Lancaster PA Real Estate Blog

The other day my daughter's kindergarten teacher and I were chatting as I was picking up my son from Chess Club.

She had to send my daughter to the library.  My daughter wasn't in trouble, but her class was.  See...my daughter has ASD, that is Autistic Spectrum Disorder.  While much improved, she tends to repeat questions that are asked of her as her brain tries to process what people are saying.  It gets a lot worse when she is anxious, and school makes her very anxious.

The problem in her kindergarten class that day...kids were giggling and laughing because she was repeating the teacher's question as she desperately tried to figure out what the teacher was asking her.  The teacher had my daughter leave the classroom so she could talk with the children about differences in people.  That we are all different, and that we don't laugh or giggle when we see our peers struggle.

My daughter is a "cupcake" as stated by some of the professionals at her school.  She rocks.  I agree.

Autistic Spectrum Disorders include Aspergers, PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified), and Autism.

I won't go into all the details about the differences in diagnoses, but needless to say it can make life a little challenging for some people.  The world of Autism is filled with controversy. I am of the personal opinion that we as a nation are toxifying ourselves and our children.  No matter what you think about Autism...allergies, childhood cancers, etc are also on the rise.

The Department of Defense reports that 1 in 88 dependents are diagnosed with an ASD and the UK (United Kingdom) just annouced their numbers...

1 in 60 children

1 in 34 boys

are diagnosed with an ASD.

I would love to tell you that all kids diagnosed with ASD's will be okay, but that is not true.  Some people with ASD's head off to college, get married, and have kids.  Some have trouble maintaining work.  Some live in group homes or with parents.  Just as there is a spectrum of functioning as young children, the same is true for our ASD adults.

I encourage all of you to learn a little bit about the toxins that we put into our bodies and our environment, and the impact that it can have on the neurological/immunological development of our children.

There are many great resources and social networking groups on twitter and facebook for ASD families.

Being a blogger and social networking chick here are some ASD related blogs and networks online.

Wrong Planet

Translating Autism Blog

Autism Blog

#asd on twitter

Model Me Kids

Age of Autism

Advertures in Autism (she has a great blogroll of other Autism blogs to read).

 

Clipart was provided courtesty of Design By Cher

Realtors® just won the long fought battle to keep banks out of Real Estate. It certainly has been a no brainer to prove that banks just don't have what it takes to be in the people business after all the short sale fiascoes and foreclosures problems.  

While I have no clue why this bill was placed in the H.R. 1105 Omnibus Appropriations Bill because it really has nothing to do with all the spending and I am totally against the massive spending- at least I can say that one good thing was in the bill!

Now large banks are PERMANENTLY banned from entering into the real estate business. The new law bans the Treasury and the Federal Reserve from creating or making any rules, passing on any orders or doing anything else that would open the door to allow the large banks from doing real estate.

NAR has fought for many years to get this passed since the banks lobbying to get this on the books. If you contribute to RPAC you can be happy that your money was well spent and as Realtors ® you have a victory in these economic times.

The reason that NAR was fighting to keep big banks out of the real estate business is because it could have created an anti competitive and anti consumer concentrations of power within the financial sector. This would increase the cost to buyers.  Banks in real estate is inconsistent with the banking laws and is bad for consumers and bad for banking.

It is obvious that large banks in the real estate business would not be good for Realtors®, especially those that own and operate small indepenent companies. It gives the banks an unfair advantage over real estate companies because banks can get cheap capital from the Federal Home Banking System and from Federal Deposit Insurance.

It would create a conflict of interest for the consumer. Here is a post I wrote about what it may be like if you had to list your house with a bank!

I am sure that the complaints about how bad the banks handle short sales have something to do with getting this passed!

 

Contact Nestor Gasset and Katerina Gasset, CIPS, Realtors®, International Properties and Investments, Inc. Licensed Realtors® in Florida at 561-753-0135 to list your property for sale or to purchase a property in Wellington, Boynton Beach, Manalapan, Manalapan Point, Lake Worth, Hypoluxo Island, Lantana, West Palm Beach and the rest of Palm Beach County Florida and Port St Lucie Florida. We are accepting referrals.

