February 16, 2010

HOW IS HOMEOWNERSHIP THE KEY TO FINANCIAL SECURITY?

Author: Yolanda J. Ash

Home ownership brings with it both financial and psychological benefits. Although there are as many reasons why homeownership (or property ownership) is a major key to financial security, there are some specific benefits that all Buyers will experience:

  1. Freedom of choice in the community you live in
  2. Increased choices in style, architecture, interior design, decor, etc.
  3. Opportunity to control your housing costs (rents increase incrementally over the years)
  4. Numerous tax advantages (especially in today’s market)
  5. Unlike stocks, real estate is a durable (real) investment
  6. Appreciation in property value leads to accrued equity which can be used for many things

Homeownership affords you a tangible piece of the “American Pie”. If bought correctly and strategically, your first modest home purchase can lead to move up purchases, college tuition payments, business seed capital, and many other perks.

The numbers of home owners whom have lost their homes to foreclosure, are due in large part to unscrupulous people taking advantage of unsuspecting Buyers. Although the purchase of a home is by far the largest, most expensive purchase that most people will make in a life time, alarmingly, many consumers take this financial plunge without the assistance of qualified, professional, honest real estate representation. Even more disturbing, many people sign their names on dotted lines of contracts and mortgage commitments without having a full understanding of what they are signing their names to.

The purchase of a home or investment property is not to be taken lightly. When a prospective home owner makes purchasing decisions while being fully informed and knowledgeable, the chance of experiencing the bliss and peace of mind that comes with having one’s own little nest egg is unparalleled.

Owning a home is like having money in the bank. As long as you maintain and perhaps upgrade and make improvements to your purchase, you can almost rest 100% assured that making the decision to purchase property is by far, one of the best investments you can make.

WHAT PRICE HOME CAN I AFFORD?

Posted by on February 16, 2010 in Real Estate, Uncategorized.

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February 15, 2010

HOW WILL A REAL ESTATE AGENT HELP ME BUY A HOME?

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

All real estate agents are bound by law to deal fairly and ethically with both Buyer and Seller.  However, and very importantly, if you have not entered into an Exclusive Buyer Brokerage Agreement with an agent, prior to viewing homes, then even though an agent may drive you around showing you hundreds of properties, the agent is legally required to represent the interest of the Seller, who pays the agent’s commission.

Brokers and agents can provide you with every service connected with your home search. Real estate brokers and their agents can provide you with invaluable and expert advice beginning in the early stages of your home search through the careful monitoring of your settlement.  They can guide you through the confusing and often frightening escrow as well as putting you in contact with various vendors such as appraisers, surveyors, mortgage lenders, inspectors, and cleaning services.

Should you decide to employ the services of a real estate agent, be certain to enter into an exclusive brokerage agreement prior to looking for homes.  By doing this, you insure that the agent you are working with is legally working for you and your interests in the home buying process. The list of benefits from working with a real estate agent far outweigh that of not working with one.  Specifically, a real estate agent can provide you with services such as:

  1. Helping you set up a plan of action for realizing your dream of home ownership
  2. Offer you information which will assist you in analyzing your needs and finances
  3. Provide you with information on the current housing market
  4. Assist you in locating homes available within your price range and desires
  5. Put you in contact with lenders and other financing institutions
  6. Give you information on special down payment assistance programs and other mortgage programs
  7. Guide you through the intricacies of making and presenting an offer
  8. Walk you through the entire process of settlement

The decision to go from renting to homeownership is a big step.  For most, the purchase of a home is perhaps the largest financial commitment they will make in life.  Do not treat your choice of a real estate agent lightly.  There are countless people who wish they had utilized the services of a professional, knowledgeable, experienced real estate agent.  There are lots of nightmares and troubles an unassuming home buyer can find themselves dealing with should they not choose an agent carefully, or should they choose to go it alone.

