Trash and Recycle Bins – PLEASE drag them off the curb & store out of sight the day of collection by 7PM. POOL IS OPEN (BUT NOT HEATED) -The compliance work has been completed and the chemical levels are correct, therefore the pool has been re-opened. However, in light of continued foreclosures and rising bad dept, pool heaters will remain off indefinitely. Attention Pet Owners! Our Community Common areas are NOT dog parks, dog runs, and/or opportunities for your dogs to run w/out a leash. We cannot stress enough that it is dangerous for all, including the animal when they are not leashed per City of Phoenix code. Please be a responsible owner and pick up after your pet when s/he does their business, regardless where it is - - in the turf, rocks, sidewalk or neighbors yard. NTEREST SURVEY FOR BREAST CANCER WALK An interest survey for the Breast Cancer Walk (in November), has been initiated by a resident who would like to connect with others in the Community who have an interest. Please visit the Website to log your interest at: www.mysonoranfoothills.com and look under eforms. Sonoran Foothills is located on 800 acres in the rising foothills of North Phoenix. The rich abundance of amenities include the 4000 square foot clubhouse and community park. There is a splash fountain, lap & leisure pool, children’s wading pool, shade ramadas, picnic pavilion, playground/sand lot and a big green grassy lawn for homeowner gatherings and activities. Sports enthusiasts will love the basketball, soccer fields, volleyball & illuminated tennis courts. Neighborhood pocket parks provide owners with nearby play areas. |
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The Future of Fannie Mae and Freddie MacPosted on: 2009-03-19Barney Frank, chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said he hopes to introduce legislation later this year to restructure government-backed mortgage investors Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
'The current model is broken,' the Massachusetts Democrat said in an interview. One possibility, he said, is to separate the companies into entities serving two functions: one that would ensure adequate funding for the home-mortgage market as a whole and another that would provide government subsidies for housing low-income people.
Federal regulators seized management control of Fannie and Freddie in September as heavy losses stemming largely from mortgage defaults ate through their thin layers of capital. For 2008, Fannie and Freddie reported combined losses of about $108 billion, forcing the Treasury to pump in capital to keep them operating.
Some people involved in the debate have called for turning Fannie and Freddie into cooperatives owned by mortgage lenders. Others have suggested making them public utilities, which would involve very tight regulation and limits on their return on equity. -
Community Pool Closed as of March 8thPosted on: 2009-03-07Sonoran Foothills Residents:
The pool will be closed starting Sunday morning, March 8th for work that needs to be done so that our facility complies with the Virginia Graeme Baker Safety Act.
At this time, we are not certain of the exact re-open date. We will keep you posted.
We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause.
- Your Management Team
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LOST CAT ALERT!!Posted on: 2009-02-03MISSING CAT: FLICK WIGGLEWORM
He was discovered missing February 1, 2009 when we returned from a trip. He doesn’t normally go outside, he must have slipped out. He is white, black and grey with a brown mark on his nose that makes him look like he has a dirty nose. He is part Siamese and therefore “talks” a lot with a high pitched girly meow (fixed young). He has a collar on with a bone shaped tag with our address – the phone number on the tag is old. He is also microchipped through AKC companion animal recovery #453B2F741E .
We love him very much and are very worried about him. We hope he just went to Florida to cheer on the Cardinals, but if you find him we would very much like to have him home.
I have their contact information if you find Flick. -
Max Muscle Sports Nutrition Offers $25,000 Reward For Your New Years ResolutionPosted on: 2009-01-05Did you know that the Max Muscle next to Mountainside Fitness is OPEN!? The owners, Chris and Pat, are extremely helpful. Go in and check it out. They have some outstanding products and personalized services, such as customized meal plans.
Anaheim, CA (PRWEB) December 29, 2008 -- Max Muscle Sports Nutrition is rewarding $25,000 cash to the individual who can best attain their New Year's Resolution of losing weight and gaining lean muscle and fitness in 2009.
'Bring Yourself To Life' is the call to action in Max Muscle's 'MaxFormation Life Challenge', an online interactive community of people from across the United States who, like more than 60% of our population, desire to lose fat, get fit, gain muscle and live better active and healthy lifestyles.
'The $25,000 Reward is just that, a Reward.' said Max Muscle President and co-founder Sean Greene from the company's Anaheim, California headquarters. 'Almost everybody has the desire to be in better shape. So we're taking the most popular time of the year when people are setting their personal fitness goals to introduce them to our MaxFormation Life Challenge. This national contest articulates the experience of walking into any of our 160 stores across the country. You're greeted by a Certified Fitness Nutrition Coach™ who can design a customized nutrition plan specifically for you while supporting that plan with the most scientifically advanced nutritional and supplemental products available anywhere.'
The online MaxFormation Life Challenge contest delivers each contestant their own personal website, free of charge, where they enter their goals, post 'before' photographs of themselves, set personal goals, record milestones, and keep an online and public journal of their fitness journey. Contestants can interact with each other online, providing motivation, accountability and support while striving to meet their goals, add friends to their profile, and ask questions to each other and Max Muscle Certified Fitness Nutrition Coaches™ via email and personal messages directly from the online community. The top contestants will be chosen via online voting by the contestants themselves and the hundreds of thousands of visitors www.MaxMuscle.com already achieves online by being the leader in sports nutrition.
'When we conceived Max Muscle Sports Nutrition in 1991, we imagined a place where you could walk in off the street, be greeted by an expert who could guide you to your goals, not just sell you product.' said former NFL Player and co-Founder Joe Wells. 'Our stores are managed by Certified Fitness Nutrition Coaches™ who back your personalized goals and plan with our scientifically developed and extensively tested proteins, diet and weight loss support, total body supplementation and nutrition. When you walk into a Max Muscle store, the experience is catered to your needs specifically. That's why we succeed as a business and as a person's nutritional partner.'
Max Muscle Sports Nutrition has risen to its current heights of more than 160 stores nationwide and was featured for the second year in a row in the Fortune 500 'Best Businesses for 2009' by leading the industry in nutritional and supplemental advancement in fitness and weight loss education, innovation, product support, and consumer appreciation. A record of more than forty-six consecutive months of same store sales growth has fueled the growth of new Max Muscle Sports Nutrition locations around the country as fit professionals opt out of stocks and real estate and opt into a Max Muscle Sports Nutrition store of their own since forecasts for the fitness and weight loss industries continue to climb.
'We're the 'Eat Right' in 'Eat Right and Exercise'.' said Greene. 'You truly are what you eat, and since we're all unique people with specific needs, you need a place where you can go where the people know you, your goals, and can support those goals with professional advice, supplements and nutritional products that assure your body is being fed precisely what it needs to get to where you want to go.'
'That's why we're rewarding the best body transformation $25,000 this year.' said Wells. 'We've helped thousands of customers achieve their fitness and weight loss goals. The MaxFormation Life Challenge online gives even more people the opportunity to achieve goals they never thought possible, do it with the support other people going through the same process, constant motivation, accountability and education available 24/7, and now an additional incentive of $25,000 to help you keep your eye on success. '
Both Wells and Greene routinely log onto MaxFormation themselves at www.MaxMuscle.com and welcome new MaxFormation contestants to the online community offering support and encouragement via Comments on their personal pages.
'We know that if you're educated, one on one, by a Certified Fitness Nutrition Coach™ whose focus is only on your needs and desires, and at the same time are supported by a vast knowledge base of articles, recipes, workout plans, and a community of individuals that are all working on their similar yet personal goals, you'll succeed.' said Greene. 'Over the years, the thousands of testimonials from people that have not just lost weight, but achieved true life happiness by enjoying their new active and healthy lifestyles is our success. We intend to bring more people to this level of enjoyment through the MaxFormation Life Challenge and its record $25,000 Grand Prize this year.'
For more information about Max Muscle Sports Nutrition's MaxFormation 'Bring Yourself To Life' $25,000 Reward, visit: www.MaxMuscle.comWebsite:www.maxmuscle.com/ -
HELP! DOG FOUNDPosted on: 2008-12-02This dog was found barking in a driveway in Desert Pass (on the north side at the end of Bronco Butte). This dog does not have tags and appears to be the same dog that was found yesterday.
