Living in Contra Costa County

Pittsburg Ca Real Estate Market - May 2012

Sat, 19 May 2012 10:13:59 -0700

Pittsburg Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Pittsburg Housing Supply

The Pittsburg Ca Real Estate Market is a strong Sellers market with the Absorption rate over 100%. This means you have more sales each month than you have homes on the market at any given time.

Home Sales in Pittsburg Ca

Right now there are 41 Homes for Sale in Pittsburg, with 249 Pending Homes Sales. The Pending Sales is probably this high due to the large amount of Short Sales that take time to close if they close at all. In April 62 Homes Sold in Oakley.

What is a balanced Pittsburg Real Estate Market?

A balanced Housing Market in Pittsburg we would need 4 to 6 times as many homes on the market as there are sales each month. With this many sales we should have about 240to 370 Pittsburg Houses for Sale.

So How do you Buy a Pittsburg Home?

Call Home Point Real Estate who even in this market getting Home Buyers into homes. Why? We know this area, we understand lending markets, we are aggressive in pursuit of homes, we help Home Buyers Write Offers that Get Accepted, and we show Buyers – even First Time Buyers with little down - where to Look For Homes that they can get into contract on.

For Pittsburg Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Home Point Real Estate is your partner in Buying a Home (Free MLS Access to Search for Homes) or Selling a Home (Get a Free on Line Home Evaluation). We are a Leading Internet Real Estate Company with the tools to meet the modern online Real Estate world combined with Traditional and Personal Customer Service.

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Home Point Real Estate is Located in the East Contra Costa County community of Brentwood we also provide service to Discovery Bay, Antioch, Oakley, and Pittsburg. Click on the Community to see Homes For Sale Now.

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Home Point Real Estate is the company for you! Contact Home Point Real Estate and request a Free Consultation with a certifies SFR (Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource) to see if there is a way to save your Home or to do a Short Sale and help Save Your Credit. Get the Free Short Sale information Report for Buyers and Sellers too. Click Now for Short Sale Information and Free SFR Consultation.

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Get The Free Book of Real Estate Investing from Home Point Real Estate along with the Free Investor Calculator. This Book covers complex investing concepts in any easy to read manner with plenty of examples. Including Tax Issues, How to Evaluate an Investment Property, and more.

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Oakley Ca Homes - May 2012

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:42:56 -0700

Oakley Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Oakley Housing Supply

The Oakley Ca Real Estate Market is tough on Home Buyers; it is a strong Sellers. The absorption rate is nearing 100%; and at it for all intents and purposes with as many homes sold every month as come on the market

Home Sales in Oakley

On 5/17/2012 there were 41 Homes for Sale in Oakley. The 210 Pending Homes Sales is probably this high do to the large amount of Short Sales that take time to close if they close at all. And in April 38 Homes Sold in Oakley.

What is a balanced Oakley Real Estate Market?

To have a balanced Housing Market in Oakley we would need 4 to 6 times as many homes on the market as there are sales each month. With this many sales we should have about 160 to 230 Oakley homes on the market.

So How do you Buy a Oakley Home?

It is very easy - Call Home Point Real Estate who even in this market getting Home Buyers into homes. Why? We know this are, we understand lending, we work hard, we show Home Buyers how to Write Offers that Get Accepted, and we show Buyers – even First Time Buyers with little down, where to Look For Homes that they can get into contract on.

For Oakley Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Antioch Ca Home Sale - May 2012

Sat, 19 May 2012 08:49:47 -0700

Antioch Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Antioch Housing Supply

The Antioch Real Estate Market is the Strongest Sellers market in East Contra Costa County. The absorption rate is virtually 100% with as many homes sold every month as come on the market

Home Sales in Antioch

As of 5/17/2012 there were 120 Homes for Sale in Antioch, with 510 Pending Homes; The high number of pending is a result of quick sales and short sale homes. The 119 Home sales in Antioch for April brought the absorption rate to 100%.

What is a balance Antioch Real Estate Market?

A balanced market 4 to 6 times as many homes on the market as there are sales each month. With this many sales we should have about 480 to 720 homes on the market for balance.

So How do you Buy a Antioch Home?

Even in this Sellers Market Home Point Real Estate is getting Home Buyers into homes. Why? We know this are, we understand lending, we work hard, we show Home Buyers how to Write Offers that Get Accepted, and we show Buyers – even First Time Buyers with little down, where to Look For Homes that they can get into contract on.

For Antioch Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Brentwood Ca Housing Market - May 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:10:26 -0700

Brentwood Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Housing Supply

Brentwood Homes are in a Strong Sellers market. The absorption rate is close to 100% and over 100%. In other words we are selling almost as many homes every month as come onto the market.

Home Sales in Brentwood

On 5/17/2012 there were 90 Homes for Sale in Brentwood. There are 335 Pending Homes. Total Home Sales in April were 80, very close to 100%. The large number of Pending homes is due to quick sales and the large number of Short Sales that take a long time to close.

