Short sale sellers get $3000..check HAFA video

Get cash to sell the home you can’t afford

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:03:51 GMT

Get cash to sell the home you can’t afford

DEAL DEAL Click here for current Foreclosure's in Broward County

Click here for Current Short sales in Broward County...FREE!! FREE

Since the beginning of the housing crisis, millions of homeowners have found themselves pinned in by their financial circumstances and chained to a mortgage on which they owe more than their home is worth. In the past, homeowners enduring these challenges had very few options, and most would be forced to lose their home to foreclosure.

Today, however, there are more options. The government and the banks have created a multitude of programs and foreclosure alternatives that can help people in these circumstances find a dignified solution for their problems without crippling their financial future. These options include loan modifications, refinancing, or short sales.

The most amazing development in today’s market, however, is one simple fact: Banks are now willing to give cash to homeowners to sell the home they can’t afford.

Please contact me today if you or someone you know could use my help and wants the latest information about current incentives available to distressed homeowners.

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Heron Ridge Weston homes for sale

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 04:57:17 GMT

Heron Ridge Weston homes for sale

Prestigious Heron Ridge 5 bed waterfront pool home PRICED TO SELL

Check out this home HERE

If you are in the market looking for a 5 bedroom waterfront pool home for sale in the Ridges Weston, FL. Look no further, you just found the best deal right here. THIS IMMACULATE 5 BED/2.5 BATH HOME IN THE MOST DESIRED "HERON RIDGE" IS WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR.STUNNING KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTER AND CUSTOM CABINETRY.SUPER FAMILY ROOM WITH FORMAL DINING ROOM AND EAT IN KITCHEN.STUNNING AND SERENE PATIO WITH PLENTY OF ROOM TO RELAX,SCREENED POOL AND PRIVATE BACKYARD. GREAT PLACE TO RELAX AND WATCH A GAME !!! FRESHLY PAINTED INSIDE & OUTSIDE IN NEUTRAL DESIGNER COLORS. You can Buy or Sell a 5 bedroom waterfront pool home in Weston right here!!!!

What's for sale in the Ridges?

Consisting of more than 1200 stunning and beautiful, single-family homes, The Ridges truly defines what a comfortable, gated community is. These exceptional Mediterranean-style houses in Weston provide residents with plush interiors that include volume ceilings; cooking islands, honey oak cabinets, and granite countertops. Outside, you’ll encounter multi-car garages, while manicured, colorful gardens line entryways. Backyards typically boast screened patios and heated swimming pools with Italian tile accents. The Ridges lakefront homes also have access to their own clubhouse with elegant party rooms and gourmet kitchen, and a heated swimming pool with islands and tiki huts and a baby pool. The Ridges is conveniently located to A-rated schools and top dining and shopping. Houses for sale in The Ridges typically range in price between $260,000 and $795000.

What's for sale in Weston

Weston Short sales..Click here

Weston Foreclosures..Click here

Weston is a suburb of South Florida located in Broward County, FL USA. Established as a city in 1996, much of the community was developed by Arvida/JMB Realty and is located near the western developmental boundary of Broward County. It is the most western city in Broward County, and its entire west side is next to the Everglades. As of the 2010 census, the city had a total population of 65,333. Weston is part of the Miami-Fort Lauderdale statistical area, which was home to 5,564,635 people at the 2010 census.

In 2010, Money Magazine ranked Weston 19th in America in the "Biggest Earners" category, with a median family income of $119,689. In 2006, it was ranked as the city with the largest job growth in Florida and 18th largest in the nation. Business Week ranked Weston as one of the "best affordable suburbs" in the United States in November 2006.

I am a Certified Distressed Property expert, I believe that you should be told the truth; my commitment is 100% satisfaction to my clients. My professionalism, negotiation skills, and superior client service will assure you a pleasant and memorable home buying or selling experience

I can offer a wealth of knowledge and services to assist in all your real estate needs. My website has all the same features as the large national websites, but still keeps my local, friendly, customer-oriented approach. Feel free to view as many homes as you like, save the ones that appeal to you, ask as many questions as you need. I will be happy to work with you on finding and purchasing the perfect home.

Be sure to sign up for daily alerts of homes for sale so you know the instant your dream house hits the market.

Please keep in mind that buying your new home may depend on selling your current home. I will be happy to evaluate and market your home for you. If you live outside my area, I can refer you to one of my many associates around the country.

If you need anything, you can contact me directly at 954-336-7731.

Jacob Thomas,

Broker Associate, CDPE,SFR

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel: 954 433 1044

Cell: 954 336 7731

www.southfloridaestatehomes.com

Weston Homes for sale..Cooper city homes for sale...sunrise homes for sale...Davie homes for sale....Southwest Ranches homes for sale...Miramar homes for sale...Plantation homes for sale...Pembroke Pines homes for sale..

