San Diego Home Finder

Serving as a Fiduciary Representative

2011-09-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Bay Park Real estate agents represent the interests of their clients. As an agent, you’re bound by honor, ethics, and duty to work on your client’s behalf to achieve the defined and desired results. This involves the following functions:

Defining the client’s objective. To serve as a good fiduciary representative, you need to start with a clear understanding of the objectives your client is aiming to achieve through the sale or purchase of property. Too many agents get into trouble by starting out with uncertainty about the interests of the people they’re representing. For instance, and although it is not my only area of expertise, I do specialize in Bay Park Homes.

Delivering counsel. In the same way that attorneys counsel clients on the most cost-effective way to proceed legally, it’s your job to offer similarly frank counsel so that your clients reach the real estate outcomes they seek. And in Bay Park San Diego, that's exactly what we do!

An attorney may encourage a client to proceed with a lawsuit when the client has a high probability of winning, or she may recommend an out of court settlement when odds point toward a court loss that could leave the client with nothing but legal bills to pay. Likewise, you need to be able to steer your clients toward good decisions regarding the value of their homes, the pricing strategies they adopt, the marketing approaches they follow, and the way their contract is negotiated in order to maximize their financial advantage.

Diagnosing problems and offering solutions. A good agent, like a good doctor, spends a great deal of time examining situations, determining problems, and prescribing solutions. In an agent’s case, the focus is on the condition and health of the home a client is trying to buy or sell. The examination involves an analysis of the property’s condition, location, neighborhood, school district, street appeal, landscaping, market competitiveness, market demand, availability for showing, and value versus price. The diagnosis involves an unvarnished analysis of what a home is worth and what changes or corrections are necessary.

Defining Your Financial Goal

2011-09-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

One of the first steps toward success is knowing what you want out of your Bay Park real estate career. However, “financial independence” is not a specific-enough answer. And in Bay Park San Diego, you better believe there are a lot of people with these same thoughts!

The key to eliminating money worries is establishing a financial goal — an actual number — that you need to accumulate in order to achieve the quality of life you want to enjoy. Financial independence boils down to a number in regards to Bay Park Homes. Set that number in your mind and then launch your career with the intention to achieve your goal by a specific date.

By having your financial goal in mind, you find clarity and can see past the hard work that lies ahead of you. When you have to endure the rejection, competition, disloyal customers, and challenges that are inevitable along the way, your knowledge about the wealth you’re working to achieve helps you weather the storms of the business.

Make no mistake, real estate is not an area where you just show up and make gobs of money. It takes real effort, long hours, due diligence, and whatever else you can think of that means, "It's going to be tough, but if you stick with it, very profitable as well." Nothing in life comes easy; so decide you're going to give it all you have and never give up!

Guiding Financial Decisions

2011-09-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

When you help clients make Bay Park real estate decisions, your advice has a long-lasting effect on your clients’ financial health and wealth. Bay Park San Diego has a plethora of clients looking for financial guidance. And there's no better place to invest your money than Bay Park Homes!

In most cases, home equity is the single largest asset that people own. Your ability to guide clients to properties that match their needs and desires, that fit within their budgets, and that will give them long-term gain from minimal initial investment will impact their financial health and wealth for years to come.

Your influence as a wealth adviser reaches far beyond clients who are in a position to own investment real estate. In your early years, many of your clients may be first-time buyers who are taking their first steps into the world of major financial transactions. Advise them well and they’ll remain clients and word-of-mouth ambassadors for years to come.

As you can see, your role in your clients' lives is a very important one. And with that said, you need to be the resident expert in all things dealing with real estate. Your clients are looking up to you for the most important advise ever given to them, so put in your time, do your homework, and give your clients the best possible opportunity for success with you.

An Auspicious Beginning

2011-08-31T10:54:00.001-07:00

Everyone has to start somewhere, correct? Well on my very first listing presentation, I went to the wrong house. Can you imagine arriving at the wrong address for your first presentation? The worst part is that the man who answered the door let me in. To this day, I’m not sure why he let me in and let me begin my listing presentation. I was nearly halfway through my presentation before I figured out the mistake! He just sat quietly listening to me talk about listing his home. He actually did have an interest in selling his home in the near future, so he just listened. I finally realized I was in the wrong house when I glanced over and saw the address on a piece of mail on the table. I had transposed a number on the address, which put me in the wrong house. All the while, the real seller was waiting for me down the street. The good news was that I successfully listed the man’s home a few months later.

