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	<title>PruCalVoices &#187; Lee Ginsburg</title>
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	<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com</link>
	<description>Conversations in Real Estate</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:40:10 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>After Christmas Sale, &#8211; Bay Area Homes up to 60% off</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2012/01/after-christmas-sale-bay-area-homes-up-to-60-off/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2012/01/after-christmas-sale-bay-area-homes-up-to-60-off/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Jan 2012 22:15:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate in the News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate on the Web]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bay area homes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home prices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Interest rates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ken Rosen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leesells]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leesellsmore.com]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[san francisco bay area]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south san francisco]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4973</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[That is a big statement. Macy’s, Target, Wal-Mart and all most other stores put their products on “After Christmas Sales”. Home Sellers in San Bruno, South San Francisco, and all over the San Francisco Bay Area have put their products on the “After Christmas Sale” I have randomly selected two recently sold homes to use [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>That is a big statement. Macy’s, Target, Wal-Mart and all most other stores put their products on “After Christmas Sales”. Home Sellers in San Bruno, South San Francisco, and all over the San Francisco Bay Area have put their products on the “After Christmas Sale”</p>
<p>I have randomly selected two recently sold homes to use as an example.</p>
<p>3691 Exeter Dr., a 3BR/2Ba. San Bruno home just sold on Jan 18, 2012 for $452,000 it also sold on May 9 2003 for $600,000. That results into a 36% savings in monthly payments. Look at the numbers.</p>
<p>3875 Carter Drive, #106 a 2Br/2Ba. Condo in South San Francisco sold on Jan 4, 2012 doe $277,000 and in April 25, 2006 it sold for $550,000. A 59% savings. Look at the numbers.</p>
<p>As you look at the numbers please note  the lower down payment required, and the lower property tax. Both due to the lower home price.  You save all around. <span style="font-size: xx-small">Numbers are deemed reliable but not guaranteed.</span></p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="568">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top"></td>
<td width="76" valign="top"><strong><span style="font-size: medium">3691</span></strong></td>
<td width="98" valign="top"><strong><span style="font-size: medium">Exeter Dr.</span></strong></td>
<td width="104" valign="top"><strong><span style="font-size: medium">San Bruno</span></strong></td>
<td width="108" valign="top"><strong><span style="font-size: medium">3875, #106</span></strong></td>
<td width="64" valign="top"><strong><span style="font-size: medium">Carter Dr</span></strong></td>
<td width="10" valign="top"><strong><span style="font-size: medium">SSF</span></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top"></td>
<td width="76" valign="top">2012</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">2003</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">Difference</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">2012</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">2006</td>
<td width="10" valign="top">Difference</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Purchase Price</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">$452,000</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">600,000</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">25%</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">277,000</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">550,000</td>
<td width="10" valign="top">50%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Down Payment</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">90,400</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">120,000</td>
<td width="104" valign="top"></td>
<td width="108" valign="top">55,400</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">110,000</td>
<td width="10" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Loan</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">361,600</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">480,000</td>
<td width="104" valign="top"></td>
<td width="108" valign="top">221,600</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">440,000</td>
<td width="10" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Interest Rate</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">4.25</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">5.75</td>
<td width="104" valign="top"></td>
<td width="108" valign="top">4.25</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">6.5</td>
<td width="10" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Principal and Int.</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">1726.</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">2801</td>
<td width="104" valign="top"></td>
<td width="108" valign="top">1090</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">2781</td>