Prior to signing your name on any dotted line, do your research.  Know who you have working with you and for you.  Perhaps the best way to hire an agent is to ask friends and family members about the agent they used.  If they were satisfied with the service they received, then chances are, so will you.  If you decide to seek out an agent on your own, do your research, ask questions, then ask more questions. Every agent conducts business differently, however, minimally, a great realtor will be open and honest with you about the types of services they are able to provide you with.

Once you are comfortable with an agent, be certain to enter into an exclusive buyers agreement early on in your relationship.  This will offer you added assurance that your home buying adventure will be a great one!

HOW IS HOME OWNERSHIP THE KEY TO FINANCIAL SECURITY?

Posted by on February 15, 2010 in Real Estate, Uncategorized.

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February 13, 2010

HOW TO BUY A HOME IN TODAY’S REAL ESTATE MARKET

*This is the first article in a series of articles to come, which will provide those thinking of taking the plunge into homeownership with information, guidance, and facts about buying a home in today’s real estate market.  Post your specific questions and a real estate professional will gladly answer them for you.

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

Buying a home raises a lot of questions.  Although there are some basic questions which all Buyers need answered, different Buyers have different needs and concerns.  A constantly changing marketplace raises even more questions.  As you search for your next home or investment property it is vitally important to develop your own “road map” to finding the home or property which best suits your needs.

Buyers today are more savvy and up to date on market trends, industry standards, and local statistics, due in large part to the plethora of information available via the Internet.  However, there simply is no substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a professional.  A well informed real estate agent can make your home search easier and faster.

There are several steps to home ownership.  The first and perhaps the most important one is to take a serious look at all the possible paths to homeownership available to you.  Ask yourself a few questions:

  1. Why do I want to buy a home?
  2. Am I ready to stop paying rent and take on the responsibility of owning a home?
  3. Are my finances in order?
  4. Do I have outstanding debts I need to pay off?
  5. Can I realistically save enough money for a down payment or closing costs I may incur?
  6. Am I more interested in the emotional reality of owning a home or strictly focused on the equity?

Next, you should examine the type of home you would like and where you would like it to be.  Be specific.  Seperate your “must haves” from your “want to haves”.  Knowing exactly what you want (and what you don’t want) makes house hunting much easier.  Developing a time line and list of goals you want to accomplish (paying off old debt, saving down payment money, preparing for your move, etc.) will assist in making your eventual move a smooth one.

Once you have made the decision and commitment to becoming a home owner, your next step is to consult with a professional to assist you in your search.  A knowledgeable, informed, and experienced real estate agent will help you in realizing your dream of homeownership.

HOW WILL A REAL ESTATE AGENT HELP ME BUY A HOME?

Posted by on February 13, 2010 in Real Estate, Uncategorized.

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November 21, 2009

Book Ends Upon the Bookshelves of Life

Author Yolanda J. Ash

Every person plays a distinctive and undeniable role and has an intricate place in the formulation and reality of family.  Even in *dysfunctionality (as we all experience to some degree), each of us has a role and place…we are all individual books upon the bookshelves of life.

We all carry with (within) us, the stories of our lives.  Although we alone live out the chapters of our own particular comedies, satires, and general dramas and love stories, through blood and relations, we are inextricably and perpetually linked…to those we call “family”.  The stronger the ties that bind, the more easily the pages and chapters of our lives blend and blur.

The more connected, usually the stronger the bonds; the deeper the loyalty and love.

Family members often share much more than just kinship…Our familial experiences, some good, some together, some bad, some just merely the realities of blood, genetics and relations.  Marriages, divorces, births, graduations and deaths, all tie us in some way to someone else, in this world (and beyond).  With this being said, then it would seem to this writer that the bigger, the stronger, the more connected, the more trusted (and trusting) you are with someone, the more easily you call them family (whether by blood or relations).

As the realities of life bring us together (and often keep us apart), we change places within the Universe of the bookshelves we may find our stories on.  At some point in our lives we are the middle books, at other times we are the end books, which keep the strength of the “family” ties that bind us to one another together.  In this way, we are eternally connected, by the strength of family blood, and friendship bonds.

