Northern Michigan Real Estate

Northern Michigan Real Estate http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/ Welcome to My Blog. If you are looking to relocate to Northern Michigan, searching for a second home or wanting to locate a business, I can assist you with your real estate needs. With over a decade of experience in both residential and commercial you can rest assured that you will be given the best advice for your real estate transaction. Please feel free to email or call with any questions that you may have about our current market conditions. Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors Direct Line: 231-944-0854 Office Line: 231-922-2350 email: cstalsonburg@charter.net www.Stalsonburg.com <script type="text/javascript"> var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); </script> <script type="text/javascript"> try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-8345269-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}</script> en-us http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1533526/homes-for-heroes Homes For Heroes <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">SPRING HOUSING MARKET IS UNDERWAY</p> <p style="text-align: center;">GREAT DISCOUNTS FROM <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">HOMES FOR HEROES</a></p> <p><a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">Homes For Heroes</a> ® offers large savings to local heroes when buying or selling a home:  A different approach to affordable home ownership</p> <p>With the Spring housing market underway, <a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">Homes For Heroes</a> is gearing up to serve as many Heroes as possible. Homes For Heroes aims to help close the gap between the cost of housing and buyers in the following groups:  military personnel, police officers, firefighters, teachers, first responders and others who serve our community and nation.</p> <p><a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">Homes For Heroes</a>, is celebrating its eighth year of bringing big savings to everyday heroes.  Inspired by the home-town heroes who serve and protect their communities and our country, a partnership of realtors, mortgage lenders, title company, and other affiliated service providers created Homes For Heroes, Incorporated.  This collaboration of real estate professionals' sole purpose is to offer savings when buying or selling a home.</p> <p><a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">Homes For Heroes</a> is proud to announce their newest market  affiliates.   <a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">Christine Stalsonburg</a> with <a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank">Exit Realty Paramount</a> is the Realtor Affiliate  and <a href="http://www.hollyhack.com" target="_blank">Holly Hack</a> with <a href="http://www.hollyhack.com" target="_blank">First Place Bank</a> is the lender affiliate for Grand Traverse, Antrim, Kalkaska, Benzie and Leelanau counties.</p> <p>While the programs genesis and primary concentration originally was intended to serve the Minnesota real estate market, word of the Homes For Heroes benefits unpredictably spread throughout the country.  With the far-reaching power of the Internet, this small-dedicated local effort spiraled into a growing nationwide program. </p> <p>If you would like more information about<a href="http://stalsonburg.com" target="_blank"> Homes For Heroes</a>  please call 231-409-4140 or email Christine at  <a href="mailto:Christine@Stalsonburg.com">Christine@Stalsonburg.com</a>.</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Mon, 08 Mar 2010 06:37:22 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1533526/homes-for-heroes http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1531805/do-you-have-mountain-moving-faith- Do You Have Mountain Moving FAITH? <p><p>This is a very powerful viedo, take a few minutes to watch it</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1531788/do-you-have-mountain-moving-faith-">Loreena Yeo - Broker|Realtor(R) of Frisco TX Homes (214) 783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>I know I'm speaking to you today through my Sunday God First post. To the self-employed and to those who works on commission. What I just want to tell you is just to put yourself out there, be the best you can be and God will take care of the rest.</p> <p>Kutless sang their latest release, <strong>What Faith can do</strong> - which is the center of my post today. I want you to take 4 minutes to absorb what this song would do for you.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pO6DXOsKOw4&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&hd=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pO6DXOsKOw4&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&hd=1" allowscriptaccess="always" height="385" width="480"></embed></object></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p><strong>Everybody falls sometimes</strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[Falling is a part of the process towards success. If you never failed, you would never know how glorious success feels like.]</span><br /><strong>Gotta find the strength to rise</strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[A famous Chinese proverb says, Failure is not falling down but refusing to stand up.]</span><br /><strong>From the ashes and make a new beginning </strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[We can make lemonades out of lemons. God never waste anything!]</span><br /><strong>Anyone can feel the ache <br />You think it’s more than you can take <br />But you are stronger, stronger than you know </strong><br /><<span style="color: #C00000;">[Jesus said you can do ALL things in His name. God has led you down this path thus far, He's not going to abandon you in the midst of it.]</span><br /><br /><strong>Don’t you give up now <br />The sun will soon be shining <br />You gotta face the clouds <br />To find the silver lining </strong><br /></p> <p><strong>I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains <br />Hope that doesn’t ever end<br /> Even when the sky is falling <br />And I’ve seen miracles just happen<br />Silent prayers get answered<br />Broken hearts become brand new</strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[Are you having marital issues because things are difficult and they stemmed from your uncertainty?]</span><br /><strong>That’s what faith can do </strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[Take each other's hand, walk down the path together. God said to never do it alone. Till death do you part. The easy way out is to throw in the towel.]</span><br /><br /><strong>It doesn’t matter what you’ve heard <br />Impossible is not a word<br />It’s just a reason for someone not to try</strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[There's no such thing as "try". You always "just do it".]</span><br /><br /><strong>Everybody’s scared to death</strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[Self-employment is scary indeed. The fear of not knowing when the next paycheck/ client is coming from and your family depends on you to put food on the table]</span><br /><strong>When they decide to take that step <br />Out on the water </strong><br /><span style="color: #C00000;">[Just imagine Jesus asking you to step out of the boat and to step on the water. Do you have enough faith to do it?]</span></p> <p><br /><strong>It’ll be alright <br />Life is so much more<br />Than what your eyes are seeing</strong><strong><br /></strong>[We just havent seen the Grand Finale yet. We haven't see our grand canvas yet.]<strong><br />You will find your way <br />If you keep believing <br /></strong></p> <p><strong>I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains <br />Hope that doesn’t ever end <br />Even when the sky is falling <br />And I’ve seen miracles just happen <br />Silent prayers get answered <br />Broken hearts become brand new <br />That’s what faith can do</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>I hope this song spoke to you like it did to me. Having mountain-moving faith is all we can ever have at the end of the day. It doesn't matter how much you've made, how many awards you have won or how many times you've become the Top Producer in your company.