Saturday, August 30, 2008

Getting Borrowers To Call Them That Have Already Been Turned- Down By 3 Other Prime Shops

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Most mortgage brokers, think sub, like most people- prime is dead. Yes, if you re doing what you did 2 years ago, in this market, in that market, you ll lose your shirt.



They think they can t make any money nowadays in sub- prime, and they re 100% wrong! But if you re doing smart mortgage marketing, then you re able to print money at will! This is the kind of market where you can GAIN" market share" left& right. and with a good Past Borrower Retention System, they are taking their new borrowers off the table for good! In fact, it s easier now than before as so many have left the battlefield! What I m saying is, good mortgage brokers are: Getting borrowers to call them that have NOT applied for a mortgage with ANYONE else in the last 12 months. Taking these new borrowers off- the- table from" competitors" for life, using my Past Borrower Retention System.


Getting borrowers to call them that have already been turned- down by 3 other prime shops! For some crazy reason, I was on the phone the other day with a guy from North Carolina, who bragged to me how he s already making$ 350K a year. He told me he needs the whole state of North Carolina to make any money. He told me that he didn t believe that he could make the BIG duckets in a" small, " local market area. I asked him if he knew who Dan Kennedy is, as a litmus test, and he said" no. " It was then that I gave up, cuz he just doesn t get it. But alas, he was blissful in his ignorance of what could be for him, and I just wished him well. "I hope you re not that bone- headed! " But for your sake, not mine. He s" too smart for the room. " I told him, "keep in mind, you don t know what you don t know. " And that my system MUST work in a" small, " local Area, with all borrowers driving to see you, not you to them, or I wouldn t have scores of guys making much more that he was using my System!


But I do hate so much to see people suffer for no good reason.

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If So, Then You Will Want To Carefully Consider All Of Your Options, And Find The Best Home Builder For Your New Home - Carole Brunn's Finance and Real Estate blog:

If so, then you will want to carefully consider all of your options, and find the best home builder for your new home.

Friday, August 29, 2008

You Can Invest In Real Estate And Land Only If You Have A Good Amount Of Money To Invest

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

A growing number of people are investing in real- estate and land these days in the hopes of getting a bigger profit. You can invest in real estate and land only if you have a good amount of money to invest.



The benefits of investing in these two sectors has long term benefits as the prices of land and real estate keep rising and while you own these properties you can lease them out and earn profits currently till the prices rise sufficiently for you to sell them and make larger profits. Recently many people are becoming aware of using IRAs to invest in residential real estate and commercial estates. Content. However investing with IRAs prohibits you from using the real- estate you purchased for your personal use such as a vacation home or office. Many people have become millionaires by investing in real- estate and land. Secondly you can depreciate the value of the real- estate asset to avoid paying tax on profits.


The advantages of such investments are that you can avail of leverage to borrow large sum of capital or money to purchase assets and can use the cash flow to pay off your debts. One of the biggest advantages of investing in real estate is that you can do this in your spare time and if purchased and managed properly it has the ability to generate consistent and substantial cash flows to make your lifestyle comfortable. You should learn the advantages of investing in real- estate and land as compared to other investment options then you will realize the potential of this investment. Real investing in multi- unit buildings is a great way of creating wealth and cash inflows. You must also learn different ways of adding value to your property or land to make it an attractive proposition. Conclusion.


Holding on to investment properties for the long term can be a favorable option if the property or land prices decline. There are a large number of real estate and land properties but you need to know how to locate the profitable properties and to invest in those that will have long term growth potential. A few people use the money in their IRAs to buy real estate however you should be careful as a mistake can disqualify your IRA tax deferred status forcing you to pay tax on the penalties. You should understand how the real estate tax affects your profits and how to avoid taxes in order to maximize your real- estate returns. Owning property inside an IRA forfeits the traditional tax advantage of investing in real estate and you cannot deduct the taxes or interest or use depreciation. There are many success stories of people who have made it big by investing in land and property but you need to know how to take advantage of the market, when to buy and sell, when to hold on to the property and wait for the prices to increase substantially before selling and more.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Refinancing A Home Is A Popular Method For Extracting Home Equity

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

The housing market is a volatile entity with changes in outlook happening every day.



