Archives of real estate blog entries for February 01, 2008

Featured blog posts

Do you take the Deal when it's not Ideal?

By Jason Sardi, Your Agent for Life

(Auto & Home & Life Insurance throughout North Carolina)

I got a call from an old friend of mine shortly after the New Year. He wanted to consolidate his 1st & 2nd Mortgages into one loan at a reduced term, a financially savvy decision for sure. So, onward we went with the process.Now, this young gent lives in a rather eclectic neighborhood with properties that tend to differ in appearance, size, & condition. His property happens to be one of the nicer ones in the neighborhood, which tends to make its worth not as ideal as one would like. None the less, the appraisal was done and came in at a rock solid 290K. The comparable properties were there, all except for a less than desirable abode across the street that had sold recently for 215K. The appraiser noted it in the report and while it hurt the value of our subject property, the 290K ... 02/01/2008

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Mortgages & Real Estate -- Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags !!!!!

By Jeff Belonger, The FHA Expert - FHA Loans - FHA mortgages - USDA loans - VA Loans

( Social Media - Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc)

How many of you at one time or another bought a house or refinanced your mortgage and ran into one problem or another. May it have been the realtor who was not able to give you the correct answer or the loan officer who strung you along and then changed things last minute. I have never said that I am perfect or that I know it all, but it does come down to honesty, integrity, knowledge, and very good service. What about you first time homebuyers that have never experienced buying a home or refinancing for the first time. I truly believe that there are some key phrases that can sometimes be cause for concerns, known as Red Flags. And just because you have done this before, doesn't mean that it won't happen to you. If you hear some of what is mentioned below more than once, especially i... 02/01/2008

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Activerain Hits the RADIO! A True Activerain SUCCESS STORY! by Feng Shui Long Island

By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)

Today started out as many others. I got up early, took care of the pets and if I'm not working that particular day, I try to do my errands early. I had quite a few lined up today and am still cleaning up for The Chinese New Year next week. Thankfully I was home early as well because I received a phone call I WOULDN'T HAVE WANTED TO MISS! It was from a Producer of a Radio Station on FM Radio that airs in both New York City and Long Island. She explained who she was and since I wasn't familiar with the Station, explained that every Saturday morning on their Radio Broadcasts they have different topics. They are doing a show about Interior Design and oftentimes some guests are interviewed while others come on and read their blog posts. She wanted to incorporate Feng Shui into Interior... 02/01/2008

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1st Down, 11 Months to Go: January Success Stories -- An Active Rain Super Bowl Block Party

By Brian Block, Northern Virginia & D.C. Real Estate

(RE/MAX Allegiance, Managing Broker/Branch Vice President)

Well, the first month of 2008 is over and what do you have to show for it? Apparently quite a lot. The Active Rain Block Party group is filling up with success stories. So, on the eve of Super Bowl weekend, while you're out stocking up on six-packs, Doritos, and seven layer dip, here are some of the biggest success stories from January 2008 right here on Active Rain. If you missed any of these, they are all worth a good read. Reading other people's blogs about their success is a great way to get yourself fired up for the remaining 11 months of the year. Active Rain works. It really does. Read On! If you haven't yet joined the Active Rain Block Party group, what are you waiting for? Here's the group's mission statement: This is a place to celebrate success! More and more members ... 02/01/2008

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What Online Directories are the most effective?

By Misty Lackie, Real Estate Advertising

(Go Smart Solutions, LLC)

We thought we would share some insight with you. Many of you post your listings in online directories and are probably aware of the benefits. We ran a query on 2 of the most active flyers created this week and following are the views these flyers (listings) have had in each directory. The report below only shows sources that had a total count above 10 views. Anything below 10 views was excluded and keep in mind some directories do not record opens (disallowed) so are not taken into consideration.SourceView CountNatural Search Engine Search4150Backpage911ClassifiedFlyerAds.com631OLX420Google Base276Oodle205Trulia179Email98Edgeio84RSS Feeds78Digg63Propeller46Vast40Ebay37eHouseAds36Lycos30Kijiji22Zillow19ActiveRain18Hotpads17Geebo12Natural search engine means flyer views that were made... 02/01/2008

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Blog posts

Commercial Mortgage Market Training

By Michael Haltman, At HAS The Title Is Always Cleared!