What is a normal Brentwood Real Estate Market?

A balanced market 4 to 6 times as many homes on the market as there are sales each month. With this many sales we should have about 320 to 480 homes on the market to consider it a balanced market.

So How do I Buy a Brentwood Home?

Home Point Real Estate is getting Home Buyers into homes even in this sellers market. Why? We know this Market, we understand loans, we are aggressive, we educate Home Buyers so they Write Offers that Get Accepted, and understand which home sellers work best with different types of buyers - First Time Home Buyers can get a nice home even in the market.

For Brentwood Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

East Contra Costa Homes for Sale - May 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 13:01:04 -0700

East Contra Costa Homes for Sale – May 2012

Housing Supply

The East Contra Costa Real Estate Market is a Strong Sellers market and homes are hard to find. We have an absorption rate of close to 100% and over 100% in some local market. Absorption rate is what percentage of homes on the market at any given time will sell each month in a given. You can get over 100% because the homes coming on the market sell so fast that there are actually a lot more homes on the market in one month than at any one set point.

Home Sales in East Contra Costa County

As of 5/17/2012 there were 364 Homes for Sale in East Contra Costa County. There were 1495 Pending Homes. The total number of Home Sales in April was 346, very close to 100%. The large number of Pending homes is due to quick sales and the large number of Short Sales that take a long time to close.

What is a normal East Contra Costa Real Estate Market

Generally speaking there should be 4 to 6 times as many homes on the market as there are sales each month. With this many sales we should have about 1300 to 2000 homes on the market to consider it a balanced market.

So How do I Buy and East Contra Costa County Home?

Home Point Real Estate is continuing to get Home Buyers into contract even in this tight market. This is because we know our Market, we understand the lending market and our clients loans, we work hard and aggressively, we educate our buyers about the Real Estate Market so they Write Offers that Get Accepted, and we understand which homes have a better chance of accepting our clients type of offer (First time buyers can get a nice home even in the market.)

For East Contra Costa Real Estate Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

We Won't Sell Your Home

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:54:49 -0700

Selling a Home in Brentwood

Here is a great little post that will give you some ideas on how real estate works and how agents work together to Get Your Home Sold. If anyone tells you to sign a contract with them because they have a ready buyer be wary. If that is so they do not need a long term exclusive contract.

For more tips on Selling a Home in Brentwood or Beyond give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):

We Won't Sell Your Home

Probably. That's right, the odds of Liz and Bill Spear of RE/MAX Elite actually personally escorting the buyer through your door if you list with us aren't great. We're 10 to 1 longshots on us bringing you the buyer that writes the contract that leads to the actual sale of your home. The odds are MUCH higher than one of the other literally thousands of other area REALTORS® will bring the buyer for your home.

Now what we're NOT saying is to hire one of those other REALTORS® to list your home! Because the truth of the matter is the odds don't go up significantly that any one of them has that magical buyer either.

During the listing agent interview process you may hear "I have buyers!" Stop and think about that for a second.

What is the likelihood that any individual agent has a buyer that is:
a) looking in your town?
b) looking in your community?
c) looking in your price range?
d) looking for a home with your EXACT characteristics, floor plan & features?

We're being honest with you when we state the odds just aren't good of having that perfect match. But hey, let's assume they DO have that perfect match, whether you list with them or not, they should be bringing that perfect match buyer to your home as soon as you're on the market, right? They should be first in line because they've already seen your home, KNOW that it matches their buyer and they'll want to have first dibs on your home.

Basically, our role as listing agents is to CAUSE the sale of your home, not necessarily to personally bring you the buyer. Again, chances are it will be one of the thousands of other agents working our area that will have THE buyer for your home. We'll work with you as the home seller to get it priced right and prepared properly to make your home the most appealing it can be to buyers. Couple that with an extensive marketing approach (pictures, write-ups, visual tours, etc.) across as many sites as possible increases the odds of that one right buyer locating your home and pursuing their interest.

So hire your listing agent based upon their ability to market your home better than anyone else, NOT because they say "I have buyers!".

To find out more about how we can successfully market your home and fulfill your real estate goals, just contact The Liz Spear Team of RE/MAX Elite. The consultation is free, and it's no hassle, no pressure.

Serving Warren County's residential real estate needs,
Liz and Bill aka BLiz

The Liz Spear Team
Elizabeth & William Spear
RE/MAX Elite: Ask for us by name if you visit the office!
Two locations: Lebanon & Mason, OH
Office direct: 513-248-3660 Liz direct: 513-265-3004
Bill direct: 513-520-5305 Fax: 866-302-8418

MailTo: Liz@LizSpear.com Our Website: Warren County Ohio Homes

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Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

How To Win in a Multiple Offer Situation when you are limited on price

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:47:51 -0700

Getting an Offer Accepted on a Brentwood Home

There are lots of Home Buyers and not enough homes these days. Here are some tips on how to get an offer accepted.

