March 28, 2010 in Blog by admin

We Have Moved – Change Is Part of Life!

When I was in high school I read Future Shock by Alvin Toffler and one of his quotes always stuck with me – “Change is not merely necessary to life – it is life! So many changes have happened since my birthday on March 17th but I won’t be going into all of them today, but the most important one is that I will be moving out of a “brick and mortar” office after almost 4 years.

My landlord wants to turn it into a private party room.  He needs to supplement his restaurant business which has gone down due to the economy. So I am moving my office to my full finished basement in my home, which was originally an appraiser’s office, so it does have real estate roots.

It’s a sudden change and tomorrow I will be packing up my office, breaking down the desks and leaving it behind. Truth be told over the 4 years at this location,  I have met most of my buyers and sellers either at their homes, coffee shops and restaurants or the home they wanted to see. Very little foot traffic since most people don’t just stop and go “honey, I have a sudden urge to buy a house” as they drive by on their way to get their fast food fix.

The good thing is that I will be saving money on overhead – just have to spend a bit to transfer my phone lines and hopefully my phone number will remain the same. New business cards and I am set to go.

My commute will be brief so in the long run it will be a good thing. Of course, I lose the money that I put into the office, flooring, curtains, paint, signage, etc. My accountant will have fun with that.

So if you are looking for a home in the Aurora, Montgomery, Naperville and Oswego area or other Fox Valley towns or villages, give me a call on my cell – 630-251-0059 or catch me on my website. My service has not changed just my location.

No need for you to get into your car and come to the office – my office will come to you! Take advantage of the free government money before April 30, 2010.  Call me and let’s find you your next home so you too can embrace life and make the move!

March 25, 2010 in Blog by admin

So What is this Thing Called a Short Sale???

So you ask yourself – what is this Short Sale thing?  A short sale in real estate terms is a sale where the lender has accepted less than what is owned on the current mortgage.  With the current state of the economy many people have lost their jobs, reduced work hours or perhaps other life changes such as (divorce, medical crisis, death, etc.).

When you lose your total income or your income is reduced you may not be able to pay your mortgage.  Once you miss several payments your home is in default and the lender may start the foreclosure process.  This is the judicial or administrative process depending on your state where the lender starts the process of obtaining the home.

Before you let your home to foreclosure you have the option of doing a loan modification or a short sale to prevent the foreclosure.  If you don’t qualify for a loan modification your other choice is a short sale.

What can you expect during the short sale process.  You will have to gather your financial paperwork, a hardship letter, income tax, bank statements and other lender specific paperwork.  A monthly budget showing your income and expenses must also be included.  You also must have a hardship letter which details the reason why you are behind on your payments.

Once you have this paperwork completed we list your home and wait for a buyer to put in an offer to purchase your home.

Once we have an offer that is acceptable to you, your realtor will submit the offer, listing agreement, financial paperwork, hardship letter, and a HUD-1 to the lender’s short sale department or loss mitigation department.

Once the lender’s internal process starts a BPO is ordered, a negotiator is assigned and negotiations will start betweent the bank.  The bank will either accept the offer as is or counter the offer.  Once the offer is accepted all parties are notified and we start the closing process.

The buyer goes through their lender to obtain their mortgage = gets approved – gets a “clear to close” and attorney’s schedule the closing at the title company or escrow agent depending on the state.

You are able to remove the debt and sell your home with the lender picking up the majority of the selling costs – realtor commission, transfer fees, property taxes, attorney fees, etc.

More than likely you will not have a tax consequence if it’s your primary home due to the passing of the 2007 Mortgage Forgiveness Act – read this and check with your tax consultant:

http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=179414,00.html

You don’t have to lose sleep worrying about the past due mortgage payments or having your home sold at sheriff’s sale and being evicted from your home.

You will get a hit on your credit score but will be able to rebuild your credit faster as you are able to start paying your other bills and getting back on your feet.  Currently FHA will give you a loan after 3 years after a short sale.

So don’t lose any more sleep….contact me to get the process started.

March 23, 2010 in Blog by admin

Buyer Beware – “Just Energy” – Door to Door Solicitations

I was enjoying another great day weatherwise and working on some pending deals when I received a call from my mother.  We normallly talk a couple of times a week so I thought nothing of it.  As we went through our usual greeting I can sense something was off.

She then confessed that she had allowed someone who came to her door to talk her into signing a piece of paper.  Apparently she thought that our local gas company, Nicor, had sent a representative to tell her that she was paying too much for her gas heating and if she signed this paper she would be “saving money”.  Although her command of English is pretty good for general conversations she normally does not do anything  with business dealings in English.  She lets me handle all her business affairs and I have told her not to let anyone in the house or sign anything without my knowledge.