In the end, it really doesn’t matter where you start in your career or what mistakes you make in the early stages. Everyone makes mistakes in new endeavors. What matters most is having a plan or process that keeps you moving down the track toward your goals. Most people would have quit with such a rocky start as mine.

Always remember, the sure way to lose is to quit. The ONLY way you win is to keep going!

Avoiding the Role of Home Inventory Access Provider

2011-08-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

Back in the days of the early 1990s, before the advances of the internet, the consumer’s only avenue to information about Bay Park Homes for sale was through a real estate agent. Every other week, agents received phone book sized periodicals presenting information on properties for sale, with each new entry accompanied by a small, grainy, black and white picture.

Today, consumers can go online instead of going to a Bay Park real estate office to launch their real estate searches. With a few keystrokes and mouse clicks, they have access to a greatly expanded version of the kind of information that agents used to control. However, once consumers discover a home they want to see, they must contact either the owner or an agent to gain inside access. This is where things get tricky.

Often a consumer signs off the Web and contacts an agent to get inside the home, as if the agent is simply an entry device. As an agent, you need to demonstrate special skills to first qualify the consumer’s interest and ability to buy and then to convert the inquiry into a committed buyer client for your business.

-Bay Park San Diego

Acting and Working Like a Top-Level Real Estate Professional

2011-08-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

Bay Park Real estate agents join doctors, dentists, attorneys, accountants, and financial planners in the ranks of licensed professionals that provide guidance and counsel to clients. The big difference is that most real estate agents don’t view themselves as top-level professionals. Many agents, and a good portion of the public, perceive themselves as real estate tour guides, as Bay Park homes inventory access providers, or even as just necessary cogs in the wheel of the property sale transaction. The best agents, however, know and act differently. Do not find yourself in the first group as we’re to be oh so much more than a glorified tour guide!

Bay Park San Diego Real estate agents are fiduciary representatives and financial advisors — not people paid to unlock front doors of houses for prospective buyers. A fiduciary is someone who is hired to represent the interests of another. A fiduciary owes another person a special relationship of honesty, commitment, exclusivity in representation, ethical treatment, and protection. Build your real estate business with a strong belief in the service and benefits you provide your clients, and you’ll provide a vital professional service while being recognized as the valuable professional you are.

Discovering the Skills of a Successful Agent

2011-08-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

Each Bay Park real estate agent defines success slightly differently. Some agents set their goals in dollars, some are attracted to the opportunity to be their own bosses and build their own businesses, and some want the personal control and freedom that a Bay Park San Diego real estate career allows. Achieving success, however, requires the same basic fundamentals regardless of what motivates your move into real estate. Bay Park Homes Agents who build successful businesses share four common attributes:

They’re consistent. They perform success-producing activities day in and day out. Rather than working in spurts — making 50 prospecting calls in two days and then walking away from the phone for two weeks — they proceed methodically and steadily, day-after-day, to achieve their goals.

They believe in the law of accumulation. The law of accumulation is the principle that says with constant effort everything in life, whether positive or negative, compounds itself over time. No agent becomes an overnight success, but with consistency, success-oriented activities accumulate momentum and power and lead to success every time.

They’re life-long learners. The most successful agents never quit improving. Their passion for improvement is acute, and they commit the time, resources, and energy it takes to constantly enhance their skills and performance.

They’re self-disciplined. They have the ability to motivate themselves to do the activities that must be done. A successful agent shows up daily for work and puts in a full day of work on highly productive actions such as prospecting and lead follow-up. They make themselves do things that they don’t want to do so they can have things in life that they truly want.

2010-08-13T13:22:00.001-07:00

Check out this week's newsletter! http://ping.fm/G8P8N

Radio Show- You can hear it here!

2010-07-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

This week I was fortunate enough to be able to be a guest on KCBQ's Real Talk Real Estate. It was a very interesting experience! If you didn't get a chance to hear me on the radio, you can listen here!

If you’re going to live in San Diego you should read these Earthquake Safety Tips!