I have some other tips on getting your Offer Accepted on a Brentwood Home or Beyond. Give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Ralph Gorgoglione - California Real Estate (800) 591-6121 (John Aaroe Group):

How To Win in a Multiple Offer Situation when you are limited on price

Well, it seems that we're back in the type of market where multiple offers are becoming common.

There's a mixed bag of buyers out there - conventional buyers, FHA buyers, VA buyers, and all-cash buyers and investors.

In a multiple offer situation, the offer price is probably one of the biggest factors when the seller is deciding which offers to entertain or accept.

But what do you do when you've reached your affordable max and can't really come up any more in price?

Here's just a few things that I recommend to my buyers. It requires a little investigative work, but it may pay off for you.

1. Find out where the seller is moving to, and what logistics are involved with that - Is is the case where and when they're moving may cause them need a short rent-back from you? In other words, after the close of escrow, it may help if they stayed in the home anywhere up to 30 days in which they can pay you based on your P.I.T.I. (Principle, Interest, Taxes, Insurance) calculated on a daily rate, or if you're in a financial position to do so, offer them a free rent-back period. A good example is when the seller's new home is not quite ready to move into and they need just a small amount of time. Offering the seller a rent-back is HUGE when it comes to these situations. No seller really wants to have to go into temporary housing and have to move twice!

2. Do the sellers have any pets that for whatever reason will be difficult for them to take to their new home? Once again, if you're in a position to do so, offer to adopt the pet. Or perhaps there is someone you know that may want to adopt the pet. This is a major relief when a problem arises for those sellers that are moving to an environment where the little guys may not have as friendly and safe of an environment. And since the pet is already accustomed to that home, there shouldn't be too much of a transition for the pet other than getting used to their new owners. Something like this can truly set you apart from the other buyers tremendously.

3. Write a fast inspection period into the contract - The standard contingency in California is 17 days to perform an inspection and remove that contingency to the contract. But honestly, you can get a certified inspection booked in a matter of days and get that all taken care of with your inspector in most cases. Try changing that inspection period to 10 days. Why? It shows the seller you're willing to get your due diligence done quickly and efficiently. That can score quite a few points with both the seller and listing agent.

4. Offer to inherit personal property that would be difficult to move - Is there any personal property that is large or difficult to move that would create a huge cost factor for the seller? Offer to keep the personal property or purchase the personal property depending on what type it is. Maybe there are some old paint cans or bricks/boards, etc. on the property. This can save the seller a lot of money not having to pay to move items that could create a substantial moving expense.

5. Write a personal letter to the seller that you've found you have a connection with - Do you and the seller both have children? Pets? Belong to the same organizations / clubs / charity? Share the same spiritual beliefs? Taste in architecture? Perhaps you share similar life experiences? Writing a personal letter to the seller that is sincere and makes some kind of connection or that creates some kind of bond with them can be HUGE in their decision to choose a buyer in a multiple offer situation.

6. Assure the seller you will continue to use their existing contractors - It could be that the gardener, pool service person, pet sitter, pest control, etc. are contractors that the seller has known for many years and feels badly that they will be moving and perhaps they will no longer have the work associated with the home due to a new buyer living there. Offer to keep those service providers employed when you take possession to the property. In most cases it may make sense for you as well, but the gesture could mean a whole lot to seller that is conscientious about relationships. It could also be the case where you may be able to assume any outstanding contracts that would otherwise cost the seller a lot to cancel.

Have I divulged ALL of my buyer strategy secrets? Of course not! Those are reserved for the buyers who I'm fortunate enough to work with.

The best advice I can give a buyer is: BE A STRAIGHT SHOOTER AND WEAR YOUR HEART ON YOUR SLEEVE. Don't be crafty or coy. It never works and you'll always create an environment of mistrust and animosity, and that's a recipe for disaster.

Los Angeles Homes For Sale

Los Angeles Condos For Sale

Los Angeles Townhomes For Sale

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

55 Plus Community...Are we doing it wrong?

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:44:05 -0700

Brentwood Summerset Homes

Brentwood Summerset Homes are not necessarily about downsizing. This is an interesting post about why some people avoid Active Adult Communities. However Summerset Homes come in all sizes and there are some very large nice homes, that would not involve down sizing.

For more information on Summerset Homes give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Cheryl Thomson, Real Estate in Northern Virginia, REALTOR®, U.S. Army (Retired) (Buyers Advantage Real Estate Corp. (c: 703.216.5635)):

55 Plus Community...Are we doing it wrong? This is just my opinion
and 2 cents, however, I welcome yours. From my observation there are more and more people in this age group that do not want to reduce the size of their home but solely just the maintenance aspect of it. I believe this is one of the main reasons why they continue to hold onto their homes. Take for an instance my mom, she will be 70 next year. In excellent health, still works full time, owns her own home, and I don’t see her slowing down anytime soon.

