Lisa Wiseman Blog

Almaden Community Meeting

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:42:00 -0800

Don't let the trees in our park get cut down! Come make your voice heard. They plan to cut the trees on March 22!!!!!

PG&E is planning to cut and remove approximately 140 the trees in T.J. Martin and Jeffery Fontana Parks.

The meeting date is: March 3, Wednesday

Meeting time: 6:30 pm-8:00pm

Meeting location: Almaden Winery Community Center

5730 Chambertin Drive
San Jose, CA

At the meeting representatives from PG&E, Council person Nancy Pyle office, City of San Jose Parks and Recreation Department will present the details of the removal of approximately 140 trees.

According PG&E, these trees interfere with the overhead electrical lines. The trees were planted by the City of San Jose many years ago.

T.J. Martin Park Neighborhood Association, friends of T.J. Martin Park and Jeffrey Fontana Park have been communicating to Nancy Pyle's office that the trees should be trimmed and not cut and disposed as PG&E is proposing. If a tree must be cut because it is diseased, then it should be replaced on a three to one basis.

We have requested documentary evidence that shows what State and Federal laws allow PG&E to propose this action. Also we have asked for other documentation from the City and PG&E that would support this action. The City and PG&E have not responded.

AXIS ARTISTS

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:34:00 -0800

My sister-in-law, Judith participated as a guest artist in the downtown showcase event this weekend at The Axis.
Great stuff!

Almaden View

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 16:27:00 -0800

View from the trail at Quicksilver Park in Almaden on Saturday.

Buyers Shouldn't Wait

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:31:00 -0800

What's at stake in the next 6 weeks:

http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/pages/News2010030203?OpenDocument

Assistance for Seniors: RSVP

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:30:00 -0800

Do you know of a senior who could use some help around the house? For one week in May,
RSVP (The Realtor's Volunteer Program), of which I have volunteered for the past 3 years
will assist seniors with chores. I've attached an application form (the deadline has been
changed, and we are still looking for people to assist). Below is me helping out a couple
of years ago. No Name

Important: Prevent Loan Scams!

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 19:55:00 -0800

Many troubled homeowners are being scammed. Please pass this site along to anyone
that may benefit from this: http://www.preventloanscams.org/

A Story of 3 Friends

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 18:49:00 -0800

If only we humans could learn from the story of Baloo the bear, Leo the lion and Shere Khan the tiger .

Scenes From a Saturday Walk in Almaden...

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 18:21:00 -0800

Tribute to a Life Well-Lived

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 21:46:00 -0800

February 25th, 1921, was the date my wonderful father-in-law was born.

Great husband, family man, mentor, IBM pioneer, fixer of everything, lover of travel and Yosemite(above), investor and friend to everyone he met, he was always worried about their not being enough time and needlessly concerned about whether he had done enough with his life. If we all could be like him!

He would have loved this blog stuff!

It's been over 2 years since you left us and you have left an incredible legacy. Happy Birthday, Jack.

With Love,

Your Family

Teen Gets License!

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 22:50:00 -0800

OK, so it's our teen. Blessing, curse, who knows. More money, either way, yes. No grumpy teen in the house
is always good news.

Can Dogs Open Doors?

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 22:22:00 -0800

Brandi, the Wonder Dog has done it again. This time upon picking her up at Pets Hotel, her report card stated
she had opened up the door all by herself. She's saved lizards, found 'ghosts', jumps 7 ft walls and can outchew
anyone. Her blog: http://www.myspace.com/mycaninelife

Bon Jovi!

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 22:10:00 -0800

Went to the Bon Jovi concert at HP Monday night. Never a big fan, but decided to go after being impressed by
their documentary. Not knowing that many of their songs, I was pleasantly surprised. by their quality and mix
of songs as well as what a great entertainer he is!

My favorites; Train, Hallelujaha (Leonard Cohen, who originated the song said he like Bon Jovi's best, and
I can see why), Keep the Faith, and a couple of other new ones that I unfortunately can't remember!

The Review

Skiing at Bear

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 22:18:00 -0800

Went skiing at Bear Valley on Thursday for the first time in almost 5 years! (I'm a fair weather skier, so this was the
perfect day for me. )However, it's a good thing we got there early, as after my 4th run, my boots started to shatter, and
by the time I got down to the rental area, there were bits and pieces of them all over the place! Fate was on my side,
as if it had happened on the slopes I'd have been going back on a stretcher! So it was a good day after all....

PG&E's TJ Martin Tree Removal

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:22:00 -0800

If you missed it, you missed a lot. What started out as civil got a little ugly.

The message; Don't mess with our trees!

Present were:

1.PG&E technicians, vegetation specialists, and utility arborist
2.Councilman Don Gage
3.Channel 7
4.At least 100 concerned neighbors and citizens
5.The local Audobon Society

A brief excerpt:
Those trees tagged with a light green paint are scheduled for removal (or per PG&E's terms 'work')
for 2010. Others will be or are tagged for removal next year. An undetermined number of those trees are old oak trees.
PG&E is paying for the removal of 25% of the trees in the TJ Martin Park, and claims the project
has nothing to do with budget cuts.

Transmission lines are required to be 27 ft. from the ground, with a 10 ft. clearance from the
trees to take into account occasional 'line sag'. Concerns are that power coverage as far as San Francisco, as well as potential danger issues can be affected in the event of contact.

The Audobon Society and neighbors involved in the nesting box project expressed concern
over the trees to be removed and that will not be relocated in time for the nesting season.

Topping was disccused and is considered an issue by PG&E due to continued need for
clearance and growth of trees, which neighbors discussed as varied based on individual
trees.

There was also discussion as to poor planning on PG&E's part and the option of raising
the tower lines or tower itself considering it is less than a 1/2 mile area and this has been
done in the past.

A number of attendees also questioned why, if PG&E was open to working with the community,
it had not attempted to do so more than one month prior to the scheduled removal of the trees.
When asked to provide specific information on each tree, they said they had the information,
but that it was not available to the public.

Neighbors also noted that Adopt-a-Park members have planted and nurtered many of these
trees for a number of years, and as a number of attendees noted; 'They are not your trees!"

Prior to my leaving, there was an agreement that approx. 10 selected community members
would walk the park with PG&E officials to review and discuss each tree scheduled for removal.
Community members recommended that an independent arborist be hired for this purpose, and
PG&E officials noted that their arborist was notably a utilities arborist, hired specifically for
these types of issues.

Your thoughts?

Some Were Calling it The New Willow Glen...

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:10:00 -0800

Campbell comes into it's own....

From the San Jose Mercury News:

Sweetbriar and Stonehurst, where residents are waging a determined campaign to get into what they are certain is Silicon Valley's most desirable dwelling destination.

San Jose's city limit is only a few hundred yards away, but that's not the velvet rope they're trying to slip under. These people are attempting to drive a stake through the municipal heart of the Bay Area's biggest city, planting yard signs that rise like middle fingers to declare: "We're For Campbell Annexation."

That's right, Campbell. These days everybody wants to be in Campbell.

"To me, it's more prestigious to say we're in Campbell," explained Lisa Dow, a real estate agent who lives in this unincorporated pocket of Santa Clara County that wants no part of San Jose. "Campbell is kind of the hip place now. Affordably hip."

With the city's sixth hotel — a 162-room Courtyard by Marriott on Creekside Way — opening Thursday, and with businesses such as Katie Bloom's Irish Pub and Chacho's Mexican restaurant moving to its downtown shopping district from San Jose, Campbell is viewed by some of its most recent transplants as the "anti-San Jose."

"Downtown San Jose is yukky," said Gabrielle Medrano, who moved her business, Gabrielle's Bridal Atelier, from Los Gatos next to the light-rail tracks on Campbell Avenue last year.

walk there by myself at night. I like being in a really safe place."

Campbell sits comfortably at the hub of San Jose, Los Gatos and Saratoga, much as Switzerland forms a beautiful bull's-eye amid France, Germany and Austria. According to Courtyard general manager Michael McClintock, Marriott picked Campbell in part because its guests can step out the door and board a light-rail train to HP Pavilion for a Sharks game, or be at eBay's headquarters in a matter of minutes. Campbell is in the middle of everything.

Youth movement

After decades of being known primarily for its prune and apricot orchards, today Campbell strikes a near-perfect balance between its past and present. Finding that delicate balance created a rare instance of strife among the city's downtown business association, which oversees a compact group of restaurants, boutiques, coffeehouses and bars. Its attempt to create a slogan for the lively four-block main drag finally had to be shelved.

"There was too much division over how we wanted to tie into our roots, versus the new, improved, hip place to be," said Neil Collins, executive director of the city's Chamber of Commerce. "The most difficult dynamic to manage is to be relevant to today, but honor your past."

That split is nowhere more obvious than a half-mile or so between the historic Pruneyard — still Campbell's biggest shopping center — and the kicky downtown, where the annual Prune Festival recently was re-christened "Boogie on the Bayou." Prunes no longer projected the proper image for a city whose inhabitants constitute a youth movement.

At 26, Mayor Evan Low is the embodiment of Campbell's kiddie constituency. As the youngest gay Asian mayor in the country, he also adds an element of diversity sizzle to City Hall.

Walking through Campbell's downtown farmers' market — the South Bay's best Sunday mix of produce and production values — Low is the smiling, open face of his city. "It's a small community, and we look out for each other," he said. "San Jose has different districts with competing interests. In Campbell we care about everyone; it doesn't matter which side of town you live on."

Walkable downtown

Campbell has its own set of problems, among them an unfunded effort to create a pedestrian corridor between downtown and the Pruneyard. And the Gaslighter Theater, a popular music venue, closed nearly four years ago after its owner, Mark Gaetano, was arrested three times for not having proper permits. He called the city "uncooperative and unwelcoming" before leaving town.

When the city of San Jose signaled some uncertainty three years ago over whether it wanted to extend services to the residents of that unincorporated frontier off Bascom Avenue, "Campbell said, 'We welcome you with open arms,' " Low recalled.

"San Jose is a major pain to deal with, and Campbell's so nice," said developer Steve McVay, who danced for eight seasons with Ballet San Jose but now wants into Campbell. "San Jose has got so many problems. Seriously, it's a nightmare."

By contrast, at the Recycle Bookstore in downtown Campbell, manager Stacy Carlon's biggest problem was trying to prepare her customers for the appearance of a new orange store cat, after the retirement of drowsy veteran ISBN. "I know we're going to have a lot of boo-hooing when people notice," she said.

When Recycle expanded beyond its original location on The Alameda in San Jose, it chose Campbell. There were no plans for a children's section, but Carlon quickly discovered the city was crawling with kids. "They kind of insisted," she said.

Tonight's Downtown Wine Walk, which begins at 6 p.m. and features 23 wineries, is but one of the town's constant round-robin of outdoor events, which include a First Friday stroll, Third Friday Artwalk and, to accommodate its dog-crazy populace, a newly added Waggin' Wednesdays. Many of the celebrants happily roll in by rail from San Jose.