2010-07-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

Earthquake SAFETY TIPS

Earthquakes can strike without warning, and being prepared for such a disaster can mean the difference between life and death. Here are some tips to help you and your loved ones make it through a quake:

- Those living in areas not prone to earthquakes can respond quickly to the plight of disaster victims in quake zones by complacently smirking and saying, "I told you so."

- To minimize loss and damage in a quake, try not to own things.

- Experiencing an earthquake is terrifying, but a majority of people caught in one do survive. During the tremors, try to resist the temptation to have sex with pets or houseplants.

- Practice your burrowing-out-from-under-40-tons-of-rubble skills ahead of time.

- Look out your window often. If you see a large, zig-zag-shaped crevasse moving rapidly from the horizon toward your home, step either to the right or the left.

- Do you have a treasured childhood toy? Perhaps a stuffed animal, such as a teddy bear? Well, let's see Mr. Bear help you now.

- For those who fear earthquakes, it may comfort you to know that a majority of the damage during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake did not come from the tremors themselves. Instead, it was from the raging, out-of-control fires that consumed most of the city.

- A doorway is the safest place to be during a quake. Eat, sleep and work in doorways.

- Be sure to mail your house insurance payments a full five business days before a major earthquake strikes.

- In the event of a quake, get under something heavy, such as a desk, a table or your uncle.

- If you are caught in a major earthquake in Southern California and are part of the entertainment industry, take a moment or two to reflect on how grossly you've wasted your life.

2010-06-25T13:06:00.001-07:00

This just out! http://ping.fm/N2iQm

Local agent speeds up the house-hunting process in San Diego with a real estate search for any cell phone.

2010-06-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local agent speeds up the house-hunting process in San Diego with a real estate search for any cell phone

May 2010 (San Diego, CA)—One of the top real estate agents in San Diego is introducing a way for clients to view all of the homes for sale in the area with any cell phone. Max Folkers with Re/Max Pacific is providing clients with a mobile real estate search created by Smarter Agent that makes it possible to search all local property listings from their mobile device, regardless of whether it is listed by Max Folkers or another broker or agent. Max Folkers’s mobile real estate search is the only house-hunting tool that works on 95% of cell phones across all carriers.

With Max Folkers’s Smarter Agent application, interested home buyers can be in any neighborhood and view detailed property information at the touch of a button. The GPS technology in the mobile phone, when available, locates users and pulls up addresses and information on listings in their immediate area. Sales price, square footage, tax information, beds/baths, interior and exterior features, pictures and more become available instantly in the palm of their hand.

Consumers can also search by address, community name, city or zip code when GPS is not available, or if they want to search for real estate in an area other than their current location.

The “Call to See” feature within the mobile application will connect users to Max Folkers if they have questions or want to schedule a tour of the property.

“Our team continues to offer the latest in technology to make the home search as quick and easy as possible. Smarter Agent has the leading technology in this field,” said Max.

Consumers can get Max Folker’s mobile real estate search on their cell phone by visiting www.maxfolkers.com for easy instructions or by texting MAXMAX to 87778 to receive a text message with a link to download the mobile real estate application.

Smarter Agent is available as a fully downloadable application on hundreds of devices across Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless. A premium mobile web version is also available on 95% of cell phones. The fully downloadable application is free to download on Sprint devices, BlackBerry devices, the iPhone, and Google's Android G-1. The premium mobile web version is free to access.

2010-06-04T14:37:00.001-07:00

Read this week's newsletter here: http://ping.fm/nc6k3

2010-05-28T15:16:00.001-07:00

Check out this week's newsletter! Sharks & Moment of Silence? http://ping.fm/238uQ

2010-05-25T15:07:00.001-07:00

My office just acquired 42 Brand New Pre-list opportunities! Here's your chance!http://ping.fm/EayAp

42 new Pre-list Opportunities! Something for everyone

2010-05-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

We've got a lot of great new opportunities that have come up This week alone, our office acquired 42 brand new pre-list properties. These are all bank (or investor) owned and have not hit the market yet! Here is your chance to get in on the (up to) $10,000 CA tax credit (yes, there is still some time!) Click here for the list. Be sure to contact me asap if any of these home interest you!