My family and I have experienced the loss of many a loved one over the past few years.  In my family, we love hard (and have been known to hit hard)…if one should choose to mess with our deep and wide family.  My cousins recently lost a wonderful Father.  Others of us in the family lost a wonderful Uncle, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and Brother.  My Auntie lost a truly loving and loved husband.  Although I have yet to experience the loss of a husband, I have experienced the love of my Uncle, the man she called Husband, and I (my family), can truly feel her pain.

And although, the moment of the reality of My Uncle moving on Beyond the Rainbows of this life shook my family hard, it too shall pass.  The beauty is that because my Uncle’s love runs deep and wide, he will be loved for quite a long time by many.   As long as someone walking this Earth, calls his name, he still lives on, in love, through those of us who love him and will miss him.

His time as a Book End in our family is over.  He has moved on to a more reverent place within our hearts and our memories.

In a sad way, the “death” of a loved one serves as a sad occassion for families to come together.  This is why it is so important for families to make committed and subconscious decisions to get together and spend time with one another…other than just when someone passes on.  By coming together, as family, we each help to ensure that the Books upon the shelves of our lives stay strong, stay loving and stay connected…both in sickness and in health.

As life progresses, we will each have the inescapable chance and opportunity to play the role of Book Ends to those we love, but in the meantime, we should work hard at cultivating, enjoying and sharing the pages of the stories of our lives with those whom we love, NOW, in these moments in time.

Peace, Love & Prosperity,

Posted by on November 21, 2009 in Faith, Family, Life, Love, Uncategorized.

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October 28, 2009

It’s A Rainy Night In Georgia

My daughter and I went to bed last night in the cozy comforts of a warm home and an incredibly soft and comfortable bed.  We woke up this morning to the soothing sounds of raindrops tapping on our windows.  Unlike the literally thousands of people (most especially women and children) living homeless, right here in the gem of the south…Atlanta, GA.

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

According to the Metro Atlanta Task Force for Homelessness, the fastest growing group of homeless people are CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 9. Even more alarming, Atlanta  is the poorest city in the U.S. for children – more children in Atlanta live in poverty than in any other city.  Wow.  What a mind blower.  I have lived in the metro Atlanta area for nearly 30 years.  I have seen (and I have volunteered to help) my share of people “less fortunate” than myself.  And yet, I am guilty, as I am sure most people (whom are not homeless are), of having selective amnesia when it comes to remembering, that as I lay me down to sleep each night, in the comforts of a safe and warm home, many others are sleeping on the streets, fighting the cold and other harsh realities of life without a roof over their heads.

After watching The Soloist, my nephew and I had a discussion concerning homelessness.  He shared with me that he knew kids whom were homeless and yet they had cell phones and game players better than the ones he has.  I challenged him.  Does being homeless mean that you should not have “nice things”?  Does being homeless mean that you should fit into a particular proscribed description and definition of who and what you are?

What purpose does homelessness serve?  In my opinion, society’s acceptance of homelessness is nothing more than the techocolor evidence of the selfishness, greed and acceptance of exhorbitance existing in human nature.  How else do we explain away the fact that while literally millions of people sleep homeless each night, there are just as many vacant and abandoned buildings (serving no purpose to mankind), other than as pricey write-offs for their owners.

My wise Grandfather once shared with me that every “average” American (regardless of color or present income) is really only one paycheck from being homeless.  The recent slump/deterioration of our economy has proven this hypothesis alarmingly true.  I carry a number of fears around with me in my head…one I pray never to have to meet face to face is being homeless.  I know I could not survive the experience.

Although I am far from being selfish, and although each night, my daughter and I get down on our knees and pray for “the whole world” and for those people who do not have a house to live in, I will admit, I don’t really know what I, as one individual can do to make a difference in the harsh reality and statistics of homelessness.  I do know, it will take a whole lot more than prayers to make the changes that need to be made.

This great country we live in, the good ole’ United States of America is the wealthiest nation on Earth, and yet, we have a wider gap between rich and poor than any other nation.

