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Renter Resources For Emergency Services That Might Help With Rent
In today’s economic environment, tenants are feeling the pain of a recession as well-or even more-than the rest of the population. This might mean their job loss or lesser wages. It is hard to pay the rent without an income. Therefore, as a landlord, your consider learning about and sharing resources with your tenants that provide emergency services in the Twin Cities. I have... [Read more]
2012 is going to be a year of change in the residential market
My phone has been ringing off the hook with buyers and sellers getting ready to “get ready”. I hope it continues! Let me tell you that the sentiment may have turned. If I can help you, and you’ve been on the fence, the time is now. One of my resources that I follow is Alex Charfen from the CDPE Institute. Watch what he has to say about some MAJOR money entering into... [Read more]
Kung Hei Fat Choy
Happy Chinese New Year-Officially on January 23rd. Some of my family members are from China. We often will celebrate Chinese New Year with a tremendous meal and good company. This is the year of the Dragon. 2012 is going to be an exciting year-count on it! I hope it is your best. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
FHA UPDATE ON “Flipping”
90-Day Seasoning Waiver ExpandedThis update from FHA was released late last week as an industry email without a corresponding Mortgagee Letter and contains information about FHA’s policies regarding the waiver of the 90-day seasoning required for sellers. Here are the 6 things you need to know: 1. The extension is effective through December 31, 2012, unless otherwise extended or... [Read more]
In the middle of the Winter we all need some “Summer Madness”
I could listen to this song over and over. It has nothing to do with real estate or mortgage-but what the heck-it’s a great tune. Sit back and enjoy! Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Something to think about starting the New Year
This video was sent to me today. I wanted to share it because I believe it is powerful. The meaning is up for your interpretation, as is(are) the message(s). Best wishes for a wonderful 2012. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Certificates Of Rent Paid - 2011
Don’t forget to give your tenants their CRP’s by the end of January 2012. If you are a tenant, don’t forget to ask. These are useful to a tenant that qualifies for a tax deduction. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
HUD Settlement Book-Helpful in figuring out the mortgage process
I thought I’d post a copy of a HUD booklet explaining the mortgage process. This booklet is helpful in explaining the process and some of the paperwork. Please check it out before you look into getting a mortgage. It will help you understand the terms and conditions of your loan. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Happy Holidays from Minnesota-See the Flash Mob at Carlson School
This is simply awesome-watch and enjoy! May 2012 be your best year yet. I know it will be exciting! Powered By WP Footer Read More →
2012-will it be just another year or is it YOUR year of transition?
I recently gave a Toastmasters speech on this topic. Key to answering the question is whether or not you have written goals in mind regarding what you want or intend to accomplish. Unless there are specific goals that require you to plan and live with a purpose and focus, life will just happen. Either way is fine as long as you know what to expect. Many people are frustrated when they... [Read more]
Short Sales Vs Foreclosures Vs Traditional sales
We need to understand that while the current economy is really a “Tale Of Two Cities” in that some people have no idea we are in a recession whereas others are in deep pain, the real estate market as a whole is being impacted by distressed properties. Based on the current backlog of homes, it may be this way for some time. That being said, why are short sales being embraced... [Read more]
Thanks To Veterans-We’re All Free
11-11-11 Veteran’s Day-We owe you guys/gals a lot. Thanks for your service & dedication! Powered By WP Footer Read More →
HUD Home Tips
Recently, a representative from Best Assets came to speak in Minnesota about how they are handling the disposition of HUD homes in conjunction with the asset managers, agents, and the website http://www.HUDHomeStore.com . The process of buying and selling a HUD home is very similar to that of “traditional transactions”, but there are some small differences and nuances. I have... [Read more]
Minnesota HUD Homes
Most properties that become lender owned are generally available through our online MLS. HUD homes are listed in our online MLS as well. That being said, HUD maintains a site at http://www.HUDhomeStore.com that lists all their properties for all states and provides you a lot more information about specific homes. I would encourage you to go there and see what is available. As an agent,... [Read more]
Expanded HARP Mortgage Refinance Option-Available Soon!
