Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Excerpts from a DOG & CAT diary



 Excerpts from a Dog’s Diary…

8:00 am – Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am – A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am – A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am – Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 PM – Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 PM – Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 PM – Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 PM – Milk bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 PM – Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 PM – Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 PM – Sleeping on the bed! M y favorite thing!


Excerpts from a Cat’s Diary?

Day 983 of my captivity. My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects.

They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.

The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a ‘good little hunter’ I am. 

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of ‘allergies.’ I must learn what this means and how to use it to my advantage..

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow — but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released – and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously CRAZY.
The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicating with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now………

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Kent Island under 250K

Offered at $247,900

1829 Anchorage Dr
Chester, MD
Click Here for More Information
   DESCRIPTION
   PROPERTY DETAILS
•  Single Family Home•  0.24 acres lot•  3 bedrooms 
•  Built in Unspecified•  Unspecified Area•  2 bathrooms 
   PROPERTY FEATURES
•  Single Family Property •  Type: Detached home, Fee simple •  Kitchen is 12 X 12
•  Status: Active •  Style: Cape Cod, Traditional •  Parking features: Driveway/Off Street
•  County: QUEEN ANNES •  Master bedroom •  Heating features: Electric, Heat Pump(s)
•  Subdivision: HARBOR VIEW •  Living room •  Cooling features: Electric, Heat Pump(s)
•  Year Built: 1988 •  Kitchen •  Exterior construction: Vinyl siding
•  3 total bedroom(s) •  Bathroom(s) on main floor •  Lot is 10595 sq. ft.
•  2 total bath(s) •  Bedroom(s) on main floor •  Approximately 0.24 acre(s)
•  2 total full bath(s) •  Master bedroom is 15 X 10 •  Lot size is less than 1/2 acre
•  Two story•  Living room is 18 X 11•  Call agent for details on association fee info.

   SELLER CONTACT INFO
Dina Baxter
Rosendale Realty
605 Main St. Suite 100
Stevensville
Maryland 21666
(410) 643-2166
dina@dinabaxter.com

   Posted: July 31, 2010

Offered at $349,990- 121 Hershey Ct Grasonville, MD

Offered at $349,990

121 Hershey Ct
Grasonville, MD
Click Here for More Information
   DESCRIPTION
   PROPERTY DETAILS
•  Single Family Home•  0.25 acres lot•  4 bedrooms 
•  Built in Unspecified•  Unspecified Area•  3 bathrooms 
   PROPERTY FEATURES
•  

Single Family Property

•  Style: Colonial•  2 car garage
•  Status: Active •  Master bedroom •  Attached parking
•  County: QUEEN ANNES •  Living room •  Parking features: Driveway/Off Street, Faces Front, Garage Door Opener
•  Subdivision: SAWMILL COURT •  Family room •  Heating features: Bottled Gas/Propane
•  Year Built: 2010 •  Kitchen •  Forced air heat
•  New Home •  Laundry room •  Central air conditioning
•  New construction •  Bathroom(s) on main floor •  Cooling features: Electric
•  4 total bedroom(s) •  Master bedroom is 18 X 15 •  Exterior construction: Vinyl siding
•  3 total bath(s) •  Living room is 13 X 12 •  Lot is 10806 sq. ft.
•  2 total full bath(s) •  Family room is 17 X 15 •  Approximately 0.24 acre(s)
•  1 total half bath(s) •  Kitchen is 28 X 12 •  Lot size is less than 1/2 acre
•  Three story •  Hardwood floors •  Elementary School: GRASONVILLE PRIMARY
•  

Type: Detached home, Fee simple, To be built

•  Fireplace(s) •  Middle School: STEVENSVILLE

   SELLER CONTACT INFO
Dina Baxter
Rosendale Realty
605 Main St. Suite 100
Stevensville
Maryland 21666
(410) 643-2166
dina@dinabaxter.com

   Posted: September 25, 2010

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Check this out


Elegant Home








Overview

Maps

Photos





































$440,000
Single Family Home

Main Features

5 Bedrooms
4 Bathrooms
Lot: 0.35 acre(s)

Location

1922 Chester Drive
Chester, MD 21619
USA


To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:




Dina Baxter


Dina Baxter

Rosendale Realty
(410) 643-2166
dina@dinabaxter.com
http://www.dinabaxterrealestate.com


Listed by: Rosendale Realty



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Monday, September 20, 2010

Let’s Winterize!



