Real Homeowner Stories: A Miracle in the Form of a Red Envelope For homeowners who are in danger of losing their home to foreclosure, it is common to feel like you are alone and that there is no one to help. This simply isn’t true. There are real people who have been in the same situation who have found solutions. Take, for example, Punipuao W. of Hawaii. Punipuao found herself struggling to keep her home after her husband passed away.  “With only my income, I was no longer able to make my monthly mortgage payment,” she said. Faced with the prospect of losing the home she and her husband had bought together, she began looking for alternatives to help her keep the home.   She pleaded with the bank for relief, “but their responses gave me little information and even less hope.”   The pr... 04/10/2013

Educate Yourself So You Don't Become a Victim!   For distressed homeowners in danger of losing their home, there are already a lot of problems. The last thing a homeowner in this situation needs is to fall victim to a scam. Unfortunately, people in this situation are often the most vulnerable to a kind of fraud called “mortgage relief fraud.”   Fraudsters will prey on people who are looking for a loan modification, short sale or other foreclosure alternative because these are the most common options for distressed homeowners.   There have been legal cases brought against many, but scammers always try to stay a step ahead of law enforcement. Even though many of them have been caught, there are still people who prey on vulnerable homeowners with too-good-to-be-true promises.   In fact, i... 02/25/2013

Who's the Decision Maker,can be one of those bombshell questions.  Real Estate selling and buying requires us, as Realtor's to deal with the decision makers.  You could be talking to the decision maker upon first contact, or you could be discussing your representation with someone other than the decision maker (owner of the property).  Until you meet face to face and get the facts all you can really do is ask questions and note the answers. Many times younger buyers have parents that will contact me on their behalf.  Some in fact offer so much information they seem like the seller, except their name isn't on the deed!  They lent money for the purchase of the property, failed to have joint ownership, a promissary note or any written attactment recorded for their investment.  They want a ... 02/17/2013

  Underwater Homeowners Breathe a Sigh of Relief as Congress Renews Mortgage Debt Relief Act!     On January 1, 2013, Congress passed an extension of the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act. This extension of this act, which has saved homeowners more than $1 billion dollars in taxes is great news for struggling homeowners nationwide.       The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act was originally passed in 2007 to aid the millions of homeowners who suddenly found themselves in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure following the housing market crash.       Under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act, any debt forgiven in a short sale, foreclosure, or loan modification, is exempt from federal taxes on primary residences. For homeowners facing foreclosure, this exemption saves them... 01/21/2013

Worlds Colliding may have been made famous by original radio broadcast Orson Welles "War of the Worlds". Today we have cultures, generational issues, rapid response news reporting and immediate media coverage.  The availability of information, right and wrong, is a few key strokes away.  Many people do not even watch a news broadcast.  They get their information needs from a search engine and news service publications or article posted. Much like real estate sellers and buyers search for information on a particular home, neighborhood or recent sell price.  I was the recipient of a phone call with a voice on the other end of the conversation we informed me my suggested sell price was too high.  They were kind enough to provide me with an address so I could identify which property they we... 01/14/2013

Sell My House, Wait Maybe Not how much will I get after everything is deducted?  This is a normal reaction by many sellers but it is usually handled at the time of listing. That's why you get a "seller's net sheet", outlining your costs, expenses and net profit when you accept an offer.  I have a seller that has been a nickel and dime guy without seeing the big picture.  He wants to move because of a two hour daily commute.  His wife loves the house, drive buddy I am not moving attitude. Well wouldn't you know I am on the third offer.  Most people would do cartwheels with one offer!  The inspections were just completed and of course we have a few issues.  The buyer want the seller to pay for some upgrades that are not required, just drive a nail in my heart already. The seller says I ga... 01/11/2013

Buyer Beware is a term that has been used for over a 100 years in real estate transactions.  To bad some things never go out of style. I was called by a client who was forced into a corner to convert a land contract.  Before I share much more, please be advised, I have had the Land Contract buyer consult an attorney.   The buyers felt so good at the time they purchased.  The buyers blindly signed a land contract knowing they had credit issues.  They felt their only option to owning a home quickly with credit payments missed, a car repossession, health bills and other related divorce issues dotting their credit history a loan was illusive.  Then add custody of 6 children and a dog to the mix, finding a place to rent in a safe area was also daunting. So they spotted a Craig's List add, it... 01/11/2013