<td width="10" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Property Tax @1.1%</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">415</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">550</td>
<td width="104" valign="top"></td>
<td width="108" valign="top">254</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">504</td>
<td width="10" valign="top"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="108" valign="top">Monthly Payment</td>
<td width="76" valign="top">2140</td>
<td width="98" valign="top">3351</td>
<td width="104" valign="top"></td>
<td width="108" valign="top">1344</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">3285</td>
<td width="10" valign="top">59%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>I selected these properties randomly. You might find savings greater or lesser. I want to point out to you by using real numbers the <strong>“Perfect Storm”</strong> has arrived; Low interest rates and low home prices. In the past if rates went down prices would go. This is an opportunity of a lifetime. If the I Pad was on sale like homes are on sale you would be on line at 4AM. For all of the potential buyers waiting for the right time, this is your wake up call. The time is right. Ken Rosen of the Fisher Center at UC Berkeley says <strong><em>“This is the best time to buy a home in 30 years”</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Considering buying or want to learn more call your favorite Realtor or come to my Free Home Buying Seminar. <a href="http://leesellsmore.com/RealtorWebPage?custompage_id=1567686030" target="_blank">Click here for more info and registration</a>.</em></strong></p>
<p><em><strong>&#8220;It is Better To Own Real Estate and Wait, Than Wait To Own Real Estate&#8221;</strong></em></p>
<p>www.LeeSellsMore.com</p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>San Bruno Eye Sore is about to Go</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2012/01/san-bruno-eye-sore-is-about-to-go/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2012/01/san-bruno-eye-sore-is-about-to-go/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:40:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Neighborhood News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leesellsmore.com]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[san bruno grade separation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[san bruno. treetop apartments]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4944</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Treetop Apartments begin renovation, Home buying seminar.San Bruno Grade Separation]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Treetops apartments on Skyline and Sharp Park broke ground for renovation. (It’s about time)</p>
<p>I thought you would be interested.</p>
<p>7 years after being closed down, renovation will begin and is scheduled to be completed by summer of 2013.</p>
<p>for more information <a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/san-mateo-county-times/ci_19731829" target="_blank">Click Here</a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.mercurynews.com/san-mateo-county-times/ci_19731829</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/tree-top.jpg"><img style="padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/tree-top_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="tree top" width="196" height="144" /></a></p>
<p>The San Bruno Ave. Caltrain Grade Separation Project is moving along.  Can’t wait for completion. </p>
<p>Completion is scheduled for the end of this year.  We&#8217;ll see.</p>
<p>for more information <a href="http://sanbruno.ca.gov/pw_proj_current.html#streets" target="_blank">Click Here</a></p>
<p><a title="http://sanbruno.ca.gov/pw_proj_current.html#streets" href="http://sanbruno.ca.gov/pw_proj_current.html#streets"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://sanbruno.ca.gov/pw_proj_current.html#streets</span></a></p>
<p>I will be hosting a Home Buying Seminar.  If you are in thinking about buying I think you will find it quite helpful.</p>
<p>for more information <a href="http://leesellsmore.com/RealtorWebPage?custompage_id=1567686030" target="_blank">Click Here</a></p>
<p><a title="http://leesellsmore.com/RealtorWebPage?custompage_id=1567686030" href="http://leesellsmore.com/RealtorWebPage?custompage_id=1567686030"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://leesellsmore.com/RealtorWebPage?custompage_id=1567686030</span></a></p>
<p><a title="Lee Ginsburg real estate" href="http://leesellsmore.com/" target="_blank">Lee Ginsburg<br />
Prudential California Real Estate<br />
www.LeeSellsMore.com </a></p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>How to choose the &#8220;Best&#8221; real estate home loan.</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/12/how-to-choose-the-best-real-estate-loan-agent/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/12/how-to-choose-the-best-real-estate-loan-agent/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:20:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[F A Q]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Our Answers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home loan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leesellsmore.com]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prudential California Realty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[real estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[real estate agent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[satisfaction]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4885</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg, top real estate agent with Prudential California Realty, shares his experince on how to choose the right real estate lender.   Lee Ginsburg Your satisfaction is my success! www.LeeSellsMore.com     http://youtu.be/DLiDviKZgl0]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a title="Lee Ginsburg speaks on real estate home loans" href="http://youtu.be/DLiDviKZgl0" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4901" style="margin-right: 20px;" title="Lee Ginsburg real estate video" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Lee-Ginsburg-video-300x230.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="230" /></a>Lee Ginsburg, top real estate agent with Prudential California Realty, shares his experince on how to choose the right real estate lender.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><a title="Lee Ginsburg real estate" href="http://leesellsmore.com">Lee Ginsburg<br />