"The light rail lands right here in downtown. It doesn't take you half a mile away, so then you have to walk to the downtown," said Sonya Paz, whose art gallery recently relocated to Campbell Avenue. "I'm not going to diss other cities that I looked at, but I found that the four blocks of downtown Campbell may be petite, but it packs a wallop."

"It's a really happy, bustling place, almost like a little hippie town," said Nicole Lissane, a wedding planner who is Medrano's business partner. "A lot of people associate surrounding towns like Los Gatos, Saratoga and Willow Glen with a little bit stuffier feel."

"People used to say we were the next Los Gatos," said Low. "They don't say that anymore." Not long ago, the merchants association from Los Gatos — with its famously bustling little downtown — sought advice on how to generate foot traffic from Campbell.

That's right. Campbell.

Banks Begin to Improve Short Sale Process

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 23:16:00 -0800

Believe it or not, it is getting easier. Wachovia led the way, and BofA is followng! Read this article.

The Year You Were Born

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:21:00 -0800

Fun site from my friend Estelle:

http://www.infoplease.com/yearbyyear.html

TJ Martin & Fontana Park Tree Removals!

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:30:00 -0800

If you live in our neighborhood, or even visit, please attend the meeting for residents
on at the Old Almaden Winery Community Center on Thursday, February 11th at 6:30 pm.
PG&E will be there to discuss their plans for removing these trees. Some are very
old oak trees.

Saving Homes, Birds, What Next?

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:35:00 -0800

Today on my door knocking rounds, I came upon an awful sight. A poor robin had been
shot through the head with what turns out to have been a blow dart. The crows were
circling the poor thing, and without thinking, I scooped him up and took the dart out
of it's head. I wound up taking him to the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley. A report
will be made, and because it is a migratory bird, the Dept. of Fish and Game
will also get involved along with the police.

Whoever the SOB is who did this is most likely not aware that this is a felony.

For those of you who live in our area, keep your eyes out for anything that looks
like this(photo below, along with the victim), as well as anyone you think might be responsible and let's get this jerk!
From birds, they will turn to other animals to torture.

Selling? You Better Learn About This...

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 23:56:00 -0800

How Strategic Mortgage Defaults Will Effect the Selling of Your Home.....

Strategic Mortgage Default occurs when a homeowner, finding his home worth less than he owes on his mortgage, intentionally allows it to go into foreclosure. That is intentionally. Whatever your feelings on the morality of this issue, many people have and are doing it. And even, many more are considering it. You've probably heard or read about this tactic. The thinking, typically, is that throwing good money after bad will just lead to ... nothing. Many people believe that their homes are never going to be worth what they paid for them. Their thinking is “ No more property taxes, maintenance, insurance? Sounds good to me!” (Never mind tax and other implications).

In 2010, based on when many parts of California saw their real estate markets “top out”, many homeowners will have adjustments in their mortgages kick in. One positive aspect of this might be that interest rates are quite low, so payments may not change all that much. But these adjustments, coupled with new taxes just passed in the state and the realization that their homes aren’t worth close to what they paid might be enough to have many people calling it quits.

While all of this might sound daunting, it would be naive to not face the reality of the situation head-on. Strategic Mortgage Default will do its part to drastically raise the number of bank-owned for sale in California. And there are many already.

If you’re planning on selling your house this year, these homes -- part of what we call “shadow inventory”-along with short sales -- could play a big role in where you can, realistically, set your price. If you’re planning on buying, you’ll want to know how to position yourself to get the best price possible on your purchase.
Strategic Mortgage Default is going to be something you’ll hear more and more about in 2010.

Contact me for more information on making one of the most important decisions of your life.

FREE Workbook on Avoiding Foreclosure

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 17:50:00 -0800

Are you or someone you in know behind on your mortgage payments? As a Certified Property Distress Expert, I am qualified to assist you. Contact me at (408) 591-7778 for a Free Workbook on Avoiding Foreclosure.

Having completed the CDPE’s extensive training in foreclosure avoidance and short sales I have invaluable expertise to offer at a time when the area is ravaged by “distressed” homes in the foreclosure process.

With plummeting property values, this can save many people from foreclosure and even bankruptcy. It is happening in all price ranges. More and more lenders are willing to consider short sales because they are much less costly than foreclosures, and the tide is beginning to turn as more banks adopt less complicated guidelines.

Alex Charfen, founder of the Distressed Property Institute in Boca Raton, Fla., said that Realtors® such as myself with the CDPE designation, the premier designation for Realtors helping homeowners in distress and handling short sales, have valuable training that can offer the homeowner much better alternatives to foreclosure, which virtually destroys the credit rating. These experts also may better understand market conditions and can help sellers through the emotional experience, he said.

For more information about CDPE designation or to find a certified distressed Realtor in your area, view the CDPE website at www.cdpe.com

Foreign Real Estate Investors Favor the U.S.

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:07:00 -0800

If this is true, then all the more reason for those who can to buy soon. View article.

95120 T Shirts

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:08:00 -0800

Live in 95120 and want a t-shirt? Let me know, and for the first 10 95120 residents
who contact me, I'll send you one!

1st 95120 Night; Were You There?

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:50:00 -0800

Almaden Lifestyle Magazine and The Sonoma Chicken Coop hosted the first 95120 Night Out. Lots of fun, mingling and
networking. A good turnout, even with the weather!

Thanks Chrissy, Will and Matt, and everyone else!

Downtown San Jose Supply & Demand

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:09:00 -0800

This graph shows homes placed on the market for each month during the past year. Central San Jose, with it's wide of styles and locations, has seen a lot of foreclosures and short sales, hence the higher inventory levels.

Willow Glen Supply and Demand

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:01:00 -0800

Fewer homes for sale than a year ago. Good for both buyers and
sellers, in although we all know homes won't fetch what they did in the last few years.

Almaden Supply and Demand

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:53:00 -0800

Inventory is low, but still outpacing sales. April saw the greatest number of single family homes for sale. Great news for sellers, and buyers alike, but as we all know, homes won't fetch what they did in the past few years. Contact me for more information on your Almaden Neighborhood.

FHA Waives 90 Day Flipping Rule

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 12:13:00 -0800

To help speed home sales and improve conditions in neighborhoods, HUD has
temporarily suspended the 90 day rule. Good news on all sides, and should
help stimulate sales. http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2010/HUDNo.10-011

The Trouble with Short Sales

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 12:01:00 -0800

Big Banks Accused of Fraud. (Yes, I have had this happen during a transaction).

CASH INVESTORS NEEDED FOR SHORT SALES

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 23:19:00 -0800

Update: If you are a cash investor, then you are aware of the current changes in the market. Currently,
the Home Buyer Tax Credit, which does not apply to you, will expire this April 30th. This means
that short sales, which will , become easier, and will not be an option for many home buyers who are not investors like yourself,
will be your next opportunity.

This is based on several reliable and trusted sources. As you are aware, many more short sales will
be on the market this year due to ARM resets, shadow inventory and recent expiration of moratoriums.
Everyone is looking for the REO bargain, which are harder to come by and in very high demand.
Be a part of the opportunities the near future has to offer.

Investors: If you are looking for a Realtor who:

Is easy to work and partner with
Is willing to tell you the truth and only the truth
Is responsive and reliable
Is service-oriented
Provides you with the information you need
Wants you to profit, succeed and exceed your goals

Then we would work well together.

Contact Lisa at:
(408) 591-7778
LWiseman@InteroRealEstate.com

95120 Party at The Chicken Coop!

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:46:00 -0800

Join friends, neighbors and businesses at The Chicken Coop on January 20th at 6pm. All night happy hour
hosted by The Chicken Coop in Almaden. RSVP Here.

Behind on Your Payments, or Close?

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:45:00 -0800

Contact me at (408) 591-7778 for a Free 40 PageWorkbook on How to Avoid Foreclosure.

Converting a Primary Residence to Rental with Both Write Offs

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:04:00 -0800

Yes, it can be done. From Otis Clay at the Asset Exchange Company:

Example

The couple moves out of their $1MM property and converts the property to a rental. After 16 months the property has been established as a rental and can qualify for a 1031 Exchange. However since the property was also a primary for two of the past five years, the property will also qualify for the Homeowners Exemption. Of the $900K gain in the property, the first $500K will be tax free due to the Homeowners Exemption, the excess $400K gain will be tax deferred due to the 1031 Exchange.

Several steps must be taken to put this Option into play:

The couple must move out.
The couple must rent out the $1M home.
After 16 months Agent Jones will need to list the $1MM property.
Once the $1M property sells, the couple will need to purchase replacement property to complete the 1031 Exchange.

The couple can acquire a commercial Tenant in Common that requires absolutely no management. They can also consider a NNN property, such as a Walgreens. Also, if the couple would like to own vacation property in a resort town, this is an ideal way in which to acquire it.

If the couple chooses Agent Jones as their Realtor and chooses option #2, the clients will save $100,000 in taxes.

In this scenario, everyone wins.

If you would like to discuss the strategy discussed in this article, please do not hesitate to contact Asset Exchange Company at 877-471-1031.

Guadalupe Oak Grove Sunset

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 16:41:00 -0800

Another great sunset at the top of Guadalupe Oak Grove Park.

Gumby's Creator

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 16:37:00 -0800

Gumby and Pokey's creator, Art Clokey just passed away. Here's a great clip on Gumby: http://www.metacafe.com/watch/596660/gumby_rocks/

Quicksilver Park in Almaden

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 17:05:00 -0800

More photos from today's hike through Quicksilver. We are so fortunate to have this beautiful resource in our backyards!

The Santa Cruz Mountains Fire

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 16:52:00 -0800

Found this photo of the Santa Cruz Mountains fire from several months ago. Taken from Hwy 1 heading north. (At a stop, of course)

WILLOW GLEN REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS & STATISTICS

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 17:03:00 -0800

Trends At a Glance Dec. 2009 Previous Month

Average Sales Price $780,245 $737,971

Active 100 74

Pending 25

No. of Sales 55 53

Days on Market 86 97

A fairly stable market at this time!

Median Sale Price

More 95125 Home Values

ALMADEN REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS & STATISTICS

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 17:01:00 -0800

Trends At a Glance Dec. 2009 Previous Month

Average Sales Price $986,177 $877,077

Active 46 30

Pending 5

No. of Sales 26 21

Days on Market 69 100 A

lmaden, like many real estate markets, has several communities. Not all reflect the pricing and activity seen in this graph. Contact me should you have any questions or need an accurate analysis of the current value of your home.

Median Sale Price

More 95120 Home Values

DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS & STATISTICS

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 16:55:00 -0800

Trends At a Glance Dec. 2009 Previous Month Average Sales Price $413,384 $448,340 Active 95 60 Pending 33 No. of Sales 51 43 Days on Market 83 106 What a wild graph! We all know downtown is a very eclectic area in terms of home styles and prices, and this graph reflects that.