</p> <p>It's about not having any other "stuff" around you to count on. It's about depending on Him for everything.</p> <p>It's about having mountain-moving faith to make a difference in the lives you have been entrusted to help. God will take care of you when you take care of His children.</p> <p>Our success never comes from our real estate transactions or even our clients.</p> <p>My God told me that <strong>He can open doors no one can shut.</strong> He will do the same for you too.</p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Scripture of the Week:</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;">With God, all things are possible!<br />Matthew 19:26</p> <p> </p> <p><img title="Being a mom made me realize how much more God loves me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/2/3/9/5/ar126796423359327.JPG" height="240" alt="Being a mom made me realize how much more God loves me" style="margin: 2px 5px; float: right;" width="180" />PS: Have you recently known someone dear to you who's been sick, or even diagnosed with a terminally ill disease? Although your walk is tough and nothing has been this challenging in your life, God is not done painting that canvas yet. It's hard to admit, but God will make a good story out of it. We are all timed. Some know when we would leave and some don't. I find it a joy to "know" rather than not. Life perspectives will change in an instant. The things that were important before is now not so important. The things that didn't matter at one point suddenly become cherished moments.</p> <p>We all never know when the time is up. Do your best. If He calls you early, you'd be walking the streets of Heaven sooner. If He's called you to complete your tasks, do them with all of your heart until He calls you back home.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">I begin my week here on Active Rain with my <em><a href="http://activerain.com/blogs/316teamrealty/tags/god%20first%20posts" title="God First posts on Active Rain" target="_blank"><strong>God First</strong></a></em> posts, written every Sunday once a week. My promise to you is that the messages I share will be day-to-day related, often times related to real estate. If these topics are important to you also, I'd love for you to <strong><a href="http://www.activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/subscribe?subscribed_agent_id=13811" target="_blank">subscribe to my blog</a></strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="God First posts every Sunday by Loreena Yeo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/5/3/7/3/ar123109435137358.jpg" height="114" alt="God First posts every Sunday" width="125" /></p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color: #006699;">*********************************************************************************************</span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">All contents are original. Consider <strong><a href="http://www.activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/subscribe?subscribed_agent_id=13811" target="_blank">subscribing to my blog</a></strong> for more real estate commentaries. <br /> <br /><strong><a href="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/a/emailverifySubmit?feedId=2886838&loc=en_US">Subscribe via Email if you are not an Active Rain member here.</a> </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://activerain.com/316teamrealty" target="_blank"></a>Contact: </strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/6/0/8/4/ar125303583648067.jpg" height="183" alt="" width="175" /><br /><strong>Loreena Yeo </strong><br /> <a href="http://frisco-tx-homes.com/default.asp_Q_f_E_cpg_A_pg_E_AboutLoreenaYeo-FriscoTXRealtor" target="_blank"> Frisco TX Realtor®</a> / Broker of 3:16 team REALTY <br />(214) 783-2210 <br /><a href="mailto:loreena@loreenayeo.com">loreena@loreenayeo.com</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Check out my <strong> <a href="http://www.frisco-tx-homes.com/" target="_blank">Frisco TX Homes</a> </strong>website. <br /> The premier greater Frisco TX Homes local informational center for your one-stop real estate needs.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.frisco-tx-homes.com/frame.asp?f=mls&selectedidx=" target="_blank"> Search MLS Listings</a> with no registration required.<br /> <a href="http://www.frisco-tx-homes.com/default.asp_Q_f_E_homevaluerequest_A_d_E_forms" target="_blank"> Home Value Request</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Super-serving <strong>Frisco, Plano, Dallas, McKinney, Allen, Little Elm, Prosper, Celina, Richardson, Dallas M-Streets, <br /> Dallas White Rock Lake</strong> area communities and other surrounding areas.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Copyright © 2010 by Loreena Yeo (3:16 team REALTY).<br /> <strong>Do You Have Mountain Moving FAITH?</strong></p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Sun, 07 Mar 2010 06:50:10 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1531805/do-you-have-mountain-moving-faith- http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1531800/new-fha-loan-guidelines-effective-april-5-2010-heidi-engel-remax New FHA Loan Guidelines-Effective April 5 2010-Heidi Engel REMAX <p><p>Let's not forget about these new guidelines, they affect all of us.</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1531797/new-fha-loan-guidelines-effective-april-5-2010-heidi-engel-remax">Heidi Engel BROKER/Realtor, ADPR, SRES, FSSR (RE/MAX Suburban)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p><strong>Some great, simply explained, FHA changes to it's lending policy.  </strong></p> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>New Lending Policies Announced by FHA</strong>  </p> <p> If you've been listening to the housing news, you've probably heard about some lending changes that were announced by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). While many of the news reports were confusing, the truth is pretty clear...and isn't as bad as some people may have heard.</p> <p>Overall the measures announced by the FHA are intended to help the organization better manage its risks and strengthen its capital reserves, while still providing home loans to the nation.</p> <p>The good news, as FHA Commissioner David Stevens stated recently, is that "by continuing to provide affordable, responsible mortgage products, FHA will support the housing market's recovery" and "remain the largest source of home purchase financing for underserved communities."</p> <p><strong><strong>What's Changing?</strong></strong></p> <p>If you or someone you know is considering an FHA loan, some of these changes may affect you. Here's a clear, concise rundown of the major changes and what they mean:</p> <p><strong><strong>1.</strong></strong> Increased mortgage insurance. The mortgage insurance premium (referred to as private mortgage insurance by many people) will be increased from 1.75% to 2.25%. This change will add some cost to purchasing a home, but will not overburden consumers since the mortgage insurance is paid over the life of the loan, rather than upfront at closing. This change will become effective on April 5, 2010.</p> <p><strong><strong>2.</strong></strong> New down payment and credit score requirements. According to the new policy, homebuyers who have a credit score of at least 580 may still be able to purchase a home with 3.5% down, but those with credit scores of less than 580 will be required to put down at least 10%. This change is designed to help the FHA balance its risk, while still providing affordable down payments for consumers with a history of good credit and responsibility.</p> <p><strong><strong>3.</strong></strong> Reduced seller concession. Basically, this change means that the person selling the home will now only be able to offer the homebuyer 3% to help defray closing costs, as opposed to 6% under the previous policy.</p> <p>In addition to these changes, the new policies contain a series of new measures aimed at increasing lender enforcement.