If tomorrow, you woke up homeless, what would you do?  Do you have a homeless survival plan?  Could you handle the blatant discourse in your present reality?  Would you know who to turn to for assistance with your dilemma?  I’ll admit.  I don’t have a clue, but I want to help where I can.

Bubba has a big idea. Perhaps if each on of us truly committed to reaching one of us (fellow human beings) needing a helping hand, and not necessarily a handout, then I do believe, we can and will eradicate homelessness as we know it in our present society.

Metro Atlanta Task Force for Homelessness:  MISSION

GET INVOLVED/VOLUNTEER

BECOME AN ADVOCATE FOR THE HOMELESS

OTHER WEBSITES

Peace, Love & Prosperity-

Posted by on October 28, 2009 in Children, Homelessness, Life, Uncategorized.

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September 30, 2009

Buy A Home, Build a Future

Photo Courtesy iStock Photos

Photo Courtesy iStock Photos

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

If you have never owned a home before and have been straddling the fence, now, more than ever, is the time to take that leap into home ownership.  Home ownership is often the caveat to many other financial gains.  When purchased properly, a home (or investment property), can feasibly be the door to financial freedom.

Although the housing market is in a purported slump, Buyers are in a much better position than they may have been in the past.  Simple laws of supply and demand, the Federal First Time  Home Buyer’s Tax Credit, and numerous HUD certified housing counseling programs, (which practically guarantee loan approval) are all wonderful reasons to own a home…n-o-w!  Additionally, if you qualify for one of the Good Neighbor Next Door community revitalization programs offered by HUD, chances are you can purchase a home for literally pennies on the dollar.

The deadline for the $8,000 tax credit is December 1, 2009.  If you want to take advantage of this wonderful government incentive, you really need to get the ball rolling.  To be eligible to receive this money, you must close no later than November 30, 2009.  Keep in mind, this tax credit is only available to those buying a principal residence; and it reduces your tax bill (or increases your refund), dollar for dollar.

Consider home ownership today.  Contact a qualified, knowledgable Realtor today to begin your search for a piece of the proverbial American pie.

ATLANTA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Posted by on September 30, 2009 in Real Estate, Uncategorized.

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August 21, 2009

25 GREAT THINGS a GREAT REALTOR Will Do

Photo Courtesy iStock Photos

Photo Courtesy iStock Photos

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

In the Atlanta metropolitan area, there are literally thousands of folks representing themselves as Realtors. For this matter, there are just as many who are actually transacting business without having any special expertise or industry knowledge. The numbers of people whom have been vicitimize by unscrupulous lenders would probably have greatly benefitted from the representation of a professional, honest, knowledgeable, Realtor.

Although every Realtor has his or her own particular style and way of dealing with clients, there are a few things a GREAT REALTOR will always do, to ensure you have made the best choice and are receiving the best possible service.

  1. A GREAT REALTOR will provide you with honest, accurate information about the market;
  2. A GREAT REALTOR will not claim to know things which he or she does not;
  3. A GREAT REALTOR will search out the answers to all of your real estate related questions, putting you in contact with appropriate resources should he or she not know the answers;
  4. A GREAT REALTOR will be keenly aware of and remain abreast of changes in industry standards, real estate laws, rules and regulations;
  5. A GREAT REALTOR will not make excuses for mistakes he or she may accidentally make, but own up to them and work diligently to correct them;
  6. A GREAT REALTOR will not put your financial information at risk by failing to guard your sensitive and personal information;
  7. A GREAT REALTOR will communicate with you regarding your buying or selling process;
  8. A GREAT REALTOR will be organized;
  9. A GREAT REALTOR will possess win-win negotiation skills;
  10. A GREAT REALTOR is accountable;
  11. A GREAT REALTOR is professional at all times;
  12. A GREAT REALTOR has access to industry information that you may not be privy to;
  13. A GREAT REALTOR will hold your hand throughout the process of your particular transaction;
  14. A GREAT REALTOR may or may not accompany you to closing (this will depend on what has been agreed upon);
  15. A GREAT REALTOR will provide you with reports and explanation on the viewing activities of your home;
  16. A GREAT REALTOR will disclose, in writing, Dual Agency Representation;
  17. A GREAT REALTOR will abide by The Code of Ethics and Standards set forth by (NAR) National Association of Realtors;
  18. A GREAT REALTOR will have no problems producing references and proof of credentials and accomplishments;
  19. A GREAT REALTOR will represent you to the utmost standards of his or her fudiciary responsibilities to you;
  20. A GREAT REALTOR will be patient and understanding in helping you purchase or sell your home and/or investment property;
  21. A GREAT REALTOR will have an understanding of the buying and selling process and will preferably have had the experience personally, so as to better relate to his or her clients;
  22. A GREAT REALTOR is involved in the community he or she serves;
  23. A GREAT REALTOR will prepare you for what to expect throughout the buying and/or selling process;
  24. A GREAT REALTOR will most likely provide you with a small token of appreciation at closing;
  25. A GREAT REALTOR can be recognized by the number of referrals he or she receives from past clients.

