businesses to balance the energy in living and working environments and to increase the flow of wealth. Although on site this is a complex procedure performed with analysis of Ming Gua calculations, Form School, Lo Pan Compass readings, Flying Star and Four Pillars, Duneier has created a list of simple tips to increase energy support for your prosperity:

1. The kitchen is a portent for wealth. This comes from the belief that the better you eat the healthier you are. A healthier person is a more productive person and brings in better business. The burners on your stove represent wealth. Keep them clean and alternate your use of the burners when you are cooking. Sometimes Duneier prescribes a mirror over the stove to double the burners. The refrigerator should be filled with healthy food as a full refrigerator brings in abundance.

2. Plants bring life force into our living and working environments. Not only do they bring beauty, but plants clean our air and can absorb electromagnetic fields which have a negative impact on our health. Bamboo and Jade plants are indoor plants that act as wealth enhancers.

3. The Ming Tang of your office or home is the entrance. As you step inside, you are transitioning from the outside world to the inside world. Very often in the Ming Tang area, a rug or mat is placed near the front door. Take 3 lucky Chinese coins and tape them to the back of the rug. Every time someone walks in they symbolically are bringing money into your property and into your life.

4. Keep your toilet seats down when not in use. Keep them up and money will disappear.

5. Whether you work from home or from an office, a wall behind your chair, called a “Black Turtle” is very supportive of you in your work. Be sure you can see the door, which protects you and your deals. In front of you is the ‘Red Bird’. Use this area for a beautiful piece of art which represents your prosperous future. If there is room for a water feature, this is a perfect place for it. Water flowing upwards brings wealth. The sound should be gentle and soothing to you.

6. Goldfish are pretty, relaxing to watch, and bring “life” energy into your environment. They are also magnets for wealth. The winning combination: Fill your tank with 8 goldfish for luck and 1 black fish to keep away bad luck.

2:18 PM - Jun. 7, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Second chance for first time home buyers

You've already filed your 2008 tax returns and maybe you've already received your refund. That means it's too late to obtain the $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers enacted by President Obama's Stimulus Plan, right? Wrong. The great thing about this tax credit is that you can still get the cash this year, even if you've already filed your taxes for 2008 – and the money is yours to keep. You don't ever have to pay it back, as long as you stay in the home for at least 36 months.

There's a lot of confusion in the media surrounding this tax credit, but it's actually pretty simple. Qualified first-time home buyers (anyone who hasn't owned a home in the three years prior to the purchase) can receive a tax credit of 10% of the purchase price up to $8,000. All you have to do is purchase a primary home (that means a home you'll actually live in, not an investment home) any time between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 1, 2009. If you make a qualified purchase after April 15, or after having already filed your 2008 taxes, you and your tax professional can submit an amendment to your return and receive the credit on your 2008 taxes – you don't have to wait until next April.
 

3:53 PM - Jun. 5, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Make the most of your lawn and garden this month

This article is from lifetime.com

The warm weather, longer daylight hours, and blooming tree buds can mean only one thing: spring has finally arrived. Now, with winter behind us, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors and freshen up the yard.

In celebration of Lawn and Garden Month, beautify your landscape with these easy tips:

Add a “Recession Garden” - An estimated 43 million people are expected to grow their own fruits, vegetables, herbs and berries this year. Growing your own produce can save your family a large amount of money on groceries each year, and some say that fresh, homegrown fruits and veggies taste better than those purchased at the store.

Befriend the Birds - Consider including a birdhouse, birdfeeder or birdbath in your landscape this spring. Not only will it lead beautiful wildlife to your yard, but it will also serve as a nice decoration. If you’re on a budget this year, you can easily make a homemade birdfeeder by rolling a pinecone in peanut butter and birdseed.

Plant a Family Tree - Enrich your family ties (and your soil) with a tree that the whole family can plant together. Apple trees and mulberry trees look great in the yard and provide a shady spot for relatives and friends. Try planting one of these trees to commemorate your household’s next special occasion, like a birth or a wedding.

Tackle Yard Work With Ease - With all the lifting, hauling and digging, yard work can be a heavy load to bear. The wheelbarrow is a great tool as it helps lighten the burden for homeowners, as more weight is distributed to the wheels, instead of the user.

Take the Natural Approach - If you’re looking for an alternative to pesticide, consider planting some natural repellants to keep insects at bay. For example, mint can be used to ward off ants, and garlic can do the same for Japanese beetles. These additions will blend in nicely when planted among the flowers and vegetables in your garden, and they’ll also provide lots of flavor to spring and summer recipes.

