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James K. Endo
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My Blog |
 James Endo Real Estate Blog
Helping you make the right decisions when it matters most! Here are some topics you may find of interest or useful... ECONOMIC FORECAST 2012
JANUARY 10, 2012
I attended a recent Wells Fargo economic forecast for 2012 yesterday at the Santa Clara Marriott and I am happy to report that the prognosticators are looking for a slight increase in the Bay Area real estate and prices likely to go up for this year. WF Senior Economist Gary Schlossberg indicated that he foresees a small 2.5% economic growth for 2012, and we are in much better economic condition that most of California and the US markets. He indicated that with super low interest rates (4% and lower!) and prices, we have the highest affordability ratio for buyers and investors im many years, so now may be a great time to jump into the Bay Area market before values go up further.
High tech and a strong state economy have helped change the tide. This is not to say we are out of the economic "meltdown" as the state and nation have a few more years to go. Short sales, foreclosures and the "shadow inventory" of banks will continue to affect our economy, especially in the lower price range, however, we here in the bay fell down faster than the nation for the past few years and are now improving at a faster rate than the rest of the nation.
Ralph DeFranco, Senior Economist for PMI Mortgage Insurance Co, and another speaker, projects that we will have a 6% increase in the number of real estate sales in 2012 and a greater increase thereafter, confirming that the Bay Area market and the San Jose market in particular will grow faster, fueled in large part by high tech growth.
The consensus with local agents is that the bay has already picked up. I, for one, feel that the homes below $600K has been very active last year and all expectations are the same for this year, so with economist projections to go up in value, and with the highest affordability ratio in many years as well as current pressure to keep interest rates down super low, now is a fabulous time to refinance, buy or invest so don't delay! Call or email me today for a FREE consultation to find out how you can benefit from today's market and review your special circumstances.
FHA LOAN LIMITS EXTENDED FOR TWO YEARS
NOVEMBER 19, 2011
Congress restored the loan limits for the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) for an additional two years which is good news for both buyers and sellers, particularly in California! Yes, this is particularly good for CA because the loan limits were reduced in 42 states which would restrict additional sales and price potential home buyers out of the market and slowing down the housing recovery.
The reinstated loan limits will allow more buyers to attain affordable loans thus helping buyers purchase and sellers sell . This FHA loan program will be extended through 2013 and will allow a maximum limit of $729,750 instead of the $625,500 that was going to be had. Congress chose not to increase the loan limit for Fannie Maie and Freddie Mac loand, and the loan limits will still stay at $625,500.
FHA loans continue to be a great opportunity for buyers with great interest rates and more flexible purchasing criteria. In our higher priced real estate market in the bay area, that will definitely mean more buying opportunities and lower payments and allow serious and qualified buyers to take advantage of the preceived weaker real estate market and participate in one of the best times to purchase the American Dream of home ownership. With higher priced properties her in the bay area, I know this will help some of my buyers who are on the edge of purchasing the right home that are looking to finance between $625,500-729,750 who are otherwise qualified. This program will help higher priced markets like the bay area with alternative financing and more options can only be good for today's cautious consumers. Buyers are strongly advised to talk with a professional to see how this may apply to you.
DO YOU QUALIFY TO HOME AFFORDABLE REFINANCE?
NOVEMBER 3, 2011
You may be eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance to take advantage of lower interest rates if your loan is owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Your loan company can tell you who owns your loan. Find their contact information here. Additionally, you can also contact Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac directly by clicking on the links here.
NEW REAL ESTATE LAWS
OCTOBER 28, 2011
I came back from a legal briefing with Gov Hutchenson, Attorney for the California Association of Realtors, recently and there are some important new real estate related laws that passed this year that may apply to you. Before I mention them, be advised that this is not legal advice and you are strongly advised to speak to a legal or tax professional to see how these new laws apply to you. Some more common ones include the following:
1. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act of 2010 effective 1/1/11: The law requires a carbgon monoxide device be installed in a dwelling unit intended for human occupany. Owners must comply with this new law too. Detectors are required for existing single family dwelling units on or before 7/1/11 and 1/1/13 for other existing dwelling units like condos (SB 183).