Email me, Kelli, if you have any information. -
SONORAN FOOTHILLS NEW TOY DRIVEPosted on: 2008-11-25November 8, 2008-December 12, 2008
Your toy can bring cheer into the Holidays for a child who may otherwise not receive any gift at all.
As you prepare for the Holidays with family and friends consider donating a new toy to be given to a “forgotten angel” through the Salvation Army’s Project Hope Program. These are children who do not get adopted through the Angel Tree Program.
Please donate an unwrapped new toy(s) appropriate for a child(ren) age 0 -12 years of age. You may drop your donation off at the Clubhouse at any time between now and December 12, 2008.
(Parents of children participating in the Holiday Party may find it convenient to drop off their donations by December 10th – the deadline for bringing the Holiday Party toys for their children.) -
Stay Alert! Local Muggings in North Phoenix and ScottsdalePosted on: 2008-11-13I received the following email from a resident of Sonoran Foothills:
This past week, a friend's aunt was mugged in the Costco parking lot at the 101 and Cave creek Road. It was 3:00 in the afternoon, in broad daylight, and the parking lot was full of people. She was walking from her car to go into the store and a car with two guys in it pulled up next to her, grabbed her purse, which she had around her shoulder, and took off. They dragged her for a moment and luckily the purse strap broke and she got away. They did get her purse and managed to charge over $500 on her cards within the first hour or so at the Fry's Grocery stores. (They go through the Self Check Out lanes.) Luckily, my Aunt is ok. It could have been worse if the strap had not broken when it did.
The police said that these particular thieves have hit 3 or more times in the last week, including at Desert Ridge Shopping Center. The vehicle is a 2002-2004 Nissan Altima and it is Burgundy in color with smoked/tinted windows. The 2 guys in the car are young white guys in their earlier to mid 20's and the passenger had dirty blonde colored hair.
For all the women: please be careful, especially when you are carrying your purse with you into the store. These guys always pull up next to the female victim as she is walking through the parking lot and they grab the purse she is carrying as she walks through the parking lot. They do not care that it is broad daylight out. -
5 Reasons to Use a Licensed Realtor When Buying PropertyPosted on: 2008-11-061) Our services are free to you. Buyers do not pay ANY commissions.
2) Today’s realtor knows how to efficiently search properties online that meet your criteria, desires and needs foregoing long days and weeks driving around in the car looking at unnecessary properties. We search properties daily, so we can find them much quicker knowing which codes and criteria to enter in the MLS narrowing the potential list of “go sees”. AND, a good realtor will preview the selected properties before taking you out, eliminating potentially wasted time for you.
3) The negotiation of the property is our expertise. You need a third party, unattached and knowledgeable professional to keep you from making poor buying decisions for a purchase worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. You may be emotional and may want to make any offer possible to get the property you fell in love with at first site.
We know how to strategically structure an attractive offer to the seller through a fair price, appliances, home warranties, closing cost contribution, etc. With that in mind, we also know how to get you the best possible price. The realtor knows how to accurately assess the neighborhood’s current market value the property is located in to strategically create the right offer.
4) Beyond the negotiation process is the actual transaction. The realtor knows the real estate laws, rules and regulations which will guide you through the transaction. We handle all the paperwork and track time periods so that nothing falls through the cracks. We know when to order a home and termite inspection, what kinds of additional addenda are required, and what additional legal rights YOU have. For example, what’s on the buyer advisory, the value of a home warranty, explaining the Seller Property Disclosure Statement and what to be aware of, explaining what terms like “Superfund or WQARF” are and what they mean to you…etc.
There are also other valuable things your realtor can point out. For example, you have allergic reactions to scorpion bites, and the particular community you are interested in has an abundance of scorpions throughout the area.
5) The entire team that comes with your realtor will all watch out for your best interests. They’re qualified and trustworthy professionals that work with your realtor every day. For instance, a quality home/termite inspector that won’t do a poor job on the inspection that would later come back to haunt you; a reliable mortgage broker that will guide you to the right mortgage program that meets your specific needs so you don’t end up finding a loan officer out to make a quick buck who over approves you, setting you up for a foreclosure in 2 years; an efficient and knowledgeable escrow officer that will guide you through that stack of paperwork your signing at the title company.
Why would you spend hundreds of thousands of dollars, most likely the biggest purchase you’ll make in your life, without using a licensed professional? Would you walk into a trial hearing without an attorney representing you? -
Desert Crown and Desert Sierra ** BEES NEAR PLAYGROUNDPosted on: 2008-11-05Your Board of Directors wants to be sure you are aware that some very active bees were seen at the playground/tot lot in Desert Sierra near 23rd Avenue and Jake Haven on Monday.
They were located near the sidewalk as you move towards the pool.
Pest control folks were contacted to remove the bees; however, often there are some bees that will still be looking for the swarm/hive and can be seem buzzing around. -
Snakes are out and about!!Posted on: 2008-10-29Just a reminder, the snakes are out frolicking before their hibernation period begins. Please take care in the common areas that border natural desert or washes.
We have had several sightings throughout the Community including at the Community Center near the kids playground. Remember…if you hear a rattle, walk away from it, not towards it. -
Tues Oct 28, 2008: Over seeding Throughout Sonoran FoothillsPosted on: 2008-10-29Once again it is that time of year….
Due to over seeding of the turf in ALL parcels we are asking you that you please stay off of the turf. This process should take about 2-3 weeks.
Please be patient while this process is completed.
Thank you,
SF ManagementWebsite:www.mysonoranfoothills.com -
Is It a Good Time to Buy a Home?Posted on: 2008-10-19Many people are asking me if now is really a good time to buy a home or if they should wait. Times are uncertain in the economy, so the answer is in the questions. Sit down with a qualified mortgage professional, a realtor and possibly your CPA to go over your financial situation and your goals.
Do you have the down payment? Gone are the days of ZERO down. You should have enough cash for your down payment and you should not clean out your bank account by making the down payment. You should still have a comfortable reserve.
What items do you need to purchase once you move into your new home? Many new home builders are offering incentives that may appear to be a zero down payment and/or zero closing cost offer. Remember, if you are buying a new build, you will need to purchase window coverings, put in landscaping, buy a refrigerator/washer/dryer, or paint. Although, you may have to come up with money for closing costs on a pre-owned home, you have window coverings, can often get all appliances included and the landscaping is done.
Where do you want to be in 5 years? Does buying a home support these goals (tax benefits, relocating, etc..)? This market is a good time to buy real estate because homes are 'On Sale' (talk about a blue light sale!) IF it makes sense with your personal finances. Housing prices are not going up for awhile, so if you need to save for 6 or 12 months -it'll still be a great time to catch a sale!
Remember Norman Rockwell. Hundreds of his paintings centered around the American dream of family and the essence of home ownership. The home wasn't just an asset to be flipped and bartered. Don't forget the American dream.
The most forgotten aspect of this beast called the 'housing market' is that these houses are our homes. They are shelter for our families, a refuge to come HOME to at the end of a day. A shelter that comes with tax benefits and leveraged appreciation. The home where memories are made with family and friends. Let us not forget that owning a home in this country is quite a privilege. - Sonoran Foothills Real Estate ReportPosted on: 2008-09-12
Website:www.SonoranFoothillsNeighborhood.com
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How To Drive in Phoenix, ArizonaPosted on: 2008-08-121. 'Phoenix' actually consists of Scottsdale, Chandler, Anthem, Paradise Valley, Maryvale, Ahwatukee, Gold Canyon, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Tolleson, Avondale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Sun City, Sun City West, Sun Lakes, Surprise, and half of the Mexican border.
2. The morning rush hour is from 5:00 am to noon. The evening rush hour is from noon to 9:00 pm. Friday's rush hour starts on Thursday morning.
3. The minimum acceptable speed on most freeways is 85 mph. On Loop 101, your speed is expected to match the highway number. Anything less is considered 'Wussy'.
4. Forget the traffic rules you learned elsewhere. Phoenix has its own version of traffic rules. For example, cars/trucks with the loudest mufflers go first at a four-way stop; the trucks with the biggest tires go second. However, in the East Valley, SUV-driving, cell phone-talking moms ALWAYS have the right of way.
5. If you actually stop at a yellow light, you will be rear ended.
6. Never honk at anyone. Ever. Seriously. It's an offense that can get you shot.
7. Road construction is permanent in Phoenix. Detour barrels are moved around for your entertainment pleasure during the middle of the night to make the next day's driving a bit more exciting.