This list of fall projects is designed to help you to winterize your home. With the cold season approaching, check out these valuable time- and money-saving tips to protect your home from damage caused by harsh winter weather. Your home is a significant investment and it is important to protect your assets wisely.

Winterizing varies by region. Some people need to be more concerned about snow and ice than others. Regardless of whether weather will be an issue for you this winter, this guide contains tips for regular home maintenance that every homeowner needs to perform. This is by no means a complete list. Only you know what needs to be done. Fall is the perfect time to take a walk around you home, note problem areas and set in motion a plan to correct potential problems before they begin, small problems before they grow, and large problems before they become uncontrollable!

In areas with freezing temperatures, drain and turn off outside spigots. Drain, dry and store garden hoses that you would like to use next season. Clean and store your patio furniture, gas grills and lawn equipment. Check to make sure that no critters are living in your foundation or attic. These are all simple things that you can do to make springtime more enjoyable, regardless of where you live.

Trim Limbs. Fall is the best time of year for trimming back unruly trees. During the winter, ice can form on trees and make the limbs significantly heavier. Therefore, cut back any limbs that touch your home, or they might pose a danger to siding or windows if they become loaded with snow or ice later in the season.

Look Through Your Windows. If your windows are foggy and cleaning them makes no difference, it is probably because a seal has been broken on multi-paned glass. The purpose of that seal is to insulate your home. With winter approaching and heating prices at an all time high, replace or repair window panes that have broken seals.

Patch Cracks. Walk around your home’s exterior and look for cracks in the foundation and missing caulk around windows and other openings. Leaky windows and doors cause homes to lose heat, and they can grow as a result of ice formation in the coldest months. Fill cracks now before the weather gets colder.

Clean Gutter Clutter. This is perhaps one of homeowners’ least favorite chores, but unless you want to install new gutters in the spring, you need to pull out the leaves and other debris in the fall. Many manufacturers offer solutions to cover your gutters and reduce the buildup of debris. They are not foolproof, but if you hate to clean out your gutters they may be worth the investment. Don’t forget the downspouts, where ice can combine with debris to cause bursting and leaking. Gutters and downspouts were developed to keep water away from your home. If you skip this chore, you probably will spend a lot more time mopping the basement floors later in the winter, because all of that water and ice needs has to go somewhere.

Real estate agents know how to spot the difference between well-maintained and neglected homes. Some of the most common areas of neglect are those listed above. Homes that are well-maintained and properly winterized are a hot commodity! Don’t risk your investment by being lax in your upkeep. In just one or two weekends, you can complete all of the items described above. Your home deserves it.
 
Recipes
Fall is the time for entertaining, whether indoors or outdoors. The next time you host a dinner party, knock your guests off their feet with this delicious pecan pie with a chocolate twist.
Chocolate Pecan Pie
10 Servings


Ingredients
Crust
• 1 Pillsbury® Refrigerated PieCrust (from 15-oz. pkg.), softened as directed on package

Filling
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup margarine or butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 eggs
• 1 (6-oz.) pkg. (1 cup) semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Topping
• 2 tablespoons reserved semisweet chocolate chips
• 10 pecan halves
• Whipped cream

Method
Heat oven to 325˚F. Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan as directed on the package for a one-crust filled pie.

In a large bowl, combine the corn syrup, sugar, margarine, vanilla and eggs; beat well. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the chocolate chips for the topping. Stir in the remaining chocolate chips and 1 1/2 cups pecans. Spread evenly in the pie-crust-lined pan.