Foreclosure in the Ridges Weston 4 bed 3bath

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 04:47:29 GMT

Foreclosure in the Ridges Weston 4 bed 3bath

Check this Foreclosure here...

What's for sale in the Ridges--NOW?

The Ridges, consists of more than 1200 stunning and beautiful, single-family homes, The Ridges truly defines what a comfortable, gated community is. These exceptional Mediterranean-style houses in Weston provide residents with plush interiors that include volume ceilings; cooking islands, honey oak cabinets, and granite countertops. Outside, you’ll encounter multi-car garages, while manicured, colorful gardens line entryways. Backyards typically boast screened patios and heated swimming pools with Italian tile accents. The Ridges lakefront homes also have access to their own clubhouse with elegant party rooms and gourmet kitchen, and a heated swimming pool with islands and tiki huts and a baby pool. The Ridges is conveniently located to A-rated schools and top dining and shopping. Houses for sale in The Ridges typically range in price between $260,000 and $795000.

What's for sale in Weston

Weston Short sales..Click here

Weston Foreclosures..Click here

Miami listings last updated Sep 26, 2012 10:12:am.

Jacob Thomas,

Broker Associate, CDPE,SFR

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel: 954 433 1044

Cell: 954 336 7731

www.southfloridaestatehomes.com

5 bed 3 bath home in heron ridge weston,FL

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 18:02:17 GMT

Waterfront Pool home in the Ridges, Weston

PRICE REDUCED.$535000..3880 heron ridge lane, The Ridges Weston, Florida

Check out this home HERE

If you are in the market looking for a 5 bedroom waterfront pool home for sale in the Ridges Weston,FL. Look no further, you just found the best deal right here. This is a great home build for entertaining and enjoying the nature. You can Buy or Sell a 5 bedroom waterfront pool home in Weston right here

Weston is a suburb of South Florida located in Broward County, FL USA. Established as a city in 1996, much of the community was developed by Arvida/JMB Realty and is located near the western developmental boundary of Broward County. It is the most western city in Broward County, and its entire west side is next to theEverglades. As of the 2010 census, the city had a total population of 65,333. Weston is part of the Miami-Fort lauderdale statisticla area, which was home to 5,564,635 people at the 2010 census.

For more information about the City of Weston...CLICK HERE

Consisting of more than 1200 stunning and beautiful, single-family homes, The Ridges truly defines what a comfortable, gated community is. These exceptional Mediterranean-style houses in Weston provide residents with plush interiors that include volume ceilings, cooking islands, honey oak cabinets, and granite countertops. Outside, you’ll encounter multi-car garages, while manicured, colorful gardens line entryways. Backyards typically boast screened patios and heated swimming pools with Italian tile accents. The Ridges lakefront homes also have access to their own clubhouse with elegant party rooms and gourmet kitchen, and a heated swimming pool with islands and tiki huts and a baby pool. The Ridges is conveniently located to A-rated schools and top dining and shopping. Houses for sale in The Ridges typically range in price between $260,000 and $795000..

Check out the listings in THE RIDGES here

Check the video here

Jacob Thomas,

Broker Associate, CDPE,SFR

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel: 954 433 1044

Cell: 954 336 7731

www.southfloridaestatehomes.com

Approved short sale in Southwest ranches

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 17:59:49 GMT

Southwest Ranches Approved short sale 4bed/5bath on 4.25 acres

CHECK OUT THIS APPROVED SHORT SALE HOME HERE…..WONT LAST CALL RIGHT AWAY FOR SHOWING INSTRUCTIONS

APPROVED SHORT SALE - NO WAITING - MUST SELL. SPECTACULAR STATE RANCH WITH 4.25 ACRES. MOVE IN CONDITION. HIGH CEILINGS, LUX DETAILS, HIGH IMPACT WINDOWS, GOURMET OPEN KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTER, WOOD CABINETS, WINE CELLAR. REMARKABLE ATTENTION TO DETAILS - GREAT POOL & COVERED PATIO / FENCED / BARN & STALLS. LAND CAN BE SUBDIVIDED ON A (2 ACRE LOT)!!! GREAT OPPORTUNITY. WONT LAST

Click here for a list of current homes for sale in Southwest Ranches

Click here for for current Short Sale Properties in Southwest Ranches

Click here for current Foreclosure homes in Southwest Ranches

The Town of Southwest Ranches is located in Southwest Broward County, is approximately 13 square miles and is home to over 7,000 residents. The Town is a rural environment, filled with grazing animals, nurseries, farms, and exquisite and unique scenery and an abundance of wildlife.

The area is primarily residential, with most lots of 1 acre or more. There are some small farms and equestrian ranches. The town has laws that keep homes from being built on lots of less than 1 acre. They also generally stop streetlights and sidewalks from being built, in order to conserve and keep the town rural. The town contracts with the Broward County Sheriff's Office to provide police, fire and EMS services.