2. A home inspection can include a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) program energyt audit if requested by the client. For more info, go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/HERS/index html (AB 1809).
3. Existing law requires a legal owner of a vacant home purchased at foreclosure sale to maintain the property or be penalized up to $1000/day per violation. Effective 1/1/11, this law requires the government to provide the owner an opoortunity to correct it before imposing the penalty (SB 1427).
4. This new short sale law effective 1/1/11 prohibits a lender for a dwelling of 1-4 units to demand a deficiency judgment upon a short sale approval and closing from the seller who sells the dwelling for less than the loan balance. This law applies to first mortgages if they agree to do a short sale (SB 931). In July, 2011, this was extended to second mortgages with some exceptions.
Hundreds of laws related to real estate are passed every year protecting real estate rights. This is only fo information purposes. You are strongly advised to seek the counsel of a professional to see how these laws apply to you. Feel free to contact me if you have any real estate questions or would like a complementary consultation.
TOP MEDIAN PRICED REAL ESTATE AREAS
OCTOBER 4, 2011
The top median priced homes in the nation came out recently from Realtors.com, the largest real estate portal in the United States. This is still far lower than the peak markets back in 2005-2006 and can still be a great opportunity with the lowest rates in 50 years.
BANK OF AMERICA FREE OUTREACH EVENT August 10.2011 With all of the borrowers still trying to get some relief from financial hardship with their mortgage loans, Bank of America is sponsoring a special FREE event August 18 through August 20, 2011 in South San Francisco. If you would like to get more personalized attention and speak to someone directly, then this will be sure to help. Attached is a link for more information:
they will have staff there to answer your every questions. Be sure to bring all your financial information (pay stubs, bank statements, mortgage statement, P & L if business owner, and past 2 years tax return and any other reason for a loan modification or other choices) for best results.
Also, if you would like to get additional information or to find out your options, be sure to contact our office. As a CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert), there are more choices than you may think! NEW CARBON MONOXIDE LAW
7/14/11
In case you haven't heard already, we have a new carbon monoxide law, effective July 1, 2011, for most dwellings. Click this link for more details.
As well as being a good idea to save lives, this will definitely be required when you buy or sell a home. A trip to the local Orchard Supply Hardware store had carbon monoxide sensors for $26 and around $35for a combined carbon monoxide/smoke alarm, so it is about 3-4 times more than just a smoke alarm. CHECK OUT "ENVISION SAN JOSE 2040"
June 25, 2011 Earlier this year I attended a talk that the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors hosted about the state of the economy and 2011 projections, and it included a talk about "Envision San Jose 2040" a 30 year plan not only for San Jose, but the county. It was a look into the future of our area examining demographic breakdown, direction and kinds of growth, transportation, economic conditions, turning the town green, and a whole lot more. It was not surprising where the plan is going as there is little open space left, the existing area layout, and with the aging baby boomers in full force now, the plan assumptions include the key demographics wanting to create higher density communities where we can walk to stores, commuting, and socialization. This is definitely worth a look if you have not seen it before, and a great reminder for those that have. MORE INVESTORS JUMPING BACK INTO THE MARKET June 8, 2011
Investors have been jumping back into the market for a while now, and the under $450,000 price range seems especially attractive. I know I am seeing more investors bringing in offers and see more investors competing with my buyers. As a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designee, one of the highest Realtor designations, a recent member newsletter bore out a similar observation below.
 For investors, the name of the game is profit. They are often buying low to fix and flip or to keep long term as a rental since many property values have come down significantly since the peak of the market in 2005-2006. It can be profitable if purchased at the right price to fix and flip or to keep as a rental and make positive cash flow, a welcome site for many investors. It is not without its risks, as lack of cost control or not attaining the desired sales price (and profit margin) can cause a investment nightmare. And, with turmoil with the foreclosures and short sales, there is an increasing demand on rental properties, which will likely increase rents in the near term.