I know many of you will say there is no way I would be working that late in age, however, be careful because you just never know. I don’t see why she should stop. When she is ready to take a break or vacation it’s done. One of the joys she continuously tells me is her space...she just does not want to give it up. Loves her neighborhood and also has acquired a particular taste. As I watched her this
Mother’s Day caring for her lawn and

flowers, I saw it gave her a calm and peacefulness that only she will get by doing it herself. Something she enjoys doing all year round.

My point is when I mention downsizing, her belief is that I am asking her to trade in the Mercedes SUV to a van. This not only pertains to my parent but to other folks she knows and I have spoken to. I understand that climbing stairs is a major avoidance for many, but some elders still have grown children that still reside with them which can be a benefit to them. How about adding an elevator instead? Making attic space or basements into bedrooms for when children do visit is a necessity. Just because you are getting older doesn’t necessarily mean you want less choices and variety.

Serving all areas of Prince William, Fairfax, Stafford, Alexandria, Arlington and Spotyslvania Counties. Guiding you through the process of purchasing or selling residential property.



Cheryl Thomson, Realtor ® | 703.216.5635 | cheryl@buyercoach.com | Buyers Advantage Real Estate Corp | 4004 Genesee Place, Suite 113, Woodbridge, VA 22192

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Home Seller FAQ 3. Why should I make minor repairs ? Can't I just give buyers a credit?

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:34:15 -0700

Selling a Home in Brentwood Ca

Here is a great post on why you should do repairs on your Home before selling it. Selling a Home is tough. Get every advantage you can.

For more information on Selling a Home in Brentwood or Beyond give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via GITA BANTWAL, REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI BUCKS County & Philadelphia, PA HOMES (RE/MAX Centre Realtors):

Home Sellers often ask me if they can just give buyers a credit for minor repairs.

I suggest that they take care of minor repairs prior to listing the house.

Homes that show well sell for more money and they sell quicker than homes that need work.

We can list your home as 'handymen special' if you wish but it   may sell at a deep discount. eg if a home needs repairs worth $2000 a buyer may think it needs work worth much more. You may offer to give them a credit of $2000 but they may ask for more.

Many buyers are turned off by homes that have minor maintenance issues. They may wonder if there are some major things that are wrong with the house , if you did not even take care of minor repairs.

Some of the minor things I have noticed over the years are :

1.  Door bell not working.( Buyers ask if there is something wrong with the electricty.) 2.Difficulty in opening doors or locking doors .3.Toilet running 4.Leaky faucets.5.No battery in some items like openers,smke detectors etc

When it comes to return on investment you can usually recoup the cost of minor repairs.

Another problem you may have is with the lender. Lenders allow a certain amount of credit at settlement and if it exceeds the amount the loan may be denied. This may happen if you are helping buyer with closing costs. Lenders have guidelines about the condition of the house . There is a list of items that appraisers check. The borrowers mortgage company may require that some repairs be made before settlement .

When you are ready to list your home consult your real estate agent . The agent will make recommendations that will help you get the highest price in the shortest possible time under current market conditions. The agent will also take into consideration your financial situation. We do understand that many home owners are facing financial problems .

Please read Home Seller FAQ 1. How shoild I choose an agent to sell my house http://actvra.in/zZ8

Home Seller FAQ 2. Why should I leave the house during showings http://actvra.in/B2s

Gita Bantwal is a Realtor with RE/MAX Centre Realtors in Bucks County, a Northern suburb of Philadelphia. You can view 1000s of listings on her web site www.GitaBantwal.com

She can be reached at 215-343-8200x124 or direct 215-275-8491 or via email gita01@aol.com

If you would like a FREE MARKET EVALUATION OF YOUR HOME IN PHILADELPHIA, BUCKS or MONTGOMERY COUNTY call me at 2152758491

Gita specializes in Active adult communities and is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. She holds the ABR designation (Accredited Buyers Representative) and specializes in selling to first time buyers as well as move up buyers.Gita also hold the CRS designation , Certified Residential Specialist and the CDPE designation as well. Information about real estate market is deemed to be correct but is subject to errors and omissions and should be verified independently.. Opinion expressed by me or others in my post and comments is not to be construed to be legal advice.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUBSCRIBE TO MY BLOG         CLICK HERE   OR EMAIL ME AT Gita01@aol.com

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

What are the Alternatives to a Los Angeles Short Sale?

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:31:57 -0700

Short Sales in Brentwood

Short Sales may be the most common type of transaction right now. Here is a great post talking about some of the options to a Short Sale.