There are many things a great Realtor will do to help you with your real estate transactions.  Searching through the sea of folks representing themselves as professional and capable can be a nightmare.  Start your search for a professional Realtor with recommendations from family and friends.  However, conduct your own research before you trust your real estate transactions to A GREAT REALTOR!

Posted by on August 21, 2009 in Real Estate and tagged .

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August 20, 2009

Use A Professional Realtor…Or not use a Realtor? The MILLION DOLLAR Question!

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

In today’s age of technological “savvy”; Internet intelligence and overall increased consumer knowlege, one of the most intelligent decisions a Buyer or Seller of real estate can make, is to INTERVIEW YOUR REALTOR!

Prior to giving anyone (representing) him or herself as a “Realtor”, any of your pertinent business information, you should bare minimally be able to obtain the following information from the “Realtor” you are considering hiring:

  1. The Realtor is knowledgeable about your neighborhood and sales stats;
  2. The Realtor has done basic research on the sales history of your home;
  3. The Realtor should be willing to commit to agreed upon deadlines regarding updates and communications of the status of your home;
  4. The Realtor has win-win negotiation skills;
  5. The Realtor understands and abides by the Code of Ethics and Standards of (NAR) National Association of Realtors;
  6. The Realtor is an active member of at least one Board of Realtors group;

After a Buyer or Seller is comfortable with the answers and credentials of a Realtor being considered for hire, then, and only then should a Buyer or Seller, be willing to sign on the dotted line, with YOUR REALTOR, STANDING BY YOUR SIDE.

Posted by on August 20, 2009 in Real Estate and tagged .

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August 18, 2009

Avoiding Foreclosure

Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

Few people think they will actually lose their home to foreclosure, but, the numbers of homeowners being displaced by foreclosure grows daily.  There are many factors which can contribute to you facing the threat and reality of foreclosure.  It only takes three short months of delinquent house payments to put you and your family at extreme risk of foreclosure.  There are specific STATE BY STATE FORECLOSURE LAWS, which must be followed.

Although each state has specific legal foreclosure guidelines, this FORECLOSURE TIMELINE provides an idea of where your situation stands in the grander scheme of things.

