Market Update : corona sold

It Is Getting Harder to Buy a House

Liane Thomas — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:59:00 GMT

FHA to toughen rules for borrowers

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is proposing raising minimum credit scores for borrowers who receive FHA-backed mortgages, increasing down payment requirements, and limiting the amount of money sellers can provide toward closing costs. The proposed changes are part of an effort to shore up the agency's finances, which have been hit with rising defaults to its mortgage insurance program.

So what does this mean to you?

Historically, the FHA has played a critical role in propping up the housing market by insuring lenders against default after the mortgage market failed. Currently, the agency guarantees approximately 30 percent of all home loans and 20 percent of refinancings. In the past, the FHA has resisted raising down payments or insurance premiums, fearing it would be shutting out qualified borrowers and stunting the housing market's recovery.

The FHA is hoping that the proposed changes, including requiring that borrowers bring more cash to the closing table, will ensure that borrowers are less likely to default on their loans. Officials at FHA have yet to determine how much cash will be required.

Up-front cash can include down payments as well as other payments. Currently, FHA borrowers can put down as little as 3.5 percent. One lawmaker has introduced legislation that would require FHA borrowers to put down a minimum of 5 percent. The agency also currently allows sellers to provide up to 6 percent of the home's value toward closing costs or down payments. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Shaun Donovan has said he wants the maximum permissible level to be lowered to 3 percent, in line with industry norms.

The FHA has decided "for the time being" to raise its minimum credit score requirements for new borrowers. The new requirements have yet to be determined. Presently, borrowers with credit scores as low as 500 may qualify for an FHA loan.

So if you are thinking about buying a home in 12-18 months, and you plan on using an FHA loan, you might want to consider moving that plan up and buying sooner rather than later. It may cost you a lot more next year.

Brought to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR®
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
1860 Compton Avenue
Corona, Ca 92881
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

Have You Seen The New Show "Hoarders"? Do You Need To De-Clutter?

Liane Thomas — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:57:00 GMT

Last week I caught the premier of the show "Hoarders" on A & E (if you missed it, you can go to their website to view the entire episode). It was amazing, and got me to thinking about how someone goes from being a pack rat (guilty!) to being a hoarder.

The show inspired me to get rid of some of the clutter around my home, and my office. It seems like a big task, but by breaking it down, it can be done in 10 easy steps.

Step # 1: Set A Schedule

You are much more likely to stick to a routine, whatever it may be, if you work on a schedule. In addition, this allows you to clean when you can minimize interruptions and maximize your time.

Step # 2: Set A Goal For Each Room

If you can visualize what you want, you will be better able to achieve it. By setting goals for each room, you can note the things that need changing and work toward that goal one day at a time.

Step # 3: Create A Timeline

When do you hope to have your home completely free of clutter? One week, two weeks or even a month? Depending on your schedule and the amount of clutter that you have, it may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks before you can kick back and relax again.

Step # 4: Start Small

The clutter in your home didn't appear overnight, and it won't disappear overnight either. If you start small, you will be less likely to get frustrated and give up midway through your cleanup.

Step # 5: Categorize Your Clutter

When cleaning, it's important to categorize your items into groups. By separating the items that you want to keep, toss and donate, you will be able to move through your clutter quickly and efficiently.

Step # 6: Letting Go

A good rule of thumb for uncluttering your home is to get rid of anything that you haven't used within the past year. If it's still useful, consider donating it to a good cause. Otherwise, toss it.

Step # 7: Storing Your Seasonal Apparel

When storing seasonal clothing, purchase a sturdy plastic storage bin with a lid and roll your clothes instead of folding them in an effort to maximize storage capability. When full, snap the lid on and slide the unit into your closet.

Step # 8: Closet Organization

Did you know that your choice of clothes hangers can greatly impact the storage capacity of your closet? Wire hangers take up less space and can save your shirts from getting that annoying shoulder bump that often arises from the use of plastic hangers.

Step # 9: Shoes Blues

When it comes to storing shoes, many homeowners are fighting a losing battle with clutter. How many pairs of shoes do you own? How neatly are they stored? If your shoe storage has you down, try purchasing clear lidded shoe boxes. These handy creations can house each pair of shoes and can be stacked neatly in your closet. And best of all, you can see your shoe collection without having to sift through a sea of sandals.

Step # 10: Read The Labels

If you have medicine, food or anything else with an expiration date in the home, check to make sure that the items are still good. If the expiration date has already come and gone, throw them away.