3:47 PM - Jun. 1, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Take advantage of energy efficiency tax credits

This year, the federal government extended and expanded home energy efficiency tax credits through 2010 as part of the broader economic recovery package, and millions of U.S. homeowners appear poised to pursue them, according to a survey released by Johns Manville. More than two-thirds of survey respondents, or 68%, said they were aware of the newly created federal energy efficiency tax credits. Of those homeowners, 46% said they intend to make a home improvement-related purchase that qualifies for an energy efficiency tax credit, including nine percent of homeowners who said they had already done so during the first three months of 2009.

The energy efficiency tax credits were created earlier this year by President Obama’s economic recovery package, which sought to encourage consumer spending amid the recession, as well as persuade homeowners to become more energy efficient. The tax credits allow homeowners to claim 30% of the cost of qualified energy efficiency products, up to $1,500, including insulation, windows and doors, roofs, HVAC equipment, and water heaters.

According to the survey, saving money was a primary motivator spurring homeowners to pursue an energy efficiency upgrade. The survey found that 40% of the respondents who were aware of the tax credits cited monthly savings on their utility bills as the key reason for the planned home upgrades, followed by improving the comfort of their home (30%), reducing their carbon footprint (13%), and earning the energy efficiency tax credit (8%).

Despite the interest among many homeowners, 72% of survey respondents said they did not know exactly how to apply for any energy efficiency tax credits or rebates, including those offered by state governments or local utilities. And some respondents indicated the existing tax credits might not be big enough to spur action. A total of 41% of respondents said the tax credit would need to exceed 40% of the product’s purchase price to motivate them to pursue a home energy efficiency upgrade if they weren’t planning one for any other reason. Roughly 32% of respondents said a tax credit of 30% or less was sufficient motivation.

To earn an energy efficiency tax credit, homeowners must save their receipt for a qualified purchase, print a form provided by the product’s manufacturer and then claim the deduction on their federal income tax return.

“This recent survey clearly demonstrates that millions of U.S. homeowners are interested in making purchases that qualify for the newly created energy efficiency tax credits,” said Kateri Callahan, president of the Alliance to Save Energy, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that promotes energy efficiency. “The new tax credits can help homeowners defray the cost of several types of energy efficiency upgrades, making them more affordable at this time of economic strain for many.” “By tightening up their homes with added insulation and caulking and sealing of doors and windows, homeowners will enjoy lower heating and cooling costs, too,” Callahan added.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that homeowners can save up to 30% on their heating and cooling bills by adding insulation to adequate levels and air sealing their homes. In addition, an estimated 65% of U.S. homes, about 45 million, are under insulated, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

The survey found that the most popular projects for respondents intending to pursue the tax credit included: energy-efficient windows and doors (19%); a water heater (14%); roofing (14%); insulation (13%); heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (12%); and a solar energy system (8%). A total of 53% of respondents said they did not intend to make a purchase that qualified for the credit.

The survey’s other key findings:

- Roughly six out of 10, or 63% of respondents knew that in addition to the federal energy efficiency tax credit, many states and local utilities offer energy efficiency rebates for certain home improvement-related purchases.
- More than half of responding homeowners (58%) underestimated how much a homeowner can potentially save on monthly heating and cooling costs by adequately caulking, sealing and insulating their home. About 21% of respondents answered correctly, pegging the savings at up to 20% to 30%.
- Homeowners making between $50,000 and $75,000 who were aware of the tax credit were the most likely to pursue an energy efficiency upgrade, with 59% of respondents saying they intend to do so during 2009.

“This is a perfect time for homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient,” said Mark Ziegert, a senior brand manager for Insulation Systems with Johns Manville. “With local and federal tax credits and rebates, the potential savings of lower heating and cooling costs, and product promotions offered by retailers, homeowners should have ample motivation to move ahead in 2009 with energy efficiency projects. If and when energy prices move higher, homeowners will be glad they added insulation and made other improvements. ”

3:42 PM - May. 30, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Moving service vs. container shipment

This article is by Mickey Matteson, Account Executive at moveadvocate.com

Many consumers are turning to portable moving containers as an alternative to full service moving providers, but is it the best option? Usually a container is dropped off in the driveway and you have a period of time to pack and load your own belongings. When the items are loaded, drivers pick up the container and transport it to your new home where you unload and unpack. This might be a good option for you if you are storing items while the home is for sale, but is it the best option for the actual move? Below is a comparison of various moves ranging in size, weight, and distance.

What was once thought of as a cheaper solution is now very comparable. In fact, 3 out of the 4 moves were less expensive using a full service moving provider over a container shipment solution. The move to Meadville was not comparable at all as the container option was not available in the market area. In fact, many container companies are limited to major metro areas and a few locations within those metro areas resulting in additional fees and even no services in some cities.

3:16 PM - May. 26, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Where are people relocating?

This article is by Lauren Sherman for forbes.com

Unemployment is on the rise, credit is tight, and consumers aren't spending--which means they aren't picking up and moving much either. Very few places in America saw significant population growth in 2008.