Today, the government expanded the HARP program and qualifications. Attached is the news release. Qualifying for a new loan to lower your rate may now be a possibility even if you are upside down-ie underwater on your loan. Terms/conditions always apply-see the release and call me if you think you fit the parameters. We can take it from there. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
National & Minnesota Foreclosure Trends
The market is still slow, but this is the opportunity for those who want to roll back the clock and purchase at price levels combined with interest rates that we haven’t seen in years. See the newsletter for more information. Also, I have MUCH more information to share. Simply give me a call or send me an email to get started. Let me show you how I can help. Powered... [Read more]
VA-Veteran Loans Funding Fee & FHA Maximum Mortgage Changes
Starting October 1st, 2011, the maximum FHA loan limit for single family loans is being lowered from $365K in the Twin Cities to $318,550. See the attached form. This is not a good thing, but reflects the reality of declining value of much of the real estate. Unfortunately, underwriting of all loans continues to tighten. On a positive note, the VA funding fee is being lowered. This... [Read more]
Using A Reverse Mortgage To Purchase
With some of the major lenders leaving the reverse mortgage business-possibly just on a temporary basis-you might find it more difficult to find a lender offering the program. At the same time, it is worth your time to look. If you are 62 years old and have approximately 50% equity in a home, you can obtain a reverse mortgage. You can use this loan for a purchase as well. So, if you... [Read more]
An Economic Blog/Resource For You
I just found this blog at http://www.CalculatedRiskBlog.com It is a cool economic blog. Go there and read articles to see what is happening in the world. Then, go to the graphs gallery. Simply amazing. It is worth your time if you want a macro view of the world and environment in which we live today. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
What’s happening in the Twin Cities Real Estate market?
Are you wondering what’s happening out there? Well I have my “boots on the street”. Here is where I see it and where I see it going in the short term. Overall, sales are slow, but not dead. We are now in the fall market. In as early as 30 days, we could have snow on the ground. Then, you have Thanksgiving and all of the other holidays. Combine all these events and... [Read more]
VA Funding Fee is changing in October 2011
See the VA circular for all the new changes. Let us help YOU obtain your Veteran loan. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
GRANT money might be available to Veterans for a home purchase!!
I just learned about a new program. It is being offered by a non profit called Pentagon Federal Credit Union Foundation with a program they’ve created called Dream Makers. You can visit their site at http://www.PentagonFoundation.org and click on the link in the Nav bar titled Dream Makers. They have grants up to 5K for those that qualify. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Amazing Video-Wouldn’t Believe It If I hadn’t Viewed The Video
Amazing message-mortal enemies can get along! What an example for the rest of us! Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Great Cartoon from 1948
Human beings are human beings. Only the names change. When we refuse to understand history, psychology, and human nature we end up repeating mistakes that could be avoided. Re-learning lessons is getting mighty expensive. Definitely worth watching. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
VA financing their foreclosed properties for Investors
This is pretty exciting. It is a way that investors can buy VA foreclosed homes with VA loans. I personally have not participated in this yet, but I wanted to make sure everyone knew that it was an option and might be available. See the flyer for more info Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Veterans and Hunting & Fishing in MN
Did you know there are special deals/opportunities for Veterans to obtain their hunting and fishing license? Check out the rules here and take advantage of your status. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/military/index.html Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Foreclosed Homes Might Be Turned Into Rental Homes
Soon, the government will be announcing their plans for upwards of 250K homes that are owned by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and HUD. It is possible that they are going to be turning them into a pool of rentals and sell them later as the market improves. How this will be managed or created is anyone’s guess. Watch the FHFA- Federal Housing Finance Agency for more information. On... [Read more]
Watch This Video-Wounded Warriors
God Bless President Bush, God Bless the soldiers, and God Bless the USA Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Found A Veteran Blog
I was clearing out my emails today and found a message from a blog owner who had recommended I look at his blog. His blog is http://www.vabenefitblog.com/ I think it is pretty good. I’d recommend you check it out as he has a lot to share as well. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Outstanding website listing resources for MN Veterans
Just found this and wanted to share– http://www.co.ramsey.mn.us/vs/veterans_news.htm Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Homeowners Assistance Program- HAP
I am a CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert) and was reviewing our resources. I wanted to share the HAP program for those that might be in a situation where you find yourself unable to make the mortgage payment on your home. Review and share this information with anyone who can benefit. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Real Estate Investment Opportunities within the Twin Cities
To better serve the needs of real estate investors in Minneapolis & St Paul as well as surrounding areas within the Twin Cities, I have recently earned the Certified Investor Agent Specialist™ (CIAS) Designation. With the CIAS, I have the training, tools and calculations to effectively serve the five investor types: First-Time Investor, Move-Up Investor, Portfolio Investor, Performance... [Read more]
NEW Fisher House In Minnepolis-helping families of Vets
In Minneapolis, we’ve just completed a $6M, 16,000 sqft 20 room home across from the VA medical center. The Fisher house is Minneapolis is in addition to the existing house that is adjacent and has 6000 sqft and 10 rooms. The cost to stay in the house is free for the family of a loved one who is receiving treatment. If you’d like to learn more, visit http://www.FisherHouse.org ... [Read more]
