Latest Listing for Marlene Rogers

Hey Fellow Bloggers and Followers,

This is my latest listing to hit the market FOR SALE. It's an AMAZINGLY renovated SPACIOUS Rancher w/ a FULL finished basement in Gwynn Oak, MD. Thats in Baltimore Co., close to Sam's Club, Pat's Pizza, M&T Bank, Bank of America, RT 40, I-695, Rt 70, Rt 29, I-95 and so much more. The advertised subdivision is Catonsville Manor; close to all, shops, restaurants, social security administration, commuter routes, etc.

This house SHINES w/ gleaming hardwoods, new kitchen, baths, nice sized rooms, a fenced backyard, walkout lower level complete with 2 separate spaces for dual uses (family room/games or office). The kitchen has 42" Maple Cherry cabinets, beautiful new floors, corian counters, a bistro set, and private driveway (could hold up to 3 cars).

All realtors see MLS # BC7262217 for details and all disclosure docs. Public openhouse scheduled for Sun 3/7/2010 from 1pm to 3 pm. Brokers Open on Fri 3/5/2010 from 1pm to 3pm. Brokers Open to feature FREE LUNCH, DRINKS & GIVEAWAYS, so drop by & check out my listing. It may be PERFECT for one of your buyers.

Electric systems was updated in 2007, along with the NEW vinyl siding and concrete walkway. Washer/Dryer conveys along with bistro set, and picnic table in backyard and radio player in kitchen. PRICED UNDER $235k, IT'S READY TO GO! Let's find the right buyer together and head to settlement before April 30, 2010.

Here's a sneak peek, via video.

Happy House Hunting & Thanks for reading my blog.

Deficiency Judgments

Deficiency Judgments. A possible trap door when buying a home. Let's explore when this can become an issue. The article here, http://www.foreclosure.com/statelaw_MD.html#6 tells us if a deficiency judgment is permitted in Maryland. FYI-Yes it is.

Whats does this all mean? A deficiency judgment occurs when a borrower owes the lender the difference between what the home sold for at auction and the original amt owed. For example: The original amt. owed on the loan was $200,000, and the home sold for $150,000 at auction. The difference of $50,000 could be saught in a lawsuit, as a "deficiency judgment," against the borrower. Fair? Absolutely not. Imagine, losing your home to foreclosure, then being sued by the bank for a "deficiency." Unbelievably CRUEL. If an individual couldn't afford to keep their home.....hence the foreclosure, how does a bank realistically think the borrower can pay an additional judgment??? From what money?? If someone cannot "modify" their loan, or commit to a "workout" agreement of some sort, its HIGHLY unlikely they can pay a deficiency judgment. Do the banks care?? HELL NO. They want to DRAIN all they can from whomever they can.

What are some ways to manage your money better and possibly avoid this scenario?

• Develop a savings plan for emergencies. Set aside whatever is feasible based on your current income and expenses, say $50 per week. That's $200 per month, and about $2,400 a year that may be used to "bail you out," if the need arises.
• Commit to paying a little more each payment on your mortgage, considering you're not subject to a "prepayment penalty." This may make talks go more smoothly should a hardship arise. If the lender sees you're "ahead of schedule" on your payments, this may allow you more time to catch up, if you find yourself falling behind.
• Whenever you have a "windfall" of money, (i.e. tax refund, bonuses, etc) set aside 1/3 to half for unexpected emergencies. Increase this windfall by setting aside regular savings in addition to this amout, increasing your cushion.

Another site with useful info on the topic is: http://articles.directorym.com/paying_a_deficiency_judgment_from_a_foreclosure-a969781.html

Hope this blog helped shed some light on an otherwise "dark" topic. Financial difficulties can devastate anyone. With some preparation, we can weather the storm a lot easier. Happy reading. Thanks for viewing my blog.

Tax Credit Extension and Expansion for 2010

Great news. The First-time Buyers tax credit has been extended and expanded. Read this article for details: http://money.cnn.com/2009/11/06/real_estate/tax_credit_extended/

FYI: A first time buyer is anyone who hasn't owned a home in the last 3 years. Additionally, the new credit was expanded to include current owners, that wish to "trade up." First-timers can qualify for up to $8,000 and existing owners can qualify for up to $6,500. This is a refundable credit that would put money in your pockets.

Let's recap: Is now a good time to buy a home? ABSOLUTELY. Interest rates are at historic lows. Uncle Sam is GIVING money as an incentive to buy. It's a Buyers market, which mean market conditions favor buyers and not sellers. What more could you ask for? Don't answer that. Just call me if you're planning to buy or sell, 443-538-1631. I can help you navigate this market.

Thanks for reading my blog. Happy Holidays & happy househunting. Check the next blog. Peace.