The zoning in the town is almost entirely rural residential and agricultural, which requires that lots must be a minimum of a full one to two acres. We also have a growing amount of zoning for recreation and open space, which preserves land for residents' enjoyment. The newest zoning district is for community facilities that allows uses that serve the community such as places of worship.

Click here for more information on Southwest Ranches

Miami listings last updated Sep 8, 2012 10:10:am.

Jacob Thomas,

Broker Associate, CDPE,SFR

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel: 954 433 1044

Cell: 954 336 7731

www.southfloridaestatehomes.com

Act Now!!! Mortgage Debt Relief Act expiring soon

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 19:19:16 GMT

In 2007, the Mortgage Debt Relief Act was passed in an attempt to help the millions of homeowners who, due to the housing crisis and economic crash, suddenly found themselves in danger of losing their home to foreclosure.

FREE SHORT SALE HELP...CLICK HERE

BROWARD COUNTY SHORT SALE LISTINGS...CLICK HERE FREE INFORMATION

SIGN UP FOR DAILY ALERTS OF SHORT SALE HOMES IN BROWARD COUNTY...ITS FREE!!!!

The act has helped many distressed homeowners find solutions to avoid foreclosure and opened up options to them that were previously unavailable.

However, the Mortgage Debt Relief Act was always intended to be a temporary solution and it is now set to expire at the end of 2012. For distressed homeowners, this means that time is running out for you to take advantage of this program.

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), I am uniquely qualified to help determine your eligibility and answer any questions about the settlement. Visit my website [www.browardshortsaleguru.com] for a copy of the report entitled "Time is Running Out: How the Mortgage Debt Relief Act can save you!"

Then, contact me for a free, confidential consultation.

Broward County Free information...Click here..

Jacob Thomas,

Broker Associate, CDPE,SFR

RE/MAX Presidential

www.southfloridaestatehomes.com

4 Strong reasons to BUY a home now!!!

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 19:16:17 GMT

“It’s hard to argue against buying a house now, assuming you can get a loan,” writes John Waggoner, a columnist with USA Today. Sure, Waggoner says that getting a credit check for approval of a mortgage can be a “only slightly less intrusive than a CIA background check,” but for those who are able to qualify, a lot of analysts say that now can be a good time to purchase a home.

Check Foreclosure homes in Cooper City

Check foreclosure homes in Weston

Check foreclosure homes in Miramar

Check foreclosure homes in Pembroke Pines

Check foreclosure homes in Davie

1. The price is right. The median single-family home price hit its lowest in more than a decade when it reached $154,600 in January, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. That was the lowest since October 2001. During the height of the housing market in July 2006, the median home price for a single-family home was $230,900.

2. It’s cheaper to buy than rent. In nearly every major metro market, it is cheaper to buy a home than rent. Rents have been on the rise the last few years and are predicted to continue to rise. Meanwhile, home affordability is at record highs, which means that buying a home is more within reach to the median income family.

3. Inventories of for-sale homes are shrinking. Ned Davis Research estimates that excess inventories of homes to be eliminated by the end of next year. “When excess supply dries up, people start building more new houses, which has the virtuous effect of reducing the unemployment rate and increasing the economy generally,” according to the USA Today article.

4. Mortgage rates are at record lows. Mortgage rates have hovered near record lows for weeks, which has helped pushing housing affordability higher. For example, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, which is the most popular among home buyers, is 3.59 percent, according to Freddie Mac—just above its record low set on July 26 of 3.49 percent average. “It’s conceivable that at some point in the next 30 years, your interest rate would be less than the rate of inflation,” writes Waggoner for USA Today.

Jacob Thomas,

Broker Associate, CDPE,SFR

RE/MAX Presidential

www.southfloridaestatehomes.com

June Existing-Home Prices Rise Again

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 07:42:01 GMT

Existing-home prices continued to show gains but sales fell in June with tight supplies of affordable homes limiting first-time buyers, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.

Total existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops, declined 5.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.37 million in June from an upwardly revised 4.62 million in May, but are 4.5 percent higher than the 4.18 million-unit level in June 2011.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the bigger story is lower inventory and the recovery in home prices. “Despite the frictions related to obtaining mortgages, buyer interest remains solid. But inventory continues to shrink and that is limiting buying opportunities. This, in turn, is pushing up home prices in many markets,” he said. “The price improvement also results from fewer distressed homes in the sales mix.”

According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to a record low 3.68 percent in June from 3.80 percent in May. The rate was 4.51 percent in June 2011; recordkeeping began in 1971.

The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $189,400 in June, up 7.9 percent from a year ago. This marks four back-to-back monthly price increases from a year earlier, which last occurred in February to May of 2006. June’s gain was the strongest since February 2006 when the median price rose 8.7 percent from a year prior.