Median Sale Price

Bagpipe Lang Syne

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 12:47:00 -0800

While taking a walk to Guadalupe Oak Grove Park, I ran into a couple who had just adopted their friend's 6 year old golden retriever. Their 11 year old lab had just passed away last month as well as this woman's mother. It made me reflect on those I knew who had passed away this year, and I was grateful to just be walking on such a beautiful day. It also made me think as I tend to, of all the stories walking past us every day.

There were an amazing amount of people out walking on the first day of the year, and everyone was happy to have
a 3 or 4 day reprieve from their jobs(well, most of them, that is). I'm sure they were all wondering why it can't always
be this way, more time to spend with our families, friends, and ourselves, as in other countries.

While walking in Guadalupe Oak Grove Park, a beautiful wooded park in Almaden Valley, the resident bagpipe player began pplaying Auld Lang Syne, then Amazing Grace, sometime before sunset. It was clear many people had never heard him play before, and most stopped and listened, reflecting on the old year and the beautiful day before us. I couldn't help but stop for awhile as well, much to the chagrin of Brandi, my four-legged companion.

A great way to start the new year.

Brandi's Pawgress Report

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 17:39:00 -0800

MY LATEST PAWGRESS REPORT FROM PETSHOTEL, 12/29/09:

http://www.myspace.com/mycaninelife

Medicare Enrollment Deadline

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:47:00 -0800

The deadline for seniors to enroll in Medicare's open enrollment plan is Thursday, Dec. 31st.
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/center/openenrollment.asp

Marley & Me Fans

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:31:00 -0800

This is a great book, especially for dog lovers and racing fans. I enjoyed it more than Marley & Me;
a real page turner. I loved it! http://www.garthstein.com/arr/

FREE Drug Prescription Cards

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:34:00 -0800

Santa Clara County offers free discount drug cards-no restrictions: http://ping.fm/iLiXV

6 Top Scams Today

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 14:20:00 -0800

Scamming hard-working people out of their money has always been an issue, but
is even more so with the current economic crisis. 30.2 million adults are victims
of one or more of these frauds listed every year).Below are the top 6 most common
scams:

Mortgage Fraud (foreclosure rescue, loan modifications, reverse mortgages, predatory
lending, etc.) Up 173% this year.
Unauthorized Credit Card Charges. (Not just an upswing during the holidays this year)
Overpayment Scams. (You receive a payment larger than what you owe, scammers
instruct victims to return the money to them, acquiring personal info in the process).
Identity Theft
Insurance Fraud (Increases everyone's premiums)
Computer Scams

Organizations to Contact if you have been a victim:

Consumer Affairs: consumeraffairs.com
National Insurance Crime Bureau: nich.org
Federal Bureau of Investigation: fbi.gov
https://tips.fbi/gov
Dept. of Housing & Urban Deveopment: hud.gov/offices/oig

Contact a qualified expert in identity theft through someone you know, or I can provide
you with a reference.

Almaden Whole Foods

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:43:00 -0800

Almaden Whole Foods is set to open in August of 2010. We're all looking forward to this one!

New HAFA Guidelines for Home Mods

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:32:00 -0800

New HAFA (Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives) program guidelines on short sales & mods.
Hopefully it works this time!

Click here for more details.

Sharks Message?

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:30:00 -0800

Went to Sharks game and they won. Great seats, and had fun, but what's with encouraging them to fight? Sends kids the wrong message.

More Foreclosures

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:24:00 -0800

The banks are holding back on foreclosures until sometime in January, but more
or on the horizon. View this article.

Willow Glen Market Activity

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:23:00 -0800

Out of 194 SFH listings in Willow Glen, 110 are active, 47 pending, and 27 have sold since November.

Almaden Market Activity

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:20:00 -0800

Out of 85 SFH listings in Almaden, 48 are active, 27 are pending, and 10 have sold since November.

Downtown San Jose Activity

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:20:00 -0800

Out of 231 SFH listings in Downtown San Jose, 114 are active, 94 pending, and 23 have sold since November. 92 of these are short sales.

FHA Buyers, Buy NOW

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:20:00 -0800

Some of the sweeping changes that will be taking place for FHA buyers are below, from
our CEO.

A good reason to buy now....

More Money Down. One of the big reasons that FHA loans have been so popular over the years was low down-payment requirements -- just 3.5%. FHA’s withering balance sheet, however has the agency requiring that buyers put more money down. The new down-payment requirement? As high as five percent.

Higher Fees. Fees for FHA loans have always been high. There are upfront and annual fees that borrowers must pay, which the agency uses to reimburse lenders in the event of default. The fees are already as high as the law will allow, but the agency is considering asking for increases.

Better Credit. Mr. Donovan said that the agency would, at least for now, increase the minimum credit score for new borrowers. The FHA’s current low-limit is a score of 500, though it’s important to note that most of the lenders funding FHA loans won’t accept a score of below 620, even now.

Lower Debt-to-Income Ratios. FHA has been lenient in the past, making exceptions with people with higher debt-to-income ratios (DTI) in the event of extenuating circumstances or those with longer credit histories. No more. The maximum allowable DTI will be 45%. This means that if your debt is more than 45% of your total income, you won’t be approved.

These changes will likely be implemented in early 2010, with the first kicking in during the first week of January.

The bottom line is that with the new FHA guidelines, a borrower’s bottom line will have to be straight, narrow, and raised much higher.

Don't Want to Get Out & Ask ?s About a Property For Free?

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:24:00 -0800

Text 59559 for all information on a home for sale if you don't want to get out and ask questions. It's fast and FREE!!

Star 'Tech'

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 17:19:00 -0800

Me at the Star Trek exhibit at The Tech....

The Tax Credit; Why It's So Important

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:32:00 -0800

Much has been said about the true cost of the tax credit, but this article
explains the true importance.

Counting Saturdays with Marbles

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:22:00 -0800

You may have received this as an email, and I don't know who to credit this to, but I found
it worth sharing. Could you do this?

A few weeks ago, I was shuffling toward the garage with a steaming cup of coffee in one hand and the morning paper in the other. What began as a typical Saturday morning turned into one of those lessons that life seems to hand you from time to time. Let me tell you about it:

I turned the dial up into the phone portion of the band on my ham radio in order to listen to a Saturday morning swap net. Along the way, I came across an older sounding chap, with a tremendous signal and a golden voice. You know the kind; he sounded like he should be in the broadcasting business. He was telling whom-ever he was talking with something about 'a thousand marbles.' I was intrigued and stopped to listen to what he had to say

'Well, Tom, it sure sounds like you're busy with your job. I'm sure they pay you well but it's a shame you have to be away from home and your family so much. Hard to believe a young fellow should have to work sixty or seventy hours a week to make ends meet. It's too bad you missed your daughter's 'dance recital' he continued. ;'Let me tell you something that has helped me keep my own priorities.' And that's when he began to explain his theory of a 'thousand marbles.'

'You see, I sat down one day and did a little arithmetic. The average person lives about seventy-five years. I know, some live more and some live less, but on average, folks live about seventy-five years.

'Now then, I multiplied 75 times 52 and I came up with 3900, which is the number of Saturdays that the average person has in their entire lifetime. Now, stick with me, Tom, I'm getting to the important part.

It took me until I was fifty-five years old to think about all this in any detail', he went on, 'and by that time I had lived through over twenty-eight hundred Saturdays.' 'I got to thinking that if I lived to be seventy-five, I only had about a thousand of them left to enjoy. So I went to a toy store and bought every single marble they had. I ended up having to visit three toy stores to round up 1000 marbles I took them home and put them inside a large, clear plastic container right here in the shack next to my gear.'

'Every Saturday since then, I have taken one marble out and thrown it away. I found that by watching the marbles diminish, I focused more on the really important things in life.

There's nothing like watching your time here on this earth run out to help get your priorities straight.'

'Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you and take my lovely wife out for breakfast. This morning, I took the very last marble out of the container. I figure that if I make it until next Saturday then I have been given a little extra time. And the one thing we can all use is a little more time.'

'It was nice to meet you Tom, I hope you spend more time with your family, and I hope to meet you again here on the band. This is a 75 Year old Man, K9NZQ, clear and going QRT, good morning!'

You could have heard a pin drop on the band when this fellow signed off. I guess he gave us all a lot to think about. I had planned to work on the antenna that morning, and then I was going to meet up with a few hams to work on the next club newsletter.

Instead, I went upstairs and woke my wife up with a kiss. 'C'mon honey, I'm taking you and the kids to breakfast.' 'What brought this on?' she asked with a smile. 'Oh, nothing special, it's just been a long time since we spent a Saturday together with the kids. And hey, can we stop at a toy store while we're out? I need to buy some marbles.

Credit After Foreclosure, Bankruptcy, or Short Sale

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:21:00 -0800

Credit After Foreclosure, Bankruptcy, or Short Sale From C.A.R.

One of the concerns a consumer has after experiencing a bankruptcy, foreclosure, or short sale (referred to as a "preforeclosure sale" by Fannie Mae) is the ability to obtain credit to purchase another home. Fannie Mae has updated its credit guidelines. This legal article summarizes those guidelines in Part I. In addition, since lenders use FICO scores in order to determine the creditworthiness of a borrower, this article covers the impact of a bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale on FICO scores in Part II.

I. Fannie Mae Credit Guidelines

Q 1. How long is the time period after a foreclosure before a consumer can be eligible to obtain credit to purchase a home?

A Five years from the date the foreclosure sale was completed.

Additional requirements that apply after 5 years and up to 7 years following the completion date are as follows:

^. The purchase of a principal residence is permitted with a minimum 10 percent down payment and minimum representataive credit score of 680.

^. Purchase of a second home or investment property is not permitted.

^. Limited cash-out refinances are permitted for all occupancy types pursuant to the eligibility requirements in effect at that time.

^. Cash-out refinances are not permitted for any occupancy type.

(Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08 )

Q 2. Why do the additional requirements for foreclosures in Question 1 only apply from 5 to 7 years following the foreclosure completion date?

A According to Fannie Mae policy in Part X, Section 103 of the Selling Guide, Fannie Mae requires only a 7-year history to be reviewed for all credit and public record information. The 7-year timeframe also aligns with the information provided by the borrower on the loan application relative to disclosure of a past foreclosure action. (Source: FNMA Selling Guide, 4-1-09. )

Q 3. Does a shorter time period apply if the borrower has "extenuating circumstances" that led to the foreclosure?

A Yes. Three years from the date the foreclosure sale was completed. The same additional requirements apply as listed in Question 1 except the minimum credit score of 680 is not required. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08. )

Q 4. What are"extenuating circumstances" ?

A Fannie Mae describes "extenuating circumstances" as follows:

Extenuating circumstances are nonrecurring events that are beyond the borrower's control that result in a sudden, significant, and prolonged reduction in income or a catastrophic increase in financial obligations.