8. Watch carefully for road hazards such as drunks, dogs, barrels, cones, cats, mattresses, shredded tires, rabbits, vultures, javelinas, roadrunners, and the coyotes feeding on any of these items.
9. Maricopa Freeway, Papago Freeway and the 'I-10' are the same road. SR202 is the same road as The Red Mountain FWY. Dunlap and Olive are the same street too. Jefferson becomes Washington, but they are not the same street. I-17 is also called The Black Canyon Freeway as well as The Veterans Memorial Highway. The SR51 has recently been renamed to Piestewa Freeway because Squaw Peak Parkway was too easy to pronounce. SR101 is also the Pima FWY except west of I-17, which is also The Black Canyon FWY, and The Veterans Memorial HWY. Lastly, Thunderbird Rd. becomes Cactus Rd. -- but, Cactus Rd. doesn't become Thunderbird Rd. because it dead ends at a mountain.
10. If someone actually has their turn signal on, wave them to the shoulder immediately to let them know it has been 'accidentally activated.'
11. If you are in the left lane and only driving 70 in a 55-65 mph zone, you are considered a road hazard and will be 'flipped off' accordingly. If you return the flip, you'll be shot.
12. For summer driving, it is advisable to wear potholders on your hands.
13. Please note that there are many, MANY more issues to the phenomenon of driving in Phoenix -- like the 4-cars-through-a-red-light rule -- but these will at least get you acquainted with our unique life on the road. -
Downpayment Assistance for Home BuyersPosted on: 2008-08-07It's been a busy week! Seller Down Payment Assistance Programs were eliminated by legislation and signed by President Bush on July 30, 2008. July 31, 2008, bill H.R. 6694 was introduced and sponsored by U.S. Rep. Al Green (TX-09).
The bill would remedy a harmful provision in the new housing law which limits homeownership opportunities for low and middle-income Americans. The legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Gary Miller (CA-42), Maxine Waters (CA-35), and Christopher Shays (CT-4) and reauthorizes and reforms charitable downpayment assistance funded in part by sellers, which has helped over one million families and individuals become homeowners since 1999.
Congratulations! WE DID IT. More than 32,000 Americans have called on Congress and the Bush Administration to preserve charitable downpayment assistance over the past year through phone calls, letters, and emails. They join a broad coalition of supporters, including the National Association of Homebuilders, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the Congressional Black Caucus, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
If you haven't yet, I still encourage you to visit www.getdownpayment.com and let your voice be heard.
Read More at Ameridream.org. Charitable downpayment assistance funded in part with seller participation has allowed homeownership to grow without using taxpayer dollars. To date, more than one million families and individuals have utilized this downpayment assistance, generating nearly $10 billion in home equity for those families. These working families qualify for FHA insured loans in every respect, but are unable to save the needed downpayment. AmeriDream has provided more than 250,000 gifts to aspiring homeowners, approximately 80% of whom were first-time homebuyers. AmeriDream also has helped educate 60,000 homebuyers through homebuyer education courses, helped 1,200 homeowners retain their homes when confronted with mortgage difficulties, and committed over $30 million to affordable housing development in local communities.
Website:www.Ameridream.org -
Trends in Housing Design and FeaturesPosted on: 2008-08-02What's IN and What's OUT
Understanding the current trends and requirements of today's home buyer may help you stage your home better for sale. Consider these new up and coming styles to make your home updated, fresh and desirable to those looking to buy a new home.
In
Outdoor Living. Patios, balconies and courtyards are now considered an extension of the home and are viewed as another room in the house. Fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and comfortable outdoor accents and furniture are more popular than ever.
Fully Concealed Appliances. The cabinet fronts and wood-printed covers for the fridge aren't enough. Appliances are now hidden behind hinged doors.
Copper and Bronze Tones. The shimmery metallic finishes are being replaced with softer shades. The built-in refrigerator, oven/stoves, etc.. are outfitted with copper and bronze tones bringing warmth to metallic finishes.
Bathroom Suites. Bathrooms are now multi-functional. We're seeing flat screen t.v.'s, mini fridges, wine fridges, and cappuccino makers! This room will soon have all the funcationality of the entire home!
Freestanding Bathtubs. The claw foot tubs, oversized soaker tubs, or 'bath thrones', have replaced whirlpool baths as the new must-have bathroom piece.
Pet Showers. Clean pets mean clean homes. Who wants to mess up a bathtub when this feature can be added to a garage or outdoor patio area?
Out
Living Rooms. This unused room is ceasing to exist. Some floorplans that have the 'living room' space are being turned into game rooms. People are opting for the great room more and more. They'd rather have space in other areas (such as that bathroom suite!)
Cathedral Ceiling Heights. The absurd look and wasted space of 20 ft ceilings in 12x10 rooms is finally wearing on buyers.
Tiny Balconies. Since outdoor living is becoming an extension of indoor living, tiny balconies with room for one chair are worthless.
McMansions. Less is more. Along with the ceiling height, people are not looking at castle size homes like they used to.
With fuel costs rising and a focus on the environment, homeowners have completely changed their idea of a dream home today and going forward. High ceilings, huge houses and wasted space just aren't a priority. Functionality and warmth are taking a front seat!Website:KelliGrant@85085RealEstate.comEmail:www.85085RealEstate.com -
How to Price Your House to Sell in Today’s MarketPosted on: 2008-07-30This market is unlike what many realtors who have only been in the business a few years have experienced and has been forgotten by those who have sold real estate for over ten years.
Accurate Comparative Market Analysis. Be sure you/your realtor researches the neighborhood comps accurately. The pending contracts are key to you as a new listing on the market. In a declining market, you MUST be ahead of the activity. This is why pending sales tell us such important information, such as what homes must be listed at to attract potential buyers. They have more current data than the properties that sold a few months ago and are more relevant than the active listings sitting on the market.
Pay close attention to the square footage of the homes under contract in the neighborhood. What is the average dollar per sq foot of those homes? How long was each of the properties with pending contracts on the market?
How quickly do you want to sell? Compare the list price and days on market of the pending sales. Does your home fit into the same sq foot range? If not, how long has it been since a home of your size has sold? For instance, your house is1100 sq ft and the ones that are under contract are all between 1500 and 3000 sq ft.
The active listings are important as well. How many are on the market within your size of home? What is their condition compared to yours? How many short sales and foreclosures are coming up? An abundant amount of upcoming short sales and foreclosures will only decrease the value of your home. Therefore, your home should be priced on the aggressive side to get it sold quicker at a higher price.
Foreclosures and short sales matter. Many clients tell me that those houses don’t count because “their” house is in good condition. Unfortunately, they do count. In most cases, appraisers work for the lenders. They are appraising the value of the home to protect the lender’s asset.
Abundant inventory and upcoming short sales and foreclosures are a factor in the appraisal. Therefore, if you price your home too high because it’s in “mint” condition, and you’ve received an offer (so you’ve had it off the market for about 2-3 weeks as PENDING) and the appraisal doesn’t come in at purchase price, you’ve just wasted another 3 weeks off the market in which the cumulative days on market has increased during that time. YES, it’s true.
What about cash buyers? If you have enough cash to buy a house without a mortgage, I have one question for you. Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes, would you pay more than the appraised value for a property even if you had cash? Probably not, that’s why you have enough cash to buy a property outright.
Price Reductions should be appropriate. If you’ve had more than 10-15 showings in the first 30 days and no offers, a price adjustment is probably necessary. I’m not referring to a few hundred dollars or a couple thousand dollars –this is referred to as ‘chasing the market’ and you will always be one step behind. Talk this over with your realtor and look at the facts. The numbers don’t lie. No one’s “opinion” matters here. If the market won’t accept your asking price or even make an offer, it might not be fair but it is reality. Remember, your house is only worth as much as a buyer is willing to pay for it. How many homes went from Active listings to Pending contracts since you listed? Why did you miss those buyers?
Consider signing a Price Reduction form for your realtor in advance. Your realtor will not reduce the price without consulting you first and mutually agreeing on a new price. If you suspect he/she would, then why did you hire a non-trustworthy realtor to handle the most expensive asset you own?