One method people have been discovering to access the equity in their homes is the sell and rent back technique. When the housing market is getting better, you will be able to make decisions about your property more easily and with greater confidence. Sell and rent back is a term used for the process of selling your home to another party and then arranging an agreement to rent the same property back from that person. This is the primary reason that people utilize the sell and rent back technique. This means that you are able to sell your home and free up the equity in the home without having to find a new home to move to. Another reason is to stay in the same area, or keeping their financial affairs to themselves rather than having to tell friends or relatives that they are having to sell the property for whatever reason. However another market is renting back the apartments.


These parties are able to buy these houses for rent back all over the country. In the late 1990 s there was a large portion of people purchasing apartments in order to allow themselves to gain equity in their apartment while enjoying the benefits of living in an apartment. Many people love to live in apartments, because smaller rooms are easier to clean, major maintenance is handled for free by the landlord, no lawns need to be mowed, and the locations are usually close to cities and workplaces. Now people are having to sell these apartments to realise equity and looking to back the same property. Thus, many people would like to continue to live in their apartments while freeing up the equity that they have built up for other investments or consumption. However, refinancing can lead to higher interest rates, and ultimately, added fees, higher monthly payments. Refinancing a home is a popular method for extracting home equity.


The decreased equity over time can end up costing the homeowner more down the road. The only other option to tap into your equity is to sell your home. Hence, many homeowners seek to tap their home s equity without paying more monthly. However under conventional terms that means that you are now going to have to buy a new house and move. You can continue to stay in your home while preventing your higher monthly payment and/ or interest increase. This is why the sell and rent back technique is so lucrative.


And your neighbours and friends will be none the wiser that the property has been sold.

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Therefore They Skip A Payment And Send The First Payment Due To New Servicer - Finance and Real Estate Articles:

The closing documents are required to outline the company in which the first payment is to be made to, however. Empathy should be displayed to borrowers in these situations and they should receive as much assistance and support from both parties as they need.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

A Survey Recently Found That Over 90 Per Cent Of Majorca S Domestic Population Were Worried About The Number Of Overseas People Buying Property On The Island

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Holiday homes and investing in a property on the Spanish island of Majorca has been popular for several decades now, with many Europeans who have holidayed on the Spanish island deciding to buy a second home for holidays, or for retirement, a business. Already many locals are finding it increasingly difficult to get on the property ladder, with prices having risen consistently in recent years, with their best hope being a slow down or even drop in Majorca property prices.



But now the Mallorca islanders are concerned that future development plans could ruin the island, and if left unchecked the island could become a concrete jungle. A survey recently found that over 90 per cent of Majorca s domestic population were worried about the number of overseas people buying property on the island. One way out is to build more properties, but this is what has sparked many of the protests against further development. The problem with building a way out of the housing crises, by constructing dozens of new apartment buildings and villa complexes is that it spoils the whole nature of Majorca, and it s a catch 22 because while locals do want to buy a house, they don t want it at the expense of the island. Official figures for Majorca holidays this year indicate an increase in tourist numbers by between five and seven per cent. One travel guide for Majorca isn t surprised at the local opinion. It s difficult for local people, especially when they are in their twenties and thirties and working with decent salaries, to see villas which are hardly used when they often can t even get a good size apartment in the areas they want, close to family or work. They say, referring to holiday homes that are used a few weeks or even long weekiends a year, and standing empty the rest of the time. They see these properties as some of the cause of high prices, and they cannot see where it is going to end, they conclude. And it is from the pool of holidaymakers where property sales often happen a few months later, as some visitors like the island so much they decide to look into buying an apartment or villa, with some even retiring to the island, or buying a business. Current prices for property in Majorca include brand new 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartments in Puerto Pollensa at 285, a country house, 000 Euros with its own pool at 1, 000 Euros, 500, and a three bedroom three bathroom villa with its own pool at 900, around UK 600, 000 Euros, 00


With the increase in visitor numbers, property demand should in theory be high for 2007 overall.

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Real Estate- Defining Your Dream Home - Finance and Real Estate:

Buying a new home can be an exciting, an overwhelming experience, and sometimes. This is why it is so important to have a solid grasp of the current real estate market, and a detailed plan on how you will proceed throughout the home purchase before you even begin your search.