If a borrower claims that derogatory information is the result of extenuating circumstances, the lender must substantiate the borrower's claim. Examples of documentation that can be used to support extenuating circumstances include documents that confirm the event (such as a copy of a divorce decree, medical bills, notice of job layoff, job severance papers, etc.) and documents that illustrate factors that contributed to the borrower's inability to resolve the problems that resulted from the event (such as a copy of insurance papers or claim settlements, listing agreements, lease agreements, tax returns (covering the periods prior to, during, and after a loss of employment), etc.).

The lender must obtain a letter from the borrower explaining the relevance of the documentation. The letter must support the claims of extenuating circumstances, confirm the nature of the event that led to the bankruptcy or foreclosure-related action, and illustrate the borrower had no reasonable options other than to default on their financial obligations.

(Source: FNMA Selling Guide, 4-1-09 at 391. )

Q 5. How long is the time period after a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure before a consumer can be eligible to obtain credit to purchase a property?

A Four years from the date the deed-in-lieu was executed.

Additional requirements that apply after 4 years and up to 7 years following the completion date are as follows:

^. Borrower may purchase a property secured by a principal residence, second home, or investment property with the greater of 10 percent minimum down payment ro the minimum down payment required for the transaction.

^. Limited-cash-out and cash-out refinance transactions secured by a principal residence, second home, or investment property are permitted pursuant to the eligibility requirements in effect at that time.

(Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08. )

Q 6. Does a shorter time period apply if the borrower has "extenuating circumstances" that led to the deed-in-lieu of foreclosure?

A Yes. Two years from the date the deed-in-lieu was executed. The same additional requirements apply as listed in Question 4 after 2 years up to 7 years. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08. )

See Question 4 for the definition of "extenuating circumstances."

Q 7. How long is the time period after a "preforeclosure sale" before a consumer can be eligible to obtain credit to purchase a property?

A Two years from the completion date. No exceptions are permitted to the 2-year period due to extenuating circumstances. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08. )

Q 8. What is a "preforeclosure sale" mentioned in Question 6 and is that the same as a short sale?

A "A preforeclosure sale involves the sale of the property by the borrower to a third party for less than the amount owed to satify the delinquent mortgage, as agreed to by the lender, investor, and mortgage insurer" (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08 ).

Although the terms preforeclosure sale and short sale have been used interchangeably, there is a significant difference for purposes of obtaining credit. For Fannie Mae purposes, a preforeclosure assumes that the borrower has been delinquent in paying his or her mortgage and the lender agrees to accept a lesser amount to avoid the time and expense of a foreclousre action. A short-sale, however, can also refer to situations in which the lender of the mortgage agrees to a payoff of a lesser amount than is actually owed, even on a current mortgage, to faciiate the sale of teh property to a third party. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16 Q&A, 8-13-08. )

Q 9. Does a shorter time period apply if the borrower has "extenuating circumstances" that led to the preforeclosure (short) sale?

A No. There are no exceptions to the 2-year time period. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08. )

Q 10. If a borrower sold his or her property as a short sale but was never delinquent on that mortgage and is now attempting to purchase a new primary residence, will Fannie Mae purchase the loan?

A The loan will be eligible for delivery to Fannie Mae provided that the borrower's previous mortgage history complies with Fannie Mae's excessive prior mortgage delinquency policy--that is the borrower does not have one or more 60-, 90-, 120-, or 150-day delinquencies reported within the 12 months prior to the credit report date--and the borrower has not entered into any agreement with the short sale lender to repay any amounts assoicated with the short sale, including a deficiency judgment. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16 Q&A, 8-13-08 ; FNMA Selling Guide, Part X, Chapter 3, Section 302.09. .)

Q 11. Are preforeclosure (short) sales and deed-in-lieu of foreclosure actions identified on a credit report?

A Preforeclosure sales may be reported as "paid in full" with a "settled for less than owed" remarks code, and the mortgage tradeline would indicate any recent delinquency. A deed-in-lieu may be reported by a remarks code indicating a deed-in-lieu. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16 Q&A, 8-13-08. )

Q 12. How long is the time period after a bankruptcy (all except Chapter 13) before a consumer can be eligible to obtain credit to purchase a property?

A Four years from the discharge or dismissal date of the bankruptcy action (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08 ).

Q 13. How long is the time period after a Chapter 13 bankruptcy before a consumer can be eligible to obtain credit to purchase a property?

A Two years from the discharge date and four years from the dismissal date (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08 ).

Q 14. Does a shorter time period apply if the borrower has "extenuating circumstances" that led to the bankruptcy (all actions)?

A Yes. Two years from the discharge or dismissal; however, no exceptions are permitted to the 2-year time period after a Chapter 13 discharge (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08 ).

See Question 4 for the definition of "extenuating circumstances."

Q 15. How long is the time period after multiple bankruptcy filings before a consumer can be eligible to obtain credit to purchase a property?

A Five years from the most recent dismissal or discharge date for borrowers with more than one bankrutcy filing within the past 7 years (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08 ).

Q 16. Does a shorter time period apply if the borrower has "extenuating circumstances" that led to the multiple bankruptcies?

A Yes. Three years from the most recent discharge or dismissal date. The most recent bankruptcy filing must have been the result of extenuating circumstances. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16, 6-25-08. )

See Question 4 for the definition of "extenuating circumstances."

Q 17. What is the difference between a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 13 permits a borrower with a regular income to propose a plan to repay some or all of his or her obligations over a period of up to five years. A borrower who files a Chapter 7 is permitted to retain exempt assets and receive a discharge of the borrower's debts. Chapter 7 is a relatively quick liquidation process that is generally completed within 120 days. Chapter 7 cases are rarely dismissed. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16 Q&A, 8-13-08. )

Q 18. What is the difference between a Chapter 13 dismissal and a Chapter 13 discharge?

A A borrower who files a Chapter 13 can dismiss the case at any time (voluntary dismissal) or the case may be dismissed by the court based on the borrower's failure to comply with the requirements of the Bankruptcy Code or to make the required payments. If the borrower who files a Chapter 13 case makes all of the payments required by the plan, the borrower receives a discharge at the end of the plan. A borrower who doesn't make all the payment required by the plan may still receive a discharge if the court finds, among other things, that the borrower made a certain amount of the payments and the borrower's failure to make all of the payments was due to circumstances beyond the borrower's control. (Source: FNMA Announcement 08-16 Q&A, 8-13-08. )

Q 19. What are the requirements to re-establish a credit history?

A After a bankruptcy or foreclosure-related action, a credit history must meet the following rquirements to be considered re-established:

^. It must meet the requirements for elapsed time (as discussed in this article.

^. It must reflect that all accounts are current as of the date of the mortgage application.

^. it must include a minimum of four credit references. At least one of the references must be a traditional credit reference, and one of the references must be housing-related.

A housing-related reference must cover the period following the bankruptcy discharge or dismissal, foreclosure, or deed-in-lieu, and can be in the form of mortgage payments or rental payments.

If rental payments wre not reported to the crdit repositories, the lender must obtain copies of bank statements, money orders, or cnacled checks for the most recent 12-mnth period as a supplement to the rent verification.

^. It must reflect three of the four credit references, including rental housing references, as active in the 24 months preceding the date of the mortgage application.

^. It must include no more than two installment or revolving debt payments 30 days past due in the last 24 months.

^. It must include no installment or revolving debt payments 60 or more days past due since the discharge or dismissal of the bankruptcy or the completion of the foreclosure-related action.

^. It must include no housing debt payments past due since the discharge or dismissal of the bankruptcy or the completion of the foreclosure-related action.

^. It must include no new public records since the discharge or dismissal of the bankruptcy or the completion of the foreclousre-related action. Public records include bankruptcies, foreclousres, deeds-in-lieu, preforeclosure sales, unpaid jdugments or collections, garnishments, liens, etc.

(Source: FNMA Selling Guide, 4-1-09 at 392. )

II. Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, and Short Sale and the Impact on a FICO® Score

Q 20. What is a FICO® Score?

A A FICO® score is a number representing the creditworthiness of a person or the likelihood that person will pay his or her debts. The three credit reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, collect data about consumers in order to compile credit reports. The credit agencies use FICO® software to generate FICO® scores, which are then sold to lenders. Actually FICO® is just one of the several credit scoring systems available. The Fair Isaac Corporation (known as FICO®) created the first credit scoring system in 1958. Others are NextGen, VantageScore, and the CE Score. They all evaluate the creditworthiness of a borrower. However, FICO appears to be the most-used credit scoring system. A FICO® score is between 300 and 850. The higher the better the credit.

Each consumer has three credit scores at any given time for any given scoring model because the three credit agencies have their own databases, gather reports from different creditors, and receive information from creditors at different times.

Q 21. What factors go into determining a FICO® score?

A Credit scores are designed to measure the risk of default by taking into account various factors in a person's financial history. Although the exact formulas for calculating credit scores are closely-guarded secrets, FICO® has disclosed the following components and the approximate weighted contribution of each:

35% — Payment History – Late payments on bills, such as a mortgage, credit card or automobile loan, can cause a consumer’s FICO® score to drop. Paying bills as agreed over time will improve a consumer’s FICO® score.

30% — Credit Utilization - The ratio of current revolving debt (such as credit card balances) to the total available revolving credit (credit limits). Consumers can improve their FICO® scores by paying off debt and lowering their utilization ratio. The closing of existing revolving accounts will typically adversely affect this ratio and therefore have a negative impact on their FICO® score.

15% — Length of Credit History – As consumer’s credit history ages, assuming they pay their bills, it can have a positive impact on their FICO® score.

10% — Types of Credit Used (installment, revolving, consumer finance) – Consumers can benefit by having a history of managing different types of credit.

10% — Recent search for credit and/or amount of credit obtained recently - Multiple credit inquiries for a consumer seeking to open new credit, such as credit cards, retail store accounts, and personal loans, can hurt an individual’s score. Applying for lots of new credit in a short period of time is also viewed as risky and can cause a drop in an individual’s score. However, individuals shopping for a mortgage or auto loan over a short period will likely not experience a decrease in their scores as a result of these types of inquiries.

(Source: http://www.myfico.com/CreditEducation/WhatsInYourScore.aspx)

Q 22. How does a mortgage modification affect my FICO® score?

A FICO® credit scores are calculated from the information in consumer credit reports. Whether a loan modification affects the borrower's FICO® score depends on whether and how the lender chooses to report the event to the credit bureau, as well as on the person's overall credit profile. If a lender indicates to a credit bureau that the consumer has not made payments on a mortgage as originally agreed, that information on the consumer's credit report could cause the consumer's FICO® score to decrease or it could have little to no impact on the score.

(Source: http://www.myfico.com/crediteducation/questions/Mortgage_Modification.aspx)

Q 23. How does a bankruptcy affect my FICO® score?