For more information on Short Sales in Brentwood or beyond give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Jenny Durling- Search Silver Lake homes for sale. Los Feliz, Eagle Rock, L.A. CA (L.A. Property Solutions):

Ten years ago hardly anyone had heard of a short sale. Now, since the real estate bubble burst, “short sale” is almost a household word here in the Los Angeles area.

The current situation is the result of several converging factors.

First, when the bubble burst, homeowners who purchased when the market was rising or had reach its peak, lost value. That might not have mattered if two other factors hadn’t come into play at the same time:

Adjustable rate mortgages reset, making mortgage payments double or triple

The economy tanked and people lost jobs

If you find yourself unable to keep up with monthly payments on your house because of these factors, you do have some choices.

If you don’t mind moving, the short sale is a good choice, but what if you’d like to keep your house? Refinance: Some programs will allow you to refinance up to 125% of your home’s current value – and lower your payments via lower interest rates. The FHA Short Refinance program will reduce your first mortgage to 97.75% of current value. If you are fortunate enough to have a loan that belongs to Fannie Mae and meets the timing criteria, you may be able to refinance without having an appraisal at all!
Reinstatement: If you’re in pre-foreclosure and have come into some extra money, you can reinstate your loan by paying the defaulted balance plus interest and late fees.

Loan Modification: Depending upon who owns your loan, you could be eligible for HARP, HAMP, FHA-HAMP, or the USDA’s Special Loan Servicing. If you are having trouble making making payments but are employed and can still qualify for a loan, it’s possible that your current lender will work with you to lower your rate, lower the principle owed or even both. It can’t hurt for you to call the number on your mortgage statement and ask.

Forbearance: Again depending upon who owns your loan, if you are unemployed you may be eligible for 12 months of forbearance. During this time, you’ll be required to pay from zero up to 31% of your income toward the payments, but the bank will not add late fees or penalties and cannot start foreclosure. The unpaid amounts will be added to your loan balance for later payment.

Here in California, you may also be eligible for assistance from “Keep Your Home California.” For details, call 888.954.KEEP.

Bankruptcy: In some cases, judges allow homeowners to keep their homes – sometimes even reducing the principal balance. Do consult a qualified real estate attorney before considering this option. Alot will depend on the type of bankruptcy. Sometimes you can forestall a foreclosure but not be able to keep your home indefinitely. In such a situation, a short sale could be your best course of action.

More Help May be on the Way…

Expanded HAMP programs will be go into effect June 1, 2012. So even if your lender has deemed you ineligible for assistance in the past, it would be wise to check back after the new guidelines are in place.

To learn who owns your mortgage loan, visit Making Home Affordable.

If you own a home in Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Hollywood Hills, Eagle Rock, Pasadena, or surrounding areas and you’ve decided that a short sale is the best option, or if you just need to discuss your options with a real estate professional, get in touch.

I’ll be glad to go over the specifics of your situation with you and help you determine your best course of action.

You can call me directly at 213-215-4758 – but hurry. Don’t wait until the bank makes the decision for you.

Jenny Durling
Broker Associate
LA Property Solutions
213-215-4758

Copyright © 2012 By Jenny Durling * What are the Alternatives to a Los Angeles Short Sale? *

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Tips For Home Buyers: Do I Need Title Insurance?

Fri, 18 May 2012 10:28:40 -0700

Buying a Home in Brentwood Ca

When you are Buying a Home you should get Title Insurance. Here is a nice post that talks about the different types of Title Insurance and what it does.

For more information on Buying a Home in Brentwood or beyond give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Anita Clark Realtor® Warner Robins Homes for Sale ~ Warner Robins Real Estate ~ (ColdwellBanker SSK Realtors ~ 478.960.8055 ):

Tips For Home Buyers: Do I Need Title Insurance?

Unsure if the extra expense is worth the cost, a frequently asked question I hear from Houston County GA buyers is, "Do I need title insurance?". Title insurance provides protection for the policy holder if another entity makes a property title claim.

In Georgia, there are 2 types:

Lender Title Insurance protects the lender, is for the amount financed, and is required as a condition of the loan.

Owner Title Insurance is optional, a one-time expense, made available at closing, and remains in force as long as you retain an interest in the property (it also remains in effect if heirs retain an interest after the original owner has died)

Do I Need Title Insurance?

Technically, Owner Title Insurance is not required. However, I recommend all my buyer clients get Owner Title Insurance to ensure they are protected in-case an unknown risk such as forged documents, public record mistakes, title defects, and even back taxes and/or liens comes to light after they have purchased the property. In some cases, it may be determined they do not legally own the home.

Having Owner Title Insurance will help alleviate title issues that arise, pay for a lawsuit defense if necessary, and protect the buyer from financial loss up to the policy dollar amount.

How can Houston County home buyers ensure they make informed home purchasing decisions? Employ the services of a well qualified Houston County Real Estate Professional!

As always, Houston County real estate information is brought to you as a courtesy by Anita Clark, your Warner Robins Real Estate Consultant.