I have noticed alot of competition in the under $500,000 price range, and virtually all of my listings and all of my buyer offers have been multiple offers. Now this does not mean all homes and condos are seeing multiple
offers, but depending on the property, location, and supply, the more desireable ones are. While the nation generally has been a volitile real estate market, the Bay Area has been amazingly resilient and strong.
Now is a great time to buy for both investors and buyers. Inventory is good, interest rates are low, and a good crack in the market to jump in.
Investors and regular buyers who will occupy their purchase can both benefit as long as they understand the market dynamics. To find out how you can benefit or to schedule a free consultation, give me a shout below. My clients say that they get alot out of our meetings, and I guarantee you will be an informed consumer!
LOAN LIMIT EXPIRES IN SEPTEMBER 2011
June 7, 2011
The current comforming loan limit of $729K will be expiring as of Sept. 2011, which can mean higher interest and costs for today's buyer. Unless there are any further changes, the comforming amount will come down. To determine the conforming loan limit by county, your customers can click here to reach the Department of Housing and Urban Development's loan limit search tool and what applies to you.
I received a newsletter from loan officer, Stephanie Brown, Prospect Mortgage recently and the exerpt below says to move fast if you are planning to purchase with a raised conforming loan limit loan.
 How does this apply to you? Well, among others, if you want to buy and have a loan reaching the max, you will pay conforming interest rates and costs, all else being equal. If you don't get this loan before the limits change, you will likely pay more interest and /or cost, and it may be more challenging to purchase. With great deals today, this can be important to a motivated buyer. Keep in mind that the best deal is a low price and low interest rate if you are buying with a financed loan, so this can add up to many thousands of dollars in savings.
If you would like to find out your options and make a smart decision, then send me a email today. Find out how much you can qualify for and purchase a wonderful home! Or, for faster response, call me today at 408-445-3281! To your success!!
GREAT TIME TO BUY OR INVEST
June 2, 2011
With all the focus on the negative, not to be a pollyanna, but heck, now is a great time to buy or make a move! Interest rated rose sharply from last year, but with economic uncertainty, interest rates have eased down and below 5% to 4.755% for a 30 year fixed loan for a comforming loan amount, $417K, according to my recent Yahoo interest review today, which can only be a great opportunity for buyers and investors.
 The local San Jose Mercury News reports today that the interest rates have dropped for the 7th week in a row. Rates depend on many factors including the geographic regions. Seriously, this is a great opportunity for buyers who have steady jobs and income, clean/decent credit and are not overextended with credit cards or other debt.
 In fact, buyers and investors are buying up a storm for properties under $500K, and many, if not most of the sales are multiple offers... YES! I represented a buyer last week looking to buy a home in North Valley in the $300K and they ended up having over 16 offers!!! And it wasn't even underpriced ... it is the demand in the lower price market, which is great for buyers and investors can make cash flow. For those that want to invest locally and can afford it, prices have never been better. Some areas here in the bay area have seen upwards to 40-50% price reductions, which can only be a great buying opportunity. And my network of other experienced and great agents throughout the nation are showing me how it is clearly possible to make a 10-14% return on investment, which looks like a great way to invest or diversify your portfolio or retirement fund. And, you can invest your retirement accounts into real estate so many options abound for the savvy consumer. Be sure to consult your legal and tax advisors as well as an experienced Realtor to see if this is right for you.
To find out your opportunities, contact me below for free information or a free consultation to see how you can benefit from today's market, and for quicker response, call my office at 408-445-3281.
JAPANTOWN FESTIVALS COMING
May 11, 2011
   Now is a a wonderful time for festivals, and one that my great client and friend Ron Yamamoto reminded me is the anuual Obon Festival at Japantown in central San Jose off Jackson and 5th Streets happening July 9 and 10. If you have never gone, you can get a nibble of some culture, music, dancing, good eats (if you dont mind the butter, I recommend the corn and teriyaki!)and general fun for everyone. Also, dont miss the shaved ice around the corner on Jackson at the manju shop. There is plenty of parking or consider taking the light rail, which I like to do and is nice ride too. Here is a list of the annual Obon festivals throughout the bay for your enjoying pleasure.