If these ideas inspire you, please respond and share your success! Thanks, Liane

Brought to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR®
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
1860 Compton Avenue
Corona, Ca 92881
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

One in Four Borrowers is Underwater on their Home

Liane Thomas — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:04:00 GMT

One in four borrowers is underwater
Despite recent indicators that the housing market is improving,a new report shows that one in four mortgage borrowers are underwater, meaning they owe more on their mortgage than their home currently is worth. According to First American CoreLogic, nearly 10.7 million households had negative equity in their
homes in the third quarter, accounting for about 23 percent of all U.S. homeowners. Most homeowners, however, still have equity, and nearly 24 million owner-occupied homes do not have a mortgage, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

A study by credit-scoring company Experian shows that approximately 588,000 borrowers strategically defaulted on their mortgages last year, even though they could afford to pay--more than double the number in 2007. Homeowners with negative equity are more likely to strategically default if they live in a state where the bank cannot pursue their assets in court, according to a study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. California is
an example of a state with anti-deficiency laws protecting homeowners from personal liability under certain circumstances.

"Borrowers who are less than 20 percent underwater are likely to maintain their mortgage if their loan is modified and the payments reduced," said an official with Citigroup's mortgage unit. "Beyond 120 percent, the most effective modification is a complete loan restructuring, including a principal reduction."

So what does this mean to you? If you are underwater on your home, you are not alone. And you do have options....loan modification, short sale, deed in lieu of foreclosure, foreclosure, and bankruptcy are just a few. Not sure what to do first? Call for a free consultation. We will help you find the options available to you, no cost, no obligation, no pressure.

Brought to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR®
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
1860 Compton Avenue
Corona, Ca 92881
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

2 Story For Sale in Sierra del Oro

Liane Thomas — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:15:00 GMT

• 3,031 sq. ft., 3 bath, 5 bdrm 2 story - $550,000 - Priced To Sell Fast!

Sierra del Oro, Corona - Luxury Living Orange County Close! You must see this highly upgraded Sierra del Oro, Corona Pool Home! The elegance starts at the gated courtyard entrance, and continues to the 3 sided slate fireplace, the granite in the kitchen, and to the romantic master suite. Newer stainless steel appliances including a double oven, and 5 burner gas cook top. You will love the low maintenance landscaping, and the inviting rock pool and spa. This is a standard sale, no long waits for banks. You'll save money too, with low tax rate, and no HOA fees. Commuter close to Orange County, and close to great schools, shopping center, and so much more. Call to see this beauty today!

Property information

Big 4 Bedroom Home For Sale in South Corona

Liane Thomas — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:56:00 GMT

• 3,486 sq. ft., 3 bath, 4 bdrm single story - $649,000 - Standard Sale!

South Corona, Corona - Visit me first. Stunning South Corona Pool Home! Standard sale, no long waits! This beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath home is on one of the largest lots in the tract! Granite in the kitchen, honey maple cabinets, city lights view, and a 4 car garage, too. Romantic master suite has private bath with separate oval tub and shower. Highly upgraded, including a whole house fan, and insulated, drive thru garage. Fenced yard, fully landscaped, with a sparkling rock pool. Commuter close to freeway and shopping. Plan your visit today.

Property information

Welcome to Paradise! Executive Home for Sale in South Corona

Liane Thomas — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:29:00 GMT

Executive Home, Private Paradise!

• 5,941 sq. ft., 5 bath, 5 bdrm 2 story - $1,500,000 - Not A Short Sale!

South Corona, Corona - Welcome to Paradise! Private & Elegant Estate in Crown Ranch, The Premier Destination in Corona. Orange Country Close, You Will Live in Grandeur!. HIghly Upgraded Home, Seller Spent Over $700,000 in the Backyard Alone! Upon Entrance, You Will Be Greeted With Slate and Granite Flooring, Soaring Ceilings and a Romantic Wrought Iron Spiral Staircase That Will Take Your Breath Away. Cherry Cabinets and Granite Counters Await You In The Kitchen Along With Impressive Crown Molding Throughout. An Extensive Media Center With Surround Sound is Both Inside and Out, Ideal For Socializing. This Home Has Four Fireplaces To Create The Perfect Mood No Matter Where You Roam. For The Ultimate Luxury, Try a Massage From Your Own Personal Masseuse In Your Private Retreat Off the Master Suite. Impress Your Friends As You Entertain Them With Your Gorgeous Pool/Spa and Built In Bar-B-Que. And For The Sports Enthusiast, A Full Soccer Court Awaits You. Perfect Location, Private Cul de Sac. Motivated Seller Says Bring Your Offer Today!