2010-05-21T13:51:00.001-07:00

Read this week's newsletter here: http://ping.fm/51Jy1

2010-05-14T15:19:00.001-07:00

Read this week's newsletter here: http://ping.fm/Fsb7n

2010-05-07T15:28:00.001-07:00

Check out my latest newsletter! http://ping.fm/T0YSu

2010-05-04T11:37:00.001-07:00

This has nothing to do with real estate, but is a great story. Make-a-Wish is an incredible organization. http://ping.fm/5YPph

2010-04-30T16:56:00.001-07:00

Check out my newsletter! http://ping.fm/uHaCm

2010-04-26T14:10:00.001-07:00

For Sale: Brand New Custom built home in Clairemont. $450,000 http://ping.fm/058Ej

2010-04-21T16:41:00.001-07:00

POsting this again because it's THAT nice of a house!!! Mission Hills Custom home w/ oasis backyard! http://ping.fm/vbdcv

2010-04-21T16:39:00.001-07:00

For Sale: 3BR/2BA Single Family House w/pool & spa in La Mesa, CA, $499-539,000! http://ping.fm/WncRs

2010-04-21T16:26:00.001-07:00

For Sale: 4BR/2BA Multi-Family in San Diego for under $300K! http://ping.fm/o3coy

2010-04-19T16:11:00.001-07:00

Check out this week's progress on "the fire house": http://ping.fm/WJhVy

California's Tax Credit Monies May Go Fast!

2010-04-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

CALIFORNIA'S TAX CREDIT MONIES MAY GO FAST
The $100 million allocated for California's first-time homebuyer tax credits may be depleted in about 10 to 20 days or sooner, according to C.A.R.'s Economics team. California's Franchise Tax Board (FTB) plans to begin accepting applications on May 1, 2010 for tax credits up to $10,000 for first-time homebuyers and for homes that have never been previously occupied. However, the total tax credit allocation for all taxpayers is $100 million for first-time homebuyers and $100 million for new homes, both on a first-come, first-served basis.

C.A.R.'s forecast of 10 to 20 days to deplete the $100 million allocation for first-time home buyers is based on estimated May sales figures and other parameters. It does not take into account the possibility that buyers scheduled to close escrow in April may delay closing until May to take advantage of the tax credit. If a shift in closings from April to May occurs, the first-time homebuyer tax credits may be depleted even more quickly than indicated above.
Applications for the California tax credit must be faxed to the FTB after escrow closes. The FTB will update its website when the 2010 application form and other information become available.

REALTORS® are reminded not to give their clients any tax or legal advice, such as the availability of funds under the California tax credit program. Agents should encourage their clients to seek specific advice from an accountant, attorney, or other professional as they deem appropriate.
For more information, please refer to C.A.R.'s Homebuyer Tax Credit Chart 2010.

Free Food on Tax Day

2010-04-15T12:30:00.001-07:00

Free Food on Tax Day

Posted using ShareThis

2010-04-13T14:55:00.001-07:00

No More State Tax on Forgiven Debt! http://ping.fm/VKKwy

No More State Tax on Forgiven Debt

2010-04-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

Distressed homeowners no longer have to pay California state income tax on debt forgiven in a short sale, foreclosure, or loan modification. Enacted into law yesterday, Senate Bill 401 generally aligns California's tax treatment of mortgage debt relief income with federal law. For debt forgiven on a loan secured by a "qualified principal residence," borrowers will now be exempt from both federal and state income tax consequences. The existing federal exemption is for indebtedness up to $2 million, whereas the new California exemption is for indebtedness up to $800,000 and forgiven debt up to $500,000.
"Qualified principal residence" indebtedness is defined as debt incurred in acquiring, constructing, or substantially improving a principal residence. It includes both first and second trust deeds. It also includes a refinance loan to the extent the funds were used to pay off a previous loan that would have qualified.
The tax breaks apply to debts discharged from 2009 through 2012. Californians who have already filed their 2009 tax returns may claim the exemption by filing a Form 540X amendment.
Taxpayers who do not qualify for the above exemptions (e.g., second home or rental property) may nevertheless be exempt under other provisions. Most notably, taxpayers who are bankrupt are exempt from debt relief income tax. Also, taxpayers who are insolvent are exempt from debt relief income tax to the extent their current liabilities exceed current assets.
For more information about mortgage forgiveness tax consequences, go to California Franchise Tax Board's Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Extended webpage and the Internal Revenue Service's Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act and Debt Cancellation webpage. The full text of Senate Bill 401 is available at www.leginfo.ca.gov.