Bake at 325˚ F for 55 to 65 minutes or until it is deep golden brown and the filling is set. Cover the edge of the crust with strips of foil after 15 to 20 minutes of baking to prevent excessive browning. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper. Melt the 2 tablespoons of reserved chocolate chips in a small saucepan over low heat. Dip each of 10 pecan halves in chocolate. Place them on waxed-paper-lined cookie sheet. Refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes or until chocolate is set. Garnish the pie with whipped cream and chocolate-dipped pecans. Store in the refrigerator.

Apple and Spice Cake
When you need a quick dessert for a fall evening, this delicious apple and spice cake is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Nobody can resist the wonder of apples, especially when they are mixed with this delicious spice blend.

Ingredients
Vegetable oil spray
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups (300g) sugar, white
3 cups (360g) unbleached flour, white
2 tsp (8g) baking powder
1 tsp (4g) baking soda
1 tsp (2g) cinnamon
1/2 tsp (1g) nutmeg
1/2 tsp (1g) allspice
1/2 tsp (3g) salt
1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice, frozen concentrate, thawed
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
3 cups (390g) chopped apples (Granny Smith, Jonagold, or Yellow Delicious), peeled

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare a 10-inch (25cm) Bundt or tube-type pan with vegetable oil spray.
Beat the eggs in a large bowl with an electric mixer until frothy. Add the sugar and beat well. In a small bowl, mix the dry ingredients together (flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and salt). Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture; blend well. Add in the orange juice concentrate, oil and vanilla; mix together. The batter will be thick. Fold the apples into the batter until blended. Pour into the prepared Bundt pan.
Bake for one hour or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the cake’s center comes out clean.
Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Carefully remove the cake from the pan. Allow the cake to cool before serving.

Nutrition Facts
Calories: 267
Total Fat: 8g
% Calories from fat: 27%
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrate: 46g
Cholesterol: 37mg
Sodium: 232mg

Fun Facts
Sticking gum under your table will deter ants!If you have ever endured a battle against ants, then you already know that these tiny creatures are not deterred by much. Vinegar, black pepper, red pepper, ant traps, and sprays often prove useless.
Then one day, a real estate agent noticed that all of the sudden there were no ants crawling on his backyard patio tables. This continued for about two weeks before he realized that his five-year-old had found a package of mint-flavored chewing gum. Not knowing what to do with it after a few minutes, the child had stuck it to the underside of the table. And, viola! No more ants. Simply place mint-flavored gum in strategic locations to with the battle against ants!

Magic Sponges Clean Anything!
Without mentioning any specific products, you probably know about the magic sponges and generic versions that are available in grocery stores. They work wonders!
The next time you need to remove red wine, grass stains, or fruit punch from clothing, try placing a white cloth under the dampened stain and then rubbing the stain with a dampened magic sponge. You’ll be amazed at the results. For the toughest stains, try dampening the spot with OxyClean or detergent before using the magic sponge.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Why we love our children



1) NUDITY
I was driving with my three young children one warm summer evening when a woman in the convertible ahead of us stood up and waved. She was stark naked! As I was reeling from the shock, I heard my 5-year-old shout from the back seat, 'Mom, that lady isn't wearing a seat belt!'


2) OPINIONS

On the first day of school, a first-grader handed his teacher a note from his mother. The note read, 'The opinions expressed by this child are not necessarily those of his parents.'


3) KETCHUP

A woman was trying hard to get the ketchup out of the jar.. During her struggle the phone rang so she asked her 4-year-old daughter to answer the phone. 'Mommy can't come to the phone to talk to you right now. She's hitting the bottle.'


4) MORE NUDITY

A little boy got lost at the YMCA and found himself in the women's locker room... When he was spotted, the room burst into shrieks, with ladies grabbing towels and running for cover. The little boy watched in amazement and then asked, 'What's the matter, haven't you ever seen a little boy before?'

5) POLICE # 1

While taking a routine vandalism report at an elementary school, I was interrupted by a little girl about 6 years old. Looking up and down at my uniform, she asked, 'Are you a cop? Yes,' I answered and continued writing the report. My mother said if I ever needed help I should ask the police. Is that right?' 'Yes, that's right,' I told her. 'Well, then,' she said as she extended her foot toward me, 'would you please tie my shoe?'

