The following is a monthly market analysis for Royal Oak Michigan.  It compares only residential homes sold in Feb. 2009 with Jan. 2009 to determine the # of homes sold for the month and the increase/decrease in average sold price.  It also distinguishes how many homes were recorded to be Bank Owned/HUD. as opposed to private owned.   First figures include private, bank owned and short sales.  In the latter part of 2008, Realtors were required to categorize ownership status so figures may not truly reflect the actual number of bank owned Feb. 2008.  To insure that most leases were not included in data, minimum sale price used was $10,000. Market Analysis Feb. 09 median sale price decreased 12% from Jan. 09 & a 30% decrease # of homes sold. Bank owned homes median price decreased 23% in ... 03/05/2009

As you are aware, the bank requires an independent assessment of value for the asset that you are short selling. These agents and appraisers are getting paid very little for what they do and are overworked. Make is easier for them, meet them at the home. Give them some comps that make sense. Remember, your short sale is in their hands. They are going to spend a few minutes in that house, pull up some comps from the MLS and reporting to the bank the value. As you know, many agents MLS inputting skills are very sloppy!! Often agents may be forgetting a basement, garage or bath room which raises value. They may also be leaving out in the remarks items of value that raised the sale price. The BPO agent are pulling these listings that have more valuable then your short sale listing then comp... 02/27/2009

This is a repost of an article originally Posted by DaveRap News Network 4/2/2006 11:44:22 AM http://www.rapnews.net/0-202-261161-00.html   Just when you thought you heard it all, there is a new rap topic out there, its homeownership  A rap CD about homeownership? Yes! Detroit-based, African-American real estate developer/investor Robert Shumake has produced Take The Land: Elements of Real Estate featuring many well-known spoken word and Def Poetry artists such as Umar Bin Hassan of The Last Poets, Big Proof of D12 and M-1 of Dead Prez. Shumake, who went from being homeless as a child to owning one of the top real estate concerns in Michigan, is passionate about creating homeownership in the African-American community. And being of the hip-hop generation himself, Shumake, 37, thought wh... 01/11/2009

The following is an end of the year market analysis for Royal Oak Michigan.  It compares only residential homes sold in 2007 with 2008 to determine the number of homes sold for the year and the increase/decrease in average sold price.  It also distinguishes how many homes were recorded to be Bank Owned as opposed to private owned.   Total number of Homes Sold include private, bank owned and short sales.  In the latter part of 2008, Realtors were required to categorize ownership status so figures may not truly reflect the actual number of bank owned for 2007 and part of 2008.  To insure that leases were not included in these calculations, minimum search price was $10,000. 62 Bank Owned Homes sold in 2007 Average List Price $135,656.00 Average Sold Price $127,238.00 Highest List Price $25... 01/04/2009

Mortgage fraud is defined as the intentional misrepresentation of information, by applicants, loan officers or other parties, which is relied on by an underwriter to provide funding for a mortgage loan.    Mortgage fraud is divided into two categories:  fraud for property and fraud for profit.  Fraud for property or housing involves misrepresentations by the applicant for the purpose of purchasing a primary residence.  Although applicants may claim more income and less for expenses in order to qualify for the loan, they usually do intend to repay the debt.   Fraud for profit often involves multiple loans and elaborate schemes generated to gain commissions or proceeds from property sales.  This is the category that is of the most concern to law enforcement within the mortgage industry.  ... 12/30/2008

This week Stage-Show-Sell has been working on an Estate in Royal Oak.  We organize, toss out and sell what we can for the family.  Then we paint clean and stage according to the  budget. It's a lot of work and it's great feeling of satisfaction when we are finished.  This weeks sale was a little different.  First the big snow storm hit on the final day of the sale.  I think we will have to do it another day. We advertise for our sales in papers and CraigsList (which I absolutely love).   I received an offer to purchase furniture sight unseen.   Isn't that the greatest EVER?   He would send me a check and arrange for the pick up of the furniture.   Isn't that WONDERFUL?  The check would be enough for the pickup and the furniture and an additional $50 for my efforts. (Gosh a tip)   Isn't ... 12/07/2008

I am sure you are aware that negative credit is a major problem that plagues millions of people in this country today. Without a doubt, it is the number one issue that prevents the overwhelming majority of your clients from realizing the American Dream of home ownership. We know that in the real estate and mortgage business you may have to contact dozens of prospects in order to find five to ten people whose credit is good enough to qualify for a home loan. That low percentage has been an accepted part of the business for years. At United Credit Education Services, we have developed a process by which we work with consumers to research outdated, inaccurate and unverifiable information on their credit reports to improve their credit profiles. This service could help some of your prospect... 11/08/2008