No Reduced Price Signs! This is a classic and common error on behalf of realtors around the globe. You get stressed out and then your realtor gets stressed out and panics. He/she puts out the PRICE REDUCED sign rider and plasters it all over the MLS and marketing material. This has only informed the public that your house has something wrong with it and won’t sell. Take a proactive approach…..look at the comps again and I bet that price reduction is in order.
Remember, full time licensed realtors sell homes every month whereas you may only sell a few throughout your lifetime. They are trained and educated in the legal requirements and will protect you and the most expensive asset you own. “Home sellers who use a real estate professional can expect to sell their homes for 16% more, on average, than sellers who try to do it themselves.”-- 2005 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers
I suggest interviewing three realtors before making your choice.
Upcoming topics:
• Ten questions to ask prospective listing agents
• Home & Design: What’s In and What’s Out
• 10 Tax Changes for 2008
Website:www.PhoenixHomesForLife.com -
The Top Three Credit Myths: RevealedPosted on: 2008-07-28Myth #1: Checking my own credit report will lower my score
Personal inquiries, also known as 'soft inquiries' or 'below the line inquiries,' are not visible to lenders and therefore are not part of your credit score calculation. So you can rest easy—checking your own credit report or score does NOT negatively impact your score.
Myth #2: Applying for new credit will actually lower my score
This depends on the type of credit you're applying for. If you apply for several credit cards within a short period of time, the number of inquiries will go up, which could drop your score. But if you're applying for a mortgage or auto loan, multiple inquiries from these lenders are generally treated as a 'single inquiry' and will have little impact on your credit score.
Myth #3: My score is the only thing that matters to a lender
In addition to your credit score, credit grantors may consider a number of other factors such as your income, assets, length at current residence and employment history when determining whether to extend credit. The criteria used may differ from one creditor to another. -
94.6 Percent of Mortgages are CurrentPosted on: 2008-07-22Recently, realtors and industry experts gathered to showcase neighborhoods in central and east Phoenix. It appears that home buying and selling is strong in specific neighborhoods, such as the area between 35th and 40th streets, from Oak St. to McDowell. Homes have consistently been selling for about 97 percent of value.
With gas prices soaring to an all-time high, people are focused on living closer to work.
The foreclosure and mortgage crisis dominate the news. Andrew Waite, author of 'Where to live in Phoenix', confirms that 94.6 percent of all mortgages are current. And, with certain neighborhoods still doing well, it's really not accurate to blanket the entire valley with the same negative stats.
Phoenix, the 'Valley of the Sun', has always been very neighborhood-centric. The recent housing market highlights how individual communities within one city have their own lifestyle and characteristics.
In the last Neighborhood Advisory Council meeting in Sonoran Foothills, the Community Manager pointed out how we can be proactive in taking control of our neighborhood. Developers and home builders market new communities using enormous marketing budgets. Once the community is turned over to the homeowners, we can still make an impact.
I guarantee each neighborhood has several resident realtors and mortgage brokers. I, for one, am looking forward to marketing my neighborhood as an attractive place to live with all of our surrounding beauty and amenities! I don’t think it’ll happen right away due to simple geography, but as more businesses are built nearby –the better it will get.
For accurate neighborhood housing stats, contact your neighborhood Realtor, Kelli Grant.
Website:www.PhoenixHomesForLife.com -
Top Ten Foods to Avoid by Dr. Asa AndrewPosted on: 2008-07-18Dr. Asa Andrew was on Sonoran Living Live today, and shared some powerful information that I think is vital to our health and the future of our children's health. Enjoy!
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The human body is very complex, however, health is nothing more than common sense. Our health is our greatest wealth. From this concept, Dr. Andrew understood what people were constantly searching for. It wasn't to look like the latest Hollywood star, but it was to live a high quality of life full of energy and vitality for as long as we are here.
Instead of treating patients symptoms, Dr. Andrew wanted to get to the root of their health challenge. Health is integrative therefore; he began looking holistically at each person individually. Every person consists of three basic areas of health; mental, chemical, and structural. He realized that all three areas had to be addressed before one could experience the vibrant health they were searching for. So Dr. Andrew created a new approach to health care called Natural Medicine®, designed to take you wherever you are in your current state of health to where you want to be.
Dr. Andrew says, 'You were designed to live an extraordinary life. There is a way to vibrant health. My goal is to equip you by giving you the tools to restore you to be a better you… a healthier you. There is a purpose for your life. Regardless of how you have been living, there is a more excellent way. Remember, Your past does not define you. The choices that you make today, those choices will define you.'
These ten items should be eliminated from everyone's kitchen, diet and lifestyle:
1.) Trans fats
Read your labels! Anything that says 'partially hydrogenated' is a trans fat. Trans fats cause clogged arteries, type 2 diabetes, and other serious health problems.
Only cook with organic butter or extra-virgin coconut oil as all other oils will turn into trans fat when used for cooking (including olive oil).
2.) Artificial sweeteners
Contribute to diabetes because they prompt you to eat more.
Aspartame and sucralose (Splenda) should be avoided completely due to their toxic effects on the body.
Alternatives are raw honey, agave nectar, stevia extract, and xylitol.
3.) High fructose corn syrup and processed sugars
Fructose converts to fat more than any other sugar.
This may be one of the reasons Americans continue to get fatter.
4.) Soy products
Creates hormonal imbalances in men and women by affecting estrogen levels.
Instead of soy milk for drinks and for infants, use goat's milk. It is the closest to a human mother's milk and is highly anti-allergenic.
5.) Pork products
Creates toxic cells. Never meant for consumption.
6.) Shellfish
Shellfish are scavengers ingesting countless toxins from the water in an attempt to keep our oceans and lakes clean.
7.) Processed wheat and white flour
You used flour and water in elementary school to make glue paper mache hard as concrete. It has a similar affect on the body.
Choose sprouted grain bread as an alternative.
8.) Soft drinks
Sodas (even diet ones) poison the body.
They don't reduce your hunger as solid food does, so your caloric intake is even higher.
Regular soft drinks are sweetened with high fructose corn syrup and diet drinks use artificial sweeteners.
A great alternative to the fizz you crave is to add fresh lime or lemon to sparkling water along with approved sweeteners.
9.) Unfiltered tap water
Regular tap water is filled with chemicals and infused with chlorine.
Always drink fresh spring water or filtered water and use a water filter for your home (even for bathing and washing clothes).
10.) Non-organic dairy and meat products
Animals that are not raised organically are fed chemical and hormone-laced foods and by eating them, those harmful toxins go directly into you.Website:www.AsaAndrew.com -
Funny Video Will Make You Laugh!Posted on: 2008-07-03 -
Where to Celebrate Independence Day around Phoenix, ArizonaPosted on: 2008-07-01Thursday, July 3
Light Up the Sky
7 - 10 p.m. (Fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.)
Maryvale Baseball Park
3600 N. 51st Ave. (south of Indian School Road)
Games, inflatable rides and special activities for kids, information booths, community groups and a fireworks show.
602-262-4539
Friday, July 4
Freedom Wireless Fabulous Phoenix 4th
6 – 9:35 p.m. (Fireworks display at 9:15 p.m.)
Steele Indian School Park
Third Street and Indian School Road
Celebrate our country’s freedom at one of the largest fireworks displays in the southwest. Kids inflatable rides will be free in the Manzanita Speedway
Kids World. Enjoy local entertainment, food and drink vendors.
602-534-FEST
West Valley Fireworks
Fourth of July Celebration: 7 p.m. July 4. Celebration includes swimming, water slides, food, music, a patriotic program, a F-16 flyover by a Luke Fighter Squadron and fireworks. Free swimming at GCC pool begins at 1 p.m.; doors open for night events at 6 p.m.; fireworks at 8:40 p.m. Glendale Community College Community Pool, Glendale Community College 6000 W. Olive Ave., Glendale. Free. 623-930-2299. www.glendaleaz.com/events
All-American Festival: 5-10 p.m. July 4. Kids zone, concessions, two stages of live music, fireworks and water activities. Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m. No alcohol or glass containers are permitted. Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. $5 for ages 13 and older. 623-773-7198. www.peoriaaz/specialevents
Surprise’s Fourth of July Celebration: 6-8:30 p.m. July 4. Enjoy live music, water zone and food. Surprise Recreation Campus, 15850 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise. $5 for children; $10 for adults. 623-266-4500. www.surpriseaz.com
Independence Day: 6:30 p.m. July 3. Live music, food and activities. Fireworks set for 9:15 p.m. Bring a blanket. Estrella Lakeside Amphitheatre, 10300 S. Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. Free. 623-386-1000. www.ci.goodyear.az.us
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City expected to add 812 acres to preservePosted on: 2008-06-30Michael Clancy
The Arizona Republic
Jun. 29, 2008
Another piece of Phoenix's planned Sonoran Preserve is on the block in a state-land auction scheduled for Monday.