Nothing Personal, this house stinks, OK, it's not my house either. I have to admit my nose is not the best "smeller" on the planet, but I still pick up odors others miss.  Showing homes has always been one of those love it or hate it relationships. I love the idea of someone selling their home and a buyer finding the perfect home for their needs.  Of course we all know today buyers see more homes before making a choice on the right one.  I rarely show more than 10 homes before a buyer writes a contract.  Yet, I hear agents showing 20-30 homes routinely and not getting a purchase agreement. The reason I show fewer homes is simple, I listen.  Yup, that's the secret.  Someone once said, we have two ears and one mouth, so we could listen more and talk less.  My mom may have said that! When ... 12/18/2012

You every have those days when Christmas shopping isn't as much fun as it used to be?  I enjoy the day, for much more than the gifts. I appreciate the reason for the season most of all but that is not what I am writing about. It is especially difficult to find the right gift sometimes.  This year we decided to (hope they don't read this) do something a bit different.   The grand children are always going to get gifts but our adult children they have gotten progressively more difficult to surprise.  Even when we manage to surprise them it is less often.  Maybe because we ask them what they want they tell us and we buy it! This year we didn't ask.  In fact we have had a few questions from them, do you need any ideas for Christmas on what we could use?  We answered, "Nope, we have it all u... 12/17/2012

Do You Smell Something?  Smoke Can be a terrifying smell when you recognize it's in your home! One of my relatives learned, older home electrical circuits were not designed to handle the load of todays appliances. Homes can look perfect from the surface.  They can have all the cosmetic advantages of vinyl siding, updated windows and insulation.  Behind those nicely decorated walls and floors can be a hidden terror ready to strike at any time. Electrical services coming into older homes were fine for the years when the home was built.  Most homes have far more electronics and cooking updates than those of homes in the 1950's, constructed just after world War II.  In the case of my in-laws their home of 50 years has everything updated and looks like "House Beautiful".  I never gave the el... 12/15/2012

Copyright Infringement, Maybe not so fast! We all have been well schooled on copyright issues and the proper use of photos and music.  Or have we?  The truth is not everything that appears to be copyright infringement is and somethings that look to be harmless are actually infringement. Sound familiar?  It should, it's the old cliche', "things arn't always the way they look".  In the case of YouTube, I have found them to be very proactive on copyright infringement.  Especially when music is involved. I produce a fair number of custom videos for online use for clients outside of the real estate industry and as well as in.  I also produce videos for my listing that are custom.  What is a video without music?  Me personally I turn it off!  But it still is part of what is expected when a vi... 12/15/2012

Is the Strain of Foreclosure Crushing You? You have options! A lot has changed since you bought your home. If you or someone you know is among the 10 million homeowners who are falling further behind every single month because of an unmanageable mortgage payment, then that weight may feel unbearable. But there is actually some encouraging news:Government incentives, coupled with banks willing to help stem the foreclosure tide, are providing new opportunity. You have options, and foreclosure is not one of them! As a real estate professional with the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, I offer all of my clients the benefit of the best expertise and insights when it comes to foreclosure avoidance. Take a look at my site and download a copy of my free report entitled “I... 12/06/2012

Flash mobs are nothing new, they have been used across the United States for activism or targeted promotions. This is a unique use of the "Flash Mob" idea that not only stunned the crowd but moved them into becoming involved.  How many times have you and I wondered how to move people to become more involved, with their life direction, families, or personal journey. It is easy to sit back and ride each day as it comes without planning or control.  The journey can become a bit bumpy without taking any personal responsibility for your actions. Real estate is much the same way.  Without direction from the client, regardless if they are a seller or buyer the agent is taking the responsibility squarely for the clients future.  Agents always have a responsibility to clients but the client also... 12/01/2012