6) POLICE # 2
It was the end of the day when I parked my police van in front of the station. As I gathered my equipment, my K-9 partner, Jake, was barking, and I saw a little boy staring in at me. 'Is that a dog you got back there?' he asked..
'It sure is,' I replied. Puzzled, the boy looked at me and then towards the back of the van. Finally he said, 'What'd he do?'


7) ELDERLY

While working for an organization that delivers lunches to elderly shut-ins, I used to take my 4-year-old daughter on my afternoon rounds. She was unfailingly intrigued by the various appliances of old age, particularly the canes, walkers and wheelchairs. One day I found her staring at a pair of false teeth soaking in a glass. As I braced myself 
for the inevitable barrage of questions, she merely turned and whispered, 'The tooth fairy will never believe this!'


8) DRESS-UP

A little girl was watching her parents dress for a party. When she saw her dad donning his tuxedo, she warned, 'Daddy, you shouldn't wear that suit.'
'And why not, darling?'
'You know that it always gives you a headache the next morning...'


9) DEATH

While walking along the sidewalk in front of his church, our minister heard the intoning of a prayer that nearly made his collar wilt. Apparently, his 5-year-old son and his playmates had found a dead robin. Feeling that proper burial should be performed, they had secured a small box and cotton batting, then dug a hole and made ready for the disposal 
of the deceased. The minister's son was chosen to say the appropriate prayers and with sonorous dignity intoned his version of what he thought his father always said: 'Glory be unto the Father, and unto the Son, and into the hole he goes.' (I want this line used at my funeral!) 

10) SCHOOL

A little girl had just finished her first week of school. 'I'm just wasting my time,' she said to her mother. 'I can't read, I can't write, and they won't let me talk!'


11) BIBLE

A little boy opened the big family Bible. He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages. Suddenly, something fell out of the Bible... He picked up the object and looked at it. What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. 'Mama, look what I found,' the boy called out.
'What have you got there, dear?'
With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered, 'I think it's Adam's underwear!' 


Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

The Fine Art of Choosing the Right Contractor



With autumn approaching, now is the time to tackle home-improvement projects. This is the season for installing decks, in-ground swimming pools and central air-conditioning. Autumn remodeling often has bargain-pricing, but choosing the right contractor for the job is truly an art form.


No matter how small the project is, hiring a contractor means giving a stranger access to your home and, in some cases, even putting the safety of your family into his or her hands. Home-improvement complaints are among the most common consumer concerns. Therefore you need to be on the lookout for red flags before you sign any contract.


Get Recommendations! Contractors build their customer base through referrals more than through any form of advertising. If you are looking for a contractor for a specific project, you probably know someone who can point you in the right direction. However, sometimes a recommendation is not enough. When you interview a potential contractor, ask for references. Professionals who cannot demonstrate that they deliver on their promises are not worth your consideration.


Ask for a detailed estimate! Once you have contacted the contractor’s references and are ready to begin a project, ask for a detailed project specification, including the price, materials, estimated completion time, work stages, and contingency plans. Contingency plans are important, because unfortunately projects rarely occur exactly as planned. You need to know in advance what the contractor will do if, for example, a need for repair arises before the original project is completed.


Require Insurance! Whenever you hire a professional to work on a home-improvement or -repair project, he or she must be insured adequately. Consider requiring proof of accident insurance that covers up to one million dollars in damage. If a contractor is not insured, you assume the risk should something go wrong. 


Get the Required Permits! To secure your interests, you as the homeowner need to request any necessary building permits. Occasionally a contractor agrees to obtain the necessary permits, does not do so, and then the homeowner is caught in the middle of a legal dispute. Many localities now require that homeowners make all the permit applications themselves. This protects the homeowner. Never make the permits someone else’s responsibility.


Hire the Best Contractor for Your Project! A carpenter may build excellent decks, but he or she probably will not be the best contractor for installing central air-conditioning. Likewise, you wouldn’t want to hire a plumber to re-wire your garage! When you are searching for a contractor, be sure to find a specialist. Some general contractors are equipped to handle nearly any home-improvement or -repair project, but they tend to overcharge and then outsource the work to sub-contractors. Find out who their sub-contractors are and contact them yourself, if possible. This could not only save you cash, but also the provide peace of mind of knowing that you have selected the right person or company for the job.