(Hallmark Abstract Service LLC)

This completely comprehensive commercial mortgage training program will teach everything that you need to know in order to analyze a commercial mortgage scenario, determine the viability of a deal, locate the proper lender, prepare the loan package right the FIRST time, deal with underwriters, deal with borrowers, sidestep potential stumbling blocks and lead your loan to closing. It will allow you to be a participant in your deals, instead of just an observer totally dependant on others. Taught by nationally recognized commercial mortgage closer and trainer Charles Wallshein Esq., this 3-DVD program with 109-page Course Manual and Deal Analysis Spreadsheet will cover the following and much more. By the end of the presentation, you will have learned everything that you need to know to g... 02/01/2008

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My New Listing in Forked River - NJ It's A Budget Balancer

By Jo Ann Norton, Ocean County NJ Real Estate

(Coldwell Banker Riviera Realty)

Budget Balancer!Location: Barnegat PinesAdorable home which is close to schools and shopping. Renovated windows, siding, outside doors, and a remodeled kitchen. Enjoyed the warmth and atmosphere from the woodburning fireplace. Entertain on the outside deck. There is a fenced yard and shed, even a basement. Save money - public water and a well for the inground irrigation system. Hot water baseboard heating fueled by natural gas. If this home fits your price range, it is a must see.InformationContact InformationJo Ann NortonCell-609-290-9865 Contact Reply FormForward to a FriendView Other FlyersPricingAsking Price: $218,000Additional Pricing Information: The Price is Right!Property Location215 FalkenburghForked River, NJ 08731View MapFeaturesBedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 1Parking: DrivewayYear Bu... 02/01/2008

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The Workings of the Commercial Mortgage Market

By Michael Haltman, At HAS The Title Is Always Cleared!

(Hallmark Abstract Service LLC)

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Search Cooper City Florida Real Estate.

By Scott Daniels Florida Real Estate 2.0. Agents Earn 100% Commission.

(Florida List For Less Realty, Inc. Broker/Owner. )

Search Cooper City Florida Homes For SAle PANAMA ST. EMBASSY LAKES IS THE PLACE TO BE! BEAUTIFUL HOUSE WITH PLENTY OF ROOM TO GROW! PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP, SPACIOUS LIVING AREAS, VERY LARGE BEDROOMS. TOP RATED SCHOOLS! SELLER'S READY TO MOVE!... US $364,900.00 South Florida< 15 hours ago Cooper City Florida Homes For Sale GROVE ST. A rare find in a great school district!!! This one story model features a Light & Bright floor plan with expansive & fenced backyard, a lovely open kitchen & family room, ti... US $363,900.00 South Florida< 15 hours ago Homes For Sale In Cooper City Florida BOGOTA AV. Cooper City "Embassy Lakes". Guarded community with "A" rated school district. Large community pool/gym. For Additional Information Please Contact The Scott Daniels Real Estate Grou... US $359,99... 02/01/2008

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The Workings Of The Commercial Mortgage Market

By Michael Haltman, At HAS The Title Is Always Cleared!

(Hallmark Abstract Service LLC)

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Sellers can create a WIN/WIN with the RIGHT advice

By Wallace S. Gibson, CPM, LandlordWhisperer

(Gibson Management Group, Ltd.)

A local Realtor referred a local property owner to me this week. He acknowledged that he was deciding if he wanted to sell his home now or rent it when they left the area. I previewed the home with him after reviewing past sales/features/description on our local MLS and tax essessor records...the owners have done many upgrades including adding some much needed storage and a home office. A perfect rental home for UVa graduate families or new-hires at UVA. He acknowledged that they had down payment to buy in the area where they are moving and keep their local home. Then I asked, since they had already talked to a Realtor about selling options, if they can buy a new home of equal or greater value than their current home? His answer was that the home would cost less.....I then suggest... 02/01/2008

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Time to Rehab short sale.........

By Debbie Holmes, Gets the job done!

(John L. Scott)

Well we closed on 1408 Dearborn in Caldwell. Idaho. Paint the inside of the house, Do some trim touch ups. Does anyone know why porches our usually gray? This house has the coolest wrap around porch. I was toying with the idea of painting it a color to match the accent color of the trim. Any ideas? We also need to carpet upstairs and a little downstairs. Is there anything short of refinishing the beautiful wood floors we can do to make it shine? We also want to repaint the beautiful old claw tubs. I want a gasp of delight the next time a buyer walks through the door. I have a budget of less then $5k. I think a dishwasher is important even if we only clean the kitchen. We have yard work but the weather is not right for it yet. I hope we are somewhat ready by Feb 15. ... 02/01/2008

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Sellers Waiting for Market to Hit it's Peak!

By Jay Beckingham, Seniors ROCK!

(Christensen Financial Mortgage)

There were many sellers a few years ago who wanted to sell, but didn't want to list their homes until the market peaked. When it looked as if the market had peaked and started to decline, they still didn't list their homes, as they were waiting for it to adjust and to go back to where it was or higher. They're still waiting!Excuse me, Mr. & Mrs. Buyer, are YOU paying attention here?As those potential sellers soon realized no one, and I mean no one could have accurately predicted the top of the market. And no one did.Okay, but we're not looking for the top, we're looking for the bottom!Dah.Apparently, the buyers are prepared to commit the same sins as the sellers did. They're still looking for a better deal. The question is will they get one? The answer is that some might, but the likeli... 02/01/2008

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Buyer's Remorse - The state of real estate.