</p> <p>The bottom line is that the changes will impact some homebuyers more than others. But in the end, the FHA is still committed to providing affordable home loans.</p> <p> <strong><em>MORE INFORMATION on this and any other loan questions can be directed to my loan officer</em></strong></p> <p><em><strong><em>Steve Vels                                                                                                 Heidi Engel REMAX Suburban</em></strong></em><em><em></em></em></p> <p><em><strong><em>Senior Mortgage Consultant                                                                 BROKER/Realtor/ADPR/SRES/FSSR</em></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><em>American Fidelity Mortgage Service                                                 LISTING + SELLING HOMES for OVER 20 YRS </em></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><em>630-400-0240                                                                                         Direct         847-385-3327</em></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><em>630-681-1010 ext 167 Direct line                                                      Cell             847-910-2001</em></strong></em></p> <p><strong><em><a href="mailto:SteveV@amfsi.com">SteveV@amfsi.com</a>                                                                                 <a href="mailto:HeidiRemax@aol.com">HeidiRemax@aol.com</a></em></strong></p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.stevevels.com/" title="http://www.stevevels.com/">www.stevevels.com</a>                                                                               <a href="http://www.HeidiEngel.com">http://www.HeidiEngel.com</a>  </strong></p> <p><em><strong><em>With all of the changes in the mortgage industry American Fidelity Mortgage stands tall, and holds Illinois' longest active mortgage banking license since 1981!!!  You've heard of the rest, you've found the best!</em></strong></em></p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Sun, 07 Mar 2010 06:41:19 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1531800/new-fha-loan-guidelines-effective-april-5-2010-heidi-engel-remax http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1530490/home-gardening-styles-for-busy-budget-conscious-homeowners Home Gardening Styles for Busy, Budget Conscious Homeowners <p><p>Great ideas for a stress relieving Zen Garden</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1530486/home-gardening-styles-for-busy-budget-conscious-homeowners">James Foxx (ForeclosureDeals)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>You can still do <a href="http://home-garden.foreclosuredeals.com/">home gardening</a> despite your busy schedule and your tight budget by considering the following gardening styles. These styles do not require much of your time and they do not cost much, but they will show after a time that you have put great care and effort into your garden, not mentioning the joy and love that you feel as you do your gardening.</p> <p>One of these great but simple gardening styles is Zen gardening. A Zen garden is easy to maintain because it is not overloaded with plants, which require maintenance. It is a place where you can stay calm, be quiet and contemplate. You use rock, sand, water features, pebbles, stone and bamboo panels to design a calm space where you can get away from the stresses of the world.</p> <p>For your Zen garden, you need to choose plants that thrive all through the four seasons. Evergreens and perennials are great plants for a Zen garden.</p> <p>Another budget-friendly home gardening style is cottage gardening. A cottage garden reflects the old-fashioned and modest lifestyle of the cottage households of long ago. There are no rules, except that the plants must receive natural light and easy to water. Herbs are planted alongside favorite flowers, with diversity given more importance than layout. The common cottage plants are roses, hydrangeas, lilacs, rosemary, citrus and other flowering perennials.</p> <p>The third simple but great style is contemporary gardening. This type of gardening fits condo units or other dwellings that have smaller yards. Since space is scarce, plant containers are common in contemporary gardening. Plants are also chosen for their ability to thrive in enclosed spaces and for their tidy habit. Plants with leaves that have distinctive shapes or colors are great for contemporary gardens.</p> <p>The gardening style that has become popular during this time of environmental consciousness is eco-friendly gardening. Anything that helps nature, that prevents waste and that provides a friendly habitat for birds, lizards, butterflies and ladybugs is eco-friendly.</p> <p>Green gardening activities include water recycling, using compost, avoiding the use of herbicides and pesticides, using low-water-use shrubs and using plants that are resistant to drought, pest and disease.</p> <p>Among the best low-water plants are agaves, yucca and sedum and among the best drought-tolerant plants are lavender, citrus and Russian sage.</p> <p>You do not have to do your home gardening in one shot; take your time, cherish the moment and enjoy. </p> <p><h4><span style="font-size: large;">Original Post: </span><a href="http://home-garden.foreclosuredeals.com/home-gardening-styles-for-busy-budget-conscious-homeowners/"><span style="font-size: large;">Home Gardening Styles for Busy, Budget Conscious Homeowners</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> on </span><a href="http://www.foreclosuredeals.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">ForeclosureDeals.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span></h4></p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:09:19 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1530490/home-gardening-styles-for-busy-budget-conscious-homeowners http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1530489/how-the-first-time-home-buyer-credit-helped-the-market How the first time home buyer credit helped the market <p><p>This is a great article on how this tax credit is potentially affecting our markets</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1530479/how-the-first-time-home-buyer-credit-helped-the-market">Russ Ravary - Michigan Homes for sale - Michigan Real estate & Mortgage info (Remerica Hometown One)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>How has the first time home buyer tax credit helped the market?  I myself think it has been one of the Democrats best success stories.  Obama shined with that one.  I know Republicans and tea party members rabidly hate him,   BUT>>>>>>.  The first time home buyer tax credit did stabilze the housing values in many real estate markets across the country or at least slowed the downward spiral.  I think if you ask any real estate professional you will hear that the tax credit did bring a large number of buyers into the market.  The tax credit created demand.  And I believe the demand in the <a href="http://www.russravary.com" title="Metro Detroit housing" target="_blank"><strong><em>Metro Detroit housing</em></strong> </a>market was enough to temporarily stabilize the home values.</p> <p>A year ago we had inventories of homes that ranged from 6 months to 2 years.  Gone is that inventory.  Good houses are being sold quickly.  Sometimes in days.  It is not unusual for a house to only last 2 weeks to under a month.  A year or so ago we wouldn't take a listing for less than a 6 or 9 month period.  We would not think of accepting an offer with a contingency to sell.  Now those offers are being accepted.  The market has shifted because of the first time home buyer tax credit.  The market has improved.</p> <p>Before the first time home buyer tax credit we were on a major slide of home prices.  The tax credit brought investors and first time home buyers into the market.  In the last year it was not unusual to see multiple bids and homes going over list price.  All due to <a href="http://www.detroitmichiganrealestatehomes.com/real-estate/First-time-home-buyers" title="first tim home buyers" target="_blank"><strong><em>first time home buyers</em></strong></a> and the tax credit.  