Property information

Existing Home Sales Up June 2009!

Liane Thomas — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:59:00 GMT

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing home sales in June rose by 3.6% to an annual rate of 4.89 million, the highest since last October. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said: "The increase in existing-home sales occurred in all major regions of the country." Analysts say that this signals moderation in housing slump.

"Market-clearing price levels are resulting from the foreclosure wave," said John Ryding, chief economist at RDQ Economics. "This will be a protracted bottom, rather than anything that will show a quick recovery." The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $181,800 in June, which is 15.4% below June 2008, according to the NAR. Analysts expect to see depressed home prices for many more months to come. Tax incentives and drop in interest rates have contributed to the rise in home resales. But concerns about unemployment are keeping many prospective homeowners in the sidelines.

Information provided by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R) dre ca 01704162
Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Riverside, Norco, and surrounding communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
951.454.3805

New Home Sales Up June 2009

Liane Thomas — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:48:00 GMT

Sales of newly built, single-family homes rose 11% in June, 2009 to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 384,000 units, according to numbers released by the U.S. Commerce Department. Coming on the heels of an upwardly revised number for May, the gain marks a third consecutive month of improved sales activity.

“This is good news that indicates the nation’s housing market may be in the process of turning the corner,” said Joe Robson, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder from Tulsa, Okla. “That said, the key to moving us out of recession is to get Americans back to work. Congress and the Administration should know that housing can be a significant generator of good jobs. We need to make housing a priority in the recovery process, otherwise we could continue to bounce along a bottom for some time.”

“The big gain in home sales last month was reflected in three out of four regions and helped shrink the inventory of new homes for sale to its lowest level in years,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “Even so, the pace of home sales in June 2009 was still more than 21 percent off the pace of sales in the same month last year, so we still have quite a way to go. The concern now is that complicating factors-particularly job losses, appraisal issues that are torpedoing more than a quarter of new-home sales, and the impending expiration of the first-time buyer tax credit-threaten to stifle the positive momentum.”

The number of newly built homes on the market declined for a 26th consecutive month in June, falling 4.1% to 281,000 units. This marks a relatively thin 8.8-month supply at the current sales pace.

New-home sales rose by double-digits in the Northeast (29.2%), Midwest (43.1%), and West (22.6%) in June. Meanwhile, sales activity declined 5.3% in the South, which is the country’s largest housing market.

Information provided by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R) dre ca 01704162
Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Riverside, Norco, and surrounding communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
951.454.3805

Changes in Home Loans May Affect You

Liane Thomas — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 22:37:00 GMT

Starting July 30, 2009, if the APR on an initial Good Faith Estimate is no longer accurate (within a 0.125% range) at close of escrow, a lender must generally provide a residential borrower with a new disclosure and a three-day right to rescind before consummating the loan. REALTORS(R) are forewarned that, because of this new three-day waiting period, a lender's failure to timely provide corrected disclosures has the potential of delaying funding of the loan and close of escrow.

This new requirement is part of the Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act (MDIA) implementing new loan procedures to protect borrowers and foster greater transparency in mortgage lending. For loan applications submitted on or after July 30, 2009, the new MDIA changes to the Truth In Lending Act are generally as follows:

- Applicability: The new MDIA rules pertain to federally-related mortgage loans covered under RESPA and secured by a consumer's dwelling. The rules apply to both purchase and refinance loans.

- Early Disclosures: A lender must provide a borrower with an initial Good Faith Estimate within three business days of receiving the borrower's written loan application as specified. For this provision, a "business day" is generally defined as a day on which the lender's offices are open for business.

- Upfront Fees Restriction: Neither a lender nor any other person may impose an upfront fee on the borrower (except for credit report) until the borrower has received the early disclosures in person or, if mailed, three business days after the early disclosures are mailed. For this rule, a "business day" is defined as all calendar days except Sundays and legal public holidays as specified.

- Seven-Day Waiting Period: A lender must wait seven business days after providing the early disclosures before consummating the loan. For purposes of this waiting period, a "business day" is defined as all calendar days except Sundays and federal legal holidays as specified. A borrower may waive the waiting period in writing in case of personal financial emergency, such as an imminent foreclosure sale.