Obon Festivals: July 9 & 10 - San Jose, 640 North 5th Street July 17 - Mountain View, 575 N. Shoreline Blvd. July 30 - Alameda, 2325 Pacific Ave. August 6 - Oakland, 825 Jackson Street August 13 - Southern Alameda, Union City, 32975 Alvarado Niles Road The times for Obon performances are not yet available Obon is a season of honoring and celebrating our deceased family members. It may be a time of some sadness, but more so to be mindful of how we behave that would honor them, and to remember the happiness and good things they have brought to our lives. Obon festivals in California generally begin around noon and continue through the evening. Each location has its’ own uniqueness which can include many of the following: Food and game booths, Japanese American art or cultural displays or programs, kids activities, taiko music (super energetic and fun), bingo, Obon Odori (simple line dancing anyone can join in), and of course the San Jose Chidori Band.
Also, Ron is a member of the San Jose Chidori Band, sharing popular and traditional japanese music and as well as performing at the various Obon Festivals above, and would like to invite you to a their upcoming Chidori Band concert this SAT, which is not to be missed!
Chidori Band concert: May 14, 7:00 pm - 640 North 5th Street, Betsuin Hall, Japantown, donation $12
For more Chidori information, contact Ron at ron.yamamoto@gmail.com.
Special Incentives for Buyers Continues...
May 6, 2011
As a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), I recently received a great opportunity from the Distressed Property Institute I want to pass on to you buyers offered by Fannie Mae foreclosures to offer additional 3.5% credit to buyers of the purchase price on their properties.
 This program allows ONLY owner occupied buyers to purchase with as low as 3.5% down, and this is a great incentive for those buyers ready to buy. Fannie Mae has another program for investors, but this incentive does not apply. The only catch that I see from my experience with this program is that there is a very limited inventory of homes, townhouses and condos to choose from. You can also find many more deals in the general market place, Realtors, and the general Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and now is a great time to consider a purchase. To comment or if you would like to find out more about this program or for a list of these or other homes in your area, please contact me below, or call my office, 408-445-3281, for a faster reply.
Spring Is Here... Still Great Market For Buyers
April 23, 2011
The real estate market continues to be a stong opportunity for buyers here as the affordabiltiy index has been inching upwards for the past few years. The affordability index indicates that more people can afford to purchase a home based on their median income. A recent presentation graph by Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors, indicates a great buying opportunity for today's buyers:
 HSH Associates Financial Publishers, a well respected financial data provider, reports in a recent newsletter that while the market has been a little low, the market continues to be affordable for buyers:
 HSH states that it surveys mortgage lenders across the country each week, and generates reports for consumers as well as competitive analysis services and statistics from its databases. The Santa Clara County Association of Realtors recent graph reports that market median values have come down significantly, making today's consumers considering a purchase for the long term the great beneficiary of the the economic downturn:
 So what is holding you back? Let me know your comments, questions, or to schedule a complimentary consultation today!
National Association Of Realtors
Chief Economist Reports Trend March 25, 2011
The local Santa Clara County Association of Realtors had a market update which included projections from the National Association of Realtors Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, who shared with the audience about the current market conditions and his projections. He indicated that the market is generally normal but the nation's consumer confidence is low.
With the continued expectation that California's population will continue to expand, it is very likely that a housing shortage will ensue in the near future as demonstrated in Yun's graph below:
 Whether it is an overly simplified idea or grossly positive, we will not have many development space for any new homes in the bay area, so our prices will likely continue to be strong in this part of the state.
With rates likely to increase in the near future, purchasing a property for home or investment may be a smart use of your resources.
 Yun reports that the biggest roadblocks are the economy, resolving the mortgage crisis and consumer confidence. Many people still have worries about todays' economic and employment environment, and that this will not be a fast recovery.
Let me know your thoughts or questions today.
Teacher Loan Program on Cutting Block?