But the buzzing metropolitan area of Denver bucked that trend. Its population increased by 2.17% in 2008. In 2007, it increased by 2.09%. In 2008, Denver was the 10th-fastest growing metro area in the U.S.

What's Denver got that other places don't?

In Depth: 10 Cities Where Americans Are Relocating

For one, according to an October 2008 survey conducted by Pew Research Center, Denver is the most popular city in America. People like it for its skiing, culture and vibrant nightlife, as well as its business opportunities. As of January 2009, the metro area's unemployment rate was 6.5%. That's high, but still two percentage points below the national average of 8.5% for the same month.

Despite the overall economic slowdown, some parts of the country keep on moving ahead, attracting more and more newcomers--even if it's at a slower pace than in more sound economic times. These places still offer a semblance of stability, as well as great weather, cultural life and, in many cases, affordability.

Behind the Numbers
To determine the fastest-growing metro areas in the country, we used 2008 population estimates for metropolitan statistical areas with a population over 1 million, released March 19, 2009, by the U.S. Census Bureau. MSAs are geographic entities defined by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget for use by federal agencies in collecting, tabulating and publishing federal statistics.

We then compared the 2008 population estimates to the previous year's data to see which areas had grown the most, percentage-wise.

Nine places fared even better than Denver, though they share similar qualities: more business opportunities, better weather and more affordable housing. The top three areas according to the data are Raleigh, N.C., ranking first, which jumped 4.29% to nearly 1.9 million; Austin, Texas, which came in second, with a 3.77% increase to almost 1.7 million; and Charlotte, N.C., which moved up 3.36% to 1.7 million.

All these areas' increases were smaller in 2008 than they were in 2007, (Raleigh increased by 4.7% in 2007, Austin by 4.29% and Charlotte by 4.2%), but a slight slowdown is not necessarily a bad thing, according to William Frey, Ph.D., a demographer at the Brookings Institute, an independent research and policy group based in Washington, D.C. "Part of the story here is the rapid rise in growth in the middle of decade," says Frey. "That growth was unnatural."

The in-migration that happened in the middle of this decade certainly had a lot to do with the housing boom. When that went bust, so did those crazy population balloons. But these particular places are still growing because instead of building an economy that relies heavily on one industry (in Las Vegas, it's hospitality; in New York, it's finance), most of the metro areas on our list serve as headquarters for a diverse range of companies.

For example, Austin's biggest employers include University of Texas, Advanced Micro Devices (nyse: AMD - news - people ) and Dell (nasdaq: DELL - news - people ). That wide range might have something to do with the area's relatively low January 2009 unemployment rate of 6.4%.

This is the opposite of what happened in true housing boom-and-bust towns like Las Vegas. In 2004, Vegas--a foreclosure mecca--saw a population increase of 4.6%, followed by 3.66% in 2005, 3.98% in 2006 and 3.22% in 2007. In 2008, that number fell to 2%.

The Power of Business
When it comes down to it, a buzzing business community is a metro area's most important characteristic, says Sean C. Safford, a professor at the University of Chicago and author of Why the Garden Club Couldn't Save Youngstown: The Transformation of the Rust Belt. He studies the social economics of U.S. cities and metro areas.

"Perception is driven by the vibrancy of the companies in an area," he says.

However, that doesn't mean that these metros won't suffer from a slowdown in population when 2009's numbers are released next year. Charlotte, for example, reported a 10.5% unemployment rate for January 2009, likely related to the fact that Bank of America (nyse: BAC - news - people ) is headquartered there. That high unemployment rate almost guarantees stunted growth in 2009.

"We don't quite yet know what the impact [of the ongoing recession] will be for 2009 populations," says Frey. "But we do know it's not going to get any better."

Indeed, where Americans are relocating today has little to do with where they'll be moving tomorrow.

3:27 PM - May. 24, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

The sky is NOT falling!

This article is by James A. Crumbaugh III is CEO of Allison James Estates & Homes.

April is now here and we’re all starting to hear positive news, almost daily, about the real estate industry. Don’t get me wrong - the “Chicken Littles” of the world are still out there, telling everyone who will listen that the sky is still falling.

Here at Allison James Estates and Homes, we go strictly by the numbers and the numbers aren’t lying. Our number of sales is up over 25% and our income was up in March over our best month ever by 31%. If the sky is falling, I sure hope it continues to fall at this rate every month.

However, the pundits are still claiming the bottom is still out there, but their case is leaking water. There are areas in the country that are already seeing small price increases, along with much stronger number of sales, and there are a lot of short sale realtors who still claim that the inventory is going to get much worse. If that’s so, I need an explanation as to why the inventory is decreasing in most areas. Sure, sellers are taking their properties off the market, but so what? Sellers have always taken their properties off the market unless they could get what they wanted. There is nothing new or revolutionary in this strategy.