A Survey Recently Found That Over 90 Per Cent Of Majorca S Domestic Population Were Worried About The Number Of Overseas People Buying Property On The Island - Finance and Real Estate:

Buying a property on the Spanish island of Majorca has been popular for several decades now, with many Europeans who have holidayed on the Spanish island deciding to buy a second home for holidays, or for retirement, a business. Already many locals are finding it increasingly difficult to get on the property ladder, with prices having risen consistently in recent years, with their best hope being a slow down or even drop in Majorca property prices.

You Can Make Cash By Owning And Renting Apartments - Finance and Real Estate Blog:

The current housing market makes you think that owning rental property is a poor investment.

Monday, August 25, 2008

You Can Shop Around For Title Insurance

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

The buyer pays the premium at the time of closing.



Before you purchased the house it may have gone through several ownership changes, and the land on which it stands might have gone through many more. Title insurance protects against loss arising from problems connected to the title to your property. There may be a weak link at any point in that chain that could pop up to cause trouble. Or there may be unpaid real estate taxes or other liens. For example, someone along the way may have forged a signature in transferring title. Title insurance covers the insured party for any claims and legal fees that arise out of such problems.


Coverage ends on the day the policy is issued and extends backward in time for an indefinite period. (This is in stark contrast to property or life insurance, which protect against losses resulting from events that occur after the policy is issued, for a specified period into the future. ) The title insurance required protects the lender up to the amount of the mortgage, but it doesn t protect your equity in the property. Title insurance protects against losses arising from events that occurred prior to the date of the policy. For that you need an owner s title policy for the full value of the home. In other areas, borrowers must buy it as an add- on to the lender policy. In many areas, sellers pay for owner policies as part of their obligation to deliver good title to the buyer. I recommend doing this because the additional cost, above the cost of the lender policy you have to get, is relatively small. When they sell, the lender will, however require the purchaser to obtain a new policy.


Protection under an owner s policy lasts as long as the owner or any heirs have an interest in or any obligation with regard to the property. That protects the lender against any liens or other claims against the property that may have arisen since the date of the previous policy- in other words, against something you may have done. You will probably be required to get the lien removed before you can sell the property. For example, if the contractor you failed to pay for remodeling your kitchen places a lien on your home, you are not protected by your title policy: the lien was placed after the date of the policy. But in the event the lien hasn t been removed and a search has failed to uncover it, the new lender will be protected by a new policy. Unlike mortgage insurance, where the carrier is always selected by the lender, borrowers can select the title insurance carrier. You can shop around for title insurance.


Few do, however. This means that competition among title insurers is largely directed toward these professionals who can direct business rather than toward borrowers. Most leave it up to one of the professionals with whom they re dealing: the real estate agent, or their attorney, the lender. And it can pay to shop around. I would certainly shop in states that do not regulate title insurance rates: Alabama, Georgia, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Indiana, Illinois, Massachusetts, and West Virginia, Oklahoma. It s difficult to generalize because market conditions vary state by state, and sometimes within states.


You would be wasting your time shopping in Texas and New Mexico, because these state set the prices for all carriers. In the remaining states it may or may not pay to shop. Florida also sets title insurance premiums but not other title- related charges, which can vary. Insurance premiums are the same for all carriers in" rating bureau states" : Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Delaware. Yet in some there may be flexibility in title- related charges. These states authorize title insurers to file for approval of a single rate schedule for all carriers through a cooperative entity. More promising are" file and use" states- all those not mentioned above- that permit premiums to vary between insurers.


Just keep in mind that those likely to be the best informed are also likely to have an interest in directing your business in the direction that s to their advantage. It s a good idea to ask an informed but disinterested person whether it pays to shop in the area where the property is located. Title insurance protects against losses that might occur due to another party claiming ownership of the property. Title insurance will pay your legal fees if you have to go to court to defend the deed, and if you lose the property, the title insurance will cover your loss up to the amount of the policy. Title insurance covers: Issues missed by the title examiner Issues missed when a deed or other public document is determined to be invalid or forged Liens from unpaid taxes or from a former owner. Keep in mind that if you ve owned the property for a few years and it has risen in value, the title insurance policy you purchased at closing will only reimburse you for the original amount, not for the new value of the property.


Isn t it his or her job to make sure the title is clear? " Yes, it is. but unexpected problems can pop up- title insurance is a cheap way to avoid the cost of major problems that could pop up. You may be thinking, "Wait a minute. if I pay an attorney to perform a title search, why do I need title insurance?