- Re-disclosure Requirement: If the final Annual Percentage Rate (APR) at loan consummation varies more than 0.125% (or 1/8 of one percent) from the initial APR on the early disclosures of a regular transaction, the lender must provide the borrower with a corrected disclosure at least three business days before the loan is consummated. For purposes of this waiting period, a "business day" is defined as all calendar days except Sundays and federal legal holidays as specified.

- Three-Day Waiting Period: For corrected disclosures, a lender cannot consummate a loan until three business days after the borrower receives the corrected disclosure in person. If the corrected disclosure is mailed, the borrower is deemed to have received it three business days after it is placed in the mail. A borrower may waive this waiting period in writing in case of a bona fide personal financial emergency, such as an imminent foreclosure sale.

What does this mean to you? Let's say you go to sign loan docs, and find out that the interest rate or fees are higher than quoted. At that point, you are stuck because if you don't sign, you don't get the house, and you are supposed to be moved out of your apartment by the weekend. So you lump it and sign. These new laws will require the lender to notify you when the rate changs, so you won't get a nasty surprise.

Information provided to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR®, CDPE©, Lic # 01704162

The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty

Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and surrounding communities

(951) 454-3805

www.AllCoronaHomes.com

www.FreeNorcoHomeSearch.com

www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com

Do YOU Want $8000?

Liane Thomas — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:05:00 GMT

Would You Like $8,000? Buy a Home. Soon!

To stimulate the economy, Washington juiced up the stimulus plan passed last year in February. Two benefits for FTHBs (First Time Home Buyers) were that the amount of the tax credit was increased from up to $7,500 to $8,000. And, more importantly, the amount of the credit does not have to be repaid!

To qualify for the credit the individuals buying a home cannot have owned a home in the last three years. So, while the credit is discussed as a credit for first-time buyers, anyone who has not owned a home in the last three years is eligible.

There are income limitations to fully qualify but they are quite liberal. Single tax filers earning up to $75,000 and joint filers earning up to $150,000 based on modified adjusted gross income can earn the full credit. A partial credit is available for those earning up to $95,000 and $170,000 respectively.

The amount of the tax credit is based on a percentage of the price of the home, specifically 10% of the purchase price, up to $8,000. This means if someone purchases a home for $70,000 their credit would be $7,000 and if the amount of the home purchased is $100,000, the credit would max out at $8,000.

Note! The deadline to take advantage of this opportunity is November 30, 2009. Close in December, and you just lost $8,000.

Homes Have Never Been More Affordable
FTHBs are leading the way, taking advantage of one of the best home buying opportunities ever, providing support for the real estate market. As indicated earlier, FTHBs have accounted for as much as 53% of purchases for any month this year.

Who can blame them? In short, no one. Home prices have fallen to levels not seen in years and interest rates hit their lowest point ever. This combination led to the highest home affordability ever recorded.

The National Association of Realtors® tracks what is known as the Home Affordability Index. The Home Affordability Index is arrived at as a function of both median home prices, available interest rates, and median family income.

The index represents the amount of monthly income that is required to pay a mortgage payment. In 2005, approximately 23.3% of a family's monthly income was required to carry a mortgage payment. With falling home prices and interest rates, the percentage of monthly income required to pay a mortgage payment is now approximately 15%.

This means that for a family at the median income level purchasing a home priced at the median income level, the monthly mortgage payment has declined nearly 36%! This is great news for anyone shopping for a home today.

You can take advantage of the low down FHA program, and combine it with this tax credit!

Get Busy, Time is Short!
In order to take advantage of both the available tax credit and low interest rates, anyone going into contract should strive to have their purchase agreement not later than mid-October. This will allow some time cushion in the event anything pops up in the purchase process and still allow for closing in time to take advantage of the available tax credit.

Home prices have fallen to levels not seen since the start of the decade in many parts of the country, interest rates are still near all time lows, and the availability of free money from the IRS all mean that the time to act is now. It is always easy to look back and identify times people should have acted, and this could well be one of those times people will look back and say, "Wow, I should have bought a home in 2009!"

Brought to you by:

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and surrounding communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
951.454.3805

CNN Says Housing Market may be Stabilizing!

Liane Thomas — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 21:20:00 GMT

CNN is searching for a bottom in the housing market

With consumer confidence rising in May to its highest level in eight months, housing starts increasing more than 17 percent in May compared with the previous month, and sales of existing homes climbing 2.9 percent in April nationwide, it appears that the housing market may be stabilizing.