March 8, 2011
With teachers providing so much service and value to our community, I am saddened to hear this... one of our office lenders heard about this from the City of San Jose. If you are a buyer using the teacher homebuyer program for a purchase, then you need to contact your lender ASAP to make sure that the package has been submitted to the city. The proposed State budget calls for the elimination of all local Redevelopment Agencies (RDA) in California. As a result, all programs funded from RDAs will also be eliminated. The City of San Jose funds moderate-income homebuyers for its Teacher Homebuyer Program (THP) from the Redevelopment Funds. Therefore, the City must receive all THP loan files on or before March 9th for moderate-income homebuyers or the City will be unable to approve the loan. All loan applications received by the City after March 9 will be limited to lower-income households (see chart below):
1 Person $56,500 2 Persons $64,600 3 Persons $72,650 4 Persons $80,700
If you need any information on the city programs, please let me know.
Retiring With Grace
February 26, 2011
 I hold a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation, which means I have completed specialized training and education to serve the needs of the senior market, which is an every expanding group including the baby boomers, many who have started to retire (click link for additional SRES information at http://www.seniorsrealestate.com/why_use_an_sres.cfm ). This mature group is often typically wiser and more active than ever, and since they are likely to live longer, it is more important than ever to plan for your future while managing your hard earned resources. Topics like should I stay in the bay or state vs relocating to a more affordable city where your income will go farther or taking a strong look at reverse mortgages as well as other home options to live your life with grace.One topic I hear often is about where would be a great place to live. There are many lists and recommendations, however, I would suggest that before you even consider that, go basic and make your own list of what you want, need or are non-negotiables to your next move. What is a must have versus a like to have. You may like to live by the ocean but must live in a safe area. You may want to be close to technology and interact with other like minded folks, which may mean that it is probably not a good choice to live in the woods. Doing your homework on your needs will go a long way to starting to select the next place to live. After reviewing some the the "top places to live, retire, own, rent, etc.," I have found one that I like is that it gives you some other ideas and places to consider, at http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/best-places-to-retire. Happy trails!
Another event is a seminar topic that sounds interesting is "How Will the Work and Retirement Revolution Affect You?" that is offered by the Silicon Valley Aging Forum with award winning author and guest speaker, Helen Dennis, author of " Project Renewment: The First Retirement Model for Career Women" March 2nd in Palo Alto, CA. Go to this link for additional information by clicking here http://www.agapelongtermcare.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/03-02-paf-flyer-helendennis-pdf2.pdf .
 How About Them Sharks!!!February 24, 2011
Congrats to the San Jose Sharks climbing to the top for the first time since the beginning of the NHL hockey season, with a great 4-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings in Detroit! Not to jinx them here, but as a season ticket holder, many of my friends know my passion for hockey, which I learned from my dear wife, Diane, who is from Chicago. Being from Los Angeles, and before her, the only ice I new was in my drink! She has trained me well! And, what hooked me is that this is a great audience participation sport and is a never ending stream of action. Worth a peak if you get a chance.
    With great Bay Area weather, we are so lucky to have many successful pro sports teams (Go Giants!, 49ers, Athletics, Raiders, Warriers, as well as SJ Giants) and opportunity to play sporting activities (running, cycling, fishing, hunting, golf, tennis, hiking, swimming, skiing, bocce, etc.) all year round. And, as a golf enthusiast myself, there are not many other cities where you can play year round. What a great way to connect with Mother Nature. Now if it would only help me lower my handicap.
Current Market Updates & Observations
February 23, 2011
I have heard recent media reports that the market activity and prices are still going down, though my local sales activity here is definitely improving after almost two months or activity in 2011. Frankly, for consumers in the Bay Area, now may be the best time to purchase, buy up or invest. Prices are low, interest rates are trickling upward, and we still have some nice opportunities so if you are seriously considering your options, the time is now. If you are looking for the bottom, no one can predict that. But what we know is the price is down significantly since the market peak in 2005-2006, rates are up, and as long as you have stable employment and make a smart purchase, it will be a great opportunity.
Inventory is trending up 5.4% and sales are up 10.2% since the beginning of the year (as of 2/13/11) so, while just almost two months into the year, sales are growing at a rate twice as much as inventory is growing. While we are not breaking any records, it is looking like an improvement over the past couple years, and that is a good trend moving forward.