Sure the higher priced homes were not affected but the homes under $250,000 range were.</p> <p>Investors also jumped into the market.  They could <a href="http://www.detroitmichiganrealestatehomes.com/how-to-buy-a-good-investment-property" title="how to flip homes" target="_blank"><strong><em>buy and then fix up homes to flip</em></strong></a> to first time home buyers.  That also helped the market.</p> <p>As for what will happen  after it ends I honestly don't know.  I do think demand is already dropping off.  We are exhausting the first time home buyer pool.  Now we are getting bad credit people applying.  There are less qualified buyers out there right now.  So hopefully home values won't drop after the <a href="http://www.russravary.com/Nav.aspx/Page=%2FPageManager%2FDefault.aspx%2FPageID%3D2028662" title="first time home buyers" target="_blank"><strong><em>first time home buyers</em></strong></a> leave the market because the credit expired.   Hopefully the length of time houses will be on the market won't change.</p> <p>I think the economy is stabilizing somewhat.  People have accepted we are in this period for the long haul.  Americans are spending, yes but at a slower pace.  But they are spending.  We are moving forward in life.  Our standard of living is going to come down.  We are not going to be able to wastefully spend like we did for years.</p> <p>The roaring 90's are over.  We lived thru it.  The age of using your house as a bank is over.  It's time to pay up or pay the piper as they say.  We as real estate agents and home owners have to accept that prices are going to be much lower for years to come.  That we may have to stay in our homes for years to come because we are upside down.  The market has changed and accepting it, adapting to it will help us survive.</p> <p>-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p> <p>My quote of the day is:</p> <p>It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.  ~Author unknown </p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">__________________________________________________________</span></p> <p>May 2010 be one of the best years of your life! </p> <p><a href="http://www.russravary.com" title="Metro Detroit real estate agent" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large; font-family: arial black,avant garde;">Russ Ravary your Metro Detroit realtor</span></a></p> <p>           <span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Click on one of the pictures below to see the latest home listings</span></p> <p><a href="http://SearchForHomesvip.russravary.com " title="search metro detroit homes for sale" target="_blank"><img title="search metro detroit homes" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/4/3/1/1/ar125617584111349.gif" height="82" alt="search metro detroit homes" width="157" /></a>           <a href="http://SearchForlakeHomes.russravary.com " title="search Oakland county lake homes" target="_blank"><img title="Search Michigan Lake homes" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/5/2/1/ar125617596412516.gif" height="83" alt="Search Michigan Lake homes" width="150" /></a>           <a href="http://SearchForforeclosures.russravary.com " title="search metro detroit foreclosure listings" target="_blank"><img title="search metro detroit foreclosures" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/7/4/5/5/ar125617612155471.gif" height="81" alt="Search Metro Detroit foreclosures" width="167" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.detroitmichiganrealestatehomes.com" title="Metro Detroit real estate" target="_blank"><strong><em><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Metro Detroit relocation information website</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="http://MichiganLakerealestatehomes.com" title="Oakland county lake front homes" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong><em>Oakland County Water front homes for sale and Livingston County lake front real estate information website</em></strong></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.detroitmichiganrealestatehomes.com" title="Metro Detroit real estate" target="_blank"><strong><em></em></strong></a></p></div></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:07:23 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1530489/how-the-first-time-home-buyer-credit-helped-the-market http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528649/networking-secrets Networking Secrets <p>We have all been there, spent hours each week going to networking events to come home with no new contacts and the feeling of "why did I waste my time on that event".  It takes more than jsut being a wall flower in a room full of potential customers. You have to work the room.</p> <ol> <li>Show up early and ready to work with your pockets full of business cards</li> <li>Attend with a business associate and split the room, you will reach twice as many people and you can then share your contacts.</li> <li>Make sure that your 30 second commercial is compelling to listen to.  The Little Red Book of Sales Answers by Jeffrey Gitomer is a wonderful source for refining your 30 second commercial.</li> <li>Have your 30 second commercial  refined to a point where you don't stumble over anything when you present it.  This may take a few hundred times of practice in front of the mirror but the results will be well worth the effort put forth.</li> <li>Be happy and positive.  No one wants to be around or do business with Mr. or Ms. doom and gloom.</li> <li>Don't waste your time if the person is not a good prospect.  Disengage with them gracefully and move on.  Remember, your single goal is to make new contacts for potential new clients.</li> <li>Eat early, it is hard to eat and mingle.</li> <li>Leave the drinking up to everyone else.  You will have a distinct advantage of being sober.</li> <li>Make sure you stay until the very end.  The longer you stay at the event, the more contacts you will make.</li> </ol> <p>Event selection is critical in networking.  each week,  your local business journal, newspaper or Chamber of Commerce will publish a list of business events.  Don't forget about the social and cultural events as well, these are great networking possibilities.  Select events that attract customers or people that you want to work with and build your clientele from.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 07:43:16 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528649/networking-secrets http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528542/michigan-is-headed-for-brighter-days Michigan Is Headed For Brighter Days <p>Northern Michigan has always been in a little pocket all of its own.  We tend not to be subjected to most of the doom and gloom that the rest of the state has been experiencing.  Some may ask - Why is that?  Well, I will tell you why.  We have several advantages in our area.</p> <p>Our region has a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit, better focus on the quality of life and a better workforce.  I believe that these are three key elements to why we will see recovery faster than any other region in Michigan.</p> <p>In December, Michigan Economic Growth Authority approved a state tax credit for Traverse City's Skilled Manufacturing, Inc.  This created 168 jobs which included 78 new positions.  This credit will allow the company, which previously been primarily focused on the auto industry to now diversity into the aerospace market.  It may only look like a baby step in the grand scheme of our state wide but it is the best news that our state has had in the recent past.</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 06:17:29 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528542/michigan-is-headed-for-brighter-days http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528533/who-are-you-aiming-to-please-are-you-still-stuck-in-high-school-in Who are you aiming to please? Are you still stuck in high school? #in <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1528529/who-are-you-aiming-to-please-are-you-still-stuck-in-high-school-in">Barry Owen (Keller Williams Realty)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>I've written several times about this notion of why are you learning?