So what does that mean to you?

Although sales of existing, single-family homes rose 35.2 percent in May in California, compared with a year ago, the median price declined 30.4 percent during that same year. Some industry analysts predict that as specialized adjustable-rate mortgages, known as option ARMS and Alt-A mortgages, reset over the next 18 to 24 months, prices could decline further before stabilizing.

"We are seeing strong buying activity, particularly in those boom and bust markets, where prices have declined significantly. Buyers are coming in and fighting over properties -- there is multiple bidding in California and Florida," says Lawrence Yun, chief economist with the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS(R).

Sales of existing homes are soaring as many investors and first-time buyers purchase distressed properties. Yun estimates that about 50 percent of current sales involve distressed properties, and he expects the trend to continue as foreclosures rise in the months ahead.

Although some economists predict home prices will continue to decline in the coming months, California'ss median home price rose for the third consecutive month in May, posting the largest monthly increase on record for the month of May.

Some buyers are trying to time the bottom of the market and purchase once it appears that prices are consistently and steadily rising. Many housing forecasters advise against this approach as buyers should not view their homes solely as investment opportunities. Historically, the average annual rate of return on a home lived in for five years or more is nearly 12 percent, based on data C.A.R. has collected over the last 40 years.

If you are thinking of selling your home, now is an excellent time with low inventory and the seasonal spike we get this time of year. Even if you are underwater on your home, like so many families, we'd like to help you find a solution. Call for a free consultation. Thanks!

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R), CDPE
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and Surrounding Communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
951 454-3805

New 90 Day Foreclosure Rule in California

Liane Thomas — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:02:00 GMT

Recent news headlines have caused confusion by mischaracterizing the new California Foreclosure Prevention Act as a 90-day moratorium and incorrectly stating that the lender must modify delinquent loans before it begins foreclosure. In reality, the foreclosure process for certain owner-occupied residential first trust deeds has been extended by 90 days, effective June 15, but an exemption is available for lenders with comprehensive loan
modification programs as defined by the Act.

Under pre-existing law, a lender must wait three months after filing a notice of default before it can file a notice of sale. The new California Foreclosure Prevention Act extending that time frame by another 90 days may not have much practical impact.

So what does that mean to you? If you find yourself unable to make your monthly payment, first, call your loan servicer. The phone number should be on your payment coupons. Ask first for the Home Retention or Loan Modification Department. Then honestly explain your situation. Ask them to help you keep your home. Your loan servicer will not charge you for this service.

If you cannot get your loan modified, please call me. As a Certified Distressed Propery Expert, I can help you figure out what to do next. Foreclosure is not your only option.

Thanks,

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R), e-PRO, CDPE
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside and surrounding communities
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com
951.454.3805

HOMEOWNERS BEWARE: Foreclosure Rescue Scams

Liane Thomas — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:28:00 GMT

Brought to you by your Realtor®, Liane Thomas, and the California Association of Realtors®

With the recent rise in foreclosures, foreclosure-related scams have exploded onto the real estate scene. These so-called “foreclosure rescue companies” claim they will help save your home, but in reality are out to make a profit -- at your expense.

Red Flags for Foreclosure Rescue Scams
If you are at risk of or in foreclosure, you should be on the lookout for foreclosure scams. Here are some of the red flags to watch out for:

• Asks for money upfront before providing any service
• Instructs you not to contact your lender, lawyer, housing counselor, family, friends, or others
• Asks for mortgage payments to be made directly to his or her company or a bank account set up by that person, rather than your lender.
• Requires payment only in the form of cash, cashier’s check, or wire transfer
• Promises to stop the foreclosure process, no matter the circumstances
• Advises you to transfer your property deed or title to his or her company
• Offers to fill out paperwork for you
• Asks for something to be done immediately and without delay. This includes pressuring you into signing paperwork that you have not had the chance to read thoroughly or do not fully understand
• Encourages you to lease your house and buy it back over time
• Offers to buy your house for a fixed price that is not set by the housing market at the time of sale
• Asks for you to give a power of attorney
• Asks for signatures on a grant deed or deed of trust
• Asks for signatures on a document that has lines left blank
• Fails to provide copies of signed documents
• Refuses or fails to put an oral promise in writing

Report Fraud
If you have been a victim of a foreclosure-related scam or approached by a scam artist, you may report the incident to the following organizations and government enforcement agencies:
• California Attorney General
http://ag.ca.gov
• California Department of Real Estate
www.dre.ca.gov
• Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
www.hud.gov
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
www.ftc.gov
• Your local Better Business Bureau
www.bbb.org

Legitimate Resources
If you are at risk of foreclosure or have already received a foreclosure notice, you should contact your lender immediately.
Homeowners also may seek the advice of a reputable housing, financial or credit counselor, attorney, or other qualified professional.
Homeowners may visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Web site at http://www.hud.gov/ to view its Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure and its list of California HUD-approved housing counseling agencies. In addition, the non-profit Homeownership Preservation Foundation has a 24/7 toll-free Homeowner’s HOPE Hotline at (999) 995-HOPE.