The 812-acre parcel is at the city's northern limits, between 19th and 27th avenues, and Joy Ranch and Cloud roads.
The undeveloped land, just outside the Tramonto development, has mountains and a part of Skunk Creek Wash.
Bidding will began at $22.4 million, and no bidders are expected except for the city.
The money will come from the Phoenix Parks and Preserves Initiative and a Growing Smarter Grant.
The city already has set aside almost 4,000 acres for the preserve - most of it south of Carefree Highway between Interstate 17 and Cave Creek Road. The 4,000 acres already connects, or will connect, to existing open space of about 3,000 acres.
Ultimately, planners hope to set aside more than 21,000 acres including mountains, washes and other land.
The city last added to the preserve in November, when it purchased 927 acres near Dixileta Drive and Seventh Avenue.
It paid $85 million for the land, some of which will be used for a city park bordering the preserve.
The recent passage of an extension of the parks initiative should enable the city to complete the preserve within the initiative's 30-year time frame. -
Weekend Freeway Restrictions in Phoenix area (June 27-30)Posted on: 2008-06-27Northbound Loop 101 closed in Scottsdale for carpool lane project
Several improvement projects to add lanes and improve access along Valley freeways will require restrictions in the Phoenix area this weekend (June 27-30). The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) recommends drivers allow for extra travel time while the following restrictions are in place:
Northbound Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) closed between 90th Street and Hayden Road from 10 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (June 30) for carpool lane construction. DETOUR: Drivers are encouraged to use northbound State Route 51 as an alternate freeway route. Northbound Loop 101 traffic will detour along local streets. Drivers will exit the freeway at 90th Street and go north to Mountain View Road, east to 92nd Street, north to Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, west to the Greenway/Hayden Loop, then north to re-enter the freeway.
Project Benefit : ADOT is adding carpool lanes to a 15-mile stretch of Loop 101 through Scottsdale. The project is expected to be complete in 2009.
Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) narrowed to two lanes (right lanes closed) in each direction between 56th Street and Scottsdale Road from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday (June 30) for paving the new 64th Street interchange. Closed ramps include eastbound on-ramp at 56th Street, eastbound off-ramp at Scottsdale Road, westbound on-ramp at Scottsdale Road and westbound off-ramp at 56th Street. DETOUR: Drivers should be prepared to slow down and merge safely approaching the work zone.
Project Benefit : The Loop 101 interchange at 64th Street is being constructed as part of the 20-year Regional Transportation Plan approved by voters in 2004. The interchange is the first step in future planned development in the area.
Northbound I-17 closed at the Carefree Highway ( State Route 74) from 9 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday (June30) and 9 p.m. Monday to 5 a.m. Tuesday (July 1) for bridge work. DETOUR: Traffic will detour along off and on-ramps. Drivers should plan for extra travel time during these overnight closures.
Project benefit: ADOT is adding new lanes and interchanges along I-17 from the Loop 101 to the Carefree Highway to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The project is expected to be complete in 2009.
Southbound State Route 143 (Hohokam Expressway) closed between McDowell Road and University Drive from 6 p.m. Saturday to 5 a.m. Monday (June 30) for bridge work. DETOUR: Drivers should use alternate routes, including Priest Drive.
Project benefit: ADOT regularly maintains roads and bridges to ensure a continued safe and smooth ride for drivers.
I-10 narrowed (two lanes closed) in both directions between 19th and 27th avenues from 9 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday (June 30) and 9 p.m. Monday to 5 a.m. Tuesday (July 1) for lane striping. DETOUR: Drivers should slow down and merge safely approaching the work zone.
Project benefit: ADOT recently paved this section of freeway with rubberized asphalt, which provides a smoother and quieter ride for the traveling public.
For a complete list of freeway or highway restrictions across Arizona visit ADOT’s Travel Information site at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.
The Arizona Department of Transportation is coordinating freeway improvements throughout the Valley. These projects - which include new freeways, additional lanes and interchanges, rubberized asphalt, new landscaping and more - are included in the 20-year Regional Transportation Plan for Maricopa County. More than $15 billion in comprehensive, diverse transportation improvements are funded in the plan through a voter-approved sales tax that became effective in January 2006.
More information on ADOT’s freeway portion of the Regional Transportation Plan is available at www.azdot.gov/ValleyFreeways.Website:www.azdot.gov/ValleyFreeways. - State budget agreement nearsPosted on: 2008-06-24Programs that rely on state funding may not be able to keep their doors open. And teachers are waiting for their contracts for the new school year. Meanwhile, the Arizona legislative leadership has all but run down the clock in closed-door sessions at the State Capitol.
The end of the fiscal year (June 30th) is literally hours away – yet only today are we hearing of a deal on the state budget.
To read more about the proposed budgets, click here.
With the announcements of the budget proposal, little time remains for public scrutiny. While it is the responsibility of the governor and legislators from both parties to make sure moderate, forward thinking policies are reflected in the state spending plan, it is our responsibility to hold our elected officials accountable to pass a budget that protects families, education, and veterans.
Let your legislators know that each proposal deserves scrutiny, and that we expect them to ensure the budget protects Arizona’s future.
Review the budget and write your legislators if you see something that raises a red flag. Make sure your voice is heard – before it’s too late.
-Kelli Grant -
Restaurant Review for Ketzal Mexican GrillPosted on: 2008-06-23My husband and I like to dine out a lot, so we're extremely excited that our choices for places to go that are within a few miles (instead of a few freeways) is growing!
We hadn't yet tried Ketzal, mostly because I thought it was a fast food type place, but I was MISTAKEN! This little restaurant and bar, not only serves up excellent mexican cuisine, but has an oustanding atmosphere. We like to sit at the bar when we go out so we can talk to neighbors, or keep the bartender company....OK, and watch sports. They have it all. You can watch sports and talk to the friendly bartenders and neighbors!
The food is FRESH and delicious. Vince loved the Burrito Mix and I enjoyed the chicken tacos. The tortillas, the chicken, the dips...everything was fresh and yummy.
We will be frequenting our new local hang out...oh and the Marg's were oustanding! If you haven't already, get over to Ketzal and meet the owner, Juan, and eat great food. You won't be sorry!Website:www.ketzalmexicangrill.com/ -
Buyer Beware! Fuel Economy Technology a BustPosted on: 2008-06-17Although the topic is not directly about real estate, it is about people and their money. It’s a tough economy and as we're all well aware of, we've seen our share of real estate and lending scams! And, as if the economy wasn't struggling enough, we have yet another way to be taken advantage of through our desire for a better environment or from our stress of continually increasing gas prices.
Have you heard of the Pre-Ignition Catalytic Converter claiming, “The PICC, Pre-Ignition Catalytic Converter is a breakthrough new technology that could get your car up to five times the gas mileage!”
Recently, a family member contacted me who was thrilled that they had found something they thought would be the golden ticket to saving fuel costs . . .and saving the environment. Several phone calls were put out to mechanics about installing this “revolutionary” technology that was sure to be the next big thing, and since it wasn’t well-known yet - they were excited to be getting it at a fair price before supply and demand went through the roof and the cost tripled.
BUYER BEWARE!! I immediately opened my trusty source for everything you want to know and more, the good 'ol Internet. I Googled the term PICC fuel and found all of the following information that supports this is a TOTAL SCAM. What’s most scary is that there are ads in reputable magazines such as Popular Science, so why would someone question its validity? It sure sounds good!
I share this with you because it enrages me as much as any real estate or lending scam would. Taking advantage of people who are completely frustrated and vulnerable in such uncertain times is UNacceptable. So, please click the links and forward to any friend or family member who may contact you with this golden key to the future either because they are passionate about saving the environment or simply cutting their fuel costs in half. And, if all these links still don’t convince you (you’re dillusional), remember that by installing this, you would void all manufacturer’s warranties on your vehicle.