A A bankruptcy is considered a very negative event regardless of the type. A bankruptcy is factored into your FICO® score until it is removed from your credit report. As long as the bankruptcy is listed on your credit report, it will be factored into your score. If you are considering bankruptcy as an alternative to foreclosure, keep in mind that it may have a greater impact on your FICO® score.

Typically, you can expect bankruptcies to remain on your credit report, from the date filed, as follows:

(1) Chapter 11 and Chapter 7 bankruptcies up to 10 years.

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey for Nov. 12 put the average fixed interest rate for 30-year conforming mortgages at 4.91 percent.

On a $300,000 mortgage the principle and interest payment at today's average rate would be about $1,594, compared to $1,825 a year ago. That’s a savings of over $231 a month, a year's worth of the savings -- $2,772 -- currently amounts to nearly two mortgage payments on a $300,000 mortgage. Less money going towards interest rates also means more purchasing power for buyers.

Combined with the $8,000 tax credit and low home prices, there is no doubt that this is the best time to purchase a home.

Tax Credit Extended!

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:23:00 -0800

Tax Credit

Download this PDF file-it tells it all!

Charming & Affordable Willow Glen Home

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:14:00 -0800

$459,950

Charming & cozy home walking distance to Lincoln Avenue. Great starter home! Original hardwood floors, partial finished basement for storage or wine cellar, two car detached garage, central air installed in 2004, French doors from master leading out wood deck and backyard with lots of possibilities, extra storage by garage, automatic sprinklers and more! NOT A SHORT SALE OR REO.

Take advantge of the $8,000 tax credit extension!

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH FROM 1:00-4:00PM.

Wilow Glen Home Values & Prices

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:37:00 -0800

Prices are leveling off in this popular community. A good sign that the market is beginning to recover.

Zillow Home Value Index

More 95125 Home Values

Almaden Valley Home Prices & Home Values

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:36:00 -0800

Good News for this sought-after community: sale prices are leveling off.

Zillow Home Value Index

More 95120 Home Values

Silicon Valley Current Home Prices and Values

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:30:00 -0800

Zillow Home Value Index

More San Jose Metro Home Values

Haunted Lab

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:51:00 -0700

Sunday, October 18th, after 11pm:

Said 'Normal' dog, before retiring, for no reason at all, and in the presence of two family members,
is suddenly transfixed by the light above the family kitchen table.

Said dog proceeds to methodically place her feet on chair, then both front feet on table,
while gazing fixedly and intensely at light as though responding to something.
Light was not on, and no bugs or other distractions to be seen.
Incident was less than 2 minutes long.

Photos of dog after incident:

As of today, October 23rd, no other incidents have been reported, with the exception
of said dog periodically gazing up at light in question.

Stay tuned...

Investors; Downtown San Jose REO Duplex

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 11:17:00 -0700

Inventory is low, and this is a great opportunity to own a duplex on a shaded street minutes from downtown San Jose. Seller absolutely must get this one off the books fast, so place an offer now. Don't delay! All offers considered!

Each unit is a 1/1 with 672 sq ft.

Almaden Reflections

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 10:52:00 -0700

Sometimes it feels like you're walking through time when on a long hike through Almaden's Quicksilver Park. When it's quiet, you can imagine the sounds of the Ohlone celebrating their life here.

Here are some beauriful scenes from my walk there today

Real Estate Investors; Your Time Has Come

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:21:00 -0700

Investors: If you are looking for a Realtor who:

Is easy to work and partner with
Is willing to tell you the truth and only the truth
Is responsive and reliable
Is service-oriented
Provides you with the information you need
Wants you to profit, succeed and exceed your goals

Then we would work well together.

Contact Lisa at (408) 591-7778 or LWiseman@InteroRealEstate.com

A List of Some Hot Investment Properties:

$274,777.00 1466 FORD AVE
$229,000.00 359 N 15TH ST
$284,000.00 730 S 11TH ST
$290,000.00 438 RAYMOND AVE
$268,000.00 1236 S 2ND ST
$195,000.00 395 GIFFORD AVE
$298,500.00 232 TOPEKA AVE
$260,000.00 1094 VINE ST
$279,900.00 1083 S 7TH ST
$295,900.00 812 LOCUST ST
$243,500.00 984 PACIFIC AVE
$299,950.00 883 PACIFIC AVE
$270,000.00 878 LOCUST ST
$300,000.00 328 RAYMOND AVE
$299,950.00 411 IRVING AVE
$295,000.00 1069 S 7TH ST
$239,000.00 1025 N 12TH ST
$290,000.00 422 LELAND AVE
$245,000.00 1174 SPIRO DR
$250,000.00 411 E SAINT JAMES ST
$278,000.00 127 S 21ST ST
$229,900.00 428 WASHINGTON ST
$300,000.00 1132 SUNNY CT

Home Buyer Tax Credit Extenstion?

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 05:22:00 -0700

This just in: it's very likely that the credit may be extended. We are all lobbying for this.
It will allow more first time home buyers who haven't been able to purchase due to
multiple offer situations in a low inventory market to get their dream home, and help
stimulate the economy.View article

Willow Glen Home Value Indicator

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:00:00 -0700

A Sellers Market:

Almaden Valley Home Value Indicator; A Sellers Market

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:57:00 -0700

Silicon Valley Home Value Appreciation

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:44:00 -0700

No surprises here. However it appears the downward slide has subsided.

Downtown San Jose September Activity

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 05:31:00 -0700

Single Family Residential
September 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Central San Jose (9)	Santa Clara	82	201	60	71	383,903	343,250	100.21	23,034,200
Summary		82	201	60	71	383,903	- -	100.21	23,034,200
Common Interest Development
September 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Central San Jose (9)	Santa Clara	53	141	29	104	325,700	315,000	97.57	9,445,319
Summary		53	141	29	104	325,700	- -	97.57	9,445,319

Willow Glen September Activity

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 05:30:00 -0700

Single Family Residential
September 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Willow Glen (10)	Santa Clara	75	222	55	81	664,787	640,000	97.63	36,563,300
Summary		75	222	55	81	664,787	- -	97.63	36,563,300
Common Interest Development
September 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Willow Glen (10)	Santa Clara	12	36	9	59	467,163	450,000	98.75	4,204,470
Summary		12	36	9	59	467,163	- -	98.75	4,204,470

Almaden Valley September Activity

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 05:29:00 -0700

Single Family Residential
September 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Almaden Valley (13)	Santa Clara	46	81	39	62	914,410	860,000	97.92	35,662,000
Summary		46	81	39	62	914,410	- -	97.92	35,662,000
Common Interest Development
September 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Almaden Valley (13)	Santa Clara	4	8	6	109	569,933	523,000	96.55	3,419,600
Summary		4	8	6	109	569,933	- -	96.55	3,419,600

Save on Your Property Taxes!

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:27:00 -0700

By now most people are aware that they had the opportunity to appeal their
property taxes with the reduction in property values. However, not everyone is aware that this opportunity exists, but with a Homestead Exemption,
you could save money on your property taxes.

Detailed information on this for Santa Clara County and San Mateo County is attached. Homestead Exemption

Home Purchasing

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:00:00 -0700

THERE ARE OVER 300 REO PROPERTIES IN SANTA CLARA COUNY. Don't miss out on your opportunity to buy in San Jose.

Below are a current list of San Jose single family REOs as of September 26th.

2188 PETTIGREW DR

2702 CAMINO ECCO

5082 DEREK DR

1290 FREMONT ST

281 STAPLES AVE

1308 THORNBURY LN

3051 CUNNINGHAM AVE

698 PLATTE RIVER CT

1918 EVERMONT CT

5899 ETTERSBERG DR

5134 GALLANT FOX AVE

283 MCDONALD AVE

2967 VANPORT DR

380 BAY ST

2592 ABORN RD

3301 MONCUCCO WAY

10100 ENDFIELD WAY

3222 FALLEN OAK CT

5865 SOUTHWIND DR

3199 RUSKIN DR

540 INDEPENDENCE DR

1234 PIEDMONT RD

152 HERLONG AVE

3837 RAMIREZ CT

2969 VIVIAN LN

1918 SHULMAN AVE

13141 PFEIFLE AVE

540 CONTI CT

376 S WILLARD AVE

4079 FILAN WAY

3365 SAN RIVAS DR

3351 WOODSIDE LN

385 GREY GHOST AVE

3383 SAN PABLO AVE

740 AMANDA DR

1930 OROLETTE PL

3075 THURMAN DR

476 CROSSLEES DR

2350 SLEEPY HOLLOW LN

401 RAYOS DEL SOL DR

233 OLIVE HILL DR

1560 YANKEE POINT CT

3135 TERRYWOOD CT

4920 KENSON DR

2559 GUMDROP DR

4144 MIRA LOMA WAY

812 LOCUST ST

5589 CARRYBACK AVE

2740 OTHELLO AVE

322 LEIGH AVE

3314 HICKERSON DR

5804 COMANCHE DR

2143 LAUSETT AVE

1213 BOYNTON AVE

5775 RIBCHESTER CT

5380 LIGURIAN DR

1812 VOLLMER WAY

1676 MOCKING PLACE WAY

2718 CAMINO ECCO

984 PACIFIC AVE

417 IRVING AVE

532 CARVER ST

1823 WALKER CT

2915 SAMUEL DR

5366 WOODSTOCK WAY

4204 KINGSPARK DR

468 N WHITE RD

1129 PINE AVE

6045 PINELAND AVE

10298 MURTHA DR

2194 EBBESEN AVE

1135 PINE AVE

548 BLUEFIELD DR

2013 WONDERAMA DR

1021 FLEMING AVE

15207 STRATFORD DR

2877 GLEN HEATHER DR

14105 CANDLER AVE

5961 SHAWCROFT DR

1485 BAHAMA WAY

15330 CHARMERAN AVE

4063 PAYNE AVE

410 COYOTE RD

3727 PLEASANT VISTA DR

1281 CITY VIEW PL

3965 YOLO DR

2723 CHERRY AVE

2691 BON BON DR

3015 JULIO AVE

1901 FOREST AVE

1652 CROSS WAY

919 REDBIRD DR

2058 MUIRWOOD WAY

961 CAROLA AVE

906 WILLOWSHIRE WAY

908 WILLOWSHIRE WAY

910 WILLOWSHIRE WAY

1163 CURTISS AVE

1675 KINGMAN AVE

2438 RUBY AVE

5370 AVENIDA ALMENDROS

1769 JONATHAN AVE

14530 CLAYTON RD

5539 STONEY CREEK PL

3960 AGATHA WAY

170 SENTER RD

14441 STORY RD

686 POTOMAC CT

3320 PEPPER TREE LN

1612 SALAMONI CT

2017 SULLIVAN AVE

10291 LOCHNER DR

252 S KING RD

428 WASHINGTON ST

2788 WOODMOOR DR

If you want to take advantage of of the $8,000 TAX CREDIT, you will need to be in contract

no later than mid October! DON'T DELAY! This means that short sales are no longer

an option for you at this time. LEARN THE BEST WAY TO GET YOUR OFFER ACCEPTED.