Distressed homes — foreclosures and short sales sold at deep discounts — accounted for 25 percent of June sales (13 percent were foreclosures and 12 percent were short sales), unchanged from May but down from 30 percent in June 2011. Foreclosures sold for an average discount of 18 percent below market value in June, while short sales were discounted 15 percent. “The distressed portion of the market will further diminish because the number of seriously delinquent mortgages has been falling,” said Yun.

NAR President Moe Veissi said there’s been a steady growth in buyer interest. “Buyer traffic has virtually doubled from last fall, while seller traffic has risen only modestly,” he said. “The very favorable market conditions are helping to unleash a pent-up demand, which is why housing supplies have tightened and are supporting growth in home prices. Nonetheless, incorrectly priced homes will not attract buyers.”

Total housing inventory at the end June fell another 3.2 percent to 2.39 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 6.6-month supply at the current sales pace, up from a 6.4-month supply in May. Listed inventory is 24.4 percent below a year ago when there was a 9.1-month supply.

First-time buyers accounted for 32 percent of purchasers in June, compared with 34 percent in May and 31 percent in June 2011. “A healthy market share of first-time buyers would be about 40 percent, so these figures show that tight inventory in the lower price ranges, along with unnecessarily tight credit standards, are holding back entry level activity,” Yun said.

All-cash sales edged up to 29 percent of transactions in June from 28 percent in May; they were 29 percent in June 2011. Investors, who account for the bulk of cash sales, purchased 19 percent of homes in June, up from 17 percent in May; they were 19 percent in June 2011.

Single-family home sales declined 5.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.90 million in June from 4.11 million in May, but are 4.8 percent above the 3.72 million-unit pace in June 2011. The median existing single-family home price was $190,100 in June, up 8.0 percent from a year ago.

Existing condominium and co-op sales fell 7.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 470,000 in June from 510,000 in May, but are 2.2 percent higher than the 460,000-unit level a year ago. The median existing condo price was $183,200 inJune, which is 6.9 percent above June 2011.

Regionally, existing-home sales in the Northeast dropped 11.5 percent to an annual pace of 540,000 in June but are 1.9 percent above June 2011. The median price in the Northeast was $253,700, down 1.8 percent from a year ago.

Existing-home sales in the Midwest slipped 1.9 percent in June to a level of 1.02 million but are 14.6 percent higher than a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $157,600, up 8.4 percent from June 2011.

In the South, existing-home sales declined 4.4 percent to an annual pace of 1.73 million in June but are 5.5 percent above June 2011. The median price in the South was $165,000, up 6.6 percent from a year ago.

Existing-home sales in the West fell 6.9 percent to an annual level of 1.08 million in June and are 3.6 percent below a year ago. The median price in the West was $233,300, up 13.3 percent from May 2011. Given tight supply in in both the low and middle price ranges in this region, sales in the West are stronger in the higher price ranges.

Source: NAR

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Your Ticket to Freedom from Mortgage Frustration

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 05:46:34 GMT

Your Ticket to Freedom from Mortgage Frustration

In the news, there is talk of a housing recovery. Experts feel more optimistic about the state of housing industry in America. However, if you or someone you know is one of the millions of homeowners who is stuck with a home on which you owe more than the property is worth, the feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming and frustrating.

Many people don’t realize that just because they are in danger of losing their home to foreclosure doesn’t mean they have to wait around for it to happen. With help, they can take matters into their own hands.

CLAIM YOUR TICKET TO FREEDOM!

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), I make it my business to know all of the ins-and-outs of the options that are available for people who are in danger of losing their homes and help the challenges head-on.

Take a look at the information on this site and then Contact me today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Jacob Thomas

RE/MAX Presidential Real Estate

Tel 954 433 1044

Download Your Free Report Here

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

On the Edge of Losing Your Home?

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 19:06:42 GMT

On the Edge of Losing Your Home?

When you or someone you know is pushed to the edge of foreclosure, it is vital to know that you have options.

It is my duty as a real estate professional to reach out to distressed homeowners. As a CDPE-designated agent, I have received extensive training to help homeowners avoid foreclosure.

I created this site to provide a lifeline of information regarding alternatives. From short sales to loan modifications, I can provide information to help.

For a free report on foreclosure alternatives, CLICK HERE FOR FREE REPORTS . Take action today and avoid falling into foreclosure. I'm only a phone call or email away.

JACOB THOMAS

REMAX PRESIDENTIAL

TEL 954 433 1044

www.browardshortsaleguru.com

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Escape Your Unmanageable Mortgage

Sat, 09 Jun 2012 05:54:08 GMT

Getting free doesn't have to mean running away.

Today, many homeowners find themselves unable to escape an unmanageable mortgage. Some of them are being given some bad advice.