To view all Florida short sales For Sale Click here and then click on Search For Homes We know Palm Beach County and Port St Lucie Florida and will help you get your home Sold if you need to Sell your home and help you buy your home in Palm Beach County Florida : Call us today.

 

 

By TwitterButton

Realtors ® Win! No Banks In Real Estate!  was first published on South- Florida-Luxury-Living.com.

 

I wrote this post about two years ago.  Today, I spent most of the day with some of the local Amish community, which reminded me about this post and a gentler way of living.  I thought I would share it again.

- Jeannie

First Realty Company Crossville, TN. Would like to wish Cumberland county a very Happy New Year.

LIFE I AM THE NEW YEAR

Life I am the new year.
I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.
I am your next chance at the art of living.
I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months.
All that you sought and didn't find is hidden in me,
waiting for you to search it out with more determination.
All the good that you tried for and didn't achieve
is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires.
All that you dreamed but didn't dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will,
all the faith that you claimed but did not have --
these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened
by the touch of a strong purpose.
I am your opportunity
to renew your allegiance to Him who said, "behold, I make all things new."
I am the new year.
-- Author Unknown

Have you noticed????? Just about everything out there is, well,...... a whole lot cheaper. 

Sure, the focus is on real estate and the the stock market. But "declining values" have impacted almost everything we buy. What we learned in Econ 101 still holds true: Lower the demand and you are going to lower the price, every single time.

And that thing called DEMAND? The best way to describe that right now is IN THE TOILET.

Who can "demand" anything when you are busy just trying to keep your head above water?

Dog paddle or die. That's the mantra of most consumers these days. Wallets are closed and shopping for sport is nearly dead.

And let's be honest. We can stimulate real estate buyers all we want, but until people start spending money on all the rest of the stuff out there, the economy will continue to tank.

Even those consumers who are swimming along with no problem are too afraid to take advantage of all the cheap, cheap stuff and bargain prices.

Has fear of drowning become a national obsession?

Cheap stocks. Cheap real estate. Going out of business sales. Cars sitting with thousands in rebates AND 0% financing.

We used to say cars that wouldn't sell "grew whiskers". Now there are cars with full beards sitting on dealership lots.

Your favorite restaurant sends you a "free lunch" coupon, but when you get there, they are out of business.

And 75% off is the new 25% off when it comes to buying clothes.

Still, we don't buy. It is called market mentality, and whether it is justified or not, you must understand it if you intend to be a seller in this economy.

 

If you are a seller of ANYTHING in this environment, what do you do?

1. You don't "start high"
2. You don't try to sell something that is dirty or needs repair
3. You don't expect to "sell quickly"
4. You understand that if you hold on for too long to get the "better price", you can shoot yourself in the foot.
5. You don't try to "do it yourself". You need professional help and marketing NOW more than you ever did before.
6. You don't take offense when your buyers low ball, or ask for a discount.
7. You don't cling to the idea that the price 6 months ago has anything to do with the price today.
8. You understand you must get over your emotional attachments to the thing you want to sell.
9. You make it EASY for a buyer to buy.
10. You show compassion.

 

Someday, sellers will rise up and once again, make all the rules. Until then, sellers must understand this: It is exhausting for buyers to constantly dog paddle. And scary. Even if it is in a sea of ridiculously low prices. 

The water still seems awfully cold, and those lifeboats are taking FOREVER to arrive.

Written by Janet Guilbault, Mortgage Lending Expert Based Out of the San Francisco Bay Area

 

 

Remember the old TV commercial that went like this:

This is your brain. This is your brain on drugs.

For those of you too young to remember this anti-drug TV spot, your brain on drugs is supposed to look like a fried egg on the sidewalk (not so subtle message of "you can fry your brains out if you take drugs").