View http://www.bayareahomesforyou.com/custom/content/7529 for REO and short sale information

Short Sale Purchase?

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 10:15:00 -0700

If you want to take advantage of the First Time Home Buyer $8,000 tax credit, short
sales are no longer an option for you. View this recent article as well as my REO
Resource Page for details on why.

What is Home Path Financing?

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 09:48:00 -0700

Maybe you've run across this when searching on the internet for a home.

Below are some of the benefits of purchasing a home through HomePath:

Low down payment and flexible mortgage terms (fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, or interest-only)

You may qualify even if your credit is less than perfect

Available to both owner occupiers and investors

Down payment (at least 3 percent) can be funded by your own savings; a gift; a grant; or a loan from a nonprofit
organization, state or local government, or employer

No mortgage insurance*

No appraisal fees

Also eligible for HomePath Renovation Mortgage (see details below)

HomePath Mortgage financing is available from a variety of lenders

Cash vs. First Time Home Buyers

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 09:44:00 -0700

With inventory so low, first time home buyers are finding it difficult to get their
offers accepted with many cash investors coming out of the woodwork.
Time is of the essence as the $8,000 first time home buyer credit will
expire before Dec. 1st. This means that most buyers will need to be
in contract by mid October at the latest.

Contact me at (408) 591-7771 to learn the best way to get your offer accepted.

First Time Home Buyer? Contract By Mid October!

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:18:00 -0700

If you are a first time home buyer, or know someone who is now looking,
because mortgage approvals, residential inspections, and other steps in
the purchasing process typically take about two months, buyers hoping to
take advantage of of the $8,000 tax credit, depending on your lender and the property you choose, you will need to be in contract
by the end of September, or mid October.

Contact me at (408) 591-7778 for the best way to get your offer accepted.

Still Real Estate Speculating

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:18:00 -0700

There are some who are speculating that the bank and/or government
are holding onto properties and gradually putting them on the market
so as not to flood the market and cause a huge drop in home values.
After all, California currently has the highest number of NODs
(Notice of Default) in the nation, so where are they?

Others are of the mind that 'they'are in no way, shape, or form
that organized, and that the banks are just holding out in the hopes
that they will receive more bail out money. Either way, who taught
who how to run a business? Bizarre....

Update on Almaden Valley Break Ins

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 06:59:00 -0700

The TJ Martin Neighborhood Associatin hosted a well-attended meeting on Thursday, September 10th at the Almaden Winery Center. In attendence, along with nearly 100 residents, were Nancy Pyle, Dolores Carr and and Captain Vaughan Edwards.

A few items from the meeting were that since April there were 83 burglaries in the area. Also, the website www.crimereports.com the captain stressed that these include crimes that were reported and not always
verified. This information is in each report. It is important to review each one for details.

The importance of forming more Neighborhood Watch Groups was also covered as well as certain precautions
to take. When a crime is in proces, contact Captain Vaughan Edwards at (408) 277-4728.

For more information on the meeting, and events in our area, visit the TJ Martin Association website.

Almaden Valley Art & Wine Festival

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 07:15:00 -0700

This year's festival was very enjoyable. There were opportunities for teens (like my son), and other community
members to volunteer helping out as well as some great bands.

I was only able to catch 3 of them;

The Dead Poser's Society-great music and lots of fun to listen to.
Rich Lehman; just moved to LA, very intense, hones and talented
Nuthin' Fancy; Lynyrd Skynyrd cover band with 2 Almaden residents that really did
sound like the real thing. Lots of fun.

Almaden Valley TJ Martin Area Robberies

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:23:00 -0700

If you live in our Almaden neighborhood, keep yourself updated on the rash of robberies through
the following links:

www.crimereports.com

http://tjmartinneighborhood.ning.com

Almaden Whole Foods?When? Where?

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 09:30:00 -0700

How many times have you driven by that mess on Blossom Hill and said, "Oh yeah!
Wasn't that supposed to have opened this year?'

Well, you'll have to look at it for another year, as it is not slated to be finished this
time until the fall of 2010. So we'll all continue to drive to Los Gatos to spoil ourselves.

Willow Glen, San Jose Real Estate Market Update

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 08:44:00 -0700

For the month of July, there were 227 homes for sale, and almost 25% of homes sold in Willow Glen.
The average sales price was $715,000, and average days on market was 63.

July 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Willow Glen (10)	Santa Clara	80	227	55	63	715,159	700,000	97.03	39,333,770
Summary		80	227	55	63	715,159	- -	97.13	39,333,770
Common Interest Development
July 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Willow Glen (10)	Santa Clara	21	33	6	133	448,816	466,000	96.25	2,692,900
Summary		21	33	6	133	448,816	- -	96.25	2,692,900

Alamden Valley San Jose Market Update

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 08:38:00 -0700

Currently, 1/3rd of the single family homes in Almaden Valley are selling. A pretty good number considering
today's market. Of course there are fewer bank-owned and short sales here, but this has still effected
the average sales price, and many owners are not selling unless they must.

Single Family Residential
July 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Almaden Valley (13)	Santa Clara	50	125	41	72	956,912	915,000	96.81	39,233,400
Summary		50	125	41	72	956,912	- -	96.81	39,233,400
Common Interest Development
July 2009
City/Area	County	New Listings	Current Inventory	Closed Sales	Average DOM	Average Sales Price	Median Sales Price	% LP Rec'd	Total Sales Volume
Almaden Valley (13)	Santa Clara	3	9	2	78	441,050	441,050	92.85	882,101
Summary		3	9	2	78	441,050	- -	92.85	882,101

Placing an Offer an an REO

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 07:27:00 -0700

Yes, REOs are easier to purchase than short sales, but in a competitive market like
today's, there are still hoops to jump. Make sure you have an agent who is vigilant
in placing your offer as the seller requests. You will most likely be competing with all cash
buyers, so make it a clean offer.

Below are only a few requirements by just one REO real estate group. Some of these
are standard.

. Please bring your Highest And Best Offer. On many of our properties we receive multiple offers. The Seller rarely extends Multiple Counter Offers and will likely either move forward with the best presented offer or may come back and request "Highest And Best" from all Buyers. Please, No Low-Ball Offers! The Seller has priced these properties aggressively and is not going to give them away.

4. Please write the offer on the current C.A.R. Purchase Agreement. “AS-IS” offers only. If you don’t have the current C.A.R Purchase Agreement, please visit the C.A.R. website at www.car.org and download the current version of WinForms®.

5. For Seller, just put "Owner Of Record".

6. Please allow up to 5 days for response. We will hopefully have a response to you much quicker.

7. Include a copy of the signed Agency Disclosure between the Selling Broker/Agent and Buyer AND a blank copy of the Agency Disclosure signed and dated by the Selling Broker/Agent for the Seller to sign.

8. Include a current Pre-Qualification Letter from a Direct Lender/Major Bank (not a Mortgage Broker!) with their contact information. The Buyer can get their financing through their own Lender if they wish, however, we still need need to have a Pre-Qual included from a Direct Lender. If an All Cash Offer, please include Verification Of Funds.

9. Include a copy of the Buyer’s Earnest Money Deposit Check. Minimum 1%. 3% Earnest Money Deposit is preferred. Also Include Verification Of Funds for the Buyer’s Down Payment & Closing Costs. If you are submitting a Cash Offer, you must provide current documentation of funds. An Equity Line Of Credit will not be acceptable!

10. We do not have any Reports, Disclosures, HOA Docs or Inspections for these properties. The Buyer will have an option to obtain their own inspections. On occasion we have properties that were sold and have fallen through and the previous Buyer provided us with copies of their Inspection Reports. The MLS will reflect those properties that have Inspection Reports available and the Buyer will need to read and approve those Inspection Reports and provide the front page of each Report signed "Read And Approved" by the Buyer and submitted with their offer.

12. Removal of Inspection Contingency within 7-10 days. They may even request 5 days. 14 days for Loan & Appraisal.

16. The Seller will not pay for inspections. Buyer to pay. The Seller will provide a Natural Hazard Disclosure through Disclosure Source

21. If the MLS states NO FHA / VA, that is because of the condition of the property and the Seller is not going to consider a FHA or VA offer due to the likelihood of repairs being required by the Lender

25. The Seller is exempt from most disclosures. Please review the C.A.R. REO Advisory Form for more information. Please do not request additional disclosures to be signed.

26. If the Seller decides to move forward with your offer, you will receive a Counter Offer and Seller Addendum or Seller's Purchase Agreement which the Buyer will need to complete and sign. The Seller will sign after an acceptance. Please note that the terms in the Counter Offer and/or Addendums may supersede terms in the C.A.R. Purchase Agreement. The Buyer and Buyer’s Agent are strongly advised to thoroughly read and understand the Counter Offer and all Addendums before signing! The Buyer must perform as per the terms of the Agreement and Counter Offer/Addendums! Timeframes are firm and failure by the Buyer to perform within these timeframes may result in a per diem penalty, forfeit of their deposit and/or cancellation.

Where Did They All Go?

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:21:00 -0700

Just last week there were 372 properties in Santa Clara County that went back to various banks. It would appear that the banks are simply sitting on them, waiting for the market to get better. This is causing a huge build-up of property that experts call “shadow inventory.” Right now prices are up and inventories are down significantly in The Bay Area. If they release these homes into the market a little at a time, the values will continue to hold and demand will remain strong. However, if the banks move too quickly or release too many properties, the values will decline further—a concern of everyone in the industry, and of course home owners. Look for many more properties to enter the market and continued low interest rates for buyers.

Buy Now to Get $8,000 Credit!

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:21:00 -0700

The $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit is available for escrows that
close before December 1, 2009, with the abundance of short sales
and bank-owned properties on the market, please be aware that
transactions do not always close on time. This means that although
sometime in October is a good time to place an offer, it is no guarantee.
Good advice is to place that offer by September to be safe. More
homes are expected to hit the market in September and October.

Below is an article that briefly reviews investing in bank-owned and
short sale properties:

REO & Short Sales

Are You Seeing All the Homes Available?

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:09:00 -0700

Did you know that not all home search sites are equal?

By that I mean that those sites run by media companies,or
companies that are not actual real estate brokerages most
likely do not particiipate in IDX (Internet Data Exchange), which
allows brokers and agents to show eachother's listings on
their websites.

This is something you might not mind if you were shopping
for a car, but wouldn't you want to view all your options when
making the biggest purchase of your life?

Offer After Offer? What's Going On?

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:34:00 -0700

For many buyers, placing an offer on a home below the $400,000
has become a very daunting task.