If you are considering a remodeling, repair or other home-improvement project this autumn, take your time and start planning now for a successful project. By following these tips for selecting a contractor, you will demonstrate your mastery of the art of finding the right person for the job.

Home improvements are – and should be – exciting, particularly when you are a new homeowner. Just don’t end up regretting your selection of the contractor.

Realtors like to look out for their clients’ interests. Helping you select a contractor is just one of the many ways they can help you with your home-improvement projects.

 


Thursday, September 2, 2010

Beetle-Pup ready to adopt!



Beetle

Shepherd [Mix]

Large  Baby  Male  Dog 

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full size
 Picture Picture Picture
Shepherd Picture

update - Adoption Pending
Ellie gave birth on 6/19/10 to six beautiful puppies. They are now 6 weeks old and will be ready for adoption when they are 8 weeks and spayed or neutered.
All the puppies are friendly and playful. If you would like to visit these pups, call the ARF center to schedule an appointment. ARF is open 7 days a week.
Beetle is up-to-date with routine shots.

My Contact Info

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

It's a DAD Life?

This has nothing to do with Real Estate but I couldn't help but share!!!

Waterfront Lot- Chester River Beach

Offered at $420,000

910 Chester River Dr
Grasonville, MD
Click Here for More Information
  DESCRIPTION
Enjoy the amazing views of the Chester River and breathtaking sunsets from this waterfront lot in the sought after Chester River Beach community. Adjacent waterfront lot QA7345439 with 3 bedroom home is also for sale, making this a rare opportunity to own 2 waterfront lots! Community offers boat ramp, pavilion, beach, dock, slips, and large park. Get your piece of paradise today!
  PROPERTY DETAILS
•  Lot/Vacant Lot•  Built in Unspecified•  Unspecified lot
  PROPERTY FEATURES
•  Land Property •  Waterview•  Present use: Call agent for details on association fee info
•  Status: ACTIVE •  Waterfront property •  Topography: Community beach, Community boat slip, Community pier, Community chi
•  County: QUEEN ANNES •  Lot is 14000 sq. ft. •  Existing Structures: Community party room
•  Subdivision: CHESTER RIVER BEACH •  Approximately 0.32 acre(s) •  Elementary School: GRASONVILLE PRIMARY
•  Community recreation facilities •  Lot size is less than 1/2 acre •  Middle School: STEVENSVILLE

  SELLER CONTACT INFO
Dina Baxter
Rosendale Realty
605 Main St. Suite 100
Stevensville
Maryland 21666
(410) 643-2166
dina@dinabaxter.com

  Posted: June 12, 2010

FHA loan changes






Are you considering the purchase of a home? Are you struggling under the threat of losing your home? If so, consider how FHA can help. FHA loans are government-backed loans that often have a much lower interest rate than a conventional (traditional) loan. Before you right off these loans as impossible options, keep in mind that millions of people are benefiting from theme right now.

Here are five ways that FHA loans can help you to obtain the home you are looking for or help you in other ways.

#1: Lower Interest Rates: The main benefit of FHA loans is to provide individuals with a lower interest rate. If the FHA is backing your loan, you are less of a risk to the lender. Therefore, they agree to offer you a slightly lower interest rate. This translates into an interest rate that could save you thousands of dollars over the lifetime of that loan. That is money in your pocket.
#2: Better Qualifications: Many lenders have increased their standards in lending money. If you do not have a credit score over 700, then our best bet to getting a low interest rate home loan is with the FHA loans. You do not have to have as much down to qualify for these loans either.

#3: Help Getting Out Of A High Interest Loan: Perhaps you have a high interest rate loan. You are paying much more interest than the current four to six percent loans that are available. FHA loans can help you to get a low rate even on refinances. Definitely, worth looking forward to since it will drastically cut the amount it costs to buy your home.