They are being told that walking away from their mortgage and letting the bank foreclose is their best possible option. It is called Strategic Default, and it has terrible consequences.

As a real estate professional who has earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, I make it my mission to know the best possible options available to distressed homeowners for both their present AND their future.

Read the report on my site entitled Escape Your Unmanageable Mortgage: Getting free doesn't have to mean running away. Then, call me and schedule your free, confidential consultation.

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Time is Running Out: How the Mortgage Debt Relief Act can save you!

Sat, 02 Jun 2012 07:42:21 GMT

The act has helped many distressed homeowners find solutions to avoid foreclosure and opened up options to them that were previously unavailable.

However, the Mortgage Debt Relief Act was always intended to be a temporary solution and it is now set to expire at the end of 2012. For distressed homeowners, this means that time is limited for you to take advantage of this program.

Time is running out. But there is still a chance to change your financial direction and avoid foreclosure.

Jacob Thomas, CDPE

Broker Associate

RE/MAX presidential

Tel: 954 433 1044

WWW.BROWARDSHORTSALEGURU.COM

CHECK SHORT SALE VIDEO HERE

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

DOWNLOAD FREE REPORT HERE

As the Mortgage Debt Relief Act expires, distressed homeowners are running out of time

Wed, 30 May 2012 16:28:30 GMT

[Pembroke Pines], [Florida] – [May 30, 2012] – Distressed homeowners in [Pembroke Pines] will soon no longer be able to take advantage Mortgage Debt Relief Act. The law, enacted in 2007, helps distressed homeowners by relieving them of additional tax responsibility that often accompanies cancelled or forgiven debt.

“For many homeowners, even if the bank agreed to cancel or lessen their debt, they were unable to afford the extra taxes that they owed” says [Jacob Thomas, CDPE , RE/MAX Presidential]. “In many cases, the additional taxes would equal tens of thousands of dollars. It was like trading one unmanageable debt for another,” [Thomas] added.

The Mortgage Debt Relief Act has provided opportunity for millions of distressed homeowners in the marketplace to take advantage of short sales or loan modifications without worrying how these actions will affect their future finances. The law is set to expire and time is running short for homeowners with unaffordable mortgage to take advantage of its benefits.

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), [Jacob Thomas] is knowledgeable of the entire landscape of foreclosure avoidance options and is distinctly qualified to negotiate with banks and help financially strapped homeowners regain peace of mind and a sense of stability for the future.

(Jacob Thomas) has developed a free report entitled “Time is Running Out: How the Mortgage Debt Relief Act can save you” that is accessible from (HIS) website, [www.browardshortsaleguru.com].

About

[Jacob Thomas, Broker Associate, RE/MAX Presidential, Tel 954 433 1044]

For more information about the CDPE Designation, visit www.CDPE.com.

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Broward County Short sale Experts

Mon, 21 May 2012 07:25:33 GMT

Broward County Short sale Experts

There are many homeowners today who feel as if they cannot escape their unmanageable mortgage. Many of these homeowners have been given some very bad advice. They are being told that walking away from their mortgage and letting the bank foreclose is the best possible solution.

It is called Strategic Default. For distressed homeowners who believe they have no good choices left, the idea of walking away free of consequences may sound like a relief. The reality, however, is not so optimistic.

If anyone you know may need my expertise, please have them visit my website (www.browardshortsaleguru.com) for a copy of my recent report entitled, “Escape Your Unmanageable Mortgage: Getting free doesn’t have to mean running away.”

And then contact me for a confidential consultation.

Jacob Thomas

RE/MAX Presidential real estate

Tel 954 433 1044

CHECK CURRENT SHORT SALE LISTINGS HERE

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

RE/MAX Shines in REAL Trends 500 Study

Thu, 17 May 2012 09:37:13 GMT

RE/MAX agents continue to be the most productive real estate professionals – by a wide margin.

In the annual REAL Trends 500 study – an independent ranking of the Top 500 U.S. brokerages – RE/MAX Sales Associates averaged 15.1 transaction sides last year. That figure was twice as high as the collective average of all agents in the study who are not affiliated with RE/MAX (7 transaction sides).

It was also twice as high as the averages posted by national competitors such as Coldwell Banker (7.2), Century 21 (6.9) and Keller Williams (6.9).

In fact, when the 500 brokerages were ranked by per-agent transaction sides – the most meaningful measure of productivity – RE/MAX claimed the top 18 spots and a dominant 44 of the Top 50.

Overall, 116 RE/MAX brokerages made the rankings; no competitor had more. And RE/MAX also led all national franchises in total sales volume per agent with $3 million, 60 percent more than the average of all other agents in the survey.

The survey results were yet another reminder that RE/MAX Sales Associates outsell the competition year after year.