The bottom line is there was an overreaction to the inflationary increases in real estate over the period between 2000 to 2006. As a result, real estate in most areas is now undervalued and the consumer has taken notice. One of the things I’ve noticed over the last month, is the number of end-use buyers is now as strong as the investors. This is a very good sign, as it shows that the pent up demand that we have all talked about for the past couple of years is starting to kick in.

On another note, the real estate brokerage business has been stood on its head due to the last three years. Everyone knew the old brick and mortar model was unsustainable with today’s realtors demanding and getting 80% plus. Then you have the 100% companies struggling because they made the mistake of trying to combine the brick and mortar concept with the 100% concept.

What surprises me is that Allison James Estates and Homes is still the only business model of its kind. We have eliminated the brick and mortar and allow our Realtors to work virtually from their home offices while keeping 100% of their commission. This is a simple business model, and I have nothing to hide with it.

It’s not rocket science, I’m just surprised no one has copied us. We all know that a lot of brokers are challenged in this area, and at Allison James Estates and Homes, we work as a team to keep our brokers at the top of the industry.

All in all, we are 14 months old, we are profitable, we’re having fun and we’re growing at a steady clip of 20% + per month. Chicken Littles take notice.

5:56 PM - May. 16, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Can the market rebound in 2009?

This article is by Cabot L. Jaffee is president and CEO of AlignMark, Inc. For more information visit www.alignmark.com.

If “rebound” means getting back to the sales levels and home values experienced just a few years ago, then the answer to the question: What will it take for the market to rebound in 2009? is “nothing,” which is not necessarily bad. If the definition of rebound implies simply returning to sales volumes and prices more in line with historical norms and growth patterns (normalcy), the situation is not nearly as bleak as daily headlines lead many to believe. For a rebound to occur, growth in existing home sales will need to occur. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) projected a 1.4% growth in existing home sales in 2008 (5.18 million). In addition, NAR has previously estimated 2009 existing home sales at 5.91, which will represent a sizeable growth over 2008.

And if Florida, California and a few other culprits that contributed to the speculation frenzy were deleted from current statistics, the picture of the overall market changes dramatically. A rebound is coming, but who will rebound quicker, stronger and more profitably depends on one major attribute-people.

Therefore, the better question is not “What will it take?” but rather “for whom” will a rebound occur? The rebound will not be an all-or-none phenomenon-not every brokerage will rebound. This challenging real estate market will continue to lead to consolidation, where only the stronger brokers and agents will survive.

Therefore, it is ever-increasingly important to make sure you have the right people-those who can produce, sell and perform. And it will be similarly important to have the right tools and technologies to support and differentiate your brokerage. But I caution you-it is not better to have “anybody vs. nobody.”

Those firms that identify the agents that have an aptitude to sell will be positioned for growth. And don’t ignore the Gen Y folks-you don’t only need experienced agents-you just need the right agents.

Brokers should target career-minded prospects rather than simply hire as many as possible; differentiate your value proposition to prospects; and use professional hiring tools to better assess prospects. Brokers should provide training and mentoring to enhance effectiveness versus simply acquiring meaningless designations. Brokers should also focus attention on performers; non-producers can’t be allowed to remain because “they don’t cost anything.”

If you want to rebound, you’ll have to make it happen; you can’t just wait for it to happen on its own. The time is right; the market is poised to rebound with first-time buyers and previous renters as home prices settle at more affordable levels and historically low interest rates. Remember, people are the lever that will allow you to rebound.

5:49 PM - May. 14, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Spring clean your finances

Spring’s arrival is obvious. The weather’s warmer, the days longer and you seem to have a little more energy. Chances are some of that energy will be used for spring cleaning - washing the windows, cleaning the closets or planting a garden. According to the Illinois CPA Society, it may also be smart to put a little of that energy into getting your financial house in order too.

Here are five ways to spruce up your finances:

1. Shake the dust out of your financial plan. Take a look at what your goals are and whether you are meeting them or not. If the past few months have your financial plan on shaky ground, it may be time to rethink your goals and set new ones. Make sure everything is in order and the plan reflects any changes in your life over the past year.

2. Make your credit report shine. It’s important to get your credit clean and keep it that way, especially in today’s economy. Check your credit score (it’s free from each of the three main bureaus once a year or go to www.annualcreditreport.com) and clear up any discrepancies. Develop a strategy to pay off your debt. Don’t cancel zero balance credit cards if you will be applying for a loan; keeping them open but inactive enhances your credit score.

3. Simplify. Assess all of your open accounts - checking, money market and savings - and consolidate what you can. Have an account in another state? Close it. A 401(k) from a previous job? Roll it over to your current plan or IRA if it makes good sense under market conditions. Having as few accounts as possible will reduce confusion and help keep your finances healthy.