</p> <p>Are you learning to learn?</p> <p>Are you just seeking more designations - Cryptic groups of letters after your name on your business card?</p> <p>Are learning for YOU and your personal improvement?</p> <p>Where does this learning that you are doing fit into your big picture?</p> <p>What's the opportunity cost of the education you attend?</p> <p>In the few hours in a CE class . . . or years of college, were you learning to satisfy a "requirement" or were you attending because the curriculum supports your BIG WHY?</p> <p>Seth Godin wrote it better than I - here:</p> <p><a href="http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/03/on-self-determination.html">http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/03/on-self-determination.html</a></p> <p>Gary Keller says that we should Learn to TAKE ACTION if we want to achieve the level of success to which we aspire.</p> <p>so . . .</p> <p>Learning IS important!</p> <p>Just remember that simply learning to learn or learning to please someone else's "requirement" of you doesn't serve you nearly as well as learning to improve your ability to take appropraite action.</p> <p>I think it's perfectly OK to be selfish with your time . . . especially when it comes to learning.</p> <p>Oh yeah! I have NO problem with all those letters after folk's names n their business cards (GRI, CRS, ABR), and I applaud those folks who have endured the coursework to earn those (I have accomplished most of them myself) . . . yet I sometimes wonder if those letters came as a result of learning to take action . . . or to stuff the resume? :-)</p> <p>I'm just sayin'</p> <p>Best,</p> <p>b</p> <p>Barry Owen</p> <p>Real Estate Broker<br />Keller Williams Realty<br />Call me:                             615.568.2123                                        </p> <p>email me: <a href="mailto:barryowen@kw.com" target="_blank">barryowen@kw.com </a></p> <p>Visit The Owen Group <a href="http://www.theowengroup.net/" target="_blank">http://www.theowengroup.net</a><br /><a href="http://www.owengroupnashvillehomes.com/" target="_blank">http://www.owengroupnashvillehomes.com</a><br />Barry Owen's Internet Portal to all blogsites, websites, and social networks<br /><a href="../../2010/01/16/2009/12/19/2009/06/02/barry-owens-web-portal/" target="_blank">http://tnrealestatetribalhub.wordpress.com/2009/06/02/barry-owens-web-portal/</a></p> <p>Simply & BOLDLY Living the FourFold Way in Open Space!</p> <p>Quintessentially connected to the real estate industry to offer the ultimate experience for Home Buyers and Sellers in Middle Tennessee . . . Inquire within!</p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 06:06:50 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528533/who-are-you-aiming-to-please-are-you-still-stuck-in-high-school-in http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528530/had-to-share- Had To Share! <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1528515/had-to-share-">Paula Roberts (Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>I had acreage listed and unfortunately it had expired. End of Story right? Wrong!- On Tuesday afternoon I received this call inquiring on the property. You say no big deal right? happens all the time, right? Well because the Land was expired and because we sold a small portion previously I explained to the potential Buyer I would need to get with the Seller and would call him back. Spoke to the Seller and got the go ahead. Seller was very excited. I went to my trust worthy phone to retrieve the number and my stupid phone would not let the number go through. After several hours on the phone with my cell phone provider and pulling one strand of my hair out at a time. I finally got someone at the cell phone company who had it going on! See this number on my cell wasn't your average 10 digit number. This number was 15 digits long.</p> <p>This customer service person explained that the number I had coming in sounded like another country. She told me to add an additional three digit number to the number I had and I would be good.</p> <p>I finally got someone on the phone. I told the person who I was and why I was calling. I had actually spoken with her husband. I asked the lady if she didn't mind where was I calling? Bearing in mind I live in Dalton, GA and my property is located in Lula, GA - - She said sure no problem - You have actually called Germany.</p> <p>I was so blown away! I have forwarded the plat and information which is being reviewed and hopefully will develop into something but, my whole point and the reason I wanted to share is the fact that we as Realtors are truly accessible all over the world and when we list properties for our customers can say without question that we will truly be marketing their properties not just in their hometowns but, clearly all over the world.... How cool is that!!!</p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 06:04:12 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528530/had-to-share- http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528528/buying-a-home-in-need-of-repairs-think-203k Buying a Home in Need of Repairs....Think 203K <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1528525/buying-a-home-in-need-of-repairs-think-203k">Dave diCecco (Coldwell Banker United)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>i was inclined to write about a 203k loan today after showing a home yesterday.  My buyers were in need of a new home.  They were interested in something that they could put a little "sweat equity" into.  As long as the repairs to the home were not going to be to extensive.  In our search they found a home that they liked.  We went out to look at the home and found the work to be more than we both anticipated.  (it was a bank foreclosure).  Thus the disclosure did not state the extent of the work needed on the home.</p> <p>  I recommended they look at a 203k loan.  I got one of those looks you get when someone thinks you are talking to them in a strange language.  I explained to them the basics of the loan.  It is a mortgage where the bank gives them a loan for the the home and the needed repairs to the home all rolled into one.  Once approved for the loan and you close; the bank will give you the money for the repairs as the job(s) are done.  You will have to have the work done by a licensed contractor(s) depending on what needs to eb done.</p> <p>  What is the catch? The catch is you cannot do the work yourself.  Unless you are a liscenced contractor in that field.  And you have to do the work or you are subject to penalities for not having it done within a specified time frame.  In the ones I have done depending on the extent of the work anywhere from 30 to 60 days</p> <p>  The program is designed to help revitalize neighborhoods.  The contractors like it becasue they know they are going to get paid for the work.  In the few cases I have used it,  the attorney held the money for repairs.  As the contractor finished the job they submit an invoice to the attorney.  The attorney would disperse the funds to the contractor upon proof of the work being done. </p> <p>  Is this loan for everyone?  Probably not. But if you are looking at a home...have the down payment but feel the work is just to much to handle;  do yourself a favor and look into the loan program.  For my buyers they are so grateful they can get into their dream house now.....     </p> <p>Dave diCecco</p> <p>Realtor/Agent</p> <p><a href="http://www.davedicecco.com">www.davedicecco.com</a> </p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:59:44 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528528/buying-a-home-in-need-of-repairs-think-203k http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528527/a-good-home-inspector-worth-their-weight-in-closed-transactions- A Good Home Inspector...Worth their Weight in Closed Transactions ! <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1528499/a-good-home-inspector-worth-their-weight-in-closed-transactions-">Sally & David Hanson WI Realtors Res.