"Since 1997 it’s been true that nobody sells more real estate than RE/MAX. Some may brag about their numbers, but quality and performance are what consumers look for," says RE/MAX CEO Margaret Kelly. "RE/MAX agents are performing well at a critical time when housing is starting to improve, making them the best choice to help homebuyers and sellers in today’s market."

Current listings Search here

Download FREE Short sale report here

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Bank of America Offers Up to $30,000 to Short-Sale Clients

Wed, 16 May 2012 04:45:17 GMT

Bank of America today announced that it is expanding a cooperative short sale inventive pilot that has had strong success in Florida. Here is the bank's news release (watch the Weekly for follow-up details):

CALABASAS, Calif. – Adding to its foreclosure prevention initiatives, Bank of America has launched a nationwide program that offers delinquent mortgage customers increased assistance with relocation expenses – from $2,500 to $30,000 - at the completion of a qualifying short sale.

"Bank of America is committed to providing alternatives to foreclosure whenever possible," said Bob Hora, home transition services executive for Bank of America. "This program can help customers make a planned transition from ownership when home retention options have been exhausted or they have made a decision not to keep the home."

The short sale relocation assistance program builds on the bank’s already robust short sale initiatives, which led to 200,000 completed short sales in the last two years and another 30,000 in the first quarter of 2012. This program is based on a similar incentive offer that Bank of America tested in Florida last year.

To qualify for the enhanced relocation assistance payments under the new program, the seller must work proactively with the bank to obtain a preapproved sales price prior to submitting a purchase offer to the bank. A short sale must be initiated by the end of this year and close by September 26, 2013, to be eligible for the payment. Qualifying short sales that have already been started but have not closed may be eligible for the relocation assistance.

The amount of assistance provided under the new program will be determined on a case-by-case basis using a calculation that includes the value of the home, amount owed and other considerations.

Initially, the program will be offered on mortgages that are owned and serviced by Bank of America.

While available nationally, Bank of America anticipates greatest response to the program will come from borrowers in California, Nevada, Arizona, Florida and other states hardest hit by the economic downturn and falling property values.

Customers who believe they may be eligible for Bank of America’s short sale relocation assistance program may contact program specialists at 877.459.2852.

To help homeowners understand the short sale process and other foreclosure avoidance programs, Bank of America encourages them to visit the Home Transition Services website at www.bankofamerica.com/hometransition.

RE/MAX Affiliates may share this article, provided they do not charge for it and this notice is included. All other rights reserved.

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

DOWNLOAD FREE REPORT HERE

Escape Your Unmanageable Mortgage: Getting free doesn’t have to mean running away

Mon, 07 May 2012 07:00:10 GMT

Perhaps you have heard about it.

On the news, a reporter tells a story about how the housing crisis has caused some homeowners to simply walk away from their homes. It sounds crazy, but many people are being led to believe that walking away from their home is a good (or even the best!) option.

It is called Strategic Default. For distressed homeowners who believe that they have no good choices left, the idea of walking away free of consequence may sound like a relief. The reality, however, is that choosing strategic default has serious repercussions on your credit.

THERE ARE BETTER OPTIONS AVAILABLE!

As a real estate professional who has earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, my mission is to provide financially-challenged homeowners with options to escape from unmanageable mortgages without running away.

Escape Your Unmanageable Mortgage: Getting free doesn’t have to mean running away

Facing your problems head-on is always the best solution. Let me help.

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

DOWNLOAD FREE REPORT HERE

New Short sale guidelines by Freddy Mac

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:19:47 GMT

Freddie Mac, the federally owned company that buys mortgages from local lenders, says it wants to make the short sale process easier on home sellers by updating its timelines for short sales and requiring better communication from lenders. Last year, Freddie Mac completed 45,623 short sales.

The initiative is part of the Servicing Alignment Initiative (SAI) Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae launched in 2011 at the direction of their regulator, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Yesterday, FHFA announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac must adopt the new short-sale guidelines, and the latter announced compliance shortly after that.

“Freddie Mac’s new timelines are intended to help make the decision process more transparent and timely for short sales under the Obama Administration’s HAFA program or Freddie Mac’s traditional short-sale option,” says Tracy Mooney, Freddie Mac senior vice president, single-family servicing.

Freddie Mac proposals

• Loan servicers should make a decision within 30 days of receiving 1) an offer on a property under Freddie Mac’s traditional short sale program or 2) a completed Borrower Response Package (BRP) requesting consideration for a short sale under HAFA or Freddie Mac’s traditional short sale program. BRPs are standardized assistance applications developed under the Servicing Alignment Initiative.

• If a lender needs more than 30 days, it must give homeowners a status update at least weekly, and a final decision must be made in less than 60 days.

• If a servicer makes a counteroffer, the borrower must respond within five business days. The servicer then has 10 more business days to respond to the buyer.

Freddie Mac says it will use the new timelines to evaluate servicer compliance with the SAI and its own servicing requirements.