Here are some market updates that may peak your interest that I recently received from the California Association of Realtors, who keeps track of sales activity in California.
Calif. median home price: January 2011: $278,900 (Source: C.A.R.) NEED HELP WITH YOUR MORTGAGE?
February 17, 2011
 The Obama Adminstration MakingHomeAffordable.gov program to help homeowners keep their homes, if possible, will be sponsoring a FREE event, Help For Homeowners Community Event Thursday, February 24, 2011 from 11am to 7:30pm at the San Jose Convention Center in downtown San Jose at 150 West San Carlos Street, San Jose, 95113. This is designed to help homeowners see if they qualify for the Making Home Affordable Program or other options from the lender. It will be an informative and positive event to help many homeowners with mortgage problems seeking relief. To make this productive, you must bring your required support documentation, so contact me to receive the list.
As an experienced San Jose Short Sale specialist and providing alternative solutions to this mortgage crisis, I will be volunteering at this event from 1pm-7:30pm and am glad to help you if you need any assistance. Over 1000 people are expected to attend this event, so it is recommended you come early for best service and assistance. For more information, feel free to contact my office at 408-445-3281 or email at james@jamesendo.com to request a free flyer or required documentation. Se habla espanol.
BART LINE TO SAN JOSE NEARING FUNDING
February 15, 2011
The long awaited BART line to San Jose is getting closer to reality as the Federal Transit Administration recommended funding to start 2012. This still needs to be approved as part of the current national budget. The goal is to start the first leg to San Jose will be from the Fremont station to the Berryessa district. The line is scheduled to be on line by 2018. Here is the proposed map of the San Jose extension.
 Health Care Real Estate Tax? February 13, 2011
Many are asking me about the recent health care plan and taxing real estate... and here is an answer from the California Association or Realtors, the state professional organization from Association President, Beth Pearce, "Lately, I’ve been hearing from clients and many of you about the misinformation that has been circulating on the Internet and in e-mails that the healthcare reform bill passed last year includes a sales tax on real estate. This is false information, and I’d like to clarify the issue. The new law imposes a 3.8 percent tax for households in the top tax brackets on “unearned income.” This includes capital gains. However, this will not impact the exclusion on capital gains earned from the sale of a primary residence up to $250,000 for individuals and up to $500,000 for married couples. The 3.8 percent tax only applies to capital gains above the normal exclusion. A typical home sale will not incur any tax, and for the vast majority, the 3.8 percent tax won’t apply.
This should be great news for those contemplating their options. Let me know if you need any further information or to review your special options or for a FREE Estimated Value Analysis today!
FHA Anti-Flipping On Hold
February 13, 2011
Good news if you are FHA borrowers. The FHA has extended its temporary waiver of its “anti-flipping rule.” The original waiver, which was passed as the direct result of California Association of Realtors, C.A.R.’s, leadership efforts, was set to expire at the end of last month, but now will be extended through the remainder of 2011. The ruling allows investors who acquire foreclosed properties at below-market value to be exempted from waiting the customary 90 days before reselling them. The 90-day waiting period originally was put in place to protect FHA borrowers against predatory practices of flipping where properties were quickly resold at inflated prices to unsuspecting borrowers. First-time buyers have responded overwhelmingly to the opportunity to buy “move-in ready” renovated homes with low down payments, prompting the extension.
We are just beginning to get more FHA properties coming on to the market now. Buyers and investors, let me show you how you can benefit from the FHA properties today. SAN JOSE BEST CITY FOR APPRECIATION
February 5, 2011
Recently, Forbes magazine analyzed the best and worst cities to appreciate in the next three years, and, guess what? San Jose was voted Number one...Numero Uno... Ichiban! This will bode well for property owners and buyers moving forward. The San Francisco bay area has been a leader in the national real estate economy, and others are in much more dire situations, so this comes as a positive observation here in the Bay Area. For more information, go to the link at: http://www.forbes.com/2011/01/21/cities-home-values-prices-real-estate-personal-finance.html?partner=email
Naturally, if you are considering your options, then be sure to talk to an experienced, real estate professional. Contact my office and find out a customized analysis and strategy for you!