\Comm\Short Sale\CDPE\ABR\e-Pro (Keller Williams 414-525-0563)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>     One of the very best assets a realtor can have and a buyer will value is a good home inspector. It is a fine line to walk between being thorough and noting aras where there may have been some deferred maintenance and sounding the "defect" alarm scaring the buyers into withdrawing an offer for what "may be, could be" a problem. Laws are different in different states and it is part of the responsibility of the realtor to explain what can happen on a home inspection and the remedies or choices that buyers and sellers have as a result.<img title="home inspector" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/5/7/3/ar126778997337563.jpg" height="108" alt="home inspector" style="float: left;" width="113" /></p> <p>    We cannot call <a href="http://activerain.com/russel" title="Russel Ray - Home Inspector" target="_blank">Russel Ray</a>,(California) <a href="http://activerain.com/jaymarkanich" title="Jay Markanich" target="_blank">Jay Markanich</a> (Virginia)  or<a href="http://activerain.com/radnorlake" title="Michael Thornton" target="_blank"> Michael Thornton,</a> (Tennesse) in Wisconsin, inspectors have to be licensed by the state. Often an inspector has a "past life" career in a trade related job. The education to obtain a license covers the major mechanical portions of the home - electrical, heating, plumbing and structural area...roofing, foundations. An inspector can raise concerns that may require an expert for further evaluation.  This could mean the inspection of a furnace, a basement expert to determine the cause of a water problem or the pitch of a wall, a roofer who may recommend a flashing addition, etc. Not every issue is what we would call a "defect"....there is always some on the "to do" list and the buyer and their agent determine what things they ask the to do and what things are just "routine systems maintenance" and the buyers will keep an eye on or deal with after closing. It is important for the sellers to understand that inspectors are paid to find areas of concern...and they will and do...whether it is new construction or a historical landmark.  It is not an insult to the way that the home has been maintained, it is just a caution to the buyers for things that require further examination or correction.  In many cases the items may not be major issues and it is always best for an expert in the area of concern to do further evaluation.<img title="home inspector" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/9/9/7/ar126779005679974.jpg" height="121" alt="home inspector" style="float: right;" width="121" /></p> <p>        On the buyer's side of the transaction, it is best to look at the whole inspection and decide what if any experts need to be called to do further evaluation. Important to the entire "health of the transaction" is having the list complete and all concerns raised within the time period that the sales contract specifies. In Wisconsin, a 10 day period is "usual and customary". A good realtor has a library of experts that can be called in a variety of fields from a handyman to a licensed electrician to repair or replace items that may need attention. Make one list and decide what things you wish the seller to address. Know what you don't know and call the people who do. Make it a one time trip...not fix this...and a day later...about the....One ammendment should cover it all.</p> <p>        Respect the Inspect....that's for both sides...for the seller, it is not meant to insult...you need not be defensive. For the Buyer....it may be a caution...working  together for resolution allows everyone to live happily ever afer.</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><strong><span style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></strong></p></div></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:58:32 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528527/a-good-home-inspector-worth-their-weight-in-closed-transactions- http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528523/take-the-townhalls-to-washington-i-need-your-help-asap- Take the Townhalls to Washington..... I need your help ASAP... <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1528335/take-the-townhalls-to-washington-i-need-your-help-asap-">Alice Linahan (Keller Williams)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"><strong>I need your help ASAP..</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Please reblog and help me spread the word!!</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">As people in the Real Estate Industry who are seeing exactly how the Obama Administration is <strong><em>"Fundamentally Changing America"</em></strong> it is our turn to Step Up, Speak Out and become engaged in the battle to save our Country.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>The battle right now is Obamacare. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://www.frugal-cafe.com/public_html/frugal-blog/frugal-cafe-blogzone/2009/10/06/dunce-award-to-illinois-democrat-sen-durbin-blacklists-radio-station-for-announcing-he-would-be-in-state-to-discuss-obamacare/" target="_blank"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/9/5/4/1/ar126776505814595.jpg" height="294" alt="" width="400" /></a></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">As a member of the Nationwide Tea Party I am charged with getting you to Washington DC</p> <p style="text-align: center;">between March 10th and March 26th.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>The Plan......</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="http://michaelpatrickleahy.blogspot.com/2010/03/take-town-halls-to-washington.html" target="_blank">Take the Town Halls to Washington</a></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">"Despite the opposition of the vast majority of the American people to the Big Government health care takeover proposed by the Obama Administration, the President, Harry Reid, and Nancy Pelosi are determined to ram down their socialist health care packages through the Congress."</p> <p style="text-align: center;">So be it.<br /><br />We are not without resources, ideas, or tactics to stop this monstrous abuse of our country's political process.<br /><br />It's time to take the town halls to Washington, D.C.<br /><br />For more details, please go to <a href="http://takethetownhallstowashington.blogspot.com/">www.takethetownhallstowashington.com</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Here's the idea:<br /><br /><em><strong>"Speaker Pelosi fears the unfriendly reception members of Congress who support Obamacare will receive when they return home in April at the Easter recess. In order to avoid forcing members of Congress to listen to their constituents at home, which might stop the bill, Speaker Pelosi is accelerating the process. She wants to force the House to vote up or down on Obamacare before the Easter recess."<br /><br />"If members of Congress won't come to their constituents, their constituents will come to them."</strong></em></p> <p style="text-align: center;">That is where you come into play!!</p> <p style="text-align: center;">The idea is to bring a tea party town hall to the 66 members of the House of Representatives whose support of Obamacare is wavering. We want to let them know there is only one vote their constituents will support: <strong>No on Obamacare</strong>. I am asking you to become an activist and to travel to Washington during this period, and make sure that each of these 66 members is reminded every day that if they fail to vote against Obamacare, they will be voted out of office in November.<br /><br /><strong>Bring your video cameras!</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">There will be an official war room so we can coordinate and an official videographer to record all the encounters because in the Capitol, if it isn't on video, it did not happen, as we know!</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Please contact me and let me know if you can make it.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">If your representative is on the below list. I need you there!!