Mark R. Hardy's Blog

"People who are unable to motivate themselves must be content with mediocrity, no matter how impressive their other talents." - Andrew Carnegie   How true this is. We sometimes forget how powerful our subsconscience minds are. If we can visualize accomplishing something, we will - it will eventua...

INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE... There appears to be plenty of real estate people who believe they can succeed, as last week saw more housing numbers go through the roof. Existing Home Sales were up 4.2% in May to a 5.18 million unit annual rate, up 12.9% over a year ago. The median price climb...

This is an actual story that occured to me recently on a transaction where I represented a VA buyer. I will admit, I was not directly responsible for the mistake - the mistake was actually made by the escrow officer involved in preparing the HUD-1 to be approved by the bank(s) in this short sale ...

Weaker than expected economic data tends to send bond prices up and interest rates down, while positive data points to lower bond prices and rising loan rates. Economic Calendar for the Week of June 10 – June 14    Date Time (ET) Release For Consensus Prior Impact W Jun 12 10:30 Crude Inventories...

Whether you are a first time buyer or not, there is often few things in life that can compare to the stress of buying a property. Here are a few steps you can take to alleviate this home-buying pressure and stress for yourself: 1. Don't get in over your head. Much of the worry felt by home buyers...

What's still the #1 cause of death in the U.S.? It is coronary heart disease according to the American Heart Association. But to lower your chances of getting heart disease, there are a number of risk factors, which are completely in your control. The American Heart Association suggests a few str...

Deciding to buy a home – and then choosing what type of home to buy and where – are not simply financial determinations, like picking a mutual fund to invest in. Home buying decisions can be heavily influenced by values, priorities and concerns that aren't primarily about money. Here are four fac...

INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE... A shower of home purchases sure sweetened the real estate market in April, as Existing Home Sales gained 0.6% for the month, hitting an annual rate of 4.97 million units. This put them up 9.7% over a year ago, reaching their highest sales pace since November 200...

Answer these questions as you embark on your research into pools.  Can you afford the annual maintenance costs?  Are you willing to invest in landscaping? Buyers want the whole experience of a pool which includes landscaping, patios, or other additions to the backyard. Is there a community pool n...

Memorial day is a very special day to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the country in which they loved. I hope you take a minute during the weekend to say a prayer for our country, leaders, and the men and women of the armed forces who protect our way of life.   Have a won...