During this time of the year states will give us common folks a break with taxes on clothing, shoes, etc. Now that school is back you need to check to see when your state is giving you a tax break.
It's great to be able to shop without paying taxes, but not everything is tax free. Click below to read the rest of the article so you can see how you can take advantage of the tax break.
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/2010-state-sales-tax-holidays.aspx
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Problems With Selling A Home With Illegal Basements
When I try to sell a home I sometimes run into the issue of the finished illegal basement apartment that was never approved by the buildings department. Just when you think the home is going to sell you find out that there were violations filed and fees that were unpaid and or the appraiser goes in and reports it. It's a common problem that sellers don't think about until they really have to sell and things get stopped in their tracks.
So Is Having An Illegal Basement Worth It?
As a sales agent, I believe doing things the right way is the best way. If a seller has an illegal basement and needs to sell quickly and is really strapped for cash then trying to fix all these issues is going to take alot of extra time and money to correct.
When these illegal issues arise most buyers will rather pull out of the deal than to go through all the process to fix the problem.
Click Below To Read More From Inman News!
http://www.inman.com/buyers-sellers/columnists/bennykass/coming-clean-about-illegal-basement-apartment
So Is Having An Illegal Basement Worth It?
As a sales agent, I believe doing things the right way is the best way. If a seller has an illegal basement and needs to sell quickly and is really strapped for cash then trying to fix all these issues is going to take alot of extra time and money to correct.
When these illegal issues arise most buyers will rather pull out of the deal than to go through all the process to fix the problem.
Click Below To Read More From Inman News!
http://www.inman.com/buyers-sellers/columnists/bennykass/coming-clean-about-illegal-basement-apartment
Friday, August 6, 2010
Should I Let My House Go Into Foreclosure
Personally, I believe that there is only one complete reason why you should go into foreclosure and suffer the consequences. If you let your home go into foreclosure it's because you have exhausted every option to work things out and there is nothing else you can do. When I say this, I mean you have gained knowledge about foreclosure and have done your research so you can save your home.
I have watched home owners go into foreclosure because they didn't believe the lender was going to take action to get back the home. I would literally offer them options to avoid foreclosure and they will not budge until it was too late.
But before you consider giving up and losing everything you worked for, you need to ask yourself a few basic questions:
You have to think long and hard about going in foreclosure and you should consider a few questions:
-Are you ready to LOSE any equity you may have in your home and walk away with nothing?
- Are you prepared for the HUGE drop in your credit score?
-Do you plan to buy another home or apply for any type of loan in the near future?
- Are you ready to give up and lose your home?
If you have answered no to any of these questions then you need to FIGHT FOR YOUR HOME and skip the whole foreclosure idea. Foreclosure can damage your personal profile for quite some time and it will take quite some time before you can get move on from it.
Even if you're not in foreclosure now or if you're close to it, you need to know how to STOP FORECLOSURE before it's too late. Click here now to find out everything you need to know about how to save your home from foreclosure now.
I have watched home owners go into foreclosure because they didn't believe the lender was going to take action to get back the home. I would literally offer them options to avoid foreclosure and they will not budge until it was too late.
But before you consider giving up and losing everything you worked for, you need to ask yourself a few basic questions:
You have to think long and hard about going in foreclosure and you should consider a few questions:
-Are you ready to LOSE any equity you may have in your home and walk away with nothing?
- Are you prepared for the HUGE drop in your credit score?
-Do you plan to buy another home or apply for any type of loan in the near future?
- Are you ready to give up and lose your home?
If you have answered no to any of these questions then you need to FIGHT FOR YOUR HOME and skip the whole foreclosure idea. Foreclosure can damage your personal profile for quite some time and it will take quite some time before you can get move on from it.
Even if you're not in foreclosure now or if you're close to it, you need to know how to STOP FORECLOSURE before it's too late. Click here now to find out everything you need to know about how to save your home from foreclosure now.
Should I Let My Attorney Sell My House
I responded to this question because when I approach potential sellers sometimes they state that their lawyer will try to sell their home. What sellers don't understand is the real job of a real estate agent and what it takes to get to the closing table. Even though attorneys have the legal rights to sell properties, most of them are not fully equipped and have the everyday well rounded knowledge to market and close on a deal.