But here's a newer version for you:

This is YOU: Good person. Good credit. Hard worker. Pays the bills. Pays taxes. Contributing member of society. Needs a mortgage.

This is YOU ON PAPER:  Loser. Application declined. Next stop? Paper shredder.

How can you NOT take this personally?

Sometimes we forget this important fact: When the lender looks at your credit application, he only sees the PAPER YOU.

Not the REAL YOU.

It is distressing to me, that increasingly, the 2 "YOU's" are miles apart. Once stated income went away, all those holes in the lending world that stated income supposedly plugged, are gaping open again.

YOU: Are a respected,  self employed business owner for 20 years. You make plenty of money to pay your bills and pay your mortgage. Your credit has been perfect your entire adult life. You are able to write off business expenses and losses against your business.

YOU ON PAPER:  Don't show enough income to qualify.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YOU: Always have plenty of cash on hand to buy your friends a round of drinks. That's because you get much of your income from TIPS, and very little from your wages.  

YOU ON PAPER: Have an income way too low to qualify.

YOU: Are the savior of your family.  You take care of grandpa and in exchange, he makes your house payment and writes you a check for a small salary. You don't work because you take care of Grandpa.

YOU ON PAPER: Are unemployed.

YOU: Are a caring parent who lovingly co-signed to get your kid a car.   Johnny was too embarrassed to tell you he was late on his payments 6 out of 12 months last year.

YOU ON PAPER: Have bad credit.

 

There is zero tolerance for lack of income and poor credit when making an application for a mortgage. As you do your taxes, and make financial decisions, remember this:

This is YOU. But the bank only cares about the YOU ON PAPER.

You don't want to fry your brains out just trying to get a mortgage.

Or in the shredder because you can't.

 

 

Written by Janet Guilbault, Mortgage Lending Specialist Based Out of the San Francisco Bay Area

 

 

Having children whith special needs is overwhelming in itself, now imaging moving them!  Here is my first installation of advice for those who are helping these families!

Although, I think you will find that most families that have children with special needs do not take the thought of moving lightly. It can be a very long and drawn out process. There are so many things to consider and here are just a few:

• Schools for "Special Needs" - or for older children and young adults with special needs "Medical Day Care" it is one of the most important components to consider.

When you are the guardian for a person with special needs you have many responsibilities, working is most likely still one of them. So who will care for your special someone when you are making the big bucks? Rest assured that most families have already done their homework in this area.

Even if the child or young adult is attending a "typical (public) school" as opposed to a Private Special Education Facility they all vary greatly from district to district. Much diligence is required to research each individual district and each individual school to find out their policies.

• Family or Support - Moving towards family members or people who will be supporting them is very important.

Although you will find that most families are moving towards their support system, you will also find that Relocation will sometimes present the opposite for these families. Honestly, knowing many families who have children with special needs it would have to be a pretty darn good career move to uproot their child. Consistence is the key for all children with special needs. If a family has made the decision to make a move it came with many sleepless nights.

• Medical Needs - There are many great hospitals in the United States today and most of them have specialties that draw people from all over the world to them.

With many diagnosis comes the need for constant medical follow up. Hospitals and medical professionals will be very high on the priority list when choosing a new home town.

 

• People first language  - This is very important!!!! Please take the time to read up on the proper use of language when you are speaking about a person with disabilities.

Here is a great website to reference

 

I currently have two children with unique or "special needs". One in each setting private and public schools. I would be happy to assist you with any questions you may have about the prospect of moving a family that includes a person with "special needs"

Congress Approved the $8,000 Tax Credit For Homebuyers.  Here are answers to frequently asked questions.  