#4: You Need Help: There are a number of programs available through the FHA to help you to get out of a troublesome home loan. You can stop foreclosures and often stop your overall risk of losing your home by taking advantage of these programs. If you need this help, contact an FHA loan specialist today.

#5: You Are A First Time Home Buyer: For those who have yet to buy a home and are worried about doing so, FHA loans can help. These loans are highly affordable and they are ideal for the first time homebuyer unsure of what to do next.
FHA loans can help millions of people to get into the homes they want and need, or to protect them from losing their investment. Contact a professional today to learn if you qualify.
Once you contact us as your FHA loan specialist, we will talk to you about the types of loans available, as well as what you may qualify for. To get answers quickly, be sure you have all the information and resources you need. 


Here are some tips:
*Know your credit score and credit history is clean. Check your credit report for errors prior to applying for a loan since creditworthiness is key to obtaining any loan.

*Have proper identification to show who you are. This includes having your Social Security number ready. Also, have the addresses of the locations you have lived over the last two years.

*Have your income information on hand. Your lender will need to see proof of income as well as the names and contact information for each of your employers over the last two years. You will need to have on hand any W2 information as well.

Once you have these items ready to go, the FHA loan specialist will talk to you about the loans available to you. They may prequalify you for the loan. This is a process of getting qualified for the loan, on the information that you provide. Once this information has verification, you will receive preapproval for a loan.

In situations where you need immediate attention, such as when you may be struggling to pay your monthly mortgage payment or when you are facing potential foreclosure, alert the FHA loan specialist. There may be opportunities to freeze the process if you can refinance. Keep in mind that you still need to meet the FHA requirements for refinancing to be able to use these programs.

If you are ready to get the FHA loan you need, contact a specialist today to request a quote. You may be surprised by just how easy it is to get an FHA loan.
FHA receives aid because now there is an increased ability to lend money since the stimulus bill has aided in creating higher loan lending limits. Overall, the benefit here is that individuals will be able to qualify to purchase a home more readily.

FHA loans are available for a growing number of people. If the stimulus bill has done anything, it is to encourage more people to buy homes. According to the National Association of Realtors, the stimulus bill could help to sell more homes. An estimated 300,000 first time homebuyers may be attracted to purchasing a home due to the tax break offered to them. Thousands more will find that funding they need through the availability of FHA loans. It is a great time to buy.

There are other ways this new higher limit on Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will. Because it does free up some of this money, more people will qualify in all likelihood for these home loans. With better qualification numbers, more homes can be purchased. People can afford to purchase a home again with the lower interest rate. In turn, more properties that have been sitting on the market or even vacant can be sold. In other words, by raising these limits, the government is aiding in reducing inventory of available housing. This will give cities back their property taxes and aids in boosting other home values throughout the area.

The overall process improves the liquidity of the mortgage market as a whole. Many economists blame at least part of the economic downturn on the failure within the housing market. By restoring some stability here, it could also help to restore some of the value in housing and the markets as a whole.

What Does It Mean To You?
As you consider the Bill and what is included in it, one thing you may want to consider is your own ability to obtain a mortgage and to purchase one of these homes. Not everyone will qualify for a home loan through this program, but far more money is available to help more people to qualify. If you have been considering purchasing a home, but where not sure if you could, or should do so, there benefits of these increased limits makes now an ideal time.

The benefits of having an FHA loan are immense and it should not be overlooked by anyone who is looking for an opportunity to buy a home. Keep in mind that you will still need to meet income and credit qualifications to obtain an FHA loan. If you have been thinking about this type of loan opportunity, take the time to talk to an FHA loan specialist to find out if you qualify for the loan.

What To Do
Are you likely to be affected by a foreclosure in the coming weeks? If so, you may want to use this time to secure different financing options. If you are at risk of losing your home, do not waste this time. Call a professional FHA loan specialist to aid you in determining what options you have.

Keep in mind that there are already several types of programs in place to aid individuals in refinancing their current home loans to get into new ones to avoid foreclosure. FHA lenders can help you to determine if you qualify for this type of loan. While President Obama’s plan is on schedule for review in the coming weeks, do not wait that long to find out if you qualify.