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The Key To Finding The Best Real Estate In The Orlando Area Is Checking The Property Listings Against Your Personal Needs - Neva Duggins's Finance and Real Estate blog:

There s no doubt that Florida s one of the hottest real estate markets in the United States.

Why Buy Property Or Real Estate In The Limousin I Ask- And The Answers Are There Many - Maryanne Linthicum's Finance and Real Estate blog:

Why buy property or real estate in the Limousin I ask- and the answers are there many.

The Average New Home Is Picked Out Within A Week - Finance and Real Estate Blog:

Here are a few tips on buying any property.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Are Apartments Really Commercial Properties

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Are Apartments Really Commercial Properties?



If you ask any banker, he ll tell you that anything over 4 units is considered a commercial property. By David Lindahl. If you ask any municipality regarding their trash pick up, you ll get the same answer, ditto with insurance companies but are apartments really commercial properties? Well, apartments over 4 units are commercial properties but there is one big difference between apartments and offices. When you think of commercial property, do you think of tall skyscrapers, office buildings and warehouses. and possible large apartment complexes? One space is occupied by residents and the other spaces are occupied by businesses. Did you know the 3 out of 4 businesses go out of business after the first year?


That s a big difference! Ninety percent are out of business by year five! People always need a roof over their head. If your renting to businesses, your turnover rate, chances are is going to be higher than a residential property and you should know that tenant turnover is your biggest expense in any multi- unit property. If they move out of your place, they are moving into someone else s( if you treat them with respect, they will stay longer! ) Businesses just disappear and when they break the lease, it s hard to get money out of a bankrupt company! If they lose a tenant, they ve lost 25% of the income.


A lot of commercial properties rely on 3 or 4 big tenants. If the property cost you$ 1, 000, 000 and you lose 25% of your occupancy, you could be at a breakeven point or worse. upside down. The main reason is that the pool of potential renters is not that big. Statistics show that it takes an average of six months to fill a commercial space. In contrast, with a residential property, there is a vast pool of potential renters and the turnaround is one or two months instead of six. There is one other thing you should consider, when you re attracting a commercial tenant for your property, you usually agree to do a" build- out" which means you change the space to make it conform to the business.


For the same million dollars, you could get a 20- 60 unit property( depending on where you invest) , if you had 20 units and lost one, you ve only lost 1/ 20th of your rent, you still have plenty of cash flow and more importantly, plenty of spend able income. This could cost you thousands of dollars. If more is needed, it s usually paid for from the previous tenants security deposit. With an apartment unit, the" make ready" usually consist of paint and carpet. Yes, apartments over four units are considered commercial properties but as you can see, they are in a class by themselves when you compare risk versus reward.

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Secondly, You Don T Know This Agent S Personality Or Work Ethic - Finance and Real Estate Blog:

Why is it important to find the right Realtor? Unless you have a huge portfolio, a home purchase will involve more money than you normally deal with.

There Are Many Destinations For A Stroll Around Bryker Woods - Tracy Heyn's Finance and Real Estate blog:

Just a few miles from downtown Austin, bordered by Westover on the south, 35th street on the north, Shoal Creek on the east and Mopac on the west, lies the old Austin neighborhood of Bryker Woods. In the early 1900s, other subdivisions popped up nearby, like Camp Mabry Heights, which named its streets with a patriotic theme, such as Pershing and Funston named after American generals, Madison, and Jefferson, and Harrison named for former U.

Prime London Property Prices Have Risen Again, And Have Overtaken Tax Haven Monaco Property Prices, According To A Report Recently - Finance and Real Estate:

Prime London property prices have risen again, and have overtaken tax haven Monaco property prices, according to a report recently. Interest rates in the UK have been rising recently, and there is a danger of UK property prices generally falling, which could have an impact on the top end London market.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Irving Realtors

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Estates in the Irving area are some of the most dynamic in the state of Texas making it one of the hottest selling areas when it comes to the real estate market.



The testimonials page is evidence of our expertise and commitment in providing unsurpassed service not only in the area but the state. We have been in the real estate business for so long that we have housed and sold houses for many residents. Our staff are the best of the best and our goal is to put that expertise at your service. Irving is not only a nice place to live in but it is also regarded as prime business location having some major companies in close proximity. Give us a call so we could help you to get the property you aim for or even dream about. Being near the Metroplex makes it not only convenient but pleasurable having the best both worlds have to offer. Irving homes are considered to be some of the most pleasing due to the close proximity to Dallas/ Fort Worth.