Frequently Asked Questions About the $8,000. Federal Tax Credit

Q: A:	How much is the tax credit? The tax credit would be $8,000 or 10% of the purchase price, whichever is less.
Q: A:	Who is eligible? Similar to the $7,500 tax credit included in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, the $8,000 tax credit (included in the 2009 economic stimulus plan) is available for the purchase of the primary residence by first-time homebuyers.
Q: A:	If this is for first-time homebuyers, how do I know if I am eligible for the tax credit? According to the IRS, any taxpayer who has not owned a home during the 3 years prior to the date of purchase can qualify for the credit.
Q: A:	Do I have to repay the $8,000.? No.  Unlike the previous $7,500 tax credit, the $8,000. does not have to be repaid UNLESS, the home is sold within three years of purchase; at that time, the credit will be reversed.
Q: A:	Are there any income limitations on the tax credit? Yes.  The tax credit is strictly for individuals with adjusted gross income of under $75,000 or $150,000 for joint filers.

Now that you're qualified for the Tax Credit, let's go shopping for Charlotte NC homes for sale today!

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About the author:

Debe Maxwell is a Charlotte Residential Real Estate Broker, Certified Neighborhood & Relocation Specialist, ABR & e-PRO who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Charlotte NC Metro Area.  If you're relocating to or from any other area of the country, Debe connects you with any member of her team of relocation professionals in your destination or exit city of choice.  The destination service is of no cost to you!  The Maxwell House Group's quality service guarantee puts this team far ahead of the competition; providing unsurpassed customer service is their #1 priority!  Debe Maxwell -- Helen Adams Realty -- 704.491.3310

Copyright© 2009 By Debe Maxwell, All Rights Reserved...**$8,000 Federal Tax Credit FAQ **

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Disclaimer:  All information provided by this author is strictly an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

Today's interview with Steve Babbitt inspired something that is all but profound, and something we should all take to heart. To hear the full interview that's robust with nuggets you can take and bake today, click on the link below, but for now, let's focus on what I'm going to call your, "Other Agent Attitude."

When Steve and I first started talking about Facebook he mentioned some unheard of number (over a thousand) friends, and he proudly proclaimed they were mostly real estate agents.

HUH?

Why in the world would a real estate agent want to have so many connects with other real estate agents? And then he said something about local agents.

GASP!

So not only is he friends with more than a thousand agents around the world, but he's networking with local agents? Is there a method to his madness?

First, let's step back a bit. I recently read a blog where an agent was talking about the importance of networking and sharing ideas with other agents, as long as they didn't work in the same town as you. Words like, competition, greed, cut-throat come to mind. But is this true? Does it need to be?

Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a big proponent of mind-set management, and that means just what it sounds like it means; it's up to you how you look at the world, your business and your life. I wonder if there's any coincidence in that Smilin' Steve Babbitt has sold over 1,500 homes? Just saying. So before we look at the unimaginable benefits of befriending local agents, let's consider the fact that the way you look at something, changes the thing you look at. In other words, our minds and our universe tend to help us live in a perpetual state of a self-fulfilling prophecies. If you see other agents as the enemy, as an immediate threat, well, then don't be surprised when they sneak in a business card to your best friend. If that's how you see it, that's how it will play out.

Now enter Mr. Babbitt, Stage Left. Here's a guy who understands the power of networking with other agents. Forget the Facebook stats--this guy has served on more committees and boards than I can rattle off in one blog post. Here's a couple very powerful facts that Steve ran off that may change your "Other Agent Attitude."

First, agents like to do business with agents they like. As Steve said, "It's human nature." So two offers come in and you know and like one agent, and the other has a reputation for being an open-house-sign-stealer, who ya gonna call? I'm not trying to insinuate anyone would ever lead a seller toward a lesser offer, but that indeed, all things being equal, the agent will lean toward the agent he or she knows and likes, and might even express this to the seller. "Mr. Seller, these two offers are pretty similar. One thing I can tell you is that Agent Steve is an ethical agent who I've worked with before and he runs a clean deal."

