GANTZBLOG

38% of Homes are bought with CASH! 4% INCREASE since 2010!

2012-01-09T22:20:00.000-05:00

According to a recent survey by Housing Intelligence the number of Buyer using cash to pay for homes has increased to 38 % in 2011. In 2010 the number was 34%. Quite an increase over the 19% in 2006 when the real estate market began its decline. WHO KNEW? We did! We have been helping Buyers and Sellers accomplish cash purchase for over ten years! Residential or Commercial, private real estate transactions is one of our specialities!
If you need assistance with a real estate sale or purchase we can help! Call EnCompass Land Transfer LLC, a member of The Gantz Group at 610-644-6437.

This is Great! LOL!

2011-12-28T11:23:00.000-05:00

GANTZBLOG: Berwyn Carriage House Rental $1,600./Month Great V...

2011-12-14T15:59:00.000-05:00

GANTZBLOG: Berwyn Carriage House Rental $1,600./Month Great V...: Great views from every window! Large First Floor Master Bedroom, Large eat in Kitchen with Washer and Dryer upstairs loft contains ...

Berwyn Carriage House Rental $1,600./Month Great Views!

2011-12-14T11:25:00.000-05:00

Great views from every window!

Large First Floor Master Bedroom, Large eat in Kitchen with Washer and
Dryer upstairs loft contains two additional rooms. Call Millie Cutler, The Gantz Team, CN AGNEW REALTOR INC. CELL: 484-888-6625 Office: 610-688-6100

2 Energy Saving Tips!

2011-06-14T20:49:00.000-04:00

Tip #1
Enroll in PECO Smart A/C Saver HERE

Tip #2

Enroll with North American Power for reduced electirc rates HERE

ATTN: Business Owners....BUSINESS Equity Line of Credit NOW available

2011-06-14T20:16:00.001-04:00

SIGN OF THE TIMES?

OK folks...could this be a sign that the economy is going in the right direction???
When was the last time you saw an email from a bank offering a BUSINESS Equity Line???

From The Desk of Annette McNee:
Susquehanna Bank is offering a Business Equity Credit Line of Credit with an introductory rate of 2.99%

Minimum Line Amount $10,000

Maximum Line Amount $750,000

Contact Annette directly for a brochure:

Annette McNee
Vice President
Branch Manager, West Chester Office
Susquehanna Bank
15 E Gay St, West Chester, PA 19380-3144 | Mailcode: 232
Tel: 610.701.9500 | Fax: 610.431.4617
Annette.McNee@susquehanna.net | Web: www.susquehanna.net
Connect with us on Twitter and our Blog.

WANTED: Radnor Township, PA 3 Bedroom Home to RENT. ATTN BROKERS

2011-06-10T17:34:00.000-04:00

We have a client looking to RENT a 3 Bedroom HOME in Radnor township.

References available. Looking for July or August Occupancy.

1 small, well trained dog under 50 lbs.

High Quality Tenant.

Will also consider a Lease Purchase in Radnor Towniship.

Call 610-715-0658

FOR RENT- Woodbury NJ

2011-06-09T20:20:00.000-04:00

Large 3 bedroom Apartment $1,200.00

TWO Floors of living space

Eat in Kitchen with Deck

Walk to public transportation, schools, shopping, courthouse...

11 mile drive to PHiladelphia

CALL: 610-7150-658 OR 856-571-0666

Special Alert: Mortgage Rates! Window of Opportunity

2011-05-05T08:52:00.000-04:00

David McDonnell from Cole Taylor Bank writes:

Kathy, Please get this message to your clients and reeaders. The time to act is now.

Window of Opportunity Has Opened
I wanted to reach out to you before it's too late. You may have heard that home loan rates improved, reaching some of the best levels so far in 2011. In fact, I've been slammed with emails and phone calls from people just like you who wanted to take advantage of this wonderful situation.

But there's one important point you should understand...

The slowing in our economy is one of the main reasons rates have improved recently, but it's important to note that the last time rates hit this level, they jumped significantly higher from here. What's more, signs of inflation are beginning to creep into our economy, and that never bodes well for home loan rates. That's why it's more important than ever to act now.

It will only take a minute – give me a quick call so we can look at your situation. Doesn't cost anything to check it out, and the choice of moving forward will be up to you. Don't miss this window of opportunity to save significantly on your monthly budget.

I look forward to hearing from you! David McDonnell

If you are looking to purchase or refinance real estate call David McDonnell at 610-324-8830. -KMG

New! North America Power. Lower your electric cost while donating to Charity!

2011-04-23T16:00:00.000-04:00

One simple change. one single dollar can make a huge difference. It's easy...

Follow these steps to start making a difference and to help us put Millions in the hands of charities each month.

Select NAP as your energy provider

You'll benefit from our rates, but still be working with your existing Utility. Plus you can do even more, by choosing NAP Green™ you can help fight climate change and improve America's energy indepedence while supporting the production of cleaner power from renewable resources like wind and water.

Support the charity of your choice

As soon as you've made the switch, you can start helping a child get an education, help keep water clean or promote a little peace in a world that needs it. Simply select a charity in the signup process and we'll begin donating on your behalf each month when your bill is generated.

Change powered by many can do a world of good

Now that you have a taste of the power of change, imagine if you shared it with all of your friends and family. Use one of the many Mission to Millions tools available at NAPower.com/gantzenergy and help us realize our goal to put Millions in the hands of charities each month.

And by referring friends and family you could earn money for each one that signs up. Keep it for yourself or donate it to your charity of choice.

Source: http://www.napower.com/GantzEnergy/mission-to-millions/how-it-works

TONIGHT! FREE BUSINESS NETWORKING HAPPY HOUR

2011-04-20T13:36:00.001-04:00

FREE BUSINESS NETWORKING HAPPY HOUR
Hosted by BNI Malvern Networkers

Don't Forget! Join us for Happy Hour TONIGHT Wednesday April 20th from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Desmond Hotel, 1 Liberty Blvd, Malvern. ( On Route 29)

Hosted by: BNI Malvern Networkers There is NO admission cost for this event. Bring your business cards and be ready to network! FREE Appetizers! Cash bar. Drink Specials! Free Raffle! Great Prizes!

AMBER ALERT! From Staff Sgt Rick Williams!

2011-04-11T17:19:00.000-04:00

Amber Alert ~ LOOK @ her PICTURE!! THEN Please forward!

Staff Sergeant Rick Williams
Rolla Police Department
1007 N. Elm St.
Rolla , MO 65401
(573) 364-1213
Fax (573) 364-6346
Please look at the picture, read what her mother says, then forward this message on..

My 13 year old girl, Ashley Flores, is missing...
She has been missing for two weeks now..
Maybe if everyone passes this on, someone will see this child.
That is how the girl from Stevens Point was found, by circulation of her picture on TV.... The Internet circulates even overseas, South America , and Canada etc.
Please pass this to everyone in your address book.

With GOD on her side, she will be found.

I am asking you all, begging you to please forward this email on to anyone and everyone you know, PLEASE.

It is still not too late. Please help us. If anyone knows anything, please contact me at:
HelpfindAshleyFlore s@yahoo.com
I am including a picture of her.
All prayers are appreciated!!
It only takes 2 seconds to forward this...
If it was your child, you would want all the help you could get!!

Source: Staff Sergeant Rick Williams
Rolla Police Department
1007 N. Elm St.
Rolla , MO 65401

Fannie Mae offers 3.5% Buyer Assistance on HomePath Properties

2011-04-11T16:02:00.000-04:00

Fannie Mae offers 3.5% Buyer Assistance on HomePath Properties

Fannie Mae wants to help more buyers afford to purchase their new home. That is why we are offering up to 3.5% in closing cost assistance for HomePath® properties beginning April 11 through June 30, 2011.

Eligibility Details

Initial offers must be submitted on or after April 11, 2011.
Buyers must be owner occupants (i.e., the home will be their primary residence), and buyers are required to sign an Owner Occupant Certification Rider to the Purchase Addendum with all initial offer submissions.
Sale must close on or before June 30, 2011.
Other restrictions apply. For more information about the offer including the terms and conditions, visit the Special Offers tab at HomePath.com.
HomePath.com
Search HomePath.com today for the most updated list of properties. And remember, all owner occupants enjoy a 15-day preview of all HomePath properties -- without competition from investors -- through Fannie Mae's FirstLookTM period. Source: Fannie Mae

Real Estate Tip: Fundraising Opportunity for your favorite non-profit organization

2011-04-08T17:32:00.002-04:00

North American Power will provide a non profit organizations with a free website. Whenever anyone switches from PECO to NAP from your organization’s website your organization receives a donation. Your organization will continue to receive donations for as long as a member continues to purchase their energy needs from NAP. If you would like to check it out go to: www.NAPowerbroker.com/GantzEnergy
Click on JOIN and then Choose Fundraiser.

If you are looking to sign up for reduced electric rates for yourself please go to www.napower.com/gantzenergy

-KMG

Landlord Alert! Sprinkler Mandate........

2011-04-07T15:24:00.000-04:00

It is expected that amendments will be introduced that will make the sprinkler mandate a municipal option. If this is passed, every municipality will have the ability to move forward with the mandate. This will take away consumer choice and erode the uniformity of the construction code.

Source: Pennsylvania Association of Realtors

Mortgage Interest Deduction in Jeopardy! Take Action Now.......

2011-04-01T16:49:00.000-04:00

Take action to protect the MID

If you have not done so already, contact your member of Congress to urge him/her not to change the current mortgage interest deduction (MID) regulations in any legislative or budget proposal. The MID is under attack. As the 112th Congress struggles to finalize a budget plan for this year, everything is back on the table. The MID is an extremely effective tool that promotes home ownership. By removing this incentive, prospective home buyers may re-evaluate their decision to buy. Take action now to preserve, protect, and defend the MID.

-source: Surburban Realtors Alliance

FOR RENT-Bryn Mawr- $1,800. 5 BRM Old World Charm 610-715-0658

2011-03-31T18:23:00.000-04:00

Spaciouas 5 bedroom Twin, with New carpet & Kitchen
2 car off street parking!
Lower Merion School District.

First Floor:
Living Room with fireplace and window seat and exposed beams, Large Dining Room, New Kitchen, Laundry Room and Powder Room.

Second Floor:
Master with Fireplace, 2 Bedrooms and full bath

Third Floor:
2 Bedrooms, Bath and den with sink and refrigerator.

Basement storage. Lots of closet space. Very convenient location.

Call 610-715-0658

Security Deposit $1,900. Application Fee: $45
Tenant pays: electric, heat, water, sewer, insurance, lawn, snow removal & trash.
Small Dog permited with $500. Pet Deposit.

Real Estate Tip: $15.00 Gift Cert Compliments of RWS Handyman Services!

2011-03-30T18:54:00.000-04:00

Its Spring and most of us have a to do list a mile long. Our friend Randy says, "Make a list and Get it fixed!" and he is offering the readers of GantzBlog a $15.00 certificate that you can use on your first Service call. So take Randy's advise and Make your list and Get it fixed!
Just print and call to schedule your service. Thanks Randy! -KMG

Real Estate Tip: Trigger Leads.....bet you didn't know this!

2011-03-24T20:33:00.004-04:00

If you are shopping for a mortgage read this important Tip from Mortgage Advisor, David McDonnell AND If you have further questions or if you just want to stay current on interest rates please contact David at 610-324-8830 and please mention GantzBlog!

FROM DAVID MCDONNELL:
Did you know that the major credit bureaus sell your personal information? It's true! Known as "trigger leads", the files of borrowers applying for a home loan are immediately flagged, packaged, and sold by the credit bureaus to the highest bidders.

For about $25 to $100 or more, your name and certain specifics about your credit report, including your address, phone number, mortgage history, and even your FICO score range, are sold to unscrupulous mortgage companies which then blindly solicit your business. This results in numerous unwanted phone calls and junk mail offers which are in no way associated with your real estate agent or loan professional.

Unfortunately, no legislation presently exists to prevent the credit bureaus from profiting at your expense. As a trigger lead, you are simply at the mercy of any number of too-good-to-be-true offers designed specifically to try and discredit the mortgage professionals you know and trust.

Don't be fooled! Ultimately, there are only a limited number of sources where lenders may turn to obtain mortgage money, and it's unlikely that you will find an unbelievably low rate without an unbelievably high cost. That's why, prior to taking an application for any loan program, I always encourage my clients to opt-out of credit bureau solicitations by visiting www.optoutPrescreen.com

For new home buyers, this is the simplest way to avoid the problem altogether.
As you embark on what could be the largest financial transaction of your life, it's important to have a professional mortgage specialist on your team who has your best interests at heart.

NEW Solar Heater -Cuts heat costs 50 to 90%! Great for those cold spots...

2011-03-11T10:25:00.000-05:00

Greeting Kathy,
I just wanted to tell you about a product that can cut heating cost 50 to 90 %. Solar hot air heaters, install on the side wall or roof. They look like skylights and work 100% off the sun. They heat the air and blow it into the house as long as the suns out and shining on them.
What a great common sense product! They pay for themselves quickly, while protecting us from rising fuel cost.
If you know of anyone who is looking to cut heating costs, with modest investment, please tell them about the heaters and the fact that I supply and install them.

Have a great Day, Bob Lohman

If you would like more information send me an email kmg@gantzlaw.com or call me: 610-715-0658 and I will put you in touch with Bob.

Free Real Estate App for IPAD and IPAD2

2011-03-10T19:20:00.001-05:00

Free Real Estate App for your phone!

2011-03-10T19:08:00.002-05:00

Update! Harvey's Lake Property! New Photo.

2011-03-10T18:38:00.000-05:00

HARVEY'S Lake Info click here!

Homeowner Records: What to Keep and How Long

2011-03-10T16:17:00.001-05:00

Homeowner Records: What to Keep and How Long

Keeping full and accurate homeowner records is vital for determining not only your home deductions, but also the basis or adjusted basis of your home. These records include your purchase contract and settlement papers if you bought the property, or other objective evidence if you acquired it by gift, inheritance, or similar means.