She was upset and was not able to sleep during the night.  Her gut told her she had made a mistake and she was scared to tell me.  Unfortuntely, I was upset initially – not at her but at door to door solicitors that hawk whatever services they have.  In today’s internet based world I find this cold calling door to door selling intrusive.

If you have a service, send me a letter, flyer or whatever and state your case.  If you are really “going to save me money” I will be able to make the decision without you breathing down my neck with a hard sell.

I called the city clerk’s office to find out what permits had been issued.  I discussed the issue with the city rep after she gave me the name of the company that had requested a permit.  Calling them I immediately did not get a good feeling.  Their representative did not identify his company when answering the call. When I asked him if he represented the company he wanted to know my name.  I explained the reason for my call and that I wanted the contract cancelled.  He basically told me that there were various offices doing the solicitation and that he would pass my information up to the main office.

I immediately did an internet search and what I found scared me and made me madder than I already was.

http://www.keyframe5.com/just-energy-why-you-should-not-do-business-with-this-company/

As you can see this company has a history of consumer complaints and has already been sued by the Attorney General of my state.  With its “F” Better Business Bureau rating and the television expose it was a company that you had to be careful in dealing with them.

I contacted their main office and spoke with a customer rep informing him that my mother is canceling the contract since she did not understand what she signed up for and that I had spoken to the city regarding their bad reputation when it came to door to door solicitations.  He took my information and informed that my mother’s name was not in the system yet.  I informed him that I wanted to make sure that it did not get in the system and to flag the file for cancellation if it did come in.

I contacted Nicor, the local gas company to make sure that they did not switch the account over but they could not guarantee that because if she had signed a contract they would have to honor it.  Considering Just Energy’s reputation you would think Nicor would have a procedure in place to make sure their customers understood exactly what they were getting into.

I did all I could do to rectify the situation.  My mother will be on the lookout for paperwork from the company.  I contacted my own village and informed them of the company and what had happened in the neighboring town.  Hopefully, by being proactive they will not be able to use the tactics in our area or at least people will be warned.

The link was shared with the city attorney’s to see if they can do anything legally to protect the local citizens from further solicitations.  Best thing to do is to put a sign stating that “No solictors allowed” which I am going to find and place at my mother’s home.

So please, for those of you living in Illinois, be very careful signing with a company that tells you that it will save you money from your current gas provider.  Check your bills and see how much your current provider is charging you per therm and see if the new company will charge you lower price.  Just because gas was high in 2008 does not mean that its the same rate in 2010.  Gas prices fluctuate monthly and are hard to predict so please make sure you are fully aware of what you are signing. A five year contract for this type of service may not be the right decision for you.

Buyer beware as always is the only way to make sure you are making the right decision no matter what service you are buying or what product you are purchasing.

March 18, 2010 in Blog by admin

Gorgeous Day For a Bike Ride!

With the weather man saying we would be hitting the 60′s I dusted off my bike, put some air in the tires, and off I went on my 1st bike ride of the year!

Through the subdivision passing by the various homes with a keen eye towards any For Sale signs to check out later on my computer I headed towards my favorite route. The wind was much higher than I thought and I was glad that I had layered up and was wearing my long biking pants.

You could already see signs of people starting their spring time yard work. Landscapers were out cutting dead tree limbs and picking up debris. I was starting to get into a gentle rhythm and was pleased that my breathing was still pretty steady.

I went through the subdivision and hit the actual bike trail that meanders through several subdivisions before coming out on a main road and heading towards country roads, farms and country subdivisions.

The wind picked up even more as I biked through an open field. Without any resistance it was not easy staying upright. To make it more interesting the incline was increasing and I was starting to feel my ham strings get tighter. Shifting I dug in and made it up to the end of the official bike trail and past the first farm.

Since it was my first ride I wasn’t really sure how far I should go. I thought I would turn around at the last subdivision before heading out on Reservation Road and some tight turns but once I got to the end of the subdivision I was feeling pretty strong and decided to go a bit further.

By now I am huffing a bit and wondering why I had not turned around but I knew that once I got up the next incline I would be going down the S curves and using gravity to make my trip easier. I remember the first time I took the turns using my brakes to slow myself down but now I was a pro and down shifted and controlled the speed without the brakes.

Coming out of the last turn, 2 motorcycle drivers were coming up and I got a bit nervous but I was able to make it through the last curve and head towards the bridge without losing control.

Once at the bridge I decided to take a quick break and enjoy the view. My mind was clear and my mood was more optimistic than this morning. The previous night I had lost a deal due to another offer coming in.