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Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Short Sales to Reach Record Numbers This Year?

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 06:35:51 GMT

Daily Real Estate News | Friday, April 20, 2012

Short sales are surging this year, and if the trend continues, they could reach record levels in 2012, RealtyTrac reports.

Short-sale transactions are starting to outpace foreclosure sales, as more banks see it as a better option to curb high losses from foreclosures. More mortgage servicers are also trying to increase the pace of approving short sales, a process that is generally viewed as drawn-out and lengthy.

Short sales increased 33 percent in the last year, according to January data released this week by RealtyTrac. Thirty-two states saw year-over-year increases in short sales. Lender Processing Services Inc., which also recently released its January housing data, showed that short sales accounted for 23.9 percent of home purchases in January while foreclosures made up 19.7 percent of sales — the first time that short sales have outnumbered foreclosures.

“[We] believe 2012 could be a record year for short sales,” says Daren Blomquist, vice president at RealtyTrac.

This week, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the regulator to mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, issued new rules to speed up the pace of short sales. Mortgage servicers will be required to respond to a short-sale request within 30 days and make a decision about short-sale offers within 60 days. The new rules go into effect June 1.

Source: “Short Sales Expected to Surge This Year,” CNNMoney (April 19, 2012) and “Short Sales Start to Outpace Foreclosures,” REALTOR® Magazine Daily News (April 19, 2012)

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Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Fort Lauderdale Inventory of For-Sale Homes Posts Big Drop

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:02:23 GMT

According to the Daily Real Estate News/Tuesday April 17,2012

The nationwide inventory of residential homes for-sale dropped 21 percent in March compared to a year ago, according to newly released housing data from Realtor.com, tracking 146 metro markets.

In fact, all 146 markets posted a drop in their inventory, except for two — Hartford, Conn., and Philadelphia.

The nationwide median list price in March also saw improvement, increasing more than 5 percent last month compared to last year at this time.

The housing picture is much different than last year at this time, when inventory was up 26 percent and list prices were down 4.81 percent

“If the market continues to hold its own, 2012 could well mark the beginning of a broad-based housing recovery,” according to Realtor.com.

The metros that posted the biggest drops in listings of for-sale homes in the last year are:

1. Oakland, Calif.: -51.91 percent year-over-year drop in total listings

2. Bakersfield, Calif.: -50.35 percent

3. Phoenix-Mesa, Ariz.: -48 percent

4. Fresno, Calif.: -45.56 percent

5. Miami: -42.34 percent

6. Fort Lauderdale, Fla.: -39.66 percent

7. Seattle-Bellevue-Everett, Wash.: -39.38 percent

8. Atlanta: -39.26 percent

9. Orlando: -39 percent

10. Portland-Vancouver, Ore.-Wash.: -38.79 percent

11. Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Fla.: -37.35 percent

12. Stockton-Lodi, Calif.: -36.18 percent

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine Daily News

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 433 1044

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An Unmanageable Mortgage Clouds Everything

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 06:51:18 GMT

An Unmanageable Mortgage Clouds Everything

When families are tapped out financially and faced with the uncertainty of not knowing how much longer they'll be able to stay in their home, the prospect of planning or having a positive outlook on the future seems out of the question.

Many financially strapped homeowners feel frozen in action and it's no wonder, but here's the most important point that you need to know:

Even though millions of homes have been lost to foreclosure, you and those you care about absolutely do not need to add to that statistic.

More help is available now than ever before.

As a real estate professional who has earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, I am adept at navigating among the full range of solutions for helping financially distressed homeowners to make a fresh start.

An Unmanageable Mortgage Clouds Everything,If you, or someone you care about is looking to get out from under the cloud of unmanageable mortgage contact me today for a confidential consultation!

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

CHECK HOMES FOR SALE HERE, SIGN UP FOR DAILY UPDATES

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BofA Announces Shortened Short Sale Process

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:30:48 GMT

BofA Announces Shortened Short Sale Process

Daily Real Estate News | Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Bank of America announced it is refining its short sale process to streamline its approval process and reduce the wait in accepting offers and making it to closing. The changes are expected to trim the bank’s decision time in half -- from 45 days or longer to 20 days, Inman News reports.

Starting April 14, the bank says it will permit its short sale specialists, using a third-party platform called Equator, to complete document collection, valuations, and underwriting at the same time, which is expected to help speed the process.