You should also keep any receipts, canceled checks, and similar evidence for improvements or other additions to the basis. Here's some examples:

•Putting an addition on your home
•Replacing an entire roof
•Paving your driveway
•Installing central air conditioning
•Rewiring your home
•Assessments for local improvements
•Amounts spent to restore damaged property
In addition, you should keep track of any decreases to the basis. Here's some examples:

•Insurance or other reimbursement for casualty losses
•Deductible casualty loss not covered by insurance
•Payment received for easement or right-of-way granted
•Value of subsidy for energy conservation measure excluded from income
•Depreciation deduction if home is used for business or rental purposes
How you keep records is up to you, but they must be clear and accurate and must be available to the IRS. And you must keep these records for as long as they are important for the federal tax law.

Keep records that support an item of income or a deduction appearing on a return until the period of limitations for the return runs out. (A period of limitations is the limited period of time after which no legal action can be brought.)

For assessment of tax, this is generally three years from the date you filed the return. For filing a claim for credit or refund, this is generally three years from the date you filed the original return or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. Returns filed before the due date are treated as filed on the due date.

You may need to keep records relating to the basis of property (discussed earlier) longer than the period of limitations.

Note: Technically, basis is needed to determine gain on home sale (loss is not deductible). That need has diminished for most homeowners now that gain up to $250,000 ($500,000 in some sales by married couples) is tax-exempt.

Basis is still important, however, in figuring casualty loss, on conversion of the home to business use, or where there's a gift of the home (in this case, important to the donee).
Keep those records as long as they are important in figuring the basis of the property. Generally, this means for as long as you own the property and, after you dispose of it, for the period of limitations that applies to you.

If you have any questions as to what items are to be considered in determining basis, please give us a call.

Source: Dorothy C. Borchart, CPA

Housewives of the Main Line Casting Call!!!!!!

2011-03-10T11:09:00.000-05:00

Housewives of the Main Line Casting Call
(It's not just a rumor!)
Housewives of the Main Line Casting Call

Personify Productions is currently casting housewives that live on the Main Line (Gladwyne, Bryn Mawr, Wayne, Devon etc.) for a potential Television Pilot. Will consider Philadelphia residents if personality is dynamite and you run in the same social circles as the Main Line.
We are seeking women who are extremely charismatic, outgoing, candid and self-confident with strong fashion sense and style. Married, Divorced Re-Married and Single women are all invited to apply. All family types will be considered but most importantly we are looking for dynamic Main Line women with defined opinions and views and who are plugged in to the storied social scene of the legendary Main Line. Personality is paramount as we are looking for lively and energetic women who are "Housewives" in the present-day sense, leading busy lives with a strong work ethic but still enjoying the "good life."
Blue Bloods, Nouveau Riche and Career women are invited to apply. Groups of women who are already friends in the same social circle are also encouraged to apply.
The women, their significant others and families must be open to sharing their experiences with the producers and the television audience.
If you are interested in being considered please email your name, information about yourself and your family, current photo and a phone number where you can be reached to:
personifyproductions@gmail.com

Personify Productions, LLC guarantees and warrants that all requested information will be held in the strictest confidence.

Personify Productions, LLC
www.personifyproductions.com
personifyproductions@gmail.com

-source: Main Line Neighbors

Client Must Sell! Poconos-Harvey Lake - Short Sale - $214,900

2011-03-04T22:09:00.000-05:00

Folks, this is the bottom, properties are bginning to move and here is your ooportunity to snatch up a nice getaway property.

Don't Delay....call today! 610-715-0658

Free Gift for SmartPhone users!

2011-02-25T14:02:00.001-05:00

Woodbury, NJ 3 Bedroom Apt. For Rent

2011-02-19T14:09:00.002-05:00

Woodbury, NJ Apartment For Rent. Available April 1, 2011

Convenient location. Walk to stores, churches, public transportation.

Close to Philadelphia.

3 Bedroom Apartment For Rent.

$1,300.00 per month plus utilities (Gas & Electric, Landlord pays minimum water usage, Tenant pays for any water charges over the City's minimum usage)

Eat in Kitchen, Deck, Living Room, Dining Room, 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

Washer Dryer hook up available. Bright Sunny Apartment.

Full background and credit check required. HUD Voucher Program accepted.
NO Pets. Call 610-715-0658

MERS to members: Don’t foreclose in our name

2011-02-17T14:16:00.000-05:00

MERS to members: Don’t foreclose in our name

Free Real Estate Tools for Sellers

2011-02-14T19:23:00.000-05:00

Curious regarding what your house is worth?

Wondering if your house is market ready?

Check out our free tools:
Click Here: The GANTZ Team.

" All Real Estate. All The Time."

Private transfer fees, AMCs and sprinklers bills introduced

2011-02-12T13:57:00.000-05:00

Private transfer fees, AMCs and sprinklers bills introduced

NEW LISTING!!!!. RADNOR TOWNSHIP STONE COLONIAL

2011-02-10T15:40:00.000-05:00

Charming 2 story, stone colonial. Foyer, Stone Fireplace in Living Room, Bay Windows, First Floor, Powder Room, Plenty of storage, well maintained, sought after gas heat with Central Air! 2 car detached garage,spacious rear yard.

CALL Kathryn M. Gantz 610-715-0658 for Private showing

HUD PROPOSES NEW RULE TO ENSURE EQUAL ACCESS TO HOUSING

2011-02-09T12:18:00.000-05:00

HUD No. 11-006
Brian Sullivan
(202) 708-0685 FOR RELEASE
Thursday
January 20, 2011

HUD PROPOSES NEW RULE TO ENSURE EQUAL ACCESS TO HOUSING
REGARDLESS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR GENDER IDENTITY

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today proposed new regulations intended to ensure that its core housing programs are open to all eligible persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. View the proposed rule announced today.

“This is a fundamental issue of fairness,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “We have a responsibility to make certain that public programs are open to all Americans. With this proposed rule, we will make clear that a person’s eligibility for federal housing programs is, and should be, based on their need and not on their sexual orientation or gender identity.”

HUD is seeking public comment on a number of proposed areas including:

Prohibiting lenders from using sexual orientation or gender identity as a basis to determine a borrower’s eligibility for FHA-insured mortgage financing. FHA’s current regulations provide that a mortgage lender’s determination of the adequacy of a borrower’s income “shall be made in a uniform manner without regard to” specified prohibited grounds. The proposed rule would add actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity to the prohibited grounds to ensure FHA-approved lenders do not deny or otherwise alter the terms of mortgages on the basis of irrelevant criteria.

Clarifying that all otherwise eligible families, regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity, have the opportunity to participate in HUD programs. In the majority of HUD’s rental and homeownership programs the term “family” already has a broad scope, and includes a single person and families with or without children. HUD’s proposed rule clarifies that families, otherwise eligible for HUD programs, may not be excluded because one or more members of the family may be an LGBT individual, have an LGBT relationship, or be perceived to be such an individual or in such relationship.

Prohibiting owners and operators of HUD-assisted housing, or housing whose financing is insured by HUD, from inquiring about the sexual orientation or gender identity of an applicant for, or occupant of, the dwelling, whether renter- or owner-occupied. HUD is proposing to institute this policy in its rental assistance and homeownership programs, which include the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance programs, community development programs, and public and assisted housing programs.
Other actions:

HUD is conducting the first-ever national study of discrimination against members of the LGBT community in the rental and sale of housing. Every ten years, HUD does a study of the impact of housing discrimination on the basis of race and color. HUD undertook this important research in 1977, 1989 and 2000 and is currently undertaking this study again. It is believed that LGBT individuals and families may remain silent because in many local jurisdictions, they may have little or no legal recourse. While there are no national assessments of LGBT housing discrimination, there are state and local studies that have shown evidence of this sort of bias. For example, a 2007 report by Michigan’s Fair Housing Centers found that nearly 30 percent of same-sex couples were treated differently when attempting to buy or rent a home.

HUD currently requires its recipients of discretionary funds to comply with local and state non-discrimination laws that cover sexual orientation or gender identity. In July, the Department issued new guidance that treats discrimination based on gender nonconformity or sex stereotyping as sex discrimination under the Fair Housing Act, and instructs HUD staff to inform individuals filing complaints about state and local agencies that have LGBT-inclusive nondiscrimination laws.

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in rental, sales and lending on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability and familial status. Approximately 20 states, and the District of Columbia, and more than 150 cities, towns and counties across the nation have additional protections that specifically prohibit such discrimination against LGBT individuals. Under guidance announced last year, HUD will, as appropriate, retain its jurisdiction over complaints filed by LGBT individuals or families but also jointly investigate or refer matters to those state, district and local governments with other legal protections.

View the proposed rule announced today.

###

HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD is working to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; and transform the way HUD does business. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.

FHA EXTENDS 'ANTI-FLIPPING WAIVER' TO HELP STABLIZE HOUSING MARKET

2011-02-09T12:15:00.000-05:00

FHA EXTENDS 'ANTI-FLIPPING WAIVER' TO HELP STABLIZE HOUSING MARKET
Measure continues effort to boost home values and accelerate resale of vacant properties
WASHINGTON - In an effort to continue stabilizing home values and improve conditions in communities experiencing high foreclosure activity, Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Commissioner David H. Stevens today extended FHA's temporary waiver of the agency's 'anti-flipping rule.' The extension announced today is intended to accelerate the resale of foreclosed upon homes in neighborhoods struggling to overcome possible property abandonment and blight.

With certain exceptions, FHA regulations prohibit insuring a mortgage on a home owned by the seller for less than 90 days. Early last year, FHA temporarily waived this regulation through January 31, 2011. FHA today posted a notice extending this waiver through the remainder of 2011. This action will permit buyers to continue to use FHA-insured financing to purchase HUD-owned properties, bank-owned properties, or properties resold through private sales. It will allow homes to resell as quickly as possible, helping to stabilize real estate prices and to revitalize neighborhoods and communities.

"As I noted when we first announced this policy change early last year, because of the tightened credit market, FHA-insured mortgage financing is often the only means of financing available to potential homebuyers," said Stevens. "Today I can report that this policy change has been effective. Since the original waiver went into effect on last February, FHA has insured more than 21,000 mortgages worth over $3.6 billion on properties resold within 90 days of acquisition."

FHA research finds that in today's market, acquiring, rehabilitating and reselling these properties to prospective homeowners often takes less than 90 days. Prohibiting the use of FHA mortgage insurance for a subsequent resale within 90 days of acquisition adversely impacts the willingness of sellers to allow contracts from potential FHA buyers because they must consider holding costs and the risk of vandalism associated with allowing a property to sit vacant over a 90-day period of time.

Stevens added, "Because of past restrictions, FHA borrowers have often been shut out from buying affordable properties. This action enables our borrowers, especially first-time buyers, to take advantage of this opportunity and buy a home that has recently been rehabilitated. It will also help to move more foreclosed properties off the market and reduce the number of vacant homes in neighborhoods throughout this country."

The extension announced today is effective through December 31, 2011, unless otherwise extended or withdrawn by FHA. All other terms of the waiver will remain the same, and HUD continues to invite public comment on it. The waiver contains strict conditions and guidelines to assure that predatory practices are not allowed.

To protect FHA borrowers against predatory practices of "flipping" where properties are quickly resold at inflated prices to unsuspecting borrowers, this waiver continues to be limited to those sales meeting the following general conditions:

All transactions must be arms-length, with no identity of interest between the buyer and seller or other parties participating in the sales transaction.
In cases in which the sales price of the property is 20 percent or more above the seller's acquisition cost, the waiver will only apply if the lender meets specific conditions.
The waiver is limited to forward mortgages, and does not apply to the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) for purchase program.
Read FHA's anti-flipping waiver.

###

HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD is working to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; and transform the way HUD does business. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.

The Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday approved an interim rule amending Regulation Z

2011-02-09T12:11:00.000-05:00

Release Date: December 22, 2010

For immediate release
The Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday approved an interim rule amending Regulation Z, which implements the Truth in Lending Act (TILA). The Board is issuing this interim rule to clarify certain aspects of a September 24, 2010 interim rule, in response to public comments. The September interim rule implements provisions of the Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act (MDIA) which amended TILA to require mortgage lenders to disclose examples of how a loan's interest rate or monthly payments can change. Those statutory amendments will become effective on January 30, 2011.

The MDIA seeks to alert borrowers to the risks of payment increases before they take out mortgage loans with variable rates or payments. Under the Board's September interim rule, lenders' cost disclosures must include a payment summary in the form of a table stating the initial rate and corresponding periodic payment and, for adjustable rate loans, the maximum rate and payment that can occur during the first five years as well as a "worst case" example showing the maximum rate and payment possible over the life of the loan.

This interim rule clarifies that creditors' disclosure should reflect the first rate adjustment for a "5/1 ARM" loan because the new rate typically becomes effective within 5 years after the first regular payment due date. Today's interim rule also corrects the requirements for interest-only loans to clarify that creditors' disclosures should show the earliest date the consumer's interest rate can change rather than the due date for making the first payment under the new rate. The rule also clarifies which mortgage transactions are covered by the special disclosure requirements for loans that allow minimum payments that cause the loan balance to increase.

Creditors have the option of complying with either the Board's September 2010 interim rule as originally published or as revised by this interim rule until October 1, 2011, at which time compliance with this interim rule will become mandatory.

The Board is soliciting comment on the interim rule for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register, which is expected shortly. The Board's notice is attached.

The Gantz Team of CN AGNEW REALTOR INC. has just opened 3 new real estate sales positions! Please help us fill them......

2011-01-26T16:35:00.000-05:00

Greetings from The Gantz Group!

I know it is hard to believe but Spring is just around the corner and the real estate market is finally starting to come alive.

Those of you who have been focusing on the weather may be surprised to learn that so far this week 75 properties were listed for sale in Delaware County and 64 new properties came on board in Chester County.

As we look forward to the Spring real estate market, I want to remind you of our long time affiliation with CN AGNEW REALTOR INC. conveniently located in Wayne, PA. and to let you know that we are actively looking to add three real estate agents to The Gantz Team. We are interested in speaking to anyone who may be contemplating a career in real estate.

If you know of anyone who has a real estate license and is looking to associate with a Broker or who is contemplating obtaining a real estate license and who is looking for a Broker to sponsor them I would be interested in speaking with them.