4. Be ready for a rainy day. Although it’s not easy these days to find any extra money in your budget, do what you can to put even a small amount away on a regular basis to build a rainy day fund. Now more than ever, having some cash on hand in case of a layoff, major home repair or other emergency is a good idea.

5. Get rid of the clutter. Determine what paperwork needs to be saved and what can be discarded. It’s recommended that you keep your past IRS tax records for at least seven years and try to keep copies of the returns as long as you can as they may contain valuable information and may not be available from the IRS.

5:35 PM - May. 10, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Spring cleaning tips

 This article is by Angie Hicks who is the founder of Angie's List , a website where thousands of consumers share their ratings and reviews on local contractors and companies in more than 425 different categories.

Fresh rains in the early spring are symbolic of the season itself, offering a revitalizing cleansing of the outdoors. The warming weather also offers a reminder to homeowners that now is the ideal time to do a bit of spring cleaning. 

After all, a bit of due diligence by homeowners not only freshens their living quarters, it also helps them save money and avoid more costly repairs down the road.

"Making a list of items to check around the home this season – and then actually following through with the tasks – can help reduce home maintenance and utility costs," says Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List, the nation's leading provider of consumer ratings on local service providers.

It's important that homeowners schedule needed services as quickly as possible to avoid a backlog of busy service providers.

Angie's List went to its highly rated service providers to come up with a list sure to help those homeowners who don't know what to check and when, as well as those devoted annually to giving their homes a good once-over.

General Spring Cleaning

• Experts recommend a professional carpet cleaning every 12 to 18 months – but this can vary depending on how many people live in your home, and if you have children or pets. A dirty carpet contains soil and other debris that will wear your carpet's fibers. Schedule an appointment with carpet cleaners now to cut down on your wait time.
• Check your gutters. Professionals recommend gutter cleaning in the spring and the fall. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage in your home.
• Use a garden hose on your siding and deck to remove the film left by dirty snow and rain. Attach a soft-bristled, long-handled car brush to the hose for some extra help. Use a mild cleanser to get those tough-to-clean spots.
• Remove wet leaves and debris from your deck, front porch and around your house. Allowing the debris to accumulate can trap water, lead to staining or mold build-up, as well as create an ideal environment for termites.

Home Maintenance

• Snow, ice and wind can wreak havoc on your home, so be sure to go over the structures in early spring. Finding damage early will increase your chances of getting an early repair, as many home improvement companies begin their busy season this time of year.
• Scrutinize your crawl space for water accumulation or excessive moisture, and keep an eye out for water damage on the sub-floor and joists beneath the kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas.
• Give your roof a "once-over" for damage inflicted during the winter. Depending on the style and pitch of your roof, you may want to use a ladder and a pair of binoculars to look for missing or broken shingles and other damage. If you don't feel comfortable on a ladder, call a professional before the busy season begins.
• Check the weather stripping around doors and windows. The winter season may have caused some damage. Also, remove any storm windows and replace with screens.
• Check the valve where water enters your house, outdoor faucets and valves to toilets, bathroom and kitchen sinks. Turn each off and on several times to identify any leaks.

Outdoor Maintenance

• Talk with your landscaper or local garden center about the best way to enrich your soil for the types of plants in your yard. Proper fertilization can keep your soil and your plants in great shape throughout the year.
• Bring in your mower for service in early spring. This will help avoid breakdowns and extend the life cycle. It also helps you beat the rush so your mower is in tip-top shape when you need it. Warning signs that your mower needs maintenance can include difficulty in starting, a smoking engine, and reduced horsepower. A service appointment should include a check of the oil, blade, spark plugs, filter, battery and belts. Always ask for an estimate and guarantee on the work. Be sure to sharpen the blade at least once a year. Cutting grass with a sharpened blade is important for lawn health, promoting better grass health.
• If you've postponed tool care, now is a good time to get in the garage and take a closer look at your garden equipment. Garden service companies will get busy in the next couple of months, so make an appointment now to have those tools cleaned and sharpened.
• Spring is a good time to examine your asphalt driveway's surface for damage. Water that seeps into your driveway can freeze, causing cracks and other damage. Regular resealing is the best way to protect the surface and keep it in good shape. If you're planning to hire a professional to seal the driveway, summer is peak time of year, so call now to get on their schedule.