I have placed a number of offers for very decent, qualified and pre approved clients, (even
cash buyers!), within days of a new home reaching the market, and
in over 80% of these cases, never received a response from the
agents or their assistants. I know many agents never admit to this,
as they feel it may deter their chances of getting their future offers
received, but seriously, in the end, does it matter? There are so
many offers being submitted, without acknowledgement, it seems in most cases,
buyer's offers will not even be looked at, no less even receive a response,
unless they are one of the top 3 contenders.

I have always considered myself the 'Queen of Follow-Through' in all my years of sales, and still
consider myself to be her, but find it incredible to be doing business in an arena that does not
care or honor the same.

Dog Saves Tree!

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:22:00 -0700

There it was, buried at the bottom of the dam, hoping against hope that someone
would rescue it. Today was it's lucky day.

Brandi to the rescue!

View more of her escapades at: www.myspace.com/mycaninelife

Free & Low Cost Services Offered!!

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:39:00 -0700

July 15, 2009

Visit the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) Web site at www.takeChargeCA.ca.gov, or call our toll free number at (800) 952-5210, where consumers can get a list of many free, low cost, discount and income-eligible services offered by government agencies and trusted sources.

The list of free and low cost services help California consumers save money! Want a free or low cost hair cut, or manicure? Looking for help paying for a Smog Check, or just some basic coupons for household products or food? It's all there and much, much, more.

We encourage everyone to share this information with your community and industries leaders, and even your employees, family and friends. We know there are many more services that can be added to this list but we need your help.

Contact us at TakechargeCA.ca.gov. Call us toll free at (800) 952-5210, or call me directly to add even more free and low cost services that everyone can save money on.

If you want to be removed from my email list please send me an email with the subject titled: delete my email, and I will remove you from my listing.

Sincerely,

Michael Lafferty, Outreach Manager

DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS

O. 916.574.7409

E. Michael_lafferty@dca.ca.gov

Buy a House Sight Unseen?

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 09:33:00 -0700

You may have heard or experienced how crazy it can be trying to purchase a home in the
lower price range in today's maket. It may seem illogical, but many buyers are making
offers sight unseen as they have made dozens of offers, only to be outbid on a home
that receives multiple offers over asking.

I have advised some of my clients to do this, making the offer contingent upon
inspection. I have also registered with an electronic signature company to expedite
offers. All this has become necessary in a market like we are experiencing now.

Just remember; recovery of a market always starts at the entry level, which is what
we are beginning to see. A good sign for buyers, and for sellers in the long run.

I would be glad to assist you or someone you know with their purchase.

Reduce Your Property Taxes!

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:06:00 -0700

If you weren't fortunate enough to benefit from Prop. 13, then maybe Prop. 8
can help you out. If you have had a substantial decline in property value,
fill out this form, and you just might have your taxes reduced.

Click Here for the Form

Santa Clara Valley Home Sales

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:20:00 -0700

Santa Clara Valley Home Sales Highest Since 2007

Home sales increased, year-over-year, by 10.9% in May. This is the eleventh month in a row homes sales have been up compared to the year before. The 984 homes sold were the most since May 2007 when there were 1,022 homes sold. Year-to-date, home sales are up 26.7%.

The median price for single-family, re-sale homes rose 4.5% in May from April. Year-over-year, the median price was off 36.2% The average price gained 7.9%, month-over-month, but was off 33.2% compared to May 2008.

Inventory dropped to its lowest level since February 2007. It was down 42.7% year-over-year.

Pending sales, which is a leading indicator, was up 41.5% compared to last May.

The sales price to list price ratio for homes rose 0.5 of a point to 98.9%.

Days of inventory dropped 24 to 93 days for homes.

Condo sales rose 20.3% from April, and were up 20.8% year-over-year.

The median price for condos rose 10.7% from April, but it was off 38.3% compared to last May. The average price gained 7.3%, month-over-month, but was down 33.2% compared to May 2008.

Condo inventory was down 42.3% year-over-year, while pending sales were up 41.8%.

The sales price to list price ratio for condos rose 0.5 of a point to 97.6%.

Pending Sales Have Surpassed Active Sales, a sign the market has or is close to bottoming out.

A Whole Child Approach to Eductation

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:20:00 -0700

'Whole child approach'. Something that we all want for our kids in education.

St. Andrews Episcopal school embraces this approach, and so much more for children
from PreK through 8th grade-including an after school care program!

All their reports, scores, programs, curiculum and more is available to view
at: www.st-andrews.org

For more information, contact alumni Krisin Poolos at (408) 867-3785 ext. 216.

Reverse Mortgage Update

Mon, 25 May 2009 05:30:00 -0700

The HECM FHA insured reverse mortgage can be used by senior homeowners age 62 and older to convert the equity in their home into monthly streams of income and/or a line of credit to be repaid when they no longer occupy the home. The loan, commonly known as HECM, is funded by a lending institution such as a mortgage lender, bank, credit union or savings and loan association. To assist the homeowner in making an informed decision of whether this program meets their needs, they are required to receive consumer education and counseling by a HUD-approved HECM counselor.

HECM counselors will discuss program eligibility requirements, financial implications and alternatives to obtaining a HECM and provisions for the mortgage becoming due and payable. Upon the completion of HECM counseling, the homeowner should be able to make an independent, informed decision of whether this product will meet their needs. You can also use this handy Reverse Mortgage Calculator to help you see if you qualify.

Homeowners who meet the eligibility criteria can complete a reverse mortgage application by contacting a FHA-approved lending institution such as a bank, mortgage company, or savings and loan association. If you need assistance locating a FHA-approved lender, you can request a listing of FHA-approved lenders from the HECM counselor or use HUD's searchable listing.

Borrower Requirements:
Age 62 years of age or older
Own your property
Occupy your property as primary residence
Participation in a consumer information session given by an approved HECM counselor

Mortgage Amount Based On:
Age of the youngest borrower
Current interest rate
Lesser of appraised value or the FHA insurance limit

Financial Requirements:
No income or credit qualifications are required of the borrower
No repayment as long as the property is the primary residence
Closing costs may be financed in the mortgage

Property Requirements:
Single family home or 1-4 unit home with one unit occupied by the borrower
HUD-approved condominiums
Manufactured homes and leased land
Meet FHA property standards and flood requirements

How the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Program Works:
Homeowners 62 and older who have paid off their mortgages or have only small mortgage balances remaining, and are currently living in the home are eligible to participate in HUD's reverse mortgage program. The program allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes.

Homeowners can select from five payment plans:
* Tenure
- equal monthly payments as long as at least one borrower lives and continues to occupy the property as a principal residence.
* Term - equal monthly payments for a fixed period of months selected.
* Line of Credit - unscheduled payments or in installments, at times and in amount of borrower's choosing until the line of credit is exhausted.
* Modified Tenure - combination of line of credit with monthly payments for as long as the borrower remains in the home.
* Modified Term - combination of line of credit with monthly payments for a fixed period of months selected by the borrower.

Homeowners whose circumstances change can restructure their payment options for a nominal fee of $20. Unlike ordinary home equity loans, a HUD reverse mortgage does not require repayment as long as the home is the borrower's principal residence. Lenders recover their principal, plus interest, when the home is sold. The remaining value of the home goes to the homeowner or to his or her survivors. You can never owe more than your home's value. If the sales proceeds are insufficient to pay the amount owed, HUD will pay the lender the amount of the shortfall. HUD's Federal Housing Administration (FHA) collects an insurance premium from all borrowers to provide this coverage.

The amount a homeowner can borrow depends on their age, the current interest rate, other loan fees and the appraised value of their home or FHA 's mortgage limits for their area, whichever is less. Generally, the more valuable your home is, the older you are, the lower the interest, the more you can borrow. For example, based on a loan with an interest rates of approximately 9 percent, and a home qualifying for $100,000, a 65-year-old could borrow up to 22 percent of the home's value; a 75-year-old could borrow up to 41 percent of the home's value; and, an 85-year-old could borrow up to 58 percent of the home's value. The percentages do not include closing costs because these charges can vary.There are no asset or income limitations on borrowers receiving HUD's reverse mortgages. There are also no limits on the value of homes qualifying for a HUD reverse mortgage. The value of the home will be determined by an appraisal. However, the amount that may be borrowed is derived from the lower of the appraisal amount or FHA mortgage limit for the area, which varies from $200,160 to $362,790. For Alaska, Guam, Hawaii and the Virgin Islands, the FHA mortgage limits may be adjusted up to 150 percent of the ceiling depending on the area. The FHA limits usually increase each year. As a result, owners of higher-priced homes can't borrow any more than owners of homes valued at the FHA limit. HUD's reverse mortgage program collects funds from insurance premiums charged to the homeowners. Homeowners are charged an upfront insurance premium which is 2 percent of the maximum claim amount that may be borrowed plus a .5 percent annual premium.

Technical Guidance:
This program is authorized by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987, Section 417, Public law 100-242 (12 U.S.C. 1715z-20). Program regulations are in 24 CFR 206. This program is administered by the Office of Single Family Program Development in HUD's Office of Housing-Federal Housing Administration.

http://www.apply4reversemortgage.com

Affordability Hits 18 Year High

Mon, 25 May 2009 05:29:00 -0700

The headline says it all.

If you are in a position to purchase, the combination of low prices,
low interest rates, incentives and inventory all point to the best
time to purchase in years. Take advantage of it while you can.

Senior Volunteer Program

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:29:00 -0700

R.S.V.P. (Realtor Service Volunteer Program)

This year's program took place the first week of May, and I headed up one San Jose
team and volunteered on another.

I met some incredible, beautiful women who have led inspirational lives.

Below are a few photos.

My favorite photo from last year:

A Reasonable HMO?

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:14:00 -0700

Looking for an HMO that offers outstanding service and costs less?

Look into the new guy in town; CareMore. They even have a care center
with specialized programs such as diabetes care, high blood pressure
management, wound care and nutritional consultations, in additon to
an excercise facility!

Visit their website at : www.CareMoreHealthGroup.com
Or call 1-800-499-2793.

Duck Story

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:05:00 -0700

I just received this email and thought this was a great story to add to this series.

As always, if you have a great story, reply to this blog and I'd be glad to add it to
WGDIST? (What Good Did I See Today?)

a true duck story

  A True Duck Story From San Antonio ...

  Something really cute happened in downtown San Antonio this week.   Michael R.
is now an accounting clerk at Frost Bank and works downtown in a second story
office building. Several weeks ago, he watched a mother duck choose the concrete awning outside his window as the unlikely place to build a nest above the sidewalk.

The mallard laid ten eggs in a nest in the corner of the planter that is perched over 10 feet in the air. She dutifully kept the eggs warm for weeks, and Monday afternoon all of her ten ducklings hatched.

Michael worried all night how the momma duck was going to get those babies safely off their perch
in a busy, downtown, urban environment to take to water, which typically happens in the first 48
hours of a duck hatching. Tuesday morning, Michael watched the mother duck encourage her
babies to the edge of the perch with the intent to show them how to jump off!