Click below to read our latest newsletter!

2010-04-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

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Max helps Re/Max Raise $100 million for Children's Miracle Network!

2010-03-04T14:07:00.001-08:00

Max Folkers Plays Role in Helping RE/MAX Network Raise $100 Million for Children’s Miracle Network

San Diego, CA March 03, 2010—Max Folkers has been a supporter of Children's Miracle Network since 2005, and has made regular donations to the children’s charity when every sale or listing has close. These funds have helped RE/MAX, a leading real estate franchisor, arrive at an amazing milestone: $100 million dollars donated over the past 18 years for Children’s Miracle Network, which raises funds for more than 170 pediatric hospitals. In doing so, RE/MAX became one of the top three Children's Miracle Network donors of all time.

The funds raised by Max Folkers go to Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego to help treat children needing expert medical care. “Supporting my local Children's Miracle Network hospital is part of the RE/MAX ethic. I am immensely proud to support Rady Children’s,” said Max.”I feel it is important to give back to this community in which I earn my living. I feel blessed that my two children have never had to utilize their services, however I am glad to know that my contributions are there for other children in need.”

The donations from hundreds of RE/MAX offices and thousands of RE/MAX Associates amount to millions of dollars each year for children’s hospitals. RE/MAX primarily raises funds through the Miracle Home® program where Associates make a contribution to Children’s Miracle Network with each closed transaction. RE/MAX offices and agents also sponsor golf tournaments, host art auctions and organize a variety of other fundraising activities throughout the year.

“When you take into account that the real estate industry was hit harder than any other by the economic recession, it’s overwhelming that RE/MAX Associates raised $7 million for Children’s Miracle Network in 2009 alone, bringing their total to a landmark $100 million,” said Scott Burt, president and CEO, Children’s Miracle Network.

”Knowing that children’s hospitals have been impacted deeply by the downturn in philanthropic giving, RE/MAX Associates worked harder than ever to support Children’s Miracle Network and the children in our communities,” said Vinnie Tracey, president, RE/MAX International, Inc.

RE/MAX has been a corporate fundraising sponsor since 1992 and has raised $100 million for children’s hospital over the past 18 years. These much needed funds given to Children’s Miracle Network hospitals may be used for specialized medical care, research and education.

The "Walkability" Index.....

2010-02-26T16:31:00.000-08:00

Walk Score - Helping homebuyers, renters, and real estate agents find houses and apartments in great neighborhoods.

One of the hottest buzz words in real estate these days is "walkability". A lot of people are looking for a home in a neighborhood where schools, restaurants, groceries, public transit and entertainment are located in walking distance. Beginning Feb. 22, 2010 all active listings on the MLS will include a link to Walk Score, a website providing select information for a specific property address. This score calculates the walkability of an address based on the distance from to nearby amenities. The results are provided in an interactive map format as well as detailed dropdown list. Additional features include walkability scores and related features for both major cities and their neighborhoods.
As a side note, San Diego is ranked 16th on their list of the most walkable neighborhoods in the top 40 U.S. cities! Please email me if you'd like to know how your home fares!

Expenses to Expect When Selling Your Home.

2010-02-24T13:18:00.000-08:00

It is a known fact that when you purchase a home you will have many different expenses related to the sale. It is important to know as well that when you sell your home, you will also have expenses that will be required. Below is a list of some of the most common costs that come with selling your home.
Closing Costs: Although most of the closing costs are the responsibility of the buyer, the seller is expected to pay the property taxes and insurance up to the date of the closing, even if they’re not due yet. in addition, some buyers will ask the seller for help with other closing costs as part of the negotiations.
Realtor Commission: Typically there’s a 4 percent to 7 percent commission on the sale price of the house if you opt to go with an agent. Usually this rate is between 5 percent and 6 percent, so be sure to account for this cost when pricing your home and figuring up your expenses that come with selling your home.
Home Inspections: Although the buyer pays for the home inspection, it’s a good idea to get your own inspection before putting your house on the market. This way you’re aware of any hidden problems before selling. Also, you will probably be paying for a pest inspection.
Prepayment penalty: Many mortgages have prepayment penalties if you pay off the mortgage early. Be sure to examine your mortgage agreement and read the fine print.
Many homeowners are not aware of the costs involved with selling a home but there are some perks as well. With any home sale you are eligible for a tax write off of up to $250,000 gained in the sale of your home for a single owner, and $500,000 for married couples. This applies for most state taxes as well; check with a tax professional to get all the details of any tax credit that may be available to you and your situation.