Most of the time I fight with the attorneys to call me back to get updates, go after them to send or fax a simple contract. Granted not all attorneys are horrible, but I have seen my share of lousy attorneys, just like there are some lousy real estate agents.
There are many aspects to a deal that you're attorney may not know about or problems that may arise that he may not have knowledge or the patience to solve. Below are a few things you may want to think about before you hire your attorney to sell your home:
- Attorneys do not have flexible schedules to show your home at odd times of the day, during the evenings or even weekends.
- Atttorneys have legal minds and usually are not able to create highly effective advertising materials or know all the places to market your property.
-An attorney most likely will not have an attention getting post sign to put on your property.
- Your attorney most likely will not have access to the M.L.S (Multi-Listing Service account and do not have active accounts with the major real estate websites to post ads.
-An attorney does not have a ready made list of buyers to see your home immediately and does not have direct access to agents daily to remind them about your property and to set up showings.
-It is unlikely that an attorney would do consistent open houses and market it properly.
-An attorney may not be able to qualify your buyer the proper way.
- An attorney may not communicate regularly with the team of individuals that include the buyer, buyers attorney, mortgage broker, and inspectors and effectively come up with solutions if problems arise.
-An attorney may not have the time to schedule and represent you at all the home inspections.
-An attorney may not be have the knowledge to solve the unforeseen problems that may arise with the buyer or the attorney.
- With an attorney working throughout your entire real estate transaction may cost you a fortune if it goes on for months. You may get a fat bill even if your deal doesn't make it to the closing table.
An agent is paid a percentage or sometimes a flat fee of the purchase price, no matter how long the deal takes and only if the deal closes.
A real estate agent is the manager of your deal. If you are dealing with a full time experienced agent he or she will know the job of every person involved in the deal and make sure everyone complies. The agent will do the physical work to sell your home and will do everything possible to get you to the closing table. When selling your property you need a well rounded person that can do it all and know what all needs to be done to make your transaction successful.
I can keep going on and on, but there's a reason why real estate agents exist and why they are educated, are licensed professionals and have continuous training. It is important to let each licensed individual do the job in which they have been fully trained to do. So definitely look for a qualified real estate agent that can represent you to the fullest.
Here's a great ebook that will give you some inside secrets to selling your home within 21 days in today's market, whether you use an agent or not. Check it out here!
**Please feel free to link this article to your Facebook and Twitter pages or even to your email list.
*Did this article help you/ Feel free to comment, even if you're a lawyer (be gentle).
Who Should Become A Real Estate Agent
As one of the top producing agents in Brooklyn, New York, I have seen so many people come and go in real estate that I just stop counting.
On the more serious side the real estate profession is for people that has a love for people and tons of energy. Someone that's not scared of working with all sorts of people, has the physical and mental ability to work hard, motivated, quick to learn, organized, and a team player. Now granted some of the characteristics above can be learned, but if you already possess most of these qualities then you are on your way.
The world of real estate is not for people that are lazy, can't think on their feet, low self esteem, unhappy or have no business savvy. Real estate agents deal with transactions that involve large sums of money, legal issues and clients that expect real quality service.
It's a sales business where your own efforts will determine your financial outcome.
For instance, over the years I have witnessed new agents come in well dressed and talking big stuff about how they're gonna make tons of cash. But, when they discover what is really involved from trying to get a house to sell, then sell it, and do what it takes to close, they begin to complain and have doubts. The fact is, you can reap the rewards of real estate but you have to be persistent and consistent in order to earn continuous income.
I feel that to one of the best in real estate is to be in love with the business. There's alot of ups and downs in real estate on a daily basis and you have to love the business to keep going day after day.
**What Types of People Become Real Estate Agents?**
1. Retirees - Real estate is great for people who are retired and would like to add to their yearly income by selling a few properties. Also, it's a great way to get out, talk to people, utilize or increase your business skills and get daily exercise.
2. College Students- Many college students join the real estate industry part time and they are able to build a large clientel early if they plan to stay in the business. Also college students or graduates are great because they have tons of energy and they know how to use technology to their advantage.
3. Unemployed - While I'm writing this blog the unemployment rate is up and many people around the globe have lost their jobs. So where do they turn? Many of those people have turned to real estate to earn income. Some people that lost their jobs who have great business skills can easily apply those skills to real estate.
4. Single Moms or Dads - Real estate is great for a mom or dad that have kids and no one there to help because you have a flexible schedule in this business. You can leave early or take a day off whenever you like because you are an independent contractor and you can adjust your schedule.