The Detroit Zoo and the Michigan Humane Society, in collaboration with several local animal welfare organizations, hosted the Fall Meet Your Best Friend at the Zoo September 27 & 28, 2008. This is the 16th year of hosting the event.  The nation's largest off-site companion-animal adoption program. this event finds homeless animals a new best friend.  I thought making a video would be a great way to bring attention to Royal Oakand showcase one of the many things the Detroit Zoo and Michgian Humane Soceity are up to.  Not having a pet myself, I was not familar with the work the Humane Society does on behalf of animals.  For me, it would be a fun and touching time to watch children finding pets.  But I came away with a new awareness of what the Humane Society is up to and and how committe... 10/07/2008

Smart Business International, PLLC, provides a comprehensive, "on-line payroll service" that is customized for individual business needs.  Clients all across the United States simply log in to the full-service payroll secure website enter their data, and "payroll processing" is performed, quickly and accurately.    Our "On-line Payroll Processing Service"   Personalized payroll processing service from a  professional  staff with years of experience in payroll accounting  Calculations for wage detail reports and payroll taxes for all 50 states, including District of Columbia and Puerto Rico 18 pay types, including retroactive, tip income and reimbursement Multiple payroll schedules Multiple withholding capability and full State Unemployment reporting compliance Standard, bonus/commission... 09/12/2008

Since the statistics reported for a six month period ending April 6, 2008, there are 439 more listings for a six month period than what were reported four months ago.  In that time, only 47 more homes sold than the total reported during that time.  The Days on Market (DOM) were pretty stable.  The statistics are based on a home with a minimum of 1000 sq. ft., a basement, a garage (any size), at least 3 bedrooms and at least one bath. While there was an average listing price drop of $6,182, there was an average price drop of $7,594 of homes sold compared to the six month period ending April 6 of this year.  For the same period a year ago (2/8/2007 - 8/8/07), the average price of homes sold (based on same criteria) was $205,736.  For just the month of July 2007, the avg. sold price was $1... 08/12/2008

With so much of the Internet world focused on these two candidates, I figured I'd throw my hat in the ring. And as a self-proclaimed Internet propeller head, that hat would look something like this: Instead of ranting and raving about the issues and which man is right for the job, I'm going to make my determination like any good techie would...by his Website of course! So without further ado, I will attempt to take an unbiased look at these two fine gentlemen's Websites and may the best Website win!I will rate them on five different categories, all having to do with aesthetics, usability and their ability to get their message across.I've added snapshots of both of their Home pages below for clarification.The first category is color pollution. This is the ability to use a few (less than ... 07/10/2008

Royal Oak is a prime location for affordable homes in Metro Detroit and all Real Estate in Oakland County.  Located near Beaumont Hospital and several major expressways, this city has maintained the appeal of a small town, while offering the amenities of a large metropolis. The population represents a diverse mix of individuals, age groups, incomes, and myriad of residential home styles. Downtown Royal Oak offers the largest amount of condos for those individuals who prefer the trendy and urban-chic style of life.  The outlying areas of Royal Oak offer a more family/residential atmosphere with very affordable homes.      Downtown businesses have created a diverse, one-stop commercial district where customers find quality and personal service. Famous for its Farmer's Market and retail sh... 04/06/2008

Royal Oak, Mich. -- Gilda's Club Metro Detroit recently launched a new Young Adult Council, a network of young adult professionals who will help raise awareness and funds for the cancer support organization.             The Young Adult Council (YAC) kicks off fundraising efforts on Tuesday, April 15 from 6-9pm at Goodnight Gracie's in Royal Oak. A portion of the bar and food proceeds from Goodnight Gracie's and D'Amato's will benefit Gilda's Club. Local businesses have donated great raffle items, including gift certificates from The Yoga Shelter, Hanson's Running Shop, Creatopia Pottery, Shiraz restaurant and more.             Targeting ages 18-40, the Young Adult Council will focus on reaching out to young adults in Metro Detroit to promote the programs and services available at Gilda'... 03/31/2008