Bank of America also announced starting April 14 that real estate agents will be required to submit five documents in short sale transactions to be considered by the lender. These required documents include:

A purchase contract including Buyer’s Acknowledgment and Disclosure form
HUD-1
IRS Form 4506-T
Bank of America Short Sale Addendum
Bank of America Third-Party Authorization Form

Source: Bank of America and “Bank of America Streamlining Short-Sale Procedures,”” Inman News (April 10. 2012)

If you have any questions please do call me, a Certified Distressed Property expert-CDPE and short sale experts for faster short sale approvals

Jacob Thomas

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 433 1044

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE SHORT SALE REPORT HERE

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Posted by Jacob Thomas,CDPE

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

Caution: Protect Yourself Against Mortgage Relief Scams

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 04:35:41 GMT

Caution: Protect Yourself Against Mortgage Relief Scams

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued regulations protecting consumers against mortgage relief fraud. Due to the growing number of scams that are designed to take advantage of homeowners in distress, the government wants to make sure you won’t be a victim.

As a CDPE, I am fully compliant with the FTC regulations, and want to help you avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous individuals or companies, as well.

In fact, I’ve developed a free, detailed report that explains the warning signs of potentially fraudulent activity so you can protect yourself and the ones you love.

If you are facing an unaffordable mortgage and need help from someone you can trust, please contact me today.

I’m here to help.

Download your FREE report here

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Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

VALUATION - Values dropped, so why did my assessment go up?

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 06:33:14 GMT

VALUATION - Values dropped, so why did my assessment go up?

Florida law sets January 1 as the assessment date each year for determining both value and exemption eligibility. While January 1, 2011 is the date used for setting your assessed value for the August 2011 Notice of Proposed Property Taxes ("TRIM Notice") and November 2011 tax bill, the 2011 value is based upon the market value for similar properties in the same or comparable subdivisions during January 2, 2010 - January 1, 2011 (with the greatest weight given to sales from the final quarter of the year). A 2011 drop in market values, if any, will be reflected on your 2012 assessment and tax bill. Likewise, in a year when values increase, those increases will not be reflected until the tax bill the following year.
If you purchase a property in a foreclosure, your actual purchase price may not reflect the just (market) value used for determining your taxes. The Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) issued an advisory opinion that foreclosures generally should not be used for assessment purposes. Thus, because of the stabilization of real estate values from sales realized during 2010, we did not qualify foreclosure sales for the 2011 assessments. However, for the 2011 assessments, we again qualified short sales for assessment purposes if the property was listed for sale on the MLS open market and the property is in normal/good condition. Regardless of your purchase price, assessments in Florida are done a year in arrears. This means your 2011 assessment is based on the sales in your neighborhood (excluding non-arm's length transactions and other "disqualified" transfers) which occurred between January 2, 2010 and January 1, 2011. A drop in sale prices between January 2, 2011 to January 1, 2012 -- if any -- will be reflected on your 2012 assessment. Under Florida law, a homestead "recapture" rule may cause some taxable values to rise even when the overall market value dropped from last year. If you are Homesteaded and your "Save Our Homes" (SOH) value is less than the market value as of January 1, Florida Administrative Code Rule 12D-8.0062(5) explicitly orders our office to increase your overall assessed value each year (up to the 3% annual cap level) until it eventually reaches the same amount as the market value. Click here to view the applicable law. The Department of Revenue set the SOH rate this year at 3%. Roughly 71,000 Broward homeowners unfortunately experienced the recapture effects of this law in 2011, even though their overall market values fell. Those impacted by recapture are mostly owners who either purchased and homesteaded their properties before 2001 or newer purchasers who recently moved portability savings to a new property. The Florida Legislature has placed this issue on the November 2012 ballot as a constitutional amendment. If passed by voters, the amendment would allow the Legislature to change this law as early as 2013. Finally -- depending upon the city you live in -- your taxes may not have dropped this year because several Broward cities significantly raised their millage (tax) rates and non-ad valorem fees (fire/rescue, drainage, etc.) to make up for declining values. This means you will pay at a higher rate, even if the property is worth less. You can speak-out to protest these proposed tax rate hikes at the public hearings in September listed on your annual Notice of Proposed Property Taxes.

For more information visit : http://www.bcpa.net

Or contact me for further information/help..

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

FOR FREE SHORT SALE HELP VISIT

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The Second Largest Settlement in History: How it save you from foreclosure!

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:45:28 GMT

The Second Largest Settlement in History: How it save you from foreclosure!

The news has been abuzz in the past few weeks about the historic Robo-Signing Settlement reached between the government and five major lenders. The settlement raises lots of questions, but for homeowners who are in danger of losing their home there is only one:

Can this settlement help me stay in my home?

The answer: Possibly! But regardless of whether you meet the specific eligibility requirements for this settlement, it is important to remember one thing:

YOU HAVE OPTIONS!

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) I am uniquely qualified to help determine your eligibility and answer any questions you may have about the settlement. Call me or email me and set up your free, confidential consultation. Let me help you figure out the best foreclosure alternative option for you.

Jacob Thomas

Broker Associate

RE/MAX Presidential

Tel 954 336 7731

email:jacobthomas@remax.net

DOWLOAD FREE REPORT HERE