First Time Home Buyers Seminar- Free!

2010-02-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

I am really excited about a workshop that my office is hosting with the guys at Opes Advisors. This is a free workshop, open to anyone wants to learn more about buying their firt home. Confused about the $8000 tax credit (which is ending soon)? Don't know if renting is better than buying? I highly urge you to come on down to Mission Valley on Feb. 25th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm and get all of your questions answered.

Sellers: Disclose, disclose, disclose!

2010-02-10T15:23:00.001-08:00

This week, I experienced yet another contract fall apart only days before closing. This time I was dealing with an investment property that sounded great on paper but when the buyer discovered the reality of what he was buying, the entire deal soured. It was a total disappointment from our camp because the only reason why this portfolio of properties are not closing is as a result of a lack of disclosure.
Regardless of what you’re selling, it is important to paint an accurate picture to buyers. You may be able to trick a few people into believing that your 25 year old Hyundai is as nice as a new Mercedes but when the buyer comes to see, touch, and feel, they’ll always walk away. The same holds true for real estate. Agents are notorious for “puffing” and so much so that it’s covered in real estate text books in pre and post licensing. Puffing is the act of over-stating a home’s attributes within certain limits.
When a home is small, it’s referred to as quaint.
When a home is near a highway, easy commute.
When a home is on fire, motivated seller…you get the idea.
The harm in puffing comes when you have to disclose what you’ve been saying isn’t at all accurate. Take this transaction: listed as a portfolio of occupied and rented properties - winner! The reality: two tenants are being evicted and 2 units are rented by the room. Until this week, the leases didn’t even exist. Also, the properties were sold as completely renovated, which again can disappoint when it comes to ones expectations as to what they’re anticipating.
In real estate, it’s best to disclose every bit of information up front, especially anything that may affect whether or not a buyer would make an offer. If not up front, what other time would be opportune to disclose improtant information regarding the transaction you’re working on….at closing, after closing, during the inspection, or never. Also, agents who play the “don’t ask, don’t tell” rule with regards to material facts will quickly discover that they are liable for what they knew and should have known. Sorry, my friend, ignorance isn’t an excuse.
I’m big on real estate disclosure because I like my job and I plan to be doing it for a very long time. Agents whom omit important details that are discovered by the seller later on are quickly ushered out of the business as a result of a number of lawsuits or sanctions by the real estate commission.
It’s a shame that my client wasted his time and money to discover the truth of what was being held back in the situation. For us, we’re now 30 days into a failed contract and have to start over to find another opportunity to sell this client. Had everything been as it was sold, we would be going to closing this week and everyone would be happy. Instead, because of a lack of property disclosure and probably too much puffing, it’s back to square one.

A new pre-listing opportunity in Little Italy! Get lost in the insane views.

2010-02-04T12:40:00.000-08:00

http://www.postlets.com/create/create36.php?pid=3339536&p=view

A few of the agents in my office are some of the biggest REO Listing Agents in San Diego. Because of this, I am able to share all of their pre-listed bank owned properties with you. If you have been looking in the San Diego area at all over the past couple of years, you will know how huge of a deal this is. Imagine having "first dibs" on a home before it gets flooded with buyers and multiple offers! Email me and let me know what you are looking for. I will add you to my list of interested buyers (I really do have one- this isn't just a gimmick!)