I am interested in speaking to anyone who is contemplating entering (or re-entering) real estate sales on a full time or part time basis. Resumes or letters of interest can be faxed to 610-717-1401 or emailed to KMG@Gantzlaw.com

And, if you or anyone you know is contemplating buying or selling real estate this Spring and would like to discuss the current market conditions please have them call me directly at 610-715-0658 or Kit Donato 610-688-6100.

Thanks!

-KMG

“ALL REAL ESTATE. ALL THE TIME”
Real Estate Law, Title Insurance, 1031 Exchanges, Sales, Leasing, Property Management
"All Real Estate. All The Time."

Kathryn M. Gantz
THE GANTZ GROUP
Paoli Medical and Professional Commons
250 W. Lancaster Ave., Suite 235
Paoli, PA 19301

KMG@GantzLaw.com
Phone: 610-644-6437
Fax: 610-717-1401

URGENT! Rental Housing needed for family of 3, 1 dog, 2 cats.......

2010-09-10T18:00:00.000-04:00

2 adults, with 10 yr old, 1 dog, 2 cats need housing as a result of last nights fire.
Rent: $800. to $1,000. per month.
call: 610-715-0658 or email details to KMG@GantzLaw.com

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Fannie Mae Unveils New Website

2010-08-09T14:39:00.000-04:00

KnowYourOptions.com™

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The George Fund

2010-08-02T09:30:00.000-04:00

For those of you looking to give back in our region, please consider a donation to The George Fund:

The George Fund

Attn: All BNI, Toastmasters, Speakers ...........New Book to help you!

2010-08-01T21:26:00.002-04:00

For all you BNI newbies who may be struggling with you first launch pad speech, this book can help you engage those sleepy BNI members at your next 7:00 AM meeting and show you how to persuade the members of your chapter to give you even more referrals!

Getting A Squirrel To Focus

-KMG

Main Line Today 2010 Top Lawyer Poll

2010-08-01T20:52:00.001-04:00

More Top Lawyers
The rest of the best from our 2010 poll.
List compiled by Samantha Bokoski, Shannon Hallamyer and Chelsea Reyher Published July 20, 2010 at 04:29 PM

.......Kathryn M. Gantz, Gantz Law Offices LLC, Paoli Medical and Professional Commons, 250 W. Lancaster Ave., Suite 235, Paoli; (610) 644-6437, www.gantzlaw.com

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If your mortgage interest rate is over 5% ................

2010-07-24T12:28:00.000-04:00

Interest rates are at an all-time low. If your mortgage interest rate is 5% or more I recommend that you call David McDonnell TODAY 610-324-8830 for a free phone consultation to determine if you can save money by refinancing your mortgage NOW, while rates are incredibly low.

Thinking of purchasing a new home? This is a GREAT time to buy:
Interest rates are low, and there are many houses on the market.

Call David McDonnell 610-324-8830 to get pre-qualified.
Need title insurance, or real estate advice? Call me:

Kathryn M. Gantz, Esq.
The Gantz Group
Real Estate Law, Title Insurance, 1031 Tax deferred Exchanges

If you are looking for a home on the Main Line in the $1 million to $ 25 million range and are looking for discreet, highly personalized service, contact:

Kit Carson Donato
Kathryn M. Gantz, Esq.
C.N. Agnew Realtor Inc. 610-688-6100

Fundraising Event for Children cared for by Keystone Hospice

2010-07-20T11:56:00.000-04:00

On Saturday the 31st of July the parents of George Pappert,( Ellen and Jerry Pappert) will be hosting their first solo fundraising event for Children cared for by Keystone Hospice. We ask that all friends and staff of Keystone Hospice consider either attending or find a way to support the efforts of these two very brave parents who have committed to Keystones Pediatric Hospice Program.

If you have children it would be great that you would bring them since it is a kids Triathlon before the She Rox Triathlon at Lloyd Hall, 10:30a. If you don’t there are plenty of ways to help as well as spreading the word within your communities. It is only a few hours on a Saturday morning, but for a very worthy cause. We look forward to your support!

I have attached the links to the event and our website so you can read about the George Fund and the actual event for She Rox. Thanks in advance for any and all support, even if it’s just linking to your website to let others know about it.

http://www.keystonecare.com/pediatric/the-george-fund.aspx

http://www.sheroxtri.com/kidsrox.html

Gail A. Inderwies, RN,BSN,MBA

President and executive Director

Gail Inderwies
Executive Director

8765 Stenton Avenue
Wyndmoor, PA 19038

T (215) 836-2440
C (215) 783-0715
F (215) 836-2935
ginderwies@keystonecare.com

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Fannie Mae To Pursue Deficiency Judgments

2010-07-05T11:07:00.000-04:00

As I predicted, deficiency judgments may become the next area of litigation for unwary distressed homeowners.
Lenders, with encouragement from Fannie Mae appear to be ready to pursue deficiency judgments. This will be a major change in policy for many Lenders.
Question: How many homeowners in our area pursued short sales with their Lenders and failed to address this issue?
I wonder how many Realtors who jumped on the short sale bandwagon and began negotiating short sales will be sued by the homeowner when they get hit with a deficiency judgment. Will the unauthorized practice of law be one of the claims?

When a Lender forecloses on a property in Pennsylvania it does so with an "In rem" action on the Mortgage meaning it is foreclosing on the real estate in order to recoup the money it loaned the non-paying homeowner. If the property sells at sheriff sale or a short sale for less money then the Lender is owed, the Lender has a deficiency and can bring a second lawsuit against its former homeowner on the Note, for the loss or deficiency. Click the link above to read Fannie Mae's announcement.

-KMG

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JUST IN: Good News for Real Estate Sellers: The market IS improving in our area!

2010-06-16T18:27:00.001-04:00

Market Report: May Residential Sales Jump 26%, All Counties See Gains

"Residential sales activity for TREND's MLS Coverage Area jumped 26.3 percent for May 2010. All 13 counties reported higher numbers than in May 2009, according to statistics generated by MLS Blue. There were 6,088 sales in May 2010, compared to 4,820 in May 2009."
-TREND MLS Blue

In May 2010, Chester County home sales increased by 31.49%, from 362 in 2009 to 476 in 2010. AND, the average sale price increased by 4.04%, from $320,180. to $333,128.

Delaware County experienced a 25.62% increase in the number of homes sold, however, sales prices decreased by 3.96% from a May 2009 average of $241,298, to $231,733 in May 2010.

Bucks County home sales increased 25.24%, from 420 homes sold in May of 2009 to 526 sold in May 2010. AND, the avergage price of the homes sold increased 5.63% from $ 312,800 to $ 330,399.

In Montgomery County sales rose by 23.28%, from 640 in May 2009 to 789 in May 2010. Average sales price increased by 4.93% from $293,955 in May of 2009 to $ 308,435 in May 2010.

Source: -TREND MLS Blue

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Real Estate Tax Tips from Dorothy C Borchardt, CPA

2010-06-15T23:56:00.001-04:00

Cut Taxes on the Sale of Your Home
Despite the slumping real estate market, houses are still being sold and there is money to be made. Sellers need to take a close look at the exclusion rules and cost basis of their home to reduce taxable gain on their house.

First, The IRS home sale exclusion rule now allows an exclusion of a gain up to $250,000 for a single taxpayer or $500,000 for a married couple filing jointly. This exclusion can be used over and over during your lifetime, unlike the previous one-time exemption, as long as you meet the following Ownership and Use tests.

During the 5-year period ending on the date of the sale, you must have:

Owned the house for at least two years - Ownership Test
Lived in the house as your main home for at least two years - Use Test
Tip: The Ownership and Use periods need not be concurrent. Two years may consist of a full 24 months or 730 days within a 5-year period. Short absences, such as for a summer vacation, count in the period of use. Longer breaks, such as a 1-year sabbatical, do not. If you own more than one home, you can exclude the gain only on your main home. The IRS uses several factors to determine which home is a principal residence: place of employment, location of family members' main home, mailing address on bills, correspondence, tax returns, driver's license, car registration, voter registration, location of banks you use, and location of recreational clubs and religious organizations you belong to.

Tip: The exclusion can be used over and over during your lifetime, every time you reestablish your primary residence. When you do change homes, let us know your new address so we can ensure the IRS has your current address on file. Note: Only taxable gain on the sale of your home needs to be reported on your taxes. Further, loss on the sale of your main home cannot be deducted. Ask us for details. Improvements Increase the Cost Basis
Additionally, when selling your home, consider all improvements made to the home over the years. Improvements will increase the cost basis of the home and thereby reduce the capital gain.

Additions and other improvements that have a useful life of more than one year can be added to the cost basis of your home.

Examples of Improvements
Examples of improvements include: building an addition; finishing a basement; putting in a new fence or swimming pool; paving the driveway; landscaping; or installing new wiring, new plumbing, central air, flooring, insulation, or security system.

Example: The Kellys purchased their primary residence in 1999 for $200,000. They paved the unpaved driveway and added a swimming pool, among other things, for $75,000. The adjusted cost basis of the house is $275,000. The house is then sold in 2008 for $550,000. It costs the Kellys $40,000 in commissions, advertising, and legal fees to sell the house.

These selling expenses are subtracted from the sales price to determine the amount realized. The amount realized in this example is $510,000. That amount is then reduced by the adjusted basis (cost plus improvements) to determine the gain. The gain in this case is $235,000. After considering the exclusion, there is no taxable gain on the sale of this primary residence and, therefore, no reporting of the sale on the Kelly's 2008 personal tax return.

Tip: Home Energy Credit. Homeowners will benefit from extended energy saving credits when making their homes more energy efficient in 2009 and 2010. Projects include energy-efficient windows, doors, heating, and air-conditioning systems. The existing 10% tax credit for energy saving home improvements has been increased to 30% of a cost up to $1,500 and extends through 2010.

Partial Use of the Exclusion Rules
If you do not meet the Ownership and Use tests, you may be allowed to exclude a portion of the gain realized on the sale of your home if you sold your home because of health reasons, a change in place of employment, or certain unforeseen circumstances. Unforeseen circumstances include, for example, divorce or legal separation, natural or man-made disasters resulting in a casualty to your home, or an involuntary conversion of your home.

Example: If you get divorced after living in your home for approximately 1 1/2 years or 438 days and have a gain of $120,000 on the sale of your home, you can take 60% of the capital gain exclusion, as you lived in the house for 60% of the 2-year exclusion period (438 days divided by 730 days or 60%). Therefore, you would be allowed to deduct $150,000 of the capital gain (60% of $250,000 exclusion). No gain would be reported on this sale. Recordkeeping
Good recordkeeping is essential for determining the adjusted cost basis of your home. Ordinarily, you must keep records for 3 years after the filing due date. However, keep records proving your home's cost basis for as long as you own your house.

The records you should keep include:

Proof of the home's purchase price and purchase expenses
Receipts and other records for all improvements, additions, and other items that affect the home's adjusted cost basis
Any worksheets or forms you filed to postpone the gain from the sale of a previous home before May 7, 1997
Questions?
Tax considerations can be confusing. If you have any questions on taxes related to the sale of your home, give us a call.

Please call us at (610) 692-0885 if you have any questions.

Dorothy C Borchardt, CPA

www.db-cpa.com
(610) 692-0885

These newsletter articles are not to be used by the recipient for the purpose of avoiding federal tax penalties that may be imposed on any taxpayer

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TIP: Opportunity is knocking...

2010-06-15T10:38:00.001-04:00

Did you know that today we are seeing rates as low as 4.25%!!!!!!! with 0 Points!!

If you haven't taken advantage of these historically low mortgage rates consider refinancing TODAY! If your current mortgage is an adjustable rate then you should be considering locking in a low fixed rate. If you are in a 30 year mortgage you should consider refinancing into a 15 year mortgage. There is no security like the feeling of knowing your home is debt free. The shorter the term the more interest you save AND the faster you build equity.

Please consider investigating how you can benefit from these incredibly low interest rates.

If you are renting consider buying. If you are dreaming of a larger home now IS the time to trade up and benefit from low interest rates and the large number of short sales that are currently on the market.

Need help understanding a short sale? Email Me

Of course, your house may sell for a little less than it might have 3 years ago. SO WHAT! You will more than make it up on the price you save on your purchase and the mortgage interest rate savings. You will then be in a great position to build additional equity when the market comes roaring back.

Don't assume that because you refinanced a year ago that you cannot refinance again. We have many clients who are refinancing for the second or third time within the last 2 years.

Those of us who have been in real estate for the long term understand that eventually the market WILL return to normal. (By the way, A “normal” market is not the over heated market of a couple of years ago. A normal market is when it generally takes about 90 days to sell a home. )
At that point, we will all be looking back to these days and the shouldof’s, couldof’s, wouldof’s will begin.

If you need a good mortgage broker, realtor, or title insurance company Email Me today and I will provide you with my personal list of seasoned professionals.

I am happy to assist you.

Carpe diem!

-KMG

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Special Mortgage Alert from Turnstone Mortgage!

2010-05-25T20:19:00.000-04:00

Others Are Acting Quickly…Don't Miss This Opportunity

Just wanted to reach out to you – and I would have preferred to call you directly, but frankly, I have been slammed. Many of my clients are saving a lot of money by taking advantage of the unusual opportunity that exists right now, and I wanted to make sure you didn't miss out.

Interest rates have rallied and improved dramatically on the heels of the recent European debt concerns…and what is most important is that due to the highly unusual set of circumstances that exist in the market, those who are acting quickly are saving. In fact, Freddie Mac reported last week that rates have met either all-time lows or 2010 lows. Bottom line, they are "smokin' hot" right now – but won't be for long.

Regardless of whether people want to convert their loan to a 15-Year fixed to potentially save over $100,000 in payments over the term…or drop their payment several hundred dollars a month, people are acting now!

However - one thing you have to know…rates are incredibly volatile and are not likely to hold these levels. We might only have a couple of days to lock people in at the best rates they will ever see.

Call me quick! I would love to look into your situation and see just what we can do to put some money back in your pocket. I never thought I would see rates this low across the board - so don't miss this chance.

I look forward to hearing from you!

P.S. Home sales and home prices continue to improve. Monday, the NAR released information that shows strength in housing. If you are in the market to buy a home, act now before monthly payments increase as both prices and rates move higher.

Or, if you are looking to refinance and could not last year because of home values…you just might be able to now. Call me!