</a><a title="Lee Ginsburg real estate" href="http://leesellsmore.com"><strong>Your satisfaction is my success!<br />
</strong><br />
www.LeeSellsMore.com</a></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://youtu.be/DLiDviKZgl0">http://youtu.be/DLiDviKZgl0</a></strong></p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Do I Need An Agent?</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/12/do-i-need-an-agent/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/12/do-i-need-an-agent/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Dec 2011 21:01:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[F A Q]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bay area homes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[buying property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[buying real estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Frequently Asked Questions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[frist time home buyers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buyer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Buying Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buying process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Sells More]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leeginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leesells]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leesellsmore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leesellsmore.com]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4838</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I was at a recent home buying workshop and someone asked if she needs an agent. In the Bay Area the buyer does not pay for the agent to help them find a home, help them negotiate; walk them through the process, etc. The buyer also does not pay the agent for helping them digest [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>I was at a recent home buying workshop and someone asked if she needs an agent.</h4>
<p>In the Bay Area the buyer does not pay for the agent to help them find a home, help them negotiate; walk them through the process, etc. The buyer also does not pay the agent for helping them digest the comparable properties, or get inside information concerning the home or the comparables, educate them on the neighborhood, and more. The buyer never pays the agent anything. The seller’s agent pays the buyer’s agent for assisting them in selling the home, but the agent has a fiduciary duty and obligation to their client, the buyer.</p>
<p>So why wouldn’t you want someone to do all the dirty work, to bounce ideas off of, and to pick their brains with no cost to you.<br />
Every transaction is different. The buyer’s agent does all of the above and more depending on each individual situation.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/realtor.jpg"><img style="border-width: 0px;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/realtor_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="realtor" width="194" height="244" /></a></p>
<p>The most important task the buyer’s agent performs but hardly mentioned, is helping the buyer maintain their emotions. I have seen buyer’s get so excited about a home that they would pay anything for it. Well maybe not anything but more than necessary. A good agent will protect the buyer by making them see reality. On the other hand they might be offended by the seller’s response and might react by cancelling the transaction or respond negatively and blow the deal. An agent is the buffer.</p>
<p>An agent will help the buyer see through the seller’s messy home to see the bones and layout of the home. An agent will keep the buyer focused on the purpose of buying a home, facing reality and prevent them from getting sidetracked. I remember helping a newly married couple with a baby purchase their first home. They liked the well decorated home in a not so good area. They were not familiar with the area. They were prepared to write an offer and I did not want to discourage their enthusiasm. I suggested on the way home we drive by again. We did and they calmed their emotions and changed their thoughts on their own.       <span id="more-4838"></span></p>
<p>Even in this age of the web, Real Estate is still a relationship business. An experienced agent has contacts and often can find out about the seller’s bottom line, other offers, and the true selling price of the comparable homes (not necessarily the sold price in public records). An offer from an experienced agent with a good reputation will be reviewed more seriously than a part time agent or an out of area agent. An experienced agent in the area is familiar with the customs of the area. They are familiar with the area. I know of an instance that a buyer got very excited about a home with an empty lot next door. The buyer was excited until their experienced agent told them previous to the empty lot a home very similar to the one they are looking at sat there. An experienced agent with a good reputation among other agents and familiar with the area and has a lot more to offer than the internet or a part time realtor friend. Hope you don’t mind another quick story of a buyer working their part time realtor friend. The agent not understanding the loan the buyers were getting requested a $15,000 credit from the seller. Due to the way the contract was worded the buyer’s lender would only allow a $5000 credit and the seller received the $10,000 difference.</p>