Appliance Maintenance

• Regular maintenance on major home appliances can help to ensure their efficiency and lifespan.
• Get your air conditioner serviced. Technicians can test your air conditioner as long as the temperature is above 60 degrees. Call now to get on their schedule before the first warm days of spring.
• Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers and tracks on garage doors with a greaseless lubricant. Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants. Lack of lubrication puts additional strain on the garage door. Don't attempt to service the opener mechanism yourself. Your garage door opener can be one of the most dangerous appliances around your house. Contact a professional for assistance.
• Get your water heater serviced. Maintained properly, water heaters will last for years and deliver gallon after gallon of hot water. Left alone, they'll quickly lose efficiency, sucking dollars out of your wallet with every degree of heat.
• Spring rains can be heavy, so if you have a sump pump be sure it works properly. To test, fill the sump pit with water and go outside to make sure the pump is actually discharging water. You can also eliminate any build-up in the system by pouring white vinegar through the unit.

4:11 PM - May. 8, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Protect your home while you travel

Is spring fever prompting you to head for the beaches or some other vacation getaway? If you’re planning to travel during the spring holidays this year, you can help protect your home while you’re away by following these tips from the Florida Association of Realtors(R) (FAR):

1. Make it look like you’re home. Install timers on interior lights so they turn on and off periodically. Consider leaving your radio on and tuned to an all-news or talk show station.
2. Disconnect and remove all exterior electrical decorations before you leave to reduce the chance of fire and theft. Install exterior lights controlled by motion sensors to make your home a more difficult target for prowlers.
3. Discontinue your newspaper delivery temporarily. Be sure to give several days notice so your order can be processed in time.
4. Ask someone to collect any free papers or sales materials left near your house. When fliers and papers are left on a driveway day after day, it’s a sure sign that no one is home.
5. Have the post office hold your mail. This can be initiated by calling the U.S. Postal Service at 1-800-275-8777 and listening to the option for putting a vacation hold on your mail. You can make arrangements up to 30 days in advance of your vacation; at minimum, two days will be needed to process your request. Or you can go to the Postal Service website at https://dunsapp.usps.gov/HoldMail.jsp and follow the instructions.
6. Ask a friend or neighbor to park a car in your driveway occasionally and keep an eye on your place. If police regularly patrol your neighborhood, give law enforcement authorities your schedule so they can watch for suspicious activity. If there’s a crime-watch program, notify the person in charge.
7. If you have an alarm that is monitored, tell the alarm company you will be away. If possible, provide a phone number where you can be reached.
8. If you’re going to be away for two weeks or more, ask a friend to mow the grass or hire a lawn service.

2:41 PM - May. 4, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

6 questions to ask about a reverse mortgage

Reverse mortgages have become an increasingly important financial tool for people 62 and older who want to remain in their home and fund their retirement. And, with 78 million Baby Boomers approaching retirement, interest is expected to grow. Despite this, many Americans are still unclear about how reverse mortgages work and when they may be appropriate.

“A reverse mortgage is a loan secured by the value of a house, where no repayment of the loan is required until the borrowers permanently vacate the home,” explained Peter Bell, president of the non-profit National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. ” Historically, reverse mortgages have been of particular interest to those with limited sources of liquid income, these days, there are many new retirees considering a reverse mortgage as an option after looking at all the other assets they’ve accumulated. This tool can help a person avoid taking Social Security too early or defer taxable withdrawals from IRA or 401(k) balances.”

“Reverse mortgages enable many Americans to ‘age in place’ comfortably in retirement,” said Donna DeMaio, president of MetLife Bank. “For many people, reverse mortgages are a good way to continue to stay where they are, remain independent, and live a more fulfilling life. Modern retirement income planning is about making the most of what you have, and reverse mortgages can be an important part of that plan.”

There are several advantages to securing a reverse mortgage. Borrowers can continue to live in the home as long as they want, and the amount owed to the bank by the borrowers when the property is sold will not exceed the lesser of the mortgage or its sale value. Interest and charges, including origination and closing costs, accumulate until that time, with no periodic payment required. As with traditional mortgages, the bank does not own the client’s home: borrowers retain ownership, and are responsible for paying property taxes and homeowner’s insurance, as well as property repairs.

So, when does a reverse mortgage make sense? Consider the following questions:

1. Do you qualify? Are you and any co-owner of the home at least 62 years old? Do you own your home and live in it as your primary residence? These qualifications need to be met before a reverse mortgage can be considered.

2. Do you have equity built up in your home? For individuals and families who have diligently paid down mortgages for years, and have worked hard to maintain and improve their property, a reverse mortgage is a way to realize a portion of that financial value.

3. Are you satisfied with your current level of retirement income? Many individuals in retirement or approaching retirement are finding that traditional retirement tools, including IRAs, pensions, and 401(k)s, do not provide enough income to comfortably fund current or anticipated living and healthcare expenses. A reverse mortgage can provide greater peace of mind and improve one’s quality of life. Taking reverse mortgage proceeds in regular monthly payments (the “tenure” option) that last as long as one lives in the property is a way to boost cash flow each month, and usually will produce a lower loan balance than a lump sum distribution when the time comes to pay off the loan.