Irving Homes for Sale. So may you be a business man looking for a place to raise your family, or an elderly couple who needs a home wherein to retire and spend the rest of your days in peaceful bliss, Irving homes have all that you need in terms of a balance between pleasure and business. To see what we have to offer, check out the listings in the following sections to find out the specific properties that are for sale in the area you might be considering from which to select your future home. Students have easy access to the city s many schools making it good for the family and economical at best. Irving Realtors. We ensure you get a home and not just a house and this is our guarantee. VIP Realty has the best Irving realtors in the area that we always get the property you wish to have.


We will work with you in your drive to the best possible homes for your needs. Didn t get the house you wanted, we have a complete list of alternates that are sure to have almost similar specifications with the home you have been wanting to own. Our people are true professionals and we do not do the go around others do, we stick to the point, and that is to get you the property you want when you need it. So what are you waiting for, give us a call or explore the other pages to see how we can help you better. Not only will their expertise ensure a higher probability of success but their hard working nature always gets it right the first time. Need a home quick, let us know and let our people work for you. So give us a call or fill out the information request form so we could get in touch with you to see how we can be of service to you.


VIP Realty, the best of the best in the state.

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The Customers Of Real Estate Investment Broker Are Seller And Buyer Of The Real Estate To Be Sold - Ashlee Favorite's Finance and Real Estate blog:

For most people, the purchase of their home is the best possible and most important investment they will make.

Monday, August 18, 2008

For Consultants, Time Is Money

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Realtors are well known professionals that have formed the foundation of the real estate industry for years.



As the industry evolves, a newer profession, however has emerged: the real estate consultant. So much so that few people ever have to ask what it is that they do. Contrary to what many people think, a consultant has a very different role from that of an agent. The objectives of a consultant are much different from that of an actual agent. Though the two professions have some similarities, they have just as many differences. The agent is primarily focused on selling homes, and making a profit from the sale of that home. A consultant, on the other hand, does not have the objective of selling a home.


Because of this, he/ she will have a slightly different approach to their dealings with a consumer. In fact, he/ she is completely unbiased in the purchase or sale of a property. There is no financial gain based on the sale of a home. His/ her primary concern is helping the consumer satisfy his real estate needs. Instead, profits are made by the services offered. It is the consultant s job to be concerned about the real estate situation, but not necessarily about a specific outcome. When you work with a consultant, he/ she might seem to be unbiased or even disinterested.


To make an unbiased decision, he/ she must be completely objective in the situation. If he/ she believes that the property will not meet the needs of the consumer, the consumer will be advised not to purchase the house. While a realtor will usually do what is necessary to convince a consumer to purchase a home, the consultant will be perfectly honest with consumers. A consultant wants to be sure that correct results will be achieved in a real estate transaction. He/ she will then look for different ways that the consumer s objectives can be achieved. To do this, he/ she will ask many questions about the consumer s wants and needs. This is very much unlike an agent, who believes that all a consumer s needs can be met with the sale of a home.


They do not want to waste time, nor do they wish to waste the clients s time. For consultants, time is money. Each minute the consultant spends on a dead- end deal is a minute that he could have been spending on a more profitable deal. Not doing so would be an injustice to both. They will make sure to advise the consumer of a deal that is destined to go sour. There are situations where the services of a realtor will be needed and situations where a real estate consultant will be needed. Knowing the difference between the two professions will help you to know which you need.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Trends In Florida Home Buying

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

It s hard to miss all of the recent media coverage regarding the US housing market.



According to the latest numbers, these predictions are proving to be accurate. Analysts have predicted a cooling off period after nearly five years of soaring prices, and a housing, bidding wars market that became a seller s playground. At present, the number of unsold homes throughout the US has risen to a record high. The Florida real estate market has not been immune to these changes. Mortgage rates are currently at an average of 6% for a 30- year fixed loan, the highest rates in nearly four years, and the average sale price of a home has dropped to$ 238, 000 nation wide. Like most other areas of the country, a flood of homes on the market in Florida and dropping sale prices have created a different kind of market.