David McDonnell
President, CMPS
Turnstone Mortgage Company
(610) 324-8830
NMLS #129081
David@TurnstoneMortgage.com

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Energy Rebates and Incentives From Ken Struder

2010-05-25T10:05:00.001-04:00

Good Morning,

We all know how challenging things are right now. And when a house is being sold, things may come up during the home inspection that need to be addressed. The heating system, cooling system, or hot water heater may need to be replaced. We feel that our job is not only to properly inspect these systems, but to provide helpful information and options should replacement be required. Replacement options and costs become critical. I thought you might find the following information helpful.

Did you know that PECO is currently offering rebates for appliance replacement?
Did you know that the State of Pennsylvania is offering rebates for appliance replacement?
Did you know that if you install a qualified appliance you can take a 30% federal tax credit (not deduction) of 30% of the cost up to $1500.

Here is an example:
Let’s say your client needs to replace the existing furnace and heat pump.
Let’s say the new system is a natural gas furnace (95 AFUE) with heat pump (16 SEER).
Let’s say the new system will cost $8,500.00.
With PECO rebates, the Energy Star PA State Appliance Rebate Program, and the Federal Energy Tax Credit, you could reduce the cost of the new system by over $2,200. There are also manufacturer’s rebates currently available that may reduce the cost of the new system even more…….. And that’s not counting the energy savings the new system will provide over the life of the system.

We invite you to share this information with your clients. PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHMENT that provides the details regarding the PECO rebate program, the Energy Star PA State Appliance Rebate Program, and the Federal Energy Tax Credit. This is the kind of information we provide to you and your client with all of our inspections. We take pride in keeping up to date with information that is important to you and you r client. Other programs, such as the “Home Star Program”, are “in the works”. These programs may provide additional rebates from the Federal Government. We will keep you up to date. We hope you find this information helpful.

Our philosophy over the years of using the home inspection to educate the buyer continues today and will continue in the future. We stand ready to meet your inspection needs.

PECO Rebates (www.PECO.com/smartideas)
--------------------------------------------------------
Natural Gas Hot Water Heater (Must have a 0.67 EF or greater) $50
Natural Gas Boiler (Must have an 85% or greater AFUE rating) $300
Natural Gas Furnace (Must have a 90% or greater AFUE rating) $300

Electric Hot Water Heater (Must have a.95 EF or greater) $25
Energy Star Heat Pump Water Heater $300

Standard Air-Source Heat Pump (14.5 SEER) $250
Energy Star Air Source Heat Pump (15 SEER) $325
Energy Star Air Source Heat Pump (16 SEER) $400
Energy Star Geothermal Heat Pump (per ton) $217

Standard Central Air Conditioner (14.5 SEER) $150
Energy Star Central Air Conditioner (15 SEER) $225
Energy Star Central Air Conditioner (16 SEER) $300

Energy Star Refrigerator $75
Energy Star Freezer $75
Energy Star Clothes Washer $100
Energy Star Dishwasher $50
Energy Star Dehumidifier $10
Energy Star Room Air Conditioner $50
Standard Whole House Fan $90

Energy Star PA State Appliance Rebate Program (www.paheatingrebates.com)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural Gas or Propane Water Heater (Must have a 0.67 EF or greater) $100
Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater $200
(Must have a 0.82 EF or greater)

Natural Gas or Propane Boiler (Must have an 85% or greater AFUE) $250
Natural Gas or Propane Boiler (Must have a 90% or greater AFUE) $500

Oil-fired Boiler (Must have an 85% or greater AFUE) $250
Oil-fired Boiler (Must have a 90% or greater AFUE) $500

Natural Gas or Propane Furnace (Must have a 90% or greater AFUE) $200
Natural Gas or Propane Furnace (Must have a 95% or greater AFUE) $300

Oil-fired Furnace (Must have an 85% or greater AFUE) $200
Oil-fired Furnace (Must have a 90% or greater AFUE) $300

Federal Tax Credits for Consumer Energy Efficiency (www.energystar.gov)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The federal energy tax credit provides a federal tax credit (not deduction) for 30% of the cost up to $1500 when you update and install certain energy efficient appliances. Not all energy star appliances are eligible. Appliances include heating systems, air conditioning systems, heat pumps, ventilating systems and hot water heaters. Check with your installer for product eligibility and details.
NOTE: These credits are also available for updating windows, doors, and insulation and installing solar systems, wind turbines and geothermal heat pumps.

5/2010

Ken Struder
Pennsylvania Home Inspections
610-873-2278, KenStruder@yahoo.com
Home Inspection, Radon Testing, Water Testing, Septic System Inspection and Certification, Termite Inspection and Certification 5/2010

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Pennsylvanina has $2 billion in Unclaimed Funds.....

2010-05-21T12:43:00.000-04:00

From Pennsylvanina Treasurer Rob McCord:

Visit Treasury's Web site, www.patreasury.org, to search the Unclaimed Property Database, which contains nearly $2 billion in unclaimed property, or call 1-800-222-2046. Treasury staff will assist you in recovering your property free of charge.

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FREE.....FLEA MARKET ALL ITEMS FREE

2010-05-21T12:02:00.000-04:00

Saturday, May 22, 8:30 - Noon - It's a FREE Market - that's right, FREE. Anyone you know in need of clothing or household items? A senior living on a fixed income? A new college student? All items are in good condition and some clothing still has the original tags on it. No admission fee and no limit as to how much a person can take. This is a ministry of Boehm's United Church of Christ, 571 Penllyn-Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell PA 19422.
Submitted by Jennie Zehmer,Here to Home, Inc.

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Chester City (Delaware County)Weatherization Program Meeting

2010-05-20T21:26:00.000-04:00

Special Announcement from DPI
Hi Kathryn,

CAADC is having an Open House at Chester City Hall (4th and Avenue of the States in Chester), tomorrow, Friday May 21st from 11AM to 3PM, regarding their weatherization program.

This program is a benefit to both Owners as well as Tenants. If any of your tenants receive SSI, LIHEAP, or other assistance, they are automatically qualified for the CAADC program.

As I understand it, CAADC will go into the property, do an energy audit, and correct things from caulk to windows for FREE. This benefits the landlord by improving the property, adn benefits the tenant since it will lower their energy bills.

CAADC staff will be there to answer questions and take applications.

Please inform your tenants about this program. It is available to all of Delaware County, not just Chester City.

Copyright C 2003 - 2007 Delco Property Investors. All rights reserved.

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Small Business Week

2010-05-19T15:22:00.000-04:00

For: Business Network International, Malvern Chapter
Contact: Carolyn Frith, carolynfrith@verizon.net, 610-933-4123
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
As the Nation Celebrates National Small Business Week starting on May 23, Chester County, PA Small Businesses Help Each Other to Grow
Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has proclaimed National Small Business Week to recognize the contributions of small businesses to the economic health of the country. More than half of Americans either own or work for the estimated 27.2 million small businesses. These businesses are a breed apart from those that fill the daily-news’ headlines. While leaders of large corporations rarely work together for business growth, helping each other out is a culture that’s alive and well in the small-business community. For example, members of the Malvern Chapter of Business Network International (BNI) in Chester County, PA meet once a week with one goal: referring business to each other.
“I was downsized from Corporate America towards the end of 2009,” says Carolyn Frith of Carolyn Frith Marketing. “Very shortly afterwards I decided to launch my own marketing consultancy. I needed to network in order to get my business of the ground so I joined BNI. While some in the group represent large organizations, many own small businesses. We have the philosophy of ‘givers gain’. If you give business referrals to others, you will get business in return. Also, BNI gives you a pool of trusted professionals who can help you grow your business. If you need an accountant or lawyer, you don’t have to take a risk on a random find in the yellow pages, you already know someone in your BNI chapter.”
Most small-business owners know that word-of-mouth is not only one of the most convincing ways to advertise, it is also one of the most cost effective. However, they do not know how to go about it in a consistent manner that makes maximum use of the time they invest. BNI provides a networking formula that has been tried, tested and perfected around the world over the past 25 years. To foster a collaborative rather than competitive environment, only one person from each profession can join a chapter. That person is pre-screened by the membership committee to assure that they meet BNI’s standards of professionalism. All members are required to attend the weekly meetings because this frequency is what it takes to keep each other top of mind, and develop strong relationships. In addition, members are encouraged schedule 1-to-1 meetings outside of the regular group meeting. This enables them to gain a deeper understanding of each person in the group and their business, making it easier to refer business.
The Malvern Chapter of BNI meets every Tuesday at The Desmond, Great Valley for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 7:00 AM until 8:30AM. For more information visit our website at www.BNIDVR.com. Visitors are welcome but must preregister by calling Kathy Gantz at 610-644-6437

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Tips to Avoid a Low Home Appraisal......

2010-05-13T13:51:00.000-04:00

Worrying that your house may not appraise high enough?

Click Here for some tips!

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Pennsylvanina Tax Amnesty ends June 18, 2010

2010-05-12T13:41:00.000-04:00

PA Tax Amnesty

Pennsylvania authorized (under Act 48, signed into law on Oct. 9, 2009) a Tax Amnesty period from April 26 to June 18, 2010.

During this limited, 54-day timeframe, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue will waive 100 percent of penalties and half of the interest for anyone who pays his/her delinquent state taxes.

Individuals, businesses and other entities with Pennsylvania tax delinquencies as of June 30, 2009, are generally eligible to participate in the Tax Amnesty Program.

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Are you a "Move Up" or "Repeat HomeBuyer? Tax Credit Available .....

2010-04-27T20:30:00.000-04:00

You do NOT have to be a First Time HomeBuyer to get a Tax credit.
GET THE FACTS Here:

MOVE UP or REPEAT, LONG TIME HOMEOWNER TAX CREDIT DETAILS!

BUT YOU MUST BE UNDER CONTRACT BY APRIL 30!

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Berwyn, $415,000.

2010-04-18T13:25:00.001-04:00

Well Maintained condo in Oak Knoll.
Marble entry, with stained glass skylight.
Granite Countertops, New Appliances, Wine Cooler, Pantry, Teak floors, 2 wood burning fireplaces with electric –remote controlled inserts, First Floor Master currently configured as Formal Dining Room but can easily be converted back. Full size Laundry room, Cedar Closet. Plenty of storage. Beautiful views from every window! Garage.
Steps to train. Walk to Upper Main Line Y. This is one of the best locations on the Main Line. Owner is a licensed Realtor.

Call 610-715-0658.

Click Here for Pictures!

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David McDonnell receives Notable Networker Award....

2010-04-18T12:36:00.000-04:00

For: Business Network International, Malvern, PA Chapter and Turnstone Mortgage, Downingtown, PA
Contact: Carolyn Frith, carolynfrith@verizon.net, 610-933-4123
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MALVERN, PA CHAPTER OF BUSINESS NETWORK INTERNATIONAL (BNI) ANNOUNCES WINNER OF NOTABLE NETWORKER AWARD: DAVID MCDONNELL, TURNSTONE MORTGAGE COMPANY, DOWNINGTOWN, PA.
Malvern, PA, April 15, 2010. Every six months the Malvern Chapter of BNI recognizes one of its members with the Notable Networker Award. This award goes to the individual who has generated the greatest number of referrals to fellow chapter members, demonstrating that they live by BNI’s philosophy of “givers gain”. This April, David McDonnell of Turnstone Mortgage, who originated 43 referrals in the past six months, was recognized for his contributions to help other BNI members grow their businesses.
BNI was founded in 1985 to help business people pass qualified referrals to each other. Now the world’s largest referral network, it has tens of thousands of members on almost every continent. Members of BNI have passed millions of referrals, generating billions of dollars for participants.
David McDonnell founded Turnstone Mortgage in 1999. He helps home buyers find the mortgages that best fit their needs and also works with home owners to lower their monthly payments through refinancing. “After I had been in business for several years, I completed analysis and realized my best clients came from referrals. So, BNI is a natural fit for my organization. Not only does BNI help to grow my business, but also, when clients fill out loan applications, I often learn about their other financial and real estate needs. Because I know a trusted group of professionals, I am able to assist my clients. I can refer them to, for example, a title insurance lawyer, a financial planner, or a home insurance provider. It’s a win-win-win situation—for my clients, my business and other BNI members.”
BNI has several differences from other networking organizations. First, members apply for membership. This enables BNI to check an individual’s background and assure high-caliber members. Second, only one person from each profession can join a chapter, thus maximizing the number of referrals each person will receive. Third, members are required to attend the weekly meetings to foster continuity. Finally, all members schedule one-to-one meetings with each other to understand thoroughly each business represented, build relationships and help referrals flow easily.
The Malvern Chapter of BNI meets every Tuesday at The Desmond, Great Valley for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 7:00 AM until 8:30AM. For more information visit our website at www.BNIDVR.com. Visitors are welcome but must preregister by calling Kathy Gantz at 610-644-6437. For mortgage assistance contact David McDonnell, Turnstone Mortgage at 610-324-8830 or david@turnstonemortgage.com

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Inspection of Commercial Rentals........

2010-04-18T12:24:00.000-04:00

Oxford Borough Council to consider inspection of commercial rental properties

For some time, Oxford Borough has conducted inspections of residential properties and required that rental properties meet maintenance code standards before occupied. The inspections are being expanded to include commercial rental properties to improve the downtown business district. Complaints about empty storefronts and others that appear rundown motivated borough officials to look at the exiting property maintenance ordinance and consult with its solicitor to ensure that the wording allows for expanded enforcement. Borough Manager Betsey Bratner noted Oxford has already developed a list of about a dozen buildings where the owners will be approached about making improvements. Bratner raised the subject of tax incentives for new businesses that locate in the borough. Also related to rental properties, at a public meeting scheduled for April 19, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Borough Building, 401 East Market Street, Oxford Borough Council will conduct a public hearing to consider an amendment that would regulate disruptive conduct in rental properties. The ordinance prohibits an owner of residential rental property from engaging in, tolerating or permitting tenants and guests to engage in disruptive conduct on, in or adjacent to the residential rental property. Email sra@suburbanrealtorsalliance.com with any questions or concerns.

Source: Daily Local; 4/05/10

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For Sale Main Line Condo -Walk To Train

2010-04-15T15:46:00.001-04:00

Looking to buy on the Main Line? Great condition and in walking distance to Upper Main Line Y! Walk to train. Very Private and convenient location. Tons of storage, and plenty of room to entertain.