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Blessings are still abundant in America! Help me fight to keep it that way!!</em></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Here's the list of 66 members of Congress we intend to inform of their constituents' wishes each day they are in Washington from March 9 to March 31, 2010:<br /><br /><br />Rep. Michael Arcuri, New York 24th<br />Rep. John Boccieri, Ohio, 16th<br />Rep. Allen Boyd, Florida, 2nd<br />Rep. Christopher Carney, Pennsylvania, 16th<br />Rep. Gerald "Gerry" Connolly, Virginia, 11th<br />Rep. Henry Cuellar, Texas 28th<br />Rep. Steve Driehaus, Ohio, 1st<br />Rep. Chet Edwards, Texas, 17th<br />Rep. Brad Ellsworth, Indiana, 8th<br />Rep. Bob Etheridge, North Carolina, 2nd<br />Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, Arizona, 8th<br />Rep. Deborah "Debbie" Halvorson, Illinois, 11th<br />Rep. Paul W. Hodes, New Hampshire, 2nd<br />Rep. Jay Inslee, Washington, 1st<br />Rep. Paul Kanjorski, Pennsylvania, 11th<br />Rep. Marcy Kaptur, Ohio, 9th<br />Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, Arizona, 1st<br />Rep. Ron Klein, Florida, 22nd<br />Rep. Suzanne Kosmas, Florida, 24th<br />Rep. Jim Langevin, Rhode Island, 2nd<br />Rep. Stephen Lynch, Massachusetts, 9th<br />Rep. Daniel B. Maffei, New York, 25th<br />Rep. Ed Markey, Massachusetts, 7th<br />Rep. Alan B. Mollohan, West Virginia, 1st<br />Rep. John Murtha, Pennsylvania, 12th<br />Rep. Glenn C. Nye III, Virginia, 2nd<br />Rep. Tom Perriello, Virginia, 5th<br />Rep. Gary Peters, Michigan, 9th<br />Rep. Nick Rahall, West Virginia, 3rd<br />Rep. Laura Richardson, California, 37th<br />Rep. Ciro Rodriguez, Texas 23rd<br />Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger, Maryland, 2nd<br />Rep. Linda Sanchez, California, 39th<br />Rep. Kurt Schrader, Oregon, 5th<br />Rep. David Scott, Georgia, 13th<br />Rep. Adam Smith, Washington, 9th<br />Rep. Peter Visclosky, Indiana, 1st<br />Rep. David Wu, Oregon, 1st<br />Rep. John Adler, New Jersey 3rd<br />Rep. Jason Altmire, Pennsylvania 4th<br />Rep. Brian Baird, Washington 3rd<br />Rep. John Barrow, Georgia 12th<br />Rep. Melissa Bean, Illinois 8th<br />Rep. Marion Berry, Arkansas 1st<br />Rep. Rick Boucher, Virginia 9th<br />Rep. Dennis Cardoza, California 18th<br />Rep. Travis Childers, Mississippi 1st<br />Rep. Jim Costa, California 20th<br />Rep. Artur Davis, Alabama 7th<br />Rep. Joe Donnelly, Indiana 2nd<br />Rep. Parker Griffith, Alabama 5th<br />Rep. Baron Hill, Indiana 9th<br />Rep. Steve Kagen, Wisconsin 8th<br />Rep. Daniel Lipinski, Illinois 3rd<br />Rep. Jim Marshall, Georgia 8th<br />Rep. Jim Matheson, Utah 2nd<br />Rep. Michael E. McMahon, New York 13th<br />Rep. Michael Michaud, Maine 2nd<br />Rep. Harry Mitchell, Arizona 5th<br />Rep. Collin C. Peterson, Minnesota 7th<br />Rep. Mike Ross, Arkansas 4th<br />Rep. Ike Skelton, Missouri 4th<br />Rep. Bart Stupak, Michigan 1st<br />Rep. Gene Taylor, Mississippi 4th<br />Rep. Bart Gordon, Tennessee 6th<br />Rep. John Tanner, Tennessee 8th</p><div class="agent_signature"><p style="text-align: center;">_________________________________________________________________________________________________________</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>(Copyright © 2010 By <a href="http://alicelinahan.yourkwagent.com/" target="_blank">Alice Linahan</a> All Rights Reserved.)</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Remember the biggest compliment I can receive is a referral from you!</p> <p style="text-align: center;">I would love the opportunity to earn your business!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Alice Linahan </strong><strong>Keller Williams Realtor </strong><strong>Argyle-DFW  Cell </strong><strong>972-322-8313</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>You can find me where people, homes, opportunity and a bit of imagination intersect!</strong>  </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Note from Alice: This is my post and my opinion and may not be the opinion of Keller Williams Corp.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">A reminder: This is my public blog.  Posters who leave comments that are personal attacks against the blogger or other commentators will be deleted. Debate the issue!!!! Thank you</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.topproducerwebsite.com///users/20594/images/EqualHousing_gif.jpg" alt="" /><img src="http://www.topproducerwebsite.com///users/20594/images/GRI-logo.jpg" alt="" /><img src="http://www.topproducerwebsite.com///users/20594/images/RMLS_gif.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://activerain.comhttp://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/6/2/2/8/ar125752092382268.jpg" height="107" alt="" width="247" /></p></div></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:54:46 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1528523/take-the-townhalls-to-washington-i-need-your-help-asap- http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1527421/asbestos-prevention-and-healthy-tips-for-the-home Asbestos Prevention and Healthy Tips for the Home <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Asbestos Prevention and Healthy Tips for the Home</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong>The road to owning a home is a wonderful experience, but one that requires new responsibilities. Homes that are newly purchased may require additional remodeling or repairs.</p> <p>Potential home buyers or those remodeling older homes should be aware homes built before 1980 maintain the chance of containing asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in construction applications for the greater part of the 20th century.</p> <p>This does not mean you should be afraid because asbestos exposure is easily prevented by taking simple precautions. It should be noted that most asbestos will not pose a threat to your health and safety. Many eco-friendly green insulation options exist which not only provide a safe alternative to asbestos, but can even reduce annual energy costs.</p> <p> When asbestos deteriorates and its fibers become airborne, it has the potential of causing severe lung ailments such as mesothelioma (<a href="http://www.asbestos.com/">http://www.asbestos.com/</a>) and asbestosis. Physician diagnosis has been a difficult task because mesothelioma symptoms are so similar to other, less serious conditions. The negligence involved with the asbestos scandal has been one of greed and dishonesty. Manufacturers of asbestos were aware of its toxic qualities, but repressed this information from the public. It is tough to accurately gauge mesothelioma statistics (<a href="http://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/statistics.php">http://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/statistics.php</a>) because many cases go unreported.</p> <p> If you locate any suspected asbestos, leave it alone. If you are having home renovations, performed, do not panic. In most cases, the best action is no action in regards to asbestos. These inspectors will assess the situation and oversee the work of all contractors involved and determine whether suspicious materials are present.</p> <p> However, if removal is necessary, it must be performed by a licensed abatement contractor who is trained and licensed to deal with hazardous materials and removal projects.</p> <p> With increasing technology and public initiatives, green alternatives exist which allow for an asbestos free environment. These healthy insulation alternatives include cotton fiber, lcynene and cellulose. According to studies performed by manufacturers, the use of cotton fiber can reduce annual energy costs by 25 percent! These options will provide a safe and healthy home, free of any damaging materials.</p> <p>Recently, congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law. Included in this act were extensions to the tax incentives placed for energy efficiency in 2005, as well as new credits for homeowners who remodel or build using eco-sustainable methods. Some of the measures that are eligible for tax credits include added insulation to walls, ceilings, or other part of the building envelope that meets the 2009 IECC specifications, sealing cracks in the building shell and ducts to reduce heat loss. Storm doors paired with U-factored rated wood doors are also eligible.