Copyright© 2009 CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.). Permission is granted to C.A.R. members only to reproduce this material for non-commercial purposes. Other
reproduction or use is strictly prohibited without the express written permission of the C.A.R. Legal Department. All rights reserved.
The information contained herein is believed to be accurate as of April 9, 2009. It is intended to provide general answers to general questions and is not intended as a substitute for individual legal advice. Advice in specific situations may differ depending upon a wide variety of factors. Therefore, readers with specific legal questions should seek the advice of an attorney.

If you are facing foreclosure, we'd like to talk with you. We will explain what your options are, and where to go for help. There is no cost for this service.
Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R), and Certified Distressed Property Expert
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and surrounding communities
951 454-3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com

Local REALTOR(R) Earns Prestigious Designation to Help Homeowners In Danger of Foreclosure

Liane Thomas — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:03:00 GMT

Liane Thomas of The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty in Corona Ca. has earned the prestigious Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure avoidance and short sales. This is invaluable expertise to offer at a time when the area is ravaged by “distressed” homes in the foreclosure process.

Short sales allow the cash-strapped seller to repay the mortgage at the price that the home sells for, even though it is lower than what is owed on the property. With plummeting property values, this can save many people from foreclosure and even bankruptcy. More and more lenders are willing to consider short sales because they are much less costly than foreclosures.

In the Corona area, thousands of homes are in danger of foreclosing. It is happening in all price ranges. Local experts say that even high-priced homes are not immune.

“This CDPE designation has been invaluable as I work with sellers and lenders on complicated short sales,” said REALTOR(R) Liane Thomas. “It is so rewarding to be able to help sellers save their homes from foreclosure.”

Alex Charfen, founder of the Distressed Property Institute in Boca Raton, Fla., said that Realtors® such as Liane Thomas with the CDPE designation have valuable training in short sales 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.

The Distressed Property Institute opened in January 2008 and provides training on-site and online. The CDPE is the premier designation for Realtors helping homeowners in distress and handling short sales.

“Our goal is to educate as many people as possible so we can help as many homeowners as possible,” Charfen said.

For more information about CDPE designation, please call 1-800-482-0335. To reach Liane Thomas, please call 951 454-3805.

Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
The Thomas Group, Keller Williams Realty
Serving Corona, Norco, Riverside, and surrounding communities
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com

Banks Accepting More Short Sales!

Liane Thomas — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:36:00 GMT

Did you know the Obama administration, through the Making Home Affordable program, is giving lenders and loan providers an incentive of up to $1,000 for each completed short sale? This is in addition to $1,000 to share the cost of paying any second-mortgage lenders to release their claim on the property. These incentives offered by the government, coupled with lenders wanting to reduce bad loans, are likely to increase the number of short sale transactions. "Without a doubt, lenders are more willing to work through short sales," said Andre L. Mitchell, the executive vice president of the Lynx Mortgage Bank. "In this marketplace if the lenders can negotiate in any way to get rid of a bad loan, they're going to do it." Banks may lose less money in short sales than in foreclosures, where banks may carry the house for a considerable period of time before selling it. Analysts believe short sales are often the best option, even for homeowners thinking about a new loan to save the home. "It's gotten to the point where people understand that sometimes you have to start over," says Mitchell. "A loan modification might help you in the short term, but sometimes what people need to do is get out completely."

Personally, we are seeing short sales getting approved faster, and the process is becoming easier than it has been in the past. We have been helping homeowners who are underwater since 2007. If you are a homeowner who is underwater, behind in payments, or facing a foreclosure, we'd love to talk with you. There is no obligation, and no cost to you. Thanks!

Brought to you by:
Liane Thomas, REALTOR(R)
Thomas Realty Group, Inc.
951.454.3805
www.AllCoronaHomes.com
www.FreeRiversideHomeSearch.com