Second, and these are in no particular order, I think ActiveRain has done a great job of demonstrating the deep down desire and longing for community belonging. Clearly, having others to share with and learn from is priceless, and those out of town referrals sure the heck never hurt anyone either. So why not local too? While the referrals might not be as frequent (but I have referred a commercial deal to a local agent and a listing too far away to another agent in my office), but what about the brainstorming and masterminding? Steve mentioned the all too sad fact that even if you had the best idea in the world, how many people do you think would really implement it? Not many. What about forming a partnership with someone in your office for just one farm area? You could share mailing costs and hit the streets together. It's much more fun to walk a neighborhood with a friend, trust me.

Third, and this is something Steve alluded to that I'd never even thought of (imagine that). If an agent who is held in high-esteem is at a listing appointment, why not incorporate the FACT that he/she is well thought of by  fellow agents,,,,then talk about the First fact above. "Mrs. Seller, agents like to work with agents they know are honest, ethical and fair, and, they like to show properties listed by those same kind of agents. I think if you ask around, check my involvement with our local association, you will find that I am one of those agents who is highly respected in this town."

Those are just three good ideas, but I bet you can think of more. Like, for instance, long-lasting friendships, getting voted into leadership with your local, state or national association, and then, there's that whole good karma thing I'm so big on. The idea is not to immediately eliminate "The Other Agent Attitude" but instead adopt an attitude of gratitude that you are in an industry with so many people willing to help and befriend you. It's called "Creative Collaboration" not competition. And any competing should be be done in the spirit of fun...there really is plenty to go around...we just have to go get it.

The deals fall to him (or her) who attract them through proper mind-set and attitude, CONSISTENT, POSITIVE ACTION, and good old fashion competency. So don't be a secret agent. Don't sit and whine about the market. Get together with some fellow agents and have coffee and mastermind...add agent friends on Facebook, and go to an association function every now and then. Be the agent with the right attitude, and watch the good time roll.

 Listen to Steve: 

Thanks!

Tamara

If it says the home is sold "as is", does the buyer have to buy it without knowing what's really wrong with the home?

 

 

The terms "as is" is found in many listings these days, especially on REO/bank owned homes and short sales.

Many in the real estate industry may think this is pretty standard language, but I have had more than one client ask me if this means that they can't have an inspection done on the house.

Their concern is that after viewing the home one or maybe two times without professional assistance they have to make a decision whether or not they should buy the home and be willing to accept it "as is."

I have explained to them that this is not the case.

Provided that the proper, and usual, contingencies are in the purchase contact, the buyer has the right to have inspections done of the home.  If after the inspections are completed, the buyer has the right to ask for repairs (provided the request is made within the contingency period - usually 17 days here in Orange County) and decide not to buy the home if the repair request is denied.

In today's market, most banks will not do repairs on REOs or short sales.  Therefore, these homes are sold "as is", and usually a buyer will have to decide after the inspection is done whether or not they still want to buy the home.

So, yes, you may have to buy the home "as is", but you will get to make this decision after you have had inspections done on the home.

If you have any other questions or concerns about the buying process, please call me at 714-319-9751 or see the following articles for additional information.

 What is a short sale?

Buyers 101

Multiple Offers in a Buyers' Market

Buying a Foreclosure - Where do I Start?

 

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About the author: Christine Donovan is a California Residential Real Estate Broker with experience in assisting clients buy and sell residential real estate.

For more information on Costa Mesa homes or the value of a particular home please visit Costa Mesa home values

Click for a free list of Orange County foreclosures or a free list of Orange County short sales or e-mail Me!

Are you upside down in your home? Is it worth less than you owe? Are you concerned about making your mortgage payment? Contact me at christine@donovanblatt.com or 714-319-9751 to discuss your options.

Want to buy a home or to list your property for sale in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach or Orange County? Contact me at christine@donovanblatt.com or 714-319-9751 to learn about her system which will make your buying and selling experience easier.

Click Orange County homes for saleto view all OC homes for sale. Copyright © 2009 by Christine Donovan, All Rights Reserved.  Does "As Is" Mean I Can't Have an Inspection when I Buy a House?