Anita Clark Realtor LLC

ColdwellBanker SSK Realtors

Cell: (478) 960-8055

Office: (478) 953-8595 x227

Email: anita@cbssk.com

Web: Warner Robins GA Real Estate

Blog: Warner Robins Real Estate Blog

All original text, video, and photo content is the exclusive property of Anita Clark Realtor LLC and may not be used without expressed written permission. The information contained herein has been obtained through sources deemed reliable but cannot be guaranteed for its accuracy. We recommend to all buyers and sellers, that any information of special interest, should be obtained through independent verification. All measurements are approximate. Anita Clark, Realtor®, (478) 960-8055.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

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Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

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M-O-T-H-E-R

Sun, 13 May 2012 22:58:57 -0700

Here is Fred Copes. Thoughts on Mother. Very good and original Mothers Day post. Read it and go over to Fred's Original Post and let him know what you think.

Via Fred Cope (Reliant Realty in Nashville, TN):

M-O-T-H-E-R: Like No Other

No fancy artwork. No beautiful picture. Nothing to detract from a basic fact--today is MOTHER'S DAY. There are not suitable words to fairly describe what MOTHER MEANS TO EACH OF US.

M is because She is MINE. We hold the word Mother at an elevated state. We seldom use it recklessly, and should never! It is one of our first words learned and spoken. Whether we call her Mom, Mama or Mother, we utter it a million times. Thank you, Mother Mine.

O is because She gives me ORIGIN. Without her, I would not exist, and oh what I would have missed. GOD chose her to bear me, take care of me, to teach me and to prepare me.

T is because She TAUGHT Me. So much of who I am, and what I know began with her and her mother. She Taught Me LOVE, HARD WORK, PATIENCE and KINDNESS. She Taught me RESPECT for GOD, for OTHERS and MYSELF. Yes, SHE TAUGHT ME: she gave up so many things in order to provide for and protect me. Thank you, Mother of My Teaching.

H is because She Held HOPE for Me. First to think of my well-being, my future and my reputation, unselfishly SHE held out HOPE for my life. Thank you, Mother of My Hope.

E is because She ENDURED. Obstacles never deterred her from her task. My faults & Failings never slowed her drive--she was always determined and she ENDURED. Quit was never in her vocabulary, and because She ENDURED she succeeded. Thank you, Mother of ENDURANCE, and Your Love Endures.

R is for REMEMBER. Yes, beyond one day each year, in fact EVERY DAY I REMEMBER MOTHER. I REMEMBER her love, her role, her lessons, her hope and her endurance--I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER SHE IS MY MOTHER.

I'm off to see her now. GOD BLESS OUR MOTHERS!

Fred Cope, Reliant Realty, Nashville, TN -- (615) 587-3500 -- http://www.LookingForHomes.org --28 years experience in real estate and finance

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Getting into the homeownership game

Sun, 13 May 2012 22:57:24 -0700

Buying your First Home

Here is a great post on putting yourself into Home Ownership. Home Ownership is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your family.

For more information on Buying your First Home or any home give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Adrian Willanger-Coldwell Banker Greater Seattle, Wa. (206 909-7536 TheHomeFunnel.com):

Getting into the homeownership game

If you thinking about buying your first Seattle home in a few years, you have to work out a budget plan to make sure that it happens. It’s hard to reach a goal when you don’t have a plan put in place first. If you’re serious about becoming a homeowner you’ll take the time necessary to make a realistic plan that you can stick to.

Budgeting for your 1st home

The problem that most people make when them putting together a budget is they ignore the small extra things that really make a difference. For example, if you stop to get a coffee every day and pay $3 for it, this is $90 per month that you could put towards a new home. While $90 per month isn’t going to get you to your end goal very quickly, there are probably a lot of other small expenditures that you make every day or weekly that you could cut out.

If you are dining out once a week you can reduce it to once every two weeks. If you are spending $50 for a meal for you and your partner, that adds up to a savings of $100 per month. When you add that onto your $90 that you have saved by preparing your own coffees and bring them along in a thermos, you are already up to $190 monthly. This is almost $200 and all you have done is stop buying coffee every day and only dine out twice a month instead of four times.

Instead of dining out on those certain days you can replace it by asking friends over for a potluck dinner, a movie on your Blu-Ray player and a bowl of popcorn. You don’t really need to miss dining out at a Seattle restaurant every week if you decide not to. There are a lot of options you can put into place for any type of things that you want to take out of your budget to save money.

You don’t have to go without food, shelter or utilities to save money. Often it comes down to the little things that you are spending money on every day or weekly that add up. If you’re serious about purchasing your first Seattle home in a few years take a look at the small things too when you’re making your budget. If you can put away an extra $200 just by doing the things mentioned above, think about what an effect you can make by addressing your budget for the next few years to finally reach your goal.