What’s Next?
Consider this next year. Current foreclosures are not likely to hit the MLS books for another four to six months. And, with thousands of people out of work, they will be incredibly deep and painful.

There is little that can be done about a home that is deep into the foreclosure process. Yet, for most individuals the process can be stopped long before it gets to that point.

Checklist of What to Do Now
If you are facing the fact of being unable to make payments on your mortgage, here are some things to do, now.

#1: Talk to your lender to find out if they can help with loan modification. They may be able to help you to get caught up. This is especially important if you wish to keep the home and have the income to make payments.

#2: Talk to an FHA loan specialist, or someone who can help you to qualify for an FHA loan. The FHA has put together special packages and outlines specific options for those who are suffering and are behind on their mortgages.

#3: Don’t wait. The longer you wait to get help for your mortgage loan, the more difficult it will be to get caught back up.

Foreclosure is not a process you can’t stop. You can, and with some help, you may save money in the process.

A Closer Look at the Numbers
What is happening around you? Take a look at a few more numbers as they came out just a few days ago.

• In 2008, 1.1 million people received foreclosure notices in the combined states of Nevada, California, Florida and Arizona.

• 20 percent of the 1.1 million homes that entered the foreclosure process were located in California.

What is happening where you are? If you aren’t sure, you can use RealtyTrac.com to get a better idea or give us a call and we can help you with information and referral to a qualified and caring real estate professional.

Most individuals in foreclosure today are not in foreclosure because they are irresponsible or took on bad loans intentionally. They simply are struggling, which is why so many of them are just looking for help.

Is this you? To find out if you qualify for any type of loan modification or to freeze your foreclosure, contact one of the FHA loan specialists. There is no guarantee that every homeowner can remain in their homes, but many individuals can. The opportunities available through FHA are helping thousands of people each month to stay in their homes and to avoid foreclosure. They may be able to provide you with the help you need, too.

Low Down Payments Out There: FHA Says Yes

For those who are looking for an FHA loan, you may be happy to learn that the FHA still has some great loan opportunities available for those who qualify for them. The Federal Housing Authority, or FHA is still offering home loans requiring just 3.5 percent down. This is good news to anyone that is struggling to find a loan available to them do to the numerous issues with the credit crunch.

In the traditional, conventional loan market, there is no doubt you will have a difficult time finding a home loan that does not require a larger down payment to be made. Some lenders are now insisting on down payments at 20 percent of the home’s value. Those who cannot afford this may not have an option outside of the FHA loans available.

The FHA does still have loan opportunities available, including loan programs offering 3.5 percent down. A low down payment is the critical aspect for many potential home buyers. Having 20 percent or more to put down on a house is a great way to get a low rate and it enables lenders to look at you more favorably. After all, after you have invested that much into the home, you are unlikely to just walk away from it. Since lenders are trying desperately to protect themselves from further foreclosures and subprime loans, they are simply sticking with what they know: those who invest in a larger down payment are less likely to walk away from their homes.


Are They Safe?
One of the biggest concerns people have today when it comes to FHA loans is security. Rightly so, people want to ensure that the home loans are going to be safe to have. When you work with an FHA loan specialist, you can ensure this is the case. Most lenders accepting these loans are well qualified to do so. Even if they do fold, you are highly unlikely to lose your loan or any of your financing. Still, you can speak to the specialists to learn more about this.


How To Get An FHA Loan
Since FHA loans do allow for the much lower down payment, many people are using them as the means to get the home they want. You will need to work with an FHA loan specialist to enable you to find out if you qualify for this type of loan insurance. You can get prequalified to purchase a home within a few minutes, too. Unlike a few years ago, standards have tightened, though.
• You will need that 3.5% down payment or more

• You will need to have no more than 31% of your gross income going towards paying your mortgage


• You will need to have good credit. Those with serious delinquencies on their records may not receive approval.


If your credit score is lower than 500, though, you may need to pay a larger down payment, up to 10 percent. Moreover, as with all FHA loans, you will need to pay mortgage insurance during the first years of your loan.