<p>I ask the buyer or seller for that matter thinking of representing themselves or using a friend: Would you ask a first year med student to operate on you. You know what they say about attorneys: It is a fool whom represents themselves.</p>
<p>Please remember a good experienced professional agent is on your side, can save you a lot of money and will only “survive” by selling you a home. They will make a good living by selling you, your friends and family a home. They are here not for a one time deal but to transform you the buyer into a raving fan whom will recommend them to others.</p>
<p>To learn more about me and the home buying or selling process please go to: <a href="http://www.leesellsmore.com">www.leesellsmore.com</a></p>
<p>Happy Thanksgiving!!!</p>
<p><a title="Lee Ginsburg real estate" href="http://leesellsmore.com" target="_blank">Lee Ginsburg</a></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Dates to Remember</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/11/dates-to-remember/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/11/dates-to-remember/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:02:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local Trends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate in the News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Energy rebates San Bruno]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buying san mateo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leesellsmore]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4742</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[  Thursday Nov. 17 -6:30 – FREE Information Workshop on Energy Rebates -180 El Camino Real, San Bruno Energy Upgrade California, a statewide program launched in March that provides rebates to homeowners for carrying out home energy efficiency retrofits with approved contractors. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and utility ratepayer funds, is offering a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><strong><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Important-Dates.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-4773" title="Important Dates" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Important-Dates.jpg" alt="" width="257" height="196" /></a></strong></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<h3><strong>Thursday Nov. 17 -6:30 – FREE Information Workshop on Energy Rebates</strong> -180 El Camino Real, San Bruno</h3>
<div>Energy Upgrade California, a statewide program launched in March that provides rebates to homeowners for carrying out home energy efficiency retrofits with approved contractors.</div>
<div>The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and utility ratepayer funds, is offering a <strong>Rebate for Energy Upgrades</strong>, The program is a partnership between the California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission, Department of Energy, San Mateo County and PG&amp;E. <strong>San Mateo County has recently</strong> <strong>announced that it will be doubling the program’s rebates. San Bruno is offering a Third Rebate. </strong>If you are considering replacing a Hot Water heater, Furnace, Windows, Roof, or adding insulation or solar this is the workshop you should not miss. You will learn how to reduce your energy costs by up to 40% and have someone else pay for the upgrades.</div>
<div>For More Information follow the links:<br />
<a href="https://energyupgradeca.org/overview">https://energyupgradeca.org/overview</a></div>
<div><a href="http://www.co.sanmateo.ca.us/Attachments/cmo/pdfs/Energy%20Upgrade/FAQ.pdf">http://www.co.sanmateo.ca.us/Attachments/cmo/pdfs/Energy%20Upgrade/FAQ.pdf</a></div>
<div><a href="http://sanbruno.patch.com/articles/does-your-home-need-an-energy-upgrade">http://sanbruno.patch.com/articles/does-your-home-need-an-energy-upgrade</a></p>
<p>http://www.SDIHomePerformance.com</p></div>
<div><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/clip_image004.jpg"><img style="border: 0px;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/clip_image004_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="clip_image004" width="244" height="244" /></a></div>
<div><strong> </strong></div>
<div><strong>Thursday Nov. 17, -2-5PM &#8211; Free Home Buyer Workshop</strong> -<br />
<strong>College of San Mateo, </strong>1700 W. Hillsdale Boulevard, San Mateo<strong>, Bldg. 10 &#8211; Room 193</strong><br />
The San Mateo Association of Realtors will be hosting this workshop to help you understand the basics of how to buy a home &#8211; even if you’re not at that place in life yet – Home Ownership is still the key to reaching Financial Stability and in achieving the American dream. Now is the “Perfect Storm” with low interest rates, low housing prices and low down payments. Professionals in banking, title, credit, law and real estate will provide knowledge and interact with the public on the basics in planning for homeownership. <em>No pre-registration required.</em></div>
<div><em>For Additional information follow the link: </em><a href="http://www.samcar.org/homebuyerworkshop"><strong>www.samcar.org/homebuyerworkshop</strong></a></div>