The agent had received the offer Monday around 5:00 p.m. but because they had had a lot of showings decided to hold off and waited for another offer to come in. Asking for the “best & highest” instead of negotiating the original offer my buyer decided that she was not going to give in and declined to give them full asking price. They accepted the other offer using our offer to increase the price. It always amazes me when this happens on listings that have been sitting for 200 days. Murphy’s Law? It’s still not contingent so time will tell. With so many homes on the market my buyer will more than likely find another one that they like just as much or more.

Showings were already set for tomorrow and the bike ride cleared my mind about the close call and I enjoyed nature and the warm weather.

Real estate has its challenges…sometimes the wind blows and you feel like your going to be toppled off…but staying in the game and continuing to climb the next bend is all we can do. Eventually, we can stop and take a breather but for now, we keep on going. Scheduling another showing, writing another offer.

After drinking some water and eating some trail mix I hopped back on the bike and turned around. The small hill can wait for my next ride….I still have to climb back through the s curves and get back home. It’s always fun going down inclines but I always remember I have to ride back up.

I was thrilled to see my driveway as I finished my 1st bike ride knowing that I would have many more this season. Just like I know I will be writing more offers.

Evelyn Santiago

Dynamic Real Estate Network, Inc.

Country Stream

Country Road

March 17, 2010 in Blog by admin

Making the Cut! Great Price – Great Cut!

For my birthday I treated myself to a spring haircut. Being born on St. Patrick’s Day is a bit strange since everyone is celebrating! With contracts pending but no solid closings scheduled, money is a bit tight so I decided to return to my favorite price conscious hair salon.

I discovered this salon at the beginning of the year after going for my weekly chiropractic adjustment.

On Monday’s & Wednesday’s all haircuts are $8.00. Considering the prices I used to pay this was a bargain. This is just for the haircut and they dry it so no fancing styling or shampoo but considering I was on my way to the healthclub it was perfect.

Rosa’s Salon is located at 440 Weber Rd., in the Carillion Court which is next to the Carrillion subdivision just past I-55 interchange.

My stylist was Ilda and she took her time l

For my birthday I treated myself to a spring haircut. Being born on St. Patrick’s Day is a bit strange since everyone is celebrating!  With contracts pending but no solid closings scheduled,  money is a bit tight so I decided to return to my favorite price conscious hair salon.

I discovered this salon at the beginning of the year after going for my weekly chiropractic adjustment.

On Monday’s & Wednesday’s all haircuts are $8.00.  Considering the prices I used to pay this was a bargain.  This is just for the haircut and they dry it so no fancing styling or shampoo but considering I was on my way to the healthclub it was perfect.

Rosa’s Salon is located at 440 Weber Rd., in the Carillion Court which is next to the Carrillion subdivision just past I-55 interchange.

My stylist was Ilda and she took her time listening to how I wanted my hair cut and took over 45 minutes cutting my hair.  It’s perfect for spring!

So if you are in the Romeoville/Plainfield area and are watching your money stop by at Rosa’s.  They are opne from 9 to 7 p.m. M- F and from 9 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays.  Call 815-86-5488 and schedule your appointment or if you are in the neighborhood stop by – they accept walk-ins!

Here is Rosa with a “regular” client that is going to be at a fashion show today!  Thanks Rosa and client for allowing us to show your pics!

March 16, 2010 in Blog by admin

Great Weather, Good Mood, More Showings!

It’s a beautiful day in the western suburbs of Chicagoland! We are in the low 60′s and people are coming out of the woodwork. As I drove around to various appointments I got several calls for showings on my listings and inquiries on possible offers.

We really have had some tough weather this winter. Ton’s of snow every week coupled with low temperatures is not the best weather to get buyers out in large numbers unless they are very determined.

We are hardy in the Mid West but also have a big dose of common sense, so few brave the slippery roads and feet of snow to go looking for a home. But it appears that those days are slowly coming to an end.

Green buds on my outdoor plants are starting to show and I even saw a cardinal flying around in the backyard. These signs and men in shorts jogging along the trails are a sure sign that spring is around the corner and the official spring market is about to start.

So, to all you homebuyers out there…get out and start shopping. Prices are still low, interest rates are holding their own and your choices have never been better. Our spring and summer don’t seem to last very long compared to our winters. Come out and enjoy the day!

Spring is Around the Corner

March 15, 2010 in Blog by admin

Short Sale – Batavia Diamond In The Rough

Two Story Beauty

Short sales have become pretty common place in the Fox Valley area.   One of the hidden gems is a 4 bedroom custom home by Executive Builders in the Prairie Trails subdivision near Fermi Labs.  With formal living room and dining room off the foyer, this 2 story home has a lot to offer.  The soaring 2 story family room with a wall of 2 story windows overlooking the large backyard - you can just imagine yourself in front of the custom fireplace enjoying a relaxing time with friends and family.  The kitchen’s open setting allows an easy flow to the family room.