In addition to over 70,000 listings in Southeast Michigan, The Quick Home Finder provides a wealth of information for home buyers and investors Royal Oak, Michigan-- The Quick Home Finder was created by real estate professionals who believe that all people can make great decisions with good information.  There are so many great neighborhoods and communities in the Michigan area.  Whether someone is coming from outside the region, or moving across town, finding the right home is a challenge.  The Quick Home Finder can help explain all options, from beautiful towns and suburbs to city neighborhoods and specific homes.  The staff of trained real estate professionals can provide the insight needed to make an informed decision.  The web site is simple to use and navigate and features large p... 03/19/2008

For 75 Years and Three Generations Real Estate One has Proved Their Commitment to this State  Royal Oak, Michigan--Larry Morris an associate broker with Real Estate One fully understands why this is the leading real estate broker.  They are affiliated with a host of other companies that help make them a success.   Morris works with John Adams Mortgage Company offering quick approval, equity and bridge loans and a variety of mortgage products designed to meet specific needs.  Capital Title Insurance assists sales associates and customers by coordinating the details of the transaction.  They will arrange closings that are quick and convenient.  Insurance One provides complete insurance coverage for associates and customers.  They can arrange homeowners insurance quickly to facilitate a cl... 02/13/2008

Home buyers and investors can search over 70,000 listings in addition to taking advantage of convenient tools and features that have been added to the website   Royal Oak, Michigan-- Real Estate One Michigan's largest real estate broker, Associate broker Larry Morris, has partnered with one of the largest home finders on the internet.  This system makes finding a home or investment property quick and easy.  Real Estate One Michigan and The Quick Home Finder serves Oakland, Livingston, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Wayne Counties in Southeast Michigan. The Quick Home Finder was created by real estate professionals who believe that all people can make great decisions with good information.  The staff of trained real estate professionals will provide the insight needed to make an informed decisio... 02/13/2008

The REALITY of Realty Seminar Tour ...coming March 3rd 2008!YOU ARE INVITED To a 5 City Tour Across Metro Detroit for a Laid Back, Fun, & Educational Seminar on Michigan Real Estate & Financing in Today's Michigan market focusing on what's really happening in Michigan right now dealing with the Real Estate Market & Mortgages from the Experts. There will be a panel of 6 -8 (Realtor, Loan Officer, Title Insurance, Home Owners Insurance, Home Appraiser, Credit Repair, Foreclosure Expert, & Home Inspector) educating you on what's REALLY going on today in Michigan vs. hearing the info from your neighbor, co-worker, or the guy in line at the grocery store. There will be refreshments provided along with hand outs and enough info to make YOU the Expert! The NEXT Reality of Realty Seminar will b... 02/09/2008

Many of our Royal Oak and Berkley Michigan homes were built in the 1940 and 50's .  The ceramic at that time was pink and black.The work was done with cement and metal lathe so it stays there for a long time.  Tearing it out for replacement is expensive.   Making it looking good for selling can be a bit of a challenge.                      Luckily the previous ownder updated some of the fixutures for us.  The new round mirror and crome towel holder helps.  There are items that I try to get my sellers to replace.  The old cabinet has been replaced with a pedistal sink.By adding a lot of white towels and the black and white checkers I believe that I succeeded in drawing away from the over whelming pink.                      The current owner is a very busy resident at a nearby hospital.  ... 01/19/2008

A Free Real Estate Search Website Allows Buyers to Search Homes for Sale without Using a Realtor   The Quick Home Finder, LLC understands how stressful and difficult buying a home can be. They had that in mind when they developed a way for buyers to easily search properties online with http://www.thequickhomefinder.com./ The Quick Home Finder, LLC services Wayne County, Livingston County, Washtenaw County and Oakland County, Michigan. There are over 60,000 homes listed on the website's database now. With Michigan having one of the highest foreclosure rates in the nation, more homes for sale are constantly being added to the list.The site has received honorable recognition from the National Real Estate Network for excellence in service. The public has also responded with approval; over 4... 01/08/2008

Michigan Broker Called Mr. Home Finder Explains Why  Royal Oak, MI -- Larry Morris is an associate broker with Real Estate One, Michigans premier real estate company. He is also an advocate for the new "Do it yourself" home listing search, http://thequickhomefinder.com/.  He explains that although this website will benefit homebuyers, real estate investors, landlords, tenants and anyone who uses it, people still need real estate agents. Why use a real estate agent or realtor? Larry explains, "Real estate transactions today usually exceed $100,000. If you had a $100,000 income tax problem, would you attempt to deal with it without the help of a CPA? If you had a $100,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the larg... 12/17/2007