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<div>&#8220;It is Better To Own Real Estate and Wait Than Wait To Own Real Estate&#8221;</div>
<div><a href="http://www.leesellsmore.com">www.leesellsmore.com</a></div>
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		<title>What is closing or escrow and what is involved in opening escrow?</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/10/what-is-closing-or-escrow-and-what-is-involved-in-opening-escrow/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/10/what-is-closing-or-escrow-and-what-is-involved-in-opening-escrow/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:35:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[F A Q]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[escrow]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[good faith deposit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home buying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leesellsmore.com]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[signing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[title company]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4640</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Closing is when all the funds are disbursed to the seller, lender, other lien holders, taxes etc. and the property transfer from seller to buyer is recorded in the County’s Recorder’s office. This is legally when the buyer becomes the property owner. This is generally the time when the buyer receives the keys to their [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/signing1.jpg"><img class="alignleft" style="border: white 5px solid;" title="What is escrow" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/signing_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="signing" width="244" height="165" /></a></p>
<p>Closing is when all the funds are disbursed to the seller, lender, other lien holders, taxes etc. and the property transfer from seller to buyer is recorded in the County’s Recorder’s office. This is legally when the buyer becomes the property owner. This is generally the time when the buyer receives the keys to their new home. Many people get the closing and signing confused. “Signing” is only signing the loan documents and that generally occurs several days prior to closing.</p>
<p>Escrow is the period between both parties signing the purchase contract and closing. Opening Escrow is a simple process. It occurs when the buyer’s good faith deposit is placed in the hands of a neutral third party. In Northern Californian we do this with a Title and Escrow Company. The Escrow Company holds the deposit in a bonded account until both the buyer and seller have fulfilled their obligations under the purchase contract. The escrow company is a neutral third party and will not release the funds either to the buyer if the contract is cancelled or to the seller if the contract is fulfilled unless both parties have signed instructions stating so. Basically Escrow begins with the deposit check being given to the escrow company and ends at closing.</p>
<p>Escrow should not get confused with an escrow account. An escrow account is an impound account or reserve account generally for property tax and home owners insurance. It is requested by lenders based on the type loan the buyer is getting.</p>
<p>It is Better To Own Real Estate and Wait Than to Wait to Own Real Estate</p>
<p><a title="Lee Ginsburg sells more real estate" href="http://www.leesellsmore.com" target="_blank">Lee Ginsburg<br />
www.leesellsmore.com</a></p>
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		<title>Good Article on Light Bulbs</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/10/good-article-on-light-bulbs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/10/good-article-on-light-bulbs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:40:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CFl's light bulb]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[energy efficient]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[halogen light bulb]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[led light bulbs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leesellsmore.com]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[light bulbs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[smart bulbs]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[I just read this article on light bulbs.  I went to Orchard Supply recently to purchase a light bulb and left with a head ache. I wish I had this article and hope you find it helpful. I am not able to remember it all so I am going to print out a copy next [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I just read this article on light bulbs. </p>
<p>I went to Orchard Supply recently to purchase a light bulb and left with a head ache.</p>
<p>I wish I had this article and hope you find it helpful.</p>
<p>I am not able to remember it all so I am going to print out a copy next time I need a light bulb.</p>
<p>follow the link <strong><a href="http://tinyurl.com/3ekxzfy" target="_blank">http://tinyurl.com/3ekxzfy</a> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/lightbulb.jpg"><img style="border: 0px;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/lightbulb_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="light bulb" width="209" height="244" /></a></p>
<p><a title="Lee Ginsburg a top rated real estate agent" href="http://www.leesellsmore.com/" target="_blank">Lee Ginsburg<br />
&#8220;It is better to own real estate and wait,<br />
than wait to own real estate&#8221;</a></p>
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		<title>Great Loan Options are Here!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/09/great-loan-options-are-here/</link>