  1. FIRST MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT DELINQUENT/MISSED-Usually, once the lender recognizes your payment as delinquent, you will receive either a courtesy letter or phone call reminding you of your responsibility.
  2. SECOND MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT DELINQUENT/MISSED-Although you may have the best intentions, once your mortgage has fallen delinquent two months in a row, lenders get worried.  Therefore, it is vitally important that regardless of your financial situation, you answer your lender’s calls.  By doing so, you give the lender some assurance that you are at bare minimal, attempting to work your situation out.  Additionally, at this time, you may be able to make at least one payment to prevent yourself from fallling three (3) months behind.
  3. DEMAND LETTER OR NOTICE TO ACCELERATE PERIOD-Once you have fallen three (3) months delinquent on your house mortgage, you will receive notification from your lender outlining the amount you owe and giving you thirty (30) days to bring your account current.  If you do not make payment or have not made a specific payment arrangement, foreclosure proceedings will begin.  Once you reach this point, your ability to negotiate a payment arrangement with your lender has greatly depreciated.
  4. FOURTH MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT DELINQUENT/MISSED-Once your house mortgage has reached the fourth month of delinquency, your account will most likely be turned over to your lender’s attorneys.  Be mindful, you will not only be responsible for the delinquent amount owed (including applicable accrued interest), but you will have to pay all lender attorney’s fees also.
  5. SHERIFF’S OR PUBLIC TRUSTEE’S SALE-This is the actual day of foreclosure.  Your lender’s attorney schedules this sale.  You may or may not be notified of the date of this sale.  Notice might be attached to your door, and the sale of your home advertised in the local paper.
  6. REDEMPTION PERIOD-This is the period of time after foreclosure that your home has already been sold.  You may still be able to reclaim your home by paying all outstanding amounts owed as well as paying any costs incurred during the foreclosure period.

Facing foreclosure is a frightening experience.  However, there is help and guidance available to either help you to reclaim your home or, to move ahead.  If you are facing foreclosure, do not become paralyzed by the possibility.  Aggressively pursue help and keep your lender posted at all times.  Often, a simple phone call can make all the difference in the world.

ATLANTA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Posted by on August 18, 2009 in Business, Real Estate, Uncategorized and tagged .

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August 17, 2009

Handy Dandy Real Estate Links

 

Treating You like Royalty...Unveiling the Hidden Castle in Every Home

Treating You like Royalty...Unveiling the Hidden Castle in Every Home

*This page is provided as a source of information only.  Please do not rely solely on the information provided here.  Should you have helpful links you would like to see added to this page, please let us know by commenting and sharing those thinks within the text of your comments.  Check this page often, as additional links are added periodically.

 

GOVERNMENT LINKS

  •  Law enforcement officers, pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade teachers and firefighters/emergency medical technicians can contribute to community revitalization while becoming homeowners through HUD’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program. HUD offers a substantial incentive in the form of a discount of 50% from the list price of the home. In return you must commit to live in the property for 36 months as your sole residence
  • The Department of Housing and Urban Development emphasizes that healthy homeownership depends on a strong foundation of financial knowledge and enables the long-term social, emotional and financial stability of families.
  • Now, no matter where you live in the United States, owning your own home may be more affordable than you think! If you currently rent or are considering homeownership, now is the time to make a SmartBuy. The HomeSteps®2009 Nationwide SmartBuy Purchase Program  offered by Freddie Mac, may help you on your way to homeownership, with a little added peace of mind.

LENDING LINKS

  • The Department of HUD’s Section 203(k) program is the primary program for the rehabilitation and repair of single family properties. As such, it is an important tool for community and neighborhood revitalization and for expanding homeownership opportunities. These are the primary goals of HUD.

 TAX INFORMATION

  • Understanding how your home can help you pay less taxes is a vital part of the financial privilege of home ownership. Proper tax advice and good information can make the difference in whether you pay money or receive money from good ole’ Uncle Sam. 

PROFESSIONAL & KNOWLEDGEABLE REALTOR SERVICES

  • In today’s real estate market, there is simply no substitute for a good REALTOR®. Whether you’re aiming to buy or sell property, a REALTOR® can help you organize, negotiate and help ensure the difference between a smooth transaction and an unsuccessful one.

    Royal Estates Realty Boutique     commits all aspects of our business to our core MISSION and GOAL for being in business: To treat each and every single client (RERB Sellers, Buyers and Agents) as ROYALTY; to conduct all aspects of our business with our fiduciary responsibilities, always at the forefront of every transaction we are party to.  To be so aware of market conditions that we can guarantee that we will reveal the CASTLE hidden in every home (community).  To serve as a vehicle for the dissemination of viable, accurate information to the community at large.

ATLANTA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Posted by on August 17, 2009 in Real Estate, Uncategorized and tagged .

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