By Rebecca Savitski, NC Real Estate Listings

(BSR Real Estate Group)

Buyer's Remorse - The state of real estate.Raleigh Real Estate - 2x this week I have witnessed buyers remorse.Buyer got a sweet deal on a townhome -- Buyer disapears and cancel's earnest money check.Buyer got a sweet deal on a home --- Before signing and executing buyer decided they were just not comfortable with the terms and house. Scenario # 1Mr Raleigh Seller - In scenario number 1 you received a signed contract and earnest money on Thursday. Mr. Raleigh Seller you did not return the signed contract until Tuesday. Buyer canceled check on Wednesday. Mr. Raleigh Seller why did you wait soo long to sign the contract? Mr. Raleigh Seller what were you thinking? Scenario #2Mr. Raleigh Seller - Thank you for negotiating with my buyers. Mr. Raleigh Seller are you aware that there are over 3... 02/01/2008

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Oak Ridge Tennessee Market Study, 2500-2999 Square Feet, 4+BR, 2+BA

By Cathy Glass, Realtor - Knoxville, Tennessee

(Realty Executives Associates)

Oak Ridge, Tennessee Market Study, Compliments Cathy Glass, Realtor®Homes 2500-2999 Square Feet, 4+BR, 2+BA Number of homes SOLDAverage square feetAverage list priceSales PriceAverage Days on MarketList Price/Sale PricePrice per square footLowHigh2003362727$176,289$170,1168096.50%$62$92,721$395,0002004312760$179,423$174,0627397.00%$63$80,000$332,0002005332729$187,526$183,3407997.77%$67$109,200$360,0002006342775$194,103$188,4255797.00%$67$115,000$299,9002007292766$222,088$215,3677396.97%$77$122,750$429,750Coldwell Banker Wallace and Wallace, Realtors®, 865-483-4303Cathy Glass, http://www.cathyglass.com/, 865-384-8636Here is a five-year market study of the housing prices in Oak Ridge, Tennessee for houses that are over 2500-2999 square feet and 4+BR, 2+BA. Let me know if you have a house ... 02/01/2008

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Rat Out Rotten Neighbors

By Hojin Chang

(Keller Williams Realty)

There’s an interesting little site, rottenneighbor.com, that let’s you rat out your bad neighbors. Anyone can log in and complain about the loud music, lack of personality, or just about anything imaginable. You can say good things as well but the complaints seem to dominate the conversations. It’s a great tool to find out what your neighbors are like before committing to buy or rent a property. You no longer have to snoop around trying to get the neighborhood gossip. The sowing circle has gone online. The site was created by Brant Walker who conjured up the site after an horrible experience moving into a new apartment with of course rotten neighbors and felt there should be some sort of service that lets you know about them. 02/01/2008

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Top Real Estate in Palm Beach - BallenIsles Club Information

By Marc Blasi

In the past few months I've written several articles about BallenIsles-I consistently get more inquiries about the homes in there then any other Palm Beach real estate.Not only are the homes fantastic, but BallenIsles is also well known for it's Member's Club.I recently received an update from Cheryll R. Plotkin, the Director of Membership Services - here are some of the main points:"BallenIsles Country Club is a private, member-owned residential country club with three 18-hole championship golf courses, 23 tennis courts, pool, bocce court, three dining venues, great food, very attractive social program, and plenty of space for card playing. BallenIsles Country Club began in 1962 as the P.G.A. National Golf Club and later was named J.D.M. Country Club by the original owner John D. MacA... 02/01/2008

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UP UP AND AWAY IN WEST BATON ROUGE PARISH

By Pat Travasos

(Donnie Jarreau Companies)

West Baton Rouge Museum will sponsor its annual kite workshop on March 29 at 2 pm. Mr. Marshall Harris will take the persona of Ben Franklin to present a talk and followed by participants making kites. For more information, call 336-2422 ext 14 for details. 02/01/2008

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My Friend....

By Mark and Tana Hunt, Born and raised in Austin, WE KNOW THIS PLACE!

(Team Price Real Estate/Dan Price Broker)

So... after a few months of my nagging him, David Brodsky FINALLY joined Active Rain....I'm so excited that he has because he is a great blogger... FULL OF INFORMATION....Just wanted to let everyone know... http://activerain.com/dbrodsky So that you can welcome him to the network. I still have to show him how to join groups though. WELCOME DAVID!!!!!!!!!! 02/01/2008

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What Kind of Mortgage Do You Have? Are You SURE??