		<comments>http://www.prucalvoices.com/2011/09/great-loan-options-are-here/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Sep 2011 23:33:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Ginsburg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Important Thoughts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate Finance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate for Buyers and Sellers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate in the News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[adjustable rate loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FHA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fixed rate loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[housing costs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee Ginsburg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leesellsmore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[loan options]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mortgage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[refinance]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prucalvoices.com/?p=4192</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dear Homeowners and Potential Home Buyers, I want to let you know of a great opportunity. Interest rates!!! Interest rates are at record lows. We have been hearing that for a few years and our government plans to keep it way for a few more. With that said mortgage interest rates do fluctuate daily. Many [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Dear Homeowners and Potential Home Buyers,</div>
<div>I want to let you know of a great opportunity. Interest rates!!!</div>
<div>Interest rates are at record lows. We have been hearing that for a few years and our government plans to keep it way for a few more. With that said mortgage interest rates do fluctuate daily.</div>
<div><strong>Many people think loans are difficult to get. That is a misnomer.</strong> Just prove you can afford the payments and you get the loan. The bank might ask lots of questions and request lots of papers but they are willing to offer you a loan and guarantee to hold the same price for the next 30 years. Do you know of another product or service that guarantees the price for the next 30 years?</div>
<div><strong>30 year fixed rates today are 4.25-4.5%.</strong> For your knowledge a 1% increase will affect a $500,000 loan by about $300. A 10% price adjustment will affect your payment by about $250.000. I am trying to show the influence of interest rate on your monthly payment.</div>
<div><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/100002b.jpg"><img style="border: white 5px solid;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/100002b_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="10000-2b" width="244" height="97" /></a></div>
<div>Many people believe you need 20% down payment or equity for refinancers to get a loan. Another misnomer, that is not correct. With all that has happened in our banking system <strong>it is unbelievable but you can still obtain a loan with only 3.5% down payment or equity.</strong>      <span id="more-4192"></span>For homeowners considering refinancing you can get a $500,000 loan if your home is valued at $520,000 or more. For home buyers with $20,000 saved up you can possibly purchase a home valued at $520,000. Not bad. Let me give you some of the caveats. Any loan with less than 20% equity or down payment the lender will require Mortgage Insurance (MI). I have been talking about equity and I want to make sure we all know what equity is. It is the difference between the value of your home less what your loan balance is. Back to Mortgage Insurance; it goes away after you have built up 20% equity. Depending on the loan this 20% equity can be accomplished from upgrades, appreciation or paying down the loan. This is very important to ask your lender. I neglected to mention that mortgage insurance is tax deductible. Depending on your loan specifics Mortgage Insurance is about 1%. Some loans will have an upfront premium as well. Mortgage Insurance and the premium are deductible. Some people have told me they would prefer to save the 20% rather than pay mortgage insurance. I do not believe in that thought. Not many are good savers. Not many have income to support savings of $20,000 or more a year. Please keep in mind, owning a home is saving because with every monthly payment you are paying down the loan. I call it Forced Savings. Also if you buy now and you can still put your savings toward the loan balance to get the mortgage insurance terminated earlier. <strong>I am afraid for those people saving for that “20%” that home values will increase and they will need even more savings.</strong> Also while you are saving you are throwing out money by paying rent. Rents will continue to increase and you can get your home purchase costs fixed for the next 30 years. In fact it will go do down when the mortgage insurance is terminated. I understand this gets a little complicated. You might get information from someone that purchased 10 years ago and just like cell phones and technology loans have changed substantially. If you think this is something you might be interested or just want more information in I suggest you <strong>run and not walk because the 3.5% down loan is a Government backed and there is talk of changes.</strong> Call your favorite Realtor or your lender to get the facts on your specific situation.</div>