You can find out if an FHA loan is right for you by contacting any of the FHA specialists available. They will ask you a few questions and get information about your credit score for you. Generally, the process takes only a few minutes to work through. You can get a quote for an FHA loan, too, so you can see if this is an option for you.

If you have 3.5 percent to put down and meet the other qualifications of FHA loans, now is one of the best times to get investing.

Why FHA loans are gaining in popularity. You probably already know the reasons but to sum it up: 3.5% down (try finding less than that these days), low rates, and attractive loan limits. I highly recommend taking a look their article because it has some great FHA info and good examples as well.

The housing market is struggling nationwide. That does not mean that your local market is struggling, though. Nearly all neighborhoods in the country have seen some fall in value. Yet, this does not mean that the horrors that are happening in some areas of California and Nevada are playing out in your back yard. Your area may actually have some strengths in it right now. Many markets are stable and many others are on the rise.

Before you right off the current condition to be too risky to invest in a home loan, find out what is happening in your local area. There are a variety of online appraisal websites that can give you a free estimate (which is not always 100 percent accurate, but close) to help you to see what is actually happening in your market. It may be that your area has just what you need: well-priced homes and affordable mortgage prices.

Contrary to what many people believe, there are still mortgage loans available to those who are qualified to get them. Does this mean you have to have a credit score in the 800’s to qualify? No. Those with scores much lower will qualify.
 To find out if you qualify, consider the following:
• Do you have steady employment?

• Do you have excessive debt: if so, you may not qualify if your debt is too high compared to the amount of money you are bringing in each month.


• Do you have a down payment: Down payment amounts are much lower for FHA loans, but some money to put down is necessary.


• Do you have good credit or better: Those with very low credit scores may not qualify for a home loan right now.


To find out if you qualify, it is best to talk with an FHA loan specialist one on one. They will help you to determine not only if you qualify but how much of a home you can purchase, the cost of a monthly mortgage payment, and the current interest rates available. It is highly recommended that you consider FHA loans since they are more affordable and they often cater to a wider array of home loan borrowers.

The local housing market and loan market is really the only concern you should have in terms of buying and selling property right now. While the big picture may seem dark, there are plenty of bright spots under that dark cloud. These are mainly average neighborhoods dotting the country and often are great places to call home.

"Striking the right balance between managing the FHA's risk, continuing to provide access to underserved communities, and supporting the nation's economic recovery is critically important," said FHA Commissioner David Stevens.
FHA provides mortgage insurance on  loans made by FHA-approved lenders. While borrowers must meet certain requirements established by FHA to qualify for the insurance, lenders bear less risk because FHA will pay the lender if a homeowner defaults on his or her loan.

The New Rules:
FHA-insured mortgages are attractive to borrowers because down payments are only 3.5%. That won't change under the new policies the FHA announced  which are to take effect in spring or early summer. Among them:


  • Borrowers will have to have a minimum credit score of 580 to qualify for a 3.5% down payment.  Lenders can and do modify this to suit their own risk assessments. Those with lower scores will have to make at least a 10% down payment. The average credit score of FHA-insured borrowers is 693.


  • Allowable seller concessions will be reduced from 6% to 3% of the sale price. The change is intended to discourage inflated appraisals. On many home transactions the seller agrees to pay the closing costs of the buyer.


  • Buyers will have to pay an upfront mortgage insurance premium of   2.25% of the total loan amount, up from 1.75% now. A $150,000 mortgage would require a payment of $3,375, or $750 more.  


    What It Means To Everyone!
The general rule is: if someone cannot get financing to buy your home when you decide to sell, it is going to be difficult. To the extent that financing is available and markets function normally you have a better shot at selling. Even with these changes, FHA lending still will remain the largest source of home purchase financing.

 These changes are designed to improve FHA's financial position and will ensure its long-term ability to guarantee affordable mortgages for families.  In the end these changes are also designed to engage borrowers who can reasonably afford a mortgage. From what we have seen in the recent past, guidelines that were lowered to promote homeownership backfired. This scenario is well reflected in the foreclosure problems now sweeping the marketplace.

If you need help with financing please visit my MY site or call me at 410-507-1936.