4. Do you want to retire your existing mortgage? Many retirees are still paying a conventional mortgage, and as a result, have less disposable income than they would like to have at the end of the month. Depending upon the amount, a reverse mortgage can pay off an existing mortgage, freeing up money for other things. To gain a better understanding of where you stand, the AARP has a free reverse mortgage calculator that’s available at www.rmaarp.com.

5. Is a reverse mortgage a better option than a home equity loan? For many retirees, the income and credit requirements on a home equity loan may prove an obstacle to accessing that particular financial tool. A reverse mortgage doesn’t have these requirements.

6. Do you intend to pass your home on to your children or other loved ones? With a reverse mortgage loan, the outstanding balance needs to be repaid when the title changes hands. If one’s heirs wish to keep the home, they may be able to refinance the loan at that time, but it may be necessary to sell the property to repay the loan. Take the time to openly discuss this question with loved ones as an important first step when considering a reverse mortgage. Many families find that their children would prefer to see their parents experience a more comfortable retirement, rather than making the priority obtaining the family home, ‘free and clear.’

11:50 AM - Apr. 30, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Solar Energy Demand Grows

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) released its 2008 U.S. Solar Industry Year in Review, highlighting a third year of record growth. SEIA reports 1,265 megawatts of solar power of all types were installed in 2008, raising total capacity by 17% to 8,775 megawatts (MW). The 2008 figure included 342 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV), 139 MW of solar water heating, 762 MW of pool heating and an estimated 21 MW of solar space heating and cooling.

SEIA president and CEO Rhone Resch stated: “Despite economic pressures, solar energy demand grew tremendously in 2008. Solar is an emerging economic engine, creating thousands of jobs, unleashing billions in investment and building new factories nationwide.

“To continue growing, create jobs and meet renewable energy goals, we need smart federal policies, like a renewable portfolio standard designed to deploy solar resources. Today’s technology combined with the right policies will help us double U.S. solar production and move to a clean energy future.”

SEIA chairman Roger Efird, president of Suntech America, Inc. added: “The growth of solar manufacturing jobs in the U.S. was a breath of fresh air for communities hit hard by the recession. The recently enacted manufacturing tax credit will encourage companies, to invest in new U.S. operations. With the right policies, solar deployment will continue growing and create thousands of new green-collar manufacturing jobs in states where they are needed most.”

Report highlights include:

-Overall U.S. solar industry capacity increased 17%. Installed grid-tied PV increased 58% in 2008 and grew at a faster rate (81%) compared to 2007.
-Installed grid-tied PV increased by more than 18,000 installations in 2008 (a growth of more than 27%) compared to 14,306 installations in 2007.
-More than 6 GW (6,090 MW) of utility-scale CSP plants are in the pipeline.
-PV manufacturing capacity increased 65% while production increased 53%.
-Solar water heating installation increased 50% in 2008 (139 MWTh) over 2007 (93 MWTh).

11:26 AM - Apr. 26, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Mark to Market

The current economic crisis is the top news story for nearly every media outlet. But until recently, one of the most important factors that led to this challenging market has also been one of the least discussed.

By popular demand, I am again sending along this highly sought after video and article, unpacking the "Mark-to-Market" accounting issue - with some help from Barry Habib. Barry is a highly respected expert on home loans, who serves as Chairman of MSS, an organization that helps me to stay informed as your trusted advisor.

With the help of some easy-to-understand terms and illustrations, you will learn what it has taken the media and politicians many months to take seriously and begin to address.

Link here now to get the real story: www.mortgagesuccesssource.com/go/markmarket/

5:01 PM - Apr. 22, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Who owns my mortgage?

This article is by Ralph R. Roberts is a consumer advocate, spokesperson for Federal Loan Modification Law Center, host of KeepMyHouse.com, and author of numerous books.

When trying to contact your lender to work out a payment plan or some other deal, knowing who owns your mortgage can be very helpful. Unfortunately finding out is not as easy as it sounds. You should be able to call the phone number on your last mortgage statement or the number in your payment coupon book and connect directly with your lender. More often than not, this merely puts you in touch with the servicer - the business that collects and processes your payments. In some cases, the servicer is prohibited from divulging the true identity of your lender. In other cases, the person you’re dealing with has no idea who your lender is.

Mortgages are often sliced and diced and repackaged into mortgage backed securities (MBS’s) that are sold and traded on Wall Street. Many investors subscribe to an automated system called MERS (Mortgage Electronic Registration System) that keeps track of who owns the mortgage and note as it changes hands among investors, as well as who services it for that investor. MERS can provide another level of anonymity to the process.

On many mortgages, the Mortgagee (the party that was granted the mortgage) is listed only as MOM (MERS as Original Mortgagee). No, that doesn’t mean you can call your mom to find out who owns your mortgage note. It means you have to try to look it up in the MERS registry. Customers trying to look up the investor on the MERS registry will not find it. MERS makes the name and contact information of the servicer available, but not the name and contact of the investor. That information is for the servicer or investor to disclose, not MERS.