<div>I do want to bring to your attention a super opportunity for some people. The adjustable rate loan. In a recent Zillow survey<strong> 57% of the people questioned did not know how adjustable loans work</strong>. You can get a loan in the mid to high two’s fixed for 5 years or so. These are not teaser rates like we had back when things were out of control. These are not negative amortization loans like we had back when. These are loans for people willing to take on some risk in exchange for a low rate. You speak with people who have an adjustable loan for a while and they are thrilled. Their rates go down annually. Today’s adjustable rate loans are really hybrid. They are fixed for a limited time, often 5 or 7 years and then adjust annually. They all have a maximum rate they can increase to and a maximum annual increase. Commonly it is 5% above the start rate. <strong>Today the adjustable rate is about 1.5% or more, less than the 30 year fixed.</strong> This can be a great loan if you know your income will be increasing, you will be getting an inheritance; you will be relocating or just are comfortable with risk. Not only will your payments be substantially less with this type of loan you can be approved for your “Dream Home”, because some lenders will use the current rate to approve you. This can also be a good option someone refinancing a small balance. A suggestion from a lender I work with is to put the money you are saving on this loan vs. a 30 year loan towards the principal. When the loan adjusts it will be based on the remaining balance. I don’t think many people are aware of the savings with this type of loan.</div>
<div><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/k2794042.jpg"><img style="border-width: 0px;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/k2794042_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="k2794042" width="140" height="174" /></a></div>
<div>One more type of loan I want to bring to your attention is the <strong>15 or 20 year fixed loan amortized over the same time</strong>. With this loan your payments will be more than the 30 year loan but you will be paying for half the time; saving you in the long run about 30%. This is great for people considering retiring soon. Last quarter Lending Tree notes that 34% of refinancers used this loan. Keith Gumbinger of HSH Associates, a mortgage research company says because rates on <strong>15-year mortgages are so low, some borrowers may be able to refinance to a shorter term without increasing monthly payments</strong></div>
<div>And one more came to my mind. There is an <strong>energy efficient loan.</strong> With this loan you can have energy efficient improvements (windows, furnace, and insulation) financed for the term of your loan on top of the standard loan. No extra down payment, no qualifying ratio, no appraisal, no extra time and little to no extra costs. Similar to that is the <strong>203K Home Improvement Loan.</strong> This is used when the home really needs work and possibly a bank would not even loan on it in its current condition. With this loan your home is appraised and your loan amount is determined as if the improvements are complete. You get the contractor quotes and the contractor gets paid through escrow as the work is completed. I have not been involved with this type of loan yet, but am been very intrigued by it. This does need some extra time and maybe some extra closing costs.</div>
<div>Loans are being offered to people with credit scores in the mid 600’s. The best rates are for loans with 20% down and under $417,000. The rate inches up a bit on loans to $625,500, and then a bit more above that. No matter what your situation is, rates are excellent. Talk to your lender about the different choices. In the Zillow survey 44% of people questioned said they did not have confidence in the mortgage knowledge. Ask Questions please. The guidelines and procedures have changed since the last time you purchased or the person advising you. I think too often people are geared towards the 30 year fixed with 20% down when <strong>there are many other and possibly better options</strong>. For investors and condominium owners the guidelines are slightly different.</div>
<div>I personally do not do loans. I work with several very qualified, knowledgeable and efficient lenders. Please do not hesitate to contact me or your favorite Realtor for their info or any real estate related concerns.<br />
Here are links I found interesting on loans:<br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/3jwahf3">http://tinyurl.com/3jwahf3</a><br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/3o8mcs2">http://tinyurl.com/3o8mcs2</a><br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/3sdvowx">http://tinyurl.com/3sdvowx</a></div>
<div>I would love to hear from you concerning your loan option choice.</div>
<div>Homeowner Special:</div>
<div><a href="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/lightbulb.jpg"><img style="border: white 5px solid;" src="http://www.prucalvoices.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/lightbulb_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="light bulb" width="188" height="220" /></a></div>
<div>San Mateo County is offering to double energy efficient rebates<br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/3wk4xzm">http://tinyurl.com/3wk4xzm</a></div>
<div>And now San Bruno is also <a href="http://sanbruno.patch.com/articles/council-to-vote-on-green-initiatives-at-tonights-meeting">offering its residents</a> a <a href="http://www.sanbruno.ca.gov/pw_eng_main.html">direct match</a> for the Energy Upgrade rebates, <strong>essentially tripling the incentives</strong>.<br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/3c8saas">http://tinyurl.com/3c8saas</a></div>
<div><strong><br />
&#8220;It is Better to Own Real Estate and Wait than to Wait to Own Real Estate.&#8221;</strong></div>
<div><a href="http://www.leesellsmore.com"><strong>www.leesellsmore.com</strong></a><br />
<strong>Lee Ginsburg</strong></div>
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