If it’s too good to be true, it probably is! The links below are just a few of the sites that I found with facts, news stories and bulletins about the creator of PICC, Dennis Lee, this so-called technology and other scams he’s created. I encourage you to search the facts for yourself if this was something you were considering!
http://www.funwithbutter.com/search/label/Automobile
http://www.electricitybook.com/dennis-lee-scam/
http://www.phact.org/e/z/dennisLeeonstealsanddeals.WMV
http://www.phact.org/e/dennis.html
http://www.nmsr.org/denislee.htm
http://www.rv.net/FORUM/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/21034695.cfmWebsite:www.85085RealEstate.com -
Buying a New House Before ForeclosingPosted on: 2008-03-21Walk Away or Stay?
There are thousands of homeowners facing foreclosure who simply walk away from their properties and their mortgages. The lenders are left to deal with the financial fallout.
It’s starting to become a business decision and not just a financial duress decision causing homeowners to walk away. Many who owe more than their houses are worth abandon their homes and mortgages and it just might make financial sense, especially if you are not too concerned about the hit to your credit score.
Some homeowners are combining that strategy with a new one. They are buying new homes before their old homes go into foreclosure, and then walking away from the old homes and the old mortgages.
What these homeowners hope to achieve is getting out of their current untenable mortgage situations with a new home and a new mortgage. And it appears that so long as the homeowners don’t mind seeing their credit scores tumble, this strategy will work.
The homeowners will need to come up with a new lender and sizable down payment for the new home, but once they’re in, there is nothing that the old lender can do.
Since the new home with the new mortgage, has no connection to the old home and the old lender, the old lender can not come after the new home to collect any debt owed on the old home.
What is also a sign of the times is that there are now realtors who specialize in helping homeowners pursue this strategy and lenders who also specialize in these situations.
Is this the right thing to do? I was raised with traditional values that you should pay back the money you borrowed. However, when a colleague approached me with the concept, I have to admit that it made me think. I have clients who continually ask my advice about the home they purchased in the height of the market . . and when they consider the crushing blow they’re taking, they want to know what they can do.
Some have crunched numbers and it may take an additional 7 yrs to break even...and if there are short sales and foreclosures attracting buyers who can enter the neighborhood for up to $300,000 less than what others entered into - what does that mean to the neighborhood? Are these new neighbors taking care of their homes and their yards in the same manner? Are they upgrading and landscaping to the same level as those that paid hundreds of thousands more for their homes?
Even when the overall market returns, will the neighborhood be an entirely different community than when others purchased the home? And, if you’re at a time in life saving for retirement and the primary residence was supposed to be an appreciating asset - is it better to walk away with a minor ding on your credit for going through a short sale and 'starting over'?
I don’t have the answers, but I can say that, suprisingly, this concept made me stop and consider! - The Rotten HousePosted on: 2008-02-20
DISCLAIMER: I don't condone this behavior, approve of such acts, or recommend doing this at home....but it sure is funny!!
The Rotten House
She spent the first day packing her belongings into boxes, crates and suitcases.
On the second day, she had the movers come and collect her things.
On the third day, she sat down for the last time at their beautiful dining room table by candle-light, put on some soft background music, and feasted on a pound of shrimp, a jar of caviar, and a bottle of spring water.
When she had finished, she went into each and every room and deposited a few half-eaten shrimp shells dipped in caviar into the hollow of the curtain rods.
She then cleaned up the kitchen and left. When the husband returned with his new girlfriend, all was bliss for the first few days. Then slowly, the house began to smell.
They tried everything; cleaning, mopping and airing the place out.
Vents were checked for dead rodents and carpets were steam cleaned.
Air fresheners were hung everywhere. Exterminators were brought in to set off gas canisters, during which they had to move out for a few days and in the end they even paid to replace the expensive wool carpeting. Nothing worked.
People stopped coming over to visit. Repairmen refused to work in the house. The maid quit.
Finally, they could not take the stench any longer and decided to move. A month later, even though they had cut their price in half, they still could not find a buyer for their stinky house. Word got out to the local Realtors and eventually even the local Realtors refused to take their calls.
Finally, they had to borrow a huge sum of money from the bank to purchase a new place.
The ex-wife called the man and asked how things were going. He told her the saga of the rotting house. She listened politely and said that she missed her old home terribly and would be willing to reduce her divorce settlement in exchange for getting the house back.
Knowing his ex-wife had no idea how bad the smell was, he agreed on a price that was about 1/10th of what the house had been worth, but only if she were to sign the papers that very day. She agreed and within the hour his lawyers delivered the paperwork.
A week later the man and his girlfriend stood smiling as they watched the moving company pack everything to take to their new home......... And to spite the ex-wife, they even took the the curtain rods!!!!!!Website:www.YourCommunityResource.com - Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007Posted on: 2008-02-19
When a borrower is unable to meet the monthly mortgage payments on their home, the borrower will lose title to their home through:
1. A Short Sale
2. Foreclosure, or
3. Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure
But, did you know that under Section 108(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, a mortgage lender who forgave debt was required to provide a 1099 Form to the IRS stating the amount the borrower had been forgiven? The amount of debt forgiveness on a home is then taxed as ordinary income, for any of the previously three mentioned methods.
For example, you owe $250,000 on a mortgage and the lender reduced the amount owed to $200,000 to facilitate a short sale. Under current tax law, the $50,000 in forgiven mortgage debt becomes taxable income.
Unfortunately, the majority of people in a situation where that can't make the mortgage payments are in financial distress (DUH!) and are unable to pay the additional taxes.
Relief is in Sight!
On December 20, 2007, President Bush signed H.R. 3648, known as the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007. It amends Section 108(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that any amount forgiven on mortgage debt secured by a principal residence will not be taxed. It was effective as of December 20, 2007 and applies to indebtedness discharged on a principal residence before January 1, 2010.Website:www.YourCommunityResource.com - Common Credit Repair Scams & How to Avoid ThemPosted on: 2008-02-16
There are many legitimate organizations that help consumers fix their credit, but others are just waiting to take advantage of those needing help.
In today’s world of easy credit, bad credit and heavy debts are not uncommon. For many people, debt and credit problems become unmanageable. If you are looking for help, beware of several common credit-fix scams. First, understand that if there are errors on your credit report, such as debts that aren’t yours, you can fix these errors yourself for free. But, if your report is correct and simply contains information that you wish wasn’t yours, there isn’t much you can do. Creditors can keep debts on your credit report for seven years, and there is no magic trick that will make them go away.
Keeping that in mind, watch out for the following, as presented by Bankrate.com:
1. We speak the credit bureaus’ language or know some secret regulation that can make unappealing items on your credit report vanish.
Remember that there is no such thing as a secret formula that corrects unappealing citations on your report to make them go away. Some companies offering these services will just take your money and disappear. Others will bombard credit bureaus with frivolous disputes, and while these items are under investigation, they may temporarily be omitted from your report, after which they will return. The company, however, will show you your miraculously “clean” report and collect its fee. Also, keep in mind that the Credit Repair Organizations Act forbids any company from accepting money until after it does what it has promised, says Susan Grant, director of the National Fraud Information Center. Remember that scams will usually ask for money upfront.
2. We’ll convince the creditor that you don’t really owe the debt.
This works similarly to the first scam. Companies will concoct a scheme for you to challenge the debt or will claim that they will issue a deluge of procedural requests that will persuade the creditor to drop the claim.“Federal agencies have described these schemes as bogus,” says Deanne Loonin, staff attorney with the National Consumer Law Center. If you believe that you may actually have a defense with regard to a debt, you should consult a lawyer.
3. We will get you a brand-new, clean credit file. Remember that this is always illegal.
Companies may try to persuade you to apply for a new taxpayer identification number or employer identification number for the purposes of building a new credit history. This is a felony. Be especially vigilant of this one, because you may not realize what you are being asked to do because part of the con is not to explain the entire scheme. Besides being illegal, the “new” credit report would still list your name and address, which would still be connected to your old debts.
4. Call our 900 number for details on our credit-fix strategies.
This can be combined with any scam, and more than likely, the con artists will try to keep you on the phone as long as possible, extending huge per-minute charges.