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:36:31 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1527421/asbestos-prevention-and-healthy-tips-for-the-home http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1526637/when-the-movies-come-to-your-town When the Movies Come to Your Town <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1526625/when-the-movies-come-to-your-town">Marla Schneider - Move with Marla (The Marla Schneider Team)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p><img title="Movie Tickets" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/9/3/6/ar126771137963978.jpg" height="240" alt="Movie Tickets" style="margin: 6px; float: left;" width="320" />A trip to the movies can be a fun adventure for the whole family. But did you know that portions of some famous movies were filmed right in Northbrook and Wilmette? It's true, let's have a look: </p> <p>1. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090305/"><strong>"Weird Science"</strong></a> is about two nerds who create the perfect woman. Set in the fictional Shermer, Illinois, some of their adventures were filmed at Northbrook Court in Northbrook.</p> <p>2. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081283/"><strong>"Ordinary People"</strong></a>, about an Illinois family coping with the death of their oldest son, has a scene in the Original Pancake House at 153 Green Bay Road in Wilmette. </p> <p>3. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099785/"><strong>"Home Alone"</strong></a>, the comedy misadventures of an eight-year-old boy left home alone when his parents go on vacation, had parts filmed at the Trinity Methodist Church, 1024 Lake Avenue in Wilmette as well as other North Shore locations. </p> <p>4. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088847/"><strong>"The Breakfast Club"</strong></a> now a cult classic, shows us a day in the life of five high school students as they bond during Saturday detention. Scenes were filmed at the Glenbrook North High School in Northbrook. </p> <p>If you get a chance to see some of these movies, be sure to keep an eye open for the local sites mentioned above. It's great fun to see places that are part of your daily life on the big screen. </p> <p>Make Wilmette, Glenview, Northbrook and the North Shore part of your daily life so if the big screen comes to town, you'll be there to watch them film. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.homesofglenview.com/">The Marla Schneider Team</a></span> can help you find your <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.homesofglenview.com/myhomes.asp">perfect home</a></span> in any of these photogenic neighborhoods.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:09:42 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1526637/when-the-movies-come-to-your-town http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1526634/workshop-for-house-owners-is-focusing-on-foreclosure-prevention Workshop for House owners is focusing on Foreclosure Prevention <p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1526630/workshop-for-house-owners-is-focusing-on-foreclosure-prevention">Kevin Simpson (ForeclosureListings.com)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p style="float: left; padding: 0 5px 5px 0;"><img title="foreclosure-workshop" class="size-medium wp-image-3565" src="http://www.foreclosure1.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/foreclosure-seminar-300x216.jpg" height="126" alt="Workshops are helping owners to prevent foreclosure" width="153" /></p> <p>According to the Mortgage Bankers Association the number of house owners facing risk from <strong><a href="http://www.foreclosure1.com/">foreclosure</a></strong> touched a new high for the 9th running quarter. In the <strong><a href="http://www.foreclosure1.com/listings/CA/MENDOCINO/">Mendocino County</a></strong> Fairgrounds nearly 50 persons were either struggling to hold on to their houses or planning to purchase their first nest, recently got together at a workshop aimed at stalling foreclosures.</p> <p>Cathy Fantulin a house owner residing in Fort Bragg complained, “Our loans just keep getting sold over and over.” Her predicament typifies a national tendency. </p> <p>According to the Associated Press unemployment is currently the prime reason for defaults and delinquencies in home loans. </p> <p>The <strong><a href="http://www.foreclosure1.com/sub-prime-loans.php">sub-prime loans</a></strong> contracted during the housing boom are no longer the culprits. The figures given by Mortgage Bankers Association and reported by AP showed that of the new foreclosures during the previous quarter showed that 33% of the borrowers came from those with fixed rate mortgages. In the previous year the proportion was 21%. The sub-prime mortgages were the prime culprits for the fiasco. Fantulin said, “We were upper-middle class before all this.”</p> <p>Till recently Fantulin together with her husband could manage the mortgage on their house with their joint income. Trouble started when they contracted a second mortgage to meet certain medical expenses of their child. Subsequently she suddenly became jobless after falling ill. Currently she is surviving on the benefits of Social Security and part time work that hardly suffices to meet her house commitments.</p> <p>Representatives from various regional banks, lawyers and financial counselors were present at the workshop attending 3 panel talks. Individual house owners were counseled. There were many reasons behind the troubles of the house owners – some had lost jobs while others were battling with the high rates of sub-prime mortgages. They had all gathered to deal with the harsh reality of the collapsed real estate market – it being one of the main causes for their debts and inability to pay it.</p> <p>Marty Lombardi of <a href="https://www.savingsbank.com/"><strong>Savings Bank</strong></a> said, “Fannie Mae has come down to our banks and all the institutions and mandated that we work with borrowers that we forge programs and alternatives for you that only represent 30 percent of your income, where the mortgage that wasn’t affordable is now affordable. The banks are finding their way. They’re being pushed by the legislators, but they’re finding their way right now. So what you were told a month ago … is not today’s reality.”</p> Original Post: <a href="http://www.foreclosure1.com/blog/foreclosure/workshop-owners-focusing-foreclosure-prevention">Workshop for House owners is focusing on Foreclosure Prevention</a> </blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Christine Stalsonburg, Realtor</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Real Estate Consultant</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Exit Realty Paramount</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">231-409-4140</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">ASK ABOUT MY "HOMES FOR HEROES" PROGRAM</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">MILITARY, FIRE, POLICE, TEACHERS AND MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.HOMESFORHEROES.COM">WWW.HOMESFORHEROES.COM</a></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Check Our Our Digital Marketing System</span></strong></p> <p><a title="Digital Marketing System" href="http://www.exitrealty.com/dms" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.exitrealty.com/dms</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://www.stalsonburg.com"><span style="font-size: medium;">www.stalsonburg.com</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p>415 Cass St.  Suite #2  Traverse City, MI   49684</p> <p> <script src="http://pub.mybloglog.com/newwithme.php?b=sidebar&id=E_CmICQRqdG5JM19vJaATEIA0BPmWVaI0n4K9A--" type="text/javascript"></script> </p></div> Christine Stalsonburg (Exit Realty Paramount) Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:08:21 -0600 http://northernmichiganrealestatecs.com/post/1526634/workshop-for-house-owners-is-focusing-on-foreclosure-prevention