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Jack Sweeney discusses new franchise concept

2010-03-09T21:10:00.000-05:00

Jack Sweeney is a Franchise Owner and Consultant in the Greater Philadelphia Area. He is the owner of Franchise Inc! where, as a Franchise Consultant, he focuses on “Solving The Puzzle of Owning a Franchise” or those interested in buying and operating their own franchise business.

KMG: Jack, large number of my real estate clients have been forced out of “brick & mortar” investments due to lack of suitable financing. How is your business coping with the current financing crunch?

JACK: Conventional financing is almost non-existent in our business today. We still see the occasional cash buyer who is selling one business and buying another but for the most part new owner operators are impeded from exploring franchising due to lack of funding. Our company has had to developed new strategies to assist buyers in the marketplace.

KMG: Would you mind sharing the one strategy that you are the most excited about with GANTZ BLOG readers?

JACK: Our Company, Franchise Inc! has developed a strategy called “Concept Management”. Two recurring theme(s) in our business are that there are would-be owner operators who cannot get financing for new businesses today and investors who do not want to operate a franchise business but still want to grow their capital. Our strategy, Concept Management, brings together those with investment capital, the investors, and those without the capital, the sweat-equity operators. Basically, the two parties form an active LLC partnership with a written Agreement that spells out the duties and responsibilities of each partner. The investor provides the capital that is used to purchase the franchise and the sweat-equity partner is trained by the Franchisor to operate the franchise on a daily basis.

KMG: That sounds interesting, how does that relationship play out financially?

Jack: In the Agreement the partners spell out how the Net Profits are utilized. For example, the Agreement might read that 75% of profits go to the investors until all of their capital is returned. Then 25% of the profits go to the sweat-equity partner for his operating labor (running the store). When the investor is made whole the ratio might change to 60% of Net profit going to the operator and 40% of profits going to the investor. There would also be a clause stipulating that either partner could buy the other partner out for “x” amount, usually based on previous 12 months rolling net profits of the business. It’s a very real win-win situation for the partners.

KMG: Can you give us a specific example of how you are using the Concept Management strategy in our area?

JACK: Well, recently Franchise Inc! has partnered with Jaime Brenkus of “8 minute Abs” fame. Jaime is a successful entrepreneur in the fitness field. His newest idea is to combine weight management and exercise under one banner. We are working with Jaime to bring a new franchise into our area under this new banner called Slim and Fit. I have partnered with a guy who is strongly interested in the Concept Manager strategy and we are working with Jaime to bring the first Slim and Fit franchise into our area. We will use this first unit as a showcase unit. Once it is up and operating both of us will begin contacting interested investors and putting the Concept Management strategy to work using the Slim and Fit franchise model. After we secure the investors we will work as the sweat equity operators for those new units. Once we have achieved solid results, we will then be looking for additional Concept Managers and investors in order to continue growing our Concept Management strategy.

KMG: How is Slim & Fit different from all the other fitness centers and gyms?

JACK:
As I mentioned, this is the first time that weight management and exercise are being combined under the same banner, Slim and Fit. So, on the Slim side, we provide a nutritionist, the Slim Coach, who works with the client on weight management with food and education. On the Fit side, we provide a Fitness Trainer who works with clients on an exercise program. Each component is tailored to the clients needs and goals. The differentiator is the one-to-one coaching provided at every step along the way to reaching your personal goals. Jaime likes to say his concept works because he provides the A,B,C’s to reaching the clients goals: Accountability, Behavior education and Continuity---using both weight management and exercise!

KMG: So it sounds like you and Franchise Inc! have found a new strategy to overcome current financing challenges in a way that allows your business to grow even in these tough times.

JACK: Yes, we are experiencing a lot of interest in the Concept Management strategy.

KMG: Do you have anything else you would like to share with my readers?

JACK: If your readers are interested in discussing this concept further or discussing whether franchising might be for them I’d be happy to speak with them. My services are free of charge!

KMG: Thank you, Jack, I invite any interested readers who want to learn more about Concept Management or any other aspect of franchising or business ownership, to send an email to KMG@GantzLaw.com with the word "Franchise" in the subject line so I can put them intouch with you. Thanks again for taking the time to talk with me today and share your thoughts regarding Concept Management with the readers of my Blog!

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TIPS to Sell A Home in a Down Market

2010-03-03T20:12:00.001-05:00

One of my pet peeves: Whenever I am searching the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or TREND as it is known in our area, I am surprised to see how few Realtors fully utilize the comments section to market their listings. The public and private comments sections in the MLS are frequently ignored by Realtors in a hurry to "get the listing on the market". During a recent conversation, I mentioned this observation to Carolyn Frith, Marketing Consultant. Our conversation led to the following interview. I hope you enjoy it!-KMG

How to Create the Dream and Sell the Home – Even in a Down Market

Realtors want to create an edge to sell homes in this challenging market. Perhaps, there is a better way to attract buyers?

My guest today is Carolyn Frith. Carolyn Frith has twenty-five years experience in marketing and recently founded Carolyn Frith Marketing, a marketing and copywriting consultancy. Carolyn believes that many businesses would see dramatic increases in their sales if they took advantage of the persuasive power of words. Her business tagline is: “Building Sales with Words that Work.”

KMG: What does your tagline “Building Sales with Words that Work” mean to you?

Carolyn Frith: Most copy is boring. It’s often jam-packed with product features and technical jargon and fails to differentiate one product from another. Every boring piece is a missed opportunity to persuade and sell. To be persuasive, copy needs to focus how a product or service will enhance the customer’s life, and why it’s better than competitive products. And, it obviously needs to talk in every-day language that the target customer relates to. Finally, it should tell the prospect what you want them to do.
Another problem is that copy is laden with what I call empty adjectives. Some that are common to the real estate industry are: stunning, beautiful, breathtaking. None of those words are specific and may create a vision entirely different to the one intended.
When I talk about “Building Sales Words that Work,” I mean that every word works hard to persuade. The words focus on how a product will enhance the customer’s life, use the customer’s language, build credibility, create the dream, are specific and request the prospect to take an action. You need to start by understanding your customers’ dreams, hopes, fears and worries. And then determine how your product helps the customer achieve their dreams, or conquer their fears.

KMG: Can you give us an example that applies to real estate?

Well, you might find a listing that says something like:
Stunning contemporary home has 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a powder room. Well-lit, gourmet kitchen and delightful open family area adjoin office. Screened porch overlooks 7 acres of open and wooded land. This would be followed by a list of specific features such as the appliances, three-sided fireplace, slate flooring, wood paneling, lots of windows and descriptions of heating and cooling systems.
KMG: How would you make it more persuasive?

Carolyn Frith: The first thing realtors need to understand is that they are not selling a home. That’s the feature. They are selling a dream lifestyle which is the benefit. So, logically, they have to conjure up that dream in their customers’ minds.

The copy might read more like:
“Imagine driving down winding, tree-lined driveway, at the end of a summer’s day, and seeing your contemporary, wood home perched on a hilltop. The wall of windows and the soft pitch of the roof glint in the setting sun. Open the custom-crafted, oak front door and step into the slate-tiled entry way with rustic wood paneling. Peek into the great room to see the focal point, a stone, three-sided fire place that reaches from floor to ceiling.”
OK – so we just got to the foyer, but you get the point. The customer starts to imagine how this house would change their lifestyle. And there is no need to resort to adjectives like “stunning” when you describe the specifics that add up to stunning. So, when realtor starts to type out the word “stunning”, they should ask themselves, “what is it that makes this home stunning?” Then they need to describe those components.

KMG: You said that you need to tell the prospect what you want them to do.

Carolyn Frith: That’s right. Always end your copy with what you want your prospect to do. It could be, “visit our open house on Saturday,” or “call now for your personal house tour.” You see this call to action on many ads on TV. Why? Because it works.

KMG: Do you have any other marketing advice for Realtors?

Carolyn Frith: Well, the tips I’ve mentioned not only apply to marketing a property. They also apply to marketing a Realtor’s own company. Look at many realtors’ websites and all they do is talk about themselves. The website should focus on the customer and how the realtor can improve the customer’s life.

Also, they need to put together a simple marketing plan. This will help them to stay in the forefront of their prospects’ minds. Whether they plan to do a monthly tip-sheet to stay in contact with prospects, issue press releases for all grand openings or post comments on Trend, the MLS for the Philadelphia metropolitan region, they need to have a written plan to assure they budget appropriately and follow through.
In fact, I just wrote a report called “How a Marketing Plan Increases Your Profits: Making the Most of Limited Time and Budgets.” Your blog followers can download it free at my website. In addition, I’d be happy to give them a no-obligation, free marketing consultation.

KMG: Carolyn, thank you so much for speaking with me today and sharing your thoughts regarding real estate marketing.

To receive a copy of Carolyn Frith’s, “How a Marketing Plan Increases Your Profits: Making the Most of Limited Time and Budgets.” OR to request a FREE consultation with Carolyn Frith via email Please CLICK HERE or send a me a Tweet and. I look forward to hearing from you!-KMG

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Trying to sell a home? Need Help with Marketing?

2010-03-01T18:56:00.000-05:00

Whether you are a Realtor or a For Sale By Owner you will want to hear what my guest, Carolyn Frith of Carolyn Frith Marketing has to say about marketing a home today AND receive a free copy of her latest report “How a Marketing Plan Increases Your Profits: Making the Most of Limited Time and Budgets.” . The transcript of my recent conversation with Carolyn Frith will be posted Wednesday. Stay Tuned! -KMG

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REAL ESTATE TIP: Buying or Refinancing? Find out how you can save money!

2010-02-23T20:19:00.001-05:00

TIP: Refinancing or Buying Real Estate? Whenever you are given a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) fax it to EnCompass Land Transfer LLC 610-717-1401 for a complimentary review. We just may be able to save you money! We are saving our clients money by completing a free line by line review of the charges on your Good Faith Estimate. Questions about your Good Faith Estimate ? EMAIL ME
-KMG

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Wanted: One Good Carpet Cleaner, Plumber, Commercial Realtor, Printer, HVAC Sales Manager & Divorce Attorney who are committed to growing their businesses in 2010!

2010-02-23T12:39:00.002-05:00

If you are COMMITTED to growing your business in 2010 please read the following Press Release:

For: Business Network International, Malvern Chapter
Contact: Carolyn Frith, carolynfrith@verizon.net, 610-933-4123

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AS THE U.S. EMERGES FROM THE GREATEST RECESSION IN MORE THAN 60 YEARS, CHESTER COUNTY BUSINESS PEOPLE HELP EACH OTHER TAKE THEIR SHARE OF THE GROWTH.

Malvern, PA, February 3, 2010--The U.S. Commerce Department reported 5.7 percent annual growth in the fourth quarter of 2009. It was the fastest pace since 2003, as manufacturers replenished their inventories. The U.S. has now experienced two quarters of growth, indicating that the Great Recession ended in 2009. During the same period, the membership of the Malvern chapter of Business Network International (BNI) grew by more than 50 percent as business people tapped into the power of personal referrals to claim their share of the turnaround.

BNI was founded in 1985 to help business people pass qualified referrals to each other. Now the world’s largest referral network, it has tens of thousands of members on almost every continent. Members of BNI have passed millions of referrals, generating billions of dollars for participants. “BNI works because the process has been tested and refined over many years,” says Kathy Gantz, President of the Malvern chapter of BNI. “The best ideas from all over the world have all been encapsulated into the system. The overarching philosophy of BNI is: givers gain. We all help to grow each other’s businesses and, inevitably, those who help most benefit the most.”

BNI has several differences from other networking organizations. First, members must apply for membership. This enables BNI to check an individual’s background and assure high-caliber, professional members. Second, only one person from each profession can join a chapter, thus maximizing the number of referrals each person will receive. Third, members are required to attend the weekly meetings to foster continuity. Finally, all members schedule one-to-one meetings with each other to understand thoroughly each business represented, build relationships and help referrals flow easily.

The Malvern Chapter of BNI meets every Tuesday at The Desmond, Great Valley for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 7:00 AM until 8:30AM. For more information visit our website at www.BNIDVR.com. Visitors are welcome but must preregister by calling Kathy Gantz at 610-644-6437.

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Stock Market Tanked: The Real Estate Bubble Burst; The Banks are not lending …..

2010-02-06T17:54:00.000-05:00

Stock Market Tanked: The Real Estate Bubble Burst; The Banks are not lending …..

Why doesn’t someone come up with a way to make money in this economy?
Perhaps someone has.

My guest today is Jack Sweeney. Jack Sweeney is a Franchise Owner and Consultant in the Greater Philadelphia Area. He is the owner of Franchise Inc! where, as a Franchise Consultant, he focuses on “Solving The Puzzle of Owning a Franchise” or those interested in buying and operating their own franchise business.

KMG: Jack, large number of my real estate clients have been forced out of “brick & mortar” investments due to lack of suitable financing. How is your business coping with the current financing crunch?

JACK: Conventional financing is almost non-existent in our business today. We still see the occasional cash buyer who is selling one business and buying another but for the most part new owner operators are impeded from exploring franchising due to lack of funding. Our company has had to developed new strategies to assist buyers in the marketplace.

KMG: Would you mind sharing the one strategy that you are the most excited about with GANTZ BLOG readers?

JACK: Our Company, Franchise Inc! has developed a strategy called “Concept Management”. Two recurring theme(s) in our business are that there are would-be owner operators who cannot get financing for new businesses today and investors who do not want to operate a franchise business but still want to grow their capital. Our strategy, Concept Management, brings together those with investment capital, the investors, and those without the capital, the sweat-equity operators. Basically, the two parties form an active LLC partnership with a written Agreement that spells out the duties and responsibilities of each partner. The investor provides the capital that is used to purchase the franchise and the sweat-equity partner is trained by the Franchisor to operate the franchise on a daily basis.

KMG: That sounds interesting, how does that relationship play out financially?

Jack: In the Agreement the partners spell out how the Net Profits are utilized. For example, the Agreement might read that 75% of profits go to the investors until all of their capital is returned. Then 25% of the profits go to the sweat-equity partner for his operating labor (running the store). When the investor is made whole the ratio might change to 60% of Net profit going to the operator and 40% of profits going to the investor. There would also be a clause stipulating that either partner could buy the other partner out for “x” amount, usually based on previous 12 months rolling net profits of the business. It’s a very real win-win situation for the partners.