Sign up to have FREE WEEKLY UPDATES on the latest Greater Seattle real estate market activity e-mailed to you weekly.

Related posts:

3 Strategies for Saving for a Seattle Home Mortgage (13.5)

Coming Up With A Down Payment For Your First Seattle Home (10.4)

Coming Up With A Down Payment For Your First Seattle Home (10.4)

Simple Ways to Reduce Your Utility Costs (7)

Bothell Real Estate – Understanding Buyer Fear – Part 1 (6.9)

Adrian specializes in green home marketing utilizing traditional and social media marketing to create the widest exposure of your property.

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Researching the Market . . . Putting My Thinking Cap On Saved The Deal

Sun, 13 May 2012 22:52:27 -0700

First Time Home Buyers

I have written a lot on not letting a few thousand dollars stand between you and your dream home. This post describes a person who almost made a foolish mistake in this very hot market.

For more information on Buying a Home give me a call at 925-260-4321.

Via Carla Muss-Jacobs - Exclusive Buyers Agent Portland | Portland Real Estate | (503-810-7192 | BuyersAgentPortland.com):

Researching the Market . . . Putting My Thinking Cap On Saved The Deal

Background: My clients were first time buyers. Very, very skittish first time buyers. Not sure if I can explain it, but I was their second agent, if that says anything.

The buyers wanted to be in a very specific location. The area is lovely and the current market heated up to a boiling point in a matter of a month. From sluggish sales to pending offers in less then two weeks' time, properties were flying off the shelf.

Within a reasonable amount of time, the buyers found a home they wanted to pursue. We wrote an offer which was accepted.

The Problem: During negotiations, there was a $2,000 "sticking point" with the offer. What the buyers wanted to offer and what the sellers wanted to accept = $2,000

Neither side would budge, so the offer was not mutually accepted.

The buyers wanted to continue house-hunting. Unfortunately there was . . .

NO INVENTORY

We had exhausted the current market. We had already previewed what they liked and ruled out what they didn't. Nothing new was hitting the market.

The buyers were FIXATED on the PRICE and they were going to BLOW IT over $2,000

My Concerns: As much as I tried to tell the buyers that the inventory was slim to none, the $2,000 sticking point wouldn't be the least of their concerns if the market continued.

With low inventory in a high-demand area with active buyers, list prices concerned me. Home prices were prone to rise.

It would be easy for these buyers to see $5,000 or more in future list prices, less seller concessions, multiple-bids . . . should anything suitable come up on the market. They were cutting their nose to spite their face over $2,000 . . . or, literally less then $20 a month based on their PITI.

The Solution:

I began to think like the buyer. She wasn't a good negotiator. . . but she was analytical. She even suffered with that dreaded first-time buyer malady: Analysis Paralysis.

What I did was research the market. I documented for her, in a very thorough market report, what she needed to be focusing on . . . buying that home! I talked to her over 2 days, sending her the PENDING sales -- there were 27 properties that went pending quickly. I showed her what to look for in the listing sheet -- the DOMs (days on the market), and asked her if she wanted to WAIT 30 days to see what the properties were closing out at, she'd be running the risk of higher list prices, I showed her the mortgage calculator I have on my WP Blog and told her to play around with it. $2,000 over a 30 year amortized mortgage would equate to less the $20 for them per month . . . as clear as the nose on her face, which she seemed to be spiting.

Was she willing to wait? Was she willing to lose the house she really wanted to buy? Thinking like my client and showing her a very, very analytical detail of that very small market -- even more thorough then a CMA / comp -- I got her to see that she might be spending even more money if . . . IF . . . a suitable property hit that very, very limited market.

The Outcome: A second offer was written, submitted, negotiated and CLOSED.

First time buyers are now homeowners and very happy with their purchase. Not only do they love their new home, but they realize it was purchased at a fair price.

This post was written as an entry for the ActiveRain Contest: Creative Solutions That Saved The Deal

EBA Portland ~~ 100% BUYER REPRESENTATION ~~ 100% of the Time

EBA Portland, LLC is an Exclusive Buyer Agency serving the Metro Portland real estate market since 1999. If you’re a Buyer in the Metro Portland area (including: Beaverton, Tigard, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Downtown Portland,) and contemplating a purchase, talk with a Buyer’s Agent . . . better yet, talk to an Exclusive Buyers Agent. Exclusive Buyers Agents do not work for listing brokerages or Sellers. An EBA’s fiduciary duty is: 100% BUYER REPRESENTATION . . . 100% of the Time.
Carla Muss-Jacobs
503-810-7192
Carla@carlahomes.com
BuyersAgentPortland.com

All rights reserved ©

Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Motherhood Is The Highest Calling

Sun, 13 May 2012 22:49:12 -0700

Very nice post on Motherhood and the influence a mother has on her children and the world. Read it and go to the original and tell the original writers what you think.