Grand Rapids Condo for Sale Devonwood Hills NE (3344 A, Ground Floor) NEW Condo For Sale Listing Ever think of living the fancy free life, come and go as you please?  Here's your chance with a one (1) bedroom condo that is spotless.  All you have to do is bring your furniture! Security is provided by an electronic remote door system.  Push to talk or allow in, with the push of a button.   The current owner has lived here for 13 years and has enjoyed every minute of it!  The unit has been remodeled and updated.  New neutral paint scheme, updated full bath with Corian vanity sink and counter with new fixtures.  Of course a linen closet too!  Included in the updates in 2012 is a new energy efficient furnace with a central air combination.  The roof was replaces within the last couple years... 11/20/2012

OPEN HOUSE, October 06, Saturday 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM 1129 Griswold Street Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI Get Directions Click Here Description Features Photos Maps & Local Schools Virtual Tour $ Click for current price3 BEDROOMS1 BATHROOMS (1 full) 1400 Square Feet Home for sale in Grand Rapids, MI 109,900 USD Come and take a look at this move in ready three bedroom Alger Heights home. The main level has been beautifully updated. Featuring new paint, new or refinished hardwood floors, new kitchen appliances, new light fixtures, ceiling fans and more. The lower level was also recently finished with the same care and quality as seen on the main level. You will notice high end carpet, flooring and fixtures throughout this home. The great neighborhood, the large backyard with a fire pit and th... 10/02/2012

Robert Brown | Bellabay Realty | (616) 366-7030 937 Nevada St SE, Grand Rapids, MI A very nice home located in Alger Heights. 3BR/2BA Single Family House offered at $96,900 Year Built 1946 Sq Footage 1,535 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors Unspecified Parking 1 Car garage Lot Size 50,094 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Wonderful Alger Heights area home on a cul-de-sac street. 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths await you. Polished hardwood floors on the main level. Living room with fireplace. Huge dormer room on the upper level. All appliances including a washer and dryer. Ready for your buyer today. see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Fireplace - Hardwood floor - Living room - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Basement - Washer - Dryer - Laun... 08/12/2012

Robert Brown | Bellabay Realty | (616) 366-7030 38 Delaware St SE, Grand Rapids, MI Priced to sell right now. Renters in both units. 5BR/2BA Multi-Family, 2 units offered at $52,000 Year Built 1900 Sq Footage 2,590 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking Unspecified Lot Size 3,441 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Living room - Dining room - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Basement - Laundry area - inside ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Photo 1Photo 2Photo 3 Contact info: Robert Brown Bellabay Realty (616) 366-7030 For sale by agent/broker Posted: Aug 1, 2012, 7:41am PDT 08/12/2012

The Foreclosure Fairytale There is a lot of misinformation out there. I would not be surprised to find out that you have heard that a foreclosure is sometimes the best option for you. Nothing could be further from the truth. For the vast majority of homeowners out there who are in danger of losing their homes, a short sale represents a vastly superior option. The reality is that a foreclosure is a devastating option. As a real estate professional with the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, I have put together all of the benefits of a short sale over a foreclosure in a free report that is available to anyone. Take a look at my site and download a copy of my free report entitled “The Foreclosure Fairytale” Then contact me for a free, confidential consultation To Your... 08/03/2012

HARP Refi’s Set to Double in 2012 There’s great news for the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP)! The program, which appeared to stumble out of the gate, is gaining momentum in the distressed property market. In just the first 5 months of this year 78,000 homes were refinanced using this program. That’s more than all twelve months of 2011 combined! And throughout the life of this program, 1.3 million homeowners have been helped. That’s 1.3 million properties that didn’t go into foreclosure and didn’t bring down property values in neighborhoods. To Your Success! Donna 07/26/2012

Located on the 7th floor with fantastic views of Monroe Center. Walking distance to downtown Grand Rapids shopping, dining and nightlife. An appropriately sophisticated backdrop for your Downtown lifestyle. Great roof top deck available for entertaining with panoramic views of the Grand Rapids skyline. This contemporary condo is the place for you to call home. 60 Monroe Center St Northwest Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Contemporary Condo - Grand Rapids, MI Home Photo Gallery Virtual Tour Property Map Payment Info Request Showing Melissa Balsitis Office:616.871.9200 Mobile:616.813.5520 Website:Visit Website Price : $245,000 Bedrooms : 2 Bathrooms : 2 Square Foot : 1,196 County : Kent Property Type : Detached Year Built : 2004 MLS Number : 12039735 click for more information and pictures Propert... 07/24/2012