5. We’ll clean your credit fast and use our contacts to get you a credit card, mortgage or loan.
This is a newer scam, and one of the most costly. Consumers who really need money or loans are especially susceptible to this, and can be persuaded to pay huge amounts to the scam. Some companies mimic credit-counseling agencies or mortgage companies, and will hit you up again and again, until you have nothing left. Since there are legitimate non-profit groups that help educate consumers with regard to their credit, it is best to keep a tight hold on your wallet and be wary of any quick-fixes or big promises. A little reference-checking on the Internet should quickly reveal the legitimacy of any companies.
Generally, be wary of companies that initiate contact, outrageous promises or huge fees. You should also be careful of two common mistakes that are not scams, but are costly. Refinancing your home to pay off credit cards is a bad idea since your home is now on the line. Also, since you are entitled to free copies of each of your credit reports annually, be careful of companies that ask you to pay for them.
Andorra Credit Repair Corporation is one reputable agency that you can contact with additional questions.
Your annual free credit report can be obtained at AnnualCreditReport.com. This site is sponsored by the three major credit reporting agencies, TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. You set up a log in and password, and it tracks the date and will remind you to pull your report again on the anniversary the following year.Website:www.YourCommunityResource.com - How to Be Smart Investing in Real EstatePosted on: 2008-02-13
Your Primary Home is First.
Buying your own home gives you a place to live and teaches you the cost of home ownership, financing and market conditions. You receive tax benefits and an asset that you can sell, many times for a profit. You will also learn about property maintenance and build your own network of professionals who can prove to be invaluable when investing. Finally, your first home could later turn into your first investment property! When you decide to upgrade or get a bigger house, you might be able to keep your first home as a rental property. Consult your real estate advisor to find out if your house would make a good rental property.
Knowledge is Key.
Being a savvy investor takes more than just buying up properties. Having a good knowledge base goes a lot further than a “sixth sense” for good deals. Use the Internet, read books by reliable authors, and attend investment groups and college courses. These are all good resources to learning the best investment practices. You should also tap into other successful real estate investors and real estate agents for information.
Professional Help Is Essential.
Although you may not think you need help, a trustworthy and honest professional may be the partner you need. When it comes to spending tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, I'm sure you want to invest it wisely. You go to a dentist for your teeth, a CPA to prepare your taxes, a doctor when you feel sick....so why would you think a realtor is any less necessary as an important professional to include on your family team? Real estate is usually what people spend the most money on in their lives and yet they'll take short cuts and risk losing thousands of dollars trying to be an expert on their own. Realtors manage real estate transactions every day, whereas you may only handle one every few years.
Management companies take the pain out of property management. For instance, managing a rental property takes a lot of time, and you will need to be prepared to make repairs, resolve issues and advertise for renters if you are taking on the task yourself. In the long run, a management company may be just what you need. Use the referrals of friends, family and associates to find reliable, honest professionals to help you.
Know the Market.
Before you invest, research the local market thoroughly. There is no universal real estate “bubble.” Each market is different, and has different fluctuations and trends. One market may be good for rental income but not appreciation, while another market may be excellent for appreciation but not for rental income. There are endless variables, and it is important for you to know exactly what you’re getting into. Remember that one area is never the same as another area. Even within your local market, different neighborhoods may have their own fluctuations and pros and cons. Turn to your realtor for advice about your intention and what neighborhoods and areas will best reach your goal.
With these basic tips under your belt, you are ready to venture out into the investment arena. Happy investing!Website:www.YourCommunityResource.com -
How to Get Your Asking Price in a Buyer’s MarketPosted on: 2008-02-11In a buyers’ market it can often be tricky to get even close to your asking price. There are, however, a few things you can do to help get a little closer, or even actually get your asking price. A recent Realty Times article discussed some of the following tips that most people can implement to help get the asking price… and sell the house as soon as possible. There are generally three categories that they fall in:
ONE
Finish the unfinished rooms or convert any convertible rooms, such as the basement or a recreational room. Not only does this give an increased amount of usable space, but it can also be used as a selling point since these are expenses that the buyer doesn’t have to incur. Not to mention, there seems to be an increased desire for move-in ready homes where the buyer does not have to do a thing to the house.
In houses over $500,000, offer a free media room. With deals, you can probably have one installed for around $5,000. Media rooms are something many house shoppers see as a neat luxury, and could be the difference between someone going for your house or someone else’s. Just over a year ago, Architectural Digest united with Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. in a consumer-trend study to find that 32% of people seeking a secondary home wanted a media room/home theater.
TWO
You can make the mortgage on your house more desirable by buying down the interest rate. This is something fairly easy to offer someone, and a lower payment certainly makes your home more desirable!
Rather than offering a cash-specific incentive, you can offer something else like a vacation. Again, this makes your offer stand out from other offers.
Offer seller financing. This is actually not that difficult to do if you can make the deal work, and can actually end up earning you some money. Talk to your realtor about the possibilities.
THREE
Offer to pay their HOA fees for a year. This is a practical buyer benefit. If someone is carefully looking at their budget, not having to include these fees in their monthly expenses can be a big deal.
Offer to pay off some of their debt. If this is done as part of the loan program, then it could lead to the buyer qualifying for a larger loan, or a better interest rate. If just a side agreement, then again, it could mean lower monthly payments, which can be extremely important to the buyer.
Finally, you can always offer to pay the closing costs. These tend to be something that is a big hit to buyers’ pocketbooks, and something people don’t adequately budget for when shopping for a new house.
Unfortunately, other than the few aesthetically appealing things you can do to spruce up the house, real incentives tend not to be cheap. They can mean the difference from having to drop your asking price by quite a few thousand… or actually getting what you want! The key to choosing which incentive to go for is to think about what incentive works best for you AND what is a true attraction for the demographic of buyers looking to buy your house and in the community you’re in.Website:www.YourCommunityResource.com -
Arizona Named Best Golf DestinationPosted on: 2008-01-30Arizona has been honored as the best golf destination in all of North America! The International Association of Golf Tour Operators honored Arizona as the Golf Destination of the Year in the North America category.
“The global trade organization for the golf tourism industry comprises more than 1,000 companies in 73 countries, including more than 320 golf tour operators in 45 countries. Arizona averages more than 330 sunny days each year, and the state has more than 300 golf courses, according to the group.”
Let’s face it . . .we are the place to be! We have excellent weather at least 7 mths out of the year (shhhhh), no natural disasters to worry about, no snow to shovel….so it’s really not that bad. We have so many economic indicators that are in our favor for the local housing market to be “aweswome” by 2009. Now, if only we all jumped on that mental bandwagon instead of staying in the doomsday mindset.
Clearly, folks, things could be a heck of a lot worse for us. Turn to one of the good cities in the US of A, New Orleans, and count your blessings and quit complaining. The more you stay in analysis paralysis waiting for some imaginary floor to drop -the more stagnant our market will stay. It’s like trying to time the stock market just right - it’s totally unrealistic.
For those of you who keep waiting, you just might miss the perfect home for your family. This is a great time to invest in a home!Website:www.YourCommunityResource.com -
Buy a House Now or Wait?Posted on: 2008-01-29There are a number of good reasons why buying a home makes good economical sense regardless of the housing market.
1. Homeowners build equity in their homes that can be used as collateral for a home equity loan, or as part of a retirement plan when you finally downgrade into a smaller home.
2. Built up home equity can also be used for putting money down toward your next home.
3. Prolonged home ownerships brings with it equity growth in the form of debt reduction and general inflation.
4. Even if the market starts declining, history tells us that this will only be short-lived, and the market will start increasing again.
5. By using your income to pay off your mortgage, your income is in effect working for you. The opposite is true with renting.
6. One of the biggest benefits to having a mortgage is that, in most cases, the interest portion of your mortgage payment is tax deductible, which can save you a lot of money every year.
Making the decision to invest in such a way is never going to be easy, but by looking sensibly at the market, and by really considering whether the advantages above apply to your specific situation, you are able to make a more informed decision!Website:www.PhoenixHomesForLife.com -
Lively Decorating Ideas are In for 2008Posted on: 2008-01-28Breathe New Life Into Your Home!
A new year brings plenty of opportunities for new beginnings, so why not give your home one? Whether you are about to put your house on the market or are just a bit bored with your surroundings, some simple changes can make a world of difference.