To add to the confusion, the mortgage meltdown sank many banks and other lending institutions which were taken over by other banks or regulators.

So, what should you do if you’re trying to track down your lender? Take the following approach:

Call the phone number on your most recent mortgage statement or your payment coupon book. This will put you in touch with the servicer who may also be the lender who owns your mortgage or at least be able to tell you the name of your lender. (Remember, the person may not know or may not be permitted to tell you.)

If you have an FHA loan, contact FHA’s National Servicing Center to determine who owns your mortgage:

(800) CALL- FHA / (800) 225- 5342

E-mail hsg-lossmit@hud.gov

Department of Housing and Urban Development
National Servicing Center
301 NW 6th Street, Suite 200
Oklahoma City, OK 73102

You can try to contact Fannie Mae. If they own the note, they may provide the identity of the investor: 1-800-7FANNIE (1-800-732-6643).

If the mortgage is listed as MOM or has a MIN (Mortgage Identification Number) assigned to it, you can search the MERS database by mortgage identification number (MIN), your name and social security number, or the property’s address. Dial the toll-free MERS Servicer Identification System at 888-679-6377 (an automated touch-tone system) or search online at MERS Servicer ID.

If you know the name of the bank or other lending institution that owns your mortgage but have no contact information for them, check out the HOPE NOW Mortgage Lender’s Directory.

One of the most important steps to saving your home from foreclosure is to get in touch with your lender immediately. Better yet, hire a qualified attorney with experience in foreclosures and loan modifications to contact your lender on your behalf, so you have legal representation on your side. I can guarantee that your lender has an attorney reviewing the paperwork. You should have one to watch your back, too.

5:50 PM - Apr. 14, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

Want to retire on a cruise ship?

Waterfront Lifestyles International, a boutique maritime lodging company, is currently taking reservations for retirement condos on a mid-size cruise ship that will make monthly cruises to the Bahamas.

For less money than many senior independent-living facilities charge, retirees may now live on a cruise ship. Prices for individual condo cabins on the 300-foot Alegria range from $159,000 for a single room to a larger suite for $399,000 plus a nominal “Resident’s Care” monthly fee which covers all the operating expenses of the ship including crew, staff, fuel, maintenance, insurance, three meals daily, port fees, the medical center, and housekeeping. A huge difference between a senior care facility and living on Alegria is that the residents actually own the ship.

With the depressed economy the company realizes some seniors may have to put off retiring for a few more years. The company has a program where purchasers may buy their unit right now and rent it until they retire, thus eliminating both the purchase payment and the monthly Resident’s Care fee until they actually move aboard.

Alegria will make weekend cruises each month to regional attractions such as shuttle launches, shopping excursions to Palm Beach, and trips to the Bahamas, and once a year it will take a weeklong trip to Central America. All cruise expenses are included in the Resident’s Care fee. Residents will only pay for cocktails, casino charges, spa fees, and purchases in the gift shop.

The vessel has most of the same amenities of the larger ships including a spa, workout room, gift shop, cigar bar, night club, dining room, beauty shop, library, and a residents’ storage area. The ship has twelve inside cabins that will be used as guest rooms. Owners’ friends and relatives can use them at no charge, including meals. Condo ownership includes permanent free membership at a nearby country club for golf and tennis. All staterooms are outside units with picture windows.

The ship will be home-ported in Port Canaveral and operated, managed, and maintained by Marine Growth Ventures, a highly respected ship management company. The port, which is also home to Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean cruise ships, is conveniently located within less than an hour’s drive of Orlando and right next to the Kennedy Space Center where residents can go up on deck and watch Space Shuttle launches.

The concept of cruise ship condominium ownership is not new; however, in most cases the existing condo ships offered units for well over a million dollars and remained unaffordable for most people. Alegria will be the first ship to actually allow purchasers to own a roomy stateroom on a mid-size ship for under a half-million dollars.

The developers see mass appeal for the idea from retirees looking for a viable retirement residence as opposed to living in a beachfront condo or retirement community where the scenery never changes. The thought of living aboard a cruise ship has a certain glamour that appeals to a growing number of seniors who want to be on or near water but won’t pay the exorbitant prices now demanded for a view. Since each condo owner has an equity share in Alegria they each have a voice in the day-to-day operation and management of the ship.

Waterfront Lifestyles International is a Florida limited liability company formed specifically for the creation of retirement condo cruise ships. While the ship in Port Canaveral is the company’s first vessel, it expects to locate additional retirement ships in Tampa, Jacksonville, Palm Beach, and Sarasota.

7:02 PM - Apr. 12, 2009 - comments {0} - post comment

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