KMG: Can you give us a specific example of how you are using the Concept Management strategy in our area?

JACK: Well, recently Franchise Inc! has partnered with Jaime Brenkus of “8 minute Abs” fame. Jaime is a successful entrepreneur in the fitness field. His newest idea is to combine weight management and exercise under one banner. We are working with Jaime to bring a new franchise into our area under this new banner called Slim and Fit. I have partnered with a guy who is strongly interested in the Concept Manager strategy and we are working with Jaime to bring the first Slim and Fit franchise into our area. We will use this first unit as a showcase unit. Once it is up and operating both of us will begin contacting interested investors and putting the Concept Management strategy to work using the Slim and Fit franchise model. After we secure the investors we will work as the sweat equity operators for those new units. Once we have achieved solid results, we will then be looking for additional Concept Managers and investors in order to continue growing our Concept Management strategy.

KMG: How is Slim & Fit different from all the other fitness centers and gyms?

JACK:
As I mentioned, this is the first time that weight management and exercise are being combined under the same banner, Slim and Fit. So, on the Slim side, we provide a nutritionist, the Slim Coach, who works with the client on weight management with food and education. On the Fit side, we provide a Fitness Trainer who works with clients on an exercise program. Each component is tailored to the clients needs and goals. The differentiator is the one-to-one coaching provided at every step along the way to reaching your personal goals. Jaime likes to say his concept works because he provides the A,B,C’s to reaching the clients goals: Accountability, Behavior education and Continuity---using both weight management and exercise!

KMG: So it sounds like you and Franchise Inc! have found a new strategy to overcome current financing challenges in a way that allows your business to grow even in these tough times.

JACK: Yes, we are experiencing a lot of interest in the Concept Management strategy.

KMG: Do you have anything else you would like to share with my readers?

JACK: If your readers are interested in discussing this concept further or discussing whether franchising might be for them I’d be happy to speak with them. My services are free of charge!

KMG: Thank you, Jack, I invite any interested readers who want to learn more about Concept Management or any other aspect of franchising or business ownership, to send an email to KMG@GantzLaw.com with the word "Franchise" in the subject line so I can put them intouch with you. Thanks again for taking the time to talk with me today and share your thoughts regarding Concept Management with the readers of my Blog!

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My famous Snowball Sangria Slurpee Recipe

2010-02-06T15:39:00.000-05:00

By popular demand, my famous Snowball recipe! Whenever it snows we love these at my house:

Take a large wine glass & pack it with fresh snow, add some blackberry brandy, some frozen blueberries and raspberries if you have them, a dash of cinnamon and whatever red wine you have in the house (I use Cabernet) then add Blackberry Brandy ( YEP, that old bottle of Manishevitz lurking in the back of your liquor closet is finally put to good use! )

Alternate pouring some wine and then some brandy, add a half slice of an orange, (or lemon or lime or whatever you have) as a garnish, cut a straw to fit the glass…..and there you have it a Snowball Sangria Slurpee!

Drink up folks –we’ll dig out tomorrow! -KMG

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COMING SOON! Interview with Jack Sweeney of Franchise Inc!

2010-02-02T18:42:00.003-05:00

I am editing my recent interview with Jack Sweeney of Franchise Inc! Learn how one company is dealing with the current financing crunch......Excerpt to be posted later this week. -KMG

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Update on Uptown Worthington

2010-01-30T12:19:00.002-05:00

Read the latest on Uptown Worthington Project. Could be quite awhile before this mess is sorted out!

Here is the link:

UPTOWN WORTHINGTOWN PROJECT

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GantzBlog Reviews:Three Feet from Gold

2010-01-28T20:29:00.004-05:00

Three Feet from Gold
Sharon L. Lechter & Greg S. Reid with the Napoleon Hill Foundation

For many years now, it has been my habit to read something, positive, uplifting or encouraging every day with my morning coffee. It has become my version of daily meditation. A close friend who is acquainted with my daily reading habit gave me a copy of Three Feet from Gold for Christmas.

Real Estate investors may recall Sharon L. Lechter as the co-author of a number of the Rich Dad, Poor Dad books.

Three Feet from Gold is based on the Napoleon Hill philosophy of PMA or Positive Mental Attitude. Napoleon Hill is the well known author of Think and Grow Rich, a favorite of entrepreneurs everywhere. Napoleon Hill wrote Think and Grow Rich during the Great Depression as a way, ”… to convey a great universal truth through which all who are ready may learn what to do and how to do it.”

Unlike Think and Grow Rich, which consists of real facts gleaned from Mr. Hill’s interviews with real and very successful people, Three Feet from Gold is written in the form of a parable with fictitious characters meeting and interacting with real, current day successful business people . Also, unlike the 1937 Hill classic, which focuses on successful men and really appears to have been written for men, Three Feet from Gold includes a hand full of successful women. The book is written in cooperation with The Napoleon Hill Foundation and includes a Napoleon Hill Quote at the beginning of each chapter.

I would have enjoyed the book more if the authors had included additional female entrepreneurs and business leaders. Overall, I enjoyed the book. The quotes at the beginning of each Chapter serve as a nice li mini refresher for devotees of Think and Grow Rich. The book is filled with nuggets of advice from business leaders. My favorite is from Ronald D. Glosser, Retired CEO of Hershey Trust and M. S. Hershey Foundation, “ Never make a major decision in a valley.”, which is good advice for all of us in the current economic climate.
My Rating: 3
Rating Scale: 1 to 6
-KMG

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FIND BOOKS MENTIONED ON GANTZBLOG

REAL ESTATE TIP

2010-01-26T20:10:00.000-05:00

Real Estate Tip: Refinancing OR Purchasing a Nerw Home?
If you are refinancing you must receive a copy of your appraisal. Many people discard the appraisal shortly after closing. DON’T THROW OUT YOUR APPRAISAL!
In most cases an appraisal performed within the last 12 months can be used as a basis for a real estate tax assessment appeal. If your appraisal indicates a drop in value you may want to consider a tax assessment appeal. Pennsylvania property owners are entitled to appeal their property tax assessment every year. Chester County Residents note:
“ It is to be noted that only those attorneys licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania shall be permitted to represent a client before the Board of Assessment Appeals.”

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Free IRS Tax Guide.....

2009-12-15T12:19:00.000-05:00

The IRS has prepared a guide featuring ways you can save on your 2009 taxes.
For more information regarding the Guide

Click Here.

Short Sale News!

2009-12-02T11:53:00.001-05:00

Real estate news and analysis from The Wall Street Journal

December 1, 2009, 2:08 PM ET
Guidelines on Short Sales Released
By Ruth Simon
The Obama administration Monday announced long-awaited guidelines that should make it easier for some financially-troubled borrowers to sell their homes.

The new rules are designed to encourage the use of short sales, transactions in which the borrower—with the lender’s approval—sells the home for less than the amount owed. The program also makes it easier for borrowers to voluntarily transfer ownership of properties through a “deed in lieu of foreclosure.”

Short sales have grown in popularity as home prices have fallen and mortgage delinquencies have climbed. They can result in higher prices and less damage to the neighborhood than foreclosures. But these deals are often time-consuming and difficult to complete.

The new guidelines provide financial incentives for borrowers, mortgage companies and investors. Borrowers, for instance, can receive $1,500 from the government for completing a short sale and must be released from any future liability for the unpaid debt. Servicers have 10 days to approve or disapprove a short sale offer.

Tax Credit Extended-Mortgage Alert!

2009-11-07T13:39:00.000-05:00

Mortgage Alert from:

David McDonnell,President
Turnstone Mortgage Company
(610) 324-8830David@TurnstoneMortgage.com

First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended Into 2010! Plus...A New Tax Credit for Certain Existing Home Owners!

It's official. President Obama has signed a bill that extends the tax credit for first-time homebuyers (FTHBs) into the first half of 2010. This program had been scheduled to expire on November 30, 2009.

In addition to extending the tax credit of up to $8,000 through June 30, 2010, the extension measure also opens up opportunities for others who are not buying a home for the first time.
So Who Gets What? The program that has existed for FTHBs remains intact with the one exception that more people are now eligible based on an increase in the amount of income someone may now earn.

Additionally, the program now gives those who already own a residence some additional reasons to move to a new home. This incentive comes in the form of a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified purchasers who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years.

Deadlines In order to qualify for the credit, all contracts need to be in effect no later than April 30, 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2010.

Higher Income Caps in Effect The amount of income someone can earn and qualify for the full amount of the credit has been increased.

Single tax filers who earn up to $125,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit. However, single filers who earn $145,000 and above are ineligible.

Joint filers who earn up to $225,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit. However, joint filers who earn $245,000 and above are ineligible.

Maximum Purchase Price Qualifying buyers may purchase a property with a maximum sales price of $800,000. First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit – Frequently Asked QuestionsHere are answers to some commonly asked questions about the tax credit.

What is a tax credit? A tax credit is a direct reduction in tax liability owed by an individual to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In the event no taxes are owed, the IRS will issue a check for the amount of the tax credit an individual is owed. Unlike the tax credit that existed in 2008, this credit does not require repayment unless the home, at any time in the first 36 months of ownership, is no longer an individual's primary residence.

What is the tax credit for first-time homebuyers (FTHBs)? An eligible homebuyer may request from the IRS a tax credit of up to $8,000 or 10% of the purchase price for a home. If the amount of the home purchased is $75,000, the maximum amount the credit can be is $7,500. If the amount of the home purchased is $100,000, the amount of the credit may not exceed $8,000.
Who is eligible for the FTHB tax credit? Anyone who has not owned a primary residence in the previous 36 months, prior to closing and the transfer of title, is eligible. This applies both to single taxpayers and married couples. In the case where there is a married couple, if either spouse has owned a primary residence in the last 36 months, neither would qualify. In the case where an individual has owned property that has not been a primary residence, such as a second home or investment property, that individual would be eligible.

As mentioned above, the tax credit has been expanded so that existing homeowners who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years are now eligible for a tax credit of up to $6,500.

How do I claim the credit? For those taking advantage of the tax credit in 2009, you may choose to either apply for the credit with your 2009 tax return or you may apply for the credit sooner by filing an amended 2008 tax return with Form 5405 (http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5405.pdf).

Can you claim the tax credit in advance of purchasing a property? No. The IRS has recently begun prosecuting people who have claimed credits where a purchase had not taken place.
Can a taxpayer claim a credit if the property is purchased from a seller with seller financing and the seller retains title to the property? Yes. In situations where the buyer purchases the property, even though the seller retains legal title, the taxpayer may file for the credit. Examples of this would include a land contract, contract for deed, etc. According to the IRS, factors that would demonstrate the ownership of the property would include: 1. the right of possession, 2. the right to obtain legal title upon full payment of the purchase price, 3. the right to construct improvements, 4. the obligation to pay property taxes, 5. the risk of loss, 6. the responsibility to insure the property and 7. the duty to maintain the property.
Are there other restrictions to taking the credit? Yes. According to the IRS, if any of the following describe your situation, a credit would not be due.

You buy your home from a close relative. This includes your spouse, parent, grandparent, child or grandchild.
You do not use the home as your principal residence.
You sell your home before the end of the year.
You are a nonresident alien.
You are, or were, eligible to claim the District of Columbia first-time homebuyer credit for any taxable year. (This does not apply for a home purchased in 2009.)
Your home financing comes from tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds. (This does not apply for a home purchased in 2009.)
You owned a principal residence at any time during the three years prior to the date of purchase of your new home. For example, if you bought a home on July 1, 2009, you cannot take the credit for that home if you owned, or had an ownership interest in, another principal residence at any time from July 2, 2006, through July 1, 2009.
Can you buy a home from a step-relative and be eligible for the credit? Yes. Provided the person you are buying a home from is not a direct blood relative, the purchase would be allowed.
Can parent(s) who will not live in the property cosign for a mortgage for their child and the child that is a qualifying FTHB still be eligible for the credit? Yes.
Can a separated spouse who has not owned a home for four years qualify for the FTHB tax credit if the spouse has owned a property anytime in the last three years? No. However, the spouse may be eligible for the repeat buyer credit. The best path to take in any situation regarding income taxes is to speak with a professional tax preparer or CPA.
If you have any questions that fall outside the situations here, give me a call and if you do not have an accountant to speak with, I can refer you to one.

Meeting Announcement-Business Networking

2009-10-28T13:59:00.000-04:00

The BNI, Malvern Chapter meets every Tuesday at The Desmond, Great Valley for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 7:00 AM until 8:30AM. Visitors are welcome. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Kathy Gantz at 610-644-6437.

First Time Home Buyers Extenstion.......

2009-10-15T19:52:00.000-04:00

From the Office of Congressman Joe Sestak :

Dear Ms. Gantz,

Thank you for contacting me with questions about the first time home buyer's tax credit. I greatly appreciate your input on this matter, and I apologize for the delay in my reply.
As a Member of Congress, it is my responsibility to represent my constituents' concerns and interests and to provide them the honorable and enthusiastic service they deserve. I truly value your thoughts and suggestions on issues before the House. In a representative government such as ours, it is essential that I know what your views are on these issues.

I am supportive of extending the first-time homebuyers tax credit, therefore I have introduced legislation, H.R. 3801, which would extend the tax credit for homes purchased up until December 31, 2010. H.R. 3801 also extends the provisions from the Stimulus Bill that eliminate repayment requirement of the tax credit, further alleviating the burden on working families. The first-time homebuyer tax credit has been a success thus far, with more than 350,000 homes being purchased as a direct result of the credit from February 2009 to September 2009.

A recent report by the Congressional Oversight Panel shows that much more work must be done to stabilize the housing market, and thus keep our economy on the path to recovery. To be most effective, I believe extension of the homebuyer tax credit should be combined with a more concerted effort to promote meaningful loan modifications and stem the increase in foreclosures, which I will discuss further in this letter.