The mother flew down below and started quacking to her babies above. In his disbelief Michael
watched as the first fuzzy newborn toddled to the edge and astonishingly leapt into thin air, crashing
onto the cement below. Michael couldn't stand to watch this risky effort. He dashed out of his office
and ran down the stairs to the sidewalk where the first obedient duckling was stuporing near its mother
from the near fatal fall.

As the second one took the plunge, Michael jumped forward and caught it with his bare hands
before it hit the concrete... safe and sound, he set it by the momma and the other stunned sibling,
still recovering from its painful leap.

One by one the babies continued to jump. Each time Michael hid under the awning just to reach
out in the nick of time as the duckling made its free fall. The downtown sidewalk came to a standstill.

Time after time, Michael was able to catch the remaining 8 and set them by their approving mother.

At this point Michael realized the duck family had only made part of its dangerous journey.
They had 2 full blocks to walk across traffic, crosswalks, curbs, and pedestrians to get to the
losest open water, the San Antonio River .   The on looking office secretaries and several San
Antonio police officers joined in.   They brought an empty copy paper box to collect the babies.

They carefully corralled them, with the mother's approval, and loaded them in the container.
Michael held the box low enough for the mom to see her brood.   He then slowly navigated
through the downtown streets toward the San Antonio River . The mother waddled behind
and kept her babies in sight.

As they reached the river, the mother took over and passed him, jumping into the river and
quacking loudly. At the water's edge, he tipped the box and helped shepherd the babies toward
the water and to their mother after their adventurous ride.

All ten darling ducklings safely made it into the water and paddled up snugly to momma.

Michael said the mom swam in circles, looking back toward the beaming bank bookkeeper,
and proudly quacking.

Senior Driving Tips

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:08:00 -0700

Driving Safety For Older Adults
Through 45 years of driving, Ellen never had an accident. But last month, the 76-year-old was involved in two minor collisions, receiving a traffic citation for one. Ellen worries that she is not as good a driver as she once was. And she has read recent newspaper stories about accidents involving older drivers.

79-year-old Gregory’s children worry that with his poor night vision, it isn’t safe for him to drive at night any more. But Mom doesn’t drive, and the couple doesn’t want to give up the theater or their weekly bridge games with friends.

For most Americans, the automobile represents independence, control and mobility. We couldn’t wait to get our first driver’s license and access to the family car when we were teenagers?and we’d like to keep driving as long as possible. But the normal changes of aging can make driving more challenging. Impediments to safe driving include?

hearing loss
vision problems
decreased reaction time
memory loss
limited manual dexterity
loss of depth perception and peripheral vision

Older adults and their families should assess driving ability periodically, both to determine ways of improving driving skills, and to evaluate whether the individual is still capable of safely operating a motor vehicle.

MAKING CHANGES FOR SAFER DRIVING
There are several good ways seniors can improve driving skills and extend safe driving capability:

Take a refresher driving course for seniors, such as the “55 Alive Classes” which are offered through insurance companies and senior groups.
When filling any prescriptions, ask the doctor or pharmacist if the medications have any potential side effects that could hinder the ability to drive.
Have regular eye examinations.
Make modifications to the vehicle itself for enhanced driving safety. For example: improved side and rear-view mirrors; a rear-window brake light; a back-up warning buzzer; steering wheel grips; and pedal adjustments.
If the car is large and difficult to maneuver, consider trading it for a smaller car, which might be easier to handle and park.
Avoid the most challenging driving situations. If night vision has diminished, schedule car trips during daylight hours. Avoid busy highways and rush hour traffic
IS IT TIME TO GIVE UP THE CAR?
There may come a point when the changes of aging make it difficult and risky to keep driving. Some older drivers become increasingly nervous about their driving ability, and consequently become less mobile in the community. Some keep driving until an incident occurs-a scare, a minor accident, or worse-and then quit driving abruptly, without having made plans for what they will do without the car. And others are in denial, refusing to face up to limitations until family members or the department of licensing step in.

It doesn’t have to be that way. When you first begin to have concerns about driving ability, that is the time to begin planning a post-driving strategy. Think of this as just another aging challenge to be addressed, and then use your best problem-solving skills to keep yourself or your loved one active and mobile.

The first thing to do when considering becoming a non-driver is to add up all the costs of owning and maintaining a car. Car payments, insurance, repairs, gasoline, parking fees-all these should go into your calculation. For most people, the total is considerable. Think of those dollars as money available for alternative transportation.

Once you’ve calculated your “transportation allowance,” begin to investigate the alternatives:

Bus or rapid transit
Taxi cabs
Carpooling with family, friends or volunteers
Special transportation for seniors and people with disabilities.
With this kind of planning, many seniors lose their anxiety over giving up driving. It still may not be easy, but having a workable plan for getting around is a major step forward. If a loved one is resisting giving up driving, be creative in your approach. You might try suggesting that your loved one:

Leave the car in the garage for a while and see how he or she gets along not using it.
Set a trial period during which your loved one will try out transportation options.
Consider giving the car as a gift to a favorite charity or to a grandchild.
Investigate selling the car and setting the money aside for a transportation fund.
Help your loved one make a plan for being a non-driver if that time comes. Be proactive; don’t wait for circumstances to make decisions for you. Giving your loved one an extra margin of safety is the right thing to do for other drivers on the road, and it can, above all, be a gift to your loved one, yourself and family!
(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

Courtesy of Senior Helpers
www.seniorhelpers.com

Senior Scam Seminar!

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 13:05:00 -0700

Agape Long Term Care Monthly Seminar Series

Presentation by the California Department of Consumer Affairs

Thursday, April 30, 2009

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Presentation Title:

Helping to Protect Seniors: Tips, resources, and services available from the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) and the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office.

Presentations by:

Michael Lafferty, Outreach Manager, Department of Consumer Affairs

Gil Deluna, Chief of the Unlicensed Activity Program and the Publication, Design and Editing Unit, for the DCA’s Consumer and Community Empowerment Division

Presentations:

Michael Lafferty – Take Charge California! Be smart, be safe, and be heard for seniors and Moderator – 20 minutes

Overview of the California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA): Who we are and what we do
“Take Charge California! Be smart. Be safe. Be heard. DCA’s newest consumer’s empowerment campaign to protect consumers & seniors in the marketplace.
Free or low-income services for seniors from the Department of Consumer Affairs

Gil Deluna – Inquire Before You Hire ! – 20 minutes

Overview of DCA’s Inquire Before You Hire campaign to stop unlicensed activity.
Why seniors are most at risk; what they can do to protect themselves, and much more !
Publications geared toward protecting seniors.
WAR stories from around the state that will cause all of us to stop and think before we buy products and services in the marketplace.

Question and Answer Period – 30 minutes

What’s inside the Senior Scam Buster Kit provided today (time permitting)?

Michael Lafferty

Statewide Outreach Manager

Consumer and Community

Empowerment Division

California Department of Consumer Affairs

Michael Lafferty has been helping consumers for over 25 years. He currently serves as the Department of Consumer Affairs’ (DCA’s) statewide Outreach Manager and is also involved with the Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR’s) Drive Healthy Campaign, and the Department’s newest campaign: Take Charge California! Be Smart. Be Safe. Be Heard. Through outreach efforts in the community and partnerships with consumers and licensees, he and his staff help educate consumers about DCA’s services and inform them about how to make smart decisions in the marketplace. Previously, Lafferty managed BAR’s Repair Assistance and Vehicle Retirement Programs, was involved with the Breathe Easier campaign, and has held various positions in BAR’s consumer protection and Smog Check programs. Michael has a Bachelors Degree in management, as well as an Associate of Arts degree in Automotive Repair.

Bio for:

Gil DeLuna

Chief – Unlicensed Activity

California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)

Consumer & Community Empowerment Division

Gil was recently appointed Chief of the Unlicensed Activity Program and the Publication, Design and Editing Unit, for the DCA’s Consumer and Community Empowerment Division. As Chief, DeLuna has developed an education campaign to inform consumers and businesses of the underground economy and the dangers of hiring an unlicensed practitioner or business. DeLuna also educates businesses on the value of having a California license from the DCA. DeLuna recently returned to the DCA after working for the Board of Equalization as the District Director for District 1. He also worked as Outreach Chief for DCA where he developed a grassroots outreach plan that to inform consumers about the department’s Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). Gil has been with the Department for over 22 years. He began there with the Bureau of Automotive Repair’s Enforcement Division, and subsequently working for the BAR Engineering Department in Sacramento, testing and developing specifications for smog inspection analyzers. Promotions led to managing BAR Enforcement Field offices in Monterey, Concord, and Hayward where he managed 1 of 4 Mediation Centers throughout the State. Gil is the Past President of the California Consumer Affair Association (CCAA). He is also Co-Founder /Past President of the Asian/Pacific State Employee Association (APSEA)-Northern Chapter. He was project manager of many IT projects and won an award for the department developing and managing DCA’s Online complaint process, which enables consumers to file a complaint on the internet. Gil holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Notre Dame de Namur University.

The infamous “Scambuster Kit” will be offered to attendees.

WHEN: THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2009, 1:00 PM

WHERE: 1871 THE ALAMEDA, SAN JOSE, CA, NEAR W. HEDDING ST.

FREE ADMISSION This will be a hugely important presentation and space will be limited

PLEASE RSVP TO:

SKIP FRENZEL OF AGAPE LONG TERM CARE

408-984-6661, WWW.AGAPELTC.COM, INFO@AGAPELTC.COM

Is the Housing Market Leveling Off?

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:46:00 -0700

For the 4th month in a row, Silicon Valley home sales are ahead of last year.
Signs of leveling off include increase in sales and multiple offer scenarios.
Lower priced homes are seeing the most demand, of course, but once
demand outnumbers supply and loans are more accessible, we should
see stabilization. Of course no one has a crystal ball, but this is good news.

Selling Houses Today

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:06:00 -0700

It is a true mixed blessing to have so many opportunities to help buyers in today's volatile market and yet
at the expense of so many. Our landscape has changed in so many ways, but what is important now is that
we take care of the current inventory of foreclosures on the market and help those in danger of default in
order to return to some rate of normalcy.

If you know of someone who needs help in either direction, please call me at (408) 591-7778. They will
be in good hands.

Caregiver Dangers and Balancing

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 13:57:00 -0700

Do you know someone who is a caregiver? A new study conducted by the Indiana University School of Medicine whoed that 25% of Alzheimer's Family Caregivers to the ER or are hospitalized, further emphasizing how stressful this disease is to a family caregiver.

For balancing work and caregiving, here are 4 questions to ask:

1. Have I investigated resources available through my employer?

2. What suport services are available in my community?

3. Am I trying to do too much?

4. Am I taking care of myself?

To find out how caregivers around the country manage, check out the 2 part article in 'Balancng Work and Family Caregiving' in the
January 2009 issue of the Caring Right at Home newsletter at www.caringnews.com