5. Tired of Corporate America - Many people who work in highly stressful jobs want to get off the strict clock schedule of sitting behind the desk and get back their lives. People who are business professionals, lawyers, architechts, accountants, teachers and more have left their careers to come into the real estaet industry.
6. Part Timers - Some people may want to keep their current jobs and add real estate for extra income part time.
The best part of real estate is that it is a learning process and if you have the will and most of all the passion for the business you will succeed.
**Comments: Do you think you have what it takes to be a great real estate agent?
On the more serious side the real estate profession is for people that has a love for people and tons of energy. Someone that's not scared of working with all sorts of people, has the physical and mental ability to work hard, motivated, quick to learn, organized, and a team player. Now granted some of the characteristics above can be learned, but if you already possess most of these qualities then you are on your way.
The world of real estate is not for people that are lazy, can't think on their feet, low self esteem, unhappy or have no business savvy. Real estate agents deal with transactions that involve large sums of money, legal issues and clients that expect real quality service.
It's a sales business where your own efforts will determine your financial outcome.
For instance, over the years I have witnessed new agents come in well dressed and talking big stuff about how they're gonna make tons of cash. But, when they discover what is really involved from trying to get a house to sell, then sell it, and do what it takes to close, they begin to complain and have doubts. The fact is, you can reap the rewards of real estate but you have to be persistent and consistent in order to earn continuous income.
I feel that to one of the best in real estate is to be in love with the business. There's alot of ups and downs in real estate on a daily basis and you have to love the business to keep going day after day.
**What Types of People Become Real Estate Agents?**
1. Retirees - Real estate is great for people who are retired and would like to add to their yearly income by selling a few properties. Also, it's a great way to get out, talk to people, utilize or increase your business skills and get daily exercise.
2. College Students- Many college students join the real estate industry part time and they are able to build a large clientel early if they plan to stay in the business. Also college students or graduates are great because they have tons of energy and they know how to use technology to their advantage.
3. Unemployed - While I'm writing this blog the unemployment rate is up and many people around the globe have lost their jobs. So where do they turn? Many of those people have turned to real estate to earn income. Some people that lost their jobs who have great business skills can easily apply those skills to real estate.
4. Single Moms or Dads - Real estate is great for a mom or dad that have kids and no one there to help because you have a flexible schedule in this business. You can leave early or take a day off whenever you like because you are an independent contractor and you can adjust your schedule.
5. Tired of Corporate America - Many people who work in highly stressful jobs want to get off the strict clock schedule of sitting behind the desk and get back their lives. People who are business professionals, lawyers, architechts, accountants, teachers and more have left their careers to come into the real estaet industry.
6. Part Timers - Some people may want to keep their current jobs and add real estate for extra income part time.
The best part of real estate is that it is a learning process and if you have the will and most of all the passion for the business you will succeed.
**Comments: Do you think you have what it takes to be a great real estate agent?
How To Become A Real Estate Agent In New York
This article is going to explain in detail how to become a real estate agent in New York State. It will entail qualifications, education, state test, fees and more. Plus you can find out how to become a successful real estate agent before you get your license.
Feel free to print this page and save the website address for this blog page in "Your Favorites" feature in your browser or write it down.
Basic requirements to become a real estate agent are:
- Age - Must be at least 18 years of age
-Must be a U.S citizen or a legal resident of the U.S
-Must complete a total of 75 hours of courses approved by the New York Department of State. You must pass the school exam to take your New York State License Exam.
-You will also have to be sponsored by a licensed real estate broker in your state.
-You must pass the real estate salesperson examination in your state.
____________________________________________________
Reasons Why Someone Cannot Obtain A Real Estate License:
- Someone who is not a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.
-Someone that has been convicted of a felony (depending on your situation it can may be waived).
-Someone that owes at least 4 months or more of child support. A child support application must be filed with the Department of State whether you have a child or not.
BELOW ARE THE STEPS YOU NEED TO TAKE TO GET YOUR REAL ESTATE LICENSE IN NEW YORK STATE:
STEP 1.
- Find a real estate school in your city that is approved by the Department of State where you will be taking the 75 hour course.
**If you already took the 45 hour qualifying course before July 1, 2008, then you can take 30 hours of coursework to qualify for your license.