By Marc Blasi

What kind of mortgage do you have on your Palm Beach home?Is it fixed ? Is it adjustable?Are you 100% sure of your answer?As crazy as it may seem, too many Palm Beach real estate owners really don't know the exact details of their home loans.Start the year off right - dig up your paperwork, and check everything out NOW to avoid any nasty surprises in 2008.Tomorrow I'll be going over some of the most common mistakes and what you can do to solve the problem - it can be very easy - just don't be one of the masses that waits for the last possible second! Marc J BlasiRealtor® - Luxury Homes FL - A Thomas Real Estate CompanyMortgage Broker - Knightlines Mortgage Services, LLC(561)-282-7406 Cell(561)-282-3330 Office & FaxMarc@LuxuryHomesFL.comwww.PalmBeachRealEstateAndLoans.com 02/01/2008

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The Domino Effect - How Our Market will Rebound?

By Julie Varon

(Realty Executives)

The domino effect occurs when a small change causes a similar changenearby, which then will cause another similar change, and so on inlinear sequence. The domino effect also relates to a chain of events. How does this relate to our local real estate market?I am convinced that we are waiting for the first dominos to fall,therefor setting the stage for the rest to follow.The Puget Sound's economic outlook is good. It's hard to pick up apaper that doesn't have positive forecasts for some of our majoremployers be it Microsoft of Boeing. We also have the advantage oflimited land for building. The Growth Management Act had a hand inkeeping things under control.However, with the national news of the mortgage meltdown andforeclosures throughout the country, our local buyers have been sittingon ... 02/01/2008

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Realtor Communications - a Double Edge Sword

By Jim Hirschhorn, GRI, Real Living - Orlando

(Real Living Real Estate Solutions)

We have all gotten them. Emails that are automated that advertise a listing. The agents pay a fee and they get sent out to hundreds of agents instantly. I find myself torn with these. I am not someone who gets crazy about getting SPAM mail. My filter catches a good amount and if other mail gets through, I go through it and delete it. It helps to have email on my cell phone so I can review and delete from 2 locations. Here is the dilemna.You have an opt out at the bottom of the email however I do like seeing some of them. I wish there was a way to put your criteria in. In my market, if I get one that is not an area that I serve, I am quick to delete it. Also, it does make me crazy when agents use email filters that make it very difficult for someone to get through to them by email. Isn't... 02/01/2008

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Another result of the housing Market Correction

By Don Lantier, Broker/Owner of LantierRealty.com & HouseTour4

(Donald J Lantier Realty)

Based on an article in the Atlanta Journal Constitution this morning, February 1, 2008, The Home Depot announces a layoff of 10 percent of its Atlanta headquarters.Roughly 500 of the 5,000 employees here were told by their managers that they would be let go as part of the company's response to a chill in homebuilding and a slowing of the overall economy."We have been pretty clear that we are operating in a tough business environment," said corporate spokesman Ron DeFeo."We see that continuing in 2008."Comments on the latter:During the housing boom, Home Depot had explosive growth and even added a Home Depot Landscape Division which closed its' doors in Novemeber of last year. In my opinion the latter is just another result of continued massive building during a time when many ARMs of... 02/01/2008

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Yalaha, Florida January Market Report

By Delete Account

Yalaha, Florida January Market Report*All information has been obtained from the Mid Florida Regional MLS. This does not include any For Sale By Owner Stats.Stats are for the month of January 2008 only.Residential HomesTotal Active Homes for Sale: 41Total Homes Sold: 0Total Pending Sales: 2New Listings: 4Expired Listings: 0Vacant LandTotal Vacant Land Parcels for Sale: 20Total Vacant Land Parcels Sold: 1 (average sold price $94,900.00)Total Vacant Land Parcels Pending: 0New Listings: 1Expired Listings: 0Commercial PropertiesNo Commercial Activity in January January's Featured Property 27200 Pine St. Yalaha, Fl. 3/2 1679 Sq. Ft. 2 car garage. $237,000.00This is a beautiful home. Master bedroom has a sliding door leading to your own private patio. Trey ceilings in the master. Master bat... 02/01/2008

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FAWN LAKE - Mims, Brevard County FL - Market Report Feb 2008 (MLS area 101)

By Gail MacMillan

FAWN LAKE - MARKET REPORT - February 1, 2008 There are currently 17 active listings on the market in this lovely gated community in MIMS, Brevard County FL. They range in price from $310,000 for 2025 square feet under air to $899,900 for 5333 square feet under air. $300,000 - $400,000 - 10 listings$400,000 - $500,000 - 5 listings$500,000 - $600,000 - 0 listings$749,900 - 1 listing$899,900 - 1 listing There are currently no listed properties that are under contract or scheduled to close. There were 9 closings in Fawn Lake in 2007 ranging in price from $206,000 (this one had problems) to $500,000. There has been 1 closing in Fawn Lake in 2008 which was my listing at 5400 Canvasback Dr. It sold for $330,000, an amazing buy for the size and quality of this home. It was listed on 11/5/0... 02/01/2008

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