The upstairs offers a huge master bedroom suite with dual fireplace from the master bathroom to the bedroom.  Large walkin closet completes the retreat.  A open balcony overlooks the 2 story family room.  Large secondary bedrooms offers every member of the family a great place to sleep and relax.

A large basement is ready for your completion – whether a media room, fitness room or a combination plus an extra bedroom suite - its ready for you.

Two Story Family Room

This home is currently priced at $335,000 – thousands below other homes in subdivision.

Well worth the wait for the discerning buyer.

March 13, 2010 in Blog by admin

Tick Tock, Tick Tock..Stop Renting and Buy a Home

American Dream

As the clock keeps ticking the April 30th deadline to have a signed contract so you can be eligible for the hombuyer’s credit from Uncle Sam is slowly approaching.  For those last minute shoppers be prepared to get in line.

Buying a home is a serious proposition.  It more than likely will be the largest financial decision you will make in your lifetime.  So why are you putting it off?

For those who have never bought a home it can be a daunting task and add the fact that you are getting some help from your favorite Uncle that has a small string attach your anxiety level is bound to go up.

So here is some simple advice before you start your home search.  Find a real estate agent or broker that you feel comfortable with and have them recommend a mortgage professional that they like and do business with to start the ball rolling.  Get pre-approved and submit all your documention quickly.

Without getting your financial house in order that dream of buying a home is just a dream.  Unless your other Uncle left you a fortune and you can pay cash for your home you will need to get a mortgage to buy your home.

Whether you start out with a condo, townhome or a single family home only your personal preferences, lifestyle and pocket book can make that decision.  There are so many variables involved that only with a team of experts can you navigate through the home buying process.  That is why speaking to a professional is your first step.

Contact me or another trusted advisor and start your search!  Get pre-approved for a mortgage, tell your realtor what your preferences are – divide your wants from your needs and get out there and find that home.

Only you can determine if this is the right time for you to buy but the fact that interest rates are still low, prices have dropped in most neighborhoods and we still are able to buy with only 3.5% down this may be the perfect time for you to join thousands of home owners get a piece of the American dream…home ownership!

Hurry up the clock is ticking….less than 50 days left to have an accepted & signed contract and close before June 30th!

March 13, 2010 in Blog by admin

Hot Off the Press – North Aurora 3 Bedroom Short Sale!

Short sales are comprising more and more of the homes sold in almost every market.

Here is the latest one fresh off the press. Currently offered at $239,900 this 3 bedroom 2.5 bath, 2 car garage with unfinished basement just needs some new carpeting, interior paint and replacement of kitchen countertops to make it ready for its new owner. With a wonderful backyard with plenty of room for the family and friends to play in whether on the included playground set or the paver patio or even play house in the doll house shed. You won’t even have any neighbors in the back since it backs to a small wooded stream area. Walk to elementary school, easy access to Randall Rd. and Orchard Rd. shopping area and minutes from the I-88/Reagan exit.

March 13, 2010 in Blog by admin

Live Music, Great Food In An Unlikely Spot

My friend and I decided to try out a fairly new restaurant located right off one of the main highways in our area – I-88.  Located in a fairly new office complex, City Gate Grille was a very nice surprise.  While our area has tons of restaurants from your major franchise chains to small family places they are normally located in strip malls or in or near the downtown areas, such as Naperville, Aurora, Oswego, etc.

City Gate Grill is located in the Calamos Investment office building.  Modern and imposing on the corner of RT. 59 and Warrenville Road down from the Nicor Gas and the new Hotel Arista this complex has a variety of businesses.

Modern with silver and dark wood, bench seating as well as regular tables the service is good, quick and understated.  A perfect place for a celebratory dinner or just a night out with friends you can’t go wrong.  We were lucky and had live music from a duet singing old standards as well as some of the latest songs.  People were dancing and enjoying themselves as we sat with views of the I-88 traffic on a Friday night.

From the appetizers to dessert it was hard to find fault with the food. A nice wine list and specialty martini’s plus all the regular bar drinks your liquid libations were well covered.  Great ambiance, great music , great food and great service…a fun night was had by all.

American Mediterranean for those who enjoy an eclectic dining experience is what they advertise so for those special and not so special evenings out with friends, take a short trip past the Westfield Shopping Center down Rt. 59  and stop and visit…my friend recommends the Mango Martini!

www.CityGateGrille.com