Slap on Some Paint
Try something different and stay away from boring beige or wimpy white. Or, at the very least, use the more muted colors with vibrant accent colors on one or two walls. “We’ve gone through an era of everything being very muted and quiet and what we see with the younger generation coming up is that we’re really going to use lots of colors,” says Dixie Lovejoy, owner of Arizona’s Apple Interior Systems, Inc. “Colors on the walls, color on the furniture, such as lime greens, browns, oranges and bright reds.”
A fresh coat of paint will give your home an instant lift since it makes guests (or buyers) feel that your home is clean and well-kept. “Paint is a very inexpensive way to do something new and not have your house seem dated as time goes on,” Lovejoy explains.
Go Big or Go Home
When purchasing accessories, buy bigger and buy less. “People used to buy accessories on a very small scale,” says Lovejoy. “In our office, one of our slogans is: bigger is better.” She means that things like pots, vases, flower arrangements and fountains should all be larger. Replace a lot of knickknacks with one big focal piece. You will make a statement with your decorating rather than making your home look cluttered.
Pillow Talk
Accent pillows are a key home décor item that no home should be without. Pillows can tie together your home’s look, harmonizing colors from the painting above your fireplace with the antique wingback chair. “Accent pillows are kind of a key to all design that ties everything together,” Lovejoy says.
Sliding Away
Sliding glass doors and even French doors are disappearing in newer homes, says Lovejoy. Their replacements are doors that virtually vanish and allow greater access to the outdoors. Installing these doors can replace the eyesore that some sliding glass doors can be. “They actually can slide all the way into a pocket that’s built into the wall or stack on top of each other so it becomes one small window on the left or right side, but the rest of your house is all open,” explains Lovejoy.
Homeowners want more than the typical three-foot opening that French doors or sliding glass doors give. “The newest trend is opening up a 12 to 22 or 30 feet of glass,” says Lovejoy. “It gives you almost the lanai effect like you have in Hawaii where the inside and the outside all become one.” This look is ideal for homeowners who entertain a lot or host big events. These doors allow you to essentially merge the inside and the outside of your home.
The Outdoors Becomes the Indoors
Connected with this trend is the growing trend to decorate the outdoors like the indoors. Patios and decks with fireplaces, couches, chairs and even drapes and pictures are not uncommon and can blur the line between the inside and outside of your home. Today’s designers are incorporating big patterns into velvets and sheer materials on outdoor furniture that still holds up to the elements. These materials allow you to hose off your outdoor couch or chairs or vacuum them to remove dirt or stains.
With Flooring, Hard Is In
Carpeting is on the decline, says Lovejoy. Traditionally, homes have had carpeting in bedrooms and tile or wood in other areas. This is changing to homes that have hard flooring in all parts of the home to create a flow between the different areas of the home, as well as between the inside and outside. “That way, when you open up your house for entertaining, the patio or the lanai on the outside, or your sunroom, has the same surface as the house so you get that huge expanded feeling,” says Lovejoy.
Going hand in hand with this trend is the prominence of rugs. Of course homeowners want some soft areas in their homes, like near couches or beds. -
Home Selling Tip: What Kind of “Smellment” Does Your Home Have?Posted on: 2008-01-11With so much inventory on the market, it is imperative to make sure that you have prepared your home for optimum showing. Buyers,…in what has been deemed as a “buyer’s market” …are pickier than ever. They are asking to see between 30-50 homes sometimes before they make a decision!
Buyers usually know within about 10 seconds if your house will make the final cut. So, before a buyer votes you off the island or shouts “Your Fired” -you will want to impress them as soon as they pull up to the house, but especially as soon as their realtor opens the door and ushers them in.
Today’s tip has to do with your “scentmosphere”. This is often forgotten when staging the home for sale. The visual aspects are the main focus. You’ve heard it from your realtor, “Pack up the clutter and put it in storage,” “Take down all the family photos,” “Take out some of the furniture,” and “Clean out the closets!”
What does your house smell like? Your realtor would be a great advisor as this person doesn’t live there. We get immune to the scents in our own house. Does it smell like the dinner from last night or the dirty dishes, your family dog, or worse yet: dirty diapers? Sandra just told me last weekend of her horror story with her buyer clients when they walked into a gorgeous house that smelled like the dirty diaper sitting on the floor in the master bedroom! It doesn’t matter how great or perfect that house is, the smell of the dirty diaper was forever burned into the buyer’s memory…and nose!
Burn candles or get those reed diffusers that continuously give off fragrance. Good smells are kitchen spice scents, vanilla, citrus, or fresh/clean scents. Don’t get something so strong and spicey that it overwhelms visitors.
Be aware of the environment and your scentmosphere every day you leave! The day you forget to check will be the day the buyer comes to see your home…. afterall, it’s Murphy’s Law!Website:www.KelliGrantRealty.com -
District 2 City Council Meeting with Planning Director, Debra StarkPosted on: 2007-10-06A week ago, I attended this meeting where Debra Stark, City of Phoenix Planning Director, answered questions and discussed the future needs and plans for District 2 and Phoenix as a whole.
The motorplex has been a big issue for those of us living here in Tramonto and Sonoran Foothills. I must say that I feel much better after hearing the intentions and seeing design concepts. She said that Westcorp wants to keep it upscale and preserve the integrity of the beauty of our surrounding desert. It was also mentioned that it is supposed to be nicer than the Scottsdale Rd/101 auto mall. At the northeast corner of I-17 and Dove Valley Rd, the motorplex will be located on 77 acres consisting of 11 dealerships with 16 auto brands while keeping 22 acres of Sonoran Preserve.
View the design guidelines.
The Sonoran Preserve Edge Treatment keeps the preserve open for the residents to have accessibility for hiking and biking. Acquiring another 20 acres gives 150 miles of Sonoran Preserve. They pointed out that Fireside by Del Webb at Norterra is limited on mountainside building due to the edge treatment with the intent to keep the accessibility open to surrounding neighborhoods.
The Deer Valley Village overlay district was created to restrict residential building surrounding Deer Valley airport as it is the busiest general aviation airport in the country.
For those of you who shop at Paradise Valley Mall, you will see that it is once again going through a complete revitalization. Plans are posted throughout the mall.
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Tramonto Park is Here!Posted on: 2007-09-06District 2 residents will be enjoying a new neighborhood park, complete with features for both children and adults.
The City Council approved the master development plan for the newly named Tramonto Park on a 12-acre site at 31st Drive and Via De Pedro Miguel.
It includes a children’s playground, four ramadas, area lighting, sidewalks, lighted sand volleyball courts, lighted
basketball courts, a small amphitheater, a nine-station exercise course, a parking lot, restrooms and plenty of liberating open space.
The Parks and Recreation Department worked closely with residents of the area on the park’s name and design. A nine-member advisory committee spent three months planning and then conducted a public hearing that drew 120 residents. Of those who attended the meeting, 84 percent approved of the design plans and 73 percent approved of the name for the park.
The council office appreciates the strong neighborhood involvement in these exciting plans. The city obtained the property for the park from development fees paid by Tramonto Development. -
Your Neighborhood Web site is in the process of becoming your most valuable resourcePosted on: 2007-08-04Thank you for visiting this neighborhood web site designed specifically for the residents of your neighborhood.
It's nearing school time again, and my team is working hard to have this as fulfilled as possible before September. Some of the things we're working on are:
** Communicating with your children's schools encouraging them to use this web site to post photos, messages, and events on the calendar.
** Contacting your individual HOA property manager to let them know that they should use the HOA page to communicate effectively with you, the home owner's. There is already a password protected system set up giving them secure access to post board meetings on the calendar, photos and much more.
** Working with local merchants and businesses to provide you with reliable resources, services and coupons.
** Organizing contests for you to win great prizes from participating local businesses.
** Organizing fun neighborhood parties so that you can get to know who your neighbors are and get to know local merchants that provide valuable services & goods to your families.
These are just a few of the things, as I could go on and on! I am very excited to provide you, my neighbors and clients, with this powerful resource. If you have any ideas or comments, please let me know!
Be sure to register for the monthly newsletter. You won't want to miss out on anything!
Sincerely,
Kelli Grant
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Specliast
Website:www.85085RealEstate.com