AARP Senior Drivers Program
February 5, 2011
 As a Realtor, I have a specialized real estate designation, SRES, or Senior Real Estate Specialist, which recognizes my commitment to helping the "mature" community with their real estate options and choices. This is a particularly rewarding place for me to serve this segment of the community . As the baby boomers are coming of age, you can see that our nation will want to focus more on this very important element of our country. Couple tips her may be of interest...First, insurance carriers are giving drivers discounts to those that complete the AARP Senior Drivers Program in qualifying states including California. An online or class room program, driving improvement courses are providing better drivers which benefits participants with lowered insurance costs and benefiting all. Drivers are encouraged to contact their insurance carriet to see how you can benefit. You and your organization can even sponsor this course. For more details, visit this website at http://www.aarp.org/home-garden/transportation/info-05-2010/auto_insurance_discounts.html.
Secondly, today's WSJ (Sat. 2/5) had the article, "From Diapers to 'Depends': Marketers Discreetly Retool for Aging Boomers", http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704013604576104394209062996.html?mod=ITP_pageone_0 that may interest the inner independent Boomer in you. Now a great time to invest in Arizona!
January 13, 2011
I was speaking with my Mike Ferry Organization long time Realtor and friend, Karen, who mentioned some great real estate investment and residential investments worth considering. Homes built in 2005-2006 are selling in Peoria and Glendale in the $60-80K range, 3BR/2BA, 1200SF living space, 6600SF lot, tile roof, 2 car garage are making 12-14% return on investment. For the price of a midpriced luxury vehicle, you can make a positive cash flow and pay for this investment under 10 years and everything else will be gravy. While the luxury car immediately devalues upon driving off the lot, this a great alternative to the 1/2% CDs or volitile stock market haircuts many people have been experiencing. Here below are some examples of properties currently for sale.
    Or, Karen says, consider buying a luxury home as a second home or investor in the much desired Scottsdale for $220-280K and enjoy a 3BR/2BA, 1300-1800SF newer home in a terrific and scenic neighborhood. Live there part time and rent out or simply invest in a nice gated and/or golf community and enjoy the sun and warmth of all that Scottdale offers. Karen has all the vendor services and great property managers for a turn key experience. Here are some examples of home and townhouses for sale in the Scottsdale area.
   Metro Phoenix is the fifth largest city in the US, and as a comparison, San Jose is the 10th largest city in the US. If you want to make a more secure ROI of 12-14% and take advantage of the market lows, then give me a shout. If you are looking to for a good investment opportunity or a great second home in a terrific community, then simply give me a call for a free consultation to find out your options and get a free list of properties and information.
Ready, Set, Go! Market Starting Quick.
January 12, 2011
The market looks like it is starting quickly in 2011. Inventory is currently at low point and interest rates have crept up so buyers should think about making your purchase. Interest rates are likely to go up by the 3rd quarter, according to several sources. Listings priced right are selling quick, with multiple offers while overpriced ones sit. Remember, you can't tell if there is a problem with short sales because they have been on the market a while. There can be other circumstances that caused this to happen, like buyers canceling sales, bank short sale delays, uncooperative tenants... Talk to a professional who can get you the real scoop so you can make a wise decision. Also, with option ARMs and interest only loans likely to peak sometime in Aug-Oct, 2011, we will see what opportunities await those that have the ability and desire in the third quarter of this year.
On the flip side, if you know anyone who is having problems with their real estate finances, be sure and send them to my website at www.PastDueNoMore.com, where you can find valuable resources about your options and various government programs like HAFA and HAMP to help you find out your options. I have not found very many sites that provide good content so take a look and see if it can help your friends or you. And of course, feel free to contact my office for a free consultation to find your options in today's market. I am committed to help you resolve your financial issu
es and get you back on your feet and start fresh. With so much misinformation out there, I am committed to help make a difference, use my experience and resources to provide value and help your economy too. With a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, I am thrilled to share my wealth of information and experience and help make a difference in what is arguably one of the worst financial crises in the past century. Visit my distressed property service site at www.PastDueNoMore.com for valuable free information and tools.
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