Taking Advantage of a Buyer s Market. While this current cooling trend may be worrisome those with a house currently on the market, it is great news for the Florida home buyer. For the Florida home buyer, the real estate market of the past five years has been a roller coaster ride of indecision and worry over sharply rising housing costs. Time to shop for the perfect home was extremely limited, while sellers were reaping record profits in the boom market. Buyers were forced to make immediate offers on prospective homes, often ending up engaged in a bidding war with other buyers. Today things have changed a bit in the Florida housing market. With the flood of existing homes on the market and new home builders looking to incentive programs and price reductions as means of attracting new buyers, there has rarely been a better time for the Florida Home Buyer.


Homes are sitting on the market for a much longer period of time, leaving sellers with the opportunity to comparison shop and find the home that is truly right for them. Creative Financing for the Florida Home Buyer. Unlike the 1980 s, sellers are not offering financing of this type to counteract sky- high interest rates, now the purpose of seller financing is to shield sellers from capital gains taxes in an era of record home sale profits. Seller financing, which saw the greatest level of popularity during the 1980 s, is a returning trend in today s housing market. Despite a cooling market, sellers are still gaining huge returns on their initial investment once they sell their home, and offering to carry all or part of the financing is a way to spread out gains and avoid hefty tax rates. Trends in Florida Home Buying. This finance option is beneficial to buyers because sellers will often finance at slightly lower interest rates, and buyers do not have to worry about costly appraisals, and mortgage points, application fees.


Purchase of existing homes with intent to remodel remains a popular option for Florida home buyers. According to the latest predictions from the National Weather Service, the 2006 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to bring up to sixteen named storms, and as many as six major hurricanes. Newly constructed home sales also remain robust, especially high quality custom homes that are built above hurricane code. These numbers are slightly lower than the 2004- 05 seasons that brought devastating storms such as Katrina, the fact remains, Rita and Dennis that even if only one major hurricane impacts the US coastline, it is a bad season for the residents of that area. And in the current market conditions, these homes are more affordable than ever. This is why homes built of solid concrete with additional roof truss straps and impact resistant windows remain so popular with Florida home buyers. Many custom Florida home builders are presently offering reduced sale prices and additional amenities, features and incentives to attract new buyers in a cooling market.


Good News for Florida Home Sellers. Depending on the time of year and amount of homes a builder must sell, it is possible for the Florida home buyer to find fantastic deals on these high quality homes. The outlook for Floridians looking to sell their homes is not all bad. It may take longer to sell a home, but there are still buyers out there who are eager to invest in the Florida real estate market. Sellers are still reaping record profits from their homes, and home sales were actually up in the month of April. Florida realtors are also beginning to tap a robust international market. New marketing strategies include international conferences where Florida realtors can present their listings and investment opportunities to these buyers.


Buyers in Europe, South America and, Asia other countries are eager to invest in industrial, commercial and residential properties throughout Florida.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Greece Doesn T Require Any Introduction, When It Comes To Speaking About Its Role In The Worldwide Tourism

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Greece doesn t require any introduction, when it comes to speaking about its role in the worldwide tourism.



But, the story doesn t stop there, and the recent trends might say, even the Greece property market was about to experience a major boom due to the greater keenness being shown by the foreign buyers. The nation s timeless ancient history and its unharmed natural landscape, provide with the needed pull for drawing in millions of visitors to its soil each year. Greece property provides the buyers with an option to buy holiday homes, villas and apartments over a wide range of tourist places. Least to say, these are well developed urban areas with the air links and sea routes arriving in from and leading out to the entire globe. These places are scattered allover its mainland, the coastal area and several of its well- known islands. There is no definite answer as to why this latest upsurge may have taken place in the Greek property market, but the analysts attribute two major geopolitical events for this transformation.


A whole lot of new construction was undertaken during the Olympics campaign, which subsequently became the selling ground for the Greek real estate. The first one was the admission of Greece into the European Union in 1981, and the second one, the return of Olympic games in Athens in 200Both events proved crucial in helping out the Greek tourism and its real estate market to resurrect themselves in the eyes of the global community. From what we understand about today s Grecian real estate, it is hard to buy a low- cost single family house in Athens, where the demand to supply ratio for such units is much higher compared to the other regions of the country. At the same time, people can buy luxurious villas in the resort towns as an investment option or to have extended holidays there. This leaves out the buyers with an option to buy apartments in Athens, which are easier to locate in the Greece property since the 2004 Olympic games ended here. Buyers eye the hectic profits these days, when deciding to invest in the villas or farm lands across the Greek countryside. On the other hand, many villa owners lend their properties to holidaymakers, who flock in huge numbers after each winter season.