Twin Cities Fence Requirements
Recently a client purchased a home and was contemplating installing a fence. They found this link. While it is an advertisement for a fence company, they have PDF’s of each cities respective fence codes http://www.tcfence.com/city-codes Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Minnesota Foreclosure Activity-monthly report from Realty Trac
The report provided shows statistics and information both nationally and locally here in Minnesota. I have access to additional information and reports that will help add clarity to the news stories you are hearing. Things are tough, but not the same everywhere. Call me for my detailed opinion on where we might be headed. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Short Sales, Foreclosures, Bankruptcies, Judgements All in one Transaction
I just had a short sale blow up because of undisclosed tax liens and judgements. The title couldn’t be cleared and we ended up with a mess. Everyone involved has to dismantle and start over again. I couldn’t help but be disappointed. But, in today’s real estate world this is common. It is all about attitude. When life throws you lemons, learn to make lemonade. ... [Read more]
First Time Buyer Down Payment Assistance-Now In Minnetonka
See the guidelines about this new program for Minnetonka. These programs exist in other communities as well. I will help you find programs-just like this-in other communities within the Twin Cities. NOW is the time to take advantage of these programs. If lack of a down payment has held you back, now is the time to take a look at these special programs. WelcometoMtkaguidelines.doc ... [Read more]
Search Twin Cities Foreclosures
Use this link to find foreclosed homes in the Twin Cities: http://www.minnesotaveteranloan.com/search-foreclosures/ Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Things to consider before choosing a home loan
These are major components to think about Powered By WP Footer Read More →
The FIRST thing you do when buying a home-figure out the financing
Pre-Approval is a MUST. If you don’t, you won’t be taken seriously. Get the money part done first. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas For Improving Credit #7
This concludes are seven part series Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas For Improving Credit #6
This is part six of a seven part series Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas For Improving Credit #5
This is part five of a seven part series: Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas For Improving Credit #4
This is part four of a seven part series: Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas For Improving Credit #3
This is part three of a seven part series: Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas for Improving Credit #2
This is part two of a seven part series: Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Ideas For Improving Credit #1
This is part one of a seven part series: Powered By WP Footer Read More →
How To Find Money To Buy A Home
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So You Think You Want To Fix & Flip Homes
Follow some of the tips in this video so you don’t get financially destroyed. It is harder than you think! Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Why Use A Realtor?
Today, more than ever, you don’t want to buy or sell a home on your own. You need an expert. Let my 25 years of experience help you make the right decision. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Military Tribute Video-Pretty Awesome
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Learn About The Flags For Fallen Military
This non profit organization is helping honor fallen military with a flag & flagpole for the family of fallen military. This volunteer organization needs your support. Spread the word about the work they do and help if you can. http://www.flagsforfallenmilitary.org/default.html Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Twin Cities Real Estate-Investment Property In Minneapolis St Paul
This is a recent power point I’ve just put together. It gives you some ideas and information before you begin investing in real estate. Unlocking The Door To A World Of Real Estate Wealth View more presentations from John Mazzara Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Learn More About 203K Loans For Home Fix Up Upon A Purchase As Well As Home Improvement
These guys do a pretty good job of explaining the process. Check it out. WE do have outlets for the 203K loans at this time-both streamline and FULL 203K loans. Call us today-952-285-4319 NMLS #373115 Venture Development http://www.VentureLoanApp.com 203k Home Improvement Loans Part 2 of 2 Powered By WP Footer Read More →
New JOB site for Veterans
I just found out about this site and thought I’d share it. It uses the newest “special” domain name extention–.jobs http://www.Veteran.Jobs Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Funny Video That Explains The Banking System & Our Economy Of Today
You will find it funny, you will find it sad, but you will find it very similar to where we are today. It is called the American Dream. It explains a lot. Watch it once, then watch it again. History repeats itself because we are such poor students of history. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Insured Conventional Loan Vs FHA-Which Is Better
There are many factors that go into a loan decision-credit scores, down payment, debt ratios, etc. One big question is whether you should consider buying a home with an insured conventional loan using 5% down or applying for an FHA loan with 3.5% down. The information below might make that decision easier. In fact, if FHA continues to raise the cost of their monthly mortgage insurance-known... [Read more]
How Does RE/MAX Compare? Let’s look at 2011
The numbers are now out! RE/MAX is a top producing company. In many markets, RE/MAX is the leader-often head and shoulders above the competition. I have been with RE/MAX for 16 years. Prior to that, I was with another large company for 10 years. Before you select an agent, interview a RE/MAX agent. I think you will agree that there is a difference. If you’re in the Twin Cities... [Read more]
Military Tribute Videos-Cool Stuff
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Twin Cities Market Report 2010
Have you ever wished you had all the metrics of the marketplace in once nice concise report? Well now you do. Our board of Realtors compiles an annual report showing comparative data. While each home is different, pricing trends are trends. The data since the end of 2010 going into 2011 has gotten worse. If you’d like me help you interpret the information as it might pertain... [Read more]
Can you get a Veteran Loan in excess of 417K?