While on the topic of housing market recovery, I would like to outline my legislative efforts in that area. As you may know, the first-time homebuyers refundable tax credit was approved as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-289) which I voted for and was signed into law by President Bush on July 30, 2008. This bill provided for a refundable tax credit as a means of encouraging taxpayers to purchase a principal residence. The specifics of this law as enacted included the following:

o Taxpayers must meet the definition of "first-time" homebuyer - which means that during the three-year period ending on the date of the purchase, that they had had no financial interest in a property used as their primary residence.
o The purchase had to have been completed between April 8, 2008 and July 1, 2009.
o The amount of the tax credit was 10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of $7,500 for married taxpayers. The credit may be reduced or eliminated for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income exceeds the statutory threshold of $150,000 for jointly filed returns, or $75,000 for individuals.
o The tax credit was refundable - which means that it could be used as a credit against taxes and it could be refunded - if a taxpayer's tax payable was lower than the amount of the credit.
o This law essentially represented a no-interest loan with a 15-year repayment period as it included a provision to repay or "recapture" the tax credit over that period - beginning 2 years after the purchase. Recapture could be accelerated if the property is sold or no longer used by the taxpayer as the taxpayer's principal residence.

In February, the American Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-5) made a number of modifications to the First-Time Homebuyers Credit. For homes purchased by first-time buyers between January 1, 2009 and November 31, 2009, the maximum credit was raised to $8,000 and repayment generally is not required for credits based on a purchase in 2009. However, if the taxpayer ceases using the property as their principal residence within thirty-six months of purchase, they could be subject to the same repayment requirements.

Unfortunately, the law did not include a provision to carry back these new changes to purchases made in 2008. I was in favor of the carry back, but for cost and administrative reasons, it was not included in the final bill. I also favored expanding the credit to all homebuyers - not just first-time homebuyers - but this also was not included.

As mentioned earlier, I also support further legislative efforts to support loan modification programs. While there has been significant legislation to stem the foreclosure crisis, I don't think they go far enough to address the critical issue of homeowners who have mortgages that are substantially above the current market value of their home. That is why I introduced H.R. 1356, the Homeownership Vesting Plan Act of 2009.

The key elements of the plan include the following:
o Qualifying homeowners would have their mortgages split into two pieces:
oOne piece would be a 30-year, fixed-rate FHA-insured loan with a balance equal to 97.5% of the home's current appraised value;
oThe other piece would be a non-amortizing, no-interest loan from the Treasury, with a balance equal to the difference between the homeowner's original loan amount and the new FHA loan.
o Every year that the homeowner remains current on the new FHA loan, a fifth of the balance owed to the Treasury would be forgiven, so after five years of consistent payments, the Treasury loan would be paid off.
o The original mortgage owner would then own a new FHA loan, and would also receive a payment from the Treasury equal to the difference between the original loan amount and the FHA loan. If the homeowner defaulted on the FHA loan during the five-year vesting period, the non-vested portion of the Treasury loan would be repaid first; then the mortgage owner would receive the remainder of the foreclosure proceeds.
o Mortgage servicers would receive $1,000 for each loan modified to defray their costs and give them an incentive to arrange loan modifications.
o Second-mortgage holders with liens on properties of homeowners participating in the plan would be paid five cents on the dollar to extinguish those liens and "get out of the way of the loan modification".
o The Homeownership Vesting Plan would apply to mortgages for owner-occupied residences that:
O Were originated between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2007.
O Had original loan amounts below the current FHA loan limit.
O Were unaffordable at origination, as defined by a front-end, debt-to income ratio exceeding 30%, and a cumulative loan-to-value ratio of over 90%
O Meet the current underwriting criteria of the FHA Secure program.
O The homeowner owns no other residences.

If we do not take further steps to mitigate the current housing crisis efforts, approximately 8.5 million additional homeowners will default during the next three years and nearly five million households will ultimately lose homes in foreclosure sales, short sales, or deeds in lieu. This will further devastate the economic security of my constituents and small businesses. That is why I am working diligently with my colleagues in the House to quell the current economic crisis, by addressing the core issue of the broader economic downturn -- the housing crisis.

Please know that I regard efforts to address the ongoing housing crisis as one of the primary focuses of our work to address the ongoing economic crisis.

Again, I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to share your views on this matter of utmost importance. If I can be of any additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me again. I look forward to our future correspondence.

BEWARE: Real Estate Scam on Craigslist!

2009-10-12T14:59:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 22, 2009
NEW NIGERIAN SCHEME UTILIZING "CRAIGSLIST" Scam being perpetrated in South Carolina David A. Thomas, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in South Carolina, advises homeowners and/or prospective renters in South Carolina to be cautious of a new scheme being perpetrated by Nigerians utilizing "Craigslist".
Homeowners list their homes for sale with realtors, who will list the homes for sale in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and also with public search sites on the Internet. Public search sites allow individuals to query homes for sale via the Internet. Nigerian scammers are finding homes listed for sale on these public search sites, copy the pictures and listings verbatim, and then post the information onto www.craigslist.com under available housing rentals, without the consent or knowledge of Craigslist, who have been notified.
After the posting is listed, unsuspecting individuals contact the poster, who is Nigerian, for more information on the "rental". The Nigerian scammer will state that they had to leave the country very quickly to do missionary or contract work in Africa and were unable to rent their house before leaving, therefore they have to take care of this remotely. The "homeowner" sends the prospective renter an application and tells them to send them first and last month's rent to the Nigerian scammer via Western Union. The prospective renter is further told if they "qualify", they will send them the keys for their house. Once the money is wired to the scammer, they show up at the house, see the home is actually for sale, are unable to access the property and their money is gone.
This type of Nigerian scam is becoming more prevalent nationwide and recent reports indicate this scam being perpetrated locally in Charleston, Columbia and Hilton Head, South Carolina. The S.C. Association of REALTORS® provided information to the FBI on this scam.
David A. Thomas, Special Agent in Charge of the Columbia office of the FBI is requesting that individuals that have complaints similar to this to file an internet crime complaint on www.ic3.gov with the Federal Bureau of Investigation to ensure the extent of this scheme can be accurately evaluated.

First Time Home Buyers.......

2009-09-18T15:49:00.000-04:00

Message From Surburban West Realtors:

Call for Action: Extend and Expand the Homebuyer Tax Credit
Send your own message to Congress telling them to extend and expand the tax credit. The $8000 first-time homebuyer tax credit expires as of December 1, 2009. But the usefulness of the credit diminishes daily if the credit is not extended well before that date. Without Congressional action NOW, the market may freeze again – possibly as soon as October. The tax credit has been effective. NAR research suggests that as many as 350,000 sales this year can be directly attributed to the availability of the credit. The tax credit stimulated market activity. The volume of housing sales has improved steadily every month since the credit was enacted. The credit pulled people from the sidelines and created some momentum that had been absent. We will continue to need the homebuyer credit. Congress must act NOW to be sure that the credit is available through 2010.

FREE TO GOOD HOME ..........

2009-09-17T15:47:00.000-04:00

A Reader writes:

"This is Diamond & and Snowball. Two 9 y/o Akita sisters. They are from an Estate I am working on. They are very, very friendly and great with kids. They only bark at the knocking of the door and then roll over. They need to go together and not split. "

If we don't find a home soon they may have to put down... :(

For more info Email: cfadge@comcast.net

If you know of anyone who might be intereted please pass on. Thanks! -KMG

Real Estate Tax Appeals Alert

2009-07-08T21:24:00.000-04:00

Real Estate Tax Appeals Alert

2009-06-12T15:01:00.000-04:00

ENTRY LEVEL POSITION WESTERN SUBURBS

● $8.25/HOUR during training, $ 8.75/Hour upon successful completion of 90 Day training.

● Hours:
Training Schedule, 90 Days:
Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, (20 hours with 1 paid break)

Work schedule after training:
Monday through Friday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm,
( 35 hours paid, 2 paid breaks, ½ hour unpaid lunch)

● Health Benefits: Available after 6 months.
5 days paid vacation after 1 year.

● The following skills are required for this position:

1. Must be bondable.
2. Must pass drug screening and criminal background check.
3. Good keyboarding and typing skills including knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
4. Pleasant telephone manner.
5. Customer service skills.
6. Must be detailed oriented.
7. Must be able to work with minimal supervision.
8. Must be neat and well organized.
9. Must enjoy reading and following written directions.
10. Must be able to quickly learn new computer programs as part of the training is self directed.

● Education Level: High School

● Travel: occasional, local travel.

Please email (KMG@Gantzlaw.com) or fax (610-717-1401) a cover letter and resume.

Thinking of adding Solar/Thermal energy? Pennsylvania wants to help you with an Energy Rebate!

2009-05-21T14:26:00.000-04:00

Here is the link for Pennsylvanina Solar Energy Rebate Program:

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Delaware County Foreclosures Sales Halted!

2009-05-15T18:30:00.000-04:00

Delaware County sheriff issues moratorium on foreclosure sales
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office declared a moratorium on sheriff’s sales beginning this Friday. According to Sheriff Joseph McGinn, 350 properties had been listed for that sale, 179 of which were still on the schedule as of Wednesday. McGinn said he aims to include an informational sheet for property owners when complaints are filed by mortgage holders or lenders that describes various programs and credit counselors available in the area, such as Consumer Credit Counseling Services, which recently opened a third office in the county. McGinn noted the importance of informing residents of options in the complaint stage, when they might still be eligible for state assistance if they have some sort of hardship. Forty-four of the total 247 properties up for sale last month went back to lenders, while two were sold to third parties. Another 142 were continued to a later date and 56 were stayed, or removed from the sale docket altogether. Those figures have increased 127 percent statewide from February 2007 to February 2008, and 74 percent from February 2008 to February 2009, according to RealtyTrac.com.

Source: Daily Times; 5/14/09

TITLE INSURANCE SETTLEMENT OFFICER NEEDED

2009-04-29T10:51:00.000-04:00

IMMEDIATE POSITION AVAILABLE:.
TITLE INSURANCE SETTLEMENT OFFICER/LEGAL ASSISTANT
Title Insurance Professional needed for small agency located in Malvern, PA
Must have title insurance software experience. Title Express experience is preferred. Notary. Some occasional travel. Flexible schedule required.
Must be service and detail oriented and enjoy being in charge.
You MUST have experience and be able to handle a title insurance file from order to policy issuance. This is an excellent opportunity of the right person!
Begin immediately. THIS POSITION CAN BE A PART-TIME OR FULL TIME POSITION DEPENDING ON THE CAPABILITIES OF THE PERSON.

Interviews will be scheduled on ASAP.
Don’t Delay Apply Today!

Please EMAIL KMG@Gantzlaw.com or FAX resume & cover letter to 610-717-1401

The First American Corporation Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend

2009-04-01T16:15:00.000-04:00

The First American Corporation Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend

March 24, 2009, SANTA ANA, Calif.
The First American Corporation (NYSE: FAF), America’s largest provider of business information, today announced that its board of directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of 22 cents per common share.

The cash dividend is payable on April 15, 2009, to shareholders of record as of March 31, 2009. First American has paid a cash dividend for each of the last 100 years.

About First American
The First American Corporation (NYSE: FAF) is a FORTUNE 500® company that traces its history to 1889. With total revenues of approximately $6.2 billion in 2008, it is America’s largest provider of business information. First American combines advanced analytics with its vast data resources to supply businesses and consumers with valuable information products to support the major economic events of people’s lives, such as getting a job, renting an apartment, buying a car or house, securing a mortgage and opening or buying a business. The First American Family of Companies, many of which command leading market share positions in their respective industries, operate within five primary business segments, including: Title Insurance and Services, Specialty Insurance, Information and Outsourcing Solutions, Data and Analytic Solutions, and Risk Mitigation and Business Solutions. More information about the company and an archive of its press releases can be found at www.firstam.com.

ATTN: HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTORS YOU MUST REGISTER WITH THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA BY JULY 1, 2009

2009-03-27T10:07:00.000-04:00

If you are a Home Improvement Contractor who performs at least $ 5,000. in home improvements per year you must REGISTER WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERALS OFFICE in order to comply with the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act.

You will need the following items in order to complete your application:

An application which includes:

1) Contact and identifying information for the applicant, including information on
any prior home improvement businesses operated by the applicant;
2) For corporations and business entities, information on partners, officers,
managers and other parties with an interest in the business;
3) Information on other contractor licenses and registrations held by the applicant;
4) A description of the applicant's business;
5) Background disclosures, including information on prior bankruptcies and criminal
pleas or convictions;
6) Insurance policy information showing at least $50,000 of personal injury
liability coverage and $50,000 of property damage coverage;
7) A signed and dated certification by the applicant; and
8) A non-refundable application fee of $50.00

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 and First Time Home Buyers

2009-03-19T19:57:00.000-04:00

GOOD NEWS !

EVEN IF YOU HAVE OWNED A HOME IN THE PAST

YOU MAY BE CONSIDERED A "FIRST TIME HOME BUYER "

AND

ELIGIBLE FOR A TAX CREDIT UP TO $8,000. !!!

For purposes of implementing The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, you are considered a "First Time Home Buyer" if you meet the following test:
* You did not own a home during the 3 year period ending on the date of purchase.
* If you are married, both you AND your spouse must meet the the 3 year test.
To claim the credit you must follow certain rules:

* You must buy and close on a home between January 1, 2009 and
December 1, 2009.

* The home must be your "Main Home" for 36 months after the settlement date.

* You must complete IRS Form 5405 to determine your tax credit amount.

* Claim the amount from IRS Form 5405 on line 69 of your 1040 income tax return.

* You must meet income limits: Single $75,000; Married filing jointly $150,000.
( The tax credit is reduced for Single taxpayers with MAGI above $75,000 or
Married with MAGI above $150,000. )
ADVANTAGES of the AMERICAN RECOVERY and REINVESTMENT ACT OF 2009:
* Unlike the tax credit provided by The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, which really amounted to a loan, the tax credit provided by 2009 Act does NOT have to be paid back if you live in your home for 36 months. (Exceptions apply, call us if you have questions).

* The tax credit is refundable. ( If you owed federal income tax of $ 7,000 and you prepaid $6,500 through withholding then you would owe the IRS $500. However, if you qualify for the $8,000 tax credit you will receive a refund check in the amount of $7,500.)

* The tax credit may be claimed for either 2008 or 2009. (Whichever year gives you the larger credit.)

* If a you intend to buy and close on a main home by December 1, 2009 and elect to claim the credit in 2008, and as in the above illustration you may be able to use the refund check towards down payment and/or closing costs.