New Government Short Sale Program – Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives HAFA

2010-02-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

What is this exactly? Well the government initially announced forthcoming plans and guidelines back in May 2009, which was a bit premature, to coincide with the loan modification program put into place (HAMP). Since then nothing had been mentioned until Nov 30, 2009. On this date guidelines were released for servicers to follow if they want to collect on government (Treasury) paid incentives for doing short sales for homeowners. This plan is set to go into effect April 2010.
Below is a list of commonly asked questions about this program.
How does it help homeowners?
• Foreclosure is postponed for 120 days while the property is for sale.
• Streamlined short sale and deed in lieu (DIL) process; predetermined listing price, 10 day approval timeframe
• Homeowners will receive $1500 for move out expenses in a Short Sale or DIL
• Homeowners will be released of all future claims from the lender, i.e. no deficiency rights
• Lender will pay all fees associated with sale including real estate commissions
Who is eligible?
• Properties that are primary residence
• First mortgage originated on or before January 1, 2009
• Mortgage is delinquent or default is reasonably foreseeable
• Current unpaid principle balance is equal to or less than $729,750
• The borrowers total monthly mortgage payment exceeds 31% of borrowers gross income
• Homeowners must have been evaluated for a HAMP loan modification first, but homeowner can still request a short sale or DIL.
What does a homeowner need to do?
• Hire a Licensed real estate broker familiar with HAFA guidelines to list property.
• Respond to lender request within 14 days to start program or they may not be eligible.
• Provide all information and sign HAFA documents required to verify program eligibility
• Cooperate with listing broker to actively market the property and respond to servicer inquiries
• Maintain the interior and exterior of the property in a manner that facilitates marketability.
• Work to clear any liens or other impediments to title that would prevent a sale
• Make reduced monthly payment stipulated by the lender if asked, or if applicable.
Need more info? Click here. I can help.

One of the things I love best about living in San Diego.

2010-01-25T16:41:00.000-08:00

Living in San Diego definitely has it's benefits. Of course there is the weather and the beaches, but one of the things I love best is the variety of activities available. For example, I came into the office today and asked the proverbial question "how was your weekend?" One person enjoyed the sunshine as she ran in the Carlsbad Marathon:
My assistant took her kids to the local mountains to enjoy the snow (there was 3 ft of fresh powder!) on Saturday and went to the beach to enjoy the sunshine on Sunday. And us? We went to Monster Truck Jam (gotta love it!)
If you are looking for something to do, have you looked into Restaurant Week? They just extended it for one more week. What a great opportunity to try a new (or favorite) restaurant!

How to Prepare Your Home for the Rainy Season | eHow.com

2010-01-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

It appears that we will have a short reprieve from the rain this weekend, then more next week. If you are like me, you have some cleaning up to do around your house. I hope you aren't one of the unlucky ones who have had a tree come down...

How to Prepare Your Home for the Rainy Season eHow.com

Another new listing. I love helping people avoid foreclosure!

2010-01-21T16:11:00.000-08:00

For Sale: 3BR/2+1BA Single Family House in Oceanside, CA, $325,000

Brand new listing in Ocean Beach. Check it out!

2010-01-21T15:52:00.000-08:00

For Sale: 3BR/1+1BA Single Family House in San Diego, CA, $601,000

Click the link above to see my newest listing in Ocean Beach. I haven't made it active yet on the MLS, so if you want to see it, please call me at 619-977-8364. I am excited about this house- it's a gem...