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Homes For Sale (International Properties and Investments LLC):

Motherhood is the most important calling given to women. Women who do not have children or who do not adopt children have many opportunities to serve as mothers in many capacities.

I was blessed with having 9 children, 6 of whom I gave natural birth to and the other 3 are my children by marriage but they are just as important to me as my own children. I am blessed to have 6 grandchildren also. This gives me even more opportunities to touch the lives of these children.

God entrusted women with this highest and most influential of all callings because mothers are the main influence of the generations. Women influence fathers because through a woman a father is born. Women influence sons for the woman gives birth to her sons. Women influence their daughters through birth. This is the one way in which all women influence the next politicians, doctors, lawyers, entrpreneurs, mothers and fathers, wives and husbands.

It is after the birth of our children that we choose to magnify our callings as mothers, or not. It is through the example we set for our children that will determine the choices they will make for the rest of their lives.

It is our choice to pick up that responsibility or to leave it to others but we must never forget whatever that choice is going to be or is- that in itself is yet an example.

This is my favorite song relating to mothers. Mothers know what to say and when to say it. Not all of of us have had ideal mothers. For those of us who have had troubled childhoods I want you to know from my own experiences that you can choose to be a great mother.

I read books on cleaning the house when I was just a teenager and I learned how to cook when I was ten years old because I dreamed my mother would bake us a cake. So I baked the cake.

I am blessed that God trusted to give me all these children. I love my children and grandchildren. I hope that my example of taken the bad things that happen, putting them into perspective, taking responsibility and making the choice NOT to be a victim, to appreciating my husband and to teach my children to ALL be contributers to society not leeches and to know that their dreams are very important, and most of all to know that God lives- I pray that this is the least that I have done for my children.

God could not be everywhere so he made mothers. ~ ancient Jewish proverb.

Nestor Gasset and Katerina Gasset- Realtors®, CIPS, ABR, SFR, GRI, REOS

International Properties & Investments, Inc

Call us today at 561-753-0135 to get your house sold.

Authors of Short Sales Success

Wellington Florida Short Sales | Wellington Fl Short Sales | Wellington REO Servicers

Wellington Short Sale Agents | Video Tutorials About Wellington Short Sales

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Why Home Point Real Estate?

Where is Home Point Real Estate?

Does Home Point Real Estate Handle Bank Owned Homes?

Yes! Go Here to: Get the Free Bank Owned Homes Buying Guide and Get a Free List of Bank Owned Homes.

What if I am in Foreclosure, having Mortgage Trouble, or Want to Short Sale my Home?

Can Home Point Real Estate Help me with Real Estate Investments?

Make Home Point Real Estate your Partner in Real Estate Success – Call Now 925-260-4321

Living in Contra Costa County

Pittsburg Ca Real Estate Market - May 2012

Pittsburg Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Pittsburg Housing Supply

Home Sales in Pittsburg Ca

What is a balanced Pittsburg Real Estate Market?

So How do you Buy a Pittsburg Home?

For Pittsburg Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Oakley Ca Homes - May 2012

Oakley Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Oakley Housing Supply

Home Sales in Oakley

What is a balanced Oakley Real Estate Market?

So How do you Buy a Oakley Home?

For Oakley Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Antioch Ca Home Sale - May 2012

Antioch Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Antioch Housing Supply

Home Sales in Antioch

What is a balance Antioch Real Estate Market?

So How do you Buy a Antioch Home?

For Antioch Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

Brentwood Ca Housing Market - May 2012

Brentwood Ca Homes for Sale – May 2012

Housing Supply

Home Sales in Brentwood

What is a normal Brentwood Real Estate Market?

So How do I Buy a Brentwood Home?

For Brentwood Ca Homes Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

East Contra Costa Homes for Sale - May 2012

East Contra Costa Homes for Sale – May 2012

Housing Supply

Home Sales in East Contra Costa County

What is a normal East Contra Costa Real Estate Market

So How do I Buy and East Contra Costa County Home?

For East Contra Costa Real Estate Call Home Point Real Estate Now at 925-260-4321.

We Won't Sell Your Home

We Won't Sell Your Home

How To Win in a Multiple Offer Situation when you are limited on price

55 Plus Community...Are we doing it wrong?

Home Seller FAQ 3. Why should I make minor repairs ? Can't I just give buyers a credit?

What are the Alternatives to a Los Angeles Short Sale?

Ten years ago hardly anyone had heard of a short sale. Now, since the real estate bubble burst, “short sale” is almost a household word here in the Los Angeles area.

Tips For Home Buyers: Do I Need Title Insurance?

Tips For Home Buyers: Do I Need Title Insurance?

M-O-T-H-E-R

Getting into the homeownership game

Researching the Market . . . Putting My Thinking Cap On Saved The Deal

NO INVENTORY

This post was written as an entry for the ActiveRain Contest: Creative Solutions That Saved The Deal

Motherhood Is The Highest Calling