Villas can be sold to other buyers at a handsome premium later. Thus, the market for Greece property provides with a great investment value to all those who might be willing to cash in from its buoyant trend. These are, having a Greek bank account, being enrolled as a tax payer in Greece and getting a prior permission to buy properties in certain areas. Anybody who might be seeking to own a Greece property will have to fulfill certain conditions before doing so. The permission to buy properties can be obtained from the chief administrative or judicial officer in the area of concern. It should also be noted down that, those hailing from the European Union should easily be able to own properties in their names, as compared to those from the non- EU countries.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

What A Great Way To Plan For College

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

With the average cost of college level education rising approximately 6% every year, what is the best way to have the money for college exepnses when you need it? In fact, only 40% of students graduate in four( 4) years.



We can easily help you with different ways to invest for college education. That means that 60% of students are taking five( 5) years to complete their education. On average, it costs over$ 6, 000 per year to attend a state college. It's very important to plan for this major expense well in advance. And if you attend an out- of- state college full time, there is a sur- charge of over$ 10, 00Private colleges can run well over$ 22, 000 per year. However, this can result in hefty tax payments. There are actually several ways to pay for your education or provide financing your child's education: You can invest your money in the stock market or savings account.


You can hope your child has the ability to obtain a full scholarship. But consider the longer time frame to graduate. and also the fact that there is a higher drop- out rate with students who have to work. You can take a second job when the time comes. or have the student take a part time job to help with expenses. Or you could have your child finance his/ her education with student loans. Let's consider a a couple of different ways to save up for those education expenses! But, this leaves them with a huge debt load when they are trying to start their new adult life. Let me explain how to have the money for college at your fingertips when you need it.


I' ll use a$ 125, 000 property for our example: Equity will build! Just purchase a rental property with a 15- year mortgage? Even if there is no appreciation in value, you will still have this$ 125, 000 property paid for in 15 years. But let's run some figures on a modest 5% increase per year in property values. Plenty for the finances needed for college. In this case, your property will more than double in 15 years. And you don' t even have to sell it!


Your$ 125, 000 investment could be worth over$ 250, 000 when you' re ready to pay for college. Here's a way to take your money out of this property without paying tax on it. A re- finance is not taxable income! ! Simply re- finance it. What a great way to plan for college! Even with refinancing for a higher amount- consider that because the property has increased in value- so has the potential rental income! You will have had renters to pay the mortgage payment. and if you re- finance for college expenses, you will still have renters to pay for the new mortgage payment.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Quinta Do Lago�s Infrastructure Is First Rate

Category: Finance, Real Estate.

Villas Quinta do Lago- Quinta do Lago is an exclusive resort in Algarve Portugal. Quinta do Lago began life in 1970 as a 550 hectare area marked for development on Portugal's Algarve coast.



Covering 2, it is bordered, 000 acres by the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa nature reserve. Today, property values reflect the overwhelming success of the resort. Housing density is low in Quinta do Lago as environmental legislation allows only 8% of the area to be developed. Back in the 70�s a 3 bedroom property in Quinta do Lago would cost around �200, today the same, 000 property carries a price tag of nearer �4, 00 It is, 500 easy to see why Quinta do Lago is favoured by property investors. Three to five bedroom luxury villas with pool and garden are the norm and there are only a limited number of building plots available in Quinta do Lago at any one time. There was a slight stagnation of prices during the off shore legislation brought in by the Portuguese government in 2002, Quinta do Lago, however property prices quickly returned to a continuous steady rise once the effects of this shift in government policy had been absorbed. These fetch, up to �5000, on average/ m Real Estate in Quinta do Lago has experienced continual appreciation, in fact Quinta do Lago is one of the few investment havens where a general European recession has never taken effect.