Kids Eat Free in San Diego

2010-01-20T13:56:00.001-08:00

My assistant came in this morning all excited because last night she went to Islands restaurant and her kids ate for free. It got me thinking about other restaurants that may offer this. Here is what I came up with. The following is a list of San Diego restaurants that offer free kids' meals. Do you know of something not listed here? Please email me @ team@maxfolkers.com. I'd love to know of it.
And my disclosure: Make sure to check with restaurants before going to see if special is current, as these specials tend to change.
Keep in mind that lunch and Happy Hour specials (often ½ off appetizers and drink specials) are more affordable than dinners! Another good deal is the all-you-can-eat buffets (such as Sizzler and many Asian buffets), especially when kids 2 and under eat for free.
Anita's Restaurant (Oceanside) - Sun & Tues, all day. Free kid's meal w/adult purchase
Carrow's - Weds and Thurs after 4 p.m. children under 10 w/purchase of adult entrée
Chevy's - Tues all day children 12 and under w/purchase of an adult entrée (website tells you which locations are not participating)
Chick-Fil-A - Tues children 12 and under free kids meal w/adult purchase
Chicken Pie Dinner (Poway) - Tues get free kid's meal and drink for with adult w/ adult entrée purchase and drink.
Coco's - Tues & Weds children 10 and under get a free kid's meal w/ adult entrée purchase.
Denny's - Tues (some locations also Sat) 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. free kid's meal w/adult entrée
El Torito - Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. kids 12 & under from kid's menu w/adult entrée
Fuddruckers (only the downtown location) - Sun, all day. Children 12 & under from the kid's menu w/purchase of adult entrée.
Hacienda Casablanca (formerly Antonio's Hacienda) - Mon all day w/paid adult
Holiday Inn - Many locations have deals where children 12 & under eat free and children 19 & under stay free
Hooley's Irish Pub - Kids 12 & under get one free meal w/ adult purchase. Wednesday night @ San Diego location, Monday night @ La Mesa location
Islands - Tues. nights Two kids menu item free w/ purchase of adult entrée @ Mission Valley, Balboa Ave. in San Diego and Vista locations! (Hence the excitement)
La Costa Blanca - Mon. all day kids eat free from kid's menu w/adult purchase. Every day - free soda w/kids meal purchase
Pasha Mediterranean Cafe & Grille (on 5th Ave.) - Children 6 & under get free kids meal w/adult purchase. Sunday - Thurs, all day
Pat & Oscar's - Tues w/adult purchase kids get a Just For Kids Meal
Q Restaurant Sports and Grill (Oceanside) - Kids 12 and under get a free kids meal w/adult entree every Tuesday, 5:30 - 7:30. Also they have free Karaoke!
Roadhouse Grill - (Santee & San Marcos) Tues free kidss meal w/adult entrée
Ruby's Diner - (Carlsbad, San Diego & Oceanside) Tues after 4 p.m. free kid's meal, 12 and under, with paying adult.
Wings Pizza 'n Things - (Oceanside) Tues all day from kid's menu w/adult purchase.
Maybe this will be a good opportunity to try something new, or re-visit an old favorite. Who knows? Happy eating!

Help is on the way...

2010-01-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

Thomas Jefferson said, "If you find yourself at the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on." Unfortunately in today's real estate market in San Diego, tying a knot may end up costing you more money, grief and stress. Fortunately, you may have several options to assist you in "letting go" responsibly and doing ultimately what is best for you and your family's financial outlook.
So if you find yourself in a position where you owe more than your real estate is worth and you can no longer afford to pay for it, then a short sale may be your best option. Arm yourself with knowledge so you can avoid the stress and anxiety associated with facing foreclosure and going through the short sale process.
What is a short sale?
Simply put, a short sale is a real estate transaction where the homeowner, aka the borrower, owes the lender(s) more than what their property is worth. In a short sale, the lender must approve and accept less than what they are fully owed. This means they may settle for $400,000, even if you currently owe them $500,000...even if the loss is hundreds of thousands of dollars. Now with the new Federal Programs, the banks have more incentive to accept more short sales.
Let me ask you:
* Are you facing a financial hardship that you know will decrease your income?
* Are you getting behind on your mortgage and you're not sure if you can catch up?
* Are you currently facing Foreclosure and Need to Sell Quickly?
If you are facing any of the situations above, and you think a short sale might be your best option, then read on. I just finished getting certified as a "Certified Distress Property Expert" and I have successfully closed several short sale transactions.
I can help you.
Don't worry. It's not your fault and you are not alone.....
Keep in mind, we've all had our ups and downs in life and a lot of other good people are also in the same tough spot as you. Life seems scary when you're facing the reality of foreclosure and we know how you feel when you just don't want answer the phone any more. We have all been there and unfortunately it doesn't seem like the tide is breaking. In 2010, according to Realty Trac over 60% of Real Estate transaction will be short sales.
Did you know that nearly 90% of the homeowners nationwide who try to "short sale" their home will end up losing their home to foreclosure due to an uneducated, misinformed or lazy agent? Don't allow this to happen to you! I specialize in Short Sales, and I get them approved!
I know how you feel and I can help. Let's start with a free home valuation. I will email you a Comprehensive Market Analysis so that you may have all of the information you need to make the best choice.
P.S. Don't let the lender's abusive scheme take advantage of you and cause you to lose your home to a foreclosure auction, trustee sale! Save your credit and have peace of mind dealing with a Pro.

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2010-01-18T16:32:00.001-08:00

Check out this cool site. Move your mouse over the map and you can instantly read that cities newspaper. Very neat! A person could spend way too much time here.

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