* UNMARRIED INDIVIDUALS TAKE NOTE: Two or more unmarried individuals can buy a Main Home and allocate the credit among the individual owners.
* A "Main Home" is the one you live in most of the time. It can be a house, houseboat, housetrailer, cooperative apartment, condominium, or other type of residence.

House for $50.00

2008-11-25T22:18:00.000-05:00

Here is the link:

http://fiftydollarhouse.com/

So you want to be on HGTV.....

2008-11-24T21:39:00.000-05:00

***Buying your first place? BE ON HGTV!!*** (Greater Philadelphia)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reply to: JKawano@highnoonentertainment.com [?]
Date: 2008-11-24, 9:08PM EST

BUYING YOUR FIRST PLACE?
Then HGTV is looking for you!

MY FIRST PLACE, HGTV’s hit series, is coming back for a Sixth season and we’re looking for first-time homebuyers in the Greater Philadelphia area RIGHT NOW!

We are looking for fun, high-energy people who are just starting the home-buying process for their first place! Our goal is to capture all the trials and tribulations of looking for, bidding on and buying your first place.

Ideal candidates will be enthusiastic buyers with a great story to tell and a desire to share their experiences. Singles, couples and families are all invited to apply!

Candidates who are chosen for the show will also receive a unique SURPRISE that HGTV has picked just for you!

Request an application by emailing:
JKawano@highnoonentertainment.com

Or call Jon Kawano at (303) 712-3222

You can also APPLY ONLINE at www.highnoonentertainment.com by finding the
"My First Place" page in the CASTING tab.

Owner Occupancy Ratio

2008-11-10T16:10:00.000-05:00

Realtors Ask Feds for Reduction in Owner-Occupancy Ratio

Here is the link:

alt="Mortgage And Real Estate News"
width="220" height="50" border="0" align="middle" />

Mortgage and Real Estate News

Non-Profit looking for FREE storage space.....

2008-08-01T16:09:00.000-04:00

Storage Area Sought by Non-Profit- A non- profit organization is seeking assistance from REALTORS in locating donated space to store Durable Medical Equipment to assist in our area's preparedness should a local disaster strike. These efforts have been outlined across the US as part of the National Response Framework. This organization is collecting and storing assistive durable medical equipment such as wheel chairs, hospital beds, ramps, chair lifts and much more should the need arise locally. Since the organization is non-profit, the donation of the space, whether it is a warehouse, old store front, etc, could be written off and the participating client would receive ample press coverage. This space can be located anywhere in and around Philadelphia. For more information, please contact George Heake, Institute on Disabilities, 215-204-7177 or email gheake@temple.edu.

Philadelphia Inquirer looks at Property Taxes....

2008-06-20T17:05:00.000-04:00

Cut and Paste the address into your Browser:

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/homepage/19950399.html

For Pennsylvania Tax Appeals call Gantz Law Offices LLC 610-644-6437.

ATTN: PROPERTY OWNERS-TAX APPEAL DEADLINES

2008-06-18T10:02:00.000-04:00

ITS TAX APPEAL TIME!!

IF YOU BELIEVE YOUR TAX ASSESSMENT IS TOO HIGH, CALL US TODAY!

CALL KATHY GANTZ, GANTZ LAW OFFICES LLC @ 610-644-6437 DON'T WAIT!

BUCKS, CHESTER, DELAWARE AND MONTGOMERY PROPERTY TAX APPEALS

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL

Special Announcement from DPI

2008-05-31T09:10:00.000-04:00

ATTENTION EDDYSTONE LANDLORDS:

Please contact the Suburban Realtors Alliance as directed below. The only way to defeat these types of inspection fees is if enough landlords get together and attempt to fight.

Inspection fees rile Eddystone landlord
A rental property owner in the Borough of Eddystone complained about the $200 inspection fee for rental units, contending that the work could be done at a lower rater if an outside company was used to conduct the inspections. The property owner also had concerns about the way a Code Enforcement Officer conducted himself during an inspection. The Alliance staff has met with Eddystone officials in the past regarding this issue. Please contact sra@suburbanrealtorsalliance.com with any additional anecdotal information about rental inspections in Eddystone.
Source: Daily Times; 5/23/08

Real Estate Class Dates & Locations

2008-03-11T12:43:00.000-04:00

SPRING REAL ESTATE CLASS SCHEDULE

BUYING FORECLOSED PROPERTIES
INSTRUCTOR: Kathryn M. Gantz, Esq.
DATES: April 9, 16, 23, 2008 Wednesdays
LOCATION: Phoenixville High School, 1200 Gay Street, Phoenixville, PA 19460 CONTACT: CCIU Adult Education Training 484-237-5166

REAL ESTATE INVESTING
INSTRUCTOR: Kathryn M. Gantz, Esq.
DATES: April 22 & 29, 2008 Tuesdays
LOCATION: Chester County Intermediate Unit, 455 Booot rd, Downingtown, PA
CONTACT: CCIU Adult Education Training 484-237-5166

Real Estate Tax Appeal News & Filing Dates

2008-03-08T14:06:00.000-05:00

TAX APPEAL SEASON IS RAPIDLY APPROACHING!

DELAWARE COUNTY HAS ADDED A FILING FEE. Delaware County tax appeals must be filed between March 15 and August 1:

The Assessment Office has implemented Resolution #1-2008 which requires a processing fee for each parcel appealed to the Board of Assessment Appeals. The fee for each residential property is $50.00. The fee for commercial, industrial, parcels subject to preferential assessment such as Act 319 and Act 515 and exemption appeals is $100.00.
The fees apply to all annual appeals and must be paid at the time of filing. The fees do not apply to interim appeals or catastrophic loss appeals. A check or money order is to be made payable to "Delaware County Treasurer". This fee will not be refunded for failure to appear or withdrawal of the appeal.

CHESTER COUNTY FILING FEES

Chester County appeals must be filed between May 1 and August first.

The Assessment Office has implemented Resolution #45-97 which requires a processing fee for each parcel appealed to the Board of Assessment Appeals. The fee for each residential property is $25.00. The fee for commercial, industrial, parcels subject to preferential assessment such as Act 319 and Act 515 and exemption appeals is $50.00.

The fees apply to both interim and annual appeals and must be paid at the time of filing. A check or money order is to be made payable to "Chester County Treasurer". This fee will not be refunded for failure to appear or withdrawal of the appeal.

If you are over 60 years of age and want to appeal the assessment on your primary residence but are unable to afford the $25.00 processing fee, call the intake staff at the Department of Aging (610-344-6350), as you may be eligible for assistance. Proof of financial eligibility will be required.

NEED HELP WITH A TAX APPEAL? CALL ATTORNEY KATHY GANTZ 610-644-6437

NEW Program to Assist Delinquent Homeowners..

2008-03-07T16:28:00.000-05:00

FROM MortgageNewsDaily:

HomeSaver Advance is the Latest Program to Assist Delinquent Homeowners

Story Information

Title: HomeSaver Advance is the Latest Program to Assist Delinquent Homeowners
Date: Fri, 7 Mar 2008 11:27:11 EST
Location: http://www.MortgageNewsDaily.com/372008_HomeSaver_Advance.asp

Real Estate Market Watch

2008-02-25T20:30:00.000-05:00

All Real Estate is Local
By Kathryn M. Gantz, Esq.

How local you ask? Very local. The real estate market can vary from county to county, township to township and sometimes even from street to street within a township. Have you ever driven by a house and said to your spouse, “I love that house… if that house is ever put up for sale, I’m going to buy it.” It is likely that in the event that house is put up for sale you would buy it. You may even pay full price and buy it on the very first day it is offered for sale…regardless of whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market.

Right now, we are in a buyers market because there is more inventory than there are buyers in the marketplace. Let’s take a look at a particular local market and see if it is experiencing the plummeting values we hear about all the time on TV.

For our example we will use Haverford Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

According to numbers compiled by TREND MLS, in January of 2008, 32 homes sold and settled and out of those 32 houses, 13 sold within the first 30 days, 3 sold within 31-60 days, 6 sold within 61-90, 5 sold within 91-120 days and 4 sold within 121 and 180 days.

So what does this tell us? Well, it tells us that there was an average 1.03 houses settled in January which is slightly more than a house a day in January. This should be welcome news to anyone buying or selling a house in Haverford Township. It also tells us that during December and January, historically two of the slowest months for the real estate market, buyers were buying and sellers were selling.

As we enter the spring selling season, historically the BEST market for real estate, we will see the average days it takes to sell a house decrease as more buyers return to the market.
So despite what you hear on the TV or read in the newspapers, the real estate market is alive and well in Haverford Township, Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Buying or selling a house? Real estate transactions contain many legal documents with far reaching implications. Always seek legal assistance BEFORE you sign on the dotted line.
Don’t sign your rights away. When you are asked to sign a legal document….”Don’t take a chance, call Gantz!” 610-644-6437

The GANTZ Group
“All Real Estate. All the Time.”

Gantz Law Offices, LLC ● EnCompass Land Transfer, LLC ● 1031 Exchange Intermediary, LLC
610-644-6437 * WWW.GANTZLAW.COM * KMG@GANTZLAW.COM

The Foreclosure Act of 2008

2008-02-15T15:37:00.000-05:00

Mortgage News Daily reports:

Senate Democrats Thursday announced The Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008 which is intended to address the national housing crisis, help homeowners avoid foreclosure and assist communities that have already been harmed by foreclosures to recover.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) in announcing the package stated that "Since last year Senate Democrats have been moving quickly to ensure more Americans will be able to stay in their homes and we have made some progress. But in the face of an uncertain economy and with so many Americans struggling, we know that more needs to be done to address the housing crisis." He estimated that the provisions planned for the legislation will help over 1 million people stay in their homes and help families and communities avoid problems in the future.

The proposed legislation will increase available funds for pre-foreclosure counseling by $200 million. This, according to Reid's website, should assist as many as one-half million additional families to connect with appropriate mortgage representatives and explore available options to keep them in their homes.

A second, potentially far-reaching provision would change the bankruptcy code to remove the prohibition on modifying the mortgages of debtors in bankruptcy. While the existing code allows judges to modify mortgages on vacation homes and family farms, they can not do this with a primary residence. Modifications would be done only for those who meet strict income and expense criteria but these changes, if enacted, might assist more than 600,000 families to keep their homes.

The current cap on Housing Finance Agencies (local entities) bonds would be raised by $10 billion. Proceeds from these mortgage revenue bonds can be used to refinance subprime loans, assist first-time home buyers with mortgages, and provide funding for multifamily rental housing. It is hoped that raising this cap will create new jobs, generate federal, state, and local revenues and stimulate home-related consumer spending.

Communities with the highest foreclosure rates will be able to access Community Development Block Grant funds to purchase homes that have been foreclosed and remain unsold, blighting neighborhoods and lowering property values. Funds will also be available to assist communities in rehabbing these homes if required and then to rent or re-sell them.

The proposed legislation also attempts to avoid similar foreclosure problems in the future by changing loan disclosures and timing on mortgage documents.

The changes would amend the Truth-in-Lending Act and improve the disclosures about loans that are given to homebuyers both when they apply for a purchase money mortgage and when they refinance. Firms would be required to disclose the terms of the mortgage loan within three days of application and at least 7 days before closing. The borrower would also be informed of the maximum payment the loan could ever require (also within the 3 and 7 day requirements) and would increase the damages for violating the Truth-in-Lending disclosure provisions from $2,000 to $5,000 per violation.

Senator Reid did not indicate how long he thought it would be before this legislation, provided it is passed by both Houses and signed by the President, takes effect or from where the funding would come.

Urgent Alert...Possible Pennsylvania Sale Tax on Legal Services

2008-01-18T14:31:00.000-05:00

Please let your voice be heard if you do not wish to pay sales tax on Legal services. You can bet the cost of administering this tax will be passed on to the legal consumer resulting in increased legal fees.-KMG

Urgent Alert - Sales Tax Expansion to Legal Services
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives began their consideration of the school property tax reform issue this week; however, work was not completed, and the debate will resume when House members return to session on Monday, January 28. The bill they will consider as the main focus of debate is House Bill 1600, sponsored by Representative David Levdansky (D-Allegheny). This legislation is intended to reduce school property taxes substantially without broadening the sales tax base; however, Representative Sam Rohrer (R-Berks) will offer an amendment to that bill which will expand the sales tax to professional services, including professional legal services.
It is important to note that Rep. Rohrer's legislation does not tax certain limited elements of legal services - services sold to or used by a business, and services rendered under a contingent fee arrangement. All other clients, including those in need of counsel for criminal, divorce, custody, estate, personal real estate issues, etc., will be subject to payment of the sales tax. (Representative Rohrer's original piece of property tax reform legislation, upon which the amendments are based, is HB 1275.)
This delay has afforded taxpayer groups in support of Rohrer's legislation the opportunity to strengthen their voice and their legislative support for the proposal. Many House members who are committed to voting "no" on the Rohrer amendment are feeling this political pressure. This is a critical moment for the legal community and the clients you serve. The sales tax is a regressive tax; and a sales tax on professional legal services is a tax on the basic, constitutional right of citizens to access justice and the courts.
Please make your voice heard in opposition to imposing a tax on access to justice. Even if you have already contacted your state representative, it is important for you to call your state representative again and urge him/her to oppose the Rohrer amendment to House Bill 1600. Impress upon him/her how important this issue is to you and to the many citizens who need and use your legal assistance. Also, please consider engaging your clients in this debate by asking them to call or write as well.
If you have not written to your representative, the PBA Legislative Department has made it easy for you to do so - go to the PBA's Legislative Action Center (click here). Under the heading "Compose a Message to Your Legislator Opposing a Broad Sales Tax on Professional Legal Services" you will find links to (1) "Write Your Legislators" and (2) "Check out talking points on the issue". Click on "Write Your Legislators," fill in your contact information, and the Legislative Action Center will guide you through an easy step-by-step process to edit and send an e-mail message or download a letter for mailing.
For more information about your representative(s) and/or to read the text of House Bills 1600 and 1275, please visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly's web site www.legis.state.pa.us. If you have any questions or comments regarding this issue, we would like to hear from you. Please email us at legislative@pabar.org.
Thank you.