Villas in Quinta do Lago fetch some of the highest prices assigned to any property in the Algarve with prices starting from �450, 000 and reaching in to the multi million euro bracket. The Quinta do Lago resort regularly plays host to the Portuguese Open Golf Championship and all courses have first class driving ranges, putting greens and, golf academys clubhouses. Quinta do Lago is famous for its golf and has 72 holes of championship quality golf. Other recreational facilities on offer in Quinta do Lago include an equestrian centre, watersports, tennis clubs, football pitches and a beautiful beach. Quinta do Lago has its own exclusive shopping centre: "Quinta Shopping" with high end restaurants, bars and shops serving the exclusive villa properties, property owner clubs and village developments of Quinta do Lago. Quinta do Lago�s infrastructure is first rate.


Styles of Architecture in Quinta do Lago include traditional, classic and ultra modern. Properties available in Quinta do Lago include 1 or 2 bedroom apartments, townhouses with private or communal pools as well as bungalow style villas on smaller plots. Architects have always designed villas in Quinta do Lago with the environment in mind and nearly all boast views to the nature reserve, golf courses or the sea. At the high end of the Quinta do Lago property market, there are a number of extravagant 9 bedroom properties on large plots. Quinta do Lago has received numerous awards and has been voted" best property investment area in Europe. " Apart from investment, buyers also purchase villas in Quinta do Lago for the following reasons: as a permanent family or retirement home, as a holiday rental property or as a refurbishment project that will then be put back on the market.

Monday, August 11, 2008

That Agent Must Revert To A" Facilitator" Status

We' ve all heard the term" Buyer's Agent" or" Exclusive Buyer's Agent" .but what do these terms mean? How are they paid?



What do they do? Aren' t they just another Realtor? The rule, was that the, for many years seller paid the commission. so therefore, all agents involved in the transaction worked for that seller. Not long ago, the real estate industry operated completely different than it does today! It was a" buyer beware" situation. Lawmakers have been trying for years to come up with a way that agents could represent the buyer. legally! This is not true anymore.


As of right now( at least in the state of Tennessee) , everyone involved in a real estate transaction must be made aware of who is representing who. and it must be in writing. When a listing agent takes a" listing" , they enter into a legal and binding contract with the seller to represent them in the sale of their home. This document is a legal part of every real estate contract for purchase. The seller is actually signing an agreement with the real estate firm that the agent represents. The problem arises when the listing agent( or any other agent affiliated with the real estate firm) shows the property. Therefore, every other agent that works with that real estate firm legally represent that seller.


How can they represent the buyer when they are already representing the seller? But guess what? The law provides the solution: The managing broker can" designate" one of the firm's agents to function as a buyers agent to work with that particular buyer. That agent is still in the same office. talking over the same water cooler. and many times has access to the files in the office. The law goes one step further. They do the best they can, but agents are still human. and mistakes occur.


In the event that the" listing agent" actually brings the buyer and writes the contract, it really becomes a sad case. This means that they can no longer represent either side. That agent must revert to a" facilitator" status. At this point, they can only take care of the paperwork involved in the transaction. I' ve seen this done for years, and I don' t believe that most buyers and/ or sellers understand that they no longer have any representation. This agent, the buyer and the seller must sign a document that they understand this new arrangement.


Do you see how this quickly becomes a" conflict of interest" ? True exclusive buyer's agencies do not take any listings. So, when agents advertise that they are" buyer's agents" , be sure to check and see if the company they work for takes any listings. They work exclusively for buyers without this conflict of interest. First and foremost, is the absence of this conflict of interest. What are the benefits of using an exclusive buyer's agent? There's no" bonus" for selling company listings.


They are free to focus on your real estate needs. There's no motivation to push any particular property. They usually function as" consultants" .guiding and educating you on the process of your new home purchase. Most exclusive buyers agents will preview homes for you, look much deeper into the background of the home as well as tell you the negative points about the home( as well as the good points) . They can be your eyes, especially if you, ears and legs are relocating from another town. How are they paid? They normally split the commission that the seller and listing agent have already agreed upon.


Buyer's agents are usually paid from the transaction. The listing firm simply pays the buyer's agent at closing. The law requires that a buyer's agent agreement be in writing, and this is one of the issued discussed at that time. If the buyer decides to remove even this tie to the seller, they can choose to work out a compensation agreement directly with the buyer's agent. There are many wonderful Realtors. that do a really good job. Legally, there are ways around this problem. but you should be aware that the problem exists. But, the conflict of interest is something that is there anytime they show a listing that belongs to their firm.


And decide if you want to take that chance. or hire someone to represent you- 100% .