STEP 2.
-As your taking your 75 hour course you should be looking for a licensed real estate broker to sponsor you. Most of the time the real estate schools will have a list of some great real estate broker offices or you can start visiting the offices on your own.
Feel free to call up the brokers and let them know that you are taking your 75 hour course and you are looking for a sponsor and would like to learn more about their company. Some brokers have free sessions to recruit new agents about their company, fees, office structure, and more.
STEP 3.
- Before you finish your course make an appointment through the New York Department of State website to schedule your State Test. It's important to do this step as soon as possible because spots can fill up fast depending where you live. Click here to find your Department of State.
STEP 4.
-Take the New York State Licensed Exam. After you pass and receive notification you will have to fill out the real estate application form, pay the fee and the original waiver to apply for your actual license.
STEP 5.
- Now that you're a licensed real estate agent now it's time to find a real estate broker to sponsor you if you haven't chosen yet.
Once you have your New York Real Estate License you can sell real estate in all five boroughs (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island).
Fees To Obtain Your License:
-75 Hour School Course - School prices vary and can range from $200 to as high as $550 (If you heard higher let me know).
-New York State Exam - $15.00
-License application is - $300.00
Above are just the basics steps of becoming a real estate agent. For more detailed and fee information visit your Department of State website. Click here to find your Department of State Website.
______________________________________________________________________________
**Find Out How To Become A Successful Real Estate Agent Before You Get Licensed!
Feel free to print this page and save the website address for this blog page in "Your Favorites" feature in your browser or write it down.
Basic requirements to become a real estate agent are:
- Age - Must be at least 18 years of age
-Must be a U.S citizen or a legal resident of the U.S
-Must complete a total of 75 hours of courses approved by the New York Department of State. You must pass the school exam to take your New York State License Exam.
-You will also have to be sponsored by a licensed real estate broker in your state.
-You must pass the real estate salesperson examination in your state.
____________________________________________________
Reasons Why Someone Cannot Obtain A Real Estate License:
- Someone who is not a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.
-Someone that has been convicted of a felony (depending on your situation it can may be waived).
-Someone that owes at least 4 months or more of child support. A child support application must be filed with the Department of State whether you have a child or not.
BELOW ARE THE STEPS YOU NEED TO TAKE TO GET YOUR REAL ESTATE LICENSE IN NEW YORK STATE:
STEP 1.
- Find a real estate school in your city that is approved by the Department of State where you will be taking the 75 hour course.
**If you already took the 45 hour qualifying course before July 1, 2008, then you can take 30 hours of coursework to qualify for your license.
STEP 2.
-As your taking your 75 hour course you should be looking for a licensed real estate broker to sponsor you. Most of the time the real estate schools will have a list of some great real estate broker offices or you can start visiting the offices on your own.
Feel free to call up the brokers and let them know that you are taking your 75 hour course and you are looking for a sponsor and would like to learn more about their company. Some brokers have free sessions to recruit new agents about their company, fees, office structure, and more.
STEP 3.
- Before you finish your course make an appointment through the New York Department of State website to schedule your State Test. It's important to do this step as soon as possible because spots can fill up fast depending where you live. Click here to find your Department of State.
STEP 4.
-Take the New York State Licensed Exam. After you pass and receive notification you will have to fill out the real estate application form, pay the fee and the original waiver to apply for your actual license.
STEP 5.
- Now that you're a licensed real estate agent now it's time to find a real estate broker to sponsor you if you haven't chosen yet.
Once you have your New York Real Estate License you can sell real estate in all five boroughs (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island).
Fees To Obtain Your License:
-75 Hour School Course - School prices vary and can range from $200 to as high as $550 (If you heard higher let me know).
-New York State Exam - $15.00
-License application is - $300.00
Above are just the basics steps of becoming a real estate agent. For more detailed and fee information visit your Department of State website. Click here to find your Department of State Website.
______________________________________________________________________________
**Find Out How To Become A Successful Real Estate Agent Before You Get Licensed!
How To Become A Real Estate In Any State
Find out the requirements to become a real estate agent anywhere in the United States. Simply find your state below and click on it and it will take you right to the page you need in order to know how to become a real estate agent.
**Also Check Out This Excellent Ebook About "How To Become A Real Estate Agent" and Become Successful. **
All states are in alphabetical order. Come back to read more articles or bookmark this webpage.
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