The answer is YES. If you are willing to put down 25% of the amount in excess of 417K, you MAY be able to get the lender to finance 75% of the excess. It will depend on your lender, but at this time, we have investors who will do this. So, if you need a Veteran Loan in excess of 417K, give us a call. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Underwater Homeowner Refinance Programs Extended For 1 More Year
FHFA Extends Refinance Program By One Year Washington, DC — Federal Housing Finance Agency Acting Director Edward J. DeMarco has announced an extension of the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP), a refinancing program administered by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, to June 30, 2012. The program was set to expire on June 30 of this year. In addition, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will... [Read more]
WHY Pick RE/MAX?
There are lots of reasons why you might choose to select one agent or company vs another. Unless you have a best friend or relative who you “have” to use, I would like to show you how I am different. I believe I have an excellent value proposition as to why you would select me as your agent and RE/MAX as your company. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and... [Read more]
Down Payment Assistance Synopsis
Where there is a will, there is a way. There are many many programs today that are city specific. So, the attached synopsis is a multi county foreclosure down payment assistance pool. Basically, there is money available for purchasers of distressed homes. If you want to buy a home and are flexible in which area you make your purchase, we can try to find you some programs. Powered... [Read more]
Gifts and Grants can be considered towards borrowers funds on certain 3% down conventional loans
Yes, you read that right. I just got an email today from a leading mortgage insurance company that is willing to underwrite this loan. You will need at 740 or better score. But, what an opportunity. In many ways, this is like FHA, but with a little higher credit threshold. The KEY difference, besides credit score, is the lack of an upfront MI (mortgage insurance) premium and as well... [Read more]
Purchase 80/10/10 and 80/5/15 STILL exists
As of this post, the 80/10/10 and 80/5/15 can still be done. While underwriting has allowed it, it has been very difficult to find a second mortgage product that would write a 5 or 10% second mortgage. Well, after many phone calls, we have sourced two lenders who at this time are willing to offer the second mortgage. One is a bank and the other is a credit union. As with EVERY program,... [Read more]
What Is Your Home Worth Today?
I found a cool resource at http://www.FHFA.gov. If you go there, in the middle of the page you will find something called the Home Price Calculator. You input your home purchase information in terms of State, quarter in which you purchased and the quarter in which you’d like to get the valuation. Next, you hit calculate, and it will show you a chart. While it isn’t specific... [Read more]
Did you know-Current & Future Housing Data
Watch this video-then call me to help you buy or sell a new home or investment property. Powered By WP Footer Read More →
8 Tips For Finding Your New Home
A solid game plan can help you narrow your homebuying search to find the best home for you. House hunting is just like any other shopping expedition. If you identify exactly what you want and do some research, you’ll zoom in on the home you want at the best price. These eight tips will guide you through a smart homebuying process. 1. Know thyself Understand the type of home that suits... [Read more]
4 Tips to Determine How Much Mortgage You Can Afford
By knowing how much mortgage you can handle, you can ensure that home ownership will fit in your budget. Here are six surefire ways you can get your finances in order before you buy a home. Homeownership should make you feel safe and secure, and that includes financially. Be sure you can afford your home by calculating how much of a mortgage you can safely fit into your budget. Instead... [Read more]
Two Special Twin Cities Home Buying Programs
One program is called FPP-Foreclosure Partnership Program, and the other is NSP2 Homebuyer Assistance Program. Both programs offer incentive money for a purchase. I can use these financing programs with one of our mortgage investors. Consider checking them out to see if they’d work for you. HennipenCounty-Non-forclosedHomes-overview HennipenCounty-Nsp2-overview ... [Read more]
Holes For Hero’s-Medicine Lake-Plymouth MN
Thanks Veterans- guys and gals-because of your work protecting our freedom, we get to go fishing. This compilation video is from our day fishing at the first annual Holes For Hero’s ice fishing contest. It was my third time ice fishing in my entire life and a lot of fun. The weather wasn’t too bad-about 20 degrees and over cast with a breeze. You had to fish outside on the... [Read more]
Armed Forces Ice Fishing Festival
It is called Holes For Heroes. It will be at Medicine Lake in Plymouth MN on Saturday February 5th 2011 from 12-3pm. It is being presented by FishingFor Life.org Call Tom Goodrich 612-987-5466 for info. It will be simulcast to active members of the Military Oversease. FREE fishing for Military Family members and veterans. Otherwise, you need to purchase an entry ticket-$5 in advance... [Read more]
Rebuilding Credit To Get A Mortgage
Often, especially in this market due to the recession, we find potential home buyers who have had a life event or “bump in the road” that affects their ability to obtain a new loan. If you want to buy a home, you will have to have a certain number of reporting trade lines and for certain length of time. MOST mortgage programs require 3-5 trade lines and a minimum of two years... [Read more]
Certain Military And Federal Employees MAY Still Qualify For A Credit
It’s true, depending on when you sold your home and if it was due to a certain distance/relocation, you MAY qualify for the housing tax credit that has otherwise expired for everyone else. There is a narrow set of conditions that make it possible. See the flyer for the rules. MilitaryCredits.doc Powered By WP Footer Read More →
FHA & VA Program Criteria For Bad Credit
Sometimes “life happens” and you have a bump in the road. Different lenders have different overlay criteria. So, the FHA and VA guidelines in this flyer are simply guidelines, which means there is always underwriter discretion and specific investor guidelines that might be more stringent. FHAVADerogatoryCredit.doc Powered By WP Footer Read More →
VA Adapted Housing Grants
If you are a veteran that has had a service related disability, you may be eligible for a housing grant that can help you build or remodel your home. Here is a flyer that covers that program. You will find that some of the disability criteria are quite severe. There are actually two different programs that might work for you. Read this flyer:VAAdaptedHousing.doc Powered By WP Footer Read More →
Buying Rental Property In The Twin Cities
Have you ever wanted to own rental property, but were unsure where to start? I teach a class on the topic. I’ve decided to make the outline into a PPT. I cover the information in my class in much more depth and breadth, but this will give you a lot of useful information. If you are interested in discussing purchasing a rental property as an investment, just give me a call and... [Read more]
Essential Financial Planning for Returning or Deploying Military Personnel and their Families
As the United States goes into its ninth year of military action in Afghanistan and Iraq, financial planning for military personnel and their families has taken on unprecedented importance. Multiple deployments during the longest wartime period of U.S. history has added considerable strain to military family budgets already shaken by the worst economic downturn in 70 years. One of the... [Read more]
Mortgage Insurance May Still Be Deductible For Some Buyers
Yipee-It looks like mortgage insurance will remain deductible for some home buyers. When we look buying a home, you need to consider all aspects. One main one is mortgage financing. There are ways around mortgage insurance by doing split loans-like and 80/10/10 for example or LPMI-which stands for lender paid mortgage insurance-which means the interest rate is higher. Rather than confuse... [Read more]
Is There An Opportunity Right In Front Of YOU
I just watched an amazing video which I’ve posted below called the Money Tree. There are so many different interpretations. One that struck me was that people are oblivious to opportunity that is right in front of them. How many of us are looking for something that we already have or is within our reach? How many people are NOT buying real estate today when they could be looking... [Read more]
Merry X-Mas Veterans!
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Support Veterans
This email was just sent to me. I went to the site and it is really a cool idea. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REO BROKERS, INC. December 23, 2010 Dear John, XEROX IS DOING SOMETHING COOL If you go to this web site, www.LetsSayThanks.com you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving overseas. You can’t pick... [Read more]
National Anthem From Drive In Movie Days
You don’t see this in theaters anymore Powered By WP Footer Read More →
December Is The Time To Reflect
Are each of us doing all we can to make the world a better place? Many of us have our favorite charity and organizations we support. RE/MAX is a very large sponsor of Children’s Miracle Network. Many people don’t realize how much has been given. Each time I sell a home, I automatically donate a portion of my commission